Rebirth in Against the Gods with The Ultimate System

Mio and Kon couldn't believe their eyes as they watched in amazement the moment both Hoyuu and Yachiru took over Yun Che and Retsu's bodies. The dragon, which they had barely scratched moments ago, was now on the defensive from the relentless assault. Hoyuu's unpredictable, mad-demon fighting style made it impossible for Wrath to get a lock on him. With constant teleportation and a barrage of Getsuga attacks, he kept the dragon under unrelenting pressure, though Yun Che had warned him to avoid depleting Xueli's energy core for Wrath self-healing.

Yachiru, too, posed a significant threat to Wrath. Her ultimate flash step movement, once feared in the Soul Society, now bewildered the dragon as it struggled to target her. With her incredible speed, she darted around Wrath, landing powerful strikes and unleashing devastating cero blasts. Together with Hoyuu, they formed an indomitable team, driving the dragon to the brink.

Mio couldn't help but feel astonished at the hidden strength of their internal demons. Their power far exceeded anyone's expectations, and it was a sight to behold. She played her part by coordinating with Yachiru and Hoyuu, using her spatial portals to assist them in getting closer to the dragon and maintaining constant pressure on the formidable metallic beast. Kon however took a rest after he was struck by a tendril and forces him back to his plushy form.

Jasmine, found herself in a state of awe as she observed Hoyuu and Yachiru's astonishing display of power and coordination. Her initial skepticism about the capabilities of these internal demons was quickly dispelled.

As she watched them in action, she marveled at how well they worked together, despite their constant bickering and banter. It was a testament to their experience and skill, showcasing that their relationship ran deeper than just surface-level arguments. Their fighting style was like a well-choreographed dance, executed flawlessly with each move complementing the other.

Despite the occasional bickering between Hoyuu and Yachiru, the two hollows managed to coordinate their fights with remarkable efficiency. They took calculated risks, exploiting opportunities created by their combined tactics, and kept the pressure on Wrath. It was a testament to their experience and synergy as a team, despite their playful and often contentious interactions.

"Oi, woman, guess I took the lead this time," Hoyuu eerily spoke as he deftly dodged another of Wrath's onslaught attacks with his rapid flash step dance.

Yachiru mirrored his movements, performing her own graceful dodges before delivering a massive dark red sword slash. She looked at him with an annoying expression. "You think? … I haven't gone full strength yet."

Hoyuu chuckled, a hint of a challenge in his voice. "Full strength? Kind of underestimating me, aren't you?"

Yachiru adopted an eerie tone in her reply, her crimson eyes locked on Hoyuu. "I was called Yachiru, after all. You know what that means."

Hoyuu couldn't resist taunting back, "I never even heard of you."

A sly smile crept across Yachiru's face as she boasted, "Be that as it may, Soul Society did. I bet my full strength is much more powerful than you."

Hoyuu, however, wasn't one to back down. "Little witch… Why don't I show you this? I'm not even close to a quarter of my strength yet."

With those words, Hoyuu began compressing most of his power into a singular form. He had used this form once during the Dragon Trial. Due to its instability and the risk it posed to Yun Che's consciousness, he rarely utilized his Initial Full Hollow Form. In this state, his strength increased by a massive 100%, transcending realms. Prolonged use risked him being corrupted by the hollow's power, so Yun Che usually maintained a 75% increase from his mask. The remaining 25% was held by Hoyuu.

Hoyuu activated his Initial Full Power Form, undergoing a startling transformation. When Hoyuu, or Zangetsu, took full possession of Yun Che's body, it morphed into a full Hollow creature. His mask resembled a human skull, complete with a jaw joint and a rounded forehead, with dark red stripes on the left side. The full Hollow form appeared as a white, humanoid lizard with three-toed feet, a tail, and black marks all over its noticeably more muscular body. The transformation also gave him long, black hair and reptilian eyes visible through the eyeholes of his mask. It was the same form Hoyuu had unleashed during the Dragon Trial.

Hoyuu initial lizard man hollow form release a massive amount of Spirit Force Aura and attracted even Wrath. He was sure the dragon had some reaction but since it can't talk without using a medium to save his ears.

"So, this hideous form is yours? Not too shabby." Yachiru hollowed voice spoke through Retsu's body.

Hoyuu turns towards Yachiru as if he was giving her a smirk underneath his monstrous mask before began engaging Wrath once more. Yachiru smiles at the same time gritted her teeth as Hoyuu was indeed a showoff. Then, she suddenly smirks as well. Hoyuu isn't the only one came up with a trick of his own. Despite all that, in this form, Hoyuu was quiet as if a monster was fighting instead of his annoying self. Never the less, she won't have to hear his annoying demonic voice again for now.

Hoyuu pointed his claws in a closed manner before charging a devastating red cero towards the Wrath. It noticed him but wasn't able to react when Hoyuu released its devastating powers towards the mighty dragon. The cero was so devastating that it managed to stagger Wrath for a moment for him to deliver a head kick on it snake head. 

Yachiru's cunning provocation worked like a charm, goading Hoyuu into unleashing his full Hollow form. Little did he know that she had prepared something of her own—a set of new forms that she had been developing over the past year. Her mastery over her Ten-Tailed Demonic Fox powers had opened up possibilities she hadn't explored before, and her research into her newfound abilities had borne fruit.

One of her new forms was designed with Retsu in mind, allowing her to harness her fox powers without fully transforming into her fox or Hollow mode. This was especially important when they needed to fight in public without revealing their Hollow natures. 

With the fight against Wrath in full swing and the involvement of their internal spirits, Yachiru decided that it was the perfect moment to unveil her new power. She tapped into her unrestrained Ten-Tailed Demonic Fox's power, initiating her transformation.

