Reincarnated in Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint

Rodrigo Raphael, an ordinary young man, saw his life take a dramatic turn after making a deal with a mysterious entity. Awakening in the body of Kurosaki Ichigo in a devastated, shadowy world, he found himself wielding unimaginable powers, including the Omnitrix and the abilities of Quincy, Shinigami, and Hollow. Lost and confused, Rodrigo realized he was in a setting eerily similar to the novel Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint.

While trying to make sense of the situation, Rodrigo noticed a group of people seeking refuge in an underground station. Choosing to approach, he lifted the heavy metal door with ease, instantly drawing attention. However, his presence was met with hostility, leading to an unexpected attack. It was then that Rodrigo grasped the harsh truth: he wasn't merely dreaming; he had truly become part of a story that once seemed impossible.

Now, with constellations observing his every move and even greater challenges ahead, Rodrigo must learn how to survive in this unforgiving world and what it truly means to reach The Oldest Dream.

---

Rodrigo

I was leaning against a pillar in the subway station's underground, breathing slowly, my eyes shut. My mind was racing with thoughts, even as my body tried to rest. What would I do next? That was the big question.

My fingers were still tense, as if my hand were gripping Zangetsu's hilt again. Vague flashes of the last few minutes remained vivid and sharp. After realizing where I was—Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint—the initial shock had given way to one clear thought: I needed to act fast.

When those fools in front of me hesitated, it wasn't hard to capitalize on their fear. A simple movement of my hand toward the sword on my back was all it took for panic to set in. They fled like rats from a sinking ship.

I stayed there, watching them run away. Could I have done more? Maybe, but it wasn't my priority. Minions like those posed no real threat. My focus was on something else. Something much bigger. Something that made my heart race and my breath catch.

The man I'd seen earlier, carrying an injured woman, was none other than Kim Dok-ja.

Kim Dok-ja.

It took a moment for it to sink in. Kim Dok-ja is here. This is his world. So... it's real. Everything is real. The revelation hit me like a punch to the gut. I knew the story; I knew what was coming. But now, it wasn't just a narrative I read comfortably in my room. I was here, in it, standing before him.

I turned my head slightly, glancing at the distant figure now standing with a small group. Dok-ja was there, saying something I couldn't make out clearly. Still, there was something about him—the posture, the gaze, the determination—that was unmistakable.

I let out a heavy sigh, pressing my back against the pillar. "So, now what, Rodrigo?" I murmured to myself, my voice low enough that only I could hear. You're in a world that isn't yours. You have powers you never asked for. And now, you're standing before the protagonist of a story you never imagined living. What's your next move?

I closed my eyes for a moment, trying to organize my thoughts. It was still too much to process, but I knew one thing: I had to move, make a decision. And fast. Kim Dok-ja wouldn't stay idle for long, and the plot—the life—around him was about to explode into action.

Leaning against the pillar, I closed my eyes again, letting my mind wander back to the moments before all this madness began. I was lying on my bed, phone in hand, reading Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint. My memory was still a blur, but I remembered reaching the part where Kim Dok-ja had died and, surprisingly, returned to life. After that, he ended up in a strange place filled with movie posters. Something about him entering one of those movies, as if stepping into a story.

"He fought Yoo Joonghyuk there... but Yoo was being controlled, right?" I murmured, trying to piece together the fragments of the story in my head. I sighed, frustrated. "I don't remember the details exactly. Maybe not even the order."

The truth was, it had been a while since I read the novel. The webtoon was fresher in my memory, but thanks to the government shutting down pirated sites, I'd only read up to a certain point. The rest of the story came from amateur translations of the novel. I'd read what I could, but now that I was here, I realized how insufficient my efforts had been. I should have paid more attention to the details.

I let out another heavy sigh, opening my eyes to take in the environment around me. And now? What do I do?

From what I remembered, Dok-ja would soon start selling supplies to the people at the station. He did this knowing that the next scenario wouldn't allow for stockpiling food. Afterward, conflicts would arise. He would go out with the hunting group he formed, kill a rank 7 creature, and then return... only for the next major chaos to unfold.

I looked at my hand, feeling the tension in my fingers. With my current power, I was almost certain I was stronger than anyone in this station. Maybe even stronger than Yoo Joonghyuk himself. But... for what purpose? To kill everyone here and solve things by brute force? The thought made me shiver.

*Kill...*

The word lingered in my mind. The first scenario. I remembered it: **KILL A LIVING BEING.** Cruel and straightforward. Only those willing to take a life could pass. Dok-ja and his group managed to bypass this by killing insects.

But why wasn't I thrown directly into that scenario? Logically, it would have made more sense to place me there. Forcing me to kill right away would have been a brutal but effective way to push me to mature quickly. Instead, I was dropped into the second main scenario.

*Why?*

I recalled the voice that brought me here, the mysterious figure that made this deal. Their words still echoed in my mind: "You're not the first."

How many others had been thrown into this situation before me? How many had failed or hadn't even made it this far? The thought left me unsettled. Am I just another? Another disposable piece in an endless cycle?

I shook my head, trying to dispel the doubt. This wasn't the time for it. I needed to focus on what was in front of me. Kim Dok-ja was here. The second scenario was happening. And somehow, I needed to find my role in this story – before it was too late.

The echo of footsteps from others still resounded in the distance, but my mind was elsewhere. I had to decide what to do.

The safest option seemed obvious: follow Kim Dok-ja. He was the protagonist of this story, the man who survived where others failed, who knew what was coming. Besides, I knew he had died and come back to life, making him practically immortal – at least up to a certain point. If I followed him, I'd have a kind of "insurance." He always found a way, even in the worst scenarios.

But following Dok-ja also had its issues. He wasn't exactly known for trusting others, and I doubted he'd accept me easily. Moreover, following the protagonist didn't necessarily mean I'd achieve my goal. That being who brought me into this world spoke of an "older dream" but gave no details. I had no idea how sticking with Dok-ja might help me with that.

Still, following Dok-ja guaranteed a solid chance of survival. He was the most reliable path to see the end of this story – and, perhaps, to find a way out of this nightmare. Not to mention other benefits. Dok-ja always managed to gather coins, items, and allies along the way. If I stayed by his side, I could share in those advantages.

But... there was another option: going solo.

I seriously considered it. With the knowledge I had now, I might survive until the third scenario. I knew the second scenario required a daily survival fee of 100 coins. That meant I needed to secure resources immediately, accumulating coins and supplies.

If I went solo... I could even steal from Dok-ja.

The thought crossed my mind faster than I wanted to admit. I knew where he hid certain things, at least partially. During the arc where he fought the rank 7 creature, he had already amassed resources. Maybe I could intercept some of them.

Of course, if I chose this path, I needed to be prepared. It wasn't enough to go off on my own without a concrete plan. First, I had to fully adapt to Ichigo's body. Using Zangetsu wasn't as simple as holding the sword and slicing through enemies. I needed to unlock the Bankai as soon as possible, as well as access the Horn of Salvation form, which would serve as a trump card in extreme situations.

