The Hōgyoku, long known to possess a unique consciousness, had once again reminded Aizen of its mysteries and dangers. It was capable of granting its wielder limitless potential, breaking through the barriers of existence itself. Yet, the revelation that it could devour its host's consciousness left Aizen in deep thought.
All the experiments he'd conducted with Hōgyoku, all the power he'd gained, had led him to this moment. But the idea of the Hōgyoku turning against its user, consuming their very essence, was a risk he could not ignore. The Adjuchas-class Hollow he had been experimenting on was no longer itself. Its consciousness had been completely overtaken by the Hōgyoku, leaving behind only a mindless shell driven by instinct.
"It seems that even this miraculous creation has its flaws," Aizen mused, his voice calm but tinged with subtle disappointment. "The Hōgyoku lacks true intelligence. It acts on instinct, like a wild beast."
The Adjuchas below him, once a formidable creature, now thrashed about aimlessly, its body betraying no sign of the powerful will it once had. Aizen observed it with a mixture of curiosity and disdain.
"Fascinating… but disappointing. Consciousness consumed entirely, leaving behind nothing but madness. This experiment is of no further use."
Stretching out his hand, he pointed at the Hollow, his voice low but commanding. "Hadō no Kyūjū: Kurohitsugi."
A black cube materialized, swallowing the Adjuchas whole. In mere seconds, the black coffin shattered, leaving behind nothing but a faint residue of spiritual energy and a pristine Hōgyoku. The Adjuchas, its body and soul, had completely disintegrated. Aizen retrieved the Hōgyoku with a flick of his wrist, holding it between his fingers.
"So, you consumed your host entirely, did you?" he murmured, studying the Hōgyoku. The faint glow of its core reflected in his sharp eyes. "The same flaw exists even now. If you can devour others, what's to stop you from turning on me someday? No, I won't allow that."
Aizen's mind raced, considering his next steps. He had already decided that the Hōgyoku's consciousness was a liability. While its ability to grant limitless evolution was unparalleled, he no longer saw the need for such a tool to define his existence. True power didn't come from a crutch—it came from the wielder themselves.
"I'll destroy its consciousness and integrate it into myself. That will ensure there's no risk of betrayal," he concluded. The Hōgyoku would no longer guide him; it would become a part of him, a source of endless energy under his complete control.
Still, this incident served as a reminder. Aizen knew he had to tread carefully. There was another mind in this world capable of aiding his plans: Vegapunk. The enigmatic scientist, working under the World Government, was renowned for his unparalleled intellect. If anyone could provide further insight into the mysteries of the Hōgyoku, it was him.
"Not yet," Aizen muttered, his gaze shifting toward the horizon. "It's too early to involve Vegapunk. The time will come, but not now. First, I must solidify my position further."
The sound of approaching ships pulled Aizen from his thoughts. Two vessels slowly entered the harbor, one flying the flag of the World Government and the other a Marine warship bearing Vice Admiral Tsuru's emblem. Their arrival was no surprise; the death of the Golden Lion had shaken the world, and the World Government was eager to assess the situation personally.
As the ships docked, a figure clad in pristine white descended from the World Government ship. The CP0 agent's faceless mask and rigid posture exuded an aura of authority. Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Tsuru disembarked from the Marine warship with her characteristic calm and sharp gaze, immediately assessing the situation.
The CP0 agent wasted no time. "Vice Admiral Tsuru, we will proceed separately. Our investigation requires independence." The agent's tone was cold and direct, devoid of any pleasantries.
Tsuru frowned but said nothing. She had no love for the CP organizations, even though they technically served the same side. Their methods were secretive, their loyalty solely to the Celestial Dragons. Despite their strength, she found them untrustworthy.
Aizen stood at the edge of the port, his expression unreadable as he observed the interaction. The adjutant beside him shifted nervously, unsure of how to act in the presence of such high-ranking figures.
"CP0…" the adjutant muttered under his breath, his unease evident.
Aizen's lips curled into a faint, unreadable smile. He stepped forward, his calm demeanor radiating confidence. His very presence seemed to command attention, and the CP0 agent's gaze locked onto him.
"Aizen," the CP0 agent said, their tone neutral but laced with curiosity. "Your actions have drawn considerable interest."
"Is that so?" Aizen replied, his voice smooth and measured. "I merely carried out my duties as a Marine. Nothing more."
The CP0 agent tilted their head slightly. "Defeating the Golden Lion is no ordinary task. The world is watching you now."
Aizen's smile deepened ever so slightly. "Let them watch. I serve justice, nothing else."
Vice Admiral Tsuru, standing to the side, observed the exchange with interest. She had always been wary of CP0, but Aizen's composed manner intrigued her. There was something about him—something she couldn't quite place.
As the CP0 agent and Tsuru prepared to proceed with their respective investigations, Aizen turned his gaze back to the sea. He knew the attention would only grow from here, but that suited him just fine. Everything was falling into place, just as he had planned.