This day marked the most turbulent and chaotic period Soul Society had witnessed in years.
The Ryoka invasion through the Shakonmaku...
The death of 5th Division Captain Aizen Sosuke...
The defeat of 6th Division Vice-Captain Abarai Renji...
One devastating revelation after another had converged into a single catastrophic day.
As dusk settled, Shigure returned to the 13th Division barracks, surprised to find Ukitake's presence.
Though his complexion remained somewhat pallid, he appeared significantly improved from the previous day.
Upon Shigure's entrance, Ukitake seemed to be gathering situation reports from the division members.
"Captain Ukitake," Shigure called as he approached.
At the sound, Ukitake turned immediately, his stern expression softening slightly.
"Segawa... you've returned? Thank you for your hard work."
From his demeanor, Shigure could detect he was pushing through physical discomfort, prompting him to speak gently:
"Captain, you shouldn't have risen. I can manage the division's affairs."
Ukitake sighed softly at these words.
"Naturally, I trust your capabilities completely, Segawa."
"However... this ultimately affects all of Seireitei—I cannot simply remain idle."
He continued with his inquiry:
"What's the current situation outside?"
The 13th Division had contributed few members to frontline combat.
Consequently, his information remained limited, necessitating Shigure's firsthand account.
After brief consideration, Shigure responded calmly:
"According to the Department of Research and Development, six Ryoka have invaded in total."
"Currently, three have been subdued by Captain Kyoraku, Captain Mayuri, and Captain Kuchiki respectively."
"The remaining three have temporarily vanished without trace."
The six Ryoka he referenced were Shihouin Yoruichi, Kurosaki Ichigo, Ishida Uryu, Sado Yasutora, Inoue Orihime, and Shiba Ganju.
Among them, Ishida Uryu had fallen to Mayuri Kurotsuchi and Tosen Kaname.
Sado Yasutora was defeated by Kyoraku Shunsui.
Shiba Ganju fell to Kuchiki Byakuya while attempting to reach the Confession Palace for Rukia's rescue.
Of the remaining three, Kurosaki Ichigo had been forcibly extracted by Yoruichi, while Inoue Orihime had infiltrated the 11th Division.
This intelligence came partly from external squad members and partly from his manga plot knowledge.
Ukitake frowned upon hearing the report. "I see..."
"The situation appears even graver than anticipated..."
"I wonder... whether Captain Aizen's tragedy connects to these Ryoka..."
Complex emotions flickered across his features.
Suddenly, a Soul Reaper from another division arrived via Shunpo, landing in the courtyard.
His shoulder insignia identified him: 10th Division 9th Seat Officer.
Upon landing, he immediately bowed respectfully.
"Captain Ukitake! Vice-Captain Segawa!"
Both turned their attention to him as Ukitake Jushiro inquired with surprise: "What brings you here?"
The 9th Seat spoke rapidly, head lowered:
"Captain Hitsugaya is organizing tonight's patrol and security operations. He specifically requests Vice-Captain Segawa's participation in strategic planning!"
Shigure registered mild surprise at this development.
Ukitake's expression shifted before settling into understanding acceptance.
"Indeed... the 10th Division would be severely understaffed at such a time... I'm afraid this means more work for you, Segawa."
Recognizing Ukitake's meaning, Shigure bowed slightly.
"Understood, Captain. I'll depart immediately."
He turned to address the 9th Seat. "Please lead the way."
"Yes! Follow me!"
The messenger leaped skyward, initiating Shunpo.
Shigure followed without hesitation.
...
Meanwhile, within the 5th Division barracks.
Each division maintained detention facilities for temporary imprisonment.
Typically reserved for those violating Seireitei regulations without committing severe offenses.
Currently, 5th Division Vice-Captain Hinamori Momo occupied one such cell.
Her complexion appeared deathly pale, eyes hollow and vacant, tear tracks staining her cheeks.
Aizen's death had plunged her heart into absolute darkness.
Toshiro had previously warned her about Ichimaru Gin.
Upon witnessing Ichimaru Gin's presence at the scene, she'd unhesitatingly released her Zanpakuto in attack.
Hitsugaya Toshiro had intervened, however.
Subsequently, she'd been confined here due to "current mental instability."
Light footsteps suddenly echoed through the corridor.
Hinamori Momo slowly raised her gaze.
10th Division Vice-Captain Matsumoto Rangiku approached.
She walked forward with evident concern, speaking softly:
"Hinamori... I have something for you."
Hinamori Momo's expression remained unchanged—still utterly vacant.
Rangiku said nothing further, retrieving an envelope-shaped document from her waist.
She extended it forward.
"This... was discovered while searching Captain Aizen's quarters."
"It's addressed... to you specifically."
"?!"
Hinamori Momo suddenly convulsed violently.
Her expression transformed to frantic excitement as she rushed forward.
She snatched the letter from Rangiku's grasp.
Witnessing this reaction, Rangiku could only sigh softly. "I'll take my leave now."
She departed, sealing the cell door.
Hinamori Momo now clutched the letter with tear-filled eyes, caressing it tenderly.
Finally gathering courage, she opened the envelope and began reading.
At first glance, her entire frame shuddered.
She confirmed it immediately.
This was undoubtedly Aizen Sosuke's handwriting.
"Hinamori, forgive me for conveying this news in such a manner."
"Tonight, I will confront 'him' at the East Great Sacred Wall..."
"Whatever the cost, I must prevent his scheme."
"Should he refuse to abandon his plans... I'm prepared for battle."
"But if I should perish..."
"Hinamori, please inherit my will and seek vengeance."
"This represents my final request."
"Not as 5th Division Captain, but as myself personally... I beseech you."
"You must expose this individual's conspiracy."
"His name is..."
"Segawa Shigure."
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
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