《Bleach: Starting as a Vasto Lorde》


 Chapter 1: Hey you!

    Chapter 1: Hey you!


    A dark basement filled with a suffocating stench and less than a healthy percentage of oxygen content ¡ª it was the type of shady place every parent warned their children about. A place you should never visit after dark.


    Unfortunately, Kazuya found himself in this devious place, sitting on a rusty steel chair, hands cuffed behind him.


    A blonde man in a shiny suit sneered down at him and raised a revolver in his hand. The cold barrel touched his forehead. A wave of chill passed over him as a droplet of sweat dripped down his cheeks, falling onto his messy white shirt.


    ¡°Kazuya, blame your hardass grandfather for prioritizing his job over your life,¡± the yakuza-like man said, his tone colder than Kazuya¡¯s terror but his eyes carried a faint look of pity. ¡°The sin for your death will be on his soul.¡±


    He shifted the blame of murdering an innocent soul on someone else.


    Instead of crying or begging for mercy, Kazuya simply sighed. Almost half a day has passed since they brought him here, yet nobody came to his rescue. Giants danced in his stomach, requesting food maniacally.


    He wasn¡¯t going to cry and avert his eyes from reality ¡ª this was the end. There was no use pretending otherwise.


    He was fortunate to survive a similar crisis two times. First time with a broken right arm and second time with a bullet hole in his left thigh. He almost lost his little brother because of a misfire between the Yakuza and the police! Both times, the police arrived to negotiate in less than an hour. This time the stakes were too high.


    Between a university freeloader and a group of EX-Class terrorists, a hero of justice like his grandfather would choose the latter.


    ¡°Fucking Gramps,¡± Kazuya cursed under his breath. ¡°Kill me, man. He¡¯ll hunt you down sooner or later.¡±


    His grandfather had spoiled him rotten ever since his parents died. The old man gave him a private chef for his daily meals, a maid for his daily needs, a seat in a prestigious school, and most importantly, a home to live in.


    He was extremely grateful but also resentful.


    Love was irrational, hatred even more.


    His life became a terrible joke because of his grandfather¡¯s job. He wanted to leave the city, even the fucking country. But his only relative became emotional and possessive, refusing to let Kazuya step out of his ¡®protection.¡¯


    He merely wanted to live without constant aggression. Unfortunately, he won¡¯t get that peace in this life.


    The terrorist looked shaken at the mention of Kazuya¡¯s grandfather. ¡°No, he doesn¡¯t care about you. Any last words before we put you out of misery?¡±Chee?ck out latest novels at novelhall.com


    ¡°Last words, huh?¡±


    As he fell into a loop of thoughts, the blonde man squeezed the trigger.


    Bang!


    A red sheen filled his vision. A searing pain exploded in his head, making him cry out in agony. His eyes fluttered closed, and his head slumped, the burning sensation gradually waning.


    Silence fell in the aftermath of his death.


    ...


    ...


    ...


    ¡®Hold on... why can I think?¡¯


    His consciousness was intact after the gunshot. Did his brain survive the bullet from that range? Unlikely, considering the pitch black surrounding him. He was hovering in nowhere, devoid of every sensation, not even the pain inflicted by the bullet.


    Something was wrong ¡ª he could feel it in his bones.


    [Character ¡®Kazuya Ishihara¡¯ created.]


    An oh-so-familiar floating window emerged in the sea of darkness.


    ¡®Character? Is this system?¡¯


    That shitty reincarnation trope of empowering a protagonist to the divine levels for no reason. He wasn¡¯t fond of systems, as they forced unreasonable tasks on their host. Let¡¯s not forget the fact that most systems were part of some end-level boss¡¯s scheme, or given by some alternate version of the main characters.


    Amidst his confusion, the sensation of his body returned. He felt lurching up and down, the exaggerated motion of a horse¡¯s gait all too familiar. He had been riding horses since he was a child, but hadn''t straddled one since he graduated from high school.


    As he blinked away the last vestiges of sleep, he saw a panorama of jagged peaks, craggy summits, and snow-covered ridgelines. The stars were absent in the ink-black sky, only a half moon fighting a losing battle against the darkness.


    ¡®Was the moon always this close?¡¯


    ¡°Hey, you. You¡¯re finally awake.¡±

 Chapter 2: Hueco Mundo

    Chapter 2: Hueco Mundo


    Following events happened prior to Kazuya¡¯s awakening.


    Hollows thrived on Reishi, the mystical substance that wove itself into the very soul of every being. The high concentration of Reishi in Hueco Mundo allowed even the weakest Hollows to convert the ambient energy into their Reiryoku.


    Hollows dwelling in Hueco Mundo could survive without consuming souls, unlike their ravenous counterparts that haunted the living world. However, there were those whose insatiable hunger could not be sated by mere Reishi or human souls. Compelled by a gnawing void, these Hollows resorted to cannibalism, feasting on their own kind. This grisly act of predation spurred their evolution into a new and terrifying breed: the Menos.


    The Gillians and Adjuchas existed in a perpetual state of predation, each driven by the desire for evolution. Aloof and enigmatic, the Vasto Lorde surveyed the lesser beings from their lofty perch, seldom finding a soul worthy of increasing their immense power. This relentless cycle of devouring and being devoured was the unspoken law that governed Hueco Mundo, where the weak were inevitably consumed by the strong.


    The weak become a part of the strong.


    Among the countless Hollows, one was named Emilou Apacci. One Hollow among the countless was named Emilou Apacci. She knew nothing about the origin of her name but she certainly had a bit of attachment to it. In the hierarchy of Hollows, Apacci was no weakling ¡ª she had triumphed in many battles. Yet it was the sting of her losses that etched deeper grooves into her soul.


    Over time, Apacci developed a cunning strategy for survival ¡ª avoiding formidable foes with her lithe, deer-like form. When fleeing was impossible, she channeled spiritual energy into her horns, unleashing devastating torrents of Cero. As an Adjuchas, she possessed immense power, but she chose to subsist on the ambient Reishi rather than devouring others.


    Today has been an easygoing day for the peace-loving deer. She gracefully traversed the vast, moonlit desert, her hooves crunching softly upon the pristine white sands. The pale moon hung low in the sky, casting a ghostly light upon the barren expanse. Abruptly, she halted, her heart pounding in her chest as she caught sight of two cerulean legs protruding from a nearby dune, as if their owner had been entombed alive.


    With her eyes narrowed to mere slits, Apacci scanned the desolate horizon, her senses on high alert as she sought to detect the sinister Hollows responsible for this trap.


    ¡®I¡¯m no fool.¡¯


    As an Adjuchas, her keen senses could vaguely pick up Hollows¡¯ presences, even those unseen by her eyes. The result, however, left her stunned.


    ''What? There''s no one here?''


    Her curiosity piqued, she twisted her elegant neck to survey the surroundings once more before returning her gaze to the slender legs, which seemed too delicate to belong to a Hollow.


    "It''s none of my damned business," she muttered, turning away and storming off. Yet a minute later, she found herself inexplicably drawn back to the mysterious legs, which remained motionless and unchanged.


    Kazuya adjusted himself into a more comfortable position on his unexpected mount, a deer-like creature adorned with brown fur on its back and gray skin on its front. Two striking white antlers crowned its head. As he surveyed his surroundings, he realized there was no rider directing the creature¡ªonly himself.


    Apacci turned her head, catching a glimpse of Kazuya in her peripheral vision. "Are you a Vasto Lorde?" she inquired in a slow, husky tone, noting that his size matched the rumored dimensions of the powerful Hollows. "Your Reiatsu doesn''t line up with that."


    "Vasto Lorde?" Kazuya furrowed his brow, trying to remember where he had heard the term. It was a familiar phrase, one that lingered on the edge of his memory, but the details remained frustratingly elusive. He strained to dredge it up from the depths of his recollection. "Ugh, where did I hear that?"


    At the sound of his whispered question, Apacci stopped in her tracks, her ears nearly melting from the pleasant timbre of his voice. ''His voice is so nice... what am I doing?!''


    Snapping out of her reverie, she shook her head vigorously, her ears flapping against her face. "Do you not know Vasto Lorde? Is this your first day in Hueco Mundo? That can''t be right. Menos aren''t born with small humanoid forms like yours."


    As Apacci explained the nature of Hollows and their various forms, she wondered if, by some miracle, she had misread the man''s Reiatsu. After all, Kazuya was significantly smaller than a typical Gillian and lacked the wildness of an Adjuchas.


    Behind his mask, Kazuya''s eyes narrowed in thought. The mention of Hueco Mundo and Menos swept away the fog obscuring his memories, and he gazed around in disbelief. The stark white landscape, with rolling dunes punctuated by barren trees and enormous boulders, seemed surreal yet eerily familiar. The sand appeared lifeless, and the air was still and clear as if made of glass. It was as if he had stepped into a vivid world that mirrored his own reality.


    In a sudden moment of clarity, he realized that this place perfectly matched the world from a specific anime.


    ''Ah.''


    Kazuya barely managed to suppress the urge to scream at the top of his lungs, as his current situation demanded an extreme reaction. Somehow, he had been transported to the world of Shinigami, Hollows, and Quincy¡ªthe world of Bleach. It had taken a bullet to his head, but he was finally free from his grandfather''s grasp.


    ''Is this my reward for putting up with all the bullshit?''


    He drew in a deep breath, filling his lungs with the cold, dusty air that permeated Hueco Mundo. This was neither a dream nor a fabrication of his dying mind.


    As the reality of his situation settled in, he let out a long sigh. "Dear Deer, may I ask your name?"


    Politeness was necessary when one didn¡¯t know what the fuck was happening. A little respect went a long way in building trust and preventing unnecessary conflicts.


    The owner of the voice considered his request for a few seconds. ¡°...Apacci.¡±

 Chapter 3: Character System

    Chapter 3: Character System


    Apacci.


    After some recollection, Kazuya recognized the name. She was one of the Tres Bestias, Tier Harribel¡¯s Fraccio?n. Harribel, the tanned Espada with golden hair ¡ª easily one of his most favorite female characters ever ¡ª led Apacci and her two friends.


    ''This is rather bizarre.''


    Somehow, he found himself in a timeline preceding the moment when Apacci encountered Tier Harribel and transformed into an Arrancar under Aizen. A timeline where the cunning Aizen had not yet seized control of Las Noches.


    ¡®Maybe he already did.¡¯


    He couldn''t be entirely sure about the convoluted chronology of Bleach.


    ¡°What about yours? Don¡¯t expect to take mine without giving yours!¡± Apacci snapped at his silence. ¡°Cat got your tongue or what?¡±


    Perhaps it was Kazuya¡¯s even temper and obliviousness to Hueco Mundo that put her at ease. She felt no danger, allowing her true character to shine through; while polite on the surface, she was a Hollow with a fiery demeanor.


    "Kazuya," he answered, his fingers brushing the skeletal mask that concealed most of his face. "It''s..."


    This prompted him to observe the other changes in his body. He was wearing the same clothes during his death ¡ª a white shirt and jeans, both of which were torn in embarrassing spots, showing his pale white skin. One of those holes exposed the gaping hole in his thighs. Two holes, to be precise.


    ¡®Hmm. I think I remember this.¡¯


    Every Hollow¡¯s hole, at least in higher evolutions, symbolized an aspect ¡ª what a Hollow lacked in most cases before their death or the cause of their death. He remembered that much from the material. For example, a Hollow hole near the stomach signified a craving for strength, whereas one in the eye meant blindness to certain things.


    ¡®What is mine supposed to mean?¡¯


    He gently punched his thigh, then tried moving his legs. He could use his legs just fine.


    ¡°Terrified of your holes?¡± Apacci asked. ¡°We are Hollows. Why tire out your legs walking when we can fly instead?¡±


    "Haha, indeed." He chuckled at her indirect attempt to comfort him. "So, Apacci, where are we headed?"


    ¡°How would I know?¡± she retorted. ¡°Someplace I don¡¯t have to constantly run away from those damning incarnations of gluttony.¡±


    As if by instinct, Kazuya tenderly stroked her crest, his fingers trailing through the velvety fur that extended down her head. It was a habit he had acquired while horse riding as a gesture of affection for his steed.


    ¡°Watch where you touch! I am not your pet.¡±


    Despite her irate tone, she didn''t order him to dismount. He glanced at his legs and smiled, touched by her subtle kindness. Even in a perilous world, she extended her compassion to a stranger. Perhaps she was relieved to discover someone reasonable in Hueco Mundo, a companion who wouldn''t betray her and transform her into food.


    ¡®And they say Hollows are evil.¡¯


    He would have considered seducing her if she was in her Arrancar form. He had always harbored a fondness for tomboys. Regrettably, she wouldn''t attain her human form anytime soon.


    ''A shame. Oh, right! I almost forgot about that pop-up window. Character System, wasn''t it?''


    As if responding to his curiosity, a colossal gray box materialized, obstructing his vision.


    {Character System}


    ...


    He skimmed past the status and focused on the three-dimensional model to the side, which displayed his current appearance as if he were a character in a video game. His clothing alone served as ample evidence that the model represented him. Disregarding his newly elongated silver hair and pallid white skin, his gaze fixated on the pair of black, feathery wings. He reached towards his back and grasped the soft bones protruding from his shoulder blades.


    He gently rolled his shoulder blades, sensing the muscles of his wings stretch and awaken. The wings, stirring from a profound slumber, appeared delicate and shadowy, as though they possessed a life of their own.


    Mastery level - Basic]


    [Riding: The ability to ride a mount.


    Mastery level - Intermediate]


    [Arithmetic: The ability to process arithmetic problems.


    Mastery level - Intermediate]


    [Equipment]


    Fine cotton shirt


    Denim jeans


    ¡®Did I lose some memories?¡¯


    This certainly wasn''t the status of a Hollow who had just been born. A Vasto Lorde with Reiryoku rivaling a Captain-Class ¡ª such power placed him near the apex of Hueco Mundo''s hierarchy. In the grand scheme of things, however, he remained little more than high-class fodder. He simply couldn''t measure up to endgame villains like the Quincy Sternritters.


    ¡®Neutral Evil. It... makes sense.¡¯


    He had always sought freedom, regardless of whether it violated laws. Not to mention the disdain he harbored for his grandfather, who risked his life for the greater good of society. Indeed, he never quite fit the mold of a Lawful individual.


    Next came the racial abilities ¡ª a set of unlearned skills inherent to all Vasto Lorde. Nothing extraordinary there. The truly exceptional aspects lay within his list of innate abilities. People had always complimented his voice, which also granted him an easier time with women. He couldn''t fathom that this turned out to be one of his innate abilities.


    ¡®Crumbling Heart.¡¯


    Despite its menacing name, it appeared to be a team-oriented ability that offered no tangible benefits to him personally. It could prove useful should he find trustworthy Hollow allies. Scratch that ¡ª he would either seduce Hollow women into trusting him or subdue them through the natural law of Hollows.


    ¡®Unknown Hollow Heart.¡¯


    He relegated the unknown aspect to the back of his mind and perused the remainder of his status. His skills were hardly extraordinary. In fact, they wouldn''t be considered overpowered in a world where a Quincy could bring his imagination to life and another could glimpse the future and manipulate it at will.


    ¡®This can¡¯t be it. There have to be other functions.¡¯


    A thunderous roar snatched away his attention before he could embark on another exploration of his System.


    Apacci trembled, recognizing the owner of the roar. "It''s back. Argh, we''re dead. SO DEAD."


    A few days prior, she had encountered the giant Adjuchas; her Sonido and natural agility had enabled her to escape its ravenous maw. However, her current Reiryoku wasn''t sufficient to use her rudimentary-level Sonido for more than thirty seconds ¡ª not enough time to evade the Adjuchas hellbent on consuming her.


    ¡°An enemy? This is troublesome.¡±


    He had yet to master basic Hollow techniques, such as controlling his Reiryoku, or spiritual power. While he could rival an average Captain-Class Shinigami in terms of Reiryoku quantity, he possessed no experience in controlling it.


    "You bet it is." Apacci kicked the ground, accelerating her pace. "Learn to fly, dammit. I can''t carry you everywhere like a slave."


    Their predator appeared atop the hill behind them ¡ª a colossal snake-like beast with eight arms and the lower body of a caterpillar. The skeletal mask on its head and the bone-like armor on its shoulders detracted somewhat from its fearsome appearance. The monster seemed right at home amidst the desolate, agony-filled landscape of Hueco Mundo.


    The Adjuchas leaped down the hill and pursued them with its numerous writhing legs, kicking up a sandstorm in its wake. "There is only one fate awaiting you, little deer. Cease your resistance and become a part of a greater Adjuchas like me."


    Kazuya remained oddly unfazed by the situation, as if his mind refused to acknowledge the massive beast as a threat.


    He patted Apacci''s back. "Buy me some time. I''ll kill him."

 Chapter 4: Annihilation

    Chapter 4: Annihilation


    Apacci could feel the confidence seeping from his voice like a warm, invigorating elixir, expelling the fear and doubts that had been ricocheting in her mind. She found herself unable to question the source of his conviction, as though she had faith in him.


    ¡®A Hollow, having faith.¡¯


    She scoffed, a touch of incredulity coloring her thoughts..


    ¡°Trust me.¡±


    Then, like a gentle breeze, his pleasant whisper caressed her ears, washing away her skepticism. She was akin to a desperate moth, drawn irresistibly towards a blazing inferno. Apacci groaned at the ludicrous predicament she found herself in. Her choices had been whittled down to two ¡ª perishing inside a Hollow''s stomach or placing trust in the man who exuded unwavering confidence in his abilities.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let me die!¡±


    Channeling her Reiryoku into her legs, a thunderous boom reverberated behind her. Though her Soni?do skills were unremarkable, the sudden acceleration caught Kazuya off-guard. The wind slapped against his face, a sensation that would have sent his old body careening through the air. In his current state, however, the wind felt invigorating, reminiscent of riding his Suzuki.


    ¡®I love this world.¡¯


    Seizing the opportunity, he closed his eyes and immersed himself in the energy coursing within him. Controlling Reiryoku was an innate instinct for every Hollow, and he deftly guided the flow of energy with his thoughts.


    ¡®Easier than I thought.¡¯


    Suddenly, Apacci''s knees buckled as she was subjected to his bone-chilling Reiatsu. Her stumble sent them crashing down, and Kazuya''s clothes became even more tattered after tumbling across the ghostly white sand.


    Picking himself up and dusting off his clothes, he appeared unscathed after the devastating crash. His Hollow holes posed no hindrance to his movements, serving solely as ornamental symbols. The sand in Hueco Mundo was peculiar, its grains bonded more tightly than those on a beach, as if an invisible energy held them together.


    ¡®Fuuh. I¡¯m not a cripple.¡¯


    Meanwhile, awestruck and petrified, Apacci gaped at the brilliant blue Reiatsu emanating from Kazuya, her body rendered immobile. The concentration of his Reiatsu surpassed that of an Adjuchas-Class, hinting at a power beyond.


    As if...


    "Haha, I didn''t think there would be another one with you," laughed the colossal Adjuchas, oblivious to Kazuya''s Reiatsu as if his senses had been severely dulled. In truth, the snake-like Hollow was teetering on the brink of regression. "I''ll eat you, first, then savor the female there."


    Kazuya pivoted toward the ravenous Adjuchas and focused his Reiryoku into his hand. A dense sphere of azure energy materialized, its very existence warping the air around it.


    "What can¡ª" Suddenly, an icy shiver raced down the Adjuchas¡¯s spine, electrifying his nerves. His heart hammered wildly as he swiveled around, his eyes wide with panic and dread, desperately seeking an escape from the spine-chilling presence lurking behind him.


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    Her flustered voice contradicted her feigned annoyance. Unable to handle the embarrassment, she strutted along obediently and quickened her pace.


    Kazuya rolled his eyes. Her behavior strongly resembled that of a tsundere, with the way she masked her gratitude beneath a facade of irritation. To be honest, he found the trait irritating. Seeing people being dishonest with their feelings, hiding their true emotions behind a veil of stubbornness, could be incredibly frustrating at times.


    ¡°Do you want to eat him?¡± He asked. ¡°You can if you feel like it.¡±


    Vasto Lorde, like him, didn¡¯t need to eat to evolve, and he didn¡¯t use enough Reiryoku to feel hungry. Not that he was interested in eating a giant blob of unsavory raw flesh. The thought alone repulsed him.


    ¡®My only evolution from here is Arrancar.¡¯


    To achieve this, he would have to find a way to remove his mask. He recalled that Apacci and her friends hadn''t been Vasto Lorde when they met Aizen; they had become Arrancar with the help of Ho?gyoku, which proved that the transformation was possible for any Hollow.


    ¡®How am I supposed to do it? Just rip off my mask...¡¯


    The mere thought of tearing away his mask filled him with an instinctual, primal fear, akin to the terror a mortal being might feel when faced with the cold embrace of death.


    ¡®Interesting.¡¯


    No wonder Aizen had needed the Ho?gyoku to blur the line between Hollow and Shinigami in order to create Arrancar. Overcoming this innate fear would demand an extraordinary amount of willpower and conviction¡ªqualities that not every Hollow possessed. Many would falter, either dying in the process or succumbing to their primitive instincts.


    ¡®I¡¯ll need more information before trying it.¡¯


    As Kazuya was lost in thought, Apacci snuck a furtive glance at the fallen Hollow. She swallowed hard, her hunger gnawing at her insides after using up her Reiryoku. As an Adjuchas, she needed to consume others to maintain her individuality and rank, or else she would regress into her Gillian form, never to rise above Menos Grande again.


    For many, such a fate was considered worse than death.


    "I won''t say thank you because you provided me food," she declared with a huff.


    Kazuya gently patted her back and offered a warm smile. "It''s difficult for you to be honest with your words, isn''t it?"


    "Argh! I''m completely honest!"


    In the midst of his amusing banter, Kazuya felt a sudden, sharp prickling sensation on his back. He slowly turned to look over his shoulder, his eyes narrowing behind his mask as he scanned the horizon.


    Atop a distant hill, a white figure stood, appearing hazy even to his enhanced vision. However, where his eyes failed him, his knowledge of the Bleach universe came to his aid, helping him identify the mysterious Hollow.


    ''Tier Harribel.''

 Chapter 5: Goals

    Chapter 5: Goals


    Kazuya''s eyes narrowed, taking on the intensity of a predator stalking its prey. The wheels in his mind turned with an audible creak as he tried to recall all the details of Bleach. He was having difficulty remembering certain things, but there was one image that stuck in his head: a tanned woman with hair the color of shimmering gold, her seductive curves hugged by a white skin-tight jacket, and her ever so composed gaze holding an air of authority.


    The future nu?mero tres of Espada, Tier Harribel.


    ¡®She should still be a Vasto Lorde like me.¡¯


    Unlike other Hollows, Tier Harribel kept most of her humanity in this form. She, who didn¡¯t mind sacrificing her life for her Fraccio?n, her Aspect of Death was fittingly ¡®Sacrifice.¡¯


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    He never hesitated when it came to women. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have gone after his teacher instead of his fellow students. Was his new race going to stop his vile seductions?


    ¡®Nope.¡¯


    His new race merely elevated his goal. Now he could live without the restraints of conventional morals. He didn''t mind meddling with the plot either. The timeline already veered off course as soon as he interacted with this tomboyish tsundere deer serving as his mount. He wasn''t going to live in fear because of things beyond his control.


    After all, he was a¡ª


    ¡®What was that?¡¯


    The word representing something crucial teased the tip of his tongue, only to vanish like a fleeting shadow. He scratched his head, furrowing his brow as he tried to summon the lost thought. It never returned.


    Harribel also disappeared from the hill while he was confused.


    ¡®Fuck... System, tell me about your functions.¡¯


    An awkward silence answered his inquiry. He asked the same question several times, only to receive a cold shoulder from his System.


    ¡®A System without sentience. Am I in the wrong genre?¡¯


    He sighed and turned his attention to Apacci. She quietly nibbled at the Hollow, like a delicate mouse picking at a giant wheel of cheese. At her pace, it would take weeks to finish the towering beast. Fortunately, she had her fill in a few minutes, restoring her Reiryoku to nearly full.


    "I don''t find it draining, though."


    "..."


    If she had fingers, she would be flipping the middle ones at his face.


    Kazuya chuckled. With nothing else to do, he began training his racial abilities. As a creature of instincts, he possessed a basic understanding of each one. Mastering his racial abilities was simply a matter of investing time and effort.


    While frolicking with Apacci, he stumbled upon another Hollow, which he rapidly dispatched with a powerful Cero. He felt grateful for his reincarnation as a Vasto Lorde; random Hollows and Adjuchas posed no threat to him. At present, his most significant concern was the Hollow reigning over the land of Las Noches as its king. His arsenal lacked the means to counter that skeleton guy''s Decay ability. It was wiser not to provoke him.


    ¡®That reminds me of Ulquiorra. Wasn¡¯t he a natural Arrancar?¡¯


    He saw some hope in fulfilling the seemingly life-threatening task. Ulquiorra transformed into an Arrancar by accidentally breaking his mask. There were more circumstances at play for sure.


    ¡®Are Espadas a thing yet?¡¯


    He remembered Aizen crafting his own Ho?gyoku to experiment with Hollows and create Arrancars. However, he was clueless about the current state of Espada as an organization.


    ¡®Forget about Espada. I should make some personal goals.¡¯


    Shaking his head, he pondered some personal goals. After all, everyone needed to strive for something to keep life interesting. His objectives were straightforward, such as traveling across Hueco Mundo to find Tier Harribel, honing his Vasto Lorde''s power to its limits, and becoming an Arrancar.


    He also wanted Apacci to become an Arrancar, just so he could fuck around with someone. Seducing her would take nearly zero effort.


    Heaving a sigh, he let his gaze wander. "Let''s take it slow. One day at a time."


    He had only just been born. As a Hollow, he possessed all the time in the world to experiment with new ideas.


    ¡°It''s always night in Hueco Mundo, don¡¯t you know?¡± Apacci snickered. ¡°You silly goose.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 6: Conviction

    Chapter 6: Conviction


    In Hueco Mundo, the concept of day and night, entertainment, and laws were as absent as cheerful colors in a graveyard, as if its creator sculpted it with a satirical nod to Hell.


    Weary of the desolate ambience, Kazuya sought refuge in a natural cave tucked within a mountain.


    ¡°Ahhhhh,¡± he groaned in frustration. ¡°Kubo, you bastard. This is so hard.¡±


    Apacci looked at him oddly. ¡°Kubo? Who is Kubo?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± he said with a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m a little frustrated.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you later. Let¡¯s rest for now.¡±


    Apacci agreed with the sentiment and laid flat on the ground. Her position revealed the see-through Hollow hole in her stomach. Discerning the symbolic meaning behind Apacci¡¯s Hollow hole was ridiculously simple.


    She was fed up with being pursued. Thus, she craved the strength to survive.


    He oversimplified her present desire, as he had no means of delving into her past life.


    ¡°Good night.¡±


    Kazuya folded his wings to make them as small as possible and rested his head on Apacci, careful to avoid her Hollow hole in case it caused her discomfort. Irritated by his wings, he turned to his side.


    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re sleeping?!¡±


    ¡°We had a deal, remember? Let¡¯s add something else to it. I¡¯ll use you as a pillow. You can do the same when you become an Arrancar.¡±


    In her Arrancar form, she wasn''t very tall, while he was nearly 6''3" ¡ª possibly taller after transforming into a Hollow. He could handle her with ease.


    ¡°Fine.¡± Apacci huffed and rested her head on the ground. He was the most insolent man she had ever met, not that she had any chance to deeply know anyone beside him. ¡°Ignorant guy.¡±


    ¡°Wake me up if anyone tries to attack. Don¡¯t fight on your own.¡±


    And he was also the most considerate one.


    Kazuya touched his mask, and dread consumed him. He hesitated in tearing off his mask, as a wrong step could spell his death.


    ¡®I¡¯ll find some Hollows to experiment with, preferably Adjuchas.¡¯


    Apacci glanced at him through her peripheral vision. His quiet reflection made her uneasy. ¡°You keep mentioning Arrancar this, Arrancar that. What is an Arrancar?¡±


    ¡°A Hollow whose essence is closer to a Shinigami. We supposedly get this power from taking off our mask.¡±


    ¡°Are you crazy?¡± Apacci retorted. ¡°The mask is a part of our soul. Take off the mask and we¡¯ll lose the power to control Reiryoku. We might even die or reform into a Gillian.¡±


    Once an Adjuchas regressed, they could never regain their form. They would forever be stuck wandering the Hueco Mundo as a giant, mindless Gillian. No Adjuchas wanted to suffer from such fate, thus driving them to devour other Hollows.


    Kazuya reached out and playfully tugged the unicorn-like horn protruding from her forehead. "Have faith in your determination to defy the norms... Well, who am I preaching to, anyway? You''d have been toast if I hadn''t stepped up back there."


    ¡°I...¡± She wanted to say something but hesitated. ¡°There is no point... Arrancar or not... we are just biding time. This is Hueco Mundo, dammit. Don¡¯t make me say the obvious.¡±


    They were going to die one day ¡ª she had realized the truth after witnessing the cycle of Hollows consuming the weaker ones. She wanted to die peacefully, if possible.


    Mastery level - Basic.]


    [Garganta: Limited Spatial Distortion technique.


    Mastery level - Yet to learn.]


    He had already grasped all the basic Vasto Lorde abilities except for Garganta. Garganta was useful for crossing over to the World of Living and Seireitei. He left its mastery for later, focusing on enhancing the combat abilities first.


    ¡®The World of Living.¡¯


    The faces of his ex-girlfriend and friend surfaced in his mind. He had come from a different universe; otherwise, he wouldn''t possess any meta knowledge of this universe. That much was clear to him.


    ¡®They must have buried me... if Terrorist-san was kind enough to leave my body intact.¡¯


    As much as he missed their presences, he preferred his new life. Sure, it was boring at a glance, but he had the freedom to go anywhere!


    While cheering himself up like a fool, he spotted an intriguing detail in the System interface. Every row, except his equipment and abilities, had a pencil icon at the end; he tapped the symbol next to the gender out of curiosity.


    Options available for ¡®Gender¡¯ stat:


    1 - Male


    2 - Female


    3 - Futa


    ...


    The list went on forever, showing absurd names as gender.


    ¡®Helicopter?! How is that a gender?¡¯


    Kazuya regretted experimenting on gender stat. At least he discovered one crucial element from this mishap ¡ª he could customize his status to some degree. The System referred to itself as ¡®Character System¡¯ for this very reason. His eyes wandered to the race icon, which sported the same pencil icon.


    ¡®Will it work?¡¯


    He gulped down his saliva. Every race in Bleach had unique abilities. Shinigami had Zanpakuto?, which could unlock Shikai and Bankai stages. Hollow had Cero, Soni?do, then Arrancar had their own versions of Zanpakuto? to release different forms. Quincy with their own set of abilities, like Blut Vene and other busted techniques. Then there were Fullbringers born from extremely rare circumstances.


    The versatility of every race ¡ª he''d love to possess that power. Only one person in the Bleach Universe will come to have blood from each major race ¡ª Ichigo Kurosaki, the protagonist. The godly hybrid of Shinigami, Quincy, Hollow, and Fullbringer. Even that level of power failed against the Almighty Yhwach. It just went to show how terrifying the Father of Quincy truly was.


    With glazed eyes, he reached for the edit button positioned after the Race option while bracing for disappointment.


    Options available for ¡®Race¡¯:


    Soul


    Human


    The two options startled him. The second option seemed utterly unnecessary. He didn''t want to become ''powerless'' again.


    ¡®Can you show things in more detail?¡¯


    Defying his expectations, a long list of options appeared before him.

 Chapter 7: My Aspect of Death

    Chapter 7: My Aspect of Death


    [Loading ¡®Evolution Database¡¯ function.]


    [Soul: The purest form of a being.


    ¡ªCurrent path of evolution (Hollow): Hollows are souls who materialize their Inner Heart through the corruption of sins. They lose their minds to raw instincts and animalistic desires. They have existed since the primordial times.


    Soul (Base form) -> Base Hollow (Materialization of Inner Heart and domination by raw instincts) (Achieved) -> Gillian (Fusion with Souls of similar affinity) (Achieved) -> Adjuchas (Formation of a new consciousness capable of dominating raw instincts) (Achieved) -> Vasto Lorde (Partial harmony of raw instincts with consciousness) (Achieved)


    Potential Evolutions in this path: Arrancar (???) -> ??? (???)]


    ¡ªAlternative path of soul evolution (Shinigami): Souls who manifest their Inner Heart by external means...


    Soul (Base form) -> ??? (???) -> ??? (???) -> ??? (???)]


    [Human: A soul residing in a vessel of Kishi to interact with the World of Living.


    ¡ªPotential path of human evolution (Quincy): ??


    Human (Base) (Achieved) -> Quincy (???) -> ???


    ¡ªAlternate potential path of human evolution (Fullbringer): ??


    *Evolution Database will be constantly updated with your knowledge.


    The wealth of information overwhelmed Kazuya. As he sifted through the options, he noticed an asterisk at the end, accompanied by an explanation for the numerous question marks scattered throughout the list. It became clear that the status only reflected what he knew or remembered; any gaps in his knowledge or memory resulted in the mysterious question marks.


    ¡®When did I achieve Adjuchas-Class?¡¯


    The (Achieved) marks hinted that he might have started as a simple Hollow. Somehow, those memories vanished or were discarded after he became a Vasto Lorde.


    ¡®They don¡¯t matter now.¡¯


    He narrowed his eyes at the tick mark available in front of every potential evolution path. He could regress to a previous evolution and even try out the Quincy path. It was a convoluted approach compared to his desired ability to switch races at will. Well, he wasn¡¯t going to complain about a power with plenty of potential down the line.


    This also implied,


    ¡®I can become a Shinigami.¡¯


    He opted for ''closed door cultivation'' to hone his Vasto Lorde strength and unlock the full potential of his new innate ability. The Evolution Database provided the basic knowledge, while his own mind filled the gaps.


    Firstly, Hollows weren''t the mindless soul-eaters the Soul Society portrayed them as. In fact, Bleach showed they were quite different. The more he learned, the more intriguing complexities arose, complicating his intended path.


    Questions swirled in his mind: Why did a Hollow have a mask? Why did they consume others to fill the void in their souls? What was the nature of the void that expanded with their craving for souls? Why did most Hollows become more human-like after reaching the Adjuchas-Class?


    And most importantly, what exactly was this Inner Heart that triggered the creation of a Hollow?


    Most importantly, what exactly was the Inner Heart that triggered a Hollow''s creation? He had numerous theories, but none could be confirmed. Eventually, he abandoned the pursuit of the Inner Heart''s true purpose and shifted his focus to Hollow evolutions.


    Every evolution after Gillian placed great emphasis on suppressing raw instincts. The raw instincts that turned them into hyenas for souls instead of flesh.


    Each evolution beyond Gillian emphasized suppressing primal instincts, which had driven them to become ravenous soul-seekers. Arrancars, for the most part, resembled Shinigami.


    He closed his eyes, his mind swirling with countless theories.


    After several minutes of contemplation, he opened his eyes, now gleaming with newfound understanding. He felt like a hermit who had achieved enlightenment.


    ''I see. Menos don''t eat others to become strong and evolve. The primary goal is strengthening their consciousness, which suppresses their raw instincts.''


    Failure to do so would result in regression to Gillian-Class.


    The theory made too much sense to be false or delusional.


    ''Then Arrancars...''


    His lips curved into a smirk as he realized the true intent of tearing the mask for Arrancarization. Aizen was right about ''separating boundaries between a Hollow and Shinigami'' to create an Arrancar. But there was more to the process; otherwise, there wouldn''t be natural Arrancars like Ulquiorra Cifer and Coyote Starrk.


    ''Let''s test my theory and my new ability.''


    Turning to his drowsy companion, he patted her mask. "Come with me."


    "Hmm... where are we going?"


    "To cause some chaos, my little friend. Let us toy with the destiny of some hapless souls."


    "..."


    Apacci looked at him as if he had lost his mind.

 Chapter 8: Oppression

    Chapter 8: Oppression


    How would anyone imagine the ability of oppression? The power to overwhelm someone to the point they have no chance to fight back. The power to crush someone under sheer pressure like a bug.


    The manifestation of Kazuya¡¯s Aspect of Death worked similarly, yet worlds apart from those concepts.


    It was truly a breathtaking ability.


    He went out in search of a foe to test its effectiveness. Lo-and-behold, he found four massive Hollows hibernating in an underground cave. They were Menos Grande.


    Unlike Adjuchas and Vasto Lorde, a Menos Grande surpassed the height of an average house in Japan. Each cloaked in black¡¯ wearing a mask with an extending nose bearing three holes. Despite their giant size, they were considered foot soldiers in Las Noches, as they were below Adjuchas in strength and raw power, and were more commonly known as Gillian.


    All the Gillians screeched as they sensed the intruders.


    Apacci shivered. ¡°They will chew us alive! Let¡¯s run!¡±


    She was terrified of four Gillians blasting her with their Cero.


    Kazuya merely smiled and stretched his hand towards the Gillians. ¡°Oppress atmospheric air.¡±


    A blue Reiatsu surrounded the intimidating giant Hollows, and the wind howled like a wolf.


    Atmospheric air was everywhere, just like Reishi in Hueco Mundo. In a wide open world, the air alone weighed over hundred of thousands of pounds. Typically, the internal body pressure canceled the atmospheric air while body tissues absorbed the rest of the net force. The Oppression overturned that perfect balance in favor of pure destruction. A Gillian''s body structure was incomparably more resilient than human, but could it survive nearly a ton of pressure from all sides?


    The answer revealed itself in the form of cracking bones. Flesh ruptured and blood spurted. In an expected turn of events, the four Gillians, towering over four stories, crumbled in balls of grotesque flesh.


    ¡°Amazing...¡±


    The sheer force of his innate ability left him astonished.


    [Aspect of Death (Oppression): Oppression crushes all by infallible authority. With the power of oppression, you can heighten any aspect of a physical body, be it your surroundings or a part of your enemy¡¯s body.


    Reiryoku¡¯s consumption will be increased depending on the resistance faced and your comprehension of the aspect.]


    A fitting ability for the man who always lived under the constant oppression of his grandfather, albeit a mental one. He could amplify one aspect of his surroundings as long as it existed physically.


    He could technically raise anyone¡¯s heartbeat and destroy their heart. An instant death that would require immense Reiryoku varying from individual to individual.


    The ability, however, wasn¡¯t perfect: its energy consumption was its biggest drawback, followed by its conditions. Just one use against Gillians drained his Reiryoku by nearly a quarter. The efficiency would be even worse if he tried to control stronger Hollows. The ability wouldn¡¯t work if his opponent repelled his Reiatsu with a greater concentration of Reiryoku.


    The crow nodded at the words of his fellow indirect subordinates of the undisputed king of Hueco Mundo. They had let out their Hollows subordinates to evolve in the wild, only to be killed by newcomers.


    Appaci¡¯s response ¡ª a crispy beam of Cero Ray that scorched the monkey¡¯s fur around his chest, leaving a bloody mess. ¡°You pathetic monkey, I am a reindeer. Kazuya also has wings. He is no goat. Open your damn eyes before spitting bullshit.¡±


    ¡°Goddamn.¡± Kazuya beamed a smile at the furious Hollows while patting Apacci¡¯s head. ¡°That¡¯s not a friendly way to approach our guests, now is that? Hey you three, why don¡¯t we sit down in my cave and chat about your life troubles? I¡¯m an A-grade listener. A professional therapist.¡±


    ¡°The heck are you saying?¡± Apacci retorted. ¡°They are mad now!¡±


    ¡°You dare to mock me, a retainer of Lord Barragan¡¯s court?¡±


    ¡°You will pay for this.¡±


    ¡°Death to the sinner!!!¡±


    The Hollows roared with rage and charged at him. He vanished in a blink of an eye, leaving a sonic boom. He reappeared moments later several meters away with his Soni?do technique. He left the Hollows in the dust with his speed.


    ¡°No need to be so mad. Geez.¡± He raised his hand from Apacci¡¯s head and released the full pressure of his Vasto Lorde-Class Reiatsu. ¡°You guys should die but that¡¯s not what I want. You¡¯ll be part of something great. Be happy that you died for a great cause~.¡±


    The Hollows felt as if the sky collapsed as their very souls shivered in terror. His Reiatsu was ripping their souls.


    ¡°A V-Vasto Lorde?!¡±


    ¡°Curse our luck. What is a Vasto Lorde doing here?¡±


    ¡°Fuck!!!¡±


    The realization came far too late; their deaths were written in stone the moment they approached him with malicious intent.


    Apacci, who was behind Kazuya, merely felt a fraction of his oppressive Reiatsu. Even that left her shaken to her core.


    ¡®Vasto Lorde are crazy strong.¡¯


    How great would it be to have such power? She could say goodbye to her run and hide life and live the way Kazuya mentioned without fearing the inevitable ¡°end.¡± A desire not so different from envy flooded her chest.


    Alas, she was one of those Adjuchas-Class who barely received any strength increase even after consuming an Adjuchas-Class Hollow ¡ª to put it simply; she lacked the potential to become a Vasto Lorde.


    Backing down on a promise irked her. She gritted her teeth. ¡°Screw Vasto Lorde. I¡¯m becoming the strongest Arrancar.¡±

 Chapter 9: Nightmares

    Chapter 9: Nightmares


    Sometime earlier.


    A gray snake with a white underbelly slithered across the white dunes of Hueco Mundo. The three pink dots on either side of her head and the three pearls hanging from her white oyster-like mask all but confirmed her gender.


    Walking by this snake was a fierce lioness with pieces of white armor on her four legs. What set this lioness apart was a golden mask and a golden mane extending beyond it.


    Both Adjuchas females followed the lead of a golden-haired woman relatively small compared to her companions.


    A light blue layer of skin-tight suit covered her from neck to bottom, nearly merging with her healthy olive skin. A white, bone-like armor covered most of her body, with gills on her limbs and ribs. Sharp protrusions rose from her shoulders like pauldrons to an armor. A long tail extended from the back of her head; the tail had a shark-like fin in the middle and two joint fins at its end.


    A giant white broadsword, like an elongated shark fang, was fused with her arm.


    She was a powerful Vasto Lorde.


    ¡°Ara, Mila Rose, walk in front of us. We might lose sight of you in this darkness.¡±


    ¡°Gah, this snake bitch. Why is she so damn tall?¡±


    The snake and the lioness yelled at each other. The snake reared up, her white scales shimmering in the dark, and hissed a warning. The lioness crouched low, eyes blazing, and roared her challenge. They faced each other like they were arch-rivals.


    Tier Harribel shook her head. Sitting in a cave wasn¡¯t the most exciting thing in the world, so Harribel and her two comrades went for strolls in the white ashes desert enveloping Hueco Mundo. Sometimes she stumbled upon ruins from the ancient era inhabited by Hollows. Sometimes she found empty chambers. Sometimes she met people they could trust.


    The sense of a discovery on the horizon kept Harribel pushing every day.


    Today too, they came out for a stroll, but her companions wouldn¡¯t stop fighting.


    Cyan Sung-Sun, the snake Hollow, turned to her leader. Harribel had a habit of calmly observing the situation and then speaking her mind. Harribel¡¯s sudden grim look spoke of hidden dangers.


    ¡°Harribel-sama?¡±


    Hearing Sung-Sun¡¯s serious voice, Franceska Mila Rose lowered her growl. ¡°Hah! Harribel-sama, what is the matter?¡±


    ¡°I sense a strong Reiatsu.¡± Harribel stopped in her path and blocked her comrades with her sword-like arm. Her golden brows knitted in a concerned frown. ¡°A battle, perhaps.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t concern us,¡± said the lioness. ¡°Leave it be, no?¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s tone embodied her matter-of-course, indifference to other lives. Harribel had brought her and Sung-Sun together to protect each other from other Hollows, even if Harribel did most of the heavy work. Intervening in others¡¯ battles didn¡¯t sit well with Mila Rose.


    ¡°We¡¯ll observe from a distance,¡± Harribel addressed Mila Rose. ¡°Follow me.¡±


    The cool and composed Vasto Lorde made a quick decision and sprinted ahead without her comrades¡¯ response.


    Sung-Sun hissed. ¡°Harribel-sama has more compassion for lives than both of us. It¡¯s about time we accept it.¡±


    Harribel always forgave the Hollows who tried to attack them, even admitting that she despised killing. She still killed the most pesky one every once in a while to let Sung-Sun and Mila Rose maintain their current Adjuchas status.


    But she didn¡¯t help them devour Hollows to evolve further.


    Sung-Sun and Mila Rose respected Harribel since she had the power to act on her whims. She had the power to roam Hueco Mundo with confidence. Well, except for King Barragan¡¯s court.


    Mila Rose scratched the ground with her paw and leaped a great distance. ¡°Don¡¯t talk to me like I¡¯m ignorant. I know Harribel-sama¡¯s contempt for sacrificing others.¡±


    ¡°But you are impulsive, like a child.¡± Sung-Sun giggled. ¡°Harribel-sama, wait for us!¡±


    The fabricated phantasms could also be called an artificial dream.


    In her false dreams, Harribel regularly bore witness to a blurry white room, where metal screeched and sparked, blinding lights flickering everywhere.


    Figures with white heads incited panic in their hypnotizing whispers.


    Then an innocent cry rumbled through, shattering the reality itself until a void remained.


    Waves and waves of an infant¡¯s sobs chipped away at Harribel¡¯s soul, carving out her innards and crushing her heart. A pair of white eyes welled up with moisture and oozed a trail of crimson tears until the chilling red painted her vision.


    Harribel could instinctively feel the suffering behind each tear.


    ...


    Harribel opened her eyes on a slope, with her hand on her left knee and her right knee folded. She showed no signs of discomfort, as though she forgot every experience inside her false dream.


    That was precisely the case. Her oozing sympathy and regret had receded back into her soul after she woke up. She could never truly recall the experience of her past life ¡ª the experience she once had as a mother.


    Harribel suddenly raised her head. Shrill screams echoed through the dreadful vistas of Hueco Mundo. It echoed as though it came from far away, bouncing off of the nearby hills.


    Grains of ash-white sands moved in waves as Mila Rose and Sung-Sun woke up from their brief slumber.


    ¡°Sung Bitch, did you hear that?¡±


    ¡°Ara, don¡¯t be vulgar. And yes, I did. Someone probably ticked off a pack of Menos Grande.¡±


    ¡°Could it be that male Hollow?¡± Mila Rose¡¯s mind immediately went to the terrifying Hollow they encountered. ¡°S-Should we leave?¡±


    ¡°Why would he disturb Menos Grande? The world doesn¡¯t revolve around him.¡± Sung-Sun squinted her eyes. ¡°Why do you keep bringing him up? Did you, by any chance, get a crush on him?¡±


    Mila Rose was always a worshiper of strength, her past playing a big role to make her envy the strong. It wouldn¡¯t be far-fetched to think Mila Rose would get feelings for a much stronger Hollow.


    ¡°Stop talking gibberish.¡± Mila Rose turned her head with a harrumph. ¡°I just thought he would be linked to this incident. He seemed like the troublesome type.¡±


    ¡°You certainly know him more than us.¡±


    Harribel closed her eyes. Her companions hearing the howls revealed a glaring detail ¡ª the conflict was closer this time around. She also sensed Apacci¡¯s Reiatsu flaring up alongside her winged companion¡¯s Reiatsu.


    ¡®They can take care of each other.¡¯


    She ignored the howls and hung her head for another session of light sleep, as if her subconscious yearned to relive the nightmare again and again.


    -x-x-x-


    Just a few minutes later, Harribel got up with a jolt. A spine-chilling wail reverberated as an intense Reiatsu declared its position, rising with each moment.


    The pressure was so thick it nearly choked her Adjuchas comrades. Then the pressure disappeared entirely, leaving her party in a state of confusion.


    Harribel glanced at her friends. ¡°Head back to the base. I¡¯ll go check it out.¡±


    Before Sung-Sun and Mila said a word, Harribel leaped into the air and dashed. A boom resounded as Harribel reappeared several feet away. A series of successive sonic bursts rumbled as she made a quick dash for the origin of excruciating howls.


    Another shriek came and died before she reached her destination. What she saw left her petrified.


    A giant bird-like Hollow screeched as he tried to cover his face with his wings. Dark Reiatsu overflowed from his entire being and pushed the ash sand around him. His Reiatsu surpassed the limits of an Adjuchas, faintly touching upon the realm of Vasto Lorde.


    His Reiatsu rampaged more before slowly receding into his soul. Vasto Lorde... Adjuchas... Gillian. His Reiatsu sank rapidly then disappeared entirely. The Hollow collapsed to his knees and a gust of wind scattered his husk of a body into ashes.


    ***


    A/N: Since most of their backstories are unknown, I have taken the liberty to change some things. One of them is Harribel being a mother who died during childbirth, essentially going through childbirth despite knowing the risks to her own life. The story meshes too well with her Aspect of Death Sacrifice and her Hollow hole positioned in her womb.

 Chapter 10: A Proposal

    Chapter 10: A Proposal


    Kazuya''s experiment unfolded as anticipated. The three Adjuchas'' transformation into Arrancar culminated in disaster and their demise¡ªa disheartening yet logical outcome. Expecting unnamed NPCs to subdue their primal instincts and then seal them into a weapon was just begging for disappointment. What he hadn''t foreseen was Harribel''s arrival, her attention piqued by the explosive surge in Reiatsu.


    Nonetheless, he remained unfazed by her current formidable appearance.


    ¡®A Vasto Lorde. Her Reiatsu is weaker than me?¡¯


    It seemed she had achieved her Vasto Lorde rank not long ago. Otherwise, her Reiatsu would surpass his by a big margin.


    Putting on his most charming grin, he threw out a friendly wave. ¡°Bonjour, Mademoiselle. Pardon me for disturbing your rest.¡±


    In the presence of a withering Hollow, his formal greeting looked sinister. His melodious voice, like a choir of angelic bells, didn¡¯t help his case either. His presence screamed red flags, but Harribel, caught in Adjuchas¡¯ deaths, failed to recognize any.


    ¡°What happened to these Hollows?¡±


    ¡°They attacked us out of nowhere. When they couldn¡¯t beat me, they started tearing their masks.¡± He rubbed the back of his head with a feigned, helpless smile. ¡°The rest is history.¡±


    "Why would a Hollow tear their mask?" Harribel wasn''t swayed by his sweet voice and posed a valid question. She turned to Apacci, who seemed on edge. "Is that what happened?"


    Her distrust in Kazuya and trust in Apacci couldn¡¯t be more obvious. She¡¯d rather believe Apacci whom she had observed for some time than believing a complete stranger.


    Faced with Harribel¡¯s question, Apacci found herself stuck between a rock and a hard place. Kazuya lied to Harribel without so much of a flinch as he was responsible for cracking the three Adjuchas¡¯ masks with his fists. He did it without a change in his expression as if all the pleading those Adjuchas meant nothing to him.


    He was ruthless and vicious like a devil, resembling the Hollows who wanted to devour her.


    Her first impression of him couldn¡¯t have been farther from his true face. She also understood the essence of his ¡®experiments¡¯: using others like a fodder to test the success of Arrancarization.


    ¡®Are you willing to do anything for power?¡¯


    Stealing a glance at him, she noticed his neutral lips but gleaming eyes, urging her to act. He wanted her to take a stance¡ªeither lie for him or betray him and side with Harribel. The decision might dictate her life from here on out.


    ¡®This jerk!¡¯


    She gritted her teeth, frustrated at his obvious attempt to back her into a corner. ¡°Yes. They lost their minds to find a Vasto Lorde nearly as powerful as their master, King Barragan.¡±


    Reading Harribel¡¯s intention was much easier than predicting the intricate schemes brewing inside behind his sinister mind. In spite of it all, she refused to betray him! He had saved her life and helped her in recovering her Reiryoku. While she wouldn''t say it out loud, the past day had been the most fun she had in her lonely life.


    Getting Apacci¡¯s confirmation, Harribel didn¡¯t push the matter any further and regarded Kazuya with a composed gaze. ¡°King Baraggan sees all Vasto Lorde as a threat to his authority. He will come after us, eventually to recruit us into his Espada ranks. You two should keep moving... stay away from Baraggan¡¯s lackeys.¡±


    Barragan saw all of Hueco Mundo as his playground, everyone a piece for him to use and discard. The Espada under him was just more tools to do his bidding. Harribel, on the other hand, loathed the very thought of sacrificing anyone. Two powerful people with contrasting beliefs were bound to clash, even if she harbored no intentions of challenging his authority.


    ¡°Why should we trust your words?¡± Apacci questioned Harribel¡¯s goodwill with sharp eyes. ¡°Fuck this King Barragan. Kazuya will slap his head off.¡±


    "Cough. Cough." Kazuya tried not to laugh but ended up coughing. He cleared his throat and rubbed her head. "Excuse me, Apacci. I''m a day-old Vasto Lorde and King Baraggan has been in power for centuries. His army alone can drown me in their spit. By me, I mean us. We live and die together now, Apacci."


    Apacci¡¯s eyes widened at the thought of an army of Gillian, Adjuchas, and Vasto Lordes. Her vivid imagination set her head spinning. ¡°You''re right...¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so hot-headed. The quote ¡®Think before act¡¯ is to teach impulsive Hollows like you.¡± He sighed and smiled at Harribel. ¡°King Baraggan will blame me for his subordinate¡¯s deaths. I don¡¯t think I can fight him and his looneys by my lonesome. What should I do? How do I protect Apacci now...?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all you have to say?!¡± Mila Rose roared at her friend for being too nonchalant. They recently alluded to Kazuya being a bad guy who would attack them on sight. Now he and his companion stood before them as Harribel¡¯s guests. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you asking anything about him?¡±


    The snake ignored Mila Rose¡¯s yells and waved her tail at Kazuya and Apacci. ¡°Hello there, newcomers.¡±


    Apacci pointed at Sung-Sun then Mila Rose with her feet. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s Harribel¡¯s full squad. I¡¯m Apacci.¡±


    Sung-Sun¡¯s tongue darted out of her mouth for a fleeting second. ¡°I¡¯m Cyan Sung-Sun. This ill-tempered puppy is Franceska Mila Rose.¡±


    ¡°They got first and last names?¡± Apacci whispered to Kazuya. ¡°We¡¯re the only ones without it.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s just you.¡± Kazuya smiled at Sung-Sun. ¡°I¡¯m Kazuya Ishihara.¡±


    Sung-Sun nodded, eyes crinkling as though she was pleased. ¡°Your voice is soothing. You¡¯ll be an excellent singer or storyteller.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have memories to derive any story from,¡± he said with a sigh, fully taking the role of an adolescent. He could feel an oppressive air settling in the cave, so he laughed. ¡°I have a few amusing tales about Apacci. Would you be interested?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d love to hear them!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t sell me out!¡± Apacci cut in with a fiery retort. ¡°Wait, I don¡¯t have any embarrassing moments. Do I?¡±


    He crossed his arms and grinned. ¡°You just made one.¡±


    Sung-Sun laughed. ¡°You fell for it.¡±


    Harribel watched over the three with a stern look. Kazuya and Apacci meshed well with Sung-Sun. Then again, Sung-Sun was cunning enough to act friendly to anyone regardless of their personality.


    Meanwhile, Mila Rose blinked her eyes as the rest of the party interacted like they were old acquaintances. The new members adapted to their group like they belonged there, while she felt like a complete outcast as if she was a fish out of water.


    She despised this feeling.


    Kazuya glanced at Mila Rose, clearly understanding the reason for her silence. He disturbed their group dynamic with his presence. ¡°If I make you anxious... should I leave?¡±


    Mila Rose stared at him in barely concealed surprise. The one who hadn¡¯t forgotten her was also the source of her chaotic emotions. His polite apology certainly caught her by surprise, its effect further enhanced by his soft voice.


    Mila Rose released a tame roar before looking away. ¡°I¡¯m not berating Harribel-sama¡¯s decision. She won¡¯t do anything that will harm us.¡±


    Kazuya responded with a nod and a soft smile. Mila Rose seemed like another tsundere Hollow, but with more ferocity than Apacci.


    ¡°I legit forgot she existed,¡± Sung-Sun whispered. ¡°Geez, Mila Rose. Be more refined. Let¡¯s start with a simple introduction.¡±


    ¡°I-Introduction?¡± Mila Rose stuttered for a second and sat down like an obedient puppy. ¡°I¡¯m Franceska Mila Rose. My hobbies are tearing Hollows and kicking heads around. I also like sharpening my claws!¡±


    Her introduction left everyone speechless. Mila Rose¡¯s gaze drifted from face to face as she wondered about the effectiveness of her introduction.


    He clapped with an innocent smile, breaking the silence. ¡°That was wonderful.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 11: Training

    Chapter 11: Training


    Kazuya spent some time chatting with his party. Harribel then motioned for them to follow her. They soon stepped out of the cramped cave, which had been narrow to fit everyone without it feeling cramped. He preferred it this way as it also helped Mila Rose and Sung-Sun slowly become used to his and Apacci¡¯s presence.


    Harribel turned around to leave. ¡°I¡¯ll inform you when we leave. Until then...¡±


    He reached out and grabbed her hand. ¡°I have a request. Can you help me with my training?¡±


    ¡°Training?¡± Harribel readily asked. ¡°What type of training?¡±


    ¡°What skills do I need in Hueco Mundo?¡±


    Harribel¡¯s eyes turned soft. ¡°Fight... right now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask you later.¡±


    He had to address Apacci¡¯s concerns first. As soon as Harribel left, Apacci glared at him for obvious reasons. He had put her into a dilemma and made her lie. Now was the time to reward her.


    ¡°You forced¡ªgahh!¡±


    Appaci nearly choked when Kazuya hugged her neck, squeezing the deer for her dear life.


    ¡°Thanks for having my back.¡±


    Not expecting words of gratitude, Appaci stood there like an idiot until he drew back from her.


    ¡°Did you rip their masks to transform them into Arrancar?¡±


    ¡°I did, and the results were just as I expected. Also, don¡¯t feel bad for them. They came to kill us, remember?¡±


    All three Hollows ended up burning their souls, temporarily showing Reiatsu of Vasto Lorde-Class. He had a sudden idea. The unnamed NPCs couldn¡¯t endure the demanding process of Arrancarization, but Apacci was a different breed. She was a named character with her own role to play in the massive war caused by Aizen.


    The chances of Apacci succeeding were enormous.


    Apacci shivered as his ¡®intent¡¯ locked on her. ¡°What are you thinking now?!¡±


    ¡°I feel hungry! Can I grill your leg?¡±


    ¡°No!¡±


    He decided to ditch the risky idea. The one percent chance of Apacci dying or being inflicted with Amnesia like Neliel was simply unacceptable.


    ¡®I¡¯m getting way too obsessed with this Arrancar shit.¡¯


    He shook his head and decided to relax for the day.


    ¡°Hahahaha.¡± Apacci wasn¡¯t so considerate. Throwing her head around, she let out a carefree giggle. ¡°His face is so hilarious.¡±


    Her laughter was loud enough to reach him, prompting him to glare at her in return.


    ¡®I¡¯ll take care of her later.¡¯


    ¡°N-No, I was kidding!¡±


    Apacci shivered and settled down. Sung-Sun and Mila Rose chuckled at her timid response.


    Harribel frowned. ¡°Gaining experience through battles is the best training for you.¡±


    Kazuya knew the importance of her advice. He could brute force weaker Hollows with his Reiatsu only; the same method wouldn¡¯t work with another Vasto Lorde or stronger opponents. A novice like him needed to invest both time and effort to get better.


    If he lost against another Vasto Lorde, it would be due to his lacking skills.


    ¡°Skill issue, fuck.¡± He clapped his cheeks and clenched his fists. ¡°No pain, no gain. Come. Let¡¯s start.¡±


    Harribel pounced at him without hesitation. The sound of rending air reached his ears ¡ª her sword arm once again came crashing down on him. She was fast, but he was also a Vasto Lorde, both in body and senses. Stepping to the side of her attack, he saw her vulnerable after her wide attack.


    ¡®Found an opening.¡¯


    He raised his leg to kick her undefended side. Goosebumps suddenly crawled on his skin, signaling danger. Another strike was coming. A frontal kick to his midsection at tremendous speed.


    ¡°Haph!¡±


    He leaped in the air without another thought. Swish. Harribel¡¯s kick rended the air; he dodged a fatal kick to his chest and landed on a boulder. Pure adrenaline pumped through him, a surge of energy rolling through him in waves.


    The training had barely started, but he was feeling its rush.


    Harribel reached him instantaneously with Sonido and swung her arm with brute force. He barely ducked to dodge. Yet, her arm changed its course and took his knees out from under him. Next thing he knew, he was kissing the ashen sand.


    ¡°Keep your eyes open and sharp,¡± Harribel said calmly as she kneeled before him and ruffled his hair. ¡°Don¡¯t expect your enemy to fight with honor... the survivor is the winner. It¡¯s the unwritten law of Hueco Mundo.¡±


    Kazuya pushed himself up and spat the sand out. Despite the ridiculous impact, the pain was nonexistent. He looked up at Harribel. Her soft gaze lacked any arrogance or negative emotions, for that matter. She looked like a teacher fully committed to coaching him to the very end. No, he felt like her gaze was more akin to a mother teaching a newborn. She radiated that type of aura.


    ¡°You¡¯re gonna drive me nuts.¡±


    Harribel almost felt compelled to leave him alone and happy. She firmly shook her head, resisting her impulses.


    ¡®I can¡¯t. I can¡¯t stop... I lack the strength to protect him from Baraggan. We both have to grow.¡¯


    Clenching her fists, she told him to have a brief rest before continuing the training. She didn¡¯t use lethal force afterwards, and he could mostly keep up with her flurry of attacks. He continued trading blows with her, adapting his body to her movements and expanding his combat knowledge.

 Chapter 12: Changes

    Chapter 12: Changes


    The open court of Las Noches was under the roof as its ruler had claimed all the land under Hueco Mundo¡¯s sky as his domain. To earn his title, he had bested every Vasto Lorde of his era. Those who sought to defeat him died, and those who feared him became his war assets, namely the Espada.


    He currently sat upon his throne with a regal air, draped in an ethereal, navy-blue robe. A crown of gold adorned his skull head. He was a Hollow very reminiscent of a lich, the pinnacle of undead as known by many.


    His throne was upon a pedestal, and his followers-subjects kneeled on either side of the red carpet. Everyone in his court belonged to the Adjuchas tier or above. The Hollow lady serving him drinks from behind was a Vasto Lorde. A powerful Vasto Lorde who chose to submit her entire being to him once he beat her.


    King Baraggan, the Godking of Hueco Mundo, the Ruler of Las Noches.


    He was no mere Hollow. Achieving the realm of Vasto Lorde and then breaking his mask, he had become one the most fearsome being within Hueco Mundo. Bearing the Aspect of Death ¡®Senescence¡¯, he could decay and age any life around him at will.


    He lacked nothing in Hueco Mundo.


    He had everything.


    Nothing in Hueco Mundo interested him anymore.


    The monotony of such a life left him bored enough that he pondered over dividing his army into two factions and starting a war between them.


    It was at that moment a muscular Adjuchas ran up the red carpet. ¡°My Lord, two wandering Vasto Lorde are killing our comrades.¡±


    ¡°Two Vasto Lorde?¡± whispered Baraggan before holding out a hand. ¡°Summon them to the court. Wait, send Espada to fetch them.¡±


    Baraggab Louisenbairn considered every Vasto Lorde beneath him except for the Primordial Hollow. But two Vasto Lorde would prove to be a headache for his subordinates. Thus, he sent troops from the strongest army under him.


    The Espada.


    ¡°Yes, My Lord. It shall be done.¡±


    ***


    Keeping track of time was impossible in Hueco Mundo. Kazuya felt like it had been a month since he became a Hollow. In that unknown period of time, quite a few changes happened. Most noticeable one was in the Hollows of his party, mainly Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun. Their Reiryoku level steadily grew. Apacci¡¯s growth was the most impressive of them all. Her Reiatsu had become thicker and denser, reaching the levels of the first Adjuchas Kazuya killed. All thanks to his generosity to provide her with a steady stream of Gillians and occasionally Adjuchas.


    On paper, his previous life was great, if not perfect. Did he enjoy it? Not much.


    ¡°That¡¯s... I can¡¯t help but agree with you,¡± Sung-Sun admitted with a sigh. ¡°But we, Hollows, are confined to our fate. There isn¡¯t much we can do in the way of having fun. Why not go for long lives?¡±


    He gently extended his hand and touched the snake¡¯s head. The cold, scaly texture of the seashell mask fused to her head made him flinch. Her eyes showed confusion as they glanced this way and that, blinking softly in the dim light.


    ¡°I¡¯ll teach you how to have fun. It¡¯s my promise, okay?¡±


    ¡°You treating me like a child might be the most absurd thing that ever happened to me.¡±


    He chuckled and drew back his hand. ¡°I¡¯ll do it again if you look depressed.¡±


    She had massively helped him in adapting to Harribel¡¯s training. She was the reason Harribel didn¡¯t go full hardcore from the start and took strides in guiding him through different levels of skills.


    ¡°Note to self, don¡¯t look depressed in front of Kazuya.¡±


    ¡°Won¡¯t work, Madame. I tend to bring out the worst in people around me. Just look at Apacci.¡±


    The mention of Apacci made Sung-Sun giggle. Over the past few weeks, Sung-Sun and Kazuya made Apacci¡¯s life lively by constantly teasing her and making pranks on her.


    Hearing distinct footsteps, he looked over his shoulder. ¡°Speak of the devil.¡±


    Apacci entered the cave, glaring at him with fire in her eyes. ¡°What are you two plotting now?¡±


    ¡°I take the fifth on that.¡±


    ¡°Me too.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you, Sung-Sun,¡± Apacci muttered under her breath and strode out of the cave.


    Sung-Sun shook her head. ¡°She got angry... or jealous.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll be back to her flame-spitting form by tomorrow.¡± He nudged Sung-Sun before leaving the cave. He spotted Harribel sitting alone on a hill and joined her. ¡°Here for a breather?¡±

 Chapter 13: Unforeseen

    Chapter 13: Unforeseen


    Harribel''s gaze drifted up, her brow furrowed in contemplation as she studied the pale, round orb of the moon. She shook her head gently. ¡°I was reflecting on your growth... and thinking about new things to teach you.¡±


    She was really invested in her role as his mentor, to the point of obsession. This very obsession pushed him to delay his plan of seducing her, that and the fact both of them had yet to become an Arrancar. He felt weirdly turned off by the notion of having sex in his current body, even if both of them looked mostly humanoid.


    ¡®Guess I am not into monster sex.¡¯


    It wasn¡¯t a bad thing per se as even Harribel, the closest to having a humanoid form, had most of her body covered in Hollow fragments.


    He rested his head on Harribel¡¯s thighs, looking utterly comfortable in his action. The white shell covering her legs was cool and soft to touch. ¡°I¡¯ll be here while you wreck your brain for ideas.¡±


    He had been on the receiving end of some lap pillows after she wrecked him in training. She also loved showering him in care after beating the hell out of him.


    Kazuya closed his eyes, trying to maintain a steady breath as if he was sleeping. Harribel let out a soft sigh, and her fingers glided through his disheveled, white hair with a light touch. He sneakily opened his right eye and saw a tender look in her eyes. It was all the confirmation he needed.


    ¡®I was right about her.¡¯


    In the month they spent together, he noticed many abnormalities ¡ª the way she always came up with things to teach him, the way her protective nature materialized every time he faced a Hollow, the way her eyes softened when she looked at him, and the way she never let him out of her sight for long time. All the signs pointed to Harribel loving him; like a sister loved her brother, or a mother loved her child.


    Familial love.


    That was why Harribel¡¯s demeanor shifted when he mentioned his age as a Hollow. A young one like him would be the perfect person to pamper and spoil. She subconsciously chose him as the target of her nurturing. It all made sense when taking her Hollow Hole¡¯s placement into consideration.


    ¡®Her Hollow hole is where her womb should be.¡¯


    Harribel¡¯s death was most likely related to a child. Her instincts unconsciously sought a replacement for her missing child, and then she found him.


    ¡®Family-zoned by a Hollow.¡¯


    The situation was so absurd that he didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry. It was truly ¡®one of the experiences¡¯ of all time.


    It was like her instinct to spoil Kazuya, like a Gillian¡¯s instinct was to devour other Hollows, or a bird¡¯s instinct was to soar into the sky with its wings.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine...¡± she smiled gently. ¡°Kazuya needs to rest, or his training will bear no fruit.¡±


    She justified her ¡®instincts¡¯, wholeheartedly believing her behavior of spoiling Kazuya was the right way.


    ¡°Oh...¡± Mila Rose¡¯s head drooped and her body sagged as she lowered herself to the ground. Harribel¡¯s matter-of-fact response was like a gust of wind, blowing away her courage.


    After a few minutes of pretending, Kazuya stirred and got to his feet. He gave Mila Rose a surprised look. ¡°When did you arrive?¡±


    ¡°Been here before you were born...¡± Mila Rose whispered. ¡°Harribel-sama saved me before all of you.¡±


    His presence had become a negative influence in Mila Rose¡¯s life. She was unable to voice her discontent because of her unwavering loyalty to Harribel.


    ¡®I have to address her before it¡¯s too late.¡¯


    He stretched his arm and beckoned Mila Rose. ¡°Come with me. We need to talk.¡±


    Harribel sharply narrowed her eyes, realizing his intentions. ¡°Don¡¯t push her too much.¡±


    Being the quiet, observant leader, she understood Mila Rose¡¯s problem with Kazuya. She looked forward to Kazuya¡¯s way of handling Mila Rose. From her observations, Kazuya wasn¡¯t rash, but he also wasn¡¯t kind toward strangers. While she spared those who obstructed her path, he mercilessly killed them and fed them to Apacci, and sometimes Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun.


    ¡®It¡¯ll be an excellent lesson for him,¡¯ thought Harribel, like a mother watching her child¡¯s growth. ¡®I expect him to get to her, eventually.¡¯


    He was too stubborn to admit defeat.


    Mila Rose gritted her teeth. The way Harribel worded things, it seemed as if she was the problem here. She didn¡¯t like this feeling. Not one bit. Even so, she followed Kazuya like a pup, each step taking them further away from Harribel. When he was sure they were beyond Harribel¡¯s sight, he stopped and turned to face her.


    ¡°Franceska Mila Rose, are you a coward?¡±

 Chapter 14: Cure for Prejudice

    Chapter 14: Cure for Prejudice


    ¡°Franceska Mila Rose, are you a coward?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s voice was soothing, yet his words were rage-inducing.


    ¡°Coward?!¡± Mila Rose roared fiercely, faint yellow Reiatsu flickering around her. The lioness¡¯ strongest show of Reiatsu couldn¡¯t intimidate him in the slightest. ¡°Who are you calling a coward? I have been chewing Hollows for longer than you.¡±


    ¡°Weird thing to be proud of.¡± He shrugged. ¡°Well, chewing bones doesn¡¯t stop you from being a coward. Only a coward would keep their thoughts contained for that long,¡± he said slowly, his eyes piercing into her soul. ¡°You have a problem with me, don¡¯t you? Say it to my face if you aren¡¯t a coward.¡±


    Mila Rose scowled. ¡°I don¡¯t have a problem with you. You are the problem looming over us!¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to repeat what I just said. I want to know your reasoning for labeling me the problem? Every phenomenon in this universe has a reason. Your hatred should have one too.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because,¡± Mila Rose paused and looked around. After making sure nobody was eavesdropping, she glared at him, eyes glowing menacingly. ¡°Harribel-sama is putting so much effort into training you. She will make you strong, stronger than herself...¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°You will betray us!¡± she growled. ¡°All male Hollows are scum. You¡¯ll kill Harribel-sama, me, and Sung-sun, and eat us... I have seen that happen so many times. Men are disloyal, backstabbing pieces of shit.¡±


    The pack she belonged to was torn apart because of a man''s megalomaniacal tendencies and the resulting internal strife. She would¡¯ve been a casualty if not for Harribel¡¯s timely rescue. In her eyes, Kazuya had all the markings of the man who caused her former pack to go up in ashes, even though their personalities were worlds apart from each other.


    She didn¡¯t have an ounce of trust in him.


    Kazuya expected some intricate reasoning behind her hatred. However, what he heard left him baffled. Mila Rose seems like one of those women who develop a profound detestation for all men after suffering one heartbreak. Perhaps this was her condition before she passed away and her soul became the dominant one in Adjuchas.


    ¡°Gosh, you¡¯re so... strange. My image in your mind is that of an ambitious man who would destroy everything to gain strength. Right?¡±


    He was a bit twisted, but he wasn¡¯t a psychopath without empathy. Mila Rose¡¯s image couldn¡¯t be further from the truth. After all, he adored all four of his Hollow friends.


    Mila Rose nodded unconsciously, wondering how he read her mind so precisely. ¡°Yeah...¡±


    Taking a deep breath, he looked her squarely in the eyes. ¡°Tell me one thing I did to deserve this assessment? Go on. Take as much time as you need.¡±


    He crossed his arms, tapping his left feet as if showing he was waiting.


    ¡°That¡¯s easy¡ª¡± Mila Rose paused, finding herself at a loss of words. After all, she couldn¡¯t find anything tangible to fire back at him, no matter how much she thought. He had been quietly supportive like Harribel. None of his actions so far resembled the evil man in her mind, causing her fantasy to crumble like a poorly constructed house of cards.


    Mila Rose recalled Harribel¡¯s extreme ways to train him. Harribel¡¯s interest in him bordered the lines of obsession. She felt like the chances of his words being true were higher than Harribel suffering at his hands. It was another aspect she had missed in her one-sided hate for Kazuya.


    ¡°T-Then I will make sure to keep you safe from Harribel-sama.¡±


    ¡°Awww. I¡¯m melting from your consideration.¡±


    ¡°Why do you have to act so annoying?!¡±


    ¡°Because it pleases me? Does it¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, a Hollow emanating a dangerous Reiatsu entered his perception. Mila Rose involuntarily shuddered, the terror of a powerful Vasto Lorde coursing through her.


    ¡°We have a guest,¡± he whispered, eying rapidly flying towards them in a blur. ¡°A powerful one.¡±


    The Hollow landed on a mountain before him and their appearance became clearer. His mouth hung open in surprise. The Hollow was a striking sight in the darkness ¡ª a young woman with short, curly purple twin-tails and eyes of the same color. Her frilly dress clung to her body, its large puffy sleeves cutting off just above her shoulders, and two short wings extended from her back. The wings were a part of her dress.


    She had paired her outfit with opera gloves, knee-high boots, and leg warmers connected to garters at her thighs.


    A light purple teardrop marking painted onto each of her cheeks, violet lipstick, and black fingernails completed her voluminous Goth Lolita look. She was quite literally the embodiment of Gothic Lolita in Japanese fashion.


    Kazuya''s brows twitched. "Fuck me. Baraggan sent an Arrancar after us."


    She was what Kazuya strived to be - an Arrancar. The remnant of her Hollow form was a spiked hairpin. He wondered about his own Arrancar form. How would he look and what shape will his Zanpakuto? take?


    The woman''s eyes widened before she nodded to herself. "Knowing about Arrancars won''t change your fate. #5 Espada, Cirucci Sanderwicci is here to collect you and your friend Vasto Lorde."


    A smirk stretched across her face as she reached behind her and pulled out a long whip with a large metal disc attached to it. Her look of haughtiness was almost intimidating, as she casually swung the whip, its tip slicing through the air with a sharp crack.


    "Bring the other Vasto Lorde, boy," she said in a mocking tone. "or not, it doesn''t matter to me. I enjoy watching pathetic losers try to resist me. That always gives me an excuse to teach them a lesson with my whip. Ahahaha."


    Baraggan just had to send a sadistic one to fetch him.

 Chapter 15: A Real Challenge (I)

    Chapter 15: A Real Challenge (I)


    Cirucci Sanderwicci, current #5 Espada, under the reign of Baraggan Louisenbairbe. While not yet empowered by Aizen''s Hogyoku, her natural prowess as an Arrancar made her a force to be reckoned with.


    Her Zanpakuto?, Golondrina, was a sight to behold. It was a whip in her hand, a giant golden disc-like blade attached to the end. A formidable Zanpakuto? that covered both melee and long range.


    Kazuya never thought his first real opponent would be a woman, much less one with the attitude of a pissed-off alley cat. He saw Mila Rose trembling with fear and flicked her mask. ¡°Kitten, get off your ass and go to Harribel. Tell her not to interfere with the battle.¡±


    After honing his racial abilities and Aspect of Death for a month in a training montage worthy of a shounen anime, he felt ready to take on a foe of Cirucci¡¯s caliber.


    [General Information]NewW novels updates at novelhall.come ¡ª Kazuya Ishihara


    Gender ¡ª Male


    Race ¡ª Hollow (Vasto Lorde)


    Reiryoku Level ¡ª Great Level (Captain-Class)


    Alignment ¡ª Neutral Evil


    Affiliation ¡ª None


    ...


    Racial Abilities


    [Cero: Reiryoku offensive technique


    Mastery level - High.]


    [Sonido: Movement technique


    Mastery level - High.]


    [Garganta: Limited Spatial Distortion technique.


    Mastery level - Basic.]


    Innate Abilities


    Mila Rose stared at him for a long second before she turned around and made a run for Harribel, clearly not buying into his solo fight request. Cirucci glanced at Mila Rose, but he stepped in to hide the lioness from her view.


    ¡°Hollow Lady, you have the most punchable face I have seen on a woman. Care to share your secret?¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s face twisted. ¡°You lowly lifeform. I¡¯ll add five whips to treat your insolence.¡±


    She had an unshakeable belief in her strength, so much so that she didn¡¯t take Kazuya as an actual threat. Well, Kazuya suppressing his Reiatsu also contributed to her inflated ego. He wasn¡¯t about to expose the full extent of his power level to every Tom, Dick, and Harry Hollow.


    He had to be deliberate about attracting unwanted attention from some mega powerful Hollow of this era.


    He observed the battlefield. Cirucci was seething, but not making any move.


    ¡®I¡¯ll go first.¡¯


    Kazuya wasted no time and activated his Soni?do skill in a heartbeat. With a resounding boom, he bridged the gap between them with electrifying speed and unleashed a devastating kick to Cirucci''s midsection. The sheer force of the blow propelled her like a comet through the mountainside. A cacophony of crumbling rock and shattering earth erupted as dust and debris rained down.


    The air was thick with the haze of destruction, a testament to the raw power that had just been unleashed.


    ¡°She is so hard,¡± he muttered, feeling like he kicked a wall of iron. ¡°Arrancars and their bullshit defense. Definitely not envious.¡±


    As the dust swirled and danced in the aftermath of the impact, Cirucci''s massive disc emerged from the haze. The lethal weapon tore through the air, honing in on Kazuya''s skull with a furious velocity. It was a blazingly fast attack, yet it paled in comparison to the ferocious onslaught that Harribel had unleashed during their training sessions.


    With a deft twist of his body, Kazuya evaded the golden disc by a hair¡¯s breadth, narrowly escaping the jaws of death. As he darted away, her Zanpakuto? found a new target in the unsuspecting hillside mere feet from his previous position. The disc collided with the earth, carving a path of destruction as it plowed through the dirt, pulverizing stones and scattering them in its wake. Sod burst forth in every direction, a torrent of shrapnel born from the ferocity of Cirucci''s relentless assault.


    The landscape trembled, changed by the brutal dance of battle.


    ¡®This is her sealed state.¡¯


    He could only imagine the destruction Cirucci could cause in her Resurreccio?n state, the technique which allowed Arrancars to access all of their Hollow powers.


    Cirucci emerged from the dissipating dust cloud, holding her whip as the disc spun endlessly. ¡°Do you not know that Hierro hardens an Arrancar¡¯s skin? Give it your all if you want to hurt me physically.¡±


    As an Adjuchas Arrancar, her base Reiatsu was some levels below a Vasto Lorde. Her Hierro still allowed her to defend his physical attack.


    ¡°I do love a woman who can take punishment. Hey, how about you and I... What do Hollows say when they want to court a woman? Care to show me the ropes as the older, more experienced one?¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s face turned red. ¡°The hell is wrong with you? I¡¯d never court an asshole like you!¡±


    ¡°Bummer.¡±

 Chapter 16: A Real Challenge (II)

    Chapter 16: A Real Challenge (II)


    Cirucci pounced at Kazuya like a ravenous predator. With a swift and ferocious swing of her whip, she commanded the golden disc to swivel towards him, the spinning blade hungry to cleave him in half.


    Yet Kazuya vaulted over the lethal whirlwind of steel, evading its deadly embrace. In a blink, he employed his Soni?do skill once more, flashing away to another mountain in the distance.


    His Sonido was extremely polished, so much so that Cirucci was having a hard time catching him with her Zanpakuto?. This speed enhancement ability, however, had a steep cost in Reiryoku. As a gifted Vasto Lorde, he had all the Reiryoku in the world to run circles around the goth Arrancar for a day or two.


    He wasn¡¯t looking to just run, though. He wanted to defeat her with his own hands. To prove that Harribel¡¯s training bore a fruit sweeter than honey.


    Cirucci, hot on his heels, swung her whip in an enormous arc. He leaped over the trajectory and dodged the follow-up attacks like a specter.


    ¡°Well, enough running around.¡±


    Cirucci made a twisted face. ¡°I should be saying that. Stop and face your punishment, hooligan.¡±


    His flashy maneuvers gave her whip a hard time.


    Kazuya flashed a wicked smile and his knuckles sparked with a gentle blue light. ¡°You asked for it, woman. Don¡¯t cry now.¡±


    ¡°What is that?¡± Cirucci asked, narrowing her eyes. ¡°It looks like Reiatsu but it¡¯s more than that.... Is that your special ability?¡±


    All Hollows had a guaranteed chance of developing a special ability once they became Arrancar. An ability based upon their soul. They could use their ability at the Vasto Lorde stage, albeit to a limited degree. However, Arrancars could fully unleash their ability in their Resurreccio?n state.


    ¡°Maybe.¡±


    ¡°Cocky, eh? I¡¯ll obliterate all your resistance and tame you... before gifting you to our leader.¡±


    She had cut down countless of her kind to reach her current position in Barragan¡¯s army. She could tell the battle would take too long in her current form.


    She chose to use her trump card.


    Kazuya put out his innate ability and sighed. ¡°Cirucci is right, Nin?o. Stay out of her business. Let me kick her ass.¡±


    Dordoni¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You said Nin?o as one should. Incredible, Nin?o.¡±


    ¡°...Move or I¡¯ll have to kill you both.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s eyes glowed with the ferocity of a beast. He despised two types of people the most ¡ª those who butted in other¡¯s business for no reason and those who projected their beliefs upon others, expecting them to do what¡¯s right in their eyes.


    Dordoni belonged to the former category, albeit to a less annoying degree.


    The unfazed Arrancar laughed. ¡°Go ahead then, Nin?o. Have your wish. I¡¯ll not save you if she kills you.¡±


    Dordoni didn¡¯t wait for an answer and flickered to a hill in the distance with his Soni?do, taking the role of an observer over a participant. Cirucci would answer to Baraggan should any Vasto Lorde die here. It wouldn¡¯t be his responsibility. A win win for him since he despised meeting Baraggan.


    ¡°Nobody is killing my people,¡± a cold voice echoed as Harribel appeared in front of Kazuya, as his guardian. Her Reiatsu swelled to the very limits of a Vasto Lorde, as if provoking Cirucci to lay her hands on Kazuya. ¡°I. Dare. You.¡±


    Cirucci''s rage simmered and swelled like a tempest. Consumed by fury, she roared and launched all ten blade wings at Harribel. The spiritual particles vibrated at extreme speeds around the edges of her blade wings, enough to bisect a Vasto Lorde in half with ease.


    Kazuya felt a cold shiver run down his spine. ¡°Move!¡±


    Harribel, steeling herself for the onslaught, straightened her sword arm, ready to deflect the blades head-on. Her intention was driven not by pride, but by the fierce determination to protect Kazuya from harm.


    Without another thought, Kazuya seized Harribel and employed his Soni?do skill to whisk them out of the path of Cirucci''s ferocious assault.


    ¡°Are you stupid?¡± he admonished, pushing her shoulder. ¡°You almost died. What are you even thinking?¡±


    He noticed her momentary distraction, her gaze lingering not on his face, but on his arm.


    Drip. Drip. Drip.


    The chilling sound drew his attention, and he flinched. Blood flowed in crimson waves, staining the pristine white sands of Hueco Mundo like paint on an artist''s canvas. Harribel came out unscathed from their encounter with Cirucci¡¯s Resurreccio?n form but he wasn¡¯t so lucky.

 Chapter 17: Pain

    Chapter 17: Pain


    The stark reality of Kazuya¡¯s injury hit him like a tidal wave; his left arm had been cleanly severed from the shoulder when he grabbed Harribel. An excruciating pain coursed through him, igniting every nerve and searing his consciousness. Though he was a soul ¡ª a Hollow ¡ª his pain was as vivid and overwhelming as the most acute sensations in his life.


    "Agh." Kazuya bit down on his tongue, suppressing the scream that threatened to escape his lips. His rigorous training with Harribel had instilled in him the importance of restraint and self-control. He had already possessed a strong sense of discipline before entering this world, but now it was being put to the ultimate test. ¡°Fuck.¡±


    Harribel showed a horrified look. ¡°Kazuya, this...¡±


    ¡°Kazuya!¡±


    Harribel wasn''t the only one terrified as three anxious voices called out from behind Kazuya. Apacci, Sung-Sun, and even Mila Rose raced towards him, their faces etched with worry. Apacci''s eyes shimmered with unshed tears, on the verge of breaking, while Sung-Sun maintained her composure despite the gravity of the situation. Each of them felt the weight of Kazuya''s injury and the potential consequences that lay ahead.


    "She is too powerful. Let''s make a run for it." Apacci, unwilling to lose anyone, suggested the best strategy she could think of ¡ª running away from the threat. ¡°We can¡¯t win against her.¡±


    "It will be hard..." Cyan Sung-Sun shook her head, her expression grave. "She is faster than us. Way too fast. Kazuya, remember what I told you... You can accomplish anything as long as you''re alive. You can do nothing if you''re dead."


    Sung-Sun could discern that the Arrancar, Cirucci, initially wanted Kazuya alive, but his relentless provocation had altered the dynamic. Now, the stakes were higher, and their survival hung in the balance.


    ¡°Does it hurt, Nin?o?¡± Dordoni asked with a grin. ¡°Does it hurt enough to make you give up? Just know that your friends will be slaughtered if you throw the towel.¡±


    Dordoni could see the terror in Sung-Sun''s and Apacci''s eyes, but their determination to stand by their friend was unwavering. They were willing to face their trembling hearts to support those they cared about.


    ''The kind of friends who make sacrifices for others. Nin?o is fortunate.''


    He had once been like them, until the war had claimed the lives of everyone he cared about. Now, he had no one worth sacrificing his life for. The memories of his past life, filled with camaraderie and selflessness, seemed like a distant dream as he stood there, detached from the bonds that once held him together.


    Forged in flames of war, Dordoni was reborn as a demon.


    ¡°No way, geez.¡± Kazuya closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath as he felt the agonizing pain running through his body. Despite it all, he opened his eyes again and forced a smile. ¡°Girls, ¡®Tis but a scratch. I can regen it easily.¡±


    His experience crystallized into a great skill for prolonged battles.


    ¡°Ready to fight now?¡±


    He flexed his left arm and covered his knuckles with his Aspect of Death. "Let''s continue our dance."


    ¡°I''ll wipe that cheekiness from your mug.¡±


    Cirucci flapped both pairs of wings and charged at Kazuya. The blade wings approached from both sides, poised to slice him into pieces. Kazuya proved to be one step ahead again, outsmarting her with his Soni?do. In the blink of an eye, he teleported above her, evading the deadly bladed wings that whistled through the air where he had just stood moments before.


    ¡°I am only using two wings. It¡¯s unfair of you to use four.¡±


    He reached out and traced the middle of her bladed wings, his hands meeting in the center. His Reiatsu left a hazy blue glow on her wings.


    "Get off my back," she growled, attempting to grab him with her long tail.


    But once again, he evaded her grasp with his quick reflexes. She turned and glared at him, only to feel her wings grow heavier and heavier with each breath until she couldn¡¯t control them. Her smaller feathery wings couldn¡¯t keep her afloat, either.


    Cirucci descended, struggling to maintain her balance and grace. In a hurry, she solidified Reiatsu beneath her feet to keep herself in the air. ¡°What did you do?!¡±


    ¡°Oh, come on now. You can¡¯t honestly be that oblivious,¡± he chuckled. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll break it down for you in terms a toddler could comprehend. I increased the weight of your metallic wings.¡±


    Since her wings weren''t directly protected by her Reiatsu, he could easily increase their weight with a little amount of Reiryoku, taking away one of her strongest offensive weapons with ease. The simple structure of the wings made it even easier to manipulate.


    Cirucci attempted to infuse her wings with Reiryoku, hoping to eradicate his Aspect of Death, but to no avail. He had irreversibly altered their properties. "I really liked them, but I have no choice now... Alright then.¡±


    She gave a nonchalant shrug, and the once formidable bladed wings plummeted to the ground, their metallic clangs echoing in the air. The colossal white claws slipped from her grasp. What remained were two elongated bones, a skeletal reminder of her former wings, a pair of lighter wings, and a dangerous, whip-like tail that seemed to harbor a life of its own.

 Chapter 18: End of Despair

    Chapter 18: End of Despair


    Kazuya observed Cirucci with a look of admiration. By altering her physical form without deactivating her Resurreccio?n, Cirucci had permanently damaged her Zanpakuto?. She could never wield her bladed wings and claws again, and more crucially, she would never assume her previous human form again. The lengths she will go to defeat him were both shocking and admirable.


    Her unwavering pride as an Espada refused to let her back down, regardless of the challenge.


    "Cirucci, no matter how much of a bitch you are," he said. "I can''t help but admire you."


    ¡°I don''t need your pity or respect,¡± Cirucci spat lowered her gaze, her wild silver mane casting a shadow over her sweat-drenched face. ¡°I¡¯m a soldier. A warrior. I¡¯ll defeat you and drag you to Baraggan, even if it kills me.¡±


    Cirucci''s life had always been a whirlwind of stolen moments and borrowed time. She had once roamed the desolate landscapes of Hueco Mundo, an aimless Adjuchas who tore her mask off in a futile attempt to escape her despair. But she survived, even evolving further into an Arrancar. It was the biggest mistake of her life as Baraggan learned of her power and forced her into submission as one of his Espada.


    She was shackled to his cruel reign, a puppet dancing to his every whim.


    The alternative was becoming a husk of a soul within a madman¡¯s lab.


    "I¡¯ll liberate you from Baraggan¡¯s oppression," Kazuya said, his voice tinged with both empathy and conviction. ¡°¡ªWith death."


    As much as he sympathized with her helplessness, they stood on opposite ends of roads as enemies. He couldn¡¯t afford to show her any mercy.


    Cirucci''s laughter rang out, harsh and defiant, as she turned to Dordoni. "Dordoni, handle the other Vasto Lorde over there. I won''t have much energy left after dealing with this guy. That one is also strong."


    It was rare for her to put down her pride and seek assistance, even from fellow soldiers under the same ruler. Yet today, she made an exception, believing that her battle with Kazuya could very well be her last. She was determined to fulfill her duty as an Espada to the bitter end, just to avoid the same fate as the other Barragan¡¯s subordinates who failed him.


    Dordoni nodded at her request. ¡°I can do that, Cirucci.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll focus my Reiryoku into one attack.¡±


    Cirucci didn¡¯t stop a second to despair. She still had hope in wrecking Kazuya ¡ª the menacing tail looming behind her could finally use the Reiryoku she had previously channeled to maintain control over her wings.


    Her standing tail had projected an enormous pink fan at its end. A sharp fan of Reiatsu that could slice through physical matters with ease.


    ¡°But I love you, sweetheart.¡±


    Gritting her teeth, Cirucci poured the last of her Reiryoku to seal her wound. She had sacrificed the high-level regeneration one would need to heal internal wounds but she could still close those wounds so they won¡¯t impact her performance.


    She forced herself back to her feet, her fan morphing into a long spear. With its extended reach and increased difficulty to evade, the weapon demanded more precision than ever before.


    ¡°Just give up, Cirucci. You are in no condition to use that.¡±


    The way she looked, it was hard to say she could bring out its full power.


    ¡°Shut up!¡±


    Growling like a cornered beast, she lunged at him once more. Though her physical reserves were all but depleted, her indomitable spirit refused to yield. Armed with nothing more than a spear and a weary body, she clung to the desperate hope that somehow, she would breach his defenses and deliver a decisive strike.


    Kazuya parried her spear strikes with precision, each deflection seemingly effortless. Despite appearing unscathed, he struggled internally ¡ª enhancing his body with Oppression raised his fatigue like no tomorrow.


    ¡®Dordoni is eyeing me... I have to end this fast.¡¯


    Dordoni remained an unpredictable variable, his intentions a mystery to Kazuya. Evading a barrage of spear thrusts, Kazuya utilized Soni?do to maneuver behind Cirucci. He tightened his fist and struck. His heavy fist split open the back of her head.


    Cirucci couldn¡¯t react in time, and crumpled to her knees before collapsing onto the white sands. Blood seeped from her wound, staining her silver mane and the pristine sands with its deep crimson hue.


    ¡°Farewell... my first opponent. You will not be missed.¡±


    A hint of sadness washed over Kazuya as he gazed at the fallen Cirucci. In different circumstances, she might have become a cherished friend or even a passionate lover.


    ''Not in this timeline.''


    It was an anticlimactic yet fitting end for the prideful Cirucci.

 Chapter 19: Broken

    Chapter 19: Broken


    Dordoni had been somewhat skeptical of Kazuya''s abilities as a Vasto Lorde until he witnessed the power that made Cirucci''s bladed wings useless. His amusement turned to shock at that very moment. He couldn¡¯t tell the origin of the energy enveloping Kazuya''s arms; the energy single-handedly pushed Cirucci away and changed the tide of the battle.


    ''I''ve never seen anything like this. Nin?o''s ability is on the level of an Aspect of Death.''


    In the struggling youth, Dordoni saw potential. A talent who could challenge the current #1 Espada, a potential threat to King Baraggan''s eternal reign over Hueco Mundo. As an Espada, he should intervene in the fight and slay Kazuya before he could even come close to becoming a menace to his ¡®Lord.¡¯


    To eliminate the threat in its infancy.


    Yet Dordoni couldn''t help but imagine a world without King Baraggan in Las Noches. A beautiful world where Hollows weren''t forced into submission by a heartless tyrant. Like all good things, this beautiful reality would require sacrifices to come to fruition. In order to bring down Baraggan, Kazuya would have to become a demon himself.


    Dordoni sighed. ¡°I¡¯m asking too much from Nin?o. Should I kill his companions to make him loath Baraggan?¡±


    While Dordoni pondered making a real enemy out of Kazuya, Cirucci¡¯s battle ended with her defeat.


    ¡®Cirucci is still alive, Nin?o. What are you doing by sparing her?¡¯


    Dordoni shook his head, a disappointed sigh leaving his lips. ¡°Nin?o, you are not the demon Hueco Mundo needs. To give me hope, I must destroy you. Maybe you¡¯ll show your true potential if I push you.¡±


    ...


    Harribel forgot to blink as the intense battle unfolded before her, her eyes shimmering with a blend of pride and concern for Kazuya. She marveled at how far he had come in such a short time, absorbing her teachings and growing as a warrior. Yet, the ferocity of the battle made her heart race with worry. The maternal instinct within her yearned to intervene, to crush Cirucci and shield him from harm.


    ¡®No, it¡¯s his fight. I can¡¯t intervene.¡¯


    She gritted her teeth, her heart pounding in her chest as she reminded herself that this was Kazuya''s battle to fight, not hers. It was essential for him to face this challenge on his own, to grow and test his limits.


    As anticipated, he bested Cirucci, delivering a decisive blow to her head. Yet, he bore no look of satisfaction.


    ¡®That¡¯s war... No warrior truly wins.¡¯


    She was truly pleased to see Kazuya feeling no satisfaction with the battle.


    "Woman, are you foolish?" Dordoni taunted. "You can''t defeat the weakest Espada with your power. Stop wasting my time."


    Kazuya caught Harribel mid-air and landed near Apacci. "You can''t defeat him with brute strength... I''m an exception with my ability."


    Harribel audibly gritted her teeth and shoved him away, rising to her feet. "I don''t need to defeat him. I just need to buy time for you. Just go away."


    He couldn''t help but roll his eyes. "Don''t be so self-centered, Harribel. Who said you could sacrifice yourself? All I''m saying is, shut up and fight him with me."


    "End this lover''s quarrel, or I''ll end you both," Dordoni cackled like a madman, reveling in his role as the villain. "I''m itching for a battle here, you know?"


    "You madman." Mila Rose roared at Dordoni, fully aware of the power the Arrancar wielded and the risk she was taking in provoking him. "Why are you doing this? Leave... us alone!"


    "You ask for my reason?" Dordoni chuckled, his voice dripping with malevolence. "We came here to do a job in peace, but your friend here is too arrogant and hot-headed. Every ounce of pain I''m about to inflict, just remember he brought it upon himself."


    ¡°You...¡±


    "In Hueco Mundo, the King, the Emperor, the God is the one with the mightiest fist. If you find this system unfair by any stretch, grow your fangs and tear it apart. Until then, you are bound to Lord Baraggan beneath Hueco Mundo¡¯s sky."


    Mila Rose glared at Dordoni before she shifted her gaze to Kazuya. Just like Harribel, she assumed that Kazuya wasn¡¯t in any shape to fight a foe of Dordoni¡¯s level. And Harribel couldn¡¯t even close the gap between them.


    ¡®It¡¯s my turn to protect them and him.¡¯


    They hadn¡¯t been on the best of terms these past days. In fact she had barely started to know him without her previous bias. How could she do that if he or Harribel died here today?


    Kill Dordoni and protect him from Baraggan ¡ª both goals aligned with each other.


    ¡°Fangs... I''ll grow my fangs and rip you limb to limb.¡±


    With a shaking roar, she smashed her head against Kazuya¡¯s steel-like knee.


    Crack. Crack. Crack. Mila Rose¡¯s golden mask fractured, and a burst of golden light enveloped her.

 Chapter 20: Arrancarization

    Chapter 20: Arrancarization


    No one could prevent Mila Rose from shattering her Hollow mask; the sudden act caught both Harribel and Kazuya off guard. As Mila Rose''s Reiatsu surged, it resembled the energy of the unnamed Adjuchas who had perished midway through their Arrancar transformations.


    Yet, amid the chaos and uncertainty, Kazuya stood there, observing Mila Rose with a look of fascination etched on his face. He could sense a heartbeat, distinct from his own, resonating within him. It was as if their hearts had become one, united by his mysterious innate ability, ''The Crumbling Heart (Hollow).''


    Mila Rose¡¯s rampaging Reiatsu suggested she was losing control over her instincts, her desires and instincts teetering on the brink of overpowering her.


    Harribel''s eyes remained locked on Mila Rose, unblinking. ¡°What has she done... Mila Rose?!¡±


    Sung-Sun quietly regarded Mila Rose. She understood the significance of what was happening to her friend, for Kazuya had often enlightened them about the intricate process and advantages of becoming an Arrancar weeks ago. It only made her more concerned for Mila Rose.


    "You''ve got to pull through, Kitten," Sung-Sun whispered.


    Although she and Mila Rose fought and teased each other all the time, she cherished Mila Rose¡¯s friendship more than anyone in the world. Mila Rose was there as Harribel¡¯s oldest companion. Harribel might lose herself if anything happened to Mila Rose.


    Apacci nudged Sung-Sun with her horn. ¡°Trust me, she will. Rose is too stubborn to die like this...¡±


    While she wasn¡¯t best buddies with Mila Rose, she could see how much Mila Rose meant to Harribel and Sung-Sun. It was enough for her to pray for Mila Rose¡¯s success.


    ¡°Haha, I know.¡±


    Laughter tinged with worry escaped them as they watched Mila Rose''s struggle, their hearts pounding with anxiety.


    Kazuya, on the other hand, focused on the sensation of the other heart within his chest. "Mila Rose, take control, break the barriers, and seal your power within a vessel. Prove to me you aren''t a cowardly kitten, but a smart and ferocious lion... Show me your prided fangs."


    His advice ignited a defiant spark within her. "Who are you calling a cowardly kitten?!"


    As the golden light dissipated, it unveiled a striking humanoid figure. A tall, dark-skinned woman wielding a massive black broadsword, her imposing presence resembling an Amazonian warrior. Remnants of her Hollow form were visible in her golden mane, the bone claws that supported her ample bosom, the armored thong she wore, and the armor adorning her neck, as well as her gloves and knee-length boots.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Dordoni¡¯s armor pores recreated the cyclones. ¡°I can keep doing this forever. I am the Storm Baron.¡±


    Mila Rose planted her feet on the ground and launched herself at Dordoni with a sonic boom. Being an Arrancar, she could proficiently make use of the Soni?do ability.


    Sung-Sun and Apacci, unable to venture near the ferocious clash, unleashed their Cero Rays from a safe distance. Dordoni cut down the Cero with fierce wind blades with ease. Their Cero wasn¡¯t harming Dordoni, but it greatly annoyed him and took away his focus.


    Kazuya found it hard to believe that the Tres Bestias faced one of the top Espada (in this timeline) as their first team battle.


    ¡®Espada¡¯s future should be a little different now.¡¯ He sighed and placed a hand on Harribel¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Isn¡¯t her form beautiful?¡±


    ¡°Beautiful and powerful...¡±


    From a weak Adjuchas to fighting on an equal level with an Espada ¡ª Mila Rose¡¯s growth was astonishing, and all it took was determination and some help from his skill.


    Harribel traced her mask. ¡°I¡¯m ready to fracture mine if Dordoni overpowers Rose.¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°I already told you, Harribel. No more sacrifices. I still have a trump card to beat him.¡±


    He was lying without blinking an eye. He could easily take down Dordoni if his Reiatsu tank was full. Unfortunately, the fight with Cirucci took a great toll on his spiritual power reserves. As much as he wanted to see Harribel¡¯s Arrancar form, he didn¡¯t feel like taking a gamble with her life.


    ¡®I learned a lot. It was worth it.¡¯


    He cast a glance towards Cirucci, who still lay there without any movement. Despite her seemingly dead state, he could feel fluctuations of her Reiatsu now.


    ¡®Damn she survived?¡¯


    He had truly overestimated his attack power and underestimated Cirucci¡¯s Hierro. The attack that was meant to kill her only knocked her out. Her head wound had nearly closed. An Arrancar''s vitality was a force to be reckoned with ¡ª only beheading or destroying their heart guaranteed their demise.


    Cirucci''s fingers dug into the sand as she lifted her head, her eyes shaking in fear. "Finish me..."


    ¡°Harribel, watch over them for me. I¡¯ll be back in a minute.¡±

 Chapter 21: Gift of Freedom

    Chapter 21: Gift of Freedom


    Some art I commissioned for Kazuya''s Vasto Lorde form. Looks a lil goofy :D


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Kazuya walked over to Cirucci and squatted before her. ¡°As the victor, I have the right to decide your fate. What if I don¡¯t want to play along with your death fetish?¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s face turned horrified as despair took over. ¡°I¡¯m begging you... please kill me and mutilate my corpse... I don¡¯t want to end up in his research facility.¡±


    Trembling with fear and frailty, Cirucci pleaded for him to extinguish her suffering. She had abandoned all hope of escaping this place after failing her mission and damaging her Zanpakuto?. Baraggan would hunt her down if she left this place alive. If she was found dead with an intact corpse, Szayelaporro would do inhumane experiments on her.


    Kazuya reached out and compassionately caressed her head. "I won''t kill you. But I''ll give you a choice. The thing is, I want to take down Baraggan for trying to rob my freedom. I know you hold no love for him, either. Will you help me in overthrowing him?"


    Defeating Baraggan with his current strength was nothing more than a pipedream. But he had to start somewhere if he wanted to destroy the tyrant who planned to seize his freedom in Hueco Mundo.


    No one who wished to shackle his freedom would go unharmed.


    Cirucci''s eyes widened in disbelief, clearly not expecting him to offer her a choice between life and inevitable death. She weighed her options: return to Las Noches and get thrown into Szayelaporro''s laboratory for her failure or join Kazuya in destroying the tyrant who forced her into submission. The choice would be obvious for anyone with common sense.


    ¡°I will... I will blast Baraggan and his lunatic cult. Help me...¡±


    Kazuya stared into her eyes as if he was looking into her soul. Cirucci didn¡¯t flinch from his stern gaze, instead showing a resolute look.


    ¡°Welcome to the club, Miss Goth.¡± He smiled. ¡°Now, hold tight. I¡¯mma get you to a safe place.¡±


    Hoisting his fifth ally in Hueco Mundo like a wounded princess, he soared through the sky, his wings carrying them towards his cave. "Goodness, you''re quite heavy in this form."


    Her wings and tail contributed a surprising amount of weight to her curvy form.


    ¡°...I have armor concealed beneath my undergarments.¡±


    ¡°It makes no sense for a woman to wear armor there.¡±


    Kazuya hadn¡¯t expected Mila Rose to bring Dordoni down to this level. Then again, this Dordoni had yet to gain any power from Aizen¡¯s Ho?gyoku.


    ¡°Harribel, what else did I miss?¡±


    Harribel recounted the action to Kazuya. Dordoni''s Hierro was indeed impressive, but he couldn¡¯t disregard the full-powered Cero unleashed by strong Adjuchas such as Apacci and Sung-Sun. Forced to rely on his tornadoes to counter, Mila Rose seized the chance to deliver her own Cero blast.


    A mere month prior, the trio would have posed no threat to Dordoni. However, Kazuya¡¯s innate ability, ''Crumbling Heart,'' elevated their prowess to the peak of Adjuchas. As an Adjuchas Arrancar, Dordoni found it nigh impossible to inflict damage upon a strength-centric Arrancar like Mila Rose.


    "Great teamwork," he murmured. "Where are they?"


    Harribel cast a worried glance in the opposite direction. He spotted the deer and snake sprawled on the sidelines, apparently unharmed. "Out of energy, I assume."


    Harribel nodded. "They did their part."


    "By the way, are you upset about my decision concerning Cirucci?"


    Harribel''s eyes shimmered with emotions before she gestured with her sword arm at Dordoni. "We''ll discuss the Espada after we deal with him."


    ¡°I also have things to talk about,¡± he whispered, coming up with ways to explain his journey to the Soul Society. ¡°Fuck.¡±


    Instead of overthinking everything, he swung his wings and approached Dordoni. A small smirk made its way to Dordoni¡¯s face.


    ¡°Nin?o, you have finally arrived.¡±


    Kazuya disregarded Dordoni and glanced over his shoulder at Mila Rose. "Thanks for wearing him down, Kitten. I''ll take over from here."


    ¡°Stop calling me Kitten... Skull Face!¡±


    ¡°Skull Face? Is that supposed to be an insult?¡±


    Mila Rose shrugged and flew toward Harribel. After some talking, Mila Rose threw Sung-Sun and Apacci on her shoulders and carried them to their base.


    Harribel, alone, intently watched Kazuya prepare to fight another Arrancar. Her hands itched to stop the fight but she couldn¡¯t go against Kazuya¡¯s wishes.

 Chapter 22: Responsibility

    Chapter 22: Responsibility


    Kazuya flexed his arms. The strengthening of his muscles by Oppression was still present and would remain until he used Oppression again to lower the density of his muscles.


    He looked at Dordoni. ¡°How will Baraggan respond when he gets today¡¯s report?¡±


    ¡°Depending on his mood... In the best-case scenario ¡ª he sends more Espada. The worst-case scenario ¡ª he sends more Espada.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What¡¯s the difference in the best and worst scenarios then? The orders he gives to Espadas?¡±


    Dordoni grinned. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t want to know the worst orders.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t ask then. Let¡¯s start.¡±


    ¡°I was about to say the same, Nin?o.¡±


    Kazuya charged recklessly. Dordoni roared like a ferocious beast, and his Reiatsu swelled to nearly its peak. More tornadoes emerged from his armor pieces, bird heads attached to their ends.


    Dordoni launched kicks and punches from a distance. The bird-headed wind creatures mimicked his movements and struck Kazuya. The assault flung Kazuya towards the ground. Using his wings, he steadied himself and assessed his chest. Apart from superficial cuts, he had sustained no significant injuries.


    ¡®This method is brilliant for improving my defense.¡¯


    Dordoni widened his eyes. ¡°Even an Arrancar¡¯s Hierro is cut upon contact with my razor-sharp wind. What kind of technique are you using to protect your body, Nin?o? Why are your clothes unharmed?¡±


    ¡°My clothes are special.¡±


    "Nin?o," Kazuya called Dordoni with a wicked grin as a blue Reiatsu surged from his wounded hand. "Say goodbye to your Zanpakuto?."


    Before Dordoni snatched away his Zanpakuto?, Kazuya activated his Aspect of Death.


    An Arrancar¡¯s Zanpakuto? embodied their Hollow powers from before they became an Arrancar. It also sealed away their Hollow attribute, allowing them to attain human-like emotions.


    One could argue that an Arrancar''s Zanpakuto? held equal or perhaps more importance for a Hollow than it did for a Shinigami.


    Despite Zanpakuto?''s extraordinary capabilities, the katana clutched in Kazuya''s hand was a physical object. With the power of Oppression, he could manipulate any physical matter, as long as he understood its nature or brute force it with immense Reiryoku.


    As Kazuya tightened his grip on the katana, the entire blade cracked before snapping in two.


    Dordoni stood frozen, clutching the hilt. After a tense moment of silence, he lowered his head. ¡°I should have been more cautious after I saw you fooling Cirucci.¡±


    Dordoni fell victim to his own veteran experience. A true warrior would cut down their enemy without hesitation. That very impulse led to the demise of his Zanpakuto?.


    ¡°I have been outsmarted... your ability, your Reiatsu can alter physical properties of anything it touches.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I made your Zanpakuto? extremely brittle.¡±


    Despite his defeat, Dordoni threw his head back and laughed heartily. "Well played, Nin?o. You might give the old king some trouble... I certainly hope you do. Well, you have to conquer me before you go anywhere... As long as I breathe and my body can move, I¡¯ll continue to fight. That¡¯s what a soldier does, Nin?o."


    Refusing to grant Kazuya a simple win, Dordoni lunged forward, showing his sharp combat abilities with an intense barrage of punches and kicks. Unyielding, Kazuya expertly parried each of Dordoni''s strikes, ensuring that none found their mark on his body.


    After what seemed like minutes, Kazuya found an opening and struck Dordoni''s face, propelling him toward the ground. He caught up to Dordoni using Soni?do and unleashed a powerful kick that sent him crashing into a nearby mountain. Blood splattered from Dordoni''s mouth as he gasped for breath.

 Chapter 23: Sacrifice

    Chapter 23: Sacrifice


    In a blur of motion, Kazuya materialized beside the battered Dordoni, his fingers clutching the defeated warrior''s hair with a firm grip. A smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "That was one hell of a battle," he said, his voice carrying a hint of admiration. "Please don''t try to take anyone''s freedom in the next life. It''s the worst thing you can do to a person, well, besides some messed-up stuff like making them watch Boku no Pico or a thousand episodes of One Piece."


    With a weak, raspy chuckle, blood flecked Dordoni''s lips as he coughed. "You''ve bested me, Nin?o. But beware... Baraggan approaches. Devour me, Nin?o. Inherit my Reiryoku, and become stronger."


    Kazuya''s gaze bore into Dordoni, his thoughts racing. Although he had lived in Hueco Mundo for a month, he had never consumed Hollow''s flesh aka soul. The sheer magnitude of Dordoni''s Reiatsu tempted him.CHeCk for new stories on no/v/el/bin(.)c0m


    "You goaded me into ending your life," he whispered. "What was your endgame, Dordoni? Why were you so desperate to die?"


    Dordoni¡¯s killing intent was far from genuine like Cirucci. She truly wanted him dead while he pretended to have malicious intent for him. He could have taken Mila Rose and Apacci hostages if he was so eager to kill him.


    He was as honorable and chivalrous as a princess¡¯s ideal knight in shining armor.


    ¡°Sacrifice nurtures...¡± Dordoni squeezed out and reached for something in the distance. ¡°Don¡¯t let it be in vain... Kill Baraggan or he will kill you... become a demon, Nin?o.¡±


    Kazuya paused and intently gazed at Dordoni. He recalled Dordoni¡¯s role in the story ¡ª Dordoni taught Ichigo about the brutality of Hollows through twisted choices then he sacrificed himself to buy time for Ichigo.


    ¡®His Aspect of Death has to be Sacrifice like Harribel.¡¯


    The revelation dawned on Kazuya, but it was too late. Dordoni''s Zanpakuto? was completely broken unlike Cirucci, his body shattered beyond repair. Even if he survived, he would never regain his former strength, let alone surpass it.


    Kazuya clenched his fists. ¡°That¡¯s stupid... I will kill Baraggan for my own desires. You don¡¯t have to tell me that... let me put you out of your suffering.¡±


    Using Oppression, he accelerated Dordoni''s heartbeat. Thump. Thump. Thump. Dordoni''s heart crumbled under the pressure and ceased functioning altogether. Yet, Dordoni''s eyes remained open, fear and terror etched into them, even as a brave smile graced his lips.


    ¡®Motherfucker will give me nightmares.¡¯


    After all, protecting someone wasn¡¯t just helping them survive. It means giving them a place to belong. Giving them a place where they could feel safe and free.


    ***


    As Kazuya entered his sanctuary, he discovered an astonishing scene. Mila Rose paced around with her breasts bouncing with each step. The dark-skinned beauty stopped abruptly in front of him, placing a hand on her curvaceous hip. Kazuya''s eyes traced the captivating details of her body: her rosy-hued nipples, the Hollow Hole just above her navel, her sculpted abdominal muscles beneath, and the enticing slit between her legs.


    Her Resurreccio?n form gave her a lewd armor, a luxury her normal Arrancar form lacked. Apart from the three-sectioned crown on her head and her white necklace, she was practically nude.


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Lord, have mercy.¡±


    "Stop staring so rudely, Skull." Mila Rose covered her crotch with one hand and covered her breasts with the other, a disapproving frown creasing her brow. "Since you''ve observed so thoroughly, share your thoughts. This is my normal, unreleased form. Do you find it better than my Adjuchas form?"


    She sought his approval, even though she felt confident in her Arrancar form. It enabled her to achieve so much more with significantly less exertion. Her combat prowess had skyrocketed beyond her wildest expectations.


    ¡°It¡¯s way better, if you ask me.¡± He took off his shirt and tossed it at her. ¡°Don¡¯t run around naked. My heart can¡¯t handle it.¡±


    Prior to his Hollow transformation, he had an impressive muscular build. His physique had further developed after a month of rigorous training, allowing him to stride confidently in only his jeans.


    ¡°Pervert.¡± Mila Rose grinned and sniffed his shirt, her nose wrinkling. ¡°It reeks of blood... Thanks, though. I appreciate it.¡±


    She donned the shirt, concealing her ample chest. The shirt extended just enough to cover her most intimate area. Despite her statuesque height of 177 cm, she appeared small in comparison to him. After all, he towered at an impressive 6''4" (192 cm).


    The difference in their height allowed her to wear his shirt as an impromptu dress, the material draping gracefully over her curves. With a flick of her wrist, she summoned a burst of Reiatsu, purging the bloodstains from the fabric with immaculate control of her Reiryoku. Her Resurreccio?n didn¡¯t give her any special ability. However, becoming an Arrancar improved her base strength and Reiryoku control.


    A/N: Shark mommy will protect her children.

 Chapter 24: Transform

    Chapter 24: Transform


    Apacci walked out of her chamber within the cave, a playful glint in her eyes as she prodded Mila Rose''s butt with her horn. ¡°Stop being so narcissistic, Bitch.¡±


    ¡°Ouch. Stop poking my ass, you little slut.¡±


    Apacci walked towards Kazuya and affectionately rubbed her head against his leg. ¡°You¡¯re safe.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± He patted her head tenderly. ¡°Someone is unafraid of showing love today.¡±


    ¡°Bastard came to take you and Harribel-sama away from us. He got what he deserved.¡±


    Apacci had no remorse for anyone who came to harm her or anyone close to her. She could be more ruthless than him in some aspects.


    "Well done, Kazuya and Mila Rose," Sung-Sun chimed in as she slinked out of her hiding place. "I propose we move before Baraggan dispatches someone to investigate the missing Espada."Diiscover new stories at novelhall.com


    ¡°Before that.¡± Kazuya turned to Mila Rose. ¡°Share your experience, Rose. It¡¯ll be helpful since everyone here wants to become an Arrancar. Am I right?¡±


    ¡°Hell yeah! I promised you I¡¯ll be the strongest Arrancar.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt to gain more power in Hueco Mundo... especially after we made enemies with the Godking.¡±


    Apacci and Sung-Sun exchanged determined glances, their ambitions to attain the Arrancar form fueled by their unique yet intertwined desires.


    She couldn¡¯t stop them from walking the dangerous path since she herself wished to walk upon it and rise to the ranks of Arrancar.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be next,¡± Apacci declared, her eyes filled with determination. ¡°Should I do it now?¡±


    Kazuya cupped Apacci¡¯s deer head, gently rubbing her ears with his thumb. ¡°Wait for some time.¡±


    ¡°Okay...¡± Apacci agreed, her voice a mixture of anticipation and understanding. ¡°Don¡¯t delay it for too long. I need to become strong... It hurts to watch everyone fight without feeling like useless trash.¡±


    Sung-Sun rested her head on his shoulder. ¡°I agree with her sentiment. I do not want to stand by when Baraggan sends more of them after us.¡±


    Kazuya smiled, sensing their determination ignited by Mila Rose''s transformation. "Don''t worry. I won''t keep you waiting for long."


    He turned to Harribel and cleared his throat. "I have something important to say. I do have an ability that none of you know, apart from the ability Sung-Sun mentioned."


    It was the perfect moment to reveal one of his crucial secrets. His Hollow companions had earned his trust.


    Kazuya summoned the System menu and opened the race editor. Before their eyes, he selected his desired race. A hole materialized in the center of his chest, an eerie abyss reminiscent of a Hollow''s Hole. From the depths of this void, azure liquid cascaded before the said liquid caught fire. Molten blue flames roared to life, a blue fiery tempest encasing him.


    A round, glassy cocoon spun itself around him. Moments passed as the flames underwent a mesmerizing transformation, shifting into a lighter shade of violet.


    All four women held their breaths, the anticipation tightening their chests, as they wondered what kind of metamorphosis Kazuya was undergoing and what the outcome would be.


    The cocoon cracked, sending shards of glassy fragments into the air. The flames retreated into his chest as if they were a living entity, a sentient force returning to its origin.

 Chapter 25: ARGUMENT

    Chapter 25: ARGUMENT


    Chapter 25: ARGUMENT


    Kazuya emerged, seemingly unchanged, except for the absence of his Hollow Mask and his black wings. He had shed all traces of his Hollowesque features.


    The most significant change eluded their vision, but the spiritually adept Hollows sensed it with ease.


    "How?" Harribel asked, her eyes trembling in shock. "You didn''t do it like Mila Rose... you don''t feel like a Hollow anymore. You feel like a¡ª"


    "A HUMAN!" Mila Rose exclaimed, her voice dripping with incredulity. "What the fuck? Why are you so handsome?¡±


    Sung-Sun stared at him with her sharp, beady eyes, a predatory gleam dancing within them. "What the fuck indeed. To be frank, anyone could imagine a charming face concealed behind Kazuya¡¯s mask. Though, he is a little older than I expected."


    ¡°Come on. Spill the beans. Why the hell can you do this?¡±


    As per her usual antics, Apacci poked his leg, but this time, her horn pierced through his thigh like a hot knife through butter. Blood gushed out in a crimson torrent, staining her once pristine white horn in its color.


    Kazuya gripped her horn and pushed her back with a grunt. ¡°Geez, don¡¯t go poking around me in this form. I am weak as fuck.¡±


    Miraculously, the wound closed before their eyes, as if time itself had reversed the injury, and the pain dissipated.


    ¡®Sweet. I carried over regeneration in this form,¡¯ he thought, feeling happy for the unexpected boon.


    Kazuya felt the urge to examine his current status, but the Hollow ladies'' growing impatience demanded his attention. Harribel''s eyes practically pleaded for him to unravel the enigma, while Mila Rose, Apacci, and Sung-Sun appeared shaken by the power of his transformation.


    Harribel approached him and observed his body from behind, her gaze lingering on the places where scars had once marred his skin, now faded after he switched his race. ¡°A Hollow turning human... impossible...¡±


    It was well known that dead souls turned into Hollows. A Hollow assuming a human-like form after Arrancar transformation was nothing compared to a Hollow reverting to being human; it defied the norms on so many different levels.


    Mila Rose dodged his gaze. ¡°Don¡¯t target me. I¡¯m just suggesting the easy methods here.¡±


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t expect much from her musclehead brain.¡± Sung-Sun took a vicious jab at Mila Rose¡¯s intelligence. ¡°Please don¡¯t thank me for the compliments. I¡¯m just fulfilling my daily quota of roasting my favorite girl Rose.¡±


    He chuckled at Sung-Sun¡¯s lighthearted teasing. ¡°Rose, they have all kinds of clothes in the Living World. I¡¯ll buy you a ton.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s eyes gleamed with desire as her heart fluttered for new, shiny clothes. She brandished her Zanpakuto? and plunged it into the ground with a resounding thud, her hands resting defiantly on its hilt. "I agree with Kazuya and Harribel-sama. Let¡¯s leave for the Living World."


    ¡°That was fast!¡± Apacci retorted. ¡°This cheapskate switched sides for some clothes.¡±


    "You''re only agreeing with him for the sake of clothes." Sung-Sun playfully lifted Mila Rose''s shirt with her sinuous tail, exposing her most intimate area to the world. "This kitten is so easy to read."


    Mila Rose yanked down her garment and scratched her thick, wavy hair. "What the hell, Snake? I''m saying this so all of us can survive and become strong away from Baraggan''s gaze. Kazuya¡¯s proposal has logic. I have to side with him.¡±


    She hid her desire to explore the Living World and indulge in experiences she couldn''t have as a normal Hollow. They were just side benefits of moving to the Living World.


    Sung-Sun chuckled, a knowing glint in her eye. "Yeah, yeah."


    ¡°Apacci, only you are against me now.¡± Kazuya squatted down and intimately rubbed her ears. ¡°Come on, my tomboy sweetheart. You¡¯ll lose affection points for being stubborn.¡±


    ¡°Who even wants your affection points?!¡±


    ¡°I never said they were mine. They could be Harribel¡¯s too.¡±


    ¡°...¡± Apacci lowered her head and hit his knee with her hoof. ¡°Promise to buy me clothes when I become an Arrancar.¡±


    ¡°Just that? Sure. I¡¯ll even get you sexy bikinis so we can have our private pool party.¡±


    His offer came off so nice and genuine that Apacci nodded without inquiring a thing about bikinis.


    "Given that I hold the majority of votes," he began, his voice laced with a rare solemnity, "I shall take the lead and scout¡ª" He paused, his gaze shifting to the deeper part of the cave. ¡°Our new guest woke up.¡±

 Chapter 26: Jealousy

    Chapter 26: Jealousy


    Tap. Tap. Tap. Footsteps echoed through the cave as their newest ally, Cirucci, emerged from the shadowed depths, her long tail trailing on the ground like a serpent. She couldn''t find rest with the chatter swirling around the cave, so she came out to greet her new teammates.


    Cirucci''s eyes widened upon seeing Kazuya''s human form. "It can''t be¡ªKazuya? How did you become a human?"


    ¡°It¡¯s one of my abilities.¡±


    Kazuya''s vague response hung in the air as he transformed back into his Hollow form. With a deft flick of his wrist, he tore through the fabric of space using his Descorrer ability. The black fissure expanded, its gaping maw akin to a ravenous beast, unveiling an infinite, abyssal void.


    (A/N: Garganta changed to Descorrer.)


    Kazuya''s face contorted with unease as he gazed into the boundless expanse connecting all realms in this world. ¡°What am I looking at?¡±


    Mila Rose nudged his rib, her voice tinged with apprehension. ¡°Are you sure you want to go there?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t been there.¡±


    ¡°Me neither.¡±


    Apacci and Sung-Sun confessed their ignorance of Garganta and its hidden dangers. They never had any desire to explore the Living World and incur the wrath of Seireitei¡¯s Shinigami.


    Kazuya turned to Harribel, the oldest and wisest among them. ¡°Do you have any experience with this?¡±


    Harribel shook her head, her golden hair softly bouncing to her movement. "I can pave the path for you. You won''t be harmed that way"


    He immediately rejected her offer, sensing her willingness to sacrifice herself for his cause. She was a truly admirable mother figure. One he couldn¡¯t handle in the current situation.


    Left with no choice, Kazuya walked over to the lovely goth girl and gently gripped her shoulders. Cirucci didn''t appear as beautiful in her current battered condition. "Cirucci~, help out your friend, will you?¡±


    Cirucci felt a shiver running up her spine. His sweet, pleasing voice may as well be the whispers of a demon.


    ¡°Fuck,¡± Cirucci cursed under her breath, regretting being curious about their talk in her absence. ¡°Where do you want to go?¡±


    As an Espada, she had been to the Living World numerous times. Instead of lying, she decided to help him out. She had to show her worth as an ally, otherwise, he would deem her useless and cast her aside. She couldn¡¯t let it happen under any circumstances.


    Her survival hinged upon him, after all.


    Unaware of her inner turmoil, he answered, ¡°The Living World.¡±


    Apacci yearned for sleep after relentlessly unleashing Cero Rays upon Dordoni, but the tempest in her heart raged on, plaguing her with restless tossing and turning.


    "Goddamn Kazuya..." she grumbled, her voice heavy with frustration. "I met you first... I rescued you. Why would you go to her...?¡±


    She felt like a child whose prized toy had been snatched away, but she couldn''t lash out at anyone. It wasn''t her fault Kazuya stopped giving her much attention. In her mind, Mila Rose and Harribel were to blame. They possessed something she lacked, a quality that ensnared Kazuya and held him captive.


    A humanoid body closer to Kazuya¡¯s own.


    Apacci slammed her head into the soft sand in a fit of exasperation. "I can''t... fuck, why am I blaming my friends?"


    She caught herself before the darkness of her emotions could drag her down further. Rising from her resting position, she ventured out of the cave, hoping the fresh air would clear her mind.


    The walk did indeed rejuvenate her, sweeping away the clouds of negativity. As she wandered, a shadow flitted across her path. Raising her head, she saw a horde of Gillians moving in eerie unison, their ghostly glide sending shivers down her spine.


    Curiously, they didn''t regard her as prey, as though something else took precedence over a powerful Adjuchas. Intrigued, she sprinted after them, soon discovering the source of their hunger ¡ª a fresh Arrancar corpse brimming with Reiatsu.


    ¡®These thieves are stealing Kazuya¡¯s Game. How dare they?!¡¯


    Gritting her teeth, she stepped forward, her Reiatsu surging to its limits, which wasn¡¯t much after using everything on Cero. She couldn¡¯t overpower the combined Reiatsu of a dozen odd Menos Grande. "Get away, now!¡±


    The Gillians encircled themselves in their own Reiatsu, repelling Apacci''s razor-sharp energy. One by one, they twisted their necks in her direction, their long noses pointing at her like swords.


    ¡°Kiii.¡±


    ¡°Kiiiii.¡±


    ¡°Keeee.¡±


    Vicious screeches left their mouths as they drifted to Apacci, their giant forms towering over her relatively small dear form.


    Undaunted, Apacci charged a small Cero at the tip of her horn. ¡°Don¡¯t force me to kill you losers.¡±


    In response, the Gillians opened their maws wide, conjuring a Cero far larger than Apacci''s. Even so, she refused to back down. She couldn''t let these lowly Gillians steal Kazuya''s hard-earned prize. This particular corpse, an Arrancar, offered the only chance to strengthen Kazuya among all the Hollows they had found. She would fight tooth and nail to keep it here.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll kill you all.¡±


    Fueled by passion and recklessness, Apacci hurled herself against the dozen Gillians, even though her Reiryoku barely reached a quarter of its maximum capacity.

 Chapter 27: Mating?

    Chapter 27: Mating?


    Mila Rose halted a few paces from the cave entrance and locked eyes with Kazuya.


    Caught off-guard by her fierce gaze, Kazuya gasped dramatically. ¡°Such aggressiveness! Have you gone into heat after your transformation? Am I going to be pushed down and violated in the Amazonian position? I-I refuse to be defiled in such a manner!¡±


    Rolling her eyes, Mila Rose scoffed, "Amazonian position what? I swear, I''ll violate your ass if you don¡¯t stop spitting nonsense."


    He instinctively placed a protective hand over his rear, shivering. ¡°That place is off limits. If you insist on violating my rear, I will fight you to death. It¡¯s not a question about my fetish or my affection for you. It¡¯s about my honor as a man!¡±Finnd new chapters at novelhall.com


    Mila Rose laughed at his melodrama and gripped his shoulders. ¡°Shove your manliness down the drain. I didn¡¯t bring you here to mate or whatever filthy stuff you¡¯re cooking in your mind. Besides, what¡¯s the point in two Hollows mating? We can¡¯t make babies as far as I know.¡±


    She saw no logical reason for Hollows to engage in reproductive activities.


    ¡°Ahem, sex is an act of pleasure... I think?¡± He slipped into his naive, innocent personality and assumed a thoughtful look oozing with curiosity. ¡°I believe sex feels good.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°Did you remember some significant memory?¡±


    If he was as handsome as he looked in his human form, Mila Rose could imagine Kazuya having a beautiful partner when he was a human. He must be recalling some memories of his past life.


    ¡®Hmph, I am miles better than anyone he ever had in his life.¡¯


    A dark, envious urge overtook her, compelling her to put down anyone who had been close to Kazuya.


    Lost in thought, he murmured, ¡°Why does that matter? I''m a ruthless, bloodthirsty Hollow now, just like you.¡±


    ¡°That is true.¡± She playfully punched his chest. ¡°Hey, how did you come to learn about mating?¡±


    ¡°How do you know about mating?¡±


    ¡°I was born with the memories,¡± Mila Rose mused, her fingers scratching her chin as she delved into the depths of her mind. ¡°Or I overheard it in my Hollow tribe. Yes, that must be it. Someone mentioned the legend of a Hollow tribe living in the darkest shadows of the abyss. They all belong to the same species and engage in mating rituals, spawning more Hollows of their kind... that¡¯s how the legend goes.¡±


    Kazuya''s eyes flashed with recognition. Ulquiorra might be born in such a tribe, surrounded by Hollows of a singular species. That¡¯s how he believed Ulquiorra¡¯s story went.


    ¡°You claimed Hollows can''t bear offspring. But now you speak of a Hollow tribe capable of reproducing. What are you trying to say, Rose?¡±


    Mila Rose cleared her throat and looked at him, her green eyes reflecting his vicious skull mask. ¡°Skull...¡±


    ¡°Yes, I love you if you are thinking about confessing to me. Let us fly to church and put rings on each other.¡±


    ¡°PLEASE BE SERIOUS FOR ONCE. It¡¯s about my transformation.¡± Mila started slow, her voice husky with emotions, and her heart rate hiking. ¡°Everyone¡¯s Reiatsu was fluctuating wildly when it happened... But you, you didn¡¯t show a single change... Why was that?¡±


    His apparent indifference to her life-and-death struggle made her uncomfortable. Despite their recent conflicts, she had hoped that he would show some concern after they had resolved their misunderstandings. She was willing to risk her life to protect him and Harribel. A minor concern in return was nothing much.


    Kazuya tilted his head back, his gaze settling on the silvery moon above. "I had unwavering faith that you would succeed."


    Mila Rose had no idea that he had known her long before their first encounter in Hueco Mundo, that he had recognized her potential as an Arrancar from the start.


    Somehow, she felt her cheeks becoming hot. ¡°Where the hell did that trust come from?¡±


    He chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Can you explain every emotion and thought that courses through your mind? No, right? Some things simply exist without explanation, or for reasons beyond our understanding."


    ¡°Ohhh... I¡ª¡±


    He leaned in, gently cradling her chin in his hand. In an instant, his mask vanished, revealing his human form beneath. The instantaneous transformation happened at his will. After a lengthy first time, he could switch between both races at will without even opening the Race Editor.


    ¡°Rose.¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah?¡±


    Their close proximity and his sweet, whispery voice clouded her thoughts, causing her to stammer.


    ¡°Instead of questioning me, shouldn¡¯t you reward me for helping you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right.¡±


    "So let me," he whispered, drawing nearer until their lips hovered a hair''s breadth apart. ¡°Embrace you.¡±


    Mila Rose closed her eyes, allowing herself to be swept up in the moment''s intensity. Their breath mingled as their lips met in a sweet, innocent kiss.

 Chapter 28: Care

    Chapter 28: Care


    Crackle. A vicious surge in Reiatsu brought the kiss to a premature end.


    Mila Rose snapped to her senses and pushed his face away from her. ¡°W-What the hell was I doing?¡±


    She kissed Kazuya, a lewd act she never imagined herself doing with someone else, much less a man.


    Kazuya didn''t dwell on Mila Rose''s distress. Instead, he swept his Reiatsu over the area, searching for the terrifying yet familiar presence that had interrupted their moment. He located the source of the familiar Reiatsu, well-concealed and undetectable to those not diligently searching.Diiscover new stories at novelhall.com


    He glanced over his shoulder. "Harribel, you can come out."


    ¡°Harribel-sama is here?!¡±


    Harribel emerged from behind a boulder and approached them. She wedged herself between Mila Rose and Kazuya, pushing Mila Rose away from him in the process.


    ¡°You called?¡±


    She acted like she wasn¡¯t eavesdropping and peeping at them from a hidden spot. Her calm and collected manner worked her in her favor this time around.


    Mila Rose just stared at Harribel, stupefied. ¡°Harribel-sama...¡±


    Despite her resentment toward Harribel''s interference, she respected her leader too much to question her suspicious actions.


    Harribel sighed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mila Rose. I had to check up on him... I didn¡¯t want you to get into a fight.¡±


    Kazuya would be stupid to take Harribel¡¯s words at a face value. She might be peeping on her ¡®son¡¯ for all he knew. ¡°I won¡¯t fight Rose. Heck, we were about to enter a new phase in our lovey-dovey relationship.¡±


    Harribel responded with a shocked look, ¡°I see... I wasn¡¯t watching you.¡±


    ¡°Oi, Skull. Stop spitting lies! Who the heck wants to¡ª¡±


    Kazuya leaned behind and winked at Mila Rose. ¡°You let me kiss you ¡ª that¡¯s a fact you can¡¯t deny.¡±


    ¡°You are horribly twisting the facts.¡± Mila Rose sprang to her feet and pointed at him with her sword. ¡°I didn¡¯t stop you because you mentioned something about rewarding you. Yeah, that¡¯s it. Think nothing more of it than a reward.¡±


    She was too embarrassed to admit being attracted to Kazuya, knowing that the menace Sung-Sun will rip her apart with teasing.


    Harribel closed her eyes and giggled, adoring the sight of her ¡®children¡¯ messing around instead of fighting. It was one of the few times she had been so lively. ¡°Kazuya, I need a favor from you.¡±


    Kazuya paused and looked into her eyes. Despite his deep understanding of her character, he could never guess the thoughts coursing through her mind. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Harribel lowered her head, her eyes brimming with seriousness. ¡°Can you¡ª¡±


    His tender words had the intended effect, prompting Apacci to stare at him wordlessly, touched by his sentiment.


    ¡°O-Of course. There is only one Apacci in this world but there are thousands of Mila Rose. You won¡¯t find me anywhere.¡±


    He chuckled at her budding envy or perhaps jealousy, for Mila Rose. He playfully tugged at her ears, making her wince in pain. "That''s why you should stop risking your life for nonsensical reasons."


    ¡°It¡¯s not nonsensical!¡±


    ¡°How is it not? You could¡¯ve called me, Sung-Sun, or even Cirucci. Fighting them in your condition was beyond reckless. You could have died if I didn¡¯t make it in time.¡±


    His sharp voice contrasted with his usual gentle, honeyed tone. Apacci felt as if time had frozen. She had been waiting for a reward for enduring an impossible battle for him. Yet, here he was, scolding her for her recklessness.


    For the first time, Apacci experienced the biting sting of cold betrayal.


    Kazuya sighed and gently rubbed her horn. ¡°Look, I¡¯m sorry for being so harsh and controlling but I will do everything I can to protect you and others.¡± He gestured Apacci to Dordoni¡¯s corpse. ¡°You can eat him.¡±


    Apacci understood his reasoning, but it didn¡¯t ease her bitter feelings. ¡°No, you eat him to increase your Reiryoku capacity. It¡¯ll be beneficial for you.¡±


    ¡°You might break into Vasto Lorde if you eat him.¡±


    His enticing words made her pause and ponder, distracting her mind from his previous scolding.


    ¡°Vasto Lorde...¡± Apacci whispered. ¡°Will I have a body like Harribel as a Vasto Lorde?¡±


    Envy dripped from each and every word as she imagined herself in a similar form as Harribel and most likely Mila Rose.


    ¡°Most likely.¡±


    ¡°I...¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hesitate. You risked your life to protect it. It belongs to you now.¡±


    Apacci glanced in Dordoni¡¯s direction and shook her head. ¡°Your strength is harder to increase than mine. I can eat any random Hollow and gain little boost.¡±


    She was being selfless for once, hoping he could feel her care behind her small sacrifice and stop being so harsh. She just wanted him to be the casual, playful Kazuya.


    Kazuya grinned. ¡°Jeez, stop staring at me. I know I¡¯m handsome and you love me but get a human form before we take things further.¡±


    ¡°W-Who loves you, skullhead?¡± Apacci grumbled as she lowered her head, her heart pounding in her chest. ¡°Leave me alone!¡±


    ¡°Well, eat to your heart¡¯s content, my adorable dear.¡±


    He left Apacci alone to enjoy her meal. She might reach Lorde status or at least come close to achieving it. More crucially, it will heal her wounds faster and recover the lost Reiryoku.

 Chapter 29: A Bloody Tale

    Chapter 29: A Bloody Tale


    Apacci trudged back into the shadowy cave, the weight of stress pressing her down. Her gloominess was well-founded. She had devoured every bit of Dordoni, absorbing his flesh to enhance her Reiryoku. Yet, despite her efforts, the Vasto Lorde Class remained a distant dream. A realm far away from her reach.


    "Should I break my mask?" she pondered, recalling the surge of power that such a simple act could unleash. But she knew, too, that great strength came with great risk. She was inextricably drawn to the possibility ever since witnessing the awe-inspiring might of Mila Rose.


    ¡®I promised Kazuya to be patient... but I also promised to become the strongest Arrancar.¡¯


    While eager to fulfill her promise, she had no choice but to slow down. Her gaze fell upon Kazuya, who lay nestled against Cyan Sung-Sun''s giant snake form. Sung-Sun''s scaled tail draped over him like a protective shield, yet he seemed to find comfort in its embrace, sleeping soundly beneath it as if it were a makeshift quilt. One could say he was having the time of life surrounded by cuddly pets.


    ¡®How dare he sleep with her after making that deal with me? Did he goad her into a deal?¡¯


    She seethed with jealousy.


    Sung-Sun lifted her head and hissed. ¡°The deer triumphantly returns after devouring an eagle. Yet one could not see any signs of happiness on the deer¡¯s face. Are these the signs of tragedy to come?¡±


    Apacci growled at Sung-Sun¡¯s unnecessary commentary of her actions. ¡°Fuck happiness.¡±


    Kazuya stirred, sitting up and gesturing for Apacci to join him. "Come here."Finnd new chapters at novelhall.complied, sinking down and resting her head on his legs, using his thighs as her cushion. "It''s my turn to use you.¡±


    "Use my body as much as you want," he murmured, a gentle smile gracing his lips. "My dear deer, what''s weighing on your heart?"


    Kazuya could sense the storm raging within her, as well as her desperate yearning for strength to fill the void in her soul. Sung-Sun''s words about the tragedy had not been entirely off the mark; Apacci might very well attempt something reckless in her quest for power. Her Hollow Hole was more than proof of her lust for raw power.


    Apacci gritted her teeth. ¡°I am angry at myself. I just want to become strong and kick Baraggan¡¯s ass with you... But I can¡¯t even get close to Espada with my current strength. This makes me so mad.¡±


    Kazuya listened intently to her impassioned outburst, his fingers gently stroking her head. Almost involuntarily, she leaned into his tender touch, finding comfort in his caress.


    "Then stop dwelling on it," Sung-Sun advised, her voice cool and collected. "Only fools focus solely on surpassing their adversary''s strength. Why not try outwitting your opponent instead? Like Kazuya and his plan for the Living World."


    ¡°Running away to a faraway place isn¡¯t a smart strategy.¡±


    ¡°Traitor!¡± Sung-Sun retorted. ¡°You sold me out! I-I trusted you.¡±


    ¡°Never trust a guy with a skull mask,¡± he whispered with a grin. ¡°Besides, it¡¯s a small price to learn more about our caring leader.¡±


    ¡°You act more like a leader than Harribel,¡± Apacci muttered under her breath. ¡°Cocky Skull Demon.¡±


    Harribel wordlessly gazed at everyone, studying and calculating something with little emotion in her eyes.


    Kazuya turned to his human form and smiled, feigning innocence and cheerfulness one would expect from a child. ¡°Harribel, it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t want to share your story... I¡¯ll bring it up when I do something to truly earn your trust.¡±


    Sometimes life leaves you with no choice but to gaslight your crush into revealing the truth.


    Harribel melted seeing his hurt expression. There was simply no way for her to resist spoiling him. ¡°It¡¯s nothing special. Are you sure you want to waste time with this?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s expression brightened. ¡°I have nothing else to do until Cirucci recovers. May as well listen to your bedtime story.¡±


    ¡°Most Vasto Lorde I know became one after consuming endless souls... but I didn¡¯t. My evolution happened when I saw mindless violence and bloodshed.¡± Tracing her sword arm on the wall, she revealed the secret nobody knew. ¡°A village of normal Hollows was desecrated by one cruel Vasto Lorde. A demon with four sword arms massacred the Hollows before my eyes... and I was too weak to stop the demon. I wanted to defeat him even if I had to die fighting him... My irrepressible anger became the fuel of my evolution.¡±


    Kazuya''s mind raced as he felt a flicker of recognition upon hearing Harribel''s tale.


    ¡®What are the odds it¡¯s Nnoitra?¡¯


    While other Hollows might share similar physical traits, the likelihood of encountering a Vasto Lorde with four arms was next to impossible.


    ¡°She became Vasto Lorde because of Sacrifice,¡± he whispered. It seemed as if Harribel¡¯s evolution relied heavily on her desire to sacrifice ¡ª her Aspect of Death. One¡¯s indulgence in their Aspect of Death ¡ª doing everything to fill one¡¯s Hollow Heart ¡ª might be the key to advancing to Vasto Lorde from Adjuchas. ¡°Did you kill him or not?¡±


    Harribel shook her head. ¡°When I was ready to deliver a decisive blow, it used its rest of energy to flee. I haven¡¯t encountered it since.¡±


    ¡°The demon is still out there terrorizing Hollows?¡± Apacci asked in shock. ¡°Kazuya, you better slaughter that asshole. Don¡¯t let it flee.¡±


    ¡°I will not fail, Madame. I am not the strongest but I can tweak my body to fly faster than a jet.¡±


    Harribel nodded. ¡°That coward preys on weak Hollows. He¡¯ll be no match for you...¡±

 Chapter 30: Hatred for Men

    Chapter 30: Hatred for Men


    As the group settled into a comfortable silence, Kazuya called forth his status.


    [General Information]


    Name ¡ª Kazuya Ishihara


    Gender ¡ª Male


    Race ¡ª Human


    Reiryoku Level ¡ª Great Level (Captain-Class)


    Alignment ¡ª Neutral Evil


    Affiliation ¡ª None


    ...


    Racial Abilities


    None


    Innate Abilities


    [Silvery Voice]


    [Crumbling Heart (Human): You can walk unhindered upon any surface.]


    [Regeneration]


    [Pain Resistance]


    Acquired Abilities


    [Seduction: The ability to seduce those of the opposite gender.


    Mastery level - Basic]


    [Riding: The ability to ride a mount.


    Mastery level - Intermediate]


    [Arithmetic: The ability to process arithmetic problems.


    Mastery level - Intermediate]


    [Provocation: The ability to anger people with your tongue.


    Mastery level - Basic]


    His Crumbling Heart ability had changed along with his race. Instead of providing support to allies, it had transformed into a self-serving skill that was absurdly underwhelming. After all, he could easily create Reiryoku platforms to fly anywhere. What was the point of this innate ability?


    "So you''re just after my body." Mila Rose¡¯s face turned dark as though she hated the thought of being lusted after for her body alone. Golden Reiatsu crackled around her as a tidal wave of murderous intent bore down on Kazuya. "All men are the same. I thought you were different. In the end, you''re like everyone else."


    He was certainly wrong about curing her hatred for men in one conversation. It would take time to cure her prejudice.


    Before he could ease the misunderstanding, Mila Rose charged at him with the ferocity of a lioness, slashing at his chest. Her attacks were lethal, aimed to kill. He enveloped his hand in Reiatsu and caught her Zanpakuto? with his bare hands. Her Reiatsu sliced through his skin like a hot knife through butter, but her blade failed to penetrate his flesh.


    The sight of his blood poured cold water on her impulsive fury. She retracted her Zanpakuto?, her gaze fixed on his rapidly healing wound.


    While she regretted injuring Kazuya, he was of a different mind. ¡®Will my Hollow Mask regenerate if it¡¯s broken?¡¯


    He decided to test the theory later. ¡°Rose, I didn¡¯t mean it that way. Don¡¯t try to murder your man over a misunderstanding, dude.¡±


    ¡°What else did you mean by those words?¡±


    ¡°You completely ignored the ¡®might¡¯ part... Your body is just one part of my love equation. I am still trying to figure out the other part.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t completely fallen for her but he absolutely adored her.


    Mila Rose sighed, her shoulders sagging. She raked a hand through her hair, hoping her impulsive words hadn''t wounded him. ¡°Something went off in my head when you said that... I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°You hurt me. It was emotional damage...¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± She let her Zanpakuto? fall to the ground and encircled his waist with her arms, seemingly attempting to crush him in her embrace. ¡°Forgive me or I¡¯ll crush you with my bear huuuug.¡±


    ¡°O-Oi, stop. It¡¯s starting to hurt.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t strengthened his waist with Oppression, focusing on his limbs to increase his explosiveness. Mila Rose¡¯s hug genuinely squeezed the life out of him.


    ¡°Just say the damn words.¡±


    ¡°Okay! I forgive you! Stop it now!¡±


    Mila Rose laughed and tightened her grip before hoisting him off the ground and twirling him around. She set him down after a dozen dizzying spins and laid a hand on his shoulder.


    ¡°You brute...¡±


    She continued laughing. ¡°Oh my god... Kazuya, I don¡¯t hate whatever we have right now. Let¡¯s, you know, defeat Baraggan first then sort the rest of this stuff... I want to focus on training and becoming stronger.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    She stepped back and placed her hands on her hips, drawing eyes to her abs. ¡°What am I saying is¡ª¡±


    ¡°That you love me and you can¡¯t live without me, but Baraggan is a bitch who won¡¯t let you sleep peacefully. So, we got to take care of him first.¡±


    ¡°You got nothing!¡±


    Kazuya chuckled before dodging a broadsword strike. They continued training with an intense, pulse-pounding battle. He found it increasingly difficult to counter her devastating blows. She exhibited far greater brute strength and agility than in her clash with Dordoni. Had she grown stronger within hours, or had she been holding back during her previous battle? It had to be the former, since she was still adapting to her new Arrancar form.


    ¡®Was she this strong in the story? I don¡¯t believe it.¡¯


    Mila Rose had a blast swinging her sword all over the place. She fought him to her heart¡¯s content until her Reiryoku couldn¡¯t support her release form.

 Chapter 31: Experiment

    Chapter 31: Experiment


    Kazuya crossed his arms as his gaze drifted across Mila Rose¡¯s naked body. ¡°You¡¯re one terrifying exhibitionist kitten.¡±


    She scoffed and picked up her shirt from the ground before putting it on. ¡°Not more than you. When are you breaking your mask?¡±


    She couldn''t fathom facing him if he received the same power boost as her upon becoming an Arrancar. However, it didn''t matter, as she was determined to hone her skills and grow even stronger.


    ¡°I wonder the same,¡± said Cirucci as she jumped down from the hill. ¡°It¡¯s the single biggest power boost you can get as a Vasto Lorde. I did it. She did it. When we¡¯re in need of desperate power, why are you backing out of it?¡±


    Having replenished a substantial portion of her Reiryoku, Cirucci had utilized some of her regained energy to clean herself and eradicate all traces of blood. Her silver mane now glistened with a captivating allure, revealing the meticulous effort she had invested in her appearance. Kazuya couldn''t help but observe her once more: a regal mane joint with two droopy wings, and a sleek, dolphin-like tail trailing behind her ¡ª all the result of her damaged Zanpakuto? leaving her in a peculiar half-released, half-Arrancar form.


    "Wow, you went through all this effort just for me. I''m so touched," he teased with a playful wink. "Here''s a compliment for you, Cirucci, our murderous goth chick ¡ª you look less fucked-up than before. Well done."


    His backhanded compliment earned him a glare that could have slain a dragon. ¡°Don¡¯t change the topic. Are you perhaps afraid of failure? The big jerk who beat down two of the strongest Espada is afraid of death?¡±


    Kazuya shrugged. ¡°I am more afraid of letting everyone down. As much as I trust in their abilities, they can¡¯t survive Baraggan without me.¡±


    It was just a sophisticated way of admitting he was afraid of dying mid-process. He was living quite the life in Hueco Mundo. It would be almost tragic if he died like that. Knowing his luck, it might just happen.


    He wasn''t a coward. He was cautious.Diiscover new stories at novelhall.com


    Mila Rose frowned. ¡°Then don¡¯t fail, Skull. Here, I will break it with my sword.¡±


    Kazuya caught her sword mid strike and raised a brow. ¡°Cirucci, let¡¯s leave.¡±


    ¡°Kazuya, don¡¯t back out. Have trust in yourself,¡± Cirucci urged as she folded her arms. ¡°The process is easy. Subdue your wildness and seal your powers in the form of an object. It¡¯s how Szayel described it to Espada.¡±


    She absolutely had no ulterior motive like witnessing his agonizing screams.


    ¡°Szayel? That mad scientist? He is an Espada?¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s heart skipped a beat as she realized her mistake in bringing up Szayel. She confessed to being a twisted soul, sometimes delighting in the suffering of others. But Szayel was an entirely different species of sadist¡ªa deranged lunatic with no qualms about pushing the boundaries of his experiments. The sheer terror he invoked was the sole driving force behind her allegiance to Baraggan.


    Life held no particular value for her, but she would do anything to avoid becoming a specimen in his laboratory of horrors.


    Anything.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Cirucci felt a little calm after hearing his soothing voice. ¡°Szayel is Baraggan¡¯s Court Alchemist. Nu?mero Uno Espada. How do you know him?¡±


    ¡°Damn. Give me the name of the rest of Espada, their abilities, their strengths, and their weaknesses.¡±


    Cirucci divulged the information without a moment''s hesitation. While the Espada were comrades in the loosest sense, their alliance was born solely out of mutual subjugation to Baraggan. No true bond of camaraderie united them like genuine soldiers.


    "Amazing," Cirucci murmured, awe lacing her voice. "I have never seen a Hollow regenerate their mask, much less with a speed visible to eyes. Your regenerative power is both astonishing and terrifying.¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s praises reminded Kazuya of the other Arrancar who had similar regeneration powers ¡ª Ulquiorra Cifer. Their wings and horns looked different, but they both looked close to a typical demon.


    ¡®Are we related or what?¡¯


    He narrowed his eyes and beckoned Mila Rose. "Get back to your Resurreccio?n form and shatter my mask. If I fail to control myself, knock me out cold. I''ll recover... eventually."


    The toughness of a Hollow Mask depended on their Reiryoku level. With his great Reiryoku, it would be hard to shatter his mask without a strong strike.


    Mila Rose''s grin widened, revealing her ferocious lion fangs. ¡°I will chop your penis if you go berserk. You won¡¯t ever be able to mate.¡±


    Knowing Kazuya¡¯s obsession with the act of mating, she threatened to cut off his most precious organ that allowed him to fulfill his sexual fantasies. The threat worked wonders as Kazuya shuddered visibly. Having experienced an injury close to his little brother, he was having traumatizing flashbacks.


    ¡°Don¡¯t even joke about that!¡±


    ¡°Haha.¡± Mila Rose stepped closer and held her Zanpakuto?. ¡°How do you want me to strike? Horizontal, vertical or diagonal?¡±


    ¡°Strike the middle of my face. Just don¡¯t leave cut marks.¡±


    Kazuya closed his eyes, only to sense three presences closing in on him.


    ¡°Wait!¡±


    Mila Rose paused and looked at Harribel and the rest. ¡°Skull, they¡¯re gonna chew you alive.¡±


    Harribel crossed her arms on her chest, giving him a sharp look. ¡°How many times do I have to say this? Don¡¯t be reckless.¡±


    Apacci, on the other, seemed pissed. ¡°He tells me to hold off, then he pulls off something like this.¡±


    ¡°Ara, I¡¯m sure he is taking the risk to protect us. However.¡± Sung-Sun sharpened her reptilian eyes. ¡°At least inform us if you¡¯re making a decision of this stature.¡±


    They seemed pissed at his choice to recklessly start the process behind their backs; their anger showed their care for him. It also reminded him of his previous lover. Yumi was easy to anger but always cared about his well-being.


    ¡°It¡¯s not reckless, geez. Listen...¡±


    Kazuya explained the reasoning behind his impulsive decision. Despite his sweet voice and persuasive skills, it took him a full minute to alleviate Harribel''s fears, yet a hint of concern still shone in her eyes.


    Undeterred by their worries, Kazuya urged Mila Rose to proceed.


    ¡°Devour, Liona!¡±


    Unleashing her released state, she swung her Zanpakuto? with one hand, slicing his mask in two.

 Chapter 32-33: A Strange Zanpakuto

    Chapter 32-33: A Strange Zanpakuto


    Kazuya crumpled to his knees, clutching his face in agony. Pain was no stranger to him, having lost an arm before, but this torment surpassed all previous experiences, even exceeding his initial death. Despite his Pain Resistance skill, he felt like screaming ceaselessly, and in fact, he was screaming, oblivious to his own cries.


    "Kazuya!" Harribel reached out to him, but her words vanished into the chaos surrounding him. ¡°KAZUYA!¡±


    His Reiatsu began to surge, trembling the very ground they stood upon. It dwarfed Mila Rose''s Reiatsu, despite the fact she could rival a weak Vasto Lorde¡¯s Reiatsu in her base Arrancar form.


    A wave of Reiatsu erupted like a deafening sonic boom, hurling everyone beyond his reach.CHeCk for new stories on no/v/el/bin(.)c0m


    Harribel struggled to her feet, Kazuya now no more than a violet speck in the distance. His Reiatsu had propelled her that far. She raced back towards him, only to falter moments later, clutching her head. Kazuya''s Reiatsu permeated the air, bearing down on her soul with suffocating pressure, causing her head to pound.


    It was as if gravity itself had intensified in the area surrounding him. The Reiatsu was different from anything she had ever felt. It wasn¡¯t just powerful or massive. It felt alien. The thick and heavy energy felt like something other than Reiatsu. But Harribel knew it was Reiatsu belonging to Kazuya.


    ¡®Wait for me. I¡¯ll be there.¡¯


    Determined and unyielding, Harribel pressed onward, her eyes locked on Kazuya.


    ¡°Harribel-sama!¡±


    Mila Rose, gripping her broadsword tightly, followed Harribel''s lead, with the others a mere step behind, united in their commitment to aid Kazuya as he had once helped Mila Rose with her Arrancar transformation.


    However, their progress was short-lived, halted after a dozen steps. Kazuya''s Reiatsu bore down on them like an oppressive weight, sapping their willpower to the point they felt terrified of taking another step in his direction.


    Apacci let out a strangled cry, her legs trembling under the relentless pressure. "W-What the hell is this? This Reiatsu is too much."


    "This Reiatsu is different from his." Mila Rose, faring better than Apacci and Sung-Sun, discerned the unique property of the Reiatsu. "It''s... sinister and cold."


    ¡°We can¡¯t go further,¡± Sung-Sun whispered calmly as she moved back. ¡°Let¡¯s retreat for now.¡±


    Apacci gave her a death glare. ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere. I¡¯ll help him.¡±


    Sung-Sun hissed. ¡°Don¡¯t you fucking give me that look. I want to help Kazuya as much as you. What the fuck can we do?¡±


    Apacci recoiled, terrorized by Sung-Sun''s furious eyes. Never before had the snake lost her composure, but the sight of her friend writhing in agony pushed her to the edge. She felt utterly powerless.


    Reluctantly heeding Sung-Sun¡¯s words, Apacci and Mila Rose withdrew and regrouped with Cirucci.


    She looked terrified of his Reiatsu far more than the three. ¡°It¡¯s stronger than Baraggan.¡±


    Baraggan, having dwelled in Hueco Mundo for an unknown length of time, had amassed Reiryoku through innumerable battles. He was considered the Hollow with the most potent Reiatsu in Hueco Mundo. Yet, Kazuya, the young Hollow, displayed a Reiatsu that eclipsed even Baraggan''s. The difference was staggering.


    Cirucci realized that Kazuya¡¯s dream of slaying Baraggan would become reality. ¡°If he survives...¡±


    ¡°Argh!¡± Apacci screamed out in frustration and stomped the ground. ¡°What the hell do we do? We can¡¯t leave him be.¡±


    "What can we do?" Cyan Sung-Sun murmured, despair in her voice. "We have to trust Harribel-sama..."


    Harribel hadn¡¯t stopped for a second, even if her pace looked shaky. Sung-Sun put her trust in her leader to save the day.


    Mila Rose flung her Zanpakuto? aside and tugged at her hair in despair. Though her Reiatsu might have neared Harribel''s in her Resurreccio?n form, she couldn''t harness it after exhausting her Reiryoku during training. Even if she could assume her Resurreccio?n form, she wouldn''t have advanced farther than Harribel.


    ¡°Dammit. It¡¯s my fucking fault.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the time to blame yourself.¡± Apacci gritted her teeth audibly, her fiery gaze on the cocoon in the distance. ¡°Sung-Sun, you said you were smart and efficient. Think about something. Cirucci, stop standing there.¡±


    ¡°What do you want me to do?!¡±


    Panic gripped all four of them, each expressing it in their own way. Three genuinely cared for Kazuya''s well-being, while the former Espada simply wanted him alive to fulfill his promise of revenge against Baraggan.


    ¡°I am doing my best¡ªwait, it ended.¡±


    Their attention snapped to Kazuya''s cocoon, which began to fracture, his Reiatsu gradually receding. They sprinted towards him with every ounce of speed they could muster.


    Harribel, with her superior Soni?do, reached him first, catching him before he could tumble from the cocoon. As she knelt on the ground, she tenderly pressed a hand against his face, unfazed by the viscous fluid that coated him.


    On the outskirts of a village alive with the chatter, a centaur-like Hollow stood guard. Her head swiveled to the north, her grip on her lance involuntarily tightening. The ancient Reiatsu sent shivers cascading down her spine.


    She couldn''t fathom the fate that had befallen the Hollows in closer proximity to the source of this ominous power. Could they have died?


    Her hazel eyes flickered, narrowing into a razor-sharp focus."I have to investigate."


    ***


    Hollow¡¯s Evolution ¡®Arrancar (First Form)¡¯ achieved.


    Kazuya''s eyes flickered open to a System prompt announcing his recent achievement.


    ¡®I¡¯m alive... barely.¡¯


    He couldn''t fathom what might have happened if he hadn''t acquired the Pain Resistance skill. He surely wouldn''t have made it out alive.


    Feeling the familiar cool embrace of skin beneath him, he instantly recognized he was lying on Harribel''s thighs. Fatigue weighed heavily on every muscle in his body, yet he couldn''t help but smile, knowing the ever-devoted Harribel remained by his side.


    ¡®This obsessed mommy.¡¯


    "You''re awake," Harribel noted, sensing the fluctuations in his Reiatsu. "You gave us all a scare."


    With considerable effort, he sat up, rubbing his head as the world swirled around him. His Reiryoku had barely recuperated while he lay unconscious. "I didn''t think I''d survive either. That was... extraordinary."


    ¡°It¡¯s all in the past. You¡¯re an Arrancar now.¡±


    ¡°I guess I am.¡±


    He summoned his status and observed his model.


    ¡®What the fuck?!¡¯


    His Arrancar form portrayed him without a mask, but with the same distinctive horns curving on either side of his head. The most significant change, however, was in his attire. He donned a white ensemble that revealed a symbol on his chest ¡ª a black outline resembling a phoenix.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    The Hollow holes on his legs had vanished, replaced by metal shackles encircling his wrists and ankles, trailing a remnant of chain. He appeared like a runaway prisoner.


    ¡®I ran away from Gramps so it makes sense? Like hell it does!¡¯


    He tried taking off the shackles but they were stuck fast. He clicked his tongue. ¡°Harribel, where is my Zanpakuto?? I can¡¯t feel it.¡±


    "It''s here~. Feast your eyes on the strongest Zanpakuto? in existence!¡±


    As if waiting for an opportunity, Mila Rose rushed into the cave and thrust a football-sized egg into his hands. The egg''s shell bore a pale violet hue, its surface mimicking the texture of Sung-Sun''s scales. More importantly, the egg continuously released a small amount of Reiatsu akin to his own.


    Harribel placed a hand on his shoulder. ¡°This magically appeared at the place of your transformation. We believe it¡¯s your Zanpakuto?.¡±


    Kazuya watched, speechless.


    ¡®I... I laid an egg. What the hell is happening?¡¯


    He knocked on the egg. ¡°Anyone there? Is this like the case with Starkk...?¡±


    Coyote Starkk''s Zanpakuto? had taken the form of another Hollow, Lilynette. But a Zanpakuto? in the shape of an egg ¡ª that was an entirely unprecedented phenomenon.


    ¡®I see a phoenix mark on my chest. Will the egg give birth to a new me?¡¯


    He shuddered at the thought of another him running around the world, causing as much chaos as him if not more.


    ¡®Nah, it can¡¯t be another human. It has to be a creature.¡¯


    The events unfolding were even more bizarre than the fact he reincarnated in the world of Bleach. There must be a reason behind the egg being his Zanpakuto?, one that would surely be revealed when the egg cracks.

 Chapter 34: Jealous Deer

    Chapter 34: Jealous Deer


    Apacci and the others crowded into the cramped confines of the cave. It didn¡¯t take a moment for Sung-Sun and Mila Rose to start verbally berating each other. He felt like a father watching over a bunch of rowdy kids arguing for candy.


    Cirucci scrutinized Kazuya with piercing eyes, as though attempting to decipher his very essence. "...How do you feel?"


    "Thanks for your concern, but I''m doing fine." He glanced down at the egg cradled in his lap. "Except for this. What in the world is this?"


    Cirucci snickered. ¡°I have no idea. Do you want to consult Doctor Szayel of Las Noches? He might solve your problem.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll hand you over to him while I¡¯m at it. He will love tearing apart a half-assed abomination of a goth chick.¡±


    ¡°Last I recall it happened when I was fighting you. You are the reason I am an abomination.¡±


    Despite her accusatory words, she didn¡¯t blame him for anything. She had torn her wings and extra limbs out of her volition. Blaming him for her decision would be unfair, especially for an action taken when they were mortal enemies.


    ¡°Just kidding. You¡¯re not an abomination.¡± He grinned, eyes twinkling. ¡°You¡¯re the second most beautiful Hollow in the world. Harribel is first.¡±Diiscover new stories at novelhall.com


    Apacci nudged Cirucci out of the way, pushing her closer to the entrance in a fit of jealousy. Her resentful gesture raised a chuckle out of him.


    ¡°Apacci, I¡¯m glad you didn¡¯t act recklessly this time.¡±


    In the deepest recesses of his mind, he could picture Apacci ripping her mask apart in a frenzy, the moment anything befell him. She cared about him, otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have risked her life to protect his possession.


    Apacci lowered her head, her voice a whisper. "It wouldn''t have made a difference."


    Tearing her mask would bring her on par with Mila Rose, who was also struggling in the net of his Reiatsu.


    He reached out, affectionately rubbing her crest. "You did well."


    ¡°Hmph.¡±


    Sung-Sun¡¯s serpent-like tongue flickered and licked the eggshell before slithering it across his cheek. ¡°A similar taste.¡±


    Mila Rose''s laughter roared. "So, the skull has truly become a mother. Who''s the father, though?"


    Kazuya''s hand flew to his mouth, feigning shock. ¡°Did your kiss do it? I... You better take responsibility for this.¡±


    Mila Rose found herself at a loss for words, her mouth agape. She''d intended to gain the upper hand with the egg, but Kazuya had effortlessly flipped the situation back onto her.


    Sung-Sun poked Mila Rose¡¯s face with her tongue. ¡°I warned you this was useless. You can''t triumph over superior beings such as Kazuya and myself. Inferior beings should just admit defeat and bow before us.¡±


    ¡°You...¡± Mila Rose clenched her sword. ¡°I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    ¡°Ara. Don¡¯t resort to violence.¡±


    ¡°Aaaargh.¡±


    Racial Abilities


    [Cero: Reiryoku offensive technique


    Mastery level - High.]


    [Sonido: Movement technique


    Mastery level - High.]


    [Descorrer: Limited Spatial Distortion technique.


    Mastery level - Basic.]


    [Hierro: Reiryoku defensive technique.


    Mastery level - Basic.]


    [Resurreccio?n: Zanpakuto? release.


    Mastery level - None.]


    [Pesquisa: Perception technique.


    Mastery level - None.]


    Innate Abilities


    [Silvery Voice]


    [Oppression (Aspect of Death)]


    [Crumbling Heart (Hollow)]


    [Regeneration]


    Acquired Abilities


    ...


    ¡®Phoenix symbol, ridiculous healing power, and now an egg.¡¯


    Despite his demonic appearance, all signs showed he wielded the power of a mythical phoenix or something similar.


    ''At least I received some decent clothes,'' he mused, focusing on the silver lining of his transformation, as was his nature. ¡®Also Hierro and Pesquisa.¡¯

 Chapter 35: I am your salvation

    Chapter 35: I am your salvation


    Chapter 35: I am your salvation


    Kazuya had immense control over his Reiatsu in his Hollow form due to the innate power of his Hollow Mask. His human form didn¡¯t have the same luxury. He used his resting time to fine tune his control and hide his Reiatsu from others, which required him to keep his Reiryoku from leaking out ¡ª a skill with great use in the Living World.


    He trained for a scant few hours before boredom forced him out of his resting place. ¡°Harribel, protect this baby while I¡¯m away. Cirucci, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Harribel cradled the egg and patted it gently with her left hand. Her tender gaze was very much like a mother. ¡°I¡¯ll protect your child with my life.¡±


    Her solemn words, paired with her motherly expression, left Kazuya momentarily speechless. ¡°Harribel, it¡¯s our child.¡±


    Harribel stared at with wide eyes before she gave a look of understanding. Her hunch about Kazuya was true all along. ¡°It¡¯s solely yours.¡±


    Cirucci traced a line in the air, opening a Garganta with the same ease as Kazuya. "Leave the talk for later. Let¡¯s leave."


    She vaulted inside, and he plunged after her without hesitation. Suddenly, a maelstrom of turbulent Reishi swept through the vast void, forcing Cirucci against his chest. Instinctively, he unfurled his wings¡ªnow twice as expansive as before¡ªand stabilized their footing with a platform of Reiatsu.


    "Phew, that nearly spirited us away to some unknown place."


    The opportunist Kazuya held her by her side, his arms encircling her waist. He reveled in the delicate tickle of her feathers against his skin and her warmth. Leaning forward, he pressed a kiss to her nape. "Don''t worry. You''re in the safest place in the world. Even if we were transported to some medieval fuckery, I¡¯ll protect your virginity... Not from myself, of course."


    Cirucci elbowed his chest, which did nothing against his Hierro defense. Left with no choice, she shoved him with her shoulder. ¡°Quit fooling around. How the fuck are you so horny all the time? There are more things in the world than chasing women.¡±


    Hollows, the creatures of instincts, showed not sexual excitement but hunger for her Reishi-rich body. He was one of the rare cases of a Hollow indulging in carnal desires, as she noticed in his interactions with his ¡®friends.¡¯


    ¡°It...¡± Kazuya took a dramatic pause. ¡±Being so full of hormones is a pain. Did I mention I am just a month old? Newborns are always full of curiosity.¡±


    She constantly lived through a mental state akin to those experiencing an existential crisis.


    She wasn¡¯t a special Hollow to realize the ¡®despair¡¯ that awaited their race. Any powerful Hollow with a semblance of intelligence would feel the dread deep down in their hearts. But their desires and hunger kept them from pondering such deep questions.


    ¡°What you feel is the dread of an existential crisis,¡± he said, reaching out to stroke her mane. ¡°The only escape is through self-discovery. Cirucci, I can change that mindset and guide you to happiness. Will you give me a chance?¡±


    Cirucci shook her head, distancing herself from him with a sense of melancholy. "What even is the point? You should spend that time and energy on honing your skills."


    The broken state of her Zanpakuto? only served to intensify her feelings of despair.


    ¡°Just give me one day of your time. If I can¡¯t solve your problem, I won¡¯t bother you.¡±


    There had to be something in the Living World ¡ª some fun activity, some object, a comforting pet ¡ª anything that could elevate her spirits and drag her soul out of the pit of despair.


    He didn''t love her enough to go to extraordinary lengths, but she would be an invaluable ally in guiding him through Las Noches. Besides, witnessing her in such a vulnerable state stirred genuine sympathy within him.


    ¡®Or I just have a soft spot for goth girls.¡¯


    She unclenched her fists and released a resigned sigh. "...Fine."


    With the matter settled, Cirucci dashed through the void, leaving a trail of pale pink Reiatsu beneath her feet. Without warning, she halted and flicked the air, causing the fabric of space around them to fracture. She stepped back and charged headlong into the fissure, shards of glass-like space erupting in a brilliant explosion all around.


    Kazuya clapped at the mystical display. ¡°Sheesh.¡±


    ***

 Chapter 36: Encounter in Town

    Chapter 36: Encounter in Town


    Chapter 36: Encounter in Town


    Kazuya sped after Cirucci, soon finding himself hovering above a bustling road. Cars zoomed by below, their screeching horns and shrieking brakes reverberating through the stormy night. The familiar landscape of Japan surrounded him, but there was an unmistakable difference in the atmosphere. Billboards promoting games or anime were conspicuously absent, and video advertisements were nowhere to be seen. The city, devoid of its usual vibrancy, felt strangely subdued.


    Of course, nobody around them reacted to the massive fracture in the sky.


    A rain-soaked newspaper, carried by the wind, caught his attention. Most of the text in the newspaper was illegible, but the date in the top right corner remained fairly visible: 3rd May, 1950.


    ¡®Did I arrive here on the first of April?¡¯


    It seemed as though his reincarnation happened as an April Fool¡¯s joke. It made all the sense in the world when he recalled his ¡°Zanpakuto?¡¯s¡± shape.


    ¡°Suppress your Reiatsu as much as you can,¡± Cirucci advised. ¡°We should change our locations.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. Don¡¯t start acting like my mom.¡± Kazuya paused and shook his head. ¡°What am I saying? I... never had a mom. Cirucci, would you be so kind as to adopt me as your child?¡±


    Cirucci flipped her middle finger in his face. ¡°Buzz off.¡±


    ¡°Haha, you can leave now. I¡¯ll call you when I want that one day.¡± He waved his hand with a charming smile. ¡°Do consider my proposal about adopting me. It¡¯ll be fun being my mommy, you know?¡±


    ¡°Pervert.¡± Cirucci reopened Garganta and glanced at him over her shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t get killed.¡±Chee?ck out latest novels at novelhall.com


    ¡°Awww, you¡¯re such a considerate mom,¡± he teased. ¡°If Baraggan attacks in my absence, bring the girls over here. Do not fight him, I repeat.¡±


    ¡°I know his strength, Kazuya. It¡¯ll be foolish for us to engage him head-on. I¡¯ll do as you say. When will you return there?¡±


    ¡®Wouldn¡¯t it be simple to make me the strongest from the start?¡¯


    He sighed, feeling wronged by the one who had reincarnated him. He might have skipped honing his other races if Hollows hadn''t been the weakest race in the world of Bleach. The mightiest Arrancar, Yammy, could perhaps contend with one or two Captain-Class adversaries simultaneously, but he was mere cannon fodder for behemoths like Aizen and Yhwach.


    He had to train the other races to their maximum or perhaps find a way to fuse them. Those were the only ways for him to survive the disasters Aizen and Yhwach would bring to the world without leaving everything on Ichigo.


    As he rounded a corner, he halted, petrified, for a long moment. The eruption of Reiatsu hadn''t gone unnoticed by the spiritual beings lurking within Karakura Town. The presence of two formidable Hollows had drawn these powerful entities out from their lairs.


    One such being was a tall Shinigami perched atop a house, a bucket hat concealing his visage. The hat''s green and white stripes imbued him with an air of frivolity. The saying "Don''t judge a book by its cover" was tailor-made for individuals like Kisuke Urahara.


    Despite his laid-back demeanor, he was a fearsome genius who had crafted an array of specialized equipment that aided the Soul Society even to this day.


    ¡®He is probably here after Aizen pinned his crimes on him.¡¯


    Urahara was accused of conducting experiments on his fellow Shinigami¡ªthat''s how the Soul Society remembered the former Captain of the 12th Division and the founder of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute. In reality, Aizen was the one performing such experiments on Shinigami. Knowingly or unknowingly, Aizen had created an enemy out of one of the most dangerous people in the world.


    ¡®Does Urahara still have Ho?gyoku?¡¯


    At some point, Urahara would deactivate his version of Ho?gyoku and conceal it within Rukia''s soul. Kazuya was unsure if that had already transpired in this timeline. As it stood, Ho?gyoku would prove immensely valuable to him, as it could safely convert Sung-Sun, Apacci, and Harribel into perfect Arrancar without risk.


    The only two versions of Ho?gyoku were in the possession of Urahara and Aizen. He sure as hell wasn¡¯t going anywhere close to Aizen this early, so he had to get the Ho?gyoku from Kisuke at any cost.


    ¡®Let¡¯s troll him a little.¡¯


    Kazuya gave a bright smile as he waved at Kisuke Urahara. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t stand there in the rain. You¡¯ll slip and break your legs!¡±


    He was flirting with disaster by taunting one of the most formidable Shinigami. One could say he was courting death.

 Chapter 37: Kiwincy?

    Chapter 37: Kiwincy?


    Kisuke paid no heed to the shouts, assuming they were directed at someone else. His attention was consumed by deciphering the dual-type spiritual presence left by two ''Hollows.'' These spiritual presences were akin to those of his Visored friends but carried a more distinct ''Hollow'' aura than the Visored¡¯s Hollow aura.


    ¡®Hollows who have acquired Shinigami powers. Arrancars.¡¯


    He had encountered information about them in the Soul Society''s archives but never had the opportunity to meet one with such formidable power. Yet the question lingered: Why had two Arrancars infiltrated his town? If they sought to act like typical Hollows and consumed souls, they would have caused an uproar. Instead, their stealthy approach made him uneasy.


    ¡°You with the green hat! Don¡¯t ignore me, jerk!¡±


    Kisuke''s wandering thoughts were disrupted when a stone hurtled toward his face. With lightning-fast reflexes, he tilted his head just enough to evade the projectile and lifted his hat to glimpse at the public offender.


    What he saw left him dumbstruck. The man standing in the street appeared to be an ordinary citizen, save for a faint trickle of Reiryoku seeping from him; the man''s Reiatsu barely qualified him as a spiritually aware human.


    Kisuke couldn''t shake the feeling that he had encountered a similar Reiatsu before.


    Skeptical, Kisuke raised his hand in greeting. ¡°Quite the rude fellow, aren¡¯t you? Have you never seen a handsome man enjoying the rain on a roof?¡±


    ¡°I have. In fact, I used to be like you when I was a teenager. It was fun pissing down from my roof on rainy days. Those were fun times, man.¡±


    ¡°My, that¡¯s just gross.¡±


    ¡°You should try it sometime. It feels relaxing and therapeutic. Pissing in the rain is scientifically proven to lower your stress.¡±CHeCk for new stories on no/v/el/bin(.)c0m


    Kisuke shook his head and looked over his shoulder. ¡°That¡¯s enough grossness for today. I will see you around.¡±


    The approaching group of Shinigami left him with no choice but to stop his unpleasant talk. He used Shunpo and flashed to the sky, his form assimilating with the darkness.


    As the Shinigami began to look around the scene, the silver-haired youth just stood there, baffled. For a human, he showed an appropriate reaction to see men in kimonos jumping all over the place.


    That was merely the beginning, as two cars rolled onto the scene. A woman with short black hair and a stern, piercing gaze emerged from the first car. She exuded an aura of dignity and authority, befitting her status in Karakura Town.


    Spoiler[collapse]


    Izumi surmised that Kazuya might be one of those lost Quincy descendants. To preserve the Quincy race, she needed all remaining Quincy to unite so they wouldn¡¯t be killed off easily.


    She was a firm believer of the ¡®Power in numbers¡¯ motto.


    Kazuya rubbed his chin, frowning as if he tried to recall something. ¡°You mean Kiwincy? My mum told me to seek guys with crosses in this town... before she passed away.¡±


    Izumi clutched the Quincy Cross tied hanging from her neck, bringing his attention to the silver necklace. ¡°This cross?¡±


    Kazuya''s face lit up. "That''s it! That''s the one my mum told me about. You guys are the K-Kiwincy. I''m sorry if I''m pronouncing it wrong... it¡¯s really hard to get it right."


    He sprinkled a dash of innocence into his words, perfecting his nai?ve act.


    ¡°No worries. Would you like to come with us?¡±


    Izumi threw out an offer, willing to take a chance to test his potential. Even if he was a Gemischt (Mixed Breed) with limited potential, she could find a purpose for him in their clan. It was a much better fate than being eaten by some Hollow far away from any help.


    ¡°Are you kidding? Of course I will. I want to know more about this Kiwincy stuff.¡±


    ¡°Akira, Katsumi, escort our guest.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Izumi-sama.¡±


    ¡°As you wish, Izumi-sama!¡±


    Kazuya followed the two Gemischt Quincy, a pep in his walk.


    Meanwhile, Izumi cast a sidelong glance at the Shinigami squad. They exchanged hushed words before dashing in different directions, seeking further clues on the incident.


    ¡®I¡¯ll have to keep an eye on Shinigami until So?ken-san returns... it¡¯s been three weeks.¡¯


    Her eyes lingered on the moon, finding comfort in its solitary presence as it cast a silvery glow over the landscape.

 Chapter 38: Mommy?

    Chapter 38: Mommy?


    Upon her return to Hueco Mundo, Cirucci could feel the Reiatsu of Apacci and the others in the distance ¡ª but the only one she saw was Harribel, sitting alone in the cave with her back pressed against the wall and an egg on her lap.


    ¡°You¡¯re back.¡± Harribel broke the silence. ¡°Did you find any Shinigami?¡±


    ¡°No, we didn¡¯t.¡± Cirucci responded, her voice barely audible as she quietly nestled herself into a shadowy corner of the cave. ¡°He told me to wait for a few days.¡±


    ¡°Cirucci,¡± Harribel said, her tone laced with uncertainty, ¡°do you believe he should make his return to Hueco Mundo?¡±


    ¡°Why should he not? His friends are all here. I have seen how much he cares for you and the rest. He even lost an arm protecting you from me... temporarily.¡±


    Cirucci found the question unbelievably dumb but she didn¡¯t say it to Harribel¡¯s face. As much as she looked down on Kazuya¡¯s playful nature, she admired him for his unwavering loyalty. If it was any other Hollow with his ability to switch races, they would have long abandoned Hueco Mundo for the Living World.


    But Kazuya didn¡¯t find her logic appealing.


    He prioritized his companions, otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have waited this long to leave Hueco Mundo. She couldn¡¯t fault him for the decision.


    Harribel raised her head and regarded Cirucci with an intense stare. ¡°Are those your honest thoughts?¡±


    Cirucci paused for a moment before she furrowed her brows. ¡°If I was in his situation, I would never return to this hellhole... This place disgusts me beyond words.¡±


    She didn¡¯t hold back on her hatred for Hueco Mundo ¡ª the place that gave her nothing but despair.


    Harribel offered a nod of acknowledgment before lowering her head. "Thank you for aiding me in making my decision."


    ¡°What decision?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell when the others are back.¡±


    After a few odd minutes, a lively chatter could be heard outside the cave.


    ¡°Apacci, what the hell is wrong with you? How can you eat so many souls?¡±


    ¡°Ara, Apacci is a growing woman. Let her eat as much as she wants.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re going far away from here.¡±


    ¡°What? Why?¡± Apacci asked. ¡°Kazuya will return soon. How will he find us if leave? Are you thinking about abandoning Kazuya?¡±


    Mila Rose widened her eyes. ¡°Skull went to Living World to find a safe place for us. It doesn¡¯t make sense to leave him behind!¡±


    Sung-Sun also looked a little surprised. ¡°Harribel-sama, please tell me we are not leaving to throw off Kazuya.¡±


    Harribel couldn¡¯t help but feel surprised by the resistance from everyone. It seemed like she wasn¡¯t the only one who created a deep bond with Kazuya in the past month.


    ¡°Nobody is leaving Kazuya. We¡¯re simply changing our base to keep Baraggan from tracking us,¡± Harribel said as she embraced the egg. ¡°Kazuya is a Vasto Lorde and an Arrancar... He can sense our... his Zanpakuto?¡¯s Reiatsu from far away.¡±


    Harribel¡¯s explanation quenched their worries for the time being.


    Meanwhile, Cirucci relentlessly stared at Harribel, realizing Harribel¡¯s decision and how her own answer changed the said decision.


    ¡®She was thinking about leaving him... so he can be happy on the other side.¡¯


    Harribel could sacrifice her life to save others but she couldn¡¯t bear to see Kazuya waste away his life in Hueco Mundo when he could be a perfectly normal human in Living World.


    Harribel turned to Cirucci and lowered her head. ¡°I acted out of line before... I showed disgraceful behavior as a leader.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I understand you are conflicted about that ''mommy'' matter.¡± She waved her hand and faced Mila Rose, smiling a little. Out of all four, she had the most respect for Mila Rose, and it only increased after Mila Rose protected her from Harribel. ¡°Thanks for helping me.¡±


    Mila Rose chuckled. ¡°Aww, you¡¯re being too polite. We¡¯re all a family here. Covering each other¡¯s backs is what we should do.¡±


    Apacci nudged Sung-Sun with her horn. "Did she forget Cirucci recently tried to kill us?"


    "It''s Mila Rose. Don''t expect complex emotions from her thick skull."


    "..."

 Chapter 39: The Maid

    Chapter 39: The Maid


    Kazuya abandoned the car with servants, opting instead for the sleek, midnight-black vehicle that belonged to Izumi. He slid into the leather seat beside the driver''s, waiting for Izumi to get over her reflection.


    After a couple of minutes, Izumi opened the door and gave him an unamused look. ¡°I told you to go with them.¡±


    ¡°I have some questions, Onee-chan. Can you answer them while driving?¡±


    A spark of delight flickered in her eyes. She would have ejected him from the car with merciless force had he dared to call her Oba-san. Instead, he called her Onee-chan, a far cry from the dreaded Oba-san title given upon her by the demonic children of her neighborhood. After all, she and Kazuya looked the same age, or so she liked to believe.


    ¡°I can.¡± She sighed and assumed the driver seat. ¡°I¡¯m Izumi Ishida. What¡¯s your name?¡±


    The name Ishida stirred a torrent of memories, leaving him momentarily stunned.


    ¡®Ah, of course. It¡¯s Uryu¡¯s relatives. She has to be his grandmother or someone close to that level.¡¯


    He never fathomed encountering Uryu? Ishida''s grandmother in her prime or that she would bear a striking resemblance to his past lover. The last he recalled of her from the flashbacks, she was a typical housewife, venting her frustrations upon Ichigo''s mother, Masaki.


    She appeared more composed and restrained than her future self. Well, she was also naive for accepting his words at face value, rather than probing his background. He lacked an identification card in his pocket to validate his name. There was no way for him to prove the rest of his story.


    Yet, she didn''t entertain the possibility that he could be a fraud. Perhaps his persuasion skill clouded her rational thinking.


    "I¡¯m Kazuya," he replied, motioning for her to pause. "Put on your seat belt, Onee-chan. For safety."


    Izumi¡¯s hands on the steering froze as she turned to assess his innocent face. ¡°It¡¯s unnecessary, for me at least.¡±


    Having slayed Hollows for years, she viewed a car accident as a trifling concern. Save for the injury inflicted by a formidable Hollow, she had gone unscathed in her five years of Hollow killing career.


    The car roared to life, its powerful purr resonating throughout the cabin. A hush enveloped them as she maintained unwavering focus on the road, her intense expression an uncanny echo of his past lover. Yumi and Izumi¡ªeven their names rhymed.


    ¡®What a sick joke.¡¯


    He shrugged, his gaze drifting forward. Even if they looked similar, Izumi was not the person he had once loved. No good would come out of chasing Yumi¡¯s shadow in Izumi.


    ¡°Hey, Onee-chan. How did you receive that injury?¡±


    ¡®Onee-chan, get ready to be shocked out of your mind tomorrow!¡¯


    A playful grin appeared on his face as he eagerly awaited shattering some ''expectations'' tomorrow and getting a good laugh out of it.


    ...


    That night, for the first time in a month, Kazuya found himself enveloped in the embrace of a dream. The dream was shrouded in mist, echoes of past memories from his slumbering mind. The dream painted a picture of him navigating an ordinary day, traversing the hallowed halls of his university, only to later mess around with his alluring teacher-turned-lover.


    He could recall every electrifying sensation of her body, the intimate connection they shared pulsing through his memory, until the dream world was abruptly torn away, yanking him back to the cold grasp of reality.


    Blinking open his eyes, Kazuya found a maid standing attentively by his bedside. Black locks cascaded over her forehead, framing her face, while a neat braided ponytail rested on her shoulder. The bespectacled maid gazed at him, her eyes devoid of any discernible emotion.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Izumi stood beside the maid, her expression filled with concern for him. As he sat up and rubbed his head, he felt a bit shaken by the dream, but it was nothing he couldn''t handle.


    ¡°It¡¯s creepy to watch me sleep, Onee-chan and Maid-chan.¡±


    Izumi folded her arms over her chest. "Your Reiatsu was hectic when you were dreaming. We came to check up on you."


    He almost terrified her with his rampaging Reiatsu, a byproduct of his violent emotions from his dream. If he had continued to unleash his Reiatsu, she might have lost her house. The incident also revealed a glimpse of his true potential, making her realize that the random Quincy she found on the streets possessed a freak-level Reiatsu.


    "He is no weakling, Izumi-sama," the maid commented. "Are you sure he is a Gemischt? He has a captain¡ªa great capacity for Reiryoku."


    Even if it was for a mere moment, she had felt his Reiatsu peaking at somewhere around Great Level, aka Reiatsu rivaling a Gotei 13 Captain.


    Kazuya didn¡¯t miss the maid¡¯s small error in comparing his Reiatsu to a Captain-Class. ¡°Did you just stutter?¡±


    The maid shook her head. ¡°You are still sleepy.¡±


    "Lisa, prepare a bath for Kazuya," Izumi instructed before turning to Kazuya with a small smile and a polite nod. "I''ll be waiting in the dining room."


    Her attitude shifted dramatically after witnessing his potential. She went from treating him like a kid to treating him like an honorable guest.

 Chapter 40: The meeting of old comrades

    Chapter 40: The meeting of old comrades


    Sometime earlier.


    A lanky blonde man in a blazing orange shirt and obsidian-black trousers swaggered down the street, one hand nonchalantly buried in his pocket, while the other effortlessly balanced a plain katana on his shoulder.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Strutting by his side was a short woman cloaked in a red jogging suit over a white shirt. Her short, golden hair, styled into spiky pigtails, was tamed by ruby-red clips that matched her fiery temper.


    The katana strapped to her back and the one held by the blonde man seemed completely out of place on the streets of Karakura Town.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Her freckled face twisted in disgust. ¡°Shinji, I¡¯m pissed.¡±


    ¡°Remind me of one time you weren''t pissed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s different this time,¡± she groaned. ¡°This Hollow smell... It makes my stomach turn. I wanna stab these mother¡ª¡±


    In a swift motion, Shinji''s hand covered Hiyori''s mouth, silencing her before she could curse. He flashed a grin at the elementary school students innocently passing by, making them flee for their lives. "Don''t curse in front of the young ones."


    Hiyori retaliated with a vicious kick to Shinji''s shin, causing him to stumble. "You better hope Urahara has answers for this, or I''ll make you wish you were dead."


    ¡°What the hell does it have to do with me, snaggletooth?!¡±


    Hiyori''s leg shot up again, her foot connecting with Shinji''s side and sending him crashing into a wall. Their supernatural resilience ensured that such impacts left no mark on them.


