Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World/Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World III

Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World III is the third edition of a three volume series of Bleach novels by Ryohgo Narita that centers on Shūhei Hisagi.

Opening
Hikone Ubuginu recalls the first moment they came into existence, where they woke up and realized that they had no memories at all of a past life or even a childhood. Having been created by fusing thousands of Soul pieces together - fragments of Hollows, Humans, and Shinigami, even Quincy that lived thousands of years ago and fragments of the Soul King - Hikone's existence was an unnatural and paradoxical one, and so their body could not keep itself together, not until Tokinada Tsunayashiro collected a "piece" of the Soul King strong enough to force the others together. It was this specific piece that gave Hikone their first memory, in the form of a dream of being imprisoned.

While Hikone was an individual with their own feelings and desires, the countless and varying Souls that composed Hikone possessed their own as well, causing an unmatched chaos within Hikone's psyche. Some pieces were misanthropes, while yet others were philanthropes, and a certain one yearned for bloodshed and detested all the others. However, thanks to Tokinada's guidance, Hikone was able to maintain dominance of their own existence due to a desire to become a beloved King for Tokinada. Likewise, Tokinada taught Hikone the necessity of bloodshed in order to satisfy their more violent components.

Chapter 19
Hundreds of years before the Wandenreich war, Tokinada's wife, Kakyō, had recently discovered his true nature, but remained kind and compassionate as she tried to empathize with him. A frustrated Tokinada recalls how he was forced into marriage by his family, which had an extreme "survival of the fittest" mentality and was adamant on remaining the leader and strongest of the Noble Houses, dedicating itself to culling the weak from their lineage.

Driven by his own urges, Tokinada settled on marriage with a lowly Shinigami originating from the Rukongai, planning on giving her great happiness only to brutally tear it away later on. Yet even as Tokinada revealed his true intentions on the evening of their wedding ceremony, Kakyō did not fall into despair, but remained happy for herself and her best friend, Kaname Tōsen. Unable to comprehend her kindness and empathy, Tokinada only grew more frustrated with her.

As Kakyō was a very promising and talented graduate from the Shin'ō Academy, even catching the attention of Shunsui Kyōraku and Jūshirō Ukitake, Tokinada grew to resent her even more, yet was unable to get rid of her as his family was happy at such a successful "experiment". However, one night a random Shinigami who befriended Kakyou confronted Tokinada about his treatment of his wife. When Tokinada unveiled the full truth to the Shinigami, they became enraged and attacked the noble.

As the two fought, with Tokinada having the advantage, Kakyō discovered them and attempted to stop the fight. Taking advantage of the distraction, Tokinada slaughtered the Shinigami before turning his attention to Kakyō. As Kakyō released her Zanpakutō, Suzumushi, Tokinada relished the fact that he was finally able to break her happiness and proceeded to fatally wound her.

With her final words, Kakyō apologized for not being able to "sweep away the clouds" of Tokinada's unhappiness. Upon hearing her empathetic words full of pity, Tokinada trembled with fury, completely unable to comprehend her kindness, but eventually calmed down and stated that he had hoped to show her the true ugliness of the world before admitting that, in the way he opened up to her, he did love her to some degree.

Afterwards, Tokinada returned to the heads of his family, where he lied about the circumstances of Kakyō's death; by his account, Tokinada could not stand being married to a commoner and when he caught Kakyō commuting adultery with another Shinigami, he had killed them in self-defense. While the Tsunayashiro elders branded Tokinada as incompetent, they tried to cover up the event as they also had their secrets. Were it not for the interference of another noble, Shunsui Kyōraku, who brought the events to light, Tokinada's life might have been very different.

In the present, Shunsui and his allies arrive at the fake Soul King Palace in the Valley of Screams. As Shunsui marvels at Tokinada's ability to construct the replica in secret, Yoruichi Shihōin wonders how he managed to achieve such a feat, particularly since the mechanism that keeps the real Palace afloat is highly confidential. Sensing Tokinada's Reiatsu inside, Shunsui prepares to enter, though he orders Kenpachi Zaraki to stay behind for now; though reluctant to do so, Kenpachi understands Shunsui's reasoning and begrudgingly accepts his duties as a captain.

Yoruichi interrupts them and brings up her and Byakuya Kuchiki's meeting with Tokinada earlier, where she admits that she would have killed Tokinada then and there for insulting Hisana Kuchiki if Byakuya had not held her back. Yoruichi does realize, however, that while Byakuya appeared calm, he barely managed to restrain himself and prevent a civil war from happening. Hearing this, Shunsui is grateful he had sent Byakuya and Tōshirō Hitsugaya away to investigate the Human World earlier.

Entering the Palace, Shunsui is quickly confronted by Tokinada. As the two banter about their mutual history, Shunsui draws Katen Kyōkotsu and asks Tokinada about his plans, specifically the purpose of the replica palace. In response, Tokinada mocks Shunsui's rebellious actions and claims that the Captain-Commander is turning against the very history of Soul Society itself because the Tsunayashiro Family is the cornerstone of Soul Society's history, meaning that turning against him is the equivalent of treason.

Shunsui refutes this by pointing out that Tokinada is claiming sovereignty over not just Soul Society, but also the Human World and Hueco Mundo, but in response, Tokinada asserts that such a ruler would deserve respect for allowing the inhabitants of Hueco Mundo to experience daylight for the first time. Bringing up the Quincy Blood War, Tokinada notes that hardly anyone is even aware of Ichigo Kurosaki's efforts to stop the three worlds from collapsing and asks Shunsui if the Substitute Shinigami does not deserve his recognition.

Upon hearing this, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck interrupts them and asserts that Ichigo does not care about such fame anyway, only for Tokinada to claim it is unfair nonetheless in a manner similar to how Hollows and Arrancar like her are living a cursed existence. Nelliel ignores this and tells Tokinada that he should not use Ichigo to justify his own selfishness. Hearing this, a curious Liltotto Lamperd asks Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez if Nelliel is Ichigo's partner, leading a surprised Grimmjow to deny this and explain that Ichigo already has a Human partner, Orihime Inoue, who is far more compatible with him than an Arrancar would be.

