Ichigo Vs Aizen
Ichigo later arrives with his unconscious father in Karakura Town in the Soul Society as Rangiku is grieving for Ichimaru, who was earlier attacked by Aizen. Startled by Ichigo's arrival, Aizen turns his attention towards him. [1] Ichigo, now taller and with longer hair from his time in the Dangai, places Isshin on the ground and thanks him. After searching for the reiatsu of his sisters to make sure they are safe, Ichigo greets his friends and tells them to stay where they are. Aizen tells Ichigo that he is disheartened as he does not sense any reiatsu coming from him, causing Aizen to say that Ichigo has failed to grasp the opportunity he presented to evolve. Ichigo interrupts him, saying that he wants to move their fight elsewhere. Stating that Ichigo cannot harm him, Aizen refuses, but Ichigo grabs Aizen and brings him outside Karakura Town, throwing him into the ground. He tells a stunned Aizen that he will finish the fight in an instant.
....Z...Z..Z
Ichigo blocks Aizen's Zanpakutō with his bare hand.
Aizen comments upon Ichigo's words and tells Ichigo that he understands that the reason why he has lost his reiatsu. Aizen states to Ichigo that he hadn't "parted" with his reiatsu he has "thrown it away". Aizen admits that he doesn't know how he achieved this but he has turned the entirety of his reiatsu into raw physical power for his spiritual body. Aizen then details Ichigo's powers as nothing more than physical enhancement and laments that Ichigo has given up on attempting to fight with him on terms of reiatsu. He then tells Ichigo that he should give up all hope as even with his enhanced physical strength he still is far from being able to reach him. Aizen spreads his wings and attempts to attack Ichigo while moving at incredible speed, resulting in the two clashing swords; cutting a nearby mountain in half. Aizen gloats that with the single swing of his blade, he can change the shape of the earth. He acknowledges that even he didn't expect his power to rise this high. He thanks Ichigo for the opportunity to test of this power, that transcends Hollow and Shinigami, as much as he pleases. He moves to attack Ichigo head on and the two clash again causing significant devastation to the surrounding area. Aizen comments on their appearances, noting the similarities between each other with the agglutination of their right arms and Zanpakutō's and how it has brought fourth a revolutionary discovery. Aizen then notes that he understands that the dimensions of Ichigo's evolution and his own are very different. He states that if he so much as wishes it, he can bring himself to crush Ichigo's sword with a single blow. Aizen moves to attack head on but is surprised when Ichigo stops his blade with his bare hand. The attack destroys the land behind Ichigo, who remains in place and uninjured. Ichigo calmly asks him what he is so surprised about, querying whether it is so hard to believe that he could stop his sword. Ichigo then asks him if he's scared of what is in front of his eyes right now, of something he can't understand.[3]
Ichigo injures Aizen.
Aizen is pushed back a distance and, after collecting himself, tells Ichigo not to talk so triumphantly as his physical strength momentarily exceeded his own and nothing more. Aizen decides that in order to prevent any further miracles he will crush Ichigo with Kidō and uses a full incantation of Hadō #90. Kurohitsugi. Aizen proudly gloats at the full power of his Kidō, noting that it is a power the likes of which Ichigo cannot comprehend. As the "Black Coffin" begins to surround Ichigo he simply destroys it with a wave of his hand. Ichigo begins to explain to a stunned Aizen that he didn't notice that Ichigo is stronger than him currently. Ichigo then notes it was actually him who blew that mountain away with his sword, not Aizen. Ichigo moves in and strikes.[4]
Best Challenge
Aizen, after entering a new form, prepares to kill Ichigo.
Ichigo lands a strike across Aizen torso, but Aizen instantly backs away in a flash of light from him to a nearby cliff. Ichigo tells him that it's a strange feeling, when he put distance between them, Aizen asked him why and now Aizen is the one creating the distance. Ichigo then states why doesn't he ask the question this time and ask Aizen why did he put distance between them. Aizen's wound begins to heal as he asks Ichigo if he liked that he had stopped his sword or is he happy he destroyed his Kidō and is he happy he injured his body. He then becomes enraged and yells at Ichigo to abandon his human arrogance. The diamond shape on Aizen's forehead opens up and develops into something similar to a horizontal third eye as Aizen transforms again into what looks similar to a Hybrid Arrancar-like creature with multiple wing-like appendages with Hollow skulls attached to the ends. Aizen then states that he now sees that the Hōgyoku will not truly allow him to lag behind a human. One of the hollow skulls then fires a small spiritual energy blast which impact is so devastating it can be felt miles away in Karakura Town as it creates a large crater. Ichigo survives the blast but it destroys the upper half of his shikakushō and singes his left arm he used to block the blast. Aizen states that he sees that taking that attack only partially burned Ichigo but states that his left arm is most likely useless to him now. He then moves to attack Ichigo striking him and sending him flying into the newly created crater. Aizen grabs Ichigo by the throat and surrounds him with his hollow mask appendages and creates a circle of charged Spiritual energy around Ichigo. He asks Ichigo if he can hear him as he goes to theorize how at one point Ichigo destroyed the barrier between Shinigami and Hollow and became transcendental. He then states that now Ichigo has lost the the power he once possessed, and that he is now a mere shadow of his former self. He further states that in his current state, he isn't worthy of having Aizen absorb him and comprehend him and that Ichigo will meet death by a true transcendental being. Aizen notes that being obliterated by him will completely free him from his inferior existence as both a Shinigami and a Hollow. Ichigo calmly states finished and asks Aizen if some shit like this is gonna end him as he slashes at his chest forcing Aizen to release him as well as destroying the circle of charged spiritual energy. Ichigo then tells him they should put a stop to this as he is sick and tired of Aizen's logic. Ichigo readies himself and tells Aizen he wants to show him the "Final Getsuga Tenshō". [5]
Aizen is sealed by Urahara.
