Sōkyoku Hill.
Usually, this place is deserted, and even birds do not approach this land. But that is only natural. This is an execution ground. If an execution ground is to show any signs of bustle, it is only when a sentence is being carried out.
Currently, Sōkyoku Hill was showing a fair amount of activity.
The representatives of the Gotei 13 had gathered for the execution of Rukia Kuchiki, which was being forced through on a significantly moved-up schedule.
"Hmm... The turnout seems rather poor..."
Surveying the members of each squad gathered here, Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto lightly closed his eyes.
Those present included the captains and vice-captains of the Third, Eighth, and Ninth Squads. And then—
"...As I thought... over there... choice... failure... decision..."
"Captain...? Um, Captain...?"
—there was also the Captain of the Second Squad, who continued to mutter something in a low voice while looking down, and her Vice-Captain, who continued to worry over her. Even including the First Squad which he led himself, there were only ten people in total. Despite a summons being issued to all captains and vice-captains of the Thirteen Squads, less than half had arrived.
"But, that is likely unavoidable..."
Yamamoto responded to Chojiro Sasakibe's words with a sigh.
The Fourth, Fifth, and Twelfth Squads could not be helped due to the absence of their captains. The Seventh and Tenth Squads were operating on another matter, and it was perhaps unavoidable that the Eleventh Squad was also absent as a result.
The problem lay with the Sixth and Thirteenth Squads. Yamamoto was well aware that these two squads had been particularly earnest in their efforts to save Rukia Kuchiki's life or have her sentence reduced. One had treated Rukia Kuchiki as family, the other as a subordinate. It was only right for their emotions to dictate that they would not wish to witness the execution of someone they cared for so much.
"However, they are Soul Reapers of the Gotei 13—and captains at that. Such indulgence cannot be permitted. If it is the order of the Central 46, they must obey."
"...But,"
"Enough. It can no longer be helped."
Though he understood their plight, Yamamoto spoke with finality. His words suggested a resolve that would never waver, leaving Sasakibe completely at a loss for further words.
'Still...'
In the hill enveloped in silence, Yamamoto took the opportunity to sink into thought.
'I can understand Chojiro's concern. Whatever the reason may be, this is excessive. Their use of authority is too heavy-handed. While they are hiding in the shadows of the Fourth and Eleventh Squads, there are reports that the Sixth and Thirteenth Squads are up to something as well. Even setting that aside, would the Central 46 really issue such an order to the Fourth Squad—rather, to Airi Yukawa...? It has only been about ten years since Retsu Unohana's Kenpachi incident was settled... People say that once the heat has passed the throat is forgotten, but it is still too soon to forget that level of intensity...'
As a man who had served as Head Captain for a long time, he could not shake the sense of incongruity regarding the difference between the current response of the Central 46 and their past behavior. There should be no issue with temporary imprisonment or surveillance instead of execution. The will of someone—and at the same time, some reason that necessitated haste—seemed to be flickering in and out of sight.
'Regardless of the reason, a Soul Reaper only exists to fulfill their duty until the end of their life.'
He reached this conclusion while resting a hand on his chin.
"...Hm."
"It seems they have arrived."
A new figure appeared on Sōkyoku Hill. It was Rukia Kuchiki, led by the officials.
The time spent in prison had clearly taken its toll, as she looked somewhat haggard. Her expression was devoid of life, and her skin was nearly the same color as the white robes worn by high-level prisoners. A special collar to seal spiritual pressure was fixed around her neck, and officials surrounded her to ensure she could offer no resistance.
"We have brought Rukia Kuchiki."
"I see—"
Yamamoto was about to say "Good work" when it happened.
"Howl, Zabimaru!!"
"What!?"
"What is this...!?"
A massive blade swung in from a distance, lashing down beside Rukia with the flexibility of a whip. The impact sent the surrounding officials into a panic, causing them to scatter away from her.
"Could it be... this is..."
"Not done yet!!"
"Gwah!!"
"Gyahhh!!"
The blade that had struck the ground then leaped up like a living creature, knocking the officials away in an instant. There was no way Rukia could forget the movement of that blade, that Zanpakuto.