Ignoring them, Tokinada claims that he greatly admires Ichigo's efforts of saving Soul Society from Yhwach, but Shunsui interrupts him and asserts that he knows what Tokinada truly wants: a world where all order and common sense is destroyed. Tokinada notes that in the Human World, both religion and science will be uprooted if the truth of their world is revealed, and that the Humans need to see the world for what it is; evil. Shunsui silently acknowledges the untold chaos that will erupt in the Human World if the truth of their existence and afterlives were to come out and tells Tokinada to stop with his pretense, as he knows that Tokinada does not want justice, nor does he want to reform the world; he just wants to watch everything break down into chaos, destruction, and anarchy, which he believes to be the true nature of everything.

Hearing this, everyone present aside from Nanao and Yoruichi are in disbelief that Tokinada's ambitions stretch so far for such a meaningless goal. As Tokinada congratulates Shunsui for understanding him better than his own family ever did, Tier Harribel interrupts him and asks him if he really wants to break down all of existence just for his own pleasure. Amused, Tokinada addresses the "Queen of Hueco Mundo" and reminds her of the existence all Hollows live with - an unyielding drive to quench their desires, whether it is destruction, companionship, or beauty, in an attempt to fill the void in their hearts. Harribel asserts that there is no need to enjoy the sacrifices that the world demands, but Tokinada proclaims that necessities and pleasure are one and the same to him.

With everyone present stunned at the realization of just how insane Tokinada is, Kensei Muguruma breaks the silence by declaring his intention to fight, and Grimmjow, Kenpachi, and Candice Catnipp prepare to attack as well. Tokinada, however, is disappointed that nobody seems to understand his reasoning, and abandons all pretenses of trying to explain himself. Shunsui gives Tokinada a chance to turn himself in to be tried, but Tokinada asks him what exactly he will be accused of. In response, Shunsui reveals his knowledge of Hikone's illegal creation, among which is the grave crime of granting Shinigami powers to a being of Human essence.

While Tokinada counters that the Gotei 13 did the same thing to Ichigo after Sōsuke Aizen's defeat, Shunsui says that it was under special circumstances and an action which Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto gave express permission for. Shortly afterwards, the light behind Tokinada causes his shadow to move beneath Shunsui, who immediately uses Kageoni to attack him.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Valley of Screams, Shinji Hirako stands atop the flower platform generated by his Bankai and thanks Sakanade for its hard work, though he complains about how his Zanpakutō forced him to surround himself with his enemies. Looking at the mountains of Hollow corpses around him, all killed by each other, Shinji notes that Sakashima Yokoshima Happōfusagari does not recognize the difference between friends and foes because it extends that illusion towards everyone, causing enemies to become allies and allies to become enemies, and is nigh-useless in one-on-one fights. Disappointed that Tokinada and Hikone were not present because he could have made them attack each other, Shinji prepares to leave and chastises Sakanade for being a very uncooperative Zanpakutō, as the Shikai is useful against stronger opponents while the Bankai is only useful against weaker ones.

Somewhere else in the Valley of Screams, Aura Michibane is fighting Kūgo Ginjō, Shūkurō Tsukishima, and Giriko Kutsuzawa when she notices the army of Hollows created by Ikomikidomoe have all been killed. As Aura effortlessly turns intangible to avoid her enemies' attacks, Ginjō tries to probe her for information. While Yukio Hans Vorarlberna confirms that he helped Aura isolate Karakura Town, Ginjō wants to know Aura's end goal. In response, Aura asks Ginjō if he still desires to get revenge on the Shinigami, and when Ginjō assumes that Yukio told her about his past, Yukio reveals that it was the opposite - Aura came to him with information. Aura reveals to Ginjō that her father was the Fullbringer Tenshiyo Agata, and as Ginjō recognizes the name, he realizes that Aura is a second generation Fullbringer while she Aura sincerely thanks him for giving her father hope.

Disagreeing with this statement because he blames himself for the deaths of the Fullbringers at that time, Ginjō asks Aura why she works alongside a Shinigami like Tokinada. Aura replies that Tokinada wants the Fullbringers on his side to create a new world, a world where they can be "predators" again. Before they can continue, Tsukishima takes advantage of the situation to use Book of the End on Yukio and declares that it while allow him to discover and undo any brainwashing done on his former comrade. However, as Aura continues to smile, Tsukishima suddenly turns on Ginjō and Giriko, apologizing as he strikes them as well.

Chapter 20
As Shūhei Hisagi exits the portal, he finds himself in an unidentified room, leading him to wonder if the Dangai disrupted his transfer somehow. Noticing the Seireitei-like architecture around him, Hisagi quickly notices the different density of the surrounding Reishi and realizes he is indeed in the Valley of Screams. Upon sensing a large variety of immense Reiatsu some distance beneath him, one of which he recognizes as Kenpachi's Reiatsu, Hisagi concludes that the Gotei 13 must have acted independently on the strange events occurring and Hisagi decides to investigate his surroundings.

Exploring the nearby rooms, Hisagi eventually finds a large chamber with a glass container connected to different devices in the middle and wonders what it is. A familiar voice replies that the container is their future throne. Hisagi turns around and discovers that the voice belongs to Hikone, who also recognizes Hisagi. While Hikone initially wonders why Hisagi is here, they eventually believe Hisagi to be Tokinada's guest. Upon hearing the name, Hisagi demands to know if Tokinada is present as well, which Hikone confirms. Hikone suggests taking Hisagi to meet Tokinada, but the child's immense hybrid Reiatsu intimidates Hisagi.

Realizing that Hikone, despite their power, really is just an innocent child, Hisagi decides to take a different approach. Hisagi asks Hikone if they are aware of what Tokinada's plans are, and while Hikone admits that they do not fully understand them, the goals must be noble as Tokinada is a good person. In response, Hisagi carefully suggests if it is possible that Tokinada may have made a mistake, prompting a distraught Hikone demands to know where Tokinada's mistake lies so that they can see it with their very own eyes. While Hisagi tries to answer, Hikone asserts that Tokinada will always be right to them even if he made a mistake to other people because they consider him to be "justice".

