Grimmjow had just managed to regain control of his breathing as Axel initiated Black Sky. He gritted his teeth as the powerful Dark Elemental attack caused the damage intended and took a deep breath as he pushed Luppi off him while the rain fell.

He dragged himself to his feet, not bothering to check if his ally was even alive, and gripped his sword tightly in hand, getting ready for a second attempt at release.

"Grind," he snarled, dragging his fingernails down the length of his blade to initiate his bankai.