Yes, her defense of Ichigo is no big surprise there...but what is a surprise is that she acted at all, as if Ulquiorra motivates her to do so in all situations. (When Ichi fought Grimmjow, that motivation to shield him was nowhere to be found, strangely.)

Last time she just let Loli and Menoli beat the crap out of her...but Ulquiorra wasn't there. This time might have a very different outcome. I can't wait.

And Google loves my OTPs. For realz.