Competition

Renji Abarai's rampage last time still haunted Kira Izuru.

If Nara Dan hadn't arrived in time, Kira Izuru might have fallen right then and there at Renji Abarai's hands.

"So it's true—the problem with me is because of Captain Nara."

Hearing this, Renji Abarai actually breathed a sigh of relief.

Because once you find the root of the problem, there's always a way to solve it.

Kira Izuru smiled.

"Did you expect regret? I've seen that thing inside you—it's quite troublesome."

Renji Abarai shrugged.

"Most of the time, we're not chasing stability or comfort, are we? We need some dangerous elements."

Kira Izuru nodded. Renji Abarai was like that, and so was he—all to gain some strength to protect themselves in future upheavals.

"Speaking of which, you've been stuck with Captain Nara for so long. You haven't let your skills and Spiritual Power rust from all that paperwork, have you?"

Renji Abarai grinned.

"Or are you cooking up some dirty trick again? After all, following that guy should come with some unexpected gains."

Kira Izuru wore a faint, elusive smile.

"Is that so? Want to give it a try?"

"Oh?"

Renji Abarai's expression lit up with excitement. He could smell a fight.

Come to think of it, since graduating from Shin'ō Academy, he'd never crossed swords with Kira Izuru.

Instead, he'd only fought Fifth Division members far below his level, or ordinary Hollows.

As for anyone at Vice-Captain level or above, Renji Abarai admitted he didn't know any.

"Wait for me a bit, Renji. Once I finish my paperwork, we'll meet at the Third Division Training Ground. Just don't embarrass yourself in front of another division."

Kira Izuru's smile carried a deeper meaning.

Renji Abarai scoffed.

"The one who should worry about embarrassment is you. If you lose in your