As Yachiru's transformation began, her body was engulfed in a swirling reddish-orange energy that radiated power. Her eyes transitioned from their typical yellow to a striking shade of red, mirroring the appearance of a demonic fox takeover. Even her grin took on a distinctly fox-like visage.

The swirling energy enveloped her body as it ascended in a pillar of orange-red energy that reached toward the heavens, creating a cloud of smoke. Hoyuu, engaged in a fierce battle with Wrath, couldn't help but notice Yachiru's transformation and could only click his tongue in response. She was relentless in her pursuit of power.

As the smoke cleared, Yachiru emerged, her entire form now surrounded by a red, wispy Reaitsu cloak. This cloak extended to her tails and ears, enhancing her power and speed, while also providing accelerated healing abilities. Her physical appearance underwent subtle changes. Her eyes turned to a fiery red, her pupils narrowing into slits, and her nails and canine teeth elongated, growing sharper. Her unraveled hair became longer and spikier, and her fox ears and tails transformed to match her new state.

This new form, which she called the "Yachiru Reaitsu Cloak," harnessed the essence of her original Ten-Tailed Demon Fox Reaitsu. It was a testament to the depth of her power and the potential she had yet to explore. 

"Yachiru-chan, this is…" Retsu's voice echoed from within.

Hearing her sister's curiosity, Yachiru responded cheerfully, "Ufuu~ This is the form I've been developing for you to harness your fox powers without transforming into your fox form when we're in public. I know there have been times when you wanted to use your hollow abilities without delving into my Ten-Tailed Demonic Fox powers, so I devised this."

Yachiru went on to explain, "It's a Reaitsu cloak that allows you to tap into half of your attained fox powers. This means you can boost your strength by three levels, bringing it up more than your current fox tail level. And should you acquire the powers of your next fox tail, your cloak will gain an additional tail wisp. Plus, it's stackable with your hollow powers. You can even share a bit of my power with others."

"Sugoi!" Retsu exclaimed in awe.

Yachiru's competitive spirit came through as she added, "Well, I wasn't about to let that white bastard outdo me."

"But he is Yuu-kun's Hollow," Retsu pointed out, sharing the sentiment of her hollowed twin sister despite their affection for Yuuki.

Yachiru responded with a teasing tone, "Ufuu, I like Yuuki, but I never said I like his Hollow side."

"Anyway, it's not perfect yet, Retsu, dear," Yachiru admitted. "If I can perfect it, you'll be able to enter this state without Reaitsu visibly emanating from you, only gaining the physical alterations. Cloaks are aesthetically better, but it would be ideal if no one could see it. Think of it as my gift to you and Yuuki."

With her explanation complete, Yachiru shifted her focus back to the battle. She set her mask aside, demonstrating her resolve, and engaged in combat once more.

In her newly acquired Fox Reaitsu Cloak, Yachiru was a formidable force to be reckoned with. Her body was enveloped in a shroud of reddish-orange energy, and her eyes took on a demonic hue, transitioning from their usual yellow to a deep, intense red. Her smile bore a menacing quality, akin to that of a demon fox.

With her cloak active, Yachiru's powers surged to new heights. Her physical strength, agility, and even her regenerative capabilities were significantly enhanced. Her body went through subtle transformations as she entered this state. Her eyes changed color, her pupils becoming slitted, and her nails and canine teeth grew longer and sharper. Her unraveled hair extended, growing longer and spikier. Even her hollow-mode fox ears and tails underwent changes, reflecting her enhanced power.

Yachiru launched herself into the battle against Wrath with a fierce determination. Her skills in both Sonido and Flash Step combined into a unique movement technique, allowing her to dart across the battlefield with unmatched speed. With each step, she left behind afterimages as she closed the gap between her and the formidable dragon.

The wispy Reaitsu that surrounded her formed a protective layer, enhancing her defensive capabilities. Yachiru's swift and precise movements allowed her to avoid Wrath's attacks while retaliating with quick and powerful strikes. Her claws and sword techniques were devastating, leaving noticeable marks on the dragon's metallic body.

What truly set her apart, however, was her ability to manipulate Reaitsu and launch long-range Reaitsu fist attacks. These energy fists struck Wrath with tremendous force, pushing the dragon back and further limiting its mobility. Yachiru's energy manipulation skills were nothing short of remarkable.

As she continued her relentless assault, Yachiru's grin widened. Her heart raced with the thrill of battle, and she couldn't help but feel exhilarated by the power coursing through her. With her new form, Yachiru was determined to make an indelible mark on this fierce battle, proving that she was a force to be reckoned with.

In her Fox Reaitsu Cloak, Yachiru was a true beast on the battlefield. She harnessed the power of her cloak's aura to its fullest extent, forming a massive claw of reddish-orange energy that crackled with potency. With this makeshift weapon, she launched herself at Wrath with unparalleled ferocity.

Yachiru's enormous claw struck Wrath's invulnerable armor, managing to chip away at its formidable defenses. The sheer force of her attack created sparks, and for the first time, Wrath showed signs of vulnerability. Her relentless assault continued as she combined her claw strikes with a barrage of other Reaitsu-based attacks.

Yachiru's presence was electrifying, her every move showcasing the newfound strength she had tapped into. She was relentless in her assault, and the battlefield crackled with energy as she left her mark on the battle, proving herself to be a formidable force that Wrath could not underestimate.

Yachiru would typically unleash the power of her Bankai, creating a devastating display of her abilities. However, this time, she had something more in mind. With her newly awakened fox powers, Yachiru combined the essence of her Bankai with her newfound strength, resulting in a unique and overwhelming attack.

A massive slash of orange-red energy waves and blasts erupted from her, surging toward Wrath with incredible force. These waves of energy were a fusion of her fox Reaitsu and the power of her Bankai, and they hit Wrath with a power that shook the battlefield. The intensity of this attack demonstrated Yachiru's mastery over her evolving abilities and showcased her determination to bring Wrath to its knees.