Ichigo initiates the technique causing Aizen to react in surprise to the new form he has taken.[6] Ichigo explains that the Final Getsuga Tenshō means becoming The Getsuga itself. He further details if he uses this technique then he loses all of his Shinigami power, that is the meaning of "Final". Aizen becomes enraged and screams at him that such a thing is impossible, as a mere Human cannot surpass him. Ichigo calls for his Mugetsu and darkness falls all over the land.[7] Aizen is surrounded by the darkness and attacked causing him to plummet to the ground below. The darkness dissipates as Ichigo touches down on the ground as the blue bands covering his face begin to crack and peel off. He stands near where Aizen crashes into the ground, he watches as a large gash running from the back of Aizen's head and down his back begins to heal itself. Aizen looks up and Ichigo asks him if he is still regenerating as suddenly his hair turns back to normal and he returns to his back to his original form. Ichigo falls to the ground as he realizes his Shinigami powers are disappearing. Aizen stands up having mostly returned to his second form and tells Ichigo that he has lost and asks him to look as his Zanpakutō begins to disintegrate. Aizen tells him that he should understand what that means. He screams estatically that the Hōgyoku has decided he doesn't need a Zapakutō, and likens it to Ichigo becoming one with his Zanpakutō and its powers. He then states that in fact he has risen even higher than Ichigo who has just lost that power. Ichigo then looks on as Aizen is affected by a hidden Kidō spell hidden inside his body by Kisuke Urahara, who appears at the scene to explain the mechanics of the spell. The two converse briefly before Aizen is finally sealed as Ichigo looks away.[8]
Ichigo vs Ulquiorra, Conclusion
Rukia Kuchiki, Yasutora Sado, and Renji Abarai continue their battle against Rudbornn Chelute inside Las Noches with Rudbornn creating more of his subordinates using Calaveras. Sado shoots an El Directo against Rudobōn, but Rudbornn uses his subordinates to create a shield against the attack and then explains that his powers have no limit. Rukia comments that she never thought Rudbornn would use his own subordinates as a shield.
Rukia freezes Rudobōn
Rukia proceeds to explain her plan to Sado and Renji: she will use Hakuren to freeze Rudobōn’s soldiers, then Sado will attack the them, and Renji will finish Rudbornn off with Zabimaru. With that said, they act. However, when Renji uses Hikōtsu Taihō with Zabimaru against the now-vulnerable Rudobōn, Rudbornn creates more of his solders to stop the attack and cause Renji’s Bankai to collapse. Rudbornn comments that it was an excellent effort, but explains again that with an infinite number of soldiers, no one can reach him. However, when Rudbornn is about to finish off the three, he is caught by Rukia’s ice and his body begins to freeze from the bottom up. Rukia explains that the real plan was to keep Rudobōn’s attention away from herself as well as his weakness. Rudbornn curses his opponents as his body is fully encased in ice. Almost instantly, an enraged, but injured, Yammy Llargo rises and finishes off Rudobōn.
Renji and Sado are surprised by this outbreak with Renji asking if this is the Arrancar that Tōshirō Hitsugaya warned them about. Sado responds that it is, but speculates that there is something different about Yammy. Sado proceeds to explain that he fought Yammy once in the living world, but his size was not nearly as huge back then. Yammy yells at the top of his lungs that he will get his revenge on Uryū Ishida, who defeated him earlier.
Meanwhile, a red Cero is blasted downwards through the roof of Las Noches, creating a huge explosion within Las Noches. Ichigo Kurosaki in his new Hollow form throws Ulquiorra Cifer, now unconscious with more than half of his body blown away from the explosion, to the ground. Ichigo slowly walks towards Ulquiorra and prepares to finish him off, but Uryū stops Ichigo by grabbing his wrist. Uryū tells Ichigo to stop since the battle is over and attempts to convince Ichigo that if he goes through with it, he will no longer be considered Human. After countless pleads from Uryū to stop, Ichigo throws his Zanpakutō into Uryū's stomach. Ichigo tells Orihime that he will protect her as well as hinting that it does not matter who gets in the way, friend or foe.
Ichigo breaks free of his Hollow's control.