The Omnitrix was also essential. I needed to expand its capabilities, unlock more aliens, and eventually activate the Master Control. Adding Alien X's DNA was tempting, but that felt like a distant goal for now.

I let out a deep sigh, staring at the ceiling of the underground station.

If I were to steal something from Dok-ja... maybe I should only take coins or minor resources. It wouldn't feel right to take critical items, especially since I already had Zangetsu and the ultimate Omnitrix, even if both were weakened.

This line of thought brought me some comfort. As selfish as I was considering being, I still wanted to maintain a semblance of honor. After all, I didn't know what awaited me in the future, but I didn't want to become a villain in this story.

With that in mind, I began to organize my thoughts. Two paths, each with its pros and cons. Following Dok-ja was safe but might lead me away from my goal. Going solo gave me freedom but required far more preparation and risks.

Either way, I needed to decide quickly. Time wasn't on my side, and the next scenario could begin at any moment.

Dok-ja or solo?

The question kept hammering in my mind as I stared into the void, feeling the weight of the choice I was about to make.

The sound of footsteps broke my thoughts. My eyes opened immediately, focusing in the direction of the noise. A man was walking toward me with a calmness that seemed rehearsed.

"Hello, could you tell me who you are?"

His tone was gentle, but I caught something... off. There was a subtle layer of malice, so faint it could be ignored by anyone else. Anyone but me. I'd dealt with people like this before: those who hid behind a mask of kindness, waiting for the right moment to strike.

"What do you want?" I asked, blunt and dry.

I let my eyes analyze the man. He wore simple clothes, casual: a black shirt, gray pants, dark shoes. Nothing remarkable. His blond hair contrasted with his closed eyes, a detail that seemed out of place, almost unnatural.

"I just want to know who our new companion at the station is!"

My patience began to wane. My gaze hardened, but I took a deep breath. "No one of interest."

I thought he'd drop it there, but no. He persisted.

"Well, I can see you're already equipped. Two swords: a small one at your waist and a large one on your back."

I stayed silent. It wasn't worth wasting my breath. But when he continued standing there, insisting, I decided to end it. I stood up slowly but deliberately, standing face to face with him. Or almost. I realized that, in Ichigo's body, I was taller than him. The height difference made him hesitate for a moment.

"Since you're so curious," I said coldly, "could you at least tell me your name?"

As I stood, I felt the eyes of everyone in the station burning into me, even without looking directly at them. It was as if Ichigo's body had a heightened awareness for things like this. I bet even Dok-ja was trying to read my character profile but failing. I wasn't part of this world.

"Cheon Inho," the man replied, a slight smile on his face. "I'm the one in charge of this station for now."

I remained silent, trying to remember if the name was familiar. I mentally combed through everything I knew about the novel but came up with nothing. A minor character, no doubt.

"Rodrigo," I answered curtly.

Without saying another word, I turned and began walking toward the iron doors leading to the train tracks.

"Hey!" Inho called out, stepping closer. "Are you sure about going that way? No one who's gone there has come back."

I glanced over my shoulder at him but said nothing. It wasn't worth it. This guy wasn't anyone important. He wasn't Dok-ja, wasn't Yoo Joonghyuk—he wasn't relevant.

I turned my gaze forward and jumped onto the tracks. As I moved away, the station lights began to fade behind me. Without looking back, I kept walking. The sound of my footsteps on the rails echoed, blending with the darkness.

As the shadows around me grew deeper, my thoughts returned to that blue screen.

"According to what it said, I can use Ichigo's Quincy, Shinigami, and Hollow powers, but not at their peak..."

My eyes, still adjusting to the dim light, focused on the tracks ahead as my mind wandered. The appearance I had now was that of Ichigo during the final arc, after he understood his true nature. The Ichigo who accepted who he really was, merging all parts of himself in harmony. But...

I am not him.

Instinctively, my hands brushed the hilt of Zangetsu. It felt strange—not what I expected. Cold. Distant. I knew zanpakutō weren't just weapons; they were manifestations of their wielder's essence. Unlocking their true power required a genuine connection.

But how could I achieve that?

Zangetsu—or rather, the two parts that made it up, Yhwach and White—were reflections of Ichigo. They were him, just as much as he was them. And me? I was just an intruder. A virus. A displaced piece trying to take a place that wasn't mine.

"What if they reject me?"

It was a real possibility. If that happened, I'd have to rely solely on the Omnitrix. But... maybe one part of Zangetsu could accept me. White, the Hollow/Shinigami manifestation, always seemed more focused on survival. He was the part that acted in desperate moments.

I sighed and kept walking.

"I need to talk to her... or them... when I get the chance."

Suddenly, a strange sound pulled me back to reality. I stopped immediately, my eyes locking onto the path ahead. A low noise, like something clawing at the ground. Then, the growling began.

I gripped Zangetsu tighter as my breathing slowed. From beneath the earth, something started to emerge, breaking through the metal rails and leaving gaping holes in the ground.

Grotesque creatures. They looked like massive rats, each about a meter tall, their dark brown fur oily and matted. Their claws were long and razor-sharp, perfect for tearing flesh, and their mouths resembled those of moles, with enormous, curved teeth. Their small eyes glowed a dim red, radiating insatiable hunger.

"This is going to be fun…" I thought, carefully unsheathing Zangetsu.

The constellation "The Mad Zumbion" observes your actions with interest. You've been sponsored with 100 coins.

"Mad? Thanks for the encouragement, you cosmic voyeur," I muttered, my tone dripping with sarcasm as I tried to focus.

The creatures began circling the area, growling and advancing cautiously, like predators studying their prey.

The constellation "Queen of the Silent Depths" is intrigued by your composure. You've been sponsored with 200 coins.

"Maybe I should start charging for this show..."

One of the creatures lunged, its claws slicing through the air toward me. I reacted instinctively, raising Zangetsu to block. The impact was strong but not as overwhelming as I expected. The blade slid along the claw, and with a swift movement, I decapitated it.

The body hit the ground with a dull thud, but the noise attracted even more of them.

"Great. There's more of them. Of course, there is."

The constellation "The Crawling Warrior" exults at your battle. You've been sponsored with 150 coins.

"I need to end this quickly."

My instincts urged me to fight, but something in the back of my mind screamed that this wasn't just a physical test—it was psychological too. Someone... or something was evaluating me.

"Zangetsu... if you're listening, this is your chance to reject me or accept me. Your choice."

I took a deep breath and charged at the next enemy.

I moved in a flash, and the world around me seemed to distort for a moment. It felt like space compressed, and in a single second, I was in a completely different spot. A surge of energy flowed through my feet—natural yet unfamiliar, as though my body had been designed for this all along.

"So… this is Shunpo."

My voice echoed faintly as I moved again, this time with more confidence. It was a unique sensation, like gravity had loosened its hold on me and I was surfing on invisible waves of spiritual energy. The afterimages trailing behind me confirmed I was moving so fast that the giant rats could barely follow.

I stopped at a strategic point as the rats began blindly attacking anything in their path. Shunpo was efficient, but I knew the Sonido used by the Arrancars would have been even better, masking my spiritual pressure. But for now, Shunpo would do.

"Well, it's not perfect, but it's practical."

