Shihoin Shuren nodded. "Is that so? I never expected Captain Ukitake, who was so devoted to maintaining order in the Soul Society, to refuse Captain Ronglin. What a surprise. But if Captain Ronglin needs it, the Shihoin Family is willing to lend you a hand!"
Ronglin looked at Shihoin Shuren suspiciously, unable to tell what she was planning. "Why?"
Shihoin Shuren's red robes slowly swept across the floor, making her figure look alluring and captivating. Her tone turned much more sorrowful. "After the Dangai incident, the Shihoin Family's reputation plummeted, and we offended quite a few captains and nobles at the same time. Although the Shihoin Family has great wealth and influence, we cannot withstand the dreadful consequences of making enemies of the world. So, if we want to restore the Shihoin Family's reputation, we need only make a name for ourselves through a major event. At present, only Hueco Mundo and the Wandenreich qualify as major events. The Captain-General has someone else in mind for Hueco Mundo, so I hope Captain Ronglin can take me along in dealing with the Wandenreich!"
Shihoin Shuren's beautiful face, coupled with her sorrowful expression, made Ronglin's heart pound. He nearly reached out to touch her cheek and comfort her.
"If Captain Ronglin takes me along, you will be indirectly helping the Shihoin Family escape its predicament. The plight of tens of thousands rests on a single thought from Captain Ronglin." Shihoin spoke with utmost sincerity, gazing hazily at Ronglin with a pitifully charming expression.
If Ronglin had not known she was the leader of an assassination corps that killed without blinking, he might truly have been moved by Shihoin Shuren's act of a delicate little woman.
"Fine!" Ronglin nodded without being moved. "I'm not entirely confident about dealing with the Wandenreich alone anyway.