Conflicting Conclusions

Harribel said nothing more in response to Soi Fon's stubborn resistance...

Breaking into Las Noches and attempting to abduct Nel!

Even Harribel, who secretly held no loyalty whatsoever toward Aizen Sōsuke, would stop Soi Fon based on her own position alone.

Of course, Harribel did not take Soi Fon entirely seriously. With a slight lift of her chin—

Harribel remained where she was, blocking the direction in which Soi Fon, carrying Nel, could reach Chiba Makoto and Unohana Retsu. Meanwhile, Apacci, Sun-Sun, and Lilynette attacked Soi Fon from different directions.

As Harribel's direct subordinates, Apacci, Sun-Sun, and Lilynette were Adjuchas-class Arrancar. Though they were far inferior to Grimmjow, they were certainly not opponents to be underestimated.

More importantly, the three had lived and fought together for decades. Their coordination had long since seeped into their bones.

Soi Fon, who excelled most at speed, was hindered in her movements by Nel in her arms. For a time, she found herself trapped in the encirclement of Apacci, Sun-Sun, and Lilynette, unable to break free.

The battle situation... was visibly unfavorable!

Ise Nanao and Matsumoto Rangiku, who had witnessed the entire process, grew visibly anxious.

Yet, looking at Harribel's back, Ise Nanao and Matsumoto Rangiku knew full well that they were nowhere near Harribel's match. They could only place their hopes on Chiba Makoto and Unohana Retsu, who had remained standing where they were.

Ichimaru Gin smiled as he spoke. "The battle has only just begun. Are you two already unable to hold yourselves back?"

"Gin!"

Before Chiba Makoto and Unohana Retsu could answer, Matsumoto Rangiku stepped in front of Ichimaru Gin, her gaze fierce and resolute as she said, "If you intend to stop Mr. Kurosaki Makoto and Captain Unohana, then your opponent... is me."

The smile on Ichimaru Gin's face shifted