My hands still rested on Zangetsu, tension radiating through my body as I calculated my next move. I could feel the constellations watching with keen interest. A notification appeared:

"The Mad Zumbion" thinks you're fascinating. You've been sponsored with 100 coins.

A small victory, but it showed my actions were attracting attention. That was both dangerous and advantageous. Using Shunpo again, I positioned myself behind a cluster of snarling rats. Adrenaline and spiritual energy coursed through me, giving me a sense of power I hadn't yet fully grasped.

"All right. Time to end this."

I prepared for the final strike. It was time to show the constellations I wasn't here just to entertain.

Silence blanketed the area like a heavy shroud, muffling even the sound of the rails that had vibrated with the rats' frenzied attacks moments before. Their breaths were ragged and animalistic, but for now, that was the only noise filling the void.

My hand tightened around Zangetsu's hilt. I could feel its weight—not just physical, but the latent power waiting to be unleashed. The silence wouldn't last, and I knew it.

"Getsuga…"

My voice echoed softly, low but resolute. I raised the larger blade, the manifestation of Hollow and Shinigami strength. Holding it felt like wielding an extension of myself—but also something far greater. Spiritual energy began to gather along the blade, pulsing like a living heartbeat.

"TENSHO!"

With a firm motion, the blade cut through the air, unleashing a massive wave of spiritual energy. The Getsuga Tensho wasn't just an attack—it was a roar of power, a violent tear in the fabric of reality around me. The intense bluish light illuminated the dark tracks, bathing the surroundings in an almost blinding brightness as it surged forward like an unstoppable tsunami.

The rats didn't even have time to react. The spiritual wave struck them with brutal force, tearing flesh, crushing bones, and reducing everything in its path to nothingness. The air was filled with a metallic, abrasive scent—a mixture of spiritual energy and sheer destruction.

When the wave finally dissipated, silence returned. But it was a different silence. Heavy. Final. There were no remains, no signs of resistance. Only deformed tracks and a lingering trace of energy fading slowly into the air.

I stood still for a moment, the weight of the sword still in my hands, staring at the emptiness ahead. The power of the Getsuga Tensho was immense—greater than I had expected. And in that moment, I understood something.

"This... is this the power Ichigo always carried?" I murmured to myself.

A notification appeared before my eyes, interrupting my thoughts:

[The constellation 'The Mad Zumbion' is ecstatic with your performance. You have been sponsored with 300 coins.]

I let out a sigh, relieved to have survived, but fully aware that this was just the beginning. This world, with its ruthless rules and ever-watching eyes, wouldn't grant me rest anytime soon. I sheathed Zangetsu, still feeling the weight of the battle on my body, and prepared to move forward.

After putting Zangetsu away and taking a deep breath, I decided it was time to understand how this system worked. If the world followed the rules of the novel, then I should have access to something similar to the system Dok-ja used to evolve.

"Let's see…" I murmured, summoning the status window with a thought.

[Name: Rodrigo Raphael]

[Title: None]

[Powers: Shinigami, Hollow, Quincy, and Fullbringer]

[Status:]

???

"Huh?"

I tilted my head, perplexed. My status was completely filled with question marks. No matter how much I tried to click or interact, nothing changed. It didn't make sense. Even Dok-ja, who started as a character with no special abilities, didn't experience something like this.

I rubbed my forehead, frustrated. "Is this a system error? Or something that bastard who sent me here did on purpose?"

For a moment, I felt the weight of being completely in the dark. Without understanding what it meant, I couldn't risk spending coins recklessly. Better to save them for now and focus on ensuring my daily survival.

I looked at the coin counter.

[Coins: 1050]

"Well, at least I've got enough to survive for over a week…" I muttered, trying to reassure myself.

When I went to close the window, it shifted abruptly, showing me new options:

[...]

[Ichigo Kurosaki Forms Shop has been activated.]

[Allies Shop has been unlocked.]

[Senkaimon is available (recommended: BANKAI before attempting).

My eyes lit up like a child opening a Christmas gift. I'd read plenty of fanfics full of "system shops" clichés, but experiencing it in real life was an entirely different thing.

"Ichigo's Forms Shop, huh? Let's take a look."

With a thought, I selected the first option. The panel shifted again, revealing a long list of images and detailed descriptions of Ichigo's various forms. Some were iconic from the original series, while others were straight out of the gacha game I used to play.

Ichigo Bankai (Soul Society)

[Coins: 30,000]

Ichigo Bankai + Hollow Mask

[Coins: 35,000]

Ichigo Vasto Lorde

[Coins: 50,000]

Ichigo Dangai (Incomplete)

[Coins: 100,000]

Ichigo Final Getsuga Tenshou

[Coins: 200,000]

Ichigo Bankai + Fullbringer

[Coins: 80,000]

Ichigo Horn of Salvation

[Coins: 500,000]

Ichigo True Bankai

[Coins: 1,000,000]

I scrolled further down the list, and the options began to mix with alternative and fantastical forms I recognized from Bleach: Brave Souls.

Ichigo Full Quincy

[Coins: 30,000]

Ichigo 5th Anniversary

[Coins: 30,000]

Ichigo 7th Anniversary

[Coins: 50,000]

Ichigo Movie 4

[Coins: 100,000]

Ichigo Desert Society

[Coins: 150,000]

Ichigo Spirit Society

[Coins: 200,000]

My eyes were glued to the list, analyzing every detail. The forms from the anime and manga were already powerful enough, but seeing those designs created solely for the game... It felt like gazing into a shrine of absurd possibilities.

But there was one glaring problem: the price.

"Damn it..." I muttered, letting out a heavy sigh. "I don't even have enough to buy the basic Bankai from the Soul Society arc, let alone these final or alternative forms."

I was still wallowing in frustration when a specific thought hit me.

"Wait a second…" I murmured, locking my gaze on the first row of transformations. "These are the canon transformations from the series."

Then, I scrolled to the second row.

"And these are from Brave Souls. Those damn event and anniversary designs… I'll never forget how much I spent trying to pull Masaki on that banner."

I shook my head, brushing aside memories of simpler times. I needed to be practical. The forms were amazing but completely out of reach for now. Either way, there were still two other shops left to explore.

I closed the Forms Shop tab but couldn't help dwelling on my long-term strategy. Saving coins for a future transformation was tempting, but my immediate survival had to come first. Still, if I managed to stockpile enough coins, maybe I could unlock something that would truly change the game for me.

"Let's see what the other options have to offer…" I murmured, opening the next menu.

After closing the Forms Shop tab, I decided to explore the next option: the Allies Shop. A new window opened, clearly divided into distinct categories:

[Allies – Categories:]

Original

Filler

Movie

Novel

For a moment, I was impressed by the system. This separation suggested that I could summon practically any character from the Bleach universe, whether from official material or alternate stories. My palms grew slightly sweaty as I clicked on the Novel tab.

Descriptions began to appear, and I couldn't help but smile as I recognized a few names.

