The Invading Army Part 1, 8-5

Question her? What's this about?

Just this. We should know why Kageroza is pursuing her so relentlessly. What sort of threat does she pose to us?

With our showdown with Kageroza looming, we thought it best that we question her thoroughly.

I don't think any of us feel confident that we know enough about Nozomi to act decisively.

We'd rather learn as much as we can about her to help us avoid any more casualties. That's all.

This course of action isn't a decision reached by just the three of us. We're saying this to you on behalf of the surviving 13 Court Guard Squads. Look, this isn't personal.

I get what you're saying, but hold on. Maybe there's stuff that she's not ready to share with us just yet.

Sounds noble, but this is no time for talk, now is it?!

Keep in mind that it was Kageroza's invading army that wiped out the captains of the 13 Court Guard Squads.

And we'll be battling that same invading army here in Karakura Town. This time, the casualties probably won't end with just us.

Well, it's quite ironic, isn't it?

How's that?

You see, when they originally conceived of Project Spearhead, it was specifically intended to prevent Soul Reaper casualties from occurring.

But instead of the project doing what it was designed to do, many Soul Reapers have suffered greatly in trying to protect that Mod Soul girl. That's about as ironic as it gets.

I understand your point. But here's what I believe. I think as long as Mod Souls are born into this world, they've got a right to keep on living too.

............

............

............

You've got attitude, but you're useless. I guess you're just like I am.

A Hollow!

Ghh!

But instead of the project doing what it was designed to do, many Soul Reapers have suffered greatly in trying to protect that Mod Soul girl. That's about as ironic as it gets.

What're you doing?! Hurry and get up!

Kon!

Okay! Now, let's get the hell outta here!

Ah!

Leave him alone!

Huh?!

Wait a second! Is that a...?!

Ah!

Hahhhh!!!

*Pant* *Pant*

Hey, Nozomi. I thought you said you didn't have a Zanpakuto.

That's what I thought.

So just what were you doing wandering around so late anyway?!

I'm such a burden.

Not that again!

But it's different this time.

Everyone here is doing all they can to protect me, but I don't have the power protect them.

But then, when I thought of how I wanted to protect you, suddenly, I had this sword.

Huh?

Hahahaha!

You're so right! What was I so worried about anyways? Getting all worked up about what to say to you.

Here's what I say! We were born as Mod Souls, but let's not let that stop us from living!

Right.

Huh? Hey now, what's this lion doing here?

He's cute.

Do you want this messed up little guy? All right, then. He's all yours.

You mean it?

Uh huh. But he's kinda falling apart. Ya see, his mane unraveled and fell off.

I like him that way.

Here.

What do you think?

Huh? Haha! You're such a kid! Hahaha!

Stop laughing, pervert!