As Ichigo approaches Uryū, Orihime blames herself for Ichigo's transformation, that she called out to him to protect; and asks herself why she keeps relying on Ichigo regardless of how many steps she has taken to protect herself and her friends. Ichigo proceeds to charge a Cero on Uryū, but Ulquiorra appears behind Ichigo and severs one of his horns, causing the Cero to disperse and create a huge explosion as well as shattering Ichigo's mask which returns him to human form. As Ulquiorra watches Ichigo fall to the ground, he notes that his body is regenerating, but it is only superficial as the internal organs that were blown way will not regenerate.
Ichigo's reiatsu flows out of his body, and then back in to repair the hole in his chest. Ulquiorra, in surprise, questions if that was instant regeneration. Ichigo wakes up and is horrified to see his Zanpakutō in Uryū's stomach. Ulquiorra pulls Ichigo's Zanpakutō from Uryū and tosses it to Ichigo, demanding to finish the fight. Ichigo questions if that, as well as the cause of Ulquiorra's severe injuries, were his own doing. Ulquiorra stays silent to the question. Ichigo then requests Ulquiorra to cut off his own arm and leg, so that the fight will be fair to which Uryū exclaims his concern to Ichigo. Ulquiorra complies, but as he is about to proceed, his body begins to turn to ash.
Ulquiorra is entrusted with a heart
Realizing that he is finished, Ulquiorra requests that Ichigo finish him off immediately, or else the fight will never be considered finished. Ichigo declines and exclaims that he did not want to win this way. Ulquiorra woefully states that even to the very end, Ichigo never does what Ulquiorra wants or expects and expresses his growing interests in Humans. The Cuatro Espada reaches out and asks Orihime the same question he asked while they were alone in the fifth tower: whether or not she was afraid of him. Orihime responds that she is not afraid and tries to grab hold of Ulquiorra's hand, but it begins to dissolve into ash before she is able to. From her gesture he finally realizes what a heart is, believing that there in his disintegrated hand is a heart. Ulquiorra fades entirely into the wind.
Ichigo VS Byakuya Kuchiki
The fight between Shūsuke Amagai and Ichigo Kurosaki heats up as Ichigo dons his Hollow mask. The power of Amagai's Bakkōtō seems to be unable to stop Ichigo, but Amagai's determination for revenge will not be beaten easily. Amagai attacks with his most powerful attack, and Ichigo is left with only half his mask. Rurichiyo Kasumiōji pleads with Ichigo to stop fighting but he continues because he never wants to see her sad again. As the fight continues, Ichigo loses more of his mask but manages to get one Getsuga Tenshō in to hit Amagai. It is so powerful that it makes rubble fall from the tower above them and this appears to crush Amagai. But Amagai doesn't appear harmed and declares that he is willing to die for his revenge and starts to draw more power from his Bakkōtō's power.
After Ichigo manages to successfully block the Sōkyoku's attack on Rukia Kuchiki, the Sōkyoku is destroyed by Captains Shunsui Kyōraku and Jūshirō Ukitake of the 8th and 13th Divisions respectively.[2] Ichigo breaks the Sōkyoku's stand and passes Rukia to Renji Abarai who runs away with her in his arms. Lieutenants Marechiyo Ōmaeda of the 2nd Division, Chōjirō Sasakibe of the 1st Division and Isane Kotetsu of the 4th Division are sent to chase Renji, but Ichigo blocks their path and effortlessly defeats all three without the use of his Zanpakutō. He is then forced to pick up his sword to defend himself against Byakuya's first attack, he tells Byakuya that he can see his every move.As they cross swords, Byakuya asks Ichigo why he keeps on trying to save Rukia, but Ichigo questions why Byakuya isn’t trying to save her. Byakuya brushes it off as a pointless question and states that even if he was inclined to answer, Ichigo wouldn't understand. The two clash and push themselves apart. Byakuya then tells Ichigo that he will kill him and with his own hands, he will carry out Rukia's execution, but Ichigo states that won’t happen. The two then charge toward each other.[4]
Byakuya states that he finds it interesting that Ichigo was able to master Shunpo, but before he can finish Ichigo interrupts him, taunting Byakuya, stating that he hasn't scratched him once and telling him to hurry up and use Bankai. Byakuya tells him that his taunts are meaningless and he won’t change his mind about Rukia's fate or Ichigo's. He then releases his Shikai, but Ichigo blocks that attack with a blast of spiritual energy.[5]
The effect of Ichigo's attack results in a large explosion, which injures Byakuya's left hand, prompting him to ask if that attack was an ability of his Zanpakutō. When the smoke clears, a large fissure is evident where the attack took place. Ichigo confirms what the ability is, and explains that its name is Getsuga Tenshō. Once again, Ichigo tells him to fight with his Bankai. Byakuya remarks at how arrogant the name of the attack is, but he decides that since Ichigo wants to see his Bankai, he will show it to him and then releases it. Ichigo uses his Getsuga Tenshō to attack Byakuya, but it’s blocked by Senbonzakura Kageyoshi, which crushes him into the ground. The smoke clears and an injured Ichigo lays upon the ground. Ichigo begins to get up and he admits his error at using only his Shikai. Byakuya, unimpressed, and says that he is talking as though he has already achieved Bankai, but Ichigo says that’s exactly it.[6]
Ichigo revealing his bankai, Tensa Zangetsu.
