Shunsui Kyoraku, captain of the 8th Division, usually looked unreliable, fond of drink and frivolous.
Yet among all the captains, his strength unquestionably placed him in the top tier. Of all the captains present, perhaps only old man Yamamoto and Aizen were stronger than him. After old man Yamamoto died, he had succeeded him as Captain-Commander.
Hyuga Homura was the most capable and trusted Imperial Guard under the Emperor. His most dazzling achievement had been defeating the already-famous Yellow Flash in his youth.
For all the spectators, each firmly believed that their own side would emerge victorious.
This battle would reveal whether ninja or Shinigami powers were stronger.
The two stood facing one another in the center of the arena, under the gaze of countless eyes.
"Homura-kun, aren't you using a weapon?" Kyoraku asked as he looked at the empty-handed Homura.
Homura smiled. "Ninjas fight freely. My fists are the weapons that suit me best."
Kyoraku raised a brow slightly at this. Due to the difference in their power systems, he could not judge his opponent's strength through Spiritual Pressure, so he did not let down his guard.
Chōjirō Sasakibe, vice-captain of the First Division, served as the exchange meeting's referee. Standing between them, he briefly explained the rules once more.
"The sparring match begins!"
Whoosh—
The entire open-air arena fell utterly silent as the wind stirred their clothes.
Pure white walls surrounded them, forged from Reiatsu Stone.
The Seated Officers at the edges all sat upright, watching everything below with rapt attention.
"Captain Kyoraku," Homura kindly reminded him.
"I'm starting."
Kyoraku narrowed his eyes. Then, Homura's figure vanished from his sight in an instant.
So fast—Shunpo... no, this was a ninja's Body Flicker Technique!
Kyoraku reacted swiftly. With a sharp ring, the Zanpakuto at his waist instantly left its