Upon hearing that word, Hisagi angrily interrupts Hikone, who is startled, but quickly apologizes for his outburst and tries to explain that "justice" is not a word to be used lightly. When Hikone replies that justice is what the Shinigami fight for, Hisagi tries to explain that Tokinada's justice may not be the same as that of the Gotei 13, only for Hikone to reveal that Tokinada already explained that and that Hikone will have to fight the Shinigami. As Hikone apologizes and prepares to leave, Hisagi stops them and demands to know for what reason Hikone will fight the Shinigami. Hikone states that Tokinada explained that the Shinigami are "enemies", but Hisagi ignores this and tries to dissuade Hikone by revealing that the child will most certainly be killed by the raw might of Kenpachi.

Slightly saddened, Hikone explains that they will accept dying for Tokinada as their fate if they must. When Hisagi angrily says that one should never throw their life away so trivially, Hikone apologizes for once again making Hisagi angry. Using '''Bakudō #63. Sajō Sabaku''' to restrain Hikone, Hisagi admits that he does not consider Hikone to be his enemy even though Tokinada is, but Hikone does not understand the distinction and breaks free of the Kidō before using Senka to incapacitate Hisagi. As Hisagi loses consciousness, Hikone says that the Shinigami cannot win against them, Tokinada, and Aura, as they request that Hisagi to remain here and rest.

Meanwhile, in the Palace courtyard below, Tokinada barely manages to draw his own Zanpakutō to block Shunsui's Kageoni attack. Noticing this, Kenpachi complains that Shunsui finally initiated the fight without telling him, as he was bored from the conversation, and Ikkaku Madarame and Yumichika Ayasegawa ask Shunsui to let the three of them to fight first. Before anyone can react, however, Tokinada yells Hikone's name, which immediately causes an immense Reiatsu to be sensed by everyone present.

In response, all the fighters present step forward and prepare for battle, and within seconds Hikone appears before them. While Candice is nervous, Grimmjow instantly notices that, despite appearances, Hikone has undergone significant growth since their last fight. As Hikone awaits Tokinada's orders, the Noble introduces Hikone to everyone present as the Soul King of the new era, and while those present take in this revelation, Shunsui tells Tokinada that such disrespect is unbecoming of a Noble of Soul Society, only for Tokinada to counters that it is the exact opposite considering the state of the current Soul King.

As Harribel studies Hikone, she simply voices her disgust at Tokinada's plan to sacrifice an innocent child to such a fate. Addressing Hikone, Tokinada introduces the fighters present and tells Hikone they will be their future subjects. An excited Hikone introduces themself and mentions the fun they had fighting some of them before as Tokinada notes that Hikone should not dislike them. As Hikone acknowledges this fact, Tokinada casually orders Hikone to slaughter them all, which a still-smiling Hikone agrees to.

While Nanao is terrified of the unusual child and their immense power, Hikone simply thanks everyone for being there to fight. Wasting no time, Hikone releases their Zanpakutō: "Hatch the Deceased - Ikomikidomoe". As an immense torrent of Reiatsu pours from Ikomikidomoe, it transforms from a sword into a large, humanoid Hollow, smaller than the sword's previous release but with far more compressed Reiatsu. Hikone once again thanks everyone for being there before immediately generating a Heilig Bogen and firing a combined Heilig Pfeil and Cero at the group. While Liltotto is shocked that Hikone could combine such incompatible techniques, the Arrancar step forward to fight Ikomikidomoe directly.

Grimmjow notes that even though Ikomikidomoe resembles an Adjuchas, its power is greater than that of most Vasto Lorde. Harribel, however, recognizes Ikomikidomoe as an ancient and powerful Hollow from Baraggan Louisenbairn's time as ruler, leading her to wonder how that Hollow wound up as a Zanpakutō in Soul Society. Grimmjow enters his Resurrección, Pantera, while Harribel and Nelliel follow up with their own Resurrección.

Watching this, Kenpachi expresses a desire to fight Grimmjow, but is reminded by Ikkaku and Yumichika that the Arrancar are their allies for now, so he wonders who is strongest between Hikone, Tokinada, and Ikomikidomoe. While initially intimidated by Ikomikidomoe, Ikkaku and Yumichika join Kenpachi in attacking the Hollow Zanpakutō regardless. In response, Ikomikidomoe releases a massive blast of Reiatsu that wrecks most of the courtyard and greatly injures the Arrancar, even though Harribel used a shield of water to block most of the blast.

Shunsui, meanwhile, used Kageoni to hide himself from Ikomikidomoe's attack inside Tokinada's shadow. As Tokinada laments that the courtyard has been wrecked, he tells himself to have Aura repair it later, leading Shunsui to express his sympathies for whoever Tokinada else managed to ensnare. However, Shunsui becomes serious upon studying Ikomikidomoe, and notes that as rare as "living" Zanpakutō are, Hollow-like Zanpakutō are unheard of, and since Hikone is the one wielding Ikomikidomoe, the sword's immense Hollow Reiatsu is being poured directly into the child, a process that normal Shinigami would be unable to survive. As Shunsui starts to understand Hikone's nature, he expresses sympathy for the child while Tokinada gloats over how it makes Hikone a perfect Soul King candidate like Ichigo or Ginjō.

Suspecting that Tokinada is lying to him, Shunsui proceeds to bring up an earlier conversation and asks Tokinada if he was truly not responsible for the death of Nanao's mother. Tokinada confirms that, sadly, he had nothing to do with it, which Shunsui considers unfortunate. Momentarily confused, Tokinada quickly realizes that Shunsui has activated his Yubikiri Genman technique, a game that forces those playing it to tell the truth and inflicts severe pain upon them if they lie.

Tokinada wonders why Shunsui did not use that power earlier and decides to ask Shunsui about Nanao's Zanpakutō, Shinken Hakkyōken. With Shunsui shocked by his knowledge of it, Tokinada reveals that the House of Tsunayashiro had always suspected that Shunsui had illegally hidden the Ise clan's sacred Zanpakutō away, but Ginrei Kuchiki had already spoken out in Shunsui's favor. Deciding to make a move, Shunsui casually asks Tokinada what his Zanpakutō is called again. When Tokinada attempts to avoid answering, Shunsui immediately realizes that Kuten-kyōkoku is not the Zanpakutō's true name, to Tokinada's shock.