Her mask remained on the sidelines as she employed her newfound powers to teleport and combine her Sonido and Flash Step techniques into a unique speed technique derived from both. In an instant, Yachiru summoned a massive Reaitsu fist, taking aim at Wrath. Retsu had once utilized the Reaitsu fists against the dragons they had faced, and while it was somewhat rudimentary, she had managed to control three arms perfectly. Yachiru, on the other hand, exceeded that limit, enabling her to channel more energy and even withstand Wrath's massive tendrils.

Wrath reacted by conjuring more shadowy creatures to attack Yachiru, but she released a burst of air, creating a shockwave that cleared the immediate area of shadows and eliminated any threats that came near her. Utilizing her flight abilities, she launched relentless claw and sword attacks against Wrath. She realized that entering this world had unlocked power beyond what they had known in their previous life. It indicated that she and Retsu could become even stronger than they had been before.

In a brilliant display of strategy, Yachiru utilized Mio's Mirror Dimension to launch surprise attacks on Wrath. She exploited the dimension's unique properties, allowing her to strike the dragon where it least expected, catching it off guard with every blow. The element of surprise combined with her newfound powers made her a formidable force on the battlefield, giving the team a significant advantage in their battle against Wrath.

Yachiru, with her cunning use of Mio's Mirror Dimension, ventured into the Spatial World of the dimension, emerging closer to Wrath's vital areas. There, she unleashed a powerful attack, aiming not only to cause physical harm but to deliver an excruciating blow that sent a shiver down the dragon's metallic spine. The painful roar that followed was music to her ears, a testament to the impact of her assault on the colossal beast.

With each ferocious attack she unleashed, Yachiru's visage grew even more sinister and her excitement heightened. The thrill of battle coursed through her as she reveled in the display of her newfound powers. The wicked smile on her face revealed her growing satisfaction as she continued to push Wrath to the limits. Her eyes, now glowing a menacing shade of red, reflected her unbridled determination to defeat this formidable opponent.

Yachiru was determined to make the three minutes of real-world time counted as the System allowed her to access these new powers. She knew that the next time she took over Retsu's body, circumstances might be different. So, she gave it her all, unleashing the full extent of her abilities and pushing herself to the limit to ensure that every moment counted in their battle against Wrath.

While Hoyuu distracted Wrath with his relentless assault on the right side, Yachiru mirrored his aggression on the left. Mio, watching from the sidelines, marveled at the unpredictability of Retsu and Yun Che's fights. Even though her levels exceeded theirs, she knew that these two internal spirits possessed a different realm of demonic powers. Despite the difference in their strength, Mio was determined not to be left behind and focused on providing her own support. Drawing her sword, she began slashing through the air, sending countless razor-sharp air shards hurtling towards Wrath. The dragon was having a tough time keeping up with both Yachiru and Hoyuu as the barrage of attacks intensified.

Yachiru and Hoyuu continued their relentless assault on Wrath. Yachiru's precise Reaitsu fists found their mark, subduing the dragon's unruly tendrils. This allowed Hoyuu to close in and unleash a barrage of attacks. The dragon was momentarily immobilized under their combined assault, and it seemed they were gaining the upper hand.

Not wasting any time, Yachiru and Hoyuu began charging their own cero attacks. The immense energy they harnessed crackled in the air as they prepared to release their devastating power upon Wrath. The dragon, realizing the impending threat, activated its shockwave shield. The barrier formed around it just in time to block the incoming cero blasts, leaving Wrath unscathed.

The instant Wrath disengaged its shield, Yachiru and Hoyuu seized the opportunity. Their powerful cero attacks collided with the dragon's chest, resulting in a resounding impact that tore through its armor. Bits of golden skin were exposed as the dragon let out a deafening roar of pain and frustration. The battle had reached a critical juncture, and it seemed that victory might be within their grasp.

Internally, Yun Che came to a troubling realization. The more energy Wrath expended in defending itself, the faster Xueli's energy core was being drained. Their relentless attacks were putting an even heavier burden on the guardian's powers. It was a race against time, and they had to find a way to defeat Wrath before it drained Xueli's energy core completely falls below 10%.

Yachiru attempted to use Kido on Wrath, aiming to disrupt its healing process, but the dragon's shockwave shield canceled out her spells, making it clear that Wrath had planned for every possible scenario.

The fight had taken another twist, with Wrath proving to be an incredibly challenging adversary, and the battle showed no signs of slowing down.

The dragon unleashed a powerful healing ability, absorbing energy from Xueli's core once more. This time, it drained a total of 5% of the core's energy, leaving both Hoyuu and Yachiru's new forms pushed aside. Despite their incredible power, Wrath's ability to siphon Xueli's energy core proved to be a formidable challenge. The fight was far from over, and the battle was becoming even more intense.

-------------

[Ding… The core is now at 25%]

[Ding… Hollow possession time limit: You have another 120 seconds before reverting back into the host's control.]

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"Oi woman, this is not looking good," Hoyuu spoke, peering at the dire situation before them.

"I can see that. Seems that hideous form of yours can't even do anything right," Yachiru mused, her playful tone underscoring the gravity of the moment.

"Who said this is my only powerful form?" Hoyuu creepily smiled, hinting at a hidden trump card that could turn the tide of the battle.

Hoyuu, understanding the need for a more stable and controlled form, smoothly transitioned from his initial full hollow state into a more compressed version. In this new form, his appearance underwent dramatic changes, turning him into a spectral figure. His body adopted the likeness of Yun Che or Yuuki's original physique, but now it was an eerie, ghostly white. The most striking feature was the conspicuous hollow's hole that dominated his chest, a dark void that served as an unmistakable symbol of his hollow powers.