At first, Byakuya doesn't believe him, and Ichigo says he will have to show him. Ichigo then releases his Bankai, Tensa Zangetsu while Byakuya gazes in disbelief, and asks why his Zanpakutō’s shape looks like that of a sealed Zanpakutō. Byakuya then tells Ichigo that it seems that he enjoys stepping on their pride, so he will carve on his body the penalty for violating their pride. Before Byakuya can attack, Ichigo gets up close, pointing the tip of his blade at Byakuya's throat, and asks him if that pride has anything to do with Rukia's execution, because if so, he will step all over it.[7]
When Ichigo backs off, Byakuya calls him arrogant and tells Ichigo he will regret not attacking when he had the chance and shouldn't count on getting another one.[8]
Byakuya tries to catch Ichigo by directing Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's movements with his hands.
Ichigo blocks all of Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's blades.
The two clash, but neither hits the other as both equally dodge the others attacks. Eventually, Ichigo becomes so fast that Byakuya makes note that his speed is amazing to the point that Senbonzakura Kageyoshi can't keep up with him. Although Byakuya keeps attacking, Ichigo shows off his great speed by moving around him in a circle, escaping his attacks. Ichigo taunts him by asking if he is going too slow for him, and comments on how he can go even faster. Byakuya tells him not to get cocky and uses his hand to direct Senbonzakura Kageyoshi at Ichigo, causing it to move even faster. However, Ichigo is able to fend off Senbonzakura Kageyoshi. Byakuya gazes in disbelief, thinking how it's impossible, as he deflected all of them. Before Byakuya realizes it, Ichigo is behind him taunting him, before Byakuya grabs Tensa Zangetsu, wounding himself. He then realizes the power of Ichigo's Bankai and promises to destroy it.[9]
Byakuya using his technique Senkei.
Ichigo moves away and Byakuya reveals Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's true form, using the technique "Senkei". Ichigo stares in disbelief, but Byakuya assures him that the thousand swords will not strike him all at once.[10] They continue to battle and Byakuya asks him why his movements have become slower. Ichigo taunts him, saying he swore Byakuya was so slow that he thought he wasn't moving at all. Byakuya then calls forth one of the surrounding swords, stabs Ichigo in the foot and then uses Hado #4 Byakurai, shooting a hole through Ichigo's right shoulder. Byakuya pulls the sword from Ichigo's foot and he falls to the ground. Byakuya then tells Ichigo that he is at his limit and he explains Senkei. Ichigo finally realizes that he is the one that had gotten slower. Byakuya commends him on having made it as far as he did, having accomplished the wins he attained and even surviving Senbonzakura Kageyoshi intact, but tells him that he must realize by now that this is the end. He then raises his sword for a killing blow, only for Ichigo to grab the blade with his hand to stop it. Byakuya is surprised and asks how it is possible, but he then realizes that something is wrong and asks who this is. Ichigo looks up with his face half covered by a mask as he screams that he is nobody.[11]
Byakuya is surprised by Ichigo's inner Hollow.
Ichigo goes into an insane rage as his inner Hollow takes over and he slashes Byakuya across his chest wounding him. He then shatters Byakuya's blade with his bare hand. Byakuya regains his composure and calls forth another sword just as the crazed Ichigo charges at him. Ichigo then fires a spiritual blast, which Byakuya notices, with surprise, is black. Before he realizes it, Ichigo attacks him from behind, but Byakuya survives and asks if he is a Hollow. However, before Hollow Ichigo can finish Byakuya off, Ichigo rips off the mask, apologizes for the Hollow’s interference and tells him they should start from the beginning. Byakuya agrees to forget what just transpired, but points out that neither of them have the strength to continue this for much longer and decides that they must end it with the next blow. Ichigo agrees but asks again why Byakuya won’t save Rukia, to which he answers back that he will tell him if he defeats him. Byakuya then uses the technique "Shūkei, Hakuteiken", which amazes Ichigo, who states the he has no technique like that, since all Zangetsu taught him was Getsuga Tenshō. Thus, he states that he will just place all of his strength into one attack. The two charge at each other, releasing a torrent of powerful spiritual pressure.[12]
The final fight of Byakuya and Ichigo.
In the end, Ichigo is wounded but so is Byakuya, who tells Ichigo that the reason why he supports Rukia's death sentence is because he believes in following the rules, even if the rules mean the death of a family member. The concept of personal feelings is overridden by the rules and he states that emotions are useless and he never had them to begin with. Ichigo tells him he doesn't understand, and if he was in his position, he would fight the rules. Byakuya finally understands that Ichigo never was fighting him, but Soul Society's rules and he thinks that Ichigo has the same personality as Kaien Shiba, who he remembers as having a distasteful ferocity. Byakuya then tells Ichigo that his ferocity has shattered his blade, and therefore, he can no longer pursue Rukia and he leaves the area.[13]
Ichigo Vs Rukia
Rukia, slowly recovering from having her memory erased by the siblings, remembers that Ichigo Kurosaki and Renji Abarai are her past friends. Homura is greatly upset by this and declares that she would never forgive Ichigo for trying to steal Rukia from them. She uses her unique power to wish that she, her brother, and Rukia will become one so that the three will never be separated again. Her wish is granted, resulting in a twisted form of Rukia, referred to as "Dark Rukia." Dark Rukia proceeds to activate Mayuri Kurotsuchi's invention, which begins to destroy Soul Society and flood the area with snake-like monsters. Renji deals with the other enemies, leaving Ichigo to do whatever is necessary to stop Dark Rukia.