Shunsui reveals he suspected this because Kuten-kyōkoku is written with kanji similar to that of Katen Kyōkotsu, therefore it is likely Tokinada uses a fake name to avoid drawing out his Zanpakutō's full power. Tokinada confirms this is true and deliberately chose that name to mock Shunsui, upon which he decides to call out his Zanpakutō's true name. As Tokinada proceeds to chant the release command, "Sip from the four seas, the heavenly shores entwine. Equally duplicate ten thousands, and sharpen-", Shunsui attempts to stop him and stabs Tokinada, only to realize too late that Tokinada's injury is a required component for the full release of Enrakyōten.

While Shunsui attempts to stop Tokinada, Enrakyōten proceeds to glow with a brilliant, silver light that temporarily blinds Shunsui, allowing Tokinada to free himself. As Shunsui quickly recovers, he notices that all the dirt and damage on the sword has disappeared, and Tokinada gloats that he will now show them the Zanpakutō of the House of Tsunayashiro, one of the oldest Zanpakutō in existence, Enrakyōten.

At the same time, in the space generated by Yukio's Fullbring, Aura senses that both Ikomikidomoe and Tokinada have gotten serious and unleashed their full power. While Yukio mutters that Aura's powers are a "cheat code", Aura starts mentioning Urahara's presence before sensing that Hisagi has awakened in the throne room. Intrigued by his presence, Aura decides to confront Hisagi first.

Meanwhile, in the palace courtyard, Grimmjow is furiously fighting against Ikomikidomoe while Hikone fends off attacks from the Quincy. As Grimmjow notes that Hikone has gotten stronger since their last fight, Hikone thanks him for the compliment and admits that this is due to Ikomikidomoe. When Hikone claims that they will become "King", Grimmjow notes that he shares this goal, only for Ikomikidomoe to laugh at the idea of someone as young as Grimmjow ruling over Hueco Mundo.

Hearing this, Grimmjow reminisces on his time with his former Fracción and his promise to kill and devour anyone that tries to rule over him. While Grimmjow realizes that Ikomikidomoe is a dangerous opponent, his predatory instincts compel him to fight anyway. Harribel, who is present, realizes his as well and mentally notes that this is why she never addresses herself as ruler in Grimmjow's presence. As Grimmjow reminds himself he is the King, he bears his fangs and prepares to pounce.

Chapter 21
After Hisagi was incapacitated by Hikone, the Shinigami awoke inside his Inner World, which takes the appearance of a idyllic plain with large trees and a red, rusty windmill that rotates perpetually. While Hisagi regains his bearings, he hears Kazeshini greeting him while taking on the appearance of a black wind. In response, Hisagi reprimands Kazeshini and asserts that he still refuses to satiate Kazeshini's bloodlust. Hearing this, Kazeshini changes its appearance to that of a humanoid shadow.

Kazeshini explains that it is merely a shadow of Hisagi and constantly switches forms, speech pattern, and other traits depending on how the light strikes. Exasperated, Hisagi asks if that means that all his attempts to understand Kazeshini before were meaningless, but Kazeshini clarifies that Hisagi only learned to understand a part of him, just enough to achieve Shikai. As Kazeshini says this is the reason it has invited Hisagi back, it turns into a black wind again and passes through him, waking him up while reminding Hisagi to dedicate his blood and life to it.

In the throne room, Hisagi is angry that Kazeshini still demands bloodshed and killing, causing him to verbally refuse to kill Hikone. As Hisagi tries to find a way out, he is confronted by Aura, who tells him there is no way for Hisagi to escape by himself. While Hisagi realizes he cannot win against Aura or Hikone, he still draws his Zanpakutō and demands to know where Urahara is. Though Aura assures him that Urahara is completely unharmed, Hisagi instead demands to be let out.

Aura explains that only her, Hikone, and Tokinada can freely exit or enter the throne room, leading Hisagi to ask if she still plans to use the Hōgyoku to make Hikone the Soul King. While Aura only confirms that this is Tokinada's wish, Hisagi compares them to Aizen's attempt to overthrow the Soul King with the Hōgyoku. While Aura is confused for a moment, she quickly realizes that Hisagi has no idea what the Soul King truly is. Hisagi asserts that he knows enough, that Mimihagi saved the worlds after Yhwach killed the Soul King, but admits that he does doubt that truth and asks Aura if there is more he should know.

Aura only responds that Hikone would keep the worlds more stable than they were before, leading Hisagi to declare that he will stop Hikone even if they want to become the Soul King. Pointing out how Hikone is still ignorant of everything and only knows was what Tokinada taught them, Hisagi asserts that he would not say anything more and would be prepared to fight Hikone if they still wished to continue after experiencing the totality of the world. Thinking back to his relationship with Tōsen, Hisagi decides that he must meet Tokinada himself, both as a journalist and as a Shinigami.

Hearing this, Aura retorts that knowing the whole world will not guarantee happiness and that some people would prefer living isolated from the outside world, but Hisagi notes that while he initially thought Hikone was like that, he knows now that the child does have their own will. In response, Aura smiles and walks towards a confused Hisagi before whispering something in his ear. As Hisagi struggles to understand what she meant, Aura vanishes and leaves an open doorway for Hisagi to leave through.

Meanwhile, in the sky above the courtyard, while Ikomikidomoe is occupied by the Arrancar, Hikone continues to fight off the Quincy. As Liltotto and Candice barrage Hikone with a rain of Heilig Pfeil, Liltotto admires Hikone's strength even though it is still inferior to Ichigo's. Meninas moves in and punches Hikone, but the force breaks her hand, and Bambietta Basterbine directly touches Hikone, who explodes but is saved by their High-Speed Regeneration. While Liltotto saves Giselle from a subsequent Cero, she notes that her fellow Quincy are starting to get fatigued. In response, Hikone simply says that they have now memorized all the Quincy's attacks.

Before Liltotto can react, Hikone quickly counterattacks and prepares to vaporize Liltotto with a Cero. However, they are suddenly interrupted when they sense a monstrous Reiatsu pouring down on them, and Kenpachi appears next to them. As Kenpachi declares Hikone to be the strongest opponent present, Hikone responds by firing a Cero at the Shinigami, only for Kenpachi to effortlessly dissipate it with his sword.

