Two days later, the Soul Society sent people again.
They still appeared at the Temple of Samsara, though this group was slightly different. Byakuya Kuchiki, captain of the Sixth Division, and his lieutenant Renji Abarai had not come. In their place was a corpulent man wearing a bizarre mask, along with his adjutant, a beautiful, slender girl with braided hair.
This time, they had brought gifts as well—twenty Asauchi in total.
Zhen received them. Upon seeing the Asauchi, he asked, "Is this all?"
Shunsui Kyoraku replied, "These are all Asauchi, the original form of Zanpakuto. Forging Asauchi takes time as well. We will deliver more in succession later."
Anbu entered and took all the Asauchi away, delivering them to Kabuto in accordance with Zhen's prior orders.
Zhen said, "Both our sides seek stability in this world. I am willing to grant you this patience."
Shunsui responded, "Thank you for Your Majesty's understanding. Then, has Your Majesty considered the matter we raised before?"
Zhen summoned another person—Yahiko.
"This is Yahiko. From now on, he will represent me, the Empire, and the Living World. You may discuss the details with him."
What followed was the negotiation phase. Zhen no longer participated. After handing authority over to Yahiko, he left directly.
After a lengthy round of negotiations, the Sun Empire and the Soul Society ultimately reached a series of agreements.
Neither side would invade the other.
Other than matters concerning Hollows and souls, neither side would interfere with the other.
The Shinigami would be responsible for purifying Hollows in the Living World and performing Soul Burials for souls, sending them to the Soul Society.
When exterminating Hollows, the Shinigami could request free assistance from the local Ninja Guild.
The Soul Society would provide the Sun Empire with twenty Zanpakuto, or Asauchi, every month