Ichigo is forced to fight Rukia, but never attempts to actually attack her, instead only evading her attacks. He desperately asks her to remember, earning a reply that Dark Rukia will use her power to erase Ichigo's memories of Rukia so that only the siblings will remember her. Ichigo states that the bond between him and Rukia transcends memory. Renji's soul was able to remember Ichigo, meaning the bonds between friends can never be broken, even if they are forgotten. Dark Rukia's attacks become more vicious and she nearly decapitates Ichigo, but she is halted by Byakuya Kuchiki's Rikujōkōrō. Byakuya sees the resemblance between Dark Rukia and Hisana Kuchiki and decides that he must be the one to exterminate Dark Rukia.
Dark Rukia is purified
Ichigo protests that Rukia is still in there and that the bond between him and her will never break. As Rukia begins to Hollowfy, the binding spell begins to break and Renji notes that she is going beyond help. However, Ichigo is reminded of his first encounter with her, upon seeing Kon begging Ichigo to save Rukia, where she had asked Ichigo if he wanted to save his family, and tells Byakuya that he wont give up. Byakuya tells him to do as he wishes and Dark Rukia breaks free from Byakuya's Kidō, enraged and declares her intention to kill Ichigo. Ichigo focuses his power and tells Rukia that it's his turn to give her his power. She and Ichigo clash for the last time and Ichigo impales Rukia with Tensa Zangetsu. Rukia is separated from the siblings and the Hollow that had been inside them is killed and purified.
Powers & AbilitiesEdit
Enhanced Strength: Dark Rukia has incredible strength as she was able to completely break out of a level 61 binding spell cast by a Captain-class Shinigami, Byakuya Kuchiki.
Hollowfication: Upon increased arousal out of anger, Dark Rukia undergoes a unique form of Hollowfication. Her teeth become jagged and her eyes turn completely black. This is seen during her fight with Ichigo where she becomes visibly more powerful and vicious, nearly decapitating him.
Teleportation: Like Homura and Shizuku, Dark Rukia has the ability to teleport a short distance. She uses this to attack and surprise her opponents. It is unknown if she can teleport over longer distances.
Hollow ScytheEdit
Dark Rukia wields a large and exquisitely designed dark red, double-edged scythe in combat. The scythe itself originally manifested in the form of a small, weak Hollow that had a scythe-like tail used to erase an enemy's memories. Some time after the Hollow merged with the siblings and they were transported to Hueco Mundo the scythe was created and used by Shizuku. Upon the creation of Dark Rukia the scythe (and the knowledge of its use) was transferred to her. Despite its size, she uses it with great proficiency and speed, able to contend with Tensa Zangetsu's agility and power (although Ichigo was holding back), throwing the weapon at him on occasion.
Rift Attack
Rift Attack: Dark Rukia swings her scythe in front of her enemy which opens a purple rift that unleashes a powerful blast of dark energy. This attack was strong enough to send Ichigo flying back while in his Bankai state.
Memory Erasure: Dark Rukia's scythe is capable of phasing through solid objects. Should the scythe phase through a living being, they are physically unharmed yet their memories are erased. This power has the ability to target only certain memories (rather than all memories) and has the capacity to affect other beings linked to that particular memory. For example, by erasing Rukia's memory that she ever became a Shinigami, everyone who knew her forgot she ever existed. Oddly enough, Modified Souls such as Kon seem to be immune to the effects of this type of memory erasure.
Ichigo vs Ichigo
During Ichigo's more difficult battles, the mask he thought he discarded kept reappearing on his body in places where there would normally have been fatal wounds.
Ichigo's Hollow mask, after being used as a shield.