While the Quincy are impressed and intimidated by Kenpachi's might, Liltotto feels conflicted as Kenpachi was the one who defeated Gremmy Thoumeaux during the war. Ikkaku and Yumichika appear behind them, with Ikkaku noting the irony of Kenpachi saving them while Yumichika reluctantly assures the Quincy that they will not betray them now. As both Shinigami explain, they will never forgive the Quincy for what they did to their fellow Shinigami, especially Giselle, but they will abide by Shunsui's orders. While Liltotto tries to keep Giselle from angering them even more, Ikkaku simply advises them to stay out of Kenpachi's way no matter what.

As Kenpachi effortlessly fights off Hikone's attacks, he responds by slashing through Hikone's Hierro, though Hikone uses Blut Vene to stop the bleeding. Kenpachi recognizes the technique from his fight with Ichigo, and Hikone is elated to be compared to such a hero. Referring to Kenpachi by name, Hikone says they heard about the Shinigami captain from Hisagi, alarming Ikkaku and Yumichika, and explains that Hisagi is unconscious in the throne room at the moment. As the two Shinigami try to leave to rescue their ally, Hikone intercepts them, but prevented from killing them by Kenpachi.

Kenpachi reminds Hikone that the fight is between the two of them and orders Ikkaku and Yumichika to leave. In response, Hikone combines Shunpo, Sonído, Hirenkyaku, and the Fullbringers' high-speed movement technique to appear instantly in front of Kenpachi before using Hierro and Blut Arterie to strike several powerful blows. However, Kenpachi merely slashes through Hikone's defenses again and notes that he has figured out Hikone's strength. Removing his eyepatch, Kenpachi declares that Hikone is entertaining.

At the same time, in the Hōōden, Ōetsu Nimaiya stares into the distance as he is joined by Ichibē Hyōsube. As the two share some banter, Ichibē asks Nimaiya if Ikomikidomoe is indeed in the Valley of Screams. Nimaiya replies that Ichibē already has seen it all, and Ichibē muses on the strangeness that a monster among Menos has now reached a different evolutionary path. While Nimaiya tries to mention Tokinada and Aura's unsanctioned entrance into the palace, Ichibē interrupts him and says that their purpose is simply to maintain the status quo, for it does not matter who rules over the world as long as the world itself stays the same.

While Nimaiya disagrees, Ichibē merely replies that he will not interfere in the matters of Soul Society because Shunsui is doing an admirable job and there is no reason for them to favor one descendant of the Noble Houses over another. Sitting, Ichibē notes that regardless of the Linchpin's free will, or lack thereof, as long as it maintains the worlds, the "ordinary peace" will remain. A laughing Ichibē turns his gaze towards the greater palace and wonders what the Soul King, Yhwach, has as their opinion.

A very long time ago, in the primeval days of Soul Society, before all Shinigami had access to Zanpakutō, the Menos prospered in Hueco Mundo and managed to reach the level of Adjuchas. One of these Adjuchas was particularly powerful one, and it came into conflict with one of the first Vasto Lorde to exist, Baraggan Louisenbairn. This Adjuchas even left Hueco Mundo and attacked both the Human World and Soul Society in order to consume everything it saw and keep evolving without limit.

While similar to Aaroniero Arruruerie's Glotonería abilities, this Adjuchas did not assimilate the unique powers of any it consumed, but rather the full Reiatsu potential of its victims. Growing exponentially stronger, this Hollow was eventually recognized by Baraggan as a "walking disaster with infinite evolution", and the two Hollows made a pact never to interfere with each other.

Eventually, the powerful Adjuchas attacked Soul Society, defeating even a young Yamamoto, and tried to devour the Soul King itself. However, the Hollow was defeated by Ichibē, who used Ichimonji to erase the Hollow's name. Since the Hollow contained too many consumed Souls to purify at once, Nimaiya sealed the Hollow inside a Zanpakutō, and Ichibē used Shirafude Ichimonji to rename the Hollow as Ikomikidomoe. Until a Shinigami would be able to wield it, Nimaiya sealed the Zanpakutō deep inside the Hōōden, where it remained until it was claimed by a child who could become the Soul King and was destined to be devoured by the blade itself.

Back in the courtyard in the Valley of Screams, Grimmjow, Nelliel, Harribel, and the other Arrancar are slowly exhausting themselves in their fight with Ikomikidomoe. They note that Ikomikidomoe is an aberration that possesses the advantages of the three classes of Menos while still possessing immense levels of Reiatsu; despite Ikomikidomoe's bulk, its Sonído is proficient enough that it can strike targets with incredible speed and precision, and should Ikomikidomoe be injured, it can absorb the dense Reishi from Valley of Screams to perform High-Speed Regeneration.

Due to this, Dordoni Alessandro Del Socaccio notes that they will tire themselves out long before they can take out Ikomikidomoe. While Harribel agrees, Nelliel states that it is not a reason to give up. Hearing this, a bemused Dordoni acknowledges the interesting fate of him fighting alongside his successor as "Tres Espada". Nelliel agrees, but states that they can put aside their differences concerning his fight with Ichigo for the time being. A shocked Dordoni now realizes that the childlike Arrancar that accompanied Ichigo into Las Noches and his fellow Tres Espada were one and the same.

Putting aside the revelation, Dordoni releases Giralda and uses its cyclones in combination with Harribel's water to ensnare Ikomikidomoe. In response, Ikomikidomoe fires a Cero from its eye to blow away the water, but Cirucci Sanderwicci releases Golondrina and launches its blades into Ikomikidomoe's eye. Taking advantage of Ikomikidomoe's blindness, Nelliel launches her Lanzador Verde at its eye, where the lance buries itself deep enough to prevent easy regeneration. Following on this, Charlotte Chuhlhourne also enters his Resurrección, Reina de Rosas, and uses his Rosa Blanca technique to deprive Ikomikidomoe from more Reishi.

As Ikomikidomoe tries to escape from the thorns by spawning more Hollows, Meninas punches it into submission while Liltotto devours its new creations and Candice and Bambietta unleash their full firepower on it. Finally, Grimmjow and Luppi declare they will be the one to destroy Ikomikidomoe as they start charging Reiatsu. While Ikomikidomoe tries to shield itself, it finds itself paralyzed by NaNaNa Najahkoop's The Underbelly. Before Ikomikidomoe can react anymore, it is hit by a full power Gran Rey Cero and Desgarrón combination.