"Whew, that was close! Did we make it in time!?"
"Renji!!"
"Sorry, Rukia! These guys seemed to take a weird route, so it took some time to find you!! I was supposed to find you while you were being moved..."
"Honestly... you're late, you fool..."
Renji Abarai appeared from behind with a slightly apologetic expression. Seeing him standing beside her, Rukia's eyes filled with tears.
"Are you safe, Rukia!!"
"Brother...!!"
When Byakuya appeared as if to protect her, Rukia could finally no longer hold back and began to shed large tears.
Meanwhile, agitation spread among the Soul Reapers gathered on Sōkyoku Hill. It wasn't just the commotion right before the execution, but the fact that the primary figure behind it was Byakuya Kuchiki that shocked them most of all. This erratic behavior, unthinkable for the current head of the Kuchiki clan who was the model of Soul Reaper discipline, caused everyone present to stop in their tracks.
"How could this be!!"
"Heh... quite unexpected..."
"Well, I suppose this is how it goes."
"To think he would come here himself."
As the captains voiced their various impressions, Yamamoto spoke to the two intruders.
"...Sixth Squad Captain, Byakuya Kuchiki. And his lieutenant, Renji Abarai. Do you two understand what you are doing?"
"Naturally. I will not allow Rukia, my sister, to be killed so senselessly."
"Do you understand that this is an act of defiance against us, and by extension, the Central 46?"
"I do!"
Yamamoto questioned them while releasing a murderous intent as if to apply pressure. However, Byakuya brushed off that aura and spoke with an even stronger, more dignified will and tone.
"Rukia did indeed commit a crime. But the punishment for that crime is far too great."
"Nevertheless, the decision has already been made."
"We petitioned repeatedly against that decision. But our appeals were ignored, and they even forced through such a violent conclusion as this. That is something that can never be accepted!"
After shouting this, Byakuya lowered his eyes in slight regret.
"I understand that my actions are a crime. I will gladly accept any punishment... provided that the crime and punishment in this commotion were truly appropriate. I simply could not believe that they were."
"...I wonder what Ginrei would think if he saw you now."
"My actions may indeed be a cause for shame before my grandfather and my father..."
Mention of his grandfather, a relative, must have shaken him slightly. Byakuya lowered his eyes a bit further.
"But if we allow this execution to proceed as it is, it could become a terrible precedent. It could sow seeds of unnecessary anxiety and concern in the young Soul Reapers who follow! They might grow into Soul Reapers who follow the law, but they will not grow into good Soul Reapers!"
"Hahaha!! Well said, Captain Kuchiki!!"
Shunsui Kyoraku was the first to react to Byakuya's words.
"Exactly. He has a point. Don't you think so, Old Man Yama?"
"Hmm..."
He prompted Yamamoto to reconsider. But Yamamoto's opinion did not change.
"Byakuya Kuchiki and Renji Abarai, leave the prisoner Rukia Kuchiki at once and join the execution lineup."
"Old Man Yama, that's not fair..."
Shunsui slumped his shoulders and pulled his straw hat down low. But that was only for show. The sharp gaze peeking from beneath the hat was directed far behind Byakuya.
"Look, look. Because Old Man Yama is so stubborn, it seems another stubborn one has arrived."
As his gaze indicated, a group burst onto the scene.
"Sorry Kuchiki, we're late!"
"Kuchiki! You alive!? Wait, what! You've already been rescued!"
"Captain Ukitake...! Third Seat Kotsubaki and Third Seat Kotetsu as well!"
"Sorry, Kuchiki-san! Our lieutenant just up and left on his own halfway through!! Give Vice-Captain Shiba a piece of your mind later!"
It was Jushiro Ukitake, Sentaro, and Kiyone of the Thirteenth Squad. Renji couldn't help but let out a faint smile at their noisy arrival.
"Noisy as ever... heh, but it's nice to have them here, isn't it Rukia?"
"Y-Yes... Renji..."
"Well then, we've got to escape and survive so you can thank them."
"You're right... I must thank them properly later."