Tokinada Tsunayashiro

Kenpachi Kuruyashiki

Hikone Ubuginu

Sōya Azashiro

Aura Michibane

Ikomikidomoe

I scanned through each name, trying to mentally organize the information. These weren't just characters. They were monsters—beings who rivaled or surpassed the captains of the Gotei 13 in raw power and unique abilities.

I started reflecting on a few of them, focusing on the most impressive ones:

---

Hikone Ubuginu

I couldn't ignore Hikone. He was a hybrid like Ichigo, but far more extreme. Hikone possessed all four primal essences: Human, Hollow, Shinigami, and Quincy. The idea of bringing him on as an ally was absurdly tempting. He was a prodigy, created with a specific purpose and powerful enough to rival any captain in the Soul Society with ease.

But Hikone was also an unstable character, someone whose loyalty could be questionable depending on how I handled him.

---

Ikomikidomoe

This was another special case. A Hollow so absurdly powerful that Ichibei and Ōetsu themselves had to intervene. Ichibei used Ichimonji to erase this creature's true name from existence, sealing it within a zanpakutō.

If it were possible to recruit Ikomikidomoe, I'd have an almost invincible ally by my side. But it was clear he would be a massive risk as well. He wasn't something easily controlled. In fact, the very idea of trying to handle such a monstrous being sent chills down my spine.

---

Kenpachi Kuruyashiki

"Ah, this guy…" I murmured, faintly recalling his existence. To be honest, I only knew Kuruyashiki because of his Brave Souls banner. From what I remembered, he was one of the few Kenpachis who actually refused a position in the Royal Guard—a feat that spoke volumes about his power and character.

Kuruyashiki was a pure warrior, someone without political ambitions or ulterior motives. That kind of person could be a reliable ally, someone who fought for the sheer joy of battle. Still, I wasn't sure if he'd be truly useful in the long run, considering my strategy might require more than just brute strength.

---

Sōya Azashiro

"Now him…" I thought, feeling a shiver run down my spine. Azashiro was different. He was said to be the most powerful Kenpachi in history, a title not given lightly. His Bankai was permanently active, merging his essence with the environment around him. This made him nearly impossible to hit, as he literally became the space surrounding his opponent.

Azashiro wasn't just strong. He was dangerous. For that reason, he had been sealed away in Muken—the place where the Soul Society locked up its worst monsters.

Bringing him on as an ally seemed insane, but at the same time, it was incredibly tempting. A warrior of his caliber could tip the scales in any situation.

---

I crossed my arms, deep in thought. The shop offered absurd possibilities, but it also presented colossal challenges. These allies would undoubtedly be useful, but their natures and personalities could create complications I might not be ready to handle.

The final question, however, was even more practical: could I afford any of them?

I carefully opened their descriptions and checked the prices.

[Hikone Ubuginu: 200,000 coins]

[Ikomikidomoe: 300,000 coins]

[Kenpachi Kuruyashiki: 150,000 coins]

[Sōya Azashiro: 500,000 coins]

I closed my eyes and let out a heavy sigh. "Of course… None of this is going to come cheap."

My 1,050 coins felt pathetically insignificant compared to the listed prices. I'd need to amass far more resources if I even wanted to dream of buying a high-level ally.

Even so, the thought of having one of them by my side reignited a spark of motivation within me. If I could survive long enough, maybe...

I closed the shop tab and looked down the tunnel ahead of me. Every step I took brought me closer to facing bigger challenges. If I wanted allies like these, I'd have to be prepared to overcome anything.

"I'll make it," I murmured to myself, adjusting Zangetsu on my back. "I just need to survive another day... and earn more coins."

---

Exploring the Shop's Last Tab: Senkaimon

After exploring the shop's options, my curiosity led me to the final tab: Senkaimon. As soon as I clicked on it, a new window appeared before me, filled with details about what seemed to be a type of challenge.

[Information:]

The Senkaimon is a location where users will face various challenges organized into stages. Completing these stages will reward users based on the difficulty and performance. The harder the stage, the greater the rewards.

Beneath the explanation, an example was displayed:

[Challenge Example:]

"Fight all Quincy with Yhwach's Schrift while taking no significant damage."

A mix of excitement and apprehension filled me as I read it. Facing powerful enemies in exchange for rewards seemed like an efficient way to accumulate coins and grow stronger. But what caught my attention was the phrase "significant damage." The system didn't just expect me to fight—it wanted me to fight with precision and skill.

"This is going to be tricky," I murmured, sliding my eyes to the buttons below.

---

The Senkaimon Interface

Once I confirmed my interest, the screen shifted, displaying a list of challenges organized by level:

[Stage 1:]

"Defeat a group of minor Hollows without using spiritual powers."

Reward: 100 coins.

[Stage 2:]

"Survive three waves of Hollows and Arrancars while protecting a spiritual barrier."

Reward: 300 coins.

[Stage 3:]

"Defeat a Gotei 13 captain (simulation)."

Reward: 1,000 coins.

[Stage 4:]

"Fight against an Espada and a Quincy simultaneously."

Reward: 5,000 coins.

And so on. The stages grew progressively harder, culminating in nearly impossible challenges like facing multiple captains, Espadas, or even the elite members of Yhwach's army.

Given my current level of strength, it was obvious I needed to start at the beginning. I clicked on Stage 1, and a confirmation message appeared:

[Confirmation:]

"You are about to begin Stage 1 of the Senkaimon. The environment will be recreated to simulate a battlefield. Prepare to fight without spiritual powers."

I took a deep breath and confirmed. The light around me began to fade, and a humming sound filled the air. Before I realized it, everything around me had changed.

---

Stage 1: No Spiritual Powers Allowed

I found myself in a desolate, shadowy desert, with a massive moon shining overhead. The ground was made of white sand, reminiscent of Hueco Mundo, but the air was heavy and oppressive.

Suddenly, an ear-splitting roar echoed. Three Hollows emerged from the sand, their grotesque, asymmetrical bodies bearing long arms and sharp claws. The system quickly updated:

[Objective:]

"Defeat all enemies without using spiritual powers."

"No spiritual powers, huh?" I murmured, drawing Zangetsu's smaller blade from the sheath at my waist.

The first Hollow charged at me, swinging its massive claws. Adrenaline surged through me. With quick steps, I swung a horizontal strike, aiming for its legs. The blade cut through its flesh, sending it crashing to its knees, but it wasn't dead yet.

Before I could finish it off, the other two Hollows lunged at me from the sides. I rolled to avoid one, its claw swiping dangerously close to my face.

"I need to move with more precision," I thought, focusing on their attack patterns.

I closed in on the second Hollow, delivering a diagonal slash across its chest. It let out a piercing scream. The third one tried to ambush me from behind, but I used my sword as a shield, blocking the strike. The impact was strong, but I held firm.

"Damn it. This is way harder without Shunpo or Getsuga Tenshō," I muttered, panting.

With swift movements, I finished the second Hollow with a clean strike to its head. The last one hesitated, but I didn't give it a chance to recover. I dashed forward, driving my blade straight into its face, shattering its mask and obliterating it completely.

---

As the final Hollow dissolved into dust, a message appeared:

[Congratulations!]

"You have completed Stage 1 of the Senkaimon."