His hands and feet had been transformed into formidable weapons, boasting sharp, claw-like nails ideal for delivering devastating melee attacks despite holding Tensa Zangetsu. Hoyuu's ebony hair had grown considerably, reaching down to his waist, and the intricate black-lined pattern that began from the hollow hole at his chest extended outward, traveling along his arms and shoulders. The most prominent change was in his mask, which had undergone a significant transformation. No longer dark red, it had taken on a deep pitch-black hue, and it kept his other half of his mask with its original tribal pattern but only a slight color change. Silver fur adorned his wrists, ankles and around his neck, adding to the eerie yet awe-inspiring appearance of his compressed full hollow form.

As Hoyuu unleashed his newfound power and advanced towards Wrath, it was clear that this transformation had granted him not only a tremendous boost in strength but also a heightened sense of control and stability. The battle against the formidable metallic dragon was far from over.

Hoyuu slids his mask aside before speaking towards Yachiru who still donned in her fox form and wispy Reaitsu cloak. His visage is still looking at her as if he was mocking. "What do you think?"

"So you've compressed your full power into Yuuki's body?" Yachiru remarked as she observed Hoyuu's compressed form of the initial full hollow state.

"Kind of, it made me a bit stronger," Hoyuu boasted.

"Hmph, only a bit?" Yachiru raised an eyebrow.

"Bitch, if I went any higher, bastard's body wouldn't be able to support it. Be lucky that this form can harness a quarter of my original strength," Hoyuu responded.

"Not strong enough," Yachiru countered.

"Oh, you have something to say? That wispy cloak of yours isn't enough to defeat that thing," Hoyuu challenged, raising his fist.

"Oh, you want to fight? You're a thousand years too early," Yachiru pointed her sword at him with a sly smile.

"You two, please… you can quarrel later," Mio intervened, speaking to both the demon forms of her loved ones. These demons were strangers to her, as she had never met them before. She had seen Hoyuu several times in the inner world, where he didn't seem inclined to converse with those he deemed beneath him. As for Yachiru, she had heard of her as Retsu's former personality from her previous life. Yachiru had absorbed the soul of a Hollowfied Ten-Tailed Demon Fox and formed her own powers. Now, she was the possessor of such formidable abilities. Mio wasn't sure if she wanted to get to know Unohana Yachiru, but she figured if Retsu trusted this demon enough to let her take control of her body, she should at least be open to forming some kind of friendship with her.

"Ara~~ I am sorry, Mio-chan. It seems that this bastard is full of himself," Yachiru apologized while smiling and spoke as if she knew her well. Mio shivered at the thought of conversing with a demonic version of Retsu, but if Retsu believed in this demon, Mio would have to give her a chance.

"I see," Mio nodded in understanding, as her sentiments mirrored Yachiru's.

"Don't worry, Mio-chan. I've known you in the same way Retsu knows you. She trusted you as her sister, so I decided to do the same until you decide otherwise," Yachiru explained, emphasizing the last part to make it clear that if Mio ever went against Retsu, she'd have to deal with her demonic side.

"What do you mean?" Mio asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Oh~~ It's nothing. Think of me as Retsu's protective guardian. Now, it's time to deal with this monstrosity," Yachiru said excitedly. Mio couldn't help but feel weirded out as she observed Yachiru. She was a stark contrast to the ladylike Retsu, more like an extreme and slightly unsettling Yandere version of her.

Emerging from the inner world for the second time, Yachiru felt a surge of excitement. She had become somewhat accustomed to using Retsu's body as a medium to interact with the world. However, what made this experience unique was her encounter with Yuuki's alter ego, Hoyuu, or more precisely, Hollow Yuuki. Unlike her, Hoyuu was his hollowfied Zanpakuto spirit, which meant he required Zangetsu as his default form before he could assist Yuuki. It was a peculiar arrangement, but Yachiru had always been one to embrace the unconventional.

As long as Hoyuu didn't interfere with her actions, Yachiru was open to the idea of forming an unconventional alliance with this enigmatic entity. Their peculiar partnership in the face of overwhelming challenges was the stuff of legends, and Yachiru was more than willing to embrace the unexpected. This battle marked not only a significant encounter with Hoyuu but also Yachiru's first foray onto the battlefield in this world since her fateful clash with Zaraki Kenpachi. She found it ironic that her return to combat would involve facing a colossal dragon as her adversary. It was an unexpected twist, and Yachiru acknowledged that it might take some time to readjust to the dynamics of battle in this new realm. Nonetheless, armed with her newfound powers and unwavering determination, she was fully prepared to confront this formidable challenge.

-------------------

In the endless void of emptiness, Xueli floated alone, consumed by fear and desperation. Her tears flowed freely, and her voice echoed in the void as she cried out for her mother, her beloved Onii-chan, and her cherished Onee-chans. Yet, it seemed as though her pleas would remain unanswered, lost in the vast nothingness that surrounded her.

As the moments stretched into what felt like an eternity, and hope began to wane, Xueli sensed something. It was faint, a small spark of warmth in the cold and desolate void. She clung to it, her heart pounding with renewed hope. It was a connection, a link to her mother. Though it was small, like a flickering fire in the darkness, she held onto it with all her might, praying that her mother would find her and bring her back to safety.

-------------------

Lin Xin, who had been anxiously waiting on the central island with Cang Yue's white eagle, found herself caught between the torment of worrying for her daughter and the others embroiled in the life-and-death struggle against the monstrous dragon. As the battle raged on, a deep unease weighed upon her heart.

Then, a sudden change in the atmosphere caught her attention. Lin Xin's senses sharpened, and she felt a peculiar energy pulsating, coming from the colossal dragon's chest. It was a sensation she couldn't ignore, as if her daughter was reaching out to her through the very essence of her being, a desperate call for help amidst the chaos.