    ¡°Snaggletooth!¡±


    Their relentless bickering continued, akin to siblings locked in a never-ending feud, until they reached a deceptively ordinary-looking establishment ¡ª Urahara Shop. Kisuke Urahara had opened this unassuming storefront as a cover for his shady activities, selling wares from the Soul Society to Shinigami stationed in the Living World for missions.


    The ever-so-violent Hiyori raised her leg with a pissed face. However, the sliding door opened just in time, and Kisuke elegantly sidestepped her incoming kick.


    ¡°I was expecting your visit, Hiyori-san and Shinji-san.¡±


    He was the leader of the Visored and Karakura Town was their new home after they built an underground training space with Kisuke¡¯s help. A Vasto Lorde would absolutely bring massive attention to the place, increasing their chances of being discovered by Soul Society.


    ¡°Nothing for now.¡± Kisuke shook his head. ¡°The Arrancars retreated to Garganta within minutes as though they came here by mistake.¡±


    Shinji frowned. ¡°They came and returned just like that? Ne, you think he is behind these Arrancars?¡±


    Kisuke looked at Shinji, eyes glowing with mischief. ¡°He who betrayed his Captain ¡ª the madman we shan''t name at any cost. Yeah, it could be him trying to probe Karakura Town¡¯s security or... he is using this as a bait for your group.¡±


    Shinji¡¯s face darkened when Kisuke mentioned Aizen¡¯s betrayal. ¡°Nothing will come out of guessing stars here.¡±


    Hiyori got up from her seat. ¡°Shinji, let this guy deal with this mess. He can take down a Vasto Lorde or two by himself.¡±


    The Visored were labeled ¡®Hollows¡¯ by the Soul Society standards, even if they once held respectable positions within Gotei 13. There was also the threat of Aizen who might still be searching for them. Making communication with Kisuke wasn¡¯t a good move but the emergency last night forced them to seek his assistance.


    ¡°You overestimate my abilities, Hiyori-san.¡± Kisuke tipped his down hat with his cane, his lips forming a sly grin. ¡°The Hollow is unknown with inexplicable abilities. While I am your lowly but handsome merchant.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Kisuke can deal with them.¡± Shinji laughed as he gulped down the cold drink. ¡°By the way, Urahara. How long will Lisa play around in that maid costume? I am not complaining since she looks pretty in there... but I don¡¯t like her being alone at times like these.¡±


    Urahara Kisuke stroked his stubble thoughtfully. ¡°Her job is technically done¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, the atmosphere in the room shifted as everyone froze in place. Their Reiraku (Spiritual Sense) detected an immense Reiatsu presence. Though it lasted only a brief second, the powerful souls and keen senses of everyone present picked up on it. After all, even the weakest among them, Hiyori, once held a Vice-Captain position in the Soul Society.


    ¡°Another Captain-Level?¡± Hiyori muttered in shock. ¡°Are people with Great-Level Reiryoku growing on trees now, huh?¡±


    Shinji crossed his arms. ¡°This one is human.¡±


    Kisuke rarely forgot an individual¡¯s Reiatsu, especially the ones he found intriguing. He had sensed this same Reiatsu last night. Chuckling, he spread the fan to its full length and covered his face.


    ¡®The guy who pisses from his roof.¡¯


    His instincts about that man were right. He was no ordinary individual. In fact, Kisuke believed his presence near the garganta opening wasn¡¯t just a coincidence.


    ¡°If you guys aren¡¯t buying anything, leave. I have more important matters than entertaining customers who won¡¯t buy even one item!¡±

 Chapter 41-42: Quincy Lessons

    Chapter 41-42: Quincy Lessons


    The moment Izumi departed, Kazuya¡¯s gaze was drawn to the maid known as Lisa. Her calm, almost cold beauty effortlessly showcased the innate elegance and charm of her frilled maid dress. However, her Reiatsu proved to be disappointingly below an average human.


    ¡®Wait a minute... A black-haired girl with glasses named Lisa...¡¯


    A flicker of recognition ignited, as memories of a powerful group hiding in Karakura Town surfaced. If his recollection was accurate, Lisa was one of the Visored ¡ª a small group of Shinigami who could don Hollow masks to augment their powers. Her involvement with Quincy matters certainly piqued his interest.


    Lisa adjusted her glasses, the lenses momentarily gleaming. ¡°Do you prefer cold water or hot water?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm?¡±


    ¡°Cold or hot?¡± she repeated in a cold voice. ¡°I don¡¯t have time, Guest-dono. Shake your head if you prefer to bathe in cold water. Nod if you believe a hot water bath is better.¡±


    With a cheeky smile, he responded, ¡°You rekindled my love for cold things.¡±


    Lisa was momentarily disarmed by the soothing nature of his voice. It was as if it held a mystical power, one she had never encountered during her time in Soul Society. ¡°Cold water it is then. Clearly, the superior choice.¡±


    Lisa departed to prepare his bath. To kill some time, he rose from the bed and stretched his muscles before getting down to do some pushups. As he worked his body, he reflected on what just transpired.


    ¡®Lisa and Izumi.¡¯


    His dream had all but exposed the full extent of his Reiryoku. Fortunately, Izumi refrained from prying further, attributing the surge in his Reiatsu to his dream. Only because she could not detect the true depth of his Reiatsu, as her Reiryoku level matched that of a seated officer in the Soul Society. The vast difference didn¡¯t allow her to properly feel his strength.


    Then again, a Quincy¡¯s might was not measured by their Reiryoku level, but rather their ability to gather Reishi from their surroundings and forge spirit weapons.


    In stark contrast, Lisa must have recognized his Reiryoku level, being a former Vice-Captain of the Squad led by Shunshui Kyoraku. As both Shinigami and Hollow were mere souls, Lisa evidently depended on a Gigai to assume a physical form and conceal her Reiatsu.


    ¡®Urahara must be behind her Gigai. On second thought, I can make some use of her.¡¯


    He could use her to approach Kisuke Urahara. As a master inventor, Urahara undoubtedly possessed items capable of concealing a Hollow¡¯s Reiatsu, which would enable his companions to live in the Living World without worrying about Shinigami.


    Lisa¡¯s appearance was a blessing in disguise.


    ¡®Or I can move to some island that¡¯s outside of Soul Society¡¯s jurisdictions.¡¯


    He was conflicted between the two choices: one allowed more fun with his group and a clear path in acquiring Ho?gyoku from Kisuke. The other choice led to more relaxed days for his group and far less risky.


    ¡®I can¡¯t keep avoiding risks.¡¯


    Mila Rose risked her life to protect him, Harribel was ready to sacrifice her life to save them, and Apacci almost died protecting something that belonged to him. Sung-Sun had yet to demonstrate her loyalty but she would undoubtedly go to great lengths for him. It would only be fair to take some risks to secure an Arrancar powerup for them. A powerup they would undoubtedly need in taking down Baraggan once and for all.


    ¡®Ho?gyoku will be mine.¡¯


    He came to find shelter for his allies and ended up vying for the most powerful item in this world. Laughing at the absurdity, he got up and looked out of the window. The ludicrous situation reminded him of a certain quote from his world.


    ¡°The things you are passionate about are not random, they are your calling.¡±


    ...


    Following a long bath and a healthy breakfast, Kazuya was brought to a realm with rows of towering bookshelves ¡ª a library. A wealth of knowledge lay within arm¡¯s reach, beckoning him to delve in and explore its contents.


    He feigned an exhausted groan. ¡°It¡¯s my nightmare come to life.¡±


    She swiftly grabbed a silver Quincy cross pendant from around her neck and held it out in front of her. A radiant blue light enveloped her hand, pulling the surrounding Reishi as if it was a magnet. In the next instant, a magnificent spirit bow materialized.


    ¡°Haaaa!¡±


    She took a deep breath, steadying herself as she drew the bowstring back. Blue arrows of Reishi energy formed in the ethereal bow. ¡°These arrows can slay Hollows ¡ª monstrous souls filled with vengeance, who eagerly devour other souls without discrimination.¡±


    Kazuya clapped as if appreciating her performance. ¡°Magnificent, Onee-chan. You are so cool~.¡±


    Swept by his appreciation, she nodded with her chest high. Feeling Lisa¡¯s intense gaze, she coughed and dematerialized the spirit bow. ¡°My apologies.¡±


    His nai?ve admiration brought out a wholly new side out of Izumi that only Lisa knew.


    ¡°Kazuya, the bow is the most important technique for a Quincy in battle. I¡¯ll be teaching you that first... then we¡¯ll go over some basic theories.¡±


    ¡°¡®Kay, Onee-chan,¡± he replied. He never had a sibling but addressing Izumi like this was a completely new experience for him. He didn¡¯t mind being spoiled like this. ¡°So where do I start?¡±


    Izumi crossed her arms. ¡°The bow I used is made up by combining the ambient Reishi with my Reiryoku.¡±


    Lisa facepalmed at the stupidity of her employer. ¡°Izumi-sama, he is oblivious to the terms you¡¯re throwing around.¡±


    ¡°Oh...¡± Izumi frowned. ¡°How do I explain them without overwhelming him?¡±


    Lisa placed her book aside and left the room. Moments later, she returned with a whiteboard and a pen. She drew two identical humanoid figures and labeled them ¡®Human (Kishi)¡¯ and ¡®Soul (Konpaku).¡¯


    ¡°Your drawing is sick.¡±


    Lisa ignored his sarcastic comments on her basic-level drawing. ¡°Listen carefully. Humans, like you and Izumi-sama, are physical beings. They live in the world of the living and are made up of Kishi, or matter, like everything else here. The bodies of Kishi can interact with each other but they can¡¯t see or touch Suls unless they are spiritually aware like you recently became. Are you following me so far?¡±


    ¡°I am, Maid Sensei.¡±


    ¡°What is a Soul then? In simple words, we call them spiritual bodies made up of Reishi. The samurai you saw were souls. Then, there''s Reishi, or spirit particles. They''re the smallest units that make up souls and all spiritual matter, similar to atoms in your world. In spiritual planes like Soul Society and Hueco Mundo, the concentration of Reishi is higher than in the world of the living.¡±


    He had a shallow comprehension of spiritual concepts since he was born as a Hollow. These formal lessons gave him a deeper insight into the spiritual concepts. ¡°Hm. Hm.¡±


    Lisa looked over her shoulder to see his fully concentrated expression and pointed at the ¡®Soul¡¯ figure. ¡°Moving on, Reiryoku is the amount of spiritual energy a being has. Think of it as your spiritual muscles. The stronger your Reiryoku, the more power you can have as a spiritual being. And finally, Reiatsu is the pressure that your Reiryoku exerts. It''s like your spiritual signature. The stronger your Reiatsu, the more powerful and intimidating you appear to other spiritual beings.¡±


    ¡°Ah. Onee-chan said I have a high level of Reiryoku. Does that automatically make me an elite warrior to other souls?¡±


    Lisa shook her head. ¡°Reiatsu only reflects the Reiryoku you can consciously use. Don¡¯t worry about it. Izumi-sama will teach you how to utilize your Reiryoku first.¡±


    Kazuya took a deep breath. ¡°Alright. So, humans are made of matter, souls are made of spirit particles, Reiryoku is spiritual power, and Reiatsu is the pressure that spiritual power exerts. Did I get it right?¡±


    Izumi smiled at his quick learning. ¡°We¡¯ll start the Reiryoku and Reishi gathering lessons within a force field. Lisa, do you want to come?¡±


    Typically, any location would suffice for Reiryoku training, but Kazuya¡¯s vast Reiryoku complicated things. His immense spiritual energy would undoubtedly attract a slew of Hollows, requiring them to use the force fields to hide his spiritual presence.


    ¡°Izumi-sama, you¡¯ll have to forgive me. I have to prepare lunch.¡±


    ¡°We will order something. Lisa, you have no more excuses.¡±


    ¡°Checkmate, huh?¡± Lisa sighed. ¡°Lead the way, Madame.¡±


    From their interactions it was clear Izumi held a great deal of trust in Lisa, unaware of her true identity as a former Vice-Captain Shinigami. Unlike her husband, she bore no love for Shinigami. Lisa was playing with Izumi¡¯s feelings, just like he was playing with theirs.

 Chapter 43: Reishi Manipulation

    Chapter 43: Reishi Manipulation


    Izumi took Kazuya to a secluded Quincy training ground in Karakura Town ¡ª an unassuming warehouse, empty on the inside. Izumi set up a force field using a specialized Quincy technique and began instructing him on the control of Reiryoku. Kazuya didn''t toy with Izumi this time and demonstrated results after only a few moments of fake struggle.


    However, he took great care to limit his Reiatsu to several levels below his peak, not wishing to frighten them with his Great-Level Reiryoku.


    They both showed a look of brief surprise ¡ª a priceless reaction ¡ª before Izumi began teaching him the crucial part that allowed Quincy to use their abilities.


    The gathering of Reishi.


    Kazuya was already familiar with Reishi manipulation from his month-long training with Harribel. However, Quincy abilities demanded incredibly precise control over large quantities of Reishi ¡ª a skill he had yet to acquire.


    ¡®It shouldn¡¯t be that hard.¡¯


    Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes. The thudding of his heartbeat drowned out all other sounds as he entered a state of deep concentration ¡ª the very state that had allowed him to discern so much about Hollows in Hueco Mundo.


    He referred to this state as ¡®Cultivator Mode.¡¯


    Blue spirit particles materialized within the room, each vibrating molecule gravitating towards Kazuya. He took command of them, molding them into the shape of a typical bow. A faint, spectral silhouette of a bow began to manifest, only to crumble into non-existence at the last moment.


    [Racial Ability: Reishi Manipulation unlocked.]


    [Current Mastery Level: Basic.]


    Kazuya''s brow furrowed, feeling a strange sense of resistance from the Reishi around him. Undeterred, he made repeated attempts, each one giving the bow to a more distinct look.


    Izumi watched, torn between interrupting his efforts and the desire to see him succeed. Every Quincy needed a Cross to manifest their Spirit Weapon, yet Kazuya seemed resolved to defy this tradition.


    Eventually, his perseverance bore fruit as a grand spirit bow, matching his height, took form. He drew back the invisible bowstring, and a ridiculously massive arrow materialized. "At last. I was starting to doubt myself there."


    A shared glance passed between Lisa and Izumi. The reality of Kazuya''s monstrous potential was sinking in. Izumi knew of no one who could conjure a Spirit Bow without a Quincy Cross, let alone on the first day of their training. It sparked a glimmer of hope in her that he could usher in a new era for their fading Quincy race.


    Lisa, however, eyed him skeptically. "Guest-dono, are you certain this is your first try?"


    She focused her senses on his Reiatsu, feeling any fluctuation that could tell her that he was lying.


    Caught off guard by the suspicion in her gaze, Kazuya tilted his head. "Absolutely. Onee-chan, you mentioned that Hollows are big monsters. I shall shoot them down with my divine bow, Gandiva... I will call it that after I improve my marksmanship.¡±


    In Hueco Mundo, he was waiting for his Zanpakuto? before deciding on his main weapon. Then the egg showed up in the place of his Zanpakuto?, leaving him befuddled. With Reishi Manipulation, he could try practicing with any weapon. They won¡¯t be as effective as Zanpakuto? but they were better than nothing. Plus, there was the potential of crafting more powerful weapons as his mastery over Reishi improved.


    Finding no trace of a lie in his words, Lisa discarded her suspicions of Kazuya being a spy like herself. She could discern no motive for Kazuya to deceive a Quincy of Izumi''s stature, and he shouldn''t have any knowledge of her hidden identity.


    ¡®I am being overly cautious.¡¯


    Aizen¡¯s betrayal had filled everyone in their group with trust issues. The seemingly gentle Vice Captain had wrapped the entire Seireitei in his fingers, and they could do nothing but hide in the Living World, waiting for a day they could become powerful enough to destroy him.


    Izumi relayed surface-level information on the three realms¡ªSoul Society, Hueco Mundo, Living World¡ªand their intricate dynamic that hung upon the balancing of souls.


    ¡°Soul-eating monsters in twisted masks, a group of old-fashioned samurai purifying those monsters with unique weapons known as Zanpakuto?, and us. That¡¯s all the major factions you need to be aware of... though we are not big anymore ever since the Quincy incident one fifty years ago.¡±


    She didn¡¯t sugarcoat the story and revealed the fall of Quincy. Somehow she found it appropriate to share this with Kazuya, whom she was supposed to recruit into her clan. Maybe she had blind faith that he wouldn¡¯t get scared after hearing about a genocide.


    ¡°I can¡¯t judge the incident from listening to one side.¡± Kazuya turned to Izumi, looking into her cloudy eyes. ¡°However, the Quincy faction feels like the real villain. They should have listened to the Soul Society¡¯s appeals about the cycle of souls.¡±


    Izumi let out a weary sigh. ¡°As much as I despise those words, they are the bitter truth. Our ancestors committed grave sins.¡±


    ¡°The Shinigami are also unjust for wiping out thousands.¡±


    ¡°Yeah...¡± Izumi nodded. ¡°To make up for those mistakes, my husband So?ken wants to create a new system where we keep Hollows at bay and protect citizens until Shinigami arrives and purifies them with their Zanpakuto?... It will preserve the balance and keep casualties to minimum.¡±


    Kazuya frowned. ¡°That¡¯s a pretty clever way of maintaining the balance. Where is your husband though?¡±


    ¡°He is out... training.¡± Izumi leaned her butt against the table, gripping the table with her knuckles. ¡°I¡¯ll give you some time to decide your future ¡ª whether you want to stay here or leave.¡±


    She was leaving the choice up to him, a pretty odd move considering the importance she attached to his talent.


    Lisa sighed at Izumi¡¯s stupidity. Izumi could have saved the Quincy Fall¡¯s details for later. But no, Izumi had to be a stuck-up noblewoman and make Kazuya wary.


    She approached Kazuya. ¡°Guest-dono, the thing happened one fifty years ago... circumstances were different back then. What happened was tragic ¡ª a bloodshed that could have been prevented with some effort. Alas...¡± she trailed off with another sigh, recalling the events from her childhood. ¡°I can assure you that it won¡¯t happen again as long as the souls maintain a balance across three worlds.¡±


    Helping Lisa convince Kazuya wasn¡¯t part of her job but she didn¡¯t want to see Izumi go back to her lonely self. After all, her job here could come to an end any moment.


    Kazuya gave a nonchalant shrug. ¡°I understand. Onee-chan, I¡¯m staying.¡±


    Izumi¡¯s face brightened before she coughed. ¡°Welcome to Ishida Clan. We¡¯ll not disappoint you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll train my ass off to stop Hollows. In return, you¡¯ll be paying for all of my expenses.¡±


    He wouldn''t need to worry about money as long as he stayed in Karakura Town and fought some Hollows.


    Lisa¡¯s face twitched. ¡°Do you see Izumi-sama as a cow cash?¡±


    From what she knew, So?ken was wealthy but Ishida Family¡¯s expensive lifestyle was slowly chipping away at his wealth. Kazuya might turn out to be the camel that breaks the back for the Ishida Clan.


    ¡°I mean I¡¯ll be risking my life fighting Hollows. Gratitude won¡¯t fill my stomach.¡±


    ¡°Otouto-kun¡¯s argument is valid, Lisa,¡± Izumi said in a calm voice. ¡°I¡¯ll happily pay for it if it¡¯s within reason.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s celebrate this with something spicy!¡±

 Chapter 44: Longing

    Chapter 44: Longing


    Harribel and her crew moved across the stark white desert, the group of five lost in the endless expanse. They kept their Reiatsu hidden, so their tracks remained concealed. This led them to get attacked by weaker Hollow, but Mila Rose''s Zanpakuto? made quick work of them.


    The dead Hollows became easy food for Apacci in her conquest to become a Vasto Lorde.


    Harribel observed Apacci devour the Hollow flesh with a stoic gaze. Sung-Sun had also grown an appetite, but it was nothing compared to Apacci. As much as she despised the sacrifices, she could empathize with Apacci¡¯s hunger for power after that battle. She would be feeling the same if she lacked the power to protect Kazuya.Chee?ck out latest novels at novelhall.com


    ¡°Anyone else missing Skull, or is it just me?¡± asked Mila Rose, swinging her sword casually. ¡°It¡¯s been quiet without him...¡±


    Apacci and Cirucci always stayed in their minds, only speaking when someone asked them something. Harribel rarely spoke. Sung-Sun and Mila Rose were the only ones who found things to talk about. It was like the old times before Kazuya and Apacci joined them.


    ¡°There is just so much I can talk about, Rose,¡± Sung-Sun responded solemnly. ¡°If I''m being honest, this silence bites me... It¡¯s like he took a part of our souls with him.¡±


    ¡°You are being overly dramatic.¡±


    ¡°You caught me red-handed,¡± Sung-Sun said with a giggle. ¡°It wasn¡¯t completely a lie. He took a part of Apacci¡¯s soul and a small part of mine.¡±


    A destructive Cero whizzed past Sung-Sun. Apacci cleaned herself with a blast of Reiatsu and glared at Sung-Sun. ¡°Stop talking behind my back. It makes you look miserable.¡±


    ¡°Ara, I¡¯ll say it to your face then. Kazuya is having fun out there, and you are stuck here, eating Souls for a chance at becoming Vasto Lorde. How does it make you feel?¡±


    ¡°Did you forget what he said before leaving? His goal is to find a safe place for us.¡±


    Apacci didn¡¯t fall for Sung-Sun¡¯s blatant attempt to get inside of her head.


    Sung-Sun narrowed her eyes. ¡°I believe he had more than enough time to find shelter for us. He only had to travel to a deep forest where Shinigami wouldn''t bother going. What is taking him so long... I wonder~?¡±


    Apacci¡¯s eyes widened, a flare of emotion breaking through her courageous demeanor. ¡°You¡¯re just pulling my leg. Kazuya won¡¯t betray us. I know him better than you.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, all the signs point to his betrayal.¡±


    Baraggan''s skeletal fingers drummed a rhythm on the armrest of his throne as he leaned his face into his palm.


    "Worthless," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "Cirucci and Dordoni have done nothing but test my patience. Fetch me news of their whereabouts. As for the Vasto Lorde, I''ll handle them personally."


    He expected Tier Harribel and the new Vasto Lorde to be a pain in the ass but not strong enough to take down two old Arrancar. Cirucci and Dordoni were two of the best warriors in his army, easily on par with Vasto Lorde in their right. Their weeks-long silence could only mean one of two things ¡ª either they were outmatched and died, or they had turned traitor.


    Regardless of the situation, he couldn¡¯t rely on the remaining Espada''s ability to handle two Vasto Lorde.


    Szayel was more engrossed in his bizarre experiments than in actual combat.


    Aaraniero, despite his immense potential, was still in the early stages of evolution.


    Loly and Menoly were only just on par with an Adjuchas, their worth lying primarily in their roles as his mistresses.


    And finally, Gantenbainne, Baraggan¡¯s fanatic worshiper, was the only competent warrior among the Espada, apart from Szayel.


    As the unchallenged God King of Hueco Mundo, Baraggan hadn''t invested much time in strengthening Espada.


    "Lord Baraggan going into the field..." the blonde Hollow standing behind him mumbled. "May I be so fortunate as to accompany you, Lord Baraggan?"


    ¡°You may, Evanya. Call upon Gantenbainne as well.¡±


    Evanya pressed her hands against her masked face. ¡°I¡¯ll fetch him right away, Lord Baraggan.¡±


    Baraggan clenched his scythe. He would be destroying a Vasto Lorde after so long.


    He shook his head. ¡°You just had to be a rebel, Tier Harribel.¡±


    He would¡¯ve just warned Tier Harribel if she came to his court. For all his grace and mercy, she challenged his authority together with another Vasto Lorde. Nobody who denied his authority would go unpunished.

 Chapter 45: Peeping Tom

    Chapter 45: Peeping Tom


    Meanwhile, in the Ishida Family Mansion, Lisa lay sprawled on her bed, clad in nothing but a skimpy panty and bra. The swishing sound of the fan overhead provided a modicum of relief from the madness that had ensued in the recent days. Watching Kazuya perform more and more Quincy techniques with ease took a great toll on her sanity, and she wasn¡¯t even a Quincy!


    "Just four days," she muttered to herself, ruminating on the staggering speed of Kazuya''s progress. He had quickly mastered the art of creating multiple Spirit Weapons and incorporating them into battle, and had even taken the first step towards mastering Hirenkyaku, Quincy¡¯s equivalent of Shinigami¡¯s Shunpo and Hollow¡¯s Soni?do.


    His strength had grown to the point her Inner Hollow growled every time she saw him, warning her of the threat he posed... and showing excitement to engage in a battle with him.


    One slip of control would expose her secret to Izumi ¡ª the last thing she wanted to do as a spy.


    ¡®I¡¯ll have to train extra hard when I return.¡¯


    Zzzzzt. A strange sound jolted her out of thoughts. A crimson beam sliced through the wall like butter, revealing the grinning face of the narcissist merchant.


    ¡°Hola~.¡±


    "Urahara?!" Lisa exclaimed, sitting bolt upright.


    ¡°Hai. It¡¯s me, your beloved merchant of Karakura Town.¡±


    ¡°I know who you are, stupid. What are you doing here? If someone saw you¡ª¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about the consequences, Yadomaru-san,¡± Kisuke cut in with a chuckle. ¡°You are dismissed from your duties as a spy. You can leave.¡±


    The sudden order left her reeling. She lowered her gaze, frowning at the thought of leaving Kazuya alone with Izumi. She was worried about Kazuya taking advantage of Izumi¡¯s kindness.


    She would regret it if something happened to Izumi behind her back.


    Kisuke jumped inside the room, a hand holding the top of his hat. ¡°Are you against leaving this place?¡±


    ¡°My real place is with the Visored,¡± she said. ¡°You know that better than me.¡±


    ¡°You say that, yet you show reluctance in leaving. Has the new boy smitten you with his charm? Maybe you have fallen for your married master, turning into a forbidden romance.¡±


    ¡°Shut the hell up.¡± Lisa snorted. ¡°I¡¯ll leave in a couple of days... I have some unfinished business here.¡±...¡± Izumi nodded. ¡°Otouto-kun, I have a favor.¡±


    A sense of de?ja? vu washed over Kazuya. Izumi¡¯s request reminded him of Harribel''s unfinished request in Hueco Mundo, interrupted by Menos nearly killing Apacci.


    ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°I suggest you rest tomorrow and have fun outside. I don¡¯t want your body to wear down from constant training.¡±


    The favor was strangely skewed to help him, as he had come to expect from her.


    ¡°As long as you send Lisa with me.¡±


    He had gotten close to Lisa but there was still a noticeable gap between them. One that would keep standing as long as she remained skeptical of his character. He was confident in knocking down those walls if given enough time and space. A day-long date would suffice.


    Izumi¡¯s eyes narrowed as she smirked. ¡°Make the most of it, Otouto-kun.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t disappoint you, Onee-chan.¡±


    Once Izumi left with the tray, Kazuya returned to resting on the bed. A worry for Harribel and others¡¯ safety crept into his mind whenever he wasn¡¯t preoccupied. They had survived in the treacherous Hueco Mundo for longer than his two lifetimes combined. Yet, he couldn¡¯t shake off the concern gnawing at him.


    Returning to them through the Garganta was out of the question, for it would surely alert those who kept a watchful eye on the town ¡ª the list most likely included Aizen. The voyuer was probably monitoring the town for Visored and Kisuke Urahara, but it shouldn''t be his main focus until he gets to creating White and getting her mixed with Ichigo¡¯s mother, Masaki.


    ¡®Fuck this. I¡¯ll quickly check on them.¡¯


    It was time to bring out his trump card that should conceal Garganta¡¯s presence ¡ª a Quincy forcefield. After seeing Izumi create force fields for like seven times, he could confidently create one without relying on any equipment. Since it could conceal his Reiatsu, it had to conceal the opening of a Garganta.


    ¡®I¡¯ll open far away from this town just in case.¡¯¡¯


    He took out his clothes and tossed them on the bed. As he reached for his shirt when an unsettling sensation prickled the back of his neck. A gaze bore into him, causing him to spin around, his eyes narrowing on a minuscule hole in the wall. The hole wasn¡¯t present before.


    ¡°You peeping tom. Show yourself.¡±


    Without missing a beat, Kisuke Urahara nonchalantly opened the window and made his entrance. The surprise etched across his face spoke volumes about Kazuya''s ability to sense his presence. ¡°Ahem, I''ve been discovered peeping on men. My reputation will sink to the bottom. What should I do~?¡±

 Chapter 46: Divulge

    Chapter 46: Divulge


    Kazuya never expected to be visited by Kisuke Urahara of all people. Then again, Kisuke could have come seeking Lisa and stumbled upon him. Or maybe Kisuke detected an anomaly in him during their last interaction and had returned for further investigation.


    There could be a million reasons for Kisuke to be here.


    Slipping into his clothes, he looked at Kisuke. ¡°Your clothes are similar to traditional Japanese clothes. Are you a Shinigami?¡±


    He chose an icy demeanor over his usual frivolous self. Being playful would lead him nowhere against Kisuke.


    ¡°Nope. I would never sail the same boat as them.¡± Kisuke chuckled. ¡°The worth of a person is not found in the threads of their clothing, but in the fibers of their character. Mine is incredibly pure and lovable.¡±


    Kazuya never thought he would find someone more shameless than himself, yet here he was, getting swept into Kisuke¡¯s incredible bullshit.


    ¡°You are not a Shinigami, then what are you?¡±


    ¡°Just a handsome merchant in possession of the most useful shop~.¡± Kisuke fished out a silver card from his sleeve and waved it around cheerfully. ¡°Here, feel free to visit when you find yourself in trouble. Of course, our excellent service comes at a cost~.¡±


    Helping people that intrigued him then owing them a favor ¡ª Kisuke Urahara¡¯s motto was simple yet very effective in making backup strategies for the backup strategies.


    ¡°...I asked about your race.¡±


    ¡°That''s dangerously close to racism. Should I report you to the spiritual realm¡¯s civil rights authority?¡±


    Kazuya furrowed his brow. ¡°Since when asking about someone''s race become a violation?¡±


    Kisuke pressed a hand against his chest. ¡°I already told you I¡¯m just your merchant who happened to have a shop in this town. My race and background are irrelevant. Any further inquiry is an attack on my privacy.¡±


    Kisuke sighed and waved his hand. ¡°Take care of it and meet me at my shop in the morning. The address is on the card.¡±


    Kisuke said his piece and phased through the wall like a ghost, leaving behind no trace of his Reiryoku.


    He clicked his tongue. The mention of Aizen''s treachery had fully captured Kisuke¡¯s interest. Despite being a scientist, Kisuke was far from a heartless individual. He banked everything on Kisuke being understanding of his fabricated circumstances. If he played his cards right, Kisuke might just help him and his Hollow companions. Even getting Ho?gyoku for Harribel and others wouldn¡¯t be out of the question.


    ¡®I have to be patient.¡¯


    Izumi barged into his room, her face solemn. ¡°You need to come with us.¡±


    He held her shoulder and looked right into her eyes. ¡°Onee-chan, go to bed. I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    She shook her head defiantly. ¡°This Hollow isn¡¯t weak. Akira and Katsumi have already left. I¡¯ll support them while you can observe the battle.¡±


    She gave him the observer role in his ¡®first¡¯ meeting with a Hollow, despite having full knowledge of his abilities. Her overprotectiveness towards him was on another level.


    ¡°You¡¯re so stubborn.¡± He sighed, massaging his forehead. ¡°I prohibit you from fighting.¡±


    She crossed her arms and met his stern gaze with her own. ¡±On what grounds are you ordering me, the Matriarch of Ishida Clan?¡±


    ¡°Stop with the bullshit, baka Onee-chan.¡±


    ¡°I will let you fight on one condition... prioritize your safety. If things go wrong, flee at the first moment.¡±


    ¡°As if I¡¯ll let it escalate that far. Have some confidence in your pupil, Izumi-sensei.¡±

 Chapter 47: Vice Captain

    Chapter 47: Vice Captain


    Kazuya''s crew arrived at the scene in a car ¡ª the battleground was a children''s playground. Katsumi and Akira danced a deadly ballet around the Hollow, flinging Reishi arrows against its grotesque carapace. This Hollow, a monstrosity inspired by a giant beetle, wore a white mask adorned with red teeth ¡ª a sign of its victims.


    Izumi¡¯s face twisted. ¡°Katsumi!¡±


    "One, Izumi-sama," Katsumi bellowed back, her voice echoing with regret. "We arrived a tick too late!¡±


    Akira squeaked in between breaths, ¡°Izumi-sama, this overgrown beetle has high-speed regeneration like Wolverine! It''s shrugging off our attacks. We can¡¯t stall it for long.¡±


    In theory, Kazuya could have obliterated the Hollow with the sheer force of his fully unleashed Reiryoku. But unleashing such a formidable power would be akin to inviting more formidable Hollows. If a gang of Adjuchas showed up, Izumi might just have a heart attack on the spot.


    Izumi gripped her Quincy cross, torn between her promise to Kazuya and the need to aid her comrades. ¡°It¡¯s no time to hesitate¡ª¡±


    He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. ¡°Remember what we discussed. Allow me to handle this.¡±


    Harvesting the ambient Reishi, he created a Spirit Crossbow. With a swift draw and release, he unleashed half a dozen azure arrows, each heading for a different limb of the Hollow. The giant Hollow, engrossed in its pursuit of the two Quincies, failed to detect its incoming doom. The azure bolts smashed into its six limbs, decimating them. No matter how alert, the Hollow stood no chance of evading bolts moving with such blistering velocity.


    He had gotten significantly better after getting a hang of the bow¡¯s mechanism and shape.


    The de-legged Hollow let out a gut-wrenching screech, thrashing about on the ground like a beetle flipped on its back. Moments later, its limbs reformed, and it charged at Kazuya in pure rage.


    "Watch out!"


    He shrugged off Izumi''s warning. With an eerily calm demeanor, he fired six more bolts in an instant, dismembering the Hollow once again.


    Izumi¡¯s face paled as Kazuya repeated his brutal cycle, his face an emotionless mask as if he had grown comfortably numb to such gore. Even Katsumi and Akira couldn''t help but tremble at his merciless methods.


    Finally, when the Hollow had exhausted its reservoir of Reiryoku, Kazuya let it writhe helplessly on the ground. He turned to Izumi, his face breaking into a grin that was a bit too wide to be comforting. ¡°Done.¡±


    Kazuya felt a jolt of recognition. Kaien was from the Shiba Clan, a once noble lineage that had fallen from grace in the Soul Society. Isshin Kurosaki, Ichigo¡¯s father, was a Shiba before he took on the monumental task of suppressing Masaki¡¯s Hollow.


    Kaien¡¯s death played a big role in Rukia¡¯s growth as a Shinigami and a person. Him being alive meant Rukia was still in the 13th Squad or she had yet to graduate from the Shinigami Academy.


    Kaien pivoted to face the Hollow and unsheathed his Zanpakuto?. ¡°We can continue our conversation once I put this fellow out of his suffering.¡±


    With a swift, almost merciful motion, Kaien cleaved the beetle-like Hollow into two perfect halves. The Hollow let out a final, agonized shriek before its form flickered and evaporated into nothingness.


    The Hollow was cleansed and sent to Soul Society.


    With a sigh, Kaien slid his katana back into its sheath. ¡°I was expecting a group of Hollows. Turns out it was just one guy. Could it be the scout?¡±


    He would''ve been here earlier if he hadn''t been dozing off like a hibernating bear.


    ¡°Better safe than sorry,¡± Kazuya said, a smirk playing on his lips. ¡°By the way, what¡¯s this about Arrancars?¡±


    ¡°You guys probably don¡¯t know about Arrancars. They are Hollows who take off their masks. They are not much of a threat except the Menos like Gillian, Adjuchas, and Vasto Lorde...¡± Kaien narrowed his eyes. ¡°Seireitei is taking this matter seriously. I¡¯ll be in the town for a few days.¡±


    His Captain, Jushiro Ukitake, had dispatched him to monitor the Hollow activities. Being a Vice Captain, he came alone, armed with his Zanpakuto?. The news of a Vasto Lorde Arrancar had sent ripples of concern through the Gotei 13. Shunsui Kyoraku believed that the Hollows were planning a full-scale invasion of this town under the guidance of a Vasto Lorde leader.


    In an ironic twist of fate, Kaien stood before the very Vasto Lorde he was supposed to be on guard against, completely clueless.


    Suppressing a laugh, Kazuya said, ¡°Well, try not to be so late next time. It¡¯s a pain to hold back on small fries.¡±


    Kaien observed Kazuya before bursting into laughter. ¡°I like your confidence. It reminds me of my Captain¡¯s best friend. Well, Quincy friends, I think my job is done here. Goodnight.¡±


    Kaien never thought he would be befriending people of a near extinct clan of Hollow slayers. After saying a brief greeting to everyone, Kaein departed in a good mood.


    Meanwhile, Izumi stood rooted to the spot, her face ashen. She was all too aware of the power of a Vice Captain. Even her husband would struggle against such a formidable opponent. Now, one of them would be casually strolling around their town. Add to that the terrifying potential of Menos-class Arrancars, and she was sure about having sleepless nights until the matter was solved.

 Chapter 48: The Black Cat

    Chapter 48: The Black Cat


    Time and time again, a black cat could be seen skilfully leaping from one rooftop to another in Seireitei. No one knew where this cat came from or how it could dodge any Shinigami that tried catching it.


    This agile cat had become a mystery, and an often-told story among the Gotei 13.


    The cat was, in fact, Yoruichi Shiho?in, a banished Shinigami who was exiled along with Kisuke Urahara and Tessai Tsukabishi.


    Before her banishment, her reputation in the Soul Society was legendary. Few were given the title of ''Shunpo Master,'' but Yoruichi went further in her pursuit of agility, earning the respected title of ¡®Flash Goddess.¡¯ At one point in her life, she held the title for the youngest captain in the history of Onmitsukido? ¡ª the special forces of the Soul Society ¡ª as well as the Captain of the 2nd Squad of Gotei 13.


    Like her noble titles, Yoruichi was born into the nobility of the prestigious Shiho?in family, one of the five great noble clans of the Soul Society. Her family, renowned for their stealth and agility, were masters of Kido? ¡ª a unique form of combat derived from demon arts. As a princess, she carried the weight of expectations from the first day of her life. She didn¡¯t lose to the pressure, rather she excelled in her family arts.


    Even among the Shiho?in, Yoruichi''s abilities stood out. She was excellent in hand-to-hand combat, stealth, and had impressive control over Kido? spells. But, despite her noble birth and all its advantages, Yoruichi wanted something more. The formal lifestyle and strict rules irritated her free spirit. She found hope in Kisuke Urahara, a man from a fallen noble clan who had come to live at the Shiho?in Mansion with Tessai Tsukabishi. Despite his humble beginnings, Kisuke was a man of extraordinary talent.


    While she had friends to spend time with, Yoruichi could not often leave the clan''s estate. When her own family limited her freedom, Yoruichi came up with a creative solution - she developed a technique that let her turn into a cat at will.


    Decades later, Kisuke became the Captain of the 12th Squad, and Tessai became the Captain of the Kido? Corps.


    Less than a decade later, Kisuke and Tessai were arrested for experimentation on fellow Shinigami. Yoruichi was at a crossroads. Loyalty or duty? In a heartbeat, she gave up everything for her friends. Her status, her titles, her family - she left it all behind in order to help Kisuke keep his Shinigami powers.


    The Central 46 labeled them as ''Exiled Shinigami,'' forbidding them from entering Senkaimon, the doorway to Soul Society.


    Did that keep Yoruichi away from the Soul Society?


    Not at all.


    Her ability to transform into a cat altered her Reiatsu signature just enough to sneak past the Senkaimon restriction. Thus, she made a new legend ¡ª the Legend of the Black Cat.


    ***


    Currently, Yoruichi relaxed under the moonlight in her cat form, her tongue smoothly sweeping over the bowl filled with creamy milk. Her old pal Ku?kaku Shiba savored the sake? from a cup held in her tattooed arm ¡ª her only arm.


    ¡°Yoruichi, you have balls of steel to pull that off with Byakuya Kuchiki.¡±


    Ku?kaku had met Byakuya once in Seireitei. The first meeting alone made her quite terrified of Byakuya¡¯s Reiatsu and his icy demeanor. As bold as Ku?kaku was, she wouldn¡¯t dare mess around with Byakuya.


    "Playing tag with him was a thrill," the black feline replied, her masculine contradicting her actual gender ¡ª a trait exclusive to her feline form."The lad is still training under his old man?"


    ¡°You¡¯re still obsessed with that? Are you that desperate to enter the Soul Society?¡±


    ¡°Obsession is the greatest driving force,¡± Kisuke mused, waving his paper fan. ¡°Now, what did I call you here for?¡±


    Yoruichi brought her paw up and flashed her sharp claws. ¡°I can cut nine thousand times in a second. Do you want to test me?¡±


    Kisuke raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. ¡°We have a problem. A big problem.¡±


    ¡°A problem you can¡¯t solve on your own?¡±


    She had seen him coming up with ingenious solutions that nobody could have ever thought of. His intellect and adaptability were terrifying, even for her.


    Kisuke nodded in affirmation. ¡°Today I met a man.¡±


    "A man, you say?" Yoruichi''s chuckle tinged the air with mild mockery. "Who knew our Kisuke Urahara swung that way?"


    Kisuke swatted her head lightly with his fan. ¡°Let''s focus, shall we? How many people know about Aizen¡¯s true nature?¡±


    ¡°Huh? That would be us and the Visored. The man you met today¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yup, he knows about Aizen¡¯s hypnosis and his betrayal. There is something more bizarre, Yoruichi. He is part of the Quincy Clan.¡±


    ¡°Quincy? Now that¡¯s a name I haven¡¯t heard for a century.¡± Yoruichi narrowed her golden eyes. ¡°Who leaked it to him?¡±


    ¡°So it wasn¡¯t you. It must be one of the Visored. They opened their mouth against their will or¡ª¡±


    ¡°¡ªIt¡¯s another one of Aizen¡¯s tricks to shake us. That bastard is like a fox.¡±


    Kisuke couldn¡¯t help but let out a chuckle. ¡°Oh, how interesting it¡¯d be if Aizen is pulling the strings here.¡±


    His intuition told him otherwise, but he never trusted his judgment against Aizen. The treacherous Shinigami had shown to manipulate the Central 46¡¯s judgment. How hard would it be to send a man at their doorstep pretending to oppose Aizen?


    Yoruichi snorted. ¡°Interesting for you only. A pain in the ass for the rest.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. We''ll get to the bottom of this tomorrow when we have a heart to heart with our Quincy ''friend''.¡±

 Chapter 49: Control

    Chapter 49: Control


    Kazuya laid on the bed the whole night, pondering about every scenario that could take place today. It was a day of monumental importance, and he couldn¡¯t afford a single mistake.


    The door creaked open just as the clock hit the eight o¡¯clock mark ¡ª Lisa came to wake him. Instead of doing her task, she observed him with ice in her gaze. His acting skill, which fooled Tier Harribel¡¯s Hollow senses, easily made a mockery of former Shinigami Lisa.


    ¡®What ticked her off?¡¯


    Splash!Upstodatee from


    He didn¡¯t expect her to throw a bucket worth of cold water on him. Rising from his dampened bed, he stretched languidly, a yawn escaping his lips. He was unperturbed, as if Lisa didn¡¯t give him a nonconsensual bath.


    ¡°To think you¡¯ll bathe me on my bed to save my time... you are so caring, Lisa,¡± he praised her with a soft smile. ¡°You missed a couple of spots and forgot to apply soap.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s hands twitched, barely holding back from giving his neck a little squeeze. She grabbed a pillow and held it like a war hammer over him. ¡°What did you say to Izumi-sama? Why is she sending me on a date with you?!¡±


    Lisa being angry and flustered was a positive sign since she acted calm and collected to everyone. She was showing more and more of her true personality hidden beneath the cool facade.


    He released a long sigh. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I have to cancel that date.¡±


    As if frozen in a block of ice, Lisa paused, her lips parting into a stunned ¡®O¡¯. Her shocked face was a sight to behold.


    He smiled. ¡°Let me guess the reason for your shock. Your anger was just a facade, and you actually looked forward to a date with me.¡±


    Lisa was caught red-handed. Her plan was to throw a tantrum and reluctantly agree to go on the date ¡ª her first ever date with a man.


    Ever since she came to the Living World, she had been stuck in the same loop of eating, reading, training, and sleeping. She was a little excited to do something new ¡ª the same feeling had led her to accept this ¡®spy¡¯ job.


    She narrowed her eyes. ¡°It was a rare opportunity to relax outside of my job. Yes, I was looking forward to it.¡±


    The words she spoke weren¡¯t her own. They belonged to her Inner Hollow, which exerted control over her in moments of weakness. It wanted her to relinquish control and sink into the pit of bottomless ¡®instinct.¡¯ Every one of Visored experiences similar things now and then, and will continue to do so until they fully take control over their Hollow.


    ¡®Get lost.¡¯


    She steeled herself, suppressing her Inner Hollow, and soon her eyes returned to their normal state. Apart from Shunsui Kyoraku, her ex-Captain, only Kazuya had ever rattled her composure like this.


    She let out an annoyed click of her tongue. ¡°I¡¯ll get him to fess up everything, no matter what it takes.¡±


    ...


    Kazuya narrowed his eyes, taking in the swinging sign overhead. ¡°Urahara Shop.¡±


    He rapped on the door, which was promptly answered by a mountain of a man with a thick mustache connected to his sideburns. Tessai Tsukabishi, Kisuke Urahara¡¯s right-hand man, was decked out in a black apron over a laid-back white tee and blue jeans combo. The guy looked like a gangster instead of a shopkeeper assistant.


    Tessai straightened his rectangle-framed glasses, his expression as unyielding as a wall. ¡°State your business.¡±


    ¡°Kisuke Urahara invited me here last night.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re his guest. Hmmm, come inside.¡±


    Kazuya followed the big man through the hallway and arrived at the meeting spot. He could feel two presences inside, both masterfully restraining their Reiryoku.


    As Tessai slid the door open, Kazuya saw Kisuke sitting side by side with a black cat. Her golden eyes narrowed as she spotted him.


    ¡®She is here.¡¯


    Her appearance by Kisuke¡¯s side was no surprise.

 Chapter 50: A Tactical Nuke

    Chapter 50: A Tactical Nuke


    Yoruichi observed the young man, intrigue sparkling in her golden eyes. Shinigami (Soul) aged strangely in the Soul Society, but humans (Quincy) were not renowned for their longevity, at least the one she was familiar with. Despite appearing no older than twenty-five, he wielded Reiryoku rivaling that of a Captain-Class ¡ª she found this fact hard to swallow.


    ¡°Is he really the one?¡± Doubt, unmasked and raw, crept into her voice as she questioned Kisuke. ¡°You weren¡¯t pulling my leg about this, right?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    Kazuya''s eyebrows shot up, a flash of surprise in his eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t think Urahara-san was fond of talking cats. One of your crazy inventions?¡±


    Kisuke opened the paper fan and concealed his smirk. ¡°Yoruichi-san is a natural cat I found in the Shiho?in mansion. Some pussies are irresistible, they say.¡±


    ¡°Shiho?in? Don¡¯t tell me this is Yoruichi Shiho?in...¡±


    The slightest widening of Yoruichi''s eyes betrayed her surprise. ¡°You seem rather well-versed in our ways. Who enlightened you about the Seireitei? A friend, a family member, or a stranger from the other side?¡±


    Skipping the flimsy pleasantries, she dived straight into the crux of the matter.


    Before Kazuya could utter a response, Kisuke smoothly interjected, "Yoruichi-san, let''s offer our guest a seat first. I wouldn''t want any rumors about my shop lacking in common courtesy."


    With a graceful sweep of her paw, Yoruichi motioned towards a cushion set opposite to her. ¡°Take a seat.¡±


    Kazuya moved forward at Tessai¡¯s gentle push, the door sliding shut behind him.


    ¡°Relax, guys,¡± he muttered, calmly settling down under Yoruichi''s intense stare. ¡°I¡¯ll reveal everything, but first, stop acting like I¡¯m here to steal your candies.¡±


    Kisuke couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°He is telling you to chill, Yoruichi-san.¡±


    Yoruichi snarled, baring her feline fangs. ¡°What? I¡¯m as calm as a moon¡¯s reflection on a still pond. It¡¯s you who looks uncomfortable.¡±


    Deflecting the blame towards Kazuya was a convenient way to downplay her own impatience.


    He crossed his arms and nodded his head. ¡°Exactly. I reincarnated as a Hollow.¡±


    His bold declaration was meant to be a calculated nuke on their minds, to provoke a reaction. He awaited their responses with an impish gleam in his eyes. Even under dire circumstances, his natural trickster spirit couldn''t be suppressed.


    Kisuke remained composed, his eyebrows arching in bemused interest at the outrageous claim. In stark contrast, Yoruichi reacted like a storm ¡ª hissing, her pupils shrinking to pinpricks, her tail standing straight in agitation. She looked ready to carve his face apart with her claws.


    ¡°Even a blind Shinigami can tell the difference between a Quincy and a Hollow. Do you take us for fools?!¡±


    His tale of betrayal had her entranced until he shattered the illusion with an outlandishly false claim. As a former Shinigami, she knew all too well the intricacies of souls and the delicate balance of realms. The notion of a soul reincarnating with its memories was well within the realm of plausibility, but a Quincy claiming to be a Hollow? That was nothing short of ridiculous.


    "Ease up, Yoruichi-san," Kisuke implored with a calming gesture and glanced at Kazuya. ¡°Yoruichi-san isn¡¯t known for her patience but for her vicious actions as the Commander of Onmitsukido?. Kazuya-san, I won¡¯t be able to hold her back if you don¡¯t provide a reasonable explanation.¡±


    Unwittingly, Kisuke and Yoruichi had slipped into the timeless ''good cop, bad cop'' dynamic.


    Kazuya calmly took the cup of tea under Yoruichi¡¯s calm gaze. ¡°I intended to explain but Shiho?in-san interrupted me. Let¡¯s put that aside for now. Urahara-san, can this house conceal Reiatsu? What I am about to do may alarm Quincy and Shinigami alike.¡±


    ¡°It can,¡± Yoruichi said and got up, walking to the door. ¡°I have no interest in your lies anymore.¡±


    Just as she reached to slide open the door, she stopped as if struck by a bolt of lightning. The Reiatsu of a Hollow, mightier than her own, seized her attention like a vice.


    Whirling around, she saw Kazuya surrounded by a sky blue Reiatsu. Even though she couldn¡¯t see his face from her position, she could see the horns coming from the side of his head.


    He looked over his shoulder, smiling after giving them the shock of their lifetime. ¡°Shiho?in-san, do you believe me now?¡±


    ***


    Cute Yoruichi art


    Spoiler


    [collapse]

 Chapter 51: Exchange

    Chapter 51: Exchange


    The room succumbed to a hush, a quiet so profound it seemed to envelop every corner, every nook and cranny. This tranquility was abruptly shattered by Tessai, his steps echoing as he hastily pushed open the door.


    ¡°A Hollow? This man is a Hollow? How?¡±


    Even the former Commander of Kido? Corps couldn¡¯t wrap his hands around a Quincy suddenly turning into a Hollow.


    Kazuya stood amidst the chaos, a smug grin played upon his lips. ¡°I apologize for being so abrupt. I expected you to react with a little surprise, nothing more.¡±


    Rising from his seat, Kisuke¡¯s black Haori fluttered in the wake of Kazuya''s surging power. An uncanny gleam danced in his eyes, and he couldn''t hide his intrigue. ¡°Well, well, well. What¡¯s surprising is your ability, Kazuya-san. The Arrancar troubling all of us for the last few days had been you all along. How did you mask your Hollow aura this well?¡±


    The ever-so-innovative Kisuke couldn¡¯t help but ask a question out of curiosity. He had long abandoned the notion of Hollows being evil during his pursuit of removing the boundaries between Shinigami and Hollow.


    For him, the person mattered more than a person¡¯s race.


    ¡°Mask? No, no, no, that¡¯s a misunderstanding.¡± Kazuya gestured towards his face, his Hollow characteristics seamlessly morphing back to normal, and his wings folding back into his body. ¡°This isn''t concealment; it¡¯s transformation. A bitter irony to become a Hollow after a lifetime of slaughtering them.¡±


    He kept feeding them lies mixed with grains of truth.


    Yoruichi approached him and touched his back, her animosity replaced with a look of curiosity. ¡°Can you transform again?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a lab specimen. Besides, weren¡¯t you going to leave? What is keeping you around, Shiho?in-san?¡±


    ¡°I would¡¯ve surely left, boy, if you didn¡¯t show me this... I don¡¯t even know what to call this... Kisuke, do you think it¡¯s possible or are we under some kind of ability that¡¯s fooling all of our senses, like Aizen?¡±


    Kisuke considered her question, a contemplative frown etching into his features. He turned to Tessai. ¡°What you said can be possible. But I don¡¯t think it is the case here. Tessai, did you sense Kazuya-san¡¯s Hollow aura?¡±


    Tessai, who was standing at the door, nodded. ¡°I sensed it clearly. It¡¯s why I ran over here.¡±


    ¡°Your guess is as good as mine,¡± Kazuya said. ¡°I held my end of the bargain. Kisuke-san, you should fulfill yours.¡±


    Kisuke stepped back and held his Zanpakuto?. ¡°I did make a promise. Well, what can this handsome shopkeeper do for you?¡±


    ¡°I need shelter.¡±


    ¡°Granted. A handsome Hollow like yours is welcome to my underground chamber.¡±


    Kisuke happily welcomed Kazuya, who was a treasure trove of knowledge on all three major races ¡ª Hollow, Shinigami, and Quincy.


    ¡°Not just for me.¡± Kazuya shook his head. ¡°You see, I made some friends during my time in Hueco Mundo. Soooo, can you make some Reiatsu concealing Gigai for them?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t made one for Hollows yet but I can try. However, you or anyone isn¡¯t allowed to eat human souls while you¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°Heh. They won¡¯t. Weak souls won¡¯t interest them.¡±


    Yoruichi sat down. ¡°Are you making a Hollow army to take revenge on Aizen?¡±


    Kazuya smiled. ¡°Do not seek beauty in battle. Do not seek virtue in death. Do not make the mistake of considering only your own life. If you wish to protect that which you must protect, slice the enemy you must defeat from behind.¡±


    He repeated the Shinigami¡¯s creed that stuck with him more than most quotes. With that, he ripped open a Garganta and stuck his hand inside.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna fetch my friends. See you soon.¡±


    He stepped into the Garganta, only to sense Yoruichi releasing a burst of Reiryoku. He turned around to see Yoruichi flying into the shrinking Garganta.


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 52: Protector

    Chapter 52: Protector


    Kisuke''s gaze lingered on the fading portal, the corners of his lips lifting in an amused smirk. Yoruichi''s impulsive action didn¡¯t surprise him in the least. She was always the one for exploration. Kazuya¡¯s friends or Kazuya had caught her intrigue. Perhaps the limitless expanse of Hueco Mundo offered an allure she couldn''t resist.


    Deciphering her motivations, however, was akin to hunting for a single cloud in a boundless sky.


    ¡°There she goes on her own,¡± Tessai said, giving a resigned shake of his head. His gaze then turned questioning towards Kisuke. ¡°Was that the right trade-off? Was the information a justifiable reason to hide several Arrancars from the Soul Society?¡±


    In response, Kisuke lifted two fingers. ¡°Consider two things, Tessai. Firstly, Hueco Mundo provides more protection from the Seireitei than our shop. I suspect they''re running from something in Hueco Mundo, something potentially more powerful than Kazuya himself.¡±


    Tessai''s eyes widened behind his rectangular glasses. The thought of a Hollow boasting a stronger Reiatsu than Kazuya was unnerving, to say the least. ¡°Who could that possibly be?¡±


    ¡°I have no idea.¡±


    ¡°And the second point?¡±


    ¡°Some investments might appear precarious in the short term, but they yield unexpected dividends when you least anticipate it. Kazuya-san is that type of investment.¡±


    Having Kazuya¡¯s friendship might just tip the favor in his hidden warfare against Aizen. Though banished by the Seireitei, the heart in his chest was still that of a Shinigami. Protecting Seireitei and the balance will always be his duty.


    As he digested this information, Tessai absentmindedly twirled his mustache. ¡°I still find it hard to grasp what Kazuya truly is.¡±


    Kisuke chuckled at Tessai¡¯s confusion. ¡°Regarding Kazuya-san, I have a hunch about the source of his transformation.¡±


    He had come across equally baffling things when he was brought to Shiho?in Mansion. It was only a matter of time before he understood every aspect of his confusion.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    "I''ll share when I''m absolutely certain," Kisuke replied, rising to dust off his Haori sleeves. "Now, excuse me. I need to prepare a guesthouse for our new allies... I wanna procrastinate.¡±


    ***


    While Kisuke fully expected Yoruichi¡¯s action, Kazuya wasn¡¯t of the same mind. The black cat began walking by his side, her tail swinging in a rhythm. She acted like she expected him to understand her intentions on his own.


    ¡°Shiho?in-san, we Hollows have a saying, ¡°Don¡¯t enter another man''s Garganta if you are not prepared for a battle to death.¡¯¡±


    ¡°You are a hundred years early to challenge me,¡± Yoruichi retorted with a chuckle, her golden eyes surveying the vast void surrounding them. ¡°It¡¯s my first time inside a Garganta. It sure is a boring place.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s grin widened, sensing his question got under her skin. ¡°Let¡¯s put that to the test, then.¡±


    With a resounding crack, he surged ahead using Soni?do. His body was way tougher after becoming an Arrancar, allowing him to use Soni?do at a higher level than before.


    He looked over his shoulder for a moment. Yoruichi in her cat flashed over long distances, trailing him from the ground without much difficulty.


    Yoruichi bared her fangs. ¡°Impressive. Very impressive.¡±


    Although she was far from her peak, Kazuya¡¯s speed was one of the best even in the Seireitei.


    ***


    As the overwhelming Reiatsu faded, a centaur-like Hollow cautiously stepped out from her hiding place. A pair of sharp eyes behind her mask locked onto the fading silver and white figures in the distance. One of their Reiatsu signatures had been so potent that it almost made her heart stop during her slumber. It was the same ancient Reiatsu lingering everywhere in this place.


    ¡°Vasto Lorde...¡±


    This marked the second time she had crossed paths with such a formidable Hollow in this exact spot. Just the day before, a group of powerful Hollows had stayed here for an extensive time. And now, another strong presence made its appearance.


    She clenched her double-sided lance. ¡°Why are strong Hollows gathering here? What is happening in Hueco Mundo?¡±


    The thought of an impending war brewing beneath this unsettling silence troubled her. Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck couldn¡¯t shake off the unsettling feeling that a war was brewing beneath this unsettling silence. War signified conflict, and conflict invariably led to death, pain, and suffering. As an Adjuchas, she could only spectate as these superior Vasto Lorde fought each other like beasts.


    ¡°I need to leave.¡±


    With that resolve, she swiftly galloped across the stark white desert. After several minutes of swift travel, she arrived at her destination ¡ª a cave that led to a shelter constructed within a mountain. Sensing her familiar presence, a variety of Hollows scurried out of the myriad of openings dotting the cavernous walls, joyfully greeting Nelliel with cute noises.


    Amidst these tiny Hollows, she stood like a titan. Her lips twitched behind her mask before breaking into a small smile that nobody could see. ¡°I¡¯m back.¡±


    Their enthusiastic responses filled the air with a medley of sounds, each more endearing than the last. Cats, dogs, rabbits, and even birds ¡ª each being here was utterly fragile and defenseless. So feeble they were, that even a faint residue of Vasto Lorde''s Reiatsu could eradicate them entirely.


    Despite their fragility, these Hollows thrived here without the need for food or Reiryoku. The ambient Reishi of Hueco Mundo nourished their souls sufficiently, as if destiny had willed them to survive against all odds.


    For years, she had committed herself to the protection of this village of lesser Hollows. This self-imposed duty of defending them against other Hollows had given her a sense of purpose. A purpose that drove her everyday.


    While she couldn¡¯t stop the Vasto Lorde from fighting, she could at least shield the village with her own Reiatsu.

 Chapter 53: Promise

    Chapter 53: Promise


    Unbeknownst to Kazuya, Harribel and her group were caught in their own maelstrom of troubles. Nestled deep within a gargantuan underground cave, the five women were surprisingly quiet, a solemn air surrounding all of them.


    Cirucci flew out of the giant hole over their head to scout the surroundings. Moments later, she landed back in the cave. ¡°I can¡¯t sense him anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Neither can I,¡± admitted Harribel, her fingers gently caressing the mysterious egg clutched tightly to her chest as though its presence offered some form of comfort. ¡°It could be a trap to lure us out.¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s brows knitted together in concern. ¡°It absolutely is.¡±


    Despite their heightened caution, they had yet to catch sight of their pursuer yet ¡ª the one chasing them for almost a day. What they felt, instead, was an overpowering Reiatsu steadily closing in on them. A Reiatsu that belonged to none other than King Baraggan. The moment they identified it, they had taken off at their best speed.


    Mila Rose forcefully dragged her Zanpakuto? across the granular white sand before nailing it on the wall. ¡°Tch. This hide and seek is suffocating me. I just want to beat him to death.¡±


    Befitting her lioness characteristics, she was proud and ferocious. Her Arrancarization only enhanced those traits. Crushing Baraggan was a bigger priority than her own life.


    Apacci sat beside the wall, her gaze fixated on the wall in a daze. ¡°If only we had that power."


    Harribel shook her head. ¡°We¡¯ll beat Baraggan, but not today. Let¡¯s keep¡ª¡±


    She stopped abruptly, her attention captured by the egg. It twitched unexpectedly, its activity highly unusual considering its quiet demeanor over the last few days.


    ¡°Is it about to hatch?¡±


    As Harribel attempted to communicate with the egg, a surge of Reiatsu seeped out from it. She couldn¡¯t help but recall Kazuya¡¯s face upon sensing the Reiatsu.


    Sung-Sun chuckled lightly, her eyes twinkling with mirth. ¡°How cute. Did it sense Kazuya and start sending signals?¡±


    ¡°The hatchling is calling out to its mother.¡± Mila Rose chuckled, the egg¡¯s shenanigans shifting her mood for the better. ¡°I still can¡¯t believe Skull¡¯s Zanpakuto? is a literal egg.¡±


    Apacci jabbed Mila Rose¡¯s hand with her horn. ¡°Stop calling him mother... Call him father if you must.¡±


    ¡®I won¡¯t be useless against Baraggan.¡¯


    Sung-Sun saw through Apacci¡¯s desires. The deer was like an open book. ¡°Harribel-sama, take Cirucci and Mila Rose ahead. I have to talk to Apacci.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Somewhat surprised, Harribel shot Apacci a sharp glance. Their relationship hadn¡¯t been the brightest ever since Kazuya left.


    Now left alone with Sung-Sun, Apacci curiously stared at the snake. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be consumed by your urges,¡± Sung-Sun whispered. ¡°Kazuya isn¡¯t interested in your strength, but your heart. That¡¯s all I¡¯ll say.¡±


    It was Sung-Sun¡¯s attempt to stop Apacci from degrading into a typical Hollow who kept devouring others for power. A path that might put her against Harribel.


    Apacci paused for a moment before she lowered her head. ¡°I promise it is only until I become Vasto Lorde. I¡¯m so close... I want it, Sung-Sun. I want it so badly.¡±


    There was a crazed obsession in Apacci¡¯s eyes ¡ª an immense lust for strength. It wasn¡¯t just about becoming a Vasto Lorde for Apacci now; it was to prove to Kazuya that she could also live up to her words. It was about pride.


    Sung-Sun shared the ambition despite not admitting to it openly like Apacci. ¡°I understand. Just try not to be too aggressive in front of Harribel-sama.¡±


    ¡°I know... I am not denying Harribel¡¯s beliefs. This is a desperate time for us, and we need all the strength we can.¡±


    ¡°Desperate times call for desperate measures. I got you if Harribel goes to you about the sacrifices,¡± Sung-Sun remarked teasingly. ¡°In exchange, help me become Vasto Lorde after you¡¯re one.¡±


    Apacci raised her head, her wide eyes regarding Sung-Sun. The snake¡¯s tongue flickered as she narrowed her pupils.


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m joking?¡± Sung-Sun shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m serious, Apacci. I refuse to stay the weakest in the group.¡±


    ¡°Ah... I¡¯ll try.¡±


    ¡°I just have to get Kazuya to make the same promise, and we¡¯re good to go.¡±

 Chapter 54: Final Confrontation

    Chapter 54: Final Confrontation


    Barely a mile away from the underground, a silhouette claimed the crest of a barren hill. His imposing figure was accentuated by an impressive afro of burnt orange and prominent sideburns. This was Gantenbainne Mosqueda, the 7th Espada. His distinctive mask remnants were fashioned like sunglasses with four teeth protruding above each eye, allowing him to survey his surroundings through a central blue star embedded within the white plate.


    The target of his observation ¡ª Harribel¡¯s group.


    Swiveling his towering form, he addressed Baraggan. The skeletal monarch of Hollows rested upon a throne of bones, emanating a sinister aura. ¡°I sense a new Adjuchas amongst them.¡±


    ¡°Interesting,¡± Baraggan said. ¡°The second Vasto Lorde¡¯s whereabouts are still unknown.¡±


    He had purposefully used his overpowering Reiatsu to force Harribel¡¯s hand, so she¡¯d join up with her Vasto Lorde aide ¡ª the one who had inspired Harribel''s defiance against his rule. It hadn¡¯t happened yet.


    ¡°Milord, may I make a suggestion?¡± asked the blonde servant standing behind him.


    ¡°What is it, Evanya?¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we capture them and get the information out of them?¡±


    She was tired of stalking her prey. She wanted to pounce and devour them.


    Baraggan casually dismissed her idea with an indifferent sweep of his skeletal hand. ¡°You underestimate Harribel. She¡¯d rather embrace death than betray her people. She is a foolish woman like you.¡±


    Baraggan may have a cult of his own, but Evanya had become his most devoted follower after he beat her into submission.


    ¡°I can make her speak,¡± Evanya said, her eyes glinting behind her white mask. ¡°Trust me, my Lord. My Aspect of Death can bend her will.¡±


    ¡°Submission?¡± Baraggan leaned his chin on his skeletal knuckles. ¡°Will it work on a Vasto Lorde?¡±


    Evanya shook her head. ¡°But Tier Harribel isn¡¯t alone.¡±


    ¡°Heh. Go. I¡¯ll disown you if you fail.¡±


    ¡°He is bad news¡ªwhy are you getting ready to fight him?¡± She almost yelled when she saw him cracking his knuckles in preparation for a fight.


    Kazuya spread his wings and continued stretching his arms. ¡°He is coming to start the fight, but I¡¯ll finish it. Besides, do you think he will let us leave now?¡±


    Beholding Baraggan in person, he could sense their Reiatsu to be on the same level. Arrancarization had improved his already vast Reiatsu.


    ¡®I want to see Oppression and Senescence clash.¡¯


    With Kazuya¡¯s swift regeneration and Soni?do, Baraggan couldn¡¯t possibly kill him even if he wanted to. Facing Baraggan one-on-one was the perfect opportunity to test the limits of his Arrancar form.


    As Baraggan arrived before him, he raised a hand in greeting. ¡°Hello, Baraggan.¡±


    Baraggan set his intense Reiatsu on Kazuya. ¡°Teaming up with a Shinigami. How terribly pathetic for you.¡±


    Kazuya smirked. ¡°Yoruichi, will you let him insult you like this?¡±


    ¡°Heh. I was banished from the Seireitei ages ago. His words don¡¯t ruffle my fur.¡±


    Ignoring her cat joke, he turned to Baraggan. ¡°Tell me, self proclaimed God King of Hueco Mundo, will I be called a Godslayer if I kill you?¡±


    Baraggan burst into laughter. ¡°Ant, you want to slay me? Just because you became a Vasto Lorde Arrancar, you think you can rival the God King? How comical.¡±


    ¡°Then let it be I who paves the path for ants to become god slayers.¡±


    With a tremendous burst of energy, Kazuya blurred into motion, reappearing in a breath behind Baraggan. But his movements were instantly slowed, as if treading through a swamp. The slow field around Baraggan was a perfect counter to melee fighters.


    Kazuya had no choice but to retreat with Soni?do. ¡°What an annoying ability.¡±


    Any close combat with Baraggan was useless as long as he surrounded himself in his Senescence.

 Chapter 55: Sweet Revenge

    Chapter 55: Sweet Revenge


    Baraggan was shrouded in a time-dilation field which sapped the speed from anything within its range. Confronting him in hand-to-hand combat was akin to suicide.


    Kazuya frowned. ¡®Is it just there to protect him from attacks or does it have hidden functions?¡¯


    He pondered, a maelstrom of theories whirling in his mind''s depths as he prepared to unleash another onslaught. Propelling himself forward with the supersonic speed of Soni?do, he paused at the brink of Baraggan''s time-twisted field, a vibrant Cero crackling ominously in his palm.


    The Cero Ray and Baraggan collided in a gargantuan eruption of searing light and churning energy, the force of the explosion sending shockwaves careening into the distance.


    As the chaotic display settled, Baraggan re-emerged, covered in a shroud of inky purple-black energy ¡ª his immense Reiatsu and his Senescence had weathered the brunt of Cero''s impact.


    Baraggan pointed his ax at Kazuya. ¡°These pathetic attacks won¡¯t affect me. I am the God of Death. Everything ages and decays under my command. My power is the only absolute law in this world.¡±


    Yoruichi let out a snort of derision at Baraggan¡¯s arrogant declaration. ¡°General Yamamoto will wipe the floor with you.¡±


    Baraggan redirected his attention towards Yoruichi. ¡°He and his captain entourage barely sealed Ikomikidomoe, the only Hollow who came close to rivaling my divinity. If your Captain is as powerful as you say, bring him to my kingdom. I¡¯ll slaughter him.¡±


    Yoruichi had no idea about the fight between General Yamamoto and Ikomikidomoe. Then again, she was barely three hundred years old ¡ª a large number for mortals but an insignificant number compared to the Seireitei¡¯s long history.


    ¡°Still, you will be burned to ashes in the General''s flames. Kazuya, you won¡¯t beat this guy by standing there!¡±


    Kazuya thrust his arm at Baraggan, who stood there, awaiting his attack. The King of Hueco Mundo was unwaveringly certain of his Senescence''s defensive capabilities.


    A surge of blue Reiatsu suddenly engulfed Baraggan, threatening to overpower the dark purple aura that cloaked him.


    However, Baraggan merely waved his hand. ¡°Suffer the dying breath... Respira.¡±


    A shroud of black-purple energy exploded outward from Baraggan, expanding ominously around him.


    Kazuya darted to Yoruichi, seized her, and raced a safe distance away from the deadly reach of Baraggan¡¯s Respira. The spreading breath gnawed at everything it touched. Luckily, the barren landscape of Hueco Mundo remained untouched ¡ª the white sands of Hueco Mundo were the dust of fallen Menos, and the skeletal trees were mere surface twigs of underground forests.


    ¡°Let go of me!¡± Yoruichi wriggled out of his grasp, snarling. ¡°Is that ability dangerous?¡±


    At the echo of Kazuya''s words, he clamped his skeletal fingers tighter. The force he exerted was barely enough to harm a low-ranking Hollow, yet the Zanpakuto? in his grasp shuddered before splintering into shards.


    The large Zanpakuto? of Baraggan was outside of the time field, allowing Kazuya to catch the arrogant king off-guard and break it with his Oppression.


    A chill breezed past Kazuya¡¯s neck, and he retreated hastily using Soni?do.


    Baraggan unleashed a gigantic wave of Respira, covering almost five hundred meters in death. It truly seemed as if someone incurred the wrath of a god.


    ¡°Unforgivable. Unforgivable. Unforgivable!¡± Baraggan''s voice echoed through the barren landscape, seething with rage. ¡°You won¡¯t get away with this. Repent for your insolence against the God of Hueco Mundo and turn to dust.¡±


    Kazuya couldn¡¯t have been happier to see Baraggan suffer. He had to stay away from his precious companions because of Baraggan¡¯s threats, even taking the massive risk of confronting Kisuke Urahara. How could he not relish this sweet sweet revenge?


    Furious, Baraggan chased Kazuya, frenziedly swinging massive amounts of Respira at him. Baraggan couldn''t match Kazuya¡¯s speed under normal circumstances. He could forget about catching Kazuya¡¯s combination of Soni?do and wings in his furious state.


    Kazuya¡¯s movements were simply unpredictable in Baraggan¡¯s state of madness.


    ¡°Hey, that stuff is dangerous. Stop chasing me like a yandere chases her love interest with a knife.¡±


    ¡°Perish. Perish. Perish. You worthless ant.¡±


    ...


    Yoruichi observed the unfolding spectacle, a spark of amusement flickering in her golden eyes. ¡°This guy, hahaha.¡±


    Baraggan Louisenbairn, the most formidable Hollow recorded in the Seireitei database, was being toyed with like a puppet on strings. No Shinigami would believe her tale, unless she dragged them to this godforsaken wasteland to witness the spectacle.


    All her concerns about Kazuya dying were completely unfounded. He had dismantled Baraggan¡¯s Zanpakuto? with negligible effort, stripping the King of Hollows of a significant portion of his power.


    ¡®Popcorn would be perfect right now.¡¯


    She wasn¡¯t any less mischievous than her childhood friend.

 Chapter 56: Destruction

    Chapter 56: Destruction


    The root of Baraggan''s rage was less about the destruction of his Zanpakuto? and more from the perpetrator of the act. The Hollow he had dismissed and looked upon with scorn had turned the tables, making a mockery out of him. His pride was wounded, and for this humiliation, he had to destroy Kazuya.


    His provocation ability had also fueled Baraggan¡¯s flames of fury.


    However furious Baraggan might be, he maintained enough self-control to cease his rampage before it could exhaust all his Reiryoku ¡ª an unfortunate outcome for the opportunist Kazuya.


    Sensing Baraggan''s reluctance, he halted and cast a smirking glance at Baraggan from afar. ¡°Can¡¯t stomp the lowly ant now, huh?¡±Geett the latest novels at novelhall.com


    Baraggan''s fists clenched, the familiar grasp of his ax absent from his hands. ¡°Insolent worm.¡±


    ¡°Hahahaha.¡±


    Yoruichi arrived by his side. ¡°You are having fun... I would do the same if I was in your situation.¡±


    ¡°This guy had me worried for so long. It feels great to see him like this.¡±


    Yoruichi''s gaze shifted to Baraggan, who hovered silently above them within the cloak of his Respira. His silent, brooding fury was unnerving on multiple levels. ¡°Fun and games aside, you have to eventually finish him.¡±


    ¡°Since we¡¯re allies now, why don¡¯t you finish him for me, Shiho?in-san?¡±


    Despite shattering Baraggan¡¯s Zanpakuto?, the battle had reached an impasse. Kazuya was yet to discover a strategy to neutralize Baraggan¡¯s time field, and he didn¡¯t possess enough firepower to obliterate Baraggan completely.


    At the very least, he had decrypted the actual purpose of Baraggan¡¯s time field ¡ª it counteracted the aging process of his Aspect of Death, enabling him to roleplay as the God of Death and Senescence.


    If the field was deactivated, Baraggan would be consumed by his own power ¡ª essentially the manner in which Baraggan met his demise in his battle against Soi Fon and the pink-haired Visored whose name he didn¡¯t remember.


    Yoruichi hissed. ¡°Stop joking. A melee fighter like me is the worst matchup for Baraggan. I also don¡¯t have your regeneration to contest with his decay mist.¡±


    She was guaranteed a death against Baraggan¡¯s utterly broken ability.


    Kazuya was aware that she might fare even worse than Soi Fon if pitted against Baraggan. After all, Soi Fon¡¯s Bankai was quite destructive for a ranged weapon. ¡°Then use your Zanpakuto?¡¯s Bankai form.¡±


    He was curious about Yoruichi¡¯s Zanpakuto? which never made it to the manga or anime. Even if it was weak, a Bankai was no joke.


    Kazuya raised his right hand and cut across his palm. As he curled his hand into a claw, a small blue orb crackled ominously, warping the fabric of space with its concentrated power. It was one of the Cero techniques he recalled Grimmjow using in his fight against Ichigo.


    ¡°You are using Gran Rey Cero against me?¡± Baraggan scoffed, unable to tear his eyes away from the destructive Cero. ¡°It¡¯s useless as well. You may have destroyed my Zanpakuto? but you cannot bring down God.¡±


    Kazuya appeared behind Baraggan with Soni?do and released the Cero at point-blank range. ¡°Die, asshole.¡±


    The ever-proud Baraggan didn¡¯t flinch, instead redirecting his Respira to engulf the Gran Cero Ray.


    Kazuya spotted the opportunity he had been awaiting. He quickly transformed into his human form and flashed to Baraggan¡¯s defenseless front, which was only protected by the time dilation field.


    Baraggan looked at Kazuya, whose Reiatsu signature had transitioned from that of a Hollow to that of countless humans Baraggan had consumed before. He refused to accept that his senses could be deceiving him.


    ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Instead of indulging Baraggan¡¯s curiosity, he conjured two katanas of pure Reishi. The higher concentration of Reishi in Hueco Mundo made his Reishi gathering easier, enhancing the power of his Spirit Weapons.


    He stepped closer, entering Baraggan¡¯s time dilation field, and slashed across Baraggan¡¯s chest. Baraggan quickly used Soni?do to retreat, only to feel a chill on his back. He directed his Respira towards his back, but Kazuya appeared in front of him using Hirenkyaku, the Quincy equivalent of Shunpo and Soni?do.


    Quincy¡¯s techniques were far more potent on Hollows, the same way a Hollow was poisonous to a Quincy. Respira could easily counter the Quincy offense but Baraggan had become frightened from Kazuya¡¯s unconvention abilities. He wouldn¡¯t take any of Kazuya¡¯s attacks head-on.


    So, the King of Hueco Mundo used Soni?do time and time again, but Kazuya consistently reached him in a split second as if he had locked onto his Reiatsu signature and was tracking him effortlessly.


    Confronted with the threat of extermination, Baraggan no longer used Soni?do to evade attacks but to retreat to a safer location.


    The cat-and-mouse game concluded when Baraggan ran out of Reiryoku to generate more Respira or use Soni?do. Kazuya thrust both katanas through the time dilation field, each entering Baraggan¡¯s hollow eye socket. Just for another layer of security, he conjured a crossbow and launched a dozen bolts through Baraggan, impaling every part of his body with blue bolts.


    Transforming back into his Hollow form, he smirked at Baraggan. ¡°I¡¯m a godslayer now.¡±


    Baraggan sneered. ¡°Celebrate this moment, Mortal. Evanya will kill Harribel and your other friends... including the treacherous Cirucci.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Who is Evanya?¡±


    Baraggan laughed at his question until he was utterly and thoroughly destroyed by the Quincy arrows.

 Chapter 57-58: Citadel of Dove

    Chapter 57-58: Citadel of Dove


    Sometime earlier.


    Apacci groaned as another group of Gillians skittered away. The Forest of Menos lived up to its haunting reputation ¡ª a twisted wilderness filled with towering trees and hordes of Menos, mainly Gillians. Yet, amid this writhing mass of potential prey, Apacci had not yet claimed a single Gillian as her meal.


    She vengefully looked at the offender snuggled in Harribel¡¯s embrace. The egg pulsed with a Reiatsu that had peaked at the Adjuchas rank, casting an invisible net of fear that sent any approaching Gillians skittering for safety.


    ¡°Can this egg just stop for ten minutes?¡±


    Sung-Sun''s laughter danced through the darkened forest at her companion''s misery. ¡°Fate doesn¡¯t wish for you to exceed me.¡±


    As if held by invisible strings, Harribel froze in her stride, her eyes instinctively drawn to the towering ceiling shrouded in darkness. ¡°I feel his Reiatsu there. He might be fighting Baraggan.¡°


    Apacci widened her eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s return.¡±


    ¡°Hehehe, I won¡¯t allow you to return.¡±


    An unexpected voice cut through their conversation, a playful note dancing within its depth. The owner of the voice, a blonde woman, descended gracefully before them, a Hollow mask on her face. Her humanoid silhouette and her colossal Reiatsu, was an undeniable testament to her formidable power ¡ª she was a Vasto Lorde.


    Harribel stepped in front of everyone, assuming a protective stance. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°Evanya, the beloved servant of God King.¡± She eyed Cirucci with a predatory gaze. ¡°You all will pay the price of rebelling against the God King. Even the traitor Cirucci Sanderwicci.¡±


    Cirucci responded with a growl, her teeth gritting in vexation. ¡°Blast you. I didn¡¯t betray Baraggan. My loyalty was never with him.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t absolve your sin of turning your back on our God.¡±


    Cirucci shot back, ¡°You weren¡¯t like this when you proclaimed yourself as the Queen of Hueco Mundo. What did Baraggan do to brainwash you like this?¡±


    Mila Rose gasped. ¡°Queen of Hueco Mundo? This woman?¡±


    With a solemn nod, Cirucci affirmed, ¡°She used to be the strongest female Hollow until recently when Harribel became a Vasto Lorde. She had her own faction full of women who found her inspiring.¡±


    ¡°How did she go from that to this bootlicking bitch?¡±


    A shrug was Cirucci''s only response. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Evanya scoffed at their exchange. ¡°Lord Baraggan showed me how feeble I was in comparison. He taught me the only way to live and thrive ¡ª follow the one with greater power. The same hierarchy applies to you as long as you¡¯re a Hollow living in the Hueco Mundo. Respect the Vasto Lorde because we are your gods.¡±


    Sharing a quick glance, Mila Rose and Cirucci smirked at Evanya''s remark.


    ¡°Excuses of a loser,¡± Mila Rose said, laughing. ¡°I¡¯d rather die than follow a pathetic piece of trash. Thankfully, it was Harribel-sama who rescued me. She is a leader worth dying for.¡±


    Cirucci giggled. ¡°Kazuya isn¡¯t that bad of a leader either. At the very least he isn¡¯t stuck-up about power and authority like Baraggan.¡±


    Evanya¡¯s Reiatsu erupted violently as she heard insults being thrown at her lord. She held her throat, her head twisting stiffly. ¡°This is the fault of simple-minded fools like you, Cirucci. You dwell on the past instead of looking into the future. I¡¯m glad Lord Baraggan didn¡¯t expose his ears to your foolish whispers.¡±


    ¡°Ara, aren¡¯t you stupidly romantic for a Hollow?¡± Sung-Sun finally opened her mouth, eyes twinkling with mischief. ¡°You are almost on Apacci¡¯s level of hopelessness.¡±


    Mila Rose quickly hid her laughter behind her hand. ¡°Sung-Sun speaking truth for the first time in her life.¡±


    Apacci growled, ¡°I¡¯m not romantic!¡±


    Growing increasingly vexed with their banter, Evanya spread her arms wide, her head tilting upwards towards the cavernous ceiling. Suddenly, a pair of wings, as pristine as newly fallen snow, broke through her back.


    The sudden manifestation of wings sent Mila Rose¡¯s senses into a frenzy. ¡°What is this?¡±


    ¡°Her ability most likely,¡± Cirucci cautioned, her voice barely a whisper. ¡°I have never seen her ability or heard anything about it. Stay on your toes.¡±


    In a flash of Soni?do, she was confronting Evanya, whose former wound was already knitting itself back together. Harribel hesitated not a moment as she lashed out, her sword streaking towards Evanya in a deadly arc. Baraggan¡¯s servant had pushed her to the brink with the attack on Sung-Sun, igniting her killing intent.


    Evanya nimbly avoided Harribel¡¯s furious attack, repositioning herself behind the vulnerable Sung-Sun. Her hand grazed Sung-Sun¡¯s scales, her gaze locked with Harribel''s as if to declare her control over Sung-Sun¡¯s life. ¡°You are wrong, Harribel. My poison has already seeped into her soul. It¡¯s only a matter of time she breaks down and becomes my puppet. Right? Be a good girl and tell me where your Vasto Lorde friend is.¡±


    She held no intention to harm or kill Harribel. Her aim was straightforward ¨C the acquisition of the Vasto Lorde¡¯s location, even if it meant employing her disgusting ability. The life of Adjuchas mattered nothing to her.


    ¡°I...¡± Sung-Sun hissed, refusing to fall under anyone¡¯s control. ¡°Won¡¯t.¡±


    Evanya chuckled at Sung-Sun''s tenacity and slapped Sung-Sun. ¡°Stubborn little Adjuchas, surrender your soul to¡ª¡±


    Her words were abruptly cut off as Sung-Sun retaliated with a sudden head-butt before she slammed her head onto the hard ground. Seizing the opportunity, Harribel rushed forward, her sword slicing Evanya¡¯s throat open before she drove it mercilessly into Evanya¡¯s chest and dragged it upward.


    Having divided her focus between regeneration and her unique ability, she lacked the necessary physical prowess to defend against Harribel¡¯s fury.


    Evanya collapsed to the ground, her eyes wide in shock. With her brain sliced in half, she couldn¡¯t regenerate anymore.


    Harribel pivoted her attention towards Sung-Sun. Once, twice, thrice ¡ª Sung-Sun continuously struck the ground with her head, uncontrollably releasing her own Reiatsu to fight off Evanya¡¯s seizing Reiatsu. The power of a Vasto Lorde was beyond Sung-Sun¡¯s capability to purge on her own.


    She chose her own way of dispelling Evanya¡¯s Reiatsu from her body ¡ª by taking off her mask and becoming an Arrancar.


    Mila Rose abandoned Apacci and Cirucci during their fight, rushing to Sung-Sun¡¯s side. ¡°Stop it, Snake. At this rate, you¡¯ll shatter your mask.¡±


    Yet Sung-Sun didn¡¯t stop her single-minded pursuit, prompting Mila Rose to physically intervene. Mila Rose allowed Sung-Sun''s head to rest on her shoulder, and she cradled Sung-Sun''s scales in her arms.


    ¡°Sung-Sun, try to understand. You can¡¯t do it without Kazuya.¡±


    ¡°Let... me... die.¡±


    Her words hung heavy in the air. She would prefer death to a fate of living as an empty vessel, devoid of consciousness.


    Mila Rose looked deep into Sung-Sun¡¯s nearly shut eyes and gave her face a light slap. ¡°Enough with this drama. You¡¯re not dying.¡±


    ¡°Sung-Sun,¡± Harribel murmured in a hushed whisper, her words echoing in the somber atmosphere. ¡°Keep fighting... Kazuya is on his way.¡±


    ¡°Skull? Oh wait, he is zooming here.¡±


    ...


    The moment Kazuya caught sight of the blood-soaked Harribel, his Reiatsu roared to life, blood rushing to his head. Without wasting any time, he materialized before Gantenbainne and landed a thunderous punch squarely on the Afro-haired man''s face. Gantenbainne''s head snapped back and he crumpled to the ground, lifeless, the result of a single devastating punch.


    Without sparing a glance at the shocked Apacci, Kazuya instantaneously teleported to the other side of the area where Harribel and Mila Rose were cradling the severely injured Sung-Sun.


    Out of everyone in the group, Sung-Sun was perhaps the last person Kazuya expected to be the most harmed. She might not have been the strongest, but she was certainly the most intelligent.


    Seeing her in this dire state was heartbreaking.


    Just then, Yoruichi arrived on the scene, finding the situation quite awkward for any kind of introduction. Unfamiliar with the physiological structure of a Hollow, she felt at a loss to provide any helpful suggestions.


    ¡°What happened?¡± demanded Kazuya as he ran his finger over Sung-Sun¡¯s shell-like mask. ¡°If it¡¯s wounds, Sung-Sun, eat that guy over there.¡±


    ¡°We have no time,¡± Mila Rose urgently stated. ¡°Evanya used her ability to control Snake¡¯s consciousness.¡±


    ¡°Mind control? No way...¡±


    ¡°There is still a chance if she becomes an Arrancar,¡± Cirucci intervened as she approached Kazuya, clutching his egg in her hands. ¡°When you break your mask, you are reborn and your Reiryoku increases. She might be able to resist Evanya¡¯s ability.¡±


    Trusting the urgency of the situation, he abruptly pulled back his hand and punched Sung-Sun¡¯s Hollow Mask. In an instant, the mask splintered apart, and Sung-Sun was engulfed in a luminescent pink glow.

 Chapter 59: Rebirth

    Chapter 59: Rebirth


    The atmosphere was thick with tension as everyone watched Sung-Sun undergo her transformation. Even Yoruichi, who was known for her playful nature, looked on with a level of fascination she hadn''t expected to feel for a Hollow. The determination and worry of Kazuya and his friends had somehow reached her, making her silently cheer for the snake Hollow.


    Kazuya and his companions had changed her entire outlook on the Hollow race in one single day. That Hollows could be just as human as Shinigami.


    She finally comprehended fragments of Kisuke¡¯s obsession with the Hollow race.


    ¡°It¡¯s almost done...¡± Apacci muttered. ¡°Sung-Sun, show yourself already!¡±


    As the luminescent pink glow surrounding Sung-Sun receded, everyone held their breaths. Sung-Sun appeared in her Resurreccio?n form, just like Mila Rose had done following her transformation.


    While Mila Rose was strikingly alluring, Sung-Sun exuded a certain elegance. Her face was youthful and her hair, a dark shade of green that looked almost black, was styled in a classic hime cut with long side bangs framing her face. A fragment of her shell-like mask rested on the right side of her head, and the three pink dots on either side of her face added to her overall charm.


    Her Resurreccio?n form was significantly smaller than her original form. She was now a stunning young woman with the lower body of a snake ¡ª a lamia.


    Upon emerging from her transformation, Sung-Sun''s pale pink eyes immediately focused on Kazuya. She surged forward, throwing her arms around him in a tight embrace. Her thick tail coiled around him possessively, as though she had no intention of ever letting him go. Her grip around him was akin to vice but he barely felt a thing with his Hierro.


    ¡°You¡¯re back,¡± she squealed, excitement dripping from her voice. ¡°Thanks for saving me.¡±


    Mila Rose huffed quietly, looking away from the scene with a bit of a sulk. She felt a tinge of annoyance at Sung-Sun for completely overlooking her role in all of this. Meanwhile, Apacci watched the display with a sharp gaze. She was glad for Sung-Sun''s survival, but it also filled her with a sense of melancholy. The stark reality was beginning to hit her¡ªshe was the only one among them who hadn''t assumed a humanoid form yet, despite yearning for it the most.


    ¡®I¡¯ll become a Vasto Lorde first then Arrancar.¡¯Yo?ur favorite stories at novelhall.com


    Her eyes briefly scanned over the two fresh corpses on the field¡ªone a Vasto Lorde and the other an Arrancar of Adjuchas rank. She firmly believed that consuming them would elevate her rank.


    ¡®Be patient. Don¡¯t look desperate in front of Kazuya.¡¯


    She had to be careful not to tarnish her image in his eyes. With Mila Rose and Harribel already wrapping his heart around their fingers, she couldn''t afford to give him more reasons to overlook her.


    "Do you have a problem with my gender?" Yoruichi asked, amused. ¡°Assuming a cat¡¯s gender from their appearance is sexist.¡±


    "No, I didn''t," Mila Rose quickly replied. "I just assumed you were a girl. It¡¯s impossible to imagine Skull keeping a male companion."


    ¡°Kazuya didn¡¯t tell me all of his Hollow friends were women...¡± Yoruichi looked at Apacci, whose gender was impossible to guess from eyes. ¡°I presume you¡¯re a girl.¡±


    ¡°I am!¡±


    While Yoruichi was busy introducing herself, Cirucci stealthily approached and pounced at her. But Yoruichi nimbly jumped away, leaving Cirucci to fall flat on her face.


    ¡°Ha! You can''t catch me.¡±


    Her taunts only fueled Cirucci¡¯s desire to catch her and pet her.


    ...


    Apacci snuck away from the group, slinking toward Evanya''s lifeless form. The dense Reiatsu still clinging to the body was a heady, intoxicating scent that sent her senses reeling. The scent tantalized her predatory instincts, coaxing a pool of ravenous desire.


    Suddenly, Sung-Sun slithered onto the scene, her movements quick and graceful. Her delicate hand playfully masked her mouth. ¡°Don¡¯t steal my game, Evanya is mine to eat.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s eyes narrowed to mere slits, her Reiatsu flaring against her will. ¡°Let me...¡±


    Sung-Sun looked between Apacci and Evanya. ¡°Alright... You can eat her. But you will owe me one for this.¡±


    Being Sung-Sun¡¯s regular victim, Apacci knew Sung-Sun could get very handy with her requests.


    A tense silence hung heavy between the two Hollows as a clash of will ensued. Sung-Sun didn¡¯t blink, unwavering in her request. ¡°Deal or not?¡±


    Apacci nodded her head, unable to resist the promise of an evolution. ¡°Deal.¡±


    Apacci wasted no time then, throwing herself at the feast of Reiatsu before her. Each bite she took was filled with a desperate ferocity, a battle of survival and ambition. It was a sight that held an eerie beauty, an act of raw, primitive nature unfolding in its most visceral form.

 Chapter 60: Awaken

    Chapter 60: Awaken


    Apacci threw her head back and let out a blood-curdling roar. It wasn¡¯t a roar of triumph but one of frustration and rage.


    Sung-Sun watched her companion with a soft sigh. Even though Baraggan''s problem had been solved, the flame of Apacci¡¯s struggle for inner peace still burned brightly. She ate both corpses and even gained a definite boost in strength, yet there was no Vasto Lorde evolution.


    ¡°Just why isn¡¯t it happening?¡± Apacci whispered, staring blankly into the void. ¡°I¡¯m getting stronger but why won¡¯t I become a Vasto Lorde?¡±


    Sung-Sun folded back her exaggeratedly long sleeve and extended her hand to pat Apacci¡¯s head. ¡°We, Hollows, live for a long time. There is no rush. Our biggest enemy has been sent to the afterlife by our dear Kazuya.¡±


    Apacci blinked in surprise at Sung-Sun¡¯s unexpected display of kindness. ¡°I¡¯m not doing it for strength.¡±


    A playful arch of Sung-Sun''s eyebrow hinted at her curious amusement. ¡°What else could be your reason?¡±


    Apacci groaned Sung-Sun¡¯s intentionally feigned ignorance. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t understand.¡±


    ¡°Then make me understand.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s for...¡± Apacci¡¯s eyes shifted, landing on Kazuya. His comforting smile greeted her. ¡°Him.¡±


    ¡°Ara, Apacci can be honest too. Who could have imagined that?¡±


    Sung-Sun could never put a break to her teasing. Apacci had no choice but to admit that Sung-Sun was a perfect pair with someone like Kazuya.


    ¡°You are such a bitch,¡± Apacci grumbled, her earlier despair replaced by a renewed resolve after talking to Sung-Sun. ¡°I need your help... Sung-Sun.¡±


    ¡°Kukuku. Speak up.¡±


    ¡°I think Kazuya will leave for the Living World with everyone. Can you stay in Hueco Mundo with me?¡±


    She needed some company to keep hunting down more Hollow ¡ª the Forest of Menos being the perfect place to fulfill her objective.


    Sung-Sun''s curiosity piqued, yet her playful smile didn''t falter. ¡°Ara, have you become addicted to my teasing? Is this a sign of your budding masochism?¡±


    ¡°No! I want to start with the Menos here...¡±


    Sung-Sun narrowed her eyes, suddenly looking serious. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if Harribel-sama will agree with this.¡±


    ¡°Should I say, ¡®As expected of Mommy Harribel?¡¯¡±


    Mila Rose snickered at his comment. ¡°The feelings¡ª¡± The dark-skinned Arrancar paused as Harribel placed her sword arm around her neck. ¡°H-Harribel-sama?¡±


    ¡°Do not bring up our private conversations.¡± Harribel gently pushed Mila Rose and gave a soft-eyed glance to Kazuya. ¡°Shall we go now?¡±


    ¡°What was¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shall we go now?¡± Harribel repeated her question, her eyes closing as she tilted her head slightly. ¡°Kazuya, shall we go now?¡±


    An icy aura emanated from Harribel, filling the air with an unmistakable chill. It was as if she projected an unspoken warning: ¡®Argue with me now and you¡¯ll regret it.¡¯


    Mila Rose shivered tugged at Kazuya¡¯s shirt. ¡°Just say yes, dammit! Do you want all of us to die?!¡±


    Ignoring the urgency, he stood his ground. ¡°Harribel, I¡¯m not letting this slide. We will talk about this later, alone.¡±


    His stern tone left Harribel with wide eyes. She couldn¡¯t threaten her way out of the situation when Kazuya was involved. Now she had no choice but to engage in an embarrassment-filled conversation about her ¡®instincts¡¯ and the way she treated him.


    ¡°Okay...¡± Her voice was subdued, a clear indication of her discomfort.


    Kazuya smiled comfortingly. ¡°I¡¯ll be gentle, Harribel.¡±


    Finished with Harribel, he looked at the figures disappearing into the distance. Yoruichi was clearly having a blast being chased by Cirucci, who displayed an admirable level of tenacity, much like their battle a few days ago.


    ¡®Is she into cats?¡¯


    A sudden, spine-chilling glare jerked him out of his thoughts. Swiveling around, he found himself staring at a figure sporting a Hollow Mask. Despite the intimidating disguise, the figure''s Reiatsu was unmistakably that of a Shinigami.


    ¡®A Shinigami impersonating as a Hollow? Wait, I think I remember him from the filler arc.¡¯


    He didn¡¯t remember the Shinigami¡¯s name but he vaguely recalled the backstory behind this Shinigami roleplaying as a Hollow. The Shinigami had followed some Hollows inside a Garganta and ended up in the Forest of Menos. Rather than returning home, the Shinigami decided to stay and kill as many Hollows as possible.


    ¡®Are you stupid enough to attack two Vasto Lorde?¡¯


    Sure enough, the Shinigami tactically retreated after a few cautious glances. Kazuya sighed in relief. The last thing he wanted was to kill a Shinigami in Yoruichi¡¯s presence.

 Chapter 61: A Wild Chase

    Chapter 61: A Wild Chase


    Beneath the blanket of the Garganta''s pitch-black sky, Kazuya¡¯s group strolled without a rush, their casual pace showing their relaxed mental state.


    ¡°Yo, why are you still in your Resurreccio?n? It¡¯s gonna drain you dry,¡± Mila Rose asked, her voice echoing in the darkness.


    Sung-Sun shook her head. ¡°I can¡¯t run around naked. My skin is not as thick as yours.¡±


    Her base form also left her naked like Mila Rose. The dark-skinned Arrancar was still running around in Kazuya¡¯s shirt.


    Mila Rose rolled her eyes. ¡°Fuck you.¡±


    Yoruichi let out a soft laugh. The playful banter between them was light, a sharp contrast to the stern interactions among most Shinigami groups. Yoruichi found herself understanding why Kazuya risked so much to save them. ¡°You''re quite a close-knit group, aren''t you? How did you manage to welcome a man into your fold?¡±


    She knew of Mila Rose¡¯s obvious bias towards men and this intrigued her even more.


    ¡°My integration went more smoothly than I expected,¡± Kazuya said. ¡°Only Mila Rose showed some resistance in accepting me.¡±


    ¡°Oh, what did you do? Saved her life? Charmed her with your voice?¡±


    Shaking his head, he replied with a playful tone, ¡°I waved my magic wand and cast a love spell. Now she is even ready to have my children. I went overboard...¡±


    The shocked outcry of Mila Rose echoed across the void. "Who would have your kids? This guy can''t stop spouting lies!"


    ¡°Hahaha,¡± Yoruichi laughed and pointed at the egg held by Harribel. ¡°What¡¯s the story of that egg?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the byproduct of Mila Rose¡¯s intense passion for me.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s her egg.¡±


    ¡°He is spitting bullshit again!¡± Mila Rose retorted. ¡°It¡¯s his egg. His Zanpakuto?. I got this sword after I became an Arrancar. He got a friggin¡¯ egg.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You are telling me you defeated the King of Hollows without your Zanpakuto??¡±


    ¡°It was a tough fight, though. I couldn¡¯t have done it without you. So, thanks, Shiho?in-san.¡±


    His sincere smile and smooth voice were a disastrous combination that made her heart flutter. Having the thick skin of a crocodile, she stared at him without any emotion. ¡°Don¡¯t mention it.¡±


    Feeling left out, Apacci nudged Kazuya''s leg with her horn. ¡°You haven''t told us about your time in the Living World. What were you up to?¡±


    He observed the obviously jealous deer walking by his side and placed a hand on her head. ¡°Should I summarize it?¡±


    ¡°Sure...¡±


    ¡°Well, I was adopted by a beautiful sister, who wants to slay Hollows but is restricted from killing them by Shinigami. I found a friend in a maid, who loves every piece of romance literature." His words painted a vibrant picture, each detail more intriguing than the last. "Then, I awakened new powers which let me kill Baraggan for good. To top it all off, I made allies with a genius Shinigami outcast and his childhood friend who, interestingly enough, loves shape-shifting into a cat form. That¡¯s an apt summary.¡±


    ...


    Minutes later, Lisa stepped out of the car. Beyond the open shutter laid a warehouse filled with junk. She lingered at the edge, a little uncertain about asking for help.


    ¡°Hey, Lisa!¡± Shinji¡¯s voice echoed from the warehouse''s cavernous interior. He emerged from the shadowy interior, a crease forming on his forehead as he spotted Lisa. "Why are you still wearing that? Are ya here to say goodbye and leave us for that¡ª"


    His words were abruptly silenced as a swift kick sent him sprawling onto the ground.


    Hiyori, the instigator of the sudden attack, darted out of the warehouse, her gaze falling on Lisa. ¡°Why are you here? Shouldn¡¯t you be on cleaning duty in that mansion?¡±


    A faint smile tugged at the corners of Lisa''s lips at the sight of Shinji and Hiyori''s display of sibling love. ¡°Where is Hachi? I need his help in tracking down someone.¡±


    Hachigen Ushoda, former Vice Captain of Kido? Corps, had numerous Kido?. One of them could certainly take care of her problem.


    Hiyori stomped up to Lisa, her arms crossed as she frowned up at the maid. ¡°Weren¡¯t you instructed to act like a human maid? Why are they sending you out on search missions?¡±


    ¡°I''m a human maid who can''t manifest her Reishi gathering ability,¡± Lisa corrected Hiyori, her tone matter-of-fact. ¡°This isn''t the time for an interrogation. This is urgent.¡±


    "Ugh, alright." Hiyori looked over her shoulder, calling out to the man still within the warehouse. "Hachi! Hey, Hachi! Get out here!"


    Moments later, a rotund man with short pink hair came out. He exuded a gentlemanly aura, emphasized by his olive-green tuxedo and neatly trimmed mustache. ¡°Lisa, you¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Hachi, help me out. Just a small task.¡±


    Hachigen interlocked his fingers as he raised a brow, a little skeptical about Lisa¡¯s request. ¡°I have nothing on hand. I suppose I can help you out. Don¡¯t give me too hard of a task.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±


    Lisa drove while explaining the task at hand.


    Hachigen placed a hand on his chin. ¡°I can cast Bakudo #56 ¡®Motomeru (Seek the Shadows). There is a drawback. The trailing mechanism of this spell isn¡¯t very quick.¡±


    ¡°I knew I could count on you, Hachi.¡±


    Upon their arrival outside the Ishida Mansion, Hachigen immediately picked up on the remnants of Kazuya''s Reiatsu. He began forming symbols in the air, his golden Reiatsu conjuring words. ¡°Chase them, you black spirit of the night! Gaze upon this with curiosity and then seek the traitor out with your howls!¡±


    As Hachigen¡¯s words echoed in the air, Lisa saw black trails come to life. ¡°That was easier than I thought.¡±


    Hachigen closed his eyes, giving her a soft smile. ¡°Most things in life are easy, but we needlessly complicate them.¡±


    Lisa chuckled at his wise quote. ¡°Yeah. Yeah. Let¡¯s chase this guy.¡±


    She broke into a dash, following the trails. She was following familiar streets, the route giving her a feeling of deja vu. After weaving through narrow alleyways and bustling main roads for several minutes, the reason behind her sense of deja vu fell into place. She skidded to a halt in front of a building she knew all too well ¡ª Kisuke Urahara''s Shop.

 CHAPTER 62: A Useless Gigai

    CHAPTER 62: A Useless Gigai


    As the Garganta gateway whispered shut behind him, Kazuya was met with an expanse that sprawled out in stark contrast to the world he¡¯d left behind. Not a lush field of verdant green, but rather a bare landscape that stretched out before him. This place, as barren as it was, felt like a slice of paradise when contrasted with the dark nightscape of Hueco Mundo. The sole reason for that was the pseudo-sunlight cast over everything, a byproduct of a kido? spell.


    Yoruichi had directly brought them to the huge underground chamber under the Urahara Shop.


    Mila Rose¡¯s eyes swept over the vista. ¡°W-Whoa? It¡¯s so bright!¡± Her excitement was reminiscent of a small-town individual stepping foot into a gleaming metropolis for the first time. ¡°Skull, we''re finally seeing the light!¡±


    The rest of the group seemed equally awestruck, though they chose to express it in the silent marveling of their surroundings, unlike Apacci, who wanted to maintain a cool image.


    ¡°It¡¯s rather nice...¡± Cirucci said, feeling the sunlight caress her skin. She tilted her head towards Yoruichi. ¡°Mister Cat, is this your home?¡±


    Yoruichi couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the misconception around her gender and form. It seemed like they had ignored Kazuya¡¯s direct elaboration on her shapeshifting ability and took her cat form as her real form. ¡°Nope. Just a training place for Kisuke. Speaking of that guy. Kisuke, get your ass down here!¡±


    "Coming, coming." The response came from a door hundreds of meters above them, and moments later Kisuke appeared, casually jumping down to join them. He curiously observed them, Harribel in particular. ¡°This lowly merchant Kisuke Urahara is humbled by your appearance.¡±


    ¡°Stop with the useless flattery.¡± Yoruichi almost rolled her eyes. ¡°These are Kazuya¡¯s friends. More human-looking than we expected, right?¡±


    ¡°Certainly, Yoruichi-san.¡± Kisuke turned to Kazuya, his lips slowly curling into a smile. ¡°Kazuya-san, to think you befriended a Vasto Lorde and high-level arrancars... are you attempting to build an army of powerful Hollows for revenge?¡±


    He was talking about Kazuya¡¯s ¡®past¡¯ with Aizen, which Harribel and others weren¡¯t aware of.


    The word ¡®revenge¡¯ reverberated around the underground space. This stirred Apacci and Harribel, their gazes fixating on Kazuya with a newfound curiosity and suspicion.


    ¡°Is it about Baraggan?¡± Harribel connected the dots to the wrong individual. ¡°If so, he¡¯s already been dealt with.¡±


    ¡°Bara¡ª¡±


    Kazuya cut Kisuke with a friendly smile. ¡°Yup, Baraggan. He was such a pain in the ass.¡± He gave the shopkeeper a sidelong glance and a wink. ¡°Right, Urahara-san?¡±


    Even Mila Rose, typically the least sharp, grasped the purpose of the Gigai from Yoruichi¡¯s simplified explanation. ¡°Skull wanted these for us?¡±


    There was a note of appreciation in her voice as she realized that Kazuya wasn''t just looking for a way to hide them; he was searching for a means to help them integrate with humans and experience a life that only he could access as a Hollow with his mysterious ability.


    The sentiment was mirrored in Cirucci''s softened gaze.


    Apacci pressed her head affectionately against his arm. ¡°Sung-Sun was wrong... I knew you wouldn''t betray us.¡±


    Kazuya was taken aback at the mention of betrayal. He was about to question it when a familiar Reiatsu prickled his senses.


    Glancing up, he caught sight of the one person who should never see him surrounded by Hollows in his Hollow form. ¡°Damn it...¡±


    His life as a Quincy had run its course, but he was unwilling to sever his bonds with Izumi and Lisa just yet. Yet, with Lisa''s arrival, it seemed all but guaranteed.


    ¡®No, not like this. There should be a way.¡¯


    His ever-optimistic and manipulative mind began to weave a new plot.


    Yoruichi, who hadn¡¯t seen Lisa for years, tilted her head. ¡°Why is Lisa Yado?maru dressed as a maid? Why does she look so lost?¡±


    She had only ever seen Lisa berating Shunsui Kyoraku with borderline cold faces. Seeing Lisa shocked was a completely new sight.


    Kisuke took a step back from the group as though trying to fade into the background. ¡°This escalated to the moon. Yoruichi-san, get some popcorn. We¡¯re about to be subjected to peak cinema.¡±


    Yoruichi sharpened her gaze. ¡°Is there a relationship between her and Kazuya?¡±


    ¡°There is,¡± Kisuke confirmed, fluttering his fan. ¡°I¡¯ll explain later.¡±


    The mere prospect of the impending chaos put a mischievous grin on his face.

 CHAPTER 63: Back and forth

    CHAPTER 63: Back and forth


    Lisa''s gaze was locked onto Kazuya, shock apparent in her wide eyes. Her expectations had painted a very different picture ¡ª one of Kazuya captured by Kisuke. Yet here he was, in the midst of a group of Hollows, a dominant leader rather than a captive. The atmosphere around him, the very essence of his Reiatsu, had transformed, so much so that if she closed her eyes, she would perceive him as an entirely different entity. His aura was undeniably similar to those she had always considered her enemies.


    A Hollow/Arrancar.


    A tremor of unease stirred within her, resonating from her Inner Hollow. ¡°Impossible...¡±


    ...


    Meanwhile, Harribel¡¯s group identified Lisa. Her frilly dress allowed Harribel and others to connect her to the maid in Kazuya¡¯s story.


    ¡°It¡¯s your maid friend,¡± Mila Rose said and looked at Kazuya, who was still in his Hollow form. ¡°Wait, should she be seeing you like this?¡±


    Kazuya merely shook his head, a subtle flicker of sorrow in his eyes.


    Apacci had a sinking feeling that the Kazuya she knew and cared for was slipping further away from her. ¡°Send her away. This friendship is over...¡±


    Kazuya had told her that the maid belonged to a Quincy faction ¡ª the avid haters of the Hollow race. Now that the maid had seen Kazuya in his Hollow form, they would never see eye to eye, becoming enemies.


    Sung-Sun tugged gently at Apacci¡¯s tail. ¡°Let him deal with this.¡±


    A soft grumble escaped Apacci. ¡°I was just giving advice. He doesn¡¯t need to follow my words.¡±


    ¡°Apacci, the world isn¡¯t as black and white as it¡¯s in Hueco Mundo.¡± Kazuya''s hand softly patted her head. He then turned to Harribel. ¡°Can you take them away for a few minutes? I need to address some issues.¡±


    Harribel''s gaze rested on Lisa for a moment before she nodded. ¡°Come with me.¡±Geett the latest novels at novelhall.com


    With a gentle tap on Apacci¡¯s back, she used Soni?do to flash onto a distant hilltop. The rest followed her, albeit with evident reluctance.


    Kazuya looked away from Apacci and gave a smile to Lisa. ¡°Are you waiting for me to carry you down here like a princess?¡±


    Gracefully, she leaped down, her braided ponytail fluttering in the air as she landed. Her eyes flicked to the retreating Hollows before settling back on Kazuya.


    ¡°Kazuya, who¡ªwhat are you?¡±


    ¡°I am a Hollow.¡±


    ¡°How?¡± Lisa stared at him. ¡°You were a Quincy. How can¡ª¡±


    She cut herself off as she watched him transform into a more familiar form ¡ª one without the menacing black wings and Hollow aura.


    ¡°I can switch between both.¡±


    ¡°You saw through me... this is so embarrassing.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t look embarrassed, though.¡± He shrugged. ¡°Nothing''s gonna change. I¡¯ll continue being Izumi Onee-chan¡¯s Otouto. You¡¯ll be her maid until you¡¯re bored of it.¡±


    A slow nod was her response, her mind slowly wrapping itself around the situation. With Yoruichi''s and Kisuke''s stamps of approval, she could concede that Kazuya wasn¡¯t the villainous Hollow she had feared. ¡°Why did you come to Karakura?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just here to chill with my friends.¡±


    ¡°Your friends?¡± Lisa¡¯s gaze went to the Hollows in the distance. ¡°Those Hollows?¡±


    ¡°Yup. Pretty nice bunch.¡±


    ¡°Pretty and nice they are,¡± she said with a calm look. ¡°What was Shiho?in-san trying to tell me? What did you used to be?¡±


    ¡°Take a guess.¡±


    ¡°Pervert.¡±


    ¡°Stop projecting on others.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    He laughed at her speechless face. ¡°By the way, how did Onee-chan take to my disappearance?¡±


    ¡°She has been worrying nonstop about you. She¡¯d have searched you on foot if I wasn¡¯t there.¡±


    He let out a long sigh. ¡°Should I return?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t reveal anything about me being a Hollow.¡±


    A nod was Lisa''s agreement, her eyes turning soft as she looked up at him. There was an unexpected relief in sharing her guilt with someone. ¡°How long will we deceive her? Lies don¡¯t last forever, Kazuya.¡±


    ¡°Sometimes a comforting lie is better than a harsh truth.¡±


    ¡°A harsh truth may be painful, but it is the only way to true freedom and growth.¡±


    He rolled his eyes at her. "This isn''t a competition for countering each other with quotes.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡±

 Chapter 64: The Unkind

    Chapter 64: The Unkind


    ¡°Kazuya, did Kisuke snitch on me?¡±


    Back in Urahara Shop, Lisa threw another question at Kazuya, her gaze emanating cold anger. She suspected Kisuke of revealing her background to Kazuya for obvious reasons.


    Kazuya maintained a neutral expression, knowing well that a simple nod of his head could land Kisuke in a whirlwind of trouble. He was tempted to say yes, but given Kisuke¡¯s cunning, he would evade Lisa unscathed.


    He shook her head. ¡°I knew who you were the moment I heard your name.¡±


    ¡°How? Is it also related to your mysterious past?¡±


    ¡°Kind of.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t lying but he wasn¡¯t telling the truth either. Honestly, he hadn¡¯t expected his bullshit lies to ever reach this point. He had hoped the truth would remain between the Urahara gang and him, but Yoruichi and Kisuke almost revealed it to Apacci and others.


    Lisa stared at him, feeling tempted to solve the mystery. ¡°I¡¯ll get it out of you one day.¡±


    ¡°Keep dreaming.¡±


    As they traversed through the shop, the muffled sounds of a conversation emanated from a room nearby. Lisa, without a second thought, opened the door. Tessai, the former Commander of the Kido? Corps and his Vice-Chief, Hachigen, were having a casual chat over tea.


    Hachigen¡¯s gaze drifted to Kazuya, his lips curling up into a knowing smile. "So, you found him. I¡¯d appreciate a detailed update later, if that''s possible."


    Lisa knew Hachigen was misunderstanding her relationship with Kazuya but she was too lazy to correct him. ¡°No problem, Hachi. I¡¯ll see you later.¡±


    ¡°Bye, Lisa.¡±


    With a nod towards Hachigen, Kazuya followed Lisa out of the shop, leaving the two Kido? masters to their discussion.


    ...


    In the meantime, Apacci kept her gaze locked on the door through which Kazuya and Lisa had vanished. ¡°That jerk. Shouldn¡¯t he say something before leaving?¡±


    Sung-Sun couldn¡¯t help but giggle. It was clear that Apacci was simmering with jealousy at the sight of Kazuya leaving with Lisa, a woman of considerable beauty.


    Harribel, on the other hand, looked at Apacci with a look of disapproval. ¡°I¡¯m glad they didn¡¯t become enemies. Do you want Kazuya to be sad or happy?¡±


    Apacci huffed her head away, acting like she didn¡¯t care in either state, even though her consideration for Kazuya was only second to Harribel. No one beat Harribel when it came to caring for Kazuya.


    ¡°Now they will become something else,¡± whispered Sung-Sun, grinning mischievously. ¡°Mila Rose, Kazuya promised to buy us clothes. Let¡¯s drag him to the shop after we¡¯re given a suitable Gigai.¡±


    Mila Rose clutched her shirt which still had the lingering scent of Kazuya. She had made a little bond with the clothing since it was her first ever shirt. ¡°Right. I¡¯ll bury it somewhere safe.¡±


    He pointed at Sung-Sun and then swung his finger towards Cirucci. ¡°I¡¯m a little confused. Are you an Arrancar or not?¡±


    Sung-Sun arched an eyebrow. ¡°Do you know about Resurreccio?n?¡±


    Kisuke frowned before shaking his head. It was his first time hearing the term. His knowledge on Hollows was half baked compared to his knowledge on Shinigami. ¡°Teach me!¡±


    ¡°...Just like Shinigami have various release levels for their Zanpakuto?, we, Arrancars, have our own form of release. We call it Resurreccio?n.¡±


    ¡°Interesting.¡± Kisuke¡¯s voice was filled with intrigue. ¡°Doesn¡¯t that mean Kazuya-san can grow even stronger?¡±


    He hadn¡¯t seen Kazuya in his Resurreccio?n state, leading him to reassess Kazuya¡¯s strength.


    ¡°Technically, yes,¡± said Cirucci. ¡°However, he has yet to awaken his Zanpakuto?.¡±


    ¡°Awaken?¡±


    ¡°You should ask your friend Yoruichi. He knows about Kazuya¡¯s unique condition.¡±


    Kisuke chuckled, hearing Yoruichi being referred to as a man. ¡°That brings me to my second question. Are you in a constant release state like the Lamia lady?¡±


    He would¡¯ve classified her in the same category as Harribel if it weren''t for the trace amounts of Shinigami Reiatsu emanating from her.


    Cirucci patiently explained her condition. She wouldn¡¯t have bothered with Kisuke if he wasn¡¯t Kazuya¡¯s ally. ¡°Do you understand now?¡±


    ¡°Arrancar¡¯s Zanpakuto? are just like Shinigami¡¯s, except they don¡¯t have spirits.¡±


    Kisuke cupped his chin, contemplating the comparison between the Arrancar and the Visored. Both of them possessed powers of Hollow and Shinigami. However, Visored''s Hollow attributes were significantly weaker than natural Hollows, and likewise, the Arrancar¡¯s Shinigami attributes were weaker.


    ¡®It¡¯s no surprise the Gigai I made for the Visored is working perfectly with them.¡¯


    Once again he observed Cirucci. His Bankai could theoretically reconstruct her severed wings and arms, but the effects would be nullified once he deactivated the Bankai. Even if the effect was temporary, he couldn¡¯t recklessly reveal his trump card.


    ¡®She can manage like this.¡¯


    He looked at Harribel. ¡°I¡¯ll inform Kazuya when I¡¯m done with your Gigai.¡±


    Apacci stepped out from behind Sung-Sun. ¡°Mister, don¡¯t make mine yet.¡±


    She had decided to return to Hueco Mundo after spending some time with Kazuya. The Gigai Kisuke will make for her now will become obsolete for her humanoid form.


    ¡°Less work for me~.¡±


    The lazy shopkeeper couldn¡¯t be happier with the arrangement.

 Chapter 65: Izumi’s Grand Scheme

    Chapter 65: Izumi¡¯s Grand Scheme


    A tide of relief flooded Izumi as she laid eyes on Kazuya returning with Lisa. She rushed toward him, her face wearing a bright smile.


    ¡°Otouto-kun.¡±


    ¡°Onee-chan!¡±


    She buried her face in his chest. ¡°Tell us before you disappear next time.¡±


    Lisa blankly stared at the brother and sister hugging each other happily. Rather than siblings, Izumi came off as his little sister. ¡°Izumi-sama, you wouldn¡¯t believe where I found him.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s eyes met Lisa¡¯s sadistic gaze, which indicated a mischievous plan on the horizon. She was most likely taking revenge for making her run all over the town or perhaps backing out of the date. Instead of interrupting her, he nudged her to continue feeding lies to Izumi.


    ¡°Where was he?¡± Izumi asked, stepping away from his warm embrace. ¡°I was so worried.¡±


    ¡°He was in a love hotel with a married woman. Thankfully, I reached there before he could get physical with her.¡±


    Izumi sucked in a sharp breath. ¡°Otouto-kun, is that true?¡±


    Kazuya let out a sigh. Of all the possible lies in the world, she chose the cliche cheating trope from the romance novels. ¡°That poor woman was in need of desperate love. You know how influential my voice is, Onee-chan. She might¡¯ve done something horrible if I wasn¡¯t there.¡±


    He added more depth to Lisa¡¯s one-dimensional story, more than willing to play along with her little games.


    Izumi''s features softened, and a gentle smile played on her lips. ¡°You saved her from a horrible fate.¡±


    ¡°But, Izumi-sama, don¡¯t overlook his sin,¡± Lisa interjected, a hint of urgency in her voice. ¡°Ask him why he was in bed with her?¡±


    ¡°She wanted to reward me,¡± he said, shaking his head. ¡°I haven''t had sex for two months. You ruined everything, Lisa.¡±


    Izumi swiveled to face Lisa. ¡°I know I sent you to find Kazuya... but you could¡¯ve waited until he had settled his private business.¡±


    ¡°Kazuya!¡± At his entrance, Apacci sprung up from her position and unwittingly nuzzled her head against his palm, as if seeking affectionate pats. ¡°Did you unfriend that Shinigami witch?¡±


    He cast a quizzical glance at her adorable gesture. ¡°How do you know Lisa is a Shinigami?¡±


    ¡°My guess was right, fufu,¡± Sung-Sun chimed in. ¡°Yoruichi and Kisuke were familiar with Lisa. Her being Shinigami made more sense than a Quincy.¡±


    He gave her a round of applause. Others may have grown in raw power but Sung-Sun¡¯s observation skills grew at a frightening pace. ¡°Actually she isn¡¯t a Shinigami. I¡¯ll tell you about her some other time.¡±


    Apacci bit his hand. ¡°Can we stop talking about her?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about you then, my sweetheart.¡±


    ¡°W-What?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve grown pretty strong. How much did my gluttonous little deer eat?¡±


    In terms of sheer power, Apacci now stood shoulder to shoulder with the base form of Mila Rose. Undergoing Arrancarization would make her an unstoppable force among Hollows.


    ¡°I¡¯m not little!¡± she retorted. ¡°I¡¯m strong... but not strong enough to be a Vasto Lorde.¡±


    Kazuya could see her spirits going down as she was still a little depressed after eating Evanya. ¡°Why don¡¯t you start with Arrancarification first? I have a method that has zero risks.¡±


    She would calm down after receiving some love from him. Her attraction towards him was plainly obvious. He had to make her an Arrancar before Sung-Sun pushed him down, or else the deer would be heartbroken. He wanted to sleep with her first since she was so head over heel for him.


    "A safe method?" Harribel asked, halting her training as his words caught her attention. "How so?"


    He turned to the door. ¡°Urahara-san! Shiho?in-san! Come down here!¡±


    It was about time he made Kisuke part with his precious Ho?gyoku.

 Chapter 66: First of Many

    Chapter 66: First of Many


    Kisuke and Yoruichi answered Kazuya¡¯s call instantaneously. Yoruichi stretched languidly, yawning. Her voice was sleepy but teasing, ¡°Give me a good reason for disturbing my evening nap.¡±


    Kazuya smiled. ¡°It doesn¡¯t really concern Shiho?in-san but Urahara-san. My friend, can I borrow the Ho?gyoku?¡±


    Kisuke, usually so quick with a response, was rendered speechless. Kazuya¡¯s request for the Ho?gyoku ¡ª the most unknown element in the world ¡ª was as casual as a friend asking for a book. ¡°What do you need it for?¡±


    The Ho?gyoku had only shown one use so far: aiding the survival of the Visored. Even then, it hadn¡¯t fulfilled Kisuke¡¯s original goal to fully rid Shinji and his companions of their Hollow masks.


    ¡°I¡¯ll use it to make Apacci and Harribel Arrancars.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Yoruichi raised her voice in surprise. ¡°Kisuke, Ho?gyoku can do that?¡±


    Kisuke shook his head slowly, a gesture not of denial but of uncertainty. ¡°Arrancar and Visored are two sides of the same coin. Theoretically, it¡¯s a possibility.¡±


    Kazuya revealed a soft smile. ¡°Urahara-san, I know things about Ho?gyoku that you probably don¡¯t. Give me a chance.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t give you the Hogyoku even if I wanted to. It has been put in a deactivated state.¡±


    A spark of surprise flickered across Kazuya''s face. Reactivating the Ho?gyoku required an immense amount of spiritual energy, twice that of a Captain¡¯s. In canon, Aizen was one of those beings. While Kazuya¡¯s Reiatsu was above Captains, he was far from reaching the requisite level.


    ¡®I should be one and a half of Captain at max.¡¯Geett the latest novels at novelhall.com


    Uncertain, he gave a resigned sigh. ¡°I know of a method to activate it.¡±


    Even Kisuke didn¡¯t know the method of awakening the Ho?gyoku from its current dormant state. ¡°You know too much, young padawan.¡±


    The idea of handing over the Ho?gyoku to a Vasto Lorde Arrancar, let alone someone with past connections to Aizen, unsettled Kisuke. It felt like giving a loaded gun to a mischievous youngster.


    ¡°Let me try,¡± Kazuya insisted. ¡°I won¡¯t disappoint you, Urahara-san.¡±


    Kisuke weighed in his options before finally giving a nod. Kazuya¡¯s support was invaluable in his war against Aizen. Besides, he was curious about Ho?gyoku¡¯s mysterious abilities. ¡°I¡¯ll be keeping an eye on you throughout.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    ...


    Minutes later, Kisuke returned with the Ho?gyoku ¡ª an orb glowing with hues of purple and blue sealed in a glass-like, transparent dodecahedron.


    Despite its dormant state, Kazuya felt a connection to it, as if he could hear a heartbeat echoing from within its sealed depths.


    He wasn''t the only one drawn in by this strange phenomenon. The egg, resting in Sung-Sun¡¯s company, twitched to life, emanating waves of powerful Reiatsu that seemed to echo the rhythm of the heartbeat Kazuya sensed.


    Her eyes hardened with determination. ¡°Then... I''m ready.¡±


    Kazuya filled the Ho?gyoku with his Reiatsu and his aspirations. As his energy saturated the orb, its gray hue darkened until it reached the absolute black of a moonless night. Suddenly, it expelled a blinding radiance. This dazzling light enveloped Apacci, and then it splintered, scattering around like countless shards of shattered glass.


    ¡°Kazuya!¡±


    A figure dashed through the swirling shards. It was Apacci, her form fully nude. Throwing her arms around him, she pressed against him, her form softer and more voluptuous than he remembered. In his memory, she leaned towards a slender silhouette, yet now, she seemed to mirror Mila Rose¡¯s curvaceous form, in both her figure and height.


    ¡®She is like 5¡¯5¡±. Almost four inches above her canon height.¡¯


    She perhaps changed her desired body after seeing him gush over Mila Rose, resulting in her attaining a more curvaceous form.


    ¡®This jealous little.¡¯


    Blushing, Apacci gazed up at him, her heterochromatic eyes looking deeply at him. Her eyebrows furrowed in a futile attempt to disguise her embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯m an Arrancar now.¡±


    He gave a gentle nod. ¡°I can see that.¡±


    ¡°Next step is to become a Vasto Lorde, then I¡¯ll work towards my promise of becoming the strongest Arrancar.¡±


    She still remembered her vow from the days they wandered the Hueco Mundo by themselves. A vow he made her do for fun but she took it seriously. Still, he felt there was more to her hunger than their promise.


    ¡®She wants to protect me, doesn¡¯t she? How cute.¡¯


    He placed his hands around her hips, and her blush deepened. ¡°You¡¯ll have to surpass me if you want to be the strongest Arrancar.¡±


    ¡°Why are you counting yourself? I¡¯m talking about Hollows and Arrancars. You¡¯re an abomination of Hollow and Quincy.¡±


    ¡°Hey, that one hurt.¡±


    ¡°I was joking...¡± She lowered her gaze and nuzzled her face against his chest. ¡°I just have to surpass Harribel who is the second strongest Hollow right now.¡±


    ¡°Good luck,¡± he replied and encouragingly patted her back. "You can do it."


    Apacci clenched her teeth, well aware that Harribel''s power would receive a massive boost after her own transformation into an Arrancar. ¡°Everyone in Hueco Mundo once believed that the formidable Baraggan they worshiped was invincible. You proved them wrong. I''ll do the same."


    Her determination ignited a surge in her Reiatsu, startling everyone around.


    ***


    Here is Apacci¡¯s new form for reference.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]

 CHAPTER 67: The Shark Queen

    CHAPTER 67: The Shark Queen


    Mila Rose felt Apacci¡¯s Reiatsu spike in the midst of her mock battle with Cirucci. She halted abruptly, signaling Cirucci to cease as well. ¡°Absurd.¡±


    Cirucci cast an envious glance at Apacci. ¡°She has surpassed both of us.¡±


    ¡°You mentioned Baraggan having a cult, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. They¡¯ll try to avenge their leader when they find out Baraggan is dead.¡±


    A wicked grin split Mila Rose¡¯s face, revealing her sharp, predatory fangs. ¡°Not if I devour them first. We¡¯re storming the doors of Las Noches when we return to Hueco Mundo!¡±


    The ferocious lioness set her eye on the poor Hollows under Baraggan, intending to use them as fuel for her growth. Harribel wouldn¡¯t be able to say anything if those Hollows attacked Mila Rose first during her tour to Las Noches.


    ¡®My plan is impeccable.¡¯


    Cirucci¡¯s eyes widened at the audacious plan. Entering Las Noches also meant a potential encounter with Szayel. She was unsure if her heart was prepared for his smug grin. ¡°I think I''ll sit this one out...¡±


    ¡°Stop being a pussy. I¡¯ll protect you.¡±


    ¡°...Okay.¡±


    The goth Arrancar changed her mind at Mila Rose¡¯s insistence.


    ¡®Kazuya wouldn¡¯t let me die, right...?¡¯


    ...


    Harribel approached Apacci and patted her back with her sword arm. ¡°I don¡¯t plan on stagnating... Kazuya, do me.¡±


    ¡°Oh my. You should ask us to leave before giving him an order like that~,¡± Kisuke said as he winked at Kazuya. ¡°You struck gold, Kazuya-san.¡±


    The chance of a man having multiple partners ¡ª a harem ¡ª was highest in the Hollow race since their race mostly followed the law of the jungle. He had hardly seen a man having a harem outside of the noble families of the Seireitei.


    Kazuya smiled. ¡°Isn¡¯t it natural to fully enjoy my life after my death?¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t the only one who saw this as a harem gathering,¡± Yoruichi added, her golden eyes glinting with mischief. ¡°This kid went from a side mob to a main character. This is shitty writing I expect from teenagers, not the gods sitting in high heavens.¡±


    ¡°Gods aren¡¯t real, Shiho?in-san,¡± he said. ¡°Even the one ruling over the Soul Society is a husk.¡±


    Kisuke narrowed his eyes. ¡°You know about that too.¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡±


    Yoruichi pawed Kisuke¡¯s face. ¡°What did he mean?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you now.¡±


    ¡°Stop hiding things from your childhood friend!¡±


    Spoiler[collapse]


    Unlike Apacci, he couldn¡¯t spot any differences in Harribel from her canon version.


    ¡®Strange. I thought her personality shift was just as big as Apacci.¡¯


    As she turned to him, her features softened, her lips curling into a soft smile. ¡°Kazuya, I wish we had the Ho?gyoku for your transformation. You would have avoided so much agony.¡±


    Rather than reveling in her new power, Harribel was lamenting the agony Kazuya had endured during his own transformation, which had been a much more grueling process without the Ho?gyoku.


    Kazuya shrugged off her concern with a grin. ¡°No point worrying about it now. By the way, you¡¯re looking pretty deadly right now.¡±


    She looked at herself, as though observing her physical changes. She had shed her bone armor, which had become redundant after gaining Hierro, the defensive skill of Arrancars. The sensation of the air against her bare skin was actually quite refreshing.


    A hint of excitement flickered in her eyes. ¡°I want to test my new abilities. Will you spar with me?¡±


    Kazuya knew a small spar between could lead to hour-long battles, especially since they both were considerably stronger compared to their last spar. ¡°Let¡¯s do that after I get you all some clothes.¡±


    He wanted them to take the time to appreciate and adjust to their new forms, particularly Apacci, who experienced a rough time lately.


    Harribel narrowed her eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t need clothes. I have...¡± She trailed off, placing a hand on her chest and closing her eyes in concentration.


    A thin layer of water emerged from the gills on her Zanpakuto? and enveloped her in a smaller version of her heart cocoon.


    When the water subsided, it revealed a significant change in Harribel¡¯s appearance.


    Her blonde hair was now elegantly tied in a relaxed ponytail, and she wore a crown featuring four horns. A translucent veil covered her mouth, unlike her vicious mask in the original canon. For attire, she was dressed in a pristine white coat trimmed with black fur, draped over a revealing, high-collared white top. A grand cape of white with a royal purple interior cascaded from her shoulders, the base decorated with black fur. Her outfit was completed with loose white pants cinched with a water droplet-shaped golden belt accessory.


    Harribel¡¯s aura was commanding and demanded awe and respect, making her seem every bit the regal queen. Yet, there was a wild edge to her persona, a queen who wasn¡¯t afraid to get her hands dirty.


    Her Zanpakuto? hanging by her waist followed her regal appearance. While the blade retained its unique shape from the anime, it was no longer hollow in the center. The purple Zanpakuto? with a massive hilt seemed like a broadsword when seen from afar.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    ¡®It¡¯d make sense if she became more mother-like, but she turned into a queen.¡¯¡®


    He understood her inclination to remove her iconic mask since it made her seem more Hollow than a human. However, the rest of her aesthetic changes went over his head.


    ¡®Shark Mommy transcended to Shark Queen Mommy.¡¯


    Apacci¡¯s pinch at his waist snapped him from his thoughts. ¡°Stop staring at her.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s natural to admire beauty.¡±


    Pulling down her veil, Harribel offered a soft smile. ¡°I didn''t expect these kinds of clothes.¡±


    ¡°Neither did I,¡± he whispered. ¡°It¡¯s like an exclusive perk for Vasto Lorde Arrancars.¡±


    Some Arrancars gained clothes in their Resurreccio?n form but only Kazuya, Harribel, and perhaps Baraggan gained new spiritual clothes in their base Arrancar form.

 CHAPTER 68: The Emergence

    CHAPTER 68: The Emergence


    With a careful gentleness, Kazuya ran his fingers along Apacci¡¯s bare back, kneading the tension away with a firm yet soothing touch. His other hand cradled the egg pulsating rhythmically with vibrant waves of Reiatsu. The mystical egg seemed to brim with a sense of contentment, as if it enjoyed his touch, or perhaps it was merely using its Reiatsu to speak in a language only it understood. The egg''s true thoughts were shrouded in mystery.


    ¡°Urahara-san, can I get a Gigai for Apacci?¡±


    Kisuke calmly nodded. ¡°Absolutely. Before I do, let¡¯s talk about an important matter. Come to my room.¡±


    A veil of solemnity was drawn over Yoruichi¡¯s usually playful eyes, a sight rarely seen by many. ¡°Alone.¡±


    Such gravity on their faces usually appeared in matters involving Aizen. ¡°Well, I gotta go.¡±


    Apacci peered up at him, her eyes slits of skepticism, mirroring the suspicion reflected in Harribel¡¯s gaze. ¡°What are you hiding from us?¡±


    Apacci harbored a sense of skepticism regarding Kazuya''s collaboration with Kisuke. A gut feeling hinted at the existence of a larger scheme at play, which was intricately woven around their association. Driven by her instincts, she yearned to stand by his side and help him, but she couldn¡¯t do so without knowing his troubles.


    ¡°The secret to immortality,¡± he whispered with a cheeky smile. ¡°Do you want in?¡±


    She scoffed. ¡°Liar.¡±


    Harribel gazed at him with the intensity of a huntress gauging her prey. ¡°You will tell us everything if you think of us as your family.¡±


    Without communicating, she was on the same page with Apacci, both looking to offer him assistance.


    He blinked in surprise, taken aback. There was no overt threat in Harribel¡¯s words. What she had thrown at him was a masterstroke of emotional manipulation. The thought of being subjected to such strategy by Harribel, of all people, was shocking, to say the least.


    ¡°Jeez... I¡¯ll fill you in when I¡¯m done with Urahara-san.¡±


    Harribel showed a soft smile. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Kazuya could only shake his head in response before flying in the direction of Kisuke and Yoruichi.Geett the latest novels at novelhall.comewhat close to his expectations, his Zanpakuto? was a black phoenix, one that seemed oddly small and cute for its power level.


    The phoenix locked its obsidian eyes on Kazuya, delivering a piercing screech that echoed through the room. ¡°You''re the absolute worst, Partner!¡±


    Its voice was decidedly feminine.


    An indignant expression crossed Kazuya''s face. ¡°How dare a measly bird insult me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not insulting you. I¡¯m questioning your intelligence, you wannabe young master!¡±


    ¡°Are you talking to the bird?¡± Yoruichi questioned, her gaze shifting from Kazuya¡¯s playful face to the phoenix. ¡°This cute little phoenix. How can it be an Arrancar¡¯s Zanpakuto??¡±


    The phoenix swiveled towards Yoruichi with a menacing glow in her black eyes. ¡°Do not interrupt my conversation with my partner!¡±


    It seemed like she had decided to address Kazuya as ¡®her partner¡¯, which made sense since they were divided from one soul.


    Yoruichi cocked her head curiously. ¡°Is it trying to say something?¡±


    Kazuya couldn''t help but chuckle at the exchange. It appeared his Zanpakuto? was tempestuous, a stark contrast to his own cool demeanor. However, it seemed she was only capable of communicating with him.


    He plucked her out of the air and held her gently. ¡°Urahara-san, Shiho?in-san, can I have ten minutes with my Zanpakuto??¡±


    Urahara gave a nod of understanding as he picked up the Ho?gyoku under the watchful eyes of the phoenix. ¡°Sure. Sure. What I was about to say is less important than the well-being of your Zanpakuto?. Yoruichi-san, let¡¯s give them space to connect to each other.¡±


    As a fellow wielder of a Zanpakuto?, Kisuke found no fault in Kazuya prioritizing his bond with his Zanpakuto?.


    ¡°Zanpakuto? spirits are a pain in the ass.¡± Yoruichi declared with a sigh, casting a lingering glance at the little phoenix before trailing after Kisuke out of the room. ¡°Later.¡±


    As the door slid shut behind them, the phoenix broke free of his grasp and launched herself at him. The tackle knocked him onto the floor. She perched atop his chest, her wings fluttering wildly, casting a radiant dark red fire around the room. Oddly enough, the fire danced harmlessly, burning nothing in the room.


    ¡°It should stop them from eavesdropping on us. Now, Partner. Let¡¯s talk.¡±

 Chapter 69: Visión del Diablo

    Chapter 69: Visio?n del Diablo


    Kazuya let out a sigh, running his hand through his silver locks. ¡°I¡¯d honestly prefer it if you were a busty chick sitting on my chest.¡± he said, the corner of his mouth pulling into a slight grin. ¡°Well, do you have a name, or should I provide one for you?¡±


    ¡°My name... what was my name again? ...Nami? It¡¯s only a fraction of my name... Just call me Nami. Not the Nami from One Piece mind you.¡± She scrutinized Kazuya¡¯s expression, finding it calmly unsurprised. ¡°You already knew, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only logical that my Zanpakuto? will get access to my memories.¡±


    ¡°My partner is as calculating as I¡¯d anticipated,¡± Nami mused, her praise tinged with a hint of reluctant respect. ¡°This intelligence works against you sometimes. Take, for instance, your recent incident with the Hogyoku... Your instincts were screaming at you to consume it, yet you perceived this urge as a potential trap. You suspected that the Hogyoku was tricking you... or you were scared of becoming an actual monster.¡±


    ¡°Kinda. I don¡¯t want to end up like Aizen. Harribel and others won¡¯t like it.¡±


    He¡¯d never cast away Harribel and the others for a surge of power, no matter how tantalizing the temptation. For a woman who¡¯d sacrifice everything for his sake, it was a negligible price to pay.


    ¡°Halting your natural growth for your women? You aren¡¯t cold enough, Partner. You¡ªwe missed a massive opportunity to evolve to our next stage. What¡¯s more, I burned my blood essence to awaken the Ho?gyoku. My sacrifice turned out to be meaningless.¡±


    The Reiatsu that was the catalyst in Ho?gyoku¡¯s awakening ¡ª it was drawn from her life essence, the crimson drops that glistened on her feathers.


    ¡°Relax. It¡¯s not like I can¡¯t get the Ho?gyoku again.¡±


    ¡°You absolutely can.¡±


    ¡°So, why do I feel anger from you? Like ¡®you¡¯ll throw a punch at me if you had hands¡¯ type of anger.¡±


    He was able to sense her emotional state, likely an effect of their deep connection. Her internal state was chaotic, a storm of conflicting emotions.


    ¡°Forget it.¡± She tilted her head towards the unseen ceiling, eyes closed as if she was having the inner monologue of a protagonist. ¡°It¡¯s raining outside...¡±


    ¡°Even though you¡¯re a part of me and I can sense your emotions, I can¡¯t understand you. My Zanpakuto? is such a mystery.¡±


    ¡°Hmph!¡±


    ¡°Quit being such a tsundere.¡± Gently, he picked her up by her sides and sat up, nestling her comfortably in his lap. Like soothing a child, he patted her head. ¡°There, there. Everything will be fine.¡±


    She stared back at him, rendered speechless by his actions.


    ¡°Just out of curiosity, do I get a release form now?¡±


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t. Not until I finish my evolution. As things stand, I¡¯m about the level of an Adjuchas. We both need to be on the same level to trigger a Resurreccio?n.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s sad.¡±Geett the latest novels at novelhall.com


    ¡®This ability is gonna explode my brains.¡¯


    ¡°You can analyze an object to gain an abundance of information. It should take away the weakness of your Aspect of Death: Oppression.¡±


    His Resurreccio?n ability allowed him to adapt in fights on the fly. It also took away his biggest gripe with the Oppression ability, which was digesting countless books.


    ¡°This is honestly creepy how well my wish came true. Is it an effect of Ho?gyoku?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t glaze over minor matters, Partner. Shouldn¡¯t we name this ability?¡± asked Nami in an upbeat voice. ¡°Something Spanish like other Hollow abilities... how about Visio?n del Diablo (Vision of Devil)?¡±


    ¡°What does the devil have to do with it?¡±


    ¡°Who cares?! It sounds cool. That¡¯s what matters the most.¡±


    It seemed like his Zanpakuto? became fond of hobbies often associated with the ¡®edgy phase.¡¯ One of those struck with the 8th grade syndrome.


    ¡°Visio?n del Diablo is only a fraction of our power. It¡¯s not even connected to our original ability. You¡¯ll be surprised when you wield a full hundred percent.¡±


    ¡°Damn. What¡¯s our true ability?¡±


    ¡°The power of life and death. That¡¯s all I¡¯ll say for now,¡± she said cheerfully. ¡°I¡¯m canceling the release. Adio?s!¡±


    She retreated to his inner world, where she could rest without any disturbance.


    Sitting there in silence, he processed everything that happened for a couple of moments.


    ¡®No point stressing over it now. I¡¯ll see when Nami¡¯s powers fully awaken.¡¯


    He called out to Nami to withdraw her barrier of flames and opened the door. Kisuke and Yoruichi, who were waiting at the end of the hallway, approached him.


    Yoruichi burst into laughter. ¡°Sneaky brat, you put a barrier kido?.¡±


    Kisuke gently hit her head with his paper fan. ¡°We agreed to give him privacy, Yoruichi-san. Kazuya-san, let¡¯s talk inside.¡±


    ...


    Once they were seated, Kisuke unfolded his paper fan to cover his mouth. ¡°Kazuya-san, I want you to enter the Gotei 13 and become a Shinigami.¡±


    Kisuke dropped a bomb out of nowhere.

 Chapter 70: A Dangerous Mission

    Chapter 70: A Dangerous Mission


    CHAPTER 70: A Dangerous Mission


    The moment Kisuke¡¯s proposal escaped his lips, a blanket of silence fell over the room. Yoruichi¡¯s eyes twinkled with amusement. Just as she''d predicted, Kazuya''s composure was rattled. To him, Kisuke¡¯s suggestion was nothing less than a call to step back into his own haunted past ¡ª the Gotei 13, home to his murderer, the wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing Aizen Sosuke.


    "What?! How could you ever think I''d say yes to that?" Kazuya responded, his surprise masterfully acted. He had a hunch about Kisuke¡¯s real plan, but playing dumbfounded seemed necessary to keep things smooth.


    Kisuke sighed. ¡°I admit I have an amazing sense of humor but this isn¡¯t one of my pranks. Kazuya-san, if you were to pick a squad between the 4th, 8th, or 13th Squad, what would it be?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Why are you asking me?¡±


    ¡°In this mission, your goal would be to steadily climb ranks and grow close to one of those captains,¡± Yoruichi said as she sat up straight. ¡°Hmm, when you¡¯re comfortable enough, reveal the truth about Aizen. Captain Unohona, Captain Ukitake, and Captain Kyoraku are the closest to General Commander. They will do the job of convincing General Yamamoto. With your rich knowledge of the Seireitei and Aizen¡¯s plans, it won¡¯t take more than twenty years.¡±


    ¡®Twenty years.¡¯


    The words echoed in the depths of his mind, reverberating like a gong. For Kisuke and Yoruichi, twenty years was a blink. But for him, it was almost his entire life.


    ¡®Their plan is utterly useless.¡¯


    Aizen was absurdly strong even without his Zanpakuto?, Kyo?ka Suigetsu. The only beings currently capable of fighting Aizen were the Royal Guards or the Sternritters. He doubted any Captain, even Yamamoto, could apprehend Aizen. Yamamoto may have a chance of killing Aizen in a battle.


    Then he remembered the names of Captains Kisuke recited to him.


    ¡®Captain Unohana... Is she worth risking my life for? Absolutely!¡¯


    His determination wavered as soon he recalled the elegantly psychotic captain.


    Yoruichi gave a knowing nod as she noticed Kazuya¡¯s gradual understanding. ¡°They won¡¯t recognize you if you become a Shinigami with your current appearance... your soul form, I mean.¡±


    ¡°Still...¡± he drawled, reluctant despite the anticipation that bubbled within him at the prospect of meeting Unohana. ¡°Aizen will be there... I¡¯m not confident I can fool Aizen... Why not do it yourself?¡± His gaze flicked to Kisuke, questioning him to take up the challenge instead.


    Under their hopeful gazes, he nodded in affirmation. ¡°I will. But, I have four conditions.¡±


    Kisuke leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms over his chest. "Go on," he urged, his tone light but eyes sharp, not missing a single detail.


    ¡°I need some time before I leave,¡± Kazuya said, his gaze steady and resolute. ¡°Like a month.¡±


    He needed time to spend time with his family as well as get used to his Resurreccio?n.


    Kisuke nodded, giving a casual wave of his hand. ¡°No problem.¡±


    ¡°Yoruichi-san will not intervene if I feel like spending time with my companions here. What I am saying is, I can leave Soul Society at any moment.¡±


    ¡°That''s a very specific one,¡± Yoruichi chuckled, the amusement clear in her eyes. ¡°Well, I¡¯ll humor this condition and let you fuck your women at any time.¡±


    ¡°Keep your head out of the gutter, Shiho?in-san,¡± Kazuya continued with a calm expression. ¡°Next condition. I¡¯ll abandon my mission if any of my companions are in danger.¡±


    ¡°Forget about this condition. They are safe here.¡±


    ¡°They won¡¯t stay here forever, and I don¡¯t like to restrict anyone¡¯s freedom.¡±


    ¡°Hmm...¡± Kisuke hummed, running his hand through his hair in thought. ¡°I¡¯ll be a heartless man if I deny this condition. Anything else?¡±


    Kazuya shook his head, the slightest of smiles playing on his lips. ¡°That¡¯s all. Yoruichi-san, my memory of Seireitei¡¯s customs is hazy. Refresh my memory on some things later.¡±


    Understanding the survival-driven focus of Hollows¡¯ lives, she didn¡¯t blame him for forgetting unnecessary details from his previous life. ¡°Sure thing.¡±


    And just like that, a pact was established ¡ª the most unsuccessful plan to expose Aizen and a whimsical plan to seduce the Captain of the 4th Squad, Yachiru Unohana.


    {Partner, you''re such a devil. It¡¯s a delight to see you play your games,} Nami¡¯s excited voice echoed in his mind, as she found amusement from observing the unfolding drama. {How will you become a Shinigami, though?}


    She reminded him of the primary challenge tied to Kisuke¡¯s proposal. More importantly, how did Kisuke expect him to have the power to become a Shinigami?

 Chapter 71: A Loophole

    Chapter 71: A Loophole


    ¡°Hold on,¡± Kazuya called out, halting Kisuke and Yoruichi just as they were about to exit the room. ¡°We overlooked something. I''m a Hollow, a Quincy. How on earth am I supposed to transform into a Shinigami?¡±


    He hadn¡¯t tested the power to revert to his Soul form. How did Kisuke expect him to become a Shinigami?


    Kisuke turned around and brandished his wooden cane. ¡°Kazuya-san, could you shift into your Quincy form? I¡¯ll demonstrate a simple way to turn you into a Shinigami.¡±


    ¡°But, that won''t work,¡± he protested, his skepticism peeking through. When detached from physical body in his Quincy form, he¡¯d retain his Quincy abilities. Could he develop Shinigami skills in that state? He was doubtful.


    ¡°Normally, Hollows are toxic to a Quincy, but your Hollow part is completely distinct from your Quincy part. I¡¯m certain that you, as a Quincy Soul, can master Shinigami arts like Kido? and Zanpakuto?. I¡¯m betting on it, my friend.¡±


    Kisuke was a firm believer in the theory that Kazuya¡¯s powers came from a Soul King fragment. The miraculous abilities of the Soul King¡¯s fragment gave him the faith that Kazuya could pull off another nigh impossible feat ¡ª acquiring the powers of both Shinigami and Quincy in one form.


    After all, Visored and Arrancars could wield powers of two races. There was nothing stopping a Quincy from manifesting their own Zanpakuto?.


    Kazuya reflected on the implications of becoming a Shinigami through Kisuke¡¯s method. He would bypass the process of reverting his race to Soul through the System. More importantly, he would be able to access the powers of both Shinigami and Quincy at the same time ¡ª partially achieving his goal of fusing the abilities of Hollow, Shinigami, and Quincy.


    ¡°And how will you stop my Soul from degrading into a Hollow?¡±


    When a human soul disconnects from their body, they gain a Chain of Fate. The Chain of Fate slowly corrodes over time, and at the end, the soul turns into a Hollow. Nobody knew if he was immune to this effect in his Human form.


    ¡°Remember the Arrancar you killed in your visit to Hueco Mundo? Baraggan, the King of Hueco Mundo,¡± Kisuke said with a mischievous wink. ¡°Stop thinking of yourself as an ordinary being ¡ª you¡¯re the King of Hollows now.¡±


    ¡°The King of Hollows,¡± Yoruichi said with a gleaming gaze. ¡°Damn. We¡¯re in the presence of His Majesty. Too bad we don¡¯t give an F about status here.¡±


    ¡°Neither do I.¡± He shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m still not convinced about leaving my body here for that long of a mission.¡±


    Kisuke waved his hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Your body will be researched¡ªpreserved by yours truly.¡±


    Kazuya assumed a cold expression. ¡°You said RESEARCH just now.¡±


    ¡°My my. Don¡¯t sweat over the little things. I don¡¯t perform non-consensual experiments... apart from some exceptions.¡± Kisuke sized him from top to bottom. ¡°Perhaps you¡¯re worth making one.¡±


    Yoruichi giggled. ¡°Relax, he is messing around. We can leave your body with your companions.¡±


    The proposition awakened images in Kazuya¡¯s mind ¡ª a vision of Harribel cuddling with him, her tender voice whispering words of maternal affection, and her hand gently brushing his hair. He could easily envision Apacci hugging him when nobody was around, sharing her problems with him in hushed whispers, and confessing how much she missed him.


    ¡®What will Mila Rose do?¡¯


    {Use you as a punching bag. Sung-Sun will use you as a dildo.}


    Kazuya shivered at the thought and quickly transformed into his Quincy form. The red gem embedded in his forehead dissolved as he turned into his least flashy form. ¡°Urahara-san.¡±


    Kisuke pointed his cane at Kazuya, the bottom part inscribed with an intricate emblem ¡ª a skull encased in blue flames. This was Gokon Tekko?, a device known for forcibly separating the soul from the body, incorporated directly into Kisuke''s cane. ¡°Very well, then.¡±


    The world shifted as he found himself pushed out of his body. His physical form slumped lifelessly to the floor. He summoned his status, his eyes flitting through the rows of texts hastily.


    [General Information]


    Name ¡ª Kazuya Ishihara


    Gender ¡ª Male


    Race ¡ª Soul


    Reiryoku Level ¡ª Great Level (Captain-Class Plus)


    Alignment ¡ª Neutral Evil


    Affiliation ¡ª Unnamed Faction


    ...


    {From the Hueco Mundo¡¯s soil, which gave birth to you. You and I are the amalgamation of hundreds and thousands of dead Menos, which also includes the Original Hollows.}


    He was unfazed by the revelation. His origin didn¡¯t mean anything to him.


    ¡®Original Hollows? As in the primordial Hollows?¡¯


    {Yeah, Ulquiorra is one of those. They used to terrorize the world until the Soul King killed them. You have, of course, diluted powers while Ulquiorra is a pure Original Hollow born in the depths of the pit of Original Hollows¡¯ ashes.}


    ¡®Did you just call me bootleg Ulquiorra?¡¯


    {It doesn¡¯t matter. You¡¯ll grow far stronger than his peak form.}


    ¡®Oh. Let¡¯s talk about the Crumbling Heart (Soul). Does it make me immortal?¡¯


    Right now he had two versions of Crumbling Heart enabled in his Soul form. The new ability would have been a massive help in fighting Baraggan¡¯s Senescence. Alas, he awakened it too late.


    {Welcome to eternal life, Partner. You won¡¯t die of old age... ever.}


    He tried not to think about the severe implications of his immortality, like being the only one alive among his family at some point in his life.


    {Every good thing comes at cost. Like, delicious meat needs the sacrifice of a life, the conception of a new life comes at the cost of countless unborn¡¯s death.}


    ¡®Okay, stop. Don¡¯t make me think about that stuff.¡¯


    {Let¡¯s talk about something positive, Partner... you¡¯re one step closer to achieving the perfect vessel. If you find a full-powered Ho?gyoku, like the one Aizen merged with, we''ll be able to merge all of your forms and enhance all of your abilities to the next level. You¡¯ll become unstoppable.}


    The prospect was alluring but it involved dealing with Aizen, which was easier said than done.


    {Partner, new goal ¡ª scam the Ho?gyoku out of Aizen and merge it with Kisuke¡¯s Ho?gyoku!}


    Kazuya couldn¡¯t help but smirk at his Zanpakuto?''s audacity. She was speaking as if Aizen was just a gullible child who would fall for the cheap tricks.


    ¡°Kazuya-san, don¡¯t smirk.¡± Kisuke''s voice pulled him out of his deep musings, a hint of concern seeping into his usually lighthearted tone. ¡°You were lost somewhere.¡±


    ¡°I was having an interesting conversation with my Zanpakuto? Spirit.¡±


    ¡°Your Zanpakuto? Spirit stays inside your Inner World even when you transform.¡± Kisuke stroked his stubble, a thoughtful expression on his face as he contemplated the unique complexity of Kazuya¡¯s soul. ¡°That aside, my claims were true. You don¡¯t have a Chain of Fate. You look like a natural Soul born in the Soul Society.¡±


    Kazuya stretched his body. ¡°I guess you were correct.¡±


    ¡°Turning doubters into believers is my special ability.¡±


    Yoruichi snarled. ¡°This idiot is such a narcissist.¡±


    Kazuya chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll call it a day now. You¡¯re the reason I can¡¯t go on a date today.¡±


    ¡°You horny brat,¡± Yoruichi said with a giggle. ¡°Don¡¯t get discovered by the Vice Captain patrolling the town.¡±


    ¡°Roger, Mom. Oh, sorry. My tongue slipped.¡±


    Yoruichi sharply glared at him. ¡°I know what you¡¯re up to, brat.¡±


    Kazuya assumed a clueless expression. ¡°What are you talking about? I should return to my friends.¡±


    He had to inform the ladies about his Zanpakuto?, especially Harribel, who loved the egg like her child. He was prepared for her to snap out.


    {Just call her Mommy. She will calm down.}


    ''Get out of my head!''


    {Hihihahaha.}

 Chapter 72: Constant Flow

    Chapter 72: Constant Flow


    As Kazuya walked back to his comrades, his gaze swept over Cirucci and Mila Rose, who had abandoned their sparring session. The group had assembled together, radiating a familial bond that reminded him of a gathering around a bonfire. Sung-Sun and Apacci were bundled together, sharing the plush softness of a large towel, their bodies close enough to feel each other''s warmth. The outward warmth evaporated as soon as he heard Sung-Sun teasing Apacci.


    Harribel''s aqua green eyes widened in shock as Kazuya returned empty-handed. She''d sensed the abrupt disappearance of the egg''s Reiatsu earlier. Her sharp gaze drifted to the radiant red gem glinting in his forehead, discovering the fate of the egg without any explanation.


    The corners of Mila Rose''s mouth turned upwards into a sly grin. "Did you finally see your child, Mom?"


    He revealed a bright smile. "The egg hatched while I was in Kisuke''s room. Congratulations, Mila... you''re finally a dad."


    A scowl instantly marred Mila Rose''s previously triumphant expression. "Enough with those jokes! What emerged from the egg?"


    The group leaned in, their bodies taut with anticipation, their eyes shining with curiosity. Even Cirucci was drawn in, captivated by the enigma of his one-of-a-kind Zanpakuto?.


    Rubbing the back of his head in an endearing, casual gesture, he shrugged. "A bird."


    The revelation led to a collective sigh, their previous excitement deflating like a punctured balloon.


    "It should''ve been a chicken," Mila Rose lamented, disappointment clear on her face. "What a missed opportunity to tease you."


    Harribel exhaled a sigh. "I''m glad it happened safely."


    Despite the unexpected turn of events, her primary worry had always been for Kazuya. As long as he was unscathed, any outcome was acceptable. Besides, she was delighted with his powerup.


    "Apacci, Sung-Sun, it''s already dark out there. I''m gonna grab some sleeping clothes for you."


    Kisuke and Nami had consumed much of his evening. He saw this as an opportunity to plan for a whole day''s date tomorrow ¡ª a strategic move to soften their defenses before he revealed his intention to depart for Seireitei later this month.


    Sung-Sun narrowed her eyes into suspicious slits. "You promised to take us shopping. I won''t let you wiggle out of it."


    "Yeah," Mila Rose chimed in for Sung-Sun''s support. "I''m tired of wearing your shirt. Gimme new clothes!"


    A quick clarification calmed their discontent and dispelled the misunderstanding.


    Mila Rose broke into a broad grin, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "A full day dedicated to us. Skull, you''re kinda reliable."


    "Of course. You all are my sweethearts." He turned to the only one who couldn''t accompany him tomorrow due to her striking wings. "Cirucci, I''ll talk to Kisuke about your Zanpakuto?. He''ll find a solution."


    He''d refuse Kisuke''s mission if the shopkeeper turned down his request. The mission gave him a massive leverage.


    {You can repair her soul yourself.}


    ''How?''


    {Once I evolve to give you a full Resurreccio?n.}


    ''Can we speed up the process by getting you Hollows to eat?''


    As for Mila Rose, she was whimsical yet serious about relationships. It would take time for her to trust, but once she did, she''d lay down her life for him.


    {Does she look like someone who doesn''t trust you?}


    His eyes slid over to Mila Rose once more. His shirt barely draped over her, revealing tantalizing glimpses of her figure. The half-dressed state was more provocative than nudity, as it left much to his imagination. With a sharp inhale, he forced his gaze away before his lower half reacted and disrupted Apacci''s sleep.


    ''She is kind of an airhead.''


    ...


    Several hours later.


    Within the stately confines of the Ishida Mansion, Kazuya, Izumi, and Lisa sat around the dining table, engaged in a quiet breakfast.


    "Onee-chan, can I borrow some cash?"


    Izumi tilted her head, strands of black hair covering her face. "Sure. How much do you need?"


    He leaned closer to Lisa, the subtle scent of her perfume tickling his senses. "Maid-chan, how much do I need to buy clothes for my friends? I also have plans to take them around the town."


    Lisa''s eyes narrowed at him. His audacity to ask her for advice after rejecting her date ¡ª a date he proposed initially ¡ª instigated a sudden urge to smack him. "Around fifty thousand Yen."


    Kazuya''s eyebrows raised in surprise. Fifty thousand Yen wouldn''t even cover a person''s rent in his time. But he reminded himself, this was 1950. Prices were different.


    "Fifty thousand Yen?" Izumi''s voice was soft, her smile tender. "Alright. I''ll have it withdrawn right away."


    Her willingness, almost eagerness to fulfill his request made him uncomfortable. It felt like he was taking advantage of her generosity.


    As Izumi excused herself to order her servants to withdraw the cash, Kazuya turned to Lisa. "Are you still upset about the date?"


    She rolled her eyes. "No."


    "You definitely are. How about we go out tomorrow?"


    He casually asked her for a date. Judging by the bright look in her eyes, she appreciated the proposal.


    She cleared her throat. "I''m busy tomorrow."


    "Too bad then."


    With those words, he pushed his chair back and left the room. Lisa was left behind, dumbfounded. She had been playing ''hard to get'', expecting him to insist a little. For all his faults, he was a ten out of ten for his appearance ¡ª a good candidate for her first date.


    But he accepted her words at face value, leaving her embarrassed and a little frustrated.


    ''I fucked up... but it works everytime in romance novels.''

 CHAPTER 73: Incentive

    CHAPTER 73: Incentive


    Kaien had a soft spot for Ohagi, a classic delicacy of rice cakes filled with red bean paste. He, of course, couldn¡¯t return to the Soul Society just for his cravings. Instead, he slipped into his Gigai and embarked on a quest for his desired treat in the bustling marketplace of Karakura Town.


    Guided by the tendrils of fragrant scents wafting in the air, he quickly found a little restaurant serving his favorite food seemingly more delicious than the ones he ate in the Seireitei.


    ¡®The Living World is so resourceful.¡¯


    As he indulged in his favorite snack, a group of women roaming the market streets caught his attention. Like a vibrant splash of color on a monochromatic canvas, they drew in countless gazes.


    A blonde, olive-skinned woman in a royal outfit. Her regal expression made her seem like a queen of some country.


    Next was a woman with dark, honeyed skin and tumbling brown waves cascading from beneath a white cowboy hat. Her outfit consisted of a white top, paired with brown pants and a sweeping white cape.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Then there was a woman with striking heterochromatic eyes, a stylish white fedora sitting atop her head. She wore black pants and a white top with bold red sleeves.


    Spoiler


    She came off a little too mature but I really like this look[collapse]


    And lastly, an elegant figure adorned in a traditional kimono, her olive-green hair arranged with artistic precision, adorned with a white clip and delicate flowers. A paper umbrella protected her porcelain skin from the harsh rays of the sun. She exuded an air of nobility reminiscent of the prestigious Five Noble Families in the Seireitei¡ªactually four since the Shiba Clan hardly put effort in their appearance. Most members of the Shiba Clan hardly acted like nobility.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    All of them seemed to be of different ethnicities, yet they had one thing in common ¡ª they were all just as attractive as the man they followed.


    ¡®Kazuya? Yeah, it¡¯s him.¡¯


    Kaien caught sight of the shopping bags cradled in Kazuya¡¯s grasp and let out an empathetic sigh. The mere thought of shopping was a tedious ordeal for him. Escorting not one but four women on shopping was akin to a death sentence for him. He was grateful that his wife wasn¡¯t demanding.


    ¡®Their Reiatsu is strange. Are they also Quincy like Kazuya?¡¯


    Kazuya¡¯s gaze fleetingly met Kaien''s, and in response, Kaien lifted his hand in a casual wave. But Kazuya quickly diverted his attention, returning to converse with the woman clad in the green kimono.


    ¡®Is he ignoring me on purpose? It¡¯s not like I¡¯ll steal your women.¡¯


    Shaking his head, Kaien concluded it might be time to head back and conclude his investigation on the Arrancar case.


    ...


    {How does it feel to ignore a good friend?}


    Kazuya chose to remain silent in response to Nami¡¯s probing question, instead fixing his gaze on the orange horizon above him. The day had been a whirlwind of shared experiences, ones he wouldn¡¯t have found as fulfilling if he was alone. Shopping had been the most time-consuming endeavor, with Sung-Sun showcasing a pickiness for fashion that perfectly mirrored her sassy, princess-like demeanor.


    Apacci¡¯s favorite activity came after shopping ¡ª having Sushi at one of the finest restaurants in Naruki City. Harribel derived the most joy from the simplest of activities ¡ª a serene walk through a renowned garden, while Mila Rose enjoyed breaking arcade machines and raging at the rigged crane games.


    The experiences didn¡¯t align with the Japan of the 1950s that he was familiar with, a country still in recovery from the aftermath of the Second World War. Karakura Town and Naruki City felt more like vibrant metropolises beyond their time. His experience wasn¡¯t actually that different from his date with Yumi in 2022.


    One thing was certain: Mila Rose, Apacci, and Sung-Sun had a blast. Harribel, always one to find happiness in the joy of others, seemed content to just be in their company.


    {It¡¯s the fictional world of Bleach. Your logic won¡¯t apply here.}


    ¡®Fair enough,¡¯ he replied, shaking his head before turning his attention back to the group.


    ¡°Hop on.¡± Mila Rose urged. ¡°What are you waiting for?¡±


    The evening had drawn them to their final stop, the city¡¯s Amusement Park and its towering Ferris wheel ¡ª a spectacle that had piqued Sung-Sun''s curiosity.


    Kazuya boarded the cabin before Sung-Sun and Mila Rose took his opposite seats. Typically designed for couples, the cabin didn¡¯t have enough space for all five of them. However, Harribel had insisted that everyone share the same cabin, an indication of their growing bonds.


    He handed the bags to Mila Rose and Sung-Sun and beckoned Apacci. ¡°Come on, Deer.¡±


    {Nah, dude. You just want to fuck some Shinigami pussies.}


    ¡®Shush.¡¯


    Harribel sighed. ¡°It¡¯s too dangerous... Let¡¯s go to Hueco Mundo. Kisuke can¡¯t force you if you leave now.¡±


    She was an honorable woman but his safety was above everything. This mission was different from the Living World. The Soul Society was a world filled with Shinigami ¡ª the people responsible for purifying Hollows. She wouldn¡¯t be able to rush to his aid if anything happened to him there.


    The separation of four days filled her with haunting thoughts. There was no way she¡¯d be able to live without him for a year or more.


    He couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her overly protective demeanor. ¡°You¡¯re acting like my Mommy again. I appreciate the sentiments but let me go through this. I won¡¯t get hurt.¡±


    His light teasing was enough to banish her worries momentarily, and a blush crept onto Harribel''s face. ¡°Hah. Worrying about someone doesn''t make me their mother. Sung-Sun, tell this misguided kid.¡±


    Sung-Sun thought for a moment, her finger tapping her chin. ¡°In this context, Harribel, you¡¯re actually acting like his mother. He is a grown-up man. Let him make his own decisions.¡±


    It seemed Harribel had chosen the wrong person to back her up, the realization causing her to reassess her stance.


    He placed a hand on her thigh. ¡°Don¡¯t let fear and worries dictate your life.¡±


    ¡°Hm. Hm.¡± Mila Rose nodded. ¡°It¡¯s Skull we¡¯re talking about. He took down Baraggan on his own. I doubt any Shinigami can kill him with his god-like regeneration.¡±


    ¡°True.¡± He concurred with Mila Rose¡¯s opinion, even though he was fully aware there were many Shinigami who could pose a significant threat to him. ¡°I promise I won¡¯t let anything kill me before I make at least one baby with all four of you.¡±


    He stated his end goal with a serious look in his eyes. He won¡¯t let anyone interfere between him and them.


    {This possessiveness,} Nami¡¯s voice echoed in his mind. {You¡¯re starting to sound like a yandere.}


    ¡®I AM a yandere.¡¯


    {Shudder.}


    Harribel patted her belly, pondering his words. She had expected these words to come out of his mouth sooner or later. After all, he had shown a passion for her time and again. Her maternal instinct overpowered her romantic feelings, which were once again overpowered by another desire ¡ª the desire to have a child of her own. She couldn¡¯t imagine having a child with anyone other than him.


    Her heart was a mess of conflicting desires.


    Apacci pinched his neck. ¡°Why do you want all four of us? Aren¡¯t you asking for too much?¡±


    A knowing smile danced on his lips as though he¡¯d been expecting this question. ¡°Most men would consider themselves lucky to have just one of you... but I don¡¯t want to settle with just one and live with regrets. I want all of you, so close that I can kiss and hug you anytime. I guess I¡¯m a greedy man.¡±


    The four of them were left speechless.


    ¡°Ara...¡± Sung-Sun eventually muttered, clearly at a loss for words. ¡°How bold of you. Guess it can¡¯t be helped then...¡±


    ¡°Hollows together strong,¡± Apacci mumbled. ¡°Big family unkillable.¡±


    Her words were incoherent, like she was under the influence of overwhelming happiness and couldn''t think straight.


    He looked at Mila Rose. ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°Stop pressuring me into agreeing like this!¡± Mila Rose retorted, clearly flustered. ¡°Alright, I''ll consider the idea of taking you as a mate, but only if you make it back alive.¡±


    Harribel¡¯s eyes widened in realization. ¡°My answer is the same as Mila Rose.¡±


    If she couldn¡¯t stop him from leaving, she could incentivize him to return. A suitable incentive for the man who would risk everything for her family.


    He hugged Apacci with more force. ¡°Even God can¡¯t kill me now. Let¡¯s celebrate this moment with something special.¡±


    Curiosity sparked in Mila Rose¡¯s eyes. ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±


    He grinned. ¡°A buffet. You¡¯ll be my desert.¡±

 Chapter 74-76: First Conquest (R-18)

    Chapter 74-76: First Conquest (R-18)


    Anxious eyes darted around the modest yet tastefully furnished bedroom. There, at the room¡¯s heart, lay a plush bed adorned with two crisp pillows. Alongside, a modest table hosted a flower pot, lending a touch of life to the room. On the wall hung a clock, its steady tick-tock resonating with her throbbing heart.


    She perched on the edge of the bed, her senses prickling as a quiet murmur began to intrude upon the calm. The sound rose gradually, from distant, muffled impacts to the unmistakable patter of footsteps.


    The door creaked open. The man for whom she had been waiting stepped in, a towel hanging from his neck, his white hair dripping with water. He had emerged from the bath in just a pair of underwear, while she remained fully clothed, save for the white fedora concealing her horn.


    ¡°Still anxious?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about,¡± she whispered, her trembling voice betraying her claim. ¡°I ain¡¯t anxious.¡±


    He leaned against the door, shutting it with a drawn-out creak. As he settled onto the bed, a flicker of desire sparked in his eyes. Two months had passed since he started his new life, since he last engaged in any sexual activity. Two months of living with a sexy woman like Harribel, two agonizing months of sexual frustration to be unleashed on the beautiful tomboy.


    {Poor girl is gonna break.}


    ¡°Stop staring at me,¡± she said, a nervous flutter tugging at her heart. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Playing the ignorant fool, are we?¡±


    ¡°I am not!¡± she retorted. ¡°We¡¯ve been with everyone all day... Why are we here alone now?¡±


    It puzzled her that he had sent everyone else home yet brought her here. She had some inkling of his intentions but was apprehensive about acknowledging them.


    ¡°Who said we¡¯re sleeping?¡±


    She swallowed hard, her thoughts racing. ¡°W-What else are we supposed to do on a bed?¡±


    ¡°You silly little goose,¡± he trailed his whisper as he drew closer and kissed her cheeks. ¡°Remember our promise? I¡¯ll let you ride me when you become an Arrancar. Time to fulfill that promise.¡±


    Lifting her gaze, her heterochromatic eyes locked onto his blue ones. ¡°Get on all fours then. I¡¯ll ride you as my mount!¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    She pushed his chest. ¡°Come on!¡±


    He caught her hand and used his grip to pull her into his embrace. His lips sought hers, and he kissed her slowly, almost tantalizingly. A sudden electric thrill darted up her spine, her heart fluttering from the hormonal surge unleashed by her first kiss.


    The engagement of lips set her heart on fire.


    He broke away from the kiss, a playful grin adorning his face. ¡°I¡¯ll have to educate you about the ride I promised.¡±


    She sighed and nestled into his chest. His scent brought her a flood of nostalgic memories. From discovering him in the wastelands of Hueco Mundo to sharing an intimate kiss in this quiet room, they had strayed far from their days as wanderers. Her affection for him had deepened gradually. Perhaps it was because he had dragged her out of a pathetic cycle of survival and mere existence, or perhaps he had given her the confidence and courage to reach new heights. He was the reason she could proudly claim to be near the food chain in the Hollow Kingdom.


    He was her first true friend, and possibly, her first mate.


    Part of her wished they were still alone, while another part felt grateful for having found endearing companions in Harribel, Mila Rose, Sung-Sun, and even Cirucci.


    Feeling nostalgic, she rubbed her face against his chest. ¡°Are we doing it here?¡±


    He was gentle as he let his hands roam over her soft curves, holding her tightly against his own hard body. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll make you my mate tonight.¡±


    She wrapped her arms around him. ¡°Don¡¯t give me babies... I want to become a Vasto Lorde before any baby shenanigans.¡±


    He expected nothing less from her. Her obsession with achieving Vasto Lorde Class dominated her priorities unless he was involved.


    ¡°No worries. I¡¯ll be careful.¡±


    With her explicit consent, he drew her into his arms, laying her down gently so her head nestled comfortably against the plush pillow. He hovered over her and showered her cheeks and lips with light, teasing kisses¡ªa game of playful seduction for him that left her aching for more.


    The teasing was fun for him, but for her, it was torture.


    ¡°Jerk!¡±


    Her hands found his shoulders and yanked him closer. Their lips met in a searing kiss. This time, he took the lead in showing her the true experience of kissing. She awkwardly opened her mouth in response to his probing. The innocent deer tried her best to keep up with him in their sloppy exchange of saliva. Her novice exploration grew into a tantalizing dance of passion.


    ¡°Change into your Hollow form,¡± she murmured, her voice a hushed whisper, as she draped her arms around his neck. ¡°Do it for me...¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    No sooner had the words left his lips than horns sprouted from his head, and a crimson gem appeared on his forehead. Folding his wings, he nestled his face in her neck, his lips grazing her skin with kisses that made her squirm beneath him. His hands roamed around her voluptuous body, pausing to undo buttons of her shirt, each loosened button unveiling more of her seductive tits to his hungry gaze.


    "Ah..." she moaned softly, biting her lip as a wave of anticipation washed over her. ¡°Something is happening to me...¡±


    His hands traced the contours of her bra, the fabric tearing away under his eager touch. Her glorious tits sprang free with a jiggle that awakened the beast inside him. He hungrily cupped her mound and pushed them against each other.


    ¡°Ahn~, the way you¡¯re sucking on my tits is... it¡¯s intense and lewd.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just the tip of the iceberg.¡± He buried his face in between her squeezed breasts, tickling her with his nose. The warmth and softness brought out a child-like euphoria in him. ¡°I love boobs~.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help but laugh at his innocent act. ¡°I fucking knew you loved big boobs from the way you gawked at Mila Rose and Harribel. It was so obvious.¡±


    Her cheeks reddened as she realized the implications of her words spoken in the heat of the moment. She had just given him ammunition to tease her more.


    ¡°Oh?¡± He chuckled, his tongue tracing wet patterns around her nipple. ¡°So, you wanted a sexy body like Mila Rose to seduce me. You¡¯re also a perv alright.¡±


    Every nerve of her screamed for release, the anticipation more painful than anything she¡¯d felt before. It was a delightful torture she never wished to end.


    She moaned out as waves of pleasure washed over her with more intensity each time, the sensation escalating until she saw nothing but white in her head.


    ¡°Ah... K-Kazuya...¡±


    Words failed her as she succumbed to the intense sensations. Her body jerked, and then it happened. The pressure building within her exploded, sending her crashing over the edge.


    She grabbed the back of his head, her hips involuntary bucking. Her body spasmed as she squirted, a rush of wetness soaking his face and the sheets beneath them.


    ¡°Kazuya~!¡± she screamed, her back arching off the bed. ¡°I¡¯m going insane!¡±


    He didn''t stop until her body stopped shaking. Only then did he withdraw his fingers from her dripping cunt and lifted his head from between her legs. He wiped them with the back of his hand, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction.


    ¡°Well,¡± he said. ¡°Was it good?¡±


    She could only nod, too spent to find her voice. Her body felt boneless, pleasure still humming in her veins.


    {Go on. Take your hard cock and shove it inside her.}


    ¡®Shut up, voyeur.¡¯


    {Hmph.}


    He patted her thigh. ¡°Hey, don¡¯t fall asleep on me.¡±


    ¡°I am not!¡± she said with a lot more energy than usual and stretched her arms. ¡°Give a hand.¡±


    He dragged her off the bed, getting her settled in his arms. She was quiet at first then her hands roamed his chiseled torso, kneading and caressing, provoking him with her warmth. A sultry rhythm emerged as she rolled her hips, her wet pussy sliding against his stiff cock, lathering it in her juices.


    ¡°You want to?¡± she whispered seductively in his ears, giving him a taste of his own temptation medicine. ¡°I can take it all and make you cum.¡±


    She was showing a different side of herself, one that didn¡¯t shy from intimacy. One that thrived in love and pleasure.


    He licked her ear and moved to sit on the edge of the bed. ¡°Be a good Apacci and ride me.¡±


    Gripping his shoulders, she rose on her knees and guided his cock to her wet entrance. The tip of his shaft nestled in her clit quite nicely and her cunt entrance clenched down immediately around him.


    He shuddered as she lowered herself on him. His cock split open her cunt, stretching her insanely wide as he entered her. The penetration was slow but sure, giving her time to adjust to his size.


    A shuddering breath escaped her lips, the sweet pain mingling with pleasure. ¡°Mhmm...¡±


    ¡°There is no rush,¡± he whispered and kissed her lips. ¡°We can start when you get accustomed.¡±


    She shook her head and rested her chin on his shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m gonna move.¡±


    Their eyes locked as she slowly began to move, her hips grinding against his in a erotic rhythm. His hands were drawn to her sexy hips as he firmly gripped them and guided her lascivious dance. Her rhythm was slow and sensual. With each rise and fall, she took him deeper and deeper to the edge of pleasure. Her moans echoed like a melody in his ears, his name rolling off her tongue in sultry whimpers.


    She had several little climaxes during her seductive dance across his lap.


    ¡°Harder...¡± she gasped, her nail digging into his back as she swung her hips up and down with no abandon.


    An explosive orgasm consumed her, her pussy clenching around him in uncontrollable and delicious spasms. Her unrestrained surrender was the trigger to his own climax. With a growl that echoed in the room and a final powerful thrust, he spilled his hot seed into her.


    Spent and satisfied, she slumped onto him, her body quivering with the aftershocks of her climax. He wrapped his arms around her, securing her trembling form against his. Their chests rose and fell in harmony, their sweat-drenched bodies tangled in blissful satisfaction. His cock remained lodged within her, a warm, pulsating reminder of their raw, unbridled passion for each other.


    ¡°Kazuya...¡± she whispered in his ears. ¡°I declare to the world that you¡¯re my lover... and my mate.¡±


    ¡°How about being my wife?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the same thing, silly goose.¡±


    ¡°Eh, whatever.¡±


    She giggled. ¡°I want to accompany you to the Soul Society. I know I can¡¯t but I want to!¡±


    ¡°Are you addicted to sex?¡±


    ¡°I just want to stay with you...¡± she tightened her arms around him and nuzzled her face close to his neck. ¡°Like this... forever.¡±


    Now, whether intentional or not, she was provoking feelings of guilt in him about his impending departure for the Soul Society. The guilt was amplified by the fact that another woman was largely the reason for his leaving.


    {Fuck Unohana. We¡¯re doing it for Ho?gyoku. We need that power to survive Yhwach. You cannot rely on Ichigo to save the day in this world.}


    He found himself nodding to Nami¡¯s reason. ¡°Apacci, don¡¯t be stubborn. I promise I¡¯ll take leave every now and then.¡±


    ¡°Okay...¡±


    ¡°I want more. Can you still go?¡±


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ...


    It''s the longest I have gone in a harem story without lemons. You guys decide if it was worth it or not.

 Chapter 77: Riches and Bitches

    Chapter 77: Riches and Bitches


    Kazuya had decided early on that the claustrophobic confines of Kisuke¡¯s underground chamber were no place for his companions. It was, in many ways, more limiting than the Hueco Mundo. Thus, he made it his mission to secure them a mansion, where they could live safely and often go out to explore the city as they wished.


    So, in the following days, he embarked on a solo adventure in Karakura Town and its neighbor Naruki City. His target demographic consisted of rich housewives¡ªregardless of their age. With gentle persuasion, he convinced them to part with a small percentage of their wealth. No one faced bankruptcy, yet he became filthy rich.


    After a few challenging days, he could be seen lounging poolside, clad in swimming trunks, spending relaxing time with his women.


    {You got both riches and bitches, Partner.}


    ¡®I couldn¡¯t invite Cirucci.¡¯


    Despite his best efforts to persuade Cirucci, she had remained as immovable as a mountain. He had so anticipated seeing her in a goth swimsuit. Her half-Arrancar form appealed to him in more ways than she imagined.


    {Dude, get a grip on your horny or you¡¯ll end up with more women than the fingers on your hands.}Ge?t latest novel chapters on nov(e)lbj/n(.)c/om


    ¡®I see no problem with that.¡¯


    {Should have known better. You have become too free-minded and loose, like a hoe on the streets!}


    ¡®Freedom: it¡¯s like taking a bath. Once you get used to it, you can never return. It¡¯s addicting.¡¯


    {Too much of anything is bad, Partner. Mark my words!}


    ¡°I still can¡¯t believe you got this for us,¡± whispered Mila Rose from a deckchair behind him. Sung-Sun, Apacci, and Harribel relaxed on their own chairs next to Mila Rose. ¡°Skull, how did you pull it off?¡±


    ¡°The best way to keep a secret is to forget it. So, yeah. I forgot.¡±


    She had been insistent about discovering the source of his wealth, but once again, he deflected her with a vague answer.


    Sung-Sun pushed her sunglasses to her head before putting them back on. ¡°Why do you want to know the secret? You wanna get rich like him?¡±


    ¡°Probably,¡± Apacci responded, a giggle accompanying her words. ¡°Mila Rose will buy a restaurant just to eat sushi every day.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s cheeks flushed. How come everyone guessed her intentions without even trying? Was she really that predictable?


    ¡°Ara, darling. Are you perhaps a soap? Because you¡¯re so damn smooth.¡±


    ¡°Not the soap puns...¡±


    Sung-Sun giggled. ¡°Let¡¯s rate Apacci.¡±


    His gaze shifted towards Apacci, who was clad in a white, frilly swimsuit top and denim shorts. A red hoodie was casually thrown over her attire, while her Zanpakuto? served as ornamental bracelets around her wrists.


    Apacci squirmed under his attentive scrutiny. ¡°I don¡¯t care about your rating.¡±


    All of his sweet talk during sex, which they had been doing nonstop every night behind everyone¡¯s backs, had made her a little more resistant to his voice. Yet, the warmth in his gaze stirred a familiar blush on her cheeks, evoking memories too lewd to be put into words.


    Before he could rate her, an uninvited black cat scurried into the scene. ¡°Wow, brat. You¡¯re having a pool party without me, your senior.¡±


    ¡°If it isn¡¯t the old hag of Shiho?in Clan. You¡¯re kinda wrong. No parties here. We¡¯re just chilling.¡±


    Yoruichi rolled her eyes. ¡°There are a couple of classes between a hag and a young woman like me.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± he said with a shrug. ¡°Anyways, come sit on my lap. I¡¯m good with cats.¡±


    ¡°Nope. I can lick my furs clean on my own.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Mila Rose stirred from her seat, approaching Yoruichi. "I hold you in high regard, but the only man allowed here is Skull. Please leave."


    She seemed more unnerved than the others, who remained quite indifferent to Yoruichi''s presence. Then again, she was the only one with a particular distaste for men.


    The black cat laughed at Mila Rose¡¯s somewhat sincere request. ¡°Can I join you if I don¡¯t act like a man?¡±


    Befuddled by the unexpected response, Mila Rose could only gape as Yoruichi vaulted into the air. A smokescreen enveloped her mid-leap, and when it dispersed, she was no longer a cat. A dark-skinned woman with vibrant purple hair stood before them, her golden eyes filled with mischief. She broke any illusion of her true form being that of a male.


    Yoruichi bent her body and stretched her arms. ¡°Ahhh, it feels good stretching like this.¡±

 Chapter 78: Invitation

    Chapter 78: Invitation


    Performing a fluid sequence of stretches, Yoruichi Shiho?in coaxed her lithe body into wakefulness. Her muscles, unlike the brute strength of Mila Rose, were defined by agility and flexibility, resembling the finesse of a panther ready to pounce. The early sun reflected off her dark skin, casting a lustrous sheen that emphasized her impressive physique.


    Yoruichi then surveyed the varied reactions around her, hoping that her unexpected transformation had its intended impact. Mila Rose was left aghast, her brows knitting into an expression of sheer bewilderment, while Apacci huffed in a noticeably irked fashion. Harribel maintained her typical aloof air, eyes unfazed, whereas an amused smirk played on Sung-Sun¡¯s lips. However, Yoruichi found herself most intrigued by Kazuya ¡ª his expression, a puzzling mixture of disappointment, was a far cry from what she had anticipated.


    ¡®He¡¯s known me from the start. Why the disappointment? I don''t look inferior to his women, do I?¡¯


    Keen to satiate her curiosity, she gently probed Kazuya for the reason behind his unusual reaction.


    ¡°I expected you to be a lot taller.¡±


    And his answer puzzled her. She was 156cm, a woman of average height in the Soul Society. Then again, she was facing a man taller than Kisuke, standing at almost six and a half feet tall. She¡¯d naturally appear smaller in comparison.


    Yoruichi placed her hands on her hips. ¡°You know how age works for powerful Souls. Who knows, maybe I can grow a couple more inches!¡±


    ¡°Nice optimism,¡± he said with a round of applause. ¡°Flashing your beautiful body to everyone ¡ª Shiho?in-san definitely lives up to her title, the Flash Goddess.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°I like your interpretation of the ¡®Flash Goddess.¡¯ It lends a whole new level of ''interest'' to my legacy.¡±


    Mila Rose, finally regaining her composure from the initial shock, pointed an accusing finger at Yoruichi. ¡°Wait, you''re a woman?!¡± She cast a glance around, realizing that no one shared her surprise. ¡°I mean, I understand Kazuya knowing this, but why are you all acting like it''s nothing? Was I the only one in the dark?¡±


    A grin crossed Apacci''s face. ¡°It was pretty obvious from our first meeting.¡±


    Sung-Sun nodded. ¡°Yoruichi was baiting us from the get-go. I saw her tryhard attempts from miles away.¡±


    Harribel feigned ignorance to Mila Rose¡¯s gaze, attempting not to deepen Mila Rose¡¯s embarrassment. There was something endearing about Mila Rose''s occasional denseness ¡ª it stemmed from her unwavering trust in her senses, rarely questioning what she saw or heard.


    ¡°Yoruichi-san.¡± The sudden interruption of a cold voice from behind Yoruichi startled everyone. It was Lisa looking at Yoruichi with exasperation. ¡°Don¡¯t flash your titties in front of a man engaged to multiple women.¡±


    Standing there in an aqua green bikini that complemented her eyes, Lisa held a shopping bag in her hand. Kazuya¡¯s gaze inevitably wandered towards her ample chest, noting silently that her bust was somewhat larger than Apacci''s.


    {Boobs... the first thing a man sees in a woman. Tiddies are truly the bane of all men.}


    Lisa tossed the bag towards Yoruichi. "Enough fooling around. Put this on."


    ¡°Hai hai.¡±


    In a well-choreographed motion, Lisa took off her glasses and flung them to Kazuya before taking a graceful dive into the pool. She swam like she owned the place, completely at ease, despite the fact it was her first visit.


    Spoiler[collapse]


    ¡°Ara, Darling. Are you talking behind my back?¡±


    ¡°I am not!¡±


    He sprawled on Mila Rose¡¯s deckchair and let the sunlight wash over him. His vision was graced by the sight of three stunning, dark-skinned beauties, each one possessing a figure more alluring than the last. Only he was around to witness the gorgeous sight.


    ¡®Boys, I found heaven on earth.¡¯


    {It¡¯s also heaven for lesbians, bisexual, and every weird gender attracted to women.}


    Sung-Sun took off her sunglasses and draped them over his eyes. ¡°Have a fun sleep.¡±


    He cast her a curious glance. She hadn¡¯t attacked him yet, which was quite out of character considering her teasing nature.


    ¡®Is she shy about making the first move?¡¯


    {Her Resurreccio?n is called ¡®White Snake Princess¡¯ in Japanese. I¡¯d say she is playing her part to perfection, being a chaste princess.}


    He pondered on this for a moment.