Reward: 100 coins.

I let out a sigh of relief, sweat dripping down my forehead. Even with a simple challenge, the restriction of not using spiritual powers had made things much harder.

"This is going to be interesting…" I murmured, glancing back at the list of stages.

It was clear the Senkaimon would be a valuable tool, but also a brutal test of my abilities. I needed to prepare more before attempting anything advanced.

---

Interference from the Constellations

As I analyzed the Senkaimon challenges, a flood of messages began popping up in the system's interface. They came from the constellations, carrying a mix of curiosity and impatience:

[The constellation 'Piercing Eyes of the Abyss' is intrigued by your inactivity.]

[The constellation 'Dancer of Black Blades' wants to know why you aren't fighting.]

[The constellation 'Light of Eternal Wisdom' is disappointed by your hesitation.]

[You have been sponsored with 50 coins as encouragement to proceed.]

My eyes narrowed as I read the messages. "Hesitation? Inactivity? Did they not see what I just did?" I thought, momentarily annoyed but also intrigued.

If the constellations couldn't see my fight in Hueco Mundo—or even notice that I had just completed a stage in the Senkaimon—it meant there were limits to what they could observe. This realization brought a sense of relief. Having privacy in certain situations could be a huge advantage.

"If they can't see specific places like Hueco Mundo or the Senkaimon, maybe I can use that to my advantage." The thought brought a sly smile to my face.

The messages kept coming:

[The constellation 'Wrath of the Celestial Hammer' demands more action!]

[The constellation 'King of Eternal Flames' observes you with silent disapproval.]

[You have been sponsored with 100 coins for your earlier performance, but expectations are high for something greater.]

"These sponsors are like impatient bosses," I muttered with a sigh. But as I pondered their complaints, I felt a strange presence nearby.

---

A Hidden Opportunity

Something tugged at my spiritual perception. I sensed faint traces of spiritual energy—weak but distinct—emanating from a small, dark hole at the edge of the battlefield. It felt like one of the giant rats from earlier might have survived and was fleeing.

I turned toward the hole. It was small and dim, but it pulsed with an odd energy. My instincts told me there was more to this than the system let on. Perhaps it was a path to a "hidden scenario."

"If this hole leads to something more interesting, maybe I can keep these constellations off my back for a while," I thought, moving closer.

I crouched to inspect it further. The spiritual energy emanating from the hole was faint, but persistent. It seemed promising enough to take the risk.

"Well, nothing to lose," I murmured. Taking a deep breath, I gripped Zangetsu tightly and leapt into the hole without hesitation.

As soon as my body crossed the entrance, I felt something strange. It wasn't a normal descent; the space around me seemed to warp and twist. Gravity pulsed irregularly, growing stronger and lighter in waves, making it hard to control my breathing.

The walls didn't seem to exist. When I glanced to the sides, I realized this wasn't a simple hole as it had appeared from above. Instead of dirt or concrete, the surrounding area was made of something resembling a blend of shadows and pure spiritual energy. It pulsed with an eerie green glow, rippling like water.

"This is definitely not normal," I thought, gripping Zangetsu's hilt tightly. The unsettling feeling of being watched intensified, as if something—or someone—was evaluating my decision to leap in.

As I continued falling, a sound began to emerge. At first, it was a faint, almost imperceptible whisper, but over time it grew louder. It became a kind of murmur, spoken in a language I couldn't understand.

"Let's hope this isn't some kind of summoning ritual," I muttered, trying to calm the anxiety creeping into my mind.

Finally, after what felt like several minutes, I felt solid ground beneath my feet.

The impact was odd—not hard, but not soft either. It was as though the surface absorbed some of the force of my landing, like it was alive. Steadying myself, I looked around and found myself in a place completely unlike where I had been before.

I stood in a colossal cavern. The walls glimmered faintly under the light of spiritual crystals embedded in their surface. These crystals pulsed in hues of blue and purple, radiating a dense spiritual energy that made the air feel thick and heavy. Every breath felt like a struggle, yet at the same time, the energy around me was invigorating, as though it were fueling me in some way.

The cavern's ceiling stretched so high it disappeared into the shadows, and ancient inscriptions adorned the walls. They formed shifting patterns that moved subtly, as if they were alive. I tried to decipher the symbols, but they were completely alien to me.

"What is this place?" I wondered, adrenaline beginning to surge through my veins. It wasn't just the cavern's eerie appearance—it was the feeling. The atmosphere itself felt sentient, as though the entire environment was studying me, testing me.

Suddenly, a vibration rumbled beneath my feet. It started as a faint tremor but quickly grew stronger, as if something massive was stirring deep within the cavern. A sense of imminent danger flooded my senses, and I immediately unsheathed Zangetsu.

The sound of something dragging itself across stone echoed through the cavern. It grew louder and closer, reverberating off the walls like an ominous prelude to terror. I spun Zangetsu in my hand, preparing myself for whatever was coming, but nothing could have prepared me for what emerged from the darkness.

At first, it was just a figure. Tall, skeletal, cloaked in a shroud of black mist that dripped like living shadows. But as it stepped out of the darkness and revealed itself fully, a cold chill ran down my spine.

Its eyes were twin spheres of glowing yellow light, pulsating like they were windows into the abyss. They didn't blink or waver, only locked onto me with an intensity that seemed to pierce my very soul. Its face was a grotesque skull, with elongated, razor-sharp teeth forming a sinister grin that exuded malice. Every detail of its appearance seemed designed to invoke primal fear.

But that wasn't all. Long, translucent tentacles extended from its back, writhing unpredictably in the air. They glowed in ethereal hues of blue and pink, their ghostly light contrasting sharply with the oppressive darkness surrounding it. It was as if the creature had dragged fragments of another dimension into this one.

I couldn't tell what was more terrifying: its appearance or the overwhelming aura it radiated. Its spiritual pressure was suffocating, pressing down on me like an invisible weight. It was as if death itself had taken form and was staring me down.

Then, the familiar metallic chime of the system echoed in my ears.

[A Dark Keeper of Rank 7 has appeared.]

My legs almost gave out beneath me. Rank 7? That was no joke. I could feel it in the spiritual pressure it was emanating—dense, oppressive, and powerful enough to make every fiber of my being scream at me to run. But running wasn't an option.

"Okay, think fast," I muttered to myself, trying to ignore the cold sweat trickling down my temple. Zangetsu felt light in my hand—almost too light—against the sheer magnitude of the monster before me.

I had Ichigo Kurosaki's powers, but that didn't mean I was invincible. Far from it. I knew exactly where my limits lay, and this thing was far beyond them.

It was then that I looked at my wrist. The Omnitrix.

The most powerful weapon in the universe.

The thought made me chuckle inwardly. A weapon? If Azmuth were listening, I'd probably get a monumental scolding. He always made it clear: the Omnitrix wasn't a weapon. It was a tool to promote peace and understanding among species.

"Sorry, Azmuth, but today, I'll have to treat it as a weapon."

As my eyes shifted between the creature and the green dial on my wrist, one thought dominated my mind: I needed more power, and fast.

