5-1 The Unreachable Blade

Uryu!

Are you sure you want to have a conversation in the middle of a fight, Ichigo?

It's simple, really.

Mayuri Kurotsuchi treated my injuries. He treated Renji first because he was in worse shape than I was.

Those explosions were caused by mines that Mayuri had me bring along. I carved out the ceiling of the level below and placed them there.

Did you doubt my capabilities?

Actually, I've never had my doubts about you, Uryu.

The problem is, you talk too much. You ramble on, and there's no way to block you out.

Take care of Orihime.

I would have done that without you telling me.

Sorry to keep you waiting, Ulquiorra.

I believe this is what you wanted to see.

My Hollowfication!

Hmph.

Come back here!

Wait a minute.

Are we above Las Noches' canopy?

That's right.

Under Aizen's orders, two things are forbidden below the canopy of Las Noches.

The first is Gran Rey Cero, which exists only for an Espada.

And the second is the sword release of Espadas with the rank of four and higher.

They are both so powerful that, if released, it would threaten to destroy Las Noches itself.

Imprison, Murcielago!

Damn it... Gh!

Do you understand it now?

I'm afraid that no matter how closely your form and techniques resemble an Arrancar's, the difference in our power will always be as great as that between heaven and earth.

Imitating Hollows seems like a perfectly logical path for you to follow in order to gain more power.

It's not surprising you would do that to become stronger, but you will never be my equal.

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

Why won't you let go of your sword?

You've experienced the vast difference in our powers, and yet you actually still think you can defeat me?

Difference...in power?

That doesn't matter at all.

You think I'd give up just because you're more powerful than me?

At this point, no matter how many times I see how powerful you are, it won't make a difference to me. I'm determined to see this through to the end.

I will find a way to beat you, Ulquiorra.

That's nonsense.

Ichigo Kurosaki, those are the words of someone who doesn't know the true despair of defeat.

Since you don't understand, I will teach you. This is what true despair looks like.

Resurrección Segunda Etapa.

Among the Espadas, I alone have found a way to achieve this second-stage release.

I have not even shown this form to the great Lord Aizen.

I will make you realize the depth of my power, even if I have to grind your body into dust.

You are a fool, Ichigo Kurosaki.

Why would you challenge an enemy that you can't possibly defeat? Most beings want to preserve their life. I can't comprehend this.

You must be doing all of this because of what you humans call "heart." If so, it would seem to be more of a liability than a strength.

What stupidity. Because you possess this antiquated concept of "heart," you have chosen to lose your life.

I didn't decide to fight you because I can see myself winning this battle.

The only reason I continue to fight is because I have to win!

Damn it, Ichigo. What's happening up there?!

Uryu?

Do you think it's possible that by using your powers, you could lift us above that canopy?

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

Can you, please?