The Fool Without the Qualifications

Yoruichi and Yuko exchanged a glance, put away their joking expressions, and walked up to Ichigo. Looking down at him, they asked, "Do you know where the gap between you and a Captain-level Soul Reaper lies?"

"...Bankai." Ichigo forced the two words out through clenched teeth.

"That's right." Yoruichi nodded. "Bankai—the Zanpakuto's ultimate release, the Soul Reaper's ultimate technique. It isn't merely a change and enhancement of abilities. Even the increase in spiritual pressure is five to ten times that of Shikai."

"An ordinary Soul Reaper might not reach it even after exhausting an entire lifetime. Even a gifted, talented Soul Reaper needs more than ten years of grueling training and adjustment before they can initially master it."

"Ten years?" Ichigo's face turned deathly pale. "But Rukia's execution... There are only a few days left!"

"Of course, I was only talking about ordinary circumstances." Yoruichi smiled meaningfully. "Using conventional methods, you definitely won't be able to master Bankai before Rukia's execution."

"Conventional methods?" Ichigo caught the implication in Yoruichi's words and abruptly raised his head.

Yoruichi crossed her arms. "Yes. There's a method that can let you learn Bankai within three days."

Ichigo swallowed. "Three days? Can it really be done?"

"It's not a question of whether it can be done. You only have three days left." Yoruichi spoke indifferently. "If you don't want to drag everyone down when the time comes, prove it to us."

"Show us your resolve."

Hearing that, Yuko couldn't help glancing sideways at her. What? So Yoruichi could say serious things like that after all.

"You don't need to worry too much, either. Among all the Soul Reapers, your qualifications are considered quite outstanding." Yoruichi gently closed her eyes. "After all, I once taught a fool who, even with my help, still took over a