As the two nodded to each other, Shunsui and Ukitake exchanged banter.
"Honestly, you're late, Ukitake. I was just about to have to buy time all by myself."
"Don't say that, Shunsui! In addition to the emergency, I had to bring the anti-Sōkyoku ritual tool! Of course I'd be late!"
The two had already made some arrangements. In the event that the Sōkyoku was used, Ukitake would prepare a countermeasure while Shunsui would buy time at the scene.
"But it seems it wasn't necessary."
"Indeed. And Captain Kuchiki said something quite cool, you know? It's a shame you didn't arrive a little earlier to hear it, Ukitake. Right, Nanao-chan?"
"Yes, that's true. If only you had arrived a bit sooner..."
In fact, Shunsui had been prepared to put his life on the line even if he was alone if Byakuya and the others hadn't made it. But fortunately, that plan fell through, allowing him to joke around leisurely like this. Of course, Shunsui's vice-captain, Nanao Ise, was also aware of this, and she was secretly relieved that Shunsui didn't have to step up.
"That is quite enough!!"
But the light atmosphere ended there. Everyone fell silent at Yamamoto's thunderous shout.
"That is far enough. I can no longer overlook any further lawlessness. Release her quietly and return to your posts. It is not yet too late."
"I appreciate your concern. However, my mind is already made up!"
"I see... then I shall show no mercy."
It was Byakuya Kuchiki who answered. Seeing his expression of resolve, Yamamoto realized that further words were unnecessary.
"Everyone, capture Byakuya Kuchiki and the others! You may kill them if necessary!!"
"Yes sir!"
Receiving Yamamoto's order, Sasakibe was the first to move. He charged straight for Rukia Kuchiki—or more accurately, toward Renji who was holding her close.
"Whoa there! I won't let you interfere!!"
Renji reacted to the lightning-fast movement and drew his sword to block it. He immediately stepped forward to shield Rukia, and while keeping his eyes locked on the front as he held off the attack, he shouted.
"Run, Rukia!!"
"Renji!!"
"Hey, Kuchiki! We're running!!"
"Hurry! We've already decided on an escape route and a meeting point!!"
"Y-Yes...!! Renji! Don't die!!"
"Of course! I'll make my escape at the right moment too!!"
Ignoring the confused Rukia, Sentaro and Kiyone grabbed her shoulders and practically dragged her away from the scene.
"Oh dear, they're getting away. Can't be helped... Shall we go too?"
"If it is an order, it must be done."
In response to Rukia and the others fleeing, Gin Ichimaru and Kaname Tosen were about to move slowly when Gin spoke as if he had just remembered something.
"No, no, I almost forgot. You handle that vice-captain over there. It's only fair for vice-captains to face each other."
"I agree. Cooperate and deal with him certainly."
After saying this, the two captains finally moved. And the remaining Soifon—
"Darn it... what should I do...!!"
"Um, Captain? Maybe we should help too..."
"Don't move! Don't talk! You're distracting me!"
"That's harsh, sir..."
—she seemed to still be hesitating.
"...Hah!!"
"Kuchiki, Jushiro. And Shunsui as well... I trust you are prepared?"
At the same time Sasakibe headed toward Renji, Yamamoto spoke to Byakuya, and his collaborators Ukitake and Shunsui. His enlightened expression made it look as though he was completely unmoved by the situation. But that calm demeanor was a mere facade. It was clear to everyone that an uncontrollable rage was slowly leaking from beneath the mask he wore.
"Genryusai-dono...!"
"Now, now, Old Man Yama. It can't be helped. Captain Kuchiki showed so much resolve and spoke his mind. More than anything, to avoid this outcome, Captain Kuchiki—"
Shunsui suddenly stopped speaking there. There was no doubt that Byakuya Kuchiki had worked more earnestly than any other Soul Reaper in the Seireitei. But there were others who had worked hard in the shadows. Considering that work, which was almost like a mastermind acting behind the scenes, he naturally rephrased his words.
"—Rather, many captains have put in so much effort. You aren't unaware of that, are you? Wasn't this outcome inevitable in a sense?"