Realizing that she could sense her daughter's presence and potentially relay this crucial information to Yun Che and Retsu, Lin Xin quickly activated the Kido technique they had linked to her earlier. Her fingertips moved deftly, tracing the complex pattern as she reached out to them.

With a soft incantation, she initiated the communication spell, calling out to Yun Che and Retsu with urgency in her voice. "Yun Che! Retsu! I can feel where my daughter is! You need to listen!"

Hoyuu's voice, unfamiliar and laced with subtle mischief, cut through, "Oh... who's this?" The momentary confusion was quickly dispelled by Yachiru's sharp retort, "That's Xin'er, you idiot. Maybe if you paid attention once in a while, you'd know."

Lin Xin, caught off-guard by the sinister undertones of their voices, hesitated for a moment, her voice betraying her uncertainty, "Ummm... Who am I speaking to?"

Mio interjected smoothly, sensing Lin Xin's confusion, "Apologies, Xin'er. Right now, Danna-sama and Retsu-chan are... indisposed. Their alter-egos have taken the reins, so to speak. But don't fret, speak to me."

Regaining her composure, Lin Xin conveyed her discovery, "There's a damaged section on the dragon's chest. I sensed something from it, a familiar presence. I believe Xueli is there. Please, can you rescue her?"

Mio's eyes widened, realizing the significance of Lin Xin's revelation. They now had a focal point, a critical target. "Understood," Mio nodded. "Danna-sama… I mean… Hoyuu-san, Yachiru-san, focus on that point. That's where Xueli is."

"She's there? It might be a little challenging, as that dragon might focus on defending that area," Yachiru remarked, recognizing the potential difficulties ahead.

"Scared, woman? I might be able to do it by myself," Hoyuu boasted with his usual confidence.

"Tsk, like you could do it any better," Yachiru countered Hoyuu's remark. Mio found herself slightly exasperated as she tried to adapt to their banter. With Kon fainted somewhere, she realized she might need to rely on these two for the rescue mission. As Lin Xin relayed the crucial information about Xueli's whereabouts, the group's focus shifted to the broken chest piece of the dragon, which was now identified as the location of their daughter. The urgency of the situation was palpable, and Mio emphasized the need for Hoyuu and Yachiru to act upon this newfound knowledge.

Lin Xin's connection provided a glimmer of hope in the midst of chaos, even though she couldn't directly intervene in the battle. Overwhelmed by frustration and self-blame, she channeled her emotions into the determination to assist in locating and rescuing Xueli, ensuring the safety of her loved ones, and ultimately bringing an end to the menacing dragon's reign of terror.

"Yachiru-san, Hoyuu-san... we need a coordinated assault. Every time we try to pierce through its armor, it fiercely guards that spot," Mio interjected, her voice urgent yet composed.

Hoyuu, turning to Yachiru with a smirk, responded, "Took you long enough to see it, didn't it, woman? You've got another trick up your sleeve, don't you?"

Yachiru glanced at her twin's body, a hint of concern in her eyes. "Ufuuu~~ I might, but I'm unsure if Retsu's body can withstand the strain. The aftermath could be painful."

The playful tone in Hoyuu's voice vanished. "Oi, woman. We might not have another choice. When we're forced back, they'll be on the frontlines."

Yachiru sighed, a rare sound of genuine concern escaping her. "Gomennee, Retsu-chan. This might sting."

From within, Retsu's voice, tinged with a mix of hope and fear, sounded, "Yachiru-chan?"

"You're not yet strong enough, not in the Divine Origin Realm. This power might be too much," Yachiru responded, her voice soft but insistent.

Retsu pondered briefly, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within her. "Whatever it takes, Yachiru-chan. If it helps rescue Xueli-chan, I'll endure."

A flicker of admiration crossed Yachiru's eyes. "We might not be able to save her directly, but we can certainly pave a way for you and Yuuki."

Retsu's voice carried a note of curiosity. "You're talking about that power you mentioned earlier, aren't you?"

Yachiru nodded, regret evident in her tone. "Yes. I didn't want to awaken your fourth tail so soon, but we might not have a choice."

Mio, observing the exchange, pieced together the hints. She realized that Retsu's fox form had the potential for another tail, signifying a vast increase in power. The mere idea was astonishing.

"Retsu-chan," Yachiru continued, her voice growing more serious, "The fourth tail is akin to accessing another dimension of the Demonic Fox's power. But the strain on your current state could be perilous."

Hoyuu, eager to regain attention, interjected, "Oi, what about me?"

Yachiru brushed him off, focusing on her imminent task. "Your body might not be ready, Retsu-chan. Channeling such power without the necessary foundation... it's like a mortal wielding a god's weapon. Plus, even I am at risk of losing myself to the Fox's instinct."

The atmosphere grew thick with tension as Yachiru braced herself for what lay ahead.

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[Ding… you are about to tap into a power even you can't control. Are you sure you wanted to do this?]

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"It's now or never," Yachiru declared, her voice brimming with determination. She took a deep breath, steadying herself for the impending transformation. With a powerful surge of energy, she manifested her Reaitsu cloak once more, but this time, something was different. The tails and the cloak began to flare wildly, an undeniable sign that she was about to unleash another, even more potent form of power.

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[Ding… restriction removed. Temporarily possession granted.]

[Warning… Power shutdown imminent]

[Warning… Power shutdown imminent]

[Warning… Hollow Instinct possession imminent]

[Warning… Hollow Instinct possession imminent]

-------------------

As Yachiru focused her immense energy, the air around her crackled with its intensity. The ground beneath her quivered, and she created a small crater, signaling the immense power she was about to release. Mio and Hoyuu, recognizing the impending release of this overwhelming energy, wisely teleported to a safe distance. They knew that being too close to Yachiru's next form could be perilous.

