Soul Reapers could not comprehend Ichigo Kurosaki's rate of growth.
"Let's go, Rukia."
Ichigo Kurosaki spoke to Rukia Kuchiki.
"No, Ichigo, I can't leave with you."
Rukia Kuchiki shook her head.
If she were still in her Muscle Man form, Rukia Kuchiki might have left with him, if only to preserve the Kuchiki Clan's dignity.
Otherwise, when the day of execution came and she appeared in the form of Muscle Man, the Kuchiki Clan's reputation would be ruined.
But things were different now. Rukia Kuchiki was still very self-aware. She had enjoyed everything that came with being part of the Kuchiki Clan, so she needed to use her own life to uphold the clan's honor.
She could not leave with Ichigo Kurosaki and abandon all of that.
She did not even know how many centuries old she was. Naturally, her thinking was very mature.
"Ahem, let me interrupt with something off-topic. This execution is a conspiracy. The Central 46 Chambers have already been slaughtered by the mastermind behind it all."
Chang Wei spoke up at that moment, spoiling the plot for the two of them.
Ichigo Kurosaki had already grown used to the High-Dimensional Observer's existence, but Rukia Kuchiki was different. This was the first time she had heard such a voice from beyond the heavens.
"Who? Who's talking?"
Rukia Kuchiki's first reaction was to look up, but all she could see was the ceiling of the Palace of Repentance.
"Rukia Kuchiki, your elder brother has already made his decision. He will bear everything himself and let you go to the World of the Living with Ichigo Kurosaki. Now that you know about the mastermind's scheme, do you still intend to stay?"
Chang Wei continued.
"How am I supposed to believe what you're saying?"
Rukia Kuchiki was shocked by what