As Ichigo fought Renji Abarai, Renji used Zabimaru to hit Ichigo near his heart, but the sword was stopped for some reason. After the fight, as Hanatarō Yamada healed Ichigo, he found that the same Hollow mask Ichigo thought he threw away was what blocked Zabimaru. Ichigo, thinking the mask as a good luck charm, wanted to keep the mask; but Hanatarō took it, and fearing it, threw it into the sewer water. The mask was gone again for a time.[17]
Later when Ichigo runs into captain of 11th Division, Kenpachi Zaraki, he is stabbed in his chest by the far superior combatant. Seemingly dying Ichigo is pulled into his inner world by Zangetsu, while there he meets Hollow Ichigo for the first time. Zangetsu explains that now is the time for the test to see if Ichigo is worthy of using him. He then tells Ichigo if he wants to wield him again then he must take him back with his hands, as his opponent will be himself.[18] Ichigo is forced into a fight with Hollow Ichigo with a nameless katana while his other being has Zangetsu. Hollow Ichigo gains an advantage as he releases his spiritual power and begins to spin Zangetsu by its cloth, similar to a flail. As the two fight, Hollow Ichigo asks Ichigo whether he thought it would be so simple to fully control his Zanpakutō. He then makes note that Ichigo only thinks about himself and never considered drawing out Zangetsu's power. Hollow Ichigo further explains that there's more to Zangetsu's power and if he can open up and lend it his power, it will become even stronger. He laments that Ichigo will not do this or rely on his Zanpakutō and only worries about making himself stronger. Tired of playing around, Hollow Ichigo decides to show Ichigo the right way to use Zangetsu and moves to attack. As they cross swords Hollow Ichigo is surprised to find the nameless katana in his hands and Ichigo holding Zangetsu. Seeing Zangetsu has decided Ichigo is worthy of using Ichigo then awakens back in the real world.[19]
As Hollow Ichigo stands there with a broken katana still somewhat confused he asks Zangetsu if Ichigo is gone before asking him if that was all. Zangetsu tells him that it is and that he is sorry to have bothered him. Hollow Ichigo tells him it was no problem as Ichigo is the owner of the inner world and it would be problematic if he didn't win. Even though he was unwilling he had to help, he then asks for Zangetsu to send him back. As Hollow Ichigo begins to fade away he then tells Zangetsu to train Ichigo well as one day that power will be his.[20]
In the real world as Kenpachi and Ichigo prepare for their last strike, Kenpachi's Reiatsu took the form of a skull, while Ichigo's takes the form of his Hollow mask, showing how Hollow Ichigo is supporting him.[21]
After the battle, Yoruichi Shihōin took Ichigo to heal him; as he awoke, she commented on how a Hollow mask saved Ichigo's life. Ichigo was surprised, mentioning how Hanatarō threw it away, giving Yoruichi a concerned look of fear. She then got rid of the mask, much to Ichigo's dismay.[22]
During the battle with 6th Division captain Byakuya Kuchiki at the execution grounds, Ichigo was pushed into a corner and as Byakuya went to deliver the final blow Ichigo is possessed by his inner Hollow. As he swings the sword down Ichigo catches it with his barehand and starts speaking to himself, when Ichigo looks up a mask is forming over the upper left half of his face much to Byakuya's surprise. Byakuya asks how this is possible and who he is but Hollow Ichigo simply states he is nobody.[23]
He then states he doesn't have a name and slashes Byakuya down his torso. As Byakuya puts some distance between them, Hollow Ichigo states how weak Ichigo is, commenting that his inexperience with his own Bankai's spiritual pressure and speed made his bones shake like crazy. He then crushes the sword he grabbed from Byakuya and states he will show Ichigo how to use a Bankai correctly. Byakuya calls another sword to his hand and prepares for another attack. Hollow Ichigo fires off a Getsuga Tenshō. He uses Shunpo to move behind Byakuya and fires another one then appears directly behind the Shinigami captain before the two attacks meet. They both survive the explosion with Byakuya making note that the spiritual pressure and the mask are akin to a Hollows and asks what he is. Hollow Ichigo tells him not to worry about it as he will soon disappear but before he can finish his sentence Ichigo regains control and rips the mask off. Before Hollow Ichigo leaves he tells Ichigo that he cannot win without him, but is pulled into Ichigo's inner consciousness as the fight nears it's conclusion.[24]
Ichigo vs Ichigo continue
Ever since the fight against Byakuya, the mask didn't keep coming back and eventually disappeared. However, from that point on, Ichigo could hear his inner Hollow calling out to him, and about time of Arrancar invasion, he felt its influence dangerously growing over him.[27] During Ichigo's fight with Yammy Llargo, Hollow Ichigo began interrupting Ichigo's thought process telling him to call upon him for help, stating he could make quick work of the two Arrancar, including Ulquiorra. This interruption cost Ichigo the fight and most of his friends got seriously injured.[28] Later, when Ichigo confronted a Hollow to regain his fight confidence, he felt his inner Hollow trying to take over for an instant, which led him to be punched by the Hollow.[29] During another Arrancar invasion, Ichigo ended up fighting Grimmjow, and was subsequently forced to use a black Getsuga Tenshō. As that attack was one of Hollow Icihgo's moves, Ichigo made him easier to take over, causing one of his eyes to turn black. However, he was overcome by Ichigo.[30]
Ichigo and his Hollow prepare to release their Bankai.