Meanwhile, during Kenpachi and Hikone's battle, Hikone senses that Ikomikidomoe is in trouble. Dodging Kenpachi's attacks, Hikone apologizes and asks for some time. When Hikone explains that they will soon gain the power to kill Kenpachi, an intrigued Kenpachi asks Hikone if they are referring to their Bankai, but Hikone notes that it is probably more accurate to refer to it as a Resurrección as they immediately head towards Ikomikidomoe's location below.

In the courtyard, a severely injured Ikomikidomoe curses the Arrancar and declares that it will regain its true name. Just as Grimmjow prepares to finish off Ikomikidomoe, Hikone arrives and tells the Hollow that it already has a name as their Zanpakutō. Trembling, Ikomikidomoe tries to beg to Hikone, who ignores the Hollow and proceeds to thank everyone present. Hikone proceeds to call out Ikomikidomoe's full name: Ikomikidomoe Hō'ōraku Hakkei. Immediately, Ikomikidomoe's physical form disintegrates as a white wind surrounds Hikone. As Ikomikidomoe transforms into a pure white Katana, Hikone's Shihakushō turns black as their appearance changes to resemble that of a Hollow. Everyone present is shocked as Hikone's Reiatsu skyrockets, their full potential unleashed, and becoming truly transcendent like Sōsuke Aizen did upon fusing with the Hōgyoku.

Hikone proceeds to bid the Arrancar goodbye as they return to fight and defeat Kenpachi, the mightiest Shinigami. Meanwhile, in the Palace itself, Hisagi senses Hikone's rising Reiatsu and wonders what is happening.

Several moments earlier, as the Arrancar were still fighting Ikomikidomoe, Nanao is trembling at the sinister Reiatsu that pours from Enrakyōten and notes that she cannot actually perceive the Zanpakutō 's blade. As Nanao also notes that Tokinada's injuries have dissapeared, Shunsui asks Tokinada what Enrakyōten's powers are, to which the Noble replies that Shunsui will soon understand it, at the cost of his life. After the two share some vitriolic banter about Soul Society's Nobility, during which Shunsui voices his disgust at the Nobility's privileges, Tokinada barely manages to dodge a kick from Yoruichi, who notes that the conversation was testing her patience.

Before Tokinada can recover, Kensei Muguruma activates his Bankai, Tekken Tachikaze and punches the Noble with his full might, gravely injuring him. As Yoruichi approaches Tokinada, he quickly slashes her legs with his Zanpakutō. While the injuries are minor, Yoruichi suddenly finds her legs becoming heavier and Tokinada stands back up with his injuries fully healed. As Tokinada proclaims he will not die easily, he turns his Zanpakutō and Shunsui barely manages to pull Nanao away as a vicious, spherical beast emerges from the ground.

With great disbelief, Shunsui recognizes the beast as belonging to the Zanpakutō Gagaku Kairo, the Zanpakutō of the 7th Kenpachi, Kenpachi Kuruyashiki. Acting quickly, Shunsui drags the beast inside a shadow with Kageoni, before attempting to attack Tokinada. While Tokinada dodges Shunsui's strike, Yoruichi attempts to attack him again but suddenly finds a storm of sakura petals stopping her. This is enough for Shunsui to realize what Enrakyoten's true power is: mimic other Zanpakutō.

In response, Tokinada strikes the earth with his Zanpakutō, causing spikes to emerge from it and head towards his opponents, but Kensei stops the attack with a blow from his Bankai. While realization dawns upon Kensei as well, Shunsui sums up the other Zanpakutō powers they've seen Enrakyōten mimic so far: Wabisuke, Hisagomaru, Senbonzakura, and Tsuchinamazu. While Tokinada is impressed that Shunsui recognized all of them immediately, especially Tsuchinamazu, Shunsui is still confused that Hisagomaru managed to heal such critical injuries, to which Tokinada explains that since his Reiatsu is far greater than that of Hanatarō Yamada, Hisagomaru's powers are far more potent when used by him.

Nanao wonders if there are any limits to the powers of Enrakyōten, but Tokinada merely activates Haineko's powers while spawning more of Gagaku Kairo's creatures. While Shunsui tries to rescue Nanao, Tokinada uses Hadō #58 Tenran to corner him further, but they are saved when Harribel uses Cascada to sweep away the ashes and creatures. While Harribel is confused that Tokinada used Rangiku Matsumoto's Zanpakutō powers, she is joined by the other Arrancar and Quincy as well as Shinji.

Shunsui wastes no time and quickly explains that Tokinada's Zanpakutō can mimic other Zanpakutō powers, and asks Shinji if he can use his Sakanade to counter any attempts by Tokinada to use Sakanade himself. While Shinji says he can try, he does state that if Tokinada can mimic his Bankai, they are guaranteed to lose. As Harribel proceeds to fire more water blasts at Tokinada, the Noble activates Ryūjin Jakka to evaporate the water. Shunsui, however, is only relieved when he notices the flames are not nearly as intense as those of the original Ryūjin Jakka. While Shunsui notes to himself that Tokinada's Reiatsu is still comparable to that of Yoruichi or Byakuya, it is fortunatly nowhere near the level of Yamamoto or Aizen.

However, mentioning Aizen instantly causes Shunsui's worst fears to surface as he realizes an important fact he unconsciously chose to ignore. Sensing his fear, Tokinada uses Bakudō #21 Sekienton to create a smokescreen across the courtyard. Fearing what's about to happen, Shunsui closes his one eye but before he can warn the others, he hears Tokinada using Daruma-san ga Koronda on Nanao. As Shunsui realizes that he has to open his eye to win this game, he reluctantly does so, only to find not Katen Kyōkotsu's scimitars attacking Nanao, but Kinshara's whip. Realizing too late he fell for Tokinada's bluff, Shunsui cannot close his eye in time again.

