After learning that Berserk Menos Grande had been slain by Retsu Unohana, Aizen did not care.
Not the slightest ripple appeared on his face, as though everything had been within his expectations—or simply not enough to disturb the calm in his heart.
Gin Ichimaru, one of Aizen's closest and most inscrutable subordinates, stood some distance away, watching Aizen's back with a complicated gaze.
In Gin Ichimaru's eyes, that Berserk Menos Grande possessed extraordinary power, enough to make most Soul Reapers shrink back. Yet Aizen's response was so indifferent that Gin Ichimaru could not help but grow suspicious.
Did Aizen truly disdain such power, or was he simply skilled at concealing his emotions, deliberately making himself impossible for Gin Ichimaru to read?
Only Gin Ichimaru himself could judge that.
Aizen's wisdom and scheming far surpassed his own. Any subtle change in expression could conceal unfathomable calculations.
He pondered in secret. Perhaps this was precisely where Aizen's brilliance lay: using outward indifference to conceal his true intentions, drawing everyone into his mist.
"Lord Aizen, you do not seem surprised by Captain Unohana's victory?"
Gin Ichimaru's voice was low and magnetic as he tried to catch a trace of a clue from Aizen's reaction.
Aizen turned lightly. His eyes, which seemed capable of Perceive Hearts, swept across Gin Ichimaru, and a meaningful smile curved his lips.
"Surprised? Why should I be surprised? In this world, nothing is unforeseeable, including death."
His tone was calm and confident, as though everything lay within his grasp.
"Withdraw, Gin."
Gin Ichimaru sighed softly, then turned and left.
Aizen watched Gin Ichimaru's departing back, a nearly imperceptible smile tugging at his lips.
He understood Gin Ichimaru's thoughts better than anyone. But as he had said, allowing a venomous snake to remain by his side was merely to see