Ichigo then found the Visored and as he fought Hiyori Sarugaki, Hollow Ichigo started to take control again and would have killed her if not for her fellow Visored subduing him.[31] Seeing the uncontrollable power of Hollow Ichigo, the Visored agreed to train Ichigo to control him. As they placed Ichigo in a spell, Ichigo's body went completely out of control and began to turn into a Hollow. If his inner Hollow could not be defeated in time, they would be forced to kill him.[32]
During this time, Ichigo journeyed to his inner world to confront Hollow Ichigo.[33] Ichigo asks where Zangetsu is and proceeds to take out his sword. Hollow Ichigo asks him if he is already carrying Zangetsu, revealing that he had his own white Zangetsu, and making the claim that he is Zangetsu (referring to the fact that now it is his subjugation he must battle for).[34] The Visored take Ichigo's body down to a underground training area, [35] where they take turns battling Ichigo's body, as it was possessed by Hollow Ichigo.[36]
In the inner world, Ichigo is persistent in asking Hollow Ichigo where Zangetsu is. To which Hollow Ichigo explains that he is Zangetsu, that he and Zangetsu were originally one being, as both are the source of Ichigo's power and Hollow Ichigo was part of Zangetsu. Although they both share one physical body, if the master and servant exchange roles, the form changes as well. As Hollow Ichigo's power grew control was transferred to him and Zangetsu became a part of him. Therefore the more Ichigo tries to draw out Zangetsu the easier it gets for Hollow Ichigo to take over Ichigo's soul.[37] Ichigo, realizing if Hollow Ichigo is defeated, it will put Zangetsu back into control, brings out his Bankai only to be surprised that Hollow Ichigo also possesses the ability to use Bankai creating a white Tensa Zangetsu. Hollow Ichigo explains he got it when Ichigo did, the two battle and Ichigo unleashes his Getsuga Tenshō which Hollow Ichigo bats away as if it was nothing he then unleashes his own highly powerful white Getsuga Tenshō.[38]
While in the real world, Lisa Yadōmaru is fighting the Hollow possessed body of Ichigo and then switches places with Kensei Muguruma.[39] Kensei battles him and stabs him with his Shikai. When Kensei uses his Shikai's special ability, Ichigo's body begins to undergo serious Hollowfication, becoming a reptilian looking Hollow.[40]
Hollow Ichigo stabbing Ichigo
In the inner world, Ichigo has been heavily injured and Hollow Ichigo explains how he is the first user of the Bankai version of Getsuga Tenshō and taunts Ichigo about his lack of skill. He then moves close up to Ichigo and grabs his Tensa Zangetsu, turning the blade white while telling him he can't use Bankai, destroying his sword.[41] Hollow Ichigo attacks the now defenseless Ichigo explaining his reasoning for his ascendancy to power and what true power between two beings really is. He then stabs Ichigo in the stomach with his Tensa Zangetsu and tells him he will no longer be the servant of someone weaker than him and that now he will be in control.[7] Ichigo gains his will and and grabs the sword in his stomach and it transforms into his black version. Ichigo resolves to pull out the sword and use it to attack the now defenseless Hollow Ichigo by impaling him through the stomach. Hollow Ichigo's clothes become black like Ichigo's and he begins to disintegrate into the wind. Before totally disappearing he reminds Ichigo that he concedes to his control only for now and that one day given the smallest opening he will take control and destroy Ichigo. He tells Ichigo if he truly wants to master his power, he must stay alive.[42]
As Love Aikawa now begins to fight the fully Hollowfied Ichigo, he realizes the battle is going to be tough. Then Hollow Ichigo prepares to charge up a Cero, but before he can unleash it, his body begins to break apart, resulting in an explosion of spiritual energy. When the smoke clears, Ichigo is seen coming out of the husk of what is left of the full Hollow form, wearing his Hollow mask. As the husk falls to the ground and shatters. Shinji has Hachi bring down the barrier and Ichigo falls and his Hollow mask falls off. Shinji asks how he feels, to which Ichigo simply responds; "Not too bad, actually." [43]
New Captain Shūsuke Amagai arc (anime only)Edit
Note: Events occurring in this arc are only in the anime and do not constitute canon material.
Click "show" to read the arc plot. [show]
Fake Karakura Town arcEdit
During Ichigo's battle with Ulquiorra Cifer, the latter seemingly kills him with a pointblank Cero Oscuras into his chest.[45] Orihime Inoue tries to heal Ichigo while Uryū Ishida holds Ulquiorra off, but there seems to be no change in Ichigo's state. After Ulquiorra defeats Uryū, Orihime begins to panic and frantically begs for Ichigo to help her. However, she fails to notice Ichigo's hair growing longer, which begins to resemble a mane. This is a new transformation, as Ichigo's mask changes shape.[46][47]
Hollow Ichigo cuts off Ulquiorra's arm.
Shocked at his enemy's unexpected revival, and believing Ichigo to be dead, Ulquiorra demands to know who he is. Hollow Ichigo summons his sword to his hand without touching it and answers with a roar. Believing words are useless, Ulquiorra fires a Cero Oscuras. To his surprise, Hollow Ichigo fires a Cero powerful enough to counter it. Ulquiorra refuses to believe a human could release a Cero, especially one capable of blowing away his own. Hollow Ichigo appears behind him and effortlessly takes off the Espada's left arm.[47] He quickly regenerates the arm, and states that his true power is not his offensive abilities but his ability to instantly regenerate any non-vital body part. He then resorts to using Lanza del Relámpago, a powerful spear made of energy. Ulquiorra tells Hollow Ichigo to stay right where he is, because he doesn't want to risk using it at close range. The attack misses, creating a massive explosion in the desert and causing Ulquiorra to state to himself that it is a difficult technique to control. Once a second spear is prepared, Ichigo appears right beside him, startling Ulquiorra because he used the Hollow equivalent to Shunpo, Sonído. Hollow Ichigo throws the detached arm at him, but Ulquiorra slashes it away and thrusts the spear. Hollow Ichigo catches it with a single hand and breaks it. Ulquiorra is left dumbfounded, allowing Hollow Ichigo to slice him down the torso and slam him to the ground. Ulquiorra states he can't believe he was defeated by a human turned Hollow. Hollow Ichigo steps on Ulquiorra's head and begins charging a Cero. Ulquiorra comments on how Hollow Ichigo shows no mercy, something very Hollow-like, but because Hollow Ichigo has beaten him he has no reason to live. Hollow Ichigo releases the Cero, creating a vast and powerful explosion on the dome of Las Noches.[48]
Hollow Ichigo's Cero fired off against Ulquiorra.