As Shunsui desperately yells out for everyone to close their eyes, he is too late with it. Even as Shinji came to the same conclusion as Shunsui, his battle reflexes prevented him from looking away in time during combat. Before everyone present even realizes it, they all have already fallen under the spell of Kyōka Suigetsu.

Meanwhile, Hisagi is frantically navigating the rooms and corridors of the palace looking for an exit. After noticing Hikone's Reiatsu clashing with that of Kenpachi, Hisagi fears he is too late and there will be casualties, before sensing the Reiatsu of Shunsui, Yoruichi, and Kensei further below him as well. Initially relieved, Hisagi quickly becomes confused upon sensing Arrancar and Quincy present as well, and starts getting more anxious when he senses Shunsui's Reiatsu is weakening; since Hikone is fighting Kenpachi, it can only mean that Shunsui is being pressured by Tokinada.

Finally, Hisagi finds a window leading outside and, upon looking out of it, sees the Arrancar, Quincy, and Shinigami fighting against a single, hostile Shinigami far below him. Wasting no time, Hisagi immediately jumps out of the window to assist his allies, unaware that this battle will uncover the darkness of Soul Society to him.

Chapter 22
As Hisagi lands in the courtyard, the Shinigami, Arrancar, & Quincy present are shocked to see him and wonder if he is one of the illusions generated by Enrakyoten's mimicry of Kyōka Suigetsu. While Hisagi asks Shunsui what is happening, Shunsui points Katen Kyōkotsu towards him and tells him to keep his distance, as they cannot be sure he is the real Hisagi. Tokinada, however, interrupts them and demands to know who Hisagi is and how he arrived there, to which Hisagi asks if he is addressing Tokinada Tsunayashiro. Tokinada now recognizes Hisagi from this battle with Aura in Karakura Town, and politely introduces himself, asking Hisagi to publish a story about how Shunsui committed treason against the nobility.

Hisagi studies Tokinada, and quickly realizes that the noble is pure evil. While Hisagi mentally notes that Tōsen taught him that the concepts of "justice" and "evil" are a matter of perspective, Hisagi knows that as opposed to even Aizen and Yhwach, Tokinada's very nature oozes pure malice. In response to Tokinada's request, Hisagi declines, and says that his readers would much more prefer a story where Tokinada is deposed. While Hisagi is aware that Tokinada is his enemy as a Shinigami, he decides to bring up the issue of Hikone, to which Tokinada remembers Hikone praising a kind Shinigami they met in the "Pharmaceutical Institute".

When Hisagi wants to know what Tokinada has to gain with making Hikone a Soul King, Tokinada responds that it is necessary for the Shinigami to reign supreme over the worlds, and states that this is the sole reason Hikone was created. Angry, Hisagi counters that Hikone is not a tool to be used, to which Tokinada says that he had Hikone created to serve as a mere vessel for his plans, and scoffs at the idea that Hikone has feelings or even free will.

Furious, Hisagi realizes just how much Hikone is being used by Tokinada, and declares that his intentions to kill the despicable noble are only increasing. Tokinada fails to understand how Hisagi can be attached to a being he met only once before, to which Hisagi retorts that he'd care even if he never met Hikone. Tokinada counters that all Hikone has ever known is serving him, it is Hikone's very reason for being and what makes the child happy, and depriving that servitude would only deprive the child of their happiness.

Having heard enough, Hisagi releases Kazeshini and prepares to attack before he is quickly grabbed by Shunsui and dragged alongside Nanao into one of the shadows of Kageoni. There, Shunsui explains to Hisagi about Enrakyoten and the fact that is has put everyone present under the influence of Kyōka Suigetsu, though Shunsui speculates that putting that much concentration on Kyōka Suigetsu has weakened the other powers of Enrakyoten. As both Shunsui and Hisagi are relieved that Hikone is currently occupied by Kenpachi, the two Shinigami try to formulate a plan to overcome Tokinada.

Shunsui believes that Enrakyoten can only mimic Zanpakutō powers its owner has actually seen before, though both he and Hisagi admit the point is moot due to Tokinada's surveillance of everyone in Soul Society, and Shunsui is convinced that Kyōka Suigetsu must be much weaker in Tokinada's hands than in those of Aizen. Regardless, Shunsui apologizes to Hisagi for dragging him into these problems due to asking him to write a praising article about Tokinada. Hisagi ignores this and instead resolves to kill Tokinada, to which Shunsui has an idea and asks Hisagi how much of his "fighting in the dark" he still remembers from the Academy training.

Back in the courtyard, Tokinada grows impatient at Shunsui's disappearance and decides to distract himself by using Suzumebachi to mark Yoruichi with a Hōmonka, declaring that he plans on killing her with Nigeki Kessatsu in front of Suì-Fēng. Suddenly, Shunsui, Nanao, and Hisagi emerge from the shadows again, and Tokinada notes that Hisagi is keeping his eyes closed. Tokinada believes that Shunsui's plan is merely for Hisagi to call out his location towards his allies, and laughs at the attempt to defeat him, as he can still mimic Hisagi's voice to confuse them. However, internally Tokinada notes that he does not know Hisagi well enough to perfectly mimic his voice and mannerisms with Kyōka Suigetsu, and Shunsui will most certainly notice any mistakes.

Hisagi, meanwhile recalls his training and notes his anxiety at fighting an opponent as strong as Tokinada while blind, especially once he senses that Tokinada has activated Senbonzakura, but calms himself once he realizes that Tōsen always fought blind. This causes Hisagi to remember Tōsen's last moments, as well as the first tears he ever saw his mentor display. Overcome with emotion, Hisagi asks Tokinada if he was watching them during Tōsen's death, which Tokinada confirms, saying that he only regrets not being there in person and openly relishes his earlier attempts at crushing Tōsen.

Furious, Hisagi proceeds to attack him, though Tokinada avoids Kazeshini as he openly thanks Hisagi for killing Tōsen for him. Ignoring him, Hisagi shifts the conversation towards Hikone and outright calls Tokinada a coward for how he keeps Hikone ignorant about the truth and utterly dependent on him. In response, Tokinada says that it is arrogant of a Shinigami to believe they're in the right when talking about the truth of the world. When Hisagi is confused, Tokinada realizes Hisagi himself is ignorant and loudly declares that their entire world is build upon a great sin.