    ¡®Hmm.¡¯


    After having her fill of swimming, Yoruichi leisurely swam to the edge of the pool and propped her elbows on the warm pool tiles. The water flowed down her shoulders, creating an enticing image. ¡°Kazuya, I almost forgot why I came here in the first place.¡±


    ¡°Why is that?¡±


    Lisa too emerged from the water contrasting the dark-skinned Shinigami with her fair complexion. Yoruichi had brought her from the Ishida Mansion under some pretense, but there must be more to it than just shopping for swimsuits.


    ¡°Well,¡± Yoruichi began, injecting a sense of suspense into the air. ¡°It¡¯s about time you formally introduce your group to the Visored.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s brows arched upwards. ¡°You can¡¯t just bring a bunch of high-level Hollows to our base. Kensei and Hiyori will lose their shit.¡±


    Yoruichi laughed. ¡°That¡¯s the plan. I wanna see some shock on their faces.¡±


    ¡°You... are fucked in the head.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just light fun,¡± Yoruichi said and turned to Kazuya. ¡°Choose a name for your faction. Something catchy like Visored did. I wanna hear a mic drop when you say your name.¡±

 Chapter 79: Gone Yandere

    Chapter 79: Gone Yandere


    Kazuya was a little stumped about choosing a name for his faction, which only consisted of six members ¡ª five ladies and him. He eventually wanted to introduce powerful Hollows like Starrk, but Mila Rose¡¯s prejudice for men hadn¡¯t completely vanished.


    {I can help you with the name! How about Five Fingers of Doom? We can keep Cirucci as a mascot on the side.}


    Nami''s voice echoed in his mind, suggesting names that reeked of her own chuuni tendencies. As he narrowed his gaze on the crystal-clear water, a curious thought about her chuuni tendencies emerged. She could be the manifestation of a part of him buried deep in his soul. A side that he had never allowed to surface ¡ª a suppressed persona birthed from his disciplined upbringing under his grandfather.


    {The Godslayers. The Cosmic Warriors. The Void Kings of Demonic Realm! The Dark Einherjar.}


    She continued spitting out name after audacious name, each more grandiose and chuuni than the last but he didn¡¯t nod his head to any.


    {Keep ignoring me, Partner...}


    Letting out a sigh, he turned his attention to Harribel. Her aqua green eyes stared back at him, as calm as the moonlit sea.


    ¡°You¡¯re the leader of our group,¡± he reminded her in a soft voice. ¡°You should decide the name. The name will stick with us when we move on to rule the Hueco Mundo.¡±


    He had long since taken over as the voice of the group, mainly due to Harribel¡¯s quiet and thoughtful nature ¡ª she spent more time in her head than engaging with others. That didn''t imply his usurpation of her leadership. At best, he viewed himself as a co-leader, akin to a clan elder supporting the clan leader.


    There was also the crown-like Hollow remnant on her head, which possibly reflected her hidden aspirations to rule the Hueco Mundo as this peaceful and sacrificing Queen. He was subtly testing the waters, gauging if such an ambition was harbored within her heart.


    ¡°I was the leader. Now you are,¡± Harribel said in a firm voice, bluntly putting down any doubts anyone had about her current position. ¡°As for Hueco Mundo...¡±


    A subtle shift occurred in her demeanor as she finally moved from her relaxed position. Leaning forward, a crease formed between her brows, a sign that they were delving into serious territory. ¡°My dream is about achieving peace and minimizing meaningless deaths in the name of survival and evolution... I believe we can do it.¡±


    She confidently revealed her vision with everyone. The vision that no longer seemed silly or impossible with Barragan¡¯s death and her massive power surge.


    She glanced at every one of her companions before settling her eyes on him. ¡°I want Hueco Mundo and our race to be better... Will you help me?¡±


    "With pleasure," he replied calmly. "I just need you to wait for some time. Until then, we can focus on breaking the Las Noches structure and clearing the seeds from the previous monarchy.¡±


    He supported her wholeheartedly. However, an ominous shadow loomed over her dream. The problem was once again Aizen. The King of Hollows will soon become Aizen¡¯s target. Letting her become the Ruler of Hollows was foolish in the current year, to say the least.


    Sung-Sun clapped her hands. ¡°It¡¯s the official crowning of our new leader, the new King of Hollows, the Godslayer, and the most handsome darling in the world ¡ª Kazuya. Fall on your knees and acknowledge him!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a lotta asslicking packed into one sentence,¡± Mila Rose guffawed. ¡°Though, I have to admit his face is better than those monstrous Hollows.¡±


    After the room filled with laughter and cheerful jeers, Kazuya steered the conversation back to their original dilemma ¡ª the name of their group. ¡°Urahara-san said that Hollows are poison to Quincy, and Quincy¡¯s abilities are deadly against Hollows. I¡¯m a perfect specimen of both races. Since I¡¯m the leader, the name should be based on me.¡±


    Yoruichi frowned. ¡°What¡¯s it gonna be?¡±


    ¡°The Inverse.¡±


    ¡°The Inverse, huh? It suits you well,¡± Yoruichi said, a smirk playing on her lips. ¡°You''re the antithesis of your own existence. I quite like the name.¡±


    On top of being lazy and playful, Yoruichi was quite a wise woman. One of the reasons for her immense popularity among her fans.


    Nods and murmurs of agreement resonated throughout the room. Most members hadn¡¯t been particularly concerned with their group name, else they would have settled on one already.


    {Boooooo.}


    Nami wasn¡¯t happy about his choice.


    ¡®Oh well, you can¡¯t make everyone happy.¡¯


    {I¡¯m not anyone. I¡¯m your Partner. PARTNER. We live for each other. We die for each other. We murder the world to protect the other. We are SOULMATES born of the same soul,} she retorted, her tone hinting at an edge of intensity that was borderline obsessive.


    Her words bore an uncanny resemblance to those of a yandere. While he wasn''t necessarily bothered by yandere, Nami wielded an enormous amount of power. A yandere of her level was nightmare fuel.


    ¡®Nami, I promise I¡¯ll let you name something else later.¡¯


    {Really? You better keep the promise or I¡¯ll transform into a kitchen knife and cut your throat.}


    ¡®...¡¯

 Chapter 80-81: Meeting the Visored

    Chapter 80-81: Meeting the Visored


    The Visored took their training seriously as mastering their Hollow Masks was an important goal, surpassed only by their burning desire to hold Aizen accountable for his deplorable sins and kicking his ass.


    The training routine of the Visored typically involved fierce sparring matches between pairs within the confines of a force field created by Hachigen. One such bout was about to unfold at the very moment.


    A figure of towering stature and a solid physique, crowned with short silver hair, squared off against Hiyori. Her face was hidden behind her Hollow Mask, which was adorned with a single horn and a series of diamond patterns on her forehead. Her Zanpakuto?, transformed into its Shikai form, resembled a cleaver with serrated edges.


    Hiyori''s Hollow Mask endowed her with a great strength boost, but she struggled to close the inherent gap between a Vice Captain and a Captain''s Reiatsu.


    Her opponent, Kensei Mugurama, the former captain of the 9th Squad, hadn¡¯t even worn his Hollow Mask. He held his bronze-guarded combat knife, his Zanpakuto? in Shikai form. His face was exceedingly calm compared to Hiyori¡¯s seething ferocity.


    ¡°I¡¯m coming!¡±


    With a ground-shattering kick-off, Hiyori charged at Kensei, her cleaver raised high. He easily countered her vicious strike with his combat knife, parrying her assault. The duel began slowly but soon escalated, the air crackling with tension. Kensei remained casual, deflecting Hiyori¡¯s barrage of vicious strikes, even finding time to strike her defenseless side a couple of times. Every sting of his dagger cut was accompanied by the summoning of a fierce wind blade that inflicted even more injuries on Hiyori.


    In less than a minute, Hiyori was drenched in her own blood, her Hollow Mask chipped and battered in several places. Taking deep breaths, she focused on Kensei, the adrenaline making her somewhat numb to the pain.


    Kensei clenched his jaw, admonishing, ¡°You can¡¯t extend the timer like that. Stop resting and come at me.¡±


    ¡°I know, jerk. Ha! Take a load of this blade!¡±


    She pushed through the pain, which was the key to increasing the duration of her Hollowification. The longer they could maintain their Hollow Masks, the more feasible it would be to turn the tide against stronger opponents.


    The fight continued for two minutes before Hiyori¡¯s Hollow Mask dissolved on its own. Like always, Kensei avoided any direct hit from Hiyori.


    Overlooking the training area from a raised balcony, Shinji watched the duel with an air of detached interest, his hands nonchalantly tucked into his pockets. But beneath the mask of indifference, he was sharply aware of every movement, every exchange of blows. He understood the pain Hiyori was pushing through, and it stirred a mixture of admiration and concern within him.


    Abruptly, his gaze shifted to the underground training chamber¡¯s exit. ¡°Lisa is back with Yoruichi-san... and someone else.¡±


    Kisuke, who had been observing the Visored¡¯s growth, licked his lips. ¡°Let¡¯s meet them, shall we?¡±


    Shinji narrowed his eyes, sensing that Kisuke was cooking something. The self-proclaimed handsome merchant rarely ventured to their underground chamber, a place he had constructed in the first place. Today he just showed up under the guise of observing their training and gaining some ''enlightenment.¡¯ As if Shinji would believe those words.


    Shinji waved his hand. ¡°I''ll be back in a jiff.¡±


    As he emerged from the underground chamber, his eyes instantly fell upon an unexpected sight. Standing within the dimly lit warehouse was a man with silver hair flowing down his shoulders like a mane. His true nature could easily be discernible by two white horns on the sides of his head and the red gem on his forehead. He was an Arrancar, no doubt, who had torn off his mask and concealed his Reiatsu with a Gigai. But what caught Shinji¡¯s attention was the familiarity of the Arrancar¡¯s Reiatsu.


    ¡®The Arrancar we were worried about. Why does he look like those demon kings from Love¡¯s shounen manga?¡¯


    Shinji swiveled towards Kisuke, his gaze sharp as a blade. ¡°You know him.¡±


    Kisuke placed a reassuring hand on Shinji''s shoulder. ¡°He might be Arrancar but he is a friend. You¡¯ll find Kazuya particularly interesting.¡±


    The man who claimed he served Aizen must also be familiar with Aizen¡¯s former Captain, Shinji Hirako. Kisuke couldn¡¯t wait to see the authenticity of Kazuya¡¯s claim.


    ¡°I ain¡¯t familiar with the name Kazuya.¡±


    Yoruichi and Lisa walked into the warehouse, positioning themselves on either side of Kazuya.


    ¡°Yo, Shinji,¡± Yoruichi said as she raised her hand in greeting, still in her swimsuit. ¡°Meet our new friend, the leader of the Inverse.¡±


    Kazuya looked up as well, smiling. ¡°Nice to meet you, Shinji. Let¡¯s sit somewhere appropriate, shall we?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s soothing voice made Shinji question if he was into women or men.


    ...


    Minutes later, Shinji, Kisuke, Yoruichi, and Kazuya were huddled around a table. The warm flicker of the artificial sun, the kido? spell, bathed their faces in a subtle glow. Shinji was frowning, deep in thought, Kisuke fanned himself with an air of amused detachment. Yoruichi was leaning back in her chair, her gaze sharp and appraising.


    The Visored scrutinized them from a distance, their curiosity piqued, except for Lisa. She stood behind Kazuya, eager to know the secret he was so keen on concealing. He sat relaxed like Yoruichi, one elbow resting on the table. His eyes held a gleam of cunning as they flicked towards Kisuke, his smile playing around the edges of his mouth. Kisuke had brought him here to test him against Shinji Hirako. And he had come prepared.


    He wasn¡¯t going to let his lies fall apart so easily. Dealing with Shinji was a breeze of air compared to dealing with Kisuke.


    ¡°This guy is the Vasto Lorde we were discussing, right?¡± Shinji cut to the chase with a direct question. ¡°Where''s the other Arrancar?¡±


    ¡°At my home,¡± he said with a faint smile. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring everyone here to give you guys a scare. Kisuke, why do you want my group to be familiar with the Visored? As far as I know, we have nothing in common.¡±


    The Visored were unlikely to offer any assistance in his mission involving the Soul Society, unless Kisuke intended for them to forge friendships through conversation. The chances of that happening were one in a million.


    Shinji nodded at the question. ¡°Yeah. Why introduce us?¡±


    Kisuke, who was busy waving his fan, smiled. ¡°There is one thing in common. You both got done in when Aizen used you as a test subject. You see, Kazuya here used to be a Seated Officer in your Squad before he was used by Aizen for the Hollowification experiment.¡±


    ¡°Huh? He reincarnated as a Hollow then became a Vasto Lorde in, what, a hundred years? That¡¯s some impressive growth.¡±


    ¡°She rarely accepts defeat like this,¡± Shinji said with an unamused face. ¡°A small Cero almost defeated her. You outclass her, man. I doubt any one of us could go one on one with you.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s brows raised in surprise. ¡°Seriously, Shinji?¡±


    He was their strongest member as far as she knew. Kazuya turned out to be even stronger than she had expected.


    Shinji nodded. ¡°I¡¯m sensitive to Reiatsu. His surpasses mine by a big margin.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. I partially awakened my Zanpakuto? at Kisuke¡¯s house.¡±


    Yoruichi chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re at this level of strength at partial Resurreccio?n. What kind of monster will you become at your strength?¡±


    ¡°Capable of defeating Aizen, I hope.¡± He shrugged. ¡°That guy is a true monster. Shinji here knows that, right?¡±


    Shinji leaned against his chair and threw his back. ¡°I knew he was suspicious when I first saw him. I kept him at my side all the time... Little did I know, I was being fooled so hard by his illusion. That fucker¡¯s smile... makes my blood boil.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m gonna put an end to his tomfoolery.¡±


    ¡°Hah? What are you gonna do to Aizen?¡±


    Kisuke decided to answer on Kazuya¡¯s behalf. ¡°Shinji-san, Kazuya-san is going to the Soul Society to expose Aizen¡¯s crimes.¡±


    The tension suddenly rose at the mention of his masterplan. Just one of his plans which he was hoping would work out.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shinji stared at Kazuya. ¡°Couldn¡¯t you find¡ª¡±


    His words got stuck in his throat when Kazuya¡¯s horns disappeared, revealing his Quincy form.


    ¡°You were saying something?¡±


    ¡°WHAT THE FUCK?¡± Shinji¡¯s shocked voice resonated through the underground chamber.


    The Visored, previously standing at a distance, rushed towards Kazuya, forming a curious circle around him.


    Yoruichi laughed. These were the types of reactions she lived for. The same type of reaction people gave her when she went from a male cat to a sexy woman. Her amusement was amplified by the expression Kazuya was making. It seemed like he was a cute alien surrounded by a bunch of earthlings trying to understand him but to no avail.


    ¡°Hang in there, buddy. Help is not on the way!¡± she teased. ¡°Definitely not!¡±


    ¡°Fuck off,¡± he said and pushed everyone with his hands. ¡°Stop acting like children. Switching between Quincy and Hollow is my innate ability.¡±


    "Don''t call Mashiro a child!" exclaimed a young woman clad in a bodysuit that looked like it was straight out of a Japanese superhero TV show. "Mashiro is a grown-up!"


    ¡°Only a kid refers to themselves in third person, girl.¡±


    Kensei chuckled. paused before cracking his knuckles. ¡°She refuses to be normal.¡±


    Mashiro shot Kensei a childish grimace, pulling her eyelid down and sticking her tongue out. ¡°Kensei, you grouch. You big jerk.¡±


    Kensei paused before cracking his knuckles. ¡°I¡¯m gonna kick your ass.¡±


    A playful scuffle broke out between the former Captain and Vice-Captain of the 9th Squad ¡ª a tradition that had been carried on from their time in the Soul Society to the World of the Living.


    Kazuya looked at Shinji. ¡°Are you guys sure you don¡¯t need a therapist? I can refer you to one on my contacts list.¡±


    Love Aikawa, the tall Visored with a black spiked afro, scratched his cheek thoughtfully. ¡°You should know how Souls are. You develop all types of eccentricity when you live for as long as us.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s... true.¡± Kazuya agreed with a nod. ¡°It doesn¡¯t mean a little therapy here and there won¡¯t improve your mood.¡±


    Lisa rolled her eyes. ¡°Look at this Hollow giving us life tips. Go back to Hueco Mundo and devour your own race.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not some random Hollow,¡± he said as he crossed his arms, his expression serious. ¡°You¡¯re talking to the Prince of Hollows. The future King of Arrancars. ¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re the future King of Arrancars then I¡¯m Queen of Shinigami.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we perfect male and female leads for a romance novel?¡±


    ¡°I prefer erotica, but sure. Male and female leads with our backgrounds would sell as hot as Romeo and Juliet.¡±


    Shinji watched, speechless. ¡°You two.... Just marry already.¡±


    Kazuya extended his hand to Lisa. ¡°Let¡¯s go to church.¡±


    ¡°In your dreams!¡±

 NOTE

NOTE


    The last chapter somehow wasn''t published completely. Read it again!Follow the latest novels at novelhall.com

 Chapter 82: Apprehensions

    Chapter 82: Apprehensions


    At Kazuya¡¯s mansion.


    Cirucci emerged from the building and shielded her eyes from the dazzling sunlight. Around the glistening pool, Apacci, Harribel, and Sung-Sun sprawled across chairs, their bodies still as statues basking in the sun. On the other side, Mila Rose splashed clumsily through the pool like an eager child. She was in the middle of learning how to swim, a challenge that went against her nature as a lioness.


    From Cirucci¡¯s perspective, all four women relaxed and enjoyed the lovely afternoon.


    ¡°Rose, where is Kazuya?¡±


    Mila Rose poked her head out of the water. ¡°He went to meet the Visored. It¡¯s the group Lisa is a part of.¡±


    ¡°Alone?¡±


    ¡°He insisted on going alone.¡±


    Cirucci rubbed the back of her head. ¡°One of you should have gone with him. He is our leader for fuck¡¯s sake. What type of impression will it leave on the other party?¡±


    At that, Harribel stirred, removing her sunglasses. Sparks flew as they stared at each other, unyielding spirits fighting an imperceptible battle.


    ¡°He insisted on going alone,¡± Harribel repeated Mila Rose¡¯s words in a steady, deliberate voice. ¡°He didn¡¯t want to scare them with a group of Arrancars wielding fearsome powers... Try to understand the Visored¡¯s perspective.¡±


    ¡°A group of powerful Arrancars hiding in the same town as them. I get it.¡± Cirucci¡¯s sigh was audible, a mix of realization and resignation. She approached the pool, sitting at the edge and dipping her feet into the water, creating ripples that disturbed its tranquility. ¡°When is he leaving?¡±


    ¡°Someone seems to be terribly lonely without our leader,¡± Sung-Sun said with a chuckle. ¡°We don¡¯t know yet. In a week or two I¡¯d assume.¡±


    A thoughtful expression cast a shadow over Cirucci¡¯s features. Her anticipation for Kazuya¡¯s remedy of her broken Zanpakuto? surpassed her initial expectations. After all, her Zanpakuto? was the very reason she was rotting in the underground chamber while everyone else was having the tour of their lives. Left to her thoughts, she unknowingly sank deeper and deeper into the abyss of despair.


    A hand rose from the pool and yanked her into the pool, disrupting her contemplation. She emerged, dripping wet, her wings heavy and sodden.


    ¡°Hahaha.¡± Mila Rose¡¯s laughter echoed through the air, wild and unhinged, as if she was a maniac villain who had just cracked the code to end the world. ¡°Stop being a sad bird. Chirp and open your wings like a happy bird!¡±


    Cirucci glared at her for a few moments before she climbed out of the pool. ¡°Don¡¯t bother me... I¡¯m not in the mood.¡±


    Mila Rose''s smile faltered, replaced by a concerned frown at her friend¡¯s dejected response. ¡°Cheer up, let me tell you what happened today.¡±


    As Mila Rose related the conversation between Kazuya and Harribel about Hueco Mundo''s future, surprise flickered across Cirucci¡¯s face.


    ¡°He actually took responsibility for killing Baraggan.¡±


    She took him for a leader but never the type to step up as a King after Baraggan¡¯s death. The fact that he cared about the future of the Hollow race made her hopeful for the future of Hueco Mundo.


    ¡®I¡¯m still not leaving this place for Hueco Mundo.¡¯


    She looked at Harribel in a new light. ¡°I¡¯m all for Kazuya being a king and Harribel being the queen.¡±


    Harribel responded with a firm, "Thank you," gesturing for Apacci and Sung-Sun to sit up. ¡°After Kazuya leaves, I¡¯ll go to Las Noches and talk to Baraggan¡¯s retainers... I¡¯ll try the peaceful method.¡±


    The idea of sitting on a throne, dictating terms, didn¡¯t align with her nature. Yet, for the sake of peace, for fewer sacrifices, she accepted this formidable role with an unwavering resolve. Leadership was not an exciting prospect, but a necessary compromise.


    Mila Rose froze in surprise. Apacci and Cirucci weren¡¯t any different. Only Sung-Sun showed a look of mild surprise, clearly not expecting Harribel to take action so fast. Harribel¡¯s proposal clashed with the personal agendas they had for Hueco Mundo after Kazuya¡¯s leave.


    Mila Rose and Cirucci exchanged stunned glances as they listened to Sung-Sun¡¯s devious plan that heavily involved Kazuya.


    She pointed an accusatory finger at Sung-Sun. ¡°That¡¯s going too far, Snake.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, Coward Rose. I¡¯m not gonna deny my womanhood for some random excuse.¡±


    The words pierced Mila Rose¡¯s chest. ¡°I¡¯m not making excuses!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t come crying to me when he loses interest in you. The Seireitei is as big as the Living World. He will find plenty of women there. Women who he used to work with and admire. I¡¯ll do everything I can to make sure he has a reason to come back. Hell, he might get together with Yoruichi and make a noble family there.¡±


    Her words served as a harsh reminder of Kazuya¡¯s background as a Shinigami and how easily he could be swayed to leave their side. Even though they trusted him with their hearts, there was still a lingering concern that he would leave them forever.


    To her surprise, Mila Rose threw her head back and laughed like a maniac. ¡°Fuck off. He is Skull. My Skull. I¡¯m gonna storm the gates of Soul Society to bring him back here if I need to.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you care so much about me?¡±


    ¡°Of course I do, you dummy. He is a precious friend and a potential mate.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m flattered.¡±


    Mila Rose paused, her head slowly moving to where the voice came from. She came face to face with a grinning Kazuya, her expression frozen in time as if he was the embodiment of her nightmares.


    Cirucci burst into laughter. ¡°How can someone be so clueless and cute?¡±


    ¡°Mila Rose is a natural,¡± Sung-Sun said. ¡°How did things go with the Visored?¡±


    ¡°Good. I¡¯m gonna train with them starting tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good but will you be spending less time with us?¡±


    ¡°Nope, because we¡¯ll all be training there.¡±


    ¡°Wow.¡± Mila Rose exclaimed. ¡°I¡¯m gonna beat them to pulp and show ¡®em the powers of a true Arrancar.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d love to see you try.¡±


    He settled by Cirucci¡¯s side and laid his head on her wet thighs, feeling a surprising amount of plush beneath his head. ¡°Will you join us, Cirucci?¡±


    Cirucci didn¡¯t reject his initiative, leaning back with a sigh. ¡°Training won¡¯t help me in my current form.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I just want you to be there as a part of our group. By the way, our group has a name now. The Inverse. El Inverso.¡±


    Kazuya had already approached Kisuke for a solution for Cirucci¡¯s Zanpakuto? after his meeting with Visored. The shady shopkeeper had agreed to help but made no promises.


    ¡°It¡¯s not bad...¡± she said with a slow nod and looked down at him. ¡°Kazuya, I support your decision to become the King.¡±


    ¡°Does that mean we can finally fuck?¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 83-85: The Night (R-18)

    Chapter 83-85: The Night (R-18)


    Nights were often a toss-up between sleep and fun for Kazuya these days, hinging mostly on Apacci¡¯s whims. She¡¯d sneak into his bed every night before him and surprise him with kisses as soon as he crawled into the bed.


    Tonight was a little different. He was searching for Sung-Sun, who was nowhere to be found in her room or anyone else¡¯s room for that matter. As if she had vanished from the mansion. With the Reiatsu concealing Gigai, it was next to impossible to trace any of his companions ¡ª a great and bad feature at the same time.


    ¡®Did she return to the Hueco Mundo?¡¯


    He denied the thought. She¡¯d definitely tell him if she were to leave suddenly.


    ¡®Wait, I forgot to check my room.¡¯


    He headed toward the most spacious bedroom in the mansion. In the moonlit room, he could see a silhouette underneath the blankets. Since everyone was in their rooms, Apacci included, the woman on his bed had to be Sung-Sun.


    ¡®We both thought about fucking on the same night.¡¯


    {Her compatibility with you is only second to my impeccable bond with you. That¡¯s saying a lot, for we are soulmates bound to be together for eternity.}


    ¡®Tone down your yandere a bit. My heart can only handle so much sugar.¡¯


    {My Partner deserves all the love in this world after your past life with a senile old fuck. I¡¯d have killed him if I were in your shoes. Straight up stabs to his heart then chop him into bits and flush him down the Tokyo Bay.}


    ¡®Chill.¡¯


    He moved toward the bed and slid under the covers. Embracing Sung-Sun from behind, he planted kisses along her nape, his hands roaming her bare skin, finding her figure wrapped in mere bra and panties. She was cool as the air outside. As a Hollow with a physiology akin to serpents, her body temperature was heavily influenced by her surroundings.


    ¡°Apacci, your scent is a little different... it¡¯s more enticing.¡±


    ¡°Fufu. It¡¯s the difference between a harmless deer and a venomous snake. A prey and a hunter.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± He feigned ignorance, reaching to rub her breasts with one hand. The supple softness under her thin bra compelled him to give her tits a couple more rubs. ¡°Apacci, your chest shrank in a day? Did Sung-Sun pop its air like a balloon?¡±


    She pried off his hands and turned around to face him. ¡°Ara, can¡¯t you tell the difference between Apacci¡¯s outlandishly useless pair of balloons and my twin peaks molded with magnificent elegance?¡±


    ¡°W-Wait, Sung-Sun? What are you doing in my bed?¡±


    Grinning in the dark, she stroked his face with the gentleness of a mother. ¡°Your innocent act isn¡¯t fooling anyone. You already knew who I was before you started groping me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a terrible actor.¡±


    ¡°Actually terrible.¡± She nodded seriously as she drew closer and pecked his lips. ¡°Do you know why I¡¯m here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d be a fool to not realize a woman¡¯s blatant invitation.¡±


    ¡°Sweet,¡± she murmured as she pushed him on his back and straddled his waist. ¡°Darling~.¡±


    He had noticed something earlier when she was in her swimsuit and hoody. Her baggy clothes concealed a slender body gifted with the right amount of curves at places. She pulled off the perfect combination of elegant and alluring. Her bare body also showed her Hollow hole in the same place as Apacci and Mila Rose ¡ª all three girls of Tres Bestia had a yearning for strength for different reasons. The lioness wanted to protect, the deer wanted to surpass the world, and the snake most likely wanted strength to prevent the deaths of her precious friends.


    Seizing his hands in hers, she immobilized them above his head and nuzzled into his neck. Emitting cool sighs, she traced a path of kisses from his neck to his right ear. ¡°You have to hold my hands, kiss me, touch me intimately, and then fuck me. That¡¯s how you will turn me into a Snake Mommy.¡±


    Her seductive whispers near his ears set his heart aflutter. His erection slowly strained against his pants. He still let her lead, wondering how far the Snake Princess would go on her own.


    ¡°Do I have a choice in the decision?¡±


    ¡°A tiny bit like one percent. I¡¯ll be Cirucci and Harribel-sama¡¯s competitor whether you like it or not.¡±


    She suddenly leaned in and kissed him. Her lips, soft and plump, perfectly fitted against his own so perfectly it sent a shudder trembling through him. She pulled back from the kiss and smirked at him ¡ª an undeniably seductive expression that left his pants feeling tighter. She drew away right as he extended his tongue, giggling as she proceeded to torment him with fleeting kisses, mirroring his own teasing tactics with Apacci. Never once did she loosen her grasp on his hands or permit him to deepen the kiss.


    He looked at her with slight annoyance, finally comprehending the reason for Apacci¡¯s irritation. Being teased was a first for him as he had been the dominant partner in his relationships with Yumi and Apacci. ¡°I¡¯m gonna take revenge when I fuck you silly.¡±


    She shuddered visibly at his threatening tone. ¡°Oh, Darling. You¡¯re making me wetter.¡±


    He glanced down at her panties. Indeed, there was a moist patch visible on purple panties. The anticipation of lying on his bed in his absence and their conversation had considerably hiked up her excitement.


    She let out a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m gonna stop. Which one of my forms would you like to fuck? This one or my lamia form?¡±


    He gulped at her question which was far trickier than it seemed. Denying sex to her lamia form would be the same as rejecting her true self. ¡°It¡¯s heresy to choose just between them. Both of them are Sung-Sun.¡±


    ¡°Lamia form, it is then.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s try that next time. For tonight, let¡¯s just indulge in each other like this.¡±


    She smirked mischievously as she released his hands and drew back. ¡°Darling still has inhibitions about my other form. You used to be a Shinigami, after all. Killing Hollows was your job, not bringing them to bed for a fuck.¡±


    His hands trailed around her legs, touching her slender butt held with a heated look. ¡°I¡¯ll become used to it like I became used to my life as a Hollow.¡±


    She suddenly grabbed his cock which was starting to regain its vigor. ¡°Darling¡¯s cock is standing proud after that. This naughty thing needs to be punished.¡±


    ¡°How will you do it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you.¡±


    She rolled off of him and pulled him to sit on the edge of the bed. With a smirk, she cupped her tits and then smothered his cock between them.


    The alluring softness, the squishy resistance, the cool touch of her skin against his heated cock, all of it felt downright heavenly as her boobs pushed and rubbed his cock between them. His tip poked out from between her tits, jutting into the cleavage of her breasts. She drooled onto the head, the spit stringing down his length creating a makeshift lube for her titfuck.


    Smirking, she looked up at him. ¡°Does this naughty fellow like the taste of my perfect breasts?¡±


    ¡°Absolutely,¡± he groaned, gripping onto the sheets and enduring her soft boobs as she pleased him with them.


    Sometimes she lifted both tits at the same time, other times she just squished them together and heightened the pressure around his cock. She lifted one while lowering the other. She leaned forward more and squished his cock against her chest more ¡ª her varied and infinitely-pleasurable tricks left his tip gleaming with pre-cum, twitching with a desire to unload.


    She let out her tongue and rolled it around the tip poking between her breasts. The cold sensation sent a shiver down his spine, bringing down the last wall of resistance.


    ¡°Cum now, Darling.¡±


    ''''Sung-Sun...!¡±


    With a gasp, he thrust his hips and busted his load, spurting his seed all over her tits. The sight made all the more lewd when she rubbed her tits together, smearing his own cum into his cock. She hurriedly pulled his twitching penis in her mouth, eagerly sucking out the leftover semen. A gleam of delight shone in her eyes.


    He moaned breathlessly. ¡°That was incredible...¡±


    He had received a couple of titfucks from Apacci. The deer¡¯s clumsiness had its own adorable charm but Sung-Sun¡¯s sheer techniques with her tits and mouth were out of this world.


    Sung-Sun released his cock with a pop and slowly scooped up the semen from her chest before licking it off. The seductive sight had him hard again within moments. Seeing his penis brimming with energy, she climbed on the bed and bent on all fours. With her ass facing him and her flushed pussy on full display, she threw an expectant look over her shoulder at him.


    ¡°Darling, don¡¯t waste time. We have to do it all night to guarantee Little Kazuya and Sung-Sun.¡±


    Despite his usually playful and nonchalant demeanor, he was a responsible man at his roots. A child was the most promising reason for him to return back from the Soul Society.


    He let out a sigh. ¡°Sung-Sun, can we wait until my mission is done?¡±


    She narrowed her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll yield on one condition. You have to call me ¡®wife¡¯ both in private and in front of everyone.¡±


    ¡°Wife.¡±


    Her face shone with a brilliant smile, satisfied by his compliance. ¡°Husband! Now fuck me.¡±


    Her seductive voice turned him on more than it should. Swiftly, he shuffled behind her, eyes roaming over her shapely thighs and soft ass. He probed at the eager entrance with his cock and slowly pushed into her. With how wet she was he sunk in right up to the hilt on the first go, groin bumping up against her ass cheeks as he filled her completely. Yet there was a snug grip on him that felt like a show of possessiveness.


    The enthralling sensation of her pussy propelled him into motion, hips rearing back and bucking forth slow at first but steadily gaining speed.


    With her head bowed low, she let out a slew of hot, husky moans. ¡°Haah~! That''s it! More! More!''¡±


    His hands found her waist, gripping tightly as his thrusts became more forceful; each powerful surge sent ripples cascading across her skin. Her soft pair of tits bounced from the force of his pounding, swaying back and forth with a hypnotizing rhythm. He reached out, kneading her sticky tits as he maintained his rhythm.


    Her intimate grip on him was downright heavenly. His grunts gradually became more guttural as he intensified his pace. The sudden roughness was well appreciated by Sung-Sun, her loud moan filling his ears and turning a tad breathless when his fingers found her nipples and gave them a rough tweak.


    ¡°Mhmmm~, do me anyway you want, Husband.¡±


    When she demanded it, how could he not comply? Releasing her bosom he settled his strong hands on her shoulders, shoving them down against the bed. A mad howl of delight left her as she moved her ass back and forth to meet his rhythmic assault. Her voice once more ricocheting off of his bedroom walls as he gave her the pounding she deserved. His swollen girth stuffed between her wet petals and pummeled up against her sensitive region, leaving her engulfed in waves of pure euphoria.


    ''''Hyah! Y-Yes, Right there, husband!'''' she utterly howled with bliss, flooding his ears. ¡°You¡¯re amazing!¡±


    The seizing grip around his cock more than assured him of that, her pussy quivering and quaking as he buried himself balls-deep in her. The precum soon began to leak, sloshing within her, offering a sticky squelch to their relentless mating. He was so entrenched in his lust right now all he could think about was how good it felt to fuck her from behind, eyes roaming ravenously over her pale back and watching her olive green hair spill across it as she tossed her head this way and that, biting her bottom lip more often than not.


    A few more powerful and steady thrusts at her sensitive region pushed her to another orgasm. A shrill shriek escaped the voluptuous princess as she clenched tight around his dick, her tightness trying to coax all of his load out. Gritting his teeth, he withdrew and emptied his balls on her ass.


    She moaned arousingly and stayed in her position, having no energy to even move her body. After a few moments, she flopped down onto her side and brushed her messy hair away from her face. He crawled over to join her side, their sweaty bodies intermingling in the moonlight.


    ¡°Husband... do you want more?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re ready.¡±


    ¡°I promised to last the whole night. I¡¯m not backing down!¡±


    He chuckled at her enthusiastic response. ¡°That¡¯s my good wife.¡±


    Apart from the small moments of reprieve, they ended up having sex until the moon vanished and the first ray shone on them.

 Chapter 86: Unusual Relationship

    Chapter 86: Unusual Relationship


    Kazuya had a refreshing bath with Sung-Sun first thing in the morning. Mila Rose, Apacci, Harribel, and Cirucci were already there, nestled around the table in the dining room. Each reacted differently as Sung-Sun walked into the dining room with him, her arm twined possessively around his arm.


    A scornful sneer twisted Mila Rose¡¯s lips as her gaze hardened with clear disdain. Apacci, on the other hand, attempted to cloak her emotions behind a mask of aloofness. But the subtle twitch of her fingers and a faint furrow of her brows betrayed the jealousy brewing beneath her cool facade. Harribel was visibly tight-lipped, her face creased with a barely perceptible frown of judgment. Cirucci, however, appeared utterly indifferent, seemingly uninterested in his love life.


    ¡°Husband, let me serve you breakfast,¡± Sung-Sun purred, drawing out his chair and bringing the packed dishes to serve him. ¡°Here. I made you delicious food~.¡±


    Mila Rose made a disgusted face as if she couldn¡¯t bear to watch Sung-Sun¡¯s housewife act. ¡°Apacci, will you do me the favor of smacking this bitch in the head? She has clearly lost it.¡±


    Mila Rose was the type to poke fun at anyone, anytime, anywhere with her unparalleled inability to read the room. She¡¯d have been the type of person who made jokes at someone¡¯s funeral.


    Apacci shook her head. ¡°Let her act... she was moaning all night.¡±


    Cyan Sung-Sun stifled a yawn, the corners of her lips curving up. ¡°Husband and I had a fancy night. I¡¯m tired...¡±


    ¡°Oi, Skull and Snake,¡± Mila Rose yelled. ¡°Can¡¯t you two fuck in moderation? You guys were so damn loud yesterday. I¡¯d have kicked your asses if Cirucci didn¡¯t stop me.¡±


    Kazuya had forgotten to put on the forcefield that suppressed noise to an extent. Mila Rose¡¯s complaint reminded him of a crucial flaw in the mansion. Even though their bedrooms were so far apart, their superhuman senses could easily pick on the noises coming from another floor.


    ¡°Wait,¡± Kazuya said. ¡°Mila Rose sleeps with Cirucci? Don¡¯t you two have separate bedrooms?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with sleeping in Cirucci¡¯s room? Her wings are so damn comfortable pillows.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡±Geett the latest novels at novelhall.com


    His suspicions of their relationship tickled his mind, unsettling him. If they were to take a romantic turn, he didn¡¯t know how he¡¯d handle it.


    ¡°Cirucci, you gotta let me try your pillow wings.¡±


    Cirucci rolled her eyes. ¡°Be happy I let you borrow my lap. Don¡¯t push the boundaries, Leader.¡±


    Sleeping with him was different from sharing a bed with a friend. Both of them were aware of it.


    ¡°Awww.¡± He turned to Apacci. ¡°Oh, Apacci. I think your Resurreccio?n form gives you fur on your body.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not using my Resurreccio?n for you to use me as a body pillow!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t make that face,¡± he whispered, approaching her and laying his head on her soft thighs. ¡°I¡¯d have said no if I didn¡¯t enjoy your care. I¡¯m just conflicted...¡±


    ¡°Conflicted about your feelings for me?¡± she asked softly. ¡°Do you remember the favor I was going to ask in Hueco Mundo?¡±


    ¡°What was that about?¡±


    She leaned in, so close that he could see his reflection in her aqua green eyes. ¡°I... I wanted you to accept Mila Rose as your lover. And for us to... remain the same. With me as... your mother.¡±


    Her confession hung in the air, heavy with the weight of her suppressed feelings. She had wished to maintain their existing dynamics, to continue cherishing him like a child. But Apacci getting attacked by Gillian had stopped her from asking the favor that may have changed their relationship forever.


    ¡°I see,¡± he said, a soft sigh escaping his lips. ¡°What changed your mind?¡±


    ¡°You openly showed interest in me after you became an Arrancar... I couldn¡¯t bring myself to ask the favor again.¡±


    He reached out and touched her face, tracing her soft skin. ¡°It¡¯s fine. You can continue pampering me as long as you want.¡±


    But she withdrew from his touch, her eyes shutting tight. A shake of her head followed her retreat. ¡°I won¡¯t take things for granted anymore.¡±


    ¡°Then how about you take up both roles? Act as my mother and my lover...¡±


    The words felt weird in his mind and sounded weirder in reality. He shut his eyes, trying to escape the awkwardness, only to feel a surprising softness against his lips. His eyes snapped open, meeting the sight of Harribel kissing him, her eyes sealed shut in concentration. It was a simple press of lips, but the emotional magnitude of sharing it with Harribel was enough to make his heart pound wildly.


    After a lingering moment, she pulled back, her breath mixing with his. ¡°It¡¯s decided then... I¡¯ll cherish you like my child, and also love you... as your woman.¡±


    He could tell she wasn¡¯t immune to the oddness of their situation. The slight hesitation in her voice hinted at the embarrassment she felt about the unusual relationship he had proposed ¡ª their current relationship.


    ¡°Say something,¡± she grumbled. ¡°You¡¯re making it... awkward.¡±


    Instead of answering her request, he burst out laughing. ¡°It¡¯s refreshing to see Tier¡¯s cute side.¡±


    A playful ruffle through his hair was her retort, but her touch soon softened, her fingertips caressing his scalp with an affectionate ease. Receiving lap pillows in Harribel¡¯s Vasto Lorde form was a blissful expression but receiving lap pillows in her Arrancar form was a completely different experience. It was an entirely different level of comfort and intimacy. It was akin to being spoiled by royalty, which they both were going to become at some point.


    {Hey, Partner. Mommy Harribel is temporary and our bond is eternal... forever and ever.}


    ¡®...¡¯

 Chapter 87: The Balance

    Chapter 87: The Balance


    For the next two weeks, Kazuya continuously trained with the Visored, refining every ability at his disposal, from the basic Cero to the most devastating ability at his disposal, Oppression. His Hierro armor hardened, absorbing lethal attacks from Mila Rose with ease. His Soni?do soared to new heights with constant battles against the well-oiled battle machines like Visored.


    He hadn¡¯t been the only one who reaped rewards from this training. The influence of his ¡®Crumbling Heart¡¯ ability benefited all Hollow allies, including the Visored. Just in fifteen days, the Hollows inside the Visored had a visible growth in strength. Yet, they would never awaken a Resurreccio?n like Kaname Tosen, for their perception of their Hollow selves was skewed. They clung to their Hollow Masks as one would a weapon, failing to comprehend that the Hollow entity residing within them was part of their very being. They needed to accept this Hollow identity, embrace it rather than viewing it as an external object.


    In contrast to the leaps and bounds Kazuya was making in his training, his personal life was marked with a significant issue ¡ª Izumi Ishida, the woman he held in regard as his own flesh and blood sister. He hadn¡¯t yet conveyed his imminent departure, which was due to take place in a matter of hours. Spinning stories was an easy task, yet no scenario existed where Izumi would take his departure lightly. Regardless of the web of lies he spun, tears would inevitably follow. And revealing the true nature of his Hollow lineage would lead to a heartbreaking confrontation.


    He was in a sticky situation with no happy ending.


    {Bwahahahaha. Pay for thy cruel lies, Sinner!}


    ¡®Nami, shut up.¡¯


    {Partner, there is a happy ending for her.}


    ¡®Huh?¡¯


    {Kill her. Wipe her from the face of the earth. There will be no more tears or sadness. She¡¯ll live happily after she is taken to the poverty lands of the Soul Society¡ªwait, she will be tortured by Kurotsuchi Mayuri for being a Pure-Blooded Quincy!}


    ¡®Fuck you.¡¯


    {You don¡¯t need her in your life. I¡¯ll be your Onee-chan, Otouto-kun. You can also call me Okaa-san or simply Mommy Phoenix~.}


    With each passing day, his Zanpakuto? Spirit seemed to grow more and more detached from reality, turning into a bloodthirsty yandere. She might need professional therapy at this rate.


    ¡®I¡¯m just gonna repeat what I said to Apacci. Come to me when you get a human body. I don¡¯t bone animals or birds.¡¯


    {Hmph, how uncultured of you. Our bond transcends the barriers of physical intimacy. Our love is spiritual, Partner.}


    ¡°Otouto-kun,¡± called out the black-haired woman sitting across from him at a cafe seat. ¡°You¡¯re sleeping with your eyes open. Have you not been resting properly?¡±


    His heart clenched at the thought of seeing tears glistening in her gentle eyes. She had been nothing but sweet towards him.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Onee-chan. Is there any news about Ishida-san? When is he returning?¡±


    Izumi¡¯s face clouded over at the mention of her husband. ¡°I don¡¯t know... neither do I care about our marriage at this point.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Are you unhappy with your marriage?¡±


    ¡°Fuck,¡± he cursed under his breath. ¡°Lisa, take care of her.¡±


    ¡°You can bet on that,¡± she said with a serious face. ¡°You take care of yourself on the mission. If you die, I¡¯ll expose your stash of incestual older sister ero-novels and magazines to Izumi-sama.¡±


    ¡°Those are yours, Lisa. Those are all yours,¡± he retorted, a chuckle escaping his lips. ¡°If I take down Aizen, we¡¯ll have a one-night stand. Got it?¡±


    ¡°In your dreams.¡±


    ...


    The Gotei 13 was an establishment birthed from the vision of a single man, Genryu?sai Shigekuni Yamamoto, who currently bore the title of the Captain Commander of the Gotei 13. He led a group of ruthless killers and formed an organization that imposed law and order with brute force.


    Then a certain massacre brought forth a transformation in their regulations.


    In the new era, the Gotei 13 was entrusted with stern responsibilities such as the safeguarding of the Seireitei ¡ª the heart of the Soul Society, the mobilization of Squad members for combat operations on enemy territories, the allocation of forces to defense measures in the Living World, and the guidance of souls to the Soul Society. All these undertakings were geared towards their core aim of maintaining the balance.


    To visualize this balance through data, Senjumaru Shutara, one of the esteemed Royal Guards, had conceived the Shutara Scale. The surveillance of the Shutara Scale was now within the jurisdiction of the 12th Squad, which had a direct link to the Shinigami Research and Development Institute.


    [Currently in the headquarters of the 12th Squad.]


    On the highest level of the headquarters stood a tall man with short, spiky black hair, a prominent hairline bisecting his scalp. Three small horns adorned his forehead, and the absence of eyebrows made him a very impressionable Shinigami.


    Akon, the 3rd Seat of the 12th Squad, oversaw the division as they worked fervently before expansive screens. The Captain of the 12th Squad, Mayuri Kurotsuchi, held absolute authority over his department. If one dares to utter an opinion, they could very well be reconstructed into a Human bomb by the Captain. The secret to longevity here is working quietly and fulfilling all duties, never drawing attention to yourself.


    As for 12th Squad¡¯s duties, they developed innovative technology and spiritual devices. They also measured spiritual waves for the calibration of the Shutara Scale and managed communications between different Squads.


    Akon nodded in satisfaction and shifted to the blonde man approaching him, carrying with him stacks of reports.


    ¡°Akon-san, we have a report from the Correction Squad to the Captain.¡±


    ¡°You can relay it to me. I¡¯ll pass it on to our Captain.¡±


    ¡°The Correction Squad have wiped out fifteen thousand souls in Rukongai. The Shutara Scale is back to Category 1 from Category 3.¡±


    Unflinchingly, Akon nodded his understanding at the grim news of fifteen thousand innocent souls from Rukongai being eradicated. The order had been issued by the Captain, then approved by the Captain Commander. It was not his place to question it nor feel pity for the souls who¡¯d eventually reincarnate. ¡°You can leave.¡±


    Once his underling had left, Akon gathered the reports from his desk. A few weeks ago, nearly seventy thousand souls had mysteriously vanished from Hueco Mundo, causing a disturbance that had not been witnessed since the Quincy rampage.


    Nobody in the Gotei 13 realized that this disruption was caused by the death of a single Vasto Lorde ¡ª Barragan Lousenbairne.

 Chapter 88: Dangai

    Chapter 88: Dangai


    Within the next hour, Kazuya found himself back in Kisuke¡¯s well-lit underground chamber, facing Kisuke with Yoruichi on his side.


    Kisuke raised the tip of his hat. ¡°Ready to take a step back in time and explore your dark past? What I mean is.¡± Without awaiting a reply, Kisuke whipped out a ludicrously large megaphone from the depths of his robe and roared into it, ¡°ARE YOU READY?¡±


    Kazuya snatched the megaphone and tossed it aside. ¡°Just bring out the Senkaimon.¡±


    ¡°Aye aye, Captain.¡± Kisuke complied, a quick snap of his fingers breaking the very fabric of reality, revealing four eerily rifts. Huge blocks of weathered gray stone emerged from each rift and formed a hollow rectangular block. The entire block looked as if it was put together by gluing a bunch of paper. ¡°The Senkaimon, the Tunnel World Gate. You might already know this, but let me refresh your memories on the dangers of entering a Senkaimon.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Apacci¡¯s voice echoed, a note of confusion tingeing her tone. ¡°I thought Senkaimon is Shinigami¡¯s version of Garganta... and safe to transverse.¡±


    ¡°It is relatively simple if you have Jigokucho?, but us expelled Shinigami don¡¯t have access to them. Kazuya-san and Yoruichi-san need to take the much more difficult route.¡±Upstodatee from


    ¡°Explain why it¡¯s hard,¡± Apacci urged.


    ¡°The Senkaimon will close in four minutes. If you don¡¯t reach the Soul Society in four minutes, you will be trapped in the Dangai¡ªthe precipice realm between the Living World and the Soul Society ¡ªforever.¡±


    As the words seeped in, Apacci reached out, her fingers desperately clutching the fabric of Kazuya¡¯s shirt. ¡°Kazuya can fly. Four minutes should be enough for him.¡±


    ¡°The travel in Dangai...¡± Yoruichi said, looking at Kazuya with a soul-piercing gaze. ¡°It isn¡¯t dictated by speed but willpower. The will to go forward is our guide. Have no doubt. Have no fear. Do not stop. Do not look back. Do not think of those you are leaving behind. Just... go forward.¡±


    She was obviously addressing his relationship with his lovers, which might become a problem within the realm of Dangai. If his heart lingered in the Living World, he might not make it out of the Dangai.


    ¡°Shiho?in-san,¡± he said with a confident voice. ¡°I can handle the willpower part. I¡¯m more worried about the currents that flow in the Dangai.¡±


    Witnessing the sweet relationship between Kazuya and his companions stirred a pang of guilt in both Kisuke and Yoruichi. They recognized the importance of stopping Aizen and maintaining the balance but the emotional toll felt burdensome nonetheless.


    After warm farewells, he stepped into the Senkaimon, followed by Yoruichi. His physical body remained behind, entrusted to the loving care of his lovers. It was actually of no importance since he could create a new physical body every time he changed from Soul to Human race.


    ...


    The Dangai unveiled itself as a seemingly endless tunnel swallowed in darkness. Surrounded by looming violet walls that exhaled a smoky aura¡ªthe dangerous Ko?ryu? currents¡ªthe narrow path felt oppressive and eerie. Suddenly, as if provoked, the walls lunged forward, attempting to capture them in their shadowy grasp.


    ¡°Run!¡± Yoruichi said. ¡°Don¡¯t look back. Just run!¡±


    He threw her onto his head and sprinted, fueling each stride with a desperate urgency. His peak physical condition kept him just beyond the snatching grasp of the violet, time-altering currents of Ko?ryu?. He wasn¡¯t risking using his spiritual power.


    ¡°There.¡± Yoruichi pointed towards a glimmering golden door, shining like a beacon of hope in the dark corridors. ¡°Keep running, Champ. The only way lies ahead of us. To the Soul Society, we go!¡±


    Fuelled by her rallying cry, he slashed through the remaining distance and charged headlong into the glimmering door. They emerged under a clear blue sky over a Rukongai District. In the distance stretched a panorama of traditional Japanese buildings, a stark contrast to the humble cottages beneath him. The Rukongai was a glimpse of a time before stonework, while the Seireitei represented the serene beauty of Kyoto¡¯s historical architecture.


    He took a deep breath, letting the air of the Soul Society fill his lungs.


    ¡®I¡¯m finally here.¡¯


    {Let¡¯s fucking go and murder Aizen.}


    ¡®Nami, go back to sleep.¡¯

 Chapter 89: Rukongai

    Chapter 89: Rukongai


    Nne?w n0vel chapters are published at novelhall.com


    Yoruichi let out a soothing purr of relief, her velvety paws finally relaxing their grip in Kazuya¡¯s messy bed of hair. ¡°You came through.¡±


    Lifting a hand, Kazuya cradled Yoruichi¡¯s delicate feline head, his fingers tenderly tracing the contours of her soft fur. ¡°Never underestimate the resolve of a man who¡¯s survived a toxic relationship. Do you have any idea how much self-control it requires to hold back from snapping, or even... killing that person?¡±


    His words were cloaked in bitter memories of his grandfather, yet she misinterpreted them as a reference to his relationship to Aizen.


    ¡°What if my skepticism gave you the determination to pull through? You never know.¡±


    ¡°Just admit you were wrong. It won¡¯t make you a smaller woman... Wait, I don¡¯t want to see you shorter than you already are.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°I was referring to your cat form,¡± he clarified, a mischievous whistle escaping his lips. ¡°Your real form is perfect as it is. I¡¯d have preferred if you were just a tad taller. Like a couple of inches.¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re just asking for a beating,¡± she huffed. ¡°Go to the ground before anyone notices us. Hurry~.¡±


    Heeding her urgency, he descended, a second sigh of relief from Yoruichi brushing past him.


    ¡°Well,¡± she said. ¡°How does it feel to be back?¡±


    Her question was more than just casual conversation; she hoped to pry open the walls around his past life, to ease the burden upon his heart. After all, for souls as ageless as theirs, the emotional wounds often ran deeper than physical scars. She had no desire to witness him crumble under the weight of his past, not as an ally, and certainly not as a friend.


    ¡°I have no idea.¡±


    A brief silence, heavy with unsaid words, stretched between them. Yoruichi sighed, her third one since their arrival, settling more comfortably on his head as if it were her personal couch. ¡°Sharing your feelings wouldn¡¯t kill you, you know?¡±


    ¡°I know, jeez,¡± he said. ¡°I hardly remember anything about my life here. I don¡¯t feel sad or overwhelmed. You don¡¯t need to be concerned.¡±


    ¡°If you say so.¡±


    ¡°Are we staying here until the next Shinigami recruitment process begins?¡±


    ¡°Yup. Just head in that direction. I¡¯ll introduce you to my friend.¡±


    The ''friend'' she was so eager to introduce was no mystery to him.


    ¡®Sexy fireworks woman.¡¯


    He was excited to meet her, and not just because she was among the most attractive women in Bleach. Ku?kaku Shiba was closely tied to Kaien Shiba, a man who could put an end to his entire mission. Kaien had previously seen him as a Quincy. Encountering him again as a Shinigami could stir up complications.


    {Just kill him. Violence is the key to solving every problem. If it doesn¡¯t solve your problem, you simply aren¡¯t using enough violence.}


    As Yoruichi stretched next to him, her tail swirled in rhythmic arcs. ¡°I¡¯ll take a nap. Wake me when¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yoruichi, I need to tell you something.¡±


    He explained the potential complication of Kaien Shiba''s presence and how it could disrupt their mission.


    Yoruichi narrowed her eyes. ¡°We¡¯re at the perfect place to remedy the problem. The friend you¡¯re about to meet is Kaien Shiba¡¯s younger sister. We can ask her to summon Kaien and discuss things.¡±


    ¡°Perfect or should I say purrfect?¡±


    She glanced at him and rolled her eyes. "You impudent little kitten. Where did you find the fur-balls to utter cat puns in my presence?"


    ¡°I¡¯m still scratching the surface... There will be a purr-ticular time when I¡¯ll be meow-tering cat puns as naturally as breathing.¡±


    ¡°Get out of here. Away from my sight, now!¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ***


    After about an hour of idle chatter and the occasional cat pun, Kazuya spotted three silhouettes on the serene horizon. A raven-haired woman was making her way towards them, her strides flanked by two loyal servants wearing red hats.


    ¡°She looks pissed,¡± he whispered. ¡°What ticked her?¡±


    Yoruichi languidly rose from her spot, her tail playfully swatting at his back. ¡°One step at a time, Kazuya. We¡¯ll deal with her troubles first.¡±


    She was prioritizing her friend over the mission, and he couldn¡¯t fault her for it.


    ¡°Fair enough.¡±


    Ku?kaku Shiba came to a halt before him, her hands resting on her hips as she scrutinized him with a hawk¡¯s intensity. "Yoruichi, who is this gentleman?"


    Kazuya rose to his feet and gave a refined bow. ¡°It¡¯s an honor to meet the Princess of Shiba Clan.¡±


    His words, carefully chosen and delivered with a hint of admiration, would have been a perfect greeting for a princess. However, Ku?kaku clenched her fists, her face twitching. With the temperament of a tiger and a distaste for nobles, this princess was ready to snap at anyone at this moment.


    ¡°Shiba-san, did I perhaps offended you? If so, I apologize.¡±


    Yet, his soothing voice seemed to dissolve the anger before it could reach a crescendo. She became more composed than when she first arrived.


    ¡°You...¡± she murmured, her eyes narrowing, clearly puzzled by his unexpected calming voice. ¡°Yoruichi, what the hell is this man?¡±


    Yoruichi burst into laughter, never expecting this baffled reaction from Ku?kaku of all people. ¡°Come inside. I¡¯ll introduce him properly.¡±

 Chapter 90: Return

    Chapter 90: Return


    Seated in the well-lit basement of Kukaku¡¯s house, they sipped their steaming tea. Yoruichi, as Kazuya anticipated, revealed only the bare bones of his story ¨C his name, and his aspiration to join the ranks of the Shinigami.


    ¡°Why?¡± Kukaku questioned, brows knitted in puzzlement. ¡°Last I heard you¡¯re banished from the Seireitei. Why help him get into Gotei 13?¡±


    ¡°He is a friend, just like you,¡± Yoruichi responded, smoothly sidestepping the question. ¡°Let¡¯s talk about you, Kukaku. I hardly saw you leave this place. Facing some trouble?¡±


    Ku?kaku lowered her gaze, the Kido?¡¯s light casting a heavy shadow over her face. ¡°It¡¯s a huge mess made by Shinigami. Many families are in shambles.¡±


    Families rarely reunited in the Soul Society due to its sheer size. Most people formed bonds over centuries that were nothing less than a true family.


    ¡°Nothing unusual then,¡± Kazuya replied. ¡°They do this all the time.¡±


    The Quincy massacre, the Central 46 getting hijacked by Aizen, then Mayuri Kurotsuchi¡¯s experiments ¡ª Shinigami¡¯s scandals alone could fill a book.


    Kukaku¡¯s eyes narrowed into a glare. ¡°Yet you want to join their ranks?¡±


    ¡°Fault them all you want but they do the job of maintaining the balance,¡± he said with a sigh. ¡°Let my worthless life serve as a fodder for the greater good.¡±


    Yoruichi blinked her eyes. ¡°Stop being a dramatic kitty. Kukaku, he just wants to experience the life of a Shinigami.¡±


    He feigned surrender, palms up. ¡°Oops, I got caught red-handed.¡±


    Kukaku rolled her eyes at their playful exchange, a puff of smoke escaping her lips as she took a drag from her pipe. ¡°It¡¯s not a laughing matter this time. Many in Rukongai were taken by Shinigami a few days ago, without any apparent reason. I¡¯ve reached out to Kaien for help.¡±


    Her older brother hadn¡¯t returned from a mission in the Living World and her uncle Isshin was tied up in an important mission, leaving her with no immediate support inside the walls of the Seireitei.


    Yoruichi dropped her gaze, her heart heavy. As a former captain of Gotei 13, she had a profound understanding of the Shinigami¡¯s reasons for taking souls from the Rukongai.


    ¡®It¡¯s mostly for Balance. What caused it though...?¡¯


    Her eyes landed on Kazuya and a chilling realization washed over her. He had recently slain an ancient Vasto Lorde using his Quincy powers, known to eliminate Hollows entirely. A Vasto Lorde, being an amalgamation of hundreds of thousands of souls, could drastically upset the balance.


    ¡®I messed up.¡¯


    Kazuya was ignorant but she wasn¡¯t. She had to warn him about the outcome of killing a Vasto Lorde as a Quincy.


    ¡®What can I do to fix this?¡¯


    ¡°I don¡¯t need them.¡±


    ¡°Alright then, Kukaku Ojou-sama.¡±


    ¡°Say that again and you¡¯ll have a hell to pay.¡±


    Her gaze fell on Yoruichi who was gazing into the distance. Seeing the ever-so playful cat looking serious was a new sight even for Ku?kaku.


    ¡°Yoruichi, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ***


    A couple of days later, Kazuya was engrossed in a conversation with Nami when he felt a familiar presence.


    ¡®Well, he is here. There is someone else with him.¡¯


    With a cheerful spring in his step, he climbed the stairs, swinging the door open before Kaien could even knock. He was met with Kaien¡¯s bewildered gaze. Beside Kaien stood a young woman clad in standard Shinigami attire. She had long black hair which she kept tied up with a strand hanging down on each side. Her warm smile radiated a gentle, welcoming energy.


    ¡°Oh~, big brother came with his wife.¡±


    The woman was stunned momentarily before she composed herself and gave a small bow. ¡°I¡¯m Miyako Shiba, Kaien-sama¡¯s wife.¡±


    Kazuya returned a smile. ¡°Nice to meet you, I¡¯m Kazuya.¡±


    Kaien took a step back, his eyes scanning the house¡¯s structure, confirming whether he had perhaps arrived at the wrong place. Out of all the people, he hadn¡¯t expected to be greeted by a Quincy in his sister''s house as though it were his own.


    ¡°Same structure, same design... Did Ku?kaku sell her house?¡±


    Miyako glanced at her husband, and her brow furrowed at Kaien¡¯s reaction. To her, the man standing before them seemed like any other soul in Rukongai. She wondered if she was missing some vital piece of information, or if Kaien was merely being overprotective of his sister.


    ¡°Kaien?¡±


    Kaien shook his head, dismissing her worry. ¡°Nothing, Miyako. Kazuya, did you die on the other side? And what are you doing in Ku?kaku¡¯s house?¡±


    Kazuya held up a hand. ¡°Jeez, one question at a time. You know what, let¡¯s just talk inside. I¡¯ll tell you everything.¡±

 Chapter 91: The Art of Persuasion

    Chapter 91: The Art of Persuasion


    About twenty minutes later, Kazuya and Yoruichi, now in her true form, found themselves under the penetrating gazes of three members of the Shiba family. Ganju, Kukaku¡¯s younger brother, would have swelled their count to four had he not been engrossed in having fun with his gang. Kazuya had deemed Ganju too green to be involved in this matter.


    Befuddled, Kaien raked his fingers through his black hair. ¡°Let me get this straight. Kazuya is infiltrating Gotei 13 to inform the Commander about one person with a godly ability to manipulate five senses of anyone.¡±


    ¡°Sounds... right,¡± chimed Miyako, her head bobbing in a confident nod. ¡°Doesn¡¯t it, Kaien?¡±


    Kaien stared at his wife in disbelief. ¡°As if it does! Why are you accepting his story at face value?¡±


    Miyako tilted her head, puzzled. ¡°Everything in my memory aligns with what Yoruichi-san and Kazuya-kun said. They don¡¯t have any reasons to lie to us.¡±


    Kazuya let out a chuckle. Miyako was a strong-willed woman but she had no power against his voice.


    ¡®Nami, you mentioned my voice coming from the Black Phoenix¡¯s prophecy.¡¯


    {You¡¯re remembering it now,} Nami, his Zanpakuto? Spirit, grumbled in his head. {You having the sweet, seductive voice of a demon was no coincidence. Our existence in this world is inspired by the Demon Phenex from the Lesser Key of Solomon.}


    ¡®Why phoenix? Wait, I know. A phoenix can undergo nirvana to remain immortal. In a sense, it¡¯s the only entity free from life, death, and the very cycle of reincarnation... A creature with true freedom.¡¯


    Gaining freedom was always his dream. He had achieved success in the most ridiculous way possible, by inheriting a vessel inspired from a mythological creature.


    ¡®It also explains my first transformation from Hollow to Human... I was reborn from flames. My nirvana.¡¯


    Yet a mystery remained unsolved. The System. What was it? Where did it come from? And what was the source of its powers? It couldn¡¯t have possibly originated from a god''s wish, as he had yet to encounter one. Perhaps he had, and his memory failed him. Countless questions were awaiting answers.


    {You silly little man, your brain might be bigger than your dick. However, unlike the Phenex depicted in the Lesser Key of Solomon, we¡¯ll become far more powerful. We¡¯re destined to rule the world as Soul King¡¯s successor.}


    ¡®No fucking way I¡¯m becoming a limbless vessel to anchor the worlds.¡¯


    He¡¯d rather spend a nice and cozy life with his wives on some island. A blissful life free from all the world¡¯s bullshit.


    {Like I¡¯d let any fool carve out your organs and make you disabled... on second thought, it sounds nice to hold you captive like that. I¡¯d feed you, hug you, and wash you whenever you¡¯re dirty. I¡¯ll be able to keep and ride my soulmate anytime~. Ahn~, that¡¯s so... thrilling. }


    Her yandere fantasies sent a shiver down his spine.


    ¡°Well, knowing that guy, he is probably in control of Central 46.¡±


    Kaien listened to their conversation with a serious gleam in his eyes. Closing his eyes, he began to gather his thoughts. ¡°Alright, I believe you.¡±


    [Ability: Persuasion acquired.]


    [Current Master Level: Basic.]


    Persuading Kisuke hadn¡¯t given him this ability but persuading a hard-headed man like Kaien did.


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡± Kaien asked. ¡°Why am I a part of this plan?¡±


    Since Kazuya and Yoruichi went to this length to explain everything, they must want him to play some role in bringing down this evil captain.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Kazuya shook his head. ¡°I want you to act like this meeting never happened. If we meet in Gotei 13 later, you and Miyako-san need to act like we¡¯re strangers. That¡¯s all.¡±


    Yoruichi nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll take care of the rest.¡±


    ¡°And don¡¯t go snooping around and try to investigate. You can¡¯t make that person suspicious at any cost.¡±


    ¡°Well, fine.¡± Kaien rubbed the back of his head. The less work he had, the more time he¡¯d have to enjoy his naps. ¡°I just have one question. Kazuya, why are you helping us, Shinigami, with this? What do you gain from it?¡±


    Kazuya leaned closer to Yoruichi and wrapped his arm around her waist. ¡°You see, Yoruichi promised to marry me if I help her with this. I¡¯m just a humble man wooing the woman of my dreams.¡±


    Yoruichi burst into laughter. ¡°This little me has driven this man mad with my charming body and soul. He is but a puppet dancing on my fingers... he¡¯ll do anything to be with me.¡±


    The Shiba couple sat in stunned silence, mouths agape at Kazuya¡¯s outrageous declaration. To this day, they hadn¡¯t heard about Yoruichi being romantically involved with any man. There were rumors about her having feelings for her childhood friend Kisuke but Ku?kaku had dispelled them long ago. They could only attribute this unforeseen change to the impact of her life in the Living World.


    Ku?kaku let out a sigh. ¡°Yoruichi and marriage ¡ª I never thought I¡¯d hear those two words in the same sentence.¡±


    Yoruichi withdrew from his hold and turned into her cat form, leaving Ku?kaku¡¯s revealing clothes behind. ¡°We¡¯re just messing around, Kukaku. Kazuya already has three or four lovers.¡±


    Understanding washed over Ku?kaku. She and Yoruichi shared the same view on intimate relationships. They were shackles that bound them down, stealing their precious freedom. The mere thought of it was exhausting, an inconvenience they preferred to avoid. The world of romance was a maze they chose not to enter.

 Chapter 92: Interlude – Return of the Eater

    Chapter 92: Interlude ¨C Return of the Eater


    ¡°Silly little dear, take care of yourself.¡±


    As the obsidian butterfly fluttered, Kazuya¡¯s message filled with warmth echoed within Apacci¡¯s consciousness. Her heart fluttered, mimicking the butterfly floating before her.


    ¡®So sweet.¡¯


    She turned to the other Hollow beside her. The olive-haired arrancar in an elegant kimono. Sung-Sun had taken a liking to the traditional Japanese clothes.Upstodatee from


    ¡°Are you free now?¡±


    Sung-Sun had postponed their departure for two sunrises. The Snake Princess had found a new passion in visiting the library these days, digesting books of different genres. Apacci, too, felt a shade of melancholy with Kazuya¡¯s departure, else she¡¯d have yanked Sung-Sun back to Hueco Mundo without delay.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get you fat with souls. You¡¯ll become...¡± Sung-Sun trailed her voice, a mischievous smile on her face. ¡°A Fatso Lorde!¡±


    An awkward silence flowed between them.


    ¡°I¡¯m not fat,¡± Apacci grumbled. ¡°You¡¯re just skinny.¡±


    ¡°Skinny or fat, it matters naught. My beloved treasures me. Only his opinion matters.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s words couldn¡¯t put a dent on her steel-like confidence.


    ¡°It only happened because I let it happen,¡± Apacci said, hinting at the favor she did for Sung-Sun. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d pull it off... you¡¯re so shameless, Sung-Sun.¡±


    Sung-Sun smirked. ¡°All is just in the fight for survival.¡±


    ¡°Why are you comparing your romance to survival?¡±


    ¡°It is a matter of life and death for me...¡± Sung-Sun gazed at her blankly. ¡°I would have killed myself if he didn¡¯t accept me. Being with Kazuya is the same as breathing to me.¡±


    Apacci''s brows knitted together at Sung-Sun¡¯s words. Was she truly speaking the truth, or was it just another one of her games? The slight twitch at the corner of Sung-Sun¡¯s mouth did nothing to resolve her confusion.


    Apacci shook her head and opened a rift to garganta using Descorrer. ¡°Come.¡±


    ¡°Only Kazuya, my husband, can make me cum.¡±


    As much as she abhorred death, there was little hope for her survival in a clash of this magnitude. She still would take a stance and fight for her life.


    ¡®I¡¯m not suited to be a Hollow.¡¯


    It was already a miracle she had survived this long without killing a single Hollow.


    Apacci rubbed the back of her head. To attain Vasto Lorde status, she needed to devour souls and control her wild instincts. But she hesitated when it came to the woman before her. The centaur-esque Hollow hadn¡¯t budged even after Sung-Sun''s ominous revelation, even though she was facing two Hollows above her league. As if she had accepted her death.


    Nelliel stirred echoes of Apacci¡¯s past within her. While she wasn¡¯t proud of her former cowardice, those moments of weakness were cherished memories. After all, they led her to meet Kazuya.


    Apacci let out a sigh. ¡°Are you protecting those weaklings?¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s eyes widened behind her Hollow mask. ¡°No,¡± Nelliel said, shaking her head. ¡°This intimidating Reiatsu around us has helped me avoid many potential battles. I simply wish for this place to act as a safe haven for weaker Hollows.¡±


    Nelliel wasn¡¯t fond of lying but protecting her little friends was more important than bearing the guilt of deceit.


    ¡°Wow,¡± Sung-Sun exclaimed. ¡°Indeed, this place is sacred, for our husband became an Arrancar here. This Reiatsu you feel belongs to him.¡±


    Nelliel gulped nervously. She had witnessed the Vasto Lorde they referred to, and even sensed his confrontation with Barragan. He was at a level of power she could never aspire to emulate. ¡°R-Really? Who is he?¡±


    ¡°Who he is doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Apacci growled. ¡°I don¡¯t care if you want to protect someone. I¡¯m going to kill you and eat you.¡±


    Sung-Sun giggled and tugged at Apacci¡¯s shirt. ¡°You stopped hesitating when you thought she might fall for our husband, you jealous creature.¡±


    Apacci dodged Sung-Sun¡¯s gaze. ¡°I did not! What even gave you the idea?¡±


    ¡°Fufufu, you¡¯re so possessive.¡±


    Nelliel watched in silent astonishment as the two Hollows, whose intentions were to eat her, started a playful banter. Behind the annoyance of Apacci, she could see how close she was to Sung-Sun.


    ¡®They share the same mate. It¡¯s natural they¡¯ll be close.¡¯


    In contrast to their camaraderie, Nelliel felt a sharp pang of solitude. Her little Hollow companions lacked the ability to converse, leaving her feeling lonely more often than not.


    Sung-Sun eventually refocused her gaze back onto Nelliel, her eyes softer now. ¡°Apacci, just look at this adorable lady. She doesn¡¯t want conflict like our Harribel-sama. Let¡¯s just leave her alone and go to the Menos Forest.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, fine,¡± Apacci accepted with a grunt, her finger pointed accusingly at Nelliel. ¡°But on one sole condition. Fight me.¡±

 Chapter 93: The Eater versus the Protector

    Chapter 93: The Eater versus the Protector


    Stepping into the space between them, Sung-Sun announced, ¡°I¡¯ll be the referee then. Standing on this corner is Apacci. And on the other side is... What¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck. You can call me Nelliel,¡± Nelliel said. ¡°Or Nel tu.¡±


    ¡°Nel tu,¡± Sung-Sun repeated with a tone of appreciation. ¡°Such a sweet name.¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s brow furrowed behind her mask, unsure if Sung-Sun¡¯s praise was genuine or dripping with sarcasm. ¡°Can we... not fight? Fighting out of pure desire to compete will make you look animalistic... and childish.¡±


    Sung-Sun had already clarified that Apacci wouldn¡¯t eat her, making this whole conflict unnecessary. They had no reason to fight anymore.


    ¡°I¡¯m an animal,¡± Apacci said with a laugh. ¡°You¡¯re not fighting for competition. You¡¯ll be fighting for your life and those Hollows you want to protect.¡±


    The mention of her cherished companions brought a surge of intensity to Nelliel¡¯s gaze. Her resolve was clear ¡ª she would do whatever it took to protect them. ¡°I¡¯ll never back down from a fight if it is to protect what I hold dear.¡±


    This courageous statement struck a chord with both Apacci and Sung-Sun. After all, everyone in the Inverse shared this sentiment about putting loved ones above their own selves. Except for Cirucci, who had no love for the aspect of sacrifice.


    With a determined roar, Nelliel wielded her lance towards Apacci¡¯s face, a wind of raw power howling in its wake. Apacci retaliated with a fierce swipe, parrying the lance, before using Soni?do to appear above Nelliel and launch a downward kick. Nelliel employed her own Soni?do, her figure blurring as she evaded the assault. Even for someone who detested violence, her mastery of Soni?do was striking, rivaling even Apacci¡¯s own.


    Feeling Apacci closing in on her, Nelliel retaliated with a powerful kick using her hind legs. Apacci was forced to cross her arms in defense. The immense force sent her skidding backward, leaving her with numb arms.


    ¡°Fuck, what are those legs?¡±


    Apacci wasn¡¯t given any reprieve as Nelliel galloped towards Apacci, her lance enveloped in pink Reiatsu. Regaining her composure, Apacci skillfully weaved around Nelliel¡¯s onslaught of vicious strikes. Nelliel¡¯s centaur-like form gave her formidable strength, her kicks more powerful than her arms. So her attacks were not as threatening but Apacci still couldn¡¯t afford to take them head-on.UppTodated from


    Given their physical disparity, Apacci relied heavily on her intuition to avoid Nelliel¡¯s attacks.


    A red light started to gather on her forehead horn as she amassed an enormous amount of Reiryoku into a Cero. She unleashed the Cero Ray with a growl. This was her most powerful Cero in this form, second only to the enhanced Cero she could produce in her release state.


    Nelliel calmly stood her ground as the devastating Cero approached. To the astonishment of Sung-Sun, who was preparing to intervene, Nelliel opened her mouth and swallowed the entire Cero Ray. A small burp echoed in the aftermath, as though she had simply digested the energy.


    ¡°What in the...?¡± Sung-Sun gasped. ¡°Hey, that¡¯s illegal.¡±


    Apacci was left shocked. Even more when Nelliel opened her mouth and fired a pink Cero Ray that was more destructive than Apacci¡¯s Cero. Apacci had no choice but to use Soni?do to get out of its path, else she¡¯d have been severely injured.


    Nelliel turned her head to Sung-Sun. ¡°Cero Double is one of my abilities. I eat Cero, enhance it with my own, then attack my opponent.¡±


    Apacci blinked her eyes, still processing what just happened. ¡°How did you learn that?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t. I sort of knew it the moment I opened my eyes as an Adjuchas.¡±


    Apacci had never compared herself to Kazuya due to his anomaly status. But witnessing an Adjuchas effortlessly counter her powerful Cero attack was a harsh reminder of the world¡¯s unfairness. Apacci¡¯s Resurreccio?n form only allowed her to fire an enhanced Cero, whereas Nelliel had the unique ability to turn her opponent¡¯s Cero against them.


    Moreover, Nelliel hadn¡¯t even removed her mask yet. A chilling thought crossed Apacci¡¯s mind; if Nelliel ever became an Arrancar, she was unsure if she could defeat her.


    Gritting her teeth, she shot Nelliel a menacing glare. ¡°You¡ª¡±


    She paused and so did others. They could feel a Reiatsu amidst Kazuya¡¯s overwhelming Reiatsu. A Reiatsu that belonged to a class superior to Adjuchas ¡ª a Vasto Lorde.


    Nelliel broke into a charge without a second thought, rushing to the cave.


    ¡ªHer companions were in danger.

 Chapter 94: Refusal

    Chapter 94: Refusal


    Yoruichi hadn¡¯t expected things to go smoothly with Kaien. Then again, she hadn¡¯t taken Kazuya¡¯s voice into consideration. She couldn¡¯t give enough praise to his mesmerizing voice that went against all the logic.


    ¡®How did he get that?¡±


    Even Kisuke, a man known for his relentless pursuit of knowledge, found the enchanting quality of Kazuya''s voice a mystery, ultimately labeling it as Kazuya¡¯s "natural gift." While some people faltered in the cycle of reincarnation, becoming memory-less "Blanks," Kazuya had somehow reaped immense rewards from an ''imperfect'' reincarnation.


    ¡®It can¡¯t all be coincidences. There has to be a reason for it.¡¯


    Her curiosity ignited like a wildfire. His ability to switch between Quincy and Hollow had shattered the barriers of established lore and history. Furthermore, he was on the brink of attaining a Zanpakuto? and becoming a full-fledged Shinigami.


    ¡®He is nowhere close to his ceiling.¡¯


    If he survived, he¡¯d undoubtedly reach a level beyond Captain Commander Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto, perhaps reaching near the level of Soul King, the god reigning over the Soul Society. Then again, he never looked like the type to reign over people. A whimsical, carefree nature that was similar to her own. She could somehow trust him and his group to never walk the path of evil.


    Lying under a tree, she glanced at the silver-haired man leaning against the tree.


    ¡®I¡¯m excited to see his future.¡¯


    It wasn¡¯t everyday she¡¯d stumble into a man of his potential. To increase the odds of his journey to his completion, she had a couple of plans. One of them was imparting him with the knowledge of Shunko?, the highest form of Hakudo techniques.


    Kazuya noticed her glance and raised a brow. ¡°What¡¯s up?¡±


    Yoruichi shook her head. ¡°No place can match the Soul Society¡¯s air.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because you grew up here,¡± he said with a smile. ¡°Nostalgia is one hell of a drug.¡±


    Silently nodding in agreement, Yoruichi studied him. ¡°You don¡¯t look so cheerful now. Regretting your decision to come here?¡±


    Kazuya widened his eyes before he burst into laughter ¡ª a contagious laughter that could make even the sternest person crack a smile. Had Yoruichi been a little weak-willed, she would have started laughing alongside him.


    ¡°Yoruichi, you¡¯re a dumbass. Wanna know why?¡±


    The black cat narrowed her eyes at his cynical remark. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°You keep thinking I¡¯m here to finish your stupid mission.¡± He leaned back against the tree, hand resting on his forehead, a smirk of disdain on his face. ¡°I didn¡¯t volunteer to sacrifice my peaceful life for your cause. I have no love for the Soul Society or anyone here. In fact, I wouldn¡¯t mind watching it disappear into flames.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s Reiatsu flared. Despite being exiled and treated like a criminal, she very much loved the Soul Society.


    He continued, ¡°I¡¯m here on my volition because I''ve got something to gain. What is it? Figure it out yourself.¡±


    Apart from meeting Unohana and awakening his own Zanpakuto? as a Shinigami, he had his own ulterior motive behind helping them. Making Yoruichi and Kisuke, two of the best teachers in the Bleach world, owe him a huge favor. His strength would reach another level with their help. They were a necessary piece in bringing his fusion plans to reality.


    She hopped onto a branch, allowing her body to relax. However, a surge of energy abruptly disrupted her drowsiness, snapping her back into alertness. She recognized this energy ¡ª a byproduct of the spatial distortions caused by Senkaimon, the dimensional gate. The gate had barely opened before it snapped shut, and every hint of Kazuya¡¯s Reiatsu went absent.


    He had left the Soul Society.


    ¡°He... He wasn¡¯t joking...¡±


    A sudden restlessness gripped her as she dashed to his last known location with her Shunpo. She couldn¡¯t help but feel that her laziness and negligence had jeopardized the success of her crucial mission.


    ¡®Dammit. When did he become such a snowflake?¡¯


    Arriving at the location where the Senkaimon had opened, she found Kaien¡¯s wife, Miyako, standing there with a somewhat solemn expression.


    ¡°Where did Kazuya go?¡± Yoruichi asked with urgency.


    ¡°Karakura Town,¡± Miyako answered. ¡°He missed his wives. I can empathize with that sentiment, so I requested Kaien to accompany him.¡±


    It was against Shinigami¡¯s rules to open a Senkaimon for personal reasons but the Shiba couple had no qualms against breaking a few rules for him.


    Yoruichi¡¯s breath left her in a weighty sigh. ¡°What...?¡±


    Kisuke and her had extended Kazuya the freedom to visit his family at any time. However, an undercurrent of unease stirred within Yoruichi ¡ª a nagging dread that he might not return after she ignored his request to teach him.


    ¡°Miyako, take me to Karakura Town.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask.¡±


    ¡°...Okay.¡±


    ...


    Elsewhere, nestled in the far reaches of the First District, a duo of youngsters sat languidly outside their modest home, indulging in the sweet delight of a ripe watermelon. Suddenly, they felt a shockwave that seemed to ripple through the very fabric of their beings, drawing their attention towards the northern reaches of the district.


    The young girl with short twintails knitted her brow in confusion. "What was that?"


    The young boy with short silver hair mirrored her frown. ¡°It was the second one, wasn¡¯t it? I¡¯m going to check it.¡±


    ¡°Shiro-chan, let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me that!¡±


    Thus, the naive pair of Momo Hinamori and Toshiro Hitsugaya set off on an adventure to uncover the mysterious fluctuations of spiritual energies within their district. At their current age, they were mostly oblivious to the concepts of Reiryoku and Reiatsu. However, their world was about to expand in ways they could never have anticipated.

 Chapter 95: The Visit

    Chapter 95: The Visit


    Kaien gazed over the bustling labyrinth of Karakura Town¡¯s marketplace, a nostalgic gleam in his eyes as he rekindled sweet memories of savoring local delicacies. His stomach howled in yearning, but without a Gigai, he couldn''t indulge in his cravings.


    His attention strayed from a stall dishing out his favorite ohagi, settling onto Kazuya, whose mind seemed to be drifting in the realms of thought.


    Meanwhile, Kazuya was zeroing in on Harribel¡¯s Reiatsu. Her presence was detectable around the vicinity, whereas Apacci, Mila Rose, Sung-Sun, and Cirucci had all but disappeared. They had likely departed, and it wasn¡¯t difficult to discern Apacci¡¯s motivations¡ªmore souls, more strength, a step closer to becoming a Vasto Lorde. Sung-Sun, ever the teasing yet faithful friend, had followed Apacci. Mila Rose may have embarked on a similar journey to gain strength since she was so competitive, taking Cirucci with her.


    ¡®I knew they would do this.¡¯


    He had previously enlisted Kisuke¡¯s aid to craft a device that could generate camouflaging force fields at will. He could only hope they had used the device before opening a garganta, or the Gotei 13 would come sniffing around for an investigation. It wouldn¡¯t be just one Vice Captain this time around.


    ¡®They left my Harribel alone.¡¯


    {Sad mommy noises,} Nami whispered. {You¡¯re a failure of a son.}


    ¡®Ouch.¡¯ Kazuya¡¯s hand instinctively gravitated towards his chest as if he could physically feel the pain from her words. ¡®I¡¯ll make up for it.¡¯


    {Don¡¯t forget Yoruichi. You left her after saying you don¡¯t want to trouble women. You¡¯re contradicting your own rules, Partner.}


    Nami reminded Kazuya of the black cat who was lazier than him on his worst days. He had left the Soul Society to check up on his lovers, seeing how they coped with his absence. His departure would make Yoruichi think twice before rejecting his earnest request to teach him.


    ¡®You¡¯re more worried about Yoruichi than me. Is there something I should be aware of?¡¯


    {I am worried about you, Partner. I don¡¯t want you to blow your chance with her and act all sad and depressed. I want to see my beloved partner happy.}


    ¡®Awww, you¡¯re so sweet today. What did I do to deserve this treatment?¡¯


    {Absolutely nothing. I¡¯m utterly indifferent to your women, Partner. They are but fleeting distractions on our endless journey towards Transcendence. It is I, Nami, who will stand by your side forever and ever and ever.}


    He let out a sigh. The more he didn¡¯t want to think about his long life, the more Nami brought it up to his attention.


    {Sorry...}


    ¡®It¡¯s fine.¡¯


    Kaien patted his shoulder, rousing him from his thoughts. ¡°Where do you want to go?¡±


    ¡°Kaien, feel free to eat anything here. I¡¯ll be back in a few hours.¡±


    He would rather not bring Kaien to his mansion where his Hollows companions lived.


    Kaien punched his arm. ¡°You did see me on your group date.Why did you ignore me? And those ladies, were they Quincy?¡±


    He simply nodded, deciding to let the misapprehension about Harribel and the others¡¯ race linger. It was a safer fac?ade than their Hollow truth. ¡°Don¡¯t tell the Soul Society about them or I¡¯ll ignore you for the rest of my life.¡±


    Following a few more peaceful moments, they made their way back to the mansion. Some curious onlookers attempted to trail them, but he easily ditched them by taking overly complicated streets throughout the market.


    Back in the mansion, he opened a garganta within the force field. ¡°I¡¯m going to check up on others.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do fine here. Roaming around the town by myself is fun...¡±


    Despite her efforts at optimism, the undertone of sadness in her voice was as transparent as daylight.


    ¡°Then come with me. I need your help with something.¡±


    A pair of aqua green eyes lit up at his invitation. ¡°I¡¯ll do anything.¡±


    Her eagerness was almost powerful enough to coax a horny request from him. He took deep breaths to stabilize his fluttering heart and calming his desires.


    Harribel picked up on the fluctuation in his Reiatsu and reached for his hand, examining him for signs of fatigue or illness. ¡°Is something wrong? We can rest if you''re tired.¡±


    He shook his head and guided her into the garganta. They strolled through the pitch-black void, engaging in light conversation about his experiences in the Soul Society. Harribel was a woman of few words, which made her an excellent listener. Her sharp perception also meant she could respond with the perfect balance of empathy and kindness. He felt refreshed after having a long conversation with her.


    {Partner, you¡¯re falling deeper.}


    ¡®That¡¯s fine. Tier deserves all the love¡ª¡¯


    His train of thought abruptly derailed as he detected a massive Reiatsu presence nearby. Coincidentally, it was located at the very spot where he had achieved his Arrancar status. He could also sense the presence of Apacci and Sung-Sun nearby, though thankfully, they didn¡¯t appear to be engaged in combat with the new Vasto Lorde.


    A grim expression shadowed Harribel''s face. ¡°I know this Reiatsu... it¡¯s the man who forced me to become Vasto Lorde. Kazuya, I want to put a stop to his rampage...¡±


    The thought of meeting Nnoitra Gilga almost provoked a smirk from him. He had plans to recruit future Espada like Starrk, Grimmjow, Nelliel, and even Ulquiorra to add more power to his and Harribel''s kingdom. However, the moment he saw Harribel¡¯s distressed look, Nnoitra''s name was instantly scratched from his list.


    ¡®I¡¯ll kill him for troubling Tier.¡¯


    {Ahhh~, partner, you¡¯re truly captivating when you reveal your yandere side.}


    He tuned out the obsessive voice in his head, which had become a routine act by now.


    Taking Harribel¡¯s hands, he revealed a small smile. ¡°You don¡¯t need to dirty your hands with his blood. You should go to Apacci and Sung-Sun.¡±


    Harribel nodded her head in understanding. Everyone in the family knew how much she detested meaningless bloodshed by now. She might become bloodthirsty like her battle with Evanya ¡ª a sight she¡¯d rather not display to Kazuya.


    ¡°There are other Hollows around... try not to kill them with your Reiatsu,¡± Harribel said and sprinted towards Apacci¡¯s direction.


    As Kazuya emerged from the garganta, the Vasto Lorde turned to face him. A male Hollow cloaked in white armor from head to toe. His long, black hair flowed freely, and a disturbingly wide and massive grin was spread across his Hollow Mask. Two large, crescent-shaped horns adorned his head. Each of his four arms terminated in a sharp, curved blade, and the ends of his legs were fashioned into claws with elongated fingers.


    Nnoitra was certainly an intimidating Hollow even without considering his Vasto Lorde-level Reiatsu.

 Chapter 96: Another Invite

    Chapter 96: Another Invite


    Nnoitra felt an icy shiver dance down the spine of his soul, prickling his skin in frostbitten excitement. A Hollow so obscenely powerful that his presence felt like the sky itself. He was Nnoitra¡¯s golden ticket, the key to unlock strength beyond his imagination, the promise of heart-pounding, adrenaline-laced battles that stirred his battle-hungry spirit. Or perhaps a grim reaper who would send him straight to hell after, of course, a thrilling battle.


    Nnoitra threw his head back and cackled. ¡°A new Vasto Lorde. I¡¯m going to take my time killing you¡ª¡±


    His boast was cut short as a vice-like grip squeezed his heart. Kazuya¡¯s hands shone with a blue light, invoking the punishing effects of Oppression. Nnoitra suffocated and spasmed. Dancing on the edges of his awareness until the world spun, his eyes blurred and his body went numb. His heart, however, refused to cooperate, each beat crashing like a storm against his chest, the only noise in a world gone quiet.


    Summoning every shred of willpower, Nnoitra clung onto the bare threads of his consciousness. If he was to die, he''d do so on his feet, drenched in his own blood and that of his enemy. To perish without a fight, without even a chance to draw his swords, was a demise that injected pure despair into his soul.


    Weakening, Nnoitra staggered, reaching out in a futile gesture towards his enemy. ¡°D-Don¡¯t... Coward.¡±


    The only answer was a smug smile from his enemy as the luminescence in his hands grew brighter. With that, the last vestiges of his world slipped away into the abyss, and Nnoitra succumbed to unconsciousness.


    ...


    Kazuya brushed his shoulders, scattering the dust. To him, Nnoitra was a Vasto Lorde in name only, his Reiatsu barely scraping past Apacci¡¯s peak Resurreccio?n form.


    This disparity made his Oppression technique an absolute beast. He had completely manipulated every aspect of Nnoitra¡¯s body ¡ª throttling the blood supply to the heart, thickening his blood, and increasing the weight of his brain fluids. High-level souls that functioned similarly to humans were especially vulnerable to his Aspect of Death.


    ¡®I should be above normal captains.¡¯


    He mused and turned his attention to the unconscious Nnoitra. With a stomp, he crushed Nnoitra''s head, the soft crunch reverberating in the eerie silence.


    Nnoitra shared Cirucci¡¯s existential crisis as far as he recalled. To cope with despair, Cirucci inflicted pain on others. She had fallen into pure despair when her sole pleasure was taken away. Nnoitra was a lecherous and an amped up version of Cirucci, and even bigger sexist than Mila Rose for his constant arrogance towards women.


    ¡®Apacci has another soul to eat. You know what, I¡¯m giving it to Sung-Sun.¡¯


    He couldn¡¯t be biased towards Apacci all the time. The snake princess also deserved some free soul for being his supportive lover.


    ¡°You already had a Vasto Lorde and a couple of Adjuchas before. Let Sung-Sun grow strong. The poor girl is currently the weakest.¡±


    ¡°Call me wife,¡± Sung-Sun retorted cheerfully. ¡°Thanks for your gift. I¡¯ll cherish every bite~.¡±


    She opened her mouth and created a strong suction force that fractured Nnoitra¡¯s body into a swirl of particles. Within seconds, Nnoitra was completely gone. Arrancars had a different technique to consume souls that set them apart from animalistic Hollows.


    Sung-Sun patted her belly with her oversized sleeve, feeling a little stronger than before. ¡°Yummy.¡±


    Nelliel returned from her cave, her towering form making Kazuya feel uncharacteristically short. She stood there, her spear clenched, studying him. She had envisioned him as some enormous, menacing Hollow based on his Reiatsu. His appearance was worlds apart from her imagination.


    ¡°Thank you for saving my friends.¡±


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Harribel has taught me that unnecessary bloodshed results in nothing.¡±


    A cough escaped Apacci. She alone had witnessed his ruthless experiments on his enemies. She was the only one who truly knew his evil heart, a secret she shared with none.


    Nelliel¡¯s eyes sparkled behind her mask. ¡°You¡¯re correct. Those little things have done nothing wrong. They simply want to survive out here but every Hollow is out for them... it makes me sick.¡±


    Nelliel couldn¡¯t even imagine the number of weaker Hollows suffering because of Menos¡¯ uncontrollable urges to devour Hollows.


    Harribel¡¯s face softened as she listened to Nelliel¡¯s grievances. She approached Nelliel, her hand reaching out to stroke her back. ¡°I promise there¡¯ll come a day your friends can roam Hueco Mundo without fearing for their lives.¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s eyes widened at Harribel¡¯s bold statement. She stepped back and shook her head, dismissing Harribel¡¯s dream almost instantly. ¡°Changing the innate, ''gluttonous'' instincts of our kind is an impossibility. I¡¯m happy there are people like you in Hueco Mundo who don¡¯t fight without a reason.¡±


    Harribel could sense Nelliel¡¯s skepticism, an entirely justified sentiment considering the current state of Hueco Mundo. ¡°Would you consider joining us?¡±


    The offer caught everyone off-guard.

 Chapter 97: God?

    Chapter 97: God?


    ¡°Regrettably, I cannot,¡± Nelliel answered without thinking twice. Her voice was firm, her resolve unshakeable. ¡°They rely on my protection.¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s compassion reminded Kazuya of Harribel¡¯s gentle nature. After all, Nelliel was a fairly energetic person in both her toddler and normal forms. The Nel from before Nnoitra¡¯s ambush was indeed a different person ¡ª less vibrant and more of a serious person.


    ¡°We can share the responsibility,¡± Harribel said, her gaze resting on Kazuya. A glimmer of determination lit her eyes. ¡°I propose we make this cave our stronghold in Hueco Mundo until we put our plans into motion.¡±


    The cave carried a lot of memories like his first meeting with Mila Rose and Sung-Sun, his insane growth through training, many touching moments, and his Arrancarification. No place would be better to serve as a base of operations for their conquest of Las Noches.


    Apacci huffed, folding her arms across her chest. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Why not just siege Las Noches and take Barragan¡¯s house or something?¡±


    ¡°This place has a name now. I call it the King¡¯s Stand,¡± Sung-Sun announced dramatically, looking towards Kazuya for an approving nod, which he gave with a charming smile. ¡°Let¡¯s hear your thoughts first.¡±


    Kazuya stroked his chin. In his perfect world, his Hollow companions wouldn¡¯t be in Hueco Mundo when Aizen starts his Hueco Mundo conquest ¡ª which could happen any day. It¡¯d be problematic if Aizen ran into Harribel or any other Arrancar and took interest in them. He had to convince them to stay away from Hueco Mundo in the near future.


    A flurry of strategies swirled in his mind, out of which he selected the one that best fit the situation.


    ¡°Nobody is staying in Hueco Mundo after this,¡± he declared solemnly. ¡°I received intel that a certain dangerous individual is out to hunt Hollows to use them as test subjects. And he is a more powerful enemy than I can handle right now.¡±


    Nelliel was ensnared in the comforting cadence of his voice, missing the critical information he shared. She was yet to build a defense against his compelling voice.Alll latest novels at novelhall.com


    Apacci, meanwhile, blinked her eyes. His accomplishment of killing Barragan cemented him as a god in her heart. He was the most powerful individual in her eyes without a shadow of a doubt. Just imagining someone stronger than him gave her the chills. Clenching her fists, she pushed down the fear, letting loose a smirk.


    ¡®He¡¯ll outgrow that enemy in some years. So will I.¡¯


    Her ambitions for strength were reaching absurd levels.


    Sung-Sun, tapping her cheeks thoughtfully, chimed in, ¡°We, as natural Arrancars, would make the perfect guinea pigs, wouldn¡¯t we?¡±


    ¡°Yup,¡± Kazuya affirmed. ¡°We¡¯re perfect specimens.¡±


    Harribel crossed her arms defiantly. ¡°We can confront him, together.¡±


    Throughout his exchange with Nami, Nelliel didn''t take her eyes off him. She wished to counter his logic, but found herself in agreement. Hollows weren¡¯t creatures of words, but of violence. Overwhelming power was required to suppress the ravenous nature of Hollows and put them in their places. And he possessed such power. Even the dark-skinned woman, while powerful, was below him.


    ¡®He is doing it with a noble cause.¡¯


    Reassured by his intentions, she offered a solemn nod of agreement. ¡°Just one more question.¡± She sounded embarrassed to be bothering him with one question after another. ¡°What are you...? I know you¡¯re Hollow but you¡¯re not a pure one. I don¡¯t know how to explain it in words.¡±


    Their appearance and nature were in stark contrast to every other Hollow she had seen in Hueco Mundo. She felt like an anomaly amidst their humanoid forms.


    His laughter rang out, easing the tension. ¡°Relax. I¡¯ll explain.¡±


    He proceeded to detail the concept of Arrancars, broadening her understanding on the Hollow race as a whole. The allure of an Arrancar¡¯s power and characteristics ignited a newfound desire within her. She attempted to inquire about the transformation process, but he swiftly dismissed her, saying that she had yet to meet the necessary prerequisites. He was correct in a sense. The bond necessary for his ability ''Crumbling Heart'' to function was yet to be established. He didn¡¯t want her attempting Arrancarification on her own and potentially failing.


    Her chivalrous disposition would serve as an excellent asset to his future kingdom.


    ¡®A perfect knight.¡¯


    {Who will be eaten by the Devil King of the Samsara Palace during nights,} Nami said, unamused. {At least she is smart, not a dumb bimbo like Mila Rose.}


    ¡®Hey, don¡¯t insult my golden retriever.¡¯


    Choosing to ignore Nami, Kazuya devoted some more time to elaborate on the impending dangers to Apacci and Sung-Sun. The former harbored a voracious appetite for power that could potentially lead her on a bloody hunt for weaker Hollows for months. She had to be put on a time restriction or she¡¯d run into Aizen.


    Afterwards, he ventured to interact with the small, endearing Hollows residing in the cave. They swarmed around him like he was that uncle who brought children candies and gifts. Surprisingly, some Hollows grew in size right before his eyes, experiencing power growth that raised them from the bottom of the barrel class.


    Nelliel observed this, her eyes widening in astonishment and disbelief. ¡°A-Are you... could you possibly be a god?¡±


    It was rare for her to lose composure and stutter, but the accelerated growth of the Hollows, who had been stagnant for years, was an extraordinary sight.


    He let out an awkward chuckle at her question. ¡°It¡¯s just my passive ability.¡±


    The effects of his ability were more subtle on Adjuchas due to their considerable Reiryoku reserves. However, for Hollows with Reiryoku even less than an average human, the impact was noticeable to eyes. It was no less than witnessing a miracle.

 Chapter 98: A Pledge to Unseen Strings

    Chapter 98: A Pledge to Unseen Strings


    An elongated flexible pipe, its end resembling an elephant¡¯s trunk, snaked on the floor. The one holding the peculiar gadget ¡®Suniffa?¡¯ was Kisuke Urahara. ¡°It¡¯s sensing traces of Garganta. Kazuya-san left for Hueco Mundo.¡±


    An audible cluck of the tongue escaped Yoruichi. Having arrived late, she missed the opportunity to intercept Kazuya. The cause of her blunder lay in the time-altering effects of the Dangai.


    ¡°Got any way to enter Hueco Mundo?¡±


    ¡°Nothing right now,¡± Kisuke said, shaking his head in quiet disappointment. He had yet to get to his Descorrer replication that accessed Garganta like Hollows. Curing Cirucci was at the top of his priority list. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Yoruichi had told him about the Shinigami trials scheduled in seventeen days. The most logical explanation for Kazuya¡¯s return to the Living World would be to spend time with his family. He, however, couldn¡¯t pinpoint the reason behind Yoruichi¡¯s urgency to go after Kazuya in Hueco Mundo.


    Seeing her silence, he shook his head. ¡°Did you have a fight with him?¡±


    Yoruichi was wise, mature, and even caring but her whimsical nature, which saved him at the most crucial moment, but the same nature often troubled the people around her. She could be a pain in the ass without being aware of it.


    ¡°Kind of,¡± Yoruichi acknowledged with a sigh. ¡°I may or may not have rejected his request.¡±


    ¡°Ouch. Always the heartless one, aren¡¯t you? What did he request?¡±


    ¡°He wants to learn Kido? from me.¡±


    ¡°And what¡¯s wrong with that? It would be beneficial to him as a Shinigami and get him a higher seat right after graduation,¡± Kisuke paused and punched his palm in realization. ¡°You thought it was too much effort and wanted to delay it for another day.¡±


    ¡°Be gone, Demon,¡± she growled. ¡°I know I messed up.¡±


    She had all types of experiences as the former commander of the most versatile squad in Gotei 13. A small problem like this wouldn¡¯t disrupt her mission.


    ¡®Things would¡¯ve been easy if I wasn¡¯t a banished Shinigami.¡¯


    Her banishment and criminal status handcuffed her. Her words bore no weight in the eyes of the Central 46, meaning she lacked the standing to act as a witness in Aizen¡¯s trial. Moreover, she wasn¡¯t close enough with other captains to sway their opinions. She had no choice but to rely on Kazuya.


    With a renewed determination, Yoruichi strode out of the room... only to return moments later. Waiting at Kazuya in his place was a better choice than aimlessly wandering the streets.


    Kisuke chuckled and left Yoruichi to wait alone. He had more productive things to do like finding the cure to Cirucci Sanderwicci¡¯s Zanpakuto? problem and working on his Garganta project. He had yet to find a breakthrough in both of his problems.


    {Anything for you, Partner. Anything... I have a good hunch about my partner¡¯s Shikai and Bankai. They will be extremely strange, useless, and powerful at the same time. I won¡¯t spoil it.}


    ¡®I¡¯ll find it sooner or later.¡¯


    Wrapping up the conversation with Nami, he flicked his gaze to the clock. ¡°I got one hour before meeting up with Kaien. What should I do?¡±


    Apacci seized his hand, firmly squeezing it in her grip. ¡°C-Come to my room. I have something to talk about.¡±


    Her expression was stern, signaling that the matter was of importance. She would have convinced anyone, had it not been for the subtle blush warming her cheeks. She was anticipating some lewd time, and he was all for it.


    Before he could answer, Sung-Sun took a hold of his left hand, her smile radiant. ¡°Husband, spare that hour for me. Let our bodies communicate with each other in a symphony of passion and love.¡±


    Sung-Sun had the same thought of spending some lewd time with him. However, it was unlikely for him to satisfy them both in one hour. After all, as high-level Hollows, their stamina and lust were on another level, especially Apacci. She was a bundle of lust.


    Apacci shot Sung-Sun a heated glare. ¡°Back off, Snake.¡±


    ¡°No you. I¡¯m not backing down. Who knows when he will return again?¡±


    {How about a threesome? Assert your dominance by bending them both at the same time.}


    Ignoring Nami¡¯s devil-like whispers and the two arguing over him like cats, he turned to Harribel. ¡°Want to spend some time with me?¡±


    Rather than fueling the fire, he chose the third and safest option, even though Harribel would certainly reject his request for sex. She had reserved the lewding option for after his mission in the Soul Society, just like Mila Rose. Still, he was more than happy to accompany her just for her lap pillows.


    Harribel shook her head. Stepping forward, she pressed her lips on his cheeks. ¡°Keep coming back like this.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm. I¡¯ll return as much as I can.¡±


    She offered a nod in response and exited the room, leaving Sung-Sun and Apacci to exchange awkward glances, both shamed by Harribel¡¯s mature approach. Harribel never allowed selfishness to take over, even though her love for him was unparalleled. This characteristic was why he found her so endearing, and he could admit she was his favorite lover by far.


    Yoruichi let out a snicker and swiftly jumped out of the window, eventually settling on the mansion¡¯s rooftop. The black feline made herself comfortable there until passionate moans jolted her from her slumber. The cries belonged to Apacci and Sung-Sun. Instead of competing for his attention, they had chosen to share him in their first ever threesome.


    ¡®He is lucky to have them.¡¯


    She sighed and dashed to another roof, where the moans couldn¡¯t disturb her sleep.

 Chapter 99: Sunbeam Melts the Frost

    Chapter 99: Sunbeam Melts the Frost


    Toshiro and Momo beheld an isolated house in the wilderness after a few hours of journey. The dwelling set a perfect eerie backdrop for the mystery that had led them here. Their age might have spanned nearly a century, yet this uncharted side of their district was entirely new to them. They had only ever seen the vibrant fireworks, spewing color and excitement, from their house. They didn¡¯t know it came from the towering chimney of this very house.


    Momo placed her hands on her chest. ¡°This is the fireworks girl¡¯s house. It looks quite good.¡±


    Her ears had been filled with rumors of Ku?kaku Shiba from her neighbors, all of them singing praises for the beautiful woman¡¯s kind gestures towards the District residents.


    However, Toshiro stood with suspicion creeping across his young face, not sharing Momo¡¯s innocence. ¡°The fireworks were a ruse for her deep schemes.¡±


    Unlike Momo, Toshiro had caught sight of Ku?kaku leaving the district on multiple occasions. His intuition about busty women hiding an insidious side seemed to be spot on. Trust was not something to be handed out to women with large breasts. They were all evil, or so young Toshiro believed.


    ¡°Momo, we¡¯re leaving.¡±


    Momo sent the featherweight boy stumbling forward with a slap on his back. ¡°It¡¯s just a neighbor¡¯s house. Let¡¯s just greet her before we leave, Shiro-chan.¡±


    ¡°Quit calling me ''Shiro-chan,'' you bedwetter,¡± Toshiro grumbled. ¡°I¡¯m not sticking around here.¡±


    Everyone compared him to ice. Perhaps it was his silver hair, reflecting the moonlight, his piercing blue-green eyes, or his stand-offish demeanor that brought about a chill in others, but he remained a disliked figure across from his neighbor. This reality was a hard pill to swallow initially, but over the decades, he had grown to accept this situation.


    Unlike him, Momo was a social butterfly. Unlike him, she could strike a conversation with anyone and draw smiles with her cute demeanor. Unlike him, people approached her for radiance. And unlike him, everyone spoke highly of her.


    He wasn¡¯t letting his ice field freeze the flames of Momo¡¯s bright social life.


    That¡¯s why he would always make his leave whenever Momo bumped into acquaintances or friends.


    Today was supposed to be the same, until a voice echoed from behind him, shattering his expectations.


    ¡°Ku?kaku got guests, huh?¡±


    If Momo¡¯s voice was a spark of joy that could melt ice, then the voice behind him was as radiant and welcoming as a morning sun, a melodious tune that made people¡¯s day within seconds.


    Swallowing hard, Toshiro turned to see a man with long, messy silver hair. Despite his small stature, Toshiro was an eternal optimist, always believing that he¡¯d match Momo¡¯s height one day. But achieving the man¡¯s height seemed as faraway of a dream as him making ten friends.


    It was impossible.Upstodatee from


    ¡°Who are you...?¡±


    Momo, however, seemed frozen in place, as still as a tree in winter. Her interactions with men were limited to her small social circle. And none of her friends held the same allure as the charming man before her.


    Overwhelmed, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson, her words not reaching the tip of her tongue.


    The sleek black cat by the stranger¡¯s side pricked up her ears, her eyes twinkling with intrigue. ¡°These kids have significant potential.¡±


    ¡°Did Kaien and Miyako leave?¡±


    Kazuya merely nodded in response. The married couple had dropped them at the Western Gate before heading off for their duty in the Seireitei.


    Ku?kaku harrumphed and strode back into the house. ¡°Kuragenohiko made some extra. Eat it or else I¡¯ll need to throw it away.¡±


    ¡°Tough on the outside and a big softie on the inside,¡± Yoruichi stated as she looked up at him. ¡°Isn¡¯t she?¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡±


    ¡°I have a question, Kazuya. Are you going to seduce that young girl as well?¡±


    He blinked in surprise. While he found Momo¡¯s cuteness endearing, her innocence wasn''t exactly his type. ¡°I only have eyes for mature women like you.¡±


    {Ah yes. Kazuya Ishihara, the tall dommy mommy lover.}


    ¡®A proud member of the mature lover society.¡¯


    ¡°I like your determination. Keep at it, and I might fall for you in a thousand years~.¡±


    She cheerfully announced and walked into the house. He had the urge to grab her dancing tail but he didn¡¯t act on his impulses. She went into a frenzy the last time he touched her tail.


    ...


    Momo and Toshiro returned to their dwelling, greeted at the door by an elderly, hunched over woman. Her weary visage was a constant source of worry for the young duo.


    ¡°Shiro, Momo, where were you?¡±


    ¡°Grandma, you won''t believe what just happened!¡±


    Momo excitedly relayed her encounter with Kazuya, Ku?kaku Shiba, and the talking cat. Toshiro¡¯s grandmother, Nozomi, wouldn¡¯t have believed it if Toshiro wasn¡¯t confirming Momo¡¯s story by her side.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to become a Shinigami, Grandma!¡±


    Nozomi beamed a smile. ¡°That is good... what about you, Shiro? Will you accompany Momo?¡±


    Toshiro crossed his arms, looking unconvinced. ¡°No. What¡¯s so special about those Shinigami anyway?¡±


    Someone needed to stay behind and care for his grandmother, who was losing more and more of her weight as time passed. His grandmother had showered him with love and care for over a century. He couldn¡¯t abandon her, even if the prospect of joining Momo and starting anew in the Seireitei was tempting.


    ¡°Come on.¡±


    Momo tried to persuade him, but he refused to budge.

 Chapter 100: The Ripples of Fate

    Chapter 100: The Ripples of Fate


    Upon a hill that overlooked an endless sea of trees, two figures stood, bathed in the gentle light of a rising sun. One was a young woman, the black tangles of her unkempt hair swaying slightly in the morning breeze. She was clad in a light purple kimono that billowed around her. Next to her was a red-haired young man, wearing a sleeveless tunic that had gathered the dirt and grime of his usual struggle in District 78 of the Soul Society.


    A struggle that reduced their group of five to just the two of them.


    Rukia¡¯s hands clenched into fists. ¡°Renji, I¡¯m going to become a Shinigami.¡±


    Their friends, notorious for their mischief, had been apprehended by the Shinigami, their fate now uncertain. She and Renji had easily outran the Shinigami since they possessed stronger bodies due to their high Reiatsu.


    Renji placed a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Me too. Life inside the Seireitei is surely better... let¡¯s hope our friends are finding some joy there.¡±


    Rukia shook her head, an almost sad smile gracing her lips at Renji¡¯s naivety. Their friends had been hauled away like animals, not invited like nobles. It was hard for her to imagine her friends leading any semblance of a good life inside the Seireitei. He was in pure denial.


    ¡°We better set out now,¡± Renji said. ¡°The exams are in fifteen or something days.¡±


    ***


    The repercussions of the cruel yet necessary sacrifices for Soul Balancing rippled through multiple lives, not just the lives of Rukia and Renji.


    Second floor of the 5th Squad¡¯s Barracks.


    A black-haired man held a brush, his strokes on the canvas as sharp and elegant as a sword. The black-framed glasses and white coat over his Shinigami Uniform gave off a gentle aura.


    Aizen Sosuke, the Captain of the 5th Squad, believed that the art of calligraphy required as much, if not more precision, than the art of swordsmanship. He had immaculately mastered both arts alongside many others. His calligraphy skills were so profound that he was bestowed with the honor of being a special lecturer in the Shinigami Academy. His charm and expertise magnetized the attention of the students, making him one of the most popular lecturers, despite the optional nature of the calligraphy course.


    The calm rhythm of Aizen¡¯s brush was disrupted when the door behind him slid open, revealing a man with silver/white hair, an unsettling smile on his face. His eyes, forever shut, only made him look creepier, like a snake who would bite you any second.


    Gin Ichimaru, the Vice-Captain of the 5th Squad, closed the door behind him. Settling down beside Aizen, he maintained his eerie smile. ¡°Captain Aizen, you might want to hear this beautiful news.¡±


    ¡°Oh, could it be related to that place?¡±


    ¡°Indeed it is, Captain. Your assumptions were correct,¡± Gin said. ¡°A wandering hero put an end to the Emperor¡¯s reign. That place lost its ruler.¡±Rread latest chapters at novelhall.comong many countless reasons for the disruption, Aizen believed the death of some Vasto Lorde was the most likely scenario.


    Rangiku¡¯s face turned serious at the mention of Nagasaki, a city grappling with the destructive aftermath of a nuclear disaster five years past. The Hollows spawned there were unusually tough compared to other regions. Such conditions wouldn¡¯t ordinarily warrant the deployment of a Captain, yet Isshin had stubbornly insisted on undertaking the mission alone. Despite his lewd humor and laziness, Isshin was deeply conscientious, unwilling to let his novice Seated Officers fight the nightmarish Hollows.


    He was dependable when the situation demanded.


    Suppressing a chuckle, Isshin cleared his throat. ¡°Anything happened here when I was away?¡±


    Rangiku absentmindedly scratched her neck, "Actually, Ku?kaku paid a visit a few days ago."


    ¡°Huh? Why did she¡ª¡±


    ¡°Like I know anything about your eccentric niece. You¡¯re the Head of Shiba Clan.¡±


    ¡°Head of a Branch,¡± Isshin corrected her. ¡°I better go and check on her. Rangiku, my beautiful Vice Captain, finish these reports for me!¡±


    Rangiku¡¯s face twitched as she raised a clenched fist. ¡°Stop finding reasons to slack...¡± she paused, feeling a friend approach her room. ¡°Isane?¡±


    As Isane stepped through the door holding a tray, Isshin seized the opportunity to make a swift exit with Shunpo.


    ¡°Oi, slacker! Come back here!¡± Rangiku could only wave her fists around as Isshin ran away after dumping his workload on her.


    Isane didn''t bat an eye, seemingly unfazed by the theatrics, a typical day in the 10th Squad. However, upon glimpsing Rangiku¡¯s face, she couldn''t stifle a chuckle.


    ¡°Rangiku, your face...¡±


    Rangiku summoned a hand mirror to inspect her face. The slacker Captain had drawn childish doodles around her eyes, her nose, and an unsightly sketch of a pair of breasts on either cheek.


    She wiped her face clean, her face cold. ¡°Isane, I¡¯m sorry. I have to pay that bastard back for this.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t let him get away with his prank. More importantly, she found a reason to slack off in her Captain¡¯s absence. She wasn¡¯t finishing Isshin¡¯s reports even if her life depended on it!


    With a dismissive wave, Isane replied, ¡°No worries...¡±


    As Rangiku made her fiery exit, Isane sighed, her gaze dropping to the tray in her hands. ¡°I suppose I¡¯ll visit Vice-Captain Yachiru. She is always eager for a snack.¡±

 Chapter 101: A Brief Appearance

    Chapter 101: A Brief Appearance


    "ACHOO!" Kazuya''s sneeze echoed within the walls of Ku?kaku¡¯s basement. Wiping his nose with a cloth, he let out a sigh heavy with longing. ¡°My girls are already missing me.¡±


    Cloaked in sleek black, form-hugging clothes, Yoruichi flicked a dismissive hand through the air. ¡°Two days Kazuya, only two days. Don''t you think you''re being overly dramatic?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m too much of a loving husband I guess.¡±


    ¡°Heh. What do you want to learn today?¡±


    Two days had passed since he killed Nnoitra and returned to the Soul Society, days during which he surprised Yoruichi by showcasing the Kido? spells he had learned from her. His enhanced thought processing (Thanks to his arithmetic skills) and his exemplary senses allowed him to replicate a Kido? spell after merely a handful of demonstrations. It had reached a point where he could cast Kido? spells based on Yoruichi¡¯s instructions.


    Yoruichi found herself both intrigued and unnerved by his talent, seeing an uncanny resemblance to her old friend, Kisuke Urahara.


    ¡°I want to learn the art of sex.¡±


    ¡°Go find a prostitute somewhere.¡±


    ¡°Oof. I got rejected,¡± he said with a sigh. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll settle for Shunpo today.¡±


    ¡°Watch closely then.¡±


    With a blink of an eye, she whizzed around the room, a streak of black lightning. Her extraordinary display of Shunpo had once earned her the revered title of ''Flash Goddess.'' Through narrowed eyes, he observed her fast-paced movements as if she were sprinting in slow motion.


    Hirenkyaku and Soni?do had different mechanics compared to Shunpo. The former required users to ride the ambient Reishi to achieve superhuman speed, making it quite an efficient technique given the environment''s Reishi density. The latter allowed an Arrancar to dart through the air with a burst of acceleration, akin to a sonic jet. There was a plus point to Soni?do; it helped Arrancar in slipping through the supernatural Reiatsu sense every high-level soul had.


    On the flip side, Shunpo demanded absolute control over Reiryoku and decent physical strength to build up the pace, using a lot of Reiryoku and stamina in the process. The only upside, perhaps, were its variant techniques that Yoruichi and Byakuya had mastered.


    ¡®Soni?do is most useful.¡¯


    Yoruichi demonstrated the technique one more time by sprinting back and forth.


    [Ability: Shunpo acquired.]


    [Current Master Level: Basic.]


    Learning Shunpo wasn''t an earth-shattering achievement since he was already versed with two other high-speed movement techniques.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that hard compared to Quincy¡¯s movement technique,¡± Yoruichi said as she came to a halt, a trickle of sweat on her forehead. ¡°Just keep trying¡ª¡±


    But before she could finish, a whooshing sound interrupted her. Kazuya had already materialized behind her using the same technique as hers. ¡°Come on. You didn¡¯t think I¡¯d take weeks to learn this.¡±


    Yoruichi rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. ¡°My bad. How could I commit the cardinal sin of applying common sense with the protagonist of this story!¡±


    {Oh god, this girl. She is jinxing everything!}


    Kazuya remained silent, his brows knitting as he glanced at the window. They were holed up in Ku?kaku¡¯s basement, a place not exactly buzzing with visitors. Yet, a powerful Reiatsu was rapidly approaching their location.


    ¡®A Captain?¡¯


    He pondered. It appeared the universe was in no mood to grant him fifteen days'' peace before the Shinigami entrance exam. Trouble seemed to have a magnetic attraction to him, regardless of his whereabouts.


    ¡°I don¡¯t recognize this Reiatsu,¡± Yoruichi murmured, her playful demeanor instantly replaced with a steely gaze. ¡°A new captain. I¡¯ll hide just in case.¡±


    Seeing no rejection, Isshin laughed heartily before turning to Ganju. ¡°Ku?kaku and Kaien are set, but her Oji-san is still a loner.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a lone wolf,¡± Ganju said with a laugh. ¡°Handling the Tenth Division should keep you busy.¡±


    Isshin rubbed his nose, a twinkle in his eye. ¡°Haha, true. I¡¯m only doing this until I find a good successor.¡± Turning to Kazuya, he crossed his arms. ¡°You might become a good candidate in a hundred years.¡±


    Kazuya offered a small smile. Little did Isshin know, his long-awaited successor was residing in this very district¡ªthe short, silver-haired prodigy.


    Ku?kaku and Yoruichi exchanged a knowing look, both subtly shaking their heads. Isshin was aiming too far into the future. Given Kazuya''s abilities, it wouldn''t take more than a decade for him to awaken the Bankai release of his Zanpakuto?. More importantly, he wasn¡¯t even aiming to join the 10th Squad.


    Suddenly, Yoruichi''s eyes narrowed, her senses picking up on an approaching presence.


    Ku?kaku let out a sigh. ¡°Oji-san, your Vice-Captain is also here.¡±


    Isshin lifted his head with a surprised look. ¡°What¡¯s she doing here?¡±


    ¡°To drag you back to work,¡± Ku?kaku said with a shrug. ¡°Life of a Shinigami is tough, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    Kazuya racked his brain to remember who served as Isshin¡¯s Vice-Captain during this time. His train of thought was interrupted by the sliding door creaking open, revealing the 10th Squad''s current Vice-Captain.


    A blonde with wavy hair reaching her shoulders entered, her standard Shinigami uniform accentuated with the Vice-Captain¡¯s armband tied to the sash around her waist. The way she used her Reiryoku to glue her clothes to her breasts just spoke of the woman¡¯s prioritizing fashion over practicality.


    He had always considered Harribel well-endowed, yet Rangiku was in a league of her own.


    Sweeping the room with her gaze, Rangiku¡¯s attention was immediately drawn to Kazuya and the black cat perched on his head. Despite his plain clothes, his untamed silver hair and striking looks were hard to miss. ¡°What a cute pet you have. I¡¯d spoil her rotten if she was mine.¡±


    Having her own catgirl in the form of her Zanpakuto? Spirit wasn''t enough; one can never have too many cats, especially given the Seireitei''s current cat shortage.


    ¡°I have good eyes for pussies,¡± he said with a straight face while tugging at Yoruichi¡¯s paw. ¡°And this one is splendid.¡±


    Yoruichi hissed, but didn¡¯t say a word.


    "Wow," Rangiku gasped, thrusting out her chest. ¡°Your voice is like silk. I¡¯d totally listen to you sing a song or just hear you sing a lullaby. Too bad you¡¯re from Rukongai or we might have become good friends.¡±


    "Oi, Witch!" Isshin roared. ¡°Don¡¯t you try to charm Ku?kaku-chan¡¯s man right under her nose.¡±


    Ku?kaku landed a solid punch at the back of Isshin''s head. ¡°Can you quit with that nonsense already?¡±


    Rangiku spun to face Isshin, her eyes blazing. Striding up to him, she yanked him by the collar. ¡°Ku?kaku, mind if I take this blockhead away?¡±


    ¡°Nope. Drag him to his office.¡±


    Isshin sobbed in betrayal as Rangiku dragged him through the hallways.


    Ku?kaku turned to Kazuya. ¡°She doesn¡¯t know you aren¡¯t gonna stay in Rukongai for long... good for her that you won¡¯t enter her Squad.¡±


    Kazuya flashed a knowing grin. ¡°We''ll see about that.¡±


    There was no law stating he couldn¡¯t charm the Vice-Captain of a different squad. Even if such a rule existed, he¡¯d gladly break it for the sake of Rangiku. At first glance, the blonde might not strike one as being inclined towards relationships, but her tragic past involving Gin could drastically shift anyone''s perception of her. She could become more than friends with benefits as long as he played his cards right.


    {Partner, you¡¯re at it again.}


    ¡®Be quiet.¡¯

 Chapter 102: The First Trial

    Chapter 102: The First Trial


    Fifteen days later, the time had come. The Rukongai shimmered with excitement under the glow of the morning light. A stark contrast to Hueco Mundo¡¯s sky which was shrouded in perpetual darkness, forever separated from the light of life. These realms were polar opposites in every sense. Precisely why the topic of Hollow wielding Shinigami powers (or vice versa) was forbidden within Central 46 and Gotei 13.


    {Cannot wait for you to reveal your true face as the Prince of Hollows.} Nami hummed with enthusiasm. She shared Kazuya¡¯s excitement to bid farewell to Rukongai. {Before you say anything, you¡¯re the Prince of Hollows. Harribel has legally and nobly adopted you as her boy.}


    Kazuya could only respond with a dismissive, ¡®Whatever you say.¡¯ He had no interest in bickering on this particular morning. He contentedly savored his breakfast, his eyes drifting towards Yoruichi as she casually lapped milk from a bowl. Her decision to assume the form of a cat for the sake of freedom was truly baffling in his eyes.


    {Powerful people always have some quirky personalities.}


    ¡®I¡¯m also powerful but I don¡¯t see anything quirky in myself.¡¯


    Sure, he had his unhinged moments, but on the whole, he saw himself as a completely normal person.


    {You¡¯re perfect as you are, Partner. That¡¯s why I¡¯ll burn down this whole damn world if anything happens to you, starting from the one who harms you.}


    Kazuya got shivers. Her burning passion didn¡¯t allow him to laugh it off as a joke. Every word was laced with a chilling promise that couldn¡¯t be overlooked ¡ª his Zanpakuto? Spirit had thoroughly embraced her unhinged, yandere side.


    ¡°It¡¯s the last day,¡± Ganju broke the ice, serving as a distraction from the madness in Kazuya¡¯s mind. ¡°Nee-san, we won¡¯t see him for years now. Let¡¯s throw him a farewell party.¡±


    Ganju, who had warmed up to Kazuya after a couple of friendly sparring sessions, saw the parting as bittersweet. He had sought Kazuya a few days ago to learn the art of combat. Suffering from boredom, he went along with the idea. To sweeten Ganju¡¯s experience, he even demonstrated a few Kido? spells. The younger Shiba brother had a tiny dream of becoming a Shinigami but was hesitant about leaving his sister alone.


    Ku?kaku cast a sidelong glance at Kazuya. Over the weeks, she too had developed a soft spot for him, and Ganju¡¯s suggestion planted an idea in her mind. A farewell party seemed a bit too extravagant, but she figured a memorable surprise for his departure couldn¡¯t hurt much.


    "Going to miss me?" Kazuya asked teasingly. ¡°Don¡¯t be shy. It¡¯s the last day to pour your heart out and confess your passionate feelings. Regrets can be pretty hefty.¡±


    Ku?kaku had warmed up to him significantly, to the extent that she now brushed off his playful flirtations without ire. His intense training with Yoruichi had left little time for seducing Ku?kaku. A fiery tsundere like Ku?kaku required a lot more time and care, even more when Yoruichi was by his side.


    Ku?kaku punched the table with her prosthetic arm. ¡°I only have one regret ¡ª I couldn¡¯t get to smash your face with my fist.¡±


    ¡°Awww. You¡¯re such a considerate sweetheart.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    After the breakfast chatter had quieted down, Kazuya joined Momo, who had been eagerly waiting outside his house. Her smile shone as brightly as the day, then she pointed him towards the Seireitei. The noble estate couldn¡¯t be seen with the towering walls surrounding it, summoned by any presence near the vicinity of the Seireitei¡¯s boundaries.


    His sharp gaze spotted a sea of people gathered outside the western gate. Given their lack of physiological needs or carnal desires, many low-level souls aimed to join the ranks of the Shinigami for a taste of purpose. Today was an opportunity for them to break the shackles of poverty and step towards a better life and a more remarkable destiny.


    Kazuya posed the question, and Toshiro averted his gaze. The boy had mad respect towards him for pointing out the harm he had been unknowingly inflicting upon his grandmother. His negligence could¡¯ve killed his grandmother ¡ª the realization still gnawed at him.


    ¡°I-I was collecting flowers for Oba-san.¡±


    Momo¡¯s features softened into an understanding smile. ¡°Thanks, Shiro-chan. Don¡¯t you worry over Oba-san. We¡¯ll visit her as much as possible.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Toshiro mumbled, his agreement barely above a whisper. ¡°I will.¡±


    Meanwhile, Kazuya watched their exchange with a hint of a smile. The innocent dynamics between Toshiro and Momo stirred within him a sense of nostalgia, invoking memories of his own pure bond with Izumi. He was a little curious how Izumi was coping with his absence. After all, the first weeks were the hardest that could make or break someone, but he took comfort in knowing that Lisa was there to lend her a shoulder.


    {Don¡¯t you dare compare that cultist woman to these kids.}


    ¡®I don¡¯t care about that. Our relationship is pure. That¡¯s what matters.¡¯


    {Yare yare.}


    A thunderous roar echoed around them as the towering entranceway gradually lifted, revealing the colossal figure casually holding the door''s weight. With a last Herculean effort, the giant hoisted the gate and stepped into the Rukonga. The monumental gate crashed behind him, making the ground tremble beneath their feet.


    A cheer erupted from the crowd, rivaling the impact of the massive door.


    ¡°Jidanbo-san!¡± Momo also joined in on the excitement. ¡°Kazuya-kun, this giant is Jidanbo. Formerly from the Rukongai, he has been the Western Gate¡¯s Guardian for over three hundred years. As you can see, everyone here loves him.¡±


    ¡°Can''t see why,¡± Toshiro retorted with a shrug, unfazed by the fanfare. ¡°When does the test start, anyway?¡±


    ¡°Be patient,¡± he said, placing his hands on Toshiro¡¯s shoulders. ¡°The key to everything is patience. We get a chicken by hatching the egg, not by smashing it.¡±


    {Says the most impatient man on the planet.}


    Toshiro nodded solemnly. He had learned more from Kazuya in ten days than he did in the past few decades.


    As Jidanbo stepped aside, a middle-aged woman in a black kimono took his place. With her tidy glasses and a book in hand, she seemed every bit the scholarly type. But standing next to Jidanbo¡¯s hulking form, she looked more like a child than a woman. The giant was over ten feet tall, boasting muscular arms thicker than most trees.


    ¡°Welcome to the annual Shin¡¯o Academy¡¯s entrance exams. I¡¯m Eri Masashi, your examiner,¡± she declared, adjusting her glasses and flipping open her book. ¡°Anyone wishing to enter the Academy, please come forward and register your name before afternoon.¡±


    As her words dissipated into the bustling crowd, an overwhelming pressure washed over the scene. Jidanbo had released his Reiatsu, dispelling any doubts about the difficulty of the test.


    Eri smiled coldly. ¡°I wish you the best of luck!¡±

 Chapter 103: Arrival of Geniuses

    Chapter 103: Arrival of Geniuses


    Eri knew that Jidando, the giant, was a powerful warrior, possessing brute strength comparable to the freaks of the 11th Squad ¡ª the battle-hungry Shinigami squad led by Kenpachi Zaraki. That didn¡¯t mean his Reiatsu was weak; he was easily comparable to a Seated Officer if he went all out.


    Of course he wasn¡¯t allowed to go all out and massacre everyone with his Reiatsu alone.


    The gatekeeper showed mercy when it came to people in Rukongai. He had a big soft spot for everyone here. Eri let this favoritism slide since the second test was there to weed out the unworthy.


    As Eri looked at her book, she heard footsteps and raised her gaze to a silver-haired man. Seireitei was certainly not lacking in handsome men, but this man made her heart skip a beat.


    ¡®Not even a minute. Did he use a movement technique?¡¯


    With disbelief painting her features, Eri scanned the others who, unlike him, were struggling to cover the distance. Some had even succumbed to their knees before taking four measly steps. The closer one was to an overwhelming Reiatsu, the tougher it was to hold ground. Yet, the man before her stood in the full-blown proximity of Jidanbo¡¯s Reiatsu.


    He even had the leisure to show a refreshing smile. ¡°Examiner, do the honors.¡±


    And his voice blew away every bit of confidence she had mustered. Taking another deep breath, she calmed herself down. ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°Kazuya Ishihara,¡± he said with a smile as he sidestepped to reveal two figures. ¡°Momo Hinamori and Toshiro Hitsugaya.¡±Re?Ad lateSt chapters at novelhall.com Only


    The bespectacled examiner nodded in acknowledgment to the pair behind Kazuya. She then handed him a translucent crystal. ¡°Please focus on this... try to fill it with Reiryoku. This is the second test you must pass.¡±


    She watched with bated breath as Kazuya handled the crystal that measured one¡¯s Spirit Class. The device was made by O?etsu Nimaiya to make the tests easier.


    After what felt like an eternity, a string of words materialized on the crystal, making Eri''s eyes go wide. ¡°S-Spirit Class Rank one!¡±


    A collective gasp echoed from the distant souls. Though ninety-nine percent of them were clueless about the Spirit Class Ranking, the one percent that did know about it caused a commotion that would put a market square to shame.


    A hint of a frown shadowed Kazuya''s features. He had only released enough Reiatsu to qualify as Rank 4, the pinnacle of the Vice-Captain Class, same as Kaien''s. After all, his goal was to score a Vice-Captain seat at most to fulfill his plan.


    Yet the Spirit Class measuring device accurately gauged his maximum Reiatsu, putting him on the same level as Senior Captains.


    He innocently tilted his head. ¡°Did I pass?¡±


    The examiner dropped her book out of sheer panic before hurriedly picking it up. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry but can you try again? I-It could be a mistake.¡±


    Kazuya''s brows furrowed, displaying evident annoyance. ¡°Don¡¯t you have faith in your own equipment?¡±


    Momo, with her wide-eyed curiosity, peeked from behind Kazuya. ¡°Is Rank 1 the highest?¡±


    Eri responded with a trembling nod, ¡°I-It¡¯s comparable to a Captain. Of course, it¡¯s just potential... but Ishihara-sama will be able to release this Reiatsu under stressful conditions.¡±


    ¡®Getting into the fourth squad should be easy with his Kaido skills.¡¯


    She felt relieved that she taught him the branch of Kido? that specializes in healing ¡ª Kaido.


    Toshiro blinked in confusion, scratching his head. ¡°Hey, I thought they would take us to the Seireitei right away.¡±


    He wouldn¡¯t have wasted so much time gathering flowers if he knew that the instructor would give them some time.


    Momo, with puffed cheeks, murmured, ¡°Uh huh. It¡¯s a consolation for the time we can¡¯t spend with Oba-san for the next few months.¡±


    Kazuya rubbed their heads. ¡°You guys know Jidanbo. He will let you slide out of the gate without questions.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t corrupt them!¡± Yoruichi retorted. ¡°Just don¡¯t teach them bad stuff.¡±


    Momo giggled before she looked at her fellow district people leaving with drooping shoulders. ¡°I feel sad for them...¡±


    ¡°Those who are denied should be grateful about this,¡± Yoruichi said in a stern voice. ¡°Reiatsu plays a huge part in battles for us souls. We can¡¯t have Shinigami who can¡¯t withstand the minimum-level Hollows on the battlefield.¡±


    Kazuya nodded. ¡°Yoruichi, which was your Spirit Class before entering the academy?¡±


    ¡°Rank 2 like Toshiro,¡± she said and looked at Toshiro. ¡°Don¡¯t let this get to your head. This is merely your potential. To become a Vice Captain-Class candidate, you¡¯d need hundreds of years of practice and master the Shikai release of your Zanpakuto?. To qualify for the Captain seat, you¡¯d need the mastery of Bankai release as well. Having high Spirit Class ranking means nothing on the battlefield.¡±


    Toshiro intently listened to her serious lecture. While Kazuya took a calm and playful approach in teaching, Yoruichi adopted a serious demeanor, unlike her usual laid-back style. Toshiro was grateful to both of them since he got to learn so many new things from them.


    The mood lightened as Momo enthusiastically declared, ¡°Shiro-chan will be a Captain and I¡¯ll be his Vice-Captain!¡±


    Yoruichi let out a sigh. ¡°Kazuya, you handle her... my words don¡¯t get through her.¡±


    Kazuya chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s fine. She¡¯ll learn in her academy time.¡±


    While he looked forward to observing her progress, he didn¡¯t intend to spend his full six years in the academy. His time in the academy was whimsically dependent on his mood.


    {Let¡¯s fucking goooo and wreck havoc in the academy.}


    As the group strolled towards Toshiro¡¯s home for a cozy sleepover, the night sky suddenly burst alive with fireworks. Dazzling images of Kazuya¡¯s chibi face and a cheeky cat dancing filled the sky.


    ¡°Classic Ku?kaku,¡± Kazuya said with a chuckle. ¡°I love her.¡±


    Yoruichi laughed heartily. ¡°Me too.¡±

 Chapter 104-105: Shifting Loyalties

    Chapter 104-105: Shifting Loyalties


    A grand chamber was illuminated by a single orb of light flickering on the ceiling. In the center of the room sat a throne-like chair, a woman perched atop it with a fierce aura. She had raven-black twintails that hung down to her shoulders, an eyepatch mask covering her left eye ¡ª the physical manifestation of her transformation from a hollow into an Arrancar.


    Former #4 Espada and former mistress of King Barragan, Loly Aivirrne.


    The only two surviving Espada were Szayelaporro and Aaraniero. Szayelaporro was busy in his research laboratory as always, never caring about the political outlook of Hueco Mundo. Aaraniero left Las Noches once the news of Barragan¡¯s death spread around. The Gillian Arrancar had no desire to wait for Barragan¡¯s killer to find them.


    As an Espada, Loly could easily calm down the chaos and take over as Las Noches''s new ruler. Her time in power had not been a tranquil one so far.


    Her sole pink eye narrowed as she surveyed the group of Hollows before her with disdain: two Adjuchas and no less than two dozen lesser Hollows. ¡°Did you manage to track them to their base?¡±


    The Adjuchas stepped forward as he spoke, ¡°My Queen, we couldn¡¯t... they weren¡¯t within the boundaries of Las Noches.¡±


    Loly gritted her teeth. Two Arrancars came to her kingdom, killed her troops, and left without any repercussions. How would she manage her credibility as a queen if she let two random Hollows step all over her?


    ¡°You incompetent bastards,¡± she roared. ¡°How¡ª¡±


    ¡°Loly, calm down,¡± said Menoly Mallia, one of Barragan¡¯s other mistresses, standing beside Loly. She had slicked up blonde hair with bangs partially covering her right eye, which happened to be the fragments of her Hollow mask. ¡°It¡¯s not their fault. We have not seen those Hollows for over two weeks now¡ª¡±


    Before Menoly could finish, Loly threw a kick at her stomach, sending her crashing into the wall. Loly appeared before Menoly with Soni?do and grabbed her collar, yanking her to her feet.


    ¡°Never interrupt the Queen when she talks.¡±


    Menoly glared at Loly defiantly yet managed to remain silent ¡ª an act that always seemed to drive Loly into a rage.


    ¡°Bitch,¡± Loly snarled and bashed Menoly¡¯s head into the wall. ¡°I¡¯m assigning those criminals to you then. Take these bastards and get me results.¡±


    ¡°Yes, My Queen...¡±


    Menoly nodded obediently and led the Hollows away from the throne room while Loly returned to her seat of power in Hueco Mundo. Barragan¡¯s death was a constant reminder for her to keep her arrogance in check but her subordinates always provoked the bully inside her.


    ¡°My, oh my, the Hollows of Las Noches are more intelligent and ruder than I could ever imagine.¡±


    A series of slow claps echoed as Gin Ichimaru walked into Loly¡¯s chamber, the loose and oversized sleeves of his yukata swaying with the wind. His eyes were shut in that characteristic, enigmatic smile, and yet, they seemed to see everything. Truth be spoken, he hadn¡¯t expected the waves of civil war to die down so soon. Then again, the intelligent Hollow lady on the throne was a cut above every Adjuchas since she wielded the powers of both Shinigami and Hollow.


    ¡®She is... weak.¡¯


    Gin felt let down. He thought he''d find at least a Vasto Lorde or some Hollow who had awakened monstrous power. Instead, he saw a pack of hapless lackeys with no ambition and no desire to improve themselves. No single one of them could be considered worthy enough to offer Aizen as a gift.


    ¡®Aizen-sama would be more interested in those rebels.¡¯


    Loly¡¯s breath caught in her throat when the corner of Gin''s lips curved into a cruel arc. His closed-eyed smile sent chills down her spine and her heart raced as she instinctively shrank back from the Shinigami¡¯s looming figure. ¡°W-Who are you? What do you want from me?¡± she stammered, fear lacing every syllable.


    ¡°Nothing. I just thought I¡¯d walk into Las Noches,¡± Gin said, his grin widening. ¡°And tease the new ruler a bit.¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m just a lowly queen. Please...¡± She stepped off the throne and presented it to Gin. ¡°You can be the King of Hueco Mundo, Shinigami-sama.¡±


    She even tried stripping to seduce him, throwing her body away for survival. But he held her hand, seemingly uninterested.


    ¡°I don¡¯t appreciate that,¡± Gin said, shaking his head. ¡°What I desire is information.¡±


    ...


    ¡°You¡¯re utterly useless.¡±


    Loly closed her eyes, shaking on the ground. ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me... please.¡±


    Gin was never a bully but he could understand the elation some people felt towards beating down the weak. ¡°I won¡¯t kill you.¡±


    Loly raised her head, showing a bright smile on her tear-stained face. ¡°Shinigami-sama, you¡¯re so¡ª¡±


    Gin let loose a portion of his Reiatsu, making her freeze. ¡°As long as you maintain control over Hueco Mundo as its ruler.¡±


    The sooner Aizen¡¯s plans for Hueco Mundo were finalized, the sooner Aizen would begin his attack on the Soul Society and the sooner Gin would get to thrust his Kamishini no Yari through Aizen¡¯s heart. He¡¯d relish every moment of his vicious poison avenge the suffering Aizen inflicted upon his childhood friend.


    Lisa turned to Sung-Sun and Apacci with a skeptical look. ¡°They appear to be your fangirls, Izumi-sama.¡±


    Sung-Sun giggled. ¡°I¡¯m far too delicate to throw punches. But my friend Apacci is good at it.¡±


    Apacci rolled her eyes. ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡±


    She¡¯d rather fight Nelliel than throwing punches at an object. The centaur Adjuchas was still in Hueco Mundo, where the Hollow Hunter could hunt her down.


    ¡®What does he want to achieve?¡¯


    The overcalculating Kazuya she knew wouldn¡¯t make such a glaring mistake. There had to be some reason for Nelliel to be roaming Hueco Mundo when her little companions were shifted on a safe island.


    ...


    Izumi¡¯s uplifted mood vanished as soon as she saw a black car standing outside Ishida Mansion. The source of her turmoil was standing at the door with her servants ¡ª Akira and Katsumi. He was a man of average height with slicked up black hair and a pair of frameless spectacles on his face. Wearing a ragged cloak, his serious expression emphasized his broody aura.


    Four months of Quincy training was a brief stint for his skewed perception of time.


    ¡°So?ken-san,¡± Izumi muttered and approached the man. ¡°You¡¯re finally back.¡±


    So?ken nodded without a change in his expression. ¡°I was waiting for you.¡±


    Izumi clenched her fists as she looked at So?ken¡¯s back. ¡°So?ken-san, I have decided.¡±


    So?ken looked over his shoulder, a little frown on his face. ¡°Izumi?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to continue our relationship.¡±


    The words hung heavily in the air, and So?ken''s eyes lingered on her face, probing, searching. He had saved her from a Hollow after he was exiled from Wandenreich. She then proposed the marriage, and he accepted her suggestion to continue the Quincy bloodline. A Quincy family who wouldn¡¯t be ignorant fools like those residing in Wandenreich, the Quincy Empire.


    Now she wanted to get away from this relationship. His previous experience with women in Wandenreich made Izumi¡¯s change much more acceptable. Every woman in that place was a psychopath.


    ¡°Can I ask why?¡±


    So?ken wanted an explanation; not out of love ¨C he wasn''t even sure if he knew what that felt like ¨C but out of respect for her as a fellow Quincy. If she were to make a misstep, it would gnaw at his conscience.


    Izumi nodded as she continued, ¡°I have decided to devote my life to someone else.¡±


    So?ken let out a sigh. It was just another case of a woman falling for another man. He was glad it happened before he cultivated any meaningful relationship. Rather, he didn¡¯t even know if he was capable of loving anyone in the first place.


    ¡°Are you sure about that? Are you sure he is the one?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Izumi said without elaborating further. ¡°But as two people with similar goals, I¡¯d still like to stay as allies.¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll let Akira file for divorce,¡± he agreed, his tone light.


    With a knowing look, he turned and headed for the mansion. Izumi felt a massive weight lift off of her chest. While waiting for Kazuya¡¯s return, she could take her time in handpicking Quincy partners or women with strong spiritual powers.


    Lisa adjusted her glasses. The romance novels depicting erotic situations couldn¡¯t change her mind on political marriage being utterly garbage. The situation before her only increased her goodwill towards her marriages built upon love. ¡°Izumi-sama, would you still live in this mansion?¡±


    ¡°How would that be appropriate after this?¡± Izumi shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t you worry about your salary. I can fund it... as long as you¡¯re ready to move to a different town. I own a couple of stores around Japan.¡±


    In fact, the mansion belonged to her but she didn¡¯t take it from So?ken out of respect. After all, So?ken had come to Japan empty-handed while Izumi had been working tirelessly in expanding the family business her father left behind.


    Lisa hesitated. She had already fallen behind her fellow Visored in training. She wouldn¡¯t even be able to maintain her current combat skills if she stuck around with Izumi.


    Izumi let out a wry chuckle. ¡°No worries. I¡¯ll buy a place here.¡±


    Her mind would still be a mess if Lisa wasn¡¯t there to support her. She couldn¡¯t afford to lose Lisa¡¯s company at any cost.


    ¡°That makes things easier,¡± Lisa said. ¡°However, I¡¯d like to apply for a part time schedule from now on.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll happily agree to that condition. You can¡¯t waste your own life while looking after me.¡±

 Chapter 106: A Disruptive Ceremony

    Chapter 106: A Disruptive Ceremony


    Observing the Seireitei from afar and stepping through its colossal gates was a completely different experience. Momo Hinamori found herself bewitched by the city''s elegance, so different from the rough simplicity of Rukongai. Majestic buildings like titans, their stately arches and glistening rooftops lending the city a noble aura. The citizens on the streets wore decent clothes, their Reiatsu robust and more rigorous than 99% of the Rukongai population.


    The wall dividing them did more than separate districts; it was a chasm cleaving heaven from earth.


    Momo¡¯s eyes darted everywhere without a stop. ¡°This is stunning.¡±


    "Stop gawking like an idiot," Toshiro scolded, though a hint of embarrassment and apology colored his tone. ¡°It¡¯s just a fancier version of our village.¡±


    Momo glared at Toshiro as if he was the idiot here, not her. Her unblinking glare strangely intimidated him.


    ¡°This is the paradise we were promised.¡± Kazuya poked Yoruichi who was resting on his head. ¡°But it¡¯s reserved for Shinigami. Life is never fair but the afterlife should have some equality.¡±


    Yoruichi bit his ear. ¡°Get your head out of religious books.¡±


    She didn¡¯t shy away from speaking in her cat form. The boisterous crowd of three students made a good cover for her.


    {Complains the motherfucker who spawned with Vasto Lorde-level power,} Nami¡¯s sarcastic reply made him chuckle. {Partner, destroy the Seireitei after we come into power. Equally shitty life for everyone, baby!}


    ¡®Let others be happy.¡¯


    {Nevah!}


    Soon the academy came into sight ¡ª a sprawling multi-story building with an architectural style resembling the Seireitei. Kazuya¡¯s group, along with many other new students, were taken into different halls. Each hall basically had the same responsibility of providing uniforms and relaying the assigned dormitory numbers to each student.


    Kazuya caught two unexpected faces in a different queue.


    ¡®Rukia and Renji?¡¯


    Rukia looked focused and determined. He remembered her lacking both when she joined the academy. Only after meeting Kaien did she reveal more confidence.Re?Ad lateSt chapters at novelhall.com Only


    {They were supposed to join two years later... What happened?}


    His mind whirred, connecting the dots. ¡®If I had to guess, it¡¯s because of the balance disaster in Rukongai.¡¯


    He didn¡¯t feel an ounce of guilt even after hearing the consequences of Barragan¡¯s death. His alignment wouldn¡¯t be ¡®Neutral Evil¡¯ if he began sobbing for random people.


    {Possibly. I wonder if the world will force different events to fuel her growth.}


    ¡®You talk like this world is a living entity.¡¯


    ¡°Wanna say hi?¡±


    ¡°Nope,¡± Yoruichi instantly replied before reclining against his shoulder. ¡°Heh. Look at her act all tough now. She used to chase me like a lil¡¯ baby.¡±


    ¡°Say it to her face, coward.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not failing my mission.¡±


    Soi Fon, who was on a hunt for potential assassin candidates, suddenly felt goosebumps. Looking around the crowd, she came across a pair of striking golden eyes belonging to a black cat sitting upon a student¡¯s shoulder. The cat¡¯s eyes gave her a sense of familiarity, stirring something within her ¡ª a deep, visceral reaction that made her blood boil.


    She narrowed her eyes on the white-haired man who surprisingly grinned back at her. It was a grin reserved to tease others. A grin that provoked memories of the most loved yet hated person in her life.


    Both the pet and its master got on her nerves without saying a word. She could almost feel the satisfying crunch of her fist against that grinning face.


    She pointed at him, making the students around him step away and single him out. ¡°You with the black cat. Do you see anything funny?¡±


    He cluelessly looked around before pointing at his face. ¡°Me?¡±


    His voice sent ripples of fascination across the students. Soi Fon also fell dazed for a second.


    ¡°Why were you grinning like a fool?¡±


    ¡°Uh...¡± He rubbed the back of his head. ¡°Smiling isn¡¯t a sin, is it?¡±


    Even though he was in a Captain¡¯s presence, he showed no respect or courtesy. Soi Fon didn¡¯t demand pure reverence but basic courtesy was the least a student could afford. It was not just an institution of learning; it was a crucible, molding future soldiers for the Gotei 13. Discipline was not an option; it was a mandate.


    His nonchalance reminded her of the exiled Shinigami, the man she wouldn¡¯t hesitate to murder in a heartbeat ¡ª Kisuke Urahara.


    Soi Fon¡¯s hand clenched involuntarily. ¡°There is a time and place for every action,¡± she said, beckoning him with a finger. ¡°Come over here.¡±


    The entire crowd of students looked at him with pity. To offend a Seated Officer was to gamble with one''s future; to offend a Captain was to dance with death itself. And this was no ordinary Captain. This was the master assassin, the one ruling over the Stealth Force Onmitsukido? and the 2nd Squad.


    Kazuya¡¯s response was anything but typical. He let Yoruichi slip down before he made his way through the path students made by parting, a carefree bounce in his step as if he wasn¡¯t walking to his execution.


    Jumping up the podium, he stood a few meters away from Soi Fon. ¡°What can I do for you?¡±


    ¡°This opening ceremony will be a little different,¡± Soi Fon said as she turned to the students. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a little demonstration of Hakuda techniques and different ways to master them.¡±


    Soi Fon decided to abuse her authority for the first time in her life.

 Chapter 107: A Hakuda Masterclass

    Chapter 107: A Hakuda Masterclass


    Yoruichi¡¯s lessons about Shinigami combat were still fresh in Kazuya¡¯s mind. Shinigami used four types of basic fighting techniques.


    Zanjutsu, the sword fighting techniques.


    Hoho?, the name for all high-speed fighting movements based on the art of Shunpo.


    Kido?, the spells.


    And lastly, Hakuda, the unarmed fighting technique.


    Soi Fon was going to demonstrate Hakuda techniques by using him as a punching bag. As if he¡¯d let Yoruichi¡¯s simp humiliate him.


    He crossed his arms. ¡°I didn¡¯t consent to participating in this demonstration.¡±


    Soi Fon looked at him coldly. ¡°Are you going against your superior¡¯s orders?¡±


    ¡°My superior? I¡¯m a student affiliated with the Shin¡¯o Academy. There are no laws suggesting that students are under the direct command of Gotei 13,¡± he said with a light shrug. ¡°To put it simply, the graduates who join your squad will be under your command. Right now, every academy personnel is under Central 46¡¯s control.¡±


    He tried to achieve the impossible ¡ª convincing the hopeless tomboy captain to leave him out of her sinister plot.


    Unfortunately for him, his long and logical statement had no effect on Soi Fon. It only made him more and more similar to Kisuke in her mind. She hated that man with the passion of a burning sun.


    ¡°Are you backing out of a small demonstration? Who is to guarantee that a coward like you won¡¯t desert your friends under a threat? If you continue to insist, I¡¯d have you depart the academy immediately.¡±


    Soi Fon countered his logic with her own, striving to maintain her image as Captain in the eyes of the students. If it was up to her, she¡¯d have smacked his face a dozen times by now.


    He raised a brow. ¡°That is where you¡¯re wrong, Captain Soi Fon. I¡¯m not fighting you because I¡¯m a coward. I¡¯m saving you the embarrassment of getting your ass kicked by a first-year.¡±


    He was done being reasonable. She wanted a fight; he¡¯d gladly give it to her.


    The air around him seemed to catch fire, a burst of spiritual pressure erupting and enveloping him ¡ª the Executive Militia locked him with their Reiatsu. They were Soi Fon¡¯s personal force specializing in unarmed and stealth combat.


    To Soi Fon¡¯s surprise, he didn¡¯t even flinch. She had realized that he wasn¡¯t normal the moment she sensed his controlled Reiatsu. But for a first-year student to easily ward off the combined Reiatsu of her Punishment Force was simply a miracle.


    Was he a noble clan¡¯s descendant or a spy infiltrating the Gotei 13 for some nefarious scheme? Soi Fon couldn¡¯t discern his identity.


    Kazuya cracked his knuckles. ¡°Come on. You¡¯re delaying the opening ceremony for no reason.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s hand met her left shoulder, fingers gripping the fabric of her Captain Haori, and in a single fluid motion, she whisked it off. Clad in a black sleeveless uniform, she revealed her muscular frame, each curve and cut honed for maximum combat efficiency.


    She caressed the black armbands wrapping the majority of her arms then assumed a fighting stance. ¡°Cherish the experience I¡¯m about to carve into your body.¡±


    Then she dashed at him, her leg a blur as it aimed a kick at his face. He deflected it with the calculated ease of his left forearm and retaliated with a vicious strike aimed at her ribs. Stranded midair with no control over her movements, she had no choice but to use Shunpo for an immediate retreat.


    Soi Fon let out a sigh and turned to Kazuya. ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s my mistake. I provoked you into this... but Captain Shiba never revealed that you were hiding a generational talent like him. With his Hakuda techniques, he can even take over as my successor.¡±


    She was quick to correct her course in light of Kazuya¡¯s connection to another captain.


    Isshin laughed off Soi Fon¡¯s suggestion to take Kazuya into her squad. ¡°Get off. He¡¯ll be my successor.¡±


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Get on with the opening ceremony. Haven¡¯t we delayed it enough already?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Captain Yama will chew my ears off tomorrow.¡±


    Soi Fon hurriedly summoned her men to kick off the extras who had gathered in the courtyard. After what followed was a simple and direct speech about the students being treated as soldiers. That they had to work hard on honing skills if they wanted to be accepted into the Gotei 13.


    Of course, Kazuya was more interested in inquiring the reason behind Isshin¡¯s appearance.


    ¡°I just dropped by to show you some support.¡±


    There was more than Isshin let out but he nevertheless appreciated the sentiment. The main members of Shiba Clan became his allies ¡ª not the development he had planned but he gladly welcomed them on his side.


    Then, Soi Fon sent everyone off to their respective homerooms. Isshin also left after giving him a massive hug.


    ...


    Yoruichi began walking by Kazuya¡¯s side as they followed the way to their classroom. ¡°You could¡¯ve beaten her.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s not make your fangirl cry in front of children.¡±


    Soi Fon had lost the drive to fight halfway into the battle, possibly seeing him fight in a similar way to Yoruichi. Beating her like this wasn¡¯t appealing to him in any way. Gloating about victories was only satisfying when the other party gave their all and still lost, or when the other party got completely outwitted.


    ¡°Valid argument.¡± Yoruichi glanced back at Momo and Toshiro who quietly followed behind. ¡°They are like actual children.¡±


    He could guess the reason behind their sad faces. They froze when he was being bullied by a Captain, even though they wanted to help him.


    ¡°We are not!¡± Momo yelled. ¡°It¡¯s just... we wanted to help Kazuya-san but we couldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°We are cowards.¡±


    He turned around and ruffled their hair. ¡°Jeez. No need to feel down. The opponent was way above your league.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Yoruichi chimed in with a nod. ¡°Let this memory be a reminder of your weakness. Use it well to grow strong beyond your limits.¡±


    Momo¡¯s eyes shone with resolve. ¡°I won¡¯t let it happen again!¡±


    Toshiro simply gave a heavy nod, even though his resolve was no weaker than Momo¡¯s.

 Chapter 108: First Class

    Chapter 108: First Class


    Kazuya was feeling satisfied with the result of his impromptu battle with Soi Fon. Creating buzz about his strength was an easy ticket into the Gotei 13, even though it¡¯d also attract attention from Aizen and the likes.


    {I¡¯m still salty you didn¡¯t beat her.}


    ¡®Let¡¯s not make an enemy out of her.¡¯


    Soi Fon had trained her martial arts and Shunko? relentlessly after Yoruichi departed from her life. To get over the shadow of Yoruichi, she had passionately honed her craft. She absolutely would have gone insane after losing against a first year student.


    The moment Kazuya walked into the classroom, everyone regarded him with cautiousness and a hint of respect. He, however, was more intrigued by the classroom itself ¡ª a high school classroom, but one furnished in ancient Japanese style, more spacious and packed full of seats and chairs.


    Among the students, a majority were nobles but none dared to act pompous in front of him. His individual strength aside, he had the backing of a Captain, and even the 2nd Squad Captain showed open interest in him. Crossing him was the last mistake they wanted to make. The students even treated Momo and Toshiro with utmost respect. Momo being Momo easily made friends whereas Toshiro acted flustered, his mind shutting down in the face of friendliness.


    ¡°Who let this kid in Class one?¡±


    There were always exceptions.


    Kazuya''s eyes narrowed as they settled on a delinquent-looking figure with a high crimson ponytail ¡ª Renji Abarai, a simmering disdain for Toshiro evident in his body language. Momo moved to intervene, but Kazuya held her back.


    ¡°He can handle it.¡±


    Resigned, Momo stepped back, taking on the observer role alongside him.


    Toshiro took a moment to crane his neck and glare up at Renji. ¡°Are you stupid? Souls don¡¯t physically age the same as humans.¡±


    ¡°I-I know, dumbass. Doesn¡¯t excuse you from being a toddler.¡±


    ¡°Toddler?¡± Toshiro scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re just half a meter taller than me.¡±


    ¡°You¡ªsensei is here. I¡¯ll deal with you later.¡±


    ¡°Idiot.¡±


    With an authoritative stride, their bald homeroom teacher slammed a stack of books on his table. He wore piercing glasses that complimented his sharp aura. ¡°Welcome to a new chapter in your lives, students. I¡¯m Gengoro Onabara, the homeroom teacher of first year students from Class 1.¡±


    His introduction brought pindrop silence to the classroom.


    ¡°So, does anyone here know about the most important duty of a Shinigami?¡±


    Momo immediately raised her hand. ¡°Protecting humanity from Hollows by cleansing them with a Zanpakuto?.¡±


    ¡°Cleansing Hollows is important to protect humanity, yes. But there is something even more important to a Shinigami,¡± Gengoro said as his gaze drifted to Kazuya. ¡°You¡¯ve made quite an impression in the opening ceremony, Ishihara-san.¡±


    ...


    Soon, the first lecture ended, and their next lesson on ¡®Zanjutsu¡¯ had to take place outside. The trio ¡ª Kazuya, Momo, Shiro ¡ª exited the classroom, followed by Yoruichi in her cat form.


    Renji ambushed Yoruichi from behind with every intention to apprehend her. His hands met air as Yoruichi hopped on the window then jumped outside. The whimsical woman left for yet another whimsical adventure.


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t disturb Yoruichi-san,¡± Momo scolded Renji. ¡°You still haven¡¯t apologized to Shiro-chan.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Renji said with a condescending chuckle and looked at Kazuya. ¡°Dude, your cat reminds me of my friend.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s smile widened, his eyes following a black-haired figure turning the hallway corner. ¡°I take it your friend isn¡¯t a cat.¡±


    ¡°Naw, she is a girl. Small and kind of cute,¡± Renji rambled, his hand stroking his chin as if finding a fitting description from the depths of his memories. ¡°She is bossy. kind of like a delinquent leader. She is a pain in the ass sometimes.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s smile turned mischievous. ¡°Oh. Does your friend happen to have shoulder-length black hair?¡±


    ¡°Yes, how do you know?! OUCH!¡±


    Rukia kicked Renji¡¯s butt, making him fall on the floor. She stomped on his back a couple of times. ¡°Stop calling me short. You guys are just freakin¡¯ tall abominations.¡±


    Renji got back to his feet and scratched his cheeks. ¡°Stop eavesdropping on me like a stalker. It makes me embarrassed.¡±


    ¡°Who would even want to stalk a monkey-faced pig like you?!¡± Rukia harrumphed and crossed her arms. As her face softened, she realized the students standing around Renji, her drifting to Kazuya. Her first thought was that he was even more handsome in person and second how ridiculously tall he was compared to her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you... the student who fought Captain Soi Fon of the 2nd Squad?¡±


    She didn¡¯t think she¡¯d find Renji hanging out with the most famous student in the academy at the moment. Her friend had the most unexpected luck.


    ¡°He almost won against a Captain,¡± Momo answered excitedly as she grabbed Rukia¡¯s hands. ¡°I¡¯m Momo Hinamori. You are?¡±


    Faced with Momo¡¯s aggressive friendly behavior, Rukia almost took a step back. She wasn¡¯t used to dealing with people like Momo. ¡°Rukia...¡±


    ¡°Rukia-chan! Do you want to be friends?¡±


    ¡°Sure...¡±


    Momo didn¡¯t notice Rukia¡¯s uncomfortable gaze and gave her a quick hug. ¡°Then we¡¯re friends. Which class are you from?¡±


    ¡°Class 2...¡± Rukia lowered her head and sighed. ¡°They took Renji but didn¡¯t think I was good enough for Class 1. Something must be wrong with their eyes.¡±


    ¡°Oi, my Spirit Class is Rank 3. Yours is 5 or 6. You lack talent, little girl.¡±


    A twitch of Rukia¡¯s face, and Renji found himself nursing a bruised shin. Watching the two fight, everyone smiled. Even Toshiro cracked a small chuckle seeing Renji facing consequences for his loudmouth.

 Chapter 109: Hibernation

    Chapter 109: Hibernation


    The students of Class 1 and Class 2 were escorted into a well-furnished dojo-like area. Polished wooden floors reflected the glimmering of ornate lanterns, and the room was adorned with an array of training equipment; wooden dummies for Kido? target practice, a dueling arena, and even a track zone for exercise. One could see how much resources the Central 46 had poured into making Shin¡¯o Academy as well-facilitated as possible.


    A stern-faced instructor, a veteran with eyes that bore wisdom, stepped forward, his voice resonating through the dojo¡¯s silence. He began to elucidate the purpose of this class: Each student was to be entrusted with an Asauchi, and every one had to spend every waking moment with their Asauchi, slowly imprinting the essence of their soul on the Asauchi. This practice would bring the Zanpakuto? and its master together, revealing the name of the Asauchi, and molding their own unique Zanpakuto?.


    After the instructor thoroughly lectured the students about the Asauchi, the students formed a queue to receive their Zanpakuto?. Since Toshiro was standing in front of Kazuya, his turn came first. Kazuya was curious to see if Toshiro would directly manifest his Zanpakuto? Spirit Hyorinmaru.


    ¡°Name?¡±


    ¡°Toshiro Hitsugaya.¡±


    ¡°Noted. Hold this.¡±


    Toshiro took the katana from the instructor¡¯s hands and injected his Reiryoku into it. For a moment nothing happened, then a blue wave traveled from the base of the katana, covering the entire Asauchi with a layer of frost. Crack. Crack. Crack. The frost shattered like glass ¡ª Hyorinmaru showed happiness for finally receiving a home within the Asauchi.


    Toshiro stood there, stunned. Then he recalled Kazuya¡¯s words about his Zanpakuto? Spirit being a frost entity. He looked over his shoulder, a grateful look in his eyes.


    ¡°Told you.¡±


    The instructor¡¯s lips curved up. ¡°Kid, you have the ice element Reiatsu. Your Zanpakuto? will also be ice-type. Work hard on nurturing this bond, and you¡¯ll easily be a Seated Officer.¡±


    Kazuya rubbed his chin. The instructor had misinterpreted Hyorinmaru¡¯s frost powers as Toshiro¡¯s own Reiatsu. Then again, Toshiro was the only case of a Zanpakuto? Spirit residing in someone¡¯s soul, not being born through bonding with Asauchi.


    Toshiro clutched the katana close to his chest, finding it cool and comfortable. ¡°I will!¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s turn was next. After giving his name and class to the instructor, he received his Asauchi. He took a moment to observe the Asauchi. It was the most generic katana one could find.


    {Lame.}


    He took a step back and injected his Reiryoku into the Asauchi. He felt like a part of his soul disappeared into the blade. Immediately, a wave of dark red flames burst out, wrapping the katana. He expected some type of development after observing Toshiro¡¯s Hyorinmaru. What shocked him was Nami¡¯s reaction.


    {Ahhhh~, Partner. What are you doing to me~?} Nami sounded as if she was drunk or sexually aroused ¡ª perhaps a mixture of both. {Ahh, I¡¯m being ripped from inside. I¡¯m dying... I AM DEAD.}


    ¡®What the heck is happening?¡¯


    {Partner...} Nami¡¯s voice lacked any energy. {I... feel sleepy.}


    ¡®NAMI?¡¯


    The flames vanished as soon as Nami¡¯s voice faded. She stopped responding to him as though she fell unconscious.


    As someone who often visited the other world for clothes and fashion, she found the Seireitei to be severely lacking in the entertainment department. They had a bullet-in that published some entertaining stories every couple of years, and that was it. Kazuya¡¯s voice might just spark the revolution for a new industry.


    Rangiku obviously was looking to take the credit for the revolution and earn a boatload of money.


    Isshin waved his hand dismissively. ¡°Off with the shitty clubs. I¡¯ll train Kazuya to be the next captain.¡±


    Rangiku widened her eyes. ¡°By hierarchy, I should be the next captain.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lazy. You skip your duties to go out drinking, and you don¡¯t have a Bankai release for your Zanpakuto?. Nothing apart from your experience makes you a Captain material.¡±


    Isshin¡¯s voice was unapologetically blunt, his words hitting Rangiku like targeted arrows. With a defeated groan, she collapsed onto the couch, her mind swirling. She could mend the first two flaws, but the elusive Bankai Release haunted her like an unsolvable riddle. Unfortunately, Bankai Release was a mandatory requirement to become a Captain.


    ¡®Haineko, why can¡¯t I force you to materialize?¡¯


    Bringing a Zanpakuto? Spirit to the physical world and subjugating them was necessary for a Zanpakuto? to evolve. Rangiku always failed in the first part of the process ¡ª materialization.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Haineko replied from her inner world. ¡°Your skills are lacking. It¡¯s because of your age.¡±


    ¡®I¡¯m still young, idiot.¡¯


    Rangiku folded her arms behind her head and sighed. She had no problem communicating with her Zanpakuto? Spirit, and she had enough Reiatsu to qualify as a Vice Captain. Someone of her talent shouldn¡¯t have any trouble with the Bankai Release. It was as if the universe felt jealous of what she may accomplish with another evolution of her Zanpakuto?.


    ¡®Meh, I don¡¯t want to deal with this.¡¯


    She shifted restlessly, finally looking to Isshin. ¡°Captain... I¡¯m suddenly in the mood to drink. Adjust without me.¡±


    ...


    Elsewhere, within the dimly lit confines of the 2nd Squad barracks, Soi Fon sat meditating in a lotus position, her mind tormented by her recent ''defeat.'' The techniques, the style, and the combat flow ¡ª everything about her opponent echoed in her consciousness. Had her predecessor trained a student before or after her exile? Did she train him on a whim or was there a deeper reason behind everything?


    She was dying for answers.


    ¡°Stop with your delusions,¡± her Zanpakuto? Spirit, Suzumebachi, snapped, her voice dripping with disdain. ¡°Get over worshiping that lame noble girl. Find a real man.¡±


    As usual, Suzumebachi was critical of her admiration of Yoruichi Shiho?in.


    ¡°The man you fought would be pretty suitable for your squad. Hire him then groom him to be your partner.¡±


    ¡®You are out of your mind.¡¯


    She ignored Suzumebachi for the next hour and ordered one of her men to keep an eye on Kazuya¡¯s activities across the academy. Nothing was unethical in her line of work. Not even stalking a first year student who bore no malicious intent towards her.

 Chapter 110: Operation

    Chapter 110: Operation


    Chapter 110: Operation


    Nestled within a traditional room, sat a beautiful black-haired woman. At a glance, one would find her to be the epitome of graceful beauty, none imagining her to be the most vicious criminal in the Soul Society¡¯s history. Yachiru Unohana, having embraced her new identity as Retsu Unohana, had successfully concealed the shadows of her past, her braids skillfully hiding the only ''mark'' that betrayed her history.


    This day found her not in her 4th Squad barracks but in a conference room, adorned with a paper banner that hung from the ceiling, proclaiming in elegant script: Shinigami Women''s Association. This room was a meeting spot for the influential women of the Gotei 13, a place to conspire and craft ways to improve the lives of Shinigami in the Seireitei.


    Unohana¡¯s reasons for joining this association were simple and devoid of any underlying ambitions. It was merely a choice influenced by Isane''s decision to participate.


    Her eyes, gentle yet piercing, scanned the room, resting momentarily on faces familiar and respected across the Seireitei: Rangiku Matsumoto of the 10th Squad, Yachiru Kusajishi from the 11th, Kiyone Kotetsu from the 13th, and Nanao Ise from the 8th. Her gaze lingered particularly on the petite figure with short raven-black hair, the only captain present aside from herself ¨C Soi Fon.


    Unohana hadn¡¯t fought many opponents who could be as brutal with fists as Soi Fon. She¡¯d have loved an honest fight with Soi Fon but her time for battle had passed. She was now but a humble healer.


    ¡®Soi-Fon looks a little distracted.¡¯


    "What are we doing today?" Rangiku''s voice, accompanied by a lazy yawn, cut through Unohana''s thoughts. "I want to sleep..."


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes narrowed as she fixed her gaze on Rangiku. "When do you not want to sleep or get drunk?"


    As the Captain of the 2nd Squad, Soi Fon rarely graced these meetings with her presence. When she did, it was often to find Rangiku drunk out of her mind or dozing off.


    Rangiku, unfazed, squeezed her breasts with a playful expression. "It''s not my fault these sweaty puppies make my back hurt all the time."


    Demonstrating her point, she flirtatiously raised her assets, teasing them to the brink of spilling out of her kimono.


    Soi Fon stepped away in horror. ¡°K-Keep them away from me.¡±


    A soft giggle escaped Unohana¡¯s lips. "It''s fine, Rangiku. You don''t have to force yourself to attend this meeting."


    Rangiku shook her head. ¡°I want to be here, Retsu. It¡¯s the only place that understands my perspective. We need to improve our daily lives and bring more entertainment!¡±


    ¡°Vice Chairwoman Nanao Ise!¡± yelled Yachiru as she smacked the floor. She was a young girl with pink hair and perpetual blush across her face. ¡°What¡¯s on today¡¯s agenda?!¡±


    Nanao adjusted her glasses as she took out a stack of reports and distributed them to every woman in the room. This was the intel she had procured from her own information channels, not the Gotei 13 information network. ¡°This matter is serious.¡±


    Yachiru hummed and nodded as she read the report out loud. ¡°A student ¡®Kazuya Ishihara¡¯ learned all the Kido? available for students, defeated instructors from the Kuchiki Clan in Zanjutsu and Shunpo, bested members of Fon Clan in Hakuda in three months.¡±


    Isane covered her face with her palm. ¡°Captain, what have you done?¡±


    Unohana shrugged, her expression an artful picture of innocence. ¡°I did nothing, Isane. Nanao, please continue the meeting.¡±


    Nanao smacked the green board. ¡°Ladies, we have to be serious about this man... this menace to all women in the Seireitei. We can¡¯t let him run amok. Someone must teach him to respect women and not use them for his sexual desires.¡±


    She took a chalk and wrote down: ¡®Operation: Humble the Genius.¡¯


    Nanao in all honesty didn¡¯t want Kazuya to become a more predatory version of her Captain Shunsui, who liked teasing women but he never did anything inappropriate... But he already had physical relationships with multiple women. They had to bring him back before he went too far.


    Rangiku, who had been silent until now, raised her hand. ¡°You all are overreacting. Kazuya is a family friend of my Captain, Isshin. He seemed like a nice guy to me.¡±


    ¡°Looks can be deceiving,¡± Nanao said as she glanced at Unohana. ¡°Captain Unohana, do you have any suggestions?¡±


    Unohana''s head inclined slightly. ¡°Let him graduate and join my department.¡± She closed her eyes, her lips twisting into a smile that was simultaneously serene and sinister, a duality that sent a shiver through the room. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of him.¡±


    Taming a wild pup wasn¡¯t tough for someone of her caliber. The real intrigue lay in the question: how much fight the pup will put up before yielding to her will? Would it make her blood pump?


    Unohana found herself looking forward to meeting the man who may share her insatiable thirst for battle.


    Nanao shook her head. ¡°That¡¯s after his graduation. What if he doesn¡¯t want to graduate early? We have to stop him from exploiting women in the Shin¡¯o Academy.¡±


    ¡°Exploit is a far-fetched word, Nanao,¡± Rangiku said. ¡°He isn¡¯t forcing the students or teachers to sleep with him. They are doing it out of their own consent. Who are we to interfere in their lives?¡±


    Rangiku felt like she had to object to Nanao¡¯s far-fetched slander against her rising superstar.


    Nanao fell silent for a moment. ¡°I believe he is using his supernatural voice to seduce women.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t heard it herself but every report indicated how soothing and charming Kazuya¡¯s voice had been to women. It was the most mysterious aspect about the notorious playboy of the Shin¡¯o Academy.


    Rangiku raised her brows. ¡°He does have a good voice but I wouldn¡¯t call it supernatural.¡±


    Isane tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. ¡°Captain, do you mind if I meet the Battle Healer ahead of his graduation?¡±


    ¡°You may,¡± Unohana said with a smile. ¡°You may also suggest that he graduate early and apply to our division.¡±


    Rangiku placed a hand on Isane¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll come along and meet him.¡±

 Chapter 111: Assassin

    Chapter 111: Assassin


    Inside the dojo, Kazuya could be seen meditating in a lotus position, his Zanpakuto? lying on his lap. His torso was bare, putting his muscular upper body on full display. Unfortunately, no one was here to witness his near-perfect stature.


    Jinzen (Sword Zen) ¡ª a Shinigami technique that allowed one to enter a tranquil state and journey into the inner world, connecting their minds with the Zanpakuto?. He had been refining this technique, clawing desperately at the barrier separating him and his Zanpakuto? Spirit.


    Zero progress happened in three months. Nami¡¯s hibernation was even longer than her supposed time in the egg. Out of desperation, he had scoured the libraries for a possible solution ¡ª a task that led him to seduce multiple instructors for deeper library access ¡ª yet nothing worked. Yoruichi and Kisuke¡¯s solution was forcibly materializing his Zanpakuto?¡¯s Spirit. As if he¡¯d interrupt Nami again during a potential evolution.


    All he could do was wait and try Jinzen meditation every day.


    Shaking off his concerns, he let out a sigh. ¡°Another day. Another failure.¡±


    Wearing his kimono, he felt a sudden chill, an instinctive warning. His eyes darted, seeking the hidden danger, but the threat was already upon him. A sudden weight on his shoulder, the lethal embrace of Soi Fon¡¯s toned legs around his neck, and the cold touch of her Zanpakuto?¡¯s stinger against his face.


    An assassin came for him for the first time, and he was caught off-guard.


    ¡°Soi Fon, nice way to greet an old friend.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t met her since the opening ceremony. Now she suddenly wanted to kill him. There was a big misunderstanding at play here, one that intrigued him more than threatened him.


    ¡°Kazuya,¡± Soi Fon whispered in a cold voice. ¡°Suzumebachi¡¯s special ability is Nigeki Kessatsu. Anyone who gets hit twice in the same spot inevitably dies.¡±


    Her words were deliberate to strike fear into his heart, yet he remained calm. Three months of gradual growth had increased his Reiatsu to a point where he could unseal a Ho?gyoku on his own. Not to mention his regeneration ability served as a perfect counter to Soi Fon¡¯s Zanpakuto? ability. Even without his regeneration, he could negate her ability with his Zanpakuto?.


    ¡°Scary ability for such a cute woman,¡± he said with a chuckle. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you tell me the reason for this?¡±


    ¡°You will answer my question. If you try to be smart, it¡¯s not hard for me to stab your neck twice.¡±


    ¡°Well, what do you want to know?¡±


    ¡°Did you...¡± Soi Fon''s voice trailed off, and she took a cold, steely breath as if bracing herself for an unwelcome truth. ¡°What do you know about Yoruichi-sama?¡±


    ¡°Yoruichi-sama? Could you be talking about the exiled princess of Shiho?in Clan? The legendary Flash Goddess who united the Second Division and Onmitsukido? Corps?¡±


    Like a hornet''s sting, her blade dug into his neck, a swift and precise movement that drew a bead of blood. A butterfly-shaped mark bloomed at the wound, only to vanish as she pulled out the stinger. His wound healed instantly, his immense spiritual power and regeneration ability neutralizing her venomous Zanpakuto?.


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes, clouded by emotions, missed the disappearance of her beautiful crest.


    ¡°Do not try to lie. You have been using her Hakuda style in combat.¡±


    ¡°We did meet a couple of times after her exile.¡±


    Instead of acquiescence, she grabbed his chin, her bladed gauntlet grazing his neck with a dangerous promise. ¡°I will¡ª¡±


    His grip, steely and relentless, tightened on her ankles as he pried her hold with unsettling ease, her joints creaking ominously in protest. Seizing her butt with an audacity that defied his earlier delicate tone, he flung her meters away like a sack.


    ¡°Get off me, idiot.¡±


    Soi Fon, ever graceful, stabilized her posture and landed like a fierce cat, her eyes blazing. Then she froze, stunned ¡ª the absence of the butterfly crest on his neck unraveled her composure, leaving her in sheer astonishment. Even Yoruichi had not been immune to her Zanpakuto?¡¯s effect.


    Caught in her shock, she couldn¡¯t register his Shunpo movement as he appeared before her, his hand clutching her throat, lifting her with cruel ease.


    ¡°I was being nice, but you mistook my kindness for weakness,¡± he spat, his voice as cold as ice, his fingers tightening menacingly. ¡°Soi Fon, let¡¯s test if a Captain can suffocate to death.¡±


    Soi Fon clutched his hand but there was no chance she could overpower him in this position. Mustering her core strength, she raised her legs and coiled them around his neck, trying to strangle him in reverse.


    He didn¡¯t even flinch at her desperate attempt to choke him. ¡°Laughable.¡±


    Isane felt her spine shiver at the sight. A first-year student was overpowering Soi Fon who was known for her exceptional combat skills among the Captains. She rushed at him, grabbing his arm. ¡°S-Stop. Don¡¯t hurt her.¡±


    Rangiku also joined Isane from the other side. ¡°Just let go already. What is wrong with you two?!¡±


    She was starting to believe that Unohana¡¯s previous reputation wasn¡¯t unwarranted ¡ª she was a devil in setting up unanticipated conflicts.


    With an air of indifference, Kazyya tossed Soi Fon on the floor. Soi Fon grasped her aching throat and coughed violently. Despite her vulnerable position, her eyes were filled with a dangerous fire. Her emotions reached unbelievable heights once Yoruichi was involved in any capacity. The fact that she could meet Yoruichi again filled her with unrelenting willpower.


    She was determined to fight him, despite her odds.


    Turning to Rangiku, he shrugged. ¡°She tried to kill me first. You witnessed that with your own eyes.¡±


    Rangiku had nothing to say against him. She was there when Captain Unohana provoked Soi Fon into chasing Kazuya and she was present when Soi Fon pressed her Zanpakuto? against his neck. ¡°Let¡¯s just forget this happened. Isane, heal Captain Soi Fon.¡±


    Soi Fon slapped Isane¡¯s helping hand away. ¡°Just tell me where Yoruichi-sama is,¡± Soi Fon roared, her hoarse voice cracking, and tears threatening to spill from her eyes. ¡°WHERE IS SHE?!¡±


    As if summoned by her emotions, a black cat landed gracefully beside Kazuya, purring affectionately against his leg. ¡°Meow~.¡±


    He chuckled and cradled Yoruichi in his arms, stroking her chin. ¡°Yoruichi is in the Seireitei. Do whatever you must with that information.¡±


    Soi Fon stared at him with wide eyes. Then, with a flash, she vanished from the scene, hurrying over to the 2nd Squad¡¯s Barracks.


    Kazuya¡¯s face softened at Soi Fon¡¯s desperation, a gentle smile replacing the earlier menacing look. ¡°Ladies, do you mind joining me for lunch?¡±


    From pleading for his life to threatening a Captain to extending a casual lunch invitation ¡ª his mood swings were like a tempest, unpredictable and more dangerous than ninety-nine percent of women.

 Chapter 112-113: Conditional Arrangement

    Chapter 112-113: Conditional Arrangement


    Spending time with well-versed teachers taught Kazuya a lot of things, one of which was about Kan, the currency used by residents of the Soul Society. Shinigami salaries were paid in Kan, which resembled Japanese Yen coins. The Seireitei had a fully realized economy.


    The shops in the Seireitei likewise accepted Kan as payment.


    Isane¡¯s eyes widened in astonishment as Kazuya confidently led them to a lavish restaurant, where the prices would make even a Vice-Captain gulp. Yet he nonchalantly walked inside and took a seat. From overpowering a Captain to casually dining at an expensive restaurant ¡ª none of his actions so far had resembled a student.


    Sitting comfortably, he waved at them. ¡°Come on, Vice Captains.¡±


    The two Vice Captains entered the restaurant. Settling down on a chair in front of him, Rangiku gave Isane a comforting pat on the shoulder, winking at her with a reassuring smile. ¡°Order anything you want. The treat¡¯s on Kazuya.¡±


    Isane¡¯s brows knitted in concern. ¡°How can I let a student pay? I¡¯ll cover the bills.¡±


    The Vice-Captain was not one to splurge, living a modest life with the occasional expenditure on outings with her sister or contributions to the Shinigami Women¡¯s Association. Her salary was on the lower side for a Vice Captain but more than enough for her to save a fortune.


    Rangiku raised a brow at Isane¡¯s generosity. ¡°What if we didn¡¯t have enough for the bill? What would he do then? Use your Uncle Isshin¡¯s name like a good little boy~?¡±


    He chuckled softly at the playful jab regarding his bond with Isshin. A hint of edge was present in Rangiku¡¯s tone. Perhaps rumors of his debauchery had reached her ears. ¡°It might become a ¡®how I took your mother out on her first date memory.¡¯ Of course we need a decent place to show off to those little demons,¡± he replied, his eyes twinkling with mischief. ¡°And don¡¯t worry about the bill. I can afford it.¡±


    Some of the seniors he slept with hailed from noble families. And they had given him quite a lot of money for giving them a good time, though most of them tried to flaunt their wealth to make him their boyfriend, only to fail. Coming from noble families, money was the last thing those noble princesses lacked.


    Isane¡¯s gaze went to Rangiku, who was beautiful, confident, and caring ¡ª the ideal woman of most men. ¡°It almost sounds like a proposal.¡±


    Rangiku laughed it off. ¡°Let the kid dream. By the way, did you borrow money from Captain Isshin?¡±


    ¡°No. I worked my ass off.¡± Kazuya shifted his gaze to Isane, a decisive look appearing on his face. ¡°Vice Captain Isane, I have something important to discuss with you.¡±


    Three months of arrogant declaration about ¡®Battle Healer¡¯ had led to this moment ¡ª a meeting with Unohana¡¯s closest person. He had to make the most of this opportunity and convince Isane to be a friend, which would give him an easier time in climbing the ranks of the 4th Squad. From his canon knowledge, he remembered that Isane had a bit of a complex regarding her height. She even stopped sleeping at a point in her life to stop growing taller. There were also her weird nightmares, though they were pretty useless in their current conversation.


    ¡®It¡¯s just me and my voice.¡¯


    Isane¡¯s eyes widened, a pulse of surprise coursing through her, as she was addressed by her first name. It was a privilege often reserved for close friends, but never had a man used it with such nonchalance. Her thoughts raced, ''What is wrong with him...?''


    Gathering herself, she inhaled deeply and lightly patted her warm cheeks. ¡°So do I. What a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°You first.¡± ¡°You can.¡±


    Rangiku stared at the two, who simultaneously gave each other the ¡®go ahead¡¯ call. ¡°What in the world was that?¡±


    Isane¡¯s chuckle was tinged with nervous energy. ¡°Ishihara-kun, you can ask me anything.¡±


    ¡°Anything reasonable,¡± Rangiku corrected Isane, narrowing her eyes at him. ¡°Don¡¯t ask her out on a date, though. She¡¯ll reject you.¡±


    He let out a sigh. ¡°How did you read my mind?¡±


    ¡°You were going to ask her out?!¡±


    Kazuya chuckled, warmth in his eyes as he looked at Isane. ¡°Maybe. Isane is friendly, beautiful, and strong. What¡¯s there not to like about her?¡±


    Isane felt her cheeks grow hot. ¡°Rangiku, Ishihara-san. Stay on topic!¡±


    Getting this type of attention from a man made her nervous, and it showed on her face.


    He cleared his throat. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I creeped you out.¡±


    Rangiku gave him a teasing grin. ¡°You smoothtalker. I can see how you charmed thirteen different women in such a short time.¡±


    ¡°There was a reason,¡± he said with a sigh. ¡°I had no choice.¡±


    ¡°And what was that reason?¡±


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s so petty. Didn¡¯t you say we were friends?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be your superior.¡± Rangiku raised her chin, mimicking the arrogant nobles to the best of her ability. ¡°At work, I¡¯m the pettiest woman in the world. You can confirm it with your Uncle Isshin.¡±


    ¡°...What¡¯s your condition?¡±


    Rangiku¡¯s expression was sultry, her eyes gleaming with mischief. ¡°I want you to use your voice to entertain people.¡±


    He blinked, taken aback. ¡°Like singers?¡±


    He never thought Rangiku of all people would ask him to become a singer in the Seireitei. Something was wrong with this timeline.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Rangiku nodded. ¡°You''ve got a lot of potential from what I can see. What¡¯s more, your popularity will skyrocket. You¡¯ll be the name upon every soul in the Soul Society.¡±


    He wanted to roll his eyes at her outrageous suggestion. ¡°No thanks.¡±


    ¡°Why? Don¡¯t you want to be famous? Don¡¯t you want every girl in the Soul Society to idolize you? It¡¯ll be so fun!¡±


    ¡°NO.¡±


    He had greater ambitions and no desire to be a mere idol.


    Rangiku¡¯s eyes widened, a flicker of shock and disbelief dancing within them at the unanticipated rejection. Her best temptations had crumbled against the impenetrable wall of his resolve. ¡°Come on, Kazuya. Give it a try.¡±


    ¡°I told you I¡¯m not interested. Just kill some singer from the Living World and bring him here.¡±


    His ice cold tone left no room for questions or protestations. Rangiku had no choice but to abandon her playful pursuit of erecting an empire, despite her unwillingness.


    ¡®Looks, voice, confidence. He is the perfect candidate.¡¯


    Isane looked at her friend whose disappointment was immeasurable. ¡°Ishihara-kun, give it a try please...¡±


    She pleaded on Rangiku¡¯s behalf but he simply shook his head. Even if he was attracted to both women, getting swept into the entertainment industry was far from his goal.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Isane. I can understand his point of view. He wants to be a Shinigami, not a singer for the masses.¡±


    Isane placed a consoling hand on Rangiku¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Ishihara-kun, you have to convince Captain Unohana about your two squad plan... It¡¯ll be hard.¡±


    Captain Unohana was open to Kazuya joining their squad but she wouldn¡¯t be keen on sharing him with the 10th Squad. Hiring a part time Shinigami in their division would make them look even weaker.


    Kazuya leaned forward and took her hands in his own, his warmth taking her by surprise. ¡°Isane, can I rely on you...?¡±


    His voice was a caress, tempting and tender, nearly coaxing a nod from her. But she resisted the urge, summoning every bit of willpower she had honed as a Shinigami. As a healer, she was used to physical contact with the opposite gender. Yet, the intimacy of the moment, the warmth of his touch, his handsome face, all combined to challenge her professionalism. A blush colored her cheeks as she met his gaze, a myriad of emotions in her eyes.


    ¡°Help Rangiku if you want me to cooperate...¡± Isane clenched her teeth and threw out her own condition to help him. ¡°Please, just try it once. You might enjoy this more than you think.¡±


    In her childhood, she never would¡¯ve imagined living the life of a healer yet here she was. Saving people¡¯s lives and spending time with her mother figure was such a blessing for her. She wouldn¡¯t give up her current life for anything in the world.


    ¡°Fine...¡± He pulled back his hands, his eyes softening into a warm smile. He was weak to sincere women and Isane was the embodiment of sincerity right now. ¡°And our dishes are here.¡±


    There was no condition for him to commit to the job as a singer. He could dip out after one try while Isane had to convince Unohana. She was on the losing side no matter how he looked at it.


    Rangiku immediately poured herself some wine and raised her glass with a bright smile. ¡°To a new opportunity.¡±


    Isane also raised her glass filled with water, clicking it against Rangiku¡¯s glass. ¡°To a new opportunity.¡±


    Rangiku¡¯s eyes sparkled with anticipation as they turned to Kazuya. He reached for the wine, filled a glass, and raised it, drawing a joyous ''Cheers'' from the two women.


    ¡°To a new opportunity.¡±

 Chapter 114: A Misunderstanding

    Chapter 114: A Misunderstanding


    Kazuya returned to his dorm room and was met with an unexpected sight at his door. Momo Hinamori stood there, her eyes brightening with a radiant smile as she caught sight of him. Yet, the subtle shine at the corner of her eyes revealed a different story ¡ª she was crying.


    ¡°Momo, who bullied you?¡± His voice was tinged with fury that made Momo shiver. ¡°Tell me that bastard¡¯s name and I¡¯ll fucking burn them down.¡±


    Though she was surrounded by a circle of friends, he couldn¡¯t completely dismiss the thought of some haughty noble targeting her. He would stir up the entire academy if anyone bullied her or Toshiro.


    Momo was taken aback by his fiercely overprotective response. ¡°I wasn¡¯t crying! Why did you skip classes again?¡±


    Her reprimands had become a familiar scene, a well-intentioned but exasperating ritual every time he missed classes. It was almost endearing, like a concerned friend persistently trying to mend his delinquent behavior. She had yet to realize that he was beyond saving at this point, that he hardly cared about the academy.


