Chapter 56 - A Returning Threat (2/2)

”Understood, Lord Aizen. But what if other Captains from Soul Society are to show up?” Ulquiorra asked. ”With this many high ranking Espada showing up at once in the living world, they are bound to take action.”

”I have that taken care of already. Nothing an army of menos grande sent to Soul Society cannot stall.” Aizen replied with a smirk.

”Yes, Lord Aizen. I will not fail you this time.” Ulquiorra bowed before leaving through a garganta.

”You seem to be having fun with this.” Gin commented as he walked out from behind Aizen's throne. ”But don't you think it will be bad if they go all out in Karakura town? They might wipe out the entire city. Then what souls will we use for the Ouken?”

”It won't get to that point. I expect the battle to have ended before it gets that far. Remember, the shinigami also want to protect human lives as well.” Aizen replied with a smile. 'Uchiha Itachi...you are making this far more entertaining than I had planned for it to be.'

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”Mr. Uchiha, why were we suddenly attacked?” Orihime asked.

”He was most likely sent by Aizen but not even I know the exact reason why he wanted you. The reason he stopped was because of a technique of mine. Now come, I need to get you somewhere safe. We'll go to Urahara's shop.” Itachi said as he sensed the large reiatsus nearby fighting. 'This reiatsu...is Kurosaki's. He's certainly grown since our training. The other reiatsu must be that Espada, Grimmjow. And I can sense a bit further away, Captain Hitsugaya and the others fighting.'

”No, I need to help Kurosaki! He might be hurt.” Orihime said as she began running in Ichigo's direction only for Itachi to stop her by appearing in front of her.

”I understand your dėsɨrė to protect him, but right now, the Arrancar are after you. Kurosaki can certainly hold his own without us. For now, we need to-” Itachi stopped talking as he sensed a large reiatsu appear behind him. He turned around in time to draw his blade and saw a familiar face as he clashed swords.

”So you've returned to try and take Inoue again?” Itachi said as he blocked Ulquiorra's blade. Ulquiorra quickly backed up from Itachi. 'He's not making eye contact with me. Did he figure out my genjutsu?' Itachi noted.

”That is correct, Uchiha Itachi. However, I am not alone this time.” Ulquiorra said as another Garganta opened behind him.

From the Garganta, two more figures walked out. Itachi recognized one of them as Tousen and the other was a tall man with brown wavy hair and a faded goatee.

”Uchiha Itachi. Surrender over that woman now.”