Invasion Begins!

A grim, killing intent hung over the entire Seireitei. Nearly every Soul Reaper instinctively rested a hand on their Zanpakuto's hilt, their eyes constantly sweeping the surroundings.

Where... will the enemy appear?

It was not only the many Soul Reapers patrolling and guarding every part of the Seireitei who harbored that thought.

The captains stationed in their respective division barracks, as well as Chiba Makoto and Unohana Retsu standing side by side atop the First Division's Tenshukaku, were thinking the same thing.

Moreover, Chiba Makoto and Unohana Retsu understood even more clearly that this would be a beginning!

The beginning of a world-shaking transformation in the balance of the entire world; a war sparked by the Wandenreich that would ultimately draw the lofty Soul King Palace and Zero Division into the flames of battle.

"Makoto, do you think we'll win?" Unohana Retsu asked calmly.

Chiba Makoto looked down at the Seireitei below and replied.

"We have no reason to lose."

A gentle, elegant expression appeared on Unohana Retsu's face. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she said with a smile.

"Actually, victory or defeat does not matter to me. Even if I die in battle, I would merely fall into Hell. Perhaps that would instead be a place where I could cast aside reason and slaughter to my heart's content."

"But if I were to fall into Hell and leave Makoto all alone behind me, wouldn't that be somewhat too cruel?"

Chiba Makoto froze slightly, then turned to Unohana Retsu in surprise. "Teacher, why say something so unlucky?"

"It was merely a passing feeling. Nearly everyone from my generation has already fallen into Hell. Even Lord Genryusai has realized his own powerlessness and chosen to step back from the tide. As for me..."

However, before Unohana Retsu could finish, Chiba Makoto