The Dark Keeper didn't seem inclined to give me any time to think. He raised one of his skeletal hands, and the tentacles on his back began to sway through the air, emitting a low, almost hypnotic hum, like a dark chant. The air around us grew heavier, almost as if space itself were bending under his presence.

"Alright," I muttered, pressing the Omnitrix button. "Time to bring in some reinforcements."

With a swift motion, I activated the Omnitrix, feeling it respond immediately. The familiar mechanical hum of activation filled the space, slicing through the oppressive silence like a blade. The green light flashed brightly, briefly illuminating the Dark Keeper's face, which now looked... intrigued.

The selection spun rapidly as I searched for the best option. XLR8 might be fast enough to evade attacks. Maybe. But what if I couldn't do any damage? Heatblast could work, but would the creature withstand the flames?

My mind was at war. Every second felt like an eternity, and the monster began to advance slowly, his footsteps echoing through the cavern like a harbinger of my imminent death.

Finally, my choice landed on Diamondhead.

"Let's see how you handle brute force," I thought, slamming the dial down. The transformation was instantaneous, and I felt my body enveloped in green light as the Omnitrix worked its magic.

When the light faded, I stood in my alien form, Diamondhead's crystalline body gleaming like an indestructible tank. The weight of the armor, the raw power coursing through every fiber of my being, was intoxicating.

The Dark Keeper paused for a moment, tilting his head as if assessing my new form. He seemed wary, but not intimidated. That was fine. I wanted him to come at me with everything he had.

"Now it's my turn," I declared, my voice deeper and more metallic in Diamondhead's form.

Messages began to pour into the space around me, glowing brightly as the constellations reacted. It was as if the Omnitrix had captured their full attention all at once. Some messages were almost amusing, while others made it clear I was being judged by extremely powerful entities.

["The constellation 'Infinite Engineer' is fascinated by the unknown technology on your wrist."]

["The constellation 'Observer of a Thousand Realms' is intrigued by your shape-shifting ability."]

["The constellation 'Sovereign of Transformations' declares you may be worthy of their attention."]

["The constellation 'Tyrant of Eternal Stars' laughs, claiming that even with this ability, your victory is not guaranteed."]

["The constellation 'Innovative Strategist' wonders how you'll use such a versatile tool in combat."]

["The constellation 'Architect of Dimensions' is calculating the implications of your new form."]

["The constellation 'Guardian of Lost Worlds' expresses disbelief, saying no being should be capable of storing such power in something so small."]

["The constellation 'Legendary Weapon Forgemaster' declares the item on your wrist more precious than any relic they've ever seen."]

["The constellation 'Devotee of Chaos' scoffs, claiming your transformation is useless against pure chaos."]

["The constellation 'Curious One of Ancient Fables' is trying to compare you to a forgotten myth."]

The messages were endless. Every constellation seemed to have something to say about the Omnitrix and my transformation into Diamondhead. Some were clearly impressed, while others remained skeptical or critical.

I could feel their eyes—unseen but heavy—fixed on me, analyzing my every move. I wasn't sure if it was good or bad to have drawn so much attention, but one thing was certain: the Omnitrix had completely changed the game.

Before I could move or formulate any strategy, the Dark Keeper charged. His translucent tentacles whipped through the air with astonishing speed, slicing through the silence with violent cracks. Each strike sounded like thunder reverberating around me.

"Damn it—!"

I tried to react but was hit before I could finish speaking. One of the tentacles slammed into my left shoulder, throwing me against the tunnel wall. Pain exploded on impact, and the Omnitrix briefly flickered as if recalibrating my form to withstand the blow.

Another tentacle struck me from below, hitting my torso and sending me flying to the opposite side. The force was overwhelming; it felt like each strike was designed to crush me completely. Despite Diamondhead's durability, I could feel the impacts. It was like being hit by waves of pure pressure.

"Ugh... Is this just the beginning?" I muttered, forcing myself to stand as a third tentacle prepared for another strike.

As I dodged clumsily, I couldn't stop my mind from wandering.

"How the hell did Dok-ja manage to beat this thing anyway? Was it with advanced skills? Strategy? Or did he just get lucky?"

I tried to recall the chapters I'd read, but the description of the confrontation felt vague in my memory. I knew the Dark Keeper was powerful, but nothing had prepared me for the sheer brutality of his attacks.

Another tentacle came my way. I rolled to the side, the strike hitting the ground and sending up a cloud of dust and debris.

"Alright, this guy's a problem..." I muttered, rising to my feet and adjusting my stance.

The constellations were probably laughing at my predicament. A legendary figure facing one of the most dangerous monsters yet still stuck on the defensive.

"Time to change that."

The Dark Keeper didn't let up. His glowing yellow eyes radiated malice as the tentacles rose like snakes ready to strike again. Their movements were fluid, almost impossible to predict, and he seemed to relish keeping me cornered.

I barely had time to raise an improvised shield, using Diamondhead's enhanced density to block a barrage of blows coming from every direction. Even so, each impact made my legs tremble.

"I need an opening..."

But where to find one? The Dark Keeper didn't seem to have any obvious weak spots, and his movements were faster than I expected for something of his size.

My mind raced. "Maybe he's used to opponents trying to face him head-on... I need to surprise him."

But before I could put any plan into action, more tentacles came in a coordinated attack. This wasn't a fight; it was a massacre.

"Shit!" I cursed as I dodged. Part of me was starting to understand that I couldn't underestimate this monster's intelligence for even a second.

And then the Dark Keeper prepared his final strike. His tentacles coiled together, forming a spear of dark energy that launched at blinding speed, aiming directly for my chest. I made no move to dodge, my mind focused entirely on the plan that had just formed.

"If this doesn't work, I'm dead. Simple as that."

The constellations reacted almost instantly:

[Constellation 'Blade That Pierces Stars' is laughing in excitement!]

[Constellation 'Queen of the Tragic Beginning' questions how you survived.]

[Constellation 'Master of the Shadowed Spectrum' is analyzing your technique.]

[Constellation 'Protector of Cosmic Harmony' sends a message of silent approval.]

[Constellation 'Unquenchable Light of the Heavens' considers sponsoring you.]

The battle was far from over, but now I was in control. The Dark Keeper no longer seemed like the invincible figure it had been. The vibrant energy of Chromastone had become my ultimate advantage.

"Now, it's my turn to set the rules."

The Dark Keeper, though injured, wasn't ready to give up. Its battered legs struggled to keep it standing, but it quickly created new tentacles that latched onto the walls, giving it support and restoring its mobility.

I didn't waste any time. I brought my hands together, focusing the energy I had accumulated, and fired a series of violet blasts at it. The beams cut through the air, violently exploding against the walls or near its body. Yet, the creature was fast, and its erratic movements made landing a direct hit nearly impossible.

"Damn, it still has so much energy," I thought, gritting my teeth.

That's when my eyes caught something—the thick black blood dripping from its wounds. The substance was dense, pooling on the ground like burnt oil. Something clicked in my mind. Energy converts to mass, and mass converts to energy.