"Indeed, I could not have predicted this. However, it is my duty to settle this matter."
"I see... then it can't be helped."
Shunning his shoulders with a sigh, he signaled to Ukitake, Byakuya, and Nanao with a quick glance. He couldn't tell if they had responded. He didn't have the luxury of checking, and taking too much time carried the risk of being noticed.
"Now! Run!!"
He shouted the moment he finished signaling and sprinted off at once. Apparently, what he had communicated with his eyes had gotten through, as everyone moved in response.
Not three people—but four Soul Reapers. Right in front of the one opponent they must not let notice them.
"..."
"!?"
A wall of fire was created to block the path of Shunsui and the others as they tried to flee, and they couldn't help but stop in their tracks. They were forced to stop.
"Shunsui, there is one thing I forgot to tell you."
From behind them came a voice that seemed to shake their very souls.
"I can easily predict the thoughts of a brat plotting mischief. I became quite used to it in the old days."
"Oh boy... well, I guess you've got me there..."
Faced with a fire that emitted a heat intense enough to turn them to ash just by approaching, sweat ran down their spines. It felt surprisingly cold.
"To say you'll escape at the right moment... you talk quite big."
"Heh! I had to say that, otherwise Rukia wouldn't have been able to escape with peace of mind."
Renji grinned at Sasakibe's words.
"But don't worry. I'll never go easy on the famous Vice-Captain Sasakibe."
"Oh... that is surprising. To think you evaluate me so highly."
"Of course!!"
Even as he said it flatly, he was breaking out in a cold sweat internally. He couldn't read his opponent's true strength. One might even call it bottomless.
Renji was neither incompetent nor a fool. He had received Kisuke Urahara's teachings, been hammered into shape by Ikkaku Madarame, and had further refined himself under Byakuya. His skill and high spiritual pressure were enough to be considered captain-class.
And yet, he could not gauge the difference in their strength.
Although he had never seen his combat ability firsthand, he had heard stories about Sasakibe from Airi Yukawa. According to her, 'He has been the vice-captain of the First Squad ever since I became a Soul Reaper'—and the strength he had built up through that experience and those years was far greater than that of a mediocre captain. He truly understood those words the moment they actually clashed blades.
"I can't look pathetic in front of the woman I love!!"
The fact that he could use Bankai wouldn't give him any advantage. Such a certain, chilling sensation crossed his mind, and to drive it away, he desperately raised his voice to bolster his courage.
"I want to look good for the person I like. I understand that feeling. But how will you overcome this reality?"
"To think I'd have to cut down a junior from my time at the Spiritual Arts Academy..."
But as if to nullify that encouragement, two more voices were heard.
"Vice-Captain... Vice-Captain Hisagi..."
"Don't think you can escape."
"This is also a captain's order. Don't take it personally."
It was the Third Squad Vice-Captain, Izuru Kira. And the Ninth Squad Vice-Captain, Shuhei Hisagi. Both were also acting on the orders of their respective captains to deal with Renji.
"...Heh! Bring it on!! Don't think you're a match for me just because we're both vice-captains!!"
Renji swung his Zanpakuto, shouting from the bottom of his lungs.
"Sentaro! Run faster!!"
"Shut up, Kotetsu! I'm carrying her! If you're gonna complain, say it after we switch!!"
—Sentaro and Kiyone.
While the two were complaining to each other, they were running desperately to put distance between themselves and the hill.
At least those with the strength of a vice-captain were gathered there. And the two with the least skill could only run without looking back. They lacked the strength to stall their pursuers, and there was a high probability they wouldn't even be able to serve as an obstacle. Therefore, all they could do was keep running as long as they had breath.
Because they understood this, the two were running to fulfill their escape.
"Um, please put me down! I will run on my own!"
"Don't say such stupid things, Kuchiki!! Just stay quiet and let me carry you!!"
"Exactly! Kuchiki-san, if this idiot collapses, I'll carry you next! You can look forward to a comfortable ride!"
