Byakuya, the Truth Behind His Betrayal

Senbonzakura reveals that Byakuya had sworn to kill Kouga and had been searching for how to unseal him, even if that meant risking his status as a Soul Reaper. Muramasa offers Kouga his power, but Kouga breaks Muramasa, stating that he does not need help. Byakuya and Kouga fight, but Kouga gains the upper hand when he distorts Byakuya's senses. Senbonzakura helps dispel the effect though, and Byakuya manages to use bankai on Kouga. As Byakuya notes that Kouga's failing was refusing to trust his zanpakutou or anyone else, the two charge at each other.