At Least Live Freely

At the edge of the Rukon District, at the Shiba Clan residence.

The night was deep. After dealing with the mess in the Eighth Division, Ross returned to this hidden stronghold looking relaxed.

The moment he pushed open the door, Kūkaku Shiba's mature, alluring figure came forward to greet him.

Ross did not respond immediately. He merely closed his eyes slightly as his immense spiritual power swept through the entire residence like a tide. Then he opened his eyes, a teasing smile curling across his lips.

"Looks like that disobedient wildcat slipped out again?"

"Heh, she got tossed around badly this afternoon. She probably has trauma now and is hiding somewhere, trembling."

Kūkaku Shiba folded her arms. Not only did she show no sympathy, but a vengeful satisfaction appeared on her face.

Just thinking about that earlier game left her feeling thoroughly refreshed.

The closer she and Yoruichi Shihoin had once been, the more deeply she now hated Yoruichi.

Having finally caught such a rare opportunity that afternoon, she had spared no mercy in venting years of pent-up resentment.

If not for the matter involving Yoruichi Shihoin tonight, she would have kept tormenting her until dawn the next day.

But it did not matter. Once there was a first time, there would be a second.

She would have plenty of time later to vent her dissatisfaction on Yoruichi Shihoin.

"Let her go."

Ross chuckled and waved it off carelessly.

"Let her roam free for the next few days. She's a wildcat, after all. In a few days, she'll come back on her own."

To him, Yoruichi Shihoin was merely an NPC responsible for showing the way in this grand drama sweeping across Soul Society.

Ever since she had brought Kurosaki Ichigo through the gates of Soul Society, more than half