"Nothing in the universe is ever lost," I recalled, a basic principle of physics now more relevant than ever. Chromastone was an alien capable of channeling and manipulating energy like no other. However, there was a limit. I knew it could handle energy equivalent to a Rigel-class star at most before collapsing under its own force.

It was time to turn that stored energy into something else. Something devastating.

With that thought, I stopped firing blasts and focused instead. While the Dark Keeper struggled to stabilize itself with its tentacles, I formed one last charge, concentrating everything I had into a single shot. When I unleashed it, the beam struck the tentacles holding it up, tearing through them like paper.

The creature fell from the wall, landing heavily on the ground. It writhed, trying to get back up, but I was already moving. My feet pounded against the floor as I launched myself toward it like a meteor.

As I sprinted, a clear plan took shape in my mind. "Turn this energy into something tangible, something destructive... but not lethal. If I screw this up... well, I better not screw this up."

My hand began to glow, radiating pure energy that condensed around my fist. Black and red lightning danced violently around me, like a miniature storm in full fury. I could feel the pressure building inside me, Chromastone pushing its limits to handle this massive charge.

Finally, I reached the Dark Keeper. It raised its gaze to me, its yellow eyes glowing with a mix of rage and desperation. It tried to lash out with another tentacle, but it was too late.

"KOKU—" I shouted, my voice metallic and distorted by Chromastone's form.

My fist slammed into the core of its body with indescribable force. The accumulated energy erupted in a dazzling display of black and red lightning, illuminating the entire tunnel. The impact roared like thunder, echoing in every direction.

"—SEN!"

The blow shattered the ground beneath us, creating a deep crater and scattering fragments of stone in all directions. The Dark Keeper was hurled backward with such force that its body slid across the ground, skidding to a halt in silence.

The glow surrounding my body began to fade gradually. Exhaustion weighed heavily on me, but I remained standing, staring at the motionless monster.

"If this doesn't work... I honestly don't know what will," I murmured, breathing heavily as the constellations, silent during the attack, began reacting in a frenzy.

The silence that followed was deafening, like the eye of a hurricane after the destruction. The constellations finally broke that calm with their frantic messages.

[Constellation 'The Silent Observer' is intrigued by the energy mastery displayed by the incarnate.]

[Constellation 'Blade of Justice' believes this strike was worthy of a true hero.]

[Constellation 'She Who Laughs Under the Moon' cackles in delight, calling this pure theatrics.]

[Constellation 'Architect of Chaos' is entertained but wonders if the incarnate really thought this was enough.]

[Constellation 'The Judge of Lost Souls' remains silent, but the weight of their judgment is palpable.]

I narrowed my eyes at the Dark Keeper, still lying in the crater I had created. Its body looked twisted, as though the energy had truly caused significant damage. The constellations could say whatever they wanted, but I was sure I had landed a devastating blow.

However, as the dust settled, something started to bother me. The spiritual presence emanating from it... wasn't diminishing.

"No... This can't be."

A deep, guttural laugh reverberated through the tunnel. The Dark Keeper slowly moved what was left of its arms, rising with an eerily graceful motion. Its claws were still damaged, its tentacles in shreds, but the dark energy surrounding its body began to gather again, repairing the damage with terrifying efficiency.

[Constellation 'One Who Faces the Void' whispers that the real challenge has only just begun.]

[Constellation 'The Gatekeeper' remarks that the incarnate underestimated their opponent.]

"Damn it," I muttered, clenching my fists. All that effort, all that stored energy... and it was still standing. The black-and-red glow around the Dark Keeper burned brighter now, its yellow eyes locked onto me, filled with hatred—and something else. Amusement.

"This has to be a joke," I muttered to no one in particular. The Omnitrix began flashing, warning me that my time was running out. I needed to think fast, or this thing would finish me off.

The Omnitrix blinked violently on my arm, and all the energy that had once surged through my body was drained at once, as if Chromastone's power had been sucked back into the device. I collapsed to my knees, overwhelmed by immense fatigue, like I had just run a marathon I didn't even realize had started. My muscles screamed in protest, and I could barely keep my eyes open. My body reverted to Ichigo's form, but the crushing exhaustion from the transformation lingered.

I glanced at the Dark Keeper, now approaching ominously, its heavy footsteps echoing as its presence threatened to consume everything around it. My vision blurred, and my body trembled with pain. I couldn't even reach for Zangetsu on my back. I tried to stand, but my body refused to obey. The weight of the battle, of the transformation, was crushing me. I had no strength left to fight, and all I could do was wait for the inevitable.

I was lost. There was no way out, no way to fight.

Then, the voice came.

"I will help you, but we want to talk to you."

I froze. That voice... I could never forget it. It was Zangetsu's voice, but not just any Zangetsu. It was the Hollow part, the dark and mysterious side of him. The same voice that always spoke with a sinister and cynical energy.

I felt an immense relief, as if a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. He was here. He was finally going to act. But at the same time, I knew what that meant. When Zangetsu stepped in, the Dark Keeper wouldn't stand a chance, and I knew all too well what that would bring.

"Zangetsu, just don't kill the Dark Keeper. I don't remember the exact reason, but I know that if you kill him, I'll be hunted by a deity."

I spoke quickly, my voice muffled by exhaustion, but my mind was clear enough to remember what would happen if the Dark Keeper was eliminated. This fight, this mission, wasn't just about what was right in front of me. It was about something much bigger. Something I still didn't fully understand.

"We barely know each other, and already you're putting conditions," Zangetsu replied with a mocking tone, his deep voice filled with energy, contrasting with the lightness of mine. He seemed to be enjoying my situation.

"Sorry..." I muttered, unable to even raise my eyes, shame consuming me. The situation was so desperate, and I knew that without Zangetsu, I wouldn't have a way out.

Zangetsu's laugh echoed in my mind. It was a cold laugh, like the sharp breeze of a winter night. "I didn't promise you anything, but... Let's see what I can do. Get ready, human."

With those words, I felt a wave of energy fill my body, a strength that didn't come from me but from Zangetsu. The darkness around me seemed to distort, and I knew the fight was far from over.

[Constellation 'The One Who Watches the Darkness' murmurs that Rodrigo is at a point of desperation, his strength failing, and his spirit beginning to waver.]

[Constellation 'The Guardian of Truth' watches carefully, saying that the incarnate, now without the Omnitrix, is in a position of total vulnerability, a fatal mistake.]

[Constellation 'The Mistress of Fire' shouts impatiently that Rodrigo needs to stop hesitating, focus, and find a way to fight even with the disadvantage.]

[Constellation 'The Daughter of the Moon' watches silently, stating that Rodrigo's situation is no longer about physical power, but about his mental resilience and whether he can withstand the pressure from the enemy.]

[Constellation 'The Guardian of the Gates' says that the incarnate underestimated his enemy. The Dark Keeper is not just a beast but a strategic threat that cannot be ignored.]

[Constellation 'The Traveler of the Infinite' whispers that, while Rodrigo loses himself in his thoughts, time is against him. The battle is far from won.]

White, now fully immersed in his true form, rose slowly. The energy around him vibrated differently, a primal and imposing force, as if the very essence of Zangetsu was manifesting in his body. The transformation wasn't just physical, but also mental and spiritual.

A white mask, with red claw-like marks, appeared on his face. The red lines, like scars from time itself, formed menacing patterns, reflecting Zangetsu's presence—the Hollow aspect of Ichigo's sword. It was a symbol of power, but also of a being who embraced his true nature, one who no longer cared about limits.

With a fluid motion, White (or rather, Zangetsu) drew Zangetsu from his host's back. He felt the deep connection with the blade, stronger than ever. However, the sword he now held was not the same as before. Zangetsu, now complete in his White form, took the small Zangetsu and fused it with the larger sword, as if the fates of the two blades were meant to unite to create a new power.

The blade that emerged from this union was unlike any other, a true work of power. Its blade was long, straight, and a deep black like darkness itself, with no reflection, as if it absorbed the light around it. The hilt, wrapped in black material with red details forming a diamond pattern, was perfect in White's hands. The chain at the end of the hilt swayed gently, waiting for action, as if aware of its purpose.

Zangetsu was now in his true form—a being independent from Ichigo but still linked to him, with all his power stored and ready to be used. He was no longer Ichigo's companion but a manifestation of his own identity, a being who did not see the void and darkness as a curse but as part of his existence. The sword in his hands was not just a weapon; it was an extension of his soul, a soul fueled by the strength of battle and the will to destroy.

The presence of Zangetsu, or White, was unmistakable. The very energy emanating from him seemed to suffocate the surroundings, the energy of a being who surpassed all limits, who feared neither death nor chaos. Now, with the mask over his face and the sword in his hands, White was complete, more than ready to face any threat that came his way.

Zangetsu's sword, along with his strength, was ready to unleash all the destruction he desired.

With unnerving calm, White vanished from the Dark Keeper's sight in the blink of an eye. His speed was supernatural, his presence totally reconfigured by Zangetsu. He reappeared just a few meters above the Dark Keeper, the blade of his new sword in hand, energy pulsing from within him. There were no words, only a precise movement, a crushing intention to annihilate the enemy before him.

"Getsuga Tenshou."

The explosion of energy emanating from White is devastating. A massive wave of dark energy, as black as a starless night, engulfed the Dark Keeper in an instant, consuming him completely. The power was overwhelming, like a vortex that swallowed everything in its path. The impact was so brutal that the very air around them distorted, and shockwaves reverberated throughout the area, leaving a trail of destruction. The Dark Keeper was swallowed by the attack, his tentacles twisting and disintegrating as the energy overtook his body.

But White wasn't satisfied with just that. The blade of Zangetsu, now stained with the energy of Getsuga Tenshou, began to move again. White wasn't content with merely wounding the enemy—he wanted to ensure total destruction. He started a series of quick cuts, each one more precise and fatal than the last. Each strike, a slash of pure energy, sliced through the flesh and essence of the Dark Keeper, leaving the enemy more vulnerable with every blow.

The tentacles of the Dark Keeper, once so menacing, now barely moved. The monster's resistance was faltering. Its breathing, once regular and threatening, now became erratic, as if life was slowly being drained from it. White's power was overwhelming, leaving no room for recovery.

With impassive calm, White approached the Dark Keeper, each step measured and confident. He gazed at the enemy, now on the brink of collapse, its tentacles almost motionless and breathing heavy and labored. There was no need for haste anymore. The enemy was defeated, but White wanted to deliver the final blow.

He grabbed the Dark Keeper's head with one hand, the blade of Zangetsu rising above it like an inevitable fate. Without saying a word, White concentrated a massive amount of energy into his arm, and once again, the words appeared: "Getsuga Tenshou."

This time, the explosion of energy was even more powerful, striking directly at the Dark Keeper's head. The energy spread like a storm, destroying the last remnants of life still within the creature. The impact was so great that the energy consumed the entire area around them, leaving only debris and silence.

[Constellation 'He Who Faces the Void' observes in silence, his eyes glowing with interest and slight approval.]

[Constellation 'The Weaver of Fate' lets out a short, dark laugh, as if the fate had already been sealed.]

[Constellation 'The Mad Zumbion' watches with a sigh, as though the outcome had already been foreseen.]

With the Dark Keeper now on the verge of total destruction, White, after delivering the final blow, simply stopped. The sounds of the battlefield grew muffled, the waves of energy ceased, and a deadly silence filled the space. He looked at the body of his opponent, now unrecognizable, undone by the energy he himself had unleashed. Every part of the creature seemed to have disintegrated, as if the very existence of the Dark Keeper had been erased. He no longer posed a threat.

White, with his impassive expression, looked at his hands, now covered in dark energy and ash. He seemed at peace, but there was something in his gaze that was not complete. Something that made him hesitate for a brief moment.

With a slow, almost ritualistic movement, he reached up to his own mask. The white piece that had covered his face, marked with red lines resembling claws, was aggressively ripped off. The sound of its removal was muffled, but there was something metallic and cold in the motion, as if the act of removing the mask was more than just a physical action—it was the removal of something deeper.

The mask was torn off with a sharp pull, the skin of White's face stretching momentarily before releasing with a faint sound of wear. The mask fell to the ground with a quiet thud, but its presence still seemed to linger in the air, as if it were still somehow bound to the energy that had formed it. Upon its removal, the essence of Zangetsu seemed to dissipate, and a new weight fell upon White—or rather, upon Rodrigo.

In the next instant, Rodrigo's body collapsed heavily onto the cold stone floor, the impact muffled by the overwhelming exhaustion taking over his body. The silence that followed was absolute. Rodrigo's breathing was heavy, almost broken, and he could barely keep his eyes open, his muscles drained after the intense use of Zangetsu's energy and the battle against such a powerful creature. The mask was now distant, a symbol of a transformation that had already passed.

Rodrigo was back in his own body, but he could barely stay conscious, his thoughts fragmented and his mind distant. Physical and mental fatigue weighed down on him like an anchor. He knew he had accomplished something great, but he also knew that challenges were still ahead, and the weight of everything that had happened now rested on his shoulders.

The coldness of the stone seemed to seep into his bones as he lay there, motionless, too weak to rise. All he could do was breathe, and even that felt like an effort. The battlefield was quiet, with no more sounds of combat or energy blasts. The calm after the storm of battle was palpable, but the silence that filled the area didn't feel like relief—it was just an omen of what was to come.

Rodrigo closed his eyes for a moment, as if trying to gather his strength. But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't lift himself. He was exhausted. The feeling of defeat and victory mixed in his mind, like a fog enveloping him. Everything was quiet, everything was still, and he, now completely drained, could do nothing but wait.

Footsteps echoed through the darkness, soft yet firm, as if the very ground were trembling with the approach of something. Each sound was sharp, like the distant beat of a drum, but heavy, as if the shadows around him bowed to those approaching.

Suddenly, figures began to emerge from the depths of the darkness, walking with an unsettling calm. It was a small group, but their presence carried an indescribable energy, a sense that nothing could stand in their way. At the center, ahead of them all, one imposing figure stood out, his penetrating and serene gaze like that of a commander who knew every one of his movements and those around him.

Kim Dok-ja.