Yachiru's powers surged wildly, her aura flaring like an inferno. She drove her Bankai sword deep into the ground and, in a primal display of power, fell onto all fours. Her sharp nails dug into the earth as the energy around her continued to skyrocket. It was evident that she was preparing to unveil a form of power that had never been seen before.

One of the shadows attempted to close in and attack her, but Yachiru was ready. She manifested a shockwave from her mouth, a powerful blast that repelled any shadows that dared to venture too close. Meanwhile, Hoyuu, still locked in combat with Wrath, couldn't help but feel an intense anticipation for the revelation of Yachiru's newfound abilities.

The swirling energies intensified around Yachiru as she initiated her next transformation. Her Reaitsu cloak, though potent, was no match for the monstrous adversary Wrath. Her Bankai, designed to extract blood to unleash its full potential, was rendered ineffective in this situation. Determined to unlock a power that would match the terrifying Wrath, Yachiru was willing to risk everything, even if it meant delving deeper into the depths of her own power.

And then, it happened. Yachiru's transformation began, a remarkable and breathtaking display of her newfound abilities. Her Reaitsu cloak and her hollow fox tails, initially numbering three, began to grow a fourth tail. Simultaneously, her Reaitsu cloak sprouted its own fourth tail. This was a stunning manifestation of power that Yachiru was determined to harness in her ongoing battle against the formidable Wrath.

As Yachiru's transformation unfolded, the battlefield was filled with tension and awe. Her agonizing screams seemed to transcend the boundaries of mortal pain, echoing through the hearts of everyone present. Mio, watching this spectacle, couldn't help but feel a rising sense of dread and amazement at the sheer magnitude of power Yachiru was attempting to harness. The gruesome display was etched into her memory, a haunting reminder of the sacrifices and struggles that came with wielding such immense abilities.

Hoyuu's amusement took on a more sober tone as he observed the tremendous forces at play. Even he, who had faced countless battles and witnessed extraordinary feats of power, couldn't help but be captivated by the raw intensity of Yachiru's transformation. Her body, once vibrant and lively, now took on a dark, blood-red hue, as if her very essence had transformed into a formidable weapon. Her agonizing screams became thunderous roars, echoing through the battlefield and sending shivers down the spines of those who bore witness to this incredible display of strength.

The peeling skin, once a symbol of vulnerability, disintegrated into dark Reaitsu, creating a protective dome around Yachiru's body. It was a visual representation of the pain and suffering she willingly endured to access this newfound power. Her body, now encased in a cocoon of dark energy, was a testament to the extraordinary lengths she would go to protect her loved ones and confront the monstrous adversary before her.

As Yachiru prepared to unleash her newfound power, her Reaitsu aura took on a strange and unsettling transformation. It began to boil, just like water reaching its boiling point, and the aura itself seemed to peel away from her skin, revealing the sinister, blood-red substance that lay beneath it. Her eyes glowed with an intense red hue, radiating a malevolent energy.

The impending transformation was accompanied by a deafening roar that seemed to shake the very heavens, signaling the magnitude of the power she was about to harness. As the transformation continued, a long wisp of dark, smoky energy emerged from the dome accompanied by a ring of vaporized ground that now enveloped Yachiru, a portent of the immense force that was about to be unleashed upon the battlefield.

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Cang Yue fought valiantly alongside the local army against the relentless golden shadows, her strength and resolve unwavering. Amidst the chaos, she spotted a strange wispy smoke in the air, curiosity sparking within her. The smoky trail hung in the air, and as it wafted towards her, she sensed something amiss.

"What is that smoke?" she mused aloud, her brow furrowing. The scent that filled her nostrils was unmistakable. "It smells like... blood?"

Cang Yue had spent enough time with Retsu to recognize the distinctive odor of her blood. Her heart sank as the realization washed over her. This was indeed the scent of Retsu's blood, and the implications were profoundly troubling. Her heart raced, and a cold dread washed over her. This was a dire sign, and it left her anxious about the safety of her dear friend and comrade.

-----------------------------

From her vantage point, Lin Xin observed the wisps of smoke rising in the distance, her confliction growing with each passing moment. She couldn't deny what her senses were telling her—this smoke was connected to Retsu, and it signaled a transformation, a transformation towards something far more sinister. It left her questioning the nature of the companions she had found herself alongside.

A sense of unease and concern gripped her heart as she contemplated what they were doing. Their pursuit of power, of tapping into these dark and formidable abilities, was a path fraught with peril. Deep down, she knew that their choices could lead them down a treacherous road, one where they risked losing themselves to the very powers they sought to wield. The price they might pay was heavy, and she couldn't help but worry for them in these dire times.

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Kon, who had fainted earlier from the overwhelming power of Wrath's tendrils, groggily awoke as he sensed the tremendous energy emanating from Yachiru. His spiritual senses tingled with an inexplicable dread as he registered the emergence of this new entity. Unlike Wrath, whose power was undeniably terrifying, there was something about Yachiru's transformed state that sent shivers down Kon's ethereal spine. He couldn't quite put it into words, but the presence of this newfound power left him with an eerie sense of foreboding, as if he had awakened to an even greater menace than the one they were already facing.

------------------------------

And then, the transformation began in earnest. Yachiru's mighty roar reverberated through the crater beneath her, unleashing an immense surge of energy that enveloped her like a raging forest fire in the distance. The energy release was so powerful that it created a gust of wind that swept across the entire island, catching the attention of both the shadow monsters and the local Huan Family army. Their reactions were mixed—relief for the moment, but a lurking dread beneath the surface.

Hoyuu couldn't help but express his amazement at Yachiru's capabilities. "Simply unbelievable, the things this woman can do," he mused aloud.

Mio, too, found herself deeply conflicted. The Yachiru she had known had transformed into a sinister, demonic force, unleashing a power she had never fathomed. It made her question what hidden abilities might lie dormant within her. But for now, she watched with a wary eye, understanding that the unfolding spectacle was no ordinary occurrence—much like the unsettling transformation she had witnessed when Hoyuu entered his compressed Initial Hollow Form.

