3-2 Give Back Zangetsu!

Why are you protecting me? Why would you do that for me?

Do you really need to ask? It's who I am.

And obviously, you're a part of me. It's as simple as that.

Oh, great. More of your arrogance.

Now that Zangetsu has disappeared, I don't know what you plan on doing with me...

...and I don't know what to do with myself either. But one thing must be done.

And done now. You know that, right?

You're such a pain in the ass.

You continue to amuse me, Ichigo Kurosaki.

When I began this mission, I never expected to become so invested in a single Soul Reaper.

You know what? I've had enough of this small talk. It's time to settle this!

Still working for him, huh, Zangetsu?

I'm gonna fight to get you back, even if it means I have to fight you.

I've made my decision. So what are you gonna do, Zangetsu?!

I have to find out.

Between the two of us, which one is truly the strongest?

If it means I get my answer, I am more than willing to cross blades with you.

Without Zangetsu's power fueling your Zanpakuto, you won't be able to fight as hard as you normally can.

So I guess I'll lend you mine for the time being.

But you won't be able to use your mask.

I'm much more difficult to handle than you might think.

Fine, let's go!

You're next, Muramasa!

Ichigo Kurosaki, didn't you have any misgivings about destroying your own Zanpakuto?

Not one.

What?

I know Zangetsu better than anyone. I knew he wouldn't run away from me.

That he would take on my attack head on.

And that's why there was no way I could run away from a battle and turn my back on him!

Our bond is our strength.

I see, your bond is the source of your strength. Fascinating.

*Cough*

What's happening?

It seems I've toyed with you for too long. It is best that I move on.

Til we meet again, Ichigo Kurosaki.

Hey, what are you doing?

You all right, Zangetsu?

Yes, I will be all right now. His mind control is broken.

Mind control?

It appears he was able to control the Zanpakuto by somehow awakening our darkest instincts, and bringing them to the surface of our minds.

Hold on. Are you saying that all the other Zanpakuto are under his control?

I can't be sure, but it's very likely.

Ichigo Kurosaki...

He might be the one.