Naruto: Zanka No Tachi

Chapter 278: NZNT: Chapter 278

Soon, the first annual ”Las Noches Tournament” commenced. This tournament allowed the Espada replacements to challenge the existing Espada m

Soon, the first annual ”Las Noches Tournament” commenced.

This tournament allowed the Espada replacements to challenge the existing Espada members, vying for a place among their ranks. Incumbent Espada could also challenge those ranked above them to improve their position.

Yusuke’s announcement caused a sensation throughout Las Noches. All members eagerly awaited the event, and the Espada’s lieutenants actively rallied support for their superiors.

A colossal fighting arena had been constructed atop Las Noches. Powerful spiritual pressure seals created an incredibly strong barrier around the arena, capable of withstanding even Yusuke’s full-power attacks.

Surrounding the arena was a spectator area, with a raised platform in the center for Las Noches’ high command.

At the apex sat Yusuke, lord of Las Noches. Below him were the Espada, along with Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, Yachiru Kusajishi, Kenpachi Zaraki, and others. Further down sat the Espada’s lieutenants and other high-ranking members of Las Noches.

The spectator area was completely full. Almost every member of Las Noches, excluding those on duty, was present to witness this inaugural tournament.

Even Hirako and the other Visored had received invitations and were seated in a special viewing area.

Observing the Espada, lined up in impressive formation, Hirako remarked, ”I hear Arrancar possess a power called ’Resurrección,’ similar to a Shinigami’s Bankai, greatly enhancing their combat abilities. Honestly, without my Hollowfication, I wouldn’t be confident in defeating any of them.”

The others nodded in agreement. Lisa Yadōmaru calmly pushed up her glasses. ”Indeed, especially the 8th Espada, Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck, and the 3rd Espada, Tier Harribel. They’re so large, I definitely wouldn’t stand a chance.”

A blush crept onto her usually calm face.

Kensei Muguruma said with interest, ”I’m also curious to see the Espada clash. Let’s see the strength of this Uchiha Yusuke’s subordinates.”

Beyond the Visored, the audience discussed the Espada’s strengths.

For most Hollows, the Espada were distant, unattainable figures. While their current rankings provided a general indication of strength, it wasn’t fixed, and each spectator had their favorites.

When the time was near, Yusuke released his spiritual pressure, enveloping the entire arena.

Sensing Yusuke’s spiritual pressure, everyone knew the tournament was about to begin and fell silent in anticipation.

Rising from his seat, Yusuke smiled. ”Welcome to the first annual Las Noches Tournament. This event promotes the martial spirit of Las Noches, encouraging the pursuit of strength within a controlled, friendly environment.”

Yusuke’s voice, though soft, was amplified by his spiritual pressure, ensuring everyone could hear clearly.

”Before the Espada rankings, the Espada replacements will challenge the current Espada. Let’s see if any newcomers can surprise us all.”

After Yusuke’s announcement, the five Espada replacements were brought to the waiting area beside the arena.

However, none of the replacements had yet achieved Arrancarization. While their spiritual pressure was considerable, it paled in comparison to the Arrancar Espada.

A spatial vortex opened, and Yusuke materialized in the center of the arena. He held a deep blue gem radiating spiritual pressure—the Hōgyoku, capable of inducing Arrancarization.

Looking at the five nervous Espada replacements, Yusuke smiled. ”Luppi Antenor, Dordoni Alessandro Del Socaccio, Cirucci Sanderwicci, Guenael Lee, and Rudbornn Chelute, you five have passed Ulquiorra’s assessment. Today, before all of Las Noches, I grant you the power of Arrancarization!”

The five showed immense joy.

Kneeling respectfully, they spoke in unison. ”We thank you for this opportunity, Lord Yusuke.”

Yusuke nodded, channeling the Hōgyoku’s power.

Five deep blue beams of light shot from the Hōgyoku towards the five Hollows. As the beams struck, the Hōgyoku’s unique spiritual pressure infused their bodies, enveloping them in a blue light.

After several minutes, the five replacements began to transform. Their Hollow bone armor began to recede, revealing a more human-like physique.

Although their bone armor disappeared and their size reduced slightly, their spiritual pressure intensified, reaching their limits as Zanpakutō-like weapons materialized in their hands, absorbing their spiritual pressure.

Witnessing this transformation, the Hollows in the audience displayed longing expressions. The previously silent arena buzzed with discussion about the possibility of Arrancarization.

Arrancarization was the ultimate dream for many Hollows—a dream now seemingly within reach yet still distant.

In a corner of the spectator area, five humanoid Hollows whispered among themselves.

These were all high-level Gillian-class Hollows, their spiritual pressure comparable to that of lieutenants.

”This is the power of the Hōgyoku. We must obtain it. Then we won’t have to bow to this Shinigami and can build our own Hollow empire!” the central Hollow declared.

His name was Donald, the leader of the five. His strength and leadership commanded the others’ loyalty.

”But such a treasure must be kept in a secure location, perhaps even carried by him. With his overwhelming power, we have no chance,” a Hollow resembling a woman said.

Her name was Ivanka, second in strength among the five.

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