As the dome of energy shattered, it revealed an entity that left both Hoyuu and Mio wide-eyed in disbelief. What had once been Retsu was now a grotesque and awe-inspiring figure, all at once. The entity was on all fours, entirely composed of blood-red substances with an intense, fiery aura flaring from its skin. Her long hair had transformed into spiky, fiery tendrils of blood-red energy that danced wildly in the air.

Retsu's former fox ears had grown more prominent, and her arms and legs now resembled a fox's posture. The claws on her hands and feet had elongated significantly. Her upper body had undergone a transformation, with her bosom contracting as if her upper body had been strengthened by the blood-red form. Four tails made from the same substance flared behind her, a stark contrast to her former appearance.

Her eyes had taken on a circular form, devoid of pupils, with a sharp and menacing visage adorning her mouth—or what had once been her mouth.

Mio couldn't help but whisper her companion's name in shock, "Retsu-chan."

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[Ding.... Warning... Warning... Yachiru has activated the Fourth Tail Form of the Ten Tailed Demonic Fox's power. The system will not permit the host to sustain this power for an extended duration, as she is not yet suited for its use. The maximum allowance is only sixty seconds before the system will forcefully return control to Unohana Retsu and suppress the power.]

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Hoyuu couldn't help but express his admiration. "Impressive woman, really... truly impressive," he remarked loudly. However, the transformed entity that Yachiru had become seemed indifferent to his words, focused on her newfound power and the imminent battle against Wrath.

"This is Retsu-chan's fourth tail form?" Mio wondered.

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[Ding… not quite. Normally, once Unohana Retsu has mastered the Fourth Tail form, an additional tail would popped up in her visored fox form and her Reaitsu Cloak Mode. However, the fourth tail form right now is her newly awakened full hollow mode.]

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Mio's confusion grew as she had never seen full hollow mode before. While she had witnessed Yun Che in his lizard-like hollow form during the dragon trial, she was seeing it again today, and it left her intrigued.

"Full hollow mode?" Mio questioned, still trying to grasp the concept of these powerful transformations.

Hoyuu, always one to show off, responded with a hint of pride, "Just like mine, toots. I've got mine under control, you know." He displayed his compressed form to emphasize his point.

Wrath seemed to sense the danger in Yachiru's devastating new transformation and began sending a relentless horde of shadows to attack them. While Hoyuu swiftly engaged, Yachiru remained still, almost like a statue, unresponsive to Hoyuu's nudges.

Hoyuu couldn't help but tease, "The silent treatment, huh?" Without waiting for her reply, he initiated a relentless assault.

Unfazed by his words, Yachiru raised her fists high and slammed them into the ground, unleashing a massive energy blast around her. The shockwaves and wind gusts rippled through the city, disintegrating the shadow monsters in their path. Turning her attention to Wrath, Yachiru released a deafening roar. She pressed her hands into the ground, causing two colossal blood-red Reaitsu claws to surge forth—an upgraded version of her previous ones.

If Wrath retaliated with its own onslaught, Yachiru was right there to deliver a counterblow. Her new blood-red claw attacks were formidable and caught the dragon off guard. Hoyuu's strength was, in essence, on par with Yachiru's own formidable power, but it was a matter of coordination versus instinct. While Yachiru's attacks were driven by her primal instincts and often unpredictable, Hoyuu's strikes were more calculated and coordinated. The combination of their raw strength and strategic prowess made them a formidable duo against Wrath.

As always, Hoyuu seized the opportunities that Yachiru's relentless assaults created to strike at the dragon. He launched Getsuga and Cero attacks, aiming to weaken Wrath's defenses. Yachiru's frontal assault kept the dragon preoccupied, and this provided Hoyuu with the perfect opening to strike from behind. With a triumphant laugh, he unleashed his potent attacks on the dragon's exposed back.

The colossal claws struck Wrath with sheer force. The dragon attempted to block the attack, but it proved futile, and it was ultimately staggered by the overwhelming might of Yachiru's blows. Mio watched in awe, realizing that a single punch had the power to stagger the formidable dragon, a true testament to Retsu's incredible strength, which even surpassed the initial phase of the Divine Origin Realm. Yet, Mio was not one to sit idly by. While she couldn't directly support Yachiru due to her instinct-based fighting style, she could assist Hoyuu.

Recognizing the opportunities during Wrath's clashes with Hoyuu, Mio began coordinating with both Yachiru and Hoyuu. Opening random Mirror Dimension portals, she allowed Hoyuu to jump between them, offering him a means to evade attacks, catch the dragon off guard, and deliver potent blows of their own.

The newfound fourth tail form had enhanced not only Yachiru's strength but also her agility. When a shadow monster overwhelmed her, delivering a powerful blow to her back, instead of crying out in pain, the wound simply closed itself. In a stunning display, a clone of Yachiru emerged from her body and swiftly swiped its claw, slicing one of the monsters in half.

Yachiru burst into action, hurtling forward on all fours with astonishing speed. Her movements seemed like the embodiment of her inner fox instinct, a raw, primal drive for destruction. It was a spectacle of unbridled ferocity and an untamed beast within. Despite the wild, animalistic nature of her assault, Yachiru held her focus unwaveringly. She knew that the fourth form she had harnessed was firmly under her control, and she was determined to employ it with precision.

The critical aspect of this control was the understanding that unleashing the Ten-Tailed Demonic Fox's animalistic instincts in the wrong hands, like Retsu's, could result in catastrophic consequences. The situation called for someone with the mental strength to wield this formidable power responsibly, and Yachiru was proving to be that someone.

Yachiru's approach to Wrath was nothing short of remarkable, and her untamed instincts had never been more apparent. It was a display of sheer dominance over her inner beast.