Hearing this, Shunsui tries to silence him by treating it as a myth, but Tokinada counters that he is fully aware of it from the Tsunayashiro family archives and refuses to believe Shunsui himself is ignorant. As Shunsui tries to attack him, he finds himself stopped by Aura and her Fullbring powers. While Aura apologizes to Shunsui for interrupting him, she turns to Hisagi and politely asks that he hears Tokinada's story to the end, declaring that someone of Hisagi's profession deserves to hear the truth. As Hisagi is distracted, he finds himself impaled through the shoulder by Shinsō and Tokinada asks Hisagi if he ever wondered if Tōsen and Aizen may have been in the right, saying that aside from ablatant desire for revenge, Tōsen deeply believed in justice and Aizen despised the existence of the Soul King.

Moving on, Tokinada asks Hisagi why Urahara even made the Hōgyoku in the first place, as there were no enemies or conflict at that time. As Hisagi recalls the cryptic conversation Urahara and Aura had concerning the Hōgyoku, Tokinada continues and also proceeds to ask why Mimihagi even lived inside the late Ukitake's body rather than be collected by the Royal Guard. This causes Hisagi's mind to start turning, as he remembers that the Right Arm, Mimihagi, governs "Stillness" while the Left Arm governs "Progress", and Hisagi wonders if this means the Soul King was a being that existed between Stagnation and Evolution. Furthermore, Hisagi remembers that Aizen specifically addressed Ukitake when the rogue Shinigami said "No one stands on the top of the world. Not you, not me, not even gods" and realizes that Aizen must have known about Mimihagi's presence.

As the pieces fall together, Hisagi remembers the second part of Aizen's speech about "The unbearable vacancy of the throne" and asks Tokinada if the Soul King was dead from the beginning. Smiling, Tokinada specifies that the Soul King was never either dead or alive, and as he uses Gegetsuburi to block another attack from Hisagi, explains that the Soul King was just a "sacrificial lamb". Continueing, Tokinada reveals that the world did not always exist in its current state, and that the old world was a chaotic place where life and death were the same.

Laughing, Tokinada explains that the being knows as the Soul King, the progenitor of the Quincy, Shinigami, and Fullbringers, existed as a guardian between Hollows and Humans. Finally revealing the truth, Tokinada declares that the three worlds that currently exist were created by sacrificing a being who was "both a devil and a messiah”, a sacrifice performed by the ancestors of the Five Noble Houses.

At the same time, in the Soul King Palace, Ichibē stands in front of the sealed remains of Yhwach and addresses a crowd composed of the rest of the Royal Guard and the "Divine Soldiers", the latter of which are noted to be mostly new recruits after the former ones were killed by the Schutzstaffel. Due to the events happening in the Valley of Screams, as well as the earlier attack on the Hōōden, Ichibē had assembled everyone to teach them about their true history.

As Ichibē explains, in that primordial world everything was in chaos; there was neither life nor death; progress and regress randomly switched out, and it took a hundred million years for this world to become even remotely stable. Eventually, Hollows emerged in this world and started feasting on the human inhabitants, disrupting the circulation of Souls and giving birth to the first Menos. Due to this disruption, the world stagnated until, as if in response, a new being emerged from it, the Soul King and destroyed the Menos, reducing it to sand. While Ichibē admits that other unique beings, such as himself, emerged as well, none of them were as special as the Soul King, a being who truly approached being Almighty.

While the Soul King continued to annihilate the Hollows to protect the world, it caused the world to slowly regress back towards chaos. In response, five strong beings from that time decided to work together to fix everything; they were the ancestors of the Five Noble Families. Of course, as Ichibē reveals, while their methods and goals aligned, their motives did not. Tsunayashiro wanted to control the Soul King's divine power, and an opposing ancestor wanted to create a "lid" to cover up the "pit" that would become Hell. On yet another hand, Kuchiki wanted to create order, while Shihōin wanted to advance this stagnant world. And finally Shiba wanted to create a world were Hollows could live on their own, in peace.

Eventually, the five realized that to accomplish their goals, they had to split the current world into three new ones, and they needed the power of a transcendent being to do so. While Shiba initially tried to convince the others to do otherwise, they nonetheless bound the Soul King and sealed him inside a crystal. As Ichibē himself witnessed, using the Soul King's Almighty powers as a keystone, the world was split, life and death were separated, and the cycle of Souls began.

While Ichibē admits he has no idea why the Soul King never resisted his bindings, only speculating that the Soul King saw something in the distant future that made him agree, Ichibē does state that what followed likely was without consent. Tsunayashiro was unconvinced of the Soul King's cooperation and feared his power, and proceeded to tear off the Right Arm of Stillness and the Left Arm of Progress.

As everyone present is aghast at the events, Ichibē continues to nonchalantly describe the Soul King's degrading mutilation; as the other ancestors joined Tsunayashiro, they tore out the Soul King's Heart and organs and dismembered his legs, to create a puppet king convenient for them. With a tone bordering on insubordination, Senjumaru mentions how convenient it was for the ancestors that the Soul King carried the entire world without having any say in its proceedings.

Ichibē, however, disagrees and voices his belief that the Soul King did still have a will of his own, even guiding Ichigo Kurosaki towards his fate at the palace. Ichibē states that he can feel the Soul King's will inside his bones, his Ōken. Tenjirō Kirinji notes the interesting events that led to Ichigo, a descendant of Shiba, almost becoming the new Soul King, to which Ichibē reveals that Shiba originally wanted to rebel against Tsunayashiro's plan, even offering himself up as a sacrifice. As Ichibē notes, it is ironic that the Shiba bloodline only continued to exist because Tsunayashiro disagreed with them.

While Kirio Hikifune reminisces that Kaien Shiba had a similar attitude as his ancestor, Ichibē says that that is the reason the Tsunayashiro family had disgraced the Shiba family. Lost in thought, Ichibē mutters that when Ichigo appeared, he genuinly believed history was repeating itself, and wonders if the world needs someone like Ichigo. As their subordinates struggle to process this shocking revelation, the Royal Guard understands Ichibē's hidden meaning; the history of the world is build on crimes far more than just murder.

Characters
Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World III features a number of existing characters, as well as original characters created for this series of novels. They include: