Chapter 2

Are you...Nel?

I thought it was you. That scar gives you away.

Boy, you've really let yourself become all shabby, huh? Tell me, does your mask throb after it's been cracked?

Hrr... *Whimper*

What's going on here, you bastard? How the hell do you know who Nel is?

Well, if you don't know, I'll tell you. You only know her as Nel, but her full name is Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck.

She's a former Espada.

It's a lie... Nel could never be an Espada. It's not even possible!

Don't try to tell me you've completely forgotten your past.

Nel knows it. Nel knows all her past. Nel didn't forget. Nel could never be an Espada.

You know I haven't seen you in quite a while, but to me, it's obvious that you're as devious as ever.

I've heard enough!

Ichigo... Please believe Nel!

Nel would never lie to you! Ichigo!

We know you, Nel. Of course you wouldn't lie to us!

Heh, perhaps you really have lost your memory of the old days. I mean, it's possible.

After all, I did split your head pretty well back then. Maybe you couldn't avoid losing your memory after that.

Hold it. You said you split her...head?

I did. I'm the one who did it to her. I'm the one who cracked her skull.

Stop it!

You shut your mouth!!!

I hate your kind. You just keep attacking even though you know you don't have a chance to win.

Now, let's end this, Soul Reaper.

Yaaah! AAAAAAHH!!!

Ichigo... Ichigo...

Ichigoooooo!!!

Nel... Are you really the same Nel?

Wait, Nel! By "protect," you don't mean... Don't stand there and tell me that you're planning to fight this guy?!

Don't be worried. It'll be over...

...before you know it.