The battlefield was a tumultuous dance of instinct and ferocity. Yachiru moved with incredible speed and agility, a true manifestation of her inner fox instinct. Her animalistic desires for destruction and chaos were evident in her every move, and yet, she remained focused, firmly in control of her newfound fourth tail form. The symbiosis between her and the Ten Tailed Demonic Fox was uncanny, a testament to her strength and resolve. Retsu's current state could not have handled this animalistic instinct, and it was a wise choice for Yachiru to harness it.

As Wrath launched its relentless attacks, Yachiru navigated the battlefield with an uncanny grace, avoiding each strike with ease. Her responses were pure instinct, her movements unpredictable. She unleashed claw and fist strikes with fury, relentlessly chipping away at the exposed bits of the dragon's armor, thanks to the combined efforts of her and Hoyuu.

One of her most astounding feats was her use of the massive Reaitsu arm to grapple Wrath's colossal tendrils. The intense heat emanating from her compressed, blood-red form started to melt the dragon's armor upon contact, turning it into a searing, molten mess. Despite Wrath's desperate attempts to pull its tendrils away, Yachiru held her ground, steadily drawing herself closer to the dragon with every passing moment, preparing to deliver a devastating blow right to its face.

Throughout the battle, shadow monsters tried to overwhelm her, attempting to hold her down. However, the intense heat radiating from her very being proved to be an insurmountable barrier for them. Those who dared to make contact with her were swiftly melted away, their shrieks echoing in the chaos. Yachiru's fourth tail form was an unstoppable force, and the battle had taken a turn that none could have predicted.

---------------

[Ding…. 30 seconds left.]

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Yachiru was acutely aware that the thirty-second timer was ticking down, and she knew she had to act quickly. Her plan was audacious and risky, involving the release of both Yang blood energy and Yin blue reaitsu into the air. With meticulous precision, she compressed these energies into a massive black ball of raw power. As Wrath prepared to counterattack, Hoyuu and Mio maintained their relentless assault from various angles, keeping the dragon occupied.

Yachiru continued to charge the black energy ball, shrinking it with each passing moment. It became a condensed sphere of unimaginable potency, capable of decimating the entire island. But instead of unleashing it upon her surroundings, she directed the energy ball toward herself, allowing it to enter her very being.

The moment the energy entered her, her visage began to smoke, and she clawed her arms into the ground, bracing herself for the imminent release of power. Hoyuu, who had witnessed this sequence before, understood his role. He turned to Mio and said, "Toots, it's my turn. Distract it for me."

With a quick teleportation, Hoyuu positioned himself beside Yachiru, his hands pressed together to form a red energy ball. However, this wasn't an ordinary energy ball; he had managed to infuse some of the Heretic God's energy into it. Yet, there was one final addition to this concoction – he bit his thumb and infused a drop of Yun Che's blood into the mix. Any hollow from his world would know the significance of infusing one's blood into a cero: it signaled something extraordinary.

Mio anticipated what was coming next and promptly entered the Mirror Dimension to ensure her safety.

Hoyuu aimed his palm forward and shouted, "Take this, you overgrown lizard! Grand Ray Cero!" The moment he unleashed the attack, a colossal beam erupted from his energy ball, hurtling toward Wrath. The dragon hurriedly raised four layers of defensive barriers to shield itself, but the power of Hoyuu's Grand Ray Cero was undeniable. It cracked the first barrier and continued to pierce through.

In concert with Hoyuu's attack, Yachiru released her own mighty Tailed Beast Beam, creating a colossal dome of energy that engulfed the barriers. But it didn't stop there; their combined might penetrated each successive layer of Wrath's defenses.

If Wrath could widen its eyes, it surely would have. The relentless force of the Grand Ray Cero and Tailed Beast Beam shattered the dragon's barriers and struck it squarely in the chest, inflicting agonizing pain upon the formidable creature.

The battlefield erupted into chaos as Wrath struggled against this devastating combined assault, and their plan to defeat the dragon was nearing a crucial juncture.

As the pivotal moment approached, Mio knew the time for their next and final action had arrived. She swiftly conjured a portal, and without hesitation, both Yachiru and Hoyuu leaped into it. They emerged on the other side, positioned directly before the exposed golden skin of Wrath.

Hoyuu, now wielding Tensa Zangetsu, and Yachiru, with her massive claw attack, unleashed their combined attacks with heightened power and speed. These potent strikes punctured the dragon's golden skin, creating a massive wound. Wrath remained oblivious to their presence, and as it faltered, the dragon plummeted to the ground, generating a tremendous shockwave that reverberated across the land. Even those who were engaged in battles on the ground felt the earth shake beneath them.

Among the onlookers, Cang Yue's eyes widened in awe. She whispered, "Incredible, Yun Che… Retsu…"

But the clock was ticking, and the thirty seconds limit was reaching its conclusion. Hoyuu maintained his trajectory, charging towards the opposite side of the battlefield, when the system notification rang out, forcefully returning them to their respective hosts. Hoyuu's compressed form disintegrated, revealing Yun Che's worn out Tensa Zangetsu form. He spoke to Yun Che as now it was his turn, Hoyuu's voice resolute, "King… I'll leave this to you."

On the other side, Retsu's newly acquired fourth tail form reverted her powers back to her normal state. The form disintegrated as Yachiru yelled and roared, her crimson energy returning to Retsu's body, revealing her usual form. Retsu, still sporting her ragged appearance with disheveled hair, her skin was now entirely red. Yachiru, with a tired tone, told her, "Retsu-chan… I'll be taking a nap for a moment. I'll leave the rest to you two."

The tide had turned, and the concerted efforts of both Yachiru and Hoyuu had cleared a path for them to rescue Xueli. It was now their turn to do so.