"An-another captain..."
Ganju Shiba felt his scalp tingle, and even his body was trembling.
As a Seated Officer of the Thirteenth Division, he had not met Aizen many times, but he had heard more than once of the rescue division captain's reputation.
Elegant in bearing, kind and courteous, he was considered the most popular of the thirteen captains—a stark contrast to a certain Captain of the Ninth Division.
But no matter how kind he was, he was still a captain!
Ganju Shiba had never imagined that his loose tongue would cause this rescue mission to fall short just before success