He barely survives, but his left arm, both legs and lower torso were blown away in the blast. Hollow Ichigo tosses his tattered body aside and prepares to impale his throat with his sword. Uryū attempts to stop Hollow Ichigo from carving up the apparently dead body of Ulquiorra, stating that he will no longer be human if he goes through with such a merciless act, which prompts the possessed Ichigo to stab Uryū through his stomach unexpectedly throwing Tensa Zangetsu at him, sending him flying a distance away. Just as he is about to attack Uryū with a point blank Cero, Ulquiorra, having partially regenerated, severs one of Hollow Ichigo's horns, causing his Cero to disperse skyward.[49]
The explosion shatters Ichigo's mask and he collapses to the ground. As his body and leg begins to regenerate, Ulquiorra thinks to himself that it is merely a front, as his internal organs were decimated from Ichigo's Cero and can't regenerate. Even so, he believes Ichigo is finally dead. However, the hole in his chest completely repairs itself and Ichigo awakes, shocking Ulquiorra with his ability to use high-speed regeneration.[50]
Hollow Ichigo stands before Ichigo after being ripped out by Tensa Zangetsu.
Later, when Ichigo is fighting Tensa Zangetsu in his inner world, Tensa Zangetsu informs him that the hope-filled skyscrapers of Ichigo's inner world have been turned into a replica of the small Karakura Town. He also states that the raining in Ichigo's inner world has stopped, but in return, everything sunk into the sea that it is currently submerged in. Tensa Zangetsu further states that the inner world was submerged because Ichigo ceased to walk forward and despaired. He quickly makes his way to Ichigo and rips Hollow Ichigo out of Ichigo's body. When he sees Hollow Ichigo, he is in his Bankai state as well, but he is now wearing a black mask with horns and white lines stretching vertically across the eyes. He greets Ichigo, who is shocked by his sudden appearance. Hollow Ichigo proceeds to remove his mask, asking if he recognizes him.[51]
Hollow Ichigo and Tensa Zangetsu after fusing together.
Ichigo wonders how Hollow Ichigo is standing before him and remarks that he should have disappeared when Ichigo defeated him while training with the Visored. Hollow Ichigo reminds Ichigo that he said that if he wanted to control his power, then he should not die before his return. Ichigo states that he was trying to crush him out back during his training, which Hollow Ichigo replies that it is unfortunate, since he is still around. Ichigo asks him why his appearance changed, and Tensa Zangetsu informs him that he took that form when he killed Ulquiorra Cifer. Tensa Zangetsu further states that Ichigo fears this form, as the destructive power overwhelms his heart to the point where he cannot even Hollowfy properly. Ichigo concludes that he has to fight Hollow Ichigo and win, but Tensa Zangetsu tells him that is incorrect. Ichigo is not going to fight Hollow Ichigo, but both of them, in a one-on-one fight. They then begin to fuse together, much to Ichigo's confusion, and take on a new form. Upon fusing, they take on a form of a hybrid appearance: Hollow Ichigo's white Bankai coat, black horn mask remnant, white-colored hair, and left Hollowfied eye, along Tensa Zangetsu's appearance and black Bankai sword. They state that they are two parts of a single being, the source of Ichigo's power. They then yell out to Ichigo "Let's go!" and begin fighting him.[52]
Hollowfied Tensa Zangetsu with Ichigo stabbed on his blade
The merged spirit cuts Ichigo's own Tensa Zangetsu in half, and throws Ichigo into a building, commenting that he still will not fall. When Ichigo replies that he will not fall until he learns the Final Getsuga Tenshō, the merged spirit states that he does not intend to teach it to Ichigo, and charges him down. Much to his surprise, Ichigo lets go of his blade and allows himself to be stabbed. The spirit then states that it was smart of Ichigo, and the Final Getsuga Tenshō is not a technique that can merely be acquired by accepting his blade. He then begins to shed tears, and ask Ichigo if he remembered earlier in the battle when he said that what Ichigo wanted to protect was not what he wanted to protect. He stated that what he wants to protect is Ichigo and states that the meaning would come along with the essentials of the Final Getsuga Tenshō.[53] Telling Ichigo that if he uses the Final Getsuga Tenshō, he will lose all his Shinigami powers, the merged spirit bids Ichigo farewell.[54]
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