War of the Worlds: Opening Chapter

Akujin on the Move
Muramasa Neikan strode into the central palace in Yāolù and straight into the throne room of Impero Nascosto's esteemed leader and emperor, Akujin. The leader of the empire had his eyes shut, but Muramasa knew he wasn't asleep. He was thinking. Muramasa's eyes narrowed. Akujin was certainly more calculating now than he was during his first attempt to overtake Soul Society. He was no longer rushing in to end things. He had been patient for nearly eighteen years since his first defeat by Raian Getsueikirite. Now his time had come again.

"Why do you approach me, Muramasa?" Akujin finally said, still not opening his eyes.

"News has come from the Human World. Tiro con L'arco has arrived, however, its Halberd, Celeste Agostino has perished at the hands of Raian Getsueikirite." Muramasa reported.

Akujin opened his eyes, revealing a deep hatred that went to the core of his being. He hated Raian. Perhaps more than any other being in the universe, living or dead. However apparent this was in his eyes, though, his gestures revealed a more calm individual.

"Pity. Casualties already. Nevertheless, one death won't slow me down. Regia Marina is prepared." Akujin announced, standing to his full height. "I am leaving for Soul Society."

This revelation drew a shocked expression from Muramasa, "Already?! What about the Precipice World? Is it not more important to take the Shinigami's escape route away from them before attacking them?" he questioned.

"No doubt you question my hastiness, however, I ask you this; What better way is there to demoralize a threat than to strike them at their heart?" Akujin asked coldly.

Muramasa looked into the man's blazing eyes. He could tell there would be no way to convince him to reverse his plans. A strike on Soul Society at this stage was risky, but considering they did not yet expect attack, a surprise attack might give the empire the upper hand after all, so Muramasa relented.

"Stay here and watch over headquarters." Akujin commanded as he stepped down from where his throne was situated, approaching a large group of troops that had gathered in the room. "Come, we begin our attack now."