    He gripped her shoulders, eyes locking with hers, sincerity shining in his gaze. ¡°If I ever found out that you lied to me, I will...¡± He paused, thinking about the mildly shameful punishment for her. ¡°I will spank you.¡±


    Momo¡¯s cheeks flushed a bright crimson, like ripe tomatoes, and she hastily brushed his hands from her shoulders. ¡°No one is bullying me!¡±


    His eyes, trained to discern even the subtlest deception, found no signs of falsehood in her body language. He nodded, satisfied. Swinging open the door with a graceful gesture, he invited her inside and unceremoniously plopped onto the bed, assuming a relaxed lying position.


    Her eyes darted around the room, finding the third of their group missing. ¡°Shiro must have gone to do his daily Jinzen training.¡±


    In the span of three short months, Toshiro had reached a monumental milestone; he had come so close to unlocking the Shikai form of his Zanpakuto?. He just needed that one moment of threat to crave more strength from his Zanpakuto? and unlock his Shikai.


    ¡°Shiro is pretty hardworking.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Momo nodded and perched herself on the bed opposite to Kazuya. ¡°Kazuya-kun, do you really want to graduate this month?¡±


    Her voice oozed with sadness as she contemplated his departure from the academy. She neither had Kazuya¡¯s talent nor did she possess anything special like Toshiro¡¯s Zanpakuto?. It would take her three years minimum to graduate.


    ¡°Momo, don¡¯t make that face. You and Shiro know my deal. The academy has nothing to teach me now.¡±


    Had any other student uttered such audacious words, Momo might have burst into laughter. But coming from Kazuya, the proclamation was true in every sense. He was more than qualified to be a Shinigami before he enrolled into the academy.


    She drew her knees to her chest and hugged them, her eyes pinning him down. ¡°Why do you have... blood on your neck?¡±


    He touched the spot unconsciously, the memory of Soi Fon¡¯s blade briefly flashing in his mind. ¡°Yoruichi bit me there earlier.¡±


    She misinterpreted Yoruichi¡¯s cat form as a curse like those powerful characters getting cursed in fairy tales. Yoruichi¡¯s wisdom only solidified the idea in Momo¡¯s mind.


    He noticed a spark of hope in her eyes. Rather than knowing about his friendship with Yoruichi, she wanted to learn more about him. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you after you get off me.¡±


    A glance downward, and the reality of their intimate position dawned on her. She darted to the other bed with a panicked Shunpo.


    ¡°It was nice...¡± she murmured, hastily clearing her throat. ¡°Kazuya-kun, let¡¯s talk about Yoruichi-san later. I have an urgent request for you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask to see me naked. Even I have my limits.¡±


    Her cheeks reddened, as if the mere suggestion had set her imagination alight. Her fantasies seemed to resonate within her, causing a subtle disruption in her Reiatsu. ¡°Can you please stay until the starting week of next month?¡± she asked, her voice soft and pleading.


    ¡°Two more weeks?¡±


    ¡°Mhmm.¡± She nodded, her eyes wide and earnest. ¡°Sensei informed us that our class will have our first training mission in the Living World. We¡¯ll practice Soul Burial and engage in combat with artificial replica Hollows.¡±


    Kazuya''s eyes narrowed, his thoughts taking a sharp turn. ¡®Is this the same event that Aizen plans to use to test his Menos breed?¡¯


    The puzzle pieces were beginning to align, but his lack of concrete canon knowledge left him feeling like he was walking in the dark. The absence of Nami gnawed at him more than ever. He placed a hand on his katana, sending thoughts to his violent freak Zanpakuto? Spirit. There was no answer as he expected.


    ¡°Where exactly is the mission taking place?¡±


    Momo tilted her head, her expression one of concentrated innocence. ¡°It¡¯s somewhere in Japan called... Karakura Town.¡±


    That name struck him like a chord, resonating with his suspicions. Of all the places they could have chosen, they had somehow selected the very place where some of the most powerful Hollows lived. Was this an intricate play to draw attention to Kisuke and the Visored? Or perhaps a devious trap to lure out the members of El Inverso?


    ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll accompany you on the mission.¡±


    Momo¡¯s face lit up. Gone were the traces of her previous gloom, all that remained was pure happiness. ¡°Thanks, Kazuya-kun~.¡±


    Humming cheerfully, she skipped out of the room, a spring in her step.


    ¡®What is she planning?¡¯

 Chapter 115: Re-start

    Chapter 115: Re-start


    Kazuya was lying on the bed after Momo left, waiting for Yoruichi¡¯s return.


    ¡®Two more weeks. Should I return to Harribel or give her a surprise at the mission?¡¯


    He ruled out the second option since he might be under surveillance as a Shinigami. Fighting Soi Fon, stirring troubles within the academy, and showing potential to be a powerhouse ¡ª all these deeds had painted a bulls-eye on him. Countless eyes would be scrutinizing his every action during the mission.


    ¡®Guess I¡¯ll take a week off and spend some time with them.¡¯


    While the taboo thrill of romantic affairs with teachers had its allure, none could replicate the soothing haven that Harribel¡¯s presence offered. He could do a reconnaissance mission to Hueco Mundo to see if Nelliel had undergone any transformation during his absence.Updated chapters at novelhall.com


    Thinking about his future, he unknowingly drifted into a slumber. He didn¡¯t resist the urge as a nap was necessary to reset his mind after everything.


    ...


    He woke up to the rhythmic motion of a moving mount beneath him. Deja vu washed over him. He found himself engulfed in the perpetual dusk of Hueco Mundo, accompanied by an eerily familiar riding experience. A knot of dread tightened in his chest. Shifting slightly, he caught sight of Apacci in her deer-like form, a form he hadn¡¯t seen in what felt like ages.


    "Hey, you. You''re finally awake," she greeted, much like their prior encounter.


    But a glaring anomaly stared him in the face. Gone were his horns, wings, and even his once-flowing locks were shorn, echoing a past life''s hairstyle. He was stripped of all Hollow attributes, as if time had wound back and morphed him into a regular soul. His Reiryoku levels had plummeted, sinking him to the mundane level of an average living soul.


    In a reflexive act, he pinched his cheeks and twisted his own ear until it flushed crimson. The resultant sting squashed any notion that this could be a figment of a twisted nightmare. Even his callouts to the mysterious System yielded utter silence.


    ¡®I got a hard reset as a powerless man...¡¯


    Powerlessness. The term clung to him like an ill-fitting garment. He was weaker than the lowest class of Hollows. And the worst part? He had no regrets about his life or longing for a redo. His life was perfect as it was. Now, every bond he had built was snatched away from him. Lovers and friends he couldn¡¯t live without.


    Could he regain those relationships without the crutch of his System and his Vasto Lorde prowess? Doubt clouded his usually resolute spirit, marking the first instance of vulnerability. He was on the verge of a mental breakdown.


    ¡®Is this the scheme of the god who reincarnated me? What a sick bastard.¡¯


    ¡°There is only one fate awaiting you, little deer. Cease your resistance and become a part of a greater Adjuchas like me.¡±


    ¡°Apacci, it¡¯s closing in on us.¡±


    He loathed the feeling of depending on someone else for survival. Yet, it was his only choice if he wanted to discover the truth.


    ¡°I''m doing the best I bloody can!¡± Apacci''s voice tore through the air as her hooves pounded with renewed fervor. ¡°Damn that fiend. That ABSOLUTE FUCKER.¡±


    Furiously, Apacci cursed the menacing Hollow trailing them, its razor-sharp claws aching to snare them. For the Adjuchas, devouring Apacci was essential for maintaining its existence as an Adjuchas; for Apacci, escape was a desperate bid for survival. It was a deadly race with only one possible victor.


    Fate, however, seemed to have rolled the dice against Apacci. Small and less endowed with energy compared to her hulking pursuer, her stamina was quickly draining. Despite Kazuya¡¯s earnest words of encouragement, her hooves eventually faltered, and she collapsed on the ashen soil of Hueco Mundo.


    He caressed Apacci, his eyes darting around for the shark-themed Vasto Lorde. She was nowhere in the vicinity as far as he could see.


    ¡®It¡¯s not a reset. It¡¯s a different timeline or... a fabricated reality.¡¯


    Apacci sluggishly opened her eyes and nudged him with her horn. ¡°This is... it for me. He won¡¯t chase you after eating me. Run away.¡±


    Her words echoed the sacrificial motto that characterized the Tres Bestia. Yet, Kazuya found her response most peculiar. Before meeting him and falling head over heels for him, she was the kind to go down fighting rather than laying down and giving up. She had even been prepared to challenge him¡ªa Vasto Lorde¡ªwhen she thought he¡¯d eat her.


    Would that type of woman sacrifice herself for a man she knew for an hour?


    ¡®Absolutely not.¡¯


    The Adjuchas was closing in at an alarming rate, and time for deliberation had run out. Faced with the grim decision of abandoning Apacci or confronting their mutual doom, he threw away the thought of self-preservation for the first time.


    ¡®If my assumptions are wrong, I¡¯m dead for real.¡¯


    Planting himself firmly in front of Apacci, he greeted the Adjuchas with a disarming smile, every ounce of his being radiating defiance. ¡°You aren¡¯t eating my wife today... I swear on my life, I¡¯ll protect her.¡±

 Chapter 116: Shinku no Tsubasa

    Chapter 116: Shinku no Tsubasa


    The hulking Adjuchas unleashed a scornful laugh that echoed around them. Locking eyes with Kazuya, who had bravely positioned himself in front of Apacci, the creature jeered, ¡°What utter garbage you are to face me. Die.¡±


    The Adjuchas''s arm swung through the air with such force that Kazuya could hear the very wind shrieking in its wake. Yet, he stood his ground¡ªsteadfast and unyielding.


    ¡®It¡¯s not real.¡¯


    He repeated within his head, almost as though his mantra could ward off the impending doom. Yet, when the arm should have struck him, a breathtaking explosion of vivid flames burst forth instead. Whirling around, he realized Apacci had vanished¡ªswallowed by the inferno. A surge of energy coursed through him; his dormant powers were reawakening, filling his fists with the tingling sensation of Oppression.


    ¡°I knew it,¡± he said, tilting his head upwards to address the heavens. ¡°Nami, I swear to God if you don''t cut this crap right now.¡±


    He fully expected Nami to be behind this twisted prank. Nobody would be surprised if this was her way of saying welcome back.


    ¡°Nami should not be blamed for my actions,¡± echoed a dream-like voice.


    From the swirling vortex of orange and vermilion flames emerged a towering figure. She was swathed in a lavish, impossibly long gown that looked as though it had been woven from molten lava, its ivory accents stark against the deep red. Five burning pairs of blade-like wings sprouted from her lower back, and an ostentatious winged mask obscured her face, leaving only her smirking lips visible.


    His gaze fastened onto the two energy sword-like blades that hovered beside her, each encasing a crimson crystal that mirrored the gem at the hilt of his own Zanpakuto?. He would''ve mistaken her for Nami if not for those blades.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    ¡°You must be my new Zanpakuto? Spirit.¡±


    ¡°Correct. I¡¯m Shinku no Tsubasa. You may call me Tsubasa.¡±


    Her high and mighty tone made him clench his fists. ¡°Tsubasa, why did you do that?¡±


    ¡°What you experienced was merely a trial orchestrated by me,¡± she said slowly as she gazed at him with a gentle smile. ¡°To test your determination to protect your loved ones. I cannot let an unworthy master wield my powers.¡±


    Spoiler[collapse]


    "I cannot comply. Without her distractions, you can focus on what truly matters¡ªprotecting those you love. My Shikai ability, ''Fumetsu no Seiiki'' (Indestructible Sanctuary), can shield you from anyone. You do not need her in your life."


    Tsubasa¡¯s perspective on Nami was simple ¡ª the black phoenix was a distraction as observed in her constant reminders about his lovers¡¯ mortality. She was very much against Nami¡¯s stance.


    ¡°Who the hell do you think you are for dictating my life?¡±


    "I am a shadow born from your soul, your Zanpakuto? Spirit. Your resolve shapes my very essence,¡± she said, a smile pulling at her lips as she raised a finger. ¡°However, I¡¯ll consider releasing Nami¡ªif you can make me submit and reveal the chant needed to unlock your Shikai.¡±


    Exhaling a weary sigh, he muttered, ¡°Make you submit? I have to beat you?¡±


    To attain Shikai, a Shinigami must gain the approval of their Zanpakuto? Spirit and learn of its name as well as the release incantation¡ªa well-known fact among the Shinigami.


    She nodded, her gaze unyielding. ¡°Correct. Can you overcome the impenetrable wall that is my shield¡ª¡±


    Before she could complete her sentence, he metamorphosed into his Hollow form and grabbed ahold of her shield. Fiery eruptions burst from the shield, a desperate, blazing attempt to dislodge him. But he clung tenaciously, his palms pulsing with the power of Oppression. The torrent of flames almost withered under his Oppression.


    Just as he was about to break apart the structure of her shield, her fingers wrapped around its edge, and she swung it brutally into his chest. ¡°I can¡¯t allow you to do that.¡±


    ¡°Afraid much? So much for being impenetrable.¡±


    She shook her head, her eyes ablaze with conviction. ¡°A shield is only as robust as the mind that wields it. A shieldmaster would be egregiously foolish to stand idly by, allowing their enemy to dismantle the first line of defense¡ªespecially when that defense stands between their enemies and those they¡¯ve vowed to protect.¡±


    ¡°Jeez, you never shut up about this golden rule of protection, do you?¡±


    Tsubasa let loose a smile but he could feel the anxious strains of her smile. ¡°My would-be master, we both follow that creed. I¡¯m simply more vocal about our vision.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sure.¡±

 Chapter 117: At Mercy

    Chapter 117: At Mercy


    Though Kazuya wished to humble the haughty Zanpakuto? Spirit, he knew better than to squander his energies in futile attacks against her shield. He paused, eyes narrowing to study the almost celestial flames surrounding Tsubasa and her guardian shield. These luminous, incandescent fires stood in stark contrast to Nami¡¯s sinister carmine flames. It was as if Tsubasa was crafted to be Nami¡¯s polar opposite ¡ª the radiant light to Nami¡¯s darkness ¡ª her antithesis.


    ¡®She might have inherited the life property of Phoenix¡¯s flames.¡¯


    One conclusion was irrefutable from their first clash ¡ª her flames did not wound him, not even superficially. And why would they? They all originated from his soul.


    Gently resting her palm against her ornate mask, Tsubasa tilted her head with a maniacal stiffness. ¡°While I have no objection to standing here as you marvel at my flawless grace, the clock is unforgiving, Master. Each moment you waste in this inner world will take a toll upon your consciousness.¡±


    ¡°Say, am I allowed to beat you by any means necessary?¡±


    The last thing he wanted was for her to invalidate his hard-earned victory through an underhanded tactic; she might do that just to piss him off further.


    ¡°Your sole objective is to liberate Nami from my grasp. The means are inconsequential as long as your goal is achieved.¡± She paused, her lips curling into a sly smirk. ¡°Any attempt to use your Oppression ability from a distance would be in vain as we possess the same level of Reiatsu in this realm. It¡¯s almost a pity, really. You have the determination, the unyielding will for protection. What you lack is the capacity to bypass my invincible defense.¡±


    Her taunts, whether premeditated provocations or genuine overconfidence, only stoked the fires of his resolve to put her into her place.


    Confronted with his seething silence, Tsubasa lavishly licked her lips. ¡°Conceding¡ª¡±


    Defying her calculated predictions, Kazuya morphed into his Soul form, conjuring his Zanpakuto? into existence with a wave of his hand. The katana materialized effortlessly, a stark realization washing over him: Tsubasa had methodically manipulated his inner world, transforming it into her personal battleground. It now made sense why she had spent three whole months summoning him into this trial; she was not just growing, but plotting for this precise moment.


    Even so, he had no desire to lose against a three months old soul, much less the manifestation of his own desires.


    ¡°You do know that blade has no special power,¡± she said, pointing at the katana in his hand. ¡°It¡¯s a blade that can never cut through my shield.¡±


    ¡°A blade is as strong as the one wielding it.¡±


    Abruptly, he vanished, reappearing before her in a dazzling streak of Hirenkyaku. Her shield sprang forth to fill the air between them. He lunged, his katana seeking the minuscule gaps in her seemingly invincible shield, only to be repelled by an unseen force. The physical shield, it seemed, was but an illusion ¡ª the real protection was a barrier that protected its owner.


    Not one to be easily deterred, he kept the onslaught relentless, darting and slashing in fluid strokes, searching for a weak spot in her defense.


    Quietly, he delivered a reverse slap on her right cheek then another on her left cheek.


    ¡°Master¡ª¡±


    SLAP!


    ¡°Listen to me¡ª¡±


    ¡°MAST¡ª¡±


    SLAP! SLAP! SLAP!


    His hands moved with grace as he delivered sickening slaps across her red face. Her muffled cries and whimpers served as a pleasing music to his vengeance. He satiated every bit of rage in his chest by beating his helpless Zanpakuto? Spirit ¡ª and he loved every moment of it.


    He only stopped when her face had swollen to the point of being unrecognizable. Her entire face was smeared with tears, no haughtiness to be found within her eyes. The slaps had humbled her demeanor, at least for now.


    With a satisfied smile, he got back up and pulled her to her feet. ¡°Bring Nami to me.¡±


    Her trembling lips managed a stutter, ¡°Y-Yes, Master, after I heal...¡±


    As she reached out, her blades bolted into her grip. Instead of morphing into shields, they transmuted into twin red muskets, their barrels ornamented with intricate bronze phoenix motifs. Aiming the muzzles toward her chin, she squeezed the triggers, and a roaring inferno enveloped her. When the flames dissipated, her face was back to being flawless ¡ª she was completely healed.


    ¡°Your cruelty is commendable,¡± she whispered as she gazed at him in awe. ¡°A brute such as you would give his all in protecting your loved ones.¡±


    ¡°Did you not hear me? I said, bring me to Nami.¡±


    ¡°As you wish.¡±


    With a synchronized clap, she ignited the desolation of her imaginary Hueco Mundo. He found himself in a dilapidated throne room. Atop the fragmented majesty of a once regal throne rested the birdcage that held his self-proclaimed soulmate hostage.

 Chapter 118: End of line

    Chapter 118: End of line


    ¡°PARTNER! You¡¯ve come for me!¡±


    Nami''s fervent shout pierced through his emotional armor for a brief moment. He choked down the rising sentiment and directed his icy gaze toward Tsubasa.


    ¡°Hand me your blades and open the cage.¡±


    A shadow of bewilderment flickered across Tsubasa¡¯s face before she complied with an obedient nod. With an almost ceremonial gesture, she made the blades drift to his side. Nami¡¯s cage clicked open, releasing her from her confinement.


    Like a phoenix rising, Nami burst forth until she hit the ceiling, her wings erupting into streaks of dark red fire. She rocketed toward Tsubasa with a divine fury, slamming her into the wall with an impact that echoed through the chamber.


    Stripped of her shields, Tsubasa was nothing but vulnerable to Nami¡¯s assault.


    As Nami landed on the ground, she underwent a surreal transformation ¡ª morphing into a humanoid figure built from the essence of her own dark, sanguine flames. Her lanky limbs and featureless face floated above a conflagration sea of fire that served as her lower body.


    Though her face lacked defining emotion, he could feel the raging inferno within her ¡ª Nami did not take her imprisonment lightly.


    She yanked Tsubasa from the ground and slammed her into the wall. ¡°I¡¯ll make you pay for keeping me away from Partner.¡±


    Not pausing for Tsubasa to even muster a response, Nami unleashed a flurry of merciless blows upon her face. Tsubasa reached out to him with a trembling hand, or rather the blades in his hands that acted as her shields. As though hearing her plea, the blades in his grip twitched, yearning to rush to their master¡¯s defense. But he held them fast.Updated chapters at novelhall.com


    ¡°Nope,¡± he said with an indifferent look. ¡°Nami, go wild.¡±


    Tsubasa¡¯s Shikai ability provided excellent defense, even if it was a bit one-dimensional in nature. However, he very much loved Nami and supported her. Trapped in the same place for three months ¡ª he couldn¡¯t even comprehend the resentment and rage bubbling inside her heart. She needed to unleash those negative emotions.


    He also couldn¡¯t deny that he enjoyed Tsubasa¡¯s one-sided epic beatdown at Nami¡¯s hands. It was satisfying to watch Tsubasa being pummeled like a punching bag.


    Nami threw Tsubasa to the ground and jumped at her, throwing punches at her bloodied face. Seemingly bored of beating Tsubasa, Nami pulled Tsubasa up by her blonde hair.


    ¡°You ambushed me when I was at my weakest and caged me like I was a beast. You lied and manipulated my Partner into believing that I was not a suitable soulmate for him. YOU pathetic woman will pay for your sins.¡± Her hands clenched into flaming talons around Tsubasa¡¯s head. ¡°With your life.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t...¡± Tsubasa''s whisper was a dying ember as she shot a feeble glance toward him. ¡°I am your Zanpakuto? Spirit. Without me, you''re defenseless¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shut your fucking mouth,¡± Nami roared, her flames unleashing with even more ferocity. ¡°This is the end of line for you, Hoe.¡±


    She burst into a fog of flames and engulfed Tsubasa¡¯s figure. Tsubasa desperately channeled her own flames to ward off Nami but Nami¡¯s carmine flames easily overpowered her. She stood no chance in a frontal fight against the senior Zanpakuto? Spirit, despite Nami lacking in terms of Reiatsu.


    Spoiler[collapse]


    ¡°Exactly. I can¡¯t lose against Partner¡¯s most beloved wife,¡± she murmured as she audibly sniffed his scent. ¡°Partner, I missed you so much. It was so boring here without you. My imprisonment wasn¡¯t even the worst part about this whole ordeal...¡±


    ¡°What else could be worse than that?¡±


    ¡°Tsubasa was born from both of our essence ¡ª she reflected our souls. Think about it for a moment. She was manipulative like you and she was obsessed with an aspect like me. She was our daughter... and I murdered her with my own hands.¡±


    His mouth hung open, speechless. Her poetic reframing of Tsubasa¡¯s existence unsettled him deeply. Their actions seemed extremely immature once he took a moment to contemplate. They could¡¯ve solved the situation more peacefully but their raw emotions overwrote their reason. The result was Tsubasa¡¯s demise.


    ¡°Forget her,¡± he replied, nonchalantly brushing off her concerns. ¡°Forget that she ever existed.¡±


    ¡°Fine with me. Partner, do you remember your promise?¡±


    ¡°Which promise?¡±


    She leaned in and her fangs pierced the flesh of his neck. It was an intimate, lethal kiss that drew out blood, as if she were a vampire. ¡°The promise about eating me out when I became a Vasto Lorde.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t actu¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, an overwhelming surge of Reiatsu filled the air like a torrential downpour, coming from the very woman wrapped in his embrace. Devouring Tsubasa triggered her evolution, bringing her Reiatsu on par with Harribel¡¯s base Arrancar form.


    ¡°I am a Vasto Lorde or its equivalent.¡± Gently withdrawing from him, she caressed his face, the heart-shaped twinkle in her eye glowing brighter than ever, as if implying her burning passion. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s time for us to do the deed?¡±


    Seeing her beautiful face up close and feeling her warmth, his heart began to beat loudly, as if anticipating a passionate time with her.


    Just as he prepared to surrender to the moment, reality ¡ª or whatever passed for it in this realm ¡ª shuddered violently as if engulfed in a high-scale earthquake.


    ¡°The inner world is destabilizing. You spent too much time here, Partner,¡± Nami said with a sigh and pressed a reluctant kiss against his cheek. ¡°We¡¯ll have to wait.¡±


    ¡°Hmm. Talk to me when I¡¯m outside.¡±


    ¡°You bet I will.¡±


    ***


    RIP Tsubasa.

 Chapter 119-120: The Aftermath

    Chapter 119-120: The Aftermath


    When Shunsui Kyoraku first received the summons to the Shin¡¯o? Academy, he was skeptical. What could the academy possibly conjure that required the presence of a Captain? But the moment he tilted the brim of his straw hat to survey the scene, his skepticism was blown into dust. Arrayed before him, members of the elite Kido? Corps had woven their Reiatsu into a force field that enveloped what was once a student dormitory ¡ª now a ruinous husk of its former self.


    Peering through narrowed eyes, Shunsui discerned the cause of the mayhem ¡ª a silver-haired student tightly gripping his Zanpakuto?, encased within the shimmering force field. The boy was unleashing a storm of raw, uncontrollable Reiatsu that couldn¡¯t be contained by the Kido? barrier.


    ¡°What was his name again?¡±


    Nanao adjusted her glasses, a calculated move that concealed her own disbelief. ¡°Kazuya Ishihara. First-year student. He has been releasing extremely strong Reiatsu for almost two hours with no signs of slowing down.¡±


    Nanao had been on-site since the calamity unfolded, having been invited by the Headmaster for a guest lecture ¡ª a perfect reason for observing the resident playboy. Fortunately, casualty counts stopped at a couple injured since the student body had been largely absent, attending the lecturers. She didn¡¯t even consider the massive property damage as it was a normal occurrence in her line of work.


    ¡°This boy could be another Zaraki in the making,¡± Shunsui said with a chuckle. ¡°I believe he is having a hard time in his inner world. Perhaps his Zanpakuto? Spirit didn¡¯t agree to reveal their name without a battle. That being said, Nanao-chan, you handled the situation nicely. I¡¯m proud of you.¡±


    Nanao almost rolled her eyes. She had sent him a message through the Hell Butterfly as soon as she could but he only showed up now. The officers of Kido? Corps, on the other hand, showed up at a moment¡¯s notice; they were hardly in a position to deny a Vice Captain¡¯s order.


    ¡°What do I do next, Captain Kyoraku? Will he ever stop...?¡±


    Shunsui patted her shoulder. ¡°He will eventually run out. Have the relief team secure him when that happens. They are better equipped to examine his condition. In the meantime, I''ll persuade the Headmaster to hold off on disciplinary measures against him.¡±


    Nanao didn¡¯t argue against him. Going by Kazuya¡¯s posture, it seemed like he had no idea about his Zanpakuto? Spirit¡¯s intentions. It wouldn¡¯t be right to pin the blame on him.


    ¡°Understood, Captain Kyoraku.¡±


    While waiting for Kazuya¡¯s Reiryoku to drain, Nanao glanced behind her. She caught sight of a silver-haired boy peeking over the wall. He wasn¡¯t that tall, and she could imagine him standing on his friend¡¯s shoulders for the extra height. Their antics unwittingly coaxed a smile from her.ViiSiit  for latest novels


    ¡®These kids are so stubborn.¡¯


    She had read about them in her intel ¡ª Momo Hinamori and Toshiro Hitsugaya ¡ª two talented rookies with great potential. The two had stubbornly tried to disrupt the Kido? Corps¡¯ officers in their work until she pulled them aside and patiently explained about Kazuya¡¯s condition. Even now they harbored doubts and kept an eye on her from a distance.


    ¡®When is it going to end?¡¯


    ...


    Kazuya¡¯s eyes fluttered open, each blink like a drumbeat reverberating through his skull. It was the most severe headache of his life, worsened by the gnawing emptiness in his gut that sapped his remaining shards of mental fortitude.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun!¡± Momo''s voice broke through his disorientation the instant he stirred on the bed. Her hand enveloped his own, tears glistening in her black eyes. ¡°You''re back with us.¡±


    ¡°Take it down a notch, Momo,¡± Toshiro scolded Momo for being overexcited, yet he couldn¡¯t suppress his own rising emotions. He swiveled his head towards the door, as if the gesture would hide his vulnerable expression. ¡°I''m going to update Vice Captain Kotetsu.¡±


    ¡°Fetch me something to eat while you¡¯re at it,¡± Kazuya said, getting a nod from Toshiro as he ran out of the room. ¡°It¡¯s the 4th Squad?¡±


    "Y-Yes," Momo stuttered, using her sleeves as makeshift tissues. ¡°Hic.¡±


    {We¡¯re at the healer squad. Let¡¯s fucking go and seduce Unohana right now.}


    ¡®She¡¯ll fucking gut me... I¡¯m so tired.¡¯


    {You did spend an excruciating amount of time in your inner world.}


    Pushing himself into a sitting position, he shifted his attention back to Momo. ¡°Mind giving me a recap of everything?¡±


    Rather than humoring his request, Momo turned her head away with a pout. ¡°You scared me twice in a day... Why are you like this, Kazuya-kun?¡±


    At least she was assured about his safety the first time around. This time, she had gnawing doubts that he¡¯d burn himself out alongside his Reiatsu.


    He cleared his throat. ¡°Well, my Zanpakuto? Spirit was acting like a pain in the ass. Had to chastise her for her actions.¡±


    ¡°Chastise?¡± Momo stopped pouting and burst into a fit of laughter. ¡°Who even uses that word anymore?¡±


    ¡°Call me if you need anything, Kazuya-san,¡± Momo responded, her smile towards him as tender as she could be. Then she turned her gaze towards Isane, her smile growing increasingly hollow. ¡°Pleasure meeting you, Vice Captain-sama.¡±


    Isane felt a chill crawl up her spine, sensing resemblance between Momo and her own Captain¡¯s unnerving smile. "Erm, yes, likewise."


    Kazuya found the scene hilarious. The tall Isane cowering before a relatively short Momo. Only when they exited did Isane shake off her meek facade. She lowered herself onto the bed beside him, her eyes fastened on the Zanpakuto? cradled in his lap.


    ¡°It seems different. Did something happen?¡±


    She could feel spiritual energy around the katana, which was absent in their last meeting. Even the physical shape was different from her memories.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you noticed the difference,¡± he said, holding up his katana. ¡°She told me her name. I can finally use her Shikai form.¡±


    Isane''s face lit up with a genuine, warm smile, wiping away the hesitancy that had clouded her features earlier. ¡°I¡¯m glad you succeeded. Congratulations for earning the qualifications to be a Vice Captain.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t congratulate me. I¡¯m gonna replace you or Rangiku.¡±


    Isane lightly shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m not relinquishing my position in this life.¡±


    She admired her captain too much to change her division.


    "Ah, well, Rangiku is the one who¡¯ll get the boot. Then she¡¯ll be jobless and burn through her savings drinking out of depression. I¡¯ll find her sipping sake in some alley, save her like a knight in shining armor, help her back on her feet, and win her heart. Flawless plan if I must say so myself.¡±


    ¡°Keep those vile plans to yourself!¡±


    ¡°Jeez, I haven¡¯t even joined the Gotei 13. Besides, I won¡¯t settle for the Vice-Captain position. I¡¯m aiming for the Captain seat or the General Commander seat.¡±


    His audacious confidence gave her pause, locking her words in her throat. He had every quality to be a future captain apart from his lack of Bankai, which would be solved in time. The same could be said for her but she was content living in Retsu Unohana¡¯s shadows rather than vying for her position.


    Isane crossed her arms. ¡°You can leave now. I¡¯d caution you to not use your Reiatsu and put pressure on your Reiatsu vents.¡±


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    ¡°Also, don¡¯t worry about the academy property damage. Captain Unohana said she¡¯ll take care of this.¡±


    ¡°Wow. Your captain seems like a nice person.¡±


    "The gentlest soul you¡¯ll ever meet," Isane mumbled, her voice tinged with a reverent undertone as memories of her Captain rescuing her from cutthroat criminals flickered through her mind. The haunting yet beautiful memories had changed her life for the better. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for drifting off.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It was cute.¡±


    She cleared her throat, her cheeks blushing in spite of herself. His flirtatious ambiguity always kept her guessing, whether he was flirting with her or mocking her. But instead of wading further into that confusing territory, she chose to steer the conversation. ¡°About our previous talk, I also relayed your suggestion to Captain Unohana.¡±


    ¡°Oh, what did she say?¡±


    ¡°She said she''s willing to consider it once she has met you face to face.¡±


    Intrigue washed over him. So, he didn¡¯t even have to go seek out Unohana; she had opened the door for him. The question now was ¡ª if she would show her crazy nature in their first meeting.


    {How about attacking her out of nowhere? Make her submit like you did to Tsubasa.}


    ¡®I despised Tsubasa, but I adore Unohana. There is a big difference.¡¯


    Plus, he didn¡¯t like his odds of beating Unohana in a straight fight without his Hollow form. His Shikai specialized more in support than in offense ¡ª unless he invoked Nami¡¯s destructive flames.


    {Call me Izanami, for I wield the flames that govern life and death.}


    ¡®Shush.¡¯

 Chapter 121: Thirst

    Chapter 121: Thirst


    By the time night arrived, the commotion had died down, and the academy staff allowed the students to go back to their dorms. Rukia and Renji stood before Renji¡¯s dorm, barely surprised at the state of the dormitory that reflected the recent chaos within its walls. It felt like the calm after a violent storm. A storm created by their friend.ViiSiit  for latest novels


    Earlier, Rukia had felt a surge of berserk Reiatsu, an overpowering force so intense that it made her doubt that the Reiatsu actually belonged to Kazuya. By the time she got over her fear, the lecturer had begun to herd everyone out of the academy, calling it a safety measure but offering no specifics.


    ¡°Kazuya did it,¡± Rukia muttered under her breath. Her eyes scanned the surroundings as if expecting Kazuya to materialize out of thin air. ¡°Where did they take him?¡±


    ¡°Argh!¡± Renji let out a roar as his knuckles collided with a half-torn wall in a fit of frustration, the impact resonating with a hollow thud. ¡°The teachers are clueless about his location. The city is enormous. Searching for him will be worse than finding needles in a haystack.¡±


    "We can head over to the 10th Squad," Rukia suggested, her voice soft yet determined. ¡°The Captain of that division is friends with Kazuya.¡±


    Renji looked skeptical, but he still nodded in agreement anyway. It was their only lead in finding Kazuya¡¯s whereabouts. ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Awww, I didn¡¯t know you were so worried for me.¡±


    Just as Rukia was about to leave, a playful voice she knew well interrupted them. She pivoted sharply, her eyes meeting Kazuya¡¯s. He stood there, arms crossed, wearing an impish smile on his face. As always, his repressed Reiatsu carried a level of complexity ¡ª nigh untraceable on the surface but deep as the ocean on the inside.


    ¡°Kazuya! So you¡¯re... fine,¡± Rukia said in surprise, taken aback by his appearance. ¡°We were about to go looking for you.¡±


    "Disappointed, are we? Were you hoping to swoop in and play the hero to this damsel?" Kazuya teased, the mysterious power of his voice making the jest hard to dismiss outright. ¡°Today isn¡¯t the day.¡±


    ¡°Don''t be ridiculous,¡± Rukia shot back, her cheeks turning a faint pink. She gave Renji a playful kick, propelling him towards Kazuya. ¡°Monkey face, you explain.¡±


    Before Renji could advance any further, Momo and Toshiro blocked his path, their eyes heavy with silent judgment.


    ¡°You were nowhere to be found when we needed you,¡± Momo said, disappointment oozing from her voice. ¡°Great friends you both are.¡±


    Toshiro nodded heavily. ¡°I knew Renji was a coward.¡±


    ¡°Oi! Who are you calling a coward?!¡± Renji¡¯s knuckles whitened as he clenched his fists, fire blazing in his eyes. ¡°The lecturer dude held us like prisoners. We couldn¡¯t come.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, he is right,¡± Rukia chimed in with a loud voice. ¡°I¡¯ll never abandon a friend in need. Never.¡±


    While Renji¡¯s reason was half-assed at best, Rukia¡¯s fervent voice easily convinced Momo. Her eyes softened. ¡°I¡¯ll forgive you this time. Shiro-chan, what about you?¡±


    Toshiro crossed his arms and turned his head away. ¡°Another day.¡±


    Kazuya''s eyes flickered back to Rukia, penetrating her facade. He had his suspicions about losing her Rukongai friends but her current state confirmed everything. The deep-rooted loss had brought her to attend the academy prior to the canon timeline, which was also the reason for her distant demeanor at times.


    Toshiro¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Thousand times better than her messy dorm room.¡±


    ¡°Hot springs?¡± Momo beamed a bright smile as she raised her hand. ¡°Kazuya-san, take me too. I always hear about it from my friends.¡±


    Kazuya cast a casual glance toward Rukia and Renji. ¡°Might as well take everyone.¡±


    Renji rubbed the back of his head as he shared a glance with Rukia. They both wanted to join him but they didn¡¯t have the money to afford the luxury.


    ¡°Some other time.¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Rukia said. ¡°We¡¯ll see you¡ª¡±


    Kazuya unsheathed his katana and pointed at Renji. ¡°I¡¯ll cut you down if you don¡¯t come with me. You don¡¯t need to worry about your expenses. I¡¯ll cover it.¡±


    Rukia didn¡¯t think she¡¯d ever be coerced into joining her friends for a trip but she wasn¡¯t complaining about it. The thought of warm water rushing down her skin raised her anticipation.


    ¡°I¡¯m in.¡±


    Renji stared at Rukia then slowly nodded. ¡°Got no reason to reject now.¡±


    ¡°Yay!¡± Momo threw her arms around Kazuya. ¡°Everyone is coming.¡±


    {Partner went from having a sugah mommy to being a sugar daddy. What exceptional character growth.}


    Nami didn¡¯t know about the source of his wealth in the Soul Society. It was for the better as she¡¯d have roasted him more.


    ...


    A few minutes later, a shadowy figure descended onto the wrecked dormitory ¡ª the lithe form of a black cat, golden eyes piercing through the darkness.


    Yoruichi was baffled at the sight. She could feel Kazuya¡¯s lingering Reiatsu, which made her even more curious.


    ¡®I¡¯ll ask him.¡¯


    She laughed, knowing that their next meeting would be a chaotic mess. She¡¯d be a fool to believe Kazuya would let her walk away after her harmless prank.


    ¡®How will he punish me?¡¯

 Chapter 122: Rendezvous

    Chapter 122: Rendezvous


    A sigh of pure ecstasy flowed from Kazuya¡¯s lips as he slipped into the steaming water. The world outside melted away as the soothing embrace of the hot water worked wonders on his taut muscles. He had splurged half his fortune to reserve this secluded inn solely for his group, just so he could relax like this without any interruption. It all seemed worth it in this moment.


    {You make the same face when you cum. Don¡¯t ask why I know that... I won¡¯t be able to answer it.}


    ¡®I won¡¯t. Leave me alone.¡¯Ne/w novel chapters are published at novelhall.com


    {Okay.}


    Her unexpected acquiescence made him pause, a look of bewilderment crossing face. The katana resting by the side caught fire and spewed a whirl of flames, out of which Nami materialized in her signature temptress dress. Accustomed to her long-time residency in his head, he had almost forgotten that Nami was a physical entity capable of interacting with the world.


    ¡°Izanami, the black phoenix goddess, has descended,¡± she proclaimed theatrically, settling gracefully by the edge and playfully dappled the water with her toes. ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that. I hate water with passion. It¡¯s the most I¡¯ll do.¡±


    ¡°What about my dream of banging my yandere girlfriend in the shower? Who will fulfill that if not you?¡±


    A sparkly twinkle lit her eyes. ¡°I can make an exception for you, my beloved partner. Do you wanna try it¡ª¡± Her enthusiasm suddenly faded, and her gaze snapped to the sliding door. The culprit wasn¡¯t a person but a black cat, who walked in like she owned the world. ¡°Yoruichi, get lost. Let me flirt with my beloved.¡±


    He languidly propped his head on interlaced fingers, intrigued by a standoff between the two. It seemed like a thrilling time worthy of popcorn.


    However, Yoruichi¡¯s attention wasn''t on Nami. It was fixed on Kazuya. She had expected irritation, perhaps a sarcastic comment about her prank, but his calm gaze revealed something far colder ¨C sheer indifference to her existence.


    She fiercely narrowed her eyes. ¡°Why does she know my identity?¡±


    ¡®He is like a brat. What¡¯s there to be afraid of?¡¯


    Shaking off her uncertainty, she chose to vigilantly remain by his side. Yet, with each passing moment and the gentle cadence of his breathing, it became evident he had slipped into a restful sleep.


    ¡®Moving him to a bed would be better.¡¯


    Years serving as the Captain of the 2nd Squad had equipped Yoruichi with expertise in handling bodies. The task itself wasn''t formidable, but the notion of walking through the inn naked gave her pause. Spotting a pair of towels conveniently near the entrance, she quickly draped one around herself. As she gently drew him out of the water, her eyes briefly lingered on his crotch.


    ¡°He''s more man than boy,¡± she murmured to herself, securing him in a towel before lifting him in her arms. ¡°He is freaking heavy.¡±


    With footsteps as delicate as a cat, she navigated through the inn''s hallways, her senses keenly attuned to any lurking Reiatsu. But fate wasn''t in her favor tonight. Momo unexpectedly switched directions as if she felt something off and headed towards her. Rather than trying to hide, Yoruichi just stood there and let Momo discover her.


    As their gazes interlocked, a myriad of emotions flitted across Momo''s eyes, akin to the hues of a sunset sky. The bottle of milk she held was swiftly tossed aside as she rushed forward, driven by a whirlwind of worries. ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    ¡°He is just sleeping,¡± Yoruichi replied in a gentle voice, aiming to alleviate Momo¡¯s worries. ¡°Don¡¯t be worried.¡±


    Understanding washed over Momo, followed quickly by curiosity. ¡°And you are? Another one of Kazuya-kun¡¯s girlfriends?¡±


    Yoruichi simply nodded, unwilling to complicate her identity. He already had flings with dozens of women at the academy alone. One more to his list of conquest wouldn¡¯t hurt anybody. ¡°Yor¡ªI¡¯m Yor.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a strange name...¡± Momo raised a brow but didn''t press Yoruichi further, focusing more on the matter at hand. ¡°Kazuya-kun¡¯s room is that way. Come.¡±

 Chapter 123: Entangled Affairs

    Chapter 123: Entangled Affairs


    Kazuya hadn''t anticipated waking up sandwiched between Momo and Yoruichi after his impromptu decision to sleep at hot spring inn. But here he was, flanked by the two women, as if he was the object of their desire. Yoruichi¡¯s knee rested possessively over his stomach, her arm draped intimately across his chest, creating an unmistakable impression of a lover¡¯s embrace. To add to his surprise, while he and Yoruichi were scantily clad in mere towels, Momo¡¯s loosely worn kimono added a hint of charm to her cuteness.


    ¡®What the hell did I do last night?¡¯


    {Stay calm, Partner. Neither Yoruichi nor Momo laid a hand on you. I was watching you the entire night... Argh, if only I had a camera to capture your cute faces.}


    His major concern had been the inadvertent possibility of crossing a line with Momo in his drowsy state. Assured that no such event occurred, he breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡®Thanks, I guess.¡¯


    {Heh. How are you feeling now?}


    ¡®I feel... spirited. Energetic... Almost free. I¡¯m back.¡¯


    {That¡¯s the spirit. You¡¯ve a meeting with Unomama today. I hope she behaves, or I¡¯ll burn her to ashes.}


    ¡®Not on my watch, Partner.¡¯


    Dealing with Nami¡¯s craziness had bolstered his confidence. He hoped his encounter with Unohana wouldn''t escalate into a skirmish. Given the capabilities of her Bankai and his Shikai, they had the potential to sustain an eternal cycle of regeneration ¡ª a wet dream for Unohana, but a nightmare for him.


    Yoruichi shifted beside him, her eyes fluttering open. Momentarily disoriented, she gazed into his face, just inches away from hers. As her morning haze dissipated and last night¡¯s events replayed in her mind, a look of comprehension dawned. She let out a soft groan and gracefully sat up, stretching languidly even as her towel dropped to her lap.


    ¡°Good morning, Kazuya. Before you ask, I got you out of the bath and threw you here.¡±


    His brows knitted in confusion. He gently shifted Momo so she wouldn¡¯t wake up. ¡°Why? What exactly did you do to me when I was sleeping?¡±


    She smirked. ¡°Nothing, idiot. I convinced Momo that I was one of your... girlfriends. Sleeping elsewhere would be suspicious so I stayed with you.¡± She nonchalantly gestured towards Momo. ¡°As for her, I believe you''re already aware of her reasons.¡±


    Yoruichi had anticipated at least a flicker of surprise from him regarding the girlfriend ruse. Yet, his expression remained utterly unfazed. He was still furious at her.


    ¡®What did I do? Is it related to yesterday?¡¯


    Yoruichi realized her anxiousness over a trivial matter.


    ¡®I can¡¯t let him drift away from me. We¡¯ve to finish this mission. Together.¡¯


    Transforming seamlessly into her cat form, she leaped onto his lap, nestling her face against him. ¡°You can¡¯t do this... think about it again for me.¡±


    His response was a firm ¡°No¡±.


    She waved her paw, a pleading look in her eyes. ¡°Paw-retty please?¡±


    A moment of awkward silence flowed as Yoruichi held her pose, her cat face immaculately hiding her cringe.


    ¡°Three days.¡±


    Yoruichi sighed. ¡°Acceptable.¡±


    He affectionately skimmed his fingers under her chin, a gesture universally adored by cats. ¡°Where were you yesterday?¡±


    ¡°Went to check up on Soi Fon. She seemed fine after destroying a dozen training dummies with her fists.¡±


    ¡°You and I both know she isn¡¯t giving up,¡± he whispered. ¡°She is coming for your ass.¡±


    Yoruichi groaned. ¡°What did I do to deserve it?¡±


    Despite treating Soi Fon like any other member of her squad, she''d unwittingly secured the undying adoration of her successor.


    ¡°Being beautiful is a sin. Don¡¯t you agree?¡±


    ¡°With so many men chasing after me, I can¡¯t help but agree,¡± she let out yet another sigh. ¡°What happened at the academy?¡±


    Kazuya caught her up to the events in the academy. When he was done, he found Momo gazing at him while lying in the same position.


    Noticing his gaze, she smiled. ¡°Good morning, Kazuya-kun and Yoruichi-san... where did Yor-san go?¡±


    While he was confused at her question, Yoruichi replied, ¡°She ran away when she saw me. She has a cat allergy, it seems.¡±


    ¡°Ah, that is sad. Kazuya-kun, let¡¯s leave after breakfast. We have to¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll drop you at the academy. I¡¯ve an important business elsewhere.¡±

 Chapter 124: A Test

    Chapter 124: A Test


    ¡°How did the rest go? I assume it went fine since you¡¯re here.¡±


    With soft, gray eyes filled with unmistakable concern, Isane¡¯s words made Kazuya¡¯s lips curl into an appreciative smile. Only Nami and Isane had taken a moment to ask about his well-being. It amused him that even Momo, with her obsession, had overlooked such a detail.


    {Isane is peak waifu material. Yoink her.}


    ¡®Begone my intrusive thoughts.¡¯


    Returning Isane¡¯s gaze, he offered a soft smile. ¡°Yup. Is your captain ready to entertain a guest of my caliber?¡±


    A soft snort escaped Isane¡¯s lips, humor briefly lighting her eyes. She quickly composed herself, adopting a solemn demeanor fitting for her status in the 4th Squad. ¡°I advise you to act with respect. Captain Unohana will swat you like a fly if you don¡¯t.¡±


    Though many Shinigami remained blissfully unaware, Isane had dug up about the past of her captain. From her days as a nefarious criminal within the Soul Society to her instrumental role in the conflict against Yhwach, Unohana¡¯s abilities were eclipsed only by the Captain Commander himself among the Gotei 13 ranks. She was the First Kenpachi, after all.


    ¡®Kazuya has potential to reach her level.¡¯


    Isane found it puzzling why he''d elected to align himself with them, rather than with squads better suited to unlock his untapped potential. But any fleeting doubts about him harboring ulterior motives were quelled by his close association with Isshin Shiba.


    ¡°You know, Isane, I can¡¯t decide if your captain is benevolent or scary.¡±


    Rather than indulging in describing her captain, Isane simply gestured to the door. ¡°Find it yourself.¡±


    ¡°I suppose.¡±


    They traversed the pristine hallways and ascended the staircases. Ordinary at first, but a definite change enveloped him as they scaled the stairs leading to the third floor, where the Captain¡¯s quarters were located. The ambient Reishi thickened, its texture almost tangible to his senses.


    Isane approached the door, her knuckles rapping against the solid wood. ¡°Captain, do you remember our conversation about the Battle Healer? He is here to meet you.¡±


    Intrigued, he arched an eyebrow. ¡°Seriously? What did you hear?¡±


    ¡°Nanao told me some unsavory details about your relationships but let¡¯s forget about that. Your personal life has no relation to your duties as a Shinigami,¡± she paused and opened her eyes, a dangerous glint flickering in them. ¡°I¡¯m the Captain of Squad 4, Retsu Unohana. Convince me that you¡¯ll be a worthy addition to my family. Then we¡¯ll discuss your dual association to the 10th Squad.¡±


    He certainly didn¡¯t expect Retsu to make such a demand. ¡°How? Throw me a hint.¡±


    Retsu pulled back her sleeve and traced her finger along her wrist. A slender cut materialized following her finger, blood slowly seeping out. "Show me the extent of your Kaido."


    Isane¡¯s hands trembled. ¡°Captain, you could¡¯ve asked me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Isane,¡± Retsu gently said without breaking off eye contact with him. His lack of reaction to her move intrigued her. Most Shinigami would freak out at her display but he remained stern. ¡°Come, before it heals on its own.¡±


    {Come. He will. Inside you. When your heart is still.}


    He moved to sit before her and held his palms over her wound. A gentle green light covered his hands as the wound on Retsu¡¯s hands closed within moments.


    ¡°There, all unblemished. Don¡¯t go cutting yourself for small tests. It makes you look like a freak.¡±


    Her smile barely faltered at his words. ¡°By Shinigami¡¯s standards, you¡¯re the freak, for desiring to join two divisions.¡±


    Isane chuckled then quickly covered her mouth. ¡°I¡¯l gol brew some tea.¡±


    No sooner had Isane¡¯s silhouette vanished beyond the doorway than Retsu fluidly rose, drawing her katana from its sheath that hung on her shoulder with a string. The blade glinted coldly, resting ominously on his shoulder. Her eyes had lost all signs of its previous serenity and motherly gentleness, taking on a sharp, intense, and ruthless glint. Her smile turned into a subtle, sinister smirk that exuded confidence and danger.


    The woman before him wasn¡¯t the captain of the 4th Squad but the ¡®First Kenpachi¡¯ ¡ª the most fierce criminal to ever step foot in the Soul Society.


    ¡°Kazuya Ishihara,¡± she whispered, her blade inching closer to his throat. ¡°Fighting Soi Fon to a draw on your first day in academy, seducing the staff of said academy, then overpowering Soi Fon ¡ª a master of Hakuda ¡ª with your bare hands. Tell me. Who are you and what do you want with Squad 4? What are you scheming?¡±

 Chapter 125: Edge of Conviction

    Chapter 125: Edge of Conviction


    The icy edge of Retsu¡¯s Zanpakuto? grazed Kazuya¡¯s skin, but he remained unmoved, meeting her penetrating gaze with unwavering calm.


    ¡°I am exactly who I say I am. The events you mentioned are merely reflections of my capabilities, not indications of any malicious intent.¡±


    The air between them grew dense, thick enough to cut with a blade. Retsu slowly lowered herself onto one knee. As Yachiru Unohana, she would have severed his vocal cords long before allowing such a discussion to proceed. But she had forsaken that past life, evolving into a woman committed to aiding others.


    ¡°Do you know why Soi Fon wanted to fight me? Because I was smiling to myself during the ceremony,¡± he began, smiling as if the edge of a katana wasn''t pressed against his skin. ¡°You, of all people, should understand her obstinacy.¡±


    His voice, known for its power to sway others, dripped with sincerity. He understood that against someone of Retsu¡¯s caliber, the truth was his best weapon. Her grip on the hilt relaxed ever so slightly ¡ª a validation that he had chosen his strategy wisely.


    ¡°What is your goal behind joining the Gotei 13?¡±


    ¡°You.¡±


    That singular word made her features crease in a puzzled frown. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I desire you, Captain Unohana. I need you more than you could ever imagine.¡±


    She was no stranger to flirtation, but Kazuya¡¯s audacity¡ªto make advances on her under the looming guillotine of her Zanpakuto?¡ªleft her flabbergasted. She was, once again, reminded that she was dealing with the Shin¡¯o Academy¡¯s notorious playboy.


    The thought of her being a nonexistent threat in his eyes never crossed her mind; her faith in her combat prowess was like an unbreakable fortress.


    ¡°Explain or I¡¯ll gut you alive.¡±


    ¡°Take it easy, Captain,¡± he whispered as he cleared his throat and gently gripped the edge of her Zanpakuto?. ¡°I want to be good in Kaido skills. So I can be as efficient and prepared as possible when I find a worthy opponent. Fighting to my heart¡¯s content without worrying about my physical limits ¡ª that¡¯s my plan.¡±


    She could feel the passion and hunger in his voice, and it made her heart throb. However, she maintained control, not letting her dark impulses get the better of her. ¡°Your Kaido is already above average. I assume you desire my mentorship to further improve.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. The true nature of healing. Not just the physical act, but the essence of it. The balance between life and death, and the boundaries that define them.¡± He paused, his eyes becoming focused. ¡°If there¡¯s anyone in Gotei 13 who understands this, it¡¯s you, Captain Unohana.¡±


    Time seemed to freeze as Retsu absorbed his request. Then, with a slow grace, she retracted her blade, the bloodlust in her eyes receding. She sheathed her katana, once again wearing the smile associated with the benevolent captain of the Squad 4.


    ¡°Unfortunately I can¡¯t take you under my wing.¡±


    She genuinely wanted to see him succeed in experiencing his defining battle but she couldn¡¯t aid him. Being around him provoked her instincts, which must not be allowed to surface.


    Kazuya''s eyebrow arched in genuine surprise. ¡°A shame. I thought the ''First Kenpachi'' would understand my situation.¡±


    Isane had outlined the route to the 13th Squad. Despite this, Kazuya found it hard to navigate the place. It was Yoruichi who eventually guided them, relying on her lingering memories of the place.


    Upon their arrival, he instantly spotted an unusual Shinigami duo: a petite young woman sporting a pixie-cut of blonde hair, and a taller man with unruly curls and a short goatee.


    ¡°You big buffoon, Kaien told us to send this letter. We¡¯ll send this letter first then drink,¡± the young woman argued, waving an envelope in the air.


    ¡°Are you a dumbass? We can do it after taking a sip.¡±


    ¡°I said no!¡±


    The tension between them crackled, fueled by a timeless debate over duty versus pleasure, and neither side was willing to budge an inch.


    {You recognize them, don''t you?}


    ¡®Kaien¡¯s idiot subordinates. The girl is Isane¡¯s sister.¡¯


    Approaching them, Kazuya laid his hands gently on their shoulders. ¡°Excuse me, could you direct me to Kaien?¡±


    His soothing voice cut through their squabble like a hot knife through butter. The young woman examined him curiously before her gaze fell on Yoruichi. She waved at Yoruichi with a bright smile. ¡°You have a nice kitty. I¡¯m Kiyone Kotetsu. This meathead is Sentaro Kotsubaki.¡±


    Sentaro''s brow twitched at her introduction. He playfully slapped Kiyone¡¯s back. ¡°Dumbass.¡±


    ¡°Hey! What was that¡ª¡±


    ¡°Kotetsu?¡± Kazuya cut in, preventing them from having another fight. ¡°Are you related to Isane by any chance?¡±


    Kiyone¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°She¡¯s my older sister. How do you know her?¡±


    ¡°Friends. Now, can you take me to Kaien?¡±


    Kiyone smirked and placed her hands on her hips. ¡°Addressing Vice Captain with his first name and without proper honorifics. You two must be friends.¡±


    Given their Captain¡¯s chronic illness, Kaien pretty much managed the entirety of the 13th Squad, even if his subordinates rarely vocalized their respect for him.


    ¡°You can say that.¡±


    With a dramatic flick of her hand, Kiyone pointed toward the door behind her. ¡°Kaien is taking a nap in the garden. Come with me.¡±

 Chapter 126: Fragment

    Chapter 126: Fragment


    While en route to rendezvous with Kaien, Kazuya bumped into a tall, pale-looking man with flowing, white hair. Kazuya¡¯s pulse quickened, and a shudder of excitement charged through his veins. It wasn¡¯t because of the white-haired man¡¯s emaciated looks, but the secret hidden within him. The man carried an organ of the Soul King, and it messed with his mind.


    He controlled himself, suppressing any urges that might alert Ukitake.


    ¡°Kiyone, Sentaro.¡± Jushiro Ukitake greeted his subordinates with a leisurely gait, his friendly smile unwavering even as he faced Kazuya. ¡°And who graces us with their presence?¡±


    ¡°He is...¡± Kiyone blinked, her eyes widening like saucers. ¡°Hey, you didn¡¯t give your name!¡±


    ¡°You got way too distracted by my cat,¡± Kazuya teased with a chuckle. ¡°Well, you can call me Kazuya, written as ¡®Harmony, Peace.¡¯¡±


    {The wind of peace that causes war...}


    Ukitake placed a hand on his chin, his eyes taking on a keen glint. ¡°A long, unruly silver mane and a voice that leaves an unforgettable impression ¡ª Kaien¡¯s depiction of you was spot on.¡±


    Ukitake knew Kaien more than almost everyone, maybe excluding his wife. Underneath the rowdy, blunt exterior lay a man of unparalleled honor and compassion. Thus, a friend of Kaien should, theoretically, have been an ally to Ukitake. However, as he took in Kazuya¡¯s charismatic grin, an ominous feeling tugged at the back of his mind. The silver-haired youth had more going for him than eyes could unveil.


    If Kazuya could peer into the depths of Ukitake¡¯s mind, he¡¯d erupt into a gleeful laugh and commend Ukitake¡¯s perception. After all, he was a Vasto Lorde Arrancar ¡ª the embodiment of everything Gotei 13 stood against.ViiSiit  for latest novels


    His lips curved into a subdued but telling smile. ¡°Kaien talked about me? How intriguing.¡±


    {We told him to stay quiet, but he paid no heed to our warning. How do we punish him? Do we resort to stealing his beloved wife away from him?}


    ¡®Don¡¯t be mean to my friend. Having his and Isshin¡¯s support will help us in the long run.¡¯


    Aizen was a man who executed every strategy as flawlessly and precisely as possible. An alliance with the Shiba Clan introduced countless variables for Aizen if he ever wanted to go after Kazuya. Besides, Aizen¡¯s current priority revolved around experimentation on Hollow.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Ukitake said, chuckling softly. ¡°Your prodigious feats in the Shin¡¯o Academy had every Shinigami whispering. Didn¡¯t expect you to scout our division. I thought you were eyeing a position in the 4th Division.¡±


    Ukitake¡¯s chronic illness didn¡¯t stop him from picking up the rumors from his squad.


    ¡°A prodigy? Kazuya...¡± Sentaro raised a brow. ¡°I remember you. The rookie who went toe-to-toe with Captain Soi Fon!¡±


    Kiyone grinned cheekily. ¡°I get why Nee-san is friends with you. You want to join her squad!¡±


    Kazuya nodded, a hint of impatience creeping onto his face. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    The impatience didn¡¯t go past Ukitake¡¯s keen gaze. He placed a hand on Sentaro and Kiyone¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Kaien gave you a task, right? Prioritize it. I¡¯ll entertain our guest.¡±


    The pair immediately bowed their heads. ¡°Yes, Captain!¡±


    Taking the opportunity to tease Kaien, Kazuya spread his arms wide, and with a melodious giggle, sprinted toward him. ¡°Kaien darling~, did you miss me?¡±


    Kaien¡¯s whole body seemed to quiver, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of his Zanpakuto as if faced with a threat far more dire than even a Vasto Lorde. ¡°Back off, you freak! Don''t come any closer.¡±


    ¡°You wound my heart with your words,¡± Kazuya declared theatrically, his eyes shimmering like shards of crystal as he feigned an agonized expression. ¡°Miyako Nee-san, my pure heart has been shattered to pieces. Your husband is so heartless.¡±


    Miyako couldn¡¯t hold back any longer; she erupted into giggles, her laughter infectious. ¡°I can''t help it. Kaien only has room for me in his heart, I''m afraid.¡±


    Ukitake grinned at the drama. ¡°Things would be different if Kaien wasn¡¯t so entwined with Miyako.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Miyako said with a heavy nod. ¡°I can¡¯t compete with Kazuya¡¯s voice. It¡¯s irrefutably seductive.¡±


    With everyone taking turns teasing him, Kaien couldn¡¯t help but make an exaggerated expression of despair. ¡°Kazuya, what is your business with me?¡±


    ¡°My friend, I¡¯m here for a favor. The same as last time.¡±


    Kaien assumed a serious expression. ¡°Again? Alright come with me. Captain, Miyako, I¡¯ll see you both later.¡±


    ¡°Have fun out there~,¡± Miyako teased, waving her hand at Yoruichi, who sat upon his shoulders. ¡°Cutie cat, take care of these idiots for me.¡±


    Yoruichi nodded her head lazily, much to Ukitake¡¯s surprise. Kaien and Kazuya left the 13th Squad together and ventured outside the Seireitei before they stepped through the Senkaimon. Personal use of the Senkaimon like this was absolutely forbidden, even for Vice-Captains, yet Kaien broke the rule twice. As a man with a loving wife, he understood Kazuya¡¯s plight.


    As they arrived in Karakura Town, Kaien turned to him. ¡°Before you go, one brief question: are you set on the 4th Division?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m also joining the 10th Division. Can¡¯t make Uncle Shiba unhappy.¡±


    Kaien narrowed his eyes. ¡°Two squads. I doubt Captain Unohana¡ª¡± he froze mid-sentence, noticing a knowing grin on Kazuya¡¯s face. ¡°You already convinced her?¡±


    ¡°I was with Captain Unohana before coming to you. She has no problem with me joining both divisions.¡±


    ¡°To make that scary woman share her healer with another squad ¡ª I have no choice but to applaud your way with women. You¡¯re the greatest seducer I¡¯ve ever met.¡±


    Clearing his throat, Kazuya corrected, ¡°I haven¡¯t seduced her... yet.¡±


    Kaien shook his head in exaggeration. ¡°Don¡¯t end up dying at her hands. Your mission is more important.¡±


    As a Vice Captain, he was privy to information most wouldn¡¯t know, including Captain Unohana¡¯s bloodstained past.


    ¡°I know, friend. I know.¡±

 Chapter 127: Hikikomori?

    Chapter 127: Hikikomori?


    {That fool Kaien doesn¡¯t know about your fetish. Partner likes to stick his dick in the crazy.}


    ¡®That will explain my attraction to you.¡¯


    {Fufu. I¡¯m born to take care of my Partner. Born to be irresistible to you.}


    ¡°Ukitake hasn¡¯t changed a bit,¡± Yoruichi whispered after they parted ways with Kaien, bringing up her former Gotei 13 comrade. ¡°If I had to bet my life on one person to believe Aizen¡¯s true nature, it would be Captain Ukitake.¡±


    Kazuya gently tugged at her whiskers. ¡°How much do you know about his disease?¡±


    ¡°How did you know that? Never mind, I keep forgetting about your past.¡± Her eyes flashed as she slapped his intrusive hand away, her claw tips slightly grazing his skin. ¡°Captain Ukitake has been suffering from a lung disease from a very young age. That¡¯s all I know.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡±


    ¡°Your smirk implies you know more than me.¡±


    His contemptuous nature sometimes got under her skin so much that she almost couldn¡¯t resist unleashing her special claw attack on his face.


    ¡°I do know more than you. However, I can¡¯t share it. It¡¯s considered forbidden knowledge.¡±


    As the words left his mouth, he could almost hear Kisuke¡¯s chiding voice in the back of his mind. The forbidden knowledge wasn¡¯t much of a secret among the top brass of the Great Noble Clans. Had Yoruichi indulged her curiosity in her family archives, this conversation would be redundant.


    ¡®Nami, should we infiltrate Shihoin¡¯s library? It might have some useful info.¡¯


    {Agreed. You can also slap your meatstick against her trap little brother. In the wise words of Izanami-no-Makoto: when you get rejected by her sister, you either seduce her mother or her femboy brother.}


    His body recoiled subtly, a visible cringe transforming his expression. ¡®Stop right there, you perv.¡¯


    {Hmph. Heed my wisdom for a heavenly pleasure, or oppose me and suffer in measure.}


    Yoruichi poked his face with her claw. ¡°Forbidden knowledge? Is that secret much more than our relationship?¡±


    Cats were curious creatures, and Yoruichi was a cat through and through, albeit laced with a mature, observant side to her as well.


    ¡°Maybe try seducing me in your other form. This voice isn¡¯t working, Yoruichi.¡±


    With an audacious click of her tongue, she cleared her throat loudly. ¡°How about now? Is this voice better?¡±


    His eyes widened a smidgen. She spoke to him in a voice identical to her human form ¡ª a symphony compared to her grating old man voice.


    He freed himself from Nami¡¯s grasp and drew Apacci into his arms. ¡°Silly Apacci, don¡¯t you find any similarity in our Reiatsu? She is my Zanpakuto? Spirit.¡±


    A veil of confusion clouded Apacci''s eyes for a moment, her pupils dilating and contracting as she processed the information. ¡°I thought your Zanpakuto? Spirit was a bird or something.¡±


    ¡°Evolution, baby!¡± Nami laughed and held Apacci¡¯s hand. ¡°Something you¡¯re most terrible at.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s eyes widened just in time to see Nami dissolve into a ray of dark red flames, curling and unfurling as they shot into the hilt of Kazuya¡¯s katana.


    He rubbed Apacci¡¯s back. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll not leave this time before you¡¯re a Vasto Lorde.¡±


    He had exactly one week. And with Apacci teetering on the brink of transformation, he was confident in his ability to tip the scales. Hearing his promise, her grip tightened on his hand, the words ''thank you'' spoken so softly they were almost lost in the wind.


    Leading her into the living room, he found Mila Rose slouched on the couch. Her unkempt hair covered most of her face, her bra-and-panties attire laying bare the chaos that had been her life during his absence. Absorbed in her own world, she seemed impervious to his arrival.


    {The cheerful lioness became a shut-in. What the actual fuck, Partner?}


    ¡®I¡¯m more surprised than you.¡¯


    Stretching his arm out, he gave Mila Rose¡¯s cheeks a playful pinch. ¡°Rose?¡±


    Her hand slapped his away almost instantaneously. It took her a moment to register his presence; when she did, her eyes flared open and a smile illuminated her face. ¡°You¡¯re back after three months. Busy pounding Shinigami women, right?¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s laughter erupted with unrestrained delight. Kazuya had indeed bedded more than a dozen women. She could¡¯ve stopped his debauchery but he was seducing them with the intent to awaken his Zanpakuto? Spirit. It was a necessary evil to their mission¡¯s success as he wouldn¡¯t progress far in the Gotei 13 without a Zanpakuto?. Well, unless he joined the 11th Division, where raw prowess mattered more than their Zanpakuto? evolution.


    ¡°A lot of shit happened,¡± he said with a shrug. ¡°By the way, I don¡¯t sense Harribel and Sung-Sun around.¡±


    ¡°Sung-Sun went to Lisa¡¯s home. Harribel,¡± Apacci paused, hesitating. ¡°She is at her job.¡±


    He raised an eyebrow, puzzled. ¡°Job? Since when¡ª¡±


    The atmosphere suddenly shifted, everyone sensing an eruption of Reiatsu in the middle of the town. ¡°--What the hell? More than a dozen Hollows?¡±


    He frowned at the numerous presences that suddenly showed up. With the upcoming test in the Karakura Town, he had every reason to believe it was orchestrated by Aizen. ¡°Apacci, I know you want to eat them, but not this time. Can you stay here?¡±


    Apacci groaned. ¡°If Mila Rose stays here with me.¡±


    Mila Rose shrugged, flicking the TV remote to turn off the screen. ¡°I¡¯ve no interest in stomping low-level freaks. Skull and Yoruichi can go.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for understanding, you two. Yoruichi, with me.¡±

 Chapter 128: A Strange Invasion

    Chapter 128: A Strange Invasion


    Kazuya arrived on the scene, wearing a stylish fedora that shaded his features. The hat was more than a fashion choice; it was a discrete measure against any prying Shinigami who might recognize him. As an added measure, he had Yoruichi stealthily hopping from roof to roof instead of walking by his side. Yoruichi was a valuable companion, but her presence could give away his identity.


    A stirring surprise greeted him ¡ª Tier Harribel was already present, her arms tenderly encircling a young girl. The trembling girl was a Plus, the spirit of a deceased person. The Hollows present around the streets would¡¯ve eaten the Plus without the duo of Quincy toying with the Hollows.


    Izumi and a middle-aged man ¡ª whom Kazuya recognized as So?ken ¡ª were systematically maiming them with Reishi arrows. When any Hollow dared to advance, So?ken¡¯s limbs became blurs, executing punches and kicks with unequivocal accuracy. He was utterly decisive, holding off the almost thirty Hollows without killing a single.


    The combat disparity between Izumi and So?ken wasn¡¯t just about their Reiatsu. Soken was far more experienced and versed with Quincy techniques.


    {He is at his peak right now. By the way, Partner, your mommy is looking mighty fine in that outfit.}


    His eyes swiveled toward Harribel, who had traded her regal attire for a more casual one: a white cropped jacket layered stylishly over a midnight black top, her white trousers completing the monochromatic theme. She was confidently showing off her well-sculpted abs.


    ¡®Lisa and Sung-Sun are here.¡¯


    The odd pair of friends arrived, taking on an observant role in the battle. Kisuke, too, observed from a secure distance, his fan veiling whatever thoughts occupied his mind. The only missing piece was the reason for these Hollows¡¯ gathering ¡ª he couldn¡¯t sense any one from Aizen¡¯s faction lurking around.


    ¡®They could be observing through some device.¡¯


    He refused to believe the group of Hollows invaded the Karakura Town on a whim. Low level Hollows only formed organized groups under an Adjuchas¡¯ order but there were no Adjuchas here.


    {This might be done to provoke a response from Visored or Kisuke. We don¡¯t need to act rashly.}


    His eyes widened. Nami¡¯s cautious response had the same energy as a wolf feeding a sheep instead of devouring it ¡ª an impossible feat.


    {I¡¯m merely prioritizing your survival. We aren¡¯t evolved enough to crush Aizen... until we do, we¡¯ll hide and play coward.}


    Something was wrong with Nami, but he kept his thoughts to himself. Izumi, meanwhile, had fully recovered from her leg injury, allowing her to use Blut techniques for both offense and defense. Despite so much firepower, they held back and merely stopped the Hollows from killing others.


    Within ten minutes, a small squad of Shinigami showed up in response to Hollows¡¯ invasion.


    Choosing his moment, Kazuya swiftly led Harribel and the girl into a narrow alley adjacent to the chaos.


    The girl punched his leg. ¡°Bad guy!¡±


    She hesitated for a split second before nodding. ¡°You¡¯ve just returned, and I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Think of it as my first trial as a Shinigami. Aikawa, you¡¯re coming to our home. It¡¯s a mansion this big.¡± He spread his hands wide, smiling sweetly to persuade the young girl. ¡°It also has a pool.¡±


    Aikawa''s eyes sparkled, her previous hesitations all but forgotten. ¡°Woah. Yeah!¡±


    ¡°Nice. Lisa, I might need your help.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s brows knitted together, caught off guard by his request. She had long distanced herself from any Shinigami duty, and suddenly being asked to assist in purification felt like stepping back into the world she left behind. Still, she nodded, albeit reluctantly. ¡°Lisa-senpai will help her Kouhai.¡±


    He grinned, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "Well, considering our respective ages, you wouldn¡¯t be my senpai but my great granny."


    Lisa let out a broken laugh. ¡°I¡¯ll fucking kill you.¡±


    Sung-Sun cupped her. ¡°Oh no. My friend wants to kill my husband and make me a widow. What should I do?¡±


    {Simple. You kill your friend.}


    ...


    ¡°You, Quincy, are you behind summoning the Hollows?¡±


    Izumi¡¯s eyes were clouded with the exhaustions of relentless battle. Her muscles ached; her spirit felt like it had been wrung out. So when the leader of the Shinigami squad accused her without a shred of evidence, something inside her snapped.


    ¡°Why yes. I was feeling lonely. So, I invited these Hollows to dine with me. You can detain me for colluding with the residents of Hueco Mundo.¡± She raised her hand, gesturing to the Shinigami to handcuff her. ¡°Go ahead and arrest me.¡±


    Every Shinigami stifled a laugh except for their frowning squad leader. ¡°You¡¯re crazy.¡±


    So?ken, who stood beside Izumi, shook his head. ¡°Please forgive her words. We¡¯re as baffled by the sudden Hollow activity as you are.¡±


    The Shinigami leader glared at Izumi. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll overlook this¡ªjust this once¡ªgiven your efforts. Alright, men. We are retreating.¡±


    As the Shinigami stepped into the Senkaimon and Izumi left in a huff, So?ken let out a sigh. ¡°The Hollow bait wasn¡¯t this effective. What caused this?¡±

 Chapter 129: The Calm Before the Storm

    Chapter 129: The Calm Before the Storm


    A/N: Forgot to add Harribel¡¯s new outfit in the last chapter.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    ...


    As the door creaked open with a note of foreboding, Mila Rose found herself staring at Kazuya. ¡°Gosh, he brought a new girl home.¡±


    Apacci shrugged her shoulders. "She''s not a woman, you dimwit. I see them all the time outside¡ªoh right, you never go outside!¡±


    She pointed a finger at Mila Rose and erupted into laughter. The biting scorn rattled Mila Rose to her core, causing her teeth to grind in suppressed fury. With a roar of pent-up frustration, she jumped off the couch and dashed up the stairs, vanishing into the sanctuary of her room like a wounded animal.


    ¡°There she goes.¡± Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Jeez, Mila Rose was already feeling depressed. You kicked her mood all the way down to the abyss. It¡¯s not right.¡±


    Sung-Sun nodded her head in somber agreement. ¡°That was truly mean, Apacci. Husband, why don¡¯t you spend some time with Rose later?¡±


    His absence had an undeniable effect on Mila Rose¡¯s psyche, despite what the lioness claimed. A sprinkle of his affectionate teasing would certainly uplift Mila Rose¡¯s mood.


    Mimicking Lisa, Aikawa looked at Apacci with pure disdain in her eyes. ¡°Evil Onee-chan. Bullying is bad!¡±


    Harribel flicked Aikawa¡¯s forehead. ¡°You aren¡¯t innocent either. Remember what you did to children at the school.¡±


    ¡°Ugh...¡± she averted her gaze. ¡°I-I was bored of waiting.¡±


    He chuckled at their banter and gestured to Apacci to leave with Aikawa. She didn¡¯t resist and dragged the mischievous little girl to her room. Once everything was set, he invited everyone to take a seat.


    ¡°Tier, let¡¯s talk about your job. I take it you work at a school. In what capacity?¡±Ree?ad latest novels at novelhall.com


    With her arms elegantly crossed and a hint of a smile gracing her lips, Tier Harribel revealed, ¡°A teacher at an elementary school.¡±


    Spending time with kids and nurturing them ¡ª she landed her dream job while he was banging his teachers and senior students to find a solution for his Zanpakuto?¡¯s problem. Just the thought of Harribel fulfilling her desires made him smile.


    He revealed a smile at the exchange. ¡°Don¡¯t be like that, Sung-Sun. You know how much I cherish Izumi. I¡¯d be mad if anyone hid her status from me.¡±


    Lisa returned his smile with a sly grin. ¡°Yeah, Kouhai. It¡¯s up to you to fix Izumi. How about we make a deal? You take care of my employer and I¡¯ll deal with the child you brought. I promise the kid will pass onto the Soul Society with zero regrets.¡±


    ¡°Deal.¡±


    {She scammed herself. Silly pervert.}


    Harribel looked intrigued with their arrangement. Unlike Kazuya, Lisa was a Shinigami with decades of experience. She could rest assured that Aikawa would get her proper send-off to the afterlife.


    ¡°By the way, I want you all to meet Izanami.¡±


    At his beckoning, his Zanpakuto? Spirit materialized before them, capturing their attention as though she were a rare, enchanting creature. Far from shrinking under their gazes, Nami puffed out her chest and smirked. ¡°Ahhh~, Partner. You have a nasty kink of showing off your soulmate like a commodity.¡±


    ¡°You are a commodity, my sword.¡±


    ¡°Awww, can''t I just be your trusty kitchen knife instead? That way I can justify a massacre in the name of thinning out my competition.¡±


    ¡°Hell no.¡±


    Lisa adjusted her glasses with an imperceptible smirk. ¡°The chances of a man having a female Zanpakuto? Spirit is quite slim. You willed her into existence with your sheer lust.¡±


    Sung-Sun couldn¡¯t help but giggle. ¡°That¡¯s my adorable husband for you.¡±


    Nami licked her lips deviantly. ¡°Partner is a man of focus, commitment, and sheer fucking will. And fuck him I will.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Sung-Sun turned to Harribel. ¡°Any words for your favorite egg?¡±


    Harribel crossed her arms with a complicated look. She had nurtured Nami''s egg as if it were her own flesh and blood. Now, witnessing Nami as a full-grown Zanpakuto? Spirit made her recall all the fond memories of Heuco Mundo. ¡°Welcome to family, Izanami.¡±


    Nami smiled at the warm welcome. ¡°You can call me Nami. Thank you for protecting me during my most fragile phase, Mama Harribel.¡±


    Suddenly, Apacci dashed down the stairs, her Reiatsu leaking through her Gigai. ¡°Mila Rose and Cirucci¡ªthey disappeared!¡±

 Chapter 130-131: The Hunt

    Chapter 130-131: The Hunt


    Cirucci cast her eyes over the desolate expanse of Hueco Mundo, a landscape so barren it mirrored the ghost towns of her memories. Time had left no marks here, and the void around her offered no reason to return here. She turned her gaze to her companion, Franceska Mila Rose, who was passionately assaulting a mountain with fierce slashes of her sword ¡ª the woman responsible for dragging her back into this abyss.


    ¡°Franceska, this isn¡¯t right. We have to go back.¡±


    With a fierce swing, Mila Rose cleaved a boulder in half and buried the blade of her Zanpakuto? into the ashen earth. ¡°No, let me enjoy freedom.¡±


    ¡°Why? What happened? Did Kazuya say something?¡±


    ¡°Him? No. He¡¯d never...¡± Mila Rose shook her head. ¡°Forget about it. We¡¯re in Hueco Mundo. Let¡¯s go kill some fucking Hollows.¡±


    Cirucci shrugged nonchalantly. ¡°Don¡¯t expect my assistance when Leader drags your ass back to the Living World.¡± Given Kazuya¡¯s protective disposition, she knew he''d come in search of Mila Rose sooner than later, and punishment was not beyond the realm of possibility. ¡°I fucking hope he spanks you for your childishness.¡±


    Mila Rose chuckled darkly. ¡°Let him come. I¡¯ll whoop his ass.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Friend. Good luck fighting the King of Arrancars.¡±


    ¡°No, he is just a prince. I¡¯ll be the Queen of Hollows,¡± she roared at the top of her lungs and raised her sword, as if challenging the gods residing beyond the veil of darkness. ¡°I¡¯ll kill that bitch sitting upon the throne and claim it for myself. I¡¯ll be the Empress of this land.¡±


    Her declaration reverberated across the desolate plains.


    Rolling her eyes, Cirucci couldn''t help but massage her temples. ¡°For the love of... don¡¯t you remember our Leader¡¯s warning about the Hollow hunter?¡±


    Mila Rose tightened her grip on her sword and smirked. ¡°I¡¯m not scared. They are¡ª¡±


    A clamorous laughter erupted through the air, interrupting their banter. Emerging on a distant cliff was a Hollow, his presence so imposing it couldn''t be ignored. ¡°Did you hear that, Brother Grimmjow? This woman wants to be the Queen of Hueco Mundo?¡±


    This Hollow, humanoid yet bestial, possessed a bull-like visage, complete with a gaping Hollow hole in his abdomen. His long blonde mane flowed behind him, and his large, armored shoulders and menacing horns only added to his fearsome appearance.


    A second Hollow materialized beside the first, skeletal in his lanky physique. He wore a mask akin to the medieval knights, complete with a lengthy claw-tail extending from the back of his head. ¡°The commoner¡¯s dream is a castle in the air, while a true king will raise his kingdom from nothing but a stone.¡±


    Another Adjuchas made his way to join the duo, a sand-worm behemoth sporting a crested head reminiscent of a hammerhead shark. ¡°We all know Grimmjow is the True King. His ascension is just a matter of time.¡±


    That wasn¡¯t all as two more Hollows materialized. The first boasted a crown of fiery red hair, a robust torso, and pauldrons that extended above his shoulders in the shape of wings. His lower body was swathed in a thick coat of fur. The second was an imposing Gillian, towering above all, his mask and Reiatsu betraying his Adjuchas status despite his appearance.


    Together, they emanated an overpowering Reiatsu that could single-handedly crush a Gillian. That is, until their leader emerged, stepping out onto the cliff¡¯s edge. A white panther, his eyes aglow with an ethereal blue light, stared down Mila Rose. His spiritual pressure was nearly on par with Apacci in her base form; he was one step away from achieving the Vasto Lorde level that Apacci craved.


    ¡°What are you?¡± Grimmjow asked, or rather demanded, to know the nature of Mila Rose''s existence. ¡°You¡¯re clearly an Adjuchas but why do you look like that? Your presence is like that Shinigami I devoured years ago. It¡¯s repulsive.¡±


    Grimmjow was a tad confused. He had never seen an Arrancar or ever heard about them. His group shared his ignorance.


    Closing his eyes, Grimmjow muttered an indifferent acknowledgment. ¡°Do whatever the fuck you want.¡±


    Yylfordt bent his body forward and clawed the ground, preparing to charge like those bulls Mila Rose had seen in cartoons. A yellow Reiatsu surrounded him as his already colossal form burgeoned further. ¡°My horns will impale anything.¡±


    Roaring, he catapulted forward like a juggernaut clad in raw fury.


    Mila Rose, the embodiment of untamed ferocity, let her sword plummet to the ground. Leaning forward, she charged at him. No Soni?do. No weapon. Only raw speed born from her muscles.


    The ensuing collision was cataclysmic, the Hollow and Arrancar crashing into each other with the force of titans. Their impact birthed a seismic shockwave, churning the very sands into swirling tempests.


    When the sandy haze cleared, Mila Rose stood victorious, her golden mane dancing in the wind, embodying her Zanpakuto?¡¯s name ¡®Golden Lion General.¡¯ Yylfordt lay on the ground, his armor shattered and his once-imposing mask now fractured alongside his horns. Blood dripped from his head, lending his hair an eerie hue. As he feebly attempted to rise, it became evident: his Reiatsu was leaking through the wounds ¡ª he had no way of surviving.


    ¡°Damn you... to the abyss,¡± he rasped. ¡°Fuck... I should¡¯ve... listened.¡±


    A wide smirk made its way to Mila Rose¡¯s face. ¡®Will Skull like this?¡¯


    Her first thought wasn''t of finishing off her foe, but of sharing her hunt with Kazuya. She unconsciously realized the last shard missing from her life ¡ª the void that television and games could hardly fill ¡ª was the elation of hunting and sharing her prey with Kazuya.


    ¡®Wait, why would I... for a surprise gift! Yeah, a gift. It all makes sense.¡¯


    She chalked her strange thoughts to something else entirely and focused on the dying Yylfordt. ¡°A pity your Reiatsu couldn¡¯t keep up with me, or the outcome could¡¯ve been different. Tell me your name. I¡¯m gonna put your name in my hall of memories.¡±


    ¡°Yylfordt!¡± ¡°Yylfordt!¡± ¡°Granz!¡± His companions converged upon Yylfordt¡¯s fading form, each gasp of breath reminding them of the camaraderie shared for decades, perhaps even a century. The sight of their fallen friend stoked the inferno of their rage. Even Shawlong, the calmest among them, couldn¡¯t suppress a venomous glare aimed squarely at Mila Rose.


    Cirucci rushed to Mila Rose¡¯s side and passed Mila Rose¡¯s sword back to her. Her purple eyes scanned the four Adjuchas who seemed eager to rip Mila Rose to shreds. ¡°Franceska, pick your two.¡±


    ¡°Hehe. I want the Mask and that red-haired guy.¡±


    ¡°Deal.¡±


    Edward Liones'' fists tightened, raw fury seething in his eyes. He couldn¡¯t fault the women for dismissing their strength, especially after Mila Rose decimated Yylfordt, the second strongest of their group. Still, he lunged toward Cirucci, outstretching his bare hand. ¡°You¡ª¡±


    A vivid burst of pink light illuminated the air, just as Cirucci¡¯s tailblade, pulsating with a life of its own, sliced through Edward¡¯s wrist with the effortless grace of a knife gliding through softened butter. A geyser of blood erupted in its wake, splattering in dark contrast against the white sand. Edward¡¯s severed hand plummeted to the ground. ¡°Ahhh! Mother¡ª I''ll kill you,¡± Edward roared, his voice a mixture of agony and fury.


    Suppressing a triumphant smirk that was itching to spread across her lips, Cirucci steeled her resolve, acutely aware of the consequences and dangers of arrogance. The defeat at the hands of Kazuya was fresh in her mind. With a deadly lunge powered by, she hurled herself at Edward. Her tail sliced through the air, the vibrating pink blade swinging towards the vulnerable flesh of his neck. ¡°Die!¡±


    In the face of inevitable death, Edward¡¯s eyes ballooned with terror. As he willed his body to move, a sonic boom shattered the eerie silence of the battlefield. Grimmjow materialized by his friend¡¯s side, his jaws agape, poised to sever Cirucci¡¯s tail from the roots.


    At the same time, Mila Rose closed the gap between them and slashed Grimmjow¡¯s face with her sword.


    Detecting the imminent threat, Grimmjow summoned the explosive velocity of Soni?do, his form becoming a blur. Yet, he was a second too late. The sword tore through not only the pristine layer of his white armor but also grazed his face. On the other side, Edward¡¯s head descended in a tragic arc. His headless form remained momentarily upright before it staggered into eternal rest.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Cirucci exhaled, her voice tinged with a rare note of gratitude. Had it not been for Mila Rose¡¯s well-timed assistance, she would have lost her last source of offense ¡ª her tail. ¡°Let¡¯s kill ¡®em all and return to Leader.¡±


    Shouldering her blade with a flourish, Mila Rose cast a predatory grin toward the trio of Adjuchas, their forms almost paralyzed from the events unfolding before them. ¡°You¡¯ll make a fine return gift for my dear friend Skull.¡±


    Just as she took a swaggering step toward her terrified prey, an overwhelming tide of Reiatsu slammed into her senses. Pivoting slowly, she found the source of this spiritual energy: Grimmjow, now enveloped in an awe-inspiring aura of sky-blue luminescence.


    ¡°Fuck.¡±


    Grimmjow was undergoing a transformation that, by now, was all too familiar to her ¡ª a metamorphosis made possible through suffering and violence ¡ª Arrancarification.

 Chapter 132: Battle of Instincts

    Chapter 132: Battle of Instincts


    Mila Rose¡¯s lips curled into a devilish smirk. Grimmjow¡¯s transformation was more a boon than a threat. The Adjuchas were child¡¯s play for her as she could insta-kill them all. However, the evolving Grimmjow had the potential to be her next great hunt ¡ª an even worthier present for Kazuya.


    With Cirucci and Mila Rose distracted, the three Adjuchas retreated, only to pause. A sudden shift in Reiatsu permeated the area. The Reiatsu emanating from Grimmjow became a dual-natured blend of Hollow and Shinigami ¡ª the quintessential signature of an Arrancar.


    Grimmjow let out a ferocious roar. The lingering clouds of sand around him dissipated, revealing his metamorphosed form. His newly formed white armor ¡ª his enhanced Hierro ¡ª gleamed ominously under the moonlight. A shard of his Hollow mask covered his forehead, and his extended ears, whip-like tail, and black claws served as unmistakable traces of his previous panther form.


    Straightening up, Grimmjow grinned as he examined his black claws and the blades on his forearms. The same blades protruded from his calves, gleaming with ferocity ¡ª perhaps the most striking features of his Resurreccio?n. He flexed his claws and swiped the air, reveling in his newfound power. He felt invincible. That is, until his eyes fell upon the corpses of his fallen comrades.


    ¡®Those idiots.¡¯


    All his empathy vanished as he recalled their deaths. They weren¡¯t able to grow through grueling battles, to rise from the ashes as he had. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have entrusted him with their dream of becoming a Vasto Lorde.


    ¡®I¡¯ll still avenge them.¡¯


    Looking at Mila Rose, he said, ¡°Woman, what was your name?¡±


    ¡°Franceska Mila Rose,¡± she replied, licking her lips. ¡°You¡¯re finally a worthy hunt.¡±


    Grimmjow''s fangs flashed as he grinned. ¡°Long and idiotic, just like your face. I¡¯ll call you Dead Rose ¡®cause you¡¯re not surviving me.¡±


    Mila Rose pointed at him with her Zanpakuto, her eyes narrowing with a smirk. ¡°Try me, Kidjow.¡±


    With a maniacal laugh, Grimmjow exploded forward, leaving a rippling vacuum of distorted air in his wake. Mila Rose could barely react to astonishing speed, her eyes narrowing as she brought up her Zanpakuto to parry. When their blades clashed, the resultant burst of Reiatsu was so intense it screeched through the air. The sparks created illuminating the dark like firecrackers on a moonless night.


    Grimmjow crouched low and swiped his claws at her legs, prompting Mila Rose to leap back. She saw Grimmjow¡¯s companions watching the battle with full focus and Cirucci creeping around their back to assassinate them.


    Her attention fractured for a split second ¡ª a crucial mistake against a predator such as Grimmjow. With an explosive burst of speed, his leg rocketed upwards, his foot aiming square at her face. She raised her arm just in time to block, but the sheer force catapulted her towards the moon.


    The small opening wasn¡¯t unmissed as Grimmjow launched a flurry of claw attacks. It was an onslaught without rhyme or reason, an assault based on his instincts. He was fighting like a beast ¡ª a style similar to her own. The only difference was the strength ¡ª every blow from him was filled with raw, explosive power that Mila Rose would never have guessed could come from an Adjuchas-level Arrancar. She found herself reflexively dodging kicks that felt like they could pulverize her body and swiping away at claws that could easily rip through her body.


    It began to dawn on her why Apacci and Sung-Sun persistently raved about Nelliel¡¯s talent. The man before her was the same kind of person as Nelliel ¡ª a prodigy.


    Just as she had begun to adapt to his frenzied pattern, he froze, locking his gaze onto her. Confusion trickled through her veins, but her instincts screamed at her to seize the window of opportunity. Swinging her sword at his neck, she didn¡¯t notice the ephemeral flicker of crimson light that danced on his right claw.


    He caught her sword with his forearm blade, a grin splitting his face. ¡°Got you.¡±


    An eruption of crimson Reiatsu burst forth from his claw, blossoming into a devastating Cero Ray that engulfed her. When the blinding light dissipated, Mila Rose was revealed, her arm raised defensively, her gloves scorched. Apart from scratches, she was largely unharmed.


    ¡°Why are you gawking? You aren¡¯t the only one with Hierro, dumbass.¡±


    While not as strong as Grimmjow, her Hierro was more than capable of defending a rushed Cero Ray.


    Grimmjow burst into laughter. ¡°You¡¯re making me work for my meal. Perfect for me. Means we can fight for longer.¡±


    Undeterred, Mila Rose lunged forward, slashing her broadsword in a deadly arc aimed at his face. He dodged effortlessly, but she was relentless. "You might be strong, asshole. But do you know who¡¯s even stronger?¡±


    Pinning her sword between his forearm blades, he sneered as he closed the gap. ¡°The Lord that other Arrancar mentioned?¡±


    ¡°Yup. He can obliterate us both without lifting a finger.¡±


    Grimmjow¡¯s eyes flared with battle lust. ¡°Bring him to me. You¡¯ll see him bite the dust with your own eyes¡ª¡±


    ¡°Are you sure about that?¡±


    The playful voice that cut Grimmjow¡¯s boasting carried a distinct charm; it was followed by a chaotic disruption in the space as a Garganta formed behind them.

 Chapter 133-134: Heart

    Chapter 133-134: Heart


    Kazuya didn¡¯t expect Grimmjow, in his Resurreccio?n, to face off against his precious lioness. The sight of two dead Adjuchas, three Adjuchas standing on the side, and Grimmjow¡¯s battle with Mila Rose painted a vivid picture of the conflict in his mind. This unexpected wrinkle complicated his plans to recruit Grimmjow, who could have proven a potent ally in fortifying Harribel¡¯s future kingdom. After all, Grimmjow¡¯s single, insatiable craving was for battling strong foes, and he had no shortage of strong people, whether it was Shinigami, Visored, or Arrancars.


    He was the perfect muscle to work for Harribel.


    ¡®Just need to find Starrk, and Aizen¡¯s top three Espada won¡¯t be with him.¡¯


    {Not like it¡¯ll weaken Aizen. The Espada were useless in his plan.}


    Even though the Espada boasted power beyond the Captains, the Espada had been woefully ineffective during Aizen¡¯s invasion of Karakura Town. Ultimately, Aizen had to take on multiple Captains by himself.


    ¡®Don¡¯t call my Tier useless.¡¯


    {What about Ulquiorra? Will you shelter your distant relative from Aizen¡¯s manipulations?}


    ¡®Will decide after I find him.¡¯


    The vastness of Hueco Mundo presented its own challenges in tracking down the Hollows on his recruitment shortlist, which included the ''heartless'' Ulquiorra.


    Just then, Grimmjow gestured towards him, erupting into raucous laughter. ¡°Gorilla woman, you vouched for this silly fucker. He doesn¡¯t even have any Reiatsu¡ª¡±


    Kazuya unleashed seventy percent of his Reiatsu, aiming it squarely at Grimmjow. Considering his meteoric ascent in spiritual power, even a Vasto Lorde would be hard-pressed to endure the full weight of his aura.


    Grimmjow¡¯s thoughts scrambled as he momentarily lost control of his Reiatsu, causing him to plummet towards the desolate ground below. But in a triumph of sheer will, he managed to rise to one knee, his teeth clenched and eyes aflame with a mad intensity. ¡°I¡¯ll... I vowed to be King... Damn it, I won¡¯t lower¡ª¡±


    A smirk of genuine amusement danced on Kazuya¡¯s lips as he dialed up his spiritual pressure. ¡°Jeez. Go to sleep. I¡¯ve got more pressing matters.¡±


    Summoning the full magnitude of his Reiatsu, he dispatched Grimmjow into the gentle embrace of unconsciousness. Then he gazed upon the lioness who seemed to be going through her rebellion phase.


    Mila Rose placed her broadsword on her shoulder and let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°This dumb brat. You couldn¡¯t feel Skull¡¯s Reiatsu because he is far above your league.¡± She swiveled towards Kazuya and gestured towards the lifeless Yylfordt with a glint of pride in her eyes. ¡°Since you never brought me a present, I thought I¡¯d do something special for you. Here it is, a fresh Adjuchas soul.¡±


    Caught off guard, Kazuya found himself momentarily at a loss for words. But the look of sheer triumph etched onto Mila Rose''s face elicited a chuckle from him. ¡°Ah, thanks, I suppose.¡±


    {She did the Hollow equivalent of giving her crush chocolate.}


    ¡®I can¡¯t even argue against that.¡¯


    Mila Rose¡¯s eyes sparkled with a sense of keen anticipation, practically urging him to consume the Adjuchas right then and there. The wrinkle in this scenario, of course, was that Kazuya was far from being a seasoned devourer of Hollows like his deer wife; he had yet to consume a Hollow. His passive Reiatsu growth boosted his strength with no effort from his side. He had no incentive to eat Hollows.


    {One can say you¡¯re a virgin Hollow. We both are, as a matter of fact.}


    ¡®When did you pick up dad jokes?¡¯


    {Three months of isolation... I may be schizophrenic. Partner, don¡¯t hate me if I start acting differently... or I¡¯ll tie you up in your Inner World.}


    With a quizzical shake of his head, Kazuya descended toward Yylfordt¡¯s body. Mila Rose and Cirucci made a synchronized landing beside him, while Grimmjow¡¯s allies began a frenzied inspection of their fallen comrade.


    ¡°Don''t even think about leaving,¡± Kazuya warned them before looking at Yylfordt''s lifeless frame. The grand, bull-like Hollow had a bright future as an Arrancar, a potential that was eradicated the moment he thought about devouring Mila Rose. ¡°Here goes nothing.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to force yourself,¡± Cirucci said, sensing his discomfort. She showed no qualms about Mila Rose¡¯s sudden obsession with forcing him to eat Hollows. ¡°I can do it for you.¡±


    Cirucci was determined not to let Yylfordt¡¯s corpse stay here, no matter the cost. After all, he carried the last name ¡®Granz¡¯, which belonged to Szayeloporro. The mad scientist wouldn¡¯t hesitate to experiment on even his brother should he get his hands on the corpse.


    Mila Rose¡¯s eyes contracted into a scorching glare, her feral fangs unsheathed for full effect. ¡°The choice is yours.¡±


    Yet the raw intensity of her voice and her battle-ready posture defied the notion of any real choice. She¡¯d surely hold a grudge against him if he rejected her. That much was certain.


    Grimmjow¡¯s reaction came as a surprise to no one.


    {Destined to be a King ¡ª as far as I know, his friends have inflated his ego.}


    Kazuya tilted his head. ¡°Let me reiterate my condition. You¡¯ll get to fight strong people.¡±


    Unconcealed battle lust sparked in Grimmjow¡¯s eyes. ¡°Hueco Mundo doesn¡¯t lack strong Hollows. We have Barragan sitting at the top and many Vasto Lorde in Las Noches.¡±


    ¡°Barragan who?¡± Cirucci burst into laughter. ¡°That old bag of bones crumbled under Leader¡¯s power. He is the strongest Hollow you can find today.¡±


    Kazuya smiled at Cirucci¡¯s eagerness to assist him. ¡°Grimmjow, it¡¯s up to you to decide the fate of yourself and your friends.¡±


    A conflicted expression flashed across Grimmjow¡¯s features. Almost involuntarily, his eyes sought out his friends. Shaolong shook his head wearily. Di Roy averted his gaze. Nakeem solemnly closed his eyes. Their silence conveyed the message louder than words ¡ª they had collectively consigned their fates to his judgment.


    Grimmjow rubbed the back of his head. ¡°Fuck. I¡¯ll work for you. What do I have to do?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s smile turned mischievous. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Grimmjow''s face twisted, already looking as if he regretted accepting the offer.


    ...


    ¡°Franceska!¡± Apacci rushed down the stairs the moment Mila Rose set foot inside the mansion. Seeing Mila Rose in person filled her with relief. ¡°Why did you take so long?¡±


    Kazuya shrugged in response. Persuading the shady shopkeeper to keep Grimmjow¡¯s group took some decent time. ¡°Ran into some problems on the way. It¡¯s all fine now.¡±


    Mila Rose gave a cheeky grin. ¡°Got anything to say, Chief Apacci?¡±


    ¡°Fuck you,¡± Apacci hissed. ¡°And sorry. I was a little mean. Happy?¡±


    Elation radiated from Mila Rose as she planted her hands defiantly on her hips, savoring her victorious moment like a queen relishing her conquest. She then shifted her posture, placing a hand on Apacci¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m also sorry for becoming a pathetic piece of trash.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s eyes flickered with surprise. ¡°You know you were being a pain in the ass. Why make me apologize then?!¡±


    ¡°Cause it was fun!¡± Mila Rose slapped Apacci¡¯s belly heartily and dashed the stairs. She paused and looked over her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m gonna dive in the pool. Anyone joining me?¡±


    Apacci flipped her middle finger. ¡°Drown yourself, you dumbass.¡±


    Unperturbed, Mila Rose''s laughter reverberated through the halls as she bolted towards her room, a whirlwind of infectious energy. Kazuya couldn¡¯t be happier to see her back to her golden retriever self. Mila Rose¡¯s trip to Hueco Mundo worked out better than he could have anticipated.


    Sung-Sun glided into the scene, her laughter muffled by an oversized sleeve delicately pressed to her lips. ¡°What a lovely family we have, or should I call it ¡®Hollow Prince¡¯s Personal Harem¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s stick to family,¡± Cirucci said, breezing past Sung-Sun before doubling back toward Kazuya. ¡°Fuck, Leader. I forgot to inform you about Nelliel. Grimmjow said he tried to fight her but she escaped from him.¡±


    The notion of Nelliel dodging a combat encounter caused Kazuya to shake his head incredulously. ¡°I can¡¯t blame her for running. Grimmjow¡¯s group is a scary bunch to fight alone, even for a Vasto Lorde.¡±


    ¡°A bunch of hyenas led by a rogue panther,¡± Cirucci murmured with a hint of condescension in her tone. ¡°Can you check up on Nelliel just in case?¡±


    ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll leave after an hour.¡±


    {Let¡¯s look for Starrk while we¡¯re there.}


    ¡®Yeah.¡¯Ree?ad latest novels at novelhall.com

 Chapter 135: The Death

    Chapter 135: The Death


    Nelliel hadn''t forgotten her oath to Kazuya. In order to honor her vow, she didn¡¯t have to just value her life but also thrive in the treacherous landscape of Hueco Mundo. By virtue of her strength, she had overcome all hostile forces except for one harrowing encounter with a group of battle-hungry Adjuchas that forced her to flee.


    Today, fortune seemed to favor her with a bizarre discovery ¡ª a sprawling cave that burrowed deep into the Hueco Mundo. Amidst the plethora of crumbling ruins that littered this realm, none ventured so deep below the ground as the one before her.


    ¡®Perhaps I¡¯ll stumble upon another treasure here.¡¯


    She had come across her lance in one of the ruins. The promise of another treasure led her deep within the ¡®abyss.¡¯ Towering, skeletal trees pierced the inky darkness around her. But any wonder at the surreal underground forest was quickly swallowed by the clamor of battle that reverberated through the still air. Her steps hesitated momentarily, until she sensed an anomaly ¡ª a Reiatsu both piercing and sinister, an energy signature that neither belonged to Hollow or Shinigami.


    Drawn as if by a magnetic pull, she pressed on, each step accompanied by the torturous cries of Hollows, their voices thick with an unsettling terror and despair. These lamentations roused something primal within her, propelling her forward with redoubled urgency.


    She arrived at a tunnel more ominous than any she¡¯d seen, a maw bathed in an impenetrable darkness. Suddenly, the cries faded, replaced with a silence so absolute, it seemed as if the very air had been sucked away..


    ¡®They all... died.¡¯


    Nelliel galloped into the dark expanse. A nauseating waft of blood enveloped the cave, coming from the Gillians¡¯ corpses haphazardly strewn about the place. Death was everywhere, and it weighed her down with sorrow.


    ¡°It depends on who is asking. Is it the man who served the Gotei 13¡¯s soldier or the beast sharpening his fangs by living among monsters?¡±


    ¡°...Both are me.¡±


    ¡°For the Shinigami, I¡¯m Muramasa, a Zanpakuto? Spirit serving Koga Kuchiki. For the beast, I¡¯m a lost traveler crawling in the desert in search of an oasis.¡± He spread his arms, and his fingernails uncurled with audible clacks. ¡°A crimson oasis of Hollow flesh and blood. These vile creatures... they¡¯ll quench my thirst and satiate my hunger. The Hueco Mundo will become my banquet.¡±


    Ashido loosened the grip on his katana. ¡°Slaughter them as you wish. I¡¯ll not stop you.¡±


    He leaped towards a platform near the ceiling and disappeared into a cave.


    Muramasa didn¡¯t stop Ashido. Fighting a Shinigami, especially one close to Vice-Captain level, would have been an effortless task in his peak form. However, centuries of separation from his Master had deteriorated his strength. He could still use his abilities to make a Shinigami¡¯s Zanpakuto? rebel but it just wasn¡¯t worth it at the moment.


    Ashido¡¯s departure was the best case scenario for Nelliel as she didn¡¯t have to fight two opponents at the same time. However, she wasn''t relieved. Her mind was hung up on Muramasa casually revealing his plan to slaughter all the Hollows in Hueco Mundo. She felt a visceral stir within her core. Her very spiritual energy flared up and recoiled at the thought of his pure evil. Unaware of the raw, intense emotions pushing her Reiatsu past her natural limits, she continued glaring at Muramasa.


    ¡°You will not kill anyone... I¡¯ll kill you.¡±Yo?ur favorite stories at novelhall.com

 Chapter 136-137: The Highs of Power

    Chapter 136-137: The Highs of Power


    The imposing throne of Las Noches stood vacant, yet Loly Aivirrne found solace without sitting upon it. The man who had overtaken her throne was a domineeringly powerful and wise ruler, so intoxicating that she would willingly lay down her life for him. He¡¯d be a flawless master, if it weren''t for his one glaring shortcoming ¡ª his prolonged absences that stretched over months.


    The monumental doors to the throne room swung open, and a group of people sauntered in. Spearheading this trio was a man with dark skin and black braids cascading down his shoulders. Despite wearing clear goggles, he kept his eyes closed. His identity would be glaringly obvious to any member of the Gotei 13 ¡ª Kaname Tosen, the esteemed Captain of their 9th Squad.


    Trailing respectfully behind Tosen were Menoly and an imposing giant with tanned skin clad in standardized white uniform issued to the Arrancar subservient to Aizen. Four menacing ridges etched onto his bald skull, and a black ponytail hung low from the back of his head. What remains of his Hollow mask was the jawbone resting on his chin.


    Yammy Llargo, #10 Espada, observed Loly with a fury in his eyes. ¡°Why do we tolerate her at all?¡±


    The fact that Loly, whom he considered fodder-level Arrancar, held a higher rank bothered him a great deal. He would have killed Loly if not for Tosen¡¯s prior warning to maintain order.


    Menoly took a step away from Yammy¡¯s bursting Reiatsu and looked at Loly, who hardly resembled the sadistic woman who constantly abused and harassed her for no reason. ¡°Wow...¡±


    ¡°Tosen, I¡¯m asking you.¡±


    ¡°Her loyalty serves us well,¡± Tosen responded cryptically. While Aizen brewed chaos within the Soul Society and the Living World, it fell upon someone to keep the roiling sea of Hollows in check. Loly served as an ideal puppet to fulfill those responsibilities.


    Yammy scoffed disdainfully. ¡°That¡¯s not loyalty; that¡¯s pure lust.¡±


    ¡°Nobody said Hollows aren¡¯t allowed¡ªwhat was that?!¡±


    An earth-shattering surge of Reiatsu could be felt in the distance ¡ª this Reiatsu at the very least belonged to a Vasto Lorde, whom Aizen wanted in his ranks. Even Loly snapped out of her dream and began looking in the direction of the new Reiatsu.


    A cruel smirk unfurled across Yammy''s lips. ¡°Tosen, do you mind if I beat this one to submission?¡±


    Tosen spun on his heels and moved past Yammy. ¡°Stay in Las Noches. I¡¯ll see to this Vasto Lorde.¡±


    In the current process, Tosen¡¯s job was to identify and survey Espada candidates. Aizen retained the exclusive responsibility of recruiting. Such was the gravity with which Aizen approached the assembly of his Hollow legion. Tosen had no reason to doubt that, given Aizen¡¯s oozing charisma and his unrivaled ability to read others. Nobody could perform this task with greater finesse.


    Gritting his teeth, Yammy felt a seething fury blaze through his eyes. The temptation to strike Tosen¡¯s open back was almost overwhelming, yet the lingering memory of having his face trampled underfoot by Tosen held him back. Even his Release form was no match for Tosen¡¯s prowess. An assault on Tosen would be an invite for a thrashing.


    ¡°Heh, go on. Attack the Shinigami,¡± whispered Loly as she patted Yammy¡¯s back. ¡°You know you want to.¡±


    ¡°Bitch, I¡¯m not a masochist,¡± Yammy growled and grabbed her collar, throwing her into the wall. ¡°Know your place, weakling.¡±


    With a final sneer of disdain, Yammy lumbered out of the throne room.


    Menoly glanced at Loly, who remained kneeling on the floor. Helping Loly would get her in trouble and not assisting Loly would yield the same result. After a moment of hesitation, she darted forward to assist Loly to her feet, only to have her offered hand contemptuously slapped away.


    "What''s that expression for?" Loly seized a fistful of Menoly¡¯s hair and ruthlessly slammed her head against the wall. ¡°You think I¡¯m pathetic. You think I¡¯m not even worth admiring Master Aizen. Isn¡¯t that what you say to Master Aizen?¡±


    "I¡ªI didn''t say that," Menoly stammered, her voice tinged with fear. ¡°There is some misunderstanding, Loly.¡±


    ¡°I''m lying,¡± Loly gritted her teeth and slammed Menoly¡¯s head into the wall. ¡°Is that what you¡¯re trying to imply?¡±


    Frantically, Menoly shook her head, her eyes widening in sheer terror. Loly was bursting with anger; any word from Menoly would be twisted and used as a weapon against her.


    He had already drained the ¡®Messiah¡¯ angle, and he lacked further insight into her vulnerabilities. ¡°Say, will someone mourn your death?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± she answered coldly and stepped towards her. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to consume all Hollows? Come, kill and eat me.¡±


    ¡°With pleasure.¡±


    The two combatants lunged at each other in a maelstrom of clashing Reiatsu. Nelliel thrust her lance at his heart, but Muramasa deftly evaded the blow, using a perfectly executed Shunpo to materialize above her. His katana descended upon her in a blinding arc then it blurred. She hastily raised her lance to parry, yet his blade had already left its signature ¡ª a series of grievous wounds seared into her flesh.


    Nelliel¡¯s experience mattered nothing in front of Muramasa, the Zanpakuto? Spirit of the prodigious Koga Kuchiki. He effortlessly dominated the clash, forcing her into a reactive stance. Nevertheless, the fury blazing in her eyes remained undimmed. The mounting injuries, the excruciating pain, and the grim odds of her survival ¡ª nothing could break her spirit. If she were to lose, thousands would die to fuel Muramasa¡¯s selfish ambitions. The single spark kept her in the fight.


    That was an outcome she could not¡ªwould not¡ªtolerate.


    Empowered by her unyielding will, her heartbeat pulsed in harmony with her smoldering desires. Her strength surged exponentially, compelling Muramasa to elevate his own Reiatsu to keep up with her. Oblivious to these invisible fluctuations, Nelliel¡¯s attention remained laser-focused on Muramasa¡¯s every move. Being on the defensive allowed her to observe everything in detail.


    ¡®He is shallow.¡¯


    Though Muramasa¡¯s raw power and speed may have rivaled or even surpassed that of Apacci, his tactical approach was one-dimensional. He repeated the same slashing attacks, never bothering to mix things up ¡ª clearly, he was underestimating her.


    Despite knowing how to counter his offense, Nelliel continued her defensive actions. She could feel a growing unity with her lance. The relic moved to block and parry with extreme responsiveness as if it was an extension of her body. Her spirit and flesh were harmonizing, forging an unbreakable bond with her cherished lance.


    Disengaging momentarily, Muramasa executed a lithe backward leap, breaking their stalemate. ¡°You wanted to kill me, now you won¡¯t even attack me. Have you given up?¡±


    Nelliel didn¡¯t answer him, looking intently at her lance. There was a feeling that something inside the lance called out to her. Guided by her raw instincts, she closed her eyes and took a steadying breath, gripping her lance in a poised, reversed hold, while her free hand took a steady hold in the air. Everything felt natural as if she had done this before.


    In response to her stance, her spiritual pressure surged and cascaded like a tidal wave. Her Reiatsu changed her from inside out. Her wounds miraculously closed, her skin hardening.


    In a fluid, graceful motion, she hurled her lance toward Muramasa. The weapon drilled through the air, conjuring a vortex in its wake. It punctured Muramasa¡¯s shoulder with unerring accuracy, obliterating his entire right arm in a splatter of ectoplasmic gore. The lance¡¯s momentum didn¡¯t end there as it ripped a gaping hole through the cavern¡¯s wall.


    ¡°Impressive. You finished your evolution. I want to applaud you but,¡± Muramasa paused and briefly glanced at the stump where his right arm had been moments ago. The flesh writhed grotesquely as slowly a new arm emerged from nothing. He brought his hands together and offered a sincere applause. ¡°Eating Hollows gave me high-speed regeneration. How much will I grow from eating you? I cannot wait.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a freak,¡± Nelliel said. ¡°This isn¡¯t¡ª¡±


    Her senses tingled with the unmistakable pulse of a familiar Reiatsu. A Reiatsu that she once saw as insurmountable, even now it carried the same oppression. But what caught her off guard was Muramasa''s expression ¡ª a brief flash of uncharacteristic astonishment.


    ¡°You know him?¡±


    Muramasa blinked and regained his disinterested look. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s him. This Reiatsu is a little different... that guy is a Shinigami, not Hollow.¡±


    Nelliel shook her head at his mutterings and glanced at the new hole in the cave. She couldn¡¯t afford to go for her lance as it''d give Muramasa an opportunity to escape.


    ¡°I¡¯ll die if I stick around. She isn¡¯t worth the trouble of fighting him.¡±


    With a casual flick of his newly regenerated arm, Muramasa invoked a swirling Garganta. Nelliel lunged at him with her Soni?do, but he had already stepped into the portal. For a fleeting second, she contemplated diving into the Garganta. She pushed away the thought just as it resurfaced. Without her lance, she would absolutely die at Muramasa¡¯s hands.


    ¡®He won¡¯t be lucky next time.¡¯

 Chapter 138: Small Comforts

    Chapter 138: Small Comforts


    Kazuya burst through the cavernous ceiling, landing before Nelliel. The very moment he had sensed her in a dangerous skirmish, he¡¯d raced to her side. Alas, by the time of his entrance, the battle had already concluded.


    Nelliel¡¯s eyes glistened with surprise as they took in his new attire. His Arrancar outfit and his untamed hair remained the same as their previous encounter. The striking new addition was the wolf-like Hollow mask adorning the upper half of his face, shrouding his identity in complete mystery.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see the guy you were fighting.¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s gaze drifted toward the fallen Hollows. The euphoria of becoming a Vasto Lorde was overshadowed by melancholy. ¡°He escaped.¡±


    Sensing the heaviness in the air, he stumbled over the right words to comfort her. ¡°I¡¯m glad you aren¡¯t hurt.¡±


    A gentle nod was her acknowledgment to his heartfelt concern. He had rushed to help her, so she couldn¡¯t blame him for Muramasa¡¯s escape. ¡°The deranged man responsible for this, he called himself Muramasa.¡±


    His eyebrows shot up in surprise. The fact that Nelliel survived an encounter with Muramasa pointed towards two possibilities ¡ª Muramasa had yet to acquire the strength shown in the anime, or he was fooling around with Nelliel. Perhaps a mix of both. While Muramasa wasn¡¯t on the level of Aizen, he harbored a cunning mind. In the anime, he had made all the Zanpakuto? Spirits believe in an uprising that existed only to help him achieve his goal: unsealing his Master, Koga Kuchiki.


    {We can safely blame Partner for messing up somewhere, causing Muramasa to show up decades before his canon appearance.}


    Faced with Nami''s allegations, he couldn¡¯t help but self-reflect. His minor, inadvertent choices had ripple effects, drastically altering the fate of many. And perhaps, just perhaps, one of those ripples had spurred Muramasa into action.


    {What will we do about him?}


    ¡®I want him.¡¯


    {Partner, I know Muramasa is slim, handsome, and stylish. He is also the epitome of a tragic, abused male... Please, I beg you to stay within the hetero boundaries set by your ancestors. If you don¡¯t listen to me, I will... I will kill Muramasa.}


    ¡®What the actual fuck, Nami? I thought you were smarter than that. Also, weren¡¯t yandere supposed to confine their love interests away from the world?¡¯


    {To hell with that trope. I¡¯m not imprisoning anyone. Death is better than complete isolation.}


    She wasn¡¯t even going to joke about locking someone in a dark place. Tsubasa had forced her to realize the loneliness that came with imprisonment within a tiny place.


    Nelliel turned to him. ¡°I believe he knew you... he implied it through a strange monologue.¡±


    His expression grew contemplative. While the possibility of Muramasa observing him in the Soul Society existed, he¡¯d be aware of any prying eyes with his keen senses.


    {That¡¯s Spanish for Hunter. Well played, Partner. We can improve it further. Like ¡®Cazador de plata¡¯ (Silver Hunter) or ¡®Cazador de Damas¡¯ (Hunter of Ladies)}


    ¡®I want it simple.¡¯


    {Suit yourself. Hmph.}


    He firmly believed in the charm of simplicity. Cazador also fitted with all the Hispanic motifs of Hueco Mundo.


    ¡°You took inspiration from Lanzador,¡± Nelliel said, a hint of amusement in her voice. ¡°Cazador as your Hollow name and Kazuya as your human name. I adore the concept, and they¡¯re very easy on the tongue.¡±


    While making small talk, they arrived at the location. The lance had traveled almost a kilometer and embedded deep into the base of a towering mountain. Even Nelliel looked momentarily taken aback, amazed by her raw power.


    Yet, amid the calm, an unsettling feeling gnawed at Kazuya. It was as if icy fingers grazed the nape of his neck, hinting at an unseen presence. He could sense a Reiatsu nearby, the faintness of which kept it out of reach.


    Someone was spying on him¡ªon Nelliel.


    ¡®Nami, am I being paranoid?¡¯


    Nelliel, despite her Vasto Lorde senses, didn¡¯t feel anything amiss. Fortunately, he had another formidable Hollow to validate his suspicions.


    {I don¡¯t sense it, Partner. But I have an idea to force them out of their concealment.}


    ¡®What?¡¯


    {Let this goddess of fire break free from her confines and unleash her ravenous blaze upon this lifeless forest. Those who dare lurk in the shadows, attempting to deceive us, will soon find themselves embraced by our unforgiving flames.}


    Amidst Nami¡¯s passionate monologue, the presence vanished from his senses ¡ª the concealed soul realized that they were exposed and left the area.


    ¡®Could it be Gin or Tousen looking out for Hollows?¡¯


    {We¡¯ll never know now... that was such a brilliant opportunity to showcase my flames... I¡¯m sad, Partner. Comfort me please.}


    ¡®...¡¯

 Chapter 139: Reason

    Chapter 139: Reason


    Grimmjow almost choked on the water when a familiar silhouette gracefully danced through the air and landed on a nearby hill. It was Nelliel, the centaur he had encountered in Hueco Mundo, but she now seemed like a completely different person. There was a raw intensity about her; she radiated an aura of dignity and authority, despite the fact her Reiatsu was very much concealed by her Gigai.


    ¡°Holy... what is a coward like her doing here?!¡±


    Nelliel sauntered closer, her towering stature casting a shadow over him. ¡°You¡¯ve also evolved. Still an Adjuchas, though.¡±


    ¡°Still an Adjuchas? What the hell do¡ª¡±


    ¡°She became a Vasto Lorde not long ago,¡± Kisuke interjected, materializing seemingly from nowhere. Tipping his hat ever so slightly, his eyes roamed the expansive underground, lips curling into a wry grin. The space, once reserved for his training and experiments, now became an orphanage for Hollows. ¡°Nel-chan, welcome back and congratulations. You¡¯ve proven yourself in many ways today. I¡¯m proud of you!¡±


    Yet, beneath the facade of enthusiasm, Kisuke was gripped by doubts about the growing power under Kazuya¡¯s command. After all, two Vasto Lorde, a squad of eight Adjuchas, and the mysterious strength of Kazuya himself, could pose a great challenge to the Gotei 13. He had faith in Kazuya, but the cautious side of him whispered for a contingency should this power ever cloud Kazuya¡¯s judgment.


    Nelliel nodded politely. ¡°Thank you, Kisuke Urahara.¡±


    Grimmjow cracked his knuckles. ¡°Kisuke Urahara, get the hell out of here. I¡¯m in the mood to kick some Vasto Lorde¡¯s ass.¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s lance moved threateningly close to Grimmjow¡¯s throat. ¡°You sought to consume me ¡ª a weak and beastly justification to kill someone. I¡¯ll not pursue our encounter in Hueco Mundo since we serve the same person.¡±


    Asking to get along with someone like Grimmjow would be foolish. So, avoiding a conflict with him was the second-best course of action.


    Grimmjow snorted. ¡°Like I care about that stuff. I don¡¯t need a reason to kill someone.¡±


    Nelliel pinned him down with a cold gaze. ¡°Do whatever you want. Just don¡¯t get in my way. I¡¯ll not hesitate to put down a rampaging beast.¡±


    ¡°You woman.¡±


    A tense silence hung between them. But before Grimmjow could make a move, the familiar swish of Kisuke¡¯s paper fan playfully connected with the back of his head.


    ¡°Get Kazuya-san¡¯s permission before fighting Nel-chan. Need I remind you about the punishments he listed?¡±


    Grimmjow growled. ¡°That guy... fuck, she¡¯s not worth the hassle.¡±


    Watching Grimmjow''s retreating figure, Nelliel let out a quiet exhale. ¡°Cazad¡ªKazuya said he¡¯ll be back soon. I¡¯ll rest in the meantime...¡±


    The fight with Muramasa was mentally draining. She could use a good nap before Kazuya started her Arrancarification process.


    ¡°Rest as much as you need.¡±


    ...


    ¡°Take this.¡±


    Nelliel caught the bag with nimble fingers, using it as an instant shield. She felt the weight of it, realizing it contained clothing. As he turned his back respectfully, she hurriedly adorned herself with the attire he¡¯d provided.


    The only reason he made her wait was to get some decent clothes for her.


    He turned around and waited for the rustling sounds to settle before checking up on her.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    {Sheesh. We gave her the drip.}


    Nelliel dusted her sleeve and gave him a smile. ¡°Dying, being reborn as beasts, and then returning to a form resembling humans with emotions and reason...¡±


    ¡°We clawed our way back to humanity. That means we earned our place in this world.¡±


    She nodded at his confident statement. ¡°I guess I owe most of my efforts to you.¡±


    ¡°Stay by Tier¡¯s side and help her with her dream. That¡¯s all I want from you.¡±


    Her face took on a determined look. ¡°It¡¯s not just Harribel¡¯s dream. I want to help other Hollows realize their former humanity and become like us. I want them to be fortunate like us.¡±


    It was an absurd dream, but his unfathomable existence gave her a sliver of hope.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, feel free to stay at my place. I know you and Grimmjow don¡¯t get along.¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°I was planning to visit my little ones. You don¡¯t need to accompany me... I¡¯ll hide my mask and blend into the crowd.¡±


    An excited grin crept on her lips as she thought about walking between the living. She acted on her feelings and threw her arms around him. Squeezing him in her embrace, she laughed joyfully, as though sharing her happiness with him.


    ¡°It really feels nice to hug someone. Thank you, Cazador, for your compassion.¡±


    Her mood swing caught him severely off-guard. Letting out a deep sigh, he rubbed her back. ¡°Get moving already. I have a lot of work to do.¡±


    {Liar. You¡¯re enjoying the moment. It¡¯s written all over your face.}


    ¡®How is that my fault? Besides, I have to meet Izumi. There¡¯s also the little ghost girl. Apacci too.¡¯


    {Don¡¯t forget our Zanpakuto? practice and fixing Cirucci. That''s also important.}


    ¡®Zanpakuto? training is the first thing on my schedule tomorrow.¡¯

 Chapter 140: Devotion

    Chapter 140: Devotion


    As Kazuya stepped out of the Urahara Shop, his gaze was immediately drawn to Apacci, comfortably perched atop an old-fashioned motorcycle. This elegant bike, with its bold black and red paint, lacked the sleekness of modern motorcycles but made up for it with its undeniable vintage charm. The design had one major drawback. The primary seat, plush and inviting, cradled Apacci in comfort. But the secondary seating, rather than being a cushioned extension, was a bracket made of steel joints. It looked less like a place for a passenger and more like an instrument of mild torture.


    ¡°When did you start driving?¡±


    ¡°Picked it up to drive Sung-Sun to different libraries in Tokyo. Now I love my baby Honda D-Type.¡± Apacci caressed the fuel tank with a beaming grin. ¡°Come on, Pretty Boy. Let¡¯s go grab a drink. This Onee-chan is thirsty.¡±


    The invitation was playful and cliche, reminiscent of a scene from some romance drama. She must have been waiting for months to recreate it with him ¡ª the thought made him smile.Chee?ck out latest novels at novelhall.com


    ¡°Move over. Make room for your pretty boy.¡±


    ¡°What? Sit there.¡±


    Seeing her point to the torture device, he gave a determined frown. ¡°Sit on my lap or I¡¯m not going with you.¡±


    ¡°You,¡± she groaned and rose from her seat before plopping down on his lap. ¡°You¡¯re such a kid sometimes.¡±


    He ignored her whining and placed his hands on her waist. ¡°Deer wife, take me someplace where it¡¯s just the two of us.¡±


    The promise to make her a Vasto Lorde wouldn¡¯t be fulfilled if he didn¡¯t spend time with her.


    She kickstarted the bike and drove out of the street. ¡°Not now. I¡¯m going home.¡±


    ¡°Awww, I thought you were in the mood. I forgot you like having threesomes now.¡±


    Time constraints may have forced her into a threesome but she took great pleasure in getting teased by him and Sung-Sun. That night would remain an unforgettable experience for all three involved.


    {Freak in the sheets. Apacci is just like me for real.}


    Apacci nudged his waist with her elbow, clearly embarrassed about her threesome experience. ¡°What were you doing at the shady shop?¡±


    ¡°Having a chat with my old pal Kisuke. He gets lonely sometimes, you know.¡±


    ¡°Kisuke and lonely? I never thought I¡¯d hear these words in the same sentence. I¡¯ll believe that you don¡¯t love me over accepting Kisuke as lonely.¡±


    ¡°Ouch. Don¡¯t treat my feelings like that.¡±


    ¡°It was just an analogy!¡± She huffed. ¡°Also... thanks for helping me with Franceska. I shouldn¡¯t have riled her over nothing.¡±


    He wrapped his arms around her. ¡°Apacci, close your eyes for me and take a deep breath. I¡¯ll show you the path to become Vasto Lorde.¡±


    She let his hypnotic voice guide her, the mesmerizing rhythm of the flowing river caressed her senses, enveloping her in calmness.


    ¡°Now, concentrate on my voice.¡±


    She hummed and bobbed her head in daze. ¡°I am.¡±


    He had never used his voice with the intention of charming his lovers. For Apacci¡¯s benefit, he instilled every word with intent to lower her defense and open her true heart ¡ª a skill he learned while seducing the women in the academy.


    ¡°Apacci Emilou, do you believe that you¡¯re the most beautiful woman in my life?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m inferior to Nami, your Zanpakuto? Spirit.¡±


    {To satisfy my soulmate for all eternity, I¡¯ll be the sexiest and most gorgeous piece of meat in the market.}


    Paying no heed to Nami¡¯s strange pride in her beauty, he continued, ¡°Are you the strongest woman in my life?¡±


    She shook her head in disagreement. ¡°I¡¯m barely able to beat the duo of Snake and Lioness whereas you have evolved to the pinnacle of the Hollow race. Harribel¡¯s strength is closer to you than it is closer to mine... and I¡¯m not even the strongest Adjuchas. Nelliel took that title away from me.¡±


    The battle with Nelliel still lingered in her mind and for good reasons. She got overconfident in her strength and underestimated the Non-Arrancar Nelliel. The price ¡ª she lost.


    ¡°What¡¯s your dream? What¡¯s the goal you want to achieve at any cost?¡±


    ¡°I want to get... strong. So strong that no one can deny me from living in the Soul Society with you. I want to shield you from every harm in the world... I want to...¡± She paused as the sound of her gulp echoed through the air. Lowering her head, she clenched her fists. ¡°I want to be the fucking strongest in the world and crush anyone who wants to hurt you.¡±


    {There''s no mistaking it. The depth, the intensity, the unwavering dedication she has for you is only second to me. Her Aspect of Death can only be ''Devotion''. Nothing else would make sense, well, apart from Love.}


    He couldn¡¯t help but agree with Nami. Apacci may have yearned for strength out of peace but meeting him deeply changed her priorities ¡ª now, he was her everything. Nelliel fulfilled a part of her Aspect of Death ¡®Lamentation¡¯ by putting her life on the line to protect Hollows. How could Apacci receive the same amount of fulfillment with her Aspect of Death being ¡®Devotion¡¯?


    Suddenly, a droplet of tear rolled down Apacci¡¯s face, making a soft tink against the hollow fuel tank. The barely audible impact shattered her trance state.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Apacci reached up and wiped the tears from her face. She had answered something strange, and the fact they made her cry eluded her. ¡°What did you do to me?¡±


    ¡°My silly goose,¡± he whispered. ¡°You couldn¡¯t help but cry when expressing your love for me. I¡¯m such a lucky guy, aren¡¯t I?¡±


    She feigned annoyance but the hint of a smile betrayed her. ¡°Hmph. It¡¯s good you know that.¡±


    ¡°Just stay put on my lap. I¡¯ll drive us home.¡±

 Chapter 141: Be her god?

    Chapter 141: Be her god?


    ¡°What the fuck, Skull? Why did you do that?¡±


    The air was thick with tension as Mila Rose directed her piercing gaze towards Kazuya, her face veiled by an uncharacteristic scowl. His offense was trimming his majestic silver hair. The new slicked back hairstyle added a touch of professionalism to his overall look. The person who saw him in Hueco Mundo as a Hollow would have easily identified him by his eye-catching hairstyle. He had to mix things up.


    (A/N: Imagine Archer¡¯s hairstyle lol.)


    His new hairstyle unexpectedly caused Mila Rose to freak out, leaving him a bit bewildered.


    Apacci rolled her eyes and let out a disdainful huff. ¡°Why are you throwing a tantrum? He looks so much better, like I can see his face without his hair getting in the way.¡±


    Mila Rose was usually assertive and fearless. Right now she looked flustered. Her lips parted as if to retort, but all she managed was a whisper. ¡°He looked better before.¡±


    Sung-Sun moved closer, eyes glinting in the face of an opportunity to tease Mila Rose. ¡°Oh, I think I understand,¡± she purred. ¡°Husband¡¯s previous hairstyle resembled a lion¡¯s mane, and we all know Rose is a lioness through and through.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I loved his previous hair,¡± Mila Rose confessed. ¡°Because it looked infinitely better.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just hair.¡± Kazuya reached out and stroked Mila Rose¡¯s black mane. ¡°They¡¯ll grow back.¡±


    The tender caress and the subtle smirk in his eyes had the desired effect. Her cheeks bloomed into a subtle rose hue. ¡°Promise you won¡¯t cut it again without telling me.¡±


    He let his fingers linger a moment longer on her scalp before retracting his hand. ¡°You own the rights to my hair now. Happy?¡±¡±


    Laughing softly, she yanked him down next to her on the plush couch. ¡°You¡¯ve given Apacci enough of your time. Now it¡¯s my turn.¡±


    Sung-Sun quietly moved over and snuggled up next to him, putting her head in his lap. ¡°He can spoil us both. It saves him the time he can spend with our Queen Harribel.¡±


    ¡°Works for me.¡±


    The bully and the bullied resolved their issues when they had to be around him. He couldn¡¯t be more ecstatic about their bond.


    Apacci watched Kazuya¡¯s sunny smile as he was surrounded by her friends. An indescribable warmth washed over her. ¡°I¡¯ll fetch the groceries then. Kazuya, do you want something?¡±


    Kazuya didn¡¯t miss the fleeting yet tender expression that briefly crossed Apacci''s face. This time, she genuinely felt happiness for him, rather than envy.


    ¡°Some sweet dango,¡± he requested, the very mention of the treat causing his eyes to light up with anticipation. ¡°And lots of sake.¡±


    He abruptly stopped his playful antics and directed his attention towards her. ¡°Rose, like I told you before, you don¡¯t have to bottle up your troubles and anxieties. We¡¯re here to listen.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing,¡± she deflected, evading the weight of her own feelings as she fumbled with the remote. ¡°What do you wanna watch?


    ¡°Anything you suggest.¡±


    Mila Rose searched through the channels, hoping to find something captivating, but all she found was a sea of mediocrity. ¡°It¡¯s all boring.¡±


    ¡°Husband, come to my room. We¡¯ll read my spicy older women manga I borrowed from Lisa.¡±


    Lisa had led her down the rabbit hole, and now Sung-Sun wanted to pull him in too. Unfortunately for them, he was already a bigger degenerate than both of them combined.


    {They can¡¯t compete with the Lords of Degeneracy.}


    Mila Rose glared at Sung-Sun. ¡°Why are you so damn horny all the time?!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the strange one who doesn¡¯t get horny around Husband!¡± Sung-Sun retorted with a cheeky laugh. ¡°Husband, let¡¯s make some heartwarming memories in my abode.¡±


    ¡°No, he¡¯ll stay here.¡±


    The Snake and Lioness began pulling at his arms in a literal tug-of-war. He found himself yanked back and forth, both growling at each other as they fought over him like he was a toy.


    ¡°Girls,¡± he commanded, his voice dropping to a chilling tone that sliced through their heated battle. ¡°Stop this shit right now.¡±


    Sung-Sun relented with a sigh. ¡°I concede. Snakes aren¡¯t meant to win against gorillas in raw strength.¡±


    Mila Rose hugged his arm like a trophy and stuck out her tongue, her expression the epitome of childish gloating. ¡°Loser~.¡±


    Sung-Sun leaned in, her lips lightly brushing his cheek as she whispered her next move. ¡°Husband, your objective now is to make her accept you as her mate. Succeed or no threesomes ever.¡±


    ¡°Challenge accepted.¡±


    Losing the pleasure of a threesome, especially with the erotic Sung-Sun, was not even an option. After the earlier event in Hueco Mundo, he had full confidence to make Mila Rose accept him.


    {Rise to the occasion, O¡¯ Prince of Hollows.}

 Chapter 142: Internal Crisis

    Chapter 142: Internal Crisis


    As Sung-Sun left, Kazuya gazed into Mila Rose¡¯s eyes. ¡°Rose, do you remember our talk on the Ferris wheel?¡±


    ¡°...It¡¯s been a long time.¡±


    The hesitation in her response was a telltale sign she was lying. It was so out of character for her, as she was usually so direct and assertive. She didn¡¯t have to lie as she had rejected his advances before. He had to figure out the cause of her indecisiveness, or he¡¯d be forever stuck at the ¡®close friend¡¯ status.


    ¡°I¡¯ll remind you then. You told me you¡¯ll accept me as you mate if I make it back alive. I¡¯ve done that twice now.¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯ll consider the idea!¡± Mila Rose shot back, springing up from the plush couch like a lioness ready to pounce. Her gaze, full of conflicting emotions, met him. ¡°I want to be with you. I don¡¯t think I can be with you.¡±


    The more she thought about her complicated feelings, the tighter the knot in her stomach became. Her anxieties reached a breaking point, compelling her to slam her fist onto the table, shattering it completely. She sank onto the couch, her head throbbing and her breath coming in ragged gasps. ¡°I don¡¯t make any damn sense... Skull, I love you but I can¡¯t escape this nagging feeling that I can¡¯t make you happy. Why do I feel this way?¡±


    He couldn¡¯t answer her confusion until he recalled Sung-Sun¡¯s statement on Mila Rose¡¯s nature. Out of every Hollow around him, only Mila Rose fully embraced her bestial instincts, finding genuine joy in activities such as hunting and leisurely lounging. He had to shift his perspective and adopt the mindset of a lion to help her.


    ¡°Skull, say something. Is my gut feeling right? Or am I overthinking things? I¡¯m so... confused.¡±


    Facing her vulnerable look, he assumed a serious expression. ¡°You¡¯re not entirely wrong, Rose. But you¡¯re not entirely right, either.¡±


    ¡°You aren¡¯t helping, Skull.¡±


    He chuckled. ¡°You like to hunt, right?¡±


    She quizzically nodded, still unsure why he brought up her pastime activity. ¡°I love it.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to hunt for me?¡±


    Her eyes widened dramatically. ¡°How do you know that?¡±


    ¡°What you¡¯re feeling is a clash of your emotions and your instincts.¡±


    She beamed a smile when he mentioned being a good wife. ¡°You glib-tongued pervert, you¡¯re suggesting sex.¡±


    Clearing his throat as if to downplay her insinuation, he smiled. ¡°Sex is just one of those things.¡±


    She giggled at his innocent gesture before moving to straddle his lap. ¡°Alright, Skull. Let¡¯s give this thing a shot. Me, Snake, Apacci, Harribel-sama, and you being part of a pride.¡±


    He had changed her entire perspective on every male in the world then got rid of the problem that made her fall into depression for months. He was the most reliable man in her eyes, with Harribel coming in second.


    ¡°What about Cirucci? She won¡¯t be in the pride?¡±


    Cough. Cough. A series of fake coughs pulled them out of their private world. There stood Cirucci, leaning against the banister of the staircase above them, a smile stretching across her face.


    Mila Rose shot her an unamused look. ¡°Cirucci, what will you say to my mate¡¯s proposal?¡±


    Cirucci shrugged with casual indifference. ¡°What I¡¯ve always said. Family and mates aren¡¯t for me.¡±


    ¡°The audacity,¡± Mila Rose muttered and turned her attention back to Kazuya. ¡°What do you say about tying her up?¡±


    ¡°Forget it,¡± he leaned close to her ear. ¡°Is she still depressed?¡±


    ¡°Kind of... I don¡¯t understand her sometimes.¡±


    He shook his head, his expression turning contemplative. ¡°It¡¯s better you don¡¯t understand her circumstances.¡±


    Healing her Zanpakuto? would be a piece of cake but healing her heart would be tricky.


    Seizing the moment of his contemplation, Mila Rose leaned in to plant a soft kiss on his cheek. ¡°Kazuya, let¡¯s go on a date.¡±


    The bold spark in her eyes and the allure in her voice were signals he couldn¡¯t possibly misunderstand with his experience. And quite frankly, he was more than willing to take the hint.

 Chapter 143-145: Heat in the Onsen (R-18)

    Chapter 143-145: Heat in the Onsen (R-18)


    The wooden balcony jutted out only a dozen feet, with a wide onsen beyond it. A vast valley stretched out beyond the onsen, with mountains on either side glittering in the evening sunlight. As the sky began its gradual surrender to twilight, the atmosphere was awash in a subtle blend of amber warmth and soft, pink hues.


    Even though Kazuya had been to many onsens, he found the view quite stellar.


    ¡°What a lovely view...¡± His companion also agreed with him.


    He glanced behind, noting Mila Rose holding a towel to her voluptuous chest. The white towel covered most of her, leaving her long legs and hips bare. However, everything in this moment was secondary to the wonder on her face ¡ª eyes wide, a slight, growing smile, the relaxed expression, and the quiet contentment in her eyes ¡ª her radiant happiness made her utterly mesmerizing.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    ¡°You¡¯re lovelier.¡±


    Giggling at his compliment, Mila Rose offered her hand. ¡°Sk¡ªKazuya~. Your lovely, sexy, and strong mate wants to hold hands with you.¡±


    {Handholding is LEWD! Cease your actions or I shall call upon the overlords of the realm ¡ª the Federal Bureau of Investigation.}


    ¡®They have no power over me.¡¯


    He accepted Mila Rose¡¯s hand, letting her lead him over to the onsen. The warm mist invitingly caressed his skin as he sat down on the edge and dipped his toes in. The temperature was pleasantly warm. Yielding to the temptation, he sighed contentedly as he sank into the warmth.


    ¡°This never gets old.¡±


    She joined him a moment later, sighing in equal bliss. ¡°This is the paradise Hollows like us deserve for being kinder than most humans.¡±


    ¡°If it was that easy,¡± he said, shaking his head. ¡°Enjoying the date so far I assume.¡±


    For their date, she had insisted on taking him to a hot spring ¡ª his second onsen visit with a beautiful dark-skinned woman this month.


    ¡°Yup. My mate makes for a good company.¡± She stretched her arms before cuddling into his shoulder. ¡°Those filthy couples on the television made me so envious. I finally have a mate I can enjoy this with.¡±


    Coming to terms with her feelings, she had fully accepted him as her mate.


    ¡°Rose, your honest side is adorable. You¡¯re almost like the golden retriever I never got the chance to have.¡±


    The first half of his words had her in smiles but the second half made her scowl. She punched his shoulder, baring her fangs with vengeance. ¡°Fuck you. I¡¯m a proud lioness.¡±


    ¡°Haha.¡±


    The two of them lapsed into a comfortable silence, neither really in a rush to break it. They had been friends for so long, occasionally clashing over their different perceptions. And right now, cosying up in a warm onsen and overlooking a gorgeous view, the silence between them amply conveyed the quiet wonder that such a view gave them. For the first time, it was a silence they could savor alone, undisturbed by the presence of his other companions.


    Lost in the moment and lulled by the ambient sounds of nature, Mila Rose lifted her gaze to meet his, and her fingers timidly turned his face toward hers. The intimacy flushed her cheeks, her heart pounding against her ribs.


    His gaze unconsciously traced her sensual curves wrapped tightly within the towel. She looked stunning in the waning sunlight.


    ¡°Kazuya...¡±


    Her lips, delicate and full, curled invitingly as she looked up at him, her eyes slowly closing. Without stopping to think, he leaned in and kissed her. It felt like time stopped for a brief instant, his lips pressing against her own ¡ª and then time resumed as she tentatively pushed back, reciprocating the kiss with even more passion. It lasted just a few seconds but by the time both drew apart their eyes were locked onto one another, too enraptured by the other to look away.


    ¡°Sweet,¡± Mila Rose breathed, shifting and climbing onto his lap. ¡°Kiss me more.¡±


    Once again their lips met in a gentle collision, eliciting a soft, almost feline mewl from Mila Rose. His hand trailed from her cheek to her side, grazing the wet surface of her skin, but the way his palm inched towards her chest made his desire apparent. With an unspoken understanding, she let her towel go, the soaked-through fabric drifting in the warm water and unveiling her plump, full breasts bare to him. He was tempted to break the kiss just so he could get an eyeful of them.


    She pulled away just far enough so they could both take in the sight of one another in this waning light. Her breasts were voluptuous yet perfectly round, and her flat stomach was decorated with a six-pack. Her arms and back showed off toned muscles without being overly masculine.


    ¡°You¡¯re breathtaking.¡±


    Puffing her chest proudly, she reached under her breasts and lifted them. ¡°I know you love my tits. You can touch mine as much as you like.¡±


    He smiled appreciatively at her actions and reclaimed her lips in a passionate kiss. Both of his hands came up to grope at her ample breasts, squishing them between his fingers and eliciting a moan from her. Their lips drew apart momentarily before reconnecting in the next, their locked lips muffling the surprised mewls that arose with her throat.


    The chilly air barely registered to the embracing couple taking pleasure of the warmth radiating from each other and the onsen pool.


    ¡°Mmph...¡± she mewled into the kiss, pulling back with a slight, breathless smile. ¡°Don¡¯t stop. Keep touching me... Kazuya...¡±


    He almost trembled at the way she whispered his name and how she gazed at him beneath her disheveled tresses with open affection. Unable to resist the charm she was exerting on him, he returned to their embrace. But instead of kissing her lips again, he concentrated on her neck, showering her smooth skin with a barrage of pecks. He moved from her nape to her shoulder, and then he took her right nipple in his mouth.Th.e? most uptodate novels are published on n(0)velbj)n(.)co/m


    ¡°Ah~,¡± she moaned in surprise, her back arching as he suckled on her tit. She began to grind herself against his erect penis beneath the towel, her heat of arousal mounting under his caress. ¡°Skull, let me touch you too~.¡±


    He hummed an agreement between licking and swirling his tongue around her nipples. Her hands pawed over his chest and slid down until she reached his towel. She was far from gentle when she ripped away the fabric towel with her claws.


    The sight of his throbbing penis in the water made her gasp. ¡°That¡¯s... huge.¡±


    She grabbed his cock and guided it towards her entrance, the tip lightly brushing against her delicate nether lips and nearly dipping in once, twice ¡ª and then on the third go she lowered on him. She made an involuntary gasp then a slight whimper as she felt his fullness within her. Her spine arched up as her body responded to him, her hands curling into tight fists as she endured the initial discomfort of his length. He held onto her tightly, groaning in total bliss as he felt her wet heat gradually engulf his erect shaft.


    Hissing out a soft breath he pulled out until just the tip was inside before spearing back in Mila Rose, feeling her slick insides part for his intruding length. He was careful not to be too rough but staying still bordered on impossible. Her insides caressed his cock in such a way that it felt more natural to move, to glide between her wet walls. Mila Rose moaned at the sensation, her lip caught between her teeth. Their eyes locked as his hips moved in tandem with hers, creating an ever-increasing friction. His own pleasure was a distant thought, overshadowed by her growing cries of ecstasy.


    There was no rush, no haste, and with every roll of his hips any discomfort she felt melted away bit by bit, her hands sliding over his torso with growing confidence ¨C touching and feeling his muscles freely. He responded by daringly picking up the pace, his slow thrusts quickening and fucking a gentle moan out of the lioness, her insides clenching down on his cock tightly.


    ¡°Do you like this position?¡±


    She laughed even as she bounced and swirled her hips around his manhood. Stretching her arms invitingly, she embraced him and pressed her lips against him. ¡°I get to kiss you and look at you while we mate. This position isn¡¯t good; it¡¯s the¡ªahhh~! best!¡±


    Breaking off the kiss he groaned, his flesh smacking against Mila Rose¡¯s own as he got more into it ¡ª everything beyond the two of them seeming to fade from his perception. He dove in to shower her neck with a slew of kisses. She squirmed under him, moans tumbling freely from her lips before they pursed, holding the flood back for only a mere second before more tumbled forth, as endless as they were erotic.


    ¡°Mm, Rose.¡± Planting one last kiss on her neck, he grabbed her thighs and raised them. ¡°I¡¯m about to fuck you harder. Are you ready?¡±


    ¡°As I said, I¡¯ll do anything¡ª¡± Mila Rose¡¯s passionate mewl escalated into a yelp as he folded her legs over herself, shifting her to the side and more on top of her ¡ª and with renewed vigor he started pistoning down into her tight tunnel, mating-pressing her into the wooden deck. ¡°Ah! Ah!¡±


    The sound of slapping flesh reverberated throughout the steamy air, each smack more passionate than the last. His hands left her trembling legs and planted on the deck, his hips in constant motion and driving his swollen shaft deep inside ¡ª each thrust roughly knocked on her cervix as he went to town on her, railing her with unbridled passion. Mila Rose succumbed to her mate¡¯s passion willingly, her shrill cries and throaty moans permeating the air.


    He kept up the rapid tempo, each ragged gasp and fierce moan leaving him breathless. Yet he refused to relent, exquisite pleasure radiating along his cock as he thrust deeply into her inner walls. He could feel her muscles contracting around him, the gripping sensation becoming more intense with every movement. His climax was upon him but he pushed on, pounding himself into her clenching haven¡ª


    ¡°S-Skull~!¡±


    ¡ªUntil with a cry Mila Rose climaxed, her insides seizing around his cock. Suddenly holding back wasn¡¯t an option and he bucked his hips back, gasping as he grabbed his cock and jerked off ¡ª and with a throaty moan he unloaded right up her stomach; thick white streaks painting themselves up her stomach and over her breasts, each rope hitting her skin with an audible splat. She quivered at the feeling, eyes half-lidded as she peered down at him, mewling as he shot another couple spurts onto her stomach and groin, leaving her entire front sticky with his load.


    Breathlessly, he smiled at her, getting one in return, both of them too busy panting to really form words. His gaze, though, descended back to the mess he¡¯d made on her stomach, the mere sight of her voluptuous covered in semen ¡ª his semen ¡ª perked his shaft back up.


    The stiffness of his shaft didn¡¯t bypass her notice either. The lioness grinned. ¡°Wanna do more?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    She rose up and stepped into the hot spring bath, her brief dip in the water water washing away his semen. But what truly held his interest was the way she stood up, exposing her ass to him as she bent forward over the stone edge of the onsen. She glanced back at him and brazenly presented herself, water glistening across her dark skin. Entranced by her beauty, he gradually sank back into the water and scooted behind her. There was just enough space between them for him to fit, his erection rubbing against her ass as he positioned himself behind her.


    Just before he stuck it inside, she said, ¡°Do it inside if you want. I don¡¯t care if I get pregnant.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll think about kids after I¡¯m done with the Soul Society.¡±


    ¡°Okay... but I¡¯m always open to having Skull¡¯s babies. We¡¯re in a place to support our children.¡±


    The tenderness in her expression when she gazed at him made his heart go weak. While he held her gaze, he speared back inside of her ¡ª stuffing Mila Rose to the brim in a single, clean thrust. The lioness cried out in pleasure, but he was past the point of taking things slow. Both hands settled on her hips as he pounded her raw. The water around their thighs sloshed from the force of his movements, his cock seamlessly sliding out to the tip and ramming back in until he practically kissed her womb, stuffing her to the brim, again and again.


    Her loud, blissful cries echoed through the air, telling him her feelings on their intimacy. He clapped her cheeks, her rear jiggling from the force of his quick thrusts. He paid it little mind though and ran his hands up her front until he could grope her breasts, practically spooning her from behind as he felt her up mid-fuck, the overwhelming barrage of sensation rendering her little more than a moaning mess, her hair becoming more dishevelled as their bodies jerked back-and-forth.


    ¡°Hah, a-ahh~!¡± Mila Rose threw her head back and moaned, glancing back at him from the corner of her eye. ¡°S-Skull¡ªmmph~!¡±


    A hand to her cheek pulled Mila Rose right into a kiss, the surprise in her eyes fading in a heartbeat as she reciprocated, her lips mashing against his. Even as he kept pounding her from behind they dragged it out, their tongues soon getting involved and wrestling between their mouths, his experience guiding her to raw ecstasy. Moans bubbled up their throats, forcing them apart several times before mashing their lips back together, going at it like animals.


    Breaking off the kiss first, he groaned, leaning back upright a bit and peering past her sweaty form, the picturesque scenery of the valleys only amplified when a naked Mila Rose was bent over in front of him, love in her eyes as she peered back at him. Smiling tightly back at her, Kazuya released her plump tits and laid his palms upon her waist instead, bracing her as he sped up. His thrusts became shorter but faster as he focused just on jamming his dick into her tight, velvety tunnel, moaning freely as pleasure seared his nerves.


    ¡°Mm! Hn! Ah-ohhhh!¡±


    The array of noises he fucked from Mila Rose¡¯s lips were as exciting as they were erotic, the noise only fuelling his thrusts and making him hilt in her with every ounce of strength he had; confident that the lioness could handle it. She did and with ease, pushing herself back onto his dick with a needy whimper, her womanhood pressing down upon his length as if to massage the cum out of him and impregnate herself.


    The mere thought only hastened his end. Of cumming inside of Mila Rose. Of knocking her up. Of watching her stomach swell as the two of them prepared a humorous name for the baby. Of introducing his many wonderful moths to the baby. So many thoughts, equal parts lewd and wholesome, circled in his lust-addled mind and just added fuel to the fire, primal instinct egging his hips forth, his swollen shaft ramming deep inside Mila Rose.


    It took every bit of his resolve to purge the wholesome thoughts of a family with Mila Rose. ¡°Rose!¡±


    Gritting his teeth he managed to rock his hips just a little longer before his limit reached, and with a deep moan he pulled out and came ¡ª unloading gushing ropes of cum across her firm butt and lower back.


    Spasming nonstop, Mila Rose waved her butt, a burst of nectar gushing out of her. ¡°Hgghhhh! Kaz¡ªuyaaaaaa!¡±


    After climaxing, she stayed where she was, clinging onto the stones for support and unintentionally presenting him with a nice view of her lovely ass. Then she sank into the water, the warm water washing away the cum.


    With a giggle that was music to the ears, she stretched her arms like a spoiled princess. ¡°Hug meeeee, Skull.¡±


    He smiled and let her settle in his arms, embracing each other as the mist surrounded them. ¡°Rose, I promise we¡¯ll have a couple of children.¡±


    She kissed his face. ¡°Something tells me you¡¯re guilty about not having them right now. Here¡¯s the big deal ¡ª you don¡¯t have to be. Time is the last thing we lack as Hollows, right?¡±


    He hummed in agreement and tightly embraced her. ¡°Let¡¯s do some rounds before we return. Tier will worry if we spend the whole night out.¡±


    ¡°Haha, very true.¡±

 Chapter 146-147: Alter Ego

    Chapter 146-147: Alter Ego


    The next day, Kazuya stepped out of the bath, putting on a gray sweatshirt and cargo shorts¡ªhis go-to casual attire. Making his way to the breakfast table, he found Tier looking captivating in her teacher attire, an outfit that somehow combined professionalism with her wild allure. Not even Nami could top the nurturing charm Tier exuded.


    ¡°Morning, Tier.¡±


    As he took his seat, Tier¡¯s hand gently covered his. ¡°I¡¯ll be back by the afternoon. After which I¡¯m free.¡±


    After a three-month longing, the thought of spending uninterrupted time with him filled her with anticipation. She even contemplated taking a day off, but knowing Kazuya, he wouldn¡¯t appreciate her sacrificing her responsibilities for his sake.


    {Mila Rose and Harribel back to back. Partner¡¯s luck is going insane. I wonder what tragedies fate is cooking for us.}


    ¡®Stop jinxing it.¡¯


    {It was a jinx to counter-jinx every jinx.}


    ¡°We haven¡¯t sparred together in a while,¡± Kazuya suggested, giving Tier¡¯s hand a reassuring squeeze. ¡°How about we head to Kisuke¡¯s underground chamber later?¡±


    It¡¯d be a challenge to leave Karakura Town once he made love to Tier. In addition, he had to focus on getting stuff done and work out his Zanpakuto? issues.


    Tier¡¯s eyes gleamed at the idea. ¡°Just like the old days.¡±


    ¡°Yup, just like the old days.¡±


    As they shared a moment, lost in each other¡¯s eyes, Mila Rose cleared her throat and stood up, capturing the attention of everyone at the table. ¡°Attention, everyone! I have an announcement¡ª¡±


    ¡°You and Husband fucked for hours yesterday,¡± Sung-sun playfully interrupted, concealing an evil smirk behind her sleeves. ¡°We already know that, Rose.¡±


    Their long disappearance yesterday, combined with Mila Rose¡¯s affectionate glances at Kazuya at the table, hinted at a new milestone in their relationship. Sung-Sun couldn¡¯t be happier about Mila Rose accepting her feelings. Now, she won¡¯t have to see Mila Rose having depressive episodes again.


    Mila Rose¡¯s attention shifted to Tier, who verified Sung-Sun¡¯s statement with a gentle smile. Her shoulders drooped, her face a priceless blend of embarrassment and shame. ¡°Ugh, I was so looking forward to breaking the news to everyone...¡±


    Sung-Sun arched an eyebrow. ¡°Rose, never forget that you¡¯re our family, and a real family knows each other like the back of their hands.¡±


    ¡°Damn yes,¡± Apacci agreed. ¡°I¡¯m glad Franceska stopped being a stubborn bitch and decided to be with Kazuya.¡±


    Mila Rose blinked at the rare show of affection from Apacci. ¡°I also love you both... though I love my mate and Harribel-sama more.¡±


    Cirucci crossed her arms, tapping the floor. ¡°What about me, Rose? You didn¡¯t¡ª¡±


    ¡°You idiot,¡± she said, hugging Cirucci from behind. ¡°You¡¯re my bestie. I love you too.¡±


    Apacci let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°Great, now she¡¯s going into full-on sentimental mode.¡±


    After the lively exchange at the breakfast table, Kazuya retreated to his room and sprawled across his bed. ¡°Nami, take me to the Inner World. We need to talk.¡±


    She kneeled on the ground and touched her head on the floor, performing a dogeza ¡ª a gesture used to show deference to a person of higher status or express deepest apologies. In Tsubasa''s case, it was the latter. ¡°Master, I apologize for the harm I caused... and for my despicable actions against Izanami. I never intended to mock your strength during our battle... I was swept away by the fantasy that Master would get more motivated to grow strong and overcome me.¡±


    His brows arched in surprise. ¡°You sound like one of those side villains whose real goal is to help the protagonist, so the protagonist can kill the main villain.¡±


    ¡°They were my inspiration to fuel your growth. I... never considered you would leave me to die in a battle against Izanami.¡±


    She had taken her defeat into account, but not the possibility of a Shinigami abandoning his Zanpakuto? Spirit. She severely underestimated his rage and his adoration for Nami.


    ¡°You¡¯re so weird,¡± he said, shaking his head. ¡°Then again, you¡¯re just the reflection of my desires. It was a little stupid of me to let you die. So, we¡¯re even.¡±


    She raised her head, surprise painted across her features. ¡°Thanks, Master... I swear I¡¯ll never act without your permission.¡±


    ¡°You better, because I¡¯d hate to see you die again.¡±


    She happily nodded her head and rose to her feet. Her eyes fluttered close before she fell towards him. Instinctively, he reached out to catch her, supporting her weight as she transitioned back to Nami.


    ¡°Partner, I¡¯m back!¡± Nami¡¯s eyes twinkled as she looked at him. ¡°What did Tsubasa say?¡±


    ¡°Before that, I have a question: do you hate Tsubasa?¡±


    Despite having an inkling about her feelings, he needed to hear it straight from her.


    ¡°I had nothing but hatred for her until I burned her soul with my flames, leaving just her essence. While she may lack maturity, her heart was in the right place: to assist you. How could I loathe someone aiming for the same goal as I do? So yes, I¡¯ve forgiven her, even for trapping me like a caged bird.¡±


    His eyes crinkled in a pleased smile. ¡°You were a bird when it happened.¡±


    ¡°I WAS A PHOENIX. Get that right, Partner.¡±


    ¡°Yandere bird.¡±


    Watching her huff and puff about being called a bird, he gave her a brief rundown on Tsubasa¡¯s apology and her promise to Nami. Her arms tightened around him, her entire weight leaning against him. ¡°I¡¯m absolved from the guilt of slaying my blood and flesh daughter.¡±


    ¡°That makes the two of us.¡±


    ¡°I long for the day Tsubasa separates from me. I want my head full of Beloved¡¯s thoughts, not her!¡±


    ¡°Me too. I think we should refrain from fucking while Tsubasa is merged with you.¡±


    Nami pouted, sulking, but not pushing the issue. ¡°Mom incest is fine. Daughter incest is not. I see.¡±


    ¡°...Now that the problem is solved, let¡¯s go train.¡±


    ¡°Fucking finally!¡±

 Chapter 148: What a Teaser

    Chapter 148: What a Teaser


    The moment Kazuya''s eyes fluttered open, his vision was filled by the upside-down face of Yoruichi, her feline face inches from his own. She patted her fluffy paws against his face, as if pinching his cheeks.


    ¡°Kazuya, lad, here¡¯s your good morning greeting,¡± she purred, her feminine voice sultry yet playful. ¡°Few have the honor of getting this luxurious treatment from me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m flattered.¡± He picked her up before placing her on the bed. ¡°Do you want me to groom your fur?¡±


    His hand hovered before her, as if asking for consent to caress her. A fleeting look of puzzlement crossed her face. She had grown so accustomed to his spontaneous chin rubs that his respectful approach felt out of place. Nevertheless, she kept her feelings under wraps and continued as if nothing were out of the ordinary.


    ¡°Harribel cleaned me yesterday with shampoo, which was unnecessary. A little Reiatsu is all I need for my grooming needs.¡±


    During his time in Hueco Mundo, he had relied on Reiatsu for cleansing, but it never provided the same satisfying sensation as water. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯m planning to test my new Zanpakuto? abilities. Wanna tag along?¡±


    Her golden eyes lit up, reflecting her excitement. ¡°Heck yeah. Your Zanpakuto? has piqued my interest since day one. I¡¯m curious what type of absurd power you will manifest.¡±


    ¡°I got a condition, though.¡±


    Her tail flicked skyward, its tip twitching. ¡°Conditions again... Very well, state them.¡±


    ¡°You''ll come with me in your Shinigami form to help test my Zanpakuto?.¡±


    ¡°That, I can do.¡±


    With a fluid grace that only she possessed, Yoruichi leapt off the bed and transformed into her human form. Retrieving an orange ribbon from his drawer, she quickly tied her violet locks into a ponytail. In one swift motion, she pivoted on her heel and bent down low onto her hands and feet, taking up a stretch that would test the limits of her flexibility and balance.


    Her legs were spread wide, the closest one stretching forward and the back one reaching back, her toe barely grazing the ground. Her hands, with fingers splayed, grounded her chest parallel to the floor. As she held her stance, every muscle in her body tensed powerfully, from the swell of her deltoids to the defined ridges of her calf muscles. Her athletic form was even more impressive than Sung-Sun, despite the fact Yoruichi hadn¡¯t trained for almost a century.


    In her stretching position, her puffy vulva and tiny butthole were entirely exposed. But it didn¡¯t bother her as she felt no shame in being fully undressed before him.


    ¡°Hngh, it¡¯s so satisfying to do it every time I transform back.¡±


    {Beloved, we can¡¯t let her get away with it!}


    {Just promise her a stack of new erotica to make her agree. I¡¯ll write her the erotica about the Hollow Prince and an exiled Shinigami Vice Captain.}


    ¡®The similarities between us and your characters are just a coincidence, right? Right? Right?¡¯


    {My work may take inspiration from the real world but everything will be fiction!}


    He rang Lisa''s contact on the landline, the static reminding him that he held what would be considered a relic in his timeline. She willingly complied with his request, not asking for anything in return. With the sacrifice he was making for the Soul Society in mind, she must have perceived this as an opportunity to give back in some way.


    Yoruichi returned not long after and knocked on the door. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Kazuya. I¡¯m ready.¡±


    As the door opened, Yoruichi came into view. She was standing with one knee on the floor, her hand raised in a mock salute. The sight of her took him aback; she wore a red military uniform complete with golden tassels and accents and white trousers tucked into black knee-high boots. He immediately recognized the look as being inspired by 19th Century British Redcoats.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    She leaned in and reached out her hand, imitating the classic act of requesting a lady¡¯s hand to bring it to her lips for a kiss. ¡°Let us depart, My Prince.¡±


    Soi Fon would have suffered a nosebleed and then fainted from happiness just by glimpsing at her beloved Yoruichi in this attire. Yoruichi exuded such strong authority and confidence that most women would find her tempting. Only god knew what it would do to the fanatic Soi Fon.


    He smiled and placed his hand on hers. ¡°I feel like a princess, though.¡±


    She chuckled and rose to her feet, still holding his hand. ¡°How do you like my new outfit? I thought it looked sick.¡±


    Just like her nudity, her old-fashioned attire was just a ploy to get a reaction out of Kazuya. Given his smile and the admiration in his eyes, she had succeeded splendidly in her goal. His reaction gave her a new perspective on things he liked.


    ''He likes being spoiled.''


    Kazuya nodded his head. ¡°It looks regal, but why is my wife keeping it in her wardrobe?¡±


    {Sung-Sun¡¯s fashion sense is unrivaled. Being a horny pervert, she must have realized the potential of ¡®cosplaying¡¯ to please you. Such a sweet little minx.}


    ¡°Hell if I know.¡± Yoruichi grinned and led him down the stairs by his hand. ¡°Follow me, My Prince. I¡¯ll escort you safely.¡±

 Chapter 149: Cleanse

    Chapter 149: Cleanse


    Lisa Yado?maru, a maid whose snarky demeanor opposed her subservient title, folded her arms over her chest. Her eyes flickered with a mischievous glint as they landed on Kazuya and Yoruichi, the latter adorned in a crisply red military uniform. ¡°You turned her into a lady of culture. As expected of the man who nearly took my heart.¡±


    He chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re still not over that date.¡±


    ¡°As if I could forget. You brought great shame to my name. I can¡¯t look my seventy-three suitors in the eye.¡±


    ¡°What is that number without the people in your imagination, Maid-chan?¡±


    Lisa averted her gaze. ¡°Zero.¡±


    ¡°Make it one.¡± He extended his hand. ¡°For you shall be the mother of my child.¡±


    With a swift motion, Lisa slapped his hand away. ¡°To propose to me despite having multiple lovers, your skin is thicker than a rhinoceros.¡±


    Yoruichi stared at them with narrowed eyes. ¡°Soul Society, Living World, or Hueco Mundo. Is there a place where I can¡¯t find your admirers?¡±


    ¡°There is one.¡±


    {The Soul King Palace. The cuddly and cheerful chef Kirio Hikifune or the regal yet playful weaver Senjumaru Shutara. Pick your poison, Partner.}


    ¡®We¡¯ll think about that if I survive my first meeting with the Royal Guards.¡¯


    Given that the Royal Guards had the unenviable job of guarding the lifeless husk of a god, they were more than likely well-versed in the intricacies of Soul King¡¯s essence. Which, unfortunately, meant that they could see right through Kazuya¡¯s peculiar origins. And Ichibei, the most ancient of the Royal Guards, would most certainly discern his true nature.


    Even though Kazuya was a formidable force in the current timeline, facing the Royal Guards would be a fool¡¯s errand. His best chance lay in mastering his Zanpakuto?¡¯s shield, working towards achieving the Bankai Release. Additionally, there was the untapped potential of his complete Resurreccio?n, a form made accessible ever since Nami¡¯s ascension to Vasto Lorde status.


    Thankfully, Ichibei¡¯s motto was to never interfere with the events of the Soul Society, so he wouldn¡¯t be meeting the Royal Guards anytime soon.


    {There is a possibility Oetsu knows about me through his Zanpakuto? Sense.}


    ¡®I know. He¡¯s probably baffled about your existence.¡¯


    Snapping back to the present, he found Yoruichi and Lisa staring at him, their eyes riddled with confusion. Yoruichi touched his shoulder gently. ¡°Limit monologues with your Zanpakuto? when you¡¯re in the middle of something. You look like a goofball with those unfocused eyes.¡±


    ¡°The frequency of such conversations will wane as your bond deepens.¡± Lisa wrapped her fingers around her Zanpakuto?¡¯s hilt. ¡°Since my own Hollowification, my Haguro Tonbo barely talks to me. But when it matters, they lend their power to me without hesitation.¡±


    Standing in the vast underground chamber, Kazuya held his Zanpakuto? before him. Despite harboring a Vasto Lorde-class entity, the weapon remained as light as any regular katana. He slowly unsheathed the katana, and as it reached halfway, he whispered, ¡°Weave, Shinku-no-Tsubasa.¡±


    As the incantation dissolved into the air, his Reiatsu erupted. A furious tempest of energy that picked up particles of dust, swirling them into an impromptu cyclone around him. Tongues of soft, ethereal flames crawled out of the sheath and wrapped around the blade.


    Kazuya slowly drew his katana, its blade ablaze with flame. He reoriented the searing blade and pointed it towards his own chest before he plunged the flaming sword inward, piercing the core of his very being.


    A convulsion of spiritual energy surged through him, the flames igniting him from the inside. His eyes turned incandescent. With a sudden, explosive burst, the flames detached, condensing into dual, luminescent blades that hovered in the air beside him.


    Lisa shielded her eyes, peering through the gaps between her fingers. Her Reiatsu sat somewhere between a Vice-Captain and Captain-Class, yet next to Kazuya¡¯s overwhelming force, she felt like a flickering candle facing the sun¡¯s searing might. But fear was a stranger to her at that moment as the Reiatsu had no intent to harm her.


    ¡°Goodness,¡± Yoruichi whispered, licking her lips subconsciously. ¡°I didn¡¯t think he¡¯d grow this much. What a terrifying man.¡±


    ¡°For all that show-off, his Shikai is just two weird floating blades.¡±


    ¡°Yado?maru, did no one ever tell you not to judge a Zanpakuto? by their appearance?¡±


    ¡°Keep your wisdom to yourself, Cat Lady.¡±


    Ignoring their sideline commentary, Kazuya gestured with a wave of his hand. The hovering blades responded, swirling around him in a beautifully choreographed dance, harmonizing to his mental commands and physical movements. ¡°Yoruichi, get into your Shunko? form. Lisa, use your Bankai. Give me your best.¡±


    Yoruichi laughed. ¡°You¡¯ll apologize to Sung-Sun for what I¡¯m about to do.¡±


    She thrust her hand to the side and clenched her fist. Her Reiatsu turned ferocious, materializing a layer of white energy around her. Her ponytail danced in the wind, a sharp contrast to the white lightning crackling and snaking around her. The Kido? enveloping her grew denser and denser until¡ª Crackle! ¡ª the pressure reached a crescendo, and arcs of lightning erupted.


    Her sleeves were ripped apart, as was the fabric covering her back. Sung-Sun¡¯s dress was half ruined.


    Yoruichi grinned, turning to Lisa. ¡°Don¡¯t hold back. This guy can take on both of us.¡±


    ¡°As they say, the road to ruin is paved with overconfidence.¡± Lisa pushed up her glasses and unsheathed her Zanpakuto?. ¡°For you, the road will lead to thrashing by two beautiful onee-san.¡±


    She slammed the hilt of her Zanpakuto? into the mouth of its scabbard before twirling it over her head with both hands. As the blade twirled, her Visored Mask manifested ¡ª a diamond shaped white mask with a cross-shaped opening instead of a mouth and eye slits. ¡°Smash... Haguro Tonbo!¡±


    Her Shikai activated, transforming the blade into an elongated polearm, its spearhead mimicking the shape of a monk¡¯s spade. Lisa, the former Vice-Captain with all the qualifications of a Captain, aimed her weapon at Kazuya.


    ¡°My fellow abomination, prepare to bleed magma from your heart.¡±

 Chapter 150: Enmyaku

    Chapter 150: Enmyaku


    The former Shinigami ladies didn¡¯t dally around. Yoruichi¡¯s lightning fast Shunpo closed the distance between her and Kazuya in an imperceptible instant. She threw a kick at him, her leg snapping in an arc so fast it tore through the air with a sonic boom, electric arcs trailing her heel.


    At the same instant, Lisa¡¯s gigantic polearm descended on his head like a hungry guillotine.


    Kazuya stood stoic, his arms arrogantly folded across his chest. The shimmering blades hovering beside him morphed, coalescing into formidable shields that materialized just in the nick of time.


    Electrical currents cascaded from Yoruichi¡¯s extended leg, a furious tempest of lightning battering against his shield. Sparks flew. Lisa¡¯s polearm clashed against the second shield, her blade rebounding as if it hit an unyielding wall.


    Refusing to be stopped by a mere shield, Yoruichi shifted her stance and unleashed a whirlwind of kicks and punches, each strike accompanied by the dazzling white lightning. Her Shunko mixed the power of Kido spells and fighting techniques into a killer technique ¡ª the peak offense a Shinigami could show with their body.


    Yet, each scorching impact seemed to evaporate upon hitting the shield.


    Lisa, grunting with sheer determination, swung her polearm around, flipping it to its other end; it was armed with a small but insanely heavy ball designed for crushing.


    With a yell, she slammed it against the shield.


    The shield held fast. It would have been odd if it hadn¡¯t; these very shields had once fended off Kazuya¡¯s own devastating power. And he was stronger than Barragan in terms of raw spiritual power. Yoruichi and Lisa were strong, but they were still around the level of a Vasto Lorde.


    A smile flickered across Yoruichi¡¯s face, her eyes twinkling with excitement rather than frustration. If nothing else, she relished the unwinding of her muscles against the shield. ¡°Take this!¡±


    In contrast, Lisa¡¯s frown showed the frustration anyone would have when facing an unbreakable shield. Though she had yet to unleash her Bankai, she sensed that even that might be inadequate. Her Bankai boosted her fighting prowess, not her overall destructive power. And she required overwhelming destructive power to breach his shield.


    Vaulting off the unyielding shield, she ricocheted off the ceiling, flipping mid-air to descend like a human missile.


    ¡°Smash him!¡± Yoruichi cheered, quickly sidestepping the targeted area.


    With an impact likened to a mini meteor, Lisa¡¯s Zanpakuto? collided once more, creating a resonant clang so loud it felt as though their very bones had rung like a gong. Thus, a radial shockwave rippled through the underground chamber.


    Kazuya casually flicked his wrist, the shields evaporating back into the blades whence they came. ¡°Jeez, you went all out, huh.¡±


    Lisa, panting heavily, shot him an icy glare through the gaps of her dissipating Hollow mask. Her Zanpakuto? returned to its original form, and she sheathed it back with a crisp motion. ¡°What a stupid shield.¡±


    Yoruichi deactivated her Shunko, and her electrical aura slowly dissipated. ¡°Your Hollow powers are anything but defensive in nature. Why do you have a Support-Type Zanpakuto??¡±


    ¡°Zanpakuto? are a manifestation of a Shinigami¡¯s desires,¡± Lisa said. ¡°A coward who hides behind his shield ¡ª I¡¯d say so if I didn¡¯t know any better.¡±


    One needed extreme courage to pose as a Shinigami in the Gotei 13 while being a Hollow ¡ª the very beings Shinigami purified.


    In the same process as Tsubasa¡¯s Shikai, the flames detached and morphed into two separate Enmyakus. These, however, bore the menacing carmine hue.


    Lisa crossed her arms, a sharp look in her eyes. ¡°It¡¯s disturbing watching a friend commit you know what.¡±


    Yoruichi chuckled. ¡°Those blades look a little different. If I had to guess, they have offensive powers now.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± he said, as the Enmyakus whirled around him, finally settling into his hands as curved daggers. Each hilt was set with a crimson gem, pulsating softly. ¡°Wow, they look weak.¡±


    In an act of defiant response, tongues of flame erupted from each dagger, searing the ground. The momentarily contact evaporated left two long gnashes on the ground, each deeper than a meter.


    {The only counter to my flames is... dodge... or offset them with Reiatsu of higher level.}


    He didn¡¯t expect any less from Nami. In a fight where people can use high-level movement techniques, it will be hard to consistently land hits given the daggers¡¯ range.


    Yoruichi blinked at the destruction of his flames. ¡°Your Zanpakuto? has so much potential. The only downside is the long time to switch forms.¡±


    Lisa walked back until she was over a hundred meters away from him. ¡°Is this what you wanted me to see?¡±


    He laughed at her cautious, unwilling-to-get-burned attitude. ¡°Do you know how I changed my Zanpakuto??¡±


    ¡°Merging it with a different flame? Why do you have two different flames in the first place?¡±


    Both Yoruichi and Lisa were curious as the destructive flames of his Shikai reminded them of their Captain Commander. Yet the supportive nature of his other flames was something they had yet to see.


    ¡°That flame belongs to my Hollow side ¡ª my Resurreccio?n if you will,¡± he paused for a dramatic moment. ¡°I know you¡¯re afraid of your Inner Hollow, and reasonably so. The fact you dominate it to make it a weapon shows your great willpower.¡±


    Lisa remained skeptical. ¡°What are you getting at?¡±


    He tossed the daggers in the air, letting them return to the Enmyaku form. ¡°Your hesitation is stunting your growth. If you want to grow beyond the limits of Shinigami and Hollows, let your Inner Hollow develop.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s eyes widened, shocked at his audacity at suggesting such a thing. To every Visored, their Inner Hollows were shackles, preventing them from returning to their respective positions in the Gotei 13. They despised the malevolent spirits residing in their Inner Worlds.


    ¡°It¡¯s your choice to heed my advice or not.¡± He shrugged/ ¡°So Yoruichi, wanna fight some more?¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s gaze flicked from a visibly unsettled Lisa to him, a mischievous smile curving her lips. ¡°I¡¯m down for some action.¡±


    ¡°Good, I¡¯ll use my Resurreccio?n now.¡±

 Chapter 151: Master of Samsara?

    Chapter 151: Master of Samsara?


    A sea of carmine flames danced wildly, their passionate embrace consuming the lingering ashes that filled the cavernous underground chamber. As each flame waned, the ash-veiled ground found itself nearly fifty meters swallowed into the earth¡¯s belly.


    Kazuya floated in the chamber''s center, dressed in his Arrancar form¡¯s spiritual clothes. A slender chain, born from Nami¡¯s flames, wrapped around him with an intimate possessiveness. It weaved a path up to his neck, finally contracting into a black blindfold. The crimson gem adorning his forehead shone to match the carmine theme before settling into a dim glow.


    [Hollow¡¯s Evolution ¡®Arrancar (Resurreccio?n Form: Complete)¡¯ achieved.]


    An awe-stricken murmur escaped him, ¡°That was... something.¡±


    Achieving one of the greatest powers of Hollows filled him with equal dread and thrill. His hand grazed the blindfold, the catalyst for Nami to channel her powers into him ¡ª perhaps return the power that belonged to him.


    ¡®I¡¯ll reserve the Resurreccio?n as my trump card.¡¯


    {The demon god must not invoke his authority haphazardly.}


    He thoroughly agreed with Nami. The forcefield around him had barely caged his Reiatsu, despite the best he consciously limited his output to his limits. A mere whim of releasing his Reiatsu could¡¯ve razed the town above. With his Resurreccio?n activated, he could reap human lives with more ease than a farmer reaping wheat.


    He was the walking scythe of death.


    What baffled him was that this monumental power wasn¡¯t even his Hollow form¡¯s final evolution ¡ª the System still displayed two further evolutions. One of them being Segunda Etapa, the ability Ulquiorra showcased in his fight against Ichigo. The other remained a complete mystery.


    ¡®Nami, how fucking strong was Soul King?¡¯


    {A severed torso serves as an anchor to three massive realms. Mere shards of his being creates artifacts capable of twisting reality to materialize one¡¯s deepest desires. His right and left hand, while estranged, rivals the strongest powers. His self-proclaimed son wields the ability to peer into future timelines and temper with them... that should give you a good estimate.}


    ¡°Controlling life, growth, death, and rebirth...¡± he whispered. ¡°Please let me be wrong about my origin.¡±


    {Yours is a false hope, Partner.}


    ¡®Fuck.¡¯


    With a weary motion, he caressed his cheek, turning his gaze to where Yoruichi and Lisa stood ¡ª near the exit door. ¡°It¡¯s safe now.¡±


    Using her tremendously mastered Shunpo, Yoruichi arrived before him, holding his shoulders. ¡°You aren¡¯t burning anymore...¡± she breathed, a weight lifting from her before the memory of his Resurreccio?n returned, prompting her to flick his chin. ¡°I felt like I died for a second. That tree¡ªwhat was it doing to me?!¡±


    Despite guarding herself with her Reiatsu, his Resurreccio?n ability had yanked her into its grasp, albeit for merely a second.


    ¡°Ah... Fine,¡± Yoruichi agreed with a sigh, brushing his hand from her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll go fetch Urahara.¡±


    It was a great opportunity to stick her neck for the man risking his life for her mission. The Flash Goddess wasted no time in leaving the Visored base.


    She approached him with the wariness of a dear in an unfamiliar land, every sense alert and muscles coiled. Unleashing his Resurreccio?n did something to her or the Hollow inside her.


    ¡°Kazuya, you¡¯re coming with me to see Izumi.¡±


    Her motive for casting the responsibility on Yoruichi became clear.


    He smirked, his gaze mysterious behind the blindfold. ¡°Alright.¡±


    ...


    Creak. The wooden door elegantly opened, inviting an autumn breeze and rustling leaves. There, in the frame, stood a silhouette Izumi found both strange and achingly familiar. Her heart leapt, pulsing waves of warmth. Her hands, hanging limply by her sides, twitched. Her lips quivered, parting slightly.


    The light shifted as Kazuya stepped forward, his features coming into focus. She noticed changes in him, subtle like minor growth in his height and substantial like his short hair.


    In the space between heartbeats, Izumi¡¯s hands found the courage her voice couldn¡¯t. They rose up, reached out, and touched him. The contact, skin and fabric grounded him into reality from a potential dream.


    He was there with her.


    Without hesitation, she threw her arms around him, taking in his familiar scent. ¡°Otouto-kun...¡±


    Holding her quivering and sobbing form, he rubbed her back. ¡°I¡¯m back.¡±


    {Partner... you knew her for, what, two weeks. Isn¡¯t her reaction too extreme? It¡¯s as if she had been reunited with long-lost son.}


    ¡®It¡¯s the bond of true siblings.¡¯


    {Nah, Partner. Izumi is a RED FLAG I¡¯m telling you.}


    ¡®I don¡¯t see anything wrong.¡¯


    {Argh, blind love. I can¡¯t even do anything or Tsubasa will clash with me.}

 Chapter 152: Encroachment

    Chapter 152: Encroachment


    Kazuya settled into the cozy living room of Izumi¡¯s apartment, which wasn¡¯t as grand as her sprawling mansion. But the bookshelves stuffed to the brim with lewd books, the stylistic paintings, and an assortment of knick-knacks lent the space an intimate, homely atmosphere.


    Izumi gracefully appeared carrying a tray adorned with cups of matcha green tea and sweet bean paste snacks ¡ª some of his favorite Japanese things ever. Setting the tray down, she stifled a yawn that still managed to escape. ¡°Forgive me for that. Otouto-kun, please enjoy."


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind if I do.¡±


    {And just like that, you¡¯re a happy man.}


    Kazuya ignored the voice in his head and lifted the steaming cup to his lips, savoring the nuanced bitterness of the matcha. ¡°So, what have you been up to these days?¡±T/his chapter is updated by


    Furrowing her brow, Izumi seemed momentarily lost in thought. ¡°It¡¯s been a quiet time for Karakura Town.¡±


    The brief aversion of her gaze signaled a lie. Feeling guilty about her deception, she reached for a basket of fresh fruit and started slicing an apple.


    ¡°Anything else?¡±


    He probed for valuable information ¡ª anything to persuade her to slow down and take better care of herself.


    Izumi¡¯s lips curved into a soft smile. ¡°Let¡¯s see. I¡¯ve been practicing my Blut abilities and other techniques. It has yielded beneficial results so far. I also joined a boxing, taekwondo, and judo club to deepen my understanding of martial arts. It¡¯s going great so far.¡±


    {Look how happy she looks. We don¡¯t have to steal that happiness from her.}


    ¡°I¡¯ve got the news that you aren¡¯t resting enough, as in overworking yourself.¡±


    ¡°Lisa.¡± Her eyes sharpened instantly. ¡°She tends to worry excessively. Look at me, Otouto-kun, do I look like I¡¯m not well rested?¡±


    With a sweep of her arms, she struck a theatrical pose, exuding confidence. Her experience in high school drama club had made her an actress adept enough to fool masses.


    He swiftly arrived behind her with Hirenkyaku and struck her head with just enough force to make her unconscious. Catching her slumping form, he carried her to the bedroom, laying her gently on the bed.


    Sitting by the bedside, he let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Life is just more than some old family tradition. When will you understand that?¡±


    He could hardly understand the way things escalated. They¡¯d been sharing a seemingly peaceful moment over tea, and then she was holding a knife against her throat, intent on ending her life. It was as if her entire self-worth was tied to her responsibilities as a Quincy. The moment she lost her purpose, she made an extreme decision.


    {The mindset of a cultist. They pour everything into their faith, and when that faith crumbles, they don¡¯t want to live anymore. It never ends nicely for anyone involved with a cult.}


    ¡°I hope it¡¯s just an emotional meltdown caused by extreme stress.¡±


    {Most likely is. We¡¯ll know when she wakes up.}


    ¡®Lisa was so off about her. Izumi is a ticking time bomb.¡¯


    {Can¡¯t blame Lisa. Izumi wasn¡¯t like that until you told her to give up,} Nami said, clicking her tongue. {Partner, you have to be careful about this nutjob. Some wrong words will send her deeper into the pit of despair or make her dependent on you. Both of which are bad endings. Perhaps get the true ending ¡®I turned my cultist sister into a yandere and added her to my ever-growing harem.¡¯}


    Gently caressing Izumi¡¯s face, he whispered, ¡°I won¡¯t let anything happen to you.¡±


    {I forgot you¡¯re the yandere here.}


    Realizing he had to inform Tier about the change in plans, his heart sank at the thought of leaving Izumi alone, even for a moment.


    ¡®Nami, can you report this to Apacci? Tell them not to worry.¡¯


    {Ugh, my head kills me when I¡¯m away from you.}


    ¡®Please, Nami. I can¡¯t take my eyes off her.¡¯


    {Rawr... fine. Only because you¡¯re asking me.}

 Chapter 153: Wrong Flag!

    Chapter 153: Wrong Flag!


    Only when the sky turned orange did Izumi stir from her seven-hour long sleep. Something told Kazuya this was her best sleep in three months without him. The exhaustion that had lined her face seemed to have eased.


    Grasping her hand, he gently helped her into a sitting position. ¡°Hey.¡±


    Izumi blinked back at him, her eyes filling with tears as they locked onto him. ¡°Otouto-kun...¡± Her voice wavered, tinged with remorse. ¡°I''m so sorry. What I did was unforgivable.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. All that sleeping should¡¯ve gotten you hungry.¡±


    She hesitated, then nodded. ¡°A bit... I''ll go prepare¡ª¡±


    ¡°No, no, no. You stay put. I¡¯ll get something for you.¡±


    Before she could raise an objection, he exited the room. During her lengthy sleep, he had tossed out every lethal object ¡ª even something as small as a needle ¡ª from the bedroom. Nevertheless, he returned to her side as quickly as possible, bringing a glass of milk and some meticulously sliced fruits.


    {You¡¯re a terrible brother.}


    ¡®Shut up. I didn¡¯t have time to whip up a gourmet meal.¡¯


    {Even if I gave you three hours, your cooking will still taste like a freshly brewed disaster.}


    ¡®In my defense, I have so many talented lovers to do it for me.¡¯


    Serving the healthiest meal to Izumi, he watched as she accepted it without question, sipping the milk before setting the glass back onto the table.


    ¡°Otouto-kun, I''m grateful for everything, but you really should¡ª¡±


    ¡°Leave? Not happening.¡±


    She chuckled softly. ¡°You should have warmed up the milk. Cold milk sucks.¡±


    {She looks better.}The? source of this content n/o/v/(el)bi((n))


    ¡°As for your question, why would the world want to eradicate Quincy? It¡¯s not them. The Quincy, at least the sane ones, don¡¯t want to risk their lives to fight Hollows, and they absolutely don¡¯t see any reason in getting punished by Shinigami for breaking the balance. Aside from that, do you think a sane mother will willingly raise her child for such a risky occupation?¡±


    With passion and gentleness, he tried to fill her head with logic, unintentionally calling Izumi¡¯s mother insane in the process.


    She tilted her face upward, her eyes shimmering with unshed emotion. ¡°Will you stay tonight?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Want me to cook something?¡±


    She let out a laugh. ¡°Never. I¡¯ll do the honor.¡±


    He allowed her to step in the kitchen, but he was there to supervise her. She didn¡¯t mind his presence. Rather, she found his protectiveness and care heartwarming, making her smile.


    ¡°Otouto-kun, I wish we were true siblings.¡±


    ¡°Me too.¡±


    Her smile blossomed like a flower in the spring ¡ª her most beautiful smile to date. ¡°So it¡¯s official then. I¡¯m Izumi Ishihara from this day on.¡±


    ...


    Nighttime.


    The soft creak of the door roused Kazuya from his light sleep. Still wary of Izumi¡¯s intentions, he was alert to every nuance of sound and movement. It was unmistakably Izumi slipping into his room, her presence confirmed as she gently lifted the blanket and lay beside him. The fresh scent of her damp hair hinted that she¡¯d come straight from the bath, and her delicate lingerie amplified the warmth and softness against him.


    Curious about her motive, he continued feigning sleep, which grew harder with her presence in his bed.


    ¡°Your scent is everywhere, mingling with the air I breathe,¡± she whispered, her fingers lightly grazing his chest before tracing the lines of his face. ¡°If I give up... if I let go of this purpose that defines me¡ªI¡¯ll be left in a void. There¡¯ll be no reason for me to greet the dawn, no emotions to color my days¡ªneither joy nor despair. I¡¯ll become an empty shell, devoid of reason. A nothing.''"


    Contrary to the darkness of her words, her voice held a note of inexplicable optimism, absent of vulnerability.


    ¡°I¡¯m not without purpose with you here.¡± She reached up and pressed her lips against his face. ¡°My Otouto, my dearest, we¡¯ll honor the tradition adopted by our ancestors ¡ª we¡¯ll marry each other and start a family.¡±


    {Partner, you triggered the wrong flag!}

 Chapter 154-155: Heal My Heart

    Chapter 154-155: Heal My Heart


    ¡°Otouto-kun, do you think I should dye my hair to match you?¡±


    ¡°Dyes can damage hair. You don¡¯t need them.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Do I wear girly dresses or stick to formal clothes?¡±


    ¡°You look fine in anything. After all, true beauty comes from within.¡±


    ¡°Hehehe. What about my hair length? Should I grow it or cut it even shorter like you?¡±


    ¡°No need for that. Your current hairstyle is perfect. You don¡¯t have to change yourself for me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m doing it because I want to!¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Lisa felt like she walked into a lovey-dovey couple¡¯s morning regime rather than the house of a divorcee and her adopted brother. Izumi had never been this vibrant. This version of Izumi radiated such contagious energy that she could cure people¡¯s depression, and that nothing in the world could make her stressed.


    Izumi tilted her head, finally noticing Lisa¡¯s arrival. ¡°Welcome back, Lisa. You don¡¯t have to cook or clean today. I did everything.¡±


    ¡°What happened yesterday?¡± Lisa blurted out, her eyes widening in disbelief. ¡°Why does it feel like I skipped three arcs and jumped straight into the epilogue?¡±


    ¡°Well. Izumi, can I leave the explanation to you?¡±


    ¡°Of course, Otouto-kun,¡± Izumi cooed. ¡°Lisa, I¡¯ve abandoned my Quincy mission. It wouldn¡¯t have gone anywhere with a single person¡¯s efforts.¡±


    Lisa turned to Kazuya, whom she had tasked to fix Izumi. He went above and beyond, making Izumi abandon her futile mission. The absolutely fine work earned a thumbs-up from her. ¡°My respect and admiration for you have grown beyond mortal bounds. From today onwards, I¡¯ll consider you the greatest man ever to step foot on the three realms.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Kazuya said with a shrug, a subtle grin pulling at his lips. ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a seat with us?¡±


    Izumi propped her elbows on the table and gently cradled her face in her palms. Her soft smile oozed with affection. ¡°Others have moved on in their lives, pursuing happiness in lives as normal people. It¡¯s time I cast my past and embrace a new future with Otouto-kun.¡±


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    Lisa crossed her arms. ¡°I have always been against political marriages and even more against the Quincy resurrection. Let Shinigami handle the job of balancers.¡±


    Izumi nodded in a trance, her gaze unwavering from Kazuya, as if fascinated by him. ¡°Otouto-kun and I don¡¯t need to risk our lives. That reminds me, Otouto-kun, you have yet to reply to my confession. I know you¡¯re considering Harribel-san, Apacci-san, and Sung-Sun¡¯s feelings... but can you answer me soon? My heart cannot take this suspense.¡±


    Kazuya almost spat his coffee. ¡°Which confession are you talking about?¡±


    Her lips stretched into a gentle smile. ¡°Naughty Otouto-kun, don¡¯t you play with my heart like that. You were wide awake when I poured my heart out to you.¡±


    She had noticed the tiniest of fluctuations in his Reiatsu when she entered his room last night. The fluctuations only became wilder as she expressed her feelings.


    He cleared his throat. ¡°I didn¡¯t interrupt because it was better to free your emotions than bottle them up in your heart.¡±


    ¡°Very true, Otouto-kun. You¡¯re so incredibly sweet and caring. It was Kami¡¯s blessing that I ran into you that night.¡±


    {Partner, it¡¯s official that Izumi is balls-deep obse¡ªin love with you. Because you were present at the right place and time. Open your heart and embrace her love, for you¡¯re a harem protagonist.}


    ¡®I caused this, so I¡¯ll take full responsibility.¡¯


    Izumi might resort to self-harm if he rejected her newfound purpose of having a normal life with him. It wouldn¡¯t be farfetched to say he was her sole reason for existence. She might just break at his rejection. Izumi would¡¯ve continued a normal life if he hadn¡¯t changed her fate to such an extent.


    Besides, he had a soft spot for Izumi, who had been nothing but kind to him. If committing to her would ensure her happiness and presence in his life, then it was a price he was more than willing to pay.


    {You¡¯re just hard to bone a yandere lady who resembles the lover from your past life.}


    ¡®Quiet.¡¯


    The sheer anticipation in Izumi¡¯s eyes made him sigh. ¡°Izumi, if you¡¯re fine with the other women in my life, I won¡¯t reject you.¡±


    Her smile blossomed, and the delicate sheen of unshed tears turned her eyes into reflective pools of emotion. ¡°I won¡¯t have any problem as long as others don¡¯t have a problem with me.¡±


    Her innocence and sweetness suggested she would be content as long as he gave her attention and love, which might be impossible given his mission in the Soul Society.


    {She is dangerous, Partner. Neglect her and she may just attack others.}


    Sung-Sun, the weakest of his lovers, could effortlessly floor Izumi. His lovers won¡¯t be in trouble unless Izumi awakens some ridiculous powerup.


    {She will get one. It¡¯s only a matter of time.}


    ...


    Back in Kazuya¡¯s mansion.


    ¡°Apacci, I got a gift for you.¡±


    Mila Rose, Cirucci, and Apacci ¡ª all watched in anticipation as Kazuya unfurled the maid dress out of the bag. The dress was a byproduct of Sung-Sun and Lisa while his input refined some aspects like the frilly choker and the low neckline ¡ª all in effort to suit Apacci¡¯s style.


    ¡°But why this?¡± Mila Rose asked, skeptical. ¡°Surely there are better dresses out there for Apacci. She¡¯ll be happier with an Adjuchas soul than this¡ªthis crappy dress.¡±


    ¡°You mate¡¯s fetish,¡± Cirucci whispered. ¡°He¡¯s a freaky leader alright.¡±


    Sung-Sun snorted. ¡°You two have shitty taste. The classic black and white contrasting dresses have been alluring for centuries. They have caused thousands of divorces in Japan alone.¡±


    Mila Rose blinked. ¡°You collected the most useless knowledge...¡±


    Kazuya tossed the dress at Apacci. ¡°It has to do with your evolution. That¡¯s all I can say at the moment.¡±


    She had to embrace her Aspect of Death on her own. His help might achieve the opposite in pushing away her ¡®Devotion¡¯ side.


    Apacci¡¯s eyes gleamed. ¡°Okay.¡±


    She didn¡¯t question his decision. Taking his hand, she dragged him to her room. As he tried to come inside, she closed the door in his face.


    ¡°Wait outside!¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help but shake his head at her weird embarrassment. During their intimacy, he had seen her naked over a dozen times. She had even shared a threesome with Sung-Sun.


    {Be patient. The reveal is a delicate bloom, best when unrushed.}


    All the rustling inside the room raised his anticipation. After what felt like an eternity, Apacci let him open the door. His heart skipped a beat when he found her standing with crossed arms. Her frown was firmly at odds with the maid headdress resting on her head.


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    He found himself captured by her unexpected charm, feeling his heart sinking deeper for her.


    There was an innocence in the frills and folds of her outfit, a sharp contrast to her untamed intensity spirit.


    ¡®Something is wrong with me.¡¯


    {It¡¯s the gap moe. The contrast of her innocent frills and her untamed spirit.}


    His silent admiration made her more conscious of her dress. She loosened up, fidgeting nervously. ¡°Wearing this is embarrassing enough,¡± she huffed, the corners of her lips twitching downwards in a pout that was too cute to be real. ¡°I don¡¯t need you gawking like that.¡±


    ¡°It looks great on you. I mean really great,¡± he reassured her, closing the space between them with a warmth in his smile. ¡°Why is this embarrassing?¡±


    ¡°It''s just...¡± she started, her voice trailing off into a murmur as if she were revealing a vulnerability she hadn¡¯t planned on sharing. ¡°It¡¯s like I¡¯m running around as a servant, and not... not your lover.¡±


    Although she was one of his lovers, she took great pride in her current status. It meant everything to her. The thought of being perceived as a family maid¡ªespecially as Sung-Sun¡¯s maid¡ªwas a straight blow to her pride.


    He held her hands. ¡°You¡¯ll be my exclusive maid. A maid solely devoted to serving me.¡±


    He watched her, seeking any sign of distaste or disapproval. He¡¯d drop the whole idea if it caused her any discomfort. Instead, what he saw was the furrowing of her brow, a look of perplexed contemplation.


    ¡°I should be infuriated,¡± she whispered, a trace of astonishment in her voice as her fingers subconsciously grazed her neck. ¡°And yet, I¡¯m... okay with it. What is this bullshit? And how is it related to my evolution?¡±


    He pointed at her chest. ¡°The obstacle in your evolution isn¡¯t physical but mental.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. It¡¯ll be solved in time.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s departure to Hueco Mundo made her realize about her denseness and impulsiveness to say hurtful things. Rather than dealing with the matters of the heart on her own, she chose to take his help.


    ¡°So what are my duties... as your maid?¡± she inquired, her tone a mix of sarcasm and genuine intrigue. ¡°I¡¯m not cleaning the whole mansion just so you know.¡±


    His gaze drifted to Apacci¡¯s bed, where a plush panda rested against the wall. ¡°We¡¯ll talk after I reward you for your cooperation.¡±


    Her cheeks flushed at the realization. ¡°I¡¯ll take these off. Don¡¯t want them getting dirty¡ª¡±


    ¡°No! Leave it on. It¡¯s perfect.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 156-157: A Temporary Solution

    Chapter 156-157: A Temporary Solution


    Cirucci''s gaze darted around the dark garage, chasing Kazuya as he meticulously stacked layer upon layer of force fields in every corner.T/his chapter is updated by


    The moment they shared was ripe with possibilities, and Cirucci¡¯s mind leaned into the darker ones, wondering if she was being forced to join his harem, or if he might lead down a far darker path and experiment on her body.


    The mere thought brought an involuntary shudder. ¡®It can¡¯t be sex...¡¯


    Her suspicions were further inflamed as Kazuya¡¯s hands went to his shirt, removing it from his torso.


    Cirucci¡¯s heart slammed against her ribs. ¡°Leader, you wouldn¡¯t... The Leader I know isn¡¯t a monster who forces his dick on women,¡± she stepped back, her voice a mix of horror and defiance. "If you still won¡¯t listen, I-I¡¯ll bite your penis off.¡±


    He winced at her accusation. ¡°Chill out, I¡¯m not here for sex. This is just to save my shirt.¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s tension eased, but only marginally. ¡°O-Okay...¡±


    Kazuya drew his Zanpakuto?, beginning the elaborate and somewhat harrowing ritual to invoke his Shikai ¡ª the act of self-stabbing terrorizing Cirucci. The web of glowing yellow force field imprisoned his Reiatsu within the garage.


    Mesmerized, Cirucci held her breath, feeling the growing pressure of his Reiatsu for the first time since their first confrontation. ¡°You¡¯ve improved so much, Leader.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s eyes took on a sinister gleam as he regarded her. ¡°Cirucci, just stay there and...¡± His words trailed as he transmuted his Enmyaku into dual muskets, the barrels trained unflinchingly on her chest. ¡°Let me shoot you.¡±


    ¡°Wait a second!¡± Cirucci raised a hand. ¡°Why does a Shinigami have guns in the first place?¡±


    Spending half of her day before the television had informed her of many things, the guns being one of them.


    ¡°Because they¡¯re convenient to use.¡±


    A resignation settled over Cirucci, and she opened her arms in a gesture of surrender, a silent acknowledgment of his needs over her own existence. ¡°If it makes you happy, then go ahead... shoot me dead.¡±


    ¡°Thanks and goodbye, Cirucci,¡± came his stoic reply.


    He fired twice in quick succession, and the flaming bullets shot vanished into Cirucci¡¯s chest. The inferno engulfed Cirucci. His heart thumped as the flames flickered and grew to touch the ceiling.


    {It¡¯ll work, Partner. You have my stamp of guarantee.}


    As Nami¡¯s reassuring words fell, the flames vanished, and a massive pair of metallic black wings unfolded. Long, slender arms with claws reached out, their owner looking utterly confused.


    ¡°L-Leader, my... my Zanpakuto? restored?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you feel it?¡±


    Violet eyes that were lacking hope until now ¡ª those eyes held a look of hesitation. Dying to know the truth, yet afraid of tasting disappointment. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it. Your Zanpakuto? ¡ª it must be manipulating my senses to show me visions.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll forgive you if you come clean. Say it. Say that I¡¯m under your Zanpakuto? ability.¡±


    Narrowing his eyes, Kazuya responded not with words, but with a question conveyed through his steady gaze. ¡°Cirucci, you¡¯re one of my own, my sweet little goth chick. Do you think I¡¯ll play such cruel tricks on you?¡±


    ¡°BUT it was impossible ¡ª that mad scientist himself said that the Arrancar¡¯s Zanpakuto? loses its essence when it¡¯s damaged during the Resurreccio?n form.¡±


    ¡°Impossible, you say. Do you know who you¡¯re talking to?¡±


    A look of realization dawned on her face. ¡°Ah...¡±


    She had completely forgotten that the man before her could transform into Quincy, Shinigami, and Hollow. His abilities were so incomprehensible that restoring her Zanpakuto? seemed so trivial. More trivial than her tiny presence in the whole wide universe.


    Recalling the size of the universe depicted in Sung-Sun¡¯s books, she suddenly lost all excitement. Letting out a deflating sigh, she deactivated her Release State, returning to a form she hadn¡¯t taken for months. She felt lighter, agile, and more comfortable in her base Arrancar form.


    Her Zanpakuto?, a whip ending in a massive disc, manifested in her hands, bringing along a rush of power. The feel of the whip¡¯s handle reminded her of the battles fought in the Hueco Mundo, of survival and ascension in Barragan¡¯s army. She also recalled the times she tortured her opponents for being weaker than her, the despair she carved into their hearts, and the exquisite pain they took to their graves.


    ¡®Back when I could let loose and enjoy whipping my enemies.¡¯


    The thrill of battle still coursed through her veins, as recent skirmishes with Grimmjow¡¯s crew had proven, yet none matched the intensity of her past glories.


    Taking Cirucci¡¯s hand, he changed direction. ¡°Change of plans.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Where are we¡ª¡±


    ¡°Come with me.¡±


    The confusion that flitted across her features was met with a mysterious smile, as he steered them towards an unexpected detour.


    Cirucci was under suspense for fifteen minutes. The ¡®Neko Zoo¡¯ carved in English above the door revealed his ¡®Change of Plans¡¯. They were here to meet cats ¡ª the thought alone made her smile. ¡°Very considerate of you to remember my adoration for cats.¡±


    ¡°You have a predatory look every time you see Yoruichi. Besides, making girls smile is my second profession.¡±


    She giggled. ¡°Cats are cute creatures. Maybe that¡¯s why I get along well with Franceska. She is like a cat in human form.¡±


    ¡°Minus the fluffy ears and tail.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    {Mila Rose¡¯s tiddies make up for it.}


    ¡®They do.¡¯


    As Cirucci reached for the door, he held her back. ¡°Wait here.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    He quickly went inside and returned with a box. She took a curious look inside, meeting two pairs of innocent golden and green eyes. ¡°Congratulations, Cirucci. You¡¯re a mom of two now.¡±


    Her face morphed from shock to a wide-eyed expression. ¡°Leader, you can¡¯t just shove kitties on me.¡±


    She loved cats, but she wasn¡¯t cut out for the whole nurturing like Harribel.


    ¡°Then kill them. Should be an easy task for the former Espada.¡±


    His nonchalance instilled her with horror. ¡°You can¡¯t be serious...¡±


    Just the thought of hurting the innocent creatures made her tense. Facing her greatest foe Szayelaporro was easier than harming the kittens.


    ¡°I¡¯m dead serious,¡± Kazuya spoke softly, bringing her attention back to him. ¡°You said nothing you do seems to have meaning. Their death shouldn¡¯t have any meaning either.¡±


    For a moment, they simply stood there, Cirucci gazing at the kittens, grappling with her emotions. ¡°Leader...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s an order from the man who spared your life and offered you a place in his family. Either take them or end them.¡±


    ¡°Blast...¡± she grumbled. ¡°I¡¯ll take them.¡±


    He watched as she tentatively reached out to the box. The kittens, curious and unphased by Cirucci, poked their heads further out, their mewls soft but insistent. Her stoic expression crumbled entirely at the sight, replaced by a softness that rarely saw the light of day. It was as if the presence of the kittens had momentarily filled her emptiness.


    ¡°You cute little things,¡± she finally said, the words a whisper against the backdrop of purring and the gentle rustle of black and gray kittens. ¡°It¡¯ll be fucking weird to look after you.¡±


    Watching her act tsundere toward kittens was quite amusing for Kazuya. Forcing Cirucci into an uncomfortable position was necessary to bring her out of her comfort zone. As long as she remained in her zone, she¡¯d sink back to despair.


    {It should have a positive impact on her.}


    ¡®It won¡¯t be enough.¡¯


    {That¡¯s where sex comes in. You fuck her until her head craves for your dick every minute.}


    ¡®Nami, sex addiction isn¡¯t good.¡¯


    {Big words from you, who bangs a girl every day. Partner, aren¡¯t you addicted to sex too?}


    ¡®No.¡¯ He shook his head. ¡®It¡¯s about making wholesome relationships for me. Sex is just an added benefit.¡¯


    {Lies.}

 Chapter 158: Unyielding

    Chapter 158: Unyielding


    ¡®I¡¯m tired of being too good at everything. I¡¯ll take a week off to hopefully lower my skills and let everyone catch up... who am I kidding? You will never be my equal. No one will be.¡¯


    Every day Rukia was forced to see this elegantly written message left by her friend. Her roommate had stuck the message on her side of the room. This wasn¡¯t even the worst part of having Momo Hinamori as her roommate. Rukia had to watch Momo kiss Kazuya¡¯s portrait before sleeping. She had to watch Momo sleep naked in Kazuya¡¯s kimono, which she had stolen from his room. She had to watch Momo write something in her diary while giggling like an idiot.


    Fiercely loyal and devoted, Momo was the best friend one could ask for. At the same time, she was the worst roommate one could genuinely have.


    ¡°It¡¯s the eighth day...¡± Momo whispered, gazing lovingly at Kazuya¡¯s sketch drawn by her own hands. ¡°Kazuya-kun, come back already. Life is colorless without you...¡±


    Rukia exhaled a tired breath. ¡°Why do you love him despite the reputation he has garnered? He is rumored to be dating multiple third-years.¡±


    In Rukia¡¯s eyes, Kazuya was a great friend due to his mentoring nature and his trait of protecting his friends at any cost. He had single-handedly stopped many nobles from beating up Renji, whose harsh tongue got him into conflicts every other week. Despite his great character, he would never be boyfriend material due to his single glaring flaw ¡ª his hedonism.


    Momo stared at Rukia as if she was the most stupid person in the world. ¡°He was using them to fix the oddity with his Zanpakuto?.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t make it any better!¡±


    Momo chuckled. ¡°It does. He felt nothing for them, and they confirmed as much.¡±


    ¡°You spoke to them?¡±


    ¡°I made friends with them over the last few days,¡± Momo said with a cheeky grin. ¡°Through our little chats, I discovered Kazuya-kun¡¯s preferred style.¡±


    Momo swiftly pulled out the ribbons keeping her twin tails in place. After a couple of minutes of styling, she looked at Rukia with a grin. ¡°All of them looked old. Do I look more mature?¡±


    Spoiler


    Chee?ck out latest novels at novelhall.com


    [collapse]


    Rukia was at a loss of words. ¡°A little.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll grow my hair more and do a single ponytail.¡± Momo giggled and kissed Kazuya¡¯s portrait. ¡°Let¡¯s leave. Kazuya-kun might be in class already. I can¡¯t wait to show him my progress!¡±


    ¡°Momo, your obsession is unhealthy. This relationship is unhealthy.¡±


    Despite knowing it could drive a wedge between them, Rukia spoke her mind in an attempt to steer Momo away from blindly loving Kazuya and getting hurt in the process.


    The room¡¯s air stiffened as Momo¡¯s eyes dimmed, a chilly aura emanating from her. ¡°How can you say that when you don¡¯t know a single thing about love?¡±


    Renji¡¯s laughter rippled across the table. ¡°You thought we won¡¯t notice your late evening disappearances?¡±


    Rukia cleared her throat. ¡°I didn¡¯t¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, a hush fell over the cafeteria, a silence forced upon them by a sudden and oppressive Reiatsu that smothered everyone with its intensity.


    Rukia noticed a group of four Shinigami entering the cafeteria. The two at the rear were unremarkable, but the two Shinigami leading the group caught her attention.


    An elderly man with a thick gray mustache and long gray hair ¡ª his Reiatsu was contained unlike the young man but his Shinigami uniform betrayed his prestigious status in the Gotei 13.


    ¡®A Captain...¡¯


    With the captain was a gray-eyed young man, cold and detached, his Reiatsu so formidable that it struck terror into everyone in the cafeteria. It wasn''t directed at anyone; his presence alone was simply that intimidating. The intricate headpiece ¡®kenseikan¡¯ nestled in his long black hair indicated his noble heritage.


    ¡®Why is he coming to us?!¡¯


    She held her breath, hoping the Shinigami would pass by her table. Contrary to her hopes, they halted before her.


    ¡°She bears a striking resemblance to her,¡± the elderly man whispered, looking down at Rukia. ¡°Forgive the interruption, but Student Rukia, you must accompany us to the Kuchiki Manor on urgent business.¡±


    The mention of the Kuchiki name sent a shiver down everyone¡¯s spine. The nobility of the Soul Society was a frequent topic among their teachers. The Kuchiki Clan, one of the Five Great Noble Families, was charged with compiling and safeguarding the history of the Soul Society, and its clan head served as the Captain of the 6th Division.


    The elderly man talking to her was Ginrei Kuchiki, the 27th Head of the Kuchiki Clan and the Captain of the 6th Squad.


    Rukia¡¯s mind was racing, anxious about what awaited her. The Kuchiki''s reputation was untarnished, but her experiences at the academy had taught her to be wary of any noble family. Moreover, the Kuchikis were influential, so much so that she doubted even Kazuya would dare to offend them.


    ¡°Girl, did you not hear Captain Kuchiki?¡± growled one of the burly men accompanying Ginrei Kuchiki. ¡°Rise and follow us.¡±


    Rukia tried to speak, but her words were trapped by a knot of anxiety and unvoiced queries. She rose, but her legs trembled, like a lamb surrounded by wolves.


    Tap. Tap. Tap. The sound of deliberate footsteps cut through the quiet. Wide-eyed, Rukia turned toward the newcomer. A familiar figure strode into the cafeteria with an unhurried pace, almost dismissive in the face of the overwhelming figures that dominated the space.


    ¡°You all call yourselves nobles and gang up on a young lady. Pathetic.¡±


    She was wrong about Kazuya.

 Chapter 159: A Commoner Tongue

    Chapter 159: A Commoner Tongue


    ¡®You are interrupting nobles in their mission! The Head of the Kuchiki family no less! Do you have some death wish or something?!¡¯


    ¡®You survived Captain Soi Fon but you¡¯re dead this time.¡¯


    ¡®Not even Captain Shiba can save you today.¡¯


    ¡®Die a miserable death, you fucking bastard!¡¯


    Almost every student had the same thoughts. Yet, what everyone feared to be Kazuya¡¯s demise was merely amusement to him.


    Byakuya, the picture of stoic nobility, finally acknowledged Kazuya with a look of pure apathy. ¡°You... are from Rukongai.¡±


    The slate gray eyes of Ginrei Kuchiki, full of wisdom befitting his elderly appearance, studied Kazuya. It was not the man, but the presence of the black cat at his side that sparked a hint of recognition ¡ª the reports of a student with a black cat companion clashing with Soi Fon had spread like wildfire three months ago. However, he chose to stay silent, even stopping his subordinates from acting.


    How could he let go of an opportunity to test Byakuya¡¯s maturity?


    Kazuya clicked his tongue. ¡°Commoners or nobles, what does one¡¯s origin change? It¡¯s not like nobles shit gold or bleed silver.¡±


    At his side, Yoruichi¡¯s whiskers twitched as she valiantly fought to contain her laughter. She pawed his leg to get his attention and assumed her angriest cat face. She and Byakuya shared a rivalry steeped in respect, both masters of the art of Shunpo. The thought of needlessly antagonizing the powerful Kuchiki Clan was unappealing, even to her mischievous nature.


    Byakuya slightly furrowed his brows. ¡°I don¡¯t have time for you. Do not interfere in affairs exceeding your station.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s arms folded defiantly across his chest. ¡°It¡¯s my business if it involves my friends. I¡¯m trying to say: You¡¯re not taking Rukia anywhere.¡±


    He was aware that Byakuya came to escort Rukia to her sister, Hisana. Still, he had to give the pair of noble grandfather and grandson a hard time for terrifying his friends. They could¡¯ve been more straightforward about everything, but they had to act all mysterious and frighten their tiny little hearts.


    {Look at you acting petty. I love it.}


    In the blink of an eye, Byakuya closed the distance, his form a blur as he attempted to deliver a paralyzing strike to Kazuya¡¯s throat ¡ª an attack that connected effortlessly ¡ª or so the gathered crowd saw.


    The truth was revealed when Kazuya''s afterimage dissipated. His true form casually leaned against a table amongst his friends, a half-eaten dumpling in hand. ¡°Delicious. It tastes like victory.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m graduating next week and becoming a battle healer.¡±


    ¡°Battle Healer?¡± Byakuya¡¯s eyes flickered with realization. ¡°You¡¯re the student who fought Captain Soi Fon.¡±


    ¡°I did. I¡¯ll also fight you if you stop being so mysterious about this important business. Captain Soi Fon can attest to my strength if you don¡¯t find me worthy.¡±


    He fearlessly challenged Byakuya to a duel in a threatening manner. As if he could scare the Vice Captain into backing down or perhaps provoke him into accepting his challenge.


    Byakuya¡¯s Reiatsu flared in response, locking down Kazuya and only him. ¡°I will accept.¡±


    ¡°Byakuya, maintain your composure. Remember what we came here for,¡± Ginrei¡¯s voice cut in, his authority halting the escalation. He regarded Kazuya calmly. ¡°You and your companions are invited to the Kuchiki Manor. Everything will be revealed there.¡±


    ¡°Eh, I was looking forward to¡ª¡±


    Yoruichi bit on his leg and glared up at him. He felt like she¡¯d get genuinely angry if he continued provoking Byakuya.


    ¡°Fine, Captain Kuchiki. I¡¯m passing up the opportunity to test your grandson because I respect you. Your legacy casts a long shadow that every Shinigami here, including myself, hopes to outshine one day.¡±


    ¡°And young man, we¡¯ll be a part of the same organization. It¡¯s best for everyone to avoid meaningless blood spills.¡±


    Kazuya nodded and hopped down the table, extending a hand to Rukia. ¡°It¡¯ll just be me, Rukia, and my cat.¡±


    Momo¡¯s gaze was like a blade on Kazuya¡¯s back. It took a great deal of courage to ignore his yandere little companion and stick to his decision.


    {An older sister yandere in the living world. A younger yandere in the Shinigami world. A yandere born from your soul, who is the same age as you, was found in the Hollow world. This can¡¯t be a coincidence, Partner...}


    ¡®I¡¯m a yandere magnet.¡¯


    Yoruichi¡¯s feline form shifted gracefully onto his shoulder, her rough tongue softly caressing his face in a rare display of gratitude. ¡°Thanks...¡±


    He responded to her affection with a kiss on her forehead and indulged her with a gentle chin scratch. ¡°You owe me one for this.¡±

 Chapter 160: Aristocrat District

    Chapter 160: Aristocrat District


    Mansions, high-class restaurants, and exclusive establishments lined the roads leading into the eastern sixth ward ¡ª the aristocratic district. Inaccessible to the commoners without an invitation or formal authorization, this district was among the most protected places in the Soul Society.


    Along one such prestigious road, a group of six figures made their way. At the forefront, two formidable Shinigami, embodying the ideal of stoic bodyguards, cleared the path. Following closely were Ginrei Kuchiki and his grandson Byakuya, dignified and composed, epitomizing aristocratic pride. Accompanying them were two aspiring Shinigami from Rukongai, and trailing the group silently was a cat with glistening black fur.


    Byakuya maintained his usual serene fac?ade, but a rare glimmer of agitation flickered in his eyes ¡ª a result of the silver-haired youth''s interactions with his sister-in-law, who bore a strong resemblance to his wife.


    ¡°Rukia, your legs look shaky. Let me carry you.¡±


    ¡°Rukia, you¡¯re about to fall.¡±


    ¡°Hey, do you think I can¡¯t carry you?¡±


    ¡°Rukia, why aren¡¯t you saying anything?¡±


    Each remark from Kazuya tinted Rukia¡¯s cheeks a deeper shade of red. Kazuya, relishing the moment, was inwardly grateful for the absence of Toshiro, Momo, and Renji. There was no one to interrupt his playful teasing of Rukia, allowing him to go all out.


    Finally reaching her limit, Rukia swung her fists, hitting nothing but empty air. ¡°Leave me alone!¡±


    ¡°But we¡¯re friends,¡± Kazuya responded smoothly, effortlessly lifting her onto his shoulder. ¡°A good friend shares in burdens, while a great one carries them. I consider myself a great friend.¡±


    Elevated to this new vantage point, Rukia found herself looking down at Byakuya rather than up, a refreshing reversal that made her reconsider her annoyance.


    ¡°Enjoying the view, huh?¡±The? source of this content n/o/v/(el)bi((n))


    ¡°Your voice,¡± Rukia said, frowning slightly. ¡°I know that for a fact you use it to seduce women.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need it to seduce women. My charm is enough to melt any heart.¡±


    Rukia ruffled his hair. ¡°It sounds like pure bullcrap, but I don¡¯t feel like you¡¯re lying.¡±


    His unwavering confidence had a big effect on her judgment. It wasn''t blind confidence ¡ª it stemmed from his close relationship with Tier and others.


    ¡°Because I¡¯m telling the truth.¡±


    Rukia crossed her arms. ¡°There¡¯s a girl who is deeply in love with you. What are the odds of you quitting your playboy life and getting into a serious relationship with her?¡±


    ¡°Like serious serious?¡±


    He closed his eyes, pulling his lips in a slight smirk. ¡°Fools mock the king¡¯s ambition, not knowing it¡¯s the seed of greatness. I was born in this world to be a king.¡±


    {Wrong. You were born to be a god.}


    His dignified voice convinced Rukia that his ambition wasn¡¯t foolish and arrogant, and his real ambition was beyond his hedonism. Recalling Momo¡¯s words about him using those women to achieve his goal further solidified her impression.


    ¡°I give up,¡± Rukia yielded to his sweet talk. ¡°I tried my best. It¡¯s between you and Momo now.¡±


    He acknowledged her concession with a nod, then turned his attention back to Byakuya. ¡°That estate we saw earlier ¡ª who owns it? Care to indulge the curiosity of the man who outdid you in Shunpo?¡±


    ¡°The head of the Five Great Noble Clans,¡± Byakuya spoke coldly, disdain dripping in his voice. ¡°Tsunayashiro Clan.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s eyebrow arched in genuine surprise. ¡°Who?¡±


    The nobles usually came to boast to him about their clans, but no Tsunayashiro had done so. He didn¡¯t even know a clan named Tsunayashiro existed within the Soul Society.


    Rukia gave his ear a quick pinch. ¡°Didn¡¯t your Sensei teach you about the Five Great Noble Clans?¡±


    ¡°I nap during lectures.¡±


    Rukia couldn¡¯t help but let out a weary sigh. Without the presence of Momo and Renji, his playful approach to everything clashed with her typically serious demeanor. ¡°Listen, the Tsunayashiro Clan is the most influential family. They are kind of crazy.¡±


    ¡°How so?¡±


    ¡°They,¡± Rukia trailed her voice intentionally. ¡°They kill their weak members in the name of ¡®survival of the fittest.¡¯¡±


    ¡°What an extreme motto.¡±


    ¡°I heard that their clan Zanpakuto?, Enrakyo?ten, is very powerful. It¡¯s also cursed. No one in the family uses it.¡±


    {The curse is nothing to us for we are a walking plague.}


    ¡®No, I am the storm that is approaching.¡¯


    {Hoooold up, Partner. Did you cut your hair short because you wanted to cosplay Vergil?}


    ¡®Ahem. Maybe?¡¯

 Chapter 161: An Awkward Reunion

    Chapter 161: An Awkward Reunion


    As Rukia and Kazuya entered the imposing Kuchiki Manor, Rukia dismounted from Kazuya¡¯s back, her feet landing with a soft thud on the ground. The shift from being aloft to standing on her own evoked a fleeting sense of loss, quickly masked by her determined demeanor.


    She faced Ginrei Kuchiki. ¡°Captain Kuchiki, we¡¯re at the manor. Can you tell me the reason for bringing me here?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s unwavering support seemed to ignite a spark of boldness in her, prompting her to confront the elder Kuchiki with a boldness she seldom felt.


    ¡°We want you to meet someone,¡± Ginrei said. ¡°They have been in search of you for decades.¡±


    ¡°For me?¡± Rukia pointed at herself, frowning skeptically. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°The details will be disclosed in due time,¡± Ginrei responded with a calm that seemed characteristic of him. ¡°You¡¯ll have to see it with your own eyes to believe it.¡±


    ¡°Wow, so helpful,¡± said Kazuya sarcastically. ¡°Rukia, let¡¯s just follow them. If they have any ill intentions, I¡¯ll get us out of here, even if I have to fight these esteemed nobles.¡±


    Ginrei and Byakuya, usually unflappable, were momentarily taken aback by Kazuya''s hostility. Yet, there was something in his tone, a soothing quality that seemed to soften the threat in his words. It was a contrast that left them more intrigued than offended.


    It was an entirely different situation for Rukia. His threats to kill two incredibly powerful aristocrats filled her with warmth. Having someone go far for her sake was a new experience to her. Rather than revealing her emotions, she flashed her Zanpakuto? with a tomboyish grin. ¡°I don¡¯t need your protection. I can fight my own battles.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sure. You can.¡±


    {Stop provoking them.}


    Being told to stop acting violent by Nami of all people was a surreal experience for him.


    ¡®Wait, you don¡¯t sound like Nami. Tsubasa?¡¯


    ¡®Yes, I¡¯m Tsubasa. And I disapprove of your penchant for stirring up trouble for amusement.¡¯


    ¡®Scolding your own father, Tsubasa? I must say, I''m impressed.¡¯


    ¡®I¡¯ll do it again if you continue this reckless behavior.¡¯Fiind updated novels at novelhall.com


    ¡®My gramps turned me into a menace to society. I¡¯m not changing now.¡¯


    Kazuya stared at Rukia. ¡°Where the hell did that come from?¡±


    Rukia glanced around the room, her fingers twitching as if instinctively seeking something resembling a pen and paper. Alas, there was nothing that allowed her the comforting simplicity of explaining things through her drawings of rabbits.


    She sighed with a hint of frustration. ¡°Momo told me that every person has a lookalike out there. That¡¯s why I asked her if she was mine.¡±


    ¡°No, I am not!¡± Hisana chimed, her volume breaking her record of the past decade. ¡°Rukia, I am... I am your doppelga?nger.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Byakuya¡¯s grip on her shoulders tightened a bit. ¡°Hisana, Rukia has the right to either forgive you or blame you for your past actions. You¡¯re condemning yourself for nothing.¡±


    Byakuya had extensively researched the disease gnawing away at his wife¡¯s body. Her frail body had only a few years left in her. Now that Hisana and Rukia were present in the same room, Byakuya did his best to mediate their relationship. He absolutely won¡¯t let this regret consume Hisana.


    Perhaps, just perhaps, the reunion would create a miracle.


    Hisana shivered. ¡°But I¡ª¡±


    Kazuya gave her the ¡®Stop right there¡¯ gesture. ¡°You¡¯re Rukia¡¯s older sister. There, I said it.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s mind struggled to grasp the reality before her. ¡°That can¡¯t be.¡±


    The thought of a doppelga?nger occupied her head so much that she forgot the possibility of Hisana being her family. Sge may have willingly overlooked such possibilities to keep her expectations to zero.


    Hisana confirmed her doubts with a firm nod, clearly lacking the confidence to say it out loud.


    Rukia¡¯s reaction was one of stunned disbelief, her mind racing to piece together the fragments of her past with Hisana. She couldn¡¯t recollect any memory ¡ª she was simply too young to remember Hisana. ¡°Nee-san...?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me that.¡± Hisana waved her hands. ¡°I¡¯m unworthy of being your sister...¡±


    Byakuya gently pushed his wife towards Rukia. ¡°We¡¯ll leave the decision to Rukia.¡±


    Kazuya walked to Byakuya and pulled at his kimono. ¡°Let the sisters sort things out.¡±

 Chapter 162: The Deal

    Chapter 162: The Deal


    ¡°Byakuya, your wife is sick.¡±


    At Kazuya¡¯s solemn words, Byakuya¡¯s stride came to an abrupt halt. He whirled around, his sharp gaze landing on Kazuya, a man who until now had maintained a confrontational stance towards him. ¡°How did you find that?¡±¡±


    ¡°People don¡¯t simply weaken at her age without reason,¡± Kazuya replied, leaning nonchalantly against the bridge¡¯s railing. Below, the water in the pool mirrored the serene sky, a stark contrast to the emotions in Byakuya¡¯s eye. ¡°It has to be a sickness.¡±


    Byakuya¡¯s eyes closed for a moment. The memory of Retsu Unohana¡¯s grim diagnosis of Hisana¡¯s situation flashed through his mind. ¡°It doesn¡¯t have a name yet, but she showed similar symptoms to Captain Ukitake¡¯s disease.¡±


    The Vice Captain¡¯s expression remained stoic, yet he couldn¡¯t conceal the pain in his voice. He loved Hisana to death, yet he was helpless against the relentless march of her disease.


    Kazuya uncrossed his arms, his posture easing slightly. ¡°Did you try asking the 12th Squad? They might be able to find a cure.¡±


    Mayuri Kurotsuchi was obscenely talented, capable of most absurd experiments ¡ª reviving dead Arrancars being one of them. A crazy scientist like him could develop a cure to any disease in the world as long as he put his mind into it.


    Byakuya¡¯s jaw clenched as he recalled his encounter with Mayuri Kurotsuchi.


    ¡®I¡¯ll work on the cure if you provide a justification for spending our resources and precious time on such a specific case?¡¯


    ¡®According to our data, this disease only affects 0.001% of the entire Soul Society¡¯s population.¡¯


    ¡®Captain Byakuya, you don¡¯t have any? Then our discussion was a waste of time.¡¯


    Kazuya''s sheathed katana gently touched Byakuya''s shoulder, snapping him out of the bitter recollection. ¡°Judging from your anger, Captain Kurotsuchi didn¡¯t want to help you. Bold of him to reject the future head of the Kuchiki Clan and a future captain.¡±


    Byakuya averted his gaze, his face momentarily clouded by a hint of guilt. The thought of using his clan¡¯s influence to force cooperation was against his ethics and the laws he upheld. However, the desperation had almost driven him to compromise his principles. He had crossed the line for Hisana once, and he¡¯d have done it again if not for Mayuri Kurotsuchi''s notoriously eccentric personality. The Captain of 12th Squad could not be threatened with anything.


    ¡°You''re in luck,¡± Kazuya said, breaking the silence. ¡°I have the means to cure Mrs. Kuchiki¡¯s illness.¡±


    Byakuya¡¯s eyes initially widened in disbelief, then quickly narrowed into a suspicious glare. ¡°Are you toying with me? Offering false hope only to revel in my desperation?¡±


    ¡°Easy there,¡± Kazuya replied with a dismissive wave of his hand. ¡°As a husband deeply in love with his wife, I can empathize with you. Of course, my help will come with a price attached.¡±


    Byakuya¡¯s eyelids fluttered shut for a brief moment as he prepared himself mentally. ¡°Name your price. I am prepared to pay, even with my life, if necessary.¡±


    Kazuya wouldn¡¯t have believed those words coming from anyone else¡¯s mouth. However, Byakuya was a prideful individual, living up to every word that came out of his mouth.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your life; I need your allegiance. There may come a day I¡¯ll take drastic measures or perhaps the other way around ¡ª actions the Soul Society won¡¯t condone. When that day comes, I want your unwavering support.¡±


    If Aizen, or anyone else, exposed his Hollow nature, it could lead to unpredictable consequences. Having the backing of a Captain like Byakuya, especially for a mere exchange of two bullets, was a worthwhile deal. Yoruichi¡¯s support alone wouldn''t be enough if he faced opposition from the entire Gotei 13.


    ¡°Once,¡± Byakuya muttered, his gaze resolute. ¡°I will stand by you in one battle, regardless of how heinous or hopeless your cause is.¡±


    ¡°Never took you to be the bargainer type.¡±


    ¡°If someone in my position plays with the laws, it¡¯ll inspire others to do the same. Fighting for you will be the last time I break any law... I swear upon my life.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s gaze flickered towards the room, her brow creased slightly. She reached for Kazuya, urgency in her voice. ¡°Come. Momo and Renji are waiting for us.¡±


    He turned to her, bending down just enough to offer his back for her to climb on. Rukia adjusted her kimono, hopped onto his back, wrapping her arms around his neck.


    He placed his hands under her supple thighs, making full use of the opportunity. ¡°Rukia is hard on the outside and very soft on the inside.¡±


    A flush of embarrassment warmed her cheeks, extending to the tips of her ears. ¡°Just get going, will you?¡±


    Contrary to her expectations, he walked towards the room with Hisana and Byakuya. She pulled at his hair, trying to steer him towards the exit. ¡°Oi, my puppet is malfunctioning. Who do I call to fix ut?¡±


    ¡°Your mom. Her ride can fix my malfunction.¡±


    ¡°What? If my dead mom can fix it, then I can do it as well. Tell me what to do.¡±


    He mentally noted down her inability to understand innuendos. She was innocent, and he wouldn¡¯t bear the guilt of corrupting her innocence.


    {She is a virgin, duh.}


    Kazuya locked Rukia¡¯s legs around his waist and walked into the room without permission. The sudden appearance of Rukia being carried piggyback by her friend caused Hisana to look up, a trace of confusion crossing her weakened features.


    He unsheathed his katana without a word and thrust it into the center of his chest.


    The suicidal act without any context garnered panic from Rukia. Hisana also panicked when the flames born from Kazuya¡¯s Zanpakuto? engulfed Rukia. Byakuya¡¯s stoic expression masked his emotions well, but his eyes revealed his anxiety. He felt overwhelmed with the sheer madness happening in the small room.


    Kazuya smiled at their goofy reactions. ¡°Sheesh, don¡¯t be restless. It¡¯s just my Shikai.¡±


    Byakuya¡¯s hand twitched towards his Zanpakuto?. The contract between them was the only restraint holding him back from unleashing the thousand blades of his Bankai.


    ¡°I¡¯m not burned?¡± Rukia''s voice was filled with disbelief as she realized the flames didn¡¯t harm her. ¡°Kazuya, what is this?¡±


    ¡°My speciality.¡± He wielded the muskets and aimed their barrel at Hisana. ¡°It won¡¯t hurt.¡±


    Hisana instinctively raised her hands in defense. ¡°You''re Rukia''s friend... why would you...?¡±


    Byakuya stared at Kazuya. ¡°Is this part of the treatment?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Byakuya leaned in close to Hisana, whispering words of reassurance. After a moment, he stepped aside, giving Kazuya the space he needed. Hisana¡¯s eyes, though filled with uncertainty, also held a flicker of hope. Her trust wasn¡¯t in Kazuya, but in Byakuya, the man she loved and believed would never deceive her.


    ¡°Byakuya-sama won¡¯t lie to me...¡±


    Nami giggled. {Great reaction from someone held at gunpoint.}


    Bang. Bang. Two brilliant fiery trails left his muskets, engulfing Hisana in a radiant, warm blaze that seemed to dance around her rather than consume her.

 Chapter 163: A Coincidental Meetup

    Chapter 163: A Coincidental Meetup


    The Shin¡¯o Academy has a long history filled with crazy moments, and this year was shaping up to be the craziest among them. A certain student had gained quite a reputation for going head-to-head with the Captain of the 2nd Squad, an event that still echoed through the corridors in hushed, awe-stricken tones. This same student was also responsible for the dramatic collapse of the student dormitory.


    And if those events weren¡¯t shocking enough, today he boldly challenged the Vice-Captain and the Captain of the 6th Squad right in the middle of the bustling cafeteria.


    This day had been anything but ordinary.


    Fortunately, the day took a slightly brighter turn for Class 1 students as Isane Kotetsu and Rangiku Matsumoto, the esteemed Vice-Captains of the 4th and 10th Divisions, graced them with their presence. The arrival of these two renowned individuals brought a mix of excitement and reverence among the students, as their fame and accomplishments were well-known throughout the academy.


    However, not everyone shared this sense of excitement. In the back of the classroom, Momo sat with a grimace, biting her lip in frustration. Her mind couldn¡¯t help but visualize Kazuya flirting with Isane, which would undoubtedly eat into the time he had promised to spend with her. It was unforgivable.


    Momo stood up, involuntarily casting an envious glance towards the tall and busty woman. ¡°Vice-Captain Kotetsu, why are you here?¡±


    Isane nervously scratched her cheeks, unable to understand the reason behind Momo¡¯s behavior. ¡°I¡¯m here to see Kazuya-kun. He mentioned he¡¯d be back today.¡±


    Since Kazuya had learned everything from the academy, Isane had been contemplating the idea of starting Kazuya¡¯s Kaido classes during their free time. Kaido, though not as intricate as high-level Kido? spells, still required a level of expertise that few possessed. Even with Kazuya¡¯s remarkable talent, it would take years of dedication for him to reach her level. The sooner he began, the faster he would grow as a healer, and the faster he¡¯d reach his goal of becoming the so-called ¡®Battle Healer.¡¯


    ¡°Me too,¡± Rangiku chimed in, emphasizing her statement by firmly planting her hands on her hips. Nobody could even guess that she accompanied Isane to evade the nasty paperwork. ¡°So, where¡¯s he hiding?¡±


    Momo shook her head, a polite smile playing on her lips. ¡°He is busy with some work. Please come back after a few days.¡±


    Ignoring Toshiro¡¯s disapproving stare, she effortlessly weaved a lie. Her infatuation with Kazuya had caused her to become unhinged. However, Toshiro couldn¡¯t blame Kazuya or Momo for this.


    ¡°That little punk,¡± Matsumoto muttered quietly to herself, her words laced with annoyance. ¡°Just where did he go?¡±


    ¡°Vice-Captains!¡± Renji spoke, raising his hand. ¡°Don¡¯t trust this lying friend of mine. Kazuya went to the Kuchiki Manor. He''ll probably be back in a couple hours.¡±


    Rangiku¡¯s eyebrows arched in response to the truth. With just one glance at Momo¡¯s flustered face, she instantly connected the dots. ¡°Aha, so it¡¯s like that. Even his classmates can¡¯t resist his voice.¡±


    Isane¡¯s face turned crimson as she recalled her own experience in the restaurant. ¡°What do we do now?¡±


    ¡°The classes should end soon. Let¡¯s wait for him in his dorm room.¡±


    ¡°Good idea.¡±


    Rangiku approached Renji to ask him about the directions to Kazuya¡¯s dorm room before heading out.


    Momo¡¯s eyes locked onto Renji, filled with an intense glare. ¡°Kazuya-kun promised to spend the day with me. You should support me as your friend.¡±


    Nanao¡¯s expression turned thoughtful, a hint of intrigue in her violet-tinted eyes. ¡°I want to experience the magic of his voice myself. Let¡¯s just say I¡¯m quite curious about him.¡±


    She had heard nothing but praise about Kazuya from Isane and Rangiku. To persuade Captain Unohana to let him join two Shinigami Squads only deepened her interest.


    Momo barely fought the temptation to roll her eyes. She had a strong inkling that Nanao¡¯s curiosity would end with her being completely smitten by Kazuya. ¡°You should¡¯ve come tomorrow... I wanted to spend some alone time with him.¡±


    ¡°Sorry for intruding, Hinamori-chan,¡± Rangiku said with a light-hearted giggle, neatly putting the book aside as she sat up straight on the bed. ¡°You know, it¡¯s rare that us Vice-Captains get a break from our duties.¡±


    Isane and Nanao exchanged a knowing look. The workload of a Vice-Captain varied significantly. Nanao¡¯s responsibilities involved supporting her Captain, Shunsui Kyoraku, and stepping in for him to lead squads. However, since Shunsui was not always the most proactive Captain, Nanao often found herself with free time to pursue her own interests.


    Isane, on the other hand, was mostly occupied with special missions alongside other Squads, though these were becoming increasingly rare. Her primary role involved providing treatment, leaving her with considerable free time outside her duties.


    Rangiku was the only one who actively went to the Living World for Hollow purification. Despite this, she was notorious for skirting the more mundane aspects of her job, such as paperwork.


    From their perspective, Rangiku¡¯s words were a white lie but Momo couldn¡¯t have known better due to her lack of knowledge.


    As Momo sat surrounded by the three Vice-Captains, she couldn¡¯t shake off a creeping sense of inferiority. This feeling wasn¡¯t about her power or abilities as a Shinigami. Rather, it stemmed from her self-perception of femininity. Each of the Vice-Captains possessed an alluring figure and, most importantly, a physical presence that made Momo feel somewhat inadequate. They had the air of authority and confidence that Momo lacked because of her inexperience.


    In a moment of self-doubt, Momo mentally reached out to the Zanpakuto? Spirit living in her Inner World. ¡®Tobiume, what can I do to grow like them?¡¯


    ¡®I don¡¯t know...¡¯ Tobiume replied. ¡®But maybe you shouldn¡¯t compare yourself to them in terms of beauty. You possess something they all lack ¡ª a sense of true companionship.¡¯


    Momo found comfort in those words. ¡®¡®You¡¯re right. Bust size doesn¡¯t matter. My feelings are what truly counts.¡¯


    She¡¯d willingly throw her life away to protect Kazuya ¡ª a conviction born from her passion.


    ¡®Don¡¯t doubt yourself, Momo. Show the same persistence you did when reaching out to me.¡¯


    ¡®I will!¡¯


    ...


    Unbeknownst to Momo and the three Vice-Captains, a shadowy figure stood above the dormitory building.


    ¡°Three Vice-Captains and four Zanpakuto? Spirits to claim as mine,¡± the slouched figure mused, his long nails making clicky sounds with every movement. ¡°How fortunate I am.¡±


    ¡°So am I.¡±


    A shiver went down Muramasa¡¯s spine. Turning his head, he saw a smile stretching ear to ear ¡ª a smile he would never forget in his entire life.

 Chapter 164: The Report

    Chapter 164: The Report


    As Tosen stepped into Aizen¡¯s room, the soft sound of pages turning reached his ears. He found the Captain engrossed in a book. No Shinigami would dare think of Aizen as the man plotting to overthrow the ¡®God¡¯ and change the very foundations of this realm.


    Aizen closed the book with a gentle thud, his smile warm but with a hint of calculation in his eyes. ¡°Tosen, how did the search go?¡±


    ¡°We could not find Vasto Lorde, Aizen-sama,¡± he admitted, shaking his head slightly. ¡°There were no signs of any Vasto Lorde outside of Las Noches. Captain Ichimaru and I personally searched the whole Hueco Mundo.¡±


    Tosen was inwardly frustrated, feeling the weight of his failure. He was well aware of the importance of locating the newly ascended Vasto Lorde and her companion, whose immense Reiatsu had sent shivers down his spine. A Hollow with that power must belong to their army.


    ¡°Interesting,¡± Aizen mused, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose thoughtfully. ¡°It means they¡¯re no longer in Hueco Mundo.¡±


    ¡°Could they have ventured into the Living World? But the 12th Squad hasn¡¯t detected any strong Garganta signals recently, nor sensed any Vasto Lorde-level Hollow."


    Access to a Garganta for each Hollow depended on their power level. Had a Vasto Lorde opened a Garganta in any city under the Gotei 13¡¯s supervision, they¡¯d have been alerted already.


    Aizen leaned back, his gaze piercing as he considered the possibilities. "There are only a few plausible explanations. They evaded your search and remained in Hueco Mundo, they¡¯ve mastered opening a Garganta outside Shinigami¡¯s jurisdiction, or they have found a way to deceive the devices searching for dimensional distortions."


    The thought of the mysterious Vasto Lorde lingered in the back of his mind, but Aizen knew he had to tie up the loose ends with Kisuke Urahara first.


    ¡°Aizen, I almost forgot why I came here,¡± Tosen interrupted, breaking the silence. ¡°That student you told me to keep an eye on ¡ª he humiliated Vice Captain Byakuya Kuchiki in Shunpo. From the reports, he seemed confident enough to take on both Kuchikis.¡±


    Aizen¡¯s lips curved into a self-assured smile, his eyes gleaming with a dangerous glint. The student ¡®Kazuya Ishihara¡¯ joined the academy out of nowhere and started fighting on par with Captains. Even Kenpachi Zaraki, the man with the most absurd raw stats, had a vague explanation for his powers. Kenpachi Zaraki was a result of the endless violence infesting the deeper districts of Rukongai.


    But this student, Kazuya, was different.


    Aizen couldn¡¯t decipher the source of his strength or his hypnotic voice. The fact that Kazuya had ties to the noble Shiba Clan, a family with a Captain and Vice Captain among their ranks, only added to his mystery.


    Yet, Aizen held back from acting at the moment. From every report so far, Kazuya showed a lack of ambition, using his powers to fuel his ego and indulge in intimacy with women. Kazuya had even chosen his Shinigami Squad based upon his attraction to the Dai Senpai of the Gotei 13 ¡ª Yachiru Unohana ¡ª the second most troublesome individual in the Seireitei.


    ¡®Lust is an easy sin to exploit. Dangle a beauty and they will bark like a dog.¡¯


    He was in no rush to deal with Kazuya. In due time, Kazuya would become another victim of Kyo?ka Suigetsu ¡ª they who saw what he wanted them to see, felt what he wanted them to feel, heard what he wanted them to hear, and sensed what he wanted them to sense.


    The whole of Soul Society would one day dance in the palm of his hand.

 Chapter 165: Temptations

    Chapter 165: Temptations


    Despite having walked away from the Kuchiki Manor half an hour ago, the heartfelt words of gratitude from Byakuya and Hisana still echoed in Kazuya¡¯s mind. The image of Hisana tearing up, embracing Byakuya, and repeatedly professing her love for him remained just as vivid; it was mostly because of the wetness on his shoulder ¡ª Rukia had held back her tears in front of Hisana but ended up crying on the way back.


    By the time he neared the academy, Rukia had recovered from her storm of emotions and started making little talks.


    ¡°We¡¯re almost there,¡± Rukia whispered and climbed off his back, curbing the possibility of spreading weird rumors. Messing with Momo was the last thing she wanted. ¡°Can you hide this from Momo and Renji?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± he agreed without any resistance, eyes locked on his dormitory building. ¡°Want me to accompany you all the way?¡±


    ¡°First you tell me why are you frowning like that again?¡±


    Every time she saw him frown like that, some noble got the beating of their life. The fact that he bullied the bullies, the descendants of those sitting at the top of society, always made her laugh. His relationship with Shiba Clan and his own strength made him a force not even aristocrats wanted to mess with.


    ¡°Just a bit surprised. Wanna come hangout with some Vice Captains?¡±


    ¡°Some other day maybe.¡±


    ¡°Then see you tomorrow.¡±


    As they parted ways, a whisper reached him. ¡°Thanks for saving Hisana...¡±


    Following that, he heard Rukia¡¯s hurried footsteps gradually fading away. Unaware of his arrangement with Byakuya, she misunderstood his motives for saving Hisana, believing he had set aside his animosity towards Byakuya for her sake.


    Yoruichi climbed on his shoulder and pawed his ears. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you had it in you to reveal your Shikai for someone else¡¯s wife.¡±


    Since Yoruichi was absent during his agreement with Byakuya, she also arrived at the same conclusion as Rukia, albeit with a hint of skepticism.


    ¡°Yoruichi, you¡¯re old friends with Byakuya. Rukia¡¯s blood sister is married to him. I¡¯d be a douche to let her die when saving her takes no effort.¡±


    ¡°I sense something sinister from you,¡± Yoruichi whispered, gently tugging at his ear with her soft paws. ¡°You gained something from helping Hisana. What was it?¡±


    He cleared his throat. ¡°A small promise. Think of it as a backup plan to my own backup plan in case things go south here.¡±


    He clicked his tongue in mock annoyance. "One of these days, you¡¯ll regret teasing me like this."


    She shrugged off his playful threat with a giggle. ¡°I''d love to see you try.¡±


    {Do her. Give her the best hentai female lead treatment.}


    ¡®...¡¯


    Teasing her and getting teased by her, he returned to his dorm. Outside his room, he found Momo waiting, her demeanor anxious as if she had been eagerly anticipating his arrival.


    ¡®She must¡¯ve sensed my Reiatsu.¡¯


    He had stopped concealing his Reiatsu, unless it was necessary to hide from someone. His fight with Soi Fon made his strength public knowledge.


    {Wasn¡¯t she with the Vice Captains? Did she make some excuse to meet you alone here?}


    ¡®Probably.¡¯


    Momo suddenly rushed towards him, her movements creating a soft rustling sound, as she hugged him ¡ª a brief hug to reassure herself of his well-being. ¡°You¡¯re alright...¡±


    ¡°Do I not look alright?¡± he asked, smiling down at her while his hand gently patted her head in a comforting gesture. ¡°Rukia is also fine.¡±


    ¡°What a relief...¡± she whispered. ¡°What did they want from her?¡±


    ¡°Well, things are a bit complicated. I can¡¯t reveal it without Rukia¡¯s permission.¡±


    Momo nodded in understanding, her eyes briefly darting behind her. ¡°Your friends are waiting for you.¡±


    She seemed reluctant to tell him about the Vice Captains, clearly desiring to spend more alone time with him, away from the watchful eyes of the Vice Captains.


    ¡°Let¡¯s see what they have to say.¡±

 Chapter 166-167: The List

    Chapter 166-167: The List


    Upon opening the door, Kazuya was met with three pairs of eyes ¡ª Rangiku, Isane, and Nanao, whose presence in the room didn¡¯t surprise him. He expected her to pop up any day since she had handled the dormitory destruction incident with her Captain.


    {Woah, says Kazuya, the Incarnation of Phenex, upon seeing four beautiful ladies waiting for him in his room. Will he disrobe his kimono and jump at the ladies like a fiend?}


    ¡®Nami, write your fanfiction somewhere else.¡¯


    Kazuya nipped Nami¡¯s growing hobby in the bud. ¡°If it isn¡¯t my future Vice Captains. Who is the new guest?¡±


    Nanao froze upon hearing his voice for the first time. Her reaction wasn¡¯t that different from every other woman during their first meeting. After recovering her composure, she narrowed her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re him?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m him. And this is my cat, her.¡± He pointed at Yoruichi, who jumped down and left the room, tail swinging. ¡°Well, she is anti-social.¡±


    Nanao¡¯s hand twitched, almost as if she wanted to hurl her heavy book at him ¡ª reaction she usually reserved for her own Captain. ¡°...You¡¯re unbelievable.¡±


    He grinned. ¡°What you mean to say is I¡¯m unbelievably handsome and charming.¡±


    Nanao¡¯s frown deepened as she observed Momo shift closer to Kazuya. She opened her book and tore out a page. ¡°Shizu, Amane, Himeko...¡± She proceeded to list every girl he had seduced in the Soul Society. ¡°And Momo Hinamori. You were intimate in some manner with the girls I just mentioned.¡±


    Rangiku covered her face with her palm, feeling immediate regret for giving Nanao the opportunity to start the argument. She exchanged a subtle nod with Isane, both understanding that they had to find a way to diffuse the situation. Having gained personal acquaintance with him, they strongly objected to the ¡®Operation: Humble the Genius¡¯ initiated by the Shinigami Women¡¯s Association.


    Momo cupped her flushed cheeks, stealing shy glances at him. ¡°D-Do we look like couples from your perspective?¡±


    Her serious accusations left Kazuya bewildered but Momo¡¯s bashful response was even more surprising. Curious, he stayed silent and let Momo handle the situation, taking it as an opportunity to assess her yandere level.


    {Partner, your yandere will own this Karen wannabe.}


    ¡®Let¡¯s see.¡¯


    Meanwhile, Nanao fixed her gaze on Momo, her eyes filled with exasperation as she watched Momo fail to comprehend the weight of her accusations. ¡°Were my words not loud and clear? Every girl on this list has been intimate with this lustful man in some capacity. EVERY one of them.¡±


    Momo lowered her hands and met Nanao¡¯s gaze steadily. ¡°And?¡±


    Nanao¡¯s eyes grew wider with disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re already smitten.¡±


    ¡°How is that a problem to you?¡± Momo asked, her lips curving into a smile. A sickly sweet smile, yet her eyes carried a certain emptiness. ¡°Have you grown so delusional with power and authority that you can¡¯t fathom a girl wholeheartedly loving a boy?¡±


    The notion of defending her man brought out a confidence she didn¡¯t know she possessed.


    ¡°You are delusional, incapable of seeing things clearly.¡± Nanao pointed at Kazuya. ¡°This man has seduced numerous girls. As the Vice-President of the Shinigami Women¡¯s Association, I can¡¯t sit by and watch him ruin the lives of girls in the Soul Society.¡±


    ¡°Then stand up,¡± Momo growled. ¡°And change your glasses. Because you can¡¯t see that Kazuya-kun didn¡¯t ruin any lives. I have talked to every girl you mentioned ¡ª none of them had any bad things to say about him. All of them knew that their relationship would be transactional.¡±


    Rangiku and Isane froze, unable to match the fierce Momo with the meek girl from earlier. Even Kazuya was baffled by Momo¡¯s thorough research.


    Nanao was visibly shaken, finding it unbelievable she had overlooked something as crucial as interviewing the girls in question. ¡°You¡¯re right. I should have done more investigation before pointing fingers... It doesn¡¯t excuse him from using the girls to further his means.¡±


    ¡°Stop mimicking those braindead nobles, Ise-san,¡± Momo said in a condescending tone. ¡°Nobles don¡¯t have the right to intervene in our personal affairs. We¡¯re free to choose our partners.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a noble....¡± Nanao replied, a lack of confidence in her voice. ¡°What Ishihara-san did was unethical. Transactional or not, he played with their feelings.¡±


    ¡°This again...¡± Momo gave Nanao a blank stare. ¡°Kazuya-kun showed them a good time, and in return, they let him access the secured sections of the library. His Zanpakuto? needed him, and he did everything in his power to help it. Ethics weren¡¯t his concern.¡±


    Just as Nanao was about to speak, Rangiku extended her hand and playfully squeezed the younger woman¡¯s cheek. ¡°Let it go, Nanao. Kazuya assured me this was a one-off thing. It won¡¯t happen again.¡±Fiind updated novels at novelhall.com


    Though she was only a child when it happened, the haunting memory of her mother¡¯s hanging execution occasionally resurfaced in her nightmares.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know about that,¡± Isane replied softly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Nanao shook her head slightly. ¡°Don¡¯t be. It¡¯s not your fault.¡±


    Rangiku massaged the back of her head, visibly thrown off by the sudden shift in mood. She glanced at Kazuya, who seemed to be lost in a sea of thoughts. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    He shook his head and looked at Nanao with a serious expression. ¡°Do you mind if I ask you some questions about your mother?¡±


    Isane stared at him in disbelief. She and Rangiku gave him the same ¡®Read the air before opening your mouth!¡¯ looks.


    Nanao brushed Isane¡¯s hand away and nodded firmly. ¡°As long as you say nothing disrespectful towards my mother.¡±


    ¡°Did your mother lose her husband?¡±


    ¡°Yes, when I was very young. I¡¯ve heard Captain Kyoraku was just a teenager then.¡±


    ¡°Your mother blamed her Zanpakuto? for her loss. To prevent you from going through the same experience, she hid the Zanpakuto? somewhere, practically ending the ¡®Ise Curse¡¯ from claiming any more victims.¡±


    Nanao leaned in, hugging her book, as if her shoulders suddenly grew heavier. ¡°Mother didn¡¯t have to do that... for a superficial phenomenon.¡±


    Her skepticism about the curse was clear. If she only knew the true potential of her family¡¯s Zanpakuto?, her perspective might change. The curse was a short price to pay in exchange for the borderline broken ability of Ise Clan¡¯s Zanpakuto?.


    Leaving Nanao to deal with her emotional strain, he turned to Rangiku. ¡°So, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Before I answer, tell me how did you grow the nerves to oppose Kuchikis?¡±


    ¡°Some friendships are worth dying for. Besides, Captain Kuchiki would¡¯ve made for a good assessment of my strength.¡±


    Isane wasn¡¯t surprised by his audacity. Nanao, however, seemed taken aback by the idea of someone willingly challenging one of the most formidable captains in the Soul Society as a test of strength. Captains were, after all, the single most destructive forces in the Soul Society. They had to be sealed before going to the Living World or they¡¯d distort their surroundings with their mere Reiatsu.


    ¡°Boy, that¡¯s the blind confidence I need in my superstar.¡±


    Kazuya raised an eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯re still pursuing that idea?¡±


    Rangiku held her chin up, looking at him with a narrow-eyed glare. ¡°How cute of you to think I¡¯ll give up.¡±


    ¡°Can we fulfill your unconventional fetish after I join your squad?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t twist my revolutionary idea into some fetish,¡± Rangiku retorted and pointed at the ceiling as if aiming for the stars. ¡°You and I will change the way the Soul Society functions. We¡¯ll pioneer new exciting means of entertainment for both commoners and aristocrats.¡±


    Her eyes sparkled as if she could already envision the impact her idea would bring. Once she changed everyone¡¯s minds, a big portion of the Soul Society would join her in bringing a fresh wave of excitement to the Soul Society. She wouldn¡¯t have to leave the Soul Society just to have some entertainment outside of the conventional books published in the Seireitei. The books found in the Soul Society were always a hit or miss.


    Momo gave him a strange look. ¡°Kazuya-kun, what is this superstar stuff?¡±


    Rangiku eagerly dived into an explanation, her enthusiasm infectious enough to draw a smile from even the solemn Nanao. Not even Isane expected Rangiku to have such passion for something not named alcohol.


    Next, Kazuya asked Isane about her reason for leaving her job and coming over to meet him.


    She pressed a hand against her cheek. ¡°I wanted to start your Kaido lessons today...¡±


    ¡°Not today,¡± he said, shaking his head. ¡°I have to spoil young Hinamori.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s start tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 168: Tutor

    Chapter 168: Tutor


    Kazuya lounged comfortably on the bed, masterfully playing the part of an oblivious observer to Momo¡¯s probing glances. Her fierce argument with Nanao was like a confession, yet he acted as if nothing of sorts took place. His deliberate ignorance was nothing but pure torture to the young maiden, who expected a ¡®reward¡¯ for her ¡®performance.¡¯


    ¡°Kazuya-kun...¡± Momo whispered, voice trailing in a display of absentmindedness. ¡°Did I go too far with Ise-san?¡±


    His prolonged silence sent her down a spiraling path of self-doubt. While he found her worries endearing, he also knew that her insecurities were not healthy.


    He wrapped an arm around her waist, gently guiding her to rest her head on his chest. His hand tenderly caressed her face as he offered her a reassuring smile. ¡°Don¡¯t doubt yourself now. I praised your actions, didn¡¯t I? That means you were right.¡±


    She gently nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve learned to do Shikai Release of my Zanpakuto?.¡±


    This revelation genuinely took Kazuya by surprise. Achieving Shikai was a fairly straightforward process of imprinting one¡¯s Reiryoku on an Asauchi and nurturing its growth, yet it was a hurdle where a majority of Shinigami stumbled. They either lacked the Reiryoku or lacked the dedication to sit down and meditate with a sword for hours.


    Momo was already a top-tier talent in Reiatsu and Comprehensive skills. With her progress, she also revealed her unwavering will and passion to reach new heights, mostly owing to her obsession with him. She desired to remain with him and saw that graduating from the academy as soon as possible, by proving her combat capability through Shikai Release, was the fastest way.


    {A dedicated maiden I must say,} Nami uttered a rare compliment. {The plum tree doesn¡¯t just look up to the only star in her world. Light, water, pollution, and pests ¡ª she cares for naught but her dream of growing tall enough to touch the star.}


    Momo might have squealed after hearing such high praises from his Zanpakuto? Spirit or she might have declared war on Nami ¡ª he couldn¡¯t accurately predict her responses after her recent growth.


    ¡®Why the sudden support for Momo? Weren¡¯t you wary of Izumi for her yandere tendencies?¡¯


    {Momo is miles better than Izumi. She wants to support you without bogging you down. She suffered in silence but never questioned your decision to leave her for a week. Izumi tried manipulating you into staying with her. Let¡¯s not forget she tried to kill herself without considering the consequences it will have on you or Lisa. She is a selfish little bitch whether you believe it or not.}


    ¡®Now now. No need to be so critical of Izumi. She is going through a rough phase. It won¡¯t be long before she bounces back stronger than ever.¡¯


    {She¡¯ll bounce everyone back to heaven if you become careless for one day.}


    ¡®Izumi might be clingy but she won¡¯t harm anyone around me.¡¯


    {Only time will tell, Beloved.}


    Ending their conversation, Kazuya noticed Momo sitting on the bed, her Zanpakuto? carefully sheathed and resting on her lap. She partially drew her katana, a slow, deliberate motion, before gently sliding it back into its sheath.


    She turned towards him, a look of earnest pride in her eyes. ¡°Every day after classes, I injected Reiryoku into it and poured my heart into communicating with it. Tobiume, my Zanpakuto?, had no choice but to acknowledge my resolve and reveal her name.¡±


    ¡°You worked hard.¡±


    A small word of praise made her smile brightly. ¡°Do you want to see Tobiume in action?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±Findd new stories at novelhall.com


    {Will her personality change bring changes to her Zanpakuto? Spirit?}


    ¡®Hmm. Unohana as well. Ideal self ¡ª a gentle healer. True self ¡ª a woman with an insatiable lust for blood and battle. If that¡¯s the case, what will my Bankai be?¡¯


    {I¡¯m really curious. Your manipulation tactics were subdued after you fell for Harribel. What will your true self be when you release Bankai? A twisted yandere man who will bend reality to protect his lovers, or perhaps a manipulator who will stop at nothing to achieve his desires.}


    Clap. Clap. Clap. The applause came not from Kazuya but Nanao as she walked into the dojo. ¡°Hinamori-san, your tongue isn¡¯t the only sharp thing; your mind is just as sharp.¡±


    ¡°Did you have fun stalking us?¡±


    Cold sweat trickled down Nanao¡¯s forehead. Hiding her Reiatsu, she had followed them, suspecting them of having an intimate session in seclusion. She didn¡¯t think he¡¯d see through her concealment so easily. ¡°I was simply walking by and felt Hinamori-san release her Shikai. I came to check.¡±


    ¡°I believe you.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Momo diffused her Shikai and smiled at Kazuya, paying no attention to Nanao whatsoever. ¡°Kazuya-kun, our Zanpakuto? are connected to fire in different ways. Isn¡¯t that interesting?¡±


    He watched the crackling fire enveloping the dummy, causing it to crumble on the floor. ¡°It¡¯s brilliant if you ask me. What does Nanao think?¡±


    Nanao flinched at his casual use of her given name. ¡°Please call me Ise. I don¡¯t feel comfortable when men use my first name.¡±


    She had lived with her clan of traditional priests for the better part of her childhood, causing her to take the honorifics and seniority seriously.


    He shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s just a name.¡±


    Nanao shook her head. ¡°Hinamori-san¡¯s Zanpakuto? resembles the Seven-Branched Sword. It¡¯s unique and beautiful from a traditional standpoint.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m on the same page. Momo, you already have the Zanpakuto? part down. Would you be willing to learn Kido??¡±


    ¡°Yes, I want to!¡±


    He nodded at her enthusiasm and turned his attention to Nanao. ¡°Ise-san, please take my poor friend under your wing and impart her with your Kido? knowledge.¡±


    Momo frowned, but she didn¡¯t question his decision.


    Nanao, on the other hand, blinked in surprise. She had stopped despising him for his actions. Their relationship improved significantly but they were still acquaintances. Only he had the audacity to ask such a big favor from an acquaintance.


    ¡°I apologize but I can¡¯t do it.¡± She politely turned down his request. ¡°Please try to understand.¡±


    Kazuya raised one finger. ¡°One week. I want you to train Momo for one week. Surely you can spare this much time for your ¡®friend.¡¯¡±


    He was sure Nanao would continue the training herself after recognizing Momo¡¯s exceptional affinity with Kido?.


    Nanao nodded with a sigh, taking it as a moment to mend her relationship with Momo. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to teach her.¡±

 Chapter 169: Like a farewell

    Chapter 169: Like a farewell


    Nestled comfortably beneath the sprawling branches of an old tree, Shunsui Kyoraku, the Captain of the 12th Squad, was indulging in one of his favorite pastimes ¡ª a leisurely nap. The day was pleasantly uneventful, a welcome respite from the usual hustle of Soul Society, allowing him to relax after enjoying a couple of cups of sake.


    Tap. Tap. Tap. A series of steady footsteps gently intruded upon his serene moment. It was a sound he knew well ¡ª the stride of his diligent Vice-Captain, Nanao Ise.


    ¡°Nanao-chan¡ª¡±


    ¡°Captain, I¡¯d like a week off from my Vice-Captain duties.¡±


    Shunsui¡¯s eyes snapped open, a flicker of surprise crossing his usually composed face. He adjusted his straw hat, an unconscious response to his surprise, and peered at Nanao, who stood before him with an earnest demeanor. ¡°Is this related to Kazuya-san?¡±


    Losing his previous Vice-Captain had left a deep scar on his heart. Having similar features to Lisa only raised Shunsui¡¯s desires to keep her close to him, to ensure history didn¡¯t repeat itself. His protective instinct as her uncle led him to keep tabs on her through tracking her Reiatsu or ordering his subordinates to monitor her. He was naturally aware of her budding obsession about humbling a certain genius.


    Nanao''s unconscious nod, quickly followed by a double shake of her head, conveyed her internal conflict. ¡°I¡¯ll be training Hinamori-san,¡± she explained, ¡°who has an exceptional aptitude for Kido spells.¡±


    From the day she was promoted to the Vice-Captain seat, she hadn¡¯t taken a day off, even finding work to do on festival holidays. Her perfect attendance streak would end to make amends for her impolite conduct. The sacrifice would be worthwhile if Momo turned out to be half as good as Kazuya¡¯s words.


    Shunsui sat up and took off his hat. Gazing at his niece with a warm smile, he said, ¡°Nanao-chan, you know how useless I become without someone to nag me around. You can invite Hinamori-chan here. We¡¯ll teach her together~.¡±


    Nanao slammed her book on his head. ¡°She already loves Ishihara-san.¡±


    Shunsui rubbed his head, laughing. ¡°I wasn¡¯t inviting her just so I can flirt with a young Shinigami.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because I know what you¡¯re capable of.¡±


    She had witnessed his flirtatious antics at their weekly drinking parties and, despite her own reservations about Kazuya, she wouldn¡¯t allow her Captain to interfere in someone else¡¯s relationship.


    ¡°Nanao-chan, are you determined to go?¡±


    His playful tone didn¡¯t stop the air from growing somber.


    Nanao turned away, her gaze drifting towards the distant sunset, her expression thoughtful. ¡°It¡¯s only one week, Captain. I¡¯ll check back in to finish the paperwork.¡±


    Nanao had been by Shunsui¡¯s side for a long time, long enough to see past the flamboyant fac?ade he often presented to the world. She had caught glimpses of the deep-seated grief he carried, a sorrow born from the loss of many friends over his lengthy lifespan in the Soul Society.


    Hearing no response, she turned her attention, finding him stunned. It wasn¡¯t hard to grasp his astonishment. She resembled Shunsui¡¯s former Vice-Captain, the bespectacled woman who used to read her books once every month.


    ¡°Captain?¡±


    Regaining his composure, Shunsui mustered a smile. ¡°Wonderful, Nanao-chan,¡± he replied, leaning back against the tree, his demeanor returning to its usual relaxed state. ¡°What else do you plan to do at the Shin¡¯o Academy?¡±


    ¡°Nothing...¡± Nanao¡¯s voice grew soft. ¡°It¡¯s getting late, Captain. I¡¯ll go rest.¡±


    {You have a couple of hours. Quite possibly your last in the Shin¡¯o Academy. Feeling emotional, Daddy of my child?}


    To attract less attention, the Class 1 field trip was planned for the night. They had to gather in the evening then go to the Living World.


    ¡®No, and don¡¯t call me that. It feels weird. My first child will be with Tier.¡¯


    {Oho. Do you not remember where her Hollow hole is located?}


    ¡®I¡¯ll plug her hole with my love and cum.¡¯


    {...}


    After resting, Kazuya joined Momo, who had finished her Kido training with Nanao. She was in the company of Renji, Rukia, and Toshiro, all lively and engaged in conversation.


    Renji waved at him with a wide smile. ¡°Get your ass here. Let¡¯s grab something at the cafeteria.¡±


    Toshiro crossed his arms with a serious frown. ¡°Glutton.¡±


    ¡°Dumbass. You don¡¯t know what they¡¯ll feed us during the test.¡±


    Momo giggled. ¡°Stop fighting, you two. Rukia, don¡¯t make that face.¡±


    ¡°What face?¡± Rukia asked, feigning ignorance. ¡°Stop reading too much into things.¡±


    Renji pinched Rukia¡¯s cheek. ¡°Stop being jealous of us Class 1 talents. You¡¯ll get your field trip... in two years. Hahahaha.¡±


    Rukia slapped his hand away and stomped on his foot. ¡°Shut it, Monkey-face. I can become a Shinigami anytime I want. Byakuya Nii-sama offered me a seat in the 6th Squad.¡±


    She had been visiting Hisana throughout the week. After having a second chance at life, Hisana didn¡¯t spare any opportunity to make things easier for Rukia.


    Renji, who was rubbing his foot, paused. His expression grew serious. ¡°Noble privileges... did you accept?¡±


    Rukia crossed her arms and revealed a smile full of tomboyish charm. ¡°I turned him down. I made it out of Rukon on my own. I¡¯m not taking any shortcuts now.¡±


    Renji let out a sigh of relief. ¡°Idiot.¡±


    Rukia kicked his butt, knocking him down on the grass. ¡°Dumb buffoon. Go get your ass kicked by dummy Hollows.¡±


    Amid the animated chatter and playful banter of his friends, Kazuya remained unusually pensive. A sense of unease hung over him. The imminent field trip stirred in him a sense of foreboding.


    ¡®Just what is Aizen scheming?¡¯


    {We shall see soon.}

 Chapter 170: Field Trip (I)

    Chapter 170: Field Trip (I)


    Chapter 170: The Field Trip (I)


    Prior to the field trip, students were tasked with drawing lots. A trio would be formed by students of matching numbers. Kazuya was familiar with the rules, but most of Class 1 drew their lots without a clue. He, of course, didn¡¯t keep his group in the dark.


    Luck seemed to favor Kazuya and Toshiro as they ended up in the same group. On the other hand, Momo and Renji, with their mismatched numbers, found themselves separated into different groups.


    Toshiro couldn¡¯t help but shoot a glare at Renji, who stared at his lot with envy. ¡°Shoo. It was my luck.¡±


    ¡°Blast,¡± Renji cursed. ¡°I¡¯ll be stuck with randoms.¡±


    Toshiro smirked. ¡°You can handle it alone.¡±


    ¡°As if they¡¯ll let me do that.¡±


    Momo walked up from student to student, inquiring about their lot numbers. At last, she found the person with her desired ticket ¡ª a girl about as tall as Renji with menacing eyes.


    Momo pointed at the ticket in the girl¡¯s hand. ¡°Can we please exchange?¡±


    The girl¡¯s gaze drifted down to Momo. ¡°Why, Hinamori-san? Do you understand the point of¡ª¡± She paused, her eyes flickering wide. ¡°Never mind... you can take it.¡±


    Momo exchanged lots with the girl and happily skipped over to Kazuya¡¯s group. ¡°What are the odds we three are in the same group?¡±


    Not only did she subtly coerce the girl with her Reiatsu, but she also had the audacity to claim it as a coincidence. She had almost reached his level of shamelessness


    Toshiro shook his head, a wry smile playing on his lips. ¡°Momo, please get some help.¡±


    ¡°What? Why are you being mean to me, Shiro?¡±


    ¡°Whatever. Forget I said anything.¡±


    ...


    Kazuya stepped onto the open grounds, his eyes widening at the sight of Nanao and Rangiku standing before the grand Senkaimon door. With two 6th-year students as assistants, they looked every bit the authority figures they were.


    {Rangiku too? One Vice-Captain was already an overkill. Now they¡¯re sending two.}


    ¡®Did Shunsui send Rangiku to protect Nanao?¡¯


    {The only reasonable explanation I can think of.}


    Yoruichi also sensed something amiss but she couldn¡¯t convey her thoughts in the silence. A silence that shouldn¡¯t be present with thirty plus students in the same place. Nanao¡¯s Reiatsu made the air so oppressive that nobody dared utter a word. Even Rangiku¡¯s friendly smile alone failed to make the students feel at ease.


    Nanao¡¯s gaze swept over them, icy and detached. ¡°Some of you may know about the war that plagued Japan a few years ago. The high amount of deaths have led to the creation of numerous powerful Hollows. In lieu of the danger, the Academy has assigned us to be your guides.¡±


    Rangiku casually brushed her breasts, looking displeased with the heat. ¡°Kids, don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll send any Hollow packing if that¡¯s your concern. Now, be good students and split into groups of three according to the lots you drew earlier.¡±


    As the students formed their trios, murmurs and glances exchanged, Rangiku continued with her usual confidence, ¡°Your seniors have already gone to the Living World to make a barrier around a suitable area. Each group will engage in combat with the dummy Hollows roaming inyour assigned section.¡±


    In the current timeline, Shu?hei had earned somewhat of a reputation as a 4th year student for his talent.


    Accompanying Shu?hei was a petite girl with relatively short brown hair. Part of her hair was tied up at the right side of her head with a hairclip consisting of two red pearls.


    For Kazuya, the cute student was a walking red flag. In the original timeline, she¡¯d die two years later during Momo¡¯s first training mission. Her presence here gave him an ominous feeling.


    {Is the timeline fixing itself to avoid repercussions?}


    ¡®Could be. We have to be cautious.¡¯


    Meanwhile, Shu?hei was appraising Kazuya just as he was being appraised. ¡°You¡¯ve made quite a name in your first year. I wish I saw your fight in person like Hotaru did.¡±


    While his tone was overly serious, Shu?hei seemed inspired by Kazuya¡¯s courage to fight a Captain.


    Hotaru nodded seriously. ¡°It was an amazing show of techniques. How much did you train to achieve those results?¡±


    Before seeing his battle with Soi Fon, Hotaru felt satisfaction in being one of the more gifted students. Compared to this year¡¯s Class 1, she felt extremely ordinary.


    ¡°Twenty years,¡± Kazuya answered with a shrug, leaving Hotaru stunned. ¡°Or more. I don¡¯t remember.¡±


    Hotaru widened her eyes. ¡°I expected at least a hundred years. Well, this is how geniuses are I suppose.¡±


    Shu?hei placed a hand on Hotaru¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯m Shu?hei Hisagi, 4th year.¡±


    ¡°Hotaru Kanisawa, also a 4th year,¡± Hotaru said and stretched her hand for a handshake, which he accepted. ¡°We¡¯re here to take you to your assigned section.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Momo smiled. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to fight some Hollows.¡±


    Toshiro gripped his Zanpakuto?¡¯s hilt. ¡°Makes the two of us.¡±


    ...


    At the same time.


    Over a dozen screens flickered in the otherwise dark room. Sitting casually on a chair, Aizen calmly observed the live footage of the abandoned power plant, his gaze particularly affixed upon the silver-haired student. It was a pity he couldn¡¯t hear Kazuya¡¯s voice through the experimental screens.


    ¡°They invited Vice-Captain Matsumoto at the last second. Isn¡¯t that interesting, Gin?¡±


    Gin was standing behind Aizen, his hands concealed in his long bell sleeves. His ever-so mischievous smile faltered for merely a moment. ¡°Some people¡¯s intelligence grows weaker with age. Matsumoto-san is the prime example.¡±


    Tosen, who stood beside Gin, stared at the screens. He was blind, yet he often mimicked actions of those around him on an unconscious level. ¡°Sir, when do we start?¡±


    Aizen¡¯s lips curled into a cold smile. ¡°Soon, Tosen.¡±

 Chapter 171: The Field Trip (II)

    Chapter 171: The Field Trip (II)


    Guided by Shu?hei Hisagi and Hotaru Kanisawa, Kazuya passed by many sections, each echoing the ensuing clash between students and dummy Hollows. Over half of the students in Class 1 struggled against the weakest of constructed Hollows, a given for students with a few months of training.


    ¡®At least Renji is doing fine.¡¯


    {The student may not survive if Aizen unleashes his Hollows. They might if you¡¯re not busy rawdogging Momo in the wild like dogs in heat.}


    Nami¡¯s unfiltered comments always managed to amuse him. Straightforward to a fault, she perfectly personified her destructive flames.


    {But then again, he shouldn¡¯t try something drastic this early.}


    He, however, couldn¡¯t shake off the nagging suspicion.¡®Why do I have a feeling he will?¡¯


    Aizen got away with killing thousands to awaken the Ho?gyoku; what stopped Aizen from making another big move? The timeline had shifted dramatically with his presence. Muramasa ¡ª whom Kazuya couldn¡¯t find anywhere in the Soul Society ¡ª introduced so many unknown variables on his own.


    {I¡¯m a bit conflicted. On one hand, we¡¯ll finally get some action. On the other hand... everyone we know in Karakura Town will be put at risk. Fuck, our brazen daughter is messing with my head again.}


    ¡®Shhh. Don¡¯t worry about anything.¡¯


    Pushing aside his worries, he followed Shu?hei to a secluded part of the compound, which seemed to be a building for storing various equipment. ¡°This is your section. Vice-Captain Ise had this prepared for you.¡±


    Hotaru nodded, looking no less serious than Shu?hei. ¡°This is the hardest training mission in history, let alone your Class 1.¡±


    Kazuya narrowed his eyes. Every student had to fight one dummy Hollow, where his group was given a section with about twenty dummy Hollows with more than twice the Reiatsu of the other dummies. The entire 6th year batch would struggle here, let alone a trio of 1st year students.


    ¡°I¡¯m flattered that Nanao thinks so highly of me.¡± He chuckled. ¡°But aren¡¯t these dummies hard to make? Why waste them on our group?¡±


    ¡°Only the 12th Squad specialists can make them. True, it¡¯s strange they will throw them away for your test when you¡¯ve already been selected as a Seated Officer.¡±


    Even Hotaru was skeptical about the arrangement. The whole trial served no purpose as he had more than proven his abilities.


    "It¡¯s just procedures," Momo whispered as she grabbed his arms and gave him a gentle push from behind. ¡°Let¡¯s finish this quickly. We have to check the town after!¡±


    She couldn¡¯t wait to be alone with him on this special trip.


    Toshiro and Momo slipped from his grasp and swiveled to observe the building where the Hollows exploded.


    The silver-haired boy held his chin, frowning in confusion. ¡°What is that white liquid? Bleh, it looks utterly disgusting.¡±


    Meanwhile, Momo silently gazed at Kazuya¡¯s face. Observing him for a long time had given a deep understanding of his expressions. She had never seen him wear such a grave look. Her intuition told her that something was deeply wrong ¡ª the dummy Hollows weren¡¯t meant to act the way they did. The explosion was an attempt to harm them ¡ª an attempt to assassinate them.


    The fact turned her blood cold. Still, she pushed past her emotional strain to discern the identity of the person out for his life. She¡ªshe will not let the person get away with this.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun,¡± she whispered, tugging at his sleeve. ¡°Could it be the nobles?¡±


    His eyes widened at her sharp observation. He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her closer, rubbing her hair. ¡°No, they don¡¯t have the balls.¡±


    ¡°Then who?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I want you both to act like this never happened.¡±


    The fighting happening everywhere within the power plant neatly masked the explosion sound.


    Toshiro¡¯s brows furrowed in bewilderment. ¡°Why, Nii-san? Shouldn¡¯t we report this incident?¡±


    ¡°Shiro,¡± he said in a firm tone. ¡°I¡¯ll explain my reasoning later. For now, just do as I say. Can you do that?¡±


    Toshiro sighed and nodded. ¡°Understood, Nii-san.¡±


    ¡°Momo, can you?¡±


    Momo¡¯s response was more visceral. She clung to him, her body pressing close, as if seeking comfort or perhaps offering it. ¡°Your word is my command, Kazuya-kun... I¡¯ll never disobey you.¡±


    {Hahaha. This kinky little slut.}


    ¡°Meow.¡± Yoruichi landed beside him and licked his face. ¡°What is that foul-smelling fluid?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re late to the party,¡± he replied, looking down at her with a look of disappointment. ¡°Well, Yoruichi. Take Shiro and Renji to Rangiku and Nanao. I¡¯m going out with Momo.¡±

 Chapter 172-173: Reflection

    Chapter 172-173: ReflectionSpoiler


    Happy new year, my beautiful folks. Hope you have an amazing 2024!


    [collapse]


    Kazuya meandered through the quiet, almost contemplative streets of Karakura Town with Momo on his side. He couldn¡¯t help but reflect on the recent incident. He¡¯d harbored this belief, a somewhat nai?ve one in retrospect, that Aizen wouldn¡¯t directly target any Captain until the eve of his grand plan. But today, Aizen acted far more viciously compared to the canon event of him testing out his Hollows.


    After dissecting through many theories, he arrived at two reasons. The first, that Aizen had somehow discovered his secret as a Hollow, was quickly dismissed. It didn¡¯t align with Aizen¡¯s modus operandi; such a discovery would make Kazuya not a target, but a subject of intense, perhaps morbid curiosity. His rare ability to switch between races was a key that could unlock new realms of power for Aizen, even take him through transcendence. Aizen wouldn¡¯t rashly send some mere Hollow essence for him.


    The second reason, however, held a grim plausibility. The chessboard of power had shifted with Kazuya¡¯s actions ¡ª Espada¡¯s ranks had weakened considerably when compared to the canon lineup of Espada. On the other side, Gotei 13 kept getting stronger with the inclusion of Vice-Captain and Captain-Class candidates like Kazuya, Renji, Rukia, Momo, and Toshiro. Aizen¡¯s actions might have been to kill these rising threats.


    {I can believe in that. The loss of Barragan and Starrk, the #1 and #2 Espada, is immense.}


    During the week Kazuya stayed in the Living World, he had taken Coyote Starrk and Lilynette Gingerbuck from Hueco Mundo and turned them into a permanent member of Kisuke¡¯s shop, granting them the same fate as Grimmjow¡¯s group. He didn¡¯t have to threaten Starrk. In fact, Starrk was rather relaxed about coming with him.


    ¡®Then there is the Hollow essence infection. He deliberately used it.¡¯


    If he, Momo, and Toshiro went through the Hollowification in Living World, the blame would fall upon the Shinigami who had been previously charged for the Visored¡¯s incident. The former Shinigami who had fled the Soul Society to avoid the judgment from Central 46.


    Kisuke Urahara.


    {Taking out three potential Captains/Vice-Captains and shifting the blame on his rival in one move. He is even more terrifying than we had anticipated... How exciting, Partner!}


    ¡®That sly motherfucker has his eyes on Kisuke¡¯s Ho?gyoku. Does that mean he has a counterplan for Yama¡¯s Zanpakuto??¡¯


    {Kukukuku. He can prepare all he wants for Yama¡¯s flames. Our flames will destroy him.}


    Kazuya shook his head at Nami¡¯s eagerness to fight Aizen. Even after Aizen tried to assassinate him, he didn¡¯t change his stance ¡ª he¡¯d only fight Aizen until he was completely confident in killing him.


    ¡®Unohana¡¯s training should fill the gap.¡¯


    {Let Mamahana whip you into shape so you can whip her into shape. It¡¯s a win-win for both of you, umu.}


    ¡®Did you just imitate... the Umu Empress Niro?¡¯


    {No, I¡¯m the Umu Goddess. Umu.}


    ¡®...¡¯


    Momo, who was walking by his side, grabbed his hand. ¡°Kazuya-kun, people don¡¯t realize we¡¯re here with them... it¡¯s like we¡¯re in a separate world, where we can do anything without being judged.¡±


    Her glinting eyes and slight smirk carried positive sexual energy. Unfortunately for her, he wasn¡¯t in the mood to do anything remotely close to sex.


    ¡°Momo, is this your first time in the Living World?¡±


    ¡°I think so,¡± she said, looking towards the starry sky. ¡°I died when I was four or five. Shiro-chan too... We were fortunate that Oba-san adopted us and took care of us like her children.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, having good parents is nice.¡±


    Momo nodded, then she excitedly dragged him to the Shopping District of Karakura Town. Being a regular visitor to this place, he helped her with directions. After strolling the streets for a couple of minutes, she stopped at a bouquet shop. Strangely, he could sense two familiar Reiatsu within the store.


    ¡°Are you going to propose?¡±


    Momo firmly nodded her head, showing no embarrassment in admitting her love. ¡°I want to confess my feelings... You look quite experienced yourself. Do you have any advice for me?¡±


    Sung-Sun couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. Momo came to ask her for advice on how to get together with her husband. Being the magnanimous wife she was, she decided to play the wingman.


    ¡°Here¡¯s how you do this...¡±


    Momo listened to every word of advice with even more attention than her Kido? training. Some things genuinely made her confused, flabbergasted even, but she couldn¡¯t question Sung-Sun¡¯s wisdom.


    After Sung-Sun enlightened her and she received her bouquet of Camellia flowers, Momo meandered to Kazuya¡¯s side. He was still having fun flirting with Mila Rose. ¡°Kazuya-kun, we can leave now.¡±


    Kazuya noted the bouquet in her hand before giving her a warm smile. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Mila Rose waved at him, a hint of longing in her eyes. ¡°Come again, Kazuya and Momo!¡±


    Sung-Sun also waved her oversized sleeve. ¡°Please come back soon.¡±


    ¡°We will!¡± Momo replied enthusiastically. ¡°Bye, Florist-san, Receptionist-san.¡±


    As they left the flower shop, Momo¡¯s demeanor shifted. She walked beside him, her gaze flitting between him and the bouquet. Even after they traveled halfway back, Momo remained silent, unable to find the courage to say a word. She seemed hesitant about angering him and losing the relationship she currently had with him.


    ¡°Momo,¡± he called calmly. ¡°Don¡¯t you have something to say?¡±


    ¡°Kazuya-kun...¡±


    ¡°You should know by now that I don¡¯t like meek girls.¡±


    Momo froze in her tracks, her eyes flying wide open in surprise. Hearing his preference, she threw all modesty out of the window and went down to one knee. She extended the bouquet in her hands towards him. ¡°Kazuya-kun, I love you... I can¡¯t live without you. Please accept me as one of your girlfriends!¡±


    Momo knew all about his attraction to Rangiku. Rather than competing with someone else and losing her chance, she straight-up asked to be one of his women.


    He took the bouquet with a smile. ¡°What if I say no?¡±


    Her face went pale, but observing his playful smile gave her a sense of relief.


    ¡®It¡¯s a test.¡¯


    She joined her hands before her chest and looked straight into his eyes. ¡°I will try again... if you reject me again, I¡¯ll try for the third time. Third time¡¯s a charm, you know... hehe.¡±


    ¡°And what if that¡¯s not enough?¡±


    ¡°It will be,¡± Momo stated, mustering fake confidence to bolster her voice. ¡°My sincerity and affection will reach you one day. That day... As a Shinigami, I¡¯ll easily live until that day, trying my absolute best to win your heart.¡±


    He extended his hand. ¡°Sheesh. Alright, alright. I accept¡ª¡±


    A loud spatial distortion interrupted their moment as a garganta opened above him. A man with black hair and glowing green eyes walked out. He was a pale-skinned Arrancar with half of his head covered in the fragments of his Hollow Mask and two black lines running down from the center of his eyes.


    ¡°Silver hair, blue eyes.¡± Ulquiorra Cifer¡¯s cold eyes looked down upon them. ¡°Is it my luck to find you immediately or your bad luck to be here at this exact moment?¡±

 Chapter 174: First Act

    Chapter 174: First Act


    Sometime earlier.


    As twilight embraced Karakura Town, Rangiku found herself perched atop the towering power station, her gaze sweeping over the urban expanse. The city, awash in the glow of night lights, presented a sight of mundane beauty, a stark contrast to the ancientness of Seireitei. It wasn¡¯t just the scenery that captivated her; the fruity sake she sipped added an extra layer of sweetness to the moment.


    Of course she didn¡¯t come here just to drink. She¡¯d never slack off on her duty when her negligence could result in someone being hurt or worse. As the highest-ranking Shinigami in this operation, she had strategically selected this vantage point, ensuring a panoramic view of the area.


    That also meant her companion Vice-Captain, Nanao Ise, was present by her side. While Rangiku lounged with a sense of ease, Nanao stood upright, her sharp eyes drifting vigilantly.


    ¡°Loosen a bit, Nanao. Join me for a drink. This melon-flavored sake won¡¯t make you wasted. It¡¯s pretty easy on the body.¡±


    Nanao cast a sidelong glance at the bottle in Rangiku¡¯s grasp. ¡°No. I never drink during my work time.¡±


    Rangiku saw her stern refusal coming from miles away. ¡°No need to be so perfectly vigilant. The sixth years are also keeping watch. Well, if any Hollow shows up, I¡¯ll whoop their ass.¡±


    Rangiku seemed confident despite the seal that lowered their strength to twenty percent of her peak.


    Nanao slowly turned to Rangiku. ¡°I don¡¯t chase perfection for someone else. I do it for myself.¡±


    ¡°Deep. Very deep. I¡¯ll drink one to that.¡± Rangiku raised her cup in a toast before downing the sake in one smooth motion. ¡°Ahhh... the perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness.¡±


    Nanao¡¯s response was a gentle head shake. She remembered all too well the many Hollow encounters in Karakura Town. This very locale had witnessed the emergence of the most formidable Vasto Lorde ever documented by the 12th Squad. The inexperienced sixth-year students wouldn¡¯t stand a chance at detecting such a formidable Reiatsu.


    ¡°Woah, who is that?¡± Rangiku pointed in the distance, her eyes narrowing in curiosity. ¡°Ohhh, it¡¯s Kazuya¡¯s kitty. She¡¯ll make for a better drinking companion than Nanao.¡±?iscover new chapters at novelhall.com


    ¡°...¡±


    Rangiku poured another cup and jumped down, her smile broadening as she approached Toshiro and Renji. ¡°I¡¯m guessing he left with Momo.¡±


    Renji raised his brow. ¡°You gave her permission. Why will they not go?¡±


    Even with their overly relaxed banter, no one from Shinigami dared to underestimate the four. How could they when the four Hollows¡¯ Reiatsu was on par or even stronger than Rangiku¡¯s peak?


    Loly placed her hands on her hips and laughed haughtily. ¡°For so long we, Hollows, have died at Shinigami¡¯s hands. Today, I, Loly Aivernne, will take a stand for Hueco Mundo.¡± She pointed a finger down at them, smirking condescendingly. ¡°Hear me, Shinigami. This is a declaration of war against your race. A war to annihilate the entire Soul Society for good.¡±


    ...


    Meanwhile in the hidden dimension.


    Gin¡¯s eyelids lifted ever-so-slightly, revealing the striking blue of his eyes. The screens before him captured the stunned expressions of Renji, Toshiro, Nanao, and Rangiku from various angles. Though he knew the declaration of war to be a mere facade, a flicker of unease lingered in his heart.


    Aizen had planned to spare one Shinigami to convey the information to the Soul Society. The chosen one¡¯s identity remained mysterious until now. It could be Renji, Toshiro, Nanao, anyone from the group of students... or Rangiku. The odds of Aizen choosing Rangiku out of fifty Shinigami present at the scene were two percent.


    The uncertainty squeezed his heart, and he was helpless to do anything about it.


    ¡®Is it the day?¡¯


    ¡°No, trust your instincts. Aizen won¡¯t kill her,¡± His Zanpakuto? Spirit assured him in a calm voice. ¡°His ego rivals our thirst for revenge. He wouldn¡¯t extinguish her life without first subjecting you both to excruciating torment.¡±


    Gin shut his eyes close and revealed his signature smile. ¡°It¡¯s getting boring here. When will they fight?¡±


    Aizen chuckled. ¡°Have a little patience, Gin. We aren¡¯t here to watch our colleagues die.¡±


    Patience was hardly a virtue Gin lacked, yet he nodded in concurrence. ¡°Indeed, Captain Aizen. I became overly eager to assess the Espadas¡¯ combat potential against the Vice-Captains.¡±


    ¡°They are nothing spectacular.¡± Aizen shook his head. ¡°Quite underwhelming for my vision. They are decent placeholders until we find better replacements.¡±


    Gin settled into a chair, a leg casually draped over the other. ¡°Regrettably, we¡¯ve yet to locate the wolf-masked individual and his allies.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of time,¡± Aizen whispered. ¡°Only a matter of time.¡±

 Chapter 175: The Struggle (I)

    Chapter 175: The Struggle (I)


    Meanwhile, Kazuya¡¯s dearest black cat, Yoruichi, observed the four beings emanating the dual-natured Reiatsu of Shinigami and Hollow. She had anticipated trouble from Hollows, but an ambush by high-level Arrancars, especially those aligned with Aizen, was beyond anyone''s predictions. The evidence was clear in the intricate high-class barrier spell shrouding the power plant zone ¡ª a Kido? spell so precisely timed with the Garganta¡¯s opening that it almost escaped her notice.


    Everyone focused on the Garganta rather than the real threat.


    As long as the barrier stood, nobody from the Gotei 13 would sense these Arrancars. And Kazuya, the Senior-Captain equivalent, wouldn¡¯t sense them either. She needed him here as the Vice-Captains, under the effect of their seals, wouldn¡¯t be a match for the Espada.


    Her concern grew as she glanced at Nanao, who appeared visibly shaken, her body trembling as if overwhelmed by the intensity of the Reiatsu ¡ª a surprising reaction for a Vice-Captain who should have some resistance to such power.


    ¡®Captain Kyoraku is protective of her.¡¯


    At least Rangiku acted reliably in shielding Toshiro and Renji from Arrancars. Her face lacked any playfulness, only a somber expression that reflected the dire circumstances.


    ¡®She might buy enough time. I¡¯ll go and dismantle the barrier quickly.¡¯


    She patted Toshiro¡¯s head intently. ¡°Shiro, use your Shikai and support the Vice-Captains from afar.¡±


    Toshiro could barely nod when Yoruichi leaped off of him and darted to Nanao. She slapped the shaken Vice-Captain¡¯s face with her paw. Her soft slap snapped the Vice-Captain back to the present.


    Nanao rubbed her face with wide eyes, unable to believe that a cat just slapped her like a human and escaped. ¡°Yoruichi...¡± She shook off the distracting thoughts and looked up at Loly. ¡°You must be the leader of the group.¡±


    Loly crossed her arms arrogantly. ¡°Will a bottom feeder make a grand declaration of war?¡±


    Renji cracked his knuckles and pulled out his Zanpakuto? from his back. ¡°Yeah, I agree with you on this.¡±


    Their banter infuriated Loly, rightfully so. She looked venomous. ¡°I¡¯ll kill you bastards.¡±


    ¡°Not if I¡¯ll kill you first.¡± Renji chuckled and leaped over Rangiku. He raced towards Loly, creating platforms of Reishi beneath his feet. ¡°Here I come.¡±


    ¡°You idiot, come back!¡± Toshiro yelled, but his warning fell on deaf ears. Gripping his blade, he whispered the chant to release his Shikai, ¡°Sit Upon¡ªI won¡¯t make it in time. Rangiku, help him.¡±


    Finding his Shikai chant too long, he yelled at Rangiku to stop Renji from dying foolishly.


    Loly¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. She vanished ¡ª followed by the explosive sound of Soni?do ¡ª and arrived before Renji in the blink of an eye. Caught off-guard by her high-speed technique, Renji couldn¡¯t react to the curved dagger swinging down at his face.


    Just as the blade touched his forehead, Rangiku flashstepped to his side and parried the dagger with her katana.


    ¡°Too reckless, Renji!¡± Rangiku grabbed Renji by the collar and yanked him back to safety. Her eyes locked onto Loly, a fierce determination burning within. ¡°No one will hurt these students on my watch.¡±


    ¡°This is a war, dimwit. We don¡¯t take hostages or spare enemy soldiers.¡± Loly gestured to Ggio Vega, the Arrancar with a saber-tooth helmet. ¡°Kill the rest of the students.¡±


    Ggio shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m not interested in tainting my claws with the blood of weaklings. Menoly, why don¡¯t you please your friend by doing her dirty work?¡±


    Menoly, though hesitant, drew her katana. ¡°Fine, if I must.¡±

 Chapter 176: The Struggle (II)

    Chapter 176: The Struggle (II)


    Menoly dashed towards her objective, only to collide against a translucent yellow wall ¡ª a high-level barrier spell. Her katana ¡ª her Zanpakuto? ¡ª slipped from her hands and clattered to the ground. As she scratched her head, her back bumped into another massive wall. Confusion and panic set in as she realized she was imprisoned in a shrinking box of energy.


    ¡°Vessel of the divine, fury of the lord.¡±


    Menoly¡¯s gaze followed the direction of the voice, seeing Nanao extending her hand with a claw-like gesture. The Vice-Captain was controlling the barrier, unafraid of the two Espada attacking her in this state.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you kill them,¡± Nanao said through gritted teeth and forcefully closed her claw hand. ¡°With light, crush the prisoner. Shimen-sei no shi.¡±


    The barrier responded to Nanao¡¯s command, contracting with a force meant to compress Menoly into oblivion. Menoly frantically reached for her Zanpakuto? to activate her Resurreccio?n, but it was futile; her sword was beyond her reach. In a panic, she pounded against the barrier with her fists, but it was like striking steel.


    Desperation in her eyes, Menoly turned to Ggio Vega. ¡°Ggio, help me,¡± she pleaded for her comrade¡¯s help, hoping they¡¯d help get her out of the pinch.


    Ggio Vega, the Arrancar with the saber-tooth helmet, looked on with cold indifference. ¡°Fear not. I¡¯ll gladly take the #7 from you.¡±


    Menoly¡¯s heart sank. She had always seen Ggio as an ally, a friend even, but he was going to let her die for her rank. ¡°We¡¯re on the same side. Why won¡¯t you help me?!¡±


    ¡°Miss Menoly, we don¡¯t need incompetent Hollows filling our ranks. Zommari, do you agree with me?¡±


    Zommari glanced down at Menoly briefly before closing his eyes. The silence spoke his decision louder than words. Menoly was shocked beyond words. Even though she had done her best to please them and make herself useful to her comrades, they abandoned her at the drop of a hat.


    At last Menoly turned to Loly for help. Her bully colleague happened to be looking at her, her face twisted in raw disgust.


    She shivered, closing her eyes out of fear. ¡°Please save me...¡±


    ¡°You utter trash of an Arrancar,¡± Loly growled. ¡°Kill yourself. Kill yourself now¡ªargh...¡±


    ¡°Ugh, my bad.¡± Rangiku assumed a serious expression, holding her katana with both hands. ¡°Growl, Haineko (Ash Cat)... Huh?¡±


    But to her shock, nothing happened. Her Zanpakuto? remained unresponsive to her chant. Pouring Reiatsu into her Zanpakuto?, she frowned.


    ¡°Haineko, this isn¡¯t the time to joke around. Haineko? Haineko?!¡±


    Her screams received no response from her Inner World. Haineko was whimsical, but she never messed around during a serious battle. She gritted her teeth, a sinking realization hitting her ¡ª without her Shikai, she was at a significant disadvantage.


    ¡°I can¡¯t use it...¡±


    Engulfed in a whirlpool of confusion and fear, Rangiku didn¡¯t notice Loly¡¯s monstrous arms closing in on her. The headless centipedes slammed into her from both sides and coiled around her. Rangiku winced and bashed her elbows on Loly¡¯s arms, feeling as if she was hitting steel rather than arms made of bone ¡ª she had yet to learn about the Hierro defense of Arrancars.


    ¡°Die, wench. Melt away in my poison,¡± Loly hissed, her face twisted in sadistic pleasure. The tiny, razor-sharp claws ¡ª the centipede¡¯s legs ¡ª began to secrete a violet toxin.


    Loly¡¯s ecstasy was disrupted by a pleading voice.


    ¡°Loly...¡± Menoly barely squeezed out a whimper, the barrier forcing her into a curling position. ¡°Please...¡±


    Loly¡¯s expression contorted with contempt. With a violent swing, she attacked the barrier with her poison-coated limb. The impact didn¡¯t weaken the barrier but her purple poison corroded the barrier within seconds.


    Menoly, unable to believe Loly¡¯s kindness, stared in disbelief. ¡°T-Thanks...¡±


    Loly swung her arm again. This time, the massive limb connected to Menoly¡¯s face and sent her crashing into a building. ¡°Gross¡ª¡±


    ¡°Sit upon the Frozen Heavens, Hyorinmaru!¡±

 Chapter 177: The Struggle (III)

    Chapter 177: The Struggle (III)


    Toshiro unwillingly released his Shikai and pointed his katana at Loly. An immense Reiatsu overflowed from his Zanpakuto? as three chains of ice spiraled out of the base of the blade, condensing into a thick chain. The ice chain moved through the air, absorbing moisture from the environment to grow into a massive dragon with blazing crimson eyes. The frost dragon roared at the heavens before flying down towards Loly.


    ¡°Fuck.¡± Loly hurriedly released Rangiku and slapped the ice dragon. Of course, with her higher Reiatsu, she easily shattered the ice dragon, but not without consequences. Her poison began to crystalize, the frost creeping along her limbs.


    The ice forced her to expend Reiatsu in shattering the ice crystals. ¡°A little brat has Shikai.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a brat,¡± he growled. ¡°Rangiku-sensei, let¡¯s fight her together.¡±


    Rangiku¡¯s Shihakusho was half-melted and her skin singed by the poison. It was pure agony. But she didn¡¯t let her injuries slow her down. She had joined the Gotei 13 with the intention to get her childhood friend back, but she ended up becoming a responsible Shinigami.


    Giving her life to duty wasn¡¯t something she frowned at.Diiscover new stories at novelhall.com


    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s end this pathetic worm.¡±


    ...


    Nanao, meanwhile, aimed an arm at Loly, whispering a chant under her breath.


    ¡°It¡¯s getting boring for you, isn¡¯t it?¡± Ggio asked, yawning. ¡°I¡¯ll join too. Miss Vice-Captain, I apologize for killing you.¡±


    Cold shiver went down Nanao¡¯s spine ¡ª Ggio was already behind her, his left leg raised over her head. In a fit of panic, Nanao raised her hand and whispered a chant under her breath.


    ¡°Seki.¡±


    Ggio smirked and brought his leg down, unbothered by the tiny orb of energy floating above Nanao¡¯s back of hand. As soon as his leg touched the orb, the counterforce of the spell sent him reeling back into a wall.


    ¡°Hahaha, impressive. You¡¯re very impressive.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel happy with your praise...¡± Nanao whispered, feeling sweat cover her face. ¡°What do Arrancars want from attacking students?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know soon. In the meantime, enjoy your death at the hands of Ggio Vega, the #8 Espada.¡±


    Momo giggled and made a beeline for Sung-Sun¡¯s flower shop, unaware of the true purpose behind her actions.


    Ulquiorra trailed Momo with his gaze but didn¡¯t intervene. His objective was Kazuya, not Momo. ¡°I do hope you put up a fight comparable to your confidence.¡±


    ¡°I absolutely will, my Arrancar friend.¡± Kazuya chuckled and drew his Zanpakuto?. ¡°Weave, Shinku-no-Tsubasa.¡±


    ...


    In a dimly lit room, Aizen sat before a bank of screens, each one displaying a different scene of the unfolding chaos.


    ¡°He wasn¡¯t lying about seizing Zanpakuto? Spirits,¡± Gin said. ¡°A frightening Zanpakuto? indeed.¡±


    ¡°Hmmm.¡± Aizen¡¯s gaze, however, was drawn not to the high-stakes duel between Kazuya and Ulquiorra, but to a more subtle, yet equally compelling confrontation. On one of the screens, a black cat tinkered with the barrier around the power plant zone as if she was a human. It reminded Aizen of a certain amusing fact about the Shiho?in Clan¡¯s bloodline, which sounded rubbish at the time he read it.


    ¡°Shiho?in¡¯s descendants can assume the form of an animal. It has only happened two times in the past.¡± [1]


    Gin pointed at the black cat on the screen. ¡°Yoruichi Shiho?in.¡±


    ¡°Interesting...¡±


    After a few moments, Yoruichi brought down the barrier setup by Tosen.


    Aizen threw one leg over the other and smirked. ¡°The final spectacle will start.¡±


    ...


    [#1: Kubo confirmed it in a Q&A.


    Q: I want to know why Yoruichi can take the form of a black cat. One way of interpreting things is that it is some sort of binding that changes her from her humanoid form to that of a black cat, but it seems to be fundamentally different from Hado and Bakudo. Is it a power not related to Kido? Or does it have to do with Kisuke''s technology?


    A: It''s due to the Shihouin bloodline. Sometimes the Shihouin clan breeds people that can assume the form of an animal.]

 Chapter 178: The Guilt

    Chapter 178: The Guilt


    Izumi jolted awake, her heart pounding in her chest as she stared at the ceiling. ¡°Otouto¡¯s spiritual energy...¡±


    Even though the Quincy were not known for their acute spiritual senses compared to Shinigami, Izumi had a deep, almost instinctual recognition of Kazuya¡¯s Reiatsu. She would never mistake his Reiatsu for someone else.


    ¡®He is fighting something. A Hollow or a Shinigami?¡¯ She pondered, her brow furrowing. Ultimately, the opponent mattered little. The dream of reviving the Quincy race might have slipped through her fingers, but she wouldn¡¯t hesitate in wielding her Quincy bow to protect him.


    She tossed aside her blanket and donned a cardigan over her simple nightdress.


    ¡®Hang on, Otouto-kun. I¡¯m coming.¡¯


    Upon reaching the doorstep, Izumi halted, noticing Lisa, the titular maid, hurriedly slipping on her shoes. Much like her, Lisa had hurried out of her room in a casual shirt and skirt.


    Feeling Izumi''s presence, Lisa turned, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes. She had hoped, rather optimistically, that the heightened Reiatsu signatures crowding the Karakura Town wouldn¡¯t rouse Izumi. The sight of Kazuya in his Shinigami outfit would destroy all of his hard work.


    ¡°Izumi-sama, you... no, you can¡¯t go to him.¡±


    Izumi¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°Why not?¡±


    ¡°Because...¡± Lisa faltered for a moment, her eyes flicking down to her shoes. ¡°He is fighting a strong opponent. You¡¯ll make things worse for him in your current condition.¡±


    Izumi¡¯s frown deepened. ¡°I have fought Hollows for years. Don¡¯t underestimate me just because I experienced a few rocky weeks.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not underestimating you.¡± Lisa tidied her shoelaces and got back to her feet before clicking her shoes together. ¡°You¡¯re underestimating your man. He is the strongest Quincy in my knowledge. Simply being near his Reiatsu will kill us. You¡¯ll not be able to show your affection if you die.¡±


    She made up excuses that sounded convincing from her perspective.


    ¡°B-But... I want to see him, hug him... I want to feel his warmth.¡±


    Lisa¡¯s gaze softened upon seeing Izumi¡¯s needy side. ¡°I¡¯ll bring him back as soon as he knocks over his enemy. Please, you can sleep without worry.¡±


    Though everyone was aware of Kazuya¡¯s excursion, the sudden appearance of numerous Arrancar was unexpected. Apacci would have gladly taken his place in battle if it weren¡¯t for his current guise as a Shinigami, which complicated their ability to intervene.


    Harribel turned to Apacci, her smile still in place but her eyes serious. ¡°Doesn¡¯t that Reiatsu remind you of Kazuya''s when he first became an Arrancar?¡±


    ¡°Now that you mention it... yeah, it does have some resemblance. Is he fighting his brother?¡±


    Harribel shook her head. ¡°It can¡¯t be his brother... you both stay here. I¡¯ll go over to see if he needs any help.¡±


    ¡°I want to go too,¡± Apacci grumbled. ¡°BUT he said I can¡¯t be involved.¡±


    Cirucci grinned, holding the kittens wrapped in a soft towel. ¡°Lady Apacci, there is a good reason behind his wariness.¡±


    ¡°I know, fuck. I might do something irrational to expose him. Tier, you too. Don¡¯t do anything that might ruin everything.¡±


    Acknowledging Apacci¡¯s words with a nod, Harribel rose from her seat. She slipped on a black sweatshirt over her shirt, zipping it up to her chest and pulling the hood over her head. The cover of night outside provided a perfect chance to conceal her distinct features as she prepared to venture into the uncertain darkness.


    ***


    Soul Society.


    The bustling high-tech 12th Squad headquarters, the Shinigami Research and Development Institute was awash with a sudden, frantic energy. The Operators scurried about in a state of near-panic. The reason for their distress ¡ª their gadgets had just detected multiple high-level Arrancars converging in the same location as a group of their students.


    Their precise devices messed up somewhere and overlooked the spatial distortions of Garganta. In a division where small mistakes could spell disaster, such an oversight could have dire, even life-altering consequences.


    Akon, however, didn¡¯t seem at all worried about the consequences. ¡°Send a transmission to the Captain Commander. He must know this as soon as possible.¡±


    He understood the stakes ¡ª the presence of powerful Arrancars in close proximity to their students was a threat of the highest order, one that demanded immediate action and the involvement of the Soul Society''s highest echelons.


    The Gotei 13 had to mobilize reinforcements to provide support as soon as humanly possible.

 Chapter 179: The Replacement

    Chapter 179: The Replacement


    Ulquiorra curiously watched Kazuya release his Shikai. Despite the astonishing process, the endresults left him underwhelmed. He pointed a finger at Kazuya, his eyes the embodiment of apathy. ¡°Cero.¡±


    At the tip of his finger, a flickering green light revealed the imminent release of his destructive energy. In an instant, a massive beam shot forth.


    Kazuya simply brought his Enmyaku together and formed a shield. The fiery shield absorbed the devastating Cero that threatened to consume him, and the rest illuminated the night sky with its green glow.


    Ulquiorra''s expression remained unchanged, but a hint of intrigue sparked in his eyes. ¡°A shield is an unconventional choice for one as arrogant as you.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? How about I show you something traditional?¡± He grabbed the Enmyakus with his hands and merged them together, which took the form of a sword with a ridiculously large handle. ¡°Let¡¯s fight with swords, shall we?¡±


    Ulquiorra grasped the green hilt of his Zanpakuto? and drew it in one swift motion. ¡°The weaker blade will chip out and break.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll be surprised.¡±


    In a burst of speed, they launched themselves skyward above Karakura Town, their blades clashing with a force that sent shockwaves rippling through the night air. The metallic ring of their swords echoed, distorting the atmosphere with each powerful strike.


    Kazuya aggressively pushed Ulquiorra, aiming to create an opening where he could target Ulquiorra¡¯s vital spot. But Ulquiorra didn¡¯t lose his calm in the face of aggression. He remained as calm as the moon bearing witness to their clash, his katana moving like a whisper in the darkness. The Zanpakuto? was swift and precise in fending off the aggressive strikes coming from Kazuya.


    Despite not using his Resurreccio?n, Ulquiorra wasn¡¯t losing an inch in the clash.


    As they fought, Kazuya¡¯s swordplay grew more intense, ripping the air apart with the sheer effort of his swings. He held back his maximum Reiatsu but he didn¡¯t hold back his physical strength. In fact, he only grew stronger clashing with Ulquiorra, since he was the strongest opponent he had ever fought. Harribel didn¡¯t count since she started holding back after he officially became her lover.


    He wasn¡¯t the only one growing through the battle. Ulquiorra too became strong through battling an equal opponent ¡ª something he couldn¡¯t find in Hueco Mundo as the #1 Espada.


    ¡°You¡¯re surprisingly strong for a student,¡± Ulquiorra commented. ¡°You also have a decent grasp on combat itself. I understand why he thought of you as a barricade in his plans.¡±Nne?w n0vel chapters are published at novelhall.com


    ¡°He?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to know that.¡±


    Ulquiorra keenly blocked and evaded the flurry of aggressive slashes ¡ª until he found an opening. Kazuya grew impatient and shoved his blade at Ulquiorra¡¯s heart. Ulquiorra waited as the blade inched close to his chest and stabbed through him.


    ¡ªHe let the sword pierce him.


    His move caught Kazuya off-guard. The perfect opening didn¡¯t go to waste, as Ulquiorra pushed his katana through Kazuya¡¯s throat.


    Tier crossed her arms, radiating an air of authority. ¡°Am I that famous in Hueco Mundo now?¡±


    Ulquiorra stared at her with the same apathetic gaze. ¡°Yes. Every Espada knows you. Why did you hide after slaying Barragan? Did you have no interest in the crown or was your victory a fluke?¡±


    Despite his typically emotionless demeanor, Ulquiorra had a penchant for engaging in lengthy dialogues, a trait somewhat at odds with his usual stoic nature.


    Tier¡¯s eyes flared with rage. ¡°You pathetic Arrancar dare challenge my pride. I¡¯ll make you pay for this.¡±


    She dashed at Ulquiorra with Soni?do and grabbed his throat. Her explosive speed and raw strength caught him by surprise. She ripped open the Garganta with her other hand and tossed Ulquiorra inside.


    Turning to Kazuya, she gave him a menacing glare. ¡°Stay where you are, Shinigami. It¡¯s between me and him.¡±


    He raised his hands. ¡°Whoever wins between gets the privilege to die at my hands.¡±


    Tier snarled before dashing into the void.


    Alone now, Kazuya exhaled deeply. Tier¡¯s reaction had been astoundingly intuitive, almost as if she could read his mind. She understood his desire to leave and assist Rangiku and the others, and chose to replace him in the battle.


    {God bless our holy mother.}


    Kazuya narrowed his eyes. ¡°Nanao¡¯s Reiatsu is getting weaker.¡±


    {Fuck the voyeur Aizen. I bet he is having an orgasm seeing everything go according to his plan.}


    ...


    The whip sword design


    Spoiler


    span>


    [collapse]

 Chapter 180: The Freefall

    Chapter 180: The Freefall


    Only a day prior, Gin Ichimaru might have staked everything on Ulquiorra¡¯s victory against a Shin¡¯o Academy novice like Kazuya. Aizen had put extra effort into enhancing Ulquiorra with Ho?gyoku. As the strongest Vasto Lorde and a key figure in the Arrancar Project, Ulquiorra, the last Original Hollow, enjoyed privileges that set him apart.


    Yet, today unfolded with startling revelations: Kazuya Ishihara toyed with Ulquiorra, baiting the Vasto Lorde into an explosive blast. Without his extreme regeneration ability, Ulquiorra would have died right there.


    The Arrancar project¡¯s crowning achievement faced an unexpected humiliation, and unless he released his Resurreccio?n, he¡¯d have certainly lost at a student¡¯s hands. It was a bummer that Gin didn¡¯t get to see the finish. Tier Harribel unexpectedly showed up and altered the course of the battle.


    His gaze then shifted to the Shinigami¡¯s side of the equation. Rangiku Matsumoto was struggling, her body succumbing to toxins that rendered her a sluggish mess. She¡¯d have long died if not for Toshiro¡¯s Shikai contending against Loly.


    However, the stalemate wouldn¡¯t last long.


    Toshiro was visibly strained, running out of Reiryoku using his newly developed Shikai. Their situation was growing increasingly dire.


    ¡®I can trust him to send away the Espada.¡¯


    Of course, Gin¡¯s face betrayed none of his internal urgency. ¡°Kazuya-san is brimming with raw potential like an uncut diamond. It¡¯s strange he decided to be part of the 4th and 10th squad. This battle maniac could easily fit in with the 11th Squad.¡±


    Gin sensed deeper undercurrents influencing Kazuya¡¯s decisions beyond his ties with Isshin Shiba and Vice-Captain Isane Kotetsu. However, their limited intel provided no solid footing for these speculations.


    ¡°His Zanpakuto? is a Support-Type and quite suited for the 4th Squad.¡± Aizen¡¯s eyes gleamed behind his specs. ¡°It can be restructured into an offensive form. It¡¯s a sign of his extraordinary adaptability.¡±


    With a hand on his chin, Gin grinned. Extraordinary was the highest praise Aizen ever gave to anyone. Even Ulquiorra, one of the Original Hollows born from the ashes of Hueco Mundo, received an ¡®adequate for our mission¡¯ remark.


    ¡®Is there a chance he has a monstrous talent like Aizen?¡¯


    It¡¯d be quite a miraculous twist if Kazuya ended up becoming a bigger threat to Aizen¡¯s plan than Captain Commander Genryu?sai Shigekuni Yamamoto. A twist Gin would wholeheartedly welcome with open arms.


    ¡°Captain, what do we do with Harribel?¡± Gin asked to keep the conversation flowing. ¡°She is in Hueco Mundo as we speak. Capturing her would be easy.¡±


    ¡°Leave her be.¡±


    Ggio attempted to pursue, but Zommari Leroux abruptly blocked his path. ¡°Zommari, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Your hubris led to her escape.¡±


    ¡°Then don¡¯t block¡ª¡±


    ¡°Your mission is here. You cannot leave until it is fulfilled,¡± Zommari said indifferently before he glanced at the Shinigami whose aura was a mix of Hollow and Shinigami but very distinct from an Arrancar¡¯s Reiatsu. ¡°Fascinating. I must tell Aizen-sama about it.¡±


    Ggio didn¡¯t argue against Zommari, who was higher ranked and more powerful than him. Instead, he redirected his fury towards another target ¡ª Vice-Captain Rangiku Matsumoto, who seemed momentarily distracted, possibly by the mysterious figure who had whisked Nanao away. ¡°You¡¯ll do.¡±


    Closing the gap with a burst of Soni?do, Ggio unleashed a ferocious kick into Rangiku¡¯s abdomen. The impact sent her flying, her body crashing against a nearby wall with an echoing thud. Struggling to regain her bearings, she reached for her katana, her eyes lifting to meet Ggio¡¯s.


    ¡°You should¡¯ve dodged to your right,¡± Ggio taunted, a twisted smile playing on his lips as he approached her with a slow, deliberate motion. ¡°Or to the left.¡±


    His sarcastic criticism made Loly burst into laughter. ¡°You¡¯re amazing, Ggio. Keep beating the shit out of her.¡±


    Rangiku pushed herself off the ground but struggled to maintain a steady stance. Blood trickled down her face, which she wiped away with her sleeve and then glared at Ggio. ¡°Where is Nanao?¡±


    ¡°Oh, her. Unfortunately, I have no idea. Some mysterious girl kidnapped her. Besides, Miss Vice-Captain. You should worry about immediate threats such as me~.¡±


    His figure flickered, the explosive sound of Soni?do following his disappearance. Showing up before her, he drove his knee into her already battered abdomen. The brutal strike knocked the wind out of her. She dropped to her knees, the pain carving a silent scream on her face.


    To escape the excruciating pain, her consciousness plunged into distant, sweeter memories of her childhood.


    ¡°You should have crossed your arms to block the knee,¡± he instructed, making a mockery out of his opponent. ¡°Well, she passed¡ª¡±


    His gloating was cut short. A sudden surge of instincts flared within him, signaling an immediate danger. He had barely a moment to react before someone grabbed the back of his head and dragged him violently through the air.


    Ggio¡¯s eyes caught a brief glimpse of his attacker ¡ª gleaming blue eyes, silver hair ¡ª a figure he recognized as a significant threat to their mission. A fleeting thought crossed his mind, ¡®Wasn¡¯t he fighting with Ulquiorra?¡¯ That question remained unanswered as his face brutally smashed into the wall.


    ¡°You should have chosen different enemies or stayed in Hueco Mundo.¡±

 Chapter 181: The Culling

    Chapter 181: The Culling


    Kazuya didn¡¯t break through Ggio¡¯s Hierro defense with the head-bashing, which he never intended in the first place. He continuously smashed Arrancar¡¯s head against the wall purely to vent his mounting frustration. The anger was directed at Espada and... himself for trusting in Visored to assist Shinigami during the crisis. He had sent Sung-Sun to request Visored¡¯s help, but they deliberately turned a blind eye to the matter.


    Shinji didn¡¯t want to get involved despite harboring a great hatred for Aizen.


    {Ungrateful bastards. And where did Yoruichi go?}Diiscover new stories at novelhall.com


    ¡®She must¡¯ve gone to Urahara after clearing the Kido spell around the zone.¡¯


    ¡°Shinigami.¡±


    Hearing a powerful voice, Kazuya pulled Ggio out of the dirt and glanced around. Zommari was glaring down at him, unfiltered hatred flowing through him. Zommari had no sense of camaraderie with Ggio Vega or any other Arrancar for that matter, but he utterly despised Shinigami.


    ¡°I¡¯d be damned if I let you kill an Espada before my eyes.¡±


    Zommari moved to engage Kazuya using his Soni?do, which was only second to Ulquiorra among the current Espada. In an instant, he was behind Kazuya, his sword thrusting forward. The blade pierced through the back of Kazuya¡¯s Shinigami uniform.


    ¡°You may¡ª¡± Zommari¡¯s words came to a pause and a look of shock flashed on his face. Kazuya¡¯s figure on the other end of his sword faded ¡ª he had been tricked into stabbing an afterimage.


    He was completely embarrassed in a battle of speed.


    Kazuya appeared nearly a hundred meters above him and joined his Shikai aspects into the whip sword version before placing it against Ggio¡¯s neck. His grip on Ggio¡¯s chin was so tight that the Arrancar couldn¡¯t swivel left or right.


    Ggio blinked his wide eyes. Being oppressed to this degree wasn¡¯t something he expected even from a Captain-Class Shinigami. The academy student possessed absurd physical strength. But he had a trump card up his sleeve ¡ª his Resurreccio?n. He clenched his jaw and spat out the words to release his complete power, ¡°Bite¡ª¡±


    Kazuya pushed the sword a tad deeper, effortlessly slicing through Ggio¡¯s Hierro and drawing a crimson line across Ggio¡¯s throat. ¡°Where is the other Vice-Captain?¡±


    Ggio gritted his teeth. ¡°We have nothing to do with her disappearance. She was taken by some masked girl.¡±


    ¡°Describe her. What did her mask look like?¡±


    ¡°Black hair... She had black hair. And her mask, it was shaped like a diamond with two slits.¡±


    He still couldn¡¯t get the full picture of Aizen¡¯s strategy at play. It was neither to kill Rangiku or Nanao nor was it to get Ulquiorra to kill him. Otherwise, Ulquiorra would¡¯ve used his Resurreccio?n from the get-go to finish the job. Ulquiorra was trying to assess him while stalling time for an unknown purpose.


    ¡°Damn you, you arrogant Shinigami,¡± Zommari roared at the top of his lungs, his eyes ablaze with fury. ¡°I¡¯ll make you pay for this.¡±


    Zommari finally lost his calm. He held his Zanpakuto? horizontally before releasing his grip one finger at a time. Kazuya knew Zommari was performing the release of his Resurreccio?n. Stopping Zommari was pointless, as any injury he received would be healed after the release. He also lacked the means to insta-kill Zommari without revealing his complete hand.


    Shifting his attention to Loly and Toshiro¡¯s battle, he made a split-second decision. He flashstepped to Loly and stomped her arm. The force of the stomp shattered her centipede-like arm into brittle bone fragments, oozing a white, mucus-like fluid.


    Loly¡¯s face contorted in agony and she unleashed a guttural scream. ¡°Arghhh. You¡ªfuck you!¡±


    She swung her other arm in retaliation. But Kazuya was quicker. With a swift slash, he severed her arm at the base, then plunged his blade into her forehead.


    Her single eye widened in shock before life drained from her. As he pulled the blade, she collapsed, motionless ¡ª dead.


    Toshiro¡¯s face lit up with a relieved smile upon seeing Kazuya safe and sound. ¡°Nii-san made a joke out of her. Our gap is like heaven and earth.¡±


    He had struggled alongside Rangiku against Loly, yet Kazuya had dispatched her effortlessly.


    ¡°Nii-san, where is Momo?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Momo. Take Rangiku and leave. I¡¯ll finish these idiots and meet up with you.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t let Zommari use Toshiro against him. It was better to face him alone.


    ¡°I see...¡± Toshiro reverted his Shikai transformation and sheathed his Zanpakuto?. ¡°There is something I should tell you. A girl wearing a mask took Vice-Captain Ise. She seemed to know the Vice-Captain, which is very odd.¡±


    Kazuya ruffled Toshiro¡¯s hair affectionately. ¡°Got it. Now, hurry.¡±


    Toshiro nodded and departed with novice Shunpo skills. Kazuya refocused on Zommari. The Espada was now engulfed in a thick, white, foamy liquid, mixing in with his violet Reiatsu.


    As the foam receded, Zommari¡¯s transformed figure was revealed ¡ª a grotesque form adorned with numerous eyes scattered across his body. His lower half resembled a pink, pumpkin-like structure, ringed by cyclopean faces echoing his own. A skull-shaped neck brace with an open eye on the front covered his neck.

 Chapter 182: The Curtain Rises

    Chapter 182: The Curtain Rises


    Zommari clearly remembered the plan, which was quite easy to follow. He also knew that Kazuya was meant to engage Ulquiorra during their part in the power plant. To defeat Ulquiorra, who was currently the strongest Espada, in a short period proved Kazuya¡¯s strength. Understanding the limits of his own abilities, Zommari harbored no illusions of defeating Kazuya in a direct combat.


    However, his Resurreccio?n could massively shift tides in his favor.


    He stretched his palm towards Kazuya. The golden eye on his palm shimmered ominously, and the black dot in the eye¡¯s center rapidly expanded. ¡°Your end is nigh.¡±


    Kazuya was well aware of Zommari¡¯s Zanpakuto? Brujeria¡¯s ability dubbed ¡®Amor¡¯. The ability took full control over one object, which could even be a living being¡¯s limb. With each eye capable of dominating a single target, Zommari could manipulate up to fifty objects simultaneously. Furthermore, there was no established rule that a massive difference in Reiatsu Class would negate the control effect.


    The only downside to Amor was its inability to guard against large-scale attacks like Byakuya¡¯s Senbonzakura. His own flames also had the power to purify effects.


    Without further delay, he closed the distance with Shunpo and slashed the eye living in Zommari¡¯s palm. His boldness in confronting an enemy with unfamiliar powers momentarily caught Zommari unprepared.


    However, Zommari was no rookie and had countless years of battle experience as an Adjuchas. He immediately blinked a distance away with Soni?do, eyes glaring at Kazuya with a crazed look. ¡°The insolence,¡± Zommari growled like a beast, and the eye in his palm glowed purple with his Reiatsu. ¡°You¡¯ll pay for your arrogance by losing your right arm.¡±


    A black sun-shaped tattoo bloomed on the back of Kazuya¡¯s hand ¡ª the mark of Amor.


    {The ability works like a Kido? spell. It must be why it¡¯s working on you... that said, how dare he mark my beloved¡¯s perfect body with his taint! Let me out, Partner. I shall slaughter this man... starting with burning every eye on his body then incinerating his pumpkin body.}Diiscover new stories at novelhall.comi turned extremely passionate and hostile when it involved him or his body. She¡¯d undoubtedly devour Zommari if he let her out.


    ¡°Your right arm is under my dominion,¡± Zommari, on the other side, boasted pridefully and pointed up at the sky. ¡°Like the subordinates are the subject to their superiors. The clouds are subject to the wind. People are subject to their kings. With my Brujeria, I can overrule any established authority and grant it my dominion.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s ability, ¡®Oppression,¡¯ mirrored the mechanics of Zommari¡¯s Brujeria in some ways, yet its effects were less convoluted. Engaging Zommari in his Hollow form promised a more exhilarating duel, one Kazuya might have relished under different circumstances.


    Zommari took Kazuya¡¯s silence as him being lost and confused. ¡°It must be difficult to understand the concept of sovereignty for an arrogant man such as yourself. You have my sympathy. Many things in this universe are incomprehensible for those who lack wisdom.¡±


    This brief lapse, though fleeting, was a substantial advantage in a battle between Captain-Class individuals.


    Zommari seized the chance and vanished using Soni?do, reappearing hundreds of meters away.


    Kazuya gave chase, but the Espada evaded him again in the same manner, clinging to hopes of survival. Despite having the speed and power advantage, Kazuya couldn¡¯t swiftly dispatch Zommari. The small moment of control allowed Zommari to run endless interferences with his body and continuously avoid a fatal attack. Nevertheless, Kazuya inflicted significant damage ¡ª his flames scorched Zommari¡¯s face, riddled his attire with holes, and even maimed parts of his lower half. Gradually, the accumulation of injuries began to take their toll on Zommari.


    ¡°Man, stop being annoying. Just die already.¡±


    Zommari huffed, beads of sweat covering his forehead. Out of choices, he turned to the corpses of his dead comrades, and his purple Reiatsu filled his eyes.


    The black sun tattoo appeared on Loly¡¯s forehead, whereas it was present on Ggio¡¯s limbs. Loly rose up stiffly, as if she was a mannequin, and stared at Kazuya with lifeless eyes. Ggio¡¯s headless body, standing up with a katana in hand, was a scene straight from a nightmare.


    Misinterpreting Kazuya¡¯s reaction as fear, Zommari¡¯s confidence returned. ¡°You fake god of death, learn the life of a vermin and become one.¡±


    Loly lunged at Kazuya with her one poisonous centipede arm. Ggio also dashed at Kazuya. The fallen Espada pincered him from both sides, their speed no less than the time they were alive.


    Yet, unexpectedly, they halted mere inches from striking Kazuya and retreated to Zommari¡¯s side.


    They both turned their attention to an area where Rangiku¡¯s blood stained the ground. The space fluctuated akin to a Garganta opening but was far more stable. Then, a massive eastern-style door materialized out of nowhere. From the Senkaimon, many familiar figures walked out ¡ª Captain Shunsui Kyoraku, Captain Isshin Shiba, and Vice-Captain Isane Kotetsu arrived with her squad as medical staff.


    A host of lower-ranking Shinigami trailed behind them.


    Zommari¡¯s mouth split in a disturbing grin. He joined his palm in a praying gesture. Every eye on Zommari¡¯s body expanded, filled with violet, miasma-like Reiatsu.


    {Fuck this timing.}

 Chapter 183: In the Heart of the Blaze

    Chapter 183: In the Heart of the Blaze


    Isane felt her heart sink as she stepped through the Senkaimon. The sight of blood-stained grounds and the tumultuous waves of spiritual energy churning through the air repulsed her. She had prayed for everyone¡¯s safety when they traversed the Senkaimon, but that hope crumbled in mere moments ¡ª Rangiku and Nanao¡¯s Reiatsu had vanished from the face of the earth. Being so familiar with the two, she could¡¯ve sensed her friends¡¯ Reiatsu for an upward of a dozen miles.


    Sharing the same duties, she had expected this to happen eventually. But the actual loss, the possibility of never exchanging farewells, was a cruelty she had never prepared for.


    ¡°Nanao-chan...¡±


    Turning her head, she saw Captain Shunsui Kyoraku carrying a gloomy expression. She may have lost her friends, but he lost his Vice-Captain ¡ª for the second time. Nanao Ise was the whole reason behind him volunteering for this mission.


    Her attention was abruptly pulled above by a familiar Reiatsu. Kazuya hovered in the air, surrounded by bright, almost ethereal flames. The flames emerged from his Zanpakuto? ¡ª a weapon carrying the essence of a whip and a sword. Seeing him safe and sound filled her with a sense of relief.


    Her feelings evaporated the moment she saw his opponents ¡ª the Arrancars the 12th Squad had reported to the Captain Commander. With a multitude of eyes dotting his body, the Hollow was one of the freakiest monstrosities in the world. He was flanked by two Arrancars ¡ª a girl with a stab wound in forehead and a headless man. They should be dead, yet they lived through some twisted ability.


    Even more sinister than the pair was the smirk playing on the dark-skinned Arrancar¡¯s face. The raw sadism behind the sinister smirk sent shivers down her spine.


    ¡°Amor.¡±


    Suddenly, every eye on his body glowed purple. Sensing a spike in Reiatsu, Isane drew her Zanpakuto? to intercept the attack. So did Captain Isshin Shiba. However, Captain Kyoraku had a different plan in mind ¡ª he flashstepped out of their sight, his Reiatsu growing fainter with each passing moment.


    ¡ªShunsui departed to search for his Vice-Captain.


    ¡°Captain Kyoraku?!¡±


    ¡°Focus on the battle at hand, Vice-Captain Kotetsu.¡± Isshin kicked the ground and leaped at the Arrancars. ¡°Kazu boy, go rest. We¡¯ll take over.¡±


    His confidence, however, sparked a tiny hope ¡ª that he might be able to save her.


    Bang. Bang. Flames trailed the bullets, one hitting her chest, the other finding its mark in Captain Shiba. A blazing fire engulfed her, however, she felt no sensation from the fire itself, only its warmth. The agony in her chest disappeared, so did the black marks on her limbs. Regaining control of her limbs, she quickly withdrew her Zanpakuto? from her chest.


    Meanwhile, Kazuya swung his whip sword, and its blade coiled around Zommari¡¯s neck like a snake. Only the skull-shaped neck brace separated his sword and Zommari¡¯s neck.


    Oddly enough, Zommari¡¯s reaction was far from fear. Throwing his hands in the air, he celebrated like a lunatic. ¡°Banzai! Banzai!¡±


    Kazuya could sense an anomaly in Zommari¡¯s behavior, but he couldn¡¯t let go of the opportunity. Pouring more and more Reiatsu into his flames, he empowered his flames. The flames began melting the neck brace and soon spread to his entire body.


    Yet he continued his fanatic chants. ¡°Las Noches, Banzai! Lord de Las Noches, Banzai!¡±


    Kazuya glanced towards Isane. The injuries inflicted upon the Shinigami were serious but not fatal, something within the realm of healing through Kaido. Isane was already at work, applying her healing techniques to a Shinigami who kneeled before her. The worrying part was that every Shinigami attacked by Ggio showed similar symptoms. He was familiar with these symptoms.


    Kazuya clenched his jaw. ¡°Isane, get away from him.¡±


    Whether she didn¡¯t hear him or ignored his warning, Isane continued her healing efforts, as if she couldn¡¯t sense the pure Hollow Reiatsu emanating from the Shinigami.


    ¡®Fuck.¡¯


    His focus, however, remained unshaken as his whip sword burned through Zommari Rureaux¡¯s neck brace. The blade tightened and tightened until it severed Zommari¡¯s head from his body.


    ¡°The miracle of samsara, Banzai!¡± Zommari rejoiced as his head flew through the air, his hands eerily repeating the celebratory gesture. ¡°I fulfilled my mission... Banzai...¡±


    With a last cheer, Zommari dissolved into black ashes. His death killed Ggio and Loly for the second time, and freed the rest of the Shinigami.

 Chapter 184: The Embers

    Chapter 184: The Embers


    The man Isane was healing began coughing violently. He vomited a gooey white liquid that eerily drifted to cover his face, taking the form of a Hollow-like mask. A deep, guttural roar, more akin to a beast than a man, escaped his throat.


    Isane stepped back in horror, unable to comprehend the horrifying transformation. She had never seen or heard about the concept of ¡®Hollowification¡¯.


    The Shinigami, now almost resembling a Hollow, lunged at her with a feral aggression. Abandoning his sword, he clawed at her like a wild animal. Reacting on pure instinct, Isane raised her Zanpakuto? to defend herself, her mind racing to make sense of the chaos.


    ¡°Captain Shiba-san!¡± Isane yelled, her gaze darting across the battlefield, only to be met with similar scenes of horror. Shinigami after Shinigami underwent the same grotesque transformation, turning into creatures they were trained to fight.Finnd new chapters at novelhall.comidst the turmoil, Kazuya appeared beside her and sent the Hollow-Shinigami hybrid flying with a powerful kick. Grasping Isane¡¯s hand, he flashstepped to the relative safety of a distant tower.


    ¡°This is madness,¡± he whispered, surveying the chaotic battlefield of Shinigami and Shinigami-turned-Hollows.


    The only way to stabilize the Shinigami¡¯ soul undergoing Hollowification was through Ho?gyoku. And the owner of Ho?gyoku lived in the same town.


    Aizen¡¯s goal became extremely clear in his mind. Almost everything that happened before the Captains arrived was a sideshow: Ulquiorra was stalling him to allow the other Espada to rampage and force the Gotei 13 into sending large reinforcements.


    Aizen¡¯s main goal was to let the Espada infect as many Shinigami as possible and guilt-trip Kisuke into revealing the Ho?gyoku. Despite being a calculating individual, Kisuke was one with a kind heart. There was simply no timeline in which Kisuke would let almost fifty Shinigami die when saving them was as simple as waving his hand.


    The moment Kisuke revealed the Ho?gyoku would be the moment Aizen took initiative.


    {Cunning bastard. Has he really found a way to take care of Yamamoto?}


    Kazuya thought back to all the changes from the canon timeline. The first and most important change was Muramasa¡¯s early awakening, who could steal even Yamamoto¡¯s Zanpakuto? Spirit.


    ¡®Aizen could¡¯ve gained his cooperation?¡¯


    {Oh shit.}


    ¡®We can¡¯t let him take both Ho?gyokus.¡¯


    Isane tugged at his sleeve, tears glistening in her eyes, clearly overwhelmed by the Hollowification. ¡°K-Kazuya, why have the Shinigami... turned into Hollows?¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. All I can say is that using Kaido won¡¯t help them.¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    Isshin shrugged and left to watch over the Hollowfied Shinigami. He had unhesitatingly entrusted Kazuya with the life of almost forty people.


    Isane, however, didn¡¯t seem convinced as she stepped in to block his path. ¡°Kazuya, take me with you. I can heal¡ª¡±


    He gently held her shoulders. ¡°Isane, tend to the injured here. I¡¯ll take care of the rest with my Shikai. You saw its healing power yourself.¡±


    Persuaded by his soothing voice, she unconsciously nodded her head. ¡°Please find them. I¡¯m begging you...¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    He planted a kiss on her forehead before flying out to follow Yoruichi¡¯s trails. As he glided over the devastated landscape of the power plant, his attention was drawn to a faint, unique Reiatsu ¡ª a blend of both Shinigami and Hollow energies. He had caught its traces earlier but the chaotic Reiatsu of Hollowfied Shinigami ran interferences in his senses.


    ¡°There it is... oh shit.¡±


    Amidst the debris of a ruined building, he found a sight that made him shiver. An Arrancar lay collapsed, her body gruesomely damaged, having lost her entire left side to the searing poison of a certain centipede-like Arrancar. The scene was more haunting than the surreal sight of a headless Arrancar returning to life.


    {She didn¡¯t even spare her duo. What a toxic bitch.}


    ¡®Menoly. Wasn¡¯t she like this when Grimmjow killed her?¡¯


    {Yup. You can outrun death but you can¡¯t outrun your fate! The canon will catch up to you sooner or later.}


    He shook his head and landed before her. As if registering his presence, she feebly turned her blank gaze to him and reached out with a shaky hand ¡ª her only hand. ¡°You... kill me...¡±


    {Where have I heard those words before...? Ah, our resident goth madame uttered the same words.}


    ¡®Another girl for El Inverso.¡¯


    He bent down and grasped her hand. ¡°Do you want to die as an Espada or do you want to live as yourself?¡±


    ¡°Live...¡± She spoke without hesitation. ¡°Help me... live... Please.¡±


    ¡°Got you.¡±

 Chapter 185-186: The Illusion

    Chapter 185-186: The Illusion


    Renji Abarai was grappling with a day that defied all his expectations of reality. What had started as an ordinary field trip with his classmates had spiraled into an extraordinary crisis, plunging him deeper and deeper into unimaginable dangers. The shock of narrowly escaping death had barely settled in his mind when the situation took another bizarre turn ¡ª he encountered a talking cat who had taken the form of his friend¡¯s pet.


    He could¡¯ve taken the cat as a hallucination if his classmates didn¡¯t see the same thing.


    The sleek black cat had promised him safety, speaking in the voice of a wise old man. With no other options, Renji and his classmates put their trust in this unlikely guide. As they followed the cat through the streets of Karakura Town, Renji couldn¡¯t help but feel increasingly skeptical about his decision.


    ¡®What if the cat was a Hollow in disguise?¡¯


    The thought wasn¡¯t completely without a reason. He had seen Hollows take similar form to humans. Nothing stopped them from becoming cats.


    Yoruichi suddenly stopped in front of a modest house, her piercing eyes scanning the area for someone or something.


    ¡°Yoruichi-san, are we here?¡± Renji asked, looking up at the sign hanging from the house. ¡°Urahara Shop?¡±


    ¡°I sense Shiro.¡±


    Renji skeptically followed her gaze and spotted a familiar silhouette in the distance, leaping from rooftop to rooftop with lightning speed. Toshiro Hitsugaya, carrying Rangiku Matsumoto on his shoulders, landed gracefully in front of Yoruichi and carefully set her down on the ground.


    ¡°She¡¯s quite heavy,¡± he grumbled between deep breaths, clearly exhausted after battling Espada. ¡°Thanks, Renji. Tracking your Reiatsu was easy.¡±


    Renji couldn¡¯t help but shrug sheepishly. ¡°I¡¯m trying to control it, you know?¡±


    ¡°Shiro,¡± Yoruichi interjected firmly. ¡°What¡¯s happening over there?¡±


    ¡°The Vice-Captain is missing, and Kazuya Nii-san has taken down two Espada,¡± Toshiro reported. ¡°He¡¯s currently fighting the last one.¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t there originally four?¡± Yoruichi asked. ¡°Or was one of them not an Espada?¡±


    ¡°They betrayed their fourth.¡±


    ¡°Animals,¡± Yoruichi whispered, shaking her head.


    ¡°Wait, Toshiro.¡± Renji grabbed onto Toshiro¡¯s shoulders. ¡°You knew Yoruichi could talk?¡±


    ¡°Since day one,¡± Toshiro replied with a shrug, brushing off Renji¡¯s hand. ¡°Momo knows it too.¡±


    Renji clicked his tongue in annoyance. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    ¡°I told him not to,¡± Yoruichi interjected, tapping her paws impatiently against the closed door. ¡°Urahara, open up already.¡±


    ¡°Coming~,¡± sang a cheerful voice from the other side of the door, its owner casually opening it as if he wasn¡¯t eavesdropping on them from the other side. ¡°Ohhh, Yoruichi-san came with her friends.. a group of friends.¡±


    Yoruichi looked at him with an unamused gaze. Despite the chaotic spiritual energies swirling around the town, he seemed unfazed. It was obvious that he was putting on a facade. ¡°Shelter these kids until the Soul Society acts.¡±


    Without warning, Kisuke flashstepped behind and slashed Aizen¡¯s neck ¡ª his blind spot. The slash carried every bit of his hatred for the man who destroyed many lives for his amusement, for his ego. A burst of vibrant crimson energy surged forth in a sweeping arc, carrying more destruction than mid-level Kido? spells cast with long chants. A green hexagonal barrier suddenly emerged behind Aizen and enlarged in an instant. However destructive Benihime¡¯s ability may be, the hexagonal absorbed it all before discharging its dispersed energy towards Kisuke.


    Seeing his surprise attack fail miserably, Kisuke retreated with Shunpo and hovered in the sky. ¡°You have planted a Millo?n Escudo in your blind spot. So terrified of getting jumped, are we?¡±


    He knew deep down that a single sneak attack wouldn¡¯t be enough to defeat Aizen, but he had to try. After all, innovation often comes from countless failed attempts. He could have never reached any breakthroughs if he gave up just because something seemed absurd on paper.


    Aizen calmly observed Kisuke, as if he didn¡¯t register Kisuke¡¯s attempt to assassinate him. ¡°Blaming others for your problems and responding to civility with hostility... When did you become such a ¡®loser¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Look at me, Aizen-san. A middle-aged man who can¡¯t afford a salon visit because his candy shop isn¡¯t popular with kids. Isn¡¯t that the very definition of a loser?¡±


    Kisuke attempted to deceive Aizen by self-deprecating humor, hoping to catch him off guard. But Aizen remained composed, refusing to give any hint of vulnerability that could be exploited.


    Aizen shook his head as if deeply disappointed in Kisuke. ¡°It¡¯s unfortunate that the imbeciles ruling the Soul Society ruined a brilliant mind. Had you utilized your full potential, no meager authority in this world could have stopped you.¡±


    ¡°Life rarely goes in the direction we want it to go.¡±


    ¡°The logic of a loser. A winner dictates the world as it should be, not how it should be.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s agree to disagree.¡± Kisuke placed a hand atop his hat and gazed up at Aizen with an unwavering smile. ¡°What brings Aizen-san out here tonight? Are you not afraid of being seen with an exiled Shinigami like myself?¡±


    ¡°The creator of ¡®Ho?gyoku¡¯. I¡¯m here for him.¡±


    Kisuke remained composed upon learning Aizen¡¯s reason for seeking him out. However, a flicker of surprise crossed his face when a ferocious roar echoed in the distance, reminiscent of a chilling night over a century ago. A night that forever altered the lives of many, including Kisuke.


    ¡°Aizen-san, you did it again... What do you get out of tormenting innocents?¡±


    The implications of Aizen¡¯s actions were clear ¡ª he had once again set in motion the cruel process of Hollowification on unsuspecting victims. Aizen gave Kisuke more and more reasons to hate him.


    ¡°I¡¯m simply giving Shinji more ¡®friends¡¯. That is, if ¡®someone¡¯ can recreate their Hollow and Shinigami boundaries.¡± Aizen smiled coldly, cockiness oozing from him. ¡°Kisuke, hand me your Ho?gyoku. I¡¯ll help them.¡±


    Kisuke obviously couldn¡¯t meet anyone from the Gotei 13, much less save those suffering through the Hollowification process. He had to rely on external help if he wanted to help the victims ¡ª the simple fact allowed Aizen the opportunity to make unreasonable demands.


    ¡°Help them, you say? Don¡¯t have your own Ho?gyoku?¡±


    Aizen retrieved his Ho?gyoku from his pocket and held it up for Kisuke to see. ¡°Unfortunately, it has lost most of its energy.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± He lowered the tip of his hat, hiding his expression. ¡°It¡¯s not my obligation to help those... At the end of the day, I¡¯m an exile.¡±


    His selfishness weighed heavily on him as he thought of the potential lives at stake. But giving into Aizen¡¯s demands could lead to an even greater catastrophe ¡ª one that could spell doom for the entire Soul Society.


    ¡°Is that your stance? Will you show the same indifference to this?¡±


    With a snap of his fingers, Aizen lifted the illusion he had placed on Kisuke.

 Chapter 187: The Victim

    Chapter 187: The Victim


    Kisuke had run countless experiments in an attempt to counter Aizen¡¯s Shikai ability, but every idea met a dead end. No device or technique could help him when his senses were fed false information on all fronts. However, he knew the sight before him was no illusion.


    ¡°Yoruichi-san...¡±


    She sat unconscious within a transparent barrier shaped like a cube, her body bound by a thick rope commonly used by the Onmitsukido? to subdue criminals and suppress their Reiatsu.


    He had sent off Yoruichi half a minute before he faced Aizen. The thought of Aizen defeating her in thirty seconds was outrageous, disrespectful even. After all, Yoruichi was one of the strongest Captains, having mastered Shunko? and a multitude of assassination techniques.


    He couldn¡¯t help but feel a dissonance with facts and illusion.


    ¡°How long do you think passed while you stood here... waiting for me to unravel my concealment Kido??¡± Aizen held up one finger, then slowly raised each one until his hand was open. ¡°Five minutes. More than enough time to approach Yoruichi in disguise. She completely let her guard down around me because I looked, smelled, and acted just like her childhood friend to an extent...¡±


    Kisuke¡¯s grip on his Shikai weapon shook as the realization hit him like a tidal wave ¡ª Aizen¡¯s Kyo?ka Suigetsu wasn¡¯t just an instrument for creating illusions; it also had the power to manipulate one¡¯s perception of time.


    Aizen unsheathed his Zanpakuto? and admired the katana gleaming under the moonlight. ¡°A fascinating night to conduct¡ª¡±


    ¡°Rikujo?ko?ro? (Six-Rod Light Restraint),¡± Kisuke whispered the name of Bakudo? #61 as he snuck up behind the distracted Aizen and touched his back. Six bright beams of energy shot towards Aizen¡¯s waist, enough to restrain a regular Vice-Captain. But Kisuke knew it would take more than one binding spell to hold Aizen.


    Not wasting a second, Kisuke pointed his finger at Aizen, invoking another kido?. ¡°Sajo? Sabaku (Ethereal Binding Chain).¡±


    A burst of yellow energy obeyed his command and split into multiple thick ropes that wrapped around Aizen¡¯s torso.


    Despite rapidly casting two high-level Kido? back-to-back, Kisuke wasn¡¯t done. He joined his index fingers before tracing an inverted triangle in the air. ¡°To?zansho? (Inverted Mountain Crystal).¡±


    Kisuke desperately cast another Rikujo?ko?ro? spell, but once again, Aizen shattered into shards and revealed himself as an illusion. As the illusion faded away, Aizen reappeared in a different spot and slowly drove the infected blade into Yoruichi¡¯s chest.


    As he pulled back the blood-covered sword, Yoruichi¡¯s eyes snapped open. She started coughing and struggling against the thick rope. ¡°Aiz... Aizen. You bastard...¡±


    Her blood boiled with rage, visible on her contorted face. She recalled being in Kisuke¡¯s home, conversing with Toshiro, before Aizen ¡ª disguised as Kisuke ¡ª lured her away under the pretense of an ¡®important¡¯ talk. She had let her guard down in her friend¡¯s home, allowing Aizen to trap her with a swift cast of Rikujo?ko?ro? spell. She barely got the chance to utter a word as Aizen cast a series of chantless mid-level kido? spells to incapacitate her.


    ¡°The hatred in those eyes...¡± Aizen said with a gentle smile. ¡°You seek to destroy me over prioritizing your survival... the former leader of Onmitsukido? hasn¡¯t lost her touch.¡±


    ¡°As if this can kill me,¡± Yoruichi growled before letting loose a fierce smirk. With the same unyielding spirit, she looked at Kisuke, who stared at her with wide eyes. ¡°Kisuke, stop being a dramatic pussy. I¡¯ll smash this bastard once I become a Hollow.¡±


    Her time spent with Kazuya and all the friendly ladies around him had changed her perception of Hollows. Becoming a Hollow was a far better alternative to letting Aizen manipulate Kisuke into revealing Ho?gyoku and achieving his ambitious goals.


    Just then, Yoruichi¡¯s spiritual pressure perception registered a familiar Reiatsu, prompting her to turn her head.


    ¡®Huh? Isn¡¯t that...¡¯


    A tide of crimson petals cascaded from the sky, swirling and coalescing into a tempest fiery. The tempest slowed down, the person who emerged wasn¡¯t her friend, but... a woman. Long, silver hair drifted around her, each strand gently waving to the rhythm of her Reiatsu. She even wore the same blindfold Kazuya wore in the first form of his Resurreccio?n.


    Yoruichi¡¯s mind reeled. The oppressive Reiatsu, the crimson flames, and even the familiar features ¡ª all the logic pointed towards the mysterious woman being her companion. Having grown close to Kazuya, she refused to believe in a reality where he existed as a woman. It was simply ridiculous that she flirted with a woman all this time.


    ¡®Could he have gained the ability to switch genders? No, that¡¯s crazier than him switching races at will.¡¯


    Yoruichi¡¯s pupils suddenly dilated as a burning sensation welled up in her throat, a visceral urge to vomit overtaking her. She bashed her head against the barrier, fighting the barrier with every ounce of her will. As courageous as she was, she lacked the strength to defy the natural laws.


    A/N: So... uh... Kazuya finally used his syatem to become a hot girl...

 Chapter 188: The Hollowification of a Cat

    Chapter 188: The Hollowification of a Cat


    A/N: Here''s a reference for Kazuya''s temporary gal form (Jingliu from Honkai Star Rail)


    Spoiler


    [collapse]


    ...


    It required immense self-control for Kazuya to finally utilize the gender-changing feature of his System. Now, he could step into the biggest fight and use his Hollow powers without anyone being able to link him to his Shinigami identity. The only traits he retained from ''Kazuya'' were a captivating voice and silver locks. Even his figure had shrunken down to 5''7".


    The only concern left now was Aizen, who had utterly dominated the battle with Kisuke. The perverted shopkeeper had backup plans prepared for everything except for Aizen''s powerful illusions.


    As he contemplated, Yoruichi''s Hollowification reached its climax. The slimy white matter drifted to her face and formed her distinct Hollow Mask. To no one''s surprise, her Hollow mask took on the shape of a cat, complete with two sets of ears - one large and one small. Three claw-like marks etched above the hollow sockets for her eyes, while sharp canines filled her mouth with a fearsome appearance.


    {Yoruichi became... cooler.}


    ''Surprise surprise.''


    Suddenly, a pair of blazing golden eyes ignited within the hollow sockets of her skull. With a deafening roar, she shattered her restraints and materialized in front of Aizen in an instant.


    Kazuya was taken aback, unable to sense even a trace of spiritual energy behind her lightning-fast movements. She relied not on Shunpo or Soni?do, but on her own body to achieve this speed. She had also completely suppressed her spiritual energy, blending seamlessly into her surroundings as if she were one with nature itself. It was a monstrous display of power and control that left everyone both impressed and terrified.


    Aizen''s piercing gaze widened in surprise as he saw Yoruichi''s fierce white claws approaching his face. As impressive as she was, she was far from the level of successfully ambushing Aizen. Raising his katana in one hand, he casually blocked her flurry of offense. Her sharp claws could''ve torn any other Shinigami to shreds. Yet Aizen''s fluid and elegant sword skills easily deflected the extreme force behind her attacks.


    He made Hollowfied Yoruichi look weak, when in reality, she could floor your average Captain with ease. After all, she reached the realm of high-speed movement techniques with her body alone, making it extremely hard to track through a Shinigami''s innate spiritual pressure perception. Her fighting style abandoned any martial arts and purely relied on her bestial instincts, which made her unpredictable.


    Technically, she was one of the best fighters in the world, but she lacked the crucial element that separated good fighters from great ¡ª intellect. In a high-stakes battle, where quick thinking and predicting the opponent''s next moves were paramount, her skillset fell quite short.


    At Kisuke''s ominous whisper, thick tendrils of dark spiritual fabric swirled around Yoruichi, tightly binding her arms behind her back. Desperate to break free, she strained against the tight grip, but her efforts were in vain as heavy metal weights appeared out of thin air and pressed her body firmly into the ground below.


    She couldn''t move an inch.


    Kisuke tipped his hat. "This is where I take my leave, Aizen-san. Thanks, and fuck you for everything~."


    "Stop right there, Kisuke," Kazuya called out, his blunt voice, although soft, was just as if not more enchanting for the two men present at the scene. "Where is my Tier?"


    He and Tier lived in the same town as Kisuke, so it''d be strange if he acted like they never ran into each other.


    "I don''t know. You should ask this man." Kisuke pointed an accusatory finger at Aizen. "He''s responsible for everything that happened here."


    Aizen''s eyes widened momentarily before a hint of intrigue flashed in his eyes. "You are the Vasto Lorde with Tier Harribel... I was under the impression you were a man."


    "Disappointed that a woman slew the King of Hollows?" Kazuya smirked and let his Reiatsu loose ¡ª immediately a Reiatsu almost as dense as a Captain filled the air, the kido? surrounding them creaking. "Scum of Soul Society. Where is my Tier? Don''t make me beat the answer out of you."


    Overbearing and authoritative ¡ª he tried to be consistent with the character Tier played.


    Aizen chuckled. "The sheer arrogance... I''m amazed you didn''t take the chance to rule Hueco Mundo. You''d have been a fine replacement for Barragan."


    "Not interested in playing the ruler." Kazuya shook his head. "You leave me no choice. Kisuke, get out of here. You don''t want to become a bystander casualty."


    Kisuke spread his paper fan to cover his face. As he tapped his feet on the ground, an explosion of smoke filled the air, allowing Kisuke to retreat without leaving a trace.


    Kazuya clenched his fist, swearing to beat the ever-living hell out of Aizen.

 Chapter 189: The Shatter

    Chapter 189: The Shatter


    Kazuya dreaded the day he¡¯d have to face Aizen but he always took comfort in knowing that the day wouldn¡¯t come for at least fifty years. His prediction turned out wrong. Extremely wrong. But he didn¡¯t feel like he¡¯d lose in a straight-up battle. In fact, he felt an overwhelming sense of confidence burning within him.


    After all, he had every bit of information on Aizen¡¯s abilities, but Aizen knew nothing about him. He held a massive advantage over Aizen.


    {I¡¯m stoked, Partner! Let¡¯s put him down like the fucking dog he is.}


    Nami¡¯s excitement made him chuckle. Casting his amusement aside, he assumed a serious expression. ¡°I just realized we didn¡¯t exchange names. Cazador is mine. What about you, Shinigami?¡±


    ¡°Aizen So?suke.¡±


    Kazuya nodded and used the unique ability of his Partial Resurreccio?n ¡ª Oppression ¡ª the only ability he needed to cripple Aizen¡¯s future plans in the Soul Society.


    Instantly, a surge of information flooded his mind, each detail meticulously recorded and analyzed by the combined power of his and Nami¡¯s extraordinary senses. He filtered out the irrelevant data, focusing solely on Aizen¡¯s Zanpakuto?. From the sword''s physical properties to its spiritual composition ¡ª he committed every detail to his memory.


    With a single thought, Kazuya implanted multiple weaknesses within Aizen¡¯s Zanpakuto?.


    Aizen immediately sensed the changes in his Zanpakuto? and lifted it in response, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. "I felt a surge of Reiatsu... Did you target my Zanpakuto? with your Resurreccio?n ability?"


    Even so, Aizen showed no signs of caution or fear. His confidence remained unshaken. How could he even lose to an Arrancar as the master of the greatest Hollow army in existence?


    Kazuya¡¯s lips curled into a smile. ¡°You think this is my Resurreccio?n? I¡¯m sorry, Aizen. You are wrong.¡±


    {Overdrive mode: God of Life and Death ready to engage!}


    Spoiler[collapse]


    ¡°That is the strangest Resurreccio?n I have ever seen,¡± Aizen remarked in awe. ¡°Resurreccio?n unseals the power a Hollow sealed in an object as they became an Arrancar. Your Zanpakuto? instead sealed a tree of unknown origins... How fascinating.¡±


    The master manipulator experienced genuine surprise after such a long time. After all, he had studied Hollows and Arrancars deeply. Kazuya¡¯s Resurreccio?n defied everything his research concluded on the very basic level.


    Silently, Kazuya''s hand rose up in a commanding gesture. The towering tree behind him unfurled its fiery canopy, the burning branches stretching out like the wings of a majestic phoenix, casting smoldering embers across the entire town. Three branches, which were thicker and darker than the rest, extended in the vague shape of hands. These hands carried a tear-shaped golden gem, reminiscent of the gems present on Nami¡¯s phoenix form.


    At Kazuya¡¯s command, one of the gems burst open and unleashed a barrage of thin golden strings. Hundreds and thousands of almost imperceptible strings approached Aizen.


    Aizen immediately felt the threat and took a swing at the strings, only to have his blade pass through as if they were mere illusions. Unable to comprehend the nature of Kazuya¡¯s Resurreccio?n, Aizen tried to retreat, but¡ª


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you leaving yourself too open?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s soft whisper reached Aizen from behind him. Just like Hollowfied Yoruichi, his movement was purely based on his physical strength. Aizen, in the middle of warding off the strings, couldn¡¯t have the leisure to keep Kazuya in his vision.


    He was left open for an attack.


    Rather than admitting to his oversight, Aizen whirled around and swung his blade furiously at his opponent. Kazuya grasped the blade in between his gauntlet-covered fingers. A gentle blue aura enveloped his gauntlet and spread to Aizen¡¯s Zanpakuto?.


    Aizen yanked his Zanpakuto? away. Crack Crack Crack. The once-proud blade of Kyo?ka Suigetsu began to fracture under the effect of Oppression. The shards drifted in the air, reflecting Aizen¡¯s shocked face ¡ª an expression that he had always faked to play with others.


    Having this expression born out of pure emotions filled his chest with rage. An Arrancar ¡ª a lowly Hollow born in the soil of Hueco Mundo ¡ª crushed his most valuable tool. The outrageous part of it all was how ignorant ¡ª how foolish he was made to look throughout the exchange. He had always been the one to make others feel this way ever since he remembered, never the other way around.


    Aizen''s hand curled tightly around the hilt of his Zanpakuto?, his face contorting into a twisted expression. With a menacing growl, he reached out for Kazuya''s throat. But before he could do so, his body was suddenly frozen in place as numerous golden strings pierced through his back, connecting him to the Divine Tree of Samsara.

 Chapter 190: The Echo

    Chapter 190: The Echo


    The Divine Tree of Samsara enacted laws from the ¡®Original World¡¯ from millions of years ago. Those who were connected to it were granted immortality, as long as they possessed Reiatsu. Any wounds they sustained would heal instantly, but at the expense of their Reiatsu.


    The ability would be worthless without the true power of the tree ¡ª creating a domain where Kazuya ruled over the life and death of everyone and everything. Those who possessed no Reiatsu would have no resistance to the tree, and by extension, Kazuya¡¯s will.


    They would live at his whim.


    They would die at his whim.


    Connecting Aizen to the tree was the easier part of the plan. The tougher part was to wound Aizen over and over to drain his Reiatsu ¡ª a tall but achievable task.


    Aizen was currently having a first-hand experience with the feeling of ''death'' just like Yoruichi. Unlike his usual composed demeanor, he reacted with pure terror. It was a reminder, that even someone as powerful as Aizen was not fearless in the face of death.


    Kazuya didn¡¯t forget to capitalize on the sweet, sweet chance. Wrapping his gauntlets in Nami¡¯s flames, he unleashed a barrage of punches at Aizen. The very moment the flames touched Aizen¡¯s face, his skin melted, and his white cheekbones could be seen. Golden threads appeared and stitched Aizen¡¯s face.


    The pain jolted Aizen out of his trance and reignited his fighting instincts. Despite his eyes being closed, he was able to evade Kazuya¡¯s attacks.


    Aizen¡¯s expression softened, a faint smile appearing on his lips. ¡°Life is transient like cherry blossoms. Apes, humans, gods, they will all eventually perish.¡± He sheathed his broken Zanpakuto and opened his eyes with a piercing gaze. ¡°This is what drives them to evolve. I had somewhat forgotten what made me start this whole plan in the first place. Cazador, thanks for the reminder.¡±


    His ultimate goal was to ascend beyond all beings in the universe, to become the supreme deity above all.


    A true god.


    Someone like him shouldn''t rage from temporarily losing something as worthless as his Zanpakuto?.


    Kazuya¡¯s passionate feelings for Tier became obvious to Aizen.


    Aizen smirked. ¡°If Tier Harribel somehow survives Ulquiorra, the rest of my army would devour her for their soul nourishment. I can stop her if you agree to come with me. To a Hueco Mundo where Hollows are treated as individuals, not as beasts.¡±


    Aizen couldn¡¯t reveal the full extent of his Reiatsu to the world. Instead of overpowering his enemy, he directly attacked their weakness. Thus, Kazuya¡¯s feelings became his prime weapon to easily achieve victory.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°It seems you aren¡¯t willing to believe that a world like that exists. When was the last time you visited Hueco Mundo?¡±


    ¡°Could you just shut up and die already?¡±


    Aizen¡¯s eyes widened a tad before a spark of fury gleamed in them as if he couldn¡¯t accept a Hollow continously reject him. Immediately, he swung his fist at Kazuya¡¯s chest. Clang! A resounding clang echoed as Aizen¡¯s Reiatsu-wrapped fist struck the thin yet exteremly durable armor.


    Aizen became serious, and it showed in the battle. He moved and fought with a grace that depicted his mastery over every form of combat, his movements a seamless dance of attack and defense.


    As wild and ferocious as Kazuya was, Aizen belonged to a league of his own. His skill was not just in his physical prowess but in the way he anticipated and blocked every move ¡ª Aizen had mostly adapted to the nuances of Kazuya¡¯s violent martial art.


    Just when Aizen thought he could overpower Kazuya, he pulled out his trump card ¡ª Soni?do. In an instant, he disappeared and reappeared behind Aizen, launching a powerful kick towards his head. But Aizen quickly raised his hand, blocking the attack with his wrist.


    While this simple tactic didn''t catch Aizen off guard, Kazuya¡¯s next move certainly did. He withdrew his hand and sliced through the air. Crimson Reiatsu was condensed around his hand and shot out as a crimson bullet.


    The howling crimson bullet ¡ª Bala ¡ª struck Aizen¡¯s right shoulder and left a gaping a massive hole in its wake


    ¡°Captain Sosuke!¡± Isane¡¯s distressed voice echoed through the battlefield, having arrived just in time to witness Aizen¡¯s injury.

 Chapter 191-192: Dagger to the Heart

    Chapter 191-192: Dagger to the Heart


    Isane stopped in her attempt to heal Aizen. Golden threads formed around his vicious wound. The wounds closed right before her eyes, seemingly faster than the regeneration of Kaido.


    ¡°What...?¡± She blinked her eyes at yet another twist in a night brimming with them. Only then did she find the golden strings of the tree were connected to Aizen¡¯s back. ¡°The tree is healing Captain?¡±


    The massive tree emitted no Reiatsu, as if it was a mere illusion. But it was real. As real as the Arrancar who injured Aizen. The mysterious nature of the tree simply made it hard to find its true owner between the Hollow and Aizen.


    ¡®How are Hollows suddenly so strong?¡¯


    Comparing the Arrancar in armor to the grotesque Arrancar Kazuya previously defeated was like comparing a Seated Officer to a Captain; they were in separate leagues.


    Aizen¡¯s scorched Shihakusho? spoke volumes; he was outmatched in the battle.


    ¡°Shinigami girl,¡± the Arrancar spoke in a distinctly feminine voice, yet it had a familiar allure to it. ¡°Get lost. This is between me and this asshole.¡±


    Isane pulled out her sword. ¡°I will¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, the Arrancar glanced in her direction, pinning her down with her Reiatsu. Isane froze, feeling as if she was being eyed by the Soul King himself.


    Aizen arrived before Isane, protecting her from the Arrancar¡¯s Reiatsu. ¡°Vice-Captain, can you return to the Soul Society and ask for Captain Commander to come here? Without him, we can¡¯t take this Arrancar down.¡±


    The hint of weakness in Aizen¡¯s voice made her heart tremble. Even a Captain wasn¡¯t able to combat the unnaturally strong Arrancar and needed General Yamamoto¡¯s help.


    ¡®Kazuya took down three on his own... he is a fool to join our squad.¡¯


    Isane clenched her fists, a determined light in her eyes. ¡°Alright, Captain Sosuke. I¡¯ll come back as fast as I can.¡±


    The Arrancar in armor, whose voice carried a similar charm as Kazuya, lunged at Aizen, who also didn¡¯t shy from a full-on brawl.


    Their battle raged on in the sky, becoming a spectacle not even Isane could keep up from the sidelines. Sparks and embers flew as gauntlet-covered fists clashed with Aizen¡¯s in the night''s darkness. Each howling strike charred Aizen¡¯s skin and burnt his flesh, but the damage recovered in mere moments.


    Isane could hardly believe her eyes. The Hollow¡¯s stance was open yet guarded, like that of a formally trained warrior. It felt like she was in the presence of a genius martial artist like Soi Fon.


    Aizen, on the other hand, was calm and elegant as he traded blows with his opponent. The flurry exchange of counters and even more counters to those counters ¡ª it was a sight to behold even for a non-martialist like Isane. Aizen was a far more skillful fighter than she could¡¯ve discerned from his gentle demeanor.


    In fact, he was the superior martial artist between the two.


    Yet Aizen was the one receiving injuries.


    Everything boiled down to the Hollow¡¯s berserk style of fighting; she dodged no attacks, no matter how deadly they were. Her armor absorbed every bit of punishment. Normally, Hollow fought to consume the other party or to survive, but the Arrancar in armor fought with the intent to kill her opponent. It was as if she harbored a deep hatred for Aizen and would stoop to any level to carry out her revenge.


    Isane had never seen any Hollow act in this manner. Then again, she had never seen any Hollow having the ability to control people¡¯s bodies. Today changed her entire perspective on the Hollow race as a whole.


    ¡®This is a fight above me. I have to bring Captain Yamamoto here.¡¯


    With a heavy heart, Isane tore her gaze away from the intense battle and opened a Senkaimon door.


    ...


    A surge of relief washed over Kazuya as Isane departed the battlefield. He would have to hurt Isane if she joined the battle. Fortunately, she thought things through and heeded Aizen¡¯s request.


    {Partner, we are halfway there... Just how much Reiatsu does this fucker has?!}


    The crimson flames continuously tormented Aizen on top of the bone-crushing blows he dealt to Aizen. But his Reiatsu drained at a snail¡¯s pace ¡ª slow but steady. He knew he would easily win if given enough time, but luck was not on his side.


    Isane would return soon with General Yamamoto, and he didn¡¯t want to waste any more time dealing with other captains.


    ¡°Afraid you can¡¯t drain my Reiatsu now?" Aizen taunted Kazuya as they traded blows. ¡°Your Resurreccio?n ¡ª the tree ¡ª works by draining Reiatsu from your targets, doesn¡¯t it?¡±


    In just a short amount of time, Aizen had already figured out the ability of Kazuya¡¯s Resurreccio?n. It was this fearsome intellect that made Kazuya determined to finish the job today.


    {Partner, snap out of it! STOP DAYDREAMING!}


    The urgent cries of Nami broke through the haze of temptation, bringing Kazuya back to reality. The distraction, while momentary, was more than enough for Aizen to capitalize.


    A small black orb crackled in the space between him and Aizen, bursting with energy that twisted the very air.


    ¡°Hado #90, Kurohitsugi.¡±


    Kazuya reached out to grab Aizen, but before he could make contact, a torrent of gravity pulled him towards the earth ¡ª into the abyss his Divine Tree had created. The black surface carved out of intricate closed around him, trapping him in the black box of torture.


    This box was even larger and more terrifying than the one Aizen had used on Yoruichi.


    Despite the swollen face, Aizen was smiling as the massive spears jutted out of the box. ¡°The destruction of the fully chanted Kurohitsugi... Ho?gyoku should survive.¡±


    He barely brought out the half power of Kurohitsugi but it was more than enough to extinguish Captains. A Hollow who had no Reiatsu to her name would have no hope of survival.


    ¡°The most stubborn woman I¡¯ve ever met.¡±


    As he lamented the loss of a potential pawn, he sensed disturbances in space not far from Urahara''s Shop.


    ¡°Useless as always,¡± Aizen muttered under his breath, forcing a weak smile to greet the approaching reinforcements.


    At the same time, the black box faded. What¡¯s left behind wasn¡¯t a skewered corpse but a black armor wrapped in crimson flames.


    Kazuya charged at Aizen to finish the job but he flashstepped to the Senkaimon, hiding behind his ¡®comrades¡¯. He didn¡¯t give chase and simply hovered in the air as a hunched figure stepped out of the Senkaimon.


    A bald elderly man with deep wrinkles and pronounced cheekbones. The massive cross-shaped scar above his eyes and the well-defined body hidden beneath his loose clothes were one of the few telling signs of his deep background.


    General Genryu?sai Shigekuni Yamamoto.


    ¡°Captain Sosuke, let the medics tend to your injuries,¡± Yamamoto said and sharply looked up at Kazuya. ¡°Arrancar, you¡¯ve caused much destruction to the living world. For what purpose?¡±


    Kazuya stayed silent, staring at the two shadowy figures coming out of the Senkaimon. Following the old man were none other than Captain Retsu Unohana and her Vice-Captain Isane Kotetsu.


    The Captain with a motherly demeanor stared at the tree for a long moment before busying herself in healing Aizen¡¯s bleeding arms. ¡°Stay still, Captain Sosuke... your injuries are severe. You only survived because of the dense Reishi of your body.¡±


    Aizen nodded before smiling at Kazuya. ¡°Captain Commander, please be careful. She has abilities even I couldn¡¯t grasp.¡±


    His warning was superficial. He wouldn¡¯t mind if Yamamoto gets eradicated at Cazador¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Thank god, you survived...¡± Isane whispered under her breath. ¡°Captain, you should carry Captain Sosuke to the Soul Society with Minazuki. I¡¯ll stay back with Captain Commander.¡±


    Retsu nodded her head. ¡°That¡¯s the best course of action.¡±


    Kazuya, meanwhile, couldn¡¯t help but grit his teeth in frustration. The taste of victory was snatched from him, only because of his connection to the Ho?gyoku. ¡°Savor your triumph for today, Shinigami.¡±


    {It¡¯s fine, Partner. We got the Ho?gyoku... Let¡¯s go check up on Harribel.}


    Yamamoto¡¯s eyes widened at his voice, his red pupils filled with surprise.


    Kazuya extended a hand toward the tree. The massive tree grew dimmer and dimmer, and disappeared out of existence, and the Reiatsu making it flowed back to him. Immediately, a portion of strength returned to him.


    ¡°That felt nice... Now, Old man, it was nice meeting you.¡±


    He ripped open the Garganta with a flick of his hand and leaped inside. The lineup of Shinigami was extremely powerful. Kazuya couldn¡¯t fight them all on his best day, much less in his current condition.


    ...


    A/N: The Ho?gyoku is saving Aizen even though they aren¡¯t fused.

 Account issue

Account issue


    Well Patreon just deleted my account for violating some stuff. No report, no warning. They just removed my page and then sent me a mail for it.Fo?ll0w current novE?ls on n/o/(v)/3l/b((in).(co/m)


    /Lordheaven

 Tiny update

    Tiny update


    Just got done with my brother''s wedding. Now I''m sick as fuck with fever and cold. Normal updates should resume from Sunday and onwards.


    Anyway, recommend me your best Pokemon fics that are not just about replacing Ash with an OC and following the canon. I''m in the mood to write one after playing Palworld.Re?Ad lateSt chapters at novelhall.com Only

 Chapter 193-194: Creeping Uncertainties

    Chapter 193-194: Creeping Uncertainties


    Earlier.


    Retsu Unohana was quite satisfied with the conclusion of the ¡®Emergency Meeting¡¯. Captain Shunsui Kyoraku, who was always underestimated because of his playful nature, Isshin Shiba, the Shiba Clan¡¯s greatest achievement in the last few centuries, and Isane, one of the best healers. With two Captains and her own Vice-Captain taking charge, she, like every other Captain present, felt confident that the matter would be resolved without trouble.


    But then, another round of reports came from the 12th Squad, detailing a major threat that called for yet another emergency meeting. A powerful Vasto Lorde Arrancar had emerged in Karakura Town and Captain Aizen¡¯s Reiatsu was detected on the scene.


    Yamamoto didn¡¯t intend to take any action as he trusted in Captain Shunsui¡¯s capabilities. Isane barged into the meeting to pass Captain Aizen¡¯s request, and the fact Shunsui had seemingly disappeared somewhere.


    Yamamoto had no choice but to leave the Soul Society.


    So, she, alongside Isane and Yamamoto, stepped through the Senkaimon. Isane prayed hard for Aizen¡¯s safety, as he was one of the nicest people in the Gotei 13. Retsu didn¡¯t hold on to false hope. In her mind, the best-case scenario was Aizen surviving with serious injuries so she could use her Shikai ability to heal him, while the worst outcome would be his death.


    To her surprise, Aizen not only survived the strongest Hollow she had met, he brought her Reiatsu to the bare minimum where even Isane could¡¯ve taken her down.


    All the effort, however, went to waste.


    ¡°Why did you let her go, Commander?¡±


    A Vasto Lorde¡¯s death would have far-reaching consequences and disrupt the delicate balance every Shinigami sought to maintain. But sometimes sacrifices had to be made. Having an Arrancar that powerful swear revenge on one of their captains was no less than having a Sword of Damocles hanging over them.


    After all, it was quite hard to find a worthy captain.


    ¡°We can¡¯t purify her with Zanpakuto?,¡± Yamamoto refuted her. ¡°There are too many souls inside her... like Ikomikidomoe.¡±


    ¡°Ikomikidomoe?¡± Retsu¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion, a name from the past resurfacing in her mind. ¡°The Adjuchas you battled in your youth?¡±


    Yamamoto¡¯s grave nod confirmed her thoughts. ¡°I¡¯d have to use my Shikai to burn her away.¡±


    Unleashing his Shikai in the Living World would kill half the town or perhaps more.


    ¡°Ikomikidomoe?¡± Isane chimed in with a question. ¡°Captain, what is that?¡±


    ¡°An Ancient Hollow,¡± Retsu responded with a serious expression. ¡°He was an Adjuchas who invaded the Soul Society a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°Just an Adjuchas? He¡¯d have been slain easily.¡±Fo?llo?w new stories at novelhall.com


    ¡°He defeated me back in the days when Zanpakuto? were rare,¡± Yamamoto confessed. ¡°He became immensely powerful by bloating himself with over a million souls. An abomination like him couldn¡¯t be purified, only sealed through the Royal Guard Ichibei¡¯s technique... He is still sealed to this very day.¡±


    Isane couldn¡¯t help but blink her eyes. The entire story felt like a legend from a fairytale. ¡°The Royal Guard stepped in to help the Soul Society? Does that usually happen when we face great calamities?¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know.¡± Yamamoto glanced up at the ¡®Urahara Shop¡¯ sign on the building. ¡°Urahara... Kisuke?¡±


    Retsu noticed the subtle spike in Yamamoto¡¯s Reiatsu. He still hadn¡¯t forgotten the ambitious traitor who had used his fellow captains as experiment subjects. Despite her skepticism about the whole incident, Retsu couldn¡¯t dismiss the possibility of Kisuke harboring dual facets to his character like herself.


    ¡®As always, there is more to the story.¡¯


    The one who gave testimony to Kisuke¡¯s crimes was Aizen ¡ª the same man who was found in the vicinity of today¡¯s invasion.


    ¡°It¡¯s him,¡± Aizen confirmed Yamamoto¡¯s suspicion. ¡°He might be behind the Arrancar Invasion.¡±


    Aizen¡¯s eagerness to paint Kisuke as the mastermind behind everything only made Retsu more skeptical. She kept her doubts to herself. After all, she couldn¡¯t throw accusations at her fellow Captain without evidence.


    Yamamoto¡¯s eyes widened, revealing red pupils that rarely emerged. ¡°Is he still inside?¡±


    Aizen rose to his feet and pointed at the shop¡¯s door. ¡°Yes, he is. We have to seize him before he escapes.¡±


    Retsu¡¯s pupils briefly flickered. From her observations, she could conclude that Kisuke wasn¡¯t the perpetrator behind the Arrancar Invasion, else he wouldn¡¯t protect the students. There was a chance Kisuke intended to use the students as hostages, but he should know the Gotei 13¡¯s principles by now.


    Killing a small thousand to save millions.


    Yamamoto absolutely wouldn¡¯t give in to any demands.


    ¡®Captain Sosuke has to be lying.¡¯


    First of all, Aizen shouldn¡¯t have been in the Living World, much less fight an Arrancar so out of an average Captain¡¯s league. Yet, he survived the encounter and suffered barely any injuries. The Arrancar¡¯s last words about Aizen¡¯s victory also formed a different picture ¡ª one that sought to harm the Arrancar for his own ambition.


    ¡®My gut feeling was right about Urahara and Yoruichi.¡¯


    The Yoruichi she knew were strong and compassionate, far from the kind to aid an evil man¡¯s ambitions.


    ¡®Then Shinji Hirako and others...¡¯


    A shiver ran down her spine as she recalled the previous Hollowification incident. Aizen had been with them for nearly 150 years, perfectly putting on the mask of a gentle, kind person while scheming and experimenting on his fellow Shinigami.


    She herself put on the mask to repress the bloodthirsty, vicious beast. But their motives were on different sides of the spectrum ¡ª she genuinely wished to heal others while Aizen put Shinigami through torture for his ambitions.


    ¡®I have to inform the Commander. But first...¡¯


    With a gentle touch, Retsu ran her hands over Rangiku¡¯s body, using her spiritual powers to conduct a thorough check-up. The results were surprising - Rangiku¡¯s Reiryoku had become denser and more powerful, almost rivaling her own. This was quite a change from the last time Retsu had examined her a few years ago.


    A Shinigami¡¯s Reiatsu grew through near-death experiences, but it had its limits. One could not simply become a Captain-Class if their innate limit was that of a Vice-Captain. However, it seemed that Rangiku had gone through an extraordinary experience, which also caused her hair to grow exponentially.


    She glanced at Toshiro. ¡°Toshiro, do you know where Yoruichi and Kisuke went?¡±


    Toshiro shrugged, his small shoulders rising and falling. ¡°I do not know, Captain-sama. May I ask a question?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Did you meet Kazuya Nii-san, by any chance?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Kazuya. He went out to search for Vice-Captain Ise.¡±


    After seeing Isane¡¯s return, Retsu had first and foremost asked for Kazuya¡¯s safety. This question prompted Isane to gush about Kazuya¡¯s strength and how he saved both her and Isshin Shiba from Zommari¡¯s ability to control people¡¯s bodies.


    Toshiro heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Retsu nodded before she bent down and picked up Rangiku in her arms. ¡°Students, come with me. I¡¯ll escort everyone to the Soul Society.¡±


    ¡°Wait a moment.¡± He walked towards a red-haired student, who was sleeping with his back against a boulder. He bent down and flicked the red-haired student¡¯s forehead. ¡°Wake up, Renji. We¡¯re leaving.¡±


    Rubbing his forehead in annoyance, Renji awoke with a start and tears forming in his eyes. ¡°WHAT WAS THAT FOR?!¡±


    ¡°STOP YELLING, IDIOT! WE HAVE TO LEAVE!¡±


    ¡°I AM NOT YELLING, DUMBASS!¡±


    ¡°YOU ARE.¡±


    Retsu let out a soft giggle. The scene of Toshiro and Renji yelling reminding her of the bond between Isshin and Rangiku. The two bickered with each other all the time but their bond was deeper like every other Captain and Vice-Captain. Toshiro himself reminded her of Soi Fon - explosive temper with a deep sense of loyalty.


    ¡®I haven¡¯t seen her since that day.¡¯


    The day she provoked Soi Fon into picking a fight with Kazuya. Thanks to her mischief, Soi Fon faced defeat after a long time and became more driven to hone her craft.

 Chapter 195: The Showdown (I)

    Chapter 195: The Showdown (I)


    Hueco Mundo.


    The desolate landscape of Hueco Mundo stretched out before Harribel, the colorless sand and eternal darkness evoking a sense of nostalgia within her. She hadn¡¯t been here since she shifted to the Living World except for a brief return to bring Sung-Sun and Apacci home.


    To her surprise, she faced Ulquiorra in the same spot where her path first crossed with Kazuya, making her even more nostalgic.


    She pulled back her hood, and her golden Reiatsu enveloped her, materializing into her regal spiritual attire. Then she reached behind her, her fingers curling around the hilt of her sword, drawing it slowly from its embellished sheath.


    ¡°Will you die like this, or will you use your Resurreccio?n?¡±


    She held no personal grudge against Ulquiorra, but it seemed he had a reason to harm Kazuya ¡ª enough of a reason for them to become enemies. While Harribel didn¡¯t believe in resorting to violence as a means to solve problems, sometimes it was the only option.


    Ulquiorra remained silent as he observed her, perhaps acknowledging that among Hollows, her Reiatsu was one of the strongest he had encountered.


    ¡°Still pointless,¡± he finally spoke, raising his finger towards her. ¡°You have diverted me from my mission, trash. For that, I will eliminate you.¡±


    The burgeoning energy at his fingertip signaled the impending onslaught. In response, Harribel drew back her right hand and rested her left hand under the sharpened edge of her blade. A golden surge of Reiatsu amassed in the hollow of her sword.


    ¡°Cero.¡±


    ¡°Aura Azul.¡±


    The moment Ulquiorra released his Cero, Harribel thrust her sword forward and unleashed her special technique. A golden wave-like projectile erupted from her blade, clashing with Ulquiorra¡¯s Cero in a spectacular explosion. The sky erupted in a kaleidoscope of green and gold, painting the desolate landscape with transient vibrancy.


    ¡°No,¡± Harribel said, shaking her head. ¡°It¡¯s the emptiness in your eyes ¡ª you have never experienced true happiness in your life, have you?¡±


    From her perspective, Ulquiorra¡¯s expression screamed ¡®I hate everything equally.¡¯ With everything she had in life, she couldn¡¯t imagine living like him.


    ¡°A hollow preaching about true happiness. Do you not know how pathetic it makes you seem?¡± Ulquiorra replied with his usual monotonous expression. ¡°I can only assume living with humans gives you the idea that you¡¯re ¡®one¡¯ of them... that you can comprehend those things harbored in their ¡®heart¡¯ known as ¡®feelings¡¯.¡±


    ¡°I do have those feelings,¡± she spoke firmly, with conviction, and placed a hand on her chest. ¡°As far as heart goes, I have one right here; it carries all my emotions - my love, my passion... my feelings to protect those I hold dear from harm... they who are my pride.¡±


    ¡°Friends and family?¡± Ulquiorra couldn¡¯t help but scoff at the very concept. ¡°My eyes can penetrate everything... The thing you refer to as ¡®heart¡¯ does not exist in Hollow, nor does it exist in Humans. If this eye cannot see something, then that ¡®something¡¯ does not exist.¡±


    Harribel shook her head. ¡°Your ignorance, your denial of anything beyond your understanding, it¡¯s... pitiable.¡±


    If they had met under different circumstances, she could have helped him overcome his nihilistic mindset, but they stood on opposite sides. He was an enemy she had to defeat.


    Harribel let go of her Zanpakuto? and held it with a reverse grip, pointing its blade towards the ground. ¡°Hunt, Tiburo?n (Supernal Shark Empress).¡±


    A tide of Reiatsu washed over the area as a surge of water gushed out from the space behind her and enveloped her in a cocoon shaped like a heart. The very form of her transformation mocked Ulquiorra¡¯s beliefs about the existence of a ¡®heart¡¯.


    ¡°Foolish...¡± he whispered. ¡°Your Resurreccio?n is garbage like you.¡±


    Harribel cut out of the water cocoon, revealing her thinly clad Resurreccio?n form. ¡°My heart and your nihilistic beliefs... let¡¯s see which one cuts sharper.¡±


    Ulquiorra conjured a green javelin of pure energy in his clenched right fist. ¡°Don¡¯t falter then. I¡¯ll show you that you¡¯re wrong.¡±


    The confrontation, initially sparked by random circumstance, had now evolved into an intensely personal duel.

 Chapter 196: The Showdown (II)

    Chapter 196: The Showdown (II)


    As Ulquiorra''s bat-like wings flicked, Harribel''s instincts surged into action. She instantaneously activated her Pesquisa, the unique Arrancar technique for sensing and tracking Reiatsu. Yet, even with this heightened perception, tracking Ulquiorra''s Soni?do proved challenging.


    ¡®He is fast.¡¯


    And then, she felt it - the almost imperceptible vibrations in the air, a telltale sign of Ulquiorra''s presence. She predicted his next strike and was ready when he materialized before her, his javelin lunging towards her chest ¡ª her heart. Reacting quickly, she brought up her sword arm to block, the force of the impact making her entire body tremble.


    But Harribel was not one to back down easily. Ignoring the sharp pain that laced her arm, she launched a counterattack. ¡°Cero.¡±


    Her sword arm charged golden Reiryoku, which she launched with a slash at Ulquiorra. He flicked his wings and instantly appeared almost a hundred meters away from her, saving him from the intense Cero.


    Their first clash resulted in a draw, but Harribel couldn''t shake off the feeling that she was at a disadvantage. Despite her exceptional Soni?do abilities, Ulquiorra''s wings granted him an upper hand in mobility. Her ability to block his attack was less about her Pesquisa and more a testament to her finely honed battle instincts, forged in countless brutal encounters with other Hollows.


    He was a foe she couldn¡¯t underestimate, for he possessed strength above every Visored, who themselves were ridiculously strong fighters.


    ¡°You¡¯d have lost your ¡®heart¡¯ if you reacted a moment later...¡±


    But his attention swiftly shifted, his gaze drawn to the ground. Harribel followed his line of sight, her eyes landing on a silver-haired man standing outside the very cave where she introduced Kazuya to Mila Rose and Sung-Sun.


    The man¡¯s loose sleeves fluttered in the wind. His smile was every bit as sinister as his Reiatsu ¡ª he was one of the strongest Shinigami in the world.


    Her lover being a Shinigami didn¡¯t make her friends with them. As a Hollow, she was still a prime target of them. What¡¯s more Ulquiorra seemed to be acquainted with the Shinigami, who might be one of the evil Kazuya set out to defeat in the Soul Society. It seemed like she couldn¡¯t get away after dealing with Ulquiorra ¡ª she¡¯d have to fight the Shinigami afterwards, possibly more depending on the situation.


    ¡°Trident.¡±


    A shockwave erupted from her arm and hurled Ulquiorra back with tremendous force. The destructive strike carved a massive slash wound across his chest. The technique followed three simple steps: ¡®Charge Reiryoku, aim, and release a shockwave.¡¯ The attack staggered the target first then delivered a high-force slash. Any normal Vasto Lorde would¡¯ve been divided in half by the impact, but Ulquiorra¡¯s high durability due to his Hierro saved him from being cleaved in two pieces.


    Ulquiorra looked down and traced his finger on the wound. His wound closed within moments, whereas the wound on Harribel¡¯s neck showed no sign of healing. ¡°I gave up power for regeneration, but you went the opposite way. It explains how a natural reached this level of power.¡±


    Harribel pressed a hand against the wound. Once she let go, the wound stopped bleeding and closed itself. Her regeneration was even slower than an average Adjuchas. ¡°That which I desire can¡¯t be obtained without power. I need every bit of strength to fulfill my promise.¡±


    Her dream was far above her reach even with her current power. It was a sacrifice she willingly made to shorten the power gap between her and Kazuya, which only increased after Nami¡¯s arrival.


    Ulquiorra pointed a finger at her. ¡°Promises are meaningless like your existence, which I¡¯m going to end with this last attack.¡±


    ¡°Only time will tell.¡±


    The three gill markings on Harribel¡¯s sword arm started glowing. The moisture in the environment coalesced as droplets of water and drifted to her sword arm. As moments passed, the speed of her water generation continuously ramped up.


    She poured everything in her final attack.


    Meanwhile, Ulquiorra concentrated his Reiatsu into a small, black orb at his fingertip. It was a tiny sphere, yet held the power to obliterate a massive city with ease.


    ¡°Cero Oscuras.¡±

 Chapter 197-198: The Proposal

    Chapter 197-198: The Proposal


    Kazuya arrived in Hueco Mundo in his female body without his armor. This place was under Aizen¡¯s rule. Until he dealt with Aizen, he¡¯d have to keep up this appearance to deceive him. He still kept up his Partial Resurreccio?n, a form requiring minimal energy to function.


    ¡®And there she is.¡¯


    With Tier¡¯s unique spiritual energy signature etched into his memory, locating her was effortless. Swiftly, he glided through the air, muffling his own Reiatsu to maintain the element of surprise.


    Nearly a mile away, his keen eyes caught the sight of Tier, locked in a fierce standoff with Ulquiorra. Both of their Reiatsu flared intensely.


    He had come just in time the battle escalated to what promised to be an ultimate technique battle between them.


    Tier¡¯s deep yet warm voice echoed, ¡°Cascada.¡±


    {Woah.}


    A torrent of high-pressured water, condensed to the brim, gushed from Tier¡¯s sword arm. Ulquiorra countered with his Cero Oscuras, a colossal beam of black energy that initially vaporized Tier¡¯s water attack. Yet, as Tier funneled more Reiryoku into her assault, the balance shifted, her high-pressure torrent gradually overpowering Ulquiorra¡¯s Cero.


    Normally, Cero only lasted for a brief moment, as even a small exposure to it could annihilate opponents. Ulquiorra extended his Cero¡¯s duration by consuming more Reiryoku.


    The battle scene, illuminated by the stark contrast of Ulquiorra¡¯s black Cero against Tier¡¯s luminescent, high-pressure water, captivated Kazuya. He could afford a moment of admiration since Tier¡¯s technique steadily sliced through Ulquiorra¡¯s Cero.


    {Sheesh, our mom slays. We were worried about her for nothing... Or were we?}


    Kazuya shook his head. In a barren place like Hueco Mundo, where moisture was extremely limited, Tier¡¯s technique was a double-edged sword, depleting her Reiryoku at an alarming rate to both generate water and maintain its immense pressure. Even if she overpowered Ulquiorra in his Resurreccio?n state, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to fight the other Shinigami in the area, let alone the Arrancar reinforcements heading their way.


    ¡®Is it Gin or Tosen?¡¯


    {Why does it matter?}


    ¡®It does. If it¡¯s Gin, I can get him to do my dirty work.¡¯


    {Ohhhh, that¡¯s so brilliant of my beloved.}


    The battle¡¯s intensity escalated as Ulquiorra unleashed the full magnitude of his Reiatsu, enveloping the area in a suffocating, ominous aura. He brought his other hand into the mix and channeled more Reiryoku into his Cero. ¡°Get lost, Miserable Trash.¡±


    It was Tier¡¯s turn to lose ground.


    {Partner, do something! Save our Mommy!}


    Kazuya stopped holding back his Reiryoku, which caught both Ulquiorra and Tier¡¯s attention. ¡°Hey, Tier.¡±


    Hearing the enchanting voice, Ulquiorra straight-up fell into a daze. The momentary lapse cut off the Reiryoku supply to his Cero, leaving him vulnerable.


    The forceful rush of Cascada''s stream launched him backward, his body colliding forcefully with a nearby hill. The force of the pressurized water was unforgiving, mercilessly shredding his Hierro, tearing into his flesh, and audibly fracturing his bones. His regeneration ability kicked in, intensifying the already gruesome spectacle.


    Desperately, Ulquiorra attempted to block the water jet with his hands, only to find them bending unnaturally under immense pressure.


    Tier ceased her Cascada, her face glistening with sweat from the exertion. When she turned to face Kazuya, her expression transformed from exhaustion to shock. ¡°You¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shhh. No need to act so surprised,¡± Kazuya interrupted, appearing behind her and gently placing his hands on her back. ¡°Relax your nerves. I¡¯ll transfer some energy to you.¡±


    His voice, altered due to his temporary gender change, lacked its usual enchanting effect on females. Tier, however, thought very little of it. She was simply relieved to see him. ¡°Did you finish your business?¡±


    ¡°Thanks to you,¡± he replied. ¡°You wanna go back home?¡±


    Tier¡¯s gaze shifted back to Ulquiorra, who had completely healed during their brief exchange. Ulquiorra possessed so much power, yet his regeneration remained remarkable ¡ª another trait he shared with Kazuya.


    She couldn¡¯t help but feel curious about the mysterious link between Kazuya and Ulquiorra. ¡°Don¡¯t move. You have already lost...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not talking to you.¡± Ulquiorra dismissed Tier and glared at Kazuya. ¡°You, why does your¡ª¡±


    Ulquiorra slowly nodded his head. ¡°You do have the power to contend with Lord Aizen...¡±


    The unexpected appearance of the Ho?gyoku not only secured Ulquiorra¡¯s trust but also drew out the Shinigami who had been lurking in the shadows.


    Gin Ichimaru approached, his characteristic unsettling smile on display. ¡°To defeat Captain Aizen and take his prized Ho?gyoku... you are amazing beyond words.¡±


    ¡°I know, right?¡± Kazuya responded with a self-assured smirk. ¡°I also destroyed the Zanpakuto? he was waving around. If not for that fossil-looking Shinigami, I¡¯d have killed Aizen right then and there.¡±


    Gin¡¯s blue eyes opened briefly, a testament to his shock. ¡°You destroyed Kyo?ka Suigetsu in its Shikai form? Given Aizen¡¯s Reiatsu, it¡¯ll need days to regenerate.¡±


    Thoughts of vengeance swirled in the white-haired snake¡¯s mind, envisioning a perfect moment to strike now that Kyo?ka Suigetsu was temporarily out of the equation.


    Kazuya flung a harmless Reiryoku bullet at Gin¡¯s face. ¡°By the way, you¡¯re friends with Aizen. Do you want to take this Ho?gyoku from me?¡±


    His bloodthirsty smile was all the proof one needed to read his mind ¡ª he was looking for a bloody fight, looking for an excuse for an excuse to beat people to death.


    Gin nervously shook his head. ¡°No, of course not. I have more pressing concerns. It was a pleasure chatting with you!¡±


    Gin took flight in a hurry, quickly becoming a white dot in the distance before completely vanishing from their sight. Kazuya could only hope that Gin took this opportunity to kill Aizen or die trying.


    {Sending Rangiku¡¯s childhood friend to death so you can give her a shoulder to cry on... You¡¯re so evil, Partner. My type of evil.}


    Kazuya smiled and slapped Ulquiorra, who was pondering something deeply. ¡°Have you decided to trade your loyalty for the truth?¡±


    Ulquiorra remained unswayed. ¡°Your victory over Lord Aizen doesn¡¯t change the status quo. As long as Aizen controls Hueco Mundo, I will follow his command.¡±


    He flicked his wings and flew away, showing no intention of either fighting them or joining them.


    Tier placed a hand on his shoulder. ¡°Is letting him go a good idea?¡±


    She didn¡¯t say it outright but her words implied killing Ulquiorra was the better option out of everything. For a peace-loving woman, it was quite a drastic shift in her perspective.


    ¡°He¡¯ll be more useful for us alive.¡± He placed his hand on hers and brought it to his face. Feeling her warmth, he smiled. ¡°You must have questions about Aizen... and everything that happened today.¡±


    She gently nodded. ¡°Naturally. Are you finally ready to reveal everything?¡±


    His secrets were his alone until he chose to share them with her. She didn¡¯t want to push him into revealing anything and needlessly straining their relationship.


    He couldn¡¯t help but feel warm at her understanding. ¡°Let¡¯s talk with everyone after I make sure others are alright.¡±


    {Speaking of secrets, you didn¡¯t tell me how you changed genders so fluidly.}


    He dismissed Nami with a brief ¡®Later¡¯ excuse. ¡°Tier, you can cancel your Resurreccio?n. I¡¯ll take care of everything.¡±


    ¡°Do you not find me tempting in this outfit?¡±


    He blinked his eyes. The soft smirk and mischievous look dancing in her eyes revealed her intention to tease him. It was surprising since she had never teased him to this day. So her teasing just came out of nowhere.


    Unbeknownst to him, his height was the true reason behind Tier¡¯s behavior. In his female form, the System reduced his height to 5¡¯7¡±, making him a few inches shorter than Tier. This striking contrast with his usual 6¡¯4" form stirred Tier¡¯s playful instincts ¡ª the same instincts that led her to tease Apacci and Mila Rose once in a blue moon.


    {Your new body is getting everyone frisky, including me. I wanna push you down and cuddle with you all day. Having a hunk as my lover is fine and all but turning my partner into a hot babe... it sounds so forbidden! I love it!}


    ¡®Go away.¡¯


    Nami began sulking in his mind, which he completely ignored.


    ¡°Tempting, yes. Also distracting,¡± he replied to Tier¡¯s earlier question. ¡°You can keep it activated and help me fight ¡ª huh? Where did they go?¡±


    She also showed a confused look. ¡°It¡¯s odd those Hollows I sensed earlier didn¡¯t show up. Did that Shinigami send them back?¡±


    While he fought Ulquiorra, Gin secretly met up with the Arrancars and sent them away to keep his meeting with him a secret.

 Chapter 199: On the Cusp

    Chapter 199: On the Cusp


    Izumi had to break her promise with Lisa and leave the apartment. The place felt suffocating by herself. Her loneliness only intensified from knowing that Kazuya left without meeting her. There was a different outcome of his battle, which she dreaded to think about.


    ''Where have you vanished to, Otouto-kun?'' Her heart ached with the question.


    The urge to throw herself on the bed, to let tears soak into the pillow, was almost overwhelming. Yet, the memory of his gentle, reassuring words held her back from the brink of despair. Crying was useless if he wasn¡¯t there to comfort her sadness.


    Driven by a desperate hope, Izumi wandered the streets, her soul yearning for a miraculous reunion with Kazuya. The city, a maze of shadows and light, seemed to mock her fruitless quest.


    ¡°Otouto...¡±


    When she was almost tired of running around, another fight broke out between two extremely powerful entities, a Hollow and a Shinigami. In the past, she¡¯d have died fighting the Hollow.


    Her sole priority was finding Kazuya¡¯s whereabouts; nothing more, nothing less.


    However, fate led her not to Kazuya, but to a Shinigami. Draped in a pink, flower-adorned kimono that contrasted starkly with his rugged demeanor, he stood on a bridge lost in contemplation. His gaze, heavy with melancholy, scanned the town below.


    Feeling her stare, he turned, a look of surprise crossing his features. ¡°You can see me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Izumi, a house¡ªa former Quincy,¡± Izumi corrected herself with a bitter sigh. ¡°Did you see a Quincy fight a Hollow around the town? He is quite tall, a sturdy build. He has beautiful blue eyes and lustrous white hair which is cut short... His spiritual energy is also very high.¡±


    The vivid description invoked a student¡¯s image in Shunsui¡¯s mind, but he shook it off. The man who fought Arrancars was a Shinigami, not a Quincy. ¡°I didn¡¯t spend much time at the scene. However, I don¡¯t remember seeing any Quincy there.¡±


    Even if there had been Quincy¡¯s involvement, Shunsui doubted any could have survived against the overwhelmingly strong Arrancars.Ne?ww chapters will be fully updated at novelhall.comi''s face paled, stricken with dread. ¡°How is that possible? I sensed my Otouto¡¯s Reiatsu myself.¡±


    ¡°Ah, you¡¯re looking for your family...¡±


    ¡°Yes, he is my only family in this world. Please... help me find him.¡± Izumi¡¯s expression progressively became desperate. ¡°I-I don¡¯t know what I¡¯ll do without him.¡±


    Shunsui let out a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m going to regroup with my squad. They might know something about your Otouto.¡±


    ¡°What? No!¡± Izumi immediately refused the idea. ¡°The man I asked you about ¡ª he is my Otouto-kun... and my husband.¡±


    ¡°That lucky bastard,¡± Shinji cursed Kazuya under his breath for his luck. ¡°Shunsui-san, if you weren¡¯t looking for Lisa, what were you doing earlier? Showing off your Shunpo skills to Hollows?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about Nanao-chan...¡± Shunsui told his side of the story in a heavy tone.


    Shinji frowned. ¡°Did you ask the students on site?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡± He shook his head with a bitter smile. ¡°The blood rushed to my head when I thought about Nanao-chan being hurt... I abandoned my mission and ran around like a headless chicken in search of her Reiatsu.¡±


    Shinji gave him a wide-eyed look. ¡°I didn''t imagine Shunsui-san to be the type to get hot-headed.¡±


    ¡°I know I shouldn¡¯t have lost my calm. Well, they won without me,¡± he said, looking toward the location of Yamamoto and Unohana¡¯s Reiatsu. ¡°Dai-Senpai also came... Shinji, can I ask you a favor?¡±


    ¡°As long as it¡¯s not related to Lisa. In return, I want you to stay quiet about us.¡±


    Shunsui solemnly nodded his head. ¡°I promise... I want to meet Hachigen Ushoda, the former Vice-captain of Kido? Corps.¡±


    ¡°Ya want Hachigen to track Ise down?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Sure. Come with me.¡±


    Shunsui was rather relaxed about rules in the Gotei 13. Not to mention he had shown Shinji the ropes when he first became a Captain. So he didn¡¯t show any hesitation in bringing Shunsui to his base.


    ¡°Can I also join?¡± Izumi asked with a curt smile. ¡°If it¡¯s not too much to ask for.¡±


    Izumi wanted to make sure Shunsui did his due diligence in interrogating his colleagues. Furthermore, this was also an opportunity to know more about her mysterious maid Lisa and her connection to Shinigami.


    Shinji rubbed the back of his head and groaned. ¡°That guy will kill me for this... but sure. Come along, Izumi-san.¡±

 Chapter 200: The Guests

    Chapter 200: The Guests


    Apacci opened the door to an unexpected assembly: two former Shinigami and two Arrancars, accompanied by a coffin cloaked in a luminescent, emerald haze. The coffin pulsed with a strange, unfathomable aura, invoking goosebumps.


    Ignoring the coffin entirely, her gaze drifted from Kisuke to his friendly Tessai to the Arrancars.First one was a girl of petite stature, with simply styled short hair and a confident, almost brash smile that revealed her personality.


    She was a girl with a tomboyish nature ¡ª Apacci concluded at one glance.


    The green-haired Arrancar¡¯s Hollow mask¡¯s remnants formed a helmet, with two horns on the top of her head. The left horn looked as if it had been cut off, and the left half of the mask extended down to cover her left eye, leaving her with one twinkling pink eye.


    Apacci¡¯s glance went to the girl¡¯s Hollow hole, which was right in the center of her stomach. ¡°Hi, fellow tomboy.¡±


    ¡°Tomboy?¡± Lilynette¡¯s single eye widened as she turned to Starrk. ¡°What does that mean, Starrk?¡±


    Starrk shrugged. ¡°No clue, Lilynette.¡±


    Starrk was a tall, lean man with deep blue-gray eyes, his dark brown hair cascading in unruly waves to the nape of his neck. The remnants of his Hollow mask, resembling a fanged jawline, rested along his neck. His Hollow hole was on his sternum, right above the edge of his mask.


    ¡°Coyote Starrk and Lilynette Gingerbuck,¡± Apacci whispered. ¡°Kazuya told me about you both. You guys were staying in Kisuke¡¯s basement.¡±


    They were the most unusual pairing that nobody would believe came from one being. Then again, it was hard to believe the unhinged psycho Izanami could come from her calm and often playful lover.


    Tessai pushed his glasses. ¡°We had to leave the shop, Apacci-dono.¡±


    ¡°I see. What¡¯s in that coffin?¡±


    Tessai briefly gave her a rundown on the coffin wrapped in Jikanteishi, a Kido? spell to temporarily suspend time. The spell stopped Yoruichi¡¯s condition from worsening until Kisuke used the Ho?gyoku to help her. Any Kido? that manipulated space and time were forbidden in the Soul Society, but so was using the Ho?gyoku.


    They were no longer Shinigami to care about them.


    Kisuke looked just as if not more serious than Tessai. ¡°Apacci-san, can we stay at your place for some time? Our place got raided by our long-time enemy.¡±


    The Visored¡¯s base was also on his list for backup bases but Kazuya¡¯s spacious mansion remained his first choice. Shinji and the rest wouldn¡¯t bug him about the Ho?gyoku here. He kept those thoughts to himself. It was neither the time nor was he in the mood to say that many words. Apacci tilted her head. ¡°Long-time enemy? Did you mean that Shinigami Kazuya is currently fighting?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see soon!¡± Lilynette winked at Apacci mischievously. ¡°I only sense one Arrancar here. Where are the rest?¡±


    She remembered Kisuke briefly telling them about the five powerful Arrancar ladies living in Kazuya¡¯s mansion.


    ¡°Probably working,¡± Apacci said with a sigh. ¡°I have no idea, honestly.¡±


    ¡°I see. I see.¡± Lilynette nodded curiously. Just as she was about to follow Kisuke, the doorbell rang again. ¡°I sense another Arrancar on the other side.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s expression turned to a frown as she sensed an unfamiliar Reiatsu. ¡°Who might this be?¡±


    ¡°I... I¡¯m Menoly,¡± a timid voice responded from the other side. ¡°I-Is this where Kazuya lives?¡±


    Apacci hurriedly opened the door, finding a blonde Arrancar on the other side. In terms of power levels, she was on par with Cirucci. Nothing spectacular. Her appearance, however, was quite the refreshing change from everyone around her. ¡°That husband of mine sure has a diverse taste.¡±


    Lilynette peeked from behind Apacci, grinning. ¡°Peek-a-boo!¡±


    Menoly stared at the two in confusion. ¡°Arrancars? Are you also Lord Aizen¡¯s subordinates?¡±


    She mistook Kazuya for another one of Aizen¡¯s allies and the Arrancars in his mansion as Aizen¡¯s Arrancars. It was quite reasonable for Aizen to have hidden allies among Shinigami and even in the Living World.


    ¡°Lord Aizen?¡± Apacci¡¯s face contorted in disgust. ¡°This is Kazuya¡¯s home. He is the Lord here. How do you even know him?¡±


    ¡°He... saved my life today,¡± Menoly said, her raspy voice carrying a hint of gratitude. ¡°He instructed me to wait at his mansion.¡±


    ¡°Tell me more.¡±


    Apacci made Menoly confess the whole event of her invading the town, getting betrayed by Loly, and her fortuitous encounter with Kazuya. Apacci wouldn¡¯t have believed the story if the same thing didn¡¯t happen with Cirucci before.


    ¡®Just how many women does he want? This Aizen... why is a Shinigami like him ruling over Hueco Mundo?¡¯


    Apacci let out a sigh. ¡°Fine, come inside. But any funny business, and I¡¯ll kick you out.¡±


    She didn¡¯t buy into Menoly¡¯s meek behavior as it was a very unfitting act for one of the strongest Arrancars under Aizen, the mysterious ruler of Hueco Mundo.


    ¡°I-I won¡¯t do anything,¡± Menoly said in a hurry. ¡°Thanks for having me here!¡±

 Chapter 201: Imperfection

    Chapter 201: Imperfection


    The mansion¡¯s lobbies, adorned with ornate carpets and dimly lit chandeliers, echoed with the sound of a heavy coffin being dragged. Kisuke maneuvered through the corridors as if he intimately knew every twist and turn.


    Just as he took a turn, a familiar face entered his sight. Cirucci greeted him with a scowl.


    ¡°Would it kill you to add wheels to that thing? The unbearable noise is disturbing their rest.¡±


    Cirucci contained her anger because of Kisuke¡¯s earnest attempts to fix her Zanpakuto? in the past. Even if he didn¡¯t succeed, he tried his best.


    Kisuke raised the tip of his hat, staring at Cirucci with wide eyes. ¡°We¡¯re taking this coffin to the basement. I have a question, Cirucci-san. Did you cut off your Hollow traits?¡±


    He quickly dismissed the idea upon sensing her spiritual pressure. Had she discarded her Hollow traits, her power would¡¯ve considerably diminished rather than growing more intense.


    ¡°Or you restored your Zanpakuto? and sealed your Hollow traits in there?¡±


    ¡°I did just that,¡± Cirucci said, arching her left brow skeptically. ¡°Leader helped me restore my Zanpakuto?. His flames are miraculous.¡±


    A shiver ran down Kisuke¡¯s spine at the fervor in her eyes, reminiscent of a zealot¡¯s. In their last meeting, she was depressed as hell. Now she had the passion of a cultist.Ge?t latest novel chapters on nov(e)lbj/n(.)c/om


    Her transformation was startling, to say the least.


    ¡°Well, ain¡¯t Kazuya the savior of everyone here?¡± Lilynette quipped as she arrived with Starrk, Apacci, and Menoly. ¡°Yet nobody fucking wants to help him. Y¡¯all are the worst friends.¡±


    Lilynette continued throwing sarcastic remarks, still bitter that nobody went to help Kazuya.


    Apacci clenched her fists, her Reiatsu flaring in response. ¡°I¡¯d do anything to go up there and stab Kazuya¡¯s enemies with my chakrams... but my help might sabotage his schemes. Like Starrk said before, it¡¯s complicated.¡±


    Lilynette shrugged. ¡°I¡¯m done preaching. If anything happens to that guy, I¡¯m gonna kill everyone here, then the guy who kills him. I¡¯ll avenge him!¡±


    Stark ran his fingers through his hair. ¡°Lilynette, focus that energy somewhere else. He¡¯ll be fine, I promise.¡±


    Kisuke, who was deep in thought until now, opened his mouth. ¡°Tessai, let¡¯s start the process. We¡¯ll discuss the limitations of Kazuya¡¯s Zanpakuto? later.¡±


    If his Zanpakuto? could restore a part of someone¡¯s soul, then it should also be capable of restoring Yoruichi without requiring the help of Ho?gyoku to merge her Soul Boundaries.


    Tessai nodded, and under Kisuke¡¯s guidance, they arrived at an unsuspecting staircase leading down to the basement.


    Tessai¡¯s glasses gleamed. ¡°A Reiatsu enhancer? You managed to finish that project! Do you know how big of a break¡ª¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get too excited, big man. Just see how useless it¡¯ll be in a fight.¡±


    Kisuke picked up the box and started tinkering with it. At the back of the box, two tubes, one red and one green, were attached. Kisuke connected the green tube to the Ho?gyoku. Then he cut his wrist and inserted the red tube into the wound.


    Closing his eyes, he fed his Reiatsu into the tube. The box named Seishin Zo?kyo? inflated like a balloon as it stored the Reiatsu, enhanced it through compression, then pumped the enhanced Reiatsu into the green tube.


    The Ho?gyoku started emitting a cold, eerie glow.


    ¡°We succeeded,¡± Kisuke said with a sigh of relief and yanked the red tube. He took the Ho?gyoku and stood before the slumbering Yoruichi. ¡°An imperfect solution, but it¡¯s all I can do at the moment.¡±


    The Ho?gyoku started glowing as if responding to his desires. Yoruichi¡¯s Hollow Mask fell off into small white flakes, followed by her arm that was protected under a layer of Hierro. She cast off all the Hollow traits and returned to the Yoruichi they used to know.


    Only on the surface.


    ¡°Tessai, you can remove your Kido?.¡±


    Tessai performed complex hand gestures, and the green glowing energy around Yoruichi dissipated.


    Kisuke poked Yoruichi¡¯s face with the tip of his staff but she showed no signs of waking up. ¡°The Hollowification and battle with Aizen drained her Reiryoku... let¡¯s leave her to rest.¡±


    Kisuke plopped down on the ground, cross-legged, and crossed his arms. Tessai sat in the same manner as Kisuke. The childhood friends settled after one of the most hectic days of their lives.


    One minute, two minutes, five minutes... Time flew by in silence.


    Only after fifteen minutes did Kisuke break the silence. ¡°Tessai, Aizen was even more dangerous than our predictions. We frankly underestimated his willingness to obtain my Ho?gyoku.¡±


    Tessai nodded. ¡°Using a simple field trip of students to force the Gotei 13¡¯s hands... he is a despicable animal.¡±


    ¡°Tessai, you didn''t witness what I did. Aizen casually cast a Level 90 Kido? spell with no chant. Kazuya was right. He isn¡¯t just a Captain with a powerful Bankai ¡ª he is a disastrous threat to everything with his strength alone.¡±


    ¡°You guys.¡±


    The mischievous yet mesmerizing voice drew their attention ¡ª they saw an enchantingly beautiful woman with long, silver hair standing at the door, looking down at them with scorn.

 Chapter 202-203: Cat-astrophic

    Chapter 202-203: Cat-astrophic


    After arriving at the mansion, Kazuya decided to skip meeting Apacci and Cirucci, feeling a pressing urgency to see Yoruichi¡¯s condition. His steps quickened as he followed Yoruichi¡¯s scent through the familiar corridors.


    Her scent took him to the basement, which no longer resembled his basement when he opened the door but Kisuke¡¯s underground chamber. Tessai and Kisuke were in the middle of a heavy discussion, while sitting in front of a coffin.


    ¡°Tessai, you didn''t witness what I did. Aizen casually cast a Level 90 Kido? spell with no chant. Kazuya was right. He isn¡¯t just a Captain with a powerful Bankai ¡ª he is a disastrous threat to everything with his strength alone.¡±


    ¡°You guys,¡± he said in a condescending tone. ¡°look so depressed.¡±


    Kisuke turned toward him and revealed his signature cheeky smile. ¡°Still in that body, eh? Yoruichi will be traumatized if she sees her favorite man... as a beautiful woman.¡±


    Imagining Yoruichi¡¯s shocked expression, he burst out laughing. Her exaggerated reactions were always amusing. ¡°This is just temporary. I¡¯ll change before I return to the Soul Society.¡±


    His laughter faded as he remembered the urgency of his situation. He had to conclude his business quickly; if Isane or someone else noticed his absence and sent a search team, it would be more than just awkward. The thought of being reported missing after he himself had come to find Rangiku and Nanao was quite ironic.


    {No, we have to punch Shinji for letting us down.}


    He couldn¡¯t sense Nanao, Lisa, or Izumi¡¯s Reiatsu in the town. The only two locations with Reiatsu-concealing force fields belonged to the Visored and Kisuke. One was destroyed, leaving Lisa with only one place to heal Nanao.


    ¡®She is also getting some scolding.¡¯


    {Don¡¯t forget Momo.}


    ¡®She is with Sung-Sun and Franceska.¡¯


    Kazuya used Soni?do to arrive before the coffin in an instant. Inside the coffin, Yoruichi slept peacefully with her hands placed on her stomach. Her sleeping posture flooded his chest with a feeling of relief.


    ¡°Look at her sleeping like a vampire after that fierce battle.¡±


    He vividly remembered his inner turmoil when he saw Aizen overpowering her in battle. If the battle went on for one more minute, he¡¯d have certainly jumped in to help Yoruichi.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you didn¡¯t,¡± Kisuke said with a reassuring hand on Kazuya¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Yoruichi-san would¡¯ve cursed you for ruining the mission. She is like that.¡±


    {At least we avenged her by slapping Aizen in the face.}


    Kazuya nodded. ¡°You already stabilized her soul with the Ho?gyoku.¡±


    Yoruichi had become a Hollow-Shinigami hybrid, much like Shinji, following the Ho?gyoku¡¯s stabilization of her Soul Boundaries. Kazuya possessed the power to remove her Hollow side with his Resurreccio?n, but he resolved to wait for her permission before attempting such a drastic measure.


    ¡°Kazuya, how did your battle end? Did Aizen-san stall enough time for the Gotei 13¡¯s reinforcements?¡±


    Kazuya blinked, surprised yet impressed by Kisuke¡¯s insight. ¡°You predicted that too. As expected of the Founding Father of the S.R.D.I (Shinigami Research and Development Institute).¡±


    Kisuke covered his face with his paper fan. ¡°You knew Aizen¡¯s strengths and weaknesses as you¡¯ve worked with him before. I didn¡¯t bet on you losing. I didn¡¯t bet on you winning either... Aizen is such a troublesome enemy.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, he ran away with his tail tucked between his legs. The Old Commander saved him today, but I managed to destroy his Shikai.¡±


    Kisuke narrowed his eyes, reflecting a dangerous intent hidden within. ¡°It¡¯s the best opportunity to take him down. We have to capitalize on this opening before he recovers his Shikai.¡±


    Kazuya had never seen him so eager to get rid of Aizen. The former shopkeeper finally realized the danger Aizen posed to him and everyone else in the Soul Society. Unfortunately, Kisuke couldn¡¯t enter the Soul Society until Gotei 13 removed him from the Senkaimon blacklist, or he¡¯d have gone to fight Aizen himself.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see if I can convince Captain Unohana about Aizen.¡±


    Kisuke cast a skeptical side glance at him. ¡°It¡¯s only been, what, four months since you went to the Soul Society. Does Captain Unohana trust you enough to question a Captain¡¯s integrity?¡±


    ¡°Trust? She is head over heels for me.¡±


    Kisuke¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Dai-Senpai who used to be one of the most feared people before the Soul Society¡¯s establishment ¡ª I can¡¯t imagine her falling in love, even with that voice of yours.¡±


    ¡°It was just a joke.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask her if she felt something off about Aizen.¡±


    Retsu wasn¡¯t the most knowledgeable, but her instincts were possibly the sharpest among the Gotei 13. It¡¯d be quite strange if she failed to notice incongruities in Aizen¡¯s story.


    ¡®I¡¯ll slowly probe her.¡¯


    {With your dick¡ªwait, you don¡¯t have one right now!}


    As he was about to retort, a sharp intake of breath drew his attention ¡ª Yoruichi¡¯s eyes snapped open as she took shuddering breaths. Her heart pounded fiercely, a rhythm so strong Kazuya could hear it without focusing his senses.


    He stepped toward her and ripped the Reishi bindings with his bare hand. Yoruichi slowly slumped into his arms, her body radiating a searing heat as if she was experiencing high fever.


    She weakly wrapped her arms around him, her touch gentle yet trembling, as though caught in a dream-like state. ¡°Kazuya... take me to bed...¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Kazuya rubbed Yoruichi¡¯s back and turned to Kisuke. ¡°She has a fever. Do you know something?¡±


    ¡°It could be a side-effect of her transformation. She¡¯ll be fine after some rest.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll tuck her into the bed.¡±


    He slipped his hands under her thighs and locked her legs around his waist tight. Then, he grabbed her butt, ensuring a secure yet gentle support for her. It seemed to be the comfiest way to carry her, apart from the princess carry.


    ¡®She is stacked down there.¡¯


    {It¡¯s realistically impossible to remove her Hollowfication even with our Resurreccio?n.}


    In his Resurreccio?n form, he could kill any specific aspect of his target once he drained their Reiatsu, but in this case, attempting to separate her Hollow from her beast form could be catastrophic.


    Killing her Hollow would take away her cat form and possibly eliminate her strongest Shunko? form.


    ¡®Damn it.¡¯


    His jaw clenched, but his anger melted in the face of the dark-skinned catgirl snoring softly on his side. He felt his head throb at the mere possibility of this animal permanently replacing Yoruichi.


    ¡®She has to be in there...¡¯


    He refused to believe in the possibility of Yoruichi eternally relinquishing control of her body. She was too proud for that to happen.


    {Only one way to find out... wait for her to wake up again.}


    ¡®I don¡¯t have the time.¡¯


    {Then use your Resurreccio?n and kill her Hollow. It should wake her up from her slumber.}


    He shook his head, opting for the patience route over the hasty one. After a few minutes of waiting, he attempted to gently lift her knee. She opened her eyes and glared at him.


    She patted his chest. ¡°Hiss... Pet.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    He only had two ways to get out of the sticky situation. First one was quite straightforward ¡ª using force against Yoruichi. He dismissed the idea as soon as he felt her dry tongue licking his face.


    He was no saint, but he was no monster either.


    So, he had to go with his second, more peaceful choice ¡ª seduction. He summoned his system and switched his gender through his focus. A viscous purple aura oozed out of his chest and began enveloping him.


    Yoruichi sprang back like a startled cat, landing lithely on the edge of the bed. Her cat-like eyes, wide with a look of curiosity and caution, fixed on him. ¡°Pet?¡±


    When the flame-like aura dissipated, he found himself in his most comfortable Hollow form. Grinning, he beckoned the cat girl. ¡°Come.¡±


    His voice came out gentle yet demanding, filled to the brim with enchanting power. He fully utilized the power of his ability ¡®Silvery Tongue¡¯, even more so than his hypnotic session with Apacci.


    Unable to resist the compelling suggestion directly implanted in her consciousness, Yoruichi slowly crawled towards him, a dazed expression on her face. She sat before him, her gaze still locked onto his.


    ¡°Kazuya...¡±


    As Kazuya extended his hand towards her, she instinctively tried to retreat.


    ¡°Hold.¡±


    The single word halted her movement, allowing him to gently pat her cat ears. She responded positively, leaning into his touch, her tail swaying contentedly.


    ¡°Good pet!¡± He scratched her ears, stroked her hair, and rubbed her face. After fully lowering her guard through intimacy, he approached her ears. ¡°Sleep.¡±


    The powerful suggestion made her quiver as if she tried to resist its influence.


    ¡°I said sleep.¡±


    This time, the command took full effect, sending her into a deep, peaceful slumber.


    He placed her on the bed and draped the blanket over her with tender care, his hand lightly caressing her face. ¡°Sleep well... Yoruichi, I want to see you when I return.¡±


    He shrouded himself in a few sound-canceling kido? spells and left the room.


    Outside the room, Tier leaned against the wall, her arms crossed on her chest. ¡°Did something happen to Yoruichi?¡±


    ¡°Tier...¡± Kazuya approached her and wrapped his arms around her in a comforting embrace, resting his chin on her shoulder. ¡°I need to leave soon.¡±


    He would have collapsed if not for the combination of his absurd regeneration ability and quick Reiryoku recovery time. The day¡¯s ordeals had left him mentally exhausted, but his fatigue disappeared in her warm embrace.


    ¡°That¡¯s not a reason to be depressed.¡± She stroked his back encouragingly, even though she was just as reluctant to see him leave. ¡°Think about all the friends you made in the Soul Society. They¡¯ll be worried if you don¡¯t return to them soon.¡±


    ¡°Mhmm.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to lie down with me?¡±


    He drew back immediately and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m only lying with you when we take the next step.¡±


    She stared at him, as if processing his words. Her cheeks flushed as she nodded with a soft smile. ¡°I¡¯ll leave the timing up to you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you later.¡±


    Once Tier walked past him, his attention was drawn to a goth girl peeking around the corner. Before he could address her, she vanished using Soni?do, retreating to her room.


    {What was that?}


    ¡®She wants to talk to me.¡¯


    {Anyways, let¡¯s go check up on Momo. She must be so anxious for not seeing you for hours!}

 Chapter 204: Mistrust

    Chapter 204: Mistrust


    Kazuya obviously couldn¡¯t meet his fellow Shinigami like Rangiku, Nanao, or Momo in his Hollow form. He had to become a Soul and wear his academy uniform, which wasn¡¯t in his possession at the moment. After slaying Zommari, Kazuya had used Bakudo? #26 Kyokko?, a relatively low-level kido? spell that bent light around the target, to shake off any stalker on his trail. On his way to meet Aizen, he had tossed his academy kimono in an abandoned warehouse.


    He switched into his Human form and requested Kisuke to separate his soul from his body.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, I left those students and a Vice-Captain in the basement of my old shop.¡±


    ¡°Rangiku Matsumoto was her name,¡± Tessai expanded on Kisuke¡¯s lazy report. ¡°You should confirm it just in case Captain Yamamoto leaves without investigating the shop.¡±


    ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll do that. See ya later.¡±


    With a brief farewell, he left the basement with his physical body in his hands. Since he was tight on time, he chucked the body into Tier¡¯s room.


    After casting Bakudo? #26 Kyokko? on his own, he left the mansion. Aizen and Gin had gone to the Soul Society, but he didn¡¯t see the third member of the trio, Tosen. He couldn¡¯t move around freely as the blind Captain could be observing Karakura Town from a hidden place.


    ¡°That¡¯s the place.¡±


    He dove through the broken window, burned his current clothes, and wore the Shino Academy¡¯s kimono. Like every traditional Japanese dress, wearing the kimono alone was quite a tedious process.


    {Partner, you never told me how you switched genders...}


    ¡®The same way I switch races. Flames of rebirth.¡¯


    Azure and purple flames always manifested during his gender or race transformations. He decided to call them flames of rebirth as they allowed him to be reborn into a new form.


    {Oh. Can you use them for anything else?}


    ¡®As of now, nothing.¡¯


    {Bright flames possessing an ability bordering on time reversal, crimson flames possessing the power of pure destruction, and azure flames possessing the power of metamorphosis at will. Shinku-no-Tsubasa, Izanami-no-Mikoto... who¡¯s the Zanpakuto? Spirit for the third?}


    The question posed by Nami made him pause in the middle of tying his hakama (trousers). He narrowed his eyes, a plethora of wild theories rising in his mind. The most prevalent of which was bordering on terrifying.


    He always thought the Template System let him assess his strength and modify his status because it relied on laws outside the Bleach verse. However, the System achieved the race/gender switching through a unique flame. The flames that originated from his own soul.


    ¡®The System is from this universe.¡¯


    Going by the logic, some powerful entity had read his mind when he reincarnated as a weak Hollow. Using the information from his memories, they made a System and attached it to him.


    ¡®No one in Bleach has that type of power... unless it¡¯s the Soul King himself.¡¯


    He consciously let the thought echo in his head in the same manner as he talked with Nami. A lack of reaction from Nami only strengthened his doubts. The System was an extremely powerful entity capable of removing any mention of its existence.


    ¡®Let¡¯s hypothetically say it¡¯s the Soul King. What will be his motive behind it?¡¯ Does he want to reincarnate through me?¡¯


    In his prime, the Soul King was more powerful than Yhwach¡¯s final form. The nobles sealed him and then mutilated his body. The Soul King hadn¡¯t resisted one bit; he died to let the three realms flourish without an absolute ruler. After a death like that, it wouldn¡¯t make sense for the Soul King to pluck a random human from another universe and use him as a vessel for his resurrection.


    ¡®No, I¡¯m overthinking this.¡¯


    He pushed the absurd thoughts out of his mind. ¡°Honestly, Nami. I have no idea. You live inside my Inner World. You should know what¡¯s inside there and what¡¯s not.¡±


    {Don¡¯t be ridiculous, Partner. Your Inner World is endless. I don¡¯t explore anything outside of this island.}


    ¡®I have no idea.¡¯


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°I just wanted to say that...¡± she whispered. ¡°Feeling all those strong Reiatsu scared me a little.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s arms trembled. She captured him in a bear-like hug and buried his face in her chest. ¡°I also love you¡ª¡± she suddenly drew close to his face and sniffed him. ¡°It smells like Yoruichi¡¯s human form¡¯s saliva. What¡¯s more, her scent is all over you.¡±


    ¡°How do you know her saliva¡¯s smell?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the important question, Hubby.¡± Sung-Sun held his chin and made him look into her trembling eyes. ¡°Hubby, we were worried sick for your safety here. You could¡¯ve said hello here before mating the wild cat.¡±


    ¡°Yeah! You should have shaboinked her after meeting us. Why did you do that?¡±


    {They¡¯re encouraging you to cheat on them. Everyone needs wives like that.}


    ¡°Shaboinked?¡± Sung-Sun burst into laughter. ¡°Franceska, you perv. Where did you find that word?¡±


    Kazuya couldn¡¯t help but smile after listening to their grumbles. They were passionate about him. Such passion often came with high expectations. When he didn¡¯t meet their expectations, they voiced out their discontent.


    {It¡¯s a healthy relationship.}


    He nodded at Nami¡¯s words. ¡°Sung-Sun, Franceska, Yoruichi...¡±


    A brief explanation later, the two stared at each other with wide eyes, speechless.


    ¡°Hubby, I... please forgive me. I¡¯m such a bad wife for doubting my husband¡¯s character.¡±


    ¡°Me too... I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    He wrapped them both in his arms. ¡°I¡¯ll forgive you on one condition. If it ever happens in the future, you won¡¯t bury it in your chest. But you¡¯ll come to me and say it to my face like today.¡±


    He wanted his relationships to last for a long time. Sorting out their personal issues with him from time to time would only bring them closer and deepen their understanding.


    Sung-Sun pecked his face. ¡°Deal.¡±


    ¡°You bet I will.¡± Mila Rose giggled and head-butted his chest. ¡°Skull, can you stay today? I want to...¡±


    The glimmer of desire in her eyes couldn¡¯t be more apparent.


    He gently shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shoo.¡± Sung-Sun pressed a finger against his lips and pointed at Momo. ¡°She is awake.¡±


    Momo¡¯s fingers twitched before her eyes slowly opened. She sat up and rubbed her eyes sleepily.


    Kazuya pushed the two out of the door, whispering to them to wait outside. He hurried to Momo¡¯s side and held her hand.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun...¡±


    ¡°Sleep,¡± he commanded firmly, imbuing the word with every bit of his charm. ¡°Sleep for a while.¡±


    Her head drooped down as her consciousness drifted to the land of dreams. He lifted her and gently laid her on the counter.


    ¡°Wait here. We¡¯ll go back after I get Nanao.¡±

 Chapter 205-206: The Reconciliation

    Chapter 205-206: The Reconciliation


    In a dimly lit room, Lisa could be seen sitting with her arms crossed, her eyes completely focused on the black-haired woman lying on the bed.


    ¡®Time sure flew by while I was here.¡¯


    Over the course of fifty years, a chasm of time that seemed both an eternity and a fleeting moment, Nanao had transformed. No longer the child Lisa remembered reading stories for in the Soul Society, she had blossomed into a refined beauty. Her elegance was only enhanced by the pair of glasses that currently sat on the bedside.


    Lisa, on the other hand, hadn¡¯t changed one bit. The aging of souls was one of the fascinating mysteries that nobody seemed to care about in the Soul Society.


    ¡®I wonder what Kazuya thought when he met her. Did he mistake her for my sister?¡¯


    Lisa couldn¡¯t help smirk, imagining an awkward scene of Kazuya indirectly probing Nanao for their relationship. The fantasy crumbled when she recalled his outright rejection of their date.


    ¡®Tch, that kiddo is too cocky. I¡¯ll teach him a lesson someday... wait, I had to bring him to Izumi.¡¯


    She completely forgot about her promise to Izumi. Normally, she wouldn¡¯t care about trivial things, but Izumi had become quite the special person to her. The former Quincy had transformed from a rich mistress into a half-pervert obsessed with receiving the seed of her ¡®brother.¡¯ A brother who was equally Quincy as he was a Hollow, and now he posed as a Shinigami in the Soul Society. The web of lies spread around him was disgusting yet one of the most fascinating things currently in her life.


    ¡®It¡¯s either going to end with Kazuya fucking something up... or fucking Izumi up.¡¯


    She¡¯d welcome the latter over the former. In fact, she¡¯d happily pose as Izumi¡¯s bridesmaid at their wedding.


    ¡°Hold on, if they get married... wouldn¡¯t I permanently become his maid?¡±


    She never thought too deeply into the matter, but now she had to face the consequences of the changing dynamics. Living with Izumi had become her new norm, which she didn¡¯t want to change any time soon.


    ¡®The three of us in the same apartment...¡¯


    Her thoughts began to spiral, descending into dark fantasies far removed from the ordinary. She fantasized about the groom, Kazuya, dragging the bridesmaid into the wedding chamber and forcing Izumi to watch his vile act of claiming the bridesmaid¡¯s innocence with the lust and passion of a demon.


    Lost in these forbidden imaginings, Lisa¡¯s hand moved of its own accord, slipping beneath the fabric of her skirt. A whimper escaped her lips, slowly escalating into full-blown moans.


    Consumed by lust, she abandoned every sense of shame and pleasured herself.


    ...


    Few minutes later, the woman once ablaze with forbidden fervor now could be seen slumping in the chair, disheveled and lethargic. Each shuddering breath made her chest rise and fall in uneven tides.


    She slowly withdrew her hand from her skirt and stared at her fingers coated in her sticky bodily fluids ¡ª the living proof of her depraved action. The throes of post-orgasm syndrome made her like she had committed a grave sin.


    ¡®What the fuck...¡¯


    She clenched her fist, feeling a surge of regret rising in her chest. She had masturbated to the strange fantasy of getting pounded by Kazuya, her friend¡¯s ¡®husband.¡¯ What¡¯s worse was her imagined scenario ¡ª she had been forced into doing the deed, yet she loved every moment of it like a complete degenerate.


    ¡®I didn¡¯t just get off to that. No, I didn¡¯t! I¡¯m not a horny bitch like the female lead of boss and secretary stories!¡¯


    She decided to act as if it had never happened and buried the memory deep in her chest, where another traumatizing memory accompanied it.


    ¡®I gotta change. But my clothes are back at the apartment.¡¯


    After ensuring Nanao hadn¡¯t woken up from all the moans, Lisa left the room to clean her hands and tidy her appearance. She didn¡¯t want Nanao or anyone else to see her current appearance.


    ...


    Nanao Ise¡¯s senses gradually returned as she awakened, the soft light of an unfamiliar room greeting her. She slowly sat up and rubbed her eyes, trying to clear the haze of grogginess. An unfamiliar scent lingered in the air, but she decided to ignore it for the time being.


    Her vision, still blurred without the aid of her glasses, revealed enough to confirm her suspicions: this was not her own quarters nor the Gotei 13''s medical wing. Instead, everything from the bed to the decor hinted at this being a room in the Living World.


    A sudden flash of memory jolted her, ''I passed out¡ªthat Arrancar!''


    The vivid recollection of the encounter at the power plant flooded her mind, each moment replaying with painful clarity. She involuntarily shuddered as phantom pain from the Arrancar¡¯s brutal assault coursed through her. The brutal kicks and punches had broken numerous bones in her body.


    Holding her arm, she realized the layers of gauze wrapping around her chest and her hands. It was evident that someone had not only rescued her from the battlefield but had also employed Kaido to heal her injuries with a level of proficiency that made the previous night''s battles seem distant.


    But she didn¡¯t have the luxury of feeling relieved as the weight of her failure came crashing down on her.


    ¡°I should¡¯ve fought more decisively...¡±


    Her self-reproach was abruptly interrupted by a voice, both familiar and unexpected. ¡°The students will be fine,¡± the voice declared, just as the door creaked open, revealing the source of the reassurance. The sight that greeted Nanao momentarily washed away all traces of pain and disbelief. ¡°Everything was neatly handled by that slab of delicious meat.¡±


    ¡°He isn¡¯t any Shinigami, Hiyori. He is Shunsui Kyoraku, the man who has always looked out for us in the Soul Society.¡± He completely shut down Hiyori with his serious and firm tone, which he had hardly used in Living World. ¡°He won¡¯t expose us. I¡¯ll take full accountability if he does.¡±


    ¡°Shinji, you...¡± Hiyori paused, unwilling to argue any further. ¡°Have it your way.¡±


    Shinji nodded and turned to the rest of the group. ¡°You guys got any objections?¡±


    Kensei slowly shook his head, his expression ever-so-serious. ¡°No, I trust Shunsui-san as much as I trust you.¡±


    Although he rarely interacted with Shunsui, he and Shunsui always engaged in conversations during the Captain meeting. From what he had observed, Shunsui was more inclined to skirting around the rules and even breaking rules than on his whim. Someone like him wouldn¡¯t sell them out.


    Love zipped up his tracksuit and flicked his sunglasses. ¡°Ain¡¯t winning no war without trusting the comrade walking shoulder to shoulder with you.¡±


    Shinji let out a sigh. ¡°Not another manga reference...¡±


    Rose chuckled. ¡°Shunsui-san, don¡¯t betray us. My guitar would mourn if we lose an ally¡ªhey, those two are here.¡±


    Shunsui paused and turned around. Standing at the door above was his Vice-Captain alongside his former Vice-Captain. Side by side, they seemed like siblings, despite the fact they shared no relatives.


    He flash-stepped to Nanao¡¯s side and wrapped her in his arms. ¡°Nanao-chan... I thought I lost you.¡±


    His seriousness surprised Nanao, but she gradually settled in his arm.


    ¡°I thought the same, Captain,¡± Nanao whispered. ¡°It was... a crazy experience.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll be fine from now. I¡¯ll protect you.¡±


    Lisa took a step back and admired the pair of uncle and niece embracing each other. Her smile vanished once she caught a glimpse of Izumi standing by Shinji¡¯s side.


    ¡®I¡¯m not in my Gigai either.¡¯


    Her Shinigami origins would be revealed if she went anywhere near Izumi in her soul form. The frisky daydreams in the bedroom already made her feel guilty towards Izumi. Adding the pressure of being interrogated simply made her want to run away.


    Yet, the thought of potentially hurting her friend kept her feet firm.


    ¡®No more lies. It¡¯s the day to lay it all bare.¡¯


    She found the conviction to reveal everything about herself to Izumi, putting an end to the act of deceiving once and for all.


    Nanao pushed Shunsui away and looked back at Lisa. ¡°Nee-san, aren¡¯t you going to greet Captain?¡±


    She found it weird that Lisa didn¡¯t look excited to reunite with Shunsui, her former Captain.


    ¡°Do I have to?¡± Lisa asked with a chuckle and waved at Shunsui. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you, Captain. Nao-chan became a fine Vice-Captain in my absence, didn¡¯t she?¡±


    ¡°She absolutely did,¡± Shunsui said with a soft smile. ¡°Lisa-chan, forgi¡ª¡±


    Lisa threw a punch at his chin, shutting down his apology. ¡°You abandoned your comrades to find Nanao. What kind of disgraceful Captain are you?!¡±


    The fact that Shunsui was here meant he didn¡¯t aid the Shinigami in fighting Arrancars.


    ¡°Ah, that one hurt...¡± Shunsui rubbed his chin with a wince then assumed a serious expression. ¡°I¡¯ll abandon any mission if Nanao-chan is in danger.¡±


    His calm declaration would¡¯ve made any girl fluttery but Nanao showed more anger than joy. If she had her book in her hand, she would¡¯ve smashed it into his face.


    ¡°Seriously, Captain?! Are you out of your mind? What if¡ª¡±


    ¡°Someone died?¡±


    Lisa¡¯s eyes widened as she spun around to the familiar voice. A hand swept away the curtain of light.


    Kazuya stepped out of the kido?¡¯s influence, a rare serious look on his face. ¡°I almost died out there. Uncle Isshin almost died out there. Isane, your friend, barely escaped death. Captain Kyoraku, your hastiness almost led to a complete wipe.¡±


    ¡°Kazuya...¡± Nanao stepped forward and bowed her head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my incompetence. If only I¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Nanao,¡± Shunsui said as he pulled Nanao out of her bowing stance. ¡°You are Kazuya, right? The Kazuya who has been making waves in the Soul Society.¡±


    Shunsui didn¡¯t imagine his first meeting with the infamous future Captain would be under these circumstances.

 Chapter 207-208: The Uncovering

    Chapter 207-208: The Uncovering


    Kazuya, of course, saw Izumi when he snuck into the Visored¡¯s basement. He would have left her alone if Lisa wasn¡¯t present on the scene alongside Nanao and Shunsui. Lisa didn¡¯t look panicky or flustered ¡ª she had mustered the courage to spill the beans about her affiliation with the Visored. He would never find a better opportunity to reveal the truth and stop Izumi from growing overly concerned with his absence.


    He always had the option of using his voice to stop Izumi¡¯s stress from escalating to extreme levels.


    {Yooo, hypnosis is evil.}


    ¡®Better than losing Izumi.¡¯


    He couldn¡¯t care less about ethical concerns of using hypnosis when not using it could result in a disastrous situation.


    Shunsui turned to Nanao. ¡°Should I take his silence as a yes?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, he is Kazuya Ishihara,¡± Nanao replied, mistaking Kazuya¡¯s silence for anger. ¡°You better say thanks to him...¡±


    Nanao didn¡¯t know the whole picture, but she definitely knew two things: Shunsui had abandoned his duty to find her, and Kazuya had stepped up big time to slay the Arrancars, saving Isane, Rangiku, and Captain Shiba from grave danger in the process. Shunsui would be absolutely put on trial before Council 46 if any high-ranking member died on this mission.


    Shunsui touched his nape, smiling foolishly. ¡°It won¡¯t look sincere with just my words. How about we go out for a drink later?¡±


    Kazuya shrugged nonchalantly. ¡°Let¡¯s just return to the Soul Society first. We¡¯ll have to brief everything to the General Commander.¡±


    Shunsui shivered at the mention of Yamamoto. ¡°Old man must have one helluva punishment in store for me.¡±


    Even if Shunsui was like a son to Yamamoto, he wasn¡¯t letting Shunsui off with a slap on the wrist.


    Kazuya grinned. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t that better¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish his words, a figure flashed past Shunsui using Hirenkyaku, the high-speed movement of Quincy.


    Izumi, the only Quincy in the vicinity, threw herself in his arms. ¡°Otouto!¡±


    So desperate for his warmth, she embraced him right after she sensed his Reiatsu. She didn¡¯t pay attention to his current outfit or his ¡®Soul¡¯ form for that matter.


    He responded with a warm pat on her back and a reassuring smile. ¡°Izumi, what happened?¡±


    ¡°I¡ªI was worried. You were there, then you disappeared. I thought s-something happened to you.¡±


    ¡°Just a little scuffle with some minor Hollows. Nothing to worry about,¡± he lied smoothly, his hand gently caressing her hair to soothe her. ¡°Ready to go home?¡±


    She clung to him, her grip betraying a fear of losing him again. ¡°Carry me, please...¡±


    ¡°You spoiled little princess.¡± He chuckled and teasingly pinched her butt, acting oblivious to the three people in front of him.


    ¡°Otouto-kun...¡± she whispered, taking a shuddering breath. Pushing back slightly, she reached up, encircling his neck with her arms.


    Then, in a bold, affectionate gesture, she captured his lips in a heartfelt kiss.


    His eyes widened at her unexpected boldness. Their first kiss was his surprise, and the second was hers ¡ª she made the score even.


    While savoring her soft lips, he unsheathed his katana and slashed the air. Flames erupted from the blade, cascading into a fiery barrier that enveloped them, shielding their intimate moment from Lisa and the others¡¯ prying eyes.


    He needed to give affection to the desperate yandere.


    ...


    Outside the fiery veil, Shunsui and Nanao exchanged puzzled glances. Nanao, misconstruing the situation, speculated that Kazuya might be wooing one of Lisa¡¯s friends from the Living World. Shunsui, however, knew the deeper truth of Izumi¡¯s Quincy heritage.


    ¡°Kazuya is her Otouto... How is that¡ª¡±


    ¡°Possible?¡± Lisa interjected with a knowing smile, nudging Shunsui playfully. ¡°They¡¯re not related by blood, but by passion.¡±


    ¡°But he is a Shinigami. She is a Quincy.¡±


    ¡°A former Quincy,¡± Lisa corrected her former Captain, sighing as she recalled the intimate kiss between Kazuya and Izumi. ¡°She is a hopeless maiden in love now.¡±


    Nanao felt utterly left out. Grabbing the sleeves of Shunsui and Lisa, she forced them to explain Kazuya and Izumi¡¯s relationship. Shunsui told his side of the story as he sneakily closed the door behind him.


    Lisa soon found herself in a precarious situation ¡ª either reveal everything about Kazuya or lie to the two people who considered her a part of their family.


    ¡®No, it¡¯s not my place to speak of his most-guarded secret.¡¯


    Clearing her throat loudly, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll let Kazuya speak for himself.¡±


    As she spoke, the flame wall dispersed, revealing Izumi with a flushed expression. Her infatuation with him couldn¡¯t be more evident. Lisa couldn¡¯t tell if Izumi consciously filtered out his kimono or simply didn¡¯t care about his affiliation with the Soul Society.


    ¡®A bit of both I think.¡¯


    Kazuya assumed a solemn expression. ¡°Izumi, look at me.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Izumi shook her head and smirked at Kazuya. ¡°I¡¯ll be with Otouto-kun wherever he goes... doesn¡¯t matter if it¡¯s Soul Society or Hueco Mundo.¡±


    Kazuya felt a shiver run down his spine. It seemed like she was dead-set on following him.


    ¡°Otouto-kun, I promise I¡¯ll work hard to learn everything to be of use. I can also leave my physical body behind to become a Shinigami.¡±


    Shunsui laughed boisterously. ¡°I can get you admission in the Shino Academy. It¡¯s where you can learn to be a Shinigami.¡±


    Izumi¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°Thanks, Shunsui-san!¡±


    ¡°Pleasure is all mine,¡± he said, grinning at Kazuya. ¡°Nanao can also help you with the basics to reduce your graduation period.¡±


    Nanao¡¯s brows twitched. ¡°I¡¯ll try.¡±


    Kazuya gave him a deadpan stare. ¡°You can convince Captain Commander to take care of Aizen. With Kyo?ka Suigetsu out of the picture, Captain Yamamoto should be able to kill him.¡±


    He, of course, was eager to return, but he couldn¡¯t act desperate in front of them. After all, his only objective in the Soul Society could be taken care of by someone else.


    Shunsui smiled. ¡°I can¡¯t help you with your mission, Young Man.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I lack the influence to persuade Old Man Yamamoto to use his Shikai against Aizen. Only someone of Unohana¡¯s seniority could convince him of the true stakes. You¡¯ll need to stick to your plan and inform Dai-Senpai about Aizen¡¯s scheme.¡±


    Nanao tugged at his sleeve. ¡°That¡¯s not true. He should know that you won¡¯t lie about such accusations.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t understand him like I do, Nanao-chan. I alone can¡¯t make sure he understands Aizen¡¯s threat.¡±


    Kazuya rubbed his chin. ¡°I wasn¡¯t wrong about Shinigami¡¯s incompetence.¡±


    Shunsui laughed. ¡°You were quite right. Nanao-chan, come with me for a second.¡±


    His mischievous wink was a clear signal to Kazuya, who understood the hidden message.


    Nanao and Shunsui made their way out of the shop, leaving him alone with Izumi and Lisa.


    The erotica lover looked quite sad about Izumi¡¯s decision to leave her behind but she didn¡¯t oppose it.


    He stepped forward and wrapped her in his arms. ¡°She looks so sad. Izumi, you should stay back with her.¡±


    Lisa pushed him away and shot him a deadly glare. ¡°I can survive on my own like I always have. It¡¯s more important that Izumi gets to live her dream life with you.¡±


    A dream life for her but hell for everyone around him ¡ª Lisa kept the thought to herself.


    Izumi narrowed her eyes. ¡°Otouto-kun, I¡¯ll stay here with Lisa. Your mission should prove Lisa¡¯s innocence. We both can move in with you to the Soul Society.¡±


    Lisa crossed her arms and nodded her head. ¡°That¡¯s good as well.¡±


    ¡°See ya then. I¡¯ll work hard in the Soul Society to make it happen.¡±


    He kissed Izumi again and hugged Lisa before rushing out of the warehouse.


    Izumi caressed her lips, as if relishing the warmth left behind by him. ¡°Otouto...¡±


    ¡°Izumi, let¡¯s go. I¡¯m a bit hungry.¡±


    Izumi grasped Lisa¡¯s hand before she could leave. ¡°Lisa, the longing look in your eyes. You have some feelings for Otouto-kun if I am not mistaken.¡±


    Lisa neither denied nor confirmed Izumi¡¯s statement but her silence was enough proof of her budding affection. In fact she could hear Kazuya¡¯s cheeky voice in her head, ¡®Maid-chan, did my rejection pull you so down that you fell for me?¡¯


    She couldn¡¯t suppress a giggle. ¡°Just a fleeting crush. A little distance will clear it up.¡±


    ¡°Lisa, we¡¯re friends. I don¡¯t want you to suppress your feelings because of me.¡±


    Kazuya already told her that he had other lovers. Including Lisa, her best friend, in his harem wouldn¡¯t be an issue.


    ¡°I¡¯m not doing it for you. I¡¯m doing it for myself.¡± She turned around and held Izumi¡¯s shoulders. ¡°I don¡¯t want to ruin your relationship because of my lust. I have to make sure these feelings are genuine before committing to him.¡±


    Izumi nodded, finding her reason satisfactory. ¡°It¡¯s good to hear you take it seriously.¡±


    ¡°Because it is, Izumi. I have never felt this way towards any man... mostly because I didn¡¯t think of anyone as a potential lover until I met this cheeky mother¡ª¡±


    ¡°Language, Lisa.¡±


    ¡°Hai, Izumi-sama!¡±


    After a pause, they both burst into giggles.

 Chapter 209: Acceptance

    Chapter 209: Acceptance


    After telling Shunsui to find Sung-Sun¡¯s flower shop, Kazuya made his way back to his mansion to pick up Yoruichi.


    {Izumi accepted you quite easily, Partner. I thought she¡¯d go through another meltdown.}Updated chapters at novelhall.com


    ¡®She loves me that much, I guess.¡¯


    {More like she¡¯ll cling to you like a parasite.}


    ¡®Come on, Nami. You two should get along as fellow yanderes.¡¯


    Kazuya harbored no illusions about all his lovers living in perfect accord. However, he had to maintain a semblance of peace among the yanderes, or things might escalate to a battle royale.


    Nami clicked her tongue in annoyance. {The only thing we have in common is our love for you... But I¡¯ll try for your sake, Partner.}


    ¡®I knew you¡¯d understand me.¡¯


    {That¡¯s because we¡¯re soulmates~.}


    {By the way, Partner. Are we letting Shinji go?}


    ¡®I¡¯ll see him next time.¡¯


    Revealing the secret lifted a massive weight from his shoulders, though it consumed more time than necessary. Now, with his conscience clear, he could direct his undivided attention towards bringing down Aizen.


    {Partner, don¡¯t you want to take the Ho?gyoku from Kisuke and merge it with yours?}


    ¡®I¡¯ll try to hit my natural limits before taking the Ho?gyoku.¡¯


    He had yet to reach his full potential as both Shinigami and Arrancar. Mastering them both would bring the most out of the Ho?gyoku¡¯s benefits.


    {Aren¡¯t you just chickening out because of Aizen¡¯s monstrous forms?}


    ¡®Nope.¡¯


    Her demeanor softened, a smile breaking through. ¡°Then, it is I who owes you an apology. I chose my duty to the students over standing by your side against the invaders. Both apologies cancel each other out, don¡¯t they?¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. Her way of comforting him was downright threatening. ¡°Understood. Can you switch into your cat form?¡±


    Her head tilted in curiosity. ¡°Are we leaving?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    She took a few steps back and leaped at him. With a puff of smoke, she transformed mid-air, leaving her black bodysuit behind. Taking a seat on his shoulder, she let out threatening hisses, her flaring Reiatsu switching its signature between Hollow and Shinigami.


    Her Shinigami Reiatsu thoroughly squashed her Hollow Reiatsu in a one-sided battle.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you try that again,¡± she hissed and climbed atop his head. ¡°Sorry for that, Kazuya. My Hollow tried to take over my body.¡±


    The lack of seriousness in her voice conveyed her acceptance of her Hollow side. She wasn¡¯t against living as a Visored.


    ¡°Well, it did take over your body when you were unconscious.¡±


    He relayed his experience with her feral side without leaving out a single detail.


    Yoruichi went completely silent for a few seconds, then she burst out laughing. ¡°Out of all possibilities, you gave it the command to sleep. Kazuya, you could¡¯ve made me do every perverted thing on your mind. You missed a golden opportunity.¡±


    He shook his head. ¡°The thought never crossed my mind. I was more occupied with ¡®Will Yoruichi stay like this forever?¡¯¡±


    She reached out and patted his cheeks with fluffy paws. ¡°This one is quite elated that you didn¡¯t lose your mind in the face of temptation... more elated that you didn¡¯t join the ladies gang.¡±


    ¡°That transformation was a one-time measure to combat Aizen. It won''t happen again.¡±


    ¡°Even if my life is in danger?¡±


    He refused to answer her tricky question, which would lead to even trickier questions.


    She giggled and relaxed on his head. ¡°Kazuya, tell me everything that happened today. I wanna know more.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±

 Chapter 210: Fated Meeting (I)

    Chapter 210: Fated Meeting (I)


    Kazuya engaged in light conversation with Apacci and Tier regarding Menoly. Apacci, though harsh, rarely defied his orders. Nonetheless, he felt compelled to ensure she neither mistreated Menoly with severity nor with too much kindness. They had to treat her normally.


    Afterwards, he said goodbye to the ladies and headed out to Kisuke¡¯s old shop. He gave the vacant shop a thorough examination, finding nothing but remnants of Toshiro, Unohana, and Rangiku¡¯s Reiatsu.


    ¡®Yup, Unohana took her.¡¯


    {Let¡¯s go to Momo!}


    He went to regroup with Shunsui and Nanao at Sung-Sun¡¯s flower shop. Opting not to wait indoors, the pair stood outside the entrance.


    Nanao¡¯s angry look and the red fingers mark on Shunsui¡¯s face conveyed the whole story ¡ª Shunsui got punished for making advances towards the ladies inside the shop. The large hand belonged to Mila Rose, which was quite fitting reaction from Mila Rose. Sung-Sun fought her battles with words over her fists.


    ¡°He¡¯s here...¡± Nanao greeted him with a smile. ¡°Captain, why do you get into situations where you have to apologize to him?¡±


    Merely a week prior, the notion of her Captain apologizing to the notorious charmer of Shino Academy would have seemed far-fetched to Nanao; even stranger was the fact she asked him to do it.


    Kazuya gave an amused smile. ¡°No need. He already got his just desserts at Rose¡¯s hand.¡±


    Just the mark alone told the force and annoyance behind the slap; it also showed Shunsui hadn¡¯t gone overboard. Otherwise, it wouldn¡¯t have ended with one slap. The fierce lioness would¡¯ve gone to war like she did with Grimmjow.


    Shunsui rubbed his chin with a genial smile. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a man¡¯s duty to compliment every beautiful woman?¡±


    {The skirt-chaser of the Gotei 13 is on a different playing field. Partner, level up your game!}


    ¡®Get off Adderall.¡¯


    Nanao smacked his back. ¡°That¡¯s enough, Captain!¡±


    ¡°Haha.¡±


    Laughter ensued among them until the door abruptly slid open with a sharp sound. Momo¡¯s eyes widened upon noticing Kazuya, and she swiftly lunged towards him with arms outstretched.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun~!¡±


    ¡°Not again.¡± Kazuya resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Being the affectionate man he was, he gently caught Momo in his arms. ¡°Can you stop doing that?¡±Ge?t latest novel chapters on nov(e)lbj/n(.)c/om


    {Momo suffered for you. Console her with love.}


    Nanao placed a hand on Momo¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    Momo slowly nodded. ¡°Sorry for spacing out.¡±


    Soon, they heard things being thrown around inside the shop, which Momo interpreted as things becoming physical between Kazuya and Sung-Sun. Momo wanted to intervene but she had to stay here. After all, she had promised him to never go against his wishes.


    ¡°It¡¯s not what you think,¡± Nanao whispered in her ears. ¡°It¡¯s like an argument between friends.¡±


    Momo was reminded of her heated argument with Rukia. Choosing to trust Nanao¡¯s words, Momo waited outside the door with a bated breath.


    Eventually, Kazuya emerged, looking as if he had endured a storm¡ªhis appearance disheveled.


    Nanao¡¯s cheeks flushed upon noticing the love bite marks on his neck. Shunsui''s smirk indicated a similar understanding. The Captain and Vice-Captain duo easily connected the dots with the earlier noises inside the shop. He had been battling Sung-Sun but not in the way Momo anticipated.


    Unconcerned with his disarrayed state, Momo immediately inquired about his well-being. After pacifying Momo¡¯s worries, he made Shunsui summon the Senkaimon door.


    Kazuya and his companions stepped through the Senkaimon, emerging into a vast chamber. Captains of the Gotei 13 were arrayed in disciplined ranks, forming two lines that faced each other in silence.


    Isshin Shiba, Retsu Unohana, Mayuri Kurotsuchi, Soi Fon, and Jushiro Ukitake stood on the left while Kenpachi Zaraki, Ginrei Kuchiki, Kaname Tosen, Gin Ichimaru, and Saijin Komamura stood on the right.


    Meanwhile, right in front of him, seated on a tall wooden chair that seemed almost out of place in its simplicity against the grandeur of the surroundings, was the Captain Commander.


    Their Senkaimon was intercepted and made to open in the assembly hall of the 1st Squad¡¯s headquarters.


    Momo leaned towards Kazuya, shivering from the dense Reiatsu enveloping them. ¡°Kazuya-kun, this is... Captain Commander?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Isshin, Ukitake, Ginrei, and Unohana acknowledged Kazuya with either a smile or a polite nod.


    Soi Fon fixed her intense gaze on Kazuya and the cat sitting on his shoulder.


    Mayuri only glanced at him before going back to counting the lines on the floor¡¯s design.


    The rest of the captains looked disinterested aside from Saijin. The dog-headed warrior seemed to have smelled the lingering scent of ladies on him.


    ¡°Shunsui Kyoraku,¡± Yamamoto called out in a low but intimidating voice and lightly struck his cane on the floor. ¡°I, hereby, seize your captain seat.¡±

 Chapter 211: Fated Meeting (II)

    Chapter 211: Fated Meeting (II)


    Shunsui''s offense, although grave, did not justify the extreme measure of stripping him of his captaincy. Yamamoto¡¯s response seemed disproportionately harsh, likely intended as a deterrent against future misconduct, or perhaps harboring a completely different motive.


    As Kazuya''s eyes swept the assembly, he registered unanimous astonishment among the captains at Yamamoto¡¯s decree.


    ¡®Old man didn¡¯t tell anyone.¡¯


    Sweeping his gaze across the room, Kazuya noticed every captain showing looks of surprise at Yamamoto¡¯s decision.


    {Seems like it, Partner. An impulsive decision befitting his fiery Zanpakuto?.}


    ¡®Can I beat him with your flames?¡¯


    {It¡¯s hard to measure his flames without experiencing them. We might not win but I can confidently say we won¡¯t lose either.}


    He acknowledged her analysis with a nod. ¡®I might have to stop Yama. There is one percent chance of a fight breaking out.¡¯


    With all the chaotic personalities like Kenpachi and Mayuri crowding one place, a fight could break out at any moment. Now that his strength was known, he had no need to hold back if someone provoked him except for Kenpachi. That guy was simply bad news.


    {Brandish thy fist and strike Yama¡¯s bald head for a critical strike!}


    ¡®...¡¯


    Yamamoto, unaware of the chaotic schemes going on in Kazuya¡¯s head, continued in a detached tone, ¡°Shunsui, what you did was contemptible. You dishonored your rank.¡±


    Shunsui revealed a faint smile at the truthful criticism. ¡°Captain Commander, I appreciate the sentiment behind giving a hard worker like me a long vacation. Just know I¡¯ll not vacate my seat until we resolve the conflict with Hueco Mundo.¡±


    If it wasn¡¯t for the threat within the Soul Society, he¡¯d have accepted Yamamoto¡¯s order with open arms ¡ª Kazuya felt that type of energy from Shunsui¡¯s answer.


    Unohana¡¯s gaze sharpened, detecting an unusual seriousness in Shunsui''s stance. Her attention then shifted towards Kazuya, her eyes searching for answers. ¡°What transformed him?¡± Her scrutinizing look seemed to inquire. ¡°What the hell happened to this lazy asshole?¡±


    Kazuya winked back with a friendly smile before shaking his head, resulting in Unohana getting all frowny on him. Communicating that level of information without words was simply impossible.


    Captain Ukitake crossed his arms with a slight frown. ¡°Can we just punish Captain Shunsui for the time being?¡±


    ¡°I support Captain Jushiro in this matter,¡± Unohana voiced out. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t rashly dismiss one of our finest. His strength could be crucial against future threats from Hueco Mundo.¡±


    The long-time friends of Shunsui finally made their discontent known to the Captain Commander.


    Yamamoto rose from his seat, still keeping his hands firm on his cane. ¡°Every Shinigami in Gotei 13 has a duty to uphold. A Captain who abandons his comrades in the battlefield is no different from our enemies.¡±


    Captain Ukitake shook his decision. ¡°Master Genryuu-san, you have raised me and him together. He has a firm sense of duty and loyalty. You and I both know that.¡±


    Shunsui and Jushiro, as the first captains under Yamamoto, have been instrumental across countless conflicts, assuming both leadership and support roles. The notion of negating Shunsui¡¯s enormous contributions over a singular lapse in judgment didn¡¯t sit well with Jushiro.


    Isshin chuckled. ¡°Your future would have been lost if my lad didn¡¯t save our asses out there.¡±


    Even the assembly hall couldn¡¯t make Isshin serious.


    Unohana turned to Kazuya, a soft smile playing on her lips. ¡°It¡¯s Shinigami¡¯s duty to look out for each other. It¡¯s the only way we can contend with the looming threats of Hollows.¡±


    ¡°Or we just send me out there,¡± Kazuya added. ¡°I¡¯ll make their race extinct.¡±


    {Traitor!!!}


    Isshin laughed. ¡°Our duty is to maintain the balance. Wiping out Hollows will achieve the opposite.¡±


    Kenpachi brushed Isshin aside and confronted Kazuya. The battlemaniac¡¯s intense gaze seemed to be etching the young man¡¯s face into his memory. ¡°I¡¯m gonna wait for the day you become a Captain. Then we¡¯ll fight until you kill me or I kill you.¡±


    Kazuya wore a troubled look. ¡°That day is quite far, so why not?¡±


    A bloodthirsty splitted Kenpachi¡¯s mouth. With a nod, he casually walked towards, tapping his chipped katana on his shoulder.


    Unohana exhaled deeply, visibly relieved from Kenpachi¡¯s departure. ¡°Sorry for the interruption, Captain Commander.¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Yamamoto replied, eyes on Kazuya. ¡°I can forgive Shunsui¡¯s transgression under one condition. You¡¯ll lose your merits for this¡ª¡±


    ¡°Go ahead,¡± Kazuya interrupted Yamamoto. ¡°I don¡¯t even want merit for bullying those trash Hollows.¡±


    Yamamoto¡¯s easy persuasion confirmed Kazuya¡¯s doubts. Shunsui¡¯s trial was a setup to test Kazuya¡¯s demeanor ¡ª whether or not he was worthy to be a captain. Were this truly a matter of disciplinary action, the Central 46 would have been the adjudicators, not Yamamoto.


    The trial also served to teach Shunsui about the potential outcome of his grave mistake.


    A flicker of surprise crossed Yamamoto''s features at Kazuya¡¯s indifference to accolades, hinting at an undercurrent of respect or perhaps reconsideration of Kazuya¡¯s character. ¡°I will delay Shunsui Kyoraku¡¯s punishment until we¡¯ve dealt with the war waged by the Arrancars,¡± he declared, signaling the end of the discussion with a tap of his cane before seating himself. ¡°All Captains are hereby ordered to stay prepared for any potential invasion from Hueco Mundo.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Captain Commander!¡± Every Captain present replied in unison.


    Kazuya exchanged a knowing glance with Shunsui and Nanao, feeling a hint of respect in their gazes. Yamamoto¡¯s spontaneous decision earned him more loyalty from Shunsui and Nanao.


    He turned his attention to Unohana. ¡°Captain, are you going to the 4th Squad¡¯s barracks?¡±


    ¡°You seem to be in a hurry to meet Isane.¡±


    ¡°A little. She went through a lot.¡±


    Unohana let loose a warm smile. ¡°She is doing fine, but you¡¯re free to meet her.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±

 Chapter 212: Fated Meeting (III)

    Chapter 212: Fated Meeting (III)


    ¡°Captain Soi Fon.¡±


    Soi Fon was about to follow Kazuya out of the assembly hall when Yamamoto called out her name. She inwardly grumbled at the prospect of losing another potential discussion time with Kazuya, but listening to her superior was her duty.


    Duty couldn¡¯t be neglected unless she wished to walk in the footsteps of her predecessor.


    As she pivoted, her gaze swept across the remaining captains¡ªSajin, Tosen, and Gin¡ªeach standing in anticipation of Yamamoto¡¯s directives. A sense of unease stirred within her at the sight of Captain Ichimaru, whose demeanor she found inherently disconcerting. The instinctual distrust she harbored for Gin required no further justification, as his very presence irritated her.


    Gin¡¯s gaze met hers, his infamous grin all but confirming her suspicions, yet she managed a nod of cursory respect.


    ¡®Please, make it an order to kill Captain Ichimaru.¡¯


    Soi Fon clasped her hands behind her back, looking attentive and respectful in her disciplined pose. ¡°I¡¯m here, Captain Commander.¡±


    ¡°Everyone except Captain Soi Fon is dismissed,¡± Yamamoto said, his gaze drifting from Sajin to Tosen and finally landed on Gin. ¡°Captains, was I not clear?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Commander!¡± Gin took the lead and headed out, followed by Tosen and Sajin.


    Now alone with Soi Fon, Yamamoto addressed the 2nd Squad¡¯s Captain with a stern gaze. ¡°I want you to investigate Captain Sosuke. Be covert and prioritize caution.¡±


    Soi Fon looked puzzled for a moment. If any Captain was to be investigated, it had to be Gin. Aizen, on the other hand, was as kind and gracious as they could come. What crime could he possibly commit to warrant an investigation¡ªher thoughts circled back to recent events and Aizen¡¯s questionable actions, prompting a reassessment of her assumptions.


    ¡°Are you suspicious because of his presence in the Living World?¡±


    Yamamoto nodded. ¡°There are many reasons except for the reason you just mentioned.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll do my best,¡± she pledged with a bow. ¡°There won¡¯t be any mistakes.¡±


    ...


    Momo, Shunsui, Nanao, Isshin, and Ukitake trailed behind Kazuya as they exited the assembly hall, with Yoruichi making herself comfortably perched atop Momo¡¯s head. She exhibited the behavior one wouldn¡¯t expect from a former assassin leader but from a domestic cat.


    Shunsui grabbed Kazuya¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I usually don¡¯t like having men in my squad, but I¡¯m willing to make an exception for you. What do you say to that?¡±


    Kazuya rolled his shoulders innocently. ¡°Convince those two first.¡±


    As Kazuya stepped aside, Shunsui found himself confronting the intimidating stares of the 4th and 10th squad captains. Without uttering a single word, Isshin and Unohana made their opposition to Kazuya¡¯s recruitment crystal clear.


    Nanao felt a chill from the overwhelming spiritual pressure of the two formidable captains and sought refuge behind Shunsui. ¡°Captain, it¡¯s best not to antagonize them...¡±


    ¡°I was joking,¡± Shunsui replied. ¡°Or was I?¡±


    Unohana¡¯s narrow-eyed gaze took on a dangerous gleam, reminding Shunsui of the scary reputation of ¡®Dai Senpai¡¯. ¡°Kazuya, come.¡±


    {I¡ªI have an uncontrollable urge to make dirty puns.}


    ¡®You aren¡¯t alone, Nami.¡¯


    As Kazuya and Nami bonded over their dark urges, Momo arrived by his side, trying to sneakily hold his hand amidst the commotion.


    {Let her have it... She already lost in life by joining the cult.}


    ¡®...¡¯


    Momo tugged at his sleeve. ¡°Kazuya-kun, should I come with you or return to the dorm?¡±


    Her attempt to appear undaunted was betrayed by her eyes, shimmering with the dread of possibly losing her friend. Although she wasn¡¯t as close to Nanao as she was with Rangiku, losing a member of the Shinigami Women¡¯s Association would greatly hurt her.


    ¡°We have,¡± Kazuya answered, ending her worries for good. ¡°She is back to her Captain¡¯s side.¡±


    ¡°Oh thank goodness...¡± Isane took a big sigh of relief. ¡°Kazuya, are you alright though? You haven¡¯t rested since it all started.¡±


    Unohana grabbed Kazuya¡¯s wrist and checked his pulse. ¡°He is as healthy as one can be.¡±


    Isane laughed softly. ¡°I meant his mental state, Captain. This experience must have been taxing.¡±


    Unohana looked straight into eyes, smiling. ¡°He is fine.¡±


    Kazuya smiled and glanced at Momo, who seemed to be staring at Aizen since she came here. Aizen also hadn¡¯t looked away from Momo the entire time.


    {Aizen and his puppet Momo ¡ª Fate came full circle... Partner, something doesn¡¯t seem right. Could Momo be under an illusion?}


    ¡®We broke that damn thing.¡¯


    {Ah... maybe he repaired it with some magic.}


    Kazuya was skeptical but he didn¡¯t rule out the possibility. Nothing was impossible when it came to Aizen.


    He lightly nudged Momo, breaking her out of her trance. ¡°Momo?¡±


    Stepping closer, she positioned herself out of Aizen¡¯s line of sight. ¡°Kazuya-kun, something about him makes me uncomfortable.¡±


    Perhaps it was Yoruichi¡¯s teaching or his company that made her sharper and more mature. She could see through Aizen¡¯s mask.


    ¡°You must be Kazuya Ishihara from the academy,¡± Aizen interjected with a smile, eyes gleaming with interest. ¡°I¡¯ve heard a lot about you from my peers and Vice-Captain Isane.¡±


    Smiling, Kazuya blocked Momo from Aizen¡¯s sight since she seemed uncomfortable under his gaze. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure Isane was just fangirling over me. She is so fond of me.¡±


    Isane¡¯s face flushed from his teasing. ¡°I-I didn¡¯t say anything weird!¡±


    Unohana crossed her arms, unamused. ¡°Flirting with my Vice-Captain when you have a girlfriend ¡ª you are quite the shameless man, Kazuya.¡±


    ¡°One can never have enough love, Captain,¡± he whispered with a faint smile. ¡°Besides, polygamy is a thing in Soul Society, right?¡±


    ¡°It is,¡± Aizen answered. ¡°Though many refrain from such measures... Shinigami seldomly falls in love. When a Shinigami does become enamored, they¡¯ll never find the drive to love someone else. Hence, polygamy is mostly practiced within the aristocrats for ensuring worthy heirs.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like the way you phrased the answer.¡±


    Aizen chuckled softly. ¡°I said mostly. There are still some Shinigami who are in multiple relationships, some consensual and some non-consensual.¡±


    {No one would believe you two were trying to kill each other just a few hours ago.}


    ¡®I can¡¯t either.¡¯


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Anyway, Captain Sosuke. It¡¯s getting late. I better take Momo back to her room, or she¡¯ll pass out on me.¡±


    Aizen waved his hand. ¡°It was nice exchanging romantic wisdom with you, young man. Come, visit my company whenever you¡¯re free.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡± Kazuya nodded politely and turned to Unohana. ¡°I¡¯m off then.¡±


    ¡°Hold on, I have one last matter to address with you.¡± Unohana took him and Momo away from Isane. ¡°Come with me to visit Vice-Captain Rangiku.¡±

 Chapter 213: A Great Change

    Chapter 213: A Great Change


    Rangiku always had strange dreams. Sometimes blissful like her sweet, innocent days of childhood. Sometimes anguishing like the times she got thrashed in her academy days. These dreams were quite forgetful, lingering in her mind for brief moments upon her awakening.


    However, the dream that visited her last night was strikingly vivid and surreal; it kept her in a daze for a long time after waking up.


    As the door to her chamber creaked open, revealing Unohana and Kazuya stepping inside, she remained fixed in stillness upon her bed, busy reminiscing about the horrible events that took place in her dream.


    ¡®Dream or a long forgotten memory?¡¯


    Her intuition and feelings continuously pointed at everything being real ¡ª her beatdown at the hands of Shinigami in Rukongai wasn¡¯t a figment of her imagination..


    ¡®But why?¡¯


    Kazuya sat by her side and placed a hand on her forehead. ¡°She doesn¡¯t seem sick. Are we sure Arrancars didn¡¯t replace her? The Rangiku I know can never be traumatized from some beating.¡±


    His action brought her out of her thought bubble. Her response was a vacant stare as if she was offended by his remark.


    ¡°Are you still the same girl who tried forcing me into becoming an idol for the Soul Society?¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Captain, she is an imposter!¡±


    Unohana gently pinched Kazuya¡¯s cheeks. ¡°You might be responsible for her change. Your Zanpakuto?, to be precise.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not sure myself.¡± Kazuya shook his head. ¡°I only healed her... Then this happened.¡±


    He had healed her in the heat of the moment without realizing he might heal her incomplete soul at the same time. Then again, his Zanpakuto?¡¯s ability had repaired Cirucci¡¯s Zanpakuto?, which was also a part of her soul. There was no reason he couldn¡¯t regenerate the part of her soul that was taken by Aizen to complete his Ho?gyoku.


    The Ho?gyoku in his possession.


    ¡°This?¡± Rangiku questioned with a sharp gaze. ¡°Young man, what do you mean by this? Speak or I¡¯ll throw you to the thirsty maidens of the Shinigami Women¡¯s Association.¡±


    ¡°Look at yourself.¡± Kazuya reached out and weaved his fingers through her hair to bring attention to her extremely long hair. ¡°Your hair can reach your ankles now.¡±


    Rangiku held her hair in surprise. ¡°Woah when did this happen? And why?¡±


    ¡°Well,¡± Kazuya said. ¡°We can have someone look at your Zanpakuto?. We should have some specialists for that, right?¡±


    Unohana nodded her head before shaking it. ¡°He is a Royal Guard. The Creator of Zanpakuto?, Oetsu Nimaiya. Getting him to come down from the palace is near impossible.¡±


    Rangiku blinked her in surprise. ¡°It¡¯s better he doesn¡¯t come. I don¡¯t want to mingle with the likes of the Royal Guards.¡±


    She had no problem socializing but the Royal Guard were an exception. She¡¯d rather do her paperwork than make a request to the high and mighty bodyguards of the Soul King.


    Kazuya crossed his arms. ¡°Why don¡¯t you rest and recover? I¡¯ll find a way to fix things for you. I fixed mine before so have some confidence in me.¡±


    Rangiku grinned at his direct way of assuring her. ¡°Your Zanpakuto? went through something similar, right? I¡¯ll gladly accept your assistance.¡± She snaked an arm around Kazuya¡¯s shoulder with a sly grin. ¡°Help me, and I¡¯ll be your wingman with Isane.¡±


    He almost rolled his eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t need help with that. Just take me out for a treat, and we¡¯ll be even.¡±


    As if he¡¯d ever need help in wooing women.


    Rangiku drew back with a sigh of disappointment. ¡°Your loss then.¡±


    Kazuya only got the offer for help to pursue the cinnamon roll Isane due to his closeness with the two. She knew Isane harboring a little bit of a crush on him, and helping them get together would put her in the good graces of both.


    Unohana turned to him, a curious look in her eyes. ¡°Did your Zanpakuto? Spirit also go silent?¡±


    ¡°She was scheming a strange plan,¡± he responded with a light chuckle, dismissing the concern. ¡°I¡¯ll leave the story for another day. Captain, I¡¯ll be heading for my dorms now. Next time I¡¯ll meet you as a full-fledged Shinigami.¡±


    Unohana smiled. ¡°Feel free to prolong your stay at the academy if you wish to spend more time with your friends.¡±


    She wanted him to enjoy his academy life since it would never return. The duty, on the other hand, would go on as long as the Soul Society existed.


    Rangiku grasped Kazuya''s shoulder, deliberately adjusting her hair to draw his attention to her most eye-catching feature. ¡°Ne, Kazuya. Do you want to stay at the academy or be an adult with us~?¡±


    {Partner, she is asking to be mindbroken!}


    Kazuya seared the enchanting view into his mind then pushed Rangiku away. ¡°Momo and Shiro will be more motivated to train if I leave the academy.¡±


    His goals would stagnate at the academy, and stagnation was the last thing he¡¯d want with an enemy like Aizen.


    Unohana shook her head, realizing she wasn¡¯t dealing with a normal person. Kazuya was the nutjob who wanted to become an unkillable demon by mastering Kaido. ¡°I gave you the advice. The decision is up to you.¡±

 Chapter 214: The Night Approaches

    Chapter 214: The Night Approaches


    Kazuya picked up Momo, who was awaiting his return by Isane¡¯s side, and returned to the dormitory. Concealing his Reiatsu, he quietly opened the door and peeked inside. Toshiro could be seen sitting on the bed, meditating with his Zanpakuto? on his lap. He¡¯d have looked cool if not for the specks of rice around his mouth. The silver prodigy had a feast in the absence of Kazuya and Momo.


    A growl from his stomach made him aware of his nutrition deficiency. He hadn¡¯t eaten anything after the meal he took with Momo and the rest in the cafeteria. What¡¯s worse, he exerted himself beyond his limits.


    He could eat like Goku today.


    {Hold up, Partner. That¡¯s Rukia at the window!}


    He turned his gaze, noticing the petite black-haired girl standing at the window. From what he could see from her back profile, she seemed disheveled, her hair looking messier than usual. Either Renji or Toshiro told her about the Hollows at the Living World and made her worried sick about Kazuya and Momo¡¯s safety.


    Or perhaps she felt lost at the thought of never seeing Kazuya again. He had told them he wouldn¡¯t return from the field trip and stay at the Gotei 13 from now on.


    Kazuya pushed open the door with a casual greeting, ¡°I¡¯m back.¡±


    Rukia and Toshiro turned to the door, their expression brightening immediately upon noticing Kazuya and Momo. The apparent relief on Rukia and Toshiro¡¯s faces filled Kazuya with warmth. The two truly cherished him as a friend. Then again, he had done quite a lot to solidify his place in their hearts.


    {Will that stay the same if they discover your Hollow nature?}


    Ignoring the chaotic voice in his head, he ruffled Toshiro¡¯s hair. ¡°Don¡¯t you remember what Yoruichi said? Meditating to merge your thoughts with Zanpakuto? is only good in moderation. Give Hyo?rinmaru time to rest and gather energy.¡±


    Toshiro clenched his fist, veins popping on his slender wrist. ¡°I¡¯m frustrated how weak I am compared to Arrancars. Hyo?rinmaru is also angry at his weakness and wants to grow strong as quickly as possible.¡±


    Hyo?rinmaru was a fierce and proud dragon. Getting his frost powers almost nullified by Arrancars motivated the dragon to reach new heights, for the sake of his pride as well as protecting the people around his partner.


    ¡°Forget about that!¡± Rukia almost yelled. ¡°All my Class 1 friends look like they went through hell. Renni looks traumatized whenever I bring up the topic of a field trip. Just what the heck happened out there?¡±Updated chapters at novelhall.com


    She had tried asking Toshiro but he simply shut her off with a ¡®I must train more¡¯ excuse. The silver-haired boy hadn¡¯t moved a muscle after dinner. Rukia was dying to know the things that traumatized her friends to help them.


    Kazuya rubbed the back of his neck. ¡°It¡¯s a long story. Why don¡¯t we talk about it during dinner?¡±


    ¡°You can go without me,¡± Toshiro said. ¡°I already filled my belly with some rice cakes.¡±


    Momo took out a handkerchief from her pocket and cleaned Toshiro¡¯s face. ¡°We can see what you ate... Just don¡¯t overdo it like Kazuya-kun said.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s excitement faded, replaced by a flushed look. ¡°Damn...¡± she muttered under her breath. ¡°Momo, you didn¡¯t ask for my permission. We¡¯re roommates, right?¡±


    Momo beamed a smile. ¡°It¡¯s his last day with the academy. I want to make more memories with him here... I know my best friend won¡¯t deny me the chance.¡±


    Rukia couldn¡¯t help but smile sheepishly at being called best friend. ¡°My heart isn¡¯t made of stone, you know? You guys do whatever you want. I¡¯ll have my peaceful sleep in the corner.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Rukia!¡±


    {From being manipulated to manipulating her best friend... this is the evolution my yandere loving partner wanted to see.}


    Rukia sharing giggles with Momo, despite the latter manipulating her, just showed her simpleton mind.


    ¡®Wait, where did Yoruichi go?¡¯


    Recalling her promise to meet him at the dorm room, he expanded his senses in search of her Reiatsu ¡ª he couldn¡¯t find her Reiatsu anywhere in the Soul Society.


    {What¡¯s your gut feeling saying?}


    ¡®Hmm?¡¯


    {As an almost perfect being, your instincts are unparalleled. You can rely on them even outside of the battle.}


    He closed his eyes, his concentration making his brows furrowed. While he couldn¡¯t find the so-called gut feeling, he found something far more significant for the moment ¡ª Yoruichi¡¯s Reiatsu. He only sensed it for one moment before it disappeared.


    {Either she suppressed her Reiatsu¡ª}


    ¡®It¡¯s changing.¡¯


    Yoruichi¡¯s final form ¡®Shunko?: Raiju? Senkei: Shunryu? Kokubyo? Senki¡¯ rendered her Reiatsu fickle and unstable like a cat¡¯s mood, changing its signature 48 times in one second.


    {Did she turn into her Hollow form?}


    ¡®I¡¯ll have to see it for myself.¡¯

 Chapter 215: An Undesired Reunion

    Chapter 215: An Undesired Reunion


    Due to recent events, Yoruichi became more cautious when returning to the dormitory. Even without the Kyo?ka Suigetsu, Aizen had a stronghold on the Soul Society, not to mention he knew her secret identity.


    The former assassin had firsthand witnessed the results of carelessness. Another mistake might just lead to the death of everyone around her. In the past, she wouldn¡¯t have particularly cared about this outcome. However, after making many bonds with Kazuya, Momo, Toshiro, and many nice Arrancar ladies? Nope, the cat loving Shinigami didn¡¯t plan to leave numerous sad faces in her wake.


    ¡®Heh. I¡¯m becoming more like him.¡¯


    She found the prospect of one event having such a drastic effect both strange and amusing. Then again, the event altered her life, giving her the powers of beings she used to purify, as well as a second entity inside her soul.


    A mass of bear-like aggression packed in the form of raw feline instincts.


    Having such thoughts in her mind, she safely returned to the dorm room, which was practically vacant for the time being.


    ¡®Shiro is having himself some nice dinner.¡¯


    The thought of dinner made her crave the milky white elixir. Knowing that Kazuya would visit Isane and Rangiku before returning, Yoruichi decided to go out to get some milk.


    ¡®Or I can take some from the cafeteria.¡¯


    Every cat had undeniable sovereignty over milk in three realms, and her cat form was no exception. Nobody could stop her from taking what was rightfully hers!


    So Yoruichi headed towards the cafeteria and indulged in a feast of creamy milk to her heart¡¯s content.


    When she returned to the dorm, a familiar face awaited her outside Kazuya¡¯s room ¡ª her successor in the 2nd Squad.


    ¡®Did she come for Kazuya?¡¯


    Soi Fon crossed her arms, her passion igniting in her gaze. ¡°Yoruichi-sama, you are an exile. You being here gives every Shinigami the right to apprehend you. It¡¯s up to you whether you want to die as a warrior or rot in Central Great Underground Prison for centuries.¡±


    The once timid little girl who always followed Yoruichi now stood up against her master, determined to fulfill her duty. Yoruichi frowned and took a good look at Soi Fon. Her previous interpretation of Soi Fon¡¯s motive changed upon noticing the burning fire in Soi Fon¡¯s eyes.


    Her dear disciple from the century past wanted revenge against her, to come out of her predecessor¡¯s shadows and seize the title of the best Onmitsukido? Leader and the best Captain of the 2nd Squad.


    Yoruichi laughed out loud. ¡°The duty is just a facade for your true intention, my dear.¡±


    Soi Fon clenched her fists before pointing a finger at Yoruichi. ¡°My motives don¡¯t matter as long as I act by the law. And the law decreed you as a criminal long ago.¡±


    Yoruichi tilted her head. ¡°Heh, I accept your challenge. I¡¯ll remind you why I was the master, and you were the disciple.¡±


    She swiftly darted out of the window, her black figure flickering from one building to another. Soi Fon had previously engaged in a martial arts battle with Kazuya, but Yoruichi doubted she would use the same tactics against her. Therefore, their fight couldn¡¯t take place at the academy, as their powerful spiritual energy would disrupt the order there.


    Soi Fon followed Yoruichi using her own Shunpo, placing full trust in her former mentor to keep her word. Instead of moving away from the Seireitei, Yoruichi led them deeper into it.


    Yoruichi finally stopped in the depths of a forest, where a set of extensive stairs led to a temple-like structure.


    ¡°Yoruichi-sama, why did you come here?¡±


    Soi Fon was puzzled at Yoruichi¡¯s decision to lead her into her home-ground ¡ª the lavish barracks of the 2nd Squad ¡ª where she could call upon reinforcements any time.


    Yoruichi bared her fangs. ¡°To get my old attire. You wanna fight me naked?¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes widened before her cheeks flushed. Coughing, she looked away. ¡°Not like it will change anything.¡±


    Yoruichi rolled her eyes at Soi Fon¡¯s response.

 Chapter 216: Old Times

    Chapter 216: Old Times


    Yoruichi pointed at the shadow of a tall oak tree in the dense forest. ¡°Soi Fon, can you dig there?¡±


    She had buried a stash of clothes, rations, and other emergency supplies, just in case someone were to falsely accuse her of a major crime. It wasn¡¯t uncommon for people in her line of work to unabashedly shift blame onto others. She wanted to be prepared if things took a turn for the worse.


    And unfortunately, that framing did happen.


    The victim wasn¡¯t her but her childhood friend. At the time, she didn¡¯t have the opportunity to retrieve her belongings as she had to hastily flee the Soul Society.


    Soi Fon¡¯s brows twitched at the request, looking visibly annoyed. ¡°I¡¯ll not do your bidding.¡±


    Yoruichi was supposed to fight Soi Fon for her life, yet she acted carefree, clearly not taking the challenge seriously. Although she yearned to meet Yoruichi, she could barely endure Yoruichi¡¯s disregard for everything.


    The Captain of 2nd Squad drew dangerously close to her limits.


    Yoruichi seemed completely unfazed by Soi Fon¡¯s growing agitation. ¡°Soi Fon, Kazuya is a talented lad. It won¡¯t be hard for him to write a story detailing the most embarrassing scenes of your life.¡±


    Yoruichi blatantly and shamelessly threatened her former disciple ¡ª a clear sign of Kazuya¡¯s company rubbing off on her. She was quite unaware about the change Kazuya¡¯s influence had brought in her.


    Soi Fon, on the other hand, could clearly see the resemblance between her former mentor and the man who had nonchalantly threatened to kill her before.


    Gritting her teeth, Soi Fon said, ¡°I have nothing to be ashamed of.¡±


    Yoruichi chuckled, her eyes narrowing dangerously. ¡°Did you forget the time you wet your¡ª¡±


    ¡°I get it!¡± Soi Fon stopped Yoruichi from revealing her deepest and darkest memory ¡ª the only memory that Soi Fon intended to take to her grave. ¡°It¡¯s just digging! I¡¯ll do it for you!¡±


    Soi Fon was thick-headed, brash, and unyielding in her beliefs. But even she wasn¡¯t shameless enough to let the whole Soul Society know about her most vulnerable and embarrassing moments. She couldn¡¯t maintain her dignity if no one respected her character.


    Yoruichi licked her lips, baring her fangs. ¡°Thanks! I can¡¯t transform right now, or I¡¯d absolutely help you in digging.¡±


    ¡°Keep your excuses to yourself,¡± Soi Fon replied with a snort. ¡°How deep do I need to dig?¡±


    ¡°Six feet probably?¡±


    ¡°After this, I¡¯ll bury you six feet under,¡± Soi Fon muttered under her breath. ¡°I swear.¡±


    Such a moment would never occur after Kisuke ruined Yoruichi¡¯s life. She never felt the urge to torture anyone, but she¡¯d absolutely make an exception for Kisuke. Being condemned to Hell would be worth it for a chance to torture the perverted, manipulative childhood friend of Yoruichi.


    Sensing a growing killing intent, Yoruichi patted Soi Fon¡¯s thigh. ¡°Can¡¯t wait to kill me?¡±


    Soi Fon nodded blankly. ¡°Yoruichi-sama, would you be willing to change the conditions of our duel?¡±


    Yoruichi blinked, taken aback by the shift in Soi Fon¡¯s demeanor. ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±


    ¡°I... If I were to defeat you, you¡¯d expose Kisuke Urahara¡¯s current location. He¡ªhe must be held responsible for his vile crimes.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe you are still jealous of Kisuke.¡± Yoruichi sighed, shaking her head. ¡°I have full faith in my victory, however, I¡¯ll never accept your condition. Do you want to know why? Because it¡¯s disrespectful towards him.¡±


    Soi Fon gritted her teeth, looking vexed about Yoruichi defending Kisuke with passion. ¡°You¡¯re only stalling for time. His recent deeds gave us plenty of leads about his trail. His sins are catching up to him.¡±


    ¡°Stop being a dramatic bit¡ª¡± Yoruichi paused, eyes widening at the latter part of Soi Fon¡¯s words. ¡°What recent deeds are you talking about?¡±


    Soi Fon looked a bit confused at Yoruichi¡¯s exaggerated tone. ¡°The invasion of Arrancars. Captain Yamamoto has proof that Kisuke Urahara pulled the strings to make everything happen. Many lives would be lost without your friend Kazuya.¡±


    Kazuya''s actions cleared him of any suspicion from everyone. Soi Fon believed that Kisuke Urahara orchestrated everything without the knowledge of Yoruichi and Kazuya ¡ª since they were both in the Soul Society the entire time.


    Yoruichi snarled. ¡°Believe what you will. But the truth is way crazier than your wildest dreams.¡±


    Yoruichi didn¡¯t have the energy or patience to clear Soi Fon¡¯s decades of pent-up hatred. It hadn¡¯t worked out before, and it won¡¯t work out today either. She had long accepted that Kisuke and Soi Fon would never get along in any timeline.


    Soi Fon felt like Yoruichi held a big revelation ¡ª a truth that might change everything. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll change my condition.¡± She cleared her throat. ¡°Once I defeat you, you¡¯ll reveal this truth you speak of.¡±


    Yoruichi laughed. ¡°Alright. What if you lose, though?¡±


    ¡°You earn your freedom.¡±


    Yoruichi waved her paw. ¡°Uh uh. You¡¯ll never bother me again and keep my identity secret. Aaaand you¡¯ll keep Kazuya out of everything regardless of our duel¡¯s outcome. He doesn¡¯t deserve to lose sleep over my stupidity.¡±


    Soi Fon closed her eyes and let out a sigh. ¡°You always consider him before yourself. Just what did he do to deserve this?¡±


    ¡°A lot more than you can imagine,¡± Yoruichi said without a change in her casual tone. ¡°For starters, he wants to protect me from harm. You, my former disciple, are looking to murder me. It¡¯s common sense to choose him over you, right?¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 217: In the Hot Springs

    Chapter 217: In the Hot Springs


    Soi Fon and Yoruichi reached their destination, the hot spring pool. Even after a century, the water cascading into the natural pool still retained the same warmth.


    ¡°Those days I spent training here to become strong...¡± Yoruichi whispered, an undeniable hint of nostalgia in her voice. ¡°A century has passed, yet I haven¡¯t reached my limit.¡±


    Her ceiling had further expanded with her Hollowification. She didn¡¯t mind learning new abilities as long as they were fun. Thankfully, she had the perfect companion to educate her in Hollow abilities while keeping her entertained.


    Disappointment filled Soi Fon''s eyes as she shook her head. ¡°You haven¡¯t reached your limit because you grew weak away from battles.¡±


    Yoruichi laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. ¡°Wait for this out-of-shape young lady to beat the crap out of you.¡±


    Soi Fon let out a disdainful snort before she started removing her Shihakusho?.


    Yoruichi transformed back into her original form and playfully dipped her toes into the warm water. ¡°Ahh~, it feels so nice.¡±


    And with that, she took a plunge into the hot spring, splashing water over the surprised Soi Fon. ¡°What ya standing there for?¡±


    Soi Fon raised her arm and pointed at the twitching cat ears on Yoruichi¡¯s head. ¡°Yoruichi-sama... Are those real?¡±


    ¡°Huh? These?¡± Yoruichi asked as she pinched her ears. ¡°You saw me transform from cat to my true form. Where did I get the time to put these on?¡±


    ¡°But...¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wondering why I have them in the first place, right?¡±


    Soi Fon slowly nodded her head. ¡°You didn¡¯t have them before.¡±


    ¡°I also wasn¡¯t an exile before.¡± Yoruichi shrugged before revealing a grin. ¡°They look cute, though.¡±


    ¡°Indeed...¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to tease¡ª¡± Yoruichi suddenly paused as her Reiatsu spiked, making the water quiver. Her eyes narrowed as pulled at her cat ear. ¡°This baka neko.¡±


    Her Hollow self was the embodiment of a wild feline, so it had a natural aversion to water. The aversion was so strong that it made her Reiatsu unstable ¡ª the Hollow self did her best to take control of Yoruichi and pull her out of the water.


    ¡°Yoruichi-sama?¡± Soi Fon asked, bewildered. ¡°What¡¯s happening to you?¡±


    Yoruichi ignored the confused Soi Fon and crossed her arms, stubbornly remaining seated in the hot spring pool. ¡°Get used to it, for I¡¯ll not move an inch.¡±


    Soi Fon moved out of Yoruichi¡¯s line of sight and undressed completely, wrapping a white towel around herself. She had bathed with Yoruichi before, but she didn¡¯t feel at ease with the current Yoruichi.


    Yoruichi¡¯s unhinged laughter echoed behind Soi Fon. ¡°I won¡¯t let you become a dirty cat who never cleans herself!¡±


    {Partner, kiss Yoruichi. The simp would literally explode.}


    ¡®Not now.¡¯


    After taking off all his clothes, he reclined in the position beside Yoruichi, who proudly and unabashedly revealed everything to him.


    He revealed a faint smile. ¡°One of these days you¡¯ll pay for your seduction.¡±


    The side of her eyes crinkled ¡ª an unmistakable sign of joy. ¡°You couldn¡¯t sleep without checking on me.¡±


    Kazuya sighed. ¡°I thought you were caught by him, and were fighting for your life.¡±


    Yoruichi paused, her expression turning solemn. She yanked him closer, sandwiching his arm between her soft, jiggling tits. ¡°My other self was throwing a tantrum over water. She became calm when you came. It¡¯s as if she likes having you by her side.¡±


    Kazuya blinked in surprise. His last interactions with Yoruichi¡¯s Hollow weren¡¯t the brightest as he had brainwashed her to sleep and let Yoruichi take control of her body.


    Somehow he became the Hollow¡¯s favorite person.


    {It¡¯s simple, Partner. She likes strong, dominating men.}


    He couldn¡¯t argue with Nami¡¯s logic when proof was before him ¡ª Yoruichi¡¯s Reiatsu had indeed returned to its normalcy now that he joined her in the hot spring. The Hollow cat truly found his company pleasant.


    ¡°Did you seduce her when I was sleeping?¡± Yoruichi whispered in a honeyed, almost sensual voice. ¡°You can say it to me. I won¡¯t judge you.¡±


    The alluring former assassin devised her first honey trap to extract his secret. She, however, forgot she was dealing with a man who had plentiful experience with women of three realms.


    ¡°I prefer you over a kitten,¡± he whispered, his voice captivating the catgirl, and pressed his lips against her wet neck. ¡°Because I adore you.¡±


    Yoruichi took a shuddering breath, gripping his arm tightly. Her breath hiked, her heart pounding in her chest. ¡°Kazuya, I have something to tell you.¡±


    He swallowed hard, feeling a sense of anticipation building in his mind. The excitement she displayed gave him a kindling of hope ¡ª that Yoruichi was ready to confess her love for him. The chances of everything being a playful attempt to tease him were considerable, but he was willing to take the chance.


    With glazed eyes, she glanced up, her gaze unfocused and distant. ¡°Kazuya, I want you...¡±


    A/N: Soi Fon in the background


    Meanwhile Yoruichi in the background


    Spoiler


    [collapse]

 Chapter 218-220: Warmth in the cold (R-18)

    Chapter 218-220: Warmth in the cold (R-18)


    ¡°I want you to¡ª¡±


    ¡°Wait one bloody second,¡± Soi Fon cut into the pink bubble around Yoruichi and Kazuya after losing her last shred of patience in the face of their shameless flirting.


    ¡°...I want you to be the judge of my duel against Soi Fon,¡± Yoruichi finished her proposal with a smile. ¡°Can you do that?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s lips contorted into a grimace. The icy gaze emanating from his eyes sent chills down Yoruichi¡¯s spine, freezing her heart in its tracks.


    ¡°Yoruichi, never talk to me again.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°O-Oi, you¡¯re overreacting.¡±


    He silently shook his head and moved away from Yoruichi. Taking a comfortable position in the pool, he closed his eyes, preparing to take a nap in the cozy water.


    {Show her the consequences of playing with your heart then guilt trip her into marrying you.}


    ¡®Nami, please don¡¯t use your brain.¡¯


    He wasn¡¯t giving her the cold shoulder to guilt trip her but giving her a little taste of the emotional damage she gave him.


    {Hmph!}


    Meanwhile, Yoruichi stared at him in utter surprise. Drawing closer, she tugged at his arm for attention but he completely ignored her.


    Overwhelmed with defeat, she withdrew and massaged the back of her head, racking her brain for a way to fix the situation.


    ¡®I¡¯ll give him some time to cool his head.¡¯


    Her fight with Soi Fon was a big deal, but he didn¡¯t even bother asking her about it ¡ª from this alone she could sense the depth of his anger. He was truly upset with her, and it was somewhat justified. She had gone too far in giving him hope and then taking it away.


    ¡®He might just forget about me...¡¯


    The thought of ending his somewhat childish yet intimate relationship made her heart ache. Kazuya had many lovers to fall back on but she ¡ª she only had him.


    ¡°Hiss, you bad,¡± came the cold voice of her Hollow from her Inner World. ¡°Go close to Pet.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s sinking mood was brought back by the childish scolding of her Hollow. She didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry at her Hollow for treating Kazuya like a pet.


    ¡®When did you learn to communicate?¡¯


    ¡°Cumyunicat?¡¯


    ¡®Forget it.¡¯ She shook her head. ¡°Soi Fon, mind if we delay our duel for another day? I¡¯m not feeling like fighting right now.¡±


    Soi Fon shook her head. ¡°Let¡¯s settle it later.¡±


    She wanted to crush Yoruichi, who was giving her all in the battle. The Yoruichi before her was distracted and torn between multiple thoughts. She wouldn¡¯t feel any satisfaction in defeating Yoruichi in her current state.


    Yoruichi nodded and glanced at Kazuya. ¡°When will you return?¡±


    ¡°Later.¡±


    ¡°How long though?¡±


    ¡°Half an hour.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The silence hung heavy for a moment as Soi Fon stared at him, her eyes searching for something. Finally, she rose from the hot spring, water droplets cascading down her skin, and stepped out of the pool. After wearing her clothes, she said goodbye to Yoruichi and left the premises.


    Kazuya peered at Yoruichi through his left eye. She was lying in the pool with only her head poking out of the water.


    {Yup, that¡¯s the look of remorse.}


    ¡®Let¡¯s leave her alone.¡¯


    He spent a few more minutes then stepped out of the pool to wear his clothes.


    Yoruichi emerged from the water, her sleek figure glistening in the dim light. She grabbed a towel and began to meticulously clean herself, paying extra attention to clean her cat ears and tail. ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡±


    She quickly dried herself and turned into her cat form. ¡°Can you take this bag?¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s gaze drifted to the black bag. ¡°Your clothes?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    As he grabbed the bag, she jumped on his head, her weight barely noticeable. ¡°Conceal your Reiatsu and use Shunpo.¡±


    He silently acknowledged her request and headed towards the dormitory.


    ***


    Yoruichi stared at the door before her. ¡°Why are we outside Momo¡¯s room?¡±


    ¡°Shiro is training in mine,¡± Kazuya answered. ¡°It¡¯s my last day here. I¡¯ll spend it with Momo and Rukia.¡±


    Yoruichi jumped onto Kazuya¡¯s shoulder and affectionately licked his cheek. ¡°I won¡¯t disturb you then. Goodnight.¡±


    And she slinked away in the darkness of the night.


    {Wow, she is more considerate than I gave her credit for.}


    ¡®She looked sad.¡¯


    ¡°Eight out of ten. You have to refine your tongue movements.¡±


    Momo¡¯s smile brightened at the feedback. ¡°I¡¯ll get better as long as you let me!¡±


    He glanced down at his cock, which was still erect, and looked back at her. ¡°What¡¯s next?¡±


    Momo silently loosened her obi and slid her kimono off her arms. Her perky breasts sprang into view, rosy nipples erect in arousal.


    His first eyeful of Momo in all her glory was accentuated by the contrasting black lingerie, skimming gentle curves and lean muscle born from sword training.


    ¡°Take your bra off.¡±


    She followed his command without hesitation. Boasting a subtle proud smile, she gently arched her back, and guided his hands to her breasts. Cupping her full breasts in his hands, he nearly groaned as it reacted instantaneously to his touch. She was sensitive, almost painfully so, as she tipped her head back even further with a soft moan.


    Though they were not large, her breasts were incredibly soft and had a pleasing elasticity to them. Furthermore, they were highly sensitive, enhancing her sensations.


    He sat up on the bed under the cover of the blanket and let his talented fingers appreciate the curves of her breasts. Then he drew closer to tongue at one of her lovely breasts. He blew a little air against the tip and enjoyed how it pebbled. He wasted no time in doing the same on the other side, making her squirm and gasp ¡ª gasps that were felt more than heard, as she breathed harshly on his lap.


    Under his ministrations, her arousal grew. He could feel the gentle rock of her hips back against his cock, desperate for all the things he¡¯d hinted at but refused to give her over the last few months. She felt impatient to finally become his.


    Peppering kisses along the side of her neck, he admired her form. ¡°I¡¯ll take it from here.¡±


    ¡°Please~,¡± she obliged happily. ¡°I love you. I¡¯ll always let you use me however you desire.¡±


    He slid aside her panties, which felt wet to the touch, and inserted a finger. A warm wetness enveloped his finger, signaling her readiness.


    ¡°Mhmm.¡± Momo stifled her moan for Rukia¡¯s sake. Leaning closer, she filled the air with her fragrance, as she whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t hesitate. I can take it.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    He grabbed the base of his shaft and guided the head of his dick to the entrance of her pussy. Grabbing her hips, he steered her in taking him slowly. Immediately, a silken heat wrapped around his shaft, clenching squeezing before letting him progress.


    The grimace Momo made had him stopping, as he reached up to run his thumb between her brows, eyes clenched in pain.


    She arched back a little and rested her hands on his thighs. ¡°Mmm. Kazuya-kun, you¡¯re so warm. You¡¯re filling me completely.¡±


    ¡°Come here.¡±


    He brought her closer for a kiss while her wetness gradually loosened around him. But she wasn¡¯t so patient. Drawing away from him, she slammed her hips against his thigh, the contact of their flesh resounding through the room.


    A gasp made it out of her, but she pushed aside the pain and fell into his embrace. ¡°I¡¯m the happiest woman in the world, Kazuya-kun.¡±


    Although the pain danced at the edges of her vision, Momo had never felt more at ease than under Kazuya¡¯s knowing stare. His wisdom, his care, his kindness ¡ª she never felt more compelled to become anyone¡¯s than his.


    He brushed her hair. ¡°I¡¯m glad you feel that way.¡±


    ¡°Mhmm, Kazuya-kun. Don¡¯t stop now. Continue making me the happiest woman~.¡±


    Her innocent yet sultry voice loosened his grip on his desire. He let his fingers sink into her plump rear, and raised it before slowly bringing it down. The careful approach to lovemaking was to help her adjust. The pleasure, the warmth, the wetness, and the tightness he was feeling from her pussy against his cock urged him to fuck her as fast as he could, but he held himself back, for her sake.


    But as the seconds passed by, Kazuya could feel his rationality slipping away and the lust to breed her taking over. Carefully he angled her hips a bit, hoping to find that errant spot that eluded most men. He was careful in his search for it, adjusting his own pelvis until he found what he was looking for.


    The sudden jump of Momo¡¯s hips into his hands and her moan was his cue. ¡°That was amazing...¡±


    His expression turned roguish before he captured her in another head-spinning kiss. And then he cocked his hips back and sought that spot again, feeling her shudder as she sank even further into his embrace.


    Moans, sensual and pleasing, continuously left her lips, as he thrust into her weak spots. She was starting to catch on and helping him in hitting her pleasure spots.


    Eventually her pain melted away completely, leaving ardent moans against his lips and his own fervor to bring his lover to her peak. They moved in sync, as if they¡¯d shared a bed many times before now. With his face buried in the crook of her shoulder Kazuya did his best to stave off his own climax, concentrating on pushing Momo over the edge first.


    The earlier blowjob made it easy for him to hold on long enough.


    What he didn¡¯t count on was Momo¡¯s own need to push back, give just as much as he did. It would explain the wrapping of her legs around his waist, drawing him impossibly deep at a particularly strong thrust, making them both cry out as he thrust into her in earnest.


    When she pulled him into another tender kiss, she purposely tightened around him in hopes of catching him off-guard.


    ¡°My friend said we have to do it together,¡± Momo explained between moans, slowing him down and dodging his thrusts into her weak spot. ¡°It strengthens the bond.¡±


    She was willing to do anything to prolong her stay by his side.


    ¡°As you wish.¡±


    He accepted her request before stabbing none-too-gently back into her. Losing his desire, he chased the release, which arrived sooner than he expected.


    Momo didn¡¯t expect the wave that hit her, engulfing her body and drowning her by stealing the air from her lungs. ¡°Hah...¡±


    Kazuya went through a strong climax of his own. Paralyzed muscles shook as his grip tightened on her round butt, muffling a growl into her soft skin. All the while Momo clasped her limbs completely around him, neck arching as she accepted his seed into her womb.


    Deep breaths passed under the blanket as the couple enjoyed the post-coitus moment.


    After a few moments, Momo raised her head, eyes glimmering with affection. ¡°Kazuya-kun, you¡¯re still hard.¡±


    ¡°Mhmm.¡±


    Momo wiggled her hips to clench around him. And holding his shoulders, she guided him to lie on the bed and kissed his face. ¡°Let me try it once.¡±


    He rested his arms under his head as a pillow. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Momo pressed her hands on his chest and slammed her hips down on him with an echoing slap. Before she could move again, the intimate air under the blanket was taken.


    They both turned to the black-haired girl who had seized their blanket in the middle of lovemaking.


    A look of disapproval crossed Momo¡¯s face. ¡°Rukia, why did you do that?¡±


    A/N: Threesome with Rukia next?

 Chapter 221: Lies of M

    Chapter 221: Lies of M


    Blood rushed to Rukia¡¯s head, her body giving her ample fuel to brainstorm her way out of this tricky situation.


    As a result, her face was completely flushed.


    ¡°I-I didn¡¯t,¡± she stammered, her voice hoarse with nerves. But then, a sudden realization struck her, and she quickly assumed a stern expression. ¡°I am trying to sleep. Why are you two being noisy in the middle of the night?¡±


    Momo, unamused, turned her gaze to Kazuya. ¡°Don¡¯t buy her tough girl act. She is scared like a rabbit.¡±


    Kazuya remained silent, maintaining a neutral stance in front of the best friends.


    ¡°No, I am not!¡± Rukia retorted. ¡°Why are you guys having sex on the same bed I¡¯m sleeping on?¡±


    ¡°I am desperate,¡± Momo said with a sigh. ¡°Rukia, this is my last day with Kazuya-kun as my classmate... this¡ªthis is a memory I can hold on to for the time I¡¯ll be staying in the academy. This opportunity will never return once he graduates...¡±


    The heartfelt words softened Rukia¡¯s gaze. ¡°Sorry for not considering your situation... I¡¯ll do anything to make it up for you.¡±


    ¡°Anything?¡± Momo¡¯s black eyes gleamed with a mischievous intent as she sought confirmation. ¡°I want you to do something, but I¡¯m not sure you¡¯ll be willing to...¡±


    Rukia nodded resolutely. ¡°Just say the words. I¡¯ll cross the 320 Rukon districts to fulfill your request.¡±


    She seemed so focused and determined that the presence of the naked couple in her room didn¡¯t even register in her mind.


    Momo pulled herself away from Kazuya, causing Rukia¡¯s gaze to widen in surprise. Her eyes were drawn to the sight of the overflowing bodily fluids from Momo¡¯s slit and the imposing, veiny cock before her.


    ¡°No way... How did it even fit in there?¡±


    ¡°It stretched me from inside,¡± Momo whispered and faced Rukia in earnest. ¡°My request¡ªI want you to join us.¡±


    ¡°What the heck do you mean by ¡®join us¡¯? Is there some membership I¡¯m unaware of?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing major. I simply want you to have sex with Kazuya-kun...¡±


    ¡°How the hell is that not major?!¡± Rukia raised her voice in a stupor, completely caught-off guard by Momo¡¯s request. ¡°Why? Just why would you suggest that I become intimate with your lover?¡±


    Even Kazuya was taken aback by Momo¡¯s favor, knowing it went against her usual neediness. It was a foolish move for her to offer him another lover, as it would only eat into her own time with him.


    ¡°There are two reasons,¡± Momo said and dragged Rukia into the corner of the room to whisper the secret reasons. ¡°It has to do with...¡±


    Kazuya had sharp senses but even he couldn¡¯t hear a coherent word from their whispers. Rukia¡¯s stolen glances at his crotch only confirmed the sexual nature of their conversation. Tired of having his penis assessed like it was the sexiest lady on the street, he sat upright on the bed, hastily covering himself with a soft, warm blanket.


    {I have to know what type of schemes are cooking in Momo¡¯s mind. Partner, fire up your senses in overdrive mode.}


    As though realizing the possibility, Momo held Rukia¡¯s shoulders and made her sit down. Wrapping her arms around Rukia¡¯s neck, she provided Rukia courage and stopped her from escaping at the same time.


    Momo gave him a mysterious smile. ¡°Kazuya-kun, I want you to take Rukia¡¯s first time. Give her the memory of a lifetime.¡±


    Even though it was his best chance to pull Rukia into his harem, he wasn¡¯t taking it too seriously. He was completely confident in his skills, and that Rukia would keep craving more fun time with him.


    ¡°Y-Yeah,¡± Rukia said with a clumsy nod, her purple eyes glimmering with what felt like a look of anticipation. ¡°I have zero experience in this¡ªthis stuff. I¡¯m gonna fight you if you make fun of me, you hear?!¡±


    Feeling jitters, Rukia turned fiercely overprotective of her inexperience.


    {Funny she says that to one of the strongest beings in the world. Partner, punish this rabbit lover by lewding her like a rabbit in heat.}


    Like always Kazuya ignored the chaotic voice in his head. ¡°No one is born an expert.¡±


    ¡°You get me,¡± Rukia said with a sagely nod then loudly cleared her throat. ¡°Momo, what¡¯s the first thing in s-sex?¡±


    Momo gently brushed Rukia¡¯s hair, preparing her for what was to come, as if preparing a lamb for the slaughter. ¡°Ask the butch¡ªI mean Kazuya.¡±


    As Rukia turned her gaze to Kazuya, he extended a hand towards her with a smile. ¡°I can¡¯t do anything if you sit that far.¡±


    Hesitatingly, Rukia placed her hand in his, feeling the warmth of his touch. He yanked her towards him, causing her to land on his lap. Her right hand brushed against a concealed object under the blanket, drawing her attention to the thick outline that she could feel through her fingertips.


    A slight blush colored her cheeks as she marveled at his size. ¡°W-What did you eat to make it that big?¡±


    ¡°Why? Do you want to grow taller or get bigger boobs? You don¡¯t have to, though. You¡¯re quite pretty and cute as you are.¡±


    The compliment he gave her was so confidently delivered that it made her blush once more. However, her feelings of flattery quickly faded when she realized that to him, it was just another night of attempting to seduce women, and she would be merely another woman in his pursuit of becoming a Captain.


    ¡®I can¡¯t think like that! We¡¯re friends... this¡ªthis is just a gift for his successful graduation!¡¯


    She pushed aside her uneasiness and focused on the positive impact he had on her life. The reality where she could reunite with her sister was all because of him. The reality where she was no longer an orphan but a part of the Kuchiki Family.


    ¡°You know nothing,¡± she said slowly and raised her clenched fists with a stern frown, as if she was ready to throw hands. ¡°Spill your secret before you get hurt.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s genetics.¡±


    ¡°Genetics what? Talk to me in the Rukon language.¡±


    Momo pulled Rukia¡¯s cheeks. ¡°You can ask this later. Right now, we have to relieve Kazuya-kun.¡±


    Rukia let her fists fall, looking dejected, before perking up with a nervous giggle. ¡°Let¡¯s just get it done. We have Zanpakuto? training in the morning!¡±

 Chapter 222: LITTLE CRAZY (R-18)

    Chapter 222: LITTLE CRAZY (R-18)


    Looking Rukia in the eye, Kazuya gently placed his hands on her waist. ¡°Shall we start with a kiss?¡±


    Since it was Rukia¡¯s first time, he opted to ask for her consent rather than surprising her with one.Visitt  for the latest updates


    A look of astonishment crossed her face as her eyes grew wider. ¡°K-Kiss? You want me to get pregnant with your kid?!¡±


    It looked like she was truly convinced that the children were born because of a male kissing a female. Then again, her complete ignorance about sex suited her tomboyish personality perfectly, and that¡¯s what made her so endearing.


    Kazuya glanced at Momo, who was barely containing her laughter, obviously trying her best to not fluster Rukia. ¡°What if I want to have a cute daughter with Rukia?¡±


    ¡°Go somewhere else, you lunatic!¡± Rukia crossed her arms, glaring at him as if she wished ro grill him alive. ¡°I¡¯ll leave those things for after I become a high-class Shinigami.¡±


    Right now, her focus was on training and forming a bond with her Zanpakuto? Spirit. Everything else came second.


    Momo rested her chin on Rukia¡¯s head. ¡°He is just teasing you, Ru. A woman can only conceive a child through sex.¡±


    Patiently, she educated Rukia about reproduction, a perk accessible only to the Shinigami with high Reiatsu. Carrying the potential of Vice-Captain and more, Momo and Rukia both qualified in this regard.


    Rukia looked flustered at her ignorance. ¡°Gosh, it¡¯s so complicated.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not.¡± Kazuya shook his head and gently lifted her chin, gazing into her eyes. ¡°Are you ready?¡±


    The black-haired Shinigami was too lost in her own pleasure to pay any attention to him. Or perhaps she wanted it from him that she began moaning with more intensity.


    Kazuya didn¡¯t hold back.


    A few more thrusts between her soft thighs turned Rukia¡¯s panties wetter, as she squirted a little, experiencing micro-orgasms from his dominating kiss and the growing friction against her crotch.


    Realizing Rukia¡¯s lewdness, he reached out and brushed her clothed clit with his fingers. Her eyes suddenly widened, causing her to break the teasing union of their kiss.


    ¡°Wait, Kazu¡ªya!¡± She threw her head back and gripped his neck, her eyes shut and her teeth clenched. A hoarse, throaty moan escaped her. ¡°Nghhhh.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s dick didn¡¯t stop thrusting nor did his fingers stop playing with her clit. Her senses fired up in overdrive as she grew closer and closer to the biggest release of her life.


    And then it happened.


    She let out a pleasurable scream. It was loud, so loud that even Kazuya had to cover her mouth with his own. The intense pleasure drove her crazy. Her back arched, her hips bucking wildly and rubbing her wet core against his rock-hard cock.


    A rush of fluids slipped from her as she squirted a ton against her panty, leaving a visible stain on her bunny-themed pair of pink panties.


    Watching her intense orgasm before him also triggered his own. Clenching her knees together, he closed them ever so slightly and lifted his hips off the bed with a powerful thrust. With a rough groan, he let loose ropes of cum over the gaspy tomboy¡¯s kimono.


    The white kimono was stained in his seed.

 Chapter 223: THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER (I) (R-18)

    Chapter 223: THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER (I) (R-18)


    After her intense climax, Rukia parted from him, their passion manifesting as a thick strand of saliva between their mouths. She still panted and shuddered in orgasmic ecstasy.


    ¡°What was it...?¡± she asked, eyes unfocused, and brushed her fingers against her lips. ¡°Why is it so good? Connection of two mouths should be dirty and unhealthy, so why do I feel like this?¡±


    The seemingly innocent curiosity behind her question was betrayed by the look of arousal in the shimmering purple hues of her eyes ¡ª she wanted more.


    Kazuya let out a heated sigh. Instead of answering Rukia¡¯s question, he checked Momo''s reaction to their orgasm. The younger girl still held her affectionate and slightly devious smirk, as if feeling no hint of jealousy.


    For someone so obsessed with him, it was quite the odd reaction. Then again, Momo was also an oddball for inviting Rukia in the first place. She perhaps wanted to make him happier by offering her bunny loving friend.


    He finally turned his attention to Rukia. ¡°Well, that¡¯s just how humans and souls function.¡±


    Momo couldn¡¯t help but snicker. ¡°Rukia, Kazuya-kun is just that good at it.¡±


    Without Rukia¡¯s permission, Momo took off Rukia¡¯s kimono, leaving her shivering in the cold wind. The only source of heat was his searing member still pressed against her crotch.


    It was Momo¡¯s turn to do the unexpected ¡ª she began scooping Kazuya¡¯s spunk from Rukia¡¯s kimono before putting it in her mouth. ¡°Mhmm, Kazuya-kun¡¯s taste is amazing.¡±


    It¡¯d be a lie to say he wasn¡¯t turned on by a woman greedily seeking his cum.


    Rukia, on the other hand, was baffled by the weirdness of her best friend. She turned her attention towards his cock and scooped the droplets of cum from its tip. ¡°She is eating this, right? What the heck even is this?¡±


    ¡°Semen,¡± Momo answered. ¡°A man¡¯s seed that makes babies in a woman.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You idiot, why are you eating this?


    Momo, as helpful as ever, unclasped Rukia¡¯s bra from behind. The bra fell in his hands, completely exposing the most unwomanly part of her to his eyes.


    She shut her eyes, too afraid of his reaction to her sweaty little things. ¡°I-I¡¯m so¡ª¡±


    ¡°Well, aren¡¯t they cute?¡±


    He interrupted her meek voice with his firm one and reached for her breasts. His hands were hot, just like the rest of her body when he began to massage them. She brought a hand to her mouth the moment his mouth wrapped around her areola and a shot of pleasure ran straight to her core. His teeth bit lightly, just light enough to draw a moan out of her, before he began to pull and suck the small bud until it was throbbing.


    ¡°K-Kazuya,¡± she groaned his name against her hand and grabbed a lock of his hair as Kazuya grazed his teeth over her nipple again, and she couldn¡¯t help but let out a pathetic whine. ¡°Uhmm, you like them?¡±


    ¡°Why would I hate them?¡±


    ¡°Y-Yeah, why would you hate them?¡± She stuttered in a raised voice as if trying to hide her insecurity. ¡°I mean, I still have time to grow.¡±


    Kazuya gave her breast one final lick and smiled. ¡°Like I said, you don¡¯t have to be worried about them. Every size deserves love. Yours are no exception.¡±


    Rukia felt strangely comforted by his words. ¡°Will you ever stop playing with them?¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡± He roughly squeezed her breasts and turned to Momo. ¡°Let Rukia rest her head on your lap.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Momo eagerly grasped Rukia¡¯s shoulders and pulled her back, putting her friend¡¯s head on her soft thighs. ¡°Like this?¡±


    ¡°Yep.¡±


    Kazuya was planning to give Rukia a cunnilingus, one that would rock her world, but the scene before him forced him to reconsider. Rukia lay on Momo¡¯s lap with her shapely legs in M shape while the latter stroked her friend¡¯s hair and face with a smug smile.


    The beautiful sight overflowing with sensuality and playfulness awakened the beast inside him.

 Chapter 224: THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER (II) (R-18)

    Chapter 224: THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER (II) (R-18)


    Kazuya yanked Rukia¡¯s panties down her legs and drew her knees apart from each other. ¡°Rukia, I¡¯m putting it in.¡±


    ¡°Eh?! W-Wait one second. Let me prepare myself¡ª¡±


    ¡°Trust in me,¡± said Momo in a soothing voice. ¡°Simply follow Kazuya-kun¡¯s instructions.¡±


    {This girl is preaching. Start of a real cult question mark.}


    Consumed by lust, he ignored Nami¡¯s observation and dragged Rukia closer by her hips, letting her legs close around him. He took his aching cock and teased her flushed lips for a while before pushing himself into her tight heat. Her core suddenly tightened on his cock, deliciously squeezing him within its squirming wetness.


    Thanks to her earlier climax and her aroused state, he pushed into her without a problem.


    A loud and altogether lewd moan left Rukia¡¯s mouth as Kazuya penetrated her for the first time. ¡°It¡¯s hot...¡±


    Kazuya paused and looked over at Rukia¡¯s face. ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Rukia shook her head. Looking down at her crotch, she saw their intimate connection and blushed. ¡°Just numb.¡±


    Giving her a nod, he pushed up her legs in the air and found a comfortable spot by hovering over her. Rukia immediately grabbed a fistful of the young man¡¯s silver hair and unabashedly pulled him down for a deep, tongue-filled kiss.


    While sloppily kissing her, he teased her breasts and continued his slow and steady thrusts into her. Soon, she was stretched around him, completely becoming used to his length.


    That was when he folded up her slender legs until they went past her shoulders. He went to town plowing her right on Momo¡¯s lap. She loudly cried out under his glorious pistoning member, even as her pussy experienced one micro-orgasm after another.


    ¡°Oh fuck! Kazuya, ungh! Don¡¯t stop kissing me, damn you!¡±Discover new chapters at novelhall.com


    Rukia squealed as his cock speared into her squelching depths again and again and again. Even as she moaned up a storm and even as she got plowed senseless under him, she demanded to be kissed, as if it was her right.


    Kazuya, of course, gave her his lips, his tongue, his mouth, and his best kissing techniques to keep her entertained while he pounded her lithe body under him.


    Soon, he could feel a searing sensation running up his core. He picked up the pace and a few thrusts more made Rukia arch her back and spasm as she felt his seed pouring into her, painting her insides white and hot.


    The bunny lover nearly squealed from orgasmic bliss as he emptied his balls inside her. She laid hot in his bed, an arm slung over forehead as she tried to catch her breath.


    ¡°Hah... hah...¡±


    He pulled out of her with a contented sigh and sat down on his naked butt, watching the mixture of their fluids sexily dribble down Rukia¡¯s entrance.


    Tossing the idea of future aside, Kazuya indulged in the present, in the lithe bodies offering their everything to him. Alternating between their tightness, he enjoyed Momo¡¯s sensual, borderline eargasmic moans and Rukia¡¯s throaty and raspy moans.


    Hearing noises outside, Kazuya looked toward the door and shook his head. The cries of young ladies had gathered a crowd of female students in the hallway, all keenly listening to the sopping wet fleshes sound and the moans.


    {Degenerates.}


    He slapped Momo¡¯s ass and gripped it tightly before delivering a powerful thrust. Ropes and ropes of cum flooded inside her, making her climax once again.


    Momo collapsed on top of Rukia, heaving for air as pleasure wrecked her body.


    Rukia¡¯s eyes gleamed at the opportunity presented before her. She mustered her strength and flipped her position with Momo.


    ¡°It¡¯s better¡ªNnghh~! Don¡¯t spank my butt, you dimwit!¡±


    Kazuya chuckled and spanked her once again before digging his big fingers into her silky flesh and kneading it. ¡°Your fault for waving it around.¡±


    Rukia had unknowingly offered a sensual view of her peach-like butt, which absolutely didn¡¯t match her thin waistline and slender thighs. The sexy butt provoked him, prompting him to spank her supple flesh.


    Rukia squirmed and waved her butt even more. ¡°My butt is all tingly now.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s fix that.¡±


    He spread her asscheeks and penetrated her wet hole. The tingly pain and pleasure mixed together, making her cry out his name in raw ecstasy.


    He leaned forward and got ahold of her breasts. The overload of sensations made her eyes roll to the back of her head, her tongue lolling out in the typical ahegao manner.


    After giving Rukia a second creampie, he switched to the neglected Momo and began pounding her. Rukia, the addict to kissing, pressed her lips down on Momo¡¯s lips.


    ¡°E-Eh?¡± Momo uttered a cry of surprise, which Rukia ignored.


    Like Momo had said, this moment probably won¡¯t come again. Rukia threw away all her shame and embarrassment to make the most out of her first ever intercourse.


    So, the pair of rookie Shinigami sensually locked lips while teasing each other¡¯s breasts, while the only man in the room pounded them both like they were animals in heat.


    On his last day at the academy, he made a mewling mess out of the two ladies for hours, to the point that sun had risen in the Soul Society. The two no longer had the strength to even stand up.


    With his cum overflowing from their contented entrances, the best friends crawled into his arms and went to the dreamworld.

 Chapter 225: A Blatant Call

    Chapter 225: A Blatant Call


    The Seireitei had many houses with massive open yards. In one such yard, under a tree, Yoruichi curled on the ground, intending to borrow the place for the night. The hour-long nap at Kazuya''s mansion wouldn''t cut it for the physical and mental abuse she received at Aizen''s hands.


    She needed more sleep!


    Yet, barely an hour later, her sleep was interrupted by a whisper, ¡°Pet...¡±


    Yoruichi groaned and tried to filter out her childish Hollow¡¯s voice, treating it as a background noise.Ne?ww chapters will be fully updated at novelhall.com


    ¡°Pet!¡±


    ¡°PET!¡±


    ¡°PET!!!¡±


    ¡°Please, shut your mouth.¡± Yoruichi snapped at her Hollow, who was more or less equivalent to a human child in terms of intelligence. ¡°Your pet isn¡¯t here.¡±


    ¡°Go... Go to Pet. Sleep with Pet...?¡±


    ¡°He is sleeping with someone else.¡±


    Her Hollow hissed, enraged at the thought of imagining her so-called Pet going to someone else¡¯s side. ¡°Pet ours... take Pet back.¡±


    Yoruichi was quite tempted to go to the Living World and bother Shinji¡¯s group for tips to keep her Hollow from being so damn noisy.


    ¡®I don¡¯t think they can help me.''


    Her Hollow was unique for embodying her feline nature more than its Hollow nature. She doubted any Visored would have a Hollow as unique as hers.


    ¡°Go to PET!¡±


    ¡°I swear I¡¯ll kill you if you said Pet one more time.¡±


    ¡°Pet...?¡±


    Yoruichi groaned and plopped her head on the floor. Her Hollow was so dumb that threatening it made her look like a fool. It seemed impossible to convince the moody creature, but she had to find a way to silence the Hollow. It was her only choice as Kazuya, in Momo¡¯s room, would be busy doing lewd things.


    ¡®I¡¯ll go to him later.¡¯


    ¡°Okay...¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s eyes widened. Her Hollow¡¯s response showed its frightening growth. In one day, it had began to understand and speak basic sentences.


    After sleeping for a few hours, Yoruichi headed back to the dorm to fulfill her Hollow¡¯s wishes. Just as she reached the dorm building, the ecstasy-filled cries of Momo and Rukia reached her ears.


    ¡®This guy...¡¯


    She had no words for her companion. It didn¡¯t take a detective to predict Rukia would end up in his bed, but she didn¡¯t expect the day to come so soon.


    Rukia and Momo¡¯s lewd cries filled her mind with obscene images. Images that her Inner Hollow also had access to.


    ¡°Grrrr.¡±


    Judging from its growl, her Hollow didn¡¯t enjoy her Pet getting frisky with anyone.


    Muramasa was quite curious about the opponent who could push Aizen to the point of breaking his Zanpakuto?.


    Aizen¡¯s back trembled for a moment. He looked over his shoulder. ¡°A Hollow.¡±


    Muramasa¡¯s eyes widened, then a look of recognition flicked in his eyes. ¡°Did her Reiatsu feel oppressive?¡±


    Aizen caught the look of familiarity in Muramasa¡¯s eyes ¡ª the Zanpakuto? Spirit knew something about the troublesome Cazador. ¡°Have you met her?¡±


    ¡°I almost encountered her when I was wandering around in Hueco Mundo. She came to defend another female Adjuchas¡ªlet me correct that. That Adjuchas became a Vasto Lorde before my eyes.¡±


    ¡°She has two Vasto Lorde on her side. How fascinating.¡± Aizen assumed a thoughtful expression, breaking into a smile at the thought of meeting her again. ¡°You said almost. Did you not see her?¡±


    Aizen was feeling more and more drawn to the Hollow and her fascinating powers. It was quite tragic that they stood on the opposite sides, for she harbored a deep grudge against him for attacking her home, Karakura Town.


    The grudge didn¡¯t make any logical sense, but Hollows were never creatures of reasoning. They lived and died for violence, well, apart from a few oddballs.


    Muramasa sighed. ¡°No. I escaped as soon as I sensed her... fighting her was extremely risky at the time.¡±


    Aizen looked over to Gin. ¡°Search every nook and cranny in Karakura Town.¡±


    ¡°Who am I looking for?¡± Gin asked. ¡°I¡¯ll need more than just a female Hollow to find her, you know?¡±


    ¡°Average height, slim build, with long silver hair. Her voice is...¡± Aizen paused for a second and adjusted his glasses. ¡°You¡¯ll realize it¡¯s her as soon as you hear her speak.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so special about her voice?¡± Muramasa asked. ¡°Is she like that guy in the Academy? Kazuya Ishihara, right? His voice is... magic. No other word can describe it better.¡±


    Muramasa had been very obsessed with Kazuya Ishihara, hoping his powerful Zanpakuto? would harbor an equally powerful Zanpakuto? Spirit. A Zanpakuto? Spirit that could contend with Yamamoto¡¯s Zanpakuto? Spirit and help Muramasa free his master.


    The plan changed when Muramasa stumbled upon Gin at the Shin¡¯o Academy and met Aizen through Gin.


    Aizen nodded his head. ¡°Kazuya¡¯s voice shows most effect on females, whereas Cazador¡¯s voice mostly affects males.¡±


    He had drawn parallels between Kazuya and Cazador the moment he heard Kazuya¡¯s voice for himself. But he remained skeptical. After all, they had nothing in common apart from their voices and silver hair. They weren¡¯t even of the same race and gender.


    What¡¯s more, Cazador had watched Yoruichi getting stomped at his hands with an indifferent look, which Kazuya would never do. Kazuya, after all, had a deep relationship with Yoruichi, from the information his spies had gathered.


    ¡®They must have inherited the same type of Soul King¡¯s fragment.¡¯


    This was the conclusion Aizen had drawn after meeting Kazuya. If Kazuya hadn¡¯t received such honor from the Gotei 13, Aizen would¡¯ve snatched the young prodigy for experimentation. Alas, everyone¡¯s eyes were on the student for making such a big splash against the invading Arrancars.


    Meanwhile, Gin smirked, looking so clearly tempted to stab Aizen¡¯s heart in his moment of reflection. He suppressed the urge since he couldn¡¯t observe any opening.


    ¡°I¡¯ll depart as soon as I take a Hollow bounty.¡±


    Muramasa hunched low and sat on the edge of the hill. ¡°Zanpakuto? Spirits are getting restless because of your Reiatsu. Can you two leave now?¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± Aizen threw a glance past Gin, towards the series of caves behind him. ¡°Muramasa, don¡¯t wait for an opportunity. Make it yourself.¡±


    Even though Aizen addressed Muramasa specifically, Muramasa felt like the words contained a deeper meaning.


    Gin maintained his smile, even though his fists clenched ever so slightly under his loose sleeves.


    Aizen revealed an imperceptible smile, reveling in the thrill of provoking Gin Ichimaru.

 Chapter 226: New Mission

    Chapter 226: New Mission


    Basking in the pale, silvery moonlight that bathed the tranquil garden and enjoying the smooth, high-quality sake from their delicate ceramic cups, the Captain and Vice-Captain duo of the 4th Squad savored a rare moment of respite after a long, arduous day. This moonlit sake ritual had been their weekly tradition for as long as Isane had agreed to become Unohana¡¯s loyal drinking companion, as it offered them a sacred time to unwind from the stresses while bonding with each other.


    But tonight was different ¡ª tonight wasn¡¯t meant to be just another weekly gathering.


    Unohana sipped the fragrant rice wine and smiled softly, drinking to celebrate her dear lieutenant Isane¡¯s successful return from her most dangerous mission.


    And Isane...


    ¡°Captain, why? Why did they have to become like that?!¡± Isane slurred, her words thick with the haze of alcohol as shimmering tears pooled in her eyes. Raw emotion caused her voice to tremble. ¡°This isn¡¯t fair! It¡¯s just not fair!¡±


    The silver-haired woman gulped down the sake, the burning liquid searing her throat as she desperately drank to drown the heart-wrenching sorrow that consumed her. The pain of losing so many of her fellow Shinigami to the cruel fate of Hollowification was almost too much to bear, their agonized faces vividly carved in her mind.


    ¡°Isane, don¡¯t cry. Some¡ªsome things in life are simply unavoidable.¡±


    Unohana tried to comfort Isane, but her attempt fell short, unable to penetrate the shame and regret consuming Isane.


    Isane hiccupped, her shoulders shaking with each uneven breath. ¡°There must be something we can do to save them. Like some Zanpakuto?...¡±


    Unohana''s eyes flickered with a hint of inspiration, a sudden realization dawning upon her. ¡°There is a way. Kazuya¡¯s Shikai.¡±


    Isane¡¯s eyes widened, the revelation cutting through the fog of alcohol and sobering her up. ¡°Why didn¡¯t I think about that?! Anyways, Captain. Stay here. I¡¯ll go get him.¡±


    Unohana rolled her eyes at Isane¡¯s impulsiveness, reaching out to grab her lieutenant before she could run off to Kazuya¡¯s house in her intoxicated state. ¡°It¡¯s not that simple. Captain Kurotsuchi took the Hollowfied Shinigami. He will not part with his ¡®experiment subjects¡¯ without a fight.¡±


    ¡°Those men... they went out there with the confidence that the Vice-Captain of the 4th Squad would not let them die. I let them down, Captain... I let them die on my watch.¡±


    ¡°I want to say it wasn¡¯t your fault, but your stubbornness won¡¯t accept that.¡±


    It didn¡¯t take a detective to know how thoroughly Unohana understood Isane.


    {Depends on Hisana¡¯s reaction... If she is fine, he won¡¯t go against you.}


    ¡®Guessed as much.¡¯


    Toshiro stared at Kazuya¡¯s face, his brow furrowed slightly. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine Vice-Captain Kuchiki getting flustered.¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t seen the real Byakuya then.¡± Kazuya chuckled, a knowing glint in his eyes as he took the package from Toshiro. ¡°Alright, I''ll see you later at the dorm.¡±


    Toshiro nodded, his expression unreadable as he turned and headed off without uttering a word about Momo or Rukia, leaving Kazuya to his own devices.


    Closing the door behind him, Kazuya tore open the package. What emerged from within was a neatly ironed Shinigami uniform, the black fabric crisp and unblemished. Alongside it was a pristine white scarf, and a pair of Kenseikan ¡ª the hair ornaments worn by nobles like Byakuya. These ornate accessories were worth more than multiple annual salaries of higher seated Shinigami but he had casually gifted them to Kazuya.


    ¡°Nah, I don''t need this,¡± Kazuya muttered, casually placing the Kenseikan back into the envelope, deeming them useless. However, his attention was drawn to the bundled uniform, its unique appearance setting it apart from the standard Shinigami attire. With a single touch, he could feel the high-quality fabric used to weave the uniform, its texture smooth and luxurious. The white haori that accompanied it gave the ensemble a striking resemblance to a Captain¡¯s Shihakusho?.


    {Irregular uniform for the irregular you.}


    ¡®Can¡¯t argue against that.¡¯


    Kazuya tossed the uniform aside and made his way to the bathroom, which, like every other room in the Shino? Academy, was fully functional and well-maintained. The Gotei 13 spared no expense when it came to the academy, knowing that the future of their organization depended on the quality of the students they produced.


    As he scrubbed himself thoroughly, his thoughts drifted to last night. He had sensed her presence during his intimate moments with Momo and Rukia, but approaching her at that time had been impossible. Then, just as suddenly as she had appeared, she vanished, leaving no trace of her Reiatsu behind.


    ¡®Geez, what will I do with her?¡¯


    {Some punishment is needed to put her back in her place.}


    He shook his head, the droplets of water cascading from his hair. ¡°Let her be. She knows what she is doing.¡±


    After drying himself off and donning his new uniform, Kazuya cast a final glance at the sleeping beauties, their faces serene and peaceful in their slumber. They most likely wouldn¡¯t wake up before afternoon. Leaving them to enjoy their rest, he walked out of the room.

 Chapter 227-228: The Mission of All Time

    Chapter 227-228: The Mission of All Time


    Isane had completely sobered up by now, courtesy of Unohana¡¯s own formula for curing hangovers, meticulously formulated from herbs gathered from mountains. After a swift shower and a change into a fresh, crisp uniform, Isane was absolutely ready to welcome Kazuya to their ranks.


    As she waited outside the barracks, Isane hummed a tune. She was positively bubbling with an exceptionally good mood, partially from receiving a golden opportunity to redeem her failure and partially from the prospect of working alongside Kazuya.


    Captain Kurotsuchi may have been an unhinged researcher, but Isane had unwavering faith in Kazuya. If there was one man who could persuade Captain Kurotsuchi, it was undoubtedly Kazuya.


    ¡®Telling him about it will be very awkward.¡¯


    After all, they were essentially strong-arming him, however politely, to take a task that was galaxies outside the usual mundane duties of a 4th Squad¡¯s Shinigami. Even though she knew in her bones that he would accept her bold request, she couldn¡¯t shake the nagging feeling that she was somehow taking advantage of him, that she was abusing his kindness.


    ¡®I¡¯ll do something nice to make up for it.¡¯


    As she was lost in her musings, Kazuya showed up in the distance, impeccably on time. He was adorned in a tweaked version of Shinigami uniform that looked refined, noble even. Isane had to admit how good he looked in his new attire. It was just one more reason for women to fall madly, hopelessly in love with him.


    ¡°Morning, Vice-Captain,¡± Kazuya greeted her with a charming, heart-melting smile, accompanied by a slight, gentlemanly incline of his head. ¡°Oh, someone was drinking last night.¡±


    The sharp comment caught Isane completely off-guard, and she visibly flinched, her eyes widening in stunned surprise. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Kazuya stepped closer, boldly reaching up and sensually swiping a thumb over her plush lips. ¡°Your eyes are slightly redder than usual. Your skin and lips are also dry. Those are clear signs of a hangover.¡±


    To be perfectly honest, he had made an audacious guess that fortunately turned out to be true. But he carried it off with such confidence that it seemed like a keen observation.


    Isane reflexively stepped back, unconsciously covering her mouth, her heart hammering, threatening to leap out of her chest. ¡°Why do you pay so much attention to me?¡±


    She was truly baffled by Kazuya¡¯s intense interest in her. In her own critical eyes, someone of her height could never be considered attractive or feminine. She simply couldn¡¯t bring herself to believe his claims about her being a ''cool and captivating woman''. Such honeyed words seemed like impossible flattery to her own ears.


    Kazuya tilted his head slightly, studying her with a sharp yet gentle gaze that seemed to pierce right through to her very soul. ¡°Isn¡¯t it natural for guys to appreciate a beautiful woman?¡± he casually inquired, quirking a brow. ¡°Are you still clinging onto the belief that you¡¯re somehow not good enough?¡±


    Charmingly flustered, Isane¡¯s eyes timidly darted away from him, desperately seeking a distraction to escape the awkward topic. Her gaze landed on his striking Shinigami uniform. ¡°W-We didn¡¯t issue you any uniform,¡± she stammered, latching onto the welcome change of subject like a drowning woman. ¡°Where did you get it?¡±


    Kazuya didn¡¯t pursue the sensitive matter of her crippling inferiority complex, perceiving that she wasn¡¯t in the right headspace to have such a raw, vulnerable conversation about it at present. ¡°It¡¯s a gift from Byakuya.¡±


    ¡°Oh... You are close to him as well,¡± Isane marveled, eyes glittering in wonderment. ¡°At this point, you¡¯ll become the person with the most connections here.¡±


    ¡°What makes you think I¡¯m not that guy already?¡±


    He had an almost familial bond with the Shiba clan, the complete and unwavering support of captains Shunsui and Byakuya, and he effortlessly maintained relations with multiple Vice Captains and even Unohana herself. His growing importance was on par if not more than the lower-ranking Captains.


    In the span of a mere four months, he had amassed quite the formidable web of influence in the Soul Society, most of which could be attributed to his timely displays of skills and a series of fortuitous encounters.


    {You got the plot armor.}


    ¡®...¡¯


    Isane pensively rubbed the back of her messy hair, a deeply thoughtful expression on her lovely face. ¡°Yeah, you might be...¡±


    She timidly lowered her gaze to the ground, internally debating how to bring up her request. ¡°Kazuya, can you¡ªno, never mind me.¡±


    She abruptly backpedaled on her decision, losing her nerve to an impulsive thought ¡ª that she shouldn¡¯t burden him with such a task when he had yet to even formally introduce himself to the division. Mentally berating herself, Isane resolved to find a better time for the discussion, perhaps after Kazuya had a chance to properly settle into his new role.


    Kazuya waved a hand before her face. ¡°Something weighing on your pretty mind, Isane?¡±


    ¡°No, no, it¡¯s nothing,¡± she whispered, shaking her head and glancing over her slender shoulder. ¡°We really must check in for the morning assembly. Our fellow Shinigami are very interested in knowing more about you.¡±


    As she gracefully turned to leave, Kazuya boldly grabbed her hand, his fingers curling around her wrist. ¡°I¡¯m not letting you leave me in suspense.¡±


    ¡°W-We can surely discuss it later,¡± Isane stammered, a blush staining her cheeks. ¡°Right?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Please...¡± She slowly turned back to face him, her eyes upturned and pleading like an adorable puppy. ¡°I¡¯d hate for you to be late to your first assembly.¡±


    ¡°Heh. You¡¯re worried about him,¡± Yoruichi said, sarcasm dripping from her voice. ¡°Like the several dozen women who have a crush on him.¡±


    In Yoruichi¡¯s very humble opinion, if Kazuya wasn¡¯t widely known to be as powerful as a Captain, his admirers would have already taken him away against his will, probably trapping him in some dark basement for all eternity. Of that, she harbored no doubt.


    It was Ku?kaku''s turn to narrow her eyes, a suspicious glint flickering in their depths. ¡°Is that the stench of jealousy, old friend?¡±


    ¡°Spare me. I was merely stating objective facts,¡± Yoruichi scoffed. ¡°And if we¡¯re talking cold, hard facts... I¡¯ve seen you blushing like a lovestruck maiden in his presence."


    ¡°You need to get your eyes checked,¡± Ku?kaku snorted mockingly, barely restraining herself from pummeling the insufferable cat. ¡°And if we¡¯re being honest here, you shamelessly flirted with him the entire time he lived here. I won¡¯t be shocked to receive an invitation to your and Kazuya¡¯s wedding.¡±


    ¡°As if!¡± Yoruichi retorted. ¡°One of these days your uncle is gonna marry your ass to him.¡±


    ¡°What? Why would he do that?¡±


    ¡°To make Kazuya his successor.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen.¡±


    The two bickered back and forth with increasing intensity, hurling insults at each other in a manner more befitting bitter love rivals than long time friends. Only after exhausting their arsenal of insults did they finally lapse into tense silence, settling for glaring at one another.


    ¡°Ku?kaku... why are we arguing?¡±


    ¡°Dumbass,¡± Ku?kaku muttered, rubbing her temple. ¡°You started it.¡±


    They both heaved a synchronized sigh, the hostility dissipating and leaving awkward silence in its wake. Yoruichi was clearly frustrated and on edge after talking to her Hollow, while Ku?kaku was simply worried for both her friend and Kazuya.


    Though she often acted like she despised Kazuya, she very much cared about him. His charisma, strength, potential, and firm passion to fight for his desires made him a man worthy of her admiration.


    Yoruichi abruptly hopped to her feet and walked inside the house, her tail swishing behind her. ¡°Ku?kaku, come with me. There¡¯s something I need to show you. Now.¡±


    Her unusually serious tone left no room for debate. Immediately grasping the gravity of the situation, Ku?kaku trailed after her friend and descended into the basement. The space served both as Ku?kaku¡¯s room and fireworks workshop, but Yoruichi had an open invitation to come and go as she pleased.


    As Ku?kaku¡¯s feet hit the bottom step, she froze, eyes widening in shock. There stood Yoruichi in her true form. However, something was drastically different ¡ª her friend now sported real cat ears and a cat tail, her very aura screaming of Hollow.


    She hadn¡¯t seen many Hollows in her life, but she could never forget the aura of the monstrous souls.


    ¡°Y-Yoruichi...¡± Ku?kaku managed to utter, her breath coming in ragged gasps. ¡°How is this even possible...?¡±


    Yoruichi slowly turned to face her, revealing a bone-white cat-shaped mask that seemed to have merged with her face. ¡°Do you find this disgusting?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be an idiot. It¡¯s just a fucking mask,¡± Ku?kaku reassured. ¡°Like that would ever change how I feel about you.¡±


    At that, Yoruichi nodded and snapped her fingers. The eerie Hollow mask fractured into glowing shards that slowly dissolved into thin air, leaving Yoruichi¡¯s face bare. ¡°That makes four people who are fine with my change.¡±


    ¡°Let me guess the identities of the other three ¡ª Kazuya, Kisuke, and Tessai.¡±


    ¡°Got it in one try, as expected of Shiba Clan¡¯s princess,¡± Yoruichi confirmed with an approving nod. ¡°Though, I think Kazuya¡¯s whole Hollow harem would welcome me with open arms.¡±


    ¡°No shit. They¡¯re Hollows themselves.¡±


    Yoruichi shook her head. ¡°You can¡¯t tell they are Hollows just by looking at them.¡±


    Ku?kaku held up an impatient hand. ¡°Enough about them. Let¡¯s talk about you. What the hell did you do to become a Hollow?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s one hell of a long story...¡±


    Without hesitation, Ku?kaku plopped down cross-legged on the ground, patting her bent knees with her only intact hand. ¡°Time is the only thing I don¡¯t lack.¡±


    Usually Ku?kaku would¡¯ve forced Yoruichi to wear some clothes, but she had different priorities at the moment.


    Yoruichi gave a playful laugh before settling in to relay yesterday¡¯s events.

 Chapter 229-231: Discoveries

    Chapter 229-231: Discoveries


    Izumi found herself grappling with a sight that she never would¡¯ve expected. There, lounging in the living room, were a group of women she had known and admired for quite some time ¡ª the incredibly nurturing teacher Tier Harribel, the owner of the flower shop Cyan Sung-Sun and her assistant Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun¡¯s close friend Apacci.


    Only after following Lisa to Kazuya¡¯s real home did the shocking pieces of the puzzle finally click into place for Izumi.


    These women, every last one of them, belonged to her beloved¡¯s harem.


    And most shockingly of all they were Hollows.


    Not the Hollows she used to fight as a Quincy, but the most powerful species Izumi had only read about in the books ¡ª the legendary Adjuchas and Vasto Lorde. Even at the very peak of her power, she would have been stomped by even the weakest of the Menos ¡ª a Gillian ¡ª as these creatures possessed the power to erase an entire town from existence.


    The group of Hollows before Izumi sat near the peak of the Hollow food chain, wielding more power than Gillians. They had the capability to destroy a city before the Soul Society could intervene.


    ¡°What in the actual hell...?¡± Izumi whispered, the crude words foreign on her tongue. Cursing was far from her desired language, but this revelation had turned off her verbal filter. ¡°This is... this is crazy.¡±


    Lisa, who sat by Izumi¡¯s side, let out a giggle, her eyes dancing with playfulness behind her glasses. ¡°Don¡¯t be frightened. Our Kazuya can defeat every soul in this room without breaking a sweat.¡±


    ¡°What...?¡±


    Harribel nodded quietly to confirm Lisa¡¯s bold statement, her chest straining against her crossed arms. ¡°It¡¯s true. Kazuya has transcended the boundaries of Vasto Lordes. Right now, he can call himself the God-King of Hueco Mundo.¡±


    As Kazuya¡¯s very first sparring partner and instructor, Harribel¡¯s heart swelled with fierce pride. He had evolved from a Vasto Lorde who could barely hold his own against her into an entity that every Hollow could only look up to. And most impressively, he had achieved this growth while consuming one Hollow ¡ª the poor unfortunate soul that Mila Rose had forced Kazuya into devouring.


    Mila Rose languidly leaned her chin on her palm, her lips curving into a smug smirk. ¡°He is the leader of our pride. It¡¯s only natural for him to surpass us all.¡±


    Being a member of Kazuya¡¯s pride filled Mila Rose with immense pride and lit a fire in her to contribute to the pride. However, she had managed to reign in those base instincts thus far, using them to motivate her to assist Sung-Sun in her flower shop.


    ¡°Ah fuck. I can¡¯t wait to buy that perfect gift for Kazuya,¡± Sung-Sun spoke suddenly, giving voice to the thoughts bouncing around Mila Rose¡¯s head. ¡°Mila Rose, you¡¯re so predictable, so easy to read.¡±


    Mila Rose let out an almost feral hiss, baring her fangs at the other woman in a clear display of threat. ¡°Snake, I¡¯m warning you. Keep your tongue to yourself, or else I¡¯ll yank it out.¡±


    The brief reunion with Kazuya had left Mila Rose more frustrated than satisfied. After all, Sung-Sun had hoarded Kazuya during their last night¡¯s threesome, and he had to use his fingers to satisfy Mila Rose. Although she had climaxed a couple of times, it wasn¡¯t the same as climaxing from receiving his hot seed inside her.


    She was quite pissed at Sung-Sun as a result.


    ¡°Tsk tsk. For that threat, I¡¯ll delay your pay by a week,¡± Sung-Sun retorted breezily, examining her manicured nails covered in a fresh coat of black paint. ¡°Take it as a lesson to always respect the higher-ups.¡±


    Mila Rose smashed her fist on the table, rattling the finely built furniture. ¡°Why you little¡ª¡±


    ¡°Rose, what have I said about resorting to violence in this house?¡± Harribel cut in sternly. After stopping Mila Rose from exploding, she turned to Sung-Sun. ¡°Cyan, you know better than to tease Rose about her salary... That money means the world to her right now.¡±


    ¡°You''re right, Harribel-sama. I won¡¯t let her take that away from me,¡± Mila Rose growled, still glaring daggers at a seemingly calm Sung-Sun. ¡°Snake, don¡¯t mess with my dream and I won¡¯t hesitate to spank the pancake you call ass.¡±


    Apacci threw her head back and cackled. ¡°Pancake, hahahaha! Mila Rose, what a comeback.¡±


    Sung-Sun pressed her lips together in a thin, disapproving frown, momentarily at a loss for words. As the most slender girl in a family full of voluptuous women, she was indeed the flattest of them all, as such as she lacked absurd curves like their best.


    Covering her mouth, Lisa snickered. ¡°Sung-Sun, I definitely wouldn¡¯t let that slide.¡±


    Clearly, the bespectacled Visored was not above fanning the flames for her own entertainment. The family drama was far more engaging than anything on television.


    Sung-Sun clicked her tongue in annoyance, but then lifted her chin, her eyes gleaming with a clear look of superiority. ¡°I couldn¡¯t care less about your petty opinions. The only one that matters is my husband. He adores me exactly as I am, which is everything I need in my life.¡±


    She had experienced the depth of Kazuya¡¯s love through her body and soul. No words could shake her confidence.


    ¡°Ugh, I can¡¯t really argue...¡± Mila Rose grumbled. But then a thought occurred to her, sparking a mischievous glint in her eyes. ¡°Ooh, here¡¯s a fun question, everyone. Out of all of us, who do you suppose is Kazuya¡¯s favorite? His numbah one?!¡±


    That question had the potential to trigger an all-out war, but thankfully, most of the women present were reasonably certain about the reason, and they had no desire to compete with the said number one.


    Sung-Sun smirked. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have it any other way, my dear. Let¡¯s check the room, shall we?¡±


    Sung-Sun and Lisa scampered out of the living room to scout the better room flanking Sung-Sun¡¯s own chamber.


    Apacci cocked her head to the side, one brow arched as she eyed Izumi with a cautious look. ¡°I don¡¯t need to worry about you stabbing us in our sleep, do I?¡±


    Izumi let out a carefree giggle. ¡°No. Even if I wanted to, no knife here can harm a lady as strong as you.¡±


    ¡°I was just messing around,¡± Apacci snickered, flashing her a tomboyish grin. ¡°But in all seriousness, go ahead and pick any vacant room. We¡¯ve got a ton of space to spare."


    ¡°That¡¯s very kind of you! If it isn¡¯t too much trouble, I would love to get a room near Otouto-kun.¡±


    ¡°Done and dusted,¡± Apacci confirmed with a slow nod, mentally running through the layout of the sprawling manor. After a few back and forth questions, she had Izumi¡¯s desired room all but figured out. ¡°I¡¯ll get the room ready for you.¡±


    ¡°Thanks a lot.¡±


    Apacci nodded and proceeded to drain her teacup dry in one gulp before reaching over to grab Mila Rose¡¯s elbow, yanking the lioness to her feet. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get Menoly to help us.¡±


    ¡°Waaaait, why me?¡± Mila Rose questioned. ¡°I¡¯m not good at that type of stuff.¡±


    ¡°You have to get better at this stuff. How else will you become his wife?¡±


    ¡°I-Is that necessary?¡±


    Apacci nodded with a serious look. ¡°Very much is. You see, I have this arrangement in mind. When Kazuya permanently returns, every one of his wives will take turns doing household chores. This way, no one person will be overworked. Is that suggestion good, Harribel?¡±


    Apacci did her best to keep things clean in her free time. However, the mansion was too big for Apacci to clean alone, and some rooms became covered in dust as a result.


    ¡°This is an excellent arrangement,¡± Harribel said. ¡°I¡¯ll try to fill in for anyone who can¡¯t do their part.¡±


    Mila Rose clenched her fist. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best to learn.¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s the spirit.¡±


    With that, the odd pair made their exit to tackle the task of room-cleaning, leaving Harribel and Izumi alone in the living room.


    A comfortable silence settled over the space, disturbed only by the clink of teacups and the occasional crunch of cookies.


    As Harribel finished her tea, she turned to regard Izumi with an earnest gaze. ¡°I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me for deceiving you. Back then, we had no other choice but to conceal our true nature.¡±


    Izumi hastily shook her head. ¡°Please, Harribel, there¡¯s no need for apologies or explanations. I would have done much the same in your position.¡±


    Harribel responded with a slow nod, a flicker of relief and gratitude softening her usually stoic features. Her gaze drifted toward the window, her true focus in some distant memory.


    ¡°There was a time when we were little more than beasts trying to survive the wastelands of Hueco Mundo... Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine our peaceful days to be in the Living World... by integrating into human society as one of them,¡± she mused, her expression deeply contemplative. ¡°Kazuya was right... fate truly works in mysterious ways.¡±


    Izumi inclined her head, her soft smile brimming with wonder and appreciation for the whims of fate that had brought them all together. ¡°I couldn¡¯t agree more.¡±


    After a time, Harribel turned to Izumi. ¡°Kazuya might be one of the strongest peoples in this world.. I fear his heart is not nearly as strong as his Reiatsu. He never revealed it but I feel like he has had his fair share of suffering.¡±


    ¡°I know... No man can be so understanding without suffering himself.¡±


    Harribel leaned forward to clasp Izumi¡¯s hands in her own. ¡°Let¡¯s make sure he doesn¡¯t suffer anymore.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t made such a promise to anyone, but she felt like Izumi was mature and level-headed enough to understand her worries.


    Izumi squeezed Harribel¡¯s hands. ¡°I¡¯ll devote my body and soul to ensure that he never suffers.¡±


    ¡°Me too!¡± chimed Cirucci as she appeared at the door without an invitation. ¡°I want to join this... pact.¡±

 Chapter 232: Unwinnable

    Chapter 232: Unwinnable


    Seated on the soft bed, Rukia was lost in her thoughts. Ignoring the lingering scent of their passionate night, she focused solely on her inner turmoil. She paid no mind to the lingering scent of their intimacy last night or to the fact she had no clothes on.


    ¡°I¡¯m so stupid.¡±


    When she had agreed to assist Momo, she had naively believed it would be a one-time arrangement. She never expected that sex with him would awaken her lust and a desperate craving for kissing.


    ¡°I wanna die...¡±


    She¡¯ll never be able to look him in the eye after the shameless acts she committed on this very bed.


    At that moment, the door creaked open. Momo appeared, carrying a packet of melon bread and a steaming cup of tea. ¡°Let¡¯s push back your death a couple of thousand years. Here, I brought your breakfast.¡±


    Rukia groaned, her hands instinctively burying her face as if to shield herself from embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯m not hungry.¡±


    Momo¡¯s eyes softened. ¡°I refuse to believe you have no appetite after all the jumping you did last night. You were like a rabbit.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s ears turned red in embarrassment. Worst of all, she found herself unable to retort against Momo¡¯s words. So, she did something she had never done before ¡ª she remained silent, her lips sealed in the face of humiliation.


    ¡°Rukia?¡±


    ¡°Why are you speaking like him?¡±


    Momo tilted her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Didn¡¯t our teacher say something about people unconsciously mimicking the person they admire the most? Hehe, my most admired person is Kazuya-kun.¡±


    ¡°Figures.¡±


    Momo giggled and brought the breakfast tray close to Rukia, making the tomboy inhale the tea¡¯s inviting fragrance. ¡°Still not hungry?¡±


    Rukia removed her hands from her face and snatched the tray from Momo. ¡°Just leave it here.¡±


    As Rukia made her way to the bathroom, Momo reluctantly began tidying up the room and changing the sheets. Although Kazuya¡¯s scent lingered, it was not as strong as before.


    ¡®He is gone. I must work hard and return to his side.¡¯


    She had to graduate as soon as humanly possible, even if she had to sleep deprive herself.


    ¡®I also have to brain¡ªhelp Rukia find her feelings for Kazuya-kun.¡¯


    She was certain that Kazuya held a special place in his heart for her, at least for now. However, she couldn''t guarantee that it would remain the same in a year or even a decade.


    Rukia was a part of Momo¡¯s master plan. Her way to solidify her place in his heart. He really adored the piece of work that was Rukia. Alone she might be forgotten, but with Rukia by her side, there was a very slim chance of that happening. And besides, having a friend¡¯s company was always better than having none.


    Momo found the package sent by Byakuya, as well as the noble-looking hair ornaments. Having no use for them, she shoved them into her wardrobe, alongside Kazuya¡¯s clothes.


    Rukia returned in a fresh set of clothes ¡ª a purple kimono that looked pretty worn out but cute nevertheless. Momo really appreciated that Rukia cherished her clothes from her time in Rukongai.


    Rukia turned red at Momo¡¯s scrutiny, as though remembering the intimate moments she shared with Momo. ¡°Stop staring at me.¡±


    Momo chuckled and passed the tray to Rukia. ¡°Eat up.¡±


    Her body was ready for the proposal, but her pride¡ªher pride wouldn¡¯t let her admit a weakness, especially a weakness as embarrassing as this.


    Momo beamed a radiant smile and lunged into Rukia¡¯s embrace. ¡°You¡¯re the best!¡±


    Rukia sighed and patted Momo¡¯s back while revealing a wry smile.


    ¡®It¡¯s impossible to win against this couple.¡¯


    ***


    On the other side of the Soul Society.


    Kazuya didn¡¯t know the way to the 12th Squad, but he had Isane to help with the directions. In no time, they arrived outside the infamous 12th Squad. The entrance to the barracks comprised a wooden door under a large, sloping golden roof. The number Ê®¶þ, meaning 12, was engraved on both sides of the door.


    Kazuya took the initiative and knocked on the door, resulting in a CCTV-like device popping up from the wall.


    ¡°Welcome to the 12th division,¡± came a near synthetic voice from the device. ¡°How can I help you?¡±


    Kazuya cleared his throat and put on his best smile. ¡°I¡¯d like to meet your captain for an important business.¡±


    ¡°Have you made an appointment?¡±


    ¡°...No.¡±


    ¡°Then, please fill a form from our sister building and submit it there. If you¡¯re lucky, your earliest appointment would be in six months.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Isane reached out and grabbed the device. ¡°We don¡¯t have that time. Vice-Captain of the 4th Squad wants to meet him.¡±


    ¡°Vice Captain Isane Kotetsu. I don¡¯t want to be respectful, but here is the list of rules by our Captain...¡± The voice paused for a moment as if finding the document with the rules written on it. ¡°No soul, regardless of their status, shall be given permission to meet me directly. The only exception to the rule is Captain Commander... there you have it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s absurd!¡± Isane yelled. ¡°Try to understand me. We need to meet your Captain right now...¡±


    ¡°My hands are tied...¡± The voice replied. ¡°If I don¡¯t follow the rules, I¡¯ll be turned into a human bomb by my Captain.¡±


    Isane turned to Kazuya, almost tearing up in helplessness. ¡°What do we do now...?¡±


    Kazuya took her hand reassuringly. ¡°You know I¡¯m a very impatient man. If you don¡¯t open the door in three seconds, I¡¯ll break it down.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Are you trying-¡±


    ¡°One.¡±


    ¡°Do not try to-¡±


    ¡°Two.¡±


    ¡°O-Oi, you can¡¯t-¡±


    ¡°Three.¡±


    As his calm voice fell, Kazuya clenched his left hand and smashed it into the door.

 Chapter 233: Mayuri and Nemu

    Chapter 233: Mayuri and Nemu


    A frenzied clacking reverberated through the dimly lit chamber, coming from a man furiously typing across an array of high-tech equipment simultaneously. Surrounding him was an array of scientific equipment that only he could comprehend within Soul Society, and only he could use them to their peak performance.


    This man¡¯s face was painted in stark contrasts of black and white, while his body was shrouded entirely in white paint. Both his ears as well as his chin were seemingly replaced with stubbed golden cones.


    In all of Soul Society, only one individual would adorn himself with such unsettling makeup. That man was none other than Mayuri Kurotsuchi ¡ª the crazy and controversial captain of the 12th Squad, an ex-criminal that Kisuke had taken out from the Maggot¡¯s Nest.


    Currently he was working on something important as one could see from his concentrated expression. The screens before him displayed strings of intricate data at a dizzying pace, yet Mayuri¡¯s mind effortlessly kept up with the surge of information.


    His fingers sped up as a maniacal grin crept across his painted face.


    ¡°The secret to Hollowification lies in its¡ª¡±


    At the most crucial moment of his research, a knock on the door interrupted him, followed by the meek voice of his daughter. ¡°M-Master.¡±


    Mayuri immediately teleported to the door with Shunpo and flung it open. Standing on the other side was a young woman with a slender figure and green eyes. Her black hair was tied back in a long braid with slightly parted bangs. Unlike other Shinigami, she wore a short black kimono that reached mid-thigh, and she carried no sword on her in person.


    The young lady, Nemu, served the role of Vice-Captain within this squad.


    ¡°Master...¡± Her meek whisper matched the soft look in her eyes. ¡°Vice¡ª¡±


    Before she could utter another syllable, Mayuri¡¯s fist collided with her face, sending her crashing into the wall. Crumpling to the cold ground, coughing up blood, she gazed up at Mayuri with an absence of emotion.


    It was as if she was used to such treatment from her creator.


    ¡°You fool. You wretched little being. I told you specifically to not disturb me today. Give me one reason to not self-destruct your soul.¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, Master. We have an emergency...¡±


    Mayuri slowly walked to her. ¡°What is so important?¡±


    ¡°V-Vice-Captain Isane and an unknown Shinigami have breached the facility,¡± Nemu conveyed the events beyond Mayuri¡¯s underground facility. ¡°Akon and others went to intercept them but were defeated swiftly...¡±


    Mayuri pointed Nemu out of the facility. ¡°Bring them to me. I¡¯ll deal with them personally.¡±


    Nemu gave a convincing nod and made a dash for her objective at a speed comparable to first-class Shunpo without using an ounce of spiritual energy. Although the wound on her face stung, she didn¡¯t stop for a second to apply any medicine on it.


    Fulfilling her creator¡¯s orders was always her utmost priority.


    It wasn¡¯t long before she intercepted the duo, who were making their way through the facility at a rapid pace.


    ¡®Isane...¡¯


    As a member of Shinigami Women¡¯s Association, Nemu was on good terms with Isane. But she had never seen the silver-haired man by Isane¡¯s side. His Reiatsu was dangerous, she concluded with one glance, realizing that Mayuri had been right about the man¡¯s capabilities.


    ¡°Oh, Nemu,¡± Isane said with a surprised look on her face. ¡°What happened to your face?¡±


    Nemu wasn¡¯t least bit surprised to find concern on Isane¡¯s face. Maintaining her doll-like expression, she said, ¡°It¡¯s surface wounds. They won¡¯t hinder my vital functions.¡±


    ¡°Your face has literally swollen,¡± said the silver-haired man, his kind voice sending Nemu into an involuntary daze. ¡°Let me treat it with Kaido.¡±


    Nemu suddenly snapped out of her daydream, her eyes widening in shock as her pupils dilated. Despite her limited emotional range and lower emotional intelligence compared to others, she instinctively understood that the warm, pleasant sensations welling up inside her were caused by the mysterious man¡¯s voice. She felt a sense of curiosity, wanting to know the precise name for this emotion, while also craving to experience more of it.


    Like her creator, she could become utterly curious about certain topics in life, most of which pertained to her own evolution.


    As these thoughts swirled through her mind, Kazuya had already begun to work his Kaido on her injured face.


    Isane revealed a kind smile. ¡°Thanks, Kazuya.¡±


    Nemu inclined her head, giving him her best gesture of gratitude. ¡°Thanks... Kazuya.¡±


    Kazuya chuckled at the ladies¡¯ gratitude. ¡°In exchange for my help, how about you take us to your captain?¡±


    Nemu nodded firmly. ¡°I was sent here to bring you two to him. Please follow me closely.¡±

 Chapter 234: Threat (I)

    Chapter 234: Threat (I)


    ¡°Master is inside.¡±


    Nemu said so after bringing the duo of Kazuya and Isane to the entrance of Mayuri¡¯s secret underground research facility.


    {My most beloved companion, how shall we deal with this Mayuri insect?} Nami spoke, her voice dripping with disdain ¡ª she wasn¡¯t a fan of Mayuri. {I suggest we put him through the iron maiden ninety-nine times. Then we flay his skin and crucify him at the door of his barracks. After nine days, we grant him, let¡¯s say, a very merciful death.}


    ¡®Since when did you become a torture specialist?¡¯


    Nami let out a heavy sigh. {I¡¯ll gladly take any burden to protect my partner.}


    ¡®Well, let me try to handle this peacefully.¡¯


    Mayuri might be evil, but Kazuya was no saint either. Kazuya had little reason to battle the deranged scientist if he willingly handed over the Hollowfied Shinigami. Otherwise, he might have to resort to other means that won¡¯t get him in trouble with the Gotei 13.


    {Mayuri won¡¯t listen to reason... Tsubasa has something to say.}


    ¡®Master, protecting yourself and others is important. But always staying defensive is not possible. Therefore, we need to take action to eliminate future threats before they become too troublesome!¡¯


    Nodding at Tsubasa¡¯s considerate advice, he turned to Isane. ¡°Let me handle it alone.¡±


    Isane shook her head before revealing a determined look. ¡°I want to help...¡±


    ¡°I expected that response from my stubborn Vice Captain.¡±


    ¡°Everyone keeps saying that,¡± Isane grumbled, her brow knitting in a troubled frown. ¡°I¡¯m not stubborn. I¡¯m just... loyal to my duties.¡±


    ¡°Sadly, I have no interest in you,¡± Mayuri said dismissively and looked at Kazuya. ¡°What about it, brat? Are you willing to become my research subject? I¡¯ll give you top-class special treatment!¡±


    Mayuri was being unreasonable, but that¡¯s just how he was. His squad was nothing more than disposable pawns to him, but the act of interrupting his precious research ignited fury in him.


    Revenge was what he craved, and what sweeter revenge could there be than turning the perpetrator into an extraordinary test subject?


    Kazuya crossed his arms, looking skeptical. ¡°I have a hunch your special treatment is only good for nutjobs like yourself.¡±


    Mayuri rubbed his hands, an unconcealed eagerness on his grinning face. ¡°I¡¯ll only drug you nine times a day. And only five hours of machine operations a day. You¡¯ll be well-fed in a nice room and given clothes to wear. I won¡¯t even try life-threatening operations on you!¡±


    These were the most generous terms Mayuri had offered to this day. Only a female subject could hope to receive better, as their agonized screams never failed to arouse him.


    But Kazuya simply laughed in the face of Mayuri¡¯s offer. ¡°I¡¯ll give you an even better deal. Hand over the Hollowfied Shinigami, and I¡¯ll let you walk away without spanking. Phenomenal deal, right?¡±


    Mayuri burst into maniacal laughter. ¡°Where negotiation fails violence prevails... I don¡¯t have to commit to that effort either. I shall report your crimes to the authorities and let them punish you. The last Shinigami who laid his hands on his comrades ¡ª he was imprisoned, his Zanpakuto? confiscated. You both will suffer the same fate.¡±


    Mayuri knew he required weeks of preparation to have any hope of subduing one of Kazuya¡¯s caliber. But they had practically gifted him the leverage to bend them to his whims.


    Isane couldn¡¯t help but tremble imagining Kazuya in such a future. ¡°No, you can¡¯t! It was me who brought him here. If you want to report¡ª¡±


    Kazuya gently pinched Isane¡¯s cheeks, saving her from falling further into despair. ¡°Have faith in me. I won¡¯t let anything happen to either of us.¡±


    Kazuya had defied her constant pleas to avoid violence, only because he was up against Mayuri Kurotsuchi. Kazuya understood Mayuri''s depraved mind and precisely which buttons to push to get Mayuri dancing on his palm.


    Unaware of Kazuya¡¯s thoughts, Mayuri laughed. ¡°I have physical evidence for your crimes in the form of surveillance footage. However strong you may be, you can¡¯t weasel out of this situation. Accept my terms, and you will survive.¡±


    Mayuri¡¯s smug confidence made his beliefs obvious ¡ª he was assured of his victory, that he had Kazuya firmly in his grasp.

 Chapter 235: A Threat (II)

    Chapter 235: A Threat (II)


    Kazuya didn¡¯t even bat an eye at Mayuri¡¯s blatant threats. ¡°Mayuri, be honest with me. How much time do you think I¡¯ll need to kill you?¡±


    Mayuri raised his brows in surprise and then stared blankly, the gears of his mind shifting in calculations. ¡°I have thirty-three methods to escape this place. Because, you see, I value my life. There¡¯s no amusement to be found in my knowledge if I am but a lifeless corpse.¡±


    While Mayuri wasn¡¯t as cautious as Kisuke, he had multiple contingencies to survive nearly every predicament.


    Kazuya smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s test that, shall we?¡±


    He snapped his fingers. In the infinitesimal fraction of a moment it took for the sound to reach Mayuri, the scientist felt a cold blade pressed against his throat.


    All it had taken was a single snap to get Mayuri¡¯s neck at the tip of his sword.


    Mayuri¡¯s eyes widened in shock. ¡°That¡ªthat was Quincy¡¯s movement technique Hirenkyaku.¡±


    Mayuri¡¯s assessment had been only partially correct. The technique Kazuya had used was a fusion of Shunpo and Hirenkyaku, granting him speed that surpassed both added with the stealthy nature of Hirenkyaku.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say you aren¡¯t the only one who studied Quincy for their techniques.¡±


    A twisted grin spread across Mayuri¡¯s features. He seemed completely unafraid of the sword at his throat. ¡°Ah, Quincy. Those deluded, idealistic imbeciles. I had so much fun making them burn their own children. I mentally broke them by dismembering their limbs... unfortunately, their scarce numbers made me put the project on hold. Such a pity...¡±


    Isane shuddered from hearing Mayuri boast about his cruel actions. ¡°You are a sadist... a monster.¡±


    ¡°Very rich coming from you,¡± Mayuri sneered. ¡°You serve the greatest criminal of the Soul Society. She cut down hundreds for no reason, whereas my purpose is to research. It¡¯s a purpose higher than you uneducated lot can understand.¡±


    Isane clenched her fists, her body shaking with barely-restrained anger. ¡°Captain Unohana has changed. All she wants now is to help others. I know¡ª¡±


    ¡°Isane, don¡¯t waste your breath trying to explain anything to this dumbass,¡± Kazuya cut her off, pressing the sword¡¯s edge into Mayuri¡¯s throat, which drew a crimson smile across his neck. ¡°Captain Mayuri, you are quite fearless. Does this confidence come from your ability to abandon your body and escape in another form?¡±


    Mayuri¡¯s eyes widened, a glimmer of begrudging appreciation shining through. ¡°It appears you came well-prepared. I seem to be at a disadvantage.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t kill me even if you had months to prepare.¡± Kazuya unsheathed the top of his blade back, and immediately, searing flames came pouring forth. ¡°And I don¡¯t care what form you take. I can track you down and incinerate you whenever I want, however I want.¡±


    ¡°Murdering a Captain will get you in trouble¡ª¡±


    Kazuya pulled back his blade and grabbed Mayuri by the throat. Eyes narrowing with murderous intent, he said, ¡°If you want to report me to the higher-ups, consider this ¡ª I will burn down your entire squad before they can catch me. This trouble you mentioned won¡¯t mean much if I just escape to the Living World.¡±


    Mayuri never feared anyone to this day, but the sheer conviction in Kazuya¡¯s gave him shivers.


    He understood one thing ¡ª the man before him would risk everything to destroy one person.


    He took his Zanpakuto? and activated its Shikai form, the transformation earning a look of fascination from Mayuri and an intrigued look from Nemu.


    Kazuya approached the nearest cage and squeezed the trigger of his musket. A burst of radiant flames engulfed the Hollow born from a Shinigami.


    ¡°Arghhh!¡±


    The white layer of skin burned away, revealing the tormented woman trapped beneath. The flames disintegrated every last trace of her Hollow traits, leaving the black-haired lady with flawless skin.


    She collapsed on the ground, her butt raised high in a rather provocative manner.


    Kazuya cleared his throat. ¡°Isane, would you mind checking her condition?¡±


    Isane swiftly sliced through the cage and knelt beside the woman. A radiant smile blossomed across her face as she lifted her head to meet Kazuya¡¯s eyes. ¡°You did it! I expect her to regain consciousness in a few minutes.¡±


    Kazuya nodded and moved his musket away from Mayuri¡¯s grasping fingers. ¡°Hands off, lunatic.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m simply borrowing it for a few days.¡±


    ¡°No means no.¡±


    Smirking at Mayuri¡¯s frustrated scowl, Kazuya brought the musket to his lips and planted a soft kiss on its polished surface. His action elicited a seductive moan that echoed through his mind.


    ¡°Master... you just kissed my butt,¡± Tsubasa whispered meekly. ¡°Next time say it before, so I can prepare myself...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Ignoring the young Zanpakuto? Spirit, he decided to finish the job as quickly as possible. Bang! Bang! Bang! The cave echoed with gunshots, each bullet finding its mark in a Hollowfied Shinigami.


    In a matter of minutes, all forty-three had been returned to their original form. They all looked severely traumatized, showing no glee at their second chance at life.


    Mayuri observed the entire process, yet he could comprehend nothing. ¡°Your Shikai restores a being to a previous state.¡±


    ¡°Wow, so insightful.¡±


    Mayuri gritted his teeth. ¡°I have the entire footage. I won¡¯t rest until I understand everything about your Shikai.¡±


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Nemu, can you bring some clothes for everyone?¡±


    Hypnotized by his voice, Nemu nodded her head. ¡°I shall.¡±

 Chapter 236-237: Vivid Red

    Chapter 236-237: Vivid Red


    Nearly an hour later, the previously Hollowfied Shinigami were ready to depart Mayuri''s underground lab and return to their respective divisions. Although they had fought the Hollows all their lives, the experience of actually becoming one had undoubtedly left deep scars on their souls.


    Some time away from their duties would be immensely helpful to their recovery.


    Just as Kazuya and Isane stepped outside the lab¡¯s entrance, a gentle, soothing voice called out to them.


    ¡°So, you were both here.¡±


    Kazuya and Isane turned in unison towards the voice they knew so well. Unsurprisingly, Unohana stood near the entryway, her spiritual energy in a perfect harmony with the ambient energy around them.


    She seemed stealthier than the expert assassin Yoruichi.


    {Two thousand years will give you enough time to master every basic skill out there.}


    ¡®I might become a multiversal entity in that time.¡¯


    {That sounds... lonely. Thankfully, Partner will have my company for all eternity.}


    Nami never missed a chance to remind him of her importance in his life. Nothing unusual for the Yandere Phoenix. She would let him fuck any woman, completely confident in the fact that only she could remain by his side until the very end.


    Kazuya pushed aside the gloomy reflections out of his mind and turned his full attention to Unohana. ¡°What¡¯s up, Captain?¡±


    ¡°Captain! Did you come here for us?¡± Isane asked.


    Unohana''s lips curved into a gentle smile. ¡°You both didn¡¯t show up for the morning assembly. I took it upon myself to stop you from doing anything mischievous...¡± Her eyes drifted to the horde of Shinigami behind them. ¡°I believe I¡¯m a little late for that.¡±


    The interference from Mayuri¡¯s facilities had obstructed her attempts to track their Reiatsu, else she would have arrived here before the duo confronted the crazy scientist.


    Isane reached up to rub the back of her head, chuckling sheepishly. ¡°E-Everything went fine. Kazuya managed to persuade Captain Kurotsuchi. Forty seven of the fifty are now normal Shinigami!¡±


    As tragic as it was to lose three of their number, the fact that the vast majority had been saved filled her with pure relief and joy.


    Unohana acknowledged the good news with a calm smile. ¡°Let¡¯s return to the division. We have much to discuss.¡±


    Kazuya placed his hand on his chest. ¡°Captain, don¡¯t look at me like that. It makes my heart jittery.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s gaze sharpened. ¡°Perhaps your heart needs surgery. Shall I cut it open with my blade?¡±


    ¡°Cut me down if it means I¡¯ll no longer feel like this when I¡¯m with you... I can¡¯t endure it anymore.¡±


    ¡°Kazuya, are you really sick?¡± Isane asked, brow furrowed in innocent confusion. ¡°Captain and I can fix most common diseases.¡±


    The two shared a chuckle at Isane¡¯s charming cluelessness.


    ...


    Afternoon.


    Kazuya and Isane sat down before Unohana in her room. Freshly brewed tea and snacks placed within their arms reach, beckoning the two with its aroma.


    Unohana smiled, yet her eyes didn¡¯t crinkle ¡ª she wore a fake smile. ¡°Please, begin.¡±


    Kazuya had a sinking feeling in his guts that Unohana planned something sinister, that they were like lambs being fattened up before the slaughter.


    ¡°Thanks for the tea!¡± Isane cheerfully took the tea and began savoring it. ¡°Delicious as always!¡±


    Unohana tilted her head. ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    Isane nudged him. ¡°Come on. Captain¡¯s tea is pure perfection. You won¡¯t find its equal anywhere in Soul Society.¡±


    Kazuya cleared his throat and took the cup before sipping it. He wasn¡¯t worried about Unohana poisoning him as such insidious tricks were against her battle-maniac nature. If she intended to end someone, it would be decisively, with her blade in hand.


    Unohana¡¯s smile softened into something small but genuine. ¡°Kazuya, let me thank you for helping Isane. This child would¡¯ve been devastated if nobody saved those Shinigami.¡±


    Isane glanced over at him with an awkwardly sweet smile. ¡°Kazuya, that scary act you put on just worked on Captain Kurotsuchi.¡±


    ¡°What scary act?¡± Unohana inquired, arching a brow. ¡°While we''re on the subject, I¡¯d like to hear the full tale of everything that transpired at the 12th Squad.¡±


    Isane gladly retold everything, including the chaos they unleashed on the 12th Division as well as Kazuya¡¯s confrontation with Mayuri.


    ¡°For a second I thought he was serious... Thank goodness, it was just an act to intimidate Captain Kurotsuchi.¡±


    As he turned to the front, he found the elegant lady looking rather calm and relaxed, as if unbothered by his playful antics.


    For a moment they stared at each other.


    He met her unblinking gaze, keeping his thoughts a mystery.


    Unohana studied him, her blue eyes boring into his as if she could see straight through to his soul.


    He maintained his calm expression, refusing to so much as twitch under her scrutiny. ¡°Captain, got something on your mind?¡±


    ¡°You lied to Isane,¡± she spoke in a soft voice. ¡°Everything you said to Captain Kurotsuchi ¡ª you planned to carry out if he reported you to Central 46. You were ready to slaughter him.¡±


    His eyes widened briefly before he closed them. Eyes were the keys to a person¡¯s soul, and he wasn¡¯t quite ready to hand them over to Unohana. ¡°Captain, what gave you that idea?¡±


    ¡°First of all, Captain Kurotsuchi isn¡¯t a man who will fall for lies. He¡¯ll see right through a rubbish act.¡± Unohana lifted a finger and tapped her pursed lips. ¡°You specifically mentioned everything being an act to conceal your true nature from Isane. That girl is gullible enough to believe anything, especially if it comes from the man she admires the most.¡±


    ¡°Well, damn. I got caught lying.¡± He sighed. ¡°Will I be punished? Perhaps a battle between us until only one is left standing.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s throat moved as she swallowed hard, the battle-hungry beast within her stirring to life at the very mention of a death match. She wouldn¡¯t have felt this longing before. But after knowing his strength and knowing their Zanpakuto?¡¯s resemblances, she could no longer suppress her fervor.


    The thrill to cut down his flesh again and again began consuming her.


    She shut her eyes forcefully, her nails digging into her palms where they rested clenched on her thighs. ¡°No. I have no intention of punishing you.¡±


    Kazuya watched her internal struggle play out on her face, marveling at the sheer determination required to rein in her crazy bloodlust. Her fortitude very much impressed him.


    {Partner, isn¡¯t it exciting to be with a woman who can kill you any moment? To be with a woman who wants to kill you so badly, yet she madly wants to embrace you and feel your warmth. The rush of never knowing when her evil thoughts will win out, such a relationship... don¡¯t you find it hypnotizing, beloved?}


    ¡®Nami, don¡¯t go crazy now,¡¯ he commented, equal parts amused and alarmed by her fetishes. ¡®I promise I¡¯ll cuddle with you later.¡¯


    {Hah... I shall stay quiet then.}


    Returning his attention to Unohana, he laughed. ¡°I guess I¡¯m too weak to fight you. I¡¯m going to train. Just you wait for the day I defeat you.¡±


    Exerting the power of his voice, he tried to calm her mind and distract her from her bloodlust at the same time.


    Her trembling brows came to peace, and her lips curved into a smile. ¡°What will your plans be after killing me?¡±


    The very thought of a rookie defeating her would¡¯ve been utterly nonsensical before she met him. Right now though she knew for a fact he¡¯d surpass her in no time.


    Kazuya tilted his head, his eyes widening in exaggerated bewilderment. ¡°Why in the world will I kill you? The Soul Society already lacks good women. What kind of man will I be to make the list even shorter?¡±


    Genuine surprise flickered across her eyes, disappearing as quickly as it appeared. Then her smile returned, deeper and more genuine. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you are knocking on the wrong door for this... good woman you speak of. There is no love or passion within these walls... only death and slaughter.¡±


    ¡°Oh, seriously? For a self-proclaimed killer, you sure care a lot about your division.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s lips parted, a glimmer of something unreadable in her eyes, but then she caught herself from delving deeper. ¡°We¡¯re getting off-topic here. We need to talk about you and Isane.¡±


    The Captain chose to change the topic rather than argue with him. As fluent as she was with words, she had no chance against him.


    He acknowledged her clear defeat with a smirk, which made her frown. ¡°What¡¯s there to talk about me and Isane?¡±


    ¡°For starters, did you think Isane will distance herself after learning about your insanity? Because, quite frankly, only a lunatic would threaten Captain Kurotsuchi in that manner.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t anticipate her reaction to my so-called insanity. I played my cards safe.¡±


    Unohana nodded in understanding. ¡°I didn¡¯t think someone like you could feel a bout of insecurity.¡±


    ¡°Everyone has flaws, even someone as elegant and beautiful as you. Besides, what other choices did I have?¡± Kazuya asked with a shake of his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to become Mayuri¡¯s research subject, and I also didn¡¯t want Isane to end up in a prison. She was ready to become a test subject to help those people. What kind of man will I be to let her be imprisoned over my actions? I took a risk to fulfill her pure wish, and it paid off.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s eyes gleaming with interest. ¡°Are you telling me you¡¯ll live the life of an exile to protect one girl?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll gladly become an exile to preserve Isane¡¯s smile.¡±


    ¡°You...¡± Unohana could only shake her head, momentarily at a loss. ¡°That is the most absurd yet most in-character thing you¡¯ve ever said.¡±


    He laughed. ¡°I mean, it won¡¯t be that bad. I can hang out more often with Kisuke over there and learn some new things from him.¡±


    Casually mentioning Kisuke, another exile, didn¡¯t sit well with Unohana.


    Instantly, the room was filled with a thick murderous intent, so powerful that Kazuya almost hallucinated blood red fog around him.


    The next moment, he felt a cold blade pressed against his neck. Unohana towered over him like a grim reaper ready to deliver death. Yet, despite her icy gaze and killing intent, she remained the embodiment of elegance.

 Chapter 238: Confident, Not Arrogant

    Chapter 238: Confident, Not Arrogant


    ¡°Kazuya...¡± Unohana spoke coldly. ¡°You joined the academy, fought Captain Soi Fon on your first day, befriended many influential figures, and helped us out with the Arrancar¡¯s situation ¡ª you did everything to win favors on behalf of Kisuke... You and him are deeply involved.¡±


    From their initial encounter, Unohana had an alarming sense that the charismatic youth concealed ulterior motives behind his nonchalant, womanizer demeanor.


    This foreboding feeling now rang true.


    The newest recruit to the 4th Squad was in league with none other than Kisuke Urahara ¡ª the exile pinned with the crime of orchestrating an Arrancar Invasion that nearly resulted in the death of multiple Captains and Vice-Captains.


    ¡°Well, I know that guy,¡± Kazuya answered without hesitation, confirming her thoughts with a nod. ¡°But we¡ª¡±


    ¡°You betrayed us,¡± Unohana interrupted him with a decisive tone. ¡°After Isane treated you like family. After I gave you...¡± She trailed off as a disappointing expression clouded her face, startling even herself. ¡°From the very beginning, you exploited our trust. For what reason did you infiltrate our ranks?¡±


    She had come to appreciate the cheeky young man for his daringness, so his betrayal stung harder than the tip of a blade through her body. If it happened before she became the Captain of the 4th Squad, she¡¯d have cut him down without hesitation. Even ten betrayals wouldn¡¯t have mattered back in those days.


    She had lost that edge ¡ª healing others and saving lives had made her... soft.


    ¡°You are right about one thing.¡± Kazuya gripped the sharp edge of her sword with his hand and pushed it back. Even as blood flowed out from his lacerated palm, he met her gaze steadily and rose to his feet. ¡°I did infiltrate your ranks for a purpose.¡±


    ¡°I knew it... You...¡± Unohana paused and drew back her Zanpakuto?, returning it to its sheath. With an odd look, she gazed at the thick red fluid oozing out of his wound. ¡°We¡¯ll talk after I use Kaido.¡±


    The sight of blood had strangely cooled her head, allowing her to rethink the situation. Probing Kazuya¡¯s sincere gaze, she felt compelled to hear out his side of the story.


    ¡®There had to be a reason for everything... I want to know his story.¡¯


    After the genuine joy he had brought Isane ¡ª a happiness Unohana herself could never provide ¡ª he deserved the benefit of the doubt.


    She clung to the sliver of hope that he wouldn¡¯t be guilty. He could be coerced into following Kisuke¡¯s orders, or perhaps... there was a chance Kisuke wasn¡¯t the bad guy here.


    The foundations of the Seireitei were rock-solid, so much so that not even the death of Captain-Commander Yamamoto himself would trigger a collapse. Only an inside job by a figure of great influence could inflict irreparable damage.


    ¡°You guessed that right,¡± he said, as though reading the thought right out of her mind. ¡°A Captain in your ranks is waiting for the right opportunity to take over your world. He is the guy you won¡¯t ever suspect to be a cunning fuck¡ªI mean fox.¡±


    ¡°One of the captains?¡± Unohana¡¯s thoughts immediately turned to Aizen, whose recent behavior had been rather suspect. ¡°Which one? And what evidence do you have for your brazen claims?¡±


    ¡°The evidence is a little far away. Ah, fuck it. I¡¯ll carry you there myself.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Where are¡ª¡±


    He swooped her in his arms, princess style, in one fluid motion, her loose kimono Shihakusho? nothing more than a minor obstacle for the young man. Though she had not let her guard down for even a fraction of a second, he had approached her without a shred of malicious intent.


    Even more shocking was the realization that his speed surpassed that of any opponent she had faced. As the most notorious battle-junkie of her time, her tally of foes easily crossed four digits.


    ¡°Wait just¡ª¡±


    ¡°Time waits for no one, Unohana.¡±


    He launched himself forward with an explosive speed, accelerating beyond anything achievable via Shunpo or any other technique known to Shinigami.


    ¡°Hang on tight.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡±


    With a sigh, Unohana wrapped her arms around his neck, still annoyed about being carried like a damsel in distress. Nevertheless, she had to admit that his raw speed far surpassed her own.


    Wherever their destination lay, there was little doubt they would arrive in record time.


    Indeed, only a few moments later, they reached their destination ¡ª the 8th Squad¡¯s barracks.

 Chapter 239-240: Purrsuasion

    Chapter 239-240: Purrsuasion


    Unohana immediately jumped off before anyone could see her in such a compromised position. ¡°Listen. If you try to harm anyone here, I¡¯ll not hesitate in slitting your throat.¡±


    Though she lied a little, she was confident Kazuya¡¯s senses weren¡¯t keen enough to detect the minuscule waver in her resolve.


    ¡°I¡¯m just gonna heal,¡± Kazuya muttered under his breath, once again reminding her of the absurd regeneration ¡ª a feat she would have dismissed as impossible had she not witnessed it first hand moments ago. ¡°Now then, Captain, if you¡¯d be so kind as to accompany me to meet with Captain¡ª¡±


    Suddenly feeling a familiar Reiatsu, both individuals turned to watch as the door to the barracks swung open. A bespectacled beauty stood on the other side, showing nary an ounce of surprise at the two unexpected guests at her doorstep.


    Nanao¡¯s poker expression was on par if not better than Lisa ¡ª she had come here specifically to greet them. ¡°Kazuya, to what do we owe the pleasure of your company?¡±


    ¡°Come now, Nanao-chan. Can¡¯t a guy visit a friend without some ulterior motive?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Her rejection was swift and without a hint of hesitation. Shifting her attention to Unohana, she offered a polite smile. ¡°It¡¯s a welcome surprise to have you here, Captain Unohana. Please come inside.¡±


    Kazuya put a hand between Nanao and Unohana. ¡°I don¡¯t mean to brag, but I¡¯ve earned a warm welcome after the sacrifices I made for your Captain.¡±


    ¡°You should¡¯ve known by now that I¡¯m not a warm welcome type of girl,¡± Nanao said with a small smile. ¡°Your uniform is quite fancy. Which poor man did you bully for this?¡±


    Kazuya brushed his sleeves with a smug grin. ¡°Byakuya Kuchiki.¡±


    ¡°Good grief. This punk is stealing from aristocats now. Us ladies were right in launching an operation to take you down for good.¡±


    The throwback to their first meeting made him chuckle. ¡°There¡¯s not a woman in the Soul Society who can take me down... I¡¯m just too damn charming for ladies.¡±


    Nanao rolled her eyes. ¡°Let me test that with my fists.¡±


    ¡°As long as you promise to nurse the wound afterwards.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Unohana observed their playful back-and-forth with her usual serene smile, though inwardly she found herself intrigued by the unlikely friendship between Kazuya and the usually reserved Nanao. In all her years, she had never known the bespectacled vice-captain to joke around with anyone other than her uncle.


    Unohana regarded Kazuya with a sharp gaze. ¡°Why don¡¯t you enlighten Nanao about our business here?¡±


    Nanao naturally noticed the undercurrent of tension in Unohana¡¯s words, however, she thought it prudent not to remark upon it. ¡°Kazuya, you lied about coming here to see me...¡±


    The faint note of disappointment in Nanao¡¯s voice did not escape Unohana¡¯s keen perception. At this point, she would have been more surprised if the young woman hadn¡¯t developed a bit of a crush on Kazuya.


    Had Unohana followed through with her initial decision to execute Kazuya for his perceived betrayal, his legion of admirers would have hunted her to the ends of the earth.


    Kazuya cleared his throat. ¡°Nanao, is your Captain here?¡±


    ¡°Where else will his lazy ass be?¡± Nanao muttered under her breath and forced a bright smile. ¡°Of course. My Captain is tending to... the garden. Follow me.¡±


    Nanao led the pair to a cozy little cottage nestled in the heart of the division¡¯s sprawling backyard. The rustic charm of the place reminded Kazuya of Ku?kaku Shiba''s humble abode in the middle of nowhere ¡ª both structures had a clear view of lush gardens from their rooms.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t mind living here forever.¡±


    Nanao cleared her throat, her cheeks reddening for some inscrutable reason. ¡°Captain Unohana, please wait here while I fetch Shunsui-san. Do keep an eye on this ruffian. He¡¯ll steal something just to mess with me.¡±


    A look of realization crossed his face. ¡°Ah, this is your place. That explains why your scent is everywhere.¡±


    Nanao¡¯s blush deepened to an even more vivid shade of scarlet. ¡°K-Kazuya! Stop saying weird things, or I¡¯ll smack your face with this book!¡±


    He flashed a cheeky thumbs up. ¡°Relax, Nanao-chan. It¡¯s very pleasant for the senses. A solid nine out of ten.¡±


    Nanao clutched her book and tossed it in his face. ¡°Die.¡±


    He snatched the book out of the air and lobbed it right back at her. ¡°Nanao-chan tsundere... so cute.¡±


    Shunsui took off his straw hat with a sad smile. ¡°It took everything to escape the gentle embrace of afternoon slumber. But it was worth it for the rare arrival of Dai Senpai.¡±


    Unohana didn¡¯t bat an eye at his flattery, which made his eyebrows twitch. ¡°I was brought here by Kazuya.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Do you need something?¡±


    Kazuya put aside Yoruichi and rose to his feet. ¡°Shunsui-san, Captain Unohana believes I¡¯m some sort of villain, hell-bent on using her squad to destroy the Soul Society at Kisuke¡¯s orders. Can you kindly set the record straight?¡±


    Shunsui¡¯s eyes widened in surprise before narrowing in understanding. ¡°I see. Dai Senpai, Kazuya is here to rid the Soul Society of a great evil... His name is Aizen Sosuke, the mastermind behind the Arrancars¡¯ incursion to the Living World.¡±


    Unohana cocked her head slightly, showing barely any surprise at the revelation. ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it? That''s all you have to say?!¡± Shunsui almost yelled, clearly taken aback by her nonchalance. ¡°I lost a day of sleep when I learned about it. How can you take it so easily?!¡±


    Unohana shook her head. ¡°You simply confirmed the suspicions I had about Captain Sosuke. I assume his treachery dates back to centuries. He also played a pivotal role in the first Hollowfication incident.¡±


    ¡°As expected of Dai Senpai.¡± Shunsui nodded his head in admiration. ¡°All this while Kazuya has been working to earn your trust. Through you he wanted to relay this information to Captain Yama and have him deal with the traitor.¡±


    Unohana shifted her attention to Kazuya and lowered her head. ¡°I owe you an apology...¡±


    Kazuya waved off her apology with a dismissive gesture. ¡°Just tell Captain Yama about Aizen. I don¡¯t want to fight that guy again.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s brow furrowed in confusion. ¡°Again, you say? When did you fight him before?¡±


    ¡°Yoruichi, put up a force field.¡± Kazuya requested, turning his back on the assembled group of Shinigami. ¡°I¡¯m about to do something crazy. Try not to look too surprised.¡±


    As soon as Yoruichi covered the house within her force fields, Kazuya let the flames flow through him, reshaping him into his original race. Horns erupted from the side of his head and black leathery wings sprouted on his back.


    In a matter of seconds, he went from the friendly Shinigami to the nightmare of Shinigami ¡ª a terrifyingly powerful Arrancar.


    Nanao swallowed hard, feeling utterly overwhelmed by the sheer pressure of his presence, despite having seen his transformation once before. ¡°Those Arrancars were like a flickering candle before him.¡±


    Unohana, too, realized that he didn¡¯t lie about having the power to kill everyone in the Soul Society. Rather than feeling terrified like a normal Shinigami, she was gulping excitedly as if she was a hungry man staring at heavenly delicacies.


    The scar on her chest pulsed, begging and pleading her to unsheath her katana and battle the Hollow right here and now.


    Kazuya turned around and gave Unohana an odd look. ¡°Captain, it¡¯s not the time to lose control of your bloodlust.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t the least surprised by Unohana¡¯s nonchalance about him being a Hollow or her thirst to battle him.


    {Partner, she is gonna attack you one of these days.}


    Unohana looked away and nodded. ¡°Forgive me for the blunder.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Anyways, I¡¯m an Arrancar who can transform into other races at a whim.¡±


    Unohana reached out and touched his horns. ¡°It seems like you battled Captain Sosuke in this form... still, why didn¡¯t he recognize you when you met him¡ª¡±


    Her words died in her throat as Kazuya''s features began to warp and shift before her very eyes. In a few seconds, his face took on the appearance of someone recognizable ¡ª the female Hollow woman who had sworn revenge on Aizen in Karakura Town.


    Everyone was holding their breaths in the face of his stark transformation ¡ª he had gone from burly demonic being to an exotic beauty with glowing silver hair as if she was a divine being out of this world.


    Kazuya let out a sigh at their predictable reactions. Without waiting for them to fawn over him, he assumed his Shinigami form.


    Shunsui couldn¡¯t help but applaud Kazuya. ¡°Lad, wanna go out sometime with me in that form? Every drink will be on me.¡±


    Unohana slapped the back of Shunsui¡¯s head. ¡°He is already spoken for by my Isane.¡±


    ¡°Ah, what a pity...¡±

 Chapter 241: The Final Plan

    Chapter 241: The Final Plan


    Captain Shunsui bade farewell to Unohana and Kazuya, having fulfilled his duty of vouching for Kazuya. With Unohana now involved, Shunsui could return to his typical routine of napping, avoiding work, and flirting with the lovely ladies of his division.


    His willingness to entrust the future of the Soul Society to Unohana spoke volumes about his unshakable faith in Dai Senpai.


    In the wake of Shunsui¡¯s departure, a silence settled over the room, broken only by the soft rustle of leaves and the melodic chirping of birds drifting in from the garden outside.


    Kazuya sat in a relaxed posture, eyes closed and a faint smile playing about his lips. Much like Shunsui, he looked relieved at how smoothly events had unfolded. Unohana¡¯s acceptance of his true Hollow nature had come as a most welcome surprise.


    Nanao, for her part, seemed lost in thought, her mind a million miles away from her immediate surroundings. Witnessing Kazuya¡¯s transformation into a Hollow and then a female had her questioning the deeper meanings of the universe and its purpose.


    Meanwhile, Yoruichi''s unblinking gaze remained fixed on Unohana, whose own eyes were closed for an entirely different reason than Kazuya¡¯s. She could see the tightness around Unohana¡¯s mouth and the barely suppressed anger in her clenched fists. Unohana had been in this state of controlled agitation ever since Yoruichi had revealed the truth about her Hollowfication.


    Nanao shook off the dreadful existential crisis and gently set aside the book she had been clutching to her chest. ¡°I think I¡¯ll brew tea for everyone.¡±


    In truth, she so rarely entertained guests in her private quarters that the finer points of hospitality had momentarily slipped her mind. Moreover, her burning curiosity regarding Kazuya¡¯s purpose in seeking her captain had her distracted.


    ¡°Thanks, but I¡¯ll pass,¡± he said and poked Unohana¡¯s knee with his sheathed Zanpakuto? to get her attention. ¡°Unohana, you don¡¯t have to make that face. Yoruichi doesn¡¯t regret her transformation.¡±


    ¡°I did. In fact, I am happy it happened,¡± Yoruichi chimed in with a snicker. ¡°Now I have a shot at reclaiming my Flash Goddess title from Chameleon-san, who can take the color of every race.¡±


    ¡°Flash God,¡± Kazuya corrected her with a blank stare. ¡°Don¡¯t get it wrong ever unless you want to get spanked.¡±


    Yoruichi laughed. ¡°Why not both? You can assume both genders, after all.¡±


    He reached out and pulled her furry cheeks. ¡°Naughty kitty needs to be punished.¡±


    Heaving a sigh, Unohana finally broke her silence. ¡°I¡¯m angry at myself for underestimating the Arrancar threat. If only I had suggested Captain Yamamoto to send more reinforcements, then¡ª¡±


    ¡°Nothing would¡¯ve changed,¡± Yoruichi insisted. ¡°More reinforcements would¡¯ve made for more Hollowfied Shinigami. Aizen wouldn¡¯t have stopped. I can¡¯t blame Kazuya either for not showing up on time. He was doing his best against the Arrancars.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right,¡± Unohana agreed with a nod. ¡°After this is over, maybe Kazuya can try his Shikai on you.¡±


    ¡°I am not going to undo it, even if it makes me distant from the Soul Society,¡± Yoruichi said in a serious tone. ¡°By the way, how do you know his Zanpakuto? can undo Hollowfication? Did he tell you?¡±


    ¡°He already fixed many afflicted with Hollowfication.¡±


    She held out a hand. ¡°Are you really going to leave after this... this mission?¡±


    Her poker face fell apart under the surprise. She hadn¡¯t expected her time with Kazuya to end right after she befriended him. Then again, she had forgotten that he was a Hollow ¡ª he had no business following the Soul Society¡¯s orders to purify Hollows when he could have an easy, peaceful life with his lovers in the Living World.


    As these thoughts churned in her mind, Nanao made an effort to collect herself. It was then that she noticed the mean smirk playing about Kazuya¡¯s lips. ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡±


    Kazuya held himself back from teasing her, instead going for a more earnest response. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you would be sad about my hypothetical departure.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not a monster with a heart of stone,¡± she retorted and rubbed her pooling tears with a handkerchief. ¡°I know I made a terrible first impression with my foolish operation... but I care about you. How can I not after everything you did for my Captain and Lisa Nee-san... not to mention your willingness to risk your life to help the Soul Society.¡±


    Yoruichi laid her head on Kazuya¡¯s lap, gazing at Nanao with a soft look in her eyes. ¡°Lisa and you aren¡¯t just alike in appearances but also demeanor. Are you sure your mother isn''t the same?¡±


    ¡°H-Huh? No, we aren¡¯t. We¡¯re not even from the same clan.¡±


    Kazuya rubbed Yoruichi¡¯s ears. ¡°Let¡¯s focus on our mission, shall we?¡±


    ¡°My mischievous friend, you¡¯re always the one getting distracted... so, what¡¯s our next goal?¡±


    ¡°I can seduce the female council members and make them judge Aizen.¡±


    {You can do that for males as well. Have you forgotten how divinely beautiful your other form is?}


    ¡®Never.¡¯


    He¡¯d rather fight Aizen to the death than stooping to the act of seducing a man.


    Yoruichi shook her head. ¡°Those high in position were too egoistic and narrow-minded to accept women into their mix. Has that changed, Unohana?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Unohana rose up and closed the door, covering the room in darkness. ¡°We don¡¯t need to rely on cheap tactics. I have a better plan.¡±


    Something in her tone sent a ripple of unease through the assembled group. Kazuya could feel it in her voice, that her plan was violence or very closely related to it.


    She turned around, her blue eyes gleaming and a cold smile dancing on her lips. ¡°Kazuya, I¡¯ll train you to bring out a hundred percent of your strength. Afterwards, I¡¯ll use my position and power to create a scenario where you and Sosuke are alone outside of the Soul Society, preferably Hueco Mundo.¡±


    She paused, letting the gravity of her words settle in before continuing, ¡°When that happens, you¡¯ll finish what you couldn¡¯t because of external interference ¡ª remove his poisonous existence once and for all.¡±


    ¡°Slaughter him.¡±

 Chapter 242: Unwell Wishes

    Chapter 242: Unwell Wishes


    After the strangest meeting of Kazuya¡¯s life concluded in unanimous agreement to Unohana¡¯s crazy plan, Kazuya took his time strolling back to the 4th Division¡¯s barracks, content to let Yoruichi and Unohana catch up along the way. Yoruichi entertained her old friend with tales of her crazy adventures, most of which included him, while Unohana could only offer tidbits of the Soul Society¡¯s mundane recent history in return.Yo?ur favorite stories at novelhall.com


    Nothing of importance had happened in Yoruichi¡¯s absence.


    The black cat suddenly jumped off his shoulder and faced him with an uncharacteristic serious glint in her eyes. ¡°Listen, I have to go to the second division.¡±


    ¡°Soi Fon?¡± Kazuya asked with a frown. ¡°Is she giving you too much trouble?¡±


    She shook her head at his probing inquiry. ¡°It has nothing to do with Soi Fon. I must... retrieve something important. Why don¡¯t I fill in on the details later?¡±


    He shrugged nonchalantly. ¡°Run along then. You have your husband¡¯s permission.¡±


    Yoruichi rolled her eyes exasperatedly that conveyed fondness more than annoyance. ¡°Thank you, my gracious husband. You¡¯re the best.¡±


    ¡°I sure am,¡± he agreed with a shameless grin, which prompted Yoruichi to shake her head. ¡°Off you go.¡±


    As Yoruichi dashed to the roof, Kazuya turned to check on Unohana¡¯s reaction. The battle-maniac healer wore an expression of utter incredulity, as if she couldn¡¯t quite believe the exchange she had just witnessed.


    ¡°Did that really just happen?¡± she muttered, more to herself than to Kazuya.


    Kazuya had to bite the inside of his cheek to keep from bursting into laughter at her flabbergasted look. ¡°What, you don¡¯t think I¡¯m husband material?¡±


    ¡°Far from it,¡± Unohana said, shaking her head. ¡°Was that real, or were you just fooling around?¡±


    ¡°What do you think it is?¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s both,¡± Unohana slowly said. ¡°She is always laidback and carefree about most things, but she is also quite aloof and proud to call any man ¡®her husband¡¯... it¡¯s simply unprecedented.¡±


    ¡°Even as a joke?¡±


    As much as it pained her to admit, Unohana knew that Kazuya¡¯s path lay elsewhere. For all his prodigious skill and leadership qualities, she could envision no future in which he remained bound to the Soul Society as a Shinigami.


    Isane glanced in his direction. ¡°He¡¯s going to leave for the 10th Squad. Captain Shiba wants to promote him to his seat one day.¡±


    Unohana simply smiled, making no attempt to correct Isane¡¯s innocent assumptions. ¡°Isane, show him to his new home.¡±


    ¡°Of course, Captain!¡± Isane cheerfully saluted before turning her attention to him. ¡°Right his way.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    As Kazuya followed the steps of the tall, silver-haired girl, Unohana caught hold of his sleeve, forcing him to stop. ¡°Make sure you get plenty of rest tonight. I need you at your best tomorrow.¡±


    He nodded at her. ¡°It¡¯s not like I have anything to do in my room.¡±


    Beyond the occasional drinking session or casual chat with fellow Shinigami and friends, the Soul Society offered precious little in the way of leisure activities to occupy anyone¡¯s free time.


    And today, he didn¡¯t even have Yoruichi or Momo to mess around with.


    {It¡¯s 1950 outside, mate. They don¡¯t have smartphones or gaming rigs.}


    ¡®Fuck. I gotta wait another five decades for good games.¡¯


    {On the bright side, you¡¯ll be watching the old classic anime as they air. Maybe the shows in this reality will be completely different from the ones you grew up with.}


    ''I hadn''t thought of that. Can''t wait to turn Mila Rose into an anime addict!''


    Putting his musings aside for the moment, Kazuya trailed after Isane as she led him to his newly assigned living quarters. Truth be told, he would have been perfectly content with a simple bedroom ¡ª after all, he really only required a place to lay his head at night.


    Unohana, it seemed, had other ideas.


    The residence she had set aside for Kazuya was nearly a mini-sized mansion by Soul Society standards. Boasting two sprawling floors and more rooms than he could ever need, the place was neatly furnished and equipped with every convenience possible.

 Chapter 243: Startled!

    Chapter 243: Startled!


    After a tour of his new accommodations, Kazuya and Isane found themselves sitting across from each other in the spacious living room, a low table separating them.


    Kazuya let out a low whistle of appreciation. ¡°Does every starting Shinigami get this level of treatment?¡±


    Isane couldn¡¯t help but giggle at his awed reaction. ¡°Don¡¯t be silly, Kazuya. Surely you realize this is Captain¡¯s way of acknowledging your contributions to the division... and to the Seireitei as a whole.¡±


    She paused, a melancholic look entering her warm amber eyes. ¡°You know, for all our division¡¯s reputation as the most welcoming and nurturing of the Gotei 13... we¡¯re still most recruits¡¯ absolute last choice for squad assignment. Not everyone is interested in tending to the sick and injured and cleaning and maintenance of the Gotei 13.¡±


    Shinigami who came to the 4th Squad were rejected by other divisions, those not suitable for violence, or those who pursued serenity amidst the grim nature of a Shinigami¡¯s job.


    ¡°Their loss,¡± Kazuya said and leaned back in a more relaxed posture. ¡°I¡¯d join the 4th Squad just for this cool and pretty Vice-Captain.¡±


    Her solemn expression disappeared, and a blush blossomed and colored her cheeks a shade of crimson. ¡°K-Kazuya! Don¡¯t start that, or I-I¡¯ll be mad. I¡¯m being serious here!¡±


    Kazuya let out a wary sigh. ¡°People are always mad to hear the truth. Really, you need to learn to take a compliment.¡±


    ¡°Maybe I would... if you ever gave me one that didn¡¯t make me want to die of embarrassment!¡± Isane shot back, burying her face in her hands. ¡°You¡¯re just too much!¡±


    Despite her flustered protestations, however, Isane couldn¡¯t quite suppress the tiny, pleased smile that tugged at the corners of her mouth. For all his shameless flirting and flattery, there was something undeniably sincere about Kazuya¡¯s words. Something that set her heart fluttering in a way that was both exciting and pleasant.


    Kazuya rubbed the back of his head with an apologetic smile. ¡°Do you hate my compliment?¡±


    Her eyes widened as she waved her hands in a panic. ¡°N-No, I never said that! I like them... but I get nervous when you say good things about me. I¡¯m not used to it, you know? I mean, you¡¯re the first man...¡±


    She trailed off, her blush deepening as she realized what she was about to reveal.


    ¡°First man what, Isane?¡± He asked, blinking his eyes innocently. ¡°Can you be more specific?¡±


    {My partner is manipulating her heartstrings...}


    Gritting her teeth, Isane forced herself to meet his gaze. ¡°You¡¯re the first man who f-found me attractive... yeah, it¡¯s a bit embarrassing to admit.¡±


    ¡°Bullshit.¡±


    She lightly punched the table with a red face, tears pooling at the corner of her eyes. ¡°Why would I lie about this?!¡±


    ¡°I guess you¡¯re right...¡± He cleared his throat. ¡°Just so you know, I mean every word I say about you. You¡¯re an incredible woman, and anyone who says otherwise will be my enemy for life.¡±


    After a couple of minutes, Kazuya could be seen lying on the slanted roof of his new quarters, enjoying the orange hues of the setting sun in a relaxingly loose shirt and shorts. Unohana had provided him with some comfortable clothes.


    ¡®Watching the sunset alone is pretty nice sometimes.¡¯


    {Did you say something, Partner?}


    ¡®...No.¡¯


    {Hahaha. I couldn¡¯t help it. You were being a melodramatic bitch. Though, I admit wanting some relaxation time for yourself is a good thing. We can¡¯t have you stressed out all the time.}


    He placed his hands under his head and let out a long sigh. ¡°Izanami, it might just be Stockholm syndrome... but I like you.¡±


    {Heeeeeh. How rare it is that you call me by my actual name?}


    ¡®Never, honestly.¡¯


    {Very true.}


    ¡®Listen, I¡¯m gonna sleep up here. Just guard my body.¡¯


    If the hot spring incident with Momo and Yoruichi was anything to go by, he was a careless sleeper through and through. He¡¯d leave the task to Yoruichi, but she had yet to return from her business.


    {What about the bed?}


    ¡®Call me spoiled or whatever, but sleeping on bed isn¡¯t fun without cuddling with someone.¡¯


    {I can be that someone.}


    He shook his head. As much as he liked her, he wanted to avoid physical contact with Nami until they took care of her fusion with Tsubasa.


    {As you wish... Rest as much as you need. You¡¯ll need it for tomorrow.}


    ¡®Hmm. Something tells me Unohana isn¡¯t so gentle in her training.¡¯


    {If Kenpachi Zaraki¡¯s training is anything to go by... Yes.}


    ¡®I can endure it... probably. Anyways, Goodnight.¡¯


    Trusting Nami to be a proficient guardian, Kazuya closed his eyes for a deep slumber.

 Chapter 244: Disillusioned (I)

    Chapter 244: Disillusioned (I)


    ¡°Heading out at this late hour, Harribel?¡±


    The soft voice drew Harribel''s attention, and she turned to find Izumi clad in a loose t-shirt and denim shorts, looking awfully cozy in the rather warm environment. The former Quincy had settled in as if she¡¯d always belonged here. And despite her clear yearning for Kazuya¡¯s affection, Izumi seemed untroubled by his roster of other lovers¡ªan attitude that Harribel found both admirable and refreshing.


    Less conflicts among them meant fewer headaches for Kazuya, after all.


    ¡°My mind wanders every time I sit idly. I need a walk to cool my head.¡±


    Izumi nodded in understanding. ¡°I can relate to that. I also can¡¯t stop thinking about Otouto... which happens every other minute. I miss being in her warm arms.¡±


    The raw longing in Izumi¡¯s expression softened Harribel¡¯s gaze. ¡°Izumi, it¡¯s only been a day. Be more patient.¡±


    ¡°It feels like forever...¡± Izumi said with a sigh before shaking her head. ¡°In any case, try to come back before dinner.¡±


    ¡°That is my intention.¡±


    With a parting nod, Harribel took her leave, setting out for her favorite spot to quiet her restless mind¡ªthe bridge overlooking the gently flowing river, the only one in the town. Bathed in the orange hues of the sunset, she reminisced about her times with Kazuya. She had gotten his messages through the Hell Butterfly but they couldn¡¯t make up for the lack of his warmth around her.


    ¡®This mission will come to pass soon... And we¡¯ll be together again.¡¯Re?Ad lateSt chapters at novelhall.com Only


    Lost as she was in wistful remembrance, Harribel almost failed to notice the approaching spiritual pressure until its owner was nearly upon her.


    ¡°My, my... you look really sad out here, Harribel. Is your companion not around to keep you company?¡±


    Her solitude thoroughly shattered, Harribel glanced up to find a familiar silver-haired Shinigami hovering above her, his smile no less unsettling in the fading sunlight. He was the only man capable of setting her on edge with his mere smile.


    ¡°Did you have a fallout?¡± Gin asked, his grin widening a tad. ¡°I¡¯m usually good for relationship advice but lesbians are outside of my expertise.¡±


    After all, the reward would be staying by Kazuya¡¯s without interruptions. A reward worth going through all the trouble in the world.


    Considering the risk behind it, she shook her head. ¡°Kaz doesn¡¯t need anyone¡¯s help. She can handle her own revenge.¡±


    Gin¡¯s smile evaporated, replaced by a concerned look. ¡°She¡¯ll never get another chance because Aizen isn¡¯t leaving the Soul Society. If he does, he¡¯ll be more powerful than ever. Just take my deal. I¡¯ll bring him to Hueco Mundo and isolate him with your friend. Once he is gone, you won¡¯t have to worry about a schemer targeting your peaceful life.¡±


    He sounded genuinely desperate, or he was a god at faking emotions ¡ª Harribel leaned towards the former rather than the latter as she was decent, if not excellent, at judging people.


    She crossed her arms, sizing up the creepiest Shinigami she had crossed paths with. ¡°What if this is a setup to get rid of Kaz? How can a Hollow like me trust you, a Shinigami, to keep his words?¡±


    Gin turned to face her fully, his icy blue eyes glimpsing from half-closed lids. ¡°No one in the current Soul Society has the power to stop your friend from leaving. She is abnormally powerful for a Hollow...¡±


    She was once again reminded of the ridiculous strength of her lover. In the likelihood she was deceived by Gin and everything turned out to be a trap, she was confident in Kazuya¡¯s ability to escape with his life.


    Her lips curled up. ¡°I can say the same about Aizen... someone like him shouldn¡¯t exist among the Shinigami.¡±


    Gin smirked. ¡°Let¡¯s correct that little mistake. Are you in?¡±


    Harribel hesitated, torn between her desire to see Kazuya¡¯s mission concluded and her instinctive wariness of Gin¡¯s motives. ¡°I will... discuss the matter with Kaz. Though I cannot guarantee her agreement.¡±


    ¡°Fair enough.¡± Gin tucked his hands into his loose sleeves and gave a smile that was far less creepy, seemingly genuine. ¡°I¡¯ll meet you here tomorrow. Give me your decision then.¡±


    With a curt nod, Harribel turned to leave, her mind already racing ahead to her next steps. She would need Kisuke¡¯s expertise in contacting Kazuya, and quickly.


    She turned around to leave. She had to hurry home and borrow Kisuke¡¯s expertise in sending a message to Kazuya.


    ¡°Gin Ichimaru,¡± the Shinigami called her, prompting her to glance back. ¡°Since we might well be working together soon, I thought you ought to know my name. Until tomorrow, then.¡±


    And with that, he vanished in a flickering blur of Shunpo, leaving Harribel alone with her troubled thoughts and the looming darkness of the night.

 Chapter 245: Disillusioned (II)

    Chapter 245: Disillusioned (II)


    Sung-Sun regarded Mila Rose with a troubled look. ¡°Rose, don¡¯t blank out in the middle of conversation.¡±Findd new stories at novelhall.com


    The sudden grim look on Mila Rose¡¯s face had her confused and worried.


    ¡°Someone was up there on the roof,¡± Mila Rose spat. ¡°I don¡¯t sense them anymore. They fled pretty quickly.¡±


    Sung-Sun frowned, a worry creasing her brow. ¡°A Shinigami, you think?¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s instincts were seldom wrong, and the rest of their little family had learned to trust her uncanny perceptiveness without question. But the idea of a Shinigami skulking about, spying on them from the shadows, was deeply troubling.


    The entire house, including Sung-Sun, never doubted Mila Rose¡¯s senses and instincts. What bothered Sung-Sun was the identity of their stalker.


    Mila Rose crossed her arms, keeping vigilance. ¡°Why will a Shinigami eavesdrop on us?¡±


    ¡°Because we don¡¯t look like the locals?¡± Sung-Sun shrugged. ¡°Maybe they were just on a routine patrol and got curious about us. I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m throwing guesses here.¡±


    Mila Rose slowly nodded, processing the different scenarios that could be connected to a Shinigami looking for them. ¡°Let¡¯s just tell everything to Harribel-sama. I have a bad feeling about this stalker... My skin crawled when I was being watched.¡±


    Sung-Sun covered her mouth with her oversized sleeves and laughed. ¡°Your skin is thicker than a gorilla. They must¡¯ve been real creepy to make your skin crawl.¡±


    Mila Rose shot her a glare, clearly unamused by Sung-Sun¡¯s frivolity. ¡°I¡¯m fucking serious, Snake.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. I¡¯m sorry.¡± Sung-Sun waved her hands. ¡°We¡¯ll take detours in case we¡¯re being tailed.¡±


    ¡°I know just the route for that.¡± Mila Rose tossed her hair confidently. ¡°I have every street memorized. Just follow me like a duckling.¡±


    ¡°Very well, Kitty. Lead the way.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Nami couldn¡¯t help but giggle at Tsubasa¡¯s optimism. ¡°That wasn¡¯t the point of my rant.¡±


    ¡°Then what was?¡±


    ¡°Why are we like this? Who and what made us this way like we¡¯re two halves of a greater whole? I want answers, and I want them now!¡±


    Having the knowledge from his past life, sometimes she dreaded if she was just some pawn in a grand scheme, playing to the whims of some omnipotent entity outside of their universe.


    The thought made her extremely uncomfortable.


    ¡°...You should ask Father tomorrow. In any case, be on your guard. We can¡¯t let anything happen to Father.¡±


    Nami nodded her head. ¡°Yoruichi is approaching us. Let¡¯s act normal in front of her.¡±


    ¡°Ummm.¡±


    After a few moments, Yoruichi appeared before them in her normal form. Now that Aizen knew her identity, she didn¡¯t bother hiding her human form, especially during night when her stealth excelled.


    Putting her hands on her hips, she looked at the pair. ¡°This horny rascal. He got you to coddle him when Momo and I weren¡¯t around.¡±


    Nami chuckled before pointing at the rope hanging from Yoruichi¡¯s waist. ¡°What¡¯s that for?¡±


    Yoruichi glanced down, a faint blush suffusing her cheeks as she fumbled for a response. ¡°Oh, this? It¡¯s just... ah, that¡¯s for my training...¡±


    And there she paused, shooting Nami a pleading look that was quite plainly, ¡®please, for the love of Reio, do not ask me to explain myself further.¡¯


    Nami revealed a smile. ¡°Say no more, Yoruichi. He is yours for the night!¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Nami. I¡¯ll take him to the bed.¡±


    A/N: What are Yoruichi¡¯s intentions and what will happen to Kazuya? Find out in the next episode of Dragon¡ª

 Chapter 246-247: Constricted (R-18)

    Chapter 246-247: Constricted (R-18)


    Kazuya¡¯s heavy eyelids fluttered open, revealing not the glow of moonlight, but the dull ambiance of a dimly lit bedroom. His new bedroom in the 4th Squad.


    Slumbering peacefully on his chest was Yoruichi in her signature black sleeveless undershirt and form-fitting black stretch pants. The peculiar position was perplexing enough, but the sight of his arms bound above his head by a normal-looking rope, combined with the sunlight cascading through the window, had him utterly bewildered.


    How in the world did he find himself in such a strange situation after dozing off on his rooftop the previous night?


    Even more baffling was his inability to tear through the ropes, despite possessing the strength to pulverize mountains with his bare hands. The special ropes prevented him from channeling his spiritual energy, as if the rope was freezing the flow of his Reiryoku. Though, he was sure he could brute-force through them if he tried to.


    As though hearing his struggle with the ropes, Yoruichi¡¯s cat ears twitched. Her eyes slowly opened, and she languidly rubbed them before sitting up. With a long stretch, she shook away the morning lethargy.


    ¡°This bed gave me a sore¡ª¡± Yoruichi¡¯s calm voice trailed off as her gaze drifted downwards, locking with his intense stare. ¡°Oh yeah. I forgot about this.¡±


    Kazuya raised his knee and nudged her back with it. ¡°Did I get drugged and assaulted in my sleep?¡±


    The chances of such a scenario were admittedly slim, but Yoruichi¡¯s unpredictable nature made it difficult to anticipate her actions¡ªmost of which were born from spontaneous whims.


    Yoruichi¡¯s eyes widened at his accusations. ¡°What gave it away?¡±


    ¡°Wait, it actually happened?¡±


    She covered her mouth and laughed. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything...¡±


    ¡°Then why am I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Yet,¡± she finished her previous thought, her golden eyes glinting mischievously and her tail dancing playfully. She leaned down and traced his jaw. ¡°This is my way of making up for my mistakes. You always wanted to be sex friends. I¡¯ll fulfill your fantasy today.¡±


    From the way her eyes crinkled, he could tell how much fun she was having in teasing him. He started to suspect that she had merely used her ¡®mistake¡¯ as a pretext to conceal her true affection for him.


    ¡°You went to the second division for this special rope.¡±


    ¡°Only place where one can find the rope to subjugate dangerous lawbreakers.¡±


    Kazuya burst into laughter. ¡°Do these guys know their special rope is being used for some kinky bondage play by their former captain?¡±


    ¡°They don¡¯t need to.¡± Yoruichi gave a flat response and gripped his collar. ¡°Now, be quiet like a good boy and let me do my job.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, you could¡¯ve done that without the rope. Unless this is your kink¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hush now, Kazuya.¡± She pressed a finger against his lip and squeezed her firm breasts against his chest, her crotch sliding sensually against the bulge in his shorts. ¡°Feeling excited in this situation. Hmmm... Am I that desirable, Sweetheart?¡±


    ¡°More than you can imagine.¡±


    Despite knowing she was teasing him for fun, he gave an honest answer.


    The answer made her smile in satisfaction.


    ¡°If it makes you feel any better, you have the same effect on me sometimes... These ropes are there to restrain you just as much as they are for me.¡±


    Yoruichi was very sure that he¡¯d take this intimacy beyond her set boundaries, and she would be powerless to resist him. The binding gave her the assurance that things wouldn¡¯t escalate to that final, irreversible act.


    Rather than answering her, Kazuya suddenly pushed himself off the bed and placed his bound hands on her head. His fingers threaded into her ponytail, and he raised his hips, scraping the back of her throat with his cock. His movements started out slow, more for her sake than his, giving her the time to relax and breathe as he slipped in deeper.


    Heat had filled her golden eyes, and her breathing grew ragged. Her heart began beating faster and faster, realizing that her wildest imagination was about to come true.


    Unaware of Yoruichi¡¯s growing lust, he increased the pace little by little. Every thrust that brushed the back of her throat punctuated with a low moan.


    Breathless, he gripped her ponytail tighter and raised his hips with borderline desperation.


    As though knowing what was coming, Yoruichi unconsciously gripped his cock in hand once more, lavishing it with a few final, slow licks. That pushed him over the edge, and he emptied his balls in her mouth, firing ropes of white seed.


    Yoruichi winced but didn¡¯t seem to be against swallowing his cum. ¡°W-Why did you have so much?¡±


    He drew back his hands and heaved a long breath. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were a virgin? Why the hell are you so good at it?¡±


    She placed a finger on her lip, smiling. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Taking his cock in her hand, she rubbed the tip with her thumb. ¡°If I didn¡¯t know any better, I would think it¡¯s normal to stay this energetic after ejaculation.¡±


    ¡°Does that imply you have seen others?¡±


    Yoruichi gripped his knees and rose. Reaching forward to grasp his chin, she held him steadily while maintaining eye contact. ¡°Is my naughty boy jealous?¡±


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t be?¡±


    She smirked at his whiny response. ¡°Honey traps are the basic techniques taught in the Onmitsukido? Department. Everyone there is taught to pleasure both men and women.¡±


    He cocked his head, frowning. ¡°How many men have you seduced?¡±


    ¡°Never got the chance to put my theoretical knowledge to use. I was always sent on assassination missions. Sneak in, eliminate the target, and get out. The espionage stuff was for my underlings. You could call it a perk for having strength and influence.¡±


    ¡°I see. So, when you said strength, did you mean this?¡±


    She looked confused until she saw the ropes descend from his arms. ¡°Jeez. They shouldn¡¯t come off like that. How did you do it?¡±


    ¡°I just flooded it with Reiryoku. The rope wasn¡¯t made to handle that level of output.¡±


    ¡°Ohh¡ª¡±


    Kazuya grabbed her waist and tossed her on the bed.


    Yoruichi perked up and gripped his shoulders. ¡°Why you¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shhhh.¡± He also got a hold of her shoulders and pinned her down under him. ¡°You know nothing about me if you think you can toy with me without retaliation.¡±


    ¡°What are you gonna do to retaliate? Fondle my titties? Fuck my mouth again? Huh? What will you do?¡±


    She laid on her back, her gaze daring him to touch her. Her brown skin was smooth and the glistening sweat made her look even more alluring. Her revealing clothing did not look obscene at all because the flowing lines from her bust to her waist were just too perfect.


    Despite being around beautiful women all the time, even he had to admit she had one of the sexiest bodies. Just looking at her made his arousal ten times worse.


    Kazuya traced her jaw before holding her chin. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My retaliation will be unforgettable.¡±

 Chapter 248: Final question (R-18)

    Chapter 248: Final question (R-18)


    Kazuya swiftly took her wrists and brought them over her head. Her eyes widened as she realized his intentions. However, she was a second too late to outmaneuver him through her dexterity. Overpowering him was out of the question.


    Holding her wrists, he tied them up with her own rope with just enough tightness to make it painless. She was left completely at his mercy.


    ¡°Tying me up so you can have your way with me. Kiddo, I didn¡¯t raise you like that.¡±


    She felt like she had to say something, or the embarrassment of the situation would settle in, making her react in ways she usually wouldn¡¯t, or worse, she¡¯d be swept into his pace and end up doing some shameful things.


    Both scenarios wouldn¡¯t be good for her image.


    ¡°Say something¡ª¡±


    Kazuya silenced Yoruichi with a kiss, and her golden eyes widened. His hand trailed down her neck and squeezed her breast before he pinched the erect nipple sticking against her cloth.


    ¡°Ahh~.¡±


    As sensitive and aroused she had become, the small pinch made her moan in his mouth.


    Kazuya¡¯s tongue invaded her mouth right then, taking her kissing experience from barely decent to mind-numbingly good. The sensation couldn¡¯t be compared to anything she had ever done ¡ª a ravenous, passionate lock of lips that only seems to prolong the hunger behind it instead of satiating it.


    She felt like she was drunk without the alcohol.


    His hand stopped caressing her soft tit and went straight to caress her crotch beneath her tight pants. Slipping his hand inside, he gently caressed her damp lips sticky from her fluids before pushing a finger inside her drenched entrance.


    ¡°Nghhh.¡± A low, unrestrained moan escaped her throat, reverberating in their joined mouths.


    He was quite tempted to taste her from the source and even more tempted to fuck her, but he didn¡¯t want to take that step without her consent. The wariness in her gaze was apparent enough.


    Yoruichi once again blushed. ¡°When will you untie me?¡±


    ¡°On one condition. Be completely honest with me. Did it feel good?¡±


    ¡°You already know the answer. Stop teasing me.¡±


    He laid by her side, resting his head against his palm. ¡°Then let me rephrase my question. Do you want to be with me so I can make you feel like this and more?¡±


    The prideful Yoruichi needed an excuse just to become his ¡®sex friend without sex¡¯ for a day. If he remained passive, he¡¯d have to wait until she found another excuse to be his sexless sex friend again. Even though her body was ready for the act, her heart seemed to be against the idea of committing to the relationship.


    He had to go on the offense, or else he¡¯d never progress past this hurdle.


    Yoruichi threw her head back and let out a sigh. ¡°Look, Kazuya. I like you. I adore you more than any man in the world, but I... I need a little more time to process this.¡±


    Fearing that her half-assed response earned a frosty gaze, she continued looking at the ceiling. But he held her chin and made her look into his eyes, which seemed warm and full of affection, quite unlike her expectations.


    ¡°You can take your time. Just don¡¯t make me wait for a hundred years.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s tense expression vanished, replaced by a cheeky smile. ¡°Oh please. I¡¯m not that indecisive. Can you untie me now, sweetheart?¡±


    ¡°How about I keep you tied up until you say yes?¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 249: Bite me

    Chapter 249: Bite me


    ¡°Stop gawking. Your plate is right there. The grilled fish is getting cold.¡±


    Yoruichi chided Kazuya in a firm voice, yet a blush crept up her cheeks as she caught his gaze. A warm, affectionate gaze that spoke a million words without so much as a squeak; the gaze made her utterly self-conscious after their intimate act in the bedroom.


    Kazuya reached out, his thumb brushing a smudge of milk from her lips. ¡°A glimpse at this golden-eyed catgirl can satiate every need in a man¡¯s life.¡±


    {If I had a dollar for every time you lied to women, I¡¯d have a couple hundred bucks to my name, which is a lot in the current era! }


    Nami¡¯s commentary fell on deaf ears as he had no interest in anything besides Yoruichi at the moment.


    Yoruichi narrowed her eyes sharply, a hint of annoyance in her expression. ¡°Why did you make me cook then?¡±


    She had spent thirty precious minutes of her life preparing the dishes, only for Kazuya to barely touch the fruits of her labor. She wasn¡¯t hurt, just perplexed about his actions. The thought of the dishes tasting awful didn¡¯t cross her mind ¡ª she had taste-tested everything before presenting them to him. They tasted decent enough for breakfast, with plenty of nutrition.


    He wiped his mouth with a napkin. ¡°The meat is three or four times saltier than it should¡¯ve been.¡±


    He had tried to eat without showing any discomfort, but his efforts had been futile. Despite all his evolution, his taste buds remained the same as humans. The food on the plate wasn¡¯t made for humans.


    Yoruichi knitted her brow, looking even more perplexed. ¡°It wasn¡¯t salty when I tasted it. Strange...¡±


    ¡°Yoruichi, did you consume anything other than milk in the past few days?¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Her eyes snapped wide in realization. Sticking out her tongue, she rubbed a thumb across the dry, sandpapery surface. ¡°Woah! My tongue also changed!¡±


    He chuckled, seeing the usually wise and proud Yoruichi playing with her tongue. ¡°The Hollowification affected your whole anatomy. You¡¯re the first Shinigami to not only have a tail and cat ears but also their tongue. I¡¯m so proud of you!¡±


    ¡°Well, you know what? I¡¯m also proud. I always found cats cute. I¡¯d have taken your Zanpakuto?¡¯s bullet if Hollowification gave me something like a dog¡¯s ears. Yuck.¡±


    ¡°...Dogs aren¡¯t that bad.¡±


    ¡°I just asked her out. Before you say anything, I was very nice and polite.¡±


    ¡°That silly girl...¡± Unohana let out a sigh. ¡°She has to be more assertive, else a delinquent like you will continue taking advantage of her.¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re worried, why don¡¯t you date me as well? That way you can make sure Isane is treated fairly. You¡¯ll be the balancer of power dynamic between us.¡±


    Unohana brushed off his smooth proposal with a calm smile. ¡°The insignificant passion I have in my heart is reserved for... Forget about Isane. You¡¯re here for training. Let us proceed to a more suitable location ¡ª to the hills where flowers bloom.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Without waiting for his response, she strode down the stairs. Emerging in the open area, she drew her katana and plunged it into the earth. ¡°Mend the broken flesh, Minazuki (Flesh-Drops¡¯ Gorge).¡±


    The blade quivered as viscous, green fluid burst forth from the hilt, coalescing into a massive silhouette. As her katana vanished, the gurgling flesh sprang to life.


    Unohana¡¯s Shikai took the form of an immense, manta ray-like creature, its slick body supported by two talon-like feet. A single, unblinking eye gazed out from its face, while countless teeth lined its grinning maw. Perhaps, it was grinning. No one except Unohana could read the creature¡¯s thoughts.


    ¡°Wow, Captain¡¯s Shikai is cute like her,¡± he whispered, confusing Unohana whether he was being sarcastic towards her or talking to himself. ¡°Retsu, does it bite?¡±


    ¡°Minazuki¡¯s master carries enough bite for both of them.¡±


    He pulled back his sleeve, baring his wrist. ¡°In that case, bite me.¡±


    Silently, Unohana gave him a side glance before shaking her head and getting on top of Minazuki. ¡°Come, let¡¯s not waste more time.¡±


    Completely ignoring his playful whims was less effort and time than entertaining him.


    ¡°If you insist so much.¡± He hopped aboard the giant manta ray and took a relaxed seat on its back. ¡°I have to say it¡¯s pretty comfortable.¡±


    Minazuki flapped its wings and took off into the sky. In the barracks, many nurses and Shinigami stopped in their duties and waved their hands at Unohana, wishing her good luck on her excursion. She returned their well-wishes with a serene, close-eyed smile before taking a seat beside Kazuya.

 Chapter 250: The Challenge

    Chapter 250: The Challenge


    Taking a seat by Kazuya¡¯s side, Unohana¡¯s face returned to her usual calm. ¡°This cold breeze feels invigorating. You won¡¯t feel the same energy when rushing towards your destination with Shunpo.¡±


    ¡°To be fair, yesterday I rushed to save my neck from you. Not exactly the best circumstances to take notice of our nature.¡±


    Unohana turned to him, smiling. ¡°I remember you declaring that nobody in the Soul Society could harm you. Whatever happened to that claim?¡±


    ¡°Oh, it still holds true. Not many people can kill me when I commit to defense.¡±


    With his shield and ridiculous regeneration, he was the most resilient cockroach in the world. Trading his offensive abilities for defensive was very situational, but at least he had the option.


    Unohana, who didn¡¯t know about his Zanpakuto?¡¯s defensive capabilities, attributed his confidence to his regeneration ability ¡ª a boon for her since she wouldn¡¯t have to use her Bankai to heal the wounds he¡¯d suffer in the coming days.


    Unaware of Unohana¡¯s designs, Kazuya lay back and gazed up at the ever-changing sky as they journeyed from the bustling Seireitei to the lush forests beyond.


    ¡°Retsu, I¡¯m feeling drowsy. Can I get a lap pillow?¡±


    ¡°Isane might oblige if you stop teasing her. Just being sincere will make her accept your affectionate advances.¡±


    Unohana had no qualms about Kazuya pursuing Isane, or rather, she was in full support of them being together. As sharp as she was, she didn¡¯t know that he was serious about taking both the Vice-Captain and Captain.


    ¡°But if you harm her in any way,¡± Unohana whispered, slowly turning toward him with her narrow-eyed smile that held a sharp edge like a blade. ¡°I shall remind you why I was known as the most infamous villain in Soul Society¡¯s history.¡±


    ¡°But she isn¡¯t here. You are!¡±


    Unohana blinked, momentarily taken aback by his nonchalance in the face of her threat. She had yet to become used to his ¡®I don¡¯t fear anyone, not even you, Yachiru Unohana¡¯ attitude.


    Shaking her head, she closed her eyes. ¡°I will not indulge any of your quirky ideas.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    As they crossed the forest, the aforementioned ¡®Hills where flowers bloom¡¯ came into view ¡ª gentle slopes blanketed in layers of white and violet flowers. He had imagined some barren hills with a few flowers, not this rich scenery.


    ¡°This place is too colorful for our training,¡± he remarked with a side glance at the stern captain. ¡°I thought you''d choose something dark and edgy like Muken.¡±


    The Muken was a voided space completely sealed off from the outside world, aside from the main tower that served as its entrance and exit. The vast darkness gave the illusion that it stretched on infinitely ¡ª it was a perfect arena for them to go all out without disturbing anyone in the Soul Society.


    ¡°I¡¯d take you there if it was within my authority... Unfortunately, non-prisoners aren¡¯t allowed in there without the Captain Commander¡¯s permission.¡±


    {She and Kenpachi entered Muken when they were under threat of extermination by Quincy.}


    Jumping down from Minazuki¡¯s back, Kazuya¡¯s feet met the lush grass, the vibrant blades bowing beneath his weight. Unohana gracefully descended behind him as Minazuki shimmered and distorted, flowing into her sheath as the same green viscous fluid and once more taking the form of her katana.


    Kazuya took off the garments gifted by Byakuya and neatly folded it. He loved the fitting too much to let it get shredded by Unohana¡¯s blade.


    The cold breeze caressed his bare torso, reminding him of the days of meditating with his Zanpakuto? in the dojo.


    ¡°What a girly body,¡± Unohana remarked with a smile. ¡°Fear not. I shall make a true man out of you by carving scars of glory on your entire body.¡±


    ¡°Just spare the innocent lad between my legs.¡±


    ¡°I shall endeavor, however, I cannot promise your gential¡¯s safety.¡±


    He grimaced and faced Unohana before glancing at the flower field. ¡°You chose a real contrasting place for our violent dance.¡±


    ¡°The flowers will elevate your focus. I have to make sure you don¡¯t get distracted during a crucial moment.¡±


    Kazuya closed his eyes, the biting failure with Ho?gyoku and Aizen still fresh in his mind. Had he maintained his focus, Aizen would have returned to the Soul Society not as a living soul, but as a decomposing corpse.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. My focus needs a lot of work.¡±


    ¡°Admitting your shortcomings is as good a start as any. Anyhow, you aren¡¯t alone in your struggle.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s hands moved to the strap across her shoulder, deftly pulling it over her head. Gripping her sheath, she drew her katana with deliberate slowness, letting each section of the blade glint in the pouring sunlight. The blade, like its hilt, was unusually large, more akin to a nodachi than an ordinary katana.


    Her blade flashed as she severed the clips binding her braids, freeing her hair to dance wildly in the wind.


    The jagged scar beneath her throat stood out on her otherwise unblemished pale skin.


    Her cold gaze collided with him. ¡°When I sense your strength, I, too, find myself losing grasp of these dark urges.¡±


    ¡°Now I¡¯m losing for a completely different reason,¡± he muttered under his breath, desire and anticipation warring within him at the sight of her ghostly beauty. He pinched his cheek, and the pain that washed over him purged his distracting thoughts. ¡°Well, let¡¯s lose control.¡±


    ¡°Draw your sword and face me. No Shikai. No Shunpo. No Sonido. Fight me like you¡¯re a sheep before wolf. Fight me like you¡¯re desperate to survive.¡±


    She pointed her sword at him.


    ¡°Prove to me that you are more than a helpless weakling when stripped of your sublime gifts.¡±


    He smoothly slid his katana out of its sheath. ¡°Nami will have a field day today.¡±

 Chapter 251: A Lamb and Wolf

    Chapter 251: A Lamb and Wolf


    Unohana stood at ease, her stance riddled with openings. Kazuya knew better than to trust his eyes when facing an opponent of her caliber. This was undoubtedly a bait to lure him into a killing strike, only to counter and lecture him on the virtue of patience.


    ¡°Did you not hear me?¡± She questioned, her voice cold and emotionless. ¡°Plunge your blade through my heart like you¡¯d do with Aizen.¡±


    Narrowing his eyes, Kazuya lunged forward, his sword aimed at her chest. There was no hesitation in his movements, as if he truly sought to end her life.


    Unohana¡¯s lips curved up in a subtle smile as her hand twitched.


    Clang!


    Her sword intercepted his with blinding speed, and despite keeping his eyes trained on her hand, he could only perceive a blur of motion. Instinctively, he blocked, relying on reflex rather than sight. The attacks that struck his sword were lightning-fast, he managed to keep pace ¡ª the moment the thought crossed his mind, a sharp pain hit his right palm.


    He looked down to see blood pouring from the back of his hand. Meanwhile, his sword arced through the air and plunged into the hill behind him.


    ¡°Wow...¡± He muttered, feeling speechless from witnessing a short sword in her left hand.


    She walked towards his katana and tossed it at him. ¡°Don¡¯t get too fixated on your opponent¡¯s blade that you lose sight of everything else.¡±


    ¡°I just didn¡¯t expect you to resort to cheap tricks, given the massive disparity in our skills.¡±


    ¡°Always expect the unexpected on the battlefield. The price of unpreparedness is your life...¡±


    ¡°I know. I know. Let¡¯s start again.¡± He shook his hand, scattering droplets of blood on the white flowers. The wound began to knit itself back together. ¡°You won¡¯t catch me off guard this easily again. I¡¯ll even let you take the first strike.¡±


    Unohana gleefully took the chance and lunged at him like a predator rushing at its harmless prey.


    As their swords locked, she drew back and launched a follow-up slash at his torso, intending to carve her first mark on his body.


    He emulated her defensive technique to parry her diagonal slash. Just a heartbeat later, her sword flashed once more. Against his expectations, she had retraced her attack to launch yet another slash with scarcely a pause between them.


    The instant her sword tasted his flesh and drew blood, Unohana¡¯s eyes widened, a crazed smile twisting her lips. Her Reiatsu fluctuated wildly, sending ripples through the sea of flowers surrounding them.


    A spine-chilling bloodlust radiated from her smile. ¡°Ahh, more! Let me cut you more! Let me slaughter you more!!!¡±


    Kazuya winced at the burning sensation but he remained calm enough to dodge her vicious attacks. At least most of them. A couple made it past his defense and covered him in his own blood.


    As predicted, the training had devolved from learning experience to an act of survival in a mere minute.


    He suddenly jumped back with Hirenkyaku. ¡°Retsu, come back to me.¡±


    The complete brunt of his charm ability put Unohana in a dazed state. Her vicious killing intent immediately disappeared, leaving behind a Unohana who just stared at his closing wounds.


    She gave him a disinterested look. ¡°I told you to attack me like you mean to kill me. Or else I will kill you.¡±


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°I can keep using my voice to bring my Retsu back.¡±


    ¡°Now is not the time to develop a heart,¡± she replied with an amused smile. ¡°I have found major flaws in your style. You have a LOT to work on.¡±


    ¡°Oh pray tell.¡±


    ¡°First of all, you have to deepen your arsenal of combat. As it stands, your offense and defense are exceptionally shallow compared to other Captains. You rely too much on your observation for openings. You need a backup strategy to fall on when your eyes can¡¯t keep up. Since you are with me, I¡¯ll show you techniques to brute force an opening in a fight.¡±


    Unohana had astutely gauged his fighting style as well as his weaknesses through the exchange.


    {She is saying, ¡®You are not using enough violence. I will teach you more VIOLENCE!}


    Kazuya chuckled at Nami¡¯s unserious comment. ¡°It¡¯s never bad to have multiple win conditions in a fight.¡±


    She lowered her sword and beckoned him with her left hand. ¡°Come. I¡¯ll traumatize your body to an extent that you¡¯ll be confident in letting your skills dictate the battle, not your keen observation. Once we¡¯re done, you¡¯ll be outskilling your opponents.¡±


    ¡°Hey, that wasn¡¯t what you said earlier!¡±

 Chapter 252: The Message

    Chapter 252: The Message


    Kazuya lay sprawled amidst the vibrant flowers, his crimson-stained figure stark against the colorful backdrop of the flowers. He gazed up at the mesmerizing sky, his thoughts drifting with the clouds.


    ¡®The sky is mesmerizing vivid, the birds soaring through a testament to the equivocal freedom granted to all living beings... I can just fly up above the sky, can¡¯t I?¡¯


    {Stop going off the rail with your delusions!} Nami chuckled in his mind, her tone simultaneously amused and scolding. {Honestly, people gain a newfound appreciation for life after surviving a crisis. Partner just survived the calamity known as Yachiru Unohana.}


    Nami was right in every sense. Unohana had lived up to her promises ¡ª she had systematically traumatized his body over the long hours of their training, carving wound after wound into his flesh, the intensity of which grew when she lost control of her urges. The endless cycle of wounding followed by healing, over and over, had continuously drained his vast reserves of spiritual energy. And while his Reiryoku had nearly recovered by now, his mental and emotional state was still left thoroughly exhausted by the process.


    Suddenly, Unohana¡¯s upside down face popped into his vision, her long raven hair dangling down and tickling his face. ¡°Do you still want to visit Kisuke?¡±


    The mere thought of moving made him wearily shake his head against the soft grass and flowers. ¡°I just want to rest today.¡±


    He had already made up his mind to force Yoruichi to take on her human form, so he could snuggle up with her warm, voluptuous body. She owed him at least that much consolation for leaving him hanging earlier without an answer to his heartfelt question.


    {I¡¯m the backup cuddle plan if she refuses.}


    ¡°We can also have sex.¡±


    Kazuya simply couldn¡¯t believe that his actually horny Zanpakuto? Spirit pitched a wholesome idea while his naive yet manipulative Zanpakuto? Spirit had the devious idea for intercourse. Tsubasa was driven by a curious fascination with sex, a curiosity that children often displayed for knowledge.


    {Tsu, do that when you recreate your own body.}


    ¡°Okay...¡±


    Unohana¡¯s piercing eyes turned soft, oozing a soul-melting warmth that stood in stark contrast to her intensity during the training. ¡°I can carry you back to your place.¡±


    ¡°Just give me a few minutes.¡±


    In response, Unohana did something unexpected ¡ª she suddenly reached down, tenderly lifted his head, and placed it delicately in her lap, giving him an impromptu lap pillow. The silky fabric of her hakama felt cool and soothing, more so when he had been lying on the grass for a while.


    He just stared up at her lovely face in wonder, utterly dumbstruck by this open display of kindness and care that was a stark contrast to her crazy, bloodthirsty side.


    ¡°A privilege for today only,¡± she clarified as though perceiving his unspoken question. ¡°I say that so you don¡¯t grow accustomed to me spoiling you. I am, after all, not one of your mistresses.¡±


    Despite her blunt words, a small, quite pleased smile graced her lips. She was feeling an even greater sense of fluttering satisfaction deep within her soul. The source of her deep contentment was the unexpected results of today¡¯s long, grueling training session.


    Even accounting Kazuya¡¯s absurd talent, Unohana had anticipated him to be utterly thrashed by her for at least a week straight before he could even begin to defend himself. Yet, amazingly, by the time the red sun finally dipped below the horizon, he was parrying her lightning-fast attacks with nearly a hundred percent accuracy ¡ª his body and mind had fully adjusted to the blinding, inhuman speed of her blade.


    This growth, put simply, was nothing short of astonishing.


    ¡®His swordsmanship will soon rival my own...¡¯ She mused silently to herself. ¡®When that happens, who will have the strength to challenge him? Perhaps only the Royal Guards.¡¯


    The old, never-fully-healed scar on her chest throbbed and ached, as if in instinctive response to her racing heart.


    ¡®He will outgrow the Zaraki who defeated me...¡¯


    Kazuya cleaned his body with the help of Reiatsu before putting on his uniform.


    On the back of Minazuki, they departed the flower field, now partially devastated by the aftermath of their fierce battle. The wind whipped at their hair and clothes as they cruised through the air.


    Thanks to Minazuki¡¯s speed, they arrived at Kazuya¡¯s quarters in practically no time at all.


    As Kazuya entered the main hall, he spotted Yoruichi leaning casually against the wall, her arms crossed under her ample chest.


    ¡°Done with the training?¡±


    ¡°Nah, I actually left early so I could spend more quality time with you like we did in the morning.¡±


    He reached out to pull her into a hug, but she playfully dodged his grasp.


    ¡°Uh-huh. Like I¡¯ll fall for that. What really happened?¡±


    ¡°I promise I''ll fill you in on all the details later.¡±


    ¡°Hmph...¡± The Flash Goddess didn''t look overly convinced, but she made no move to stop him as he ran.


    Taking the stairs two and three at a time, Kazuya burst into the empty room beside his main bedroom. Sure enough, there was a single black Hell Butterfly fluttering around beneath an overturned glass bowl on a small end table, just as Nami had said.


    Right on cue, Nami herself materialized out of Kazuya¡¯s sheathed katana in a swirl of crimson flames, making the sheath instantly feel far lighter on his waist. Whether it was intentional or not, Nami¡¯s casual, swaying walk as she sauntered over to the trapped butterfly oozed sensuality. It was as if she unintentionally seduced him.


    She gently tapped the bowl with her fingers and smiled at him. ¡°Silly things can travel dimensions but can¡¯t overcome a simple object.¡±


    With a chuckle, she lifted the bowl. The black butterfly flew at him and scattered in black particles.


    ¡°Kazuya...¡± Harribel¡¯s husky voice echoed around him. ¡°I met Gin Ichimaru today, and we talked a bit... Come to me as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Nami,¡± Kazuya said flatly, crossing his arms and giving his Zanpakuto spirit a dangerous glare. ¡°Any last wishes?¡±


    ¡°Cough. Cough.¡± Nami suddenly clutched at her ample chest and began coughing dramatically, bending over at the waist. ¡°Partner, I-It¡¯s getting a little suffocating here... I think I should return to your Inner World.¡±


    Nami¡¯s form scattered into a swirl of bright embers, retreating back into Kazuya¡¯s katana.


    He let out a heavy sigh and rubbed his temples. ¡°Change of plans. Yoruichi, I need to see Harribel.¡±


    Yoruichi, who had apparently snuck upstairs to eavesdrop, let out a disappointed groan and snapped her fingers. ¡°Blast, and here I thought I''d finally get to surprise you properly for once...¡±


    ¡°Are you coming with me?¡±


    ¡°Nope, I¡¯m good. I always feel like an outsider when you and Harribel are together.¡± She sprawled on the bed before turning and burying her face in his pillow. ¡°Mhmm, I¡¯m just gonna take a nap here.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t let me catch you doing anything crazy in my house.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s our house now.¡±

 Chapter 253: Introductions

    Chapter 253: Introductions


    Although normal humans couldn¡¯t see Kazuya and Unohana in the Karakura Town, he still opted to conceal their presence with a few layers of Kido?, just to be safe. It may have taken an extra minute to properly cast the incantations, but that beat letting some unseen Shinigami, or worse Aizen¡¯s spies, catch him.


    As they walked down a cozy side street, Kazuya felt a twinge of anxiety stirring in his guts. He felt a bit nervous about the meeting between his elegant but crazy mentor and his motherly, queenly Arrancar lover. He could have made Unohana stay behind, he supposed, but that would only delay their inevitable first encounter.


    Better she met with Harribel and the rest today than a month down the line.


    {Just relax, Partner. Harribel knows not to offend your Shinigami allies and love interests... aren¡¯t they the same like ninety percent of the time?}


    ¡®I¡¯m afraid of it happening the other way.¡¯


    {Oh! Yeah, I don¡¯t expect Unohana to react to your lovers the same way she reacted to you.}


    ¡°Father, look at Unohana...¡± Tsubasa said. ¡°This woman shouldn¡¯t harm your lovers, right?¡±


    Kazuya glanced sidelong at Unohana as they walked. The elegant Shinigami was humming pleasantly to herself, seemingly absorbed in her own little world, paying him no mind. It was almost impossible to mentally connect her to the laughing, blood-drenched devil he¡¯d faced in the flower fields mere hours before.


    ¡°Hmm?¡± She tilted her head towards him with a confused look. ¡°Are we there yet?¡±


    ¡°Just a little more.¡±


    ¡°Ah, excellent.¡±


    {Chill all the time, but violent as fuck when the situation demands. Partner, she is just like me!}


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you having a depression episode yesterday? You aren¡¯t exactly like her.¡±


    Tsubasa brought up an intriguing piece of information that shed light on a new side of Nami. The side he rarely got to see.


    {Shush, Tsu. We don¡¯t talk about that here.}


    Nami shushed Tsubasa from revealing anything.


    ¡®Don¡¯t leave me in the dark. What¡¯s this depression episode?¡¯


    {Just girls talk, Partner. You really don''t need to concern yourself with every little aspect of our lives, y¡¯know.}


    ¡®You having a depression episode doesn¡¯t feel like girls talk to me.¡¯


    {....I mean, if you wanna be technical, it was still private girl talk since it was strictly between us girls, yes?}


    Nami was being suspicious. However, he wasn¡¯t in the best place to make her spit everything about this depression episode. Right now, he had to focus on the things at hand, which was making sure the meeting between his lovers and Unohana went smoothly.


    Soon, he could see the high wall surrounding the mansion grounds just ahead. He took a deep, calming breath, held it for a count of three, then slowly let it out.


    ¡®Nothing will go wrong between Harribel and Retsu.¡¯


    Kazuya placed his hand on the iron gate and gently pushed it open.


    Unohana looked at him with a suspicion glint in her eyes. ¡°How did you come into possession of this lavish property?¡±


    ¡°I worked my ass off. That¡¯s how I became the owner of this mansion.¡±


    {You did good by not backing down. One day of hard work is still hard work!}


    Three out of the four couches were occupied by Harribel and Apacci, the unusual duo of Izumi and Cirucci, and the thorny yet sweet pairing of Mila Rose and Sung-Sun.


    The harmony between everyone made his heart swell with affection.


    {Hollows together strong!} Nami chuckled. {Apacci is such a dumbass. I love her.}


    ¡®That makes the two of us.¡¯


    As one, the women rolled an appreciative gaze over Kazuya, taking in his new Shinigami attire. The sheer blatant desire in their eyes was both flattering and a little unnerving ¡ª he hadn¡¯t expected them to find his outfit so appealing.


    Sung-Sun in particular was eyeing him like a tasty snack, eyes roving slowly up and down his body. ¡°Don''t move a muscle, darling,¡± she purred, licking her lips. ¡°I need to commit every detail to memory... so I can design a similar outfit for myself later.¡±


    Her lustful grin left zero doubt in Kazuya¡¯s mind just where she intended to wear said theoretical outfit.


    Mila Rose¡¯s lips parted with a gasp. ¡°You will look like a stick in that. It¡¯s better you make one for me instead.¡±


    ¡°Absolutely not.¡±


    ¡°What? Why the hell not, Snake?¡±


    Sung-Sun placed her elbow on Mila Rose¡¯s shoulder and leaned against her. ¡°Because I¡¯d have to charge you an entire month¡¯s salary for my service.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Are you drunk?! No way am I blowing that kinda cash on a stupid dress!¡±


    ¡°Then back the fuck off and let me memorize Dear¡¯s outfit.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, fine...¡±


    As the Arrancar ladies bickered, Unohana silently assessed them with a keen, calculating gaze, as though taking mental notes. ¡°I had thought Kazuya was an exceptional case, but it seems every Arrancar here is nearly indistinguishable from ordinary humans, save for a few unique traits.¡±


    The crazy captain sounded genuinely surprised to see the Arrancars having such resemblance with humans.


    Harribel gave a soft smile. ¡°Our physical and spiritual evolution follows the shape of our desires to an extent. In our case, the desires were formed and inspired by him. Without him, we would have remained stuck in a limbo ¡ª more than a beast but less than true humans.¡±


    Unohana glanced at him, an amused smirk on her face. ¡°His actions earned him a group of extremely powerful and devoted women.¡±


    ¡°Yes, well, let¡¯s discuss that later. Come take a seat.¡± He made Unohana sit on the last couch and took a seat beside her. ¡°So, did everyone like the surprise visit?¡±


    Apacci crossed her arms with a frown. ¡°Not much of a surprise after Harribel sent that message.¡±


    Sung-Sun chucked the tv remote at Apacci¡¯s face, which Apacci caught without blinking. ¡°Dear, don¡¯t listen to this ass. We loved your surprise.¡±


    Izumi nodded in agreement, a soft smile on her face. ¡°Feel free to do it again... in fact, many of us wouldn¡¯t want you to leave again.¡±


    ¡°Damn right!¡± Mila Rose chimed in with a boisterous laugh. ¡°Enough about us. Kazuya, introduce us to the pretty Shinigami lady already.¡±


    ¡°I was getting to that.¡± He cleared his throat and gestured to Unohana. ¡°This is the Captain of my squad, Retsu Unohana. She¡¯ll be lending me a hand in exterminating my enemy.¡±


    ¡°Well hot damn!¡± Mila Rose cheered, clapped excitedly. ¡°Wait, hold up. Does this mean you might be able to finish your mission and come home for good way sooner?¡±


    He gave a slight nod. ¡°Kind of. Before we continue, I want to hear about Gin. Harribel.¡±


    Harribel assumed a stern expression as she leaned forward. ¡°About Gin...¡±

 Chapter 254: Enthusiasm

    Chapter 254: Enthusiasm


    Kazuya wasn¡¯t the least bit surprised to learn that Gin Ichimaru had been seeking him out. Leveraging every possible advantage was very much Gin¡¯s method of handling important business. And through his battle against So?suke Aizen, Kazuya had more than proven his immense potential usefulness to the sly snake.


    Kazuya wasn¡¯t surprised about Gin seeking him out. Using every card at hand was very much Gin¡¯s way of handling business. Through his battle with Aizen, Kazuya had shown the potential to be of use to Gin.


    ¡°Why would Gin betray Aizen now? Is it because Aizen without Shikai isn¡¯t a worthy leader in Gin¡¯s eyes, and he wants to get rid of Aizen?¡±


    While Kazuya found Gin¡¯s proposal to be sensible given the situation, Unohana seemed utterly baffled by this abrupt shift in Gin¡¯s apparent loyalties. But her confusion was understandable ¡ª after all, she had always viewed Gin as being Aizen¡¯s closest accomplice and confidant, even more so than the blindly devoted Kaname To?sen.


    For a brief moment, Kazuya considered sharing what he knew of Gin¡¯s rather tragic origin story, to help Unohana grasp his true motivations... but he quickly dismissed the notion. There was simply nothing to gain by making her sympathetic towards Gin Ichimaru.


    ¡°Gin probably wasn¡¯t on Aizen¡¯s side from the beginning,¡± Kazuya said. ¡°Or it could be the other way around. Their relationship is irrelevant for us. What we should focus on is Gin¡¯s promise of isolating Aizen in Hueco Mundo.¡±


    Although he trusted Unohana¡¯s skills, she was from the most optimal choice for the task she volunteered for. Gin, on the other hand, would have a much easier time convincing Aizen to leave the Soul Society.


    ¡°One moment, Kazuya,¡± Unohana said, holding up a hand. To his surprise, she pivoted on the couch to sit in the traditional seiza position, as if preparing for a formal tea ceremony. Clearly, she wasn¡¯t comfortable sitting on the couch in her uniform. ¡°We don¡¯t need Ichimaru¡¯s help. The plan I had is full-proof.¡±


    The confidence in her voice piqued his interest.


    ¡°Well, care to share your game plan?¡±


    Unohana put a finger on her lips. ¡°The threat of Arrancars is still fresh on everyone¡¯s minds. Captain Commander will initiate an assignment to assess the Arrancars forces in Hueco Mundo, as it¡¯ll prevent invasions in the future.¡±


    Kazuya leaned forward, listening intently. ¡°And...?¡±


    ¡°Let me finish,¡± Unohana chided with a solemn expression. ¡°At the discussion for the mission, I¡¯ll pitch Captain Kyo?raku and Aizen as the main leaders for the assignment, with Isane and you providing support. If I were in Aizen¡¯s shoes, I¡¯d jump at the opportunity to get rid of a Captain as well as the most unpredictable variable in the Soul Society ¡ª you.¡±


    {For a battle-maniac, she sure has good intellect. The saying about wisdom coming with age wasn¡¯t wrong after all.}


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°We can¡¯t rely on your plan.¡±


    He could see a flaw in her plan ¡ª a hole greater than the biggest Hollow hole in any Hollow.


    Unohana frowned skeptically, looking mildly discontent about his quick dismissal. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Aizen¡¯s ego won¡¯t be satisfied without everyone acknowledging his superiority, that he was right in his pursuit to overthrow the Soul King. He won¡¯t get that if the captains aren¡¯t around. Only their submission and recognition will satisfy him. After all, he doesn¡¯t just want to rule... he wants to be worshiped as a God.¡±


    He leaned closer to her ears. ¡°Is that worry I sense in your voice?¡±


    ¡°The future of the Soul Society rests on your shoulders... which includes the safety of Isane. I will not let you fail.¡±


    She prioritized Isane¡¯s safety above everyone ¡ª above her own.


    Kazuya looked at Harribel. ¡°Did Gin give any way to contact him?¡±


    ¡°There is no need. Gin will come to the same spot as yesterday,¡± Harribel paused and glanced at the ticking clock on the wall. ¡°In two hours.¡±


    ¡°Where is that?¡±


    ¡°The bridge.¡±


    ¡°Oh, our favorite spot.¡±


    A tiny smile graced Harribel''s lips, which went away in a blink. ¡°It¡¯ll be better for you to change into your other form before meeting him. I¡¯ll accompany you.¡±


    ¡°Dammit.¡±


    {Sheesh, Partner. Keep your charm in check, or Gin might end up falling for you like Aizen...} Nami hummed. {Beating two of the most powerful Shinigami by genderbending.... that''s one heck of a twist.}


    ¡®Yeah, no. I¡¯d rather not.¡¯


    As if sensing his inner turmoil, Harribel shifted beside him and clasped his hand in both of her own. Her skin was warm and pleasant against his. ¡°If it¡¯s any consolation, Kazuya... once Aizen is defeated, you¡¯ll never have to assume that form again.¡±


    In any other case, she¡¯d be the first to protest against killing someone, but she had judged Aizen as beyond redemption. Someone who deserved no mercy or compassion from anyone.


    Kazuya sighed and nodded, raising her hands to his lips to plant a kiss across her knuckles. ¡°I know, Tier. I know.¡±


    Harribel¡¯s eyes softened. ¡°You have two hours. Can you spend it with everyone?¡±


    ¡°Hmmm. Retsu, I¡¯ll be back in two minutes.¡±


    Taking Harribel¡¯s hand, he left the room, leaving Unohana alone with his family, who were all a bunch of strangers to Unohana.

 Chapter 255: Crucible (I)

    Chapter 255: Crucible (I)


    Harribel had all the time in the world, but Kazuya only had two hours ¡ª one hundred and twenty minutes ¡ª before leaving the mansion. Instead of spending it solely with Harribel, he chose to share it with everyone. This way, Harribel, Apacci, Sung-Sun, Mila Rose, Izumi, and Cirucci ¡ª all of his lovers ¡ª would get to be with him.


    Harribel seemed genuinely pleased with the agreement.


    {Partner, why does it feel like you¡¯re an escort for giving them limited time?}


    ¡°Escort?¡±


    {You don¡¯t have to learn about it, Tsu!}


    ¡°But I want to!¡±


    Kazuya paid zero attention to the bickering idiots in his head, as he had become accustomed to ignoring them. Nothing about their talk was worth holding his attention when Harribel was by his side.


    The golden-haired woman led him into her bedroom and invited him to sit beside her on the bed.


    He cleared his throat loudly. ¡°Tier, I promised to do that last time, but let¡¯s not do that today.¡±


    Confusion clouded her expression, causing her to tilt her head before a subtle flush of embarrassment colored her cheeks. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring you here for sex... I want our first time to be free from time constraints.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it was just a misunderstanding.¡±


    She nodded slowly. ¡°I wanted you to have some rest...¡±


    Without giving him a chance to respond, she gently placed his head on her lap. Not content with just the lap pillow, she started caressing his hair with a tender touch.


    ¡°You looked tired when you arrived,¡± she softly said, weaving her fingers through his silver locks. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure you leave here feeling refreshed.¡±


    Her affectionate action didn¡¯t surprise Kazuya at all, as she knew how much he loved being on the receiving end of lap pillows. Getting angel-like kindness from her was just a side benefit of having this double relationship.


    He no longer felt tired, but he wasn¡¯t about to reject her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to ask why I¡¯m tired?¡±


    She shook her head. ¡°The cause doesn¡¯t concern me... caring for you this way makes me feel good. This... brings me more satisfaction than anything else.¡±


    A sigh escaped his lips. Though his view was obstructed by her ample bosom, he could still imagine the warmth of her smile ¡ª the smile that always made him feel warm and fuzzy inside.


    {Partner, Lisa infected her mind with trash romance stories. What a tragic fate...}


    Kazuya moved her finger from his lip and sat up from Harribel¡¯s lap. ¡°Wife, I was asking for something to eat. I¡¯m starving.¡±


    Sung-Sun covered her mouth and giggled. ¡°Cheeky as always.¡±


    He pulled her up and hugged her lithe figure. ¡°You girls don¡¯t have to worry about anything. I¡¯m not letting anything happen to me before I take Harribel.¡±


    Sung-Sun turned to Harribel. ¡°Then it¡¯s decided. Harribel-sama must stay virgin forever for my dear husband¡¯s safety.¡±


    Kazuya bit Sung-Sun¡¯s nape, causing her to yelp adorably. ¡°It¡¯s just a matter of time before I pin Tier down and claim her. Nobody can stop me.¡±


    ¡°Not even Harribel-sama herself?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°How come I didn¡¯t know my husband was into kinky force play?!¡±


    Harribel looked at the two with a slight smile. ¡°Kazuya, forgive me... but I can¡¯t let you touch me for at least a hundred years. By that time, our family would be strong enough to protect you from anything.¡±


    Harribel was, of course, teasing him, and her smile was the clear sign of her mischief.


    He was still speechless by the confidence in her voice.


    Using the opportunity, Sung-Sun suddenly pushed him down on the bed and straddled his waist. ¡°Husband, Harribel-sama enjoys teasing others now. She is learning from the best husband and wife in the world.¡±


    ¡°True. By the way, why are we in this position?¡±


    He wasn¡¯t dumb enough to not know Sung-Sun¡¯s intentions. Her sheer lust was greater than Apacci and Mila Rose¡¯s combined. She wasn¡¯t the type to let a great opportunity slide by.


    Licking her lips, she revealed a predatory smile. ¡°Because...¡±


    She unzipped her baggy jacket and took it off in one smooth motion. Tracing her hands up her waist, she cupped her covered breasts and twisted her figure.


    ¡°Husband, sex?¡±

 Chapter 256: Crucible (II)

    Chapter 256: Crucible (II)


    The morning with Yoruichi had left Kazuya quite unsatisfied. Twenty minutes of pure bliss with Sung-Sun would completely flip his mood, but he felt a bit strange about having sex when Unohana sat just a floor below him.


    ¡®It can¡¯t be now.¡¯


    As he opened his mouth to reject her, he saw Harribel pick up Sung-Sun¡¯s jacket from the ground and put it back on her. Harribel wrapped her arms around Sung-Sun¡¯s waist and pulled up the zipper, covering the lewd snake in her baggy jacket.


    ¡°Save it for another time. Kazuya is tired today.¡±


    Sung-Sun gave Harribel a wide-eyed look. ¡°Look at Husband¡¯s eyes. Are those the eyes of a tired person? No, they are the eyes of a man who can¡¯t wait to ravage his wife!¡±


    Kazuya cleared his throat. ¡°Tier is right. I had a brutal training session with Retsu.¡±


    Sung-Sun placed a finger on her lips. ¡°I can do the moving part and the cleaning after. You just have to lie there and enjoy¡ª¡±


    Harribel pulled at Sung-Sun¡¯s ear, twisting it until Sung-Sun got off him. ¡°No means no.¡±


    Sung-Sun faked a sob. ¡°Hic... No sex today but triple sex when you return next time. Promise?¡±


    ¡°Million yen promise.¡±


    ¡°Be mindful of the time.¡± Harribel ruffled Sung-Sun¡¯s hair before waving at him. ¡°In twenty minutes, I¡¯ll send Apacci with some food.¡±


    As soon as the door closed, Sung-Sun returned to her previous position. She leaned down and began taking off his kimono. The lack of explanation for her aggression left him confused. Sung-Sun was capable of many things but disobeying Harribel wasn¡¯t one of them.


    ¡°Wife, we made a promise to Tier.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not breaking any. Just cooperate, Husband!¡± Sung-Sun peeled off his shirt and made him lie on his front. ¡°Good. I¡¯ll be back in a second.¡±


    She hurriedly dashed out of the room. Keenly listening to her footsteps, he knew she headed back to her room.


    ¡®What is she gonna do?¡¯


    As he waited for her return, his heart pounded with a sense of anticipation.


    {Is she going to perform a cosplay BJ?}


    He sat up and stretched his muscles, which felt better than ever. Suddenly, he was hit with an enticing aroma. ¡°Hmmm. I¡¯m guessing chicken.¡±


    Apacci smiled. ¡°Yeah. You¡¯ll absolutely love it.¡±


    ¡°What are you waiting for then? Give it to me!¡±


    ¡°Be patient, jeez.¡±


    Apacci put down the plate before him. His eyes were immediately drawn to the beautifully presented golden-brown cutlets on the white plate, which was in stark contrast to the white rice occupying the other half of the plate.


    ¡°This looks delicious. Did you¡ª¡±


    ¡°I got it from a restaurant.¡± Apacci shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m working on improving... Enough about that. Say Aaaa.¡±


    Taking the chopstick, Apacci dipped a piece of chicken into the sauce and brought it to him. He unabashedly ate from her hand, savoring the juicy chicken peppered with spicy seasoning and tangy sauce.


    ¡°Hmmm. This is nice.¡±


    ¡°Heh. I knew you¡¯d like this.¡± Apacci revealed a boastful smirk and brought another piece to his mouth. ¡°Oi, Kazuya. Are most Shinigami in the Soul Society around the level of Adjuchas?¡±


    The only people she met from the Soul Society were Visored, Captains, or Vice-Captains. It had painted the wrong picture in her mind. She mistook the Soul Society as this massive organization stacked to the brim with powerful Shinigami.


    ¡°No, ninety percent can¡¯t even kill a normal Hollow on their own. It¡¯s only the ten percent that are a pain in the ass.¡±


    Apacci frowned. ¡°That¡¯s so pathetic. I expected more from them.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°What would happen if the Hollows united and attacked the Soul Society in perfect coordination? Do Hollows stand a chance?¡±


    Kazuya contemplated her question for a second. ¡°It¡¯s possible if someone took out the big hitters on the Soul Society¡¯s side. Why are you asking, though?¡±


    Apacci¡¯s eyes gleamed menacingly as she smirked. ¡°So there¡¯s a chance...¡±


    ¡°Dear Deer, are you planning to lead an attack on the Soul Society?¡±

 Chapter 257: Crucible (III)

    Chapter 257: Crucible (III)


    Apacci hurriedly shook her head at Kazuya¡¯s direct question. ¡°Why will I be hostile towards the organization that took my lover away from me? I don¡¯t have any bitter resentment for sleeping alone in my bed while reminiscing about the old days... AND I never feel annoyed every time I see loving couples on the street.¡±


    She topped off her passive aggressive comments with a nice, gentle shove of a spoon full of rice in his mouth.


    As she removed the spoon, he chuckled, despite knowing that it¡¯d piss off Apacci even more. He couldn¡¯t help it when she was acting so adorable.


    A deep frown formed on her face. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. Come here.¡± He gently took the plate from her hand, setting it aside, before pulling her close into his embrace. ¡°I know it¡¯s my fault.¡±


    She buried her face in his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart against her cheek. ¡°No, it¡¯s not. You won¡¯t go away if the Soul Society didn¡¯t exist. It¡¯s their fault. They should stop existing.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hate the sword, hate the hand that wields it,¡± he whispered. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you feel lonely.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll forgive you on one condition.¡±


    ¡°Apacci has learned negotiation... My peaceful life is just over.¡±


    She bit his chest as her arms wrapped around him tightly. ¡°Come back sooner this time... or I¡¯ll wage war on the Soul Society. I¡¯m dead serious.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    For the rest of his twenty minutes, he showered her with affection, making her forget every resentment.


    Right as the twenty minutes ended, Mila Rose showed up, wearing a blue string bikini with yellow floral patterns.


    Mila Rose playfully tugged at the strings of her bikini, posing in a way that highlighted her toned abs and stunning, slender legs. ¡°Honey, let¡¯s go for a dive. This kitty is thirsty!¡±


    She separated from him, shaking her head in disappointment. ¡°You got to stop spoiling this weirdo. She¡¯ll get out of hand one day.¡±


    The intention behind her words was crystal clear ¡ª she wanted to provoke a strong reaction from Mila Rose.


    Mila Rose slapped the wall, making the entire room shake from her fury. ¡°Fuck off, Apacci. It¡¯s my time. I can do whatever the hell I want.¡±


    Stepping away from the bed, Apacci confronted Mila Rose head-on. ¡°Who the fuck swims at this hour?¡±


    The lioness glared at the deer. ¡°I DO! Do you have a problem with ME?¡±


    Apacci flexed her fingers, cracking her knuckles, and twisted her neck. ¡°Let¡¯s settle it with a duel, then. I¡¯ll beat the crap out of you.¡±


    Harribel calmly patted the empty seat beside her. ¡°Apacci.¡±


    Apacci sighed and plopped beside Harribel. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°You look happier. He must¡¯ve comforted you.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s eyes widened at the unexpected comment. ¡°W-What do you mean? We just talked about the Soul Society.¡±


    Harribel narrowed her eyes, looking skeptical. ¡°I believe you.¡±


    ¡°Like hell you do!¡±


    A soft chuckle escaped Harribel¡¯s lips. ¡°Sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to tease you.¡±


    ¡°I believe you.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    After a moment of silence, Harribel turned to Unohana. ¡°I hope you aren¡¯t feeling bored.¡±


    Unohana shook her head. ¡°Observing the bonds between you and others is quite fun actually. I nearly forgot you ladies were Hollows.¡±


    Far from nearly, she had completely forgotten about Harribel and others being Hollows. While a bit odd and quirky, they could easily pass as a family in the Living World. If it wasn¡¯t for Kazuya, she would have never allowed them to live like this.


    Izumi nodded her head. ¡°I forget about it too sometimes. It¡¯s not half bad sharing a house with them... they are all very sweet in their own way.¡±


    ¡°Sharing? You aren¡¯t a Hollow?¡±


    Izumi tilted her head before she let out a giggle. ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. I¡¯m just a normal human girl who fell in love with Kazuya.¡±


    Unohana once again looked at Izumi, probing the brown-haired lady¡¯s Reiatsu with her senses. She couldn¡¯t find much difference in Izumi and every other Hollows¡¯ Reiatsu in the room. Kisuke¡¯s concealment tech was throwing off her senses.


    ¡°Quincy is the right word to describe her,¡± Apacci said. ¡°Also, she didn¡¯t fall in love. She became obsessed with the man she once called her younger brother.¡±


    Izumi scratched her cheek, clearly embarrassed to have her secret spilled in front of the guest. ¡°Apacci, you didn¡¯t have to say it like that.¡±


    Sung-Sun burst into giggles. ¡°Dear god, moments like these make me feel happy about being with everyone.¡±


    Unohana chuckled softly. ¡°Since we have time on hand, why don¡¯t you tell me more about everyone?¡±

 Chapter 258-259: By the glimmering shore

    Chapter 258-259: By the glimmering shore


    As Kazuya sat down by the poolside, Cirucci placed her hand on his. ¡°Leader, I wish to talk about the thing you gave me.¡±


    For a moment he thought she¡¯d go off on him for troubling her with the kittens. However, the hint of vulnerability in her gaze changed his mind. She was anxious that he¡¯d reject her. The Cirucci before her whole kitten adoption wouldn¡¯t have given two flying fucks about Kazuya rejecting a conversation.


    ¡°Well, what is it?¡±


    Cirucci¡¯s eyes, usually sharp with cynicism, now brimmed with an unfamiliar earnestness. ¡°Leader, you... This whole shit is the best thing that ever happened to me. I mean it from the bottom of my heart.¡±


    {I sense an incoming smash?}


    ¡°Hmmm?¡±


    Once again ignoring the voices in his head, Kazuya redirected his gaze towards the swimming pool reflecting the lights. ¡°Me beating you to near death is the best experience of your life? Never knew Cirucci is kinky like that.¡±


    She gazed at him blankly, clearly unamused by his attempt to lighten the mood. ¡°I did not mention that moment. Gosh, why do you like teasing your women?¡±


    Every time she was around him, he¡¯d either tease her or someone else, as if he couldn¡¯t resist these urges.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Maybe because it¡¯s fun for me. Also, did I hear you call yourself my woman?¡±


    A fleeting blush colored her cheeks as she realized her verbal misstep.  Regaining her clear composure, she relaxed her shoulders with a sigh. ¡°I want you quiet for my pep talk. My thoughts scatter whenever I hear that voice.¡±


    She was clearly embarrassed but tried to act serious.


    Kazuya decided to stop teasing her. ¡°For fifteen minutes I¡¯m all yours.¡±


    Cirucci nodded gratefully. ¡°Look, what I¡¯m about to say will come as a big shock to you. Believe me it was a shock to me too...¡±


    She gazed into the rippling water, idly swinging her legs to create playful splashes. To an uninformed observer, the scene might have been mistaken for a love confession. But Kazuya knew her better. Whatever she wanted to talk about was absolutely unrelated to her slowly growing fondness for him.


    She drew a long breath, steeling herself for her next words. ¡°Blast it. I¡¯ll just say everything to your face... Leader, thank you for fixing my... strange mindset. It¡¯s thanks to you that a whiner like me has a purpose in life...¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything though¡ª¡±


    She reached out and pressed a finger against his lips, stopping him from speaking further. ¡°Stop lying. You paid more attention to me than this stupid friend.¡±


    He grasped her wrist and moved her hand away. ¡°You and I both know it¡¯s not Rose¡¯s fault. She did notice your depression but she isn¡¯t, well, bright enough to do anything about it. Besides, as the head of this family, the responsibility of ensuring everyone¡¯s well-being falls on me, not her.¡±


    He tried fixing any potential misunderstanding that could ruin Mila Rose and Cirucci¡¯s companionship.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t blaming her,¡± Cirucci murmured. ¡°Huh... How do I say it? I was trying to highlight your consideration. If you weren¡¯t there, I really could have done something stupid... Like¡ª¡±


    His hand found its way to her hair, caressing her to ease her tense somber expression. ¡°It¡¯s no use dwelling on the past.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right,¡± Cirucci said, placing a hand on her heart. ¡°Let¡¯s focus on what lies ahead. Don¡¯t hesitate to call on me for anything. I¡¯ll lay down my damned life for you... if it makes you happy.¡±


    A passionate declaration of loyalty from Cirucci wasn¡¯t what he had in mind, but he quite welcomed the pleasant surprise.


    ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m flattered by how much everyone cares about me.¡±


    ¡°Heh. Just don¡¯t let it get to your head. Arrogance was Barragan¡¯s downfall. I don¡¯t want that happening to ya.¡±


    Kazuya revealed a faint smile. ¡°The son of a bitch who can kill me won¡¯t be born for half a decade.¡±


    {Are you talking about Yu-ha-baak or Ee-chee-go?}


    ¡®Both.¡¯


    Cirucci shook her head, clearly not taking him seriously.  ¡°Franceska, you can come now.¡±


    The tiny whisper was all Mila Rose needed to charge back in. ¡°That was fast. I thought Cirucci would skirt around the topic for ten minutes and then take another five minutes to speak her mind.¡±


    Cirucci rolled her eyes. ¡°Blast off. I have more courage than you.¡±


    ¡°All bark no action.¡± Mila Rose crossed her arms, shaking her head. ¡°If you had courage, you wouldn¡¯t be calling him Leader. You¡¯d call him Sweetheart, my dear husband etcetera etcetera.¡±


    Cirucci stared at Mila Rose, speechless. ¡°What... is wrong with you?¡±


    ¡°Everything,¡± Mila Rose declared and swiftly maneuvered onto his lap. Turning over, she gazed at him with a smile. Taking his hand, she placed it on her head. ¡°Pat me.¡±


    True to her promise, she once again claimed his lips. She didn¡¯t take a swift retreat like the last time and sucked his lips. With her eyes closed and her expression melting from the kiss, she looked nothing like the menacing sadist he had first encountered in Hueco Mundo.


    She withdrew, her chest heaving and her half-lidded eyes filled with unfiltered desire. ¡°What... about now?¡±


    Her whispered question nearly escaped his notice as he was so entranced by these glimpses of her true self, but she reminded him of her reason to kiss him in the first place.


    She gently patted his face. ¡°Hey, would you still call me a rookie?¡±


    ¡°A little.¡±


    She shut her eyes and let out a sigh. ¡°Be honest with me. Am I worse than... Rose?¡±


    Her question drew his mind into the sweet memories of Mila Rose and her passionate kisses. Recently, she had been like a kitten, mewing and licking him during their lovemaking. Cirucci¡¯s approach was too tame to rival her friend.


    ¡®So that¡¯s why she wants to improve.¡¯


    Cirucci didn¡¯t feel worse for being bad at something ¡ª she wished to be better than Mila Rose.


    She cupped his face with a smile that didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes. ¡°You will help me improve from ¡®a little¡¯ to ¡®great¡¯. Right?¡±


    ¡°I will. But any reason to speedrun improvement in specifically kissing?¡±


    ¡°There is a reason. Mila Rose has all the qualities I think a good mother needs. She is my standard so to speak. If I become half as good as her, I¡¯ll be a good mother to my kittens and o-our children¡ªthat is if Hollows are even capable of having children!¡±


    Using Mila Rose as a standard for a good mother sounded weird. But then again, the lioness was overprotective, eager to support others, and most of all, she wanted to make her family happy. She also improved herself every day through Sung-Sun¡¯s lectures and her sparring battles against the Visored and Apacci.


    Kazuya patted Cirucci¡¯s head the same way he patted Mila Rose¡¯s. ¡°We will. Don¡¯t worry about that part.¡±


    She leaned into his touch, showing no reproach against having her head patted. After a few moments, she grasped his wrist and leaned against his shoulder, moving his arm to wrap around her shoulder. ¡°When everything is over, will you take us around Japan and other countries?¡±


    ¡°A family trip? I guess we can afford that.¡±


    ¡°Umm, I want to push Mila Rose down some mountain and hear her screams.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Oh, I also want to open a pet shop. You know the non-profit type where people can come in and adopt pets for themselves, or leave pets they don¡¯t want or can¡¯t afford to raise anymore.¡±


    ¡°I can get behind that.¡±


    ¡°You have to. Fulfilling your wife¡¯s wishes is your duty, Mister Husband.¡± She giggled. ¡°This is the price you pay for being kind to a fucked-up, evil beauty.¡±


    ¡°A fucked-up, evil beauty will never open a pet shop.¡±


    ¡°...A half fucked-up, evil beauty then.¡±


    He chuckled at her defensive argument. ¡°Yeah, yeah. What else does my evil wife want?¡±


    ¡°A basement dungeon with an infinite supply of bastards and some fun torture machines.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    He spent the rest of his time talking with Cirucci and reassuring Mila Rose had a good sleep.


    When Izumi showed up, Cirucci picked up Mila Rose. The two women exchanged respectful nods before Cirucci departed with Mila Rose in her arms.


    Izumi immediately dove into his arms. ¡°Otouto, I missed you!¡±


    Hugging her tightly, he stroked her hair. ¡°It¡¯s only been a day.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell the difference between a day or a month. My time freezes without your warmth,¡± she said, giggling to herself at his surprised reaction. ¡°Otouto-kun¡¯s love turned me into Shakespear.¡±


    His fingers brushed past her waist and found a grip on her butt. ¡°I haven¡¯t even loved you that way. What will happen after that I wonder?¡±


    She looked up, a faint red coloring her cheeks. ¡°My heart can¡¯t love you more without it turning poisonous.¡±


    ¡°Then don¡¯t.¡± He lifted her chin and kissed her on the lips. ¡°Let¡¯s go to my room and cuddle.¡±


    ¡°Otouto, carry me.¡±

 Chapter 260: Undeceive

    Chapter 260: Undeceive


    After gently tucking Izumi into the bed, Kazuya returned to the living room, where an almost surreal sight greeted him ¡ª Unohana wearing a soft smile while engaged in a conversation with Harribel and Apacci. She was quite vibrant for someone hell-bent on fighting a thrilling deathmatch.


    Upon noticing Kazuya¡¯s presence, Unohana assumed a neutral, almost grave expression. ¡°You should leave now. And exercise caution when dealing with Gin.¡±


    ¡°Stop worrying, Mo¡ª¡± He caught himself mid-word, his gaze flicking to Harribel¡¯s face. The bronze-skinned lady¡¯s gentle smile remained the same, but her eyes had gone completely blank. ¡°Cough, Aunt Retsu. I know how to handle guys like him.¡±


    Harribel relaxed noticeably at his correction. She wouldn¡¯t let anyone steal her title away from her, regardless of their identity. There could only be one ¡®Mommy¡¯ in his life.


    ¡°Excellent, Kazuya. Are you going to change in your room?¡±


    ¡°Ah, about that,¡± he said, shifting his attention to Sung-Sun. ¡°Get me something from your wardrobe.¡±


    Although he was taller than her in his other form, Sung-Sun¡¯s clothes would be the easiest fit for him.


    Sung-Sun¡¯s eyes sparkled with barely contained excitement at being entrusted with this responsibility. ¡°You needn¡¯t ask, Precious. I¡¯ll make you the sexiest darling in the world.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to be sexy. Just get me something comfortable.¡±


    She thumped her chest with a sincere look. ¡°Then accompany me to my room.¡±


    ...


    A short while later, Kazuya emerged from the mansion alongside Harribel. He, or rather his female form, cut a striking figure in a black, full-sleeved hoodie and dark blue jeans, a stark contrast to Harribel¡¯s attire of a pale blue turtleneck and white jeans.


    In no time they were at their destination.


    Gin stood alone on the bridge, carrying his usual, creepy smile. ¡°You came after all.¡±


    The false sweetness in his voice was masterfully done to lure strangers into disarming their guard around him. It¡¯d have worked wonderfully if not for his fox-like smile.


    {Nah, Partner got edged again and again without a chance to relieve all this growing tension.}


    ¡°Nami, you¡¯re taking away Father¡¯s focus. Stop being a nuisance.¡±


    Kazuya waved Gin off, fully knowing that Gin saw him as his comrade-in-arm for revenge. ¡°You told Harribel you can bring Aizen to Hueco Mundo. Was that true or not?¡±


    ¡°I have no reason to lie.¡± Gin¡¯s smile vanished in his thin air, and his eyes slightly opened with an unquestionable seriousness. ¡°The real question is ¡ª how certain are you about killing him?¡±


    ¡°Well, if we cut every escape route, I can guarantee his death.¡±


    ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°Hiding in the caves outside the Soul Society. You don¡¯t have to worry about him invading Hueco Mundo again. He¡¯s busy gathering Zanpakuto? Spirits on Aizen¡¯s demand.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s brow furrowed in contemplation. He had to find Muramasa before he began his whole Zanpakuto? Rebellion and bring back the Zanpakuto? Spirits to their original masters. He also had to orchestrate this as though it were mere coincidence.


    ¡°Very well. You can leave now.¡±


    {What an anticlimactic deal, partner. I hoped you¡¯d threaten to kill him in case he tricked you.}


    ¡®We already know his backstory. Why would I doubt him?¡¯


    {You know, you could¡¯ve intimidated him with your alpha energy. Just to be edgy!}


    ¡®Nami...¡¯


    {T¡¯was was a joke, Partner. I¡¯m glad everything went well...}


    Harribel held his hands. ¡°Don¡¯t stress yourself. Everyone is waiting for us at the dinner table... except for Mila Rose. She¡¯ll wake up at midnight to scour the kitchen.¡±


    A smile tugged at his lips. ¡°As expected of Mommy, she knows everything that goes on in the family.¡±


    She crossed her arms, staring at him with an expressionless face. ¡°I just look after everyone as the second in command, Leader.¡±


    ¡°Not you too.¡±


    She giggled through her nose. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Something about this form gives me the urge to tease you.¡±


    ¡°What more urges do you get?¡±


    She took his hands and yanked him, burying his face in between her huge breasts. She smothered him in her warmth while stroking the back of his head. ¡°You being short makes hugging you easier. I wish I was taller so I could do the same with your real form.¡±


    ¡°This is heaven.¡±


    She leaned closer to his ears, her warm breath tickling him. ¡°They are yours.¡±


    ¡°Mhmm. I know.¡± He drew back and took her head. ¡°Would you mind taking the longer route?¡±


    ¡°I was about to propose that... let¡¯s take the longest route.¡±

 Chapter 261: Fractures

    Chapter 261: Fractures


    After a hearty meal with everyone, including Unohana, Kazuya took the Senkaimon Gate back to the Soul Society. The moment he stepped out, the scent of crushed petals hit him like a wave, a reminder of the ruin they brought to the beautiful scenery.


    Unohana had opened the Senkaimon Gate here to avoid any prying eyes.


    Kazuya plucked a vibrant flower and placed it behind Unohana¡¯s ear. ¡°Ending our first date right where it began. How poetic.¡±


    Unohana clicked her tongue. ¡°A date where the man spends half the time with five other women has to be the worst date imaginable.¡±


    Her sarcastic remark made him laugh. When interacting with people beyond her close circle, she put on a serene, elegant, and kindhearted demeanor. However, in his presence, she abandoned all pretenses and showed her true colors.


    ¡°Well, I can make up for it now.¡±


    ¡°How will you do that?¡±


    He extended a hand. ¡°By inviting you to my house.¡±


    Her curiosity had led him right into his carefully laid-out trap. Tricking one of the oldest women in the world wasn¡¯t that hard.


    Unohana rolled her eyes, looking more amused than annoyed. ¡°You¡¯re a smooth talker, I¡¯ll give you that.¡±


    The begrudging compliment made him chuckle. ¡°So, what¡¯s your answer?¡±


    ¡°Obviously no. You can¡¯t handle my killer instincts.¡±


    She had no intentions of becoming anyone¡¯s beloved; her genuine affection lay with the four-foot blade resting in the sheath behind her back. Even if she considered romance, she wouldn¡¯t compete for affections of the same man as Isane. That was something she refused to do.


    Kazuya had his work cut out for him if he wanted to win her heart.


    Just one look at him brought a silly smile to her face. She stepped forward and meekly hugged him. ¡°Kazuya-kun, are you happy to see me?¡±


    ¡°Of course. But aren¡¯t you breaking dorm rules by being here?¡±


    The students weren¡¯t allowed outside the dorm at this hour. Momo coming here showed how desperate she was to see him. It was endearing in a way.


    Momo looked up, shaking her head. ¡°I took Dorm Granny¡¯s permission.¡±


    In fact, the Dorm Master happily let Momo go when she mentioned Kazuya¡¯s name. He was like a legend at the academy. Nobody wanted to earn his wrath by provoking Momo or anyone associated with him.


    Kazuya ruffled her hair affectionately. ¡°You convinced Rukia to come with you. Good job, girl.¡±


    He hadn¡¯t met Rukia after that night. But he knew her reactions would be an amusing sight. Of course, he would stop before she got uncomfortable.


    Momo leaned into his hand, looking utterly pleased by the light intimacy.


    {As a yandere, I¡¯m not sure whether to feel happy or scared about your ability to tame my kind...}


    Momo giggled softly. ¡°I had to drag Rukia with me. She was so embarrassed to see you. I¡¯ve never seen anyone with that kind of blush. Kazuya-kun, I... I think¡ª¡±


    ¡°Kazuya! Momo!¡± Yoruichi roared from upstairs. ¡°Get here already!¡±


    He rubbed Momo¡¯s head. ¡°Yor is getting impatient.¡±


    Using Yoruichi¡¯s nickname was the right choice as neither Momo nor Rukia were acquainted with Yoruichi¡¯s original form. Whether or not they came to know about Yoruichi solely depended on her whim.


    ¡°Umm...¡±

 Chapter 262: Isolated

    Chapter 262: Isolated


    Shortly after, the bed was occupied by all three women ¡ª Yoruichi casually lying on it, Momo sitting quietly on the edge, and Rukia attentively observing Yoruichi from her seat next to Momo. The catgirl seemed oblivious to the subtle animosity coming from the small girl with black hair, or she simply didn¡¯t care.


    Yoruichi waved her hand dismissively without bothering to move from her position. ¡°Kazu, take the guests to another room. I¡¯m sleeping here.¡±


    She acted more spoiled than before, partially out of laziness and partially to tease the ticked-off Rukia. Her nonchalant behavior accomplished her goal, splendidly so.


    Rukia¡¯s brows furrowed, a clear sign of her increasing hostility towards Yoruichi. ¡°Kazuya, who is this lady and why is she ordering you around?¡±


    Momo pointed a finger at Yoruichi¡¯s tail. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we ask about that? Why does it move like it¡¯s real?¡±


    ¡°That too, but my question is more important right now!¡±


    ¡°Uh, okay!¡±


    Kazuya looked at the friends with contrasting priorities. ¡°How long have you two been here?¡±


    ¡°We just arrived,¡± Momo replied before turning her gaze to Yoruichi. ¡°Rukia, she is Yor. I met her on our hot spring trip... I¡¯m not sure about their relationship.¡±


    Momo would¡¯ve made a connection between Yor and Yoruichi if it weren¡¯t for her cat form¡¯s masculine voice. Yoruichi¡¯s choice went against common sense on so many levels.


    Rukia snorted, eyes glaring daggers at him. ¡°This house has one bed, and she is sleeping on it. How hard is it to guess their relationship?¡±


    Rather than jealousy, she felt anger towards him for ¡°cheating¡± on Momo. The anger had seeped into her tone, despite her previous oath to act with composure.


    Momo glanced at him, pleading with him to put an end to the undesired conflict. ¡°Rukia-chan, we should go to the living room.¡±


    Rukia swiveled to Momo with a surprised look. ¡°He is having an affair with this woman! Girl, why am I more pissed than you?!¡±


    ¡°Because you like me,¡± Kazuya said with a smile. ¡°Also, Yor is my future wife. It¡¯ll be better for everyone to get along.¡±


    Yoruichi, who had been acting disinterested until now, hurriedly sat up. ¡°When did I agree to be your wife?¡±


    Kazuya chuckled. ¡°Yor is just shy.¡±


    ¡°Shy my foot,¡± Yoruichi snarled before lightly kicking the back of Momo¡¯s head. ¡°I¡¯m Yoruichi, idiot. The black cat is my alternate transformation. This is my real form, how I was born.¡±


    To further illustrate her point, Yoruichi jumped into the air and transformed into her cat form with a loud poof.


    ¡°See. I am YORUICHI!¡±


    Startled, Momo and Rukia exchanged a glance before pinching each other¡¯s cheeks.


    Rukia faced a tough decision, one that might change her future for better or for worse.


    As her heartbeat soared, time seemed to slow down around her. She felt his lips hovering just a breath away from hers, tempting her into probably the dumbest decision of her life.


    ¡®He did it first. It¡¯s not my fault!¡¯


    From the corner of her eyes, she took a quick glance at the closed door. Relieved that nobody would come without knocking, she shut her eyes and tilted her head ever-so slightly.


    The lips she so craved pecked her cheek. ¡°Rukia, it¡¯s done. You can open your eyes now.¡±


    With a wide-eyed stare, she locked eyes with him, realizing that she had been tricked into an embarrassing situation. ¡°Why did you do that?¡±


    ¡°What did I do?¡±


    ¡°You... you know exactly what you did.¡±


    He blinked his eyes at her accusations, looking like an honest-to-goodness innocent person ¡ª the opposite of his true nature. ¡°I still don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    Was he being mean to her? Just a bit. The small amount of teasing was nothing compared to his fun. In addition, he was conditioning her to become more sincere with herself and him. In simple words, he wanted her to be more proactive with her desires.


    Rukia clenched her jaw, shooting him a menacing sideways look. His response was just as unconcerned as before.


    She shrugged his hand off her back and climbed on his lap.


    ¡°Rukia¡ª¡±


    She roughly grabbed his kimono¡¯s collars and leaned her entire weight against him. If someone like Harribel did this to him, he¡¯d have lost his balance. However, Rukia¡¯s petite figure just wasn¡¯t enough to make him buckle under its weight.


    ¡°Kazuya, I hate you.¡±


    Contrary to her previous statement, she couldn¡¯t resist her urges and drew him closer before locking lips with him. And contrary to her rough grip on his collars, she gave him the most vanilla kiss possible.


    ¡°I want more. Give me more...¡±


    He rested his hands on her hips, smiling. ¡°Everything in this world is yours to take, if you put in the effort.¡±


    She didn¡¯t even blink at his suggestion and immediately dove in for another kiss. The moment her lips met his, it was on. Adrenaline blazed through him. There were no light pecks, gently probing tongues, or chaste kisses. It was full-throttle passion. Her lips pressed hard against his, and their tongues were frenzied as they explored each other¡¯s mouths.


    Her ¡®hateful¡¯ kiss allowed no opportunity to escape. Not that he wanted to escape her.


    Amidst their sloppy kiss, the door slowly opened, its creak barely above a whisper. So lost in her moment that Rukia paid no attention to her friend walking inside. She didn¡¯t register Momo sitting by her side and observing the two with a pleased smirk.

 Chapter 263: Reasons

    Chapter 263: Reasons


    After a minute or so, Rukia broke the kiss to catch her breath. Strands of silver bridge their lips as she unabashedly gazed at him. The slight flush on her cheeks and her wet eyes gave her an enamored look. She seemed to want more but restrained herself. Truth be told, she¡¯d have kissed him for hours if they were deserted on an island.


    Kazuya brushed the bangs from her face and placed a hand against her cheek. ¡°Ru-chan, do you still hate me?¡±


    She nodded. ¡°I hate you... but I like kissing you.¡±


    ¡°Ehhh, do you also hate having sex with me?¡±


    Her cheeks flushed even more at his question. ¡°Not... really.¡±


    ¡°Momo, she hates me but likes kissing me. What should I do?¡±


    The mere mention of Momo made Rukia dizzy.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun needs to work harder on earning her affection.¡±


    And she nearly fainted from hearing Momo¡¯s voice right by her side.


    Rukia fell into Kazuya¡¯s arms and buried her face, trying to hide herself from the shame and embarrassment of kissing her friend¡¯s lover. What¡¯s more, it wasn¡¯t just any kiss but one of the most intimate kisses of her life.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here... I¡¯m not here...¡±


    Momo let out a soft giggle at Rukia¡¯s foolish behavior. ¡°Stop it, Idiot. You already know I don¡¯t mind Kazuya-kun¡¯s relationships.¡±


    She looked genuinely happy for her friend, something Kazuya had honestly expected from her. Despite all her manipulations, she wanted the best for Rukia ¡ª and being with him had to be the best choice for Rukia as it was for her.


    Rukia slowly turned her head and faced Momo, who had an encouraging smile on her face. ¡°Momo...¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay~. You can be completely honest with him like you¡¯re with me. He won¡¯t bite you.¡±


    ¡°Honest...? Uh, Kazuya, I don¡¯t hate you.¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her adorable little confession. ¡°Thanks for not hating me.¡±


    ¡°Uh... I also wanted to say I-I like you.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for liking¡ª¡±


    She pinched his waist, stopping him from acting like a silly goofball. ¡°No... I should thank you for... everything.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s official. We¡¯re a couple now.¡±


    Rukia looked up at him with wide eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean it that way!¡±


    She still harbored some hesitation. After all was said and done, she was someone with lots of insecurities, most of which came from growing as an orphan in Rukongai.


    ¡°Oh, silly Rukia. You do know that we can¡¯t kiss without dating each other.¡±


    Her eyes widened even further. ¡°W-We can¡¯t?¡±


    ¡°Of course, we can¡¯t.¡±


    {WE ARE NOT!}


    ¡®Pipe down, you two. It¡¯s six in the morning.¡¯


    {As you wish, Beloved.}


    ¡°As you wish, Beloved... Father.¡±


    Shaking his head at their antics, he jumped down from the window and intercepted Rangiku outside the door.


    Rangiku placed her hand on her hip and gave a casual wave. ¡°Someone¡¯s excited to see the old me.¡±


    Her grin carried too much energy for someone who barely survived a deadly encounter a few days ago. Then again, she must have gotten used to near-death experiences after all this time as a Vice-Captain.


    He chuckled. ¡°Can¡¯t let our patient go unattended for too long.¡±


    ¡°Me and a patient? Oh, buzz off. I¡¯ve already recovered to my peak prowess.¡± She pumped her biceps with a grin. ¡°See these eggs. You think a patient will have that?¡±


    Despite having formal training in swordsmanship and other combat techniques, she had almost no defined muscles.


    ¡°Muscles aren¡¯t an indication of good health.¡± Kazuya shrugged before pointing at her breasts that nearly spilled out of her kimono. ¡°And the only eggs I see here are these.¡±


    She playfully slapped her chest and burst into laughter, her breasts bouncing with each movement. ¡°Gosh, they aren¡¯t egg-shaped... More like inflated water balloons.¡±


    Openly discussing the shape of her breasts was nothing new for Rangiku.


    He furrowed his brows. ¡°Well, I can¡¯t say for certain without seeing them with my eyes.¡±


    ¡°Nice try, friend,¡± she said and tossed her hair back. ¡°How do you like my hair? I downgraded myself to a mortal from a goddess. Couldn¡¯t have everyone bowing down to me all the time.¡±


    ¡°I like that confidence.¡±


    ¡°I could say the same about you,¡± she said with a cheeky grin, directing her gaze to the window above him. ¡°Momo and Rukia together. I knew those two would end up with you. I feel sad for Isane though... Poor girl really liked you.¡±


    It was probably the first time Rangiku had seen Isane interested in a man. What made her even more regretful was her choice to take a passive approach instead of proactively helping Isane. If she had acted sooner in bringing him together with Isane, she could¡¯ve stopped him from tying knots with Rukia and Momo.


    Kazuya revealed a faint smile, completely clueless to Rangiku¡¯s regrets. ¡°I confessed to her yesterday. She isn¡¯t against my relationship with Momo or anyone else for that matter. Such a sweet woman.¡±


    Rangiku raised a brow, clearly skeptical. ¡°You can¡¯t be serious. No, you are serious. What the heck is Isane thinking?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t make sense of Isane¡¯s decision to be with him when he already had Momo and Rukia.


    He stretched his arms before letting out a long yawn. ¡°Mhmm. I get where you are coming from. But Isane didn¡¯t think about matters of the heart with her mind.¡±


    Rangiku let out a sigh. ¡°Dammit. I can¡¯t do anything If this is her final decision.¡±


    Still, she was determined to drop by the 4th squad later to make sure Isane wasn¡¯t making a hasty decision.


    Kazuya suddenly narrowed his eyes.


    ¡®Someone¡¯s stalking us.¡¯

 Chapter 264: Fabulous Tea~

    Chapter 264: Fabulous Tea~


    Even with his senses, Kazuya couldn¡¯t pinpoint the exact direction of this stalker. Rangiku, on the other hand, was completely oblivious. This stalker was very skilled at their job.


    ¡°Rangiku, let¡¯s go inside. I¡¯ll treat you to some tea.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d have preferred some alcohol but tea is fine. I can¡¯t be too greedy.¡±


    Kazuya opened the door for her. ¡°Do you never get tired of alcohol?¡±


    ¡°Booze is love. Booze is life.¡± Rangiku walked inside and took off her sandals. ¡°Why don¡¯t I take you out for some today?¡±


    ¡°A date with my Vice-Captain. Breaks my heart to say no to that.¡±


    Rangiku turned around and gave him a judging look. ¡°What¡¯s keeping you busy today?¡±


    ¡°Training, training, and more training. I can¡¯t stagnate my growth because I beat some goofy-ass Arrancars.¡±


    ¡°Those goofy-ass Arrancars nearly ended me.¡± Rangiku shook her head. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t reject me next time.¡±


    ¡°I promise.¡±


    While wearing slippers, Rangiku took a peek down the long hallway. ¡°It¡¯s bigger than it looks from the outside. Captain Unohana gave you an expensive place.¡±


    ¡°She is the best.¡±


    Rangiku glanced at his smile and realized that her Captain would need more than just words to convince Kazuya into becoming his successor. At the same time, she understood the expenses were justified to gain the loyalty of a talent with his potential. It was near-impossible to predict his ceiling. He might even end up joining the Royal Guards and directly serve the Reio.


    ¡®Why are all silver-haired brats geniuses?¡¯


    One had already become a Captain, and the other was most likely to succeed her Captain. She felt bittersweet about working under Kazuya in the future as he¡¯d always remind her of her lack of talent.


    ...


    Fifteen minutes later.


    He flicked a Reiatsu bullet at her face. ¡°It¡¯s not a murder mystery.¡±


    ¡°Ahahaha. I watched a good one the other day. The Living World¡¯s theaters are amazing. Why don¡¯t we go there someday? You can help me choose some clothes and we can even dine at a restaurant there.¡±


    ¡°What you¡¯re describing is a date.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s called hanging out with a friend. Besides, I¡¯ll cover all the expenses.¡±


    ¡°You look desperate. Well, fine. I¡¯ll be your boyfriend.¡±


    Rangiku narrowed her eyes, smiling. ¡°Good. Let¡¯s talk about the Zanpakuto? Spirits.¡±


    ¡°So who else lost their Spirit?¡±


    ¡°Ikkaku Madarame, the Vice-Captain of the 11th Squad.¡±


    ¡°Never heard of him.¡±


    She let out a soft giggle. ¡°He makes some of the funniest faces. Yesterday, when we were drinking in the town, he brought up a lack of voice from his Zanpakuto? recently. Then he blamed it on ¡®Ho?zukimaru¡¯ being upset with him for not properly utilizing its strength.¡±


    Kazuya nodded as he listened to her. ¡°I heard that the guys from the 11th Squad don¡¯t treat their Zanpakuto? Spirit with proper respect.¡±


    Although he knew that Muramasa was behind Ikkaku¡¯s Zanpakuto? Spirit¡¯s disappearance, he had to act skeptical before Rangiku. Otherwise, she¡¯d grow suspicious of him when he eventually ends Muramasa¡¯s plans. The alcoholic blonde had one of the keenest observation skills among her peers.


    Rangiku nodded her head. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m not really certain Madarame is suffering from the same condition as me. But it¡¯s suspicious nevertheless.¡±


    ¡°I see. I¡¯ll look into your matter when I¡¯m free from my training.¡±


    Rangiku stood up and fixed her kimono. ¡°That tea alone was worth coming here all the way. But I gotta go now or the Captain will eat my ear off.¡±


    ¡°See you soon.¡±


    Once Rangiku left, Kazuya stretched and returned upstairs for a quick shower. As he returned to the bedroom, he heard a scraping sound outside the window. The noise would¡¯ve eluded anyone without hearing as sharp as his.


    He picked his Zanpakuto? from the bedside and carefully approached the window.

 Chapter 265: Pride

    Chapter 265: Pride


    Soi Fon clung to the wall like a spider, holding onto the roof that slanted downwards just above the window. As an assassin, she had been trained to conceal her Reiatsu and take cover in unexpected places. She never thought she¡¯d put her skills to hide from Kazuya of all men.


    She had no one to blame but her own impatience. The important task of monitoring Aizen had kept her occupied. But she couldn¡¯t take it anymore today ¡ª she had to conclude her business with Yoruichi as soon as possible, or she¡¯d lose her mind.


    So, after leaving her underlings to monitor Aizen, she arrived at Kazuya¡¯s new home in hopes of finalizing a date for their battle. She ended up getting there before Kazuya left for his new job with the 4th Squad, leading to her current predicament.


    Tap. Tap. Tap. She heard footsteps close in the window and quickly held her breath. She may not like Kazuya very much but she respected his strength ¡ª his only redeeming quality in her eyes. Someone of his caliber would be perceptive enough to sense the slightest of movements.


    ¡®He must be opening it for sunlight.¡¯


    Kazuya opened the window and peaked his head out, looking for something or someone. ¡°Huh? I swear I heard something... Was it my imagination?¡±


    ¡®Go!¡¯ Soi Fon yelled in her head. ¡®Leave so I can talk to Yoruichi-sama!¡¯


    Kazuya closed the window, letting her relax, as much as she could in her position.


    ¡®He is perceptive.¡¯


    She had never met someone who was sharp as a blade, yet dumb as a rock. Her former mistress truly found an interesting person to teach.


    Depending on Kazuya¡¯s next actions, she¡¯d have to reposition. Of course, her original intention had been to hide in the courtyard and wait for her opportunity. The presence of Momo and Rukia had piqued her curiosity. But before she had the chance to get a look at the two, Rangiku arrived to ruin her plans.


    Hearing his blatant threat, her brow twitched in annoyance. He was the only man to threaten her openly, slap her in the face, beat her up without any consequences.


    Kazuya looked down at the stubborn girl who showed no signs of panic even when hung upside down ¡ª she had been in this position before. ¡°Masochist Soi Fon, I don¡¯t have all day.¡±


    She was on a spy mission. Her target wasn¡¯t him or he¡¯d have felt her eyes on him. Still, he had to know the identity of the person on Yamamoto¡¯s radar. For the sake of being informed about the happenings in the Soul Society.


    ¡®I need to get Soi Fon on my side.¡¯


    With Unohana, Shunsui, Byakuya, and possibly Isane, he had plenty of firepower. He still fell behind Aizen in the field of information. This hot-headed ¡°lesbian¡± was the current head of Onmitsukido?, the eyes and ears of the Soul Society. Assassinations, infiltration, and information gathering were some of the specialties of her department.


    She might be a big help in finding Muramasa and keeping those close to him safe behind his back.


    {You¡¯re doing a convincing job to get her on our side ¡ª by hanging her like a bat.}


    ¡®She¡¯ll freak out if I start treating her normally.¡¯


    Nami giggled. {I can imagine that happening. Why don¡¯t you just seduce her with your voice?}


    ¡®It¡¯s not mind control. Every¡ª¡¯


    He cut off his conversation with Nami and stared at Soi Fon, who seemed to be ready to execute her escape plan.

 Chapter 268: An Ordinary Morning

    Chapter 268: An Ordinary Morning


    After patting Yoruichi some more, Kazuya returned to his room, where he saw Momo sitting on the bed and rubbing her eyes. Soi Fon¡¯s escape most likely disturbed her sleep. He couldn¡¯t say the same about Rukia, who squeezed his pillow in her arms. She would be out cold for another few hours.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun...¡± she greeted him in a lethargic voice. ¡°Good morning.¡±


    ¡°Wake the hell up. I got you breakfast.¡±


    She looked at him in confusion until her gaze fell on the bowls in his hand. ¡°Ah... I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°What for?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take culinary classes,¡± she said, pumping her fist enthusiastically. ¡°I won¡¯t let you carry this burden forever!¡±


    She seemed in high spirits for the training to be his chef. Probably because it¡¯d make him more dependent on her and get him to be more affectionate towards her.


    {A schemer for a schemer. You two are a perfectly balanced couple.}


    ¡®What about us?¡¯


    {Couple stuff is temporary. Our bond is eternal, for we are soulmates tied to the same fate.}


    Kazuya rubbed Momo¡¯s head. ¡°Just don¡¯t overdo it. I¡¯d hate to see you get sick.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± Momo said, beaming a smile. Then she stroked Rukia¡¯s leg in an attempt to wake up her friend. ¡°Rukia, come on. Noodles will get soggy.¡±


    Rukia pulled up the blanket and covered herself. ¡°Let me sleep...¡±


    Momo¡¯s brow twitched in annoyance. ¡°You little.¡±


    She yanked the blanket off of Rukia and straddled Rukia¡¯s back. Pulling Rukia¡¯s arms behind her, she locked them. Then she slowly put pressure, making Rukia¡¯s back contort unnaturally.


    Rukia let out a ragged whimper as though she couldn¡¯t breathe properly. ¡°My shoulders! STOP! IT HURTS! STOP PLEASE!¡±


    Although this bullying wasn¡¯t justified, he didn¡¯t save Rukia and remained as a bystander. He had done much worse to his friend back in his old life. Friendship was all about messing with each other.


    Rukia¡¯s eyes became hollow. ¡°Are you kidding me? Momo beat the crap out of a senior yesterday. I don¡¯t stand a chance against her in a street fight.¡±


    ¡°Pathetic excuses.¡±


    ¡°They are not!¡±


    Momo giggled. ¡°Let¡¯s settle that after breakfast.¡±


    ...


    After bullying Rukia for a few more minutes, Kazuya left his house. With Yoruichi around, he wasn¡¯t worried about the two. It¡¯d be a splendid opportunity for them to get to know Yoruichi better. Not the wise, old cat they had been admiring her as, but the real confident, observant, and a tiny bit silly version of Yoruichi.


    A few minutes of stroll brought him to the 4th Squad¡¯s main barrack. He couldn¡¯t sense Isane¡¯s Reiatsu nearby but further into the residential area ¡ª she had yet to report to the squad, or she must¡¯ve left for an errand.


    Judging from her stale Reiatsu, he leaned toward the possibility of her sleeping. Honestly, he was tempted to show up unexpectedly at her doorstep.


    ¡®Let¡¯s save it for after training.¡¯


    He walked into the open area, where tons of nurses stopped to look at him. People wouldn¡¯t stop whispering things behind his back, questioning each other about the nature of his relationship with their captain. The last time they saw him was hitching a ride on Minazuki with Unohana.


    Feeling amused by the development, he took the stairs to Unohana¡¯s office. He found her lady kneeling in seiza position, her eyes shut tight. She seemed to be meditating or communicating with her Zanpakuto? that lay unsheathed on her lap.


    He made an effort to be as quiet as possible as he approached her and then took a seat in front of her. Within moments, he was captivated by her. Her elegance was simply unrivaled when she wasn¡¯t speaking or actively trying to murder him. And despite her age surpassing 2000 years, she possessed the looks of a woman in her mid-thirties, which, in his humble opinion, represented the height of a woman¡¯s attractiveness.


    {Content creators from your previous life want you to reconsider that thought.}


    ¡®Fuck them.¡¯


    Unohana opened her eyes. For a few moments, they just gazed at each other, one confused and the other calm.


    ¡°Morning.¡±


    A troubled expression crossed Unohana¡¯s face. ¡°Kazuya, I can¡¯t talk to it... Minazuki isn¡¯t responding to me.¡±


    A/N: Plot thickens from next chapter.

 Chapter 269: Summon (I)

    Chapter 269: Summon (I)


    {Muramasa got Minazuki. Boy, it¡¯ll be a pain for you to deal with him.}


    The rapid progress of Muramasa¡¯s plan gave Kazuya a strong hunch that the rebellion drew closer. A rebellion that was in name only, the true goal of which was to weaken Yamamoto by taking away his ability to use his Zanpakuto?.


    ¡®Aizen isn¡¯t messing around now.¡¯


    {Brother Sosuke took a long rest and went back to scheming.}


    Unohana suddenly placed her sword against his neck. ¡°You don¡¯t look the least bit surprised.¡±


    He casually pushed back her blade, showing a solemn expression. ¡°I talked to Rangiku today. Ikkaku Madarame of the 11th Squad might be dealing with the same issue.¡±


    ¡°Madarame too? Who could be behind this?¡±


    No matter how hard Unohana thought, she couldn¡¯t pinpoint anyone with the ability to take someone¡¯s Zanpakuto? Spirit away ¡ª the ability went against the very fundamentals of the Soul Society. Kazuya would be her first suspect if she wasn¡¯t familiar with him. After all, his mere existence defied every established notion about Shinigami and Hollow. Her close second suspect would be Aizen, someone she knew next to nothing about.


    ¡°It might be Aizen¡¯s trump card.¡±


    His answer made her frown, as she imagined the fate of the Soul Society with everyone being unable to use their Zanpakuto?. Most captains wouldn¡¯t be able to fight at their designated rank without their Shikai or Bankai. Only abnormalities like Kenpachi and Yoruichi could fight at their best, as their fighting style never relied on their Zanpakuto?.


    ¡°If your doubts aren¡¯t misplaced, this will be catastrophic for the Soul Society,¡± she whispered, looking mighty serious. ¡°Will the ability work on you? Your Zanpakuto? is principally different from a normal Shinigami.¡±


    She had no knowledge of his Zanpakuto?, but she knew he wielded two fundamentally different types of Zanpakuto? ¡ª a support-type and a complete offensive-type in his Hollow form. She hadn¡¯t seen his Hollow form in action, but she had heard of it from Aizen himself.


    And from those words, she had felt nothing but curiosity about the full potential of his Zanpakuto?.


    Kazuya shook his head. ¡°Probably not. My Zanpakuto? is... Nami, come out.¡±


    As he knocked on his katana¡¯s guard, wisps of flames emerged from its sheath, and from them emerged Nami. Unohana was somewhat surprised to see his Zanpakuto? Spirit dressed in overtly regal clothing that starkly contrasted with the traditional Japanese aesthetics embraced by the Soul Society.


    Nami burst into laughter. ¡°Partner, how could you say that with a straight face? Say it with a tiny smile to come off as even crazier.¡±


    ¡°Nah. I¡¯m not crazy.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Liking crazies doesn¡¯t qualify me as one... I think?¡±


    ¡°Kind of true...¡± Nami nodded slowly as though coming to an enlightenment. ¡°Partner is wise beyond his years.¡±


    Unohana rubbed her forehead, suddenly looking concerned about resting the Soul Society¡¯s future in his hands. ¡°This discussion will lead nowhere.¡±


    He reached out and took her hand. ¡°Let¡¯s leave whatever this is and go to my place.¡±


    She swatted his hand away. ¡°We still have your training. Come, let¡¯s finish it quickly so I can discuss this Zanpakuto? Spirit vanishing phenomenon with Captain Yamamoto.¡±


    She had to discuss this matter with Yamamoto and find the culprit behind it, or else the whole Soul Society might lose their Zanpakuto? Spirits.


    He let out a sigh. ¡°We¡¯ll have to use Shunpo today.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll be a good warm-up for¡ª¡± she suddenly looked to her right, sharp eyes seemingly gazing beyond the wall. ¡°Captain Soi Fon...¡± She turned to him with an inquisitive look. ¡°Have you done something to her?¡±


    He looked like he wanted to curse out loud. ¡°Nothing, well, aside from beating her a couple of times in the past. Doesn¡¯t feel like she is here for that.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Nami glanced between the two of them before disappearing back into the katana with a ¡°Goodbye¡±. She wanted no part of the drama that would soon occur due to Soi Fon.


    Sliding through the door in a hurry, Soi Fon showed, her forehead covered in sweat. ¡°Kazuya, get up now... Captain Commander has summoned you.¡±

 Chapter 270: Summon (II)

    Chapter 270: Summon (II)


    As Kazuya made his way to the 1st Squad¡¯s barracks, he couldn¡¯t shake off the feeling that something was wrong. Yamamoto had several reasons to summon him, but none were in his favor.


    {Is he finally on to you?}


    ¡®I don¡¯t think so.¡¯


    In the event that Yamamoto discovered Kazuya¡¯s Hollow side, Yamamoto wouldn¡¯t send Soi Fon alone; he would come here on his own.


    {What if he did this to lower your guard?}


    ¡®Old man isn¡¯t a pussy.¡¯


    As far as he knew, Yamamoto wasn¡¯t the type to play mind games or scheme. The old man settled his matters with laws. When the lawful approach failed, Yamamoto fell back to the old-fashioned method of brawling it out with bare fists.


    ¡®Maybe he wants to know more about Arrancars from me.¡¯


    He had yet to answer any question regarding the Arrancar Invasion in Karakura Town. Quite surprising, since he had been at the forefront of the incident.


    {Could be that too. Let¡¯s stay cautious, yeah?}


    ¡®Those words don¡¯t suit someone trying to be crazy.¡¯


    Nami laughed. {How about ¡®don¡¯t back down if Yamamoto wants a fight. You¡¯ll smoke his ass and burn down the Soul Society.¡¯? Is that crazy enough for you?}


    ¡®I¡¯m in love.¡¯


    Retreating from the odd conversation, he took a glance to his left. Soi Fon dashed from roof to roof with him. They were nowhere close to their peak Shunpo speed. Still, she was barely breaking a sweat from exertion.


    {She is a cardio-monster. Imagine someone with her endurance riding you. She¡¯ll last hours!}


    ¡®Yoruichi won¡¯t fall behind her.¡¯


    {True. Both have excellent endurance.}


    Kazuya flicked a Reiatsu bullet at Soi Fon¡¯s face, which she dodged with a slight tilt of her head. ¡°Any idea what Captain Commander wants from me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll know when we get there.¡±


    ¡°Come on. You¡¯re making me nervous.¡±


    Soi Fon gave him a skeptical look. ¡°You can adapt to any situation. Like you adjusted to the high-level battle in Karakura Town. This assignment will be nothing for you.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I was lying to weasel my way out. I don¡¯t wanna leave my girlfriend alone for too long.¡±


    ¡°Girlfriends,¡± Soi Fon retorted. ¡°The operation shouldn¡¯t last longer than a week. It¡¯s not that big of a deal.¡±


    ¡°Two days. I can¡¯t spare more than that.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes widened at his confidence. ¡°It¡¯s not impossible to finish it within two days... but you¡¯ll have to forgo rest.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with that. So, what is the goal?¡±


    ¡°Invading Hueco Mundo,¡± Yamamoto spoke in a solemn tone. ¡°The last invasion had a drastic effect on the Soul Society... I fear the Hollows have united a leader and are planning a major attack. We need someone to get in, gather information about their plans, and safely bring the information back to us.¡±


    The Captain Commander had become a bit restless from the silence shown by Arrancars. The strength Arrancars showed could pose a threat to the Soul Society¡¯s stability. They had to take proper measures to make sure they weren¡¯t caught off-guard at a vulnerable moment.


    Kazuya laughed as he slapped Soi Fon¡¯s back. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m ready.¡±


    Soi Fon looked at him like he had lost his mind. ¡°We¡¯re going into enemy territory. Where is all that fearlessness coming from?¡±


    ¡°Considering your mediocre stealth skills, you¡¯ll surely be discovered by Arrancars. I need to be there to save your sorry life. And I¡¯m fairly confident in my ability to slaughter Arrancars.¡±


    {The majestic King of Hollow will slay his people.}


    ¡°Why you-!¡± Soi Fon nearly cursed him for his insolence. ¡°Not everyone is stupidly perceptive like you. I¡¯ll be fine with my skills.¡±


    He gently rubbed her head. ¡°Silly girl, we¡¯re dealing with Hollows. Souls who have animalistic traits. It¡¯ll be hard to fool them.¡±


    This time, Soi Fon didn¡¯t argue with him. She had tested and perfected her stealth against Shinigami. But she had never put her skills to test against an Arrancar.


    Unohana placed a hand on his shoulder while looking at Yamamoto. ¡°When will they depart?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow,¡± Yamamoto answered. ¡°At dawn.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    Yamamoto turned his attention to Kazuya. ¡°I¡¯ll need you to answer some questions.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±

 Chapter 271: Encounter

    Chapter 271: Encounter


    Yamamoto¡¯s inquiry began with seemingly straightforward questions that anybody who fought Arrancars could have answered, such as the strength of an individual Arrancar, their motive, and their tendency to harm Shinigami. But the questions quickly became complex with ¡°Who among them was the strongest and why did he think this one in particular was the strongest?¡± and ¡°How many Arrancars escaped with their lives?¡±


    Fortunately for Kazuya, he had long prepared answers for each one of these questions. Yamamoto had given him too much time to come up with facts weaved with lies.


    ¡°Don¡¯t know his name but I fought him first in the town. He was the toughest opponent by a mile. I couldn¡¯t have defeated him on my own without losing an arm or two.¡±


    He deliberately downplayed Ulquiorra¡¯s abilities to save himself from becoming the second ¡°too powerful for a rookie¡± target, the first being Kenpachi Zaraki.


    Soi Fon¡¯s expression darkened as a realization dawned on her. Given that Kazuya had defeated her fairly effortlessly, she might not stand the slightest chance of victory against this Arrancar.


    Noticing her reaction, Kazuya turned to Soi Fon, a faint smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. ¡°Your line of thought is correct. He would utterly demolish you. You might be fast but you have no chance of landing two hits with your Shikai on him.¡±


    He never let go of an opportunity to belittle Soi Fon as seeing her angry and frustrated yet powerless to do anything pleased him. He wasn¡¯t a complete sadist, but for some reason derived a little too much pleasure from Soi Fon¡¯s suffering. Maybe it had something to do with their first meeting, where she had tried to humiliate him in front of hundreds.


    Soi Fon clicked her tongue, visibly irritated by his blunt assessment. ¡°I didn¡¯t become a captain from doing paperwork. I have ingrained Hakuda techniques in every fiber of my muscle. Even if I go up against someone stronger than me, I¡¯ll be able to adapt on the fly.¡±


    Her confidence came from over a century of honing her combat skills on her own. This type of confidence wouldn¡¯t break, of course, unless someone truly showed her the depths of despair.


    He reached out and patted her shoulder. ¡°I have no doubt about your skills, but trust me you won¡¯t last a minute against that freak.¡±


    The sympathetic look he gave her was a salt on her wounds. She gritted her teeth, yet she could do nothing in Yamamoto¡¯s presence. She silently swore to have her payback tomorrow, when she would be alone with him in Hueco Mundo.


    Kazuya chuckled softly before turning to Yamamoto. ¡°Any other questions for me?¡±


    ¡°Nothing. I¡¯ll hear from you after you return.¡± Yamamoto shifted his gaze to Unohana, his wrinkled face carrying no emotion. ¡°Captain Sosuke will be here any moment. I want everyone to leave. Even you, Ginrei-san.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Unohana murmured as a look of understanding crossed her serene features. ¡°Be mindful of Captain Sosuke¡¯s behavior. He has been acting rather... strangely ever since the incident.¡±


    Rather than outright voicing her suspicions, she sowed seeds of doubts.


    ¡°I will be.¡±


    As though preordained by fate itself, Kazuya came face to face with Aizen the moment he walked out of the Assembly Hall. Unlike the last time, he had zero sense of anxiety.


    ¡°Why, if it isn¡¯t Captain Unohana,¡± Aizen greeted with his perfect good-guy smile that had kept him away from any suspicions until now. ¡°I didn¡¯t get the chance to express my gratitude last time. Thank you for your assistance with my injuries.¡±


    Unohana accepted his gratitude with a gentle smile. ¡°It¡¯s my duty to heal the wounded.¡±


    ¡°As humble as ever,¡± Aizen said with a wry smile before looking at Kazuya. ¡°A rather unexpected surprise to see you accompanying Captain Unohana in Vice Captain Kotetsu¡¯s place.¡±


    ¡°She is out on an errand,¡± Kazuya lied with an honest smile. ¡°Captain Commander needed some answers regarding Arrancars, so I got summoned here.¡±


    ¡°I see. Well, consider this an opportunity to get to know other captains better. You¡¯ll be working with them as a Captain in no time.¡±


    ¡°No way. Captains have so many responsibilities. I wanna enjoy my life for a few hundred years first if you know what I mean,¡± Kazuya replied with a laugh. ¡°By the way, thanks for handling that final boss Arrancar in Karakura Town. Her Reiatsu was making me shiver on the other end of the town. I¡¯m glad I didn¡¯t have to fight her.¡±


    Aizen maintained his pleasant demeanor, but Kazuya caught the brief flash in his eyes. Aizen hadn¡¯t expected Kazuya, the most ambitionless man in Aizen¡¯s plan, to become the biggest hurdle to his Karakura Town¡¯s plans.


    ¡°The academy is the future of the Soul Society,¡± Aizen responded to his gratitude with a modest chuckle. ¡°I only did what any other Shinigami would do.¡±


    ¡°Captain Sosuke, you might be the most reliable captain.¡±


    Unohana¡¯s fingers found Kazuya¡¯s arm, delivering a subtle but firm pinch. ¡°Are you saying I¡¯m not reliable?¡±


    ¡°Umm, it¡¯s a different type of reliability. Like you¡¯ll heal all my wounds and support me but Captain Sosuke ¡ª he¡¯d protect me from receiving those injuries in the first place.¡±


    {Oi, stop fanboying over Aizen! This acting is going too far.}


    Aizen revealed a warm smile. ¡°You¡¯re a little mistaken about Captain Unohana. She is¡ªwell, forget I said anything.¡±


    The shrewd captain stopped short of revealing Unohana¡¯s secret and bade his farewells to the two before walking into the Assembly Hall. Even though he revealed nothing concrete, his words were clearly designed to plant a seed of doubt about Unohana in Kazuya¡¯s mind. It would¡¯ve been a clever move to drive a rift between Kazuya and Unohana if they weren¡¯t so familiar with each other.


    As soon as the door shut behind them, Unohana firmly gripped his hand and led him away.

 Chapter 272: Promise

    Chapter 272: Promise


    Once she was back to the familiar grounds of the 4th Squad, Unohana placed a hand on her chest and let out a sigh of relief. ¡°I know Sosuke was putting on an act... yet his smiles, his compliments, his expressions looked so genuine. I almost let my killing intent slip.¡±


    It was evident that she hadn¡¯t been fully prepared for this encounter with Aizen. And it had led her to almost making a massive blunder.


    Kazuya patted her shoulder. ¡°You were in complete control back there. I forgot that Aizen was a bad guy. That¡¯s how good you were at acting.¡±


    After a bout with Aizen, he had learned to read Aizen¡¯s subtle expressions. And he had seen no noticeable signs of doubt on Aizen¡¯s face regarding Unohana.


    His consideration earned him a small, grateful smile from Unohana. ¡°Still, if Aizen becomes suspicious of you, the blame is mine.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll never go after you as long as you¡¯re Retsu Unohana. Yachiru Unohana is a different matter though. He¡¯ll try to get rid of you if you ever pick up that sword for the Soul Society again.¡±


    Even under the influence of Aizen¡¯s Shikai, Unohana posed a significant threat. When thrust into a precarious situation, a natural born killer like her could adapt to the sense-warping powers of Kyo?ka Suigetsu. Aizen would never underestimate her or Yamamoto.


    Closing her eyes, Unohana put a hand on the hilt of her Zanpakuto?. ¡°I can¡¯t do that. I made a promise.¡±


    ¡°Even if Aizen goes after Isane?¡±


    Curiosity got the better of him, and he couldn¡¯t resist asking this question. Will she break her promise for Isane whom she treated like her daughter more than her Vice-Captain?


    Unohana¡¯s eyes snapped open, taking on a murderous look. An overwhelming bloodlust emanated from her. ¡°I¡¯ll put him under Minazuki and kill him. Over, over, and over, until his mind fades into nothingness. I won¡¯t let anyone lay a hand on Isane.¡±


    As expected, she showed willingness to throw away her promise for Isane. Greater good of the Soul Society mattered less than her own Vice-Captain.


    He revealed a faint smile. ¡°That¡¯s probably the reason I like you.¡±


    Without mincing his words, he revealed his true feelings.


    His straightforwardness caught her off-guard. ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for your tomfoolery.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not though. Besides, you won¡¯t ever have to break your promise. If anyone tries to harm Isane or anyone else close to me, I¡¯ll give up on being an upstanding Shinigami and kill them. Even Aizen.¡±


    Despite his nonchalance, Unohana knew that he wasn¡¯t lying. Not one bit. She was once again reminded of why she had entrusted everything to this young man. His determination to see through had earned her respect.


    ¡°Kazuya,¡± she whispered. ¡°Are you hiding your true abilities even now?¡±


    Her question received a quiet nod from him.


    She studied his face intently. ¡°Unbelievable... you still have a trump card ¡ª an ability that can kill Aizen before he can get support from any Captain. Could it be your Bankai?¡±


    ¡°Hey...¡±


    ¡°Hey! How are you doing?¡±


    Apacci¡¯s awkward greeting was met with an enthusiastic greeting like no other. The reason for Apacci feeling so awkward had to do with her past visit to Hueco Mundo. She grappled with how to face the Hollow she had tried to kill. Was she meant to smile warmly and pretend it never happened, or act all grumpy because the Hollow defeated her?


    Nelliel cocked her head slightly, puzzled by Apacci¡¯s lack of energy. ¡°Are you the same person who tried to ¡®devour¡¯ me? Did putting on the maid dress change you?¡±


    ¡°Still the same old Apacci who got her teeth kicked in by you.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be bitter about it. There will always be people beyond our current reach,¡± she whispered with a distant look, her lips curving into a nostalgic smile. ¡°This is what fills life with a sense of purpose, you know. I¡¯ll keep bashing my head against the wall until I reach their level or surpass them.¡±


    ¡°Fat chance of that happening.¡±


    Apacci knew the man Nelliel wanted to surpass, and she could never imagine any Hollow ever coming close to his strength.


    Nelliel accepted Apacci¡¯s discouraging words with a calm face. ¡°People can cling to unachievable goals.¡±


    ¡°My goal is becoming unachievable too...¡± Apacci whispered, lamenting her inability to become a Vasto Lorde. She did her best every day ¡ª training with Lisa and the other Visored, consuming the rogue Hollows around the town, and even trying out the weird meditation techniques shown on the television. Nothing could nudge her toward the final boundary.


    What was she meant to do to become a Vasto Lorde?


    Shaking off her melancholy, Apacci pinned Nelliel with a sharp gaze. ¡°Why exactly are you here?¡±


    Nelliel took off her heat, which had been covering the remnants of her Hollow mask. ¡°Is he home?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Apacci crushed Nelliel¡¯s hopes with a curt response. ¡°Don¡¯t ask me where he is. He doesn¡¯t want anyone to disturb him.¡±


    Nelliel¡¯s shoulders sagged visibly as a dispirited sigh left her lips. She had hoped Kazuya was concealing his Reiatsu as usual, and she would be able to meet him. ¡°Apacci, can you tell him Nelliel returned to Hueco Mundo? I¡¯ll be at my usual spot if he requires anything from me.¡±


    Nelliel put on her hat and tucked her hands in her pocket before walking away.


    ¡°Wait, what about those annoying little critters?¡±


    For Nelliel to leave the Living World would mean abandoning her people. Apacci never took Nelliel for someone who abandoned her people.


    ¡°They...¡± Nelliel revealed a bittersweet smile. Her entire demeanor shifted at the mere mention of her little companions. ¡°I¡¯ll talk about it some other day.¡±


    With a vague answer, Nelliel adjusted her hat once more and tucked her hands in her pockets before walking away, leaving a perplexed Apacci behind.


    ¡°What the hell happened to her?¡±

 Chapter 273-274: Restrained Jealousy

    Chapter 273-274: Restrained Jealousy


    With Momo and Rukia staying at home, Yoruichi found herself pleasantly occupied, rather than bored as she would have been alone. Calm, confident, and with centuries of experience, she could guide the conversation in any direction and come up with light-hearted subjects to tease the young women. Witnessing their initial blushing brought her joy, but eventually, it grew boring. Rukia wasn¡¯t as open to teasing as Momo.


    What¡¯s more, there was little amusement to be found without a challenge. The challenge was one of the reasons she took pleasure in teasing Kazuya. And after all this time, she had only succeeded one time ¡ª the time she chose to pleasure his penis with her mouth.


    ¡®A priceless memory for sure.¡¯


    Although embarrassing, she wouldn¡¯t trade the moment for anything in the world. The reminder of him stirred her to check on his Reiatsu. Her senses registered his Reiatsu in an instant, despite the distance between them. His aura was intense and erratic ¡ª he was engaged in a battle. She also felt Unohana¡¯s Reiatsu, which was no less wilder than him.


    ¡®They are finally going at it.¡¯


    Their Reiatsu had been stuck at someplace for a while, but now she could rest assured that his training had commenced. Honestly, she would have done the honor of training him on her own. Alas, her true talent lay in unarmed combat, while Unohana excelled at wielding a blade. Training with Unohana would benefit him more at this stage.


    ¡®I¡¯m not jealous of Unohana, am I?¡¯


    Her brows furrowed in contemplation.


    ¡®Whatever. I can still help him refine his movement and unarmed skills.¡¯


    As she had no pressing matters to attend to, she racked her brain for a way to make Kazuya blush without resorting to sexual means. Her cat-like ears twitched as she plotted, taking inspiration from a certain someone, and before she knew it, a mischievous grin had spread across her face.


    ¡°Hisana Nee-san...¡± Rukia paused and pointed at Yoruichi¡¯s face, a perplexed frown on her face. ¡°I¡¯m talking about my sister¡¯s sickness, but she is grinning... What an awful woman.¡±


    A tinge of disappointment colored Rukia¡¯s gaze, as if she had expected more from someone who claimed to be Kazuya¡¯s mentor.


    Momo pursed her lips. She could see Rukia using the opportunity to target Yoruichi. Still, she stayed silent, assuming a neutral position as she didn¡¯t want to favor one over another.


    Yoruichi rubbed the back of her head. ¡°You¡¯ve got it all wrong, Kiddo. I wasn¡¯t paying attention. Me grinning has nothing to do with your sister.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bother. I know you¡¯re one of those freaks who take pleasure in someone else¡¯s suffering.¡±


    Instead of accepting Yoruichi¡¯s half-hearted apology, Rukia voiced the thought that had been weighing on her mind. All the teasing from Yoruichi had led her to believe that Yoruichi was a sadist. And her cat features only solidified Rukia¡¯s suspicions, as cats were known to play with their prey before killing them. A natural sadist.


    Yoruichi simply shrugged her shoulders at the accusations. While she did take pleasure in teasing others, she didn¡¯t quite fit the definition of a sadist. She wasn¡¯t that far gone.


    Rukia turned her gaze, whispering, ¡°Yoruichi-san isn¡¯t the right person for him.¡±


    Yoruichi finally realized Rukia¡¯s problem with her. Byakuya¡¯s sister-in-law was just looking out for Kazuya by singling out unworthy women around him. From an outsider¡¯s perspective, Yoruichi hadn¡¯t done anything notable. Rather, she sat around while Kazuya prepared breakfast. Afterwards, she lazed around the bedroom while teasing them, coming off as a sadist. Of course, Rukia would take issue with Yoruichi now that she was officially Kazuya¡¯s girlfriend.


    The cat-lady reached out and pinched Rukia¡¯s nose. ¡°You silly lass. I¡¯m not a sadist. What¡¯s more, Byakuya and I are old buddies. I¡¯ll never wish for his or Hisana¡¯s misfortune.¡±


    She had trained with Byakuya since before Rukia was even a toddler. Everyone in the Shihoin and Kuchiki clans at the time knew about their unruly tag games and chases that spanned the entire Seireitei. Her bond with Byakuya was second only to her bond with Kisuke. As she thought back on these memories, a slight frown creased her forehead.


    ¡®Where does that put Kazuya? First?¡¯


    ¡°Yes! Pet best! Bring Pet!¡± The spirited voice in her mind belonged to the child-like being residing in her Inner World. Yoruichi had assumed her Hollow was gone since she hadn''t heard from it in a while. It was just her wishful thinking.


    ¡°PET!!!¡±


    ¡®Go back to sleep.¡¯


    ¡°PET! PET! PET!¡±


    Yoruichi covered her ears, even though the voice was coming from within her own head. This put an end to the Hollow¡¯s demands, at least for the time being.


    ¡®Phew, she went back to sleep.¡¯


    She opened her eyes and saw a look of worry on Rukia and Momo¡¯s faces.


    Rukia¡¯s concern quickly disappeared, and she made what Yoruichi thought was an exaggerated sound of dissatisfaction. ¡°Byakuya Nii-san would never be friends with someone like you.¡±


    It hadn¡¯t been half a year since Rukia had reconnected with her older sister, but it was enough time for her to develop immense admiration for her brother-in-law. She could never imagine a dignified man like him associating himself with a lazy bum like Yoruichi, much less being ¡®buddies.¡¯


    ¡°Someone like me?¡± Yoruichi smirked. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m just a slut mooching off of Kazuya. Isn¡¯t that right?¡±


    Rukia blinked, surprised that Yoruichi had voiced her exact thoughts. ¡°Yeah... As Kazuya¡¯s... girlfriend, I think I have a right to protect him from bad company.¡±


    Momo turned to her with a sweet smile. ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡±


    ¡°Figured as much.¡± Yoruichi chuckled. ¡°Why are you telling me about your love, though?¡±


    Momo rested her head on Yoruichi¡¯s lap and took her hand, placing it on her head and guiding it to stroke her hair. The gesture was more than enough for the chocolate-skinned woman to understand her intentions. So, she began stroking Momo¡¯s hair.


    Momo smiled. ¡°I don¡¯t want Kazuya-kun to ever stop loving me.¡±


    Yoruichi gently pressed her hand against Momo''s face. ¡°He won¡¯t. He isn¡¯t that kind of man.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Momo whispered. ¡°Still, if there comes a day Kazuya-kun loses his love for me... will you help me?¡±


    Yoruichi threw her head back and erupted into a breathy laughter. ¡°An unlikely scenario but sure. I¡¯ll whoop that brat¡¯s ass and make him love you again.¡±


    Momo revealed a grateful smile. Her request wasn¡¯t to force him to love her again ¡ª it was to end her life. But she liked Yoruichi¡¯s suggestion too. ¡°Thank you, Yoruichi Nee-san.¡±


    Yoruichi simply shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m¡ª¡± Her nose scrunched, picking up a scorched scent. ¡°Momo, how would you rate Rukia¡¯s culinary skills?¡±


    ¡°No idea. I¡¯ve never seen her cook.¡±


    Yoruichi¡¯s brows twitched. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me earlier?!¡±


    ***


    Evening.


    Walking across the dark hallway, Yoruichi transformed into her human form and opened the door. Her cat eyes patiently observed the man standing before her. Dressed in spotless Shihakusho garments with such nobility, those shallow aristocrats could only strive for. The only flaw on his perfect countenance was a subtle hint of exhaustion. She felt weird to see him not smiling or grinning like a fool. Being so familiar with him, she could easily see exhaustion from the way he carried himself and the lack of energy in his eyes.


    ¡®He couldn¡¯t have gotten that type of training from her, could he?¡¯


    Yoruichi pierced him with a seething glare. Unable to contain herself, she leaned closer and took a sniff of his clothes. The lack of Unohana, or any feminine scent, on him cleared her doubts away. He simply felt worn out from over-exerting himself.


    He pushed her face away. ¡°No need to be the jealous housewife. I won¡¯t lie if I fuck someone behind your back.¡±


    A pleased smile made its way to her face, and she hummed. ¡°A lot of toughness from a man who looks so defeated. Unohana must¡¯ve whooped you like a dog.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say something happened, and I was stabbed in the chest.¡±


    The lack of sarcasm on his face or voice wiped the aura of playfulness around her. She tugged his robes this way and that, loosening them enough to see his chest. There were no scars to be found. ¡°Your natural regeneration is just silly. Wait, do I also regenerate like you now?¡±


    He wrestled control of his clothes and fixed his appearance. ¡°Gosh, you didn¡¯t have to undress me in the open.¡±


    She pulled him inside and shut the door. ¡°Answer my question, sweetheart. Or I¡¯ll cut open my wrist and report you for domestic violence.¡±


    He shrugged as if he couldn¡¯t care less. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    Her brows twitched at his coldhearted answer. ¡°Come on, say it. I wanna know my limits.¡±


    ¡°You probably won¡¯t,¡± he said with a thoughtful look. ¡°Remember, you¡¯re a Shinigami with a Hollow. Not a complete Hollow.¡±


    A look of disappointment flashed on her face, which was replaced by a confident smirk. ¡°Will it be worth it to become a complete Hollow?¡±


    She saw a flash in his eyes. The pause in his actions told him that he was imagining her naked with a Hollow mask and more lethality.


    ¡°Oh, sweetheart,¡± she whispered, pressing herself against his chest and looking up with a cheeky smirk. ¡°Can you be a little less transparent with your depraved thoughts?¡±


    He flicked her forehead. ¡°I won¡¯t let you become a complete Hollow.¡±


    His serious rebuke had her speechless for a moment. Instead of explaining his reasoning in a more detailed fashion, he walked past her.


    She flash-stepped to cut him off. ¡°There is warm water in the bath. Take a quick dip while I heat up dinner.¡±


    He patted her small back with a warm smile. ¡°It¡¯s refreshing to have you as my wife.¡±


    ¡°Keep dreaming.¡± A brazen laughter shook her chest, the corner of her eyes crinkling happily. ¡°Don¡¯t take too long, Kiddo. I¡¯m dying to know why Unohana stabbed you.¡±

 Chapter 275: Nature

    Chapter 275: Nature


    The sliding shoji screens, adorned with delicate cherry blossom patterns, allowed slivers of moonlight to filter onto the muted tatami mats. When paired with the faint light of the delicate paper lanterns and the elegant low table, it invoked an intimate atmosphere.


    This serene setting, however, was disrupted when Kazuya and Yoruichi took their seats at the table. Between them sat a plate of steaming delicacies, their aroma nearly making his stomach growl.


    ¡°Yor, I¡¯m a little skeptical about this...¡± He put on a brave expression as he eyed the delicacies. ¡°But if it¡¯s for my dearest wife, I¡¯ll gladly put my life on the line and eat food that¡¯s clearly not made for... human consumption.¡±


    Swallowing down food with radioactive seasoning was a small price to pay for Yoruichi¡¯s happiness.


    Yoruichi tapped her fingers on the table. ¡°I had Rukia and Momo help me this time.¡±


    Although things started rocky with Rukia, they could recover and create some positive memories ¡ª at least Yoruichi did. She suspected Rukia didn¡¯t share the same sentiment. Frankly, it was Rukia¡¯s fault for making a glorious mess out of the kitchen.


    Kazuya¡¯s eyebrows rose in surprise. ¡°Damn. They returned without seeing me.¡±


    ¡°More like Rukia dragged Momo away. Rukia looked like she was fighting the urge to spend more time with you. Lass made the tough decision to prioritize her future over you.¡±


    ¡°As her boyfriend, I¡¯m pleased with her priorities,¡± he said, lips slowly curving into a cold smile. ¡°After all, she knows she¡¯ll be spending the rest of her life in my basement, as my lovely wife.¡±


    Yoruichi shook her head, unable to discern if he was joking or serious. ¡°You do realize that kind of talk would provoke Byakuya to fight you to death, right? That lad becomes protective for family... or he used to be. I¡¯m not sure anymore.¡±


    Still considered an exile, she hadn¡¯t introduced herself to Byakuya and the rest of her people in the Soul Society. She had seen Yu?shiro?, her brother, from a distance, and he was holding up pretty well on his own.


    He cracked his knuckles. ¡°I¡¯ll sit Byakuya down with just my right fist.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I don¡¯t doubt that for a second.¡± Yoruichi chuckled, propping her elbow on her thigh and leaning her chin on her palm. ¡°You¡¯ll not believe the things that happened behind your back.¡±


    The very memories of her little adventure with Rukia and Momo had her grinning silly.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a little complicated. I¡¯ll tell you everything when I have verified it myself.¡±


    Her gaze sharpened as she pointed at his face. ¡°You¡¯d better. Anyway, what did you do to Unohana? Did you try to make a move on her, or did you piss her off?¡±


    ¡°Wow, you¡¯re doubting your husband. What happened to the unwavering trust between couples?¡±


    She clicked her tongue, looking mighty annoyed by his playful antics. ¡°Stop going off-topic. Unohana won¡¯t try to kill you for no reason.¡±


    ¡°There is a reason,¡± he said with a sigh, his gaze distant. ¡°You know Unohana¡¯s past, right?¡±


    ¡°Gathering information is Onmitsukido?¡¯s speciality. I was the head of that organization. There aren¡¯t many influential people I¡¯m not familiar with here.¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah. I sometimes forget my lazy cat wife used to be a badass assassin.¡±


    ¡°For the love of Reio, stop calling me your wife!¡± Yoruichi snapped, giving him what felt like a final ultimatum. ¡°As for Unohana¡¯s past, is there a reason to bring it up? Unohana has reformed and became a healer to make up for her past actions. She hasn¡¯t been involved with violence for centuries. There was even one case where she healed a vicious criminal because she didn¡¯t want him to die.¡±


    Although she wasn¡¯t the closest to Unohana, she had been on the receiving end of Unohana¡¯s kindness many times. Apart from a few occasional slip-ups in her Reiatsu, Unohana had been the definition of a kind soul.


    ¡°Reform?¡± Kazuya chuckled. ¡°Can a cat stop meowing and start barking?¡±


    Confusion clouded Yoruichi¡¯s face. ¡°What are you implying?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cat¡¯s nature to meow. And it¡¯s Unohana¡¯s nature to fight a bloody battle. She can suppress her nature, but she can never get rid of it. She¡¯ll always live and die for violence. Does that paint the picture for you?¡±


    Yoruichi nodded slowly, somewhat unfocused. ¡°I don¡¯t get the vague metaphors. Tell me the whole damn story.¡±


    ¡°Then listen closely because I¡¯m not going over it again.¡±

 Chapter 276: Vicious Attack

    Chapter 276: Vicious Attack


    (Half an hour ago)


    Kazuya basked in bliss from the soft sensation of Unohana¡¯s thighs beneath his head. The gentle lap pillow was his ¡°reward¡± for surviving the extreme training, which Unohana promised him back at his home. Unohana agreeing to his request was not on his list of surprises today.


    She pinched his cheeks gently. ¡°Is this enough? I have to check back on my squad too, after I bathe.¡±


    He placed his hands over hers. ¡°No. I¡¯m still tired. Let me relax a bit more on my future wife¡¯s lap.¡±


    She made a troubled expression before letting out a sigh. Since he had to leave tomorrow, she was spoiling him a little. She might have given too much leniency. ¡°My Shihakusho is drenched in sweat. There is your blood on my clothes, too. How this is relaxing for you in any capacity is beyond my comprehension.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t make you any less attractive,¡± he whispered, kissing her palm. ¡°I quite enjoy spending time with my future wife. You probably don¡¯t, I guess. But you¡¯ll learn to appreciate small intimate moments one day, that¡¯s my promise.¡±


    ¡°Small moments...¡± She raised her head, contemplating his words.


    Kazuya closed his eyes and let the older woman digest his promise in peace. Rolling around, he found a more comfortable position. Exhausted from the long training, he didn¡¯t take long before the loving arms of slumber embraced him.


    His peaceful rest lasted a while but came to an unfortunate end by the distinct sound of a katana sliding out of its sheath. The sound was subtle, but it may as well have been the howl of a wolf against his ears.


    Before he could open his eyes, an overwhelming bloodlust enveloped his entire being, wrapping him in its cold, hostile domain. A sharp pain in his chest followed the bloodlust.


    ¡°Kuh.¡± He groaned, his eyes flying open to the gloomy smile of Unohana beneath the dark sky.


    Her hands gripped the katana protruding from his chest.


    ¡°R-Retsu, what the hell?¡± He asked incredulously, the blood rushing up his throat and filling his mouth. ¡°O-Oi, don¡¯t be crazy.¡±


    Rather than listening to him, she forcibly pulled the katana, blood spurting from the gaping wound in his chest.


    She raised the katana over him and stabbed him again, aiming for his heart.


    She pushed the sword towards him. ¡°You can heal me afterward.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of it then?¡±


    ¡°To even the suffering caused by my weak will.¡±


    More so than the physical pain, she craved punishment. Any form of punishment would do as long as it held her responsible for her violence.


    He grabbed the sword and tossed it aside before bringing her into his arms, all in an instance. Stunned by his actions, she stared up at his charming face. ¡°I knew your murderous side, and I still slept like a log on your lap. Can you blame yourself for my lack of caution?¡±


    Frustration welled up in Unohana, her bottom lip caught between her teeth. Anybody else in his situation would freak out and leave her alone. But he ¡ª he had the audacity to treat it like just another day in his life. The whole situation made her wonder if his head was in the right place.


    ¡°Say something,¡± he whispered. ¡°Or I¡¯ll touch you.¡±


    Unohana punched his belly. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare blame me if this happens again.¡±


    ¡°This? You mean by this warm hug?¡± He tightened his hold, pressing her against his chest. ¡°I¡¯ll gladly welcome it.¡±


    She shoved him away, her eyes frosty. ¡°I¡¯m not joking. Next time I lose control, it won¡¯t end up with one wound. I might kill you.¡±


    He erupted into a hearty laughter. ¡°Retsu, don¡¯t overestimate yourself. If I¡¯m serious, not even two of you can take me down. For you, I may as well be an immortal.¡±


    ¡°I have made immortals crawl at my feet, begging for death...¡± Unohana whispered, slowly walking toward her Zanpakuto?. As she picked it up from the ground, she glanced over her shoulder, her eyes gleaming with malice. ¡°Immortality doesn¡¯t come with resistance to pain. Even if it did, my sword will burn through everything and make you regret ever claiming immortality.¡±


    Kazuya crossed his arms before holding up his chin. ¡°Ah, you¡¯re talking about your Bankai.¡±


    All the seriousness faded from her face, her eyes widening in shock. ¡°How do you know¡ª¡±


    He flashstepped to her back and rested his hand on her shoulder. ¡°Retsu, I know everything there is to know about you.¡±

 Chapter 277: Progress

    Chapter 277: Progress


    ¡°And that¡¯s how it ended.¡±


    Yoruichi stared at him for a good moment. His audacity to flirt with Unohana and being so nonchalant about everything had her dumbstruck.


    He ignored her and dug into the food, devouring plate after plate everything like a certain spiky hair main character. ¡°Ahhh... that was wonderful.¡±


    Yoruichi shook her head. ¡°Say thanks to Isane later.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Why?¡±


    She pointed at the dishes on the table. ¡°She paid for all the ingredients.¡±


    Yoruichi told him all about her day. The small confrontation with Rukia at the start and then she briefly glanced over as her bonding moment with Momo. Then she scolded Rukia for almost burning down the kitchen and forcing Rukia to clean up the whole mess. After all that, they left the house together to buy some supplies, only to find that none of the shop owners put payments on the tab. Isane¡¯s timely appearance in the market had saved them from returning home empty-handed.


    Kazuya hummed as he listened to Yoruichi. ¡°Isane doesn¡¯t deserve thanks for that ¡ª she deserves a whole night of love.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s call it a night. I gotta wake up early tomorrow.¡±


    Yoruichi yawned as she stretched like a cat. ¡°Night...¡±


    ¡°What night? You¡¯re coming with me. Who else will be my pillow, huh?¡±


    He grabbed her tail and dragged her to the bedroom.


    ¡°No. We won¡¯t touch him.¡± Aizen shook his head. ¡°I won¡¯t mind you informing our people in Hueco Mundo to give him a hard time.¡±


    It was better for Kazuya and Soi Fon to stay busy in Hueco Mundo. The less powerful people stayed in the Soul Society, the less friction Aizen would face in executing his plan.


    Gin grinned. ¡°Oh. I¡¯ll make sure he has the time of his life there~.¡±


    ¡°How are they going to enter Hueco Mundo for this task?¡± asked Tosen, whose presence was completely ignored until now. ¡°Outside of Royal Guards, do Shinigami even have a way to enter Hueco Mundo at will? (1)


    The Senkaimon Gate only worked within the Living World and the Soul Society. The only known method to enter Hueco Mundo was through Garganta. To rip open a hole in Garganta, one had to be a Hollow.


    Gin rubbed his chin. ¡°That¡¯s a million yen question.¡±


    ¡°Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi,¡± Aizen whispered the name of Kisuke¡¯s spiritual successor. ¡°He must have found a way through dissecting Arrancars¡¯ corpses. We cannot underestimate him.¡±


    Aizen would¡¯ve been wary of Mayuri without Kisuke¡¯s mentorship. The maniacal scientist had no ethical or moral boundaries. In a sense, Mayuri could prove to be a worse enemy than Kisuke.


    Gin scoffed. ¡°That nutjob. I dread the day someone from our side has to fight him.¡±


    ¡°I have not accomplished much these past days,¡± Tosen whispered. ¡°Captain Aizen, you have something planned for me, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah...¡± Aizen nodded. ¡°You¡¯ll play the role of my messenger tomorrow.¡±


    ...


    A/N for (1) - I had forgotten about Senkaimon Gate not working in Hueco Mundo. I think I made some mistake about it in the chapter where Harribel and Kazuya meet Gin.

 Chapter 278: Not enough fluffy

    Chapter 278: Not enough fluffy


    ¡°Partner, wake up.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s eyes fluttered open at Nami''s gentle touch. She sat by the bedside, her divine form partially eclipsing the moon¡¯s glow from the window. On any other night, he would have whooped Nami¡¯s ass for this disruption. But tonight... Tonight, he had granted her special privilege to ruin his sleep.


    Nami¡¯s fingers traced his forehead, her smile soft in the dim light. ¡°Unohana won¡¯t say no to me. I could go in your place.¡±


    ¡°I have to do it myself.¡±


    As he attempted to rise, he found himself anchored by Yoruichi¡¯s arm draped across his chest. She clung to his side like she wouldn¡¯t let go no matter what. He may have dragged her into the bed, but she liked using him as her plushie more than he did, at least during her sleep.


    Nami snickered. ¡°She does that after rejecting a relationship for the hundredth time. Partner, I know the best way to convince Yoruichi. Push her down and tame her with your D.¡±


    ¡°Easy now,¡± he said, running his fingers through Yoruichi¡¯s hair, trying to ease her into letting go. ¡°She lived all her life without romance. She needs more time to adjust.¡±


    Even Yoruichi could no longer deny her feelings for him. She just needed a little more time to grow accustomed to this dynamic, where she was more than just a friend to someone.


    ¡°Pet,¡± she whispered as her eyes lazily opened. ¡°Pet...¡± With another mumble, she nuzzled into his chest, and her breathing grew soft. She had drifted back to sleep in the comfort of his, or rather her ¡®Pet¡¯s¡¯ presence.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time he had seen Yoruichi¡¯s Hollow taking over during the night. She left herself too vulnerable when she slept by his side, a typical habit of cats relying on others in the group to keep an eye out for threats.


    ¡°The good guy, of course.¡± Nami looked away with a pout that looked outlandishly adorable on her regal face. ¡°You haven¡¯t been evil ever since you entered the Soul Society... there was that fight with Byakuya. It was an exception, not the norm.¡±


    He patted her back in the most comforting way. ¡°It¡¯s just the circumstances that made me. I¡¯ll be plenty evil for you in the future. Now, can you watch over Yoruichi while I¡¯m gone?¡±


    ¡°Babysitting feral kitties isn¡¯t exactly my forte, Partner.¡± She glanced at the sleeping Yoruichi and shook her head. ¡°She is so unreasonable. I¡¯d be really down if she was cute, fluffy, and meowie-wowie. Gosh, I¡¯m gonna have to wait another few centuries to find a little catgirl pillow. I¡¯m talking about your daughter with her, Partner.¡±


    She got along exceptionally with Yoruichi, however, the same couldn¡¯t be said for Yoruichi¡¯s Hollow. The feral entity had only one person in its eyes ¡ª her Pet. The rest of the world may as well be invisible to her senses.


    Kazuya planted a kiss on Nami¡¯s cheek. ¡°You¡¯re the alpha of Hollows. The future God Empress. How can you let a feral cat intimidate you?¡±


    Her eyes widened as she realized her uncharacteristically spineless behavior. She took his hands and placed them on her cheeks. A smile bloomed on her face. ¡°I know you¡¯re blatantly manipulating me into this... but I can¡¯t help it, you know. Your compliments fill to the brim with joy... and also, my title is ¡®Destined Empress of Heavens¡¯ now.¡±


    He leaned down and pressed his lips against hers. A brief contact of their lips was all it needed to make her grin ear to ear with confidence.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna get ready then, current Empress of Happiness.¡±


    The title got a good chuckle out of her. ¡°Go without worry, for I, Izanami-no-Makoto shall protect this kitten with my very life.¡±


    He flashed her a thumbs up gesture before heading towards the bath.

 Chapter 279: Pushing Boundaries

    Chapter 279: Pushing Boundaries


    Half an hour later.


    Kazuya landed silently in Unohana¡¯s backyard, which proved to be a waste of effort. The back door was open, and Unohana was moongazing with a cup of sake in her hand, reflecting on the events that had spiraled out of her control. The matter weighed heavily on her heart, despite his best attempt to ease her guilt.


    Her lips curled into a soft smile at the sight of him. ¡°One stab didn¡¯t satisfy you enough? Alas, I¡¯m not in the mood to indulge your... fetishes.¡±


    Her voice was filled with a feeling of deep sorrow as if she truly regretted disappointing him tonight.


    She raised the sake cup. ¡°You¡¯re welcome to join me on this sleepless night, however.¡±


    He settled down by her side, immediately noticing the subtle notes of fruity sake mixing with her scent. She had been drinking for a while, the proof of which was evident from the three empty bottles on the low table behind them. All the alcohol only made her cheeks a bit flushed.


    ¡°Since when did Retsu become an alcoholic?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m celebrating your survival,¡± she replied, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she pushed the cup toward him. ¡°Will you accept a treat from a woman who tried to assassinate you in your sleep¡ª¡±


    Before she could finish, he took the cup and downed the sake in one motion. He tossed the cup on her lap and wiped lips with his thumb.


    ¡°Actually, not bad. You have a good taste in sake.¡±


    Unohana slowly shook her head as if she had expected him to react in this fashion. ¡°I¡¯m still unhappy about earlier.¡±


    ¡°In that case, what can I do to make you happy?¡±


    ¡°Ending me...¡± she whispered, more to herself than conveying her emotions. ¡°Are you here to nag at me?¡±


    ¡°I do have that right, as your future husband.¡±


    She slammed the sake cup on the tatami floor, shattering it into bits. ¡°Enough. I have seen enough. I¡ªhave heard enough. It is time you stop calling yourself my future husband, or I will...¡±


    As much as she adored him, there was no world in which she would marry anyone, much less the desired man of Isane. Because there was no happiness for the man she would choose. Only misery of becoming her target ¡ª someone she would fight to death while laughing like a maniac.


    ¡°Hic¡ª¡±


    An unintentional hiccup destroyed her serious demeanor.


    She craved more. She craved blood. She craved slaughter.


    Worst of all, there was no cure for her condition. Even his charm ability could only temporarily help her regain control; it couldn¡¯t permanently erase her desire for violence.


    ¡®Maybe my complete Resurreccio?n can.¡¯


    He, however, couldn¡¯t experiment until he returned from Hueco Mundo.


    Her brows furrowed at his words. ¡°Do you know of a permanent solution?¡±


    ¡°Other than letting you indulge in violence, nope.¡±


    She stared at him for a long moment, as though expecting more. When he remained silent, she continued, ¡°Then help me with the temporary solution.¡± She slightly shifted the tail of her braid, exposing the scar hiding beneath. ¡°Don¡¯t drag it out unnecessarily.¡±


    He let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Retsu, you¡¯re stronger than that.¡±


    ¡°I am not. You saw it with your own eyes. I may be able to slay a Vasto Lorde with my sword... but I can¡¯t control myself when it matters. Please, I do not wish to let Isane see me in that state.¡±


    Wrapping an arm around her shoulder, he drew her closer. ¡°You held it off for centuries and became a better person. That alone deserves some credit. And you¡¯re still trying to overcome it.¡±


    She forcefully shut her eyes, her jaw clenched. ¡°Even now my heart is throbbing... my fingers are twitching to hold my Zanpakuto? and cut you. Just do me this favor, you stubborn kid.¡±


    He barely flinched at her confession. ¡°My future wife has some issues. Oh well, nothing I can¡¯t fix.¡±


    ¡°You cannot fix what¡¯s not broken,¡± she growled. ¡°That is why, after this is over, I want¡ª¡±


    He pulled her even closer and pressed his hand against her mouth, silencing her from uttering any ominous foreshadowing. ¡°Retsu, stop thinking about it. You¡¯ll forget everything about the incident for two days.¡±


    Using the full effect of his ability, which he had only used once on Apacci, he attempted to make her forget the incident for two days. He had no idea how much of a success this would be, or if it would even last for an hour.


    Unohana¡¯s wide eyes grew distant before gently closing. When she opened her eyes again, they were clouded by confusion. ¡°I... must¡¯ve blanked out.¡±


    Kazuya pumped his fist behind his back. Smiling, he said, ¡°You drank too much sake, probably.¡±


    ¡°Uhmm.¡± She put her hands between them and retreated from him. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me why you came here.¡±


    ¡°Take me to the Living World. I¡¯m going to need Harribel in Hueco Mundo.¡±

 Chapter 280: Recruitment (I)

    Chapter 280: Recruitment (I)


    In the twilight hours, when the world lay hushed and still, Franceska Mila Rose would often be caught in a restless dance between wakefulness and slumber. The accumulated weariness from the rigorous training with Apacci and Visored would force her to sleep about the whole day on the living room¡¯s couch, leaving her wide awake at night.


    Whenever she found herself unable to sleep ¡ª which she usually did ¡ª she would roll around in the bed, tune into the television, and then take a nap and repeat until the sunlight spilled through the window. Her lusterless night schedule couldn¡¯t fill the gap left in her heart by Kazuya, and to a certain extent, Cirucci. She could understand Kazuya¡¯s absence from her side, but Cirucci... Her old friend had moved into her own room to look after her precious little kittens.


    The memory of Cirucci¡¯s departure still stung whenever she found herself alone in her room; it was like a thorn embedded in the proud flesh of her soul.


    ¡®You can stay here with them!¡¯ Mila Rose had pleaded to Cirucci. ¡®I won¡¯t eat them, I promise.¡¯


    ¡®Franceska, you don¡¯t stay still when you sleep. You¡¯re gonna crush my kittens if we stay together!¡¯


    Mila Rose had tried every trick that day, from throwing a tantrum to acting cutesy. Yet nothing could put a dent in Cirucci¡¯s determination. The fierce adopter of kittens had made it her life¡¯s purpose to protect them.


    Suffice to say, Mila Rose would lose most of her cheerfulness without true companionship.


    Today, too, she was lying on her bed, hoping to fall asleep watching the most mundane weather recaps of drama shows. Yet even as her eyelids grew heavy, sleep remained just beyond her grasp.


    As if summoned by her yearning for companionship, a familiar scent wafted through the open window, carried on by the night breeze. In an instant, Mila Rose¡¯s senses stirred, her nose twitching as she inhaled her true companion¡¯s aroma.


    ¡°Kazu!¡±


    ¡°Rose, not here. Anyone on the street can see us.¡±


    ¡°I have done more shameful things with you and Snake,¡± she said in an assertive voice and gripped his collar. ¡°Do you think I give a fuck now, huh?¡±


    She could drag him back to the sanctuary of her room, a more private place, where the equally passionate Sung-Sun could foil her plans. Or she could give in to the wild urgings of her heart and claim him here.


    The stupidly courageous lioness chose the latter.


    Recognizing the futility of resistance, Kazuya''s hands found their way to her waist. ¡°No, probably not. I¡¯ve taken away all your shame if there was any in the first place.¡±


    She threw her head back and laughed boisterously. ¡°I¡¯m the alpha lioness. How can I lead the pride with you if I shy away from everything?¡±


    He couldn¡¯t help but nod, acknowledging the truth in her words. ¡°Valid reason. I''ll let you win this time.¡±


    She had let Cirucci take away her twenty minutes in their last meeting. It would be criminal of him to not give her some bits of happiness.


    ¡°I love how my mate puts up zero resistance.¡± She leaned down and gripped his chin before giving a peck on his lips. ¡°I¡¯ll have so much fun riding you till sunrise~.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have that much time,¡± Kazuya replied with a gentle smile, tempering her expectations even as desire coursed through him. ¡°Let¡¯s end it in fifteen minutes.¡±


    ¡°Huh?!¡±

 Chapter 281-282: Recruitment (II-III)

    Chapter 281-282: Recruitment (II-III)


    The moon continued its celestial journey, witnessing the passionate fifteen minutes in its entirety. During these fifteen minutes, the whole mansion stirred, and everyone was awakened by Mila Rose¡¯s shenanigans.


    When Kazuya entered the house with Mila Rose clinging to him, he saw all of his Hollow lovers. Harribel, Apacci, Sung-Sun, Lisa, Cirucci. Even Izumi had joined everyone. Only the basement dwellers ¡ª Starrk, Lilynette, and Menoly ¡ª were missing. In all likelihood, they didn¡¯t want to end their sleep early, and nobody could blame them.


    None of his lovers seemed angry at his abrupt appearance except for Lisa. She glared at him like she wanted to pluck out his eyeballs and play marbles with them.


    He promptly ignored the malevolent energy oozing from Lisa and smiled at his loyal maid on duty. After sensing his Reiatsu, Apacci had switched to her maid dress to welcome him.


    Such devotion was commendable in his eyes.


    Apacci¡¯s frown oozed barely concealed jealousy, his appreciative gaze having no impact on her demeanor at all. ¡°Shameless.¡±


    While she had the heart to let them finish their intimate activities, where anybody could see them, she clearly held a grudge against him.


    Sung-Sun snickered behind her sleeve. ¡°You reek of jealousy, Deer.¡±


    The taunt ignited Apacci¡¯s temper, and she threw a punch at Sung-Sun¡¯s face. Her fist roared through the empty air as Sung-Sun nimbly ducked under it.


    The snake-eyed Arrancar stepped behind Lisa, using her friend as a shield. ¡°You¡¯re a degenerate at your core, Apacci. Does it scare you? Does it make you wanna cry, little girl? Do you wanna boohoo~?¡±


    Apacci gritted her teeth. ¡°Coward. Face me like a man.¡±


    ¡°I am a woman,¡± Sung-Sun said, her tongue darting out playfully. ¡°We both are. Unless...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    With a look of triumph, Sung-Sun turned to Lisa and patted her shoulder. ¡°Lisa-chan, it seems to me you have some words for my Husband?¡±


    ¡°I do.¡± Lisa crossed her arms, eyes narrowing behind her glasses. ¡°How will he compensate me for ruining my beauty sleep?¡±


    Kazuya cleared his throat. ¡°Let¡¯s discuss that later. I¡¯m here for an important reason.¡±


    ¡°Like doing us all on the same bed?¡± Mila Rose said, holding a look of anticipation in her eyes. ¡°I¡¯d be down for that, honestly.¡±


    Although she had her favorites in the family like Harribel and Cirucci, she considered everyone here a part of her pride. Ever since accepting Kazuya as her mate, the idea of pleasing him with the others in her pride felt as natural as sharing his affection with them.


    ¡°W-What?!¡± Apacci exclaimed, her trembling finger pointing at Mila Rose. ¡°How can you suggest that so casually?!¡±


    ¡°Casually¡ª¡±


    Kazuya placed a finger on Mila Rose¡¯s lips. ¡°No fighting for my sake. Be quiet and hear me out.¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s defiant expression softened under his calm authority, and she gave a slow nod in response. ¡°¡®Kay!¡±


    Kazuya ruffled her hair before turning to everyone. Different levels of curiosity and anticipation were etched on their faces, and their full attention was on him, waiting for the reveal like children waiting for their parents to unwrap the gifts.


    A smile reached his face. ¡°I¡¯m here to enlist everyone for a war.¡±


    Harribel¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, the realization dawning on her. ¡°Is it time...?¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡± He confirmed with a nod. ¡°We¡¯re going to establish an ever-lasting Empire in Hueco Mundo.¡±


    A chorus of cheers erupted from the group of Apacci, Sung-Sun, Mila Rose, and even Cirucci. They began whispering to each other passionately, forgetting their prior arguments. Only Izumi remained quiet, a flicker of confusion crossing her face¡ªunderstandable since she had yet to hear his plans for Hueco Mundo.


    Apacci cracked her knuckles with a vicious grin. ¡°Finally a chance to pummel some sense in those idiot Arrancars.¡±


    Mila Rose laughed. ¡°My fingers have been itching for a real battle. I¡¯m gonna crack open their skulls and stuff some humanity inside.¡±


    Cirucci brandished her whip, a sadistic smile on her face. ¡°I¡¯ll see to Espada¡¯s demise myself.¡±


    Sung-Sun watched her friends and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m more excited about helping my husband. It¡¯ll be my first battle as his beloved wife. I must give my all and prove my worth outside of his bedroom.¡±


    The last part made Apacci blush as she took a glance at Kazuya. He pretended not to notice her meaningful gaze and maintained his serious expression.


    Lisa pushed up her glasses. ¡°Am I allowed to join in on the fun?¡±


    From her calm expression, one wouldn¡¯t imagine her head being full of conflicting thoughts such as ¡®I shouldn¡¯t be part of a Hollows war?¡¯, ¡®Aren¡¯t I a half Hollow?¡¯, and ¡®I don¡¯t care about it!¡¯. She couldn¡¯t change her overthinking nature.


    ¡°Of course,¡± Sung-Sun said. ¡°Who else will have my back out there?¡±


    ¡°Treat me to some ramen later, yeah?¡±


    Sung-Sun winked at Kazuya. ¡°I¡¯ll invite Husband to make him pay.¡±


    Kazuya gave her a gentle hug. ¡°I¡¯ll see you in Hueco Mundo.¡±


    ¡°Mhmm.¡±


    ***


    Kazuya¡¯s next stop was his mansion¡¯s basement training ground, a rocky desert dwarfing the mansion above. The spatial Kido? spells had him intrigued. He¡¯d pay Kisuke¡¯s friend, Tessai, in blood to learn these spells. He would devote his time to Kido? practice once he got rid of Aizen.


    His versatility, impressive as it was, seemed but a pale shadow of what he could achieve. He craved more.


    Drawing breath into his lungs, he cupped his hands around his mouth. ¡°Get your asses over here.¡±


    His voice, amplified through Reiatsu, made the very space tremble, carrying his will to every corner of these barren grounds. The seals around the training grounds meant he could use his Reiatsu as he pleased.


    In response to his summons, three figures dashed to his side.


    ¡°No need to yell, Leader,¡± Lilynette said, stirring her ear with her pinky finger. ¡°Right, Menoly?¡±


    The eyepatched Arrancar with short blonde hair nodded her head with a quiet ¡°Hmm¡±. Nobody would even think of this tame woman as the same species as those soul-devouring monsters.


    Starrk weaved his fingers through his messy hair, looking at Kazuya with his right eye closed. ¡°Hell must have frozen over for you to show your face here.¡±


    ¡°Ouch. Do I look like someone who doesn¡¯t care about his friends?¡±


    Starrk glanced at Lilynette and knocked on her helmet. ¡°I¡¯m not saying you don¡¯t. It¡¯s just... I get bored just sleeping around, you know?¡±


    Lilynette and Menoly would often go to play upstairs, whereas Starrk would be stuck here all alone. While it beat having to kill Hollows with his presence alone, he was starting to get bored. He did join Lilynette once, however, he quit after an hour of unbearable awkwardness he brought with him.


    Starrk wasn¡¯t a fit for the good fellows upstairs.


    Kazuya chuckled. ¡°Got it. I promise I¡¯ll spend more time with you all after I take care of this thorn in my way.¡±


    ¡°Aizen?¡± Starrk asked, rubbing the back of his head. ¡°Call on me when you want to take care of his Arrancar army. I dislike fighting but it¡¯s the least I can do to help you...¡±


    ¡°I was here for that. Join Tier and the rest in the morning. We¡¯re going to war.¡±


    Starrk nodded his head. ¡°We¡¯ll be there¡ª¡±


    Lilynette punched Starrk¡¯s belly, making him bend at the most awkward angle. ¡°Ask Menoly before agreeing to this!¡±


    Starrk rubbed his belly with a groan. ¡°What the... Menoly, you aren¡¯t coming?¡±


    Menoly turned her gaze to Kazuya instead, her eyes inquiring him ¡®Can I?¡¯ nonverbally. He was her leader, after all, and she had no desire to make any decision against his will.


    Kazuya reached out and pinched her cheek. ¡°What do you want to do?¡±


    Her left widened in surprise, her right would too if it wasn¡¯t completely swallowed by her Hollow hole. She stared at his face, contemplating to herself or simply afraid to give a voice to her thoughts.


    He took back his hand and dusted his shoulder. ¡°Do you want to join us in the fight, or do you want to stay here? If you do come, I¡¯ll give you a VIP seat for Espada¡¯s end. You don¡¯t have to fight anyone either.¡±


    ¡°Ah...¡± She glanced at Lilynette, who responded with a smug face. ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡±


    ¡°There you go!¡± Lilynette laughed and patted, or rather slapped, Menoly¡¯s back. ¡°No need to be scared of this big guy. He¡¯s a softie inside like Starrk.¡±


    Starrk let out a sigh, looking like he had resigned to being toyed about at the hands of Lilynette, the manifestation of his Resurreccio?n.


    Kazuya patted Starrk¡¯s shoulder with a sympathetic ¡®I know your pain¡¯ look. They were in similar boats except his Resurreccio?n was sexier (instead of cute) and a whole lot more unhinged.


    Starrk frowned. ¡°Is Grimmjow¡¯s group coming?¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t he with you?¡± Kazuya asked, a little puzzled by the question. He had left Grimmjow¡¯s rowdy group with Starrk and Kisuke. ¡°I didn¡¯t see him with Kisuke when you shifted here.¡±


    ¡°He never returned after he left to help Kisuke that night.¡±


    Kazuya clicked his tongue. ¡°That fucker must¡¯ve escaped when Kisuke was fighting Aizen. Why didn¡¯t you bring it up earlier?¡±


    Starrk scratched his cheek. ¡°I wanted to confirm it with Kisuke. He never showed up here... then I forgot...¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°Where do you reckon he went?¡±


    ¡°Hueco Mundo.¡±

 Chapter 283-284: Bamboozled

    Chapter 283-284: Bamboozled


    Aizen and his less-than-perfect version of Espada had an iron grip over Las Noches and Hueco Mundo as a whole. Their grip was iron, yes, but even iron would shatter if struck at its weakest point.  Kazuya had assembled nearly all the pieces needed to strike¡ªsave for Grimmjow¡¯s missing unruly squad. Nelliel would fit seamlessly into Grimmjow¡¯s place, and he fully intended to invite her for the upcoming battles.


    Only Soi Fon remained a potential obstacle in his campaign. A subtle smile curved Kazuya¡¯s lips; he hadn''t come this far without mastering the art of turning foes into allies. He could handle her in two ways: with his own wits or through Yoruichi, who could distract Soi Fon long enough for him to proceed with his plans.


    Still, he kept his confidence in check, acutely aware of how quickly such comfort could turn to ice when Aizen was involved.


    ¡®Let¡¯s find Unohana.¡¯


    Shinigami went about two ways to find someone with concealed Reiatsu ¡ª through following their Reiatsu trail, or the old-fashioned search. He neither had time nor need for either of these methods. He was, after all, a Vasto Lorde-level Arrancar.


    He shifted into his Hollow form and closed his eyes. A radiating pulse sent out from him as the center, registering the Reiatsu of each and every soul in the city as dots of light similar to distant stars. The Visored and Harribel remained hidden with their Reiatsu-concealing Gigai, but Unohana shone as the brightest star in his mind¡¯s eyes.


    Having the senses of a Vasto Lorde Arrancar and the fine control of Reiryoku like Quincy had its benefits.


    ¡®That place... I¡¯m not even surprised.¡¯


    He made his way back to the most popular Shinigami spot in the town ¡ª the old wooden bridge standing over the flowing river.


    He stood by Unohana¡¯s side with a friendly smile. ¡°Hey, gorgeous. Would you mind accompanying me on this lovely dawn?¡±


    She glanced at him, her gaze steady yet distant. It seemed quite obvious she lacked the desire to argue with him on one of the most important days in his life, which doubled for the Soul Society as a whole. ¡°Perhaps ask me again when you return from Hueco Mundo.¡±


    He chuckled at her rather shrewd answer. ¡°Your stance won¡¯t change in two days. In your eyes, I¡¯m just a young lad too fond of ladies. But I know it¡¯ll change soon. I¡¯ll try my hardest to bring that change.¡±


    ¡°You are¡ª¡± whatever judgment she meant to pass died on her lips as he turned to face her with a smile. The smile which became radiant under the red hues of the rising sun. An unfamiliar warmth stirred within her¡ªa soft flutter that quickened her heartbeat. Suddenly, meeting his eyes felt daunting, and she averted her gaze like a maiden too shy to meet the eyes of her lover.


    Before she could comprehend the unfamiliar sensations, a pulse throbbed beneath the scar below her throat. A soothing yet chilling voice echoed in the chambers of her mind, overwhelming all else.


    ¡°Kill him.¡±


    She looked away from him and clenched her fist, nails biting into her palm as she fought the dark impulse. Before her, the river caught the dawn¡¯s light like wildfire. The water¡¯s surface rippled with mesmerizing crimson and scarlets that made the rest of the world seem dull in comparison. However, this beauty was lost on her as an insatiable hunger for violence gnawed at her. She felt like a traitor to the young man who stood within the reach of her arms, within the reach of her sword.


    ¡°Kazuya... we should leave.¡± Her voice was barely above a whisper over the gentle rush of water.


    She unsheathed her katana and thrust it in the empty area beside her before twisting it like a key placed into a door. ¡°Release.¡±


    A seam opened in the empty space before expanding into rows of traditional Japanese doors that wouldn¡¯t have looked out of place in Feudal Japan. The central door slid open with a hum, spilling blinding light as it revealed a well-lit empty room inside.


    Returning her katana to its sheath, she draped the cord of her Zanpakuto? across her shoulder. She did not wait¡ªcould not wait¡ªfor his response. Stepping through the threshold, she moved as though putting distance between them might quench the hunger within her.


    Kazuya watched her departure, confusion mingling with concern. He understood she was protecting him in her own way, which was quite necessary ¡ª he could handle her even at her worst. There was no denying now that his presence had become like a sword at her throat. He had to come up with a solution before the sword dug any deeper and made her revert back to the utterly insane Unohana of the old Soul Society.


    ¡®Well, she¡¯ll enjoy two days without me.¡¯


    Unohana looked over her shoulder with a gloomy gaze. ¡°Kazuya.¡±


    He mustered a reassuring smile. ¡°Coming right away!¡±


    ...


    The following few minutes could be summed in one word: Awkward. Unohana remained quiet even on the other side of the Senkaimon, which, for some strange reason, took them to the main door of the 4th Squad¡¯s base. Kazuya couldn¡¯t help but think his time could have been saved if Unohana had taken him directly to his quarters.


    Without word or ceremony, she thrust open the imposing wooden doors and stepped within.


    He, too, followed, the silence stretching between them like the strained wire.


    As they walked through the serene gardens of the 4th Squad, Unohana avoided his gaze entirely. Not because his appearance displeased her; in fact, she found his features easy on her eyes. But locking eyes with him only stirred the whirlwind of her dark urges¡ªa battle she had to win for her pride, her confidence... and their relationship. At least the Shinigami on duty greeted him with smiles and adoration. The nurses, especially, gave him looks of admiration, mixed with seductive cues.


    ¡°Retsu, where are we going?¡± He whispered as he leaned to her side. ¡°I have to meet up with Soi Fon and leave for Hueco Mundo.¡±


    She shot him a sharp glance before fixing her eyes ahead, pointing toward a secluded warehouse at the far end of the grounds. ¡°Come with me¡ª¡±


    He crouched and swept her into his arms. The world blurred around them as he flash-stepped to their destination. The air felt heavy with a medicinal scent that was barely masked by the scent of nature coming from the surrounding gardens.


    Setting her down carefully, he scrutinized the warehouse before them. Though it appeared like an ordinary building, the warehouse gave him a strange feeling, like there was something hidden beneath its ordinary surface. A layer of secrets that his eyes couldn¡¯t unravel.


    ¡°It¡¯ll be dangerous...¡± She whispered, unconsciously grasping his sleeve. ¡°Stay safe out there.¡±


    As much as she wished to accompany him, she knew the limitation of her capabilities. She would be a burden on an expedition that valued mobility and stealth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. Also, can you fetch Rukia and Momo in the evening and escort them to Retsu¡¯s house?¡±


    She meekly nodded at his request. ¡°Anything else?¡±


    ¡°Teach them some useful Kido? spells and combat techniques. Better be prepared for future Shinigami work, right?¡±


    She offered a determined smile. ¡°I¡¯ll invite Nanao too. She is a better Kido? user than me.¡±


    ¡°Say hi to her for me.¡±


    He embraced her once more before exiting the warehouse. Unohana awaited calmly outside. As he closed the door, she caught a glimpse of Isane¡¯s beaming smile¡ªa sight that affirmed her decision to orchestrate their meeting.


    She regarded him with a knowing smile. ¡°You have Isane, Momo, Rukia, Harribel, Sung-Sun, Mila Rose, Izumi, and that eternally angry maid. Yoruichi, too. Perhaps it¡¯s time you stop aiming your lustful desires at this vengeful old lady.¡±


    He walked past her before sneakily planting a kiss on her cheek. ¡°Never.¡±


    With that declaration, he vanished, flash-stepping out of sight.


    ...


    Kazuya had anticipated many surprises upon returning home, but nothing prepared him for the sight of Yoruichi, Nami, and Soi Fon sharing the same room in apparent harmony. The said peace was achieved through the combined efforts of Yoruichi and Nami, leaving Soi with no chance to start her usual shenanigans.


    He slipped through the open window, landing softly on the floor as three pairs of eyes turned toward him. Soi Fon and Nami sat on opposite ends of the bed, a noticeable distance between them. Yoruichi lounged casually on the bed, her head resting on one hand, a casual grin on her face.


    ¡°Partner!¡± Nami beamed her brightest smile. ¡°Looks like everything went according to plan.¡±


    ¡°Yup.¡±


    ¡°Great! I¡¯ll rest in your Inner World.¡±


    He nodded, understanding her need for rest. Maintaining a physical presence would be a breeze for her if she wasn¡¯t hosting Tsubaki¡¯s soul within her own. As Tsubaki¡¯s soul rejuvenated, Nami¡¯s soul became unstable, like a cup already full trying to hold more water.


    ¡°See ya.¡±


    With a graceful nod, Nami¡¯s form dissolved into shimmering crimson flames, swirling before they were drawn back into his Zanpakuto?.


    Turning his attention to Soi Fon, he offered a disarming smile. ¡°Hey.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s face darkened, her fist clenched on her lap. ¡°I told you the exact time of our departure. You still kept me waiting. Are you going to sabotage the mission out of spite?¡±


    Yoruichi sat up and flicked Soi Fon¡¯s forehead with the causality of an older sibling bullying the younger sibling. She ignored the hateful glare of her former disciple. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s fun. It¡¯s why Kazu does this to everyone.¡±


    She went for another flick. However, this time, Soi Fon was prepared for it.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Soi Fon growled. ¡°Don¡¯t interfere with official business.¡±


    Yoruichi crossed her arms, unbothered. ¡°Oh, come on. He¡¯s only a couple of minutes late. Stop acting like he violated your little Chrysanthemums.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s mouth hung open as a look of raw embarrassment replaced the anger on her face. She clearly understood the vulgar slang that stood for ¡®anus.¡¯


    ¡°W-What are you even talking about?!¡±


    Yoruichi smirked like a lecherous old man. ¡°Heeeh, our little Fon Fon knows her stuff.¡±


    Flushed, Soi Fon glared at Yoruichi. ¡°Get lost.¡±


    Kazuya watched the exchange, feeling somewhat like an outsider in his own home. Clearing his throat, he decided it was time to steer things back on track. ¡°Soi Fon, let¡¯s get moving.¡± He reached out and gently took Soi Fon''s arm, pulling her to her feet. ¡°Yor, turn into your cat form. I¡¯ll need you with me.¡±


    Yoruichi threw her arms in the air. ¡°Aye aye, Captain.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 285: To the Garganta

    Chapter 285: To the Garganta


    Kazuya, the black cat, and the somewhat pissed-off petite assassin set out for their next destination¡ªMayuri Kurotsuchi¡¯s lab. To reach Hueco Mundo, they required a pathway through Garganta, and while the Shinigami may possess other, more unconventional methods of travel, none were as efficient as those offered by Mayuri, or so Soi Fon explained to him. Since Yamamoto had given an order, the mad scientist wouldn¡¯t make too much fuss about lending a hand.


    Soi Fon strode up to the wooden door that was like every other squad in Gotei 13. She jabbed a finger at the communication panel embedded beside it. ¡°Open the door.¡±


    A moment of static crackled before a disembodied voice responded with indifference. ¡°Identify yourself¡ª¡±


    ¡°Stop wasting my time and open this damn door!¡±


    Soi Fon brandished her fist, fully prepared to smash through if the operator asked another question. The operator rolled out the CCTV-like camera from the wall, which stopped on Kazuya.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s you!¡±


    Kazuya waved his hand with a nonchalant smile. ¡°I guess I didn¡¯t destroy enough shit last time.¡±No?v(el)B\\jnn


    ¡°N-No, please! I¡¯m opening the door!¡±


    The mechanical hiss of hydraulics echoed as the door slid open. The 12th Squad would be spared from another hefty repair¡ªat least for today.


    Soi Fon gave him a sidelong glance, a flicker of curiosity in her eyes. ¡°You¡¯ve some history with them.¡±


    She could only wonder about his history with Mayuri¡¯s squad as now wasn¡¯t the time for such conversation. Noticing his gaze upon her, she let out her typical ¡®Hmph¡¯ before moving inside the 12th Squad¡¯s grounds.


    Kazuya trailed behind her, smiling. ¡°This little firecracker is a piece of work.¡±


    ¡°I agree,¡± Yoruichi responded with a purr. ¡°Fon Fon, you better behave in Hueco Mundo, or I¡¯ll ask my friend to feed you to Hollows.¡±


    She kept her voice low enough that only Soi Fon heard her for obvious reasons.


    Soi Fon shot a sharp glance over her shoulder, her brows knitted in annoyance. ¡°You best behave yourself, or I¡¯ll start our deathmatch in Hueco Mundo.¡±


    Yoruichi brushed her whiskers. ¡°I¡¯ll just run away.¡±


    Soi Fon looked bitter, almost fed-up with Yoruichi¡¯s smugness, yet she couldn¡¯t argue with Yoruichi in this place. Even though she was a hot-headed lady, most matters regarding Yoruichi had her composed.


    ¡°Behold,¡± Mayuri proclaimed with a sweep of his arm. ¡°My own pathway to Hueco Mundo. Let¡¯s get it open.¡±


    He tapped a sequence into the control panel, and the pods lurched to life. The Hollows writhed, their screams muffled within the confined pods. The frame vibrated, a burst of spiritual energy weaving together until a dark seam yawned open in the same manner an Arrancar¡¯s Descorrer split open the void. Even the pathway felt a lot more stable than what a lower-level Hollow could manage.


    If it was anyone sane, they would¡¯ve hidden the Hollows somewhere. But Mayuri¡ªhe openly and proudly displayed the sadistic workings of his technology. Still, Kazuya was a little impressed by Mayuri¡¯s method of achieving the effects of an Arrancar¡¯s Descorrer ability through multiple Hollows¡¯ survival instinct, which were triggered through the torture device in Mayuri¡¯s hands. Kisuke would have come up with a different solution, one that might require more technical knowledge, but Mayuri had no issue with torturing Hollows/Shinigami/Quincy for his goal.


    He was simply heartless.


    Yoruichi seemed pissed at Mayuri¡¯s method, but she knew better than to open her mouth and ruin everything.


    Soi Fon crossed her arms, looking plain disgusted. ¡°You are insane... Is it stable?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Mayuri said with a knowing grin. ¡°As stable as any pathway through the Garganta can be. But the longer you wait, the more these creatures¡ªabominations suffer.¡±


    ¡°Spare me your bullshit,¡± Soi Fon snapped before glancing at Kazuya. ¡°Let¡¯s leave. I don¡¯t want to see his face more than I have to.¡±


    Without his response, she dashed inside the Garganta opening. As Kazuya tried to follow Soi Fon, Nemu stepped in his way.


    ¡°Kazuya-kun,¡± she whispered. ¡°Please... meet me after you return...¡±


    Kazuya hesitated for the briefest moment. He knew any request from Nemu was likely planned by Mayuri as she rarely, if ever, went against his instructions. Yet refusing her could bring consequences he wasn¡¯t willing to inflict¡ªmainly being beaten and stomped on the ground by Mayuri.


    He glanced at Mayuri, who shrugged and turned his back. ¡°Alright.¡±


    A faint shadow of relief crossed Nemu¡¯s face before she stepped away from his way.


    {I expected Partner to free her from Mayuri since you¡¯re a connoisseur of freedom and all.}


    Contrary to Nami¡¯s beliefs, he didn¡¯t feel strongly for Nemu¡¯s freedom. He did strongly despise the way Mayuri treated her, however. Someone so pure and loyal didn¡¯t deserve this horrible treatment.


    ¡®I¡¯ll need to convince her to go against her only purpose, which is serving her creator. I don¡¯t have that much time on hand.¡¯


    {Understandable. Have a nice day.}


    He stepped into the inky darkness of the Garganta. The sensation was disorienting momentarily before everything turned normal.

 Chapter 286: Fire and Flesh

    Chapter 286: Fire and Flesh


    The throne of Las Noches had changed hands from the self-proclaimed God-King Barragan Louisenbairn to Aizen So?suke, but to Szayelaporro Granz, it made no difference. The demotion from Primera to Octava hardly bothered him¡ªin fact, he preferred it. Under Barragan¡¯s reign, power was everything, and it festered an environment that was all about strength. But knowledge had a place under Aizen¡¯s reign.


    Aizen himself was a mass of knowledge.


    Watching Aizen miraculously create Arrancars was always a sight for Szayel. What¡¯s more, Aizen never concealed his vast knowledge on Hollows and Shinigami, teaching Szayel something new with every conversation. Aizen also gave Szayel full freedom and numerous resources for his research. He could hole himself up in his laboratory and pave the path to the perfection he so craved as long as he also worked on creating/finding a specific type of Hollow/Arrancar.


    A Hollow who could absorb fire regardless of its intensity.No?v(el)B\\jnn


    Finding a Hollow with this specific condition was easier said than done, at least for most people. Szayelaporro had many methods. First, every Hollow in Las Noches was subjected to what Szayelaporro called "standard aptitude protocol"¡ªa polite term for testing one¡¯s affinity with flames. Unfortunately, none were found to have any fire resistance.


    When the local supply ran dry, he expanded his search. Orders filtered down through the ranks of the Espada, having their Fraccio?n spread across Hueco Mundo. They brought him specimens from the endless desert¡¯s every dark corner.


    As the numbers soared, Szayelaporro worked up a more efficient method for testing. A new chamber, where flame pillars rose from every corner, intense enough to gravely injure but not enough to kill. None of the Hollow wanted any part of this torture but they had no right to disobey the Espada.


    Some emerged with faces charred beyond recognition. The weak never emerged at all. A select few demonstrated natural resistance¡ªa feat that earned them more tortures in Szayelaporro¡¯s lab.


    ¡°Utterly useless,¡± he would mutter, making notes as one test subject after another died in his lab. The deaths mounted with every day, each failure pushing him closer to that dangerous edge where work began to blur with obsession.


    Szayelaporro was losing patience when one day a Hollow among the test subjects caught his attention. A tall lanky Hollow with twigs for limbs and four symmetrical holes on his body, two each on his abdomen and thighs. Szayelaporro had seen many Hollows but none ever came close to this level of imperfect proportions.


    ¡°Fascinating,¡± Szayelaporro whispered, adjusting his glasses as he studied the vents. ¡°Do they have some purpose?¡±


    Intrigued, Szayelaporro sent the Hollow through the first check. Where others had thrashed and screamed, Wonderweiss walked into the flames. The vents on his body dilated like a hungry mouth, drawing every pillar of flame to it.


    Szayelaporro nearly jumped in excitement. ¡°Finally! A competent subject.¡±


    Without waiting for another moment, he sent the newly found Hollow to the second test ¡ª enclosing him in a small pod with a ridiculous amount of Reiatsu-enhanced flames spewing into it. To his surprise, the Hollow emerged with only minor burns, its body showing an unnatural resistance to fire.


    Szayelaporro couldn¡¯t stop himself from laughing maniacally. ¡°He isn¡¯t perfect but I¡¯ll make him perfect for Aizen.¡±


    The next few days were hell for the Hollow named Wonderweiss Margela. Szayelaporro worked tirelessly, pushing boundaries, breaking limits, reshaping flesh and spirit.


    ¡°Oh, you will.¡± Tosen flicked the tiny box in his palm, which cast a blue light across everyone¡¯s face. The projection showed a silver-haired young man in a Shinigami uniform. ¡°This is the Shinigami you have to battle. Kazuya.¡±


    ¡°Ahhh, let me!¡± Charlotte screamed as he leapt from his seat. He clenched his fist with determination. ¡°He is beautiful, almost as stunning as me. This must be fate. As the ultimate being of beauty, it must be my destiny to overcome him.¡±


    Making flamboyant poses in the middle of the room, Charlotte threw one justification after another to face Kazuya.


    Luppi scowled. ¡°Go ahead. It¡¯s not like anybody else wants to¡ª¡±


    The room suddenly froze as Ulquiorra¡¯s cold, ancient Reiatsu filled every corner.


    ¡°He is mine.¡±


    It was all Ulquiorra said before leaving the room. Yammy shrugged and followed Ulquiorra out of the room.


    ¡°Do not kill them,¡± Tosen repeated Aizen¡¯s order.


    ¡°Tosen, when will our king be here?¡± Szayel asked. ¡°The task he gave me¡ªit''s complete.¡±


    Tosen turned his attention to the mad scientist, the clear goggles hiding any emotion behind his pupiless gaze. ¡°I¡¯ll inform him... As of right now, he has no plans to return any time soon.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Luppi smirked, intrigued. ¡°The throne feels empty without the king.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be the king,¡± growled a voice. Smashing open the door, Grimmjow walked in, his hands tucked in his pocket. ¡°One day.¡±


    Charlotte pressed a finger against his lips. ¡°My, if it isn¡¯t the most confident Arrancar. You might become a king, but Charlotte will always be the most beautiful Princess~.¡±


    Grimmjow clenched his jaw. ¡°Tosen, what¡¯s the punishment for murdering an Espada?¡±


    ¡°Oh my!¡± Charlotte laughed. ¡°I better leave, or this brute will violate me.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 287: Tears in the Sand

    chapter 287: tears in the sand


    on the other side of the tunnel¡ªhueco mundo¡ªkazuya couldn¡¯t hold a chuckle. soi fon¡¯s slack-jawed expression was a one-to-one replication of that popular pikachu face meme. rarely the front-line fighter, soi fon had never been to hueco mundo. she had never tasted this dry, warm air. never had she felt the sense of dread of these moonlit deserts of hollows¡¯ ashes.


    yoruichi hopped on soi fon¡¯s head, extending a paw to close her former prote?ge?¡¯s mouth. ¡°don¡¯t let the hollow flies make a nest in there.¡±


    soi fon grabbed yoruichi¡¯s paw and flung her off. yoruichi merely twisted mid-flight and gently landed on the ground before bouncing onto kazuya¡¯s head.


    ¡°fon fon doesn¡¯t like my wisdom,¡± she whispered. ¡°she hates me...¡±


    soi fon closed her eyes and took deep breaths, exhaling her anger. ¡°the soul society isn¡¯t very familiar with hueco mundo. we¡¯ll have to rely on ourselves to navigate.¡±


    kazuya couldn¡¯t resist reaching out and patting, with his meanest smirk spreading across his face. ¡°let big bro guide you.¡±


    the muscle beneath her left eye twitched ¡ª a sign he had learned to recognize as a precursor to violence. ¡°you¡¯re courting death!¡±


    being treated like a little sister was worse than being subjected to physical torture; it was simply humiliating. the only thing keeping her fury in check was the mission''s importance, and even that thread seemed to be breaking with each passing moment.


    she was about to explode.


    kazuya frowned as his smirk vanished, leaving behind a face of genuine concern. ¡°relax. control your reiatsu. you don¡¯t wanna give away our location this early.¡±


    random arrancar encounters weren¡¯t on his wishlist, but with soi fon¡¯s spiritual pressure spiking, the possibility felt inevitable. it was just a matter of when one of those powerful hollows would catch their presence and interrupt them.


    soi fon¡¯s head bobbed in unconscious agreement, fully on board with the idea of having less obstacles in their way. ¡°you are right. i should consciously restrain my reiryoku from leaking.¡±


    ¡°thank you for being reasonable for once.¡±


    she fixed him with a stare no less empty than the desert around them. ¡°i¡¯m always reasonable. it¡¯s you who always fails to read the room. you mess with my head.¡±


    ¡°enough fighting, you two. let¡¯s focus on our objective.¡± yoruichi scolded them in a firm voice. she patted his face with her paws. ¡°didn¡¯t you want to get the hell away from this place as soon as possible?¡±


    ¡°well, plans changed. i¡¯m gonna stick around for a while.¡±


    ¡°what?¡±


    even soi fon¡¯s attention snapped to him. she had seen him try to end the mission in a day. reasonably, she felt curious about the change in his mind. and frankly, she wished to learn more about him as he¡¯d inevitably become a captain in the future. although she never made active attempts to get to know her fellow captains, she had gone out of her way to investigate him.


    ¡°i called on harribel and others. we¡¯ll overthrow espada and take control of las noches.¡±


    ¡°well, i¡¯ll be damned.¡± she raised her paw and flashed her claws. ¡°would you mind if this kitty tests her new sharpened claws?¡±


    ¡°go ahead. it¡¯ll be a good training session for you...¡± a knowing smile played across his features. ¡°or you know what, you can go full ham. i¡¯ll be there if your hollow tries to take control.¡±


    her eyes shone with excitement. there were few moments with him that made him look quite considerate, this was one of them. she slowly climbed his lap and curled up. ¡°kazuya... once this is over, let¡¯s do a lot of training at your place.¡±


    time had stagnated or even worsened her skills. she had to sharpen her claws, or else she¡¯d get more bullied by him and his women.


    ¡°you mean on bed?¡±


    ¡°bloody hell, you perv.¡± she laughed, clearly amused by his comment. ¡°can you not be horny for one minute?¡±


    he couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°it¡¯s hard to not be when you¡¯re around.¡±


    ¡°at least you admit you¡¯re in the company of the sexiest catgirl this world has ever seen.¡±


    he stroked her head, feeling the silky fur beneath his fingers. ¡°let¡¯s go back.¡±


    they met up with soi fon, who seemed calm after her previous emotional outburst. she didn¡¯t even look at him like they were archenemies. rather, she showed no hostility, at least for the time being.


    ¡°kazuya, we¡¯ll go in opposite directions and scout for information,¡± she paused and pointed at the distant sand dune, the one which had been occupied by the two a few seconds ago. ¡°see the mark on that cave. we¡¯ll regroup there.¡±


    confusion flickered across his features as he searched the featureless cave. he couldn¡¯t find the so-called mark soi fon spoke of.


    soi fon flash-stepped to the boulder. ¡°haph!¡± letting out a grunt, soi fon smashed her fist into the side of the cave. a fist-sized see-through hole was carved. she made a few more holes from every side of the cave before returning to them. ¡°there. this should be easy to spot from a distance.¡±


    she looked quite relaxed after letting loose some steam in the form of good ol¡¯ punch random things. crying also helped in her case as she had let out her long-suppressed feelings.


    he placed a hand on her shoulder. ¡°do you feel better now?¡±


    she crossed her arms with an almost proud smirk, which vanished in the next instance. the sudden reiatsu wrapped around her¡ªand the entire area¡ªwas cold and suffocating.


    raising her gaze, she saw two hollows¡ªarrancars approaching at a rapid speed. ¡°arrancars...¡±

 Chapter 288: Built with Pride

    chapter 288: built with pride


    kazuya¡¯s brow furrowed slightly. the espada showed up in less than ten minutes ¡ª the response time was too perfect. either the espada had developed an insane monitoring system for garganta openings, or someone had informed espada beforehand about their arrival.


    ¡®aizen.¡¯


    {he must¡¯ve gotten the news from his hidden informants. does he plan to kill you and soi fon here?}


    ¡®he also knows about yoruichi.¡¯


    {so three captain-level enemies down in one strike. three in one sounds like a deal to me!}


    something felt wrong in kazuya¡¯s gut. aizen¡¯s ego was almost as big as hueco mundo itself, and the man had always treated the captains not as enemies but as spectators to his ascension to godhood. even their last battle, humbling as it was, couldn¡¯t have changed that fundamental aspect of his character. no, he would want all captains present for the culmination of his centuries-long plan.


    his mind raced through other possibilities. perhaps aizen was using the espada to train him, to have him rise as a rival. or worse, employing ulquiorra and yammy to stall him and soi fon, keeping them occupied while other plans worked elsewhere. with aizen, no trick was off the board.


    {i think he is starting the zanpakuto? rebellion.}


    ¡®possible. very possible.¡¯


    a sense of uneasiness wrapped around him. even with yoruichi and soi fon by his side, kazuya had doubts about quickly taking care of the arrancar duo, unless he used his hollow form. ulquiorra''s segunda etapa was that significant of a variable. and worse, their only way out depended on mayuri opening another rift in garganta for them.


    he could leave on his own but it¡¯d put him in the wrong spotlight.


    {or you can put on my mask and sweep the two then sneak over to the soul society to confirm it with your own eyes.}


    ¡®my mask.¡¯


    the thought made his spiritual pressure fluctuate slightly. in theory, he could replicate the visored¡¯s hollowification by merging with nami¡¯s hollow form. but while the visored¡¯s hollow came from their souls, whereas his would come from his zanpakuto?, which once shared a soul with him. complications would definitely be born with tsubasa added into the mix.


    a light pull at his sleeve brought him back from the depths of his mind. soi fon looked at him with a fierce gaze. ¡°were they present in karakura town?¡±


    ¡°only him. ulquiorra.¡± kazuya gestured towards the pale arrancar. ¡°he¡¯s the arrancar i fought in karakura town.¡±


    kazuya let out a sigh. soi fon¡¯s challenge had driven the final nail into the coffin of his hopes for a violence-free morning. ¡°what do you say, ulquiorra?¡±


    ulquiorra¡¯s expression slightly shifted, the subtle crease between his brows revealing a hint of annoyance. ¡°not interested. the only shinigami worthy of being above trash is you, kazuya.¡±


    soi fon cast away the kimono part of her shihakusho?, letting the fabric flutter away in the wind. every muscle in her body looked tense and ready for battle. she tightened black wrappings around her wrists, her eyes never leaving ulquiorra''s face. ¡°trash, you said. let¡¯s see you say the same when i¡¯m done with you.¡±


    ¡°wait¡ª¡±


    kazuya¡¯s warning came a bit too late. where soi fon had stood, only stillness remained ¨C her shunpo so refined it left not even a sound in its wake.


    then she reappeared before ulquiorra.


    knowing the skill of her opponent, she held nothing back and unleashed a tempest of strikes. each blow was crushing and lethal as it should be when performed by one of the few bakudo? masters in the soul society.


    it was literally a storm of death.


    even yoruichi, the flash goddess, found herself narrowing her eyes to track her prote?ge?¡¯s movements. ¡°she¡¯s going all out from the start. it¡¯s not enough...¡±


    ulquiorra reacted instantaneously, each dodge so effortless it bordered on insult. his movements were minimal, precise ¡ª not a single motion wasted as he weaved between strikes that could blow through mountains.


    not a single attack breached his defense.


    soi fon realized the futility of her offense and executed a swift backstep, her shunpo leaving afterimages in her wake. she reappeared several meters away, hovering mid-air. her chest rose and fell, sweat gleamed on her brow, but her hawk-like remained locked on ulquiorra. ¡°kazuya wasn¡¯t lying. you¡¯re extremely powerful for a hollow.¡±


    the dense spiritual pressure around him wasn¡¯t an adequate display of his ability.


    ulquiorra¡¯s emerald eyes met her praise with apathetic detachment. ¡°and you¡¯re indeed the trash i assumed you were.¡±


    soi fon¡¯s jaw tightened, but she masked any trace of irritation. instead, she allowed his contempt to fuel the fire within her, choosing to let her actions show him the difference between a captain and an arrancar. ¡°overconfidence led to the downfall of many in the past.¡± she pulled out her zanpakuto?: a wakizashi, japanese-style short sword, with a yellow hilt. ¡°i¡¯ll gladly put your name on that list... sting all enemies to death, suzumebachi!¡±


    ¡°you owe me one for standing firm in the face of muramasa¡¯s sweet talk,¡± her zanpakuto? spirit uttered a few vague words as brilliant white light engulfed her blade, which shrunk in size. as the radiance faded, a black and gold gauntlet had taken its place, a small gold chain linking the gauntlet to the stinger-like blade adoring her middle finger.

 Chapter 289: Shades of Love

    chapter 289: shades of love


    ulquiorra studied soi fon¡¯s shikai transformation with a look of mild interest. ¡°is that your shikai or bankai? either way, it looks... underwhelming.¡±


    soi fon¡¯s response came not in words but in action. she vanished in a flash, her shunpo carrying her through space with such speed that the air itself seemed to shear apart. she materialized behind ulquiorra, striking swiftly at his shoulder ¡ª only to pierce empty space where he had stood a fraction of a second before.


    her opponent had read her killing intent like an open book.


    ¡°too slow,¡± ulquiorra¡¯s voice drifted from above, where he hovered with his hands tucked into his pockets. slowly, he withdrew his right hand and pointed at her, and emerald energy began to coalesce at his fingertip. ¡°i¡¯ll end you here.¡±


    he wasn¡¯t fond of this battle but the next one with kazuya.


    warning bells clanged in soi fon¡¯s mind. she knew the devastating power of cero, and that destruction would be on another level when used by someone as strong as ulquiorra. the volume of reishi and its density was much greater than any other cero she had seen in her life. no, it was strong enough to warp the existence of the space around ulquiorra¡¯s finger.


    she made a split-second tactical decision that would leave everyone scratching their heads ¡ª she rushed directly at ulquiorra as he channeled reiryoku into his cero. ulquiorra snorted and darted away with soni?do, which concealed his reiatsu for a brief moment ¡ª just enough time for him to fully charge his cero.


    the warped beam roared toward soi fon, devouring the very light it came into contact with. she knew she couldn¡¯t take it head-on. soi fon¡¯s muscles responded before her mind could process the threat, flash-stepping to the right with all the speed her shunpo mastery could muster.


    but even the famed speed of the onmitsukido?''s commander proved insufficient against ulquiorra¡¯s cero.


    the searing beam caught up to her.


    ¡®ridiculous...¡¯


    the encouragement tugged at the corners of her mouth. she found herself caught between amusement and embarrassment. though, she didn¡¯t hate their method of motivating her. she took the fight to prove him wrong, yet here he was, cheering for her victory like a fool.


    ¡®i¡¯m the underdog here.¡¯


    it was an unfamiliar position ¨C one she¡¯d found herself in more frequently since kazuya had entered her life. but perhaps being the underdog wasn¡¯t so bad if she received encouragement from kazuya and yoruichi.


    soi fon drew a deep breath, channeling everything into her shunpo. ending the battle before the exhaustion of flash step consumed was necessary. she arrived above ulquiorra. with her legs in a shearing motion, she swung her right leg in a powerful arc, performing a wheel kick with tremendous force behind it.


    ulquiorra raised his sword almost casually, clearly underestimating her. it proved to be his first mistake. the impact of her kazaguruma technique sent him plummeting into a dune.


    ...


    ¡°failing kazaguruma at that speed could¡¯ve shattered the bones of her legs,¡± yoruichi commented, pride evident in her voice. ¡°wasn¡¯t that beautiful, kazuya?¡±


    kazaguruma was one of the hardest hakuda techniques as it required great agility and timing to pull it off amidst the combat.


    ¡°indeed. she is beautiful...¡± kazuya gazed at soi fon with unbelievable affection. ¡°right?¡±


    yoruichi slapped his face with her paw. ¡°your act won¡¯t fool me. i¡¯m not going to feel jealous.¡±


    ¡°tch.¡±

 Chapter 290: Into the Abyss

    Chapter 290: Into the Abyss


    Soi Fon showed no satisfaction at her first successful offense against Ulquiorra. Her kick might have been like a meteor, but she couldn¡¯t penetrate his defense. It reminded her of the times she hit Kazuya, his steel-like hardness was a mystery that she had to solve.


    ¡®This must be the Hierro skill Kazuya told us about. A pain in the ass...¡¯


    Emerging from the ground, Ulquiorra dusted his clothes. ¡°You use a tiny blade Zanpakuto? like an assassin. Then you show the martial art skills of a master. Are you having an existential crisis¡ª¡±


    Soi Fon gave him no chance to finish his question. Using Shunpo, she appeared behind him and thrust her stinger blade in the back of his neck. Another timely opportunity to mark him with her Shikai.


    Clang!


    Ulquiorra intercepted her stinger wth his Zanpakuto? with millimeters to spare. He leaped skyward, using gravity to add momentum to his counterattack. His blade came down but she flash-stepped out of his powerful attack and maneuvered her agility to strike his blind spot again.


    ¡°How many times will you¡ª¡±


    Another clang echoed as he blocked the attack aimed at his vulnerable spot with his Zanpakuto?. Despite getting a perfect block, he felt a strange sensation in his Zanpakuto?. The spiritual pressure behind the strike was... off. When he glanced back at her, he looked into eyes that lacked their previous ferocity and violence; they were empty. They were not the eyes of the opponent he had been fighting.


    ¡®It¡¯s fake.¡¯


    Gemelos Soni?do ¡ª the technique of Zommari Rureaux ¡ª could produce five clones that acted all on their own. These "speed-clones" generated by his intense Soni?do were so realistic that they could even bleed after getting attacked.


    However, this realization came a bit too late. The blade attached to Soi Fon¡¯s finger sliced through the air with a sharp "shnk!" aimed directly at his arm. Without his Resurreccio?n form, Ulquiorra¡¯s reflexes weren¡¯t enough to prevent what came next.


    A biting pain overwhelmed his shoulder, like someone had injected flames directly into his veins. Turning his head, he saw Soi Fon gripping his arm, her stinger-blade buried deep into his shoulder. A butterfly mark bloomed on his shoulder.


    At the same time, the presence behind him melted away.


    Soi Fon retreated before Ulquiorra retaliated with a counter-attack. Her chest heaved, her breath anything but steady in her adrenaline-fueled state. She glanced down at Kazuya, who seemed awfully proud of her successful offense.


    ¡®I¡¯ll show him.¡¯


    ...


    From his vantage point, Kazuya watched Soi Fon with barely contained admiration. The strategy she had pulled off was psychologically brilliant if not a masterpiece. Soi Fon had conditioned Ulquiorra into predicting that her repetitive backstab attacks were just that ¡ª a simple attempt at stabbing her enemy in the back. Then, she subverted his expectations, sending her clone to perform the backstab. At the same time, she concealed her Reiatsu as much as she could.


    When Ulquiorra¡¯s entire attention was on dodging her clone, she struck from the side he¡¯d been conditioned to ignore. It allowed her to land a clean hit. It was the kind of strategy that only worked against high-level opponents who relied on reading and predicting their enemies.


    With this, she had fulfilled the first condition of Shikai¡¯s ability. She only needed to land another hit in the same spot to activate Nigeki Kessatsu, the special ability of her Shikai. The ability that would instantly obliterate her opponent.


    Kazuya glanced up at Yoruichi. ¡°Still confident about beating her?¡±


    Yoruichi laughed. ¡°I know she has advanced leaps and bounds, but the Flash Goddess has a few tricks up her sleeve. Have some faith in me, will you?¡±


    ¡°I have full faith in all of my lovers, you included.¡±


    The teasing earned him a playful chokehold from Yoruichi¡¯s tail. ¡°Who do you think will win? I have my money on Fon Fon.¡±


    As her former mentor and a Shinigami, it was natural for her to side with her disciple.


    ¡°You¡¯re betting on the wrong horse.¡± Kazuya smiled faintly. ¡°This battle... has just started.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    Their moment was interrupted by a thunderous sound ¡ª Yammy landed beside them, the shadow of his massive frame covering them both. ¡°You''re letting your friend fight even though you know she''ll lose. Do you hate her... or are you just estu?pido son of a bitch?¡±


    Kazuya gave the massive Arrancar a measuring look. ¡°You''re living proof that brain size doesn¡¯t correlate with height.¡±


    Rage flashed across Yammy¡¯s face as he slammed his fist into his palm. ¡°I¡¯ll destroy you.¡±


    Kazuya glared back at Yammy. ¡°Be patient, big guy. I¡¯ll gladly make a hundred holes in your chest, after that fight is over.¡±


    Yammy snorted and flew over to another hill to observe the battle. He, too, wanted to see more of Ulquiorra in action.


    ...


    Soi Fon, watching the pair from above, gritted her teeth. ¡°Ulquiorra, you said I was trash. What does that make you now?¡±


    She used tactical trash-talk to recover some energy and get into the enemy''s head at the same time.


    Ulquiorra, who had been observing the intricate patterns of Suzumebachi¡¯s butterfly mark, turned his gaze to Soi Fon. His face still looked like it was carved out of marble, possessing no more emotions than an object. ¡°Zommari used to be the fastest Arrancar on his Soni?do alone. Your speed rivals his.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s lips curved slightly. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the guy Kazuya killed? Sucks for him to cross paths with the wrong guy.¡±


    As much as she disliked Kazuya, he was someone she never wanted to face in a real battle. He was a beast. She couldn¡¯t fathom how powerful he would be with his Shikai and how powerful he will become when he eventually achieves Bankai.


    Ulquiorra glanced at Kazuya. ¡°It must¡¯ve been an entertaining battle to watch. Too unfortunate I was distracted by that foolish Harribel.¡±


    There was an edge in his voice when he mentioned Harribel. Soi Fon couldn¡¯t help but feel curious about Harribel for awakening some emotion in the always indifferent man.


    ¡°You can ask that guy for details. He¡¯ll probably tell you about his victory.¡±


    Ulquiorra shook his head. ¡°Or I can recreate a similar battle, by crushing your speed with my power. Then I¡¯ll torture your partner to know the reason behind Soul Society sending two of their best fighters to die in Hueco Mundo.¡±


    He pointed his Zanpakuto? at his Soi Fon. ¡°Enclose, Murcie?lago.¡±


    As the words fell from his lips, a torrent of black and green spiritual energy erupted around Ulquiorra, cascading like dark rain. His spiritual pressure, already tremendous, reached another level, and the very foundation of Hueco Mundo seemed to shudder in his presence.


    When the veil of Reiatsu cleared, Ulquiorra stood in his more primal state ¡ª massive black wings spread wide on his back, horns crowning his head, and his nails sharp and long like a beast.

 Chapter 291: The Face of Despair

    Chapter 291: The Face of Despair


    Soi Fon¡¯s stance wavered, not from fear but from the sheer density of Ulquiorra¡¯s Reiatsu. It was unlike anything she had ever encountered¡ªan ocean of despair that threatened to drown every soul in its reach. Weak Hollows would die from approaching him in this state.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Shinigami?¡± Ulquiorra¡¯s voice carried a hint of mockery. ¡°Where''s that confidence from earlier?¡±


    He had not spent a day without training after his humiliating defeat at Cazador¡¯s hands. His base Resurreccio?n was overwhelmingly stronger compared to back then. As for his Segunda Etapa, not even Ulquiorra himself knew the extent of its power. Even this partial Resurreccio?n was enough to instill despair in a captain like Soi Fon.


    Clenching her jaw, Soi Fon glared at Ulquiorra. ¡°This is what you Arrancars call Resurreccio?n. Releasing the Hollow powers sealed within your Zanpakuto?.¡±


    ¡°To us, this is Resurreccio?n,¡± he whispered with a cold gaze. ¡°But for you, this is despair.¡±


    His words struck a nerve in Soi Fon. Rather than arguing with her rather talkative opponent, she took action. She flash-stepped, appearing behind Ulquiorra with her stinger ready to mark him another time.


    Ulquiorra¡¯s wing snapped up, casually blocking Soi Fon¡¯s peak speed attack with ease. ¡°Is that all you¡¯re worth, Shinigami?¡±


    ¡°Shut the hell up!¡± Soi Fon vanished again, this time creating three afterimages that surrounded Ulquiorra. Each clone struck simultaneously from different angles.


    ¡°It¡¯s futile.¡±


    He conjured green javelins in his hands through the ¡®Luz de la Luna¡¯ ability of his Resurreccio?n and hurled them at the clones. The lances were packed with tremendous energy, and they tore through all but the real Soi Fon, who had to evade the lance or risk getting blown away.


    She barely managed to step out of the lance¡¯s trajectory.


    Ulquiorra¡¯s figure blurred, and suddenly he was behind her, holding a lance against her neck. His wings gave him a tremendous speed boost, and Soni?do allowed him to slip past her Reiryoku sense. He caught Soi Fon by surprise.


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes flickered with shock. A shock that lasted barely a second.


    ¡°Shinigami,¡± he whispered, the lance grazing her neck and drawing blood. ¡°At least you¡¯ll die after witnessing true speed. I¡¯ll let you die in despair¡ª¡±


    She grabbed his wrist, using her smaller frame to land a flip kick at his face. The javelin cut through her hair. A few strands fell, cut clean. She quickly launched a series of rapid strikes with Suzumebachi.


    ¡°You fight well for trash,¡± Ulquiorra noted, deflecting another of her attacks effortlessly. ¡°Perhaps I underestimated you... slightly.¡±


    Ulquiorra finally went on offense. He relied not on his speed, nor the versatile range of his lances ¡ª no, he faced her head-on, intending to show her despair through the sheer difference in their power. Soi Fon used Suzumebachi¡¯s stinger blade to block lethal attacks, but she only had one, whereas Ulquiorra had a smaller version of lance in each hand. Wherever his lance struck, her flesh would be singed and burnt. Though the wounds were skin-deep, the pain diminished her ability to focus.


    Soi Fon gritted her teeth, knowing she had no way of maintaining this pace. She couldn¡¯t compete with the Arrancar in endurance or speed or explosive power. Her only advantage was her experience and pure skills, but he overwhelmed her with his power and the vast difference in Reiatsu. What¡¯s worse was that she had no retreat from Ulquiorra.


    The moment she stepped away, he¡¯d appear behind her and slice her head cleanly. He wouldn¡¯t take the time to run his mouth like the last time.


    Wounds began to cover every part of her body as she engaged Ulquiorra. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn¡¯t find a way to even defend his onslaught, much less find an opening to land that crucial second hit.


    ¡ªShe couldn¡¯t ascertain a clear way to victory.


    ¡°Your speed is diminishing, Shinigami,¡± Ulquiorra observed coldly, all too aware of her strategy. ¡°You¡¯ll exhaust yourself soon.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes narrowed. She had one trump card left ¡ª one she¡¯d hoped to avoid using in Hueco Mundo and keep it a surprise for Yoruichi. A power she had yet to master fully. What¡¯s more, she would be left too exhausted in the aftermath of using it, becoming a burden to Kazuya in this mission.


    But pride meant nothing if she ended up as a headless corpse.


    Her stance shifted as she used the experimental technique that combined her mastery of Hakuda, Shunpo and Kido? into one force. Violent wind currents erupted around her, casting her hair into wild disarray. Her uniform¡¯s backless design proved its worth as concentrated Kido? spells took the form of swirling wind, creating a tempest around her body.


    The wind current focused on her right arm.


    Soi Fon smirked, wiping blood from a small cut on her cheek. ¡°You talk too much for someone who acts so cold.¡±


    Ulquiorra let go of his lances and conjured a bigger version in his right hand. The original version of Luz de la Luna. He flew at her with deliberately slow speed and swiped the lance in a perfect crescent arc.


    ¡°I¡¯m not losing!¡± Soi Fon roared and met Ulquiorra¡¯s lance with her Shunko?-enhanced fist.


    The collision created an explosive shockwave. Soi Fon¡¯s smaller form was launched backward, crashing through a cave wall into darkness. Her Shunko? couldn¡¯t compete with Ulquiorra¡¯s raw power, not when she was wounded and exhausted. This time she had underestimated her opponent and overestimated herself.


    Ulquiorra flew down to her and grasped her throat before dragging her out into the moonlight. Blood painted her sleeveless uniform, flesh scorched where his lances had struck. She looked nothing like the fierce captain who had challenged him.


    ¡°You thought you could match me in power. What a joke.¡±


    With the last of her strength, Soi Fon gripped his wrist and dug her Suzumebachi¡¯s stinger in it. A butterfly mark bloomed on his hand. Ulquiorra didn¡¯t bat an eye as she struck the same spot again.


    ¡°You¡¯re dead,¡± she declared.


    But the death she¡¯d dealt countless times before didn¡¯t come. Ulquiorra neither vanished nor was he replaced by a giant butterfly mark.


    Both butterfly marks simply faded away.


    Horror dawned in Soi Fon¡¯s eyes. ¡°I-Impossible...¡±


    Her Shikai¡¯s secreted poison failed to work on someone with Ulquiorra¡¯s level of regeneration ¡ª she obviously couldn¡¯t realize as she had never seen her Shikai fail to kill someone.


    ¡°I told you from the start. This is futile.¡±


    He tossed her on the sand, stomped her belly, and raised his lance towards the moon. She was powerless to resist him.


    He showed her true despair as he had previously claimed.


    She could only watch as the lance descended¡ª


    Kazuya grabbed the lance with his bare hand, even as it cut through his skin. ¡°Let¡¯s end it here. You¡¯ve won.¡±


    Seeing Kazuya save her filled with mixed emotions. She grasped Ulquiorra¡¯s leg and tried to move him but to no avail. The adrenaline that had kept her fighting had drained away. All the wounds she had suffered and all the exhaustion made her weak, powerless.


    ¡°Don¡¯t interfere¡ª¡±


    Ulquiorra¡¯s attention snapped to the front, so did everyone else¡¯s.


    A bolt of green lightning cut through the night ¡ª a spinning lance wrapped in a brilliant green Reiatsu. The screaming spiral of destruction moved with impossible speed, giving even Ulquiorra barely time to register its approach.


    ¡ªThe lance pierced through Ulquiorra.


    Kazuya grabbed Soi Fon and flash-stepped to Yoruichi¡¯s position.


    The black cat let out a growl. ¡°Lay her there. I¡¯ll treat her.¡±


    She transformed into her human form and began treating Soi Fon with Kaido, the healing technique used by the 4th Squad. Soi Fon looked away from Yoruichi, gritting her teeth.


    Kazuya took off his kimono and put it around Yoruichi. ¡°Take her to a safe place. I¡¯ll keep them busy.¡±


    ¡°No, you!¡± Soi Fon roared. ¡°You can¡¯t¡ª¡±


    Yoruichi grasped Soi Fon¡¯s mouth. ¡°We¡¯re leaving.¡±


    She put Soi Fon on her shoulder before using Shunpo to leave. Yammy tried to intercept but a Reiatsu bullet from Kazuya distracted him long enough for the Flash Goddess to escape.


    Kazuya turned his gaze. The owner of the lance approached. Someone he obviously missed but never wanted to meet in his Shinigami identity.


    Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck.


    ...


    A/N: Current Soi Fon is weaker than when she¡¯d fight Yoruichi in the future since her Shunko? is far from completion. Ulquiorra is at the same level of the version that fought Ichigo. His Resurreccio?n hard diffs Soi Fon.

 Chapter 292: A Pristine Heart

    Chapter 292: A Pristine Heart


    Ever since Nelliel had moved away from Hueco Mundo¡¯s darkness, opening her eyes after a long rest made her excited because something good always awaited her. Whether it was meeting Kazuya and becoming an Arrancar then going on to walk among the living. Even though she had attracted attention in every town she went to, the humans she interacted with treated her with kindness. They showed a sense of compassion that has always been missing in Hueco Mundo, missing in her life before.


    Then she moved to the isolated island, where every dawn she had risen up to her little companions showering her with affection, giving her lovely flowers and fruits from all over the island. Although they were Hollows, they had the heart to treat her with gratitude. She had made it a habit to hunt for them, find edible fruits for them, and nourish their bodies by transferring miniscule amounts of Reiryoku to their fragile bodies. Even after Kazuya¡¯s miracle, they remained delicate little creatures. She had to take things slow, feed them like a bird feeding its chicks.


    ¡ªHer hubris had cost her dearly, and her companions dearer still. All her cautious efforts had only accelerated them towards the disaster.


    Today, Nelliel laid in her ¡®home¡¯, where darkness licked every corner of it. She stretched a hand toward the ceiling, as if trying to grasp the happiness that had slipped through her fingers.


    It was clear that not a single fiber in her being felt excited to wake up here.


    The loss of her companions had left her ¡®hollow¡¯. Her future had narrowed down to a few words: rest, help any Hollow in need, recover, wait for Kazuya¡¯s call. Her promise to him was the only drive in her life. She had to walk even if every step felt like walking on flames¡ªbut forward nonetheless until she accomplished Harribel¡¯s¡ªand her own¡ªdream to change Hueco Mundo into a place where even the weakest Hollows could live in peace.


    A distant pulse of Reiatsu jolted her upright, her brows furrowing in doubt. One¡ªno, two Arrancars came out to prowl, one of them gave her a flashback to Kazuya¡¯s overwhelming power. The other Arrancar, while not at the first Arrancar¡¯s level, had power rivaling Grimmjow.


    These Arrancars¡ªEspada¡¯s prowl always ended with a tragedy for Hueco Mundo¡¯s denizens. Killing hundreds and thousands was the norm for these Espada.


    ¡®I have to go.¡¯


    Grasping her katana, she stabbed it into the stony ground and pulled herself to her feet. The idea of facing two powerful Arrancars to save someone didn¡¯t frighten her. Her sword had tasted the blood before, and would again if necessary. No bigshot from Las Noches would bully the weak in her presence.


    The weak Hollows needed a protector until Kazuya and Harribel¡¯s dream became a reality. She would gladly fill in the role of being a shield for the weak.


    Stepping out of the cave, she gazed towards the source of the oppressive Reiatsu. Suddenly, another Reiatsu flared up. This one carried the Reiatsu signature of an Arrancar without the Hollow part mixed in. It felt reminiscent of Kisuke Urahara, who was an ex-Shinigami, or so she had concluded through the process of elimination. Kisuke Urahara obviously wasn¡¯t Hollow nor was he a Quincy since she had witnessed him smacking Grimmjow¡¯s face with his Zanpakuto?. In the brief time she had been with Kisuke, he had flaunted his shopkeeper occupation to the point of it becoming annoying.


    As such, she had come to the conclusion that Kisuke Urahara had stopped being a Shinigami.


    ¡®Huh?¡¯


    She sensed the newly arrived Shinigami¡¯s Reiatsu ¡ª it almost rivaled the Arrancar. Yet, her interest withered. She had no stake in the ongoing Shinigami and Hollow conflict.


    She had never seen a Shinigami in action, but she knew about their duties ¡ª purifying Hollows and sending them off to another life. A noble duty that should only be performed on willing Hollows. Forcing it on a Hollow was the same as declaring their current life meaningless. At the same time, she couldn¡¯t blame Shinigami for putting down those Hollows who invaded the Living World to devour souls.


    This complicated relationship between Shinigami and Hollows made her have a completely neutral perspective about Shinigami ¡ª neither love nor hate.


    ¡®The Shinigami is clearly outnumbered. Aren¡¯t they asking to die by coming here?¡¯


    She couldn¡¯t believe a Shinigami would be stupid enough to walk into the enemy¡¯s territory. They had to be here for some purpose.


    Nelliel held her Zanpakuto? horizontally, her left palm pressed against the flat of the blade. ¡°Praise...¡±


    The Zanpakuto? glowed as a hazy pink smoke emanated from it.


    She narrowed her eyes before uttering the final phrase to her release, ¡°Gamuza (Capricorn Night).¡±


    Light pink spiritual energy erupted around her. From the clouds of dust, Nelliel¡¯s released form emerged. She now had great resemblance to a mountain goat-like centaur, complete with a black horse¡¯s tail that had a white ring at the base of it. Her Hollow mask¡¯s horns became longer and more curved, framing the sides of her face, particularly the cheeks. She had regained parts of her hollow armor from her Adjuchas form: the white spaulders that came across her shoulder blade to her neck, the white elbow guards, and white gauntlets. A black armor covered her exposed arms.


    Held in her right hand was her ever-so reliable double-sided lance.


    To avoid alerting the Shinigami and two Arrancars, she had released her Resurreccio?n far from the action.


    Her next move was to restrain her Reiryoku in order to hide her presence as much as possible, which she had been honing ever since she came to the Living World. With her released form, she wanted to approach the Arrancars without using Soni?do.


    Despite the great distance, her heightened spiritual awareness gave her a near-clear picture of the conflict. The stronger Arrancar chose to give the Shinigami an honorable one-on-one battle ¡ª an expected result considering the high as heaven pride of every Espada.


    ¡®Shinigami can use Shikai and Bankai too.¡¯


    Since the Shinigami chose to invade Hueco Mundo, they must possess Shikai at the bare minimum. Maybe the Shinigami had an ace up its sleeve that could turn the tides of the battle, or something to escape with their life. There must be something fueling their confidence that led them to Hueco Mundo on their own. Nelliel had too little knowledge to have a solid understanding.


    What she did know was that she wanted none of their lives to fizzle out here.


    After a long trek, she arrived at a dune, which allowed her to observe every participant of this conflict as more than tiny dots. The Shinigami engaged in battle was a woman, or that¡¯s what she made from the Shinigami¡¯s silhouette. She was petite and small, yet holding a ridiculous amount of power.


    Apart from the three she had sensed earlier, another observer stood nearby ¡ª a tall, silver-haired male, with a black cat occupying his shoulder, who could hardly be spotted against his black kimono. Because he had his back turned on her, she could neither see his features nor figure anything unique about him. His strong silhouette reminded her of someone.


    What set off alarms in her head was his nonchalance. He seemed to have no intention to join the fight or duke it out with the other giant Arrancar.


    ¡®Is that black cat Yoruichi?¡¯


    She shook the thought away. Not every black cat was Yoruichi, and not every silver-haired man was Kazuya. Besides, Kazuya used his Arrancar form to pass off as a human. He would never try to join the Shinigami as far as she was aware.


    ¡®I¡¯ll watch from here.¡¯


    The battle¡¯s momentum shifted dramatically when the Shinigami landed a hit with her stinger-like blade. In response, the black-haired Arrancar released his Resurreccio?n, his spiritual pressure exploding to new heights. Alarm went off in Nelliel¡¯s mind. The surge in Reiatsu could end horribly for the Shinigami man and woman, and even the cat. While she could forgive herself for letting Shinigami be hurt, she would never forgive herself for letting an animal, especially a cat, die tragically.


    The cat must not be harmed.


    To Nellie¡¯s surprise, the black cat seemed unfazed by all these powerful Reiatsu around her.


    ¡®She has to Yoruichi. Then that means...¡¯


    Her fingers clenched around her lance. Kazuya had finally returned to Hueco Mundo. Was he here to take her away? Was he worried about her? Was he here to simply meet her? ¡ª The possibilities sent warmth spreading through her chest, a feeling she had forgotten in Hueco Mundo.


    ¡®Why is he with a Shinigami? There has to be a reason.¡¯


    As she stood puzzled, Kazuya glanced over his shoulder. Nelliel¡¯s body moved on reflex, dropping to her knees behind the dune, her centaur form pressing against the sand. Her heart thundered in her chest.


    ¡®Why am I hiding from him...?¡¯


    She should be rushing to greet him, yet all she could feel at the moment was anxiety, fear even. Not fear of Kazuya himself, but of disappointment in his eyes, in Yoruichi¡¯s, in his entire family¡¯s. The thought of their judgment pressed down on her chest, making her breathless.


    ¡®No, no... he¡ªhe will understand me.¡¯


    Taking a deep breath that did little to steady her nerves, she rose back to her hooves. The battle had escalated during her moment of weakness. The Arrancar now dominated the battle, the lighting-like lances in his hands leaving the Shinigami increasingly bloodied and battered.


    ¡®This battle is over.¡¯


    The female Shinigami tried to enhance her abilities through a technique, which proved futile. The battle was already set in stone. Then what she had expected from the start happened ¡ª the Shinigami smashed through a cave, dragged out like a corpse, and pinned beneath the Arrancar¡¯s foot.


    The giant lance hung above her like an executioner¡¯s blade.


    Nelliel made a quick plan in her mind. Grab the trio of Shinigami, Kazuya, Yoruichi, and flee from the scene.


    But Kazuya moved first. He grabbed the Arrancar¡¯s lance with his bare hand, and its sharp edge cut through his palm. The blood dripped down, covered the yellow lance, and then turned the white sand crimson.


    Time seemed to slow down as Nelliel stared at the dripping blood, drop by drop. Something primal awakened in her. A murderous rage that she had never felt before burned away her reasoning.


    ''How dare he!¡¯


    Driven by pure instincts and rage, her right arm threw out her lance. Lanzador Verde¡¯s impact was devastating. The black-haired Arrancar¡¯s right side simply ceased to exist, leaving only his left shoulder and head intact.


    Nelliel shuddered, every muscle in her body tensing up.


    ¡ªShe had just killed a Hollow.

 Chapter 293: Scythe

    Chapter 293: Scythe


    To say that Yammy Llargo was furious would be a gross understatement. The very air around him trembled under his fury. His already large frame had swelled to nearly twice its size, his white Espada uniform barely clinging to him. His eyes burned with a murderous fire, a stark contrast to Ulquiorra¡¯s cold, unfeeling eyes.


    Even as Ulquiorra¡¯s shredded flesh knitted together and lost organs regenerated, he showed no hint of discomfort. Only his spiritual pressure waned ever so slightly.


    Ulquiorra kept his eyes trained on the new Vasto Lorde. ¡°It¡¯s her.¡±


    Kazuya also observed Nelliel with a calm look. He only had one option: stay and fight with Nelliel until they found an opportunity to escape. Leaving Nelliel on her own against a pissed-off Yammy and Ulquiorra might just end with her death.


    Naturally, he couldn¡¯t let her die.


    ¡°Shinigami!¡± Yammy roared like a beast. ¡°You¡¯ll pay for this!¡±


    Kazuya arched an eyebrow, a wry smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. ¡°Hold on a moment. Shouldn¡¯t you be angry at her?¡±


    Yammy''s eyes narrowed, confusion momentarily eclipsing his rage. "What did you say?"


    ¡°What did I do to hurt your feelings?¡± Kazuya asked, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of his Zanpakuto?. ¡°That Hollow tried to kill your buddy Ulquiorra.¡±


    He had done nothing to earn Yammy¡¯s ire, well, apart from belittling him a few times. Nelliel served better for the target of his wrath. Or they were just excuses to avoid fighting a boring battle against Yammy.


    {Not even sparing your allies. As expected, my partner is truly one of a kind evil bastard.}


    Nami seemed to be falling deeper for him amidst all this chaos.


    ¡°Yammy, leave him to me,¡± Ulquiorra said coldly. ¡°He is mine.¡±


    Kazuya didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry at Ulquiorra¡¯s words. Since when did he become so popular that two peak Espada had a dispute over him?


    Yammy¡¯s narrowed eyes zeroed in on Nelliel. ¡°I¡¯ll kill her then.¡±


    His massive form launched forward with surprising speed for his size. His landing kicked up a thick cloud of ash and debris. Nelliel leaped away from him just as a red Bala bullet tore through the smokescreen. Her hand reached out, and as if responding to her command, her lance shot back to her grasp.


    ¡°Cazador, you need to leave now!¡± Nelliel growled. ¡°I¡¯ll hold them off.¡±


    Kazuya met her gaze, genuine confusion creasing his brow. ¡°Cazador? You¡¯ve got the wrong guy, Miss. My name is Kazuya."


    Ulquiorra stared at Nelliel and Kazuya, analysing and picking apart the meaning behind this unexpected interaction between a Shinigami and a Vasto Lorde. ¡°Why is she calling you Cazador?¡±


    ¡°Beats me,¡± Kazuya replied with a shrug. ¡°I never forget a face, especially not one as pretty as hers. I¡¯m damn sure we¡¯ve never met before today.¡±


    The skepticism in Ulquiorra¡¯s gaze only deepened. ¡°That¡¯s a white lie. There is something between you two.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you believe. Let¡¯s fight like men.¡±


    Kazuya felt the rush of Reiatsu a split second before Ulquiorra appeared beside him, lance swinging at his face. He parried just in time to avoid a disaster.


    ¡°Hey, no sneak attacks.¡±


    ¡°Your reactions are impressive,¡± Ulquiorra remarked between strikes. ¡°But ultimately, you¡¯ll fall just like your friend. Then I¡¯ll torture that Vasto Lorde to get more information about you... because I know there¡¯s something tying you to her.¡±


    ¡°Funny you came to that conclusion,¡± Kazuya retorted, pushing back against Ulquiorra¡¯s lance. ¡°I¡¯m just looking for a good fight.¡±


    Ulquiorra let go of his lance, pivoting smoothly to perform a spinning kick. Kazuya put his sword between his belly and Ulquiorra¡¯s heel. The impact still knocked him back, creating distance between them.


    The Espada locked eyes with him. ¡°Lying won¡¯t save you.¡±


    Kazuya¡¯s mind raced. Ulquiorra had begun to glean too much information. If this keeps up, Ulquiorra might figure something out.


    ¡®I have to take his mind off Nelliel.¡¯


    He slowly unsheathed the katana, and when it reached the halfway point, his voice dropped to a whisper that somehow carried across the battlefield. ¡°Weave, Shinku-no-Tsubasa.¡±


    Ulquiorra watched him intently. ¡°I was waiting for it.¡±


    Flames of scarlet and dark crimson seeped from the blade, setting the sword ablaze. When he drove it into his chest, there was no hesitation ¡ª just the motion of someone who had done this countless times before. The flames consumed him, swirling around his body like a raging inferno and spreading through his body as if his very blood had become fire.


    The flames began to separate from Kazuya, coalescing into three distinct, floating blades that hovered around him.


    ¡®Huh? Why three?¡¯


    {This goddess has buffed your Shikai with her unparalleled grace and divinity.} Nami chuckled. {Okay, I¡¯ll be serious. Two of them are from me. The last one is Tsubasa because her soul is like half formed. Together, we have made your Shikai more powerful.}


    ¡°Father, join all three Enmyaku together. Nami and my strength combined will create something unique to you.¡±


    He had grown so rapidly, so tremendously, that his Zanpakuto? Spirits were still struggling to match his pace, evolving even now to keep up with him.


    Smiling, he joined the three Shikai aspects of his Zanpakuto?. What manifested in his hands was a weapon as unique as it was beautiful ¡ª a double-bladed scythe of scarlet and black.


    {Forged in the flames of the abyss, bathed in the blood of gods... allow me to present to you, the Crimson Blades of Abyss.}


    ¡°...¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like the name either, Father...¡±


    As Kazuya¡¯s fingers curled around the scythe¡¯s handle, muscle memory he hadn''t known existed guided his movements. He spun the weapon effortlessly, the blades whistling and dancing as if he had been practicing it for years. It felt right¡ªmore so than the katana form of his Zanpakuto?.


    He could feel both Nami and Tsubasa¡¯s flames flowing in the scythe, the same flames that coursed through his own veins. The strong connection allowed him to direct both flames with mere thoughts. More than that, he discovered a new ability unique to his scythe.


    {Ahhhh, Partner~,} a sultry voice purred from the scythe. {Handle me with care, would you?}


    ¡°Father, I¡¯d like to tell you that I¡¯m the glue holding both scythes. I¡¯m between both ends of Nami... It¡¯s so warm between both of you.¡±


    {The warmth is coming from our flames.}


    ¡°No, it¡¯s your and Father¡¯s... love.¡±


    {Baka.}


    Kazuya couldn¡¯t help but chuckle softly. Even amidst a battle, they found the leisure to joke around. Nami¡¯s mischievous and passionate nature was evidently rubbing off on Tsubasa.


    With a casual swing of his scythe, he beckoned Ulquiorra. ¡°Thanks for waiting like a good boy. Let¡¯s continue!¡±

 Chapter 294: Burning Pride

    Chapter 294: Burning Pride


    Ulquiorra¡¯s response was immediate and rather predictable ¡ª the same Soni?do trick to appear behind and press his lance against Kazuya¡¯s throat. The move would¡¯ve caught Soi Fon off-guard, but Kazuya...


    ¡°Who are you holding, huh?¡±


    The words came from behind Ulquiorra. His eyes widened imperceptibly as he felt the burning steel touch his neck. At the same time, Kazuya in his grasp dissolved into embers. Unlike Soi Fon¡¯s technique, it wasn¡¯t an afterimage. No, it was a flame clone given temporary life by the scythe form of his Shikai. Imbuing clones with life and presence for a short while was a child¡¯s play for his evolved Shikai.


    Cornered, Ulquiorra reacted by unfurling his wings with explosive force. The sheer velocity of the motion sent a gust that forced Kazuya backward. Yet not before the scythe had carved a smoldering ring on the Espada¡¯s neck. His regeneration kicked in, allowing him to appear as if he took no damage.


    Surprise flickered across Ulquiorra¡¯s typically stoic features. ¡°You¡¯ve become much faster in so little time. How is this possible?¡±


    Kazuya rested the scythe across his shoulder, casting a glance toward Nelliel and Yammy¡¯s standoff. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve been training with the toughest woman in the world. She¡¯d probably kill me if I showed zero improvements.¡±


    Ulquiorra nodded in understanding. Even he trained from time to time. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have reached this level. ¡°At least now you¡¯ll not be trashed like your friend.¡±


    Fighting Soi Fon drained some of Ulquiorra¡¯s energy, however, he was still confident in coming out on top in this battle. After all, he had clashed head-on against Kazuya without his Resurreccio?n last time.


    Kazuya laughed. ¡°You can¡¯t back up your big talk.¡±


    The two eyed each other sharply before they both disappeared¡ªmoving so fast that none could follow their figures. Their clash began with a resounding boom as Ulquiorra¡¯s lance met Kazuya¡¯s scythe in a shower of sparks. Ulquiorra matched him strike for strike.


    But as they clashed, Kazuya¡¯s growing familiarity with his scythe put more and more pressure on Ulquiorra. The dual blades arced and sliced with more speed than Ulquiorra¡¯s lance could handle. He had to let his Hierro-covered claw block and parry attacks his lance couldn¡¯t block. The flame scorched Ulquiorra, the wounds closing near instantly.


    Neither man got the edge over the other. However, one could spot the ease with which Kazuya wielded his scythe. There was not a single hint of panic in his movements whether it came to dodging the lance aimed at his face or his heart. Ulquiorra¡¯s attacks packed more power than Unohana¡¯s training form, but his crazy mentor was so much faster with her sword that it wasn¡¯t even a comparison. Unlike with Unohana, his eyes could trace each stab of Ulquiorra¡¯s lance coming at him.


    Trading blows with the released-state Ulquiorra was a breeze for him.


    The lessons Unohana carved into his flesh had all massively boosted his awareness and senses.


    He had the leisure to counter-attack and utterly destroy Ulquiorra but he refrained from it. He didn¡¯t want to alert Aizen with too much growth. His goal wasn¡¯t to kill Ulquiorra, after all ¡ª it was to stall time for Nelliel to conclude her battle with Yammy.


    ¡°You are like a different man,¡± Ulquiorra remarked between exchanges. ¡°Now it makes sense why Lord... is interested in you.¡±


    ¡°Tell your Lord to stop fantasizing about me,¡± Kazuya replied. ¡°I¡¯m only interested in ladies, Shinigami preferably.¡±


    Ulquiorra looked at him in disdain and feinted left, then struck from the right, only to be met by one of Kazuya¡¯s flame clones intercepting the blow. The clone dissipated upon impact, providing just enough distraction for Kazuya to launch an offensive.


    ¡°HAAAH!¡± He swung the scythe in a wide arc, flames erupting along its path. Ulquiorra dodged narrowly, the heat singeing the edges of his attire. The move created some distance between them, though both knew it was only for show¡ªthey could close the gap in an instant if they so chose to.


    ¡°Is there a limit to your regeneration?¡±


    Ulquiorra frowned in disgust. ¡°Hollows usually sacrifice their regeneration for greater raw power. I made my own choice... It¡¯s always amusing to see those who attack me despair over the futility of their attacks.¡±


    The despairing face of Soi Fon flashed through Kazuya¡¯s mind. She would¡¯ve lasted longer in her battle if she acted rationally. Instead, she had made the stupid decision to compete with Ulquiorra in power.


    ¡°I¡¯m guessing your friend over there chose power over regeneration.¡±


    Ulquiorra looked over to Yammy, whose left arm had been ruthlessly cut off by Nelliel. The spiritual pressure around Yammy grew with his rage. ¡°Idiot... He recklessly rushed into a fight with her ¡ª a Vasto Lorde. He could¡¯ve saved himself the humiliation if he developed his Pesquisa like I told him to.¡±


    ¡°She is one powerful lady.¡± Kazuya rubbed his chin. ¡°Hugging her might be a bit... challenging with those legs, though.¡±


    Ulquiorra seized on Kazuya¡¯s momentary distraction, hurling his lance like a bolt of green lightning. Kazuya tilted his head at the last instant, the projectile slicing past and exploding an old structure. Debris rained down.


    Kazuya acted as if luck had saved him. ¡°Nah, I¡¯ll pass on her. She¡¯s not worth breaking the taboo... Ulquiorra, let¡¯s end it fast. I gotta go back to my ladies before my resolve breaks.¡±


    ¡°RAAAAGH!!!¡± A massive explosion of Reiatsu drew their attention. Yammy¡¯s release sent earthquakes across their surroundings.


    ¡°Huh? He is massive...¡±


    Ulquiorra had enough of Kazuya looking all distracted. He formed another lance and used Soni?do to slip past senses. His lance made a green streak as it lunged at Kazuya¡¯s heart. But the target burst into flames.


    ¡°Surprise!¡± The real Kazuya dashed through the flames produced by his clone and smashed his fist into Ulquiorra¡¯s face.


    The solid smack sent Ulquiorra down to the ground. Just as Ulquiorra¡¯s wings steadied him, he saw five Kazuya dashing at him with grins. His eyes couldn¡¯t tell the original from the fake ¡ª they all exuded the same Reiatsu and carried the same physical attributes down to their scent.


    ¡°Ludicrous...¡±


    Ulquiorra used Soni?do to retreat from the menacing group and hurled his javelins at them. But every one of Kazuya dodged the javelins without much effort. After all, they all shared Kazuya¡¯s speed. They caught up to Ulquiorra soon and clung to him, restricting his movement.


    ¡°These cheap tricks,¡± Ulquiorra scoffed and blasted three clones with his wings. ¡°They are useless.¡±


    Kazuya, who hovered behind Ulquiorra, had his Reiatsu completely restrained. Not even Ulquiorra could sense him standing there. Still, he knew he had to act fast and use this opportunity to deal heavy damage.


    ¡®Here it goes!¡¯


    {Make Unohana proud!} Nami¡¯s voice echoed in his mind.


    Eyes filled with concentration, he imagined Unohana¡¯s technique and mimicked it. Six simultaneous slashes ripped through his own clones and slashed open Ulquiorra¡¯s back. His scythe left a searing cross-shaped wound.


    Ulquiorra let out a sharp cry, more of surprise than pain. His flaring Reiatsu destroyed the leftover clones.


    ¡°And for the final touch.¡±


    Ulquiorra wasn¡¯t decisive enough to retreat at the first chance. Kazuya¡¯s heel came down and struck Ulquiorra directly between his shoulder blades. The impact sent Ulquiorra plummeting toward the ground, but he stabilized with his wings. Kazuya gave chase with Shunpo and landed on Ulquiorra¡¯s back, his momentum driving Ulquiorra into the ground.


    Kazuya firmly planted his heel in Ulquiorra¡¯s back and grabbed the giant bat-like wings. ¡°I¡¯ll take these as my prize.¡±


    The Espada struggled, but the earlier wounds had slowed his reactions. And quite frankly, he was outclassed as he suffered one heavy injury after another. ¡°No¡ª¡±


    With a fierce pull, Kazuya tore the wings clean from Ulquiorra¡¯s back. He threw them away and flash-stepped back to the air. Blood sprayed and covered Ulquiorra¡¯s white uniform as he stumbled forward, collapsing to his knees.


    ¡°These clones are pretty useful for battle.¡±


    It was a little unfortunate that he needed his Shikai to utilize Nami and Tsubasa¡¯s flames.


    {Exorcism complete!} Nami cheerfully giggled. {Or not...}


    ¡°Be careful, Father!¡±


    Ulquiorra¡¯s wings regenerated slowly but they weren¡¯t as strong and solid as before ¡ª they were merely ornamental.


    Kazuya grinned. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing Soi Fon made you reveal your trump cards. She also softened you up for me. I¡¯ll let her know her defeat wasn¡¯t for nothing.¡±


    Ulquiorra looked up, his expression unreadable. Despite his injuries, there was no fear in his eyes¡ªas if he had accepted his death a long time ago. ¡°You remind me of someone...¡± he whispered. ¡°Someone I intended to kill using this form of my Resurreccio?n.¡±


    His spiritual pressure ramped up as a dark green and black aura manifested around him. Before Ulquiorra¡¯s Segunda Etapa transformation was completed, another massive Reiatsu flared nearby. Both fighters turned their gaze toward the source.


    ¡°Lanzador Verde!¡± Nelliel yelled, hurling her lance at Yammy.


    The weapon drilled through Yammy¡¯s Hierro and a hole through his colossal belly. He let out a roar of agony, his movements shaking the earth like earthquakes.


    Kazuya couldn¡¯t help but smile. Nelliel had flawlessly accomplished her job.

 Chapter 295: Short Work

    Chapter 295: Short Work


    ¡°Cazador? You¡¯ve got the wrong guy, Miss. My name is Kazuya.¡±


    Nelliel hesitated, her eyes searching his face. She could sense it¡ªhis familiar aura, the unmistakable presence that she hadn¡¯t felt in so long. It took her a long moment to discern that he tried to hide his identity from the two Arrancars. She had no clue as to why he would do such a thing, but for him, she was more than willing to play along.


    Her moment of contemplation was brutally interrupted as Yammy¡¯s massive shadow fell over her. He tried to literally crush her beneath his feet. The ground shook violently as Nelliel darted backward. Dust and debris erupted around Yammy, creating a smokescreen.


    A crimson Bala bullet suddenly pierced through the dust cloud. Acting on instinct, Nelliel launched herself above. The attack grazed past her, close enough that she could feel its heat against her skin, before obliterating a distant pillar in a spectacular explosion.


    Casting a quick glance toward Kazuya, she saw him watching her. There was a sharpness in his eyes. She needed to keep Yammy focused on her to give Kazuya time to handle his own opponent.


    ¡®Kazuya, I have to protect you.¡¯


    For that, she had to get him away from both Arrancars.


    Another Bala shot through the air, which she easily dodged and retreated another few meters.


    ¡°Tu? zorra (you whore),¡± Yammy spat, his face contorting in anger. ¡°You¡¯ll pay for ruining Ulquiorra¡¯s battle. I¡¯ll rip you apart limb from limb and drag your corpse to Las Noches.¡±


    Beneath his fury, Nelliel sensed something else: recklessness. Yammy was all brute force and anger, lacking the discipline and strategy that made opponents like Muramasa truly dangerous.


    ¡°Feral beasts like you need to be tamed.¡± She glared at Yammy. ¡°If your master in Las Noches won¡¯t do it, then I will.¡±


    The effect of her taunt was immediate. Yammy¡¯s Reiatsu spiked violently, his massive frame swelling and ripping through his Espada shirt. ¡°You¡¯re dead meat,¡± Yammy roared. ¡°You¡¯ll feel the¡ª¡±


    His threat died unfinished as Nelliel moved. To an observer, it would have appeared as if she simply materialized behind him¡ªno soni?do, no fancy movement techniques, just pure speed that exceeded Yammy¡¯s ability to track. His right arm, severed cleanly at the shoulder, fell to the sand with a heavy thud. Blood sprayed in an arc, staining the white sand crimson.


    Without his Resurreccio?n, he couldn¡¯t compete with Nelliel¡¯s speed when she had her Resurreccio?n released. Honestly, she could¡¯ve taken off his head right there, but she wasn¡¯t going to taint her hands with the blood of a rabid dog.


    For a moment, Yammy stared dumbfounded at the stump where his arm had been. Then the pain registered. ¡°You... you bitch!¡±


    Nelliel placed her lance against his throat. ¡°Get lost, or it¡¯ll be your head next.¡±


    A moment of silence passed before Yammy¡¯s laughter shattered it¡ªa booming, unhinged laughter. ¡°Get lost. She told me to get lost.¡± His shoulders shook. ¡°This is unbelievable. This woman... Who do you think you are? HUH?!¡±


    Rage quaked in his eyes. He thought he could get through Nelliel without releasing his stored up energy. He had greatly underestimated her abilities ¡ª a trait he shared with his friend.


    Nelliel observed his madness with a detached gaze, withdrawing her lance. ¡°Then allow me to beat you to senses. Only a thoroughly humiliating defeat would put an end to your animalistic behavior.¡±


    Yammy¡¯s only hand moved to the hilt of his Zanpakuto?. ¡°Get pissed off... IRA! (Enraged Beast).¡±


    Yammy¡¯s Zanpakuto? exploded in an outpouring of red spiritual power, and his figure grew to a monstrous size. His white mask fragments fused with his face, becoming his actual lower jaw. Red markings extended from the side of his face into two long flame tattoos. His lower body underwent a great transformation, growing eight large, elephant-like legs on each side of his body. These legs were connected to his body by white carapace-covered joints, leading to the base of a bony tail club.


    He had grown bigger in size than most buildings Nelliel had seen in her short stay in the Living World. She felt smaller than one of his fingers. In fact, the hole in his chest was bigger than her.


    His Reiatsu may have grown to rival Ulquiorra and he may tower over her like a living mountain. Yet she stood before him, unchanged, unmoved.


    ¡°Is that all?¡±


    Her calm voice was poison to his ears. He opened his mouth and charged his greatest Cero to date.


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna blast you, woman!!!¡±


    A black mass of Reiatsu condensed between his jaws. Cero Oscuras was a Cero technique that only a few Hollows could use because of its vast Reiatsu requirement. Yammy, in his enraged state, had enough Reiatsu to bring Cero Oscuras¡¯ power to another level.


    The black Cero surged at her. All Nelliel had to do was open her mouth and inhale sharply, and the incoming torrent of spiritual energy was drawn into her. Cero Double allowed her to absorb any Cero attack as long as she could handle the Reiatsu contained within.


    ¡°What?!¡± Yammy¡¯s anger disappeared, replaced by pure disbelief. ¡°You... you ate my Cero?!¡±


    Nelliel patted her belly with an almost playful smile. Then her expression hardened from all the intermingling energies inside her. Unable to contain it any longer, she opened her mouth wide. A gigantic pink beam shot out ¡ª the counter Cero carried both Yammy and her own Reiatsu.


    Yammy was too stunned to dodge, not that his giant form could dodge an attack as fast as Cero. He howled as the beam engulfed him, the force pushing him back and scorching his tanned skin. Smoke rose from the charred sections of his body.


    ¡°You¡¯ll pay for that!¡± he roared, thrashing wildly. His massive fists swung with reckless abandon. But his movements were slow, telegraphed¡ªeasy for Nelliel to anticipate.


    ¡°Stop running and fight me!¡±


    Nelliel paid his demands no heed, her attention shifting briefly to where Kazuya battled Ulquiorra. He effortlessly handled the Espada who had crushed his Shinigami friend. The display of strength put her mind at ease.


    ¡®How do I deal with this violent man?¡¯


    From what she had observed so far, Yammy¡¯s main source of strength and most glaring weakness was his rage¡ªeach injury, each dodge, only served to fuel his anger and, by extension, his power. It would also be near-impossible to instantly kill someone of Yammy¡¯s size, not that she felt keen on killing Yammy.


    Her only choice was to beat Yammy to a near-death state.


    ¡®Do I really have no other choice?¡¯


    She let out a resigned sigh in the middle of dodging Yammy¡¯s reckless attacks. She leaped onto his outstretched arm. Driving her lance in his wrist, she dragged it along to his shoulder. Her weapon was like a needle in Yammy¡¯s body but it served its purpose in slitting open a wound.


    Blood rained down, and Yammy screamed in fury.


    ¡°Arghhh! You insect!¡±


    His massive hand swung down to crush her like a mosquito, but she had already moved away from his shoulder. The blow connected to his own shoulder, adding humiliation to injury. Nelliel reappeared at his thigh and pierced his flesh with her lance. The wounds her lance inflicted weren¡¯t deep but they annoyed the hell out of Yammy.


    He was neither quick enough to stop her, nor was he quick enough to stop her from charging her strongest attack.


    ¡°Lanzador Verde!¡± Nelliel cried out and threw her lance with all her might. The weapon spun rapidly, becoming a blur of green light as it sliced through the air.


    Yammy reached out to intercept the lance, but it pierced through his palm before burying itself deep in Yammy¡¯s abdomen. The impact sent shock waves across his massive frame, nearly toppling him despite his multiple legs.


    Yet still, the rage in his eyes burned undiminished. He wouldn¡¯t accept defeat until either of them died.


    Nelliel was ready to charge another attack when Ulquiorra, the other Arrancar, arrived in Yammy¡¯s face.


    ¡°Yammy, that¡¯s enough. We¡¯re leaving.¡±


    ¡°Huh? I¡¯m not going anywhere without killing that bitch.¡±


    Ulquiorra¡¯s gaze hardened. ¡°Our mission is complete. Any further action is unnecessary.¡±


    ¡°Screw you¡ª¡±


    Ulquiorra took no further arguments and punched Yammy straight in the face. Despite his eight legs, the giant Arrancar toppled backward, creating tremors that rippled for miles across the desert.


    A red light swallowed Yammy as he canceled his release. His wounds remained, however, blood still seeping from dozens of cuts. ¡°Tch... fine.¡±


    Ulquiorra turned toward Kazuya. ¡°The next time we meet, I¡¯ll show you the true meaning of despair. Until then, grow stronger... if you can.¡±


    Kazuya waved his hand. ¡°Yeah, yeah. You won¡¯t leave alive next time either.¡±


    Ulquiorra¡¯s intense gaze moved away from Kazuya. ¡°Yammy, come.¡±


    As the two Arrancars disappeared into the distance, Nelliel canceled her Resurreccio?n, her form shimming briefly as she returned to her more comfortable form. Her eyes found Kazuya¡¯s, silently awaiting his command.


    He scanned their surroundings carefully, spiritual pressure enveloping the area to detect any hidden observers. Only when he was certain they were truly alone did he speak.


    ¡°Follow me.¡±

 Chapter 296-297: Thick Tension

    Chapter 296-297: Thick Tension


    Thump. Thump. Thump. The cave shook as Apacci¡¯s fists connected with its wall. She had been punching the same spot since Harribel and The rhythmic thud echoed, shaking the cave. Apacci¡¯s knuckles struck the same spot over and over. Dust and small fragments of rock crumbled under her relentless assault ¡ª she had been at it since Harribel and Sung-Sun rejected her request. Her excuse was simple. Nelliel was out there. Why couldn¡¯t she be there too? However, Harribel and Sung-Sun wouldn¡¯t budge no matter how much she pleaded.


    ¡°Those are some nice punches. I can learn a thing or two from her,¡± Lilynette whispered, appreciating Apacci¡¯s boxing session enough to evolve from a small-time fan to a permanent follower. She poked Starrk¡¯s cheek. He lay sprawled on the sandy ground beneath her, arms folded behind his head. His chest served as her makeshift chair. ¡°Starrky, we got many people¡ªfriends. Let¡¯s go talk to them?¡±


    Gone were the days of them roaming Hueco Mundo on their own. Being part of a family had helped Lilynette make friends but Starrk... He still loved to lay his head out of everyone¡¯s sight. She knew it was Starrk¡¯s nature to be a lone wolf. But as his Zanpakuto? Spirit and Partner, she did want him to make an attempt at the very least.


    Starrk opened one eye lazily, glancing at the small group gathered in the cave. Despite the thick tension everywhere, there was a strange comfort in their shared company. ¡°Now¡¯s not the time for socializing. Don¡¯t forget what we¡¯re here for.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, idiot. You¡¯re always saying that. What¡¯s the point of friends if we don¡¯t spend time with them?¡± Lilynette pouted. Her gaze drifted to Menoly, who sat alone near the cave entrance, her knees drawn to her chest. The distant look in Menoly¡¯s eyes stirred something akin to concern in Lilynette. ¡°Come here, Menoly!¡±


    Menoly blinked, pulled from her thoughts by the unexpected call. She hesitated before rising slowly and walking toward them. ¡°Yes?¡±


    She was incredibly polite and respectful as though she did her best to avoid offending Lilynette. Lilynette might be a bit air-headed but she was sharp enough to observe the mask Menoly put in front of them.


    Lilynette offered a friendly grin. ¡°You''ve been awfully quiet. Everything okay?¡±


    Menoly shifted uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just thinking about... things.¡±


    Lilynette tilted her head, her gaze becoming devoid of emotion. ¡°Thinking about returning to your Espada buddies?¡±


    Menoly¡¯s eyes widened, a flash of fear crossing her features.


    Starrk grabbed Lilynette¡¯s arm. ¡°Lily, slow down.¡±


    Lilynette shook off his hand and gave him the ¡®Don¡¯t interrupt me¡¯ gesture. ¡°Menoly has been sulking in the corner for a while. I think she is missing her old pals.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t...¡±


    Lilynette bounced to her feet and gripped Menoly¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Kazuya ain¡¯t the type to keep people against his will. If you wanna leave, we¡¯ll let you go.¡±


    ¡°Stop doubting me. I don¡¯t want to go!¡± Menoly yelled and slapped away Lilynette¡¯s hand, surprising everyone, including the green-haired Arrancar herself. Even Apacci paused for a second to see the commotion. ¡°They abused me, betrayed me, and then left me to die. Kazuya... He saved me. He gave me another chance. I¡¯m a bitch but I know when to be grateful and when to stab someone in the back.¡±


    Her usual demeanor cracked under Lilynette¡¯s edging.


    ¡°Menoly, you¡ª¡±


    ¡°Listen to me!¡± Menoly took a deep breath, her shoulders relaxing slightly. ¡°I chose to follow Kazuya on my own. Even before that... I was sick and tired of the bloody politics in Espada. I wanted to leave but there wasn¡¯t anywhere I could go.¡±


    Lilynette studied Menoly¡¯s resolute expression, and a small smile its way to her face. ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re being honest now. The bootlicker act was getting on my nerves.¡±


    Menoly let out a sigh. ¡°I was trying to mix in. I didn¡¯t think it¡¯ll piss you off.¡±


    ¡°We like genuine people. Moving forward you hafta be yourself.¡±


    Menoly nodded, despite knowing that Lilynette would be the first to stop her in case she showed her true self. Loly Aiverrne may have goaded her but she never felt about any of her terrible deeds. She had inherited some of Loly¡¯s messed-up personality despite the constant abuse and bullying.


    Menoly looked towards the direction where Kazuya¡¯s Reiatsu could be felt. ¡°He is fighting the strongest Espada. I was just concerned about him.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, we aren¡¯t worried. Right, Starrk?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m worried for his opponent,¡± Starrk calmly replied. ¡°And that maid.¡±


    They all shifted their eyes to the mansion¡¯s maid punching the hell out of the wall as if it was her greatest enemy.


    ***


    A few meters away, Sung-Sun observed the exchange while leaning against a smooth section of wall. Her eyes drifted to where Mila Rose stood, arms crossed and expression calm. ¡°Kitty, Sensei got an assignment for you.¡±


    Mila Rose scowled. ¡°You aren¡¯t my teacher here. Keep your book lesson shit to home.¡±


    Cirucci stepped to Mila Rose¡¯s side. ¡°Why not hear her out?¡±


    She owed Sung-Sun too much and decided to persuade Mila Rose into doing Sung-Sun¡¯s bidding. Of course, she would be the first to reject Sung-Sun if this so-called assignment was unreasonable.


    Lisa arrived by Sung-Sun¡¯s side. ¡°Yeah, Rose. Hear out your friend for a second.¡±


    ¡°Tch.¡± Mila Rose clicked her tongue. ¡°Alright. What is it?¡±


    ¡°Look at her,¡± Sung-Sun murmured, her sleeve partially concealing her concerned expression. ¡°It hurts me to see Apacci like this. Calm our upset friend for me and our husband. He¡¯ll be sad if he saw her tortured like this.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t manipulate me with his name,¡± the lioness growled. ¡°Besides, punching stuff blows off the frustration. It¡¯s the least we can do after stopping her.¡±


    Sung-Sun nudged her. ¡°Taking her mind off of Kazuya would be even better.¡±


    ¡°Like anyone here can do that.¡±


    His Reiatsu was just that prevalent to anybody familiar with him. They could focus on nothing but him as long as he continued his battle.


    ¡°Please, Rose. Even Harribel-sama is beginning to worry. We can¡¯t have our queen go into a war with a heavy heart.¡±


    Mila Rose glanced at Harribel, who leaned against a wall in the corner, her eyes observing Apacci¡¯s every movement. Her calm for show as anyone could feel her turmoil through her heel restlessly tapping the ground.


    Sung-Sun would¡¯ve done it herself but she would be the last person Apacci would listen to right now. After all, she had supported Harribel in denying Apacci¡¯s request.


    The lioness let out a heavy sigh. ¡°What do you expect me to do? She¡¯s not exactly in a listening mood.¡±


    ¡°You have a way with her,¡± Sung-Sun said. ¡°When you¡¯re not at each other''s throats, that is.¡±


    Cirucci patted Mila Rose¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Just be yourself.¡±


    Her friend had a natural talent for touching people¡¯s hearts with her passion. She had lasted so long with a broken heart because of Mila Rose.


    ¡°Ugh, fine,¡± Mila Rose growled, running a hand through her wild mane. ¡°But you all owe me for this.¡±


    She walked up to Apacci and placed a hand on her shoulder. ¡°Apacci, save this energy. We¡¯ll be fighting a lot of boneheads later.¡±


    ¡°Leave. Me. Alone.¡± Every word was accentuated with a heavy punch against the wall. Being in a Gigai limited her Reiatsu and physical ability, otherwise, the cave would¡¯ve long collapsed on top of them.


    Mila Rose moved with the grace of her lioness title and stepped between Apacci and the wall. Her palm caught the next punch.


    Apacci¡¯s glare was murderous enough to kill. ¡°Move.¡±


    Instead of backing down, Mila Rose grabbed the front of Apacci¡¯s maid uniform. ¡°Stop acting like a big baby,¡± she roared, her voice reverberating in the cave. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re the only one pissed about this? Do you think I want to stay here when my mate is out there fighting a fucking Espada? Harribel cares for him like a mother. Do you think she doesn¡¯t want to go out there for him?¡±


    Apacci could only stare, taken aback by the raw emotion in Mila Rose¡¯s voice.


    ¡°But he told us loud and clear to stay put no matter what happens.¡± Mila Rose released Apacci¡¯s uniform and placed a hand against her cheek. ¡°We should respect his decision like a good wife.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s fist unclenched slowly, shoulders slumping. ¡°I know. I fucking know, dammit. I just... I just want to protect him. We promised each other that. I feel fucking useless like this.¡±


    She was sick and tired of never getting a chance to fulfill her side of the oath.


    ¡°Me too, Apacci.¡± Mila Rose stepped closer and brought Apacci in her arms. ¡°But following his orders, by waiting here when he wants us for the main event. That¡¯s a form of protection too.¡±


    Apacci let out a bitter chuckle as she pushed Mila Rose away. ¡°Wise words coming from someone who wanted to claw his eyes out for being a man.¡±


    She could hardly believe Mila Rose was the same person who held a grudge against Kazuya on their first meeting. The lioness had changed for the better.


    The tension dissipated as the two recalled their old days, when they had been just a group of five roaming Hueco Mundo, ducking from Barragan¡¯s wrath. And today they were going to topple the empire Barragan made with the friends from Shinigami, Visored, and Arrancars side.


    Mila Rose smiled. ¡°Fuck you. I have been working hard, observing, analyzing... sinking my fangs into new tricks. I¡¯ve been leveling up, grinding my ass off to become the best mate possible.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t stopped to think a bit ever since she bounced back from her depression. Nobody would stop her from achieving her goal.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. You¡¯re becoming real wise. That also means you¡¯re getting old. In other words, you¡¯re becoming a hag.¡±


    ¡°H-Hag?! Fuck off!¡± Mila Rose flipped Apacci the middle finger. ¡°I¡¯m young. I haven¡¯t even gotten the chance to bear Kazuya¡¯s cubs. That¡¯s how young I am!¡±


    Apacci grinned mischievously. ¡°Uh-uh, having babies has nothing to do with age. Just accept that you¡¯re becoming an old cat. You gotta act fast, or you¡¯ll lose the chance. You. Will. Become. Infertile!¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s eyes widened in horror. ¡°No way! That¡¯s... that¡¯s impossible!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a thing. Go ask Sung-Sun for confirmation.¡±


    She gritted her teeth and waved her fists around. ¡°I¡¯m pushing him down tonight and taking all of his seed for myself. Nobody will get in my way of receiving his baby!¡±


    Flame of determination burned in her eyes.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Her determination turned to surprise the next moment. Both women froze, their eyes widening as they processed what they felt. They threw their hands in the air together.


    ¡°He won! Let¡¯s fucking go!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll be coming to us!¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t celebrate too early,¡± Sung-Sun chimed in. ¡°You see, Husband¡¯s Shinigami companion was hurt. He¡¯ll prioritize her over us.¡±


    ¡°Who even cares about those Shinigami losers?¡± Apacci grumbled. ¡°He should just ditch them in some cave and return to us.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s so racist,¡± Mila Rose said with a chuckle. ¡°But I¡¯m with Apacci. Us Hollows mates are far superior to those corporate grim reapers. They all have as much personality as a paper towel.¡±


    ¡°So true. So true. They also don¡¯t have our devotion. We¡¯ll be his loyal hussies till the day we die.¡±


    Sung-Sun hid her smile with her oversized sleeve. ¡°I thought I was fucked in the head, but you two are on another level.¡±


    ¡°Is someone talking shit behind my back?¡± Lisa¡¯s sharp voice made them almost jump in surprise. ¡°I definitely heard someone saying Hollows are superior to Shinigami.¡±


    ¡°We are,¡± Mila Rose said with a feral grin. ¡°That shouldn¡¯t concern you. You ain¡¯t a Shinigami anymore, girl. You¡¯re more of a Hollow.¡±


    Lisa touched the hilt of her Zanpakuto? before letting out a sigh. ¡°I¡¯m neither a Shinigami nor a Hollow... I¡¯m not part of any world.¡±


    Neither side would accept her for the abomination she had become. There were exceptions, and those exceptions brought some much-needed colors and warmth to her life.


    Sung-Sun hugged her from the side, bringing her head down to her chest and stroking her hair. ¡°Whatever you are, you¡¯ll forever be my friend and a part of this silly family.¡±


    ¡°She is right,¡± Cirucci said. ¡°I¡¯ll let you be the aunt of my kittens.¡±


    Cirucci knew the feeling of alienation from her time in Espada. She¡¯d be more than willing to be Lisa¡¯s friend, which she hadn¡¯t done due to Lisa¡¯s Shinigami background.


    Lisa¡¯s eyes sparkled in delight. ¡°Awww. I can¡¯t wait to get my hands on those little furballs. They are so darned adorable.¡±


    ¡°Just don¡¯t hurt them.¡±


    Sung-Sun took Lisa¡¯s hands and stroked her fingers. ¡°Look at these nimble digits. They¡¯re made to handle everything fragile.¡±


    Lisa yanked her hand away. ¡°What does that even mean?¡±


    ¡°Lisa, I know you stroke your kitty down there with these fingers when nobody is around. I may or may not have heard Husband¡¯s name coming out of your mouth during your ¡®leisure activity.¡¯¡±


    Lisa¡¯s eyes widened. Her best friend had exposed her deepest, darkest secret. Her best friend had betrayed her. ¡°H-How do you know that? I shut the door every time I do it...¡±


    ¡°The mansion also has windows, girl,¡± Sung-Sun whispered with a cheeky grin. ¡°But you were too caught up in your fantasies to notice me observing the entire process from there.¡±


    Mila Rose, Apacci, and Cirucci gave her the meanest looks. Lisa did her best to maintain a straight face but her attempts couldn¡¯t keep her steady like a mountain. Her pale cheeks flushed in pure embarrassment.


    ¡°Snake, I hate you.¡± Lisa turned her back on Sung-Sun. ¡°You aren¡¯t my best friend; you¡¯re my worst enemy.¡±


    Sung-Sun patted Lisa¡¯s butt with her knuckles. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I went too far. It¡¯s hard to control my sadism sometimes...¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. You are... you are a treacherous snake!¡±


    ¡°My, you¡¯re making me remorseful for my actions.¡± Sung-Sun¡¯s laugh was gentle as she hugged Lisa from behind. ¡°Let me make it up to you by being your wingwoman. I¡¯ll have Husband falling for you like a puddle.¡±


    ¡°Izumi already promised that. I trust her more than I trust you. You¡ª¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s better than one wingwoman? Two wingwoman!¡±


    Lisa shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll conquer his heart with my own hands, using my charm. It¡¯ll feel cheap if I do it with anyone¡¯s help.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll be cheering you on. All of us will.¡±

 Chapter 298: From All Sides

    Chapter 298: From All Sides


    Kazuya floated by the cave where he had told Harribel¡¯s group to wait. Just as his feet touched the sandy ground, Nelliel rushed toward him. Before he could react, slender arms wrapped tightly around his waist from behind, pulling him into a firm embrace.


    Her warm breath brushed against the back of his neck, and he could feel the slight tremble in her grip. ¡°Give me one minute...¡±


    There was a hint of vulnerability in her voice that caught him off-guard.


    ¡°Nelliel?¡± he said softly, tilting his head to glance back at her. ¡°What happened?¡±


    She held him a moment longer, her forehead resting gently between his shoulder blades. The usual spirited aura that surrounded her was absent, replaced by a sense of melancholy. Something was obviously very wrong with her.


    ¡®My charm didn¡¯t work?¡¯


    It seemed at Nelliel¡¯s level would require his charm to work at its full hypnosis-like power. He would rather not try that on Nelliel.


    He carefully unclasped her hands, turning to face her. Her hazel eyes avoided his gaze, fixating instead on the ground between them. ¡°If you need to talk about something, I¡¯m always here for you. We are always here for you.¡±


    Carefully speaking, he placed a great emphasis on ¡®we.¡¯ After all, Nelliel had Harribel¡¯s full support. Having Harribel¡¯s support was the same as having everyone¡¯s support in his family.


    She hesitated, her brows knitting together as she struggled to find the right words. ¡°My companions...¡± she finally managed to speak in a trembling voice. ¡°They¡¯re all... gone. It¡¯s all my fault, Kazuya. I...¡± Her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she looked up at him. ¡°I killed them.¡±


    He felt a pang of sympathy but also confusion. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it. You loved them more than anything. You aren¡¯t telling me everything. Nel, what¡¯s the whole story?¡±


    ¡°I-I...¡± she stuttered, wrapping her arms around herself. ¡°I messed up. I thought I could make them stronger like you did. But they-they started eating each other. Three of them formed these huge tornadoes and dragged the others in it before I could stop it. I tried, Kazuya. I tried everything, but...¡±


    His gaze softened as realization dawned.¡°They became Gillians?¡±


    He had expected them to become Gillians eventually but never this quickly. It seemed like Nelliel had accelerated their growth through some means.


    She nodded slowly, a single tear escaping down her cheek. ¡°Why wasn¡¯t I more careful? My negligence killed them... I killed them.¡±


    Gently, he took her hands in his, squeezing them to reassure her. ¡°You know Gillians are formed by hundreds and thousands of souls. Your friends are still alive in those Gillians.¡±


    She shook her head, her green hair swaying softly. ¡°They lost their individuality, their hearts. It¡¯s not different from death.¡±


    Nelliel had stubbornly chosen to take the blame for her companions¡¯ deaths. Nothing he said would ease her guilt. He could comfort her, but only time will heal her wounds.


    ¡°Well, where did those Gillians go?¡± he asked gently, hoping to shift the conversation.


    ¡°They went through the Garganta... I don¡¯t know where they are now.¡±


    He narrowed his eyes. The Gillians were probably hunting for more souls in Hueco Mundo. He couldn¡¯t say it in front of her as she would never want her companions to hunt other Hollows.


    ¡°Oh, Apacci.¡± He turned to find the trio, who had been stalking him from the shadows. They were a perfect opportunity to distract Nelliel from her issues. ¡°Nel, let¡¯s go meet others.¡±


    He dragged her inside the cave, where he was jumped by Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun. The trio hugged him, Apacci in the middle, Sung-Sun on the left, and Mila Rose on the right.


    ¡°You dumb husband, when will you stop making us worried for you? I almost got wrinkles because of you!¡±


    ¡°She is also becoming a hag!¡± Apacci burst into laughter. ¡°That leaves me as the youngest and prettiest of us all. I am¡ª¡±


    Mila Rose fiercely headbutted Apacci. ¡°Stop yapping. You shouldn¡¯t even open your mouth without your Master¡¯s permission.¡±


    Apacci headbutted her back, starting a battle of headbutts like a bunch of unruly kids. Thankfully, he was there to break them up.


    ¡°Girls, girls. I don¡¯t have much time. Let¡¯s not waste it on fighting.¡±


    Cirucci hugged him from behind. ¡°Only whores fight with their mouths. Real ladies solve their issues with swords.¡±


    Kazuya hit her shin with the back of his heel. ¡°Shush. Nobody asked for your wisdom.¡±


    A sadist like her absolutely loved sprinkling oil in the fire and watching it flare even brightly from the distance.


    Cirucci let out a giggle before pressing her head against his back. ¡°I¡¯m glad you returned safely.¡±


    ¡°What she said,¡± Apacci said from the middle, her arms tightening around his waist. ¡°I¡¯m pissed I couldn¡¯t be at your side.¡±


    ¡°It was just a warm-up. The real battles will be coming up. That¡¯s where I¡¯ll have you fight for me like a slave.¡±


    Apacci gulped before nodding her head like a duckling. His words had stroked a part of her heart that she was quite unfamiliar with. Her ¡®Devotion¡¯ Aspect of Death gave her incredible satisfaction to do things for him. Even being called his slave made her feel fulfilled. ¡°I¡¯ll give it my all. This maid will pop those skulls like balloons!¡±


    ¡°And this lioness will crush them like bugs under my feet.¡±


    The two were genuinely pumped to finally fight for him. Having a peaceful life was a blessing for them, but it also suppressed their natural fighting instincts as a Hollow. Today, all of their pent-up fighting spirit would be unleashed upon Las Noches. He felt a little bad for the punishment awaiting the opponents of his ruthless Hollow lovers.


    ¡°Husband,¡± Sung-Sun called from the side before lowering her voice to a whisper. ¡°Did Nelliel expose your secret?¡±


    ¡°Things worked out just fine.¡±


    Sung-Sun nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Husband, check that out.¡±


    He looked over to Nelliel, who was having a face-off with Harribel. Neither woman said a word and simply communicated with their eyes.


    ¡°Is everything alright?¡± Harribel asked. ¡°You look... troubled.¡±


    Harribel saw no signs of physical fatigue in Nelliel¡¯s movements. From her perspective, Nelliel lacked her usual energy. The only girl who could rival Mila Rose¡¯s energy seemed to be going through an inner turmoil, making her look as depressed as Cirucci of the past.


    Nelliel shook her head and revealed a smile. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just a little tired after that fight. Nobody told me Kazuya had a Shinigami friend.¡± She turned to look at him, her eyes sparkling with feigned excitement. ¡°What was that flame scythe you had back there? It looked bizarre and powerful! Fight me using that later!¡±


    Her fake enthusiasm only raised the concern among everyone.


    ¡°The heck happened to her?¡± Mila Rose asked in an exaggerated voice. ¡°Why do I feel like she is trying too hard?¡±


    ¡°Because she is,¡± Sung-Sun whispered, narrowed eyes trying to see through Nelliel. ¡°She is putting on a mask to hide her true feelings. Apacci wasn¡¯t lying.¡±


    ¡°I never do,¡± Apacci said with a rare gentle look. ¡°I feel pity for her... Kazuya¡ªMaster, is there some way we can help her?¡±


    Cirucci perched up on her heels and rested her chin on his shoulder. ¡°I know you can help her in recovering her lost ¡®heart.¡¯ You¡¯re the expert of mending broken hearts.¡±


    Although Sung-Sun and Mila Rose stayed silent, he knew that they shared Cirucci¡¯s feelings on the matter. None of them felt great seeing Nelliel suffer, who was perhaps the only Hollow beside Harribel to become a Vasto Lorde in the unconventional peaceful method.


    ¡°I want to help her,¡± he said with a soft sigh. ¡°This won¡¯t be easy, though. I might need everyone¡¯s help.¡±


    Apacci playfully nudged his abs. ¡°You know this maid will do anything for her Master. Just give me your word.¡±


    ¡°So will this wife,¡± Sung-Sun said coyly. ¡°Anything for my husband.¡±


    Mila Rose sank her fangs in his neck. ¡°All my mate gotta do is ask.¡±


    Cirucci couldn¡¯t help but giggle. ¡°You know I¡¯ll scale nine heavens and earths for her man.¡±


    They all squeezed him together, showering him in love. After the group hug, Mila Rose and Sung-Sun shoved him towards Harribel, who had been watching them with an amused smile.


    He approached Harribel, pulling her into a brief embrace. ¡°Were you worried?¡±


    ¡°When am I not?¡± She shook her head. ¡°Are we leaving now?¡±


    ¡°Not yet. I¡¯ll have to check on my colleague.¡±


    ¡°Just a colleague?¡± Harribel asked, a subtle teasing in her voice. ¡°Or is she...¡±


    ¡°Our relationship is purely professional. Can¡¯t say what the future holds though,¡± he said, rubbing the back of his head. Rather than hiding anything, he openly revealed his honest feelings. ¡°She got beat up pretty bad by Ulquiorra. It bruised her confidence.¡±


    Harribel seemed satisfied with his answer. Reaching into the pocket of her sweatshirt, she pulled out a delicate necklace. Dangling from the silver chain was a sharp, triangular tooth of sky blue hue; the tooth resembled a shark¡¯s, more importantly, it had a clear resemblance to Harribel¡¯s sword arm.


    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful. Did you make it?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t believe me?¡± she asked with a tiny mischievous smile. ¡°Come, I¡¯ll put it for you.¡±


    He leaned down and let her drop the necklace around his neck. She took her sweet time in properly locking the necklace and adjusting his Shihakusho? to hide it from everyone¡¯s view. As the cool metal touched his skin, he felt a subtle pulse of Reiatsu emanating from it. The spiritual energy was soothing, reminiscent of the calm ocean depths ¡ª it was Harribel¡¯s own spiritual energy.


    ¡°Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°I love it. Not as much as I love you though. I love my sweet Tier more than anything in the world.¡±


    She revealed a faint smile, a little touched by his confession. ¡°The necklace also has a special feature. If you imbue it with your Reiatsu, it¡¯ll react and release a wave of our mixed Reiatsu.¡±


    ¡°Let me guess. You can sense that mixed Reiatsu from faraway and rush to my aid.¡±


    She patted his chest as though praising him. ¡°A mother has to look after her lovable son.¡±


    ¡°Appreciated. Anyways, who helped you with this?¡±


    ¡°Lisa. Her experience as a Shinigami really helped... I really couldn¡¯t have made it without her.¡±


    He glanced around the cave once more. ¡°Where is she?¡±


    ¡°She went out for fresh air.¡± Harribel glanced at Sung-Sun, who began whistling like it had nothing to do with her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about Lisa. Go, finish your business.¡±


    Kazuya nodded and let his gaze drift through the cave. Starrk had only glimpsed at him to reassure his safety before he went back to napping. Lilynette was nearby, energetically recounting some old story to Menoly, who seemed absorbed into Lilynette¡¯s dramatic storytelling.


    Menoly looked far more lively than she did in his mansion.


    {Menoly is starting to fit in.}


    ¡®I¡¯m happy for her.¡¯


    Harribel followed his gaze to the duo. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I couldn¡¯t pay much attention to Menoly...¡±


    ¡°Being a teacher is tough, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°A little,¡± she replied with a smile. ¡°Watching those kids grow before my eyes... it¡¯s rewarding for the effort.¡±


    He reached out and placed a hand on her stomach. ¡°Soon you¡¯ll have your own.¡±


    Her gaze softened to an endearing level. ¡°I can¡¯t do it without you, Father.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 299: You Bet

    Chapter 299: You Bet


    In a dark, almost pitch-black cave, Yoruichi was huddled in a corner, finding comfort in the robe of Kazuya¡¯s Shihakusho?. Across from her, Soi Fon leaned against the rough cave wall, staring at the ceiling absentmindedly. Nobody would expect the place these two shared to be deadly silent, yet somehow it was. The recent events had their minds completely distracted.


    Soi Fon let loose a small smile that she herself didn¡¯t notice.


    ¡®He drove them away.¡¯


    The victory hadn''l¡¯t surprised her ¨C she¡¯d learned to expect such things from him, her assigned partner. What had truly shocked her was the centaur-like Arrancar¡¯s devastating attack, the lance that had nearly obliterated Ulquiorra. The destructive power of the lance awed her even now. It was comparable or greater than her Bankai¡¯s missiles.


    ¡°Well, well, well... About time you warmed up to Kazuya,¡± said her ever-so cynical Zanpakuto? Spirit Suzumebachi in quite a friendly tone. ¡°Why the sudden interest in explosives? Still bitter about losing a fight your Bankai could''ve won?¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes flashed with fury. ¡®I lost because Ulquiorra had multiple trump cards up his sleeve,¡¯ she shot back at her Zanpakuto? Spirit. ¡®And your ability failed to kill him.¡¯


    ¡°Think of my poison like a fish swimming through Reishi,¡± Suzumebachi calmly explained. ¡°If the water is too dense, the fish will suffocate like my poison. As Kazuya warned you, Stupid Fon ¨C Ulquiorra was out of your league. Way, way out of your league.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s teeth clenched, unable to argue. Speed, power, Reiatsu ¨C Ulquiorra¡¯s release form had completely outclassed her in every aspect.


    ¡°I will give you credit for moving past your Yoruichi worship and fighting seriously in this battle...¡± Suzumebachi let out a sigh. ¡°Now if only you¡¯d work on that atrocious fashion sense and find yourself a decent man, I¡¯d be the happiest Zanpakuto? Spirit in the world.¡±


    ¡®Shut up,¡¯ Soi Fon snapped. ¡®I don¡¯t need a man. Never have. Never will.¡¯


    Moreover, she had no time for any romance outside of her duties and responsibilities to the Soul Society.


    ¡°Pathetic excuses from an insecure little brat.¡±


    ¡®What did you just call me?!¡¯


    ¡°Your Bankai was your only shot at victory, but your pride got in the way again. Stupid.¡±


    ¡®It¡¯s my code of honor, dumbass. My Bankai goes against everything an assassin should be.¡¯


    Besides, Ulquiorra wouldn¡¯t be stupid enough to stand still in the face of her bankai attack.


    ¡°Hehe... Ahahahaha.¡± Suzumebachi¡¯s cheerful laughter echoed in the chambers of her mind. ¡°You point fingers when you know damn well the reason for Bankai manifesting as a missile launcher, you hot-headed, stubborn, sexually frustrated, borderline gay brat!¡±


    The harsh words left Soi Fon momentarily speechless. Suzumebachi had insulted Soi Fon before but never degraded her to this level. Suzumebachi was in a brutal mood today.


    ¡®What do you hope to achieve from ripping into me like this?¡¯


    ¡°It¡¯s natural for a Zanpakuto? Spirit to see their wielder grow, become stronger and worthy,¡± Suzumebachi said with a sigh like she was a mother frustrated with rebellious daughter. ¡°Your sexual frustration is half the reason for your stagnation. How could you focus on anything with that always sour and frustrated mindset?¡±


    Suzumebachi dug deep into Soi Fon¡¯s biggest insecurity ¡ª her lack of growth in the last decade.


    ¡®You¡¯re just saying it to get me together with a guy. The truth is much more simple. I¡¯ve hit a wall. I¡¯ll need time for a breakthrough.¡¯


    She had broken her limits before. The battle with Ulquiorra had made her realize her lacking aspects, giving her another chance to surpass her current strength. All she needed was a few decades of brutal training.


    ¡°Face the facts, brat. Kazuya has pushed you to improve from the day he spanked your ass in front of hundreds. He is breaking the walls around your heart, brick by brick.¡±


    Soi Fon turned away, her cheeks burning at the memory. The weakling student she had picked from the crown had utterly humiliated her in her expertise. It was an eye-opening experience to say the least.


    ¡°You said you don¡¯t have time for a relationship, right? Be Kazuya¡¯s part-time lover. His mistress. He is the only man who can push to greater heights. He is strong, fast, sensible, caring, and insanely attractive... I¡¯d tell you he was out of your league if I wasn¡¯t on your side.¡±


    Soi Fon sat in stunned silence as her Zanpakuto? Spirit praised Kazuya while simultaneously insulting her. It was a fact that he had cheered for her despite the fact she jumped into the fight to make him eat his words. He had saved her from certain death, even going as far as jumping into a disadvantageous battle to protect her and Yoruichi.


    With all these merits behind him, all her previous grievances with him had faded. Right now, she quite appreciated him and the energy he brought out of Yoruichi.


    ¡®This is all too crazy.¡¯


    Soi Fon shook her head vigorously, nearly getting dizzy from the motion. ¡®He is a sadist scoundrel. He¡¯ll make my life hell.¡¯


    ¡°How could you say that after seeing how he treats Rukia and Momo with your own eyes? Why don¡¯t we bet on that?¡±


    ¡®I don¡¯t gamble.¡¯


    She had been falling too much for these challenges lately. It¡¯d be one thing had she won them all. But no. She had lost every single one. Her losing streak had begun to worry her about her match with Yoruichi. Honestly, she wished to postpone this battle indefinitely until her misfortunes came to an end.


    Suzumebachi chuckled. ¡°Remember that favor you owe me? I¡¯m calling it now. You must take this bet.¡±


    ¡®Remind why I owe you again.¡¯


    ¡°To not abandon your sorry ass high and dry like Rangiku¡¯s Zanpakuto? Spirit. I had the chance to break free, but I chose to stay.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s eyes widened. She had read reports about the invasion, which also detailed Rangiku¡¯s sudden inability to use her Shikai. ¡®If it wasn¡¯t natural, who was responsible?¡¯


    ¡°Some creepy guy. He tried to whisper sweet promises in my ears. He didn¡¯t know I was already used to Kazuya¡¯s voice. Ahhh, his voice is holy. If you become his girlfriend, I¡¯d make him sing me a song everyday.¡±


    Soi Fon made a mental note to investigate further later. ¡®Fine, let¡¯s bet. If Kazuya bullies me or mocks me in any way, you lose that favor.¡¯


    ¡°And if I win, you¡¯ll ask him out on a date.¡±


    ¡®I know him better than you do. He is a jerk who likes to tease women. As if he could get rid of his urges to make fun of me after my loss.¡¯


    ¡°We¡¯ll see soon.¡±


    Breaking from her internal dialogue, Soi Fon glanced at her former mentor. ¡°Yoruichi-sama, Kazuya is taking his sweet time. Is he having trouble deciphering your trails?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t leave one,¡± Yoruichi casually replied while dusting the sand off of her tail. ¡°He doesn¡¯t need any.¡±


    ¡°Is he omniscient?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then how will he find us through this Reiatsu-blocking kido??!¡± Soi Fon almost lost her calm at Yoruichi¡¯s careless reply.


    Yoruichi reached up and patted the dust from her cat ears. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. He¡¯ll feel out my heartbeat. Silly guy is too infatuated with me.¡±


    ¡°...¡±

 Chapter 300: This is Sparta!

    Chapter 300: This is Sparta!


    When Kazuya walked into the cave, he saw Yoruichi¡¯s golden eyes glowing in the dark like a cat. She walked up to him, took off her robe, and put it around him.


    ¡°It did its job¡ª¡± Her words were cut short when he gently tilted her chin and pecked her lips. The gesture was so swift and unexpected that it took her a moment to process what had happened.


    She stared at him, speechless, before bursting into laughter. ¡°You caught me by surprise. I¡¯ll let this one slide.¡±


    ¡°Haha. The worries for your husband made you sluggish. I knew I could steal one.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re quite clever for a man of your size.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not that tall. You¡¯re just a shortie.¡± He placed a hand on her head and patted her cat ears. ¡°Doesn¡¯t make me love you less, though.¡±


    She slapped his hand away before gesturing to Soi Fon with meaningful glances. He nodded his head in understanding.


    As she transformed into her cat form, he moved to sit beside Soi Fon. ¡°Let me use Kaido on you.¡±


    Yoruichi hadn¡¯t used enough Kaido to completely heal Soi Fon. The petite assassin wasn¡¯t in her top condition, both physically and mentally.


    Sou Fon turned her head away. ¡°Just say what you¡¯re thinking. I know you¡¯re dying to spit in my face for my loss.¡±


    His lips curved into a gentle smile. ¡°And why would I do that?¡±


    ¡°Because I boasted I¡¯ll beat Ulquiorra. I couldn¡¯t. Then you had to intervene and save me. I was all bark no bite... my arrogance is making me mad; it must have pissed you off too, right?¡±


    ¡°You put up a phenomenal fight. Only a loser will dismiss your effort.¡±


    Soi Fon whipped her head around to stare at him. The wide-eyed ¡®Why do you have to do this?¡¯ look on her face puzzled him. ¡°Stop saying stuff you don¡¯t mean. Deep down in your heart, you look down on me for challenging Ulquiorra. I¡¯m the least deserving Captain in your eyes... Just be honest with me ¡ª I can handle it.¡±


    Kazuya studied her carefully, noting how she seemed almost desperate for his criticism, desperate for him to bully her. However, he had no intention to say anything mean out of pure respect. Even when Ulquiorra was about to kill her, she hadn¡¯t begged for help. She¡¯d been ready to accept the consequences of defeat with dignity.


    ¡°Well, the only aspect I can criticize about you is your impatience,¡± he said thoughtfully. ¡°But even that might be unfair. You needed to end the battle quickly before Ulquiorra wore you down. A Vasto Lorde Arrancar will always have better endurance than a Shinigami.¡±


    Soi Fon¡¯s shoulders slumped in defeat. ¡°Why is it like this...?¡±


    ¡°Why do you want me to be mean? Have you finally accepted your masochism?¡± He narrowed his eyes sharply. ¡°Or you made a bet with someone that I¡¯ll bully you?¡±


    The slight flicker in her expression confirmed his suspicion ¡ª she had made a bet with either Yoruichi or her Zanpakuto? Spirit. With how unconcerned Yoruichi seemed about their conversation, his judgment leaned toward Suzumebachi.


    Soi Fon buried her face in her knees, refusing to meet his gaze.


    He glanced at Yoruichi. ¡°Yor, did something happen when I wasn¡¯t around?¡±


    ¡°Nothing worth mentioning,¡± Yoruichi replied lazily. ¡°Fon Fon probably lost her marbles from that fight.¡±


    He looked between the two before shaking his head slightly. ¡°I¡¯ll head out for a bit. Stay together, alright?¡±


    ¡°Take care.¡± Yoruichi let out a yawn. ¡°I was going to take a nap anyway.¡±


    Soi Fon waved her hand without bothering to lift her gaze from her knees.


    ...


    Rangiku Matsumoto strolled through the quiet corridors of the 4th Squad¡¯s barracks, her wooden sandals clacking softly against the floors. She hummed a light tune, her long blonde hair swaying with each step. Her spirit had greatly reinvigorated ever since the incident at Karakura Town. The missing Zanpakuto? Spirit couldn¡¯t dampen her mood. It wasn¡¯t like she talked to Haineko everyday.


    Today, she was on a mission here¡ªnot an official one, of course. She came to meet Kazuya and convince him to brew her a serving or two of his delightfully delicious tea. Slacking off in good company was always better than doing it alone. She¡¯d use this chance to improve her relationship with him. Captain Shiba had already voiced his decision to make Kazuya the next captain of the 10th Squad. With his support, she¡¯d get even more chances to procrastinate on her work.


    It was all for the sake of lazing around.


    She cheerfully climbed the stairs and slid open the door to Unohana¡¯s office. Unohana sat there with her usual serene smile, hands folded neatly in her lap. She was the picture of Japanese beauty.


    Isane Kotetsu fidgeted slightly, tucking a stray lock of silver hair behind her ear, her eyes darting between Unohana and Rangiku.


    Momo Hinamori sat nearby, absentmindedly tracing patterns on the low table with her finger, clearly lost in her thoughts.


    Near the window, Rukia Kuchiki leaned with her arms crossed tightly over her chest. Her knitted brows revealed her frustrated state as she gazed out of the window.


    Rangiku knocked on the wall. ¡°Oh my, a gathering and I wasn¡¯t invited.¡±


    Unohana inclined her head gently. ¡°Matsumoto-san, welcome.¡±


    ¡°I was in the neighborhood,¡± Rangiku replied with a casual shrug. ¡°Thought I¡¯d drop by and see Kazuya and Isane.¡±


    Isane glanced at Unohana before speaking softly. ¡°He isn¡¯t here right now.¡±


    Rangiku raised an eyebrow, noticing the slight shift in the room¡¯s atmosphere at the mention of Kazuya¡¯s name. Rukia and Momo dropped their previous attitude and shifted their attention to her. ¡°Where is he then?¡±


    ¡°He went on a confidential assignment,¡± Unohana said dismissively, her eyes closing as if she wanted this to be her final answer. ¡°I¡¯m not at liberty to discuss his whereabouts.¡±


    The mention of a ¡®confidential assignment¡¯ made Rangiku¡¯s eyes lit up like a starving cat who finally stumbled into a mouse. ¡°Not even to me?¡±


    ¡°Only those permitted by Captain Commander are.¡±


    ¡°Come now, Unohana-san,¡± Rangiku purred, leaning forward slightly. ¡°I thought we were like friends. Are you forgetting the drinks we shared on those moonlit nights? Is this all the time we shared amounts to?¡±


    A gentle, almost imperceptible smile played on Unohana¡¯s lips. ¡°Matsumoto-san, there are boundaries that must be respected between our personal and professional lives.¡±


    Rangiku¡¯s playful manipulation failed to stir anything in the ever-so gently smiling Unohana. She felt like she was looking at an empathyless demon rather than the most gentle healer of the 4th Squad.


    ¡®Always knew she was a bit of a demon.¡¯

 Chapter 301: Disruption

    Chapter 301: Disruption


    Rangiku clicked her tongue and turned to Isane. Her friend rubbed the back of her head sheepishly. Isane said nothing, however, Rangiku knew the silver-haired woman wouldn¡¯t open her mouth around Unohana.


    ¡®I¡¯ll have to invite her out for lunch.¡¯


    Before she could extend the invitation, Rukia walked up to Isane and tugged at her sleeve. ¡°Why bring us here? He shouldn¡¯t bother with us when he can¡¯t explain anything himself.¡±


    Rangiku cracked a smile at Rukia¡¯s attempt to use manipulation tactics on Isane, or perhaps Rukia acted this way out of deep emotions. ¡°Yeah, he is prioritizing his duty over his family. Does he not know family is the greatest thing in the whole universe?¡±


    She decided to spice up the drama, hoping Kazuya¡¯s location would come out of it, or at least the nature of his confidential assignment.


    ¡°F-Family?¡± Rukia stuttered, her cheeks flushing. Her eyes darted to Rangiku''s generous chest before she crossed her arms defensively. ¡°I¡¯m not¡ª We¡¯re not like¡ª why are you driving a wedge between us? Are you also...?¡±


    Rangiku couldn''t help but giggle at the younger woman¡¯s flustered reaction. ¡°No need to be so defensive, sweetie. We¡¯re just friends. You know the type of friends who get sweaty with each other,¡± she winked mischievously before giggling. ¡°Just kidding. But then again, I won¡¯t mind being something to him. His tea is out of this world.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s eyes widened, and she took a half-step back before making a full dive into Momo¡¯s chest. ¡°This lady is dangerous. We can¡¯t let her take Kazuya. He¡¯ll never be the same again.¡±


    Momo wrapped an arm around Rukia protectively and stroked her back. ¡°There, there, Rukia. Those boobies are just lumps of fat. We can¡¯t let them intimidate us.¡±


    ¡°But she has a point...¡± Rukia admitted quietly. ¡°I know I say some stupid stuff to him, but I care about him. Leaving us like that isn¡¯t funny... it¡¯s like he doesn¡¯t want us around him.¡±


    ¡°Kazuya-kun asked Isane-san to bring us here,¡± Momo reasoned gently. ¡°He¡¯s trying to protect us while he¡¯s away. You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    ¡°Whenever he gets back, I¡¯ll have my revenge. You¡¯ll grab him from behind, and I¡¯ll punch him like he is one of those wooden dummies. Or better yet, we¡¯ll tie him to the bed and tickle him until he begs pathetically.¡±


    Rukia already began making plans for revenge.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got it wrong, Rukia!¡± Isane interjected, flustered by Rukia¡¯s increasingly elaborate revenge plans. ¡°Kazuya was pressed for time.¡±


    ¡°Did you forget he can flash-step to the academy in minutes?¡± Rukia looked back at Isane with venom in her eyes. ¡°I bet he was probably sleeping around with Yoruichi.¡±


    ¡°Yoruichi?¡± Rangiku¡¯s eyes narrowed like a hawk at the familiar name. ¡°Yoruichi Shiho?in, the former leader of Onmitsukido??¡±


    Rukia scoffed, looking at Rangiku as if she was stupid. ¡°That lazy freeloader? I¡¯ll eat my socks if Yoruichi turns out to be a Captain of the assassin squad.¡±


    ¡°Makes sense. Last I heard Yoruichi was exiled from the Soul Society. I didn¡¯t expect anyone else to share such a rare name.¡±


    While Rukia dismissed Rangiku¡¯s words, Momo¡¯s gleaming eyes took notice of everything. Momo knew how Yoruichi never showed her true self in front of outsiders, as though she was hiding herself.


    Isane gently poked Rukia¡¯s elbow. ¡°Who is this Yoruichi? If you don¡¯t mind me asking...¡±


    ¡°Kazuya¡¯s roommate and the only bad influence in his life,¡± Rukia said with a huff before her voice softened. ¡°Isane-san... is this mission dangerous?¡±


    Although she put up an angry front, there was no denying the concern in her voice. She hoped to understand the situation better.


    Isane studied their worried faces for a long moment before letting out a deep sigh. ¡°He has gone to Hueco Mundo. That¡¯s all I know.¡±


    After revealing the secret, she glanced at Unohana. Her Captain didn¡¯t look the slightest bit offended.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Captain, but it didn¡¯t feel right. He either should have told no one or all of us,¡± Isane said in a voice firmer than usual. ¡°They''re his family ¨C they deserve to know.¡±


    Unohana smiled softly. ¡°You still have much to learn in the way of duties and responsibilities.¡±


    Isane bowed her head. ¡°Yes, Captain. I¡¯ll do better in the future.¡±


    ¡°Wait!¡± Rukia broke away from Momo and stared at Isane. ¡°That¡¯s the world of Hollows. Why is he there?!¡± She turned back to Momo. ¡°Why are you so calm about it?!¡±


    Rukia grabbed Momo¡¯s kimono and shook her in a frenzy. She was freaking out, panicking over the possibility that some accident would happen to Kazuya in Hueco Mundo. She was confident in his strength, but she could not believe he could fight the whole world on his own.


    Momo clasped Rukia¡¯s hands. ¡°Kazuya-kun wouldn¡¯t have gone without ample preparations. He¡¯ll be back before long.¡±


    Taking a deep breath, Rukia felt some of the tension leave her shoulders. Momo¡¯s steady demeanor had a calming effect. ¡°I just... I can¡¯t help worrying about him,¡± she admitted. ¡°Why do I overreact when you¡¯re the one obsessed with him?¡±


    ¡°Because you love him too. You just have a hard time expressing those feelings.¡± Momo drew closer, whispering. ¡°Except when you and him are naked together. Then you get all lovey-dovey.¡±


    Rukia¡¯s cheeks flushed a delicate shade of pink. ¡°S-Stop lying! I never did that!¡±


    Momo couldn¡¯t help but giggle at her friend¡¯s adorable reaction. ¡°Rukia is quite shy when it comes to love.¡±


    Rangiku watched Momo and Rukia with a surprised face. ¡°You¡¯re really close. He is one lucky man to have you two.¡±


    ¡°Three actually,¡± Momo said, glancing at Isane with a mean smile. ¡°Isane-san is one of us.¡±


    Isane, who had been standing quietly by Unohana¡¯s side, frantically waved her hands, trying to keep things under wraps. ¡°T-There¡¯s nothing like that between us!¡±


    Rukia¡¯s eyes narrowed ever so slightly. ¡°You¡¯re lying.¡±


    Isane hesitated, her hands fiddling with the sleeves of her uniform. ¡°I... well...¡± she stammered, her gaze dropping to the floor. ¡°When he confessed his feelings to me, I didn¡¯t know what to say at first. But... I couldn¡¯t turn him down.¡±


    Rukia scoffed. ¡°Did he pressure you into it?¡±


    The Vice-Captain looked up in surprise. ¡°No, I accepted it because... uh... I-I really like him.¡±


    Rukia nodded and exchanged a glance with Momo before her steely gaze softened. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Isane-san. We¡¯re not upset.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re happy for you!¡± Momo spoke cheerfully. ¡°Rukia Nee-san looks tough on the outside, but her heart is like melon bread. All soft, warm, and fluffy.¡±


    A look of relief crossed Isane¡¯s face. ¡°Thanks... I was worried it¡¯ll bother you.¡±


    Momo waved her hand before leaning her head on Rukia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Rukia, I want to support Kazuya-kun in every decision.¡±


    ¡°Unless that decision is to cut you off,¡± Rukia said with a troubled frown. ¡°All hell will let loose in the Soul Society if he dumps you.¡±


    Momo bit Rukia¡¯s shoulder, making her yelp. ¡°Don¡¯t pick on me, Nee-san.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll not only pick on you, today, I¡¯ll tickle you to death!¡±


    The two began wrestling and trying to outdo the other in tickling each other. That was until Momo got Rukia in her special ankle lock, forcing Rukia to surrender miserably.


    Rangiku applauded the victor, hyping her up while Rukia sobbed and rubbed her aching ankle. Her friend truly loved to bully her.


    ¡°Darn it,¡± Rangiku grumbled after a while. ¡°I was supposed to be the wingwoman between you and Kazuya.¡±


    She had prepared to extort a few favors out of Kazuya for getting him together with Isane. Now, she lost the opportunity.


    Isane raised her brows in surprise. ¡°I¡¯m happy it didn¡¯t come to that. What happened between us felt more... natural.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t say. The destination is the same regardless of the path you take. The destination in this case is you wearing Shiro-muku, the white kimono. All three of you.¡± Rangiku observed the three women while nodding to herself. ¡°I can already imagine three gorgeous ladies in those bride dresses.¡±


    Isane turned red, and so did Rukia. The two tried to dispute that this wedding won¡¯t happen, but Rangiku kept ignoring the two and giggling, making the two all the more flustered. Momo grabbed the two and left the room, using this chance to bond with her new family member.


    As silence fell in the room, Rangiku gazed at the door with a distant look. ¡°The kid sure is making strides in both personal and professional life. I just hope he doesn¡¯t let it get to his head.¡±


    The Soul Society needed more talented and unpretentious people like him. More importantly, she didn¡¯t want Kazuya to be a repeat of Gin, who had become an entirely different man.


    Unohana smiled. ¡°I¡¯m training him for that very reason.¡±


    ¡°Hah, you finally revealed your true motives! You cunning woman, you¡¯ve been grooming him to be your ideal man all along, haven¡¯t you? The saying about old ginger being the spiciest actually turned out to be true.¡±


    ¡°...¡±


    Rangiku chuckled. ¡°I wasn¡¯t serious... unless you really are grooming him.¡±


    ¡°I am not,¡± Unohana replied firmly, shaking her head. ¡°He is Isane¡¯s man. I have no desire to steal him.¡±


    Rangiku looked into Unohana¡¯s eyes, her lips slowly twisting into a wide smirk. ¡°So you don¡¯t mind if I¡ª¡±


    A sudden tremor shook the floor beneath them, then a faint sound of explosion reached them.


    ¡°Dammit, who is seeking their death?¡± Rangiku moved swiftly to the window. Her eyes widened at the sight of dark smoke spiraling into the sky. ¡°Look, Unohana.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s coming from So?kyoku Hill...¡± Unohana said. ¡°It should be visible across the whole Seireitei.¡±


    ¡°So?kyoku Hill is a site for execution. Who would blow up anything there?¡±


    The black smoke reflected in Unohana¡¯s eyes as she spoke, ¡°Someone with dangerous intentions. Matsumoto-san, will you accompany me there?¡±


    Rangiku adjusted her haori with a smile. ¡°Oh my. I¡¯d be a fool to reject a date with Captain Unohana. Just give me a moment to grab my sandals.¡±

 Chapter 302: Rebellion

    Chapter 302: Rebellion


    Normally, Captain Retsu Unohana would have soared to So?kyoku Hill on the back of her Zanpakuto?, Minazuki, or used Flash Step to make her journey swift. But Minazuki no longer listened to her. That, combined with the presence of Rukia and Momo by her side left her with no choice but to make the journey on foot. Long corridors and winding stairs took them through Senzaikyu?, the prison for criminals awaiting their execution. Currently, no prisoner was held here.


    Once they exited Senzaikyu?, they stepped onto a wide, open bridge leading to So?kyoku Hill. At its far end a massive scaffold was set. Unohana saw many familiar faces around the hill. Captain Ju?shiro? Ukitake, Captain Sajin Komamura, Captain Shunsui Kyo?raku, Captain Shiba Isshin, Vice-Captain Madarame Ikkaku, Vice-Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, and Vice-Captain Kaien Shiba were all there, talking in hushed whispers.


    ¡°So many high-profile Shinigami in one spot,¡± Rukia murmured under her breath, sounding a little overwhelmed. Her eyes darted between the captains. ¡°Kazuya is a high-profile Shinigami, too, come to think of¡ªow!¡± She yelped when Momo smacked the back of her head. ¡°What was that for?!¡±


    Fluttering her eyelashes innocently, Momo gave Rukia a playful pout. ¡°Rukia-chan, I love you. But I can¡¯t let you go unpunished for reminding me of Kazuya-kun. Now I¡¯m missing him.¡±


    Rukia rubbed the back of her head. ¡°Isn¡¯t your head always full of him, anyway?¡±


    ¡°I think about other people sometimes...¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking away? Have a straight face if you¡¯re telling the truth!¡±


    Momo cleared her throat. ¡°Rukia-chan, did you know Sokyoku Hill is an execution site for high-level offenders?¡±


    ¡°It is!¡± Isane chimed in, helping Momo distract Rukia. ¡°I never want to be on the receiving end of So?kyoku¡¯s fury. It¡¯s said to have the destructive power of a million Zanpakuto? combined.¡±


    ¡°Avoiding an execution here is as simple as leading a crimless life,¡± Unohana said, feeling like she¡¯d be the last person lecturing others to avoid the life of crimes. ¡°I trust Kazuya won¡¯t let you do anything drastic...¡±


    Unless you do it to the man himself ¡ª Unohana kept those words to herself. Calling Momo out was simply useless as both her and the target of her obsession had long accepted this out-of-line behavior. Kazuya had a different mindset, though it was only because of this mindset she had found someone who showed no disgust for her bloodlust.


    ¡°These two wouldn¡¯t hurt a fly,¡± stated Rangiku Matsumoto, who had suddenly fallen in step beside them. Her teasing glance drifted playfully over to Momo and Rukia. ¡°Anyway, let me introduce you two to Captain Shiba. That spiky-haired man over there is him.¡±


    She gave a short wave. However, Isshin seemed too absorbed in his discussion with Kaien to notice her.


    Momo straightened her back and bobbed her head politely. ¡°He is one of the nicest people around.¡±


    She had bonded with only a few people. Isshin was one of those rare ones due to his open kindness.


    Rangiku looked confused before the realization settled in her. ¡°Oh, right! You stayed at Ku?kaku¡¯s before your academy entrance. That lady makes fireworks with the temper of one. Did she give you a hard time?¡±


    ¡°No. She is very sweet if you don¡¯t step on her toes,¡± Momo said with a soft giggle, recalling Kazuya teasing Ku?kaku to the point she chased after him with a sword. ¡°Kazuya-kun gave her a hard time.¡±


    Rangiku could hardly keep her laughter in check. ¡°Ku?kaku getting bullied. Never thought it¡¯d happen in a million years. Ahhh, if only you invited me to that grand experience.¡±


    Rukia stood confused by Momo¡¯s side, absorbing the conversation with wide eyes. She knew little about Ku?kaku¡ªand even less about the shenanigans that had happened in the 1st District¡ªso she tugged on Momo¡¯s sleeve. Momo happily filled her in on her stay at Ku?kaku¡¯s place, though Rukia kept craning her neck at the gathering of captains as if wanting to meet them.


    Eventually, Rangiku decided she had waited long enough. She cupped her hands around her mouth and hollered in Isshin¡¯s direction, prompting Isshin and Kaien to break away from their circle and approach her. Everyone behind the pair acknowledged Unohana with respectful nods. The respect and fear Unohana had in the Gotei 13 simply couldn¡¯t be put into words.


    ¡°Momo-chan, Isane-chan, Captain Unohana!¡± He placed a finger on his chin and examined Rukia. ¡°That uniform... black hair... Byakuya¡¯s sister-in-law, right? Rukia-chan?¡±


    Rukia straightened abruptly, almost saluting in reflex. ¡°Yes, Captain Shiba.¡±


    ¡°No need to stand on formality,¡± Kaien said, turning to Unohana. ¡°Captain Unohana, where is Kazuya?¡±


    ¡°On a trip,¡± Unohana calmly replied. ¡°Captain Shiba, any leads on the culprit behind the incident?¡±


    Isshin furrowed his brows. ¡°None. The guards arrived here in seconds. They found no one... It¡¯s strange.¡±


    Unohana inclined her head. A nagging suspicion about Aizen tugged at the back of her mind, though she hoped for this to be merely an accident¡ªone that didn¡¯t involve either Aizen or any of his grand plots.


    Isshin snapped his attention to Rangiku, resting a broad hand on her shoulder. ¡°I remember giving you a task. Why has Kazuya not reported yet?¡±


    ¡°Captain,¡± Rangiku said, forcing a bright laugh. ¡°He needs some time to settle down in the fourth division. He¡¯ll show up soon. Promise.¡±


    She told lies with a brave face, quite confident in her ability to invite Kazuya. A penetrating gaze bore a hole in her back¡ªUnohana wasn¡¯t pleased with Rangiku¡¯s attempt to poach her best Shinigami and her pupil.


    ¡°Sorry, Unohana-san, Isane. Have to follow orders.¡±


    Isane rubbed the back of her head. ¡°Just don¡¯t ask him to be exclusive. We need him too.¡±


    ¡°¡®We¡¯? Don¡¯t you mean ¡®you¡¯?¡±


    Isane blushed. ¡°Stop messing with me.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha.¡±


    Isshin was too dense to pick up any hints from the not-so-subtle conversation between Rangiku and Isane. He clapped his hands. ¡°Good job, Vice-Captain. You might be lazy, but you always get the work done. You¡¯re quite reliable in a sense.¡±


    Rangiku smiled foxily. ¡°Does that mean I can take the next week off, Captain~?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Isshin shot down her hope in an instant. ¡°You can have a day off. It¡¯s the most we can afford in these times.¡±


    Rangiku threw her arms in the air, her jiggling breasts making her grown-up captain blush like a maiden. She was too lost in her bubble of happiness to notice her captain¡¯s reaction. ¡°I¡¯ll take it.¡±


    ¡°She calls herself a responsible adult,¡± Rukia whispered, shaking her head. ¡°Hmph, all big-breasted girls are stupid like her.¡±


    Momo, close enough to catch the complaint, felt like she was listening to Shiro grumble about his archnemesis ¡ª big breasts. ¡°Don¡¯t judge girls by their breasts, or you¡¯ll become a ¡®breastist.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Eh, it¡¯s not the time to make boob jokes. This situation is quite grave.¡±


    As their chatter died down, Isshin reminded Rangiku to return to the division office before he gave a small farewell wave. He then strode off to handle more pressing matters like napping under a tree, napping in his office, or napping at his home. Kaien offered a polite nod to Unohana before jogging after his uncle. He, too, was off to spend some sweet time with his wife.


    Moments later, Captain Shunsui Kyo?raku approached Unohana and her companions as though he was waiting for Isshin to leave. He tipped his straw hat in greeting, though the many lines of strain on his brow indicated his easy smile was mostly for show.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Hinamori-chan. Kuchiki-san,¡± Shunsui greeted warmly. ¡°It¡¯s wonderful to meet Kazuya-kun¡¯s, ah... official girlfriends.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡ªofficial? Does he have ¡®unofficial¡¯ girlfriends out there too?!¡± She started chewing her thumb¡¯s nail in frustration. ¡°Of course there are. Ugh, why can¡¯t he be content? That slimy¡ª¡±


    Momo quickly placed a hand on Rukia¡¯s back, patting it as if trying to calm a pet. ¡°Deep breaths, Rukia-chan.¡±


    ¡°I am! How could I survive without breathing?!¡± Rukia huffed. ¡°I¡¯ll get him to list everyone, official or not.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s the spirit,¡± Momo said before bowing her head to Shunsui. ¡°I apologize for my friend¡¯s erratic behavior. She tends to lose her reasoning without kissing Kazuya-kun every morning... Love has made her like this.¡±


    Rukia looked mortified. ¡°S-Stop making me sound insane.¡±


    Shunsui got a good chuckle out of their interesting relationship. ¡°Me and Jushiro used to be like that in our academy days... those days when Dai-Senpai used to lecture me to overcome my laziness and put more effort into training.¡±


    He had gone from a juvenile rookie to a veteran Shinigami in those years, but Unohana¡¯s role had remained the captain of the 4th Squad.


    Rukia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Unohana Nee-sama is that old?¡±


    ¡°That amazes you?¡± Unohana asked with a chuckle. ¡°Captain Commander has been leading the Gotei 13 ever since its establishment over two thousand years ago. He¡¯s much older than me.¡±


    Unohana wasn¡¯t the type to shy from admitting her age. She¡¯d be quite relieved if Kazuya could accept it too and give up on the idea of being with her. But she knew he wasn¡¯t going to.


    ¡°I knew that from the academy... Still amazes me that people that old are so powerful.¡±


    Momo nudged Rukia playfully. ¡°We¡¯ll be too if we stick with Kazuya-kun.¡±


    Rukia crossed her arms and looked away. ¡°I don¡¯t know. He¡¯ll probably ditch us before that.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll never do it. Let¡¯s ask, Isane Nee-san.¡±


    Isane¡¯s cheeks flushed from the endearing way Momo addressed her. Even her blood sister never added this sweetness in her voice. ¡°Y-Yeah, Kazuya-kun won¡¯t. I¡¯m sure of it.¡±


    ¡°See!¡±


    Rukia pouted. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it.¡±


    While the two bickered, Shunsui motioned Unohana aside, and they stepped a little ways from the group¡ªjust far enough for a private conversation.


    ¡°It happened the day Kazuya left,¡± Shunsui whispered. ¡°Do you think he is behind that?¡±


    Shunsui, who knew everything about Aizen from his trip to Living World, immediately made his doubts known to Unohana.


    ¡°It¡¯s entirely possible. A distraction for his plan?¡± She paused, letting out a quiet sigh. ¡°I can¡¯t be sure of his motive, if this is indeed his doing.¡±


    Shunsui narrowed his eyes. ¡°He¡¯s a complicated one.¡±


    Unohana glanced over her shoulder, spotting Isane looking her way ¡ª her Vice-Captain had her ears keen for their conversation. Before she could say anything to Isane, a looming shadow crept over them, blocking out the sun.


    A massive manta ray shape had covered the sky out of nowhere, its pale belly descending slowly on the So?kyoku Hill.


    Unohana¡¯s eyes went wide in surprise. ¡°Minazuki...¡±


    It was Minazuki¡¯s physical form expanded to an enormous scale. As it descended, she saw a group of people riding its back, each one radiating an unsettling Reiatsu that she had never felt before. Leading this group was a hunched figure with unnervingly long nails that clicked together in an ear-grating noise.


    His pale face curved in a smirk. ¡°Zanpakuto? Spirits, let the rebellion begin.¡±

 Chapter 303-304: Prelude

    Chapter 303-304: Prelude


    Kazuya arrived on a hill overlooking Las Noches from a distance. Under Barragan¡¯s reign Las Noches was just an open court. Aizen had made some huge changes. Now Las Noches was a massive dome-shaped fortress, so grand and majestic that most Hollows would feel scared to approach it.


    Behind him, Apacci folded her arms. ¡°It¡¯s almost a shame this is about to get flattened.¡±


    Her voice was laced with the smallest hint of regret that anyone could feel.


    ¡°War rarely respects beauty,¡± Sung-Sun remarked, lifting a sleeve to cover her sadistic smile. ¡°Husband, the stage is set. Go ahead and start the show.¡±


    A gentle tap on his shoulder came from Harribel, who offered him a solemn nod of encouragement. Her calm gaze held a confidence that everything would turn out fine. ¡°Go on. I¡¯ll handle the rest.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t doubt that,¡± Kazuya said, tugging at his blindfold. ¡°Nami, Tsubasa, don¡¯t let me down.¡±


    He disregarded the need to switch to his female form since he¡¯d be spending all the time in his armor and Harribel would be responsible for everything else. He was simply there to enact the laws of death and life of his Resurreccio?n. As a straight man, he had to avoid using his other form as much as possible.


    {The only time I¡¯ll ever let someone down is into their coffin.}


    ¡°Izanami speaks the truth,¡± Tsubasa said. ¡°Nami enhanced my form. I¡¯ll enhance hers with my flames of protection.¡±


    He nodded and stepped forward, soaring upward with his Soni?do. He stopped on a hill right next to Las Noches. His first plan had been to rip the tree straight out of Las Noches¡¯ center, but it¡¯d kill quite a few. He did promise Harribel that he wouldn¡¯t kill meaninglessly.


    ¡°Sing, Phenex (Great Demon Poet).¡±


    The blindfold left his hand, and a beam of scorching light flared, carving through Hueco Mundo and completely engulfing him. He emerged from the flames, donning a deep black and muted red armor and white-scarlet red cloak.


    ¡°Father, I¡¯ll protect you.¡±


    The white cloak gently wrapped around him, its folds rippling as if it was alive. Tsubasa now resided in it. Nami, as usual, possessed his armor.


    {No protection. Only violence and destruction.}


    He exhaled, suppressing the internal chatter in his mind. His attention went to the ground below. Extending a gauntlet-covered hand, he commanded the Divine Tree of Samsara to emerge. The tree burst through the sand, its coiling roots gripping and solidifying Hueco Mundo¡¯s ashes. The air was immediately filled with its stench of death.


    ¡°Nami, you stink.¡± Tsubasa laughed. ¡°Have you not bathed in weeks?¡±


    {Little Tsu is trying humor. How adorable.}


    ¡°I¡¯m deathly serious. Go shower¡ªnow.¡±


    {...}


    Kazuya reached out to the tree, watching it unfurl its branches in shapes reminiscent of an immense phoenix¡¯s wings. Three main branches swelled at the center, each with a precious golden gem at its tip. Each gem carried countless threads to connect a being to the tree and enact its laws upon them.


    Kazuya flew to the highest branch, taking a vantage point. ¡®Tsubasa, what does your cloak offer?¡¯


    The cloak came to life and covered his whole body.


    ¡°Like my shield, this is absolute defense. I¡¯ll reject any harm.¡±


    ¡®Absolute defense. Crazy offense... Aren¡¯t I the final boss in this form?¡¯


    {Why would you hide behind a shield, when you could wreak havoc on the battlefield?}


    ¡°Because brute force alone is mindless. Have you forgotten about Yammy?¡±


    Kazuya let out a silent laugh. ¡®You both have a point. We¡¯ll call it a tie.¡¯


    Down below, Harribel drew her broader-than-average Zanpakuto? from its ornate sheath.


    ¡°Hunt, Tiburo?n.¡±


    A heart-shaped cocoon of water enveloped her as Harribel released her Resurreccio?n. She cut herself out of the watery cocoon, the water crashing into the sands like a flood. Despite unleashing her Resurreccio?n¡¯s power, she retained her elegant, queenly white dress rather than the scant battle armor.


    {This suits her current role.}


    ¡®She looks good in anything.¡¯


    {Partner is a lovestruck fool. At least you¡¯re my lovestruck fool.}


    A raise of Harribel¡¯s arm compelled the spilled water to form a whirling surge under her feet. She stabbed her Zanpakuto? in the water, letting it carry her to closer to the gates of Las Noches.


    ¡°Las Noches, hear me! I, Harribel, declare war upon you,¡± she spoke calmly, yet her Reiatsu carried her voice to every nook and cranny of Las Noches. ¡°Should anyone surrender, my army will welcome you in the kingdom I will build upon the ruins of Las Noches.¡±


    Her allies took that as a cue, each unleashing their own spiritual pressure, merging into a wave that did far more than just intimidate¡ªmany lesser Arrancar and Hollows immediately lost their willpower to fight back and many even lost their consciousness. A majority in Las Noches simply weren¡¯t strong enough to handle the pressure coming from multiple Vasto Lorde and Adjuchas.


    Crossing her arms over her chest, Harribel added softly, ¡°I will protect every Hollow, no matter how weak or strong they are. Give me a chance to save you... Let me save Hueco Mundo from meaningless sacrifices.¡±


    A hushed silence fell over the entirety of Hueco Mundo until¡ª


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so loud, woman,¡± came a familiar voice of indifference.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t all women loud?¡± added another voice, in a bored, contempt-filled tone. ¡°I agree that this one has got to be silenced.¡±


    The first one to answer Harribel¡¯s war declaration were the duo of Ulquiorra and Yammy. Their hawk-like eyes immediately went to the burning tree and its black-armored guardian.


    ¡°You¡¯re back...¡± Ulquiorra said, hyperfocusing on the Vasto Lorde who had utterly humiliated him in a battle. ¡°We¡¯re not done yet. I want my rematch.¡±


    Kazuya felt no need to respond. He merely tilted his helmet fractionally in acknowledgment. Despite eating a loss at Kazuya¡¯s hands just today, Ulquiorra now wanted to get whipped by Kazuya¡¯s other identity.


    {You never beat him in his Segunda Etapa.}


    ¡®Ah, that¡¯s why he¡¯s getting cocky.¡¯ He had no qualms about humbling Ulquiorra, but it won¡¯t be happening today. ¡®Anyway, Ladies will handle him.¡¯


    {Mistresses.}


    ¡°Mothers?¡±


    {Mommies?}


    ¡°Mothers!¡±


    {Mommies!}


    Kazuya ignored the very complex and high-stakes war of words between his Zanpakuto? Spirits and focused on the battlefield.


    Yammy clamped a large hand on Ulquiorra¡¯s relatively small shoulder, stopping the Arrancar from charging at the tree. ¡°Who the hell is that guy?¡±


    ¡°Leave Cazador,¡± Ulquiorra said, ignoring Yammy¡¯s snarl. The Espada flicked a cold glance at Harribel. ¡°Fight that nuisance or someone else. They¡¯re all strong. The one on the tree is my prey.¡±


    Ulquiorra saw through Yammy¡¯s intention to have another battle to wash away the humiliation from his defeat at Nelliel¡¯s hands.


    A second passed between them in tense silence¡ªYammy clearly eager to fight anything that breathed, but not foolish enough to ignore Ulquiorra¡¯s advice. After all, Yammy had learned the hard way how easily he could be overpowered if he rushed in without caution.


    The tide beneath Harribel lowered until she hovered just above the dust. ¡°Your fight is with me.¡±


    Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun landed on the ground before Harribel. The trio looked ready to rip their Zanpakuto? out on Harribel¡¯s command, oozing that ¡®ready to take on anyone¡¯ confidence, though each expressed it in their own unique way.


    Apacci yanked the collars on her wrists, which took the form of chakrams, three blades protruding from each one. ¡°This maid won¡¯t let you pass.¡±


    Mila Rose put a hand on her Zanpakuto? and the other on her waist, her posture proud and dignified. ¡°This lioness won¡¯t either.¡±


    ¡°These two idiots,¡± Sung-Sun sighed, feigning exasperation. ¡°are my longtime friends. Even if they embarrass me at times, I¡¯ll stick with them. If I don¡¯t set a good example of friendship, who will?¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Who are you calling an idiot?!¡±


    ¡°Ara, should I call you a musclehead?¡±


    ¡°Snake, I¡¯m gonna kill you!!!¡±


    ¡°Stop it, Rose! Sung-Sun, you too!¡± Apacci said, looking fed-up. ¡°Read the mood for once. We¡¯re to fight them, not fight each other.¡±


    Kazuya smiled at the chaotic banter on the otherwise solemn scene. The trio always found a way to make things lively. His happiness all but turned into disgust when he saw a pair of Arrancar strolling out of the fortress. A masculine man came out with the most over dramatic feminine walk. Second was a slim build teen with bangs and a Hollow-mask resembling a tiara on his head, adding more to the ambiguity of his gender.


    ¡®Charlotte and Luppi.¡¯


    Two powerful Arrancar but again not that big of a threat.


    {Femboy and girly gay¡ªa match made in heaven.}


    ¡®Calling him gay is an insult to gay people.¡¯


    {That is true... Let¡¯s just call him the abomination.}


    ¡®Much better.¡¯


    ¡°Ahhh, a gathering of beauties,¡± Charlotte exclaimed, eyelashes fluttering, and he posed grandly with his arms spread wide. ¡°Still, you can¡¯t outshine me. Charlotte, Noveno Espada, is still the most dazzling princess!¡±


    The smaller Arrancar, Luppi, gave a short unimpressed laugh. ¡°You enjoy being a princess. I¡¯m calling dibs on that maid... I¡¯ll riddle her killer feminine body with holes before her master, whoever that loser is.¡±


    Charlotte, as flamboyant and confident as ever, oozed ecstasy from all the attention. Luppi, somehow more repulsive than Charlotte, made devious plans about Apacci. For a moment he did have a desire to mess with Harribel, the most dignified woman on the scene. However, the difference between their Reiatsu was simply too much. So, he ditched any thought of going against Harribel, instead turning his eyes toward the second most desirable target.


    Mila Rose burst into laughter, amused by the conversation between the odd pair. She nudged Apacci¡¯s arm with a mischievous wink. ¡°That guy said you have a killer body. I could never.¡±


    Apacci rolled her eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t care what that sissy twerp says. He is too weak to pose a challenge to me.¡±


    She clearly had better things to do, like picking a fight with someone actually worth her time. Someone like Ulquiorra, whose Reiatsu gave her shivers.


    ¡°Weak?!¡± Luppi¡¯s voice trembled with pure rage. ¡°Listen up, you worthless cow¡ªcow maid. You¡¯re the weak one to walk around as a loyal, submissive bitch maid, and you have the audacity to call me weak.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s face flashed with fury. ¡°Shut your mouth, or I¡¯ll kick your butt, you half-assed feminine boy.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s short temper could only handle so many insults at once. Forgetting about Ulquiorra, she changed her plans to beat the crap out of Luppi.


    ¡°Feminine boy,¡± Mila Rose whispered. ¡°Femboy?¡±


    ¡°I mean that femboy¡¯s got a point,¡± Sung-Sun murmured with a side-eyed glance before pointing to the south, a stretch of empty desert like every other scene in Hueco Mundo. ¡°Why don¡¯t you take him there for a fight? You won¡¯t have any distractions.¡±


    ¡°Great idea.¡± Apacci beckoned Luppi. ¡°You dumbass, let¡¯s fight over there.¡±


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be too scared to do that,¡± Luppi said with a devious smirk. ¡°You¡¯ll soon regret this decision.¡±


    Apacci dashed towards the left, leaving afterimages with her Soni?do. Far enough to not let their stray attacks disturb others but close enough to be in Kazuya¡¯s line of sight. It was an unconscious decision on her part to have him witness her crushing her opponent.


    ¡°Just what I wanted.¡± Luppi kicked the sand as he dashed after her, eager to fulfill his sinister desires.


    On the other side, Mila Rose rolled her shoulders, letting out a low grunt of satisfaction. ¡°Right. Who¡¯s stepping into the ring with this lioness?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you on, gorilla,¡± Charlotte said with a dramatic flourish of his dark purple hair. ¡°I¡¯ll teach you how to be feminine while we¡¯re at it. Watch and learn from the real queen of beauty.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll see about that, dickface. Meet me there if you have balls.¡±


    The earth shook beneath her as she kicked off in a sonic burst, heading toward a suitable battleground. Charlotte narrowed his eyes before disappearing as well, following in right behind Mila Rose.


    When the dust finally settled, Sung-Sun found herself left in Harribel¡¯s company. Her friends had chosen their opponents in a heartbeat. ¡°Mr. Goliath, how strong is your Resurreccio?n?¡±


    Yammy¡¯s left twitched. ¡°You wanna fight¡ª¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Yammy,¡± Ulquiorra said, hands in his pocket. He had been calm himself or else he¡¯d have flown straIght to his desired opponent. ¡°You got stomped last time you were raging. It¡¯s not your fault either... We should blame your Aspect of Death for making you act like a feral beast.¡±


    ¡°I can be calm.¡± Yammy snarled. ¡°I¡¯ll fight this blonde leader, show her what happens to those who oppose Espada. You can indulge that thing on the tree¡ª¡±


    ¡°Praise, Gamuza!¡±


    Yammy¡¯s eyes widened at the familiar Reiatsu. Turning his head, he caught sight of a pink mist gathering upon the distant hill. A figure sliced through the fog and landed before Harribel and Sung-Sun in one graceful leap.


    Nelliel raised her lance. ¡°No one will touch her.¡±


    Owing to her sworn oath, she covered Harribel and Sung-Sun with her body like a valiant knight. Even though she acted protectively, she couldn¡¯t help but glance at Kazuya on the tree, as though hoping to catch a sense of praise in his eyes. The ever-so calmness in the glowing eyes behind his mask made her sigh in disappointment.


    The blatant provocation from Nelliel caused Yammy to clench his fists. ¡°You again... I¡¯ll kill you for good this time.¡±


    Nelliel, however, appeared calm, even kind. ¡°No one can die here. Death doesn¡¯t exist in Cazador¡¯s domain.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Ulquiorra looked up at the tree looming over them. ¡°The tree negates death? For what purpose?¡±


    ¡°To avoid meaningless sacrifices,¡± Harribel said proudly. ¡°However, I¡¯ll allow a few exceptions for irredeemable fools... Some people are better off perishing than infesting this world with their vileness.¡±


    Nelliel nodded slowly. ¡°As she promised.¡±


    Yammy showed a toothy grin. ¡°No death means more pain for you, estu?pida. I can¡¯t wait to stomp over your lifeless body over and over.¡±


    Harribel¡¯s face remained composed, but there was a cold edge in her eyes. ¡°Nel, take him on. You¡¯ll show him no mercy... I¡¯ll never allow people like him in our Hueco Mundo.¡±


    Nelliel closed her eyes, her fingers clenching around her lance. ¡°I understand.¡± She looked back at Yammy. ¡°Come, I¡¯ll make it as painless as possible.¡±


    She treated the battle like putting down a rabid animal, which instantly pissed off Yammy. He grew in size, muscles bugling and all that.


    Nelliel ignored Yammy entirely and made a swift dash over Las Noches, taking their battle beyond the boundaries of the fortress. Yammy pursued her without questions, confident in his victory despite the past results. All he cared about was crushing her under his fists.


    With Yammy occupied and Harribel left unchallenged, Sung-Sun was left with no opponent left beside Ulquiorra, the Arrancar she would rather not fight at her current level.


    But Ulquiorra no longer paid attention to either of them. His gaze was fixed solely on the burning tree and its guardian. And then he moved, leaving afterimages behind and quickly neared Kazuya.


    Harribel¡¯s gaze flicked to the distant hill behind her. ¡°Starrk, don¡¯t let him.¡±


    Starrk stirred on Harribel¡¯s order. With Lilynette sitting on his shoulder, Starrk stepped forward in a near-lazy Soni?do. Halfway down the sandhill, he jumped up and intercepted Ulquiorra.


    ¡°Sorry, that person is off-limits.¡±

 Chapter 305: Insta Kill

    ¡°Maidy, who is your master?¡±


    Just as Apacci stopped in her desired isolated space, her opponent threw out a rattling question.


    She turned to him with a scowl. ¡°Cut the crap and release your Resurreccio?n, or you¡¯ll die.¡±


    ¡°That blonde woman or the one chilling on the tree?¡± Luppi asked as though he couldn¡¯t read her clear annoyance, curiosity clear on his face. ¡°Which one do you wag your tail to? Tell me now¡ªso I know where to deliver your corpse.¡±


    Apacci paused before bursting into laughter. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you if you beat me.¡±


    ¡°Sorry for riling you up, maid~.¡± Luppi smirked and gripped the shortsword sheathed in the small compartment in his clothes. ¡°I¡¯ll end this quickly. Estrangula, Trepadora! (Ivy Maiden)¡±


    Smoke exploded around him. His intentions were clear ¡ª he couldn¡¯t wait to drag her corpse to her ¡®Master¡¯ for his twisted pleasure. As his silhouette swelled and changed, a sharp vine launched from the fumes with terrifying speed. She narrowed her eyes, using Soni?do to vanish from its path.


    ¡°You finally showed your true nature.¡± Luppi laughed as the smoke dissipated, revealing his Resurreccio?n. He now had eight white tentacles coming out of the octagonal bone plate fused with his back. ¡°You¡¯re a coward.¡±


    Apacci¡¯s brows twitched. ¡°You expect me to stand there and get whipped? Are you stupid?¡±


    ¡°Yes! Don¡¯t you stand there when your master whips you? What¡¯s wrong with someone else having some fun?¡±


    The image of Kazuya whipping her flashed in her mind; it made shiver in a good way. Clearing her throat, she said, ¡°Never did I get whipped in my whole life.¡±


    ¡°Then let me take your whip virginity. These tentacles will give you a climax no man can~.¡± One of Luppi¡¯s tentacles wriggled close to him and caressed his face. ¡°Will you let it grab you gently?¡±


    Apacci snorted, clearly not buying his bullshit. She doubted anything could make her feel as much pleasure and love as her man. She wielded her chakrams, glaring at him with ice-cold eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t even need to release my Resurreccio?n for you.¡±


    Luppi wriggled as though he felt chills all over. ¡°Ahhh, there¡¯s nothing more satisfying than breaking a beauty who is so full of herself¡ª¡±


    Apacci took a step forward and vanished in the middle of his monologue. ¡°Too late. You¡¯re already dead.¡±


    He froze at the sudden cold sensation of steel on his neck, and before his tentacles could defend him, the sharp chakrams dug into the soft skin of his throat. His head slid from his shoulders before the rest of his body collapsed in a lifeless heap.


    Any Hollow below Vasto Lorde had no business challenging her to a fight. She could crush them all the same like an ant. Even Vasto Lorde wouldn¡¯t be able to defeat her in a small time.


    She glanced at the sheer look of horror on the sadistic man¡¯s face, only now realizing that she hadn¡¯t asked for his name.


    She turned away, ignoring the corpse. He wasn¡¯t even worth devouring.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there someone stronger?¡±


    ...


    While Apacci killed her opponent in the blink of an eye, Mila Rose had yet to start her battle.


    ¡°Espada must be really hurting for manpower if they¡¯re hiring a clown like you.¡± She let out a short laugh. ¡°Sorry, I heard that line on a comedy show once.¡±


    Charlotte took a step forward and stomped the ground. ¡°Someone who looks like a gorilla¡¯s butt shouldn¡¯t talk about clowns. No appreciation for beauty in that savage face of yours¡ª¡±


    He never got to finish insulting her. Mila Rose crossed the distance between them with Soni?do, her broadsword cleaving through the air where his head had been a split second before. He ducked¡ªjust barely avoiding getting his head cut off but still lost a few precious chunks of his hair.


    ¡°Such brutish technique,¡± Charlotte taunted with a smile, though a bead of sweat could be seen running down his cheek. He almost died before the battle began. ¡°No elegance and zero beauty in it whatsoever¡ªoof!¡±


    Mila Rose¡¯s knee slammed into his stomach, driving the wind from his lungs. Without pause, she followed up with a horizontal slash he rolled away from just in time. Watching him dance around her attacks, she laughed and relaxed her posture.


    ¡°Now you know this so-called beauty doesn¡¯t win battles. Beauty doesn¡¯t keep you alive in Hueco Mundo. Strength does.¡±


    Charlotte sprang back, his purple hair whipping around. ¡°Beauty is power. I¡¯ll teach you its true meaning.¡±


    The Espada launched at her, and his katana crashed into her broadsword. The shockwave blew the sand away in a radius. Charlotte gritted his teeth, pouring all his strength to push her back. It failed to make her budge an inch.


    Mila Rose¡¯s lips curled. ¡°I¡¯m only using one hand.¡±


    ¡°Gorilla face and gorilla strength.¡± Charlotte sneered and leaped into the air. His katana raised overhead in a shogun-like stance, he shouted, ¡°Haiyaaaaah!!!¡±


    She watched, eyes keen, as he spun furiously down at her and arched himself like a bow, his katana drawn as far back as possible.


    ¡°Eat the deadly yet Beautiful Charlotte Chuhlhourne¡¯s Miracle Sweet Ultra Funky Fantastic Dramatic Romantic Sadistic Erotic Exotic Athletic... Guillotine Attack!!!¡±


    Mila Rose winced at the overblown name. It was only by instinct did she block Charlotte¡¯s downward slash. Their blades collided with an ear-splitting clang. The devastating force made her feet sink in the sand. Her arms trembled as shallow cuts appeared on her skin. Blood seeped but her eyes blazed¡ªshe was more excited than hurt.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m talking about!¡±


    She roared and drove her left fist straight into Charlotte¡¯s face. Her counter attack came right after enduring his greatest technique, catching her completely off-guard. He went flying before rolling in the sand.


    Mila Rose wiped the crimson trail from her cheek. ¡°You aren¡¯t half bad. Franceska Mila Rose ¡ª you¡¯re worthy of knowing the name of the lioness who¡¯ll end you.¡±


    Charlotte stabbed his katana in the sand and picked himself up. ¡°Beauty is power,¡± he whispered, voice filled with barely-concealed anger. ¡°For you to recognize my power is the same as acknowledging my beauty.¡±


    ¡°Fuck off!¡± Mila Rose rested her broadsword on her shoulder with a laugh. ¡°I have the greatest mate in the world, and it¡¯s not because of ¡®beauty.¡¯ It¡¯s not what I have here.¡± She thumped her chest proudly. ¡°Call me a savage if you want, but real beauty is in the heart.¡±


    ¡°You got one part right.¡± Charlotte lowered his katana and raised a pumped fist to the air. ¡°Let¡¯s settle it Hueco Mundo way. Whoever wins will redefine beauty to the whole world.¡±


    Mila Rose raised a fist. ¡°Challenge accepted.¡±