Uncle Zangetsu and Ichigo

"You can."

The next moment, a gentle, jade-like voice sounded behind Kurosaki Ichigo.

Kurosaki Ichigo hurriedly turned around and looked behind him, respectfully saying, "Lord Makoto, why are you here?"

"I looked around the Fourth Division Barracks and asked around before learning that you had come here."

Chiba Makoto spoke.

In truth, with Sōya Azashiro present, Chiba Makoto knew every single thing Kurosaki Ichigo did within the Seireitei. Naturally, he had headed straight for Sōkyoku Hill.

However, for the current Chiba Makoto, words that could make others feel warmth and valued came effortlessly.

"Ichigo, have your injuries fully healed? Why did you specifically come here instead of staying in the Fourth Division to recuperate?"

"Lord Makoto, I came here to clear my head."

Hearing this, Kurosaki Ichigo answered with some flattered surprise.

After all, from Kurosaki Ichigo's perspective, Chiba Makoto was a legendary figure who had suddenly revived two years ago. Not only was he now a core figure of the Thirteen Divisions, but he had also shown the Kurosaki family immense kindness.

"Is it because of Mr. Kurosaki Makoto?" Chiba Makoto's tone carried a trace more gravity.

"Yes."

Kurosaki Ichigo found it even harder to control his expression.

"I later learned much about Mr. Kurosaki Makoto's deeds through various channels. He was a truly great man, having made indelible contributions both to my personal revival and to peace throughout the world."

Chiba Makoto's tone also revealed considerable wistfulness, as though he were lamenting the passing of a hero, without the slightest hint of unnaturalness.

This once more touched Kurosaki Ichigo's already sorrowful and furious heart, and his expression visibly changed.

Then, Chiba Makoto shifted his tone and asked.

"So, Ichigo, were you just thinking of avenging Mr. Kurosaki Makoto, but troubled by the lack of sufficient strength?"

Kurosaki Ichigo