Zero Division Descends (1)

The sky over Seireitei was exceptionally clear today. Not a cloud in sight, the azure sky was pristine, and sunlight streamed down, bathing everything in a golden glow. But everyone knew that above that seemingly tranquil sky, at a height unreachable by mortals, lay a place called the Soul King Palace. There resided the most mysterious being of Soul Society — the Soul King —and his direct guard— the Zero Division.

Time ticked by, minute by minute. One minute, two minutes, five minutes, ten minutes. No one grew impatient, no one made a sound. Everyone waited quietly, waiting for those who would descend from the sky.

Finally, someone discovered something.

"Look!" someone whispered, a hint of excitement in their voice.

Everyone's gaze became even more focused. In the azure sky, a small black dot appeared. The dot grew closer, larger, and clearer. As time passed, everyone finally saw what it was—a huge cylinder, slowly descending from the sky.

The cylinder was a deep black, its surface smooth as a mirror, reflecting the sunlight and exuding an aura of mystery and majesty. Its size was astonishing, at least ten meters tall and seven or eight meters in diameter. It descended vertically from the sky at a moderate speed, as if an invisible hand were supporting and guiding it.

Everyone held their breath, watching the cylinder approach the ground. The scene was spectacular and awe-inspiring, as if a visitor from outer space had descended to earth, as if a god was demonstrating his power to mortals.

"Boom--"

With a deafening roar, like thunder, like a mountain collapsing and the earth splitting, the cylinder finally crashed to the ground, kicking up clouds of dust and debris. The dust billowed out like a thick fog, enveloping everything in its path. The earth trembled, the air vibrated, and everyone's heart pounded with it.

As the smoke and dust gradually dissipated, it was as if the curtain on a stage was slowly drawn back. Everyone finally saw the full shape of the cylinder—it stood straight on the ground, like a black tower, like a giant pillar reaching to the sky.

Its surface remained smooth as a mirror, without any damage, as if the impact just now was a trivial matter to it. On the front of the cylinder, there was a huge Zero Division symbol, the emblem of the Zero Division.

Then, a door opened on the cylinder. The door opened slowly, emitting a deep mechanical sound, as if announcing the arrival of some important moment.

After the cylindrical door was fully opened, the five beings from the Soul King Palace walked out with unhurried steps. Sunlight streamed down from the sky, casting a golden halo around them, making their figures appear exceptionally tall and sacred.

An indescribable aura permeated the air— the Reiatsu of a higher level of existence. Although deliberately concealed, it still made everyone present feel the oppressive force emanating from the depths of their souls.

Leading the way was naturally the leader of the Zero Division — Ichibē Hyōsube. This man, known as the "Monk of the Eye," was as burly as a small mountain, and his bald head reflected a soft light in the sunlight, like a natural lamp.

Around his neck hung a string of Buddhist prayer beads the size of a fist, each bead crystal clear and emitting a faint glow, as if some mysterious power was sealed within.

His arms were crossed over his chest, his posture casual and composed, and his face wore a smile that seemed to have seen through everything. That smile was gentle and kind, like a benevolent elder looking at his junior.

To Ichibē Hyōsube's right, Kirio Hikifune followed half a step behind, keeping pace with him. This member of the Zero Division was round and plump, with a kind smile on his chubby face, making him look like a smiling Maitreya Buddha.

A wooden shovel was stuck in her hair; its unique shape created a subtle harmony with her appearance. Her steps were light and agile, and although she was plump, she did not appear clumsy at all.

Her eyes narrowed to slits as her gaze swept across the crowd, seemingly searching for a familiar face. Her smile was warm and genuine, making one want to get closer to her.

To the left of Ichibē Hyōsube, Ōetsu Nimaiya followed half a step behind, walking alongside Kirio Hikifune. This swordsmith from the Zero Division was slender, wore round-framed glasses, and his eyes behind the lenses gleamed with a cunning light.

His hair was somewhat disheveled, and his clothes were rather casual, giving him a slightly unkempt appearance, yet he possessed an inexplicable artistic air. He raised his hands high above his head, making a peace sign with his fingers, his face beaming with childlike excitement and pride. He chuckled, his voice loud and infectious. "Yo... ho..."

That "Yo-ho!" was like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples. His voice echoed in the air, carrying a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere, which eased the tense mood slightly. His face was full of smiles, a smile that carried the joy of a long-awaited reunion, as well as a carefree and nonchalant attitude.

Behind Kirio Hikifune, Tenjirō Kirinji swaggered out. This "Hot Spring Demon" from the Zero Division had a long toothpick dangling from his mouth, swaying back and forth, looking remarkably relaxed.

He held a flag high in his hand, embroidered with the Zero Division's insignia, which fluttered gently in the breeze, making a rustling sound. His strides were exaggerated and flamboyant, each step large, as if he wanted everyone to see him.

His face bore that signature arrogant smile, and his gaze swept across the crowd with a condescending scrutiny.

Behind Ōetsu Nimaiya, Senjumaru Shutara emerged in a completely different manner. This "Great Weave Guard" of the Zero Division was slender and elegant, with a delicate and aloof face.

Senjumaru Shutara has eight wooden arms attached to its back. These arms are as flexible as spider legs, each holding a different musical instrument—a trumpet, a flute, a lute, a drum, and several other instruments whose names it cannot identify.

Under her control, the instruments played simultaneously, producing melodious and complex tunes. The tunes were sometimes high-pitched, sometimes low, sometimes joyful, and sometimes sorrowful, as if telling an ancient story.

However, in stark contrast to the lively array of arms around her back was her own expression.