However, this differed somewhat from what Aizen had imagined.
The one who wanted the Hogyoku was not Captain Ailin, but Gin Ichimaru.
Moreover, with the Hogyoku's help, Gin Ichimaru had successfully pushed his spiritual pressure beyond the limits of a Hundred-Year Captain, reaching the very limit of a Soul Reaper.
It could be said that, in terms of spiritual pressure alone, Gin Ichimaru now stood on the same level as Aizen.
"Then, Gin, what choice will you make?"
Resting his right hand beneath his chin against the armrest of his throne, Aizen's gaze seemed to peer into the future.
As the terrifying spiritual pressure dissipated from the air, the Arrancar throughout Las Noches finally let out a breath, as though they had come back to life.
Before long, Gin Ichimaru appeared in the main hall of Las Noches.
"Captain Aizen, tonight I encountered several brazen thieves who attempted to steal the Hogyoku. I killed them."
"This is the Hogyoku I found on them."
Standing in the center of the hall, Gin Ichimaru took the Hogyoku from his robes and opened his hand toward Aizen.
"You have worked hard, Gin."
Aizen said, "However, Gin, you need not have gone to such lengths. Even if they had taken the Hogyoku away, it would eventually have returned to my side."
"Because this is the Hogyoku's will!"
After Aizen said this, the Hogyoku in Gin Ichimaru's hand suddenly emitted an azure light. It slowly floated up, flew before Aizen, and merged into his chest.
"The Hogyoku's will?"
Gin Ichimaru narrowed his eyes. It seemed this Hogyoku held secrets he did not know about.
In truth, Aizen had not deceived Gin Ichimaru.
The Spirit King sought liberation. As such, the powers of the Spirit King's body scattered throughout the world naturally followed the Spirit King's