3-4 Ichigo Versus Gin

You've been watching for quite a long time.

Haven't you, Gin?

You shouldn't assume I've just been watching.

I just didn't think you needed my assistance with him yet.

I see.

It's been a while, my young friend, since I've crossed swords with you.

Do you remember the last time we fought? It seems like it was only yesterday.

I remember thinking that as an opponent you were extremely interesting.

Sorry, pal, but I don't remember.

Nice try, but you're a liar. Hold on. Was that supposed to be an insult?

Take it however you want. And I'm not saying I've forgotten crossing swords with you. I just have no concept of what was in your heart.

Whenever I face someone in battle, I have some idea of what they're thinking. Don't get me wrong. I'm not able to read their minds.

But during the battles, I can usually tell why they're really fighting, what they want out of me, and if they think they're stronger than I am.

But after so many battles now, I've come to realize that the stronger my opponent is, the easier it is for me to understand their heart.

With you, it's an entirely different matter. Despite how much I try to read you, almost nothing comes through. Even in the midst of the fight, you weren't completely engaged.

I don't know what you were thinking about, but it wasn't the battle with me.

Know something?

At first, I thought you were an interesting kid, but the fact is you're actually kind of creepy.

I don't think you should be calling anybody creepy.

My Zanpakuto, Shinso. Do you know how far my blade can extend?

I have no idea.

The length of a hundred swords, actually. When I was just a young boy, people were very impressed. They said I carried around a hundred-bladed weapon.

I'm not interested in your tricks.

Really? Do you have any idea how far this blade can extend in Bankai?

Can't say I do, but I didn't come here for a quiz.

You mean you're not even going to venture a guess? That's really a shame. How boring.

Well, I'm going to tell you anyway, and I'll explain it in measurements you can understand.

It can extend to 13 kilometers.

Tell you what. I'll demonstrate it for you.

Bankai.

Kamishininoyari.

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

Why do you look so surprised?

Don't you think one Bankai is capable of stopping another?

You know...

...the more time I spend with you, the creepier you get.

What's wrong, Aizen? Is it my imagination, or are you getting slower?

Perhaps you've reached your limit.

Well, now that I think about it, you may be right about my speed.

I may have actually reached my limit. My limit as a Soul Reaper, that is.

What are you saying?

That my soul is about to be restructured.

The Hogyoku is finally responding. I can feel that it's beginning to understand my thoughts.

That's nonsense.

Tell me what you think the Hogyoku's ultimate power is?

The Hogyoku's true power is the ability to manifest the desires of those around it. I'm surprised you haven't seen that.

What are you talking about?

But it turns out the Hogyoku's powers are limited. If the target does not have the power to achieve those desires, nothing significant happens. It's a very interesting dynamic filled with subtleties.

It can help guide you to your goals, but can't achieve them for you.

Most creatures aren't strong enough to take advantage of this gift.

They're able to achieve their petty wishes, but don't have the vision or force of will to go after their larger desires.

That was a very nice move there. Fascinating just how effective sheer luck can be.

You're stupid to think that was luck!

I-Ichigo?

What is it? Leave me alone!

I'm just getting warmed up. I'll defeat him soon! I don't want you to interfere!

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

Sorry about all this, Captain Aizen.

I hope I didn't interrupt your conversation.

It's all right.

I had pretty much finished explaining myself.

Kh!

Well, now. It's been a while, Aizen.

So you've come, Kisuke Urahara.