When Rukia, her heart clouded by the exchange, spoke up, the two scolded her with even more intensity than their previous bickering. Weakened by her time in prison and fitted with a device that sealed her spiritual pressure, Rukia would not be able to move satisfactorily even if she ran on her own feet. Kiyone and Sentaro understood this, which is why they were carrying her.
In addition, there were two porters. If so, Sentaro could keep carrying Rukia until he collapsed, and Kiyone could take over after that. They even recognized that if Rukia had to run on her own at any point during this escape, it would be equivalent to failure.
"Well, I suppose that's the correct answer."
"Moving an important person as far from the battlefield as possible, ensuring safety, and reducing the burden on those who remain. Preparing at least two means of escape. It is a common tactic, but an effective one."
The two involuntarily stopped at the sound of those voices. No, it would be misleading to say "involuntarily." Should I say that their legs stopped instinctively as they realized they could not escape?
"U-Uh..."
"Ahhh...!!"
"How can this be..."
"I'm sorry, you two. But no one would face us. If we're told we can pass through freely, it's only natural that things would turn out like this."
"The game of tag ends here."
Voices of despair naturally squeezed out. After all, Captains Gin Ichimaru and Kaname Tosen were standing close enough to reach out and touch.
"Oh, for crying out loud! If only Vice-Captain Shiba were here..."
"It can't be helped... that man went off over there..."
They bit their lips in frustration. But even if Kaien Shiba had been here, would they have been able to escape? In terms of numbers alone, they might have had the advantage, but the difference in quality represented by two captains was beyond imagination.
"...Kuchiki, run!"
"Eh...?"
After gritting his teeth, Sentaro whispered that to her back.
"We'll buy time, and in the meantime..."
"That's..."
The person saying it understood best that it was reckless. Just a moment ago, he had judged that "if Rukia Kuchiki has to run on her own, it's the same as failure." However, in this situation, there was no other way.
"That resolve is impressive... but it is impossible."
"Indeed. It's impossible."
"!?"
To Gin's words, a voice of agreement was heard from a place even he hadn't expected. Surprised by this, he hurriedly leaped away from the spot. At the same time, a sharp hand-blade like a knife passed through the space where Gin had been just a moment before.
"Whoa... that was close... Captain Soifon."
"The Second Squad...! Just what do you think you're doing?"
"Does my current action still require an explanation?"
Soifon, who had instantly landed between Rukia's group and Gin's group, spoke with a provocative voice.
"Does that mean... you're here to interfere?"
"T-That's reckless, Captain Soifon! We appreciate it, but one person against two..."
"...Hmph."
She scoffed at Sentaro's words.
"Unnecessary worry. You two, get running! Besides, I am not alone."
"Eh...?"
"Hm...!"
"Oh boy..."
As if led by those words, two Soul Reapers leaped into the scene.
"Damn it! I guess I'm super late!!"
"But you made it in time. Be glad of that!!"
"Ichigo!!"
It was Ichigo Kurosaki and Yoruichi Shihoin. Seeing Ichigo after so long, Rukia couldn't help but shout his name.
"Yo, Rukia! It's been a while! But it looks like we don't have time for a leisurely greeting..."
"Indeed. We made it, but it seems it was by a hair's breadth. Be careful, Ichigo!"
"That's how it is! Go!!"
At Soifon's urging, Sentaro and the others resumed their full-power escape once again.
"That is...!"
Suddenly, a pillar of fire rose from the vicinity of Sōkyoku Hill with enough force to scorch the heavens. As soon as he saw it, Sajin Komamura couldn't help but shout.
"Old Man Yama's Ryūjin Jakka... Just what is happening!?"
"Captain! I don't know for sure, but don't you think we should hurry!?"
"Indeed."
Nodding at Tetsuzaemon Iba's words, he spoke to those accompanying him.
"You heard that. We're hurrying! Follow behind me!"
Momo Hinamori and the others nodded at those words.
Thus, they too gathered at that place.
—And then.
"Oh, what is this place...? Hmm..."
Sosuke Aizen also appeared on this land.
[Reviews - Power St0nes - Comments are highly appreciated to keep me going.....(+50 chapters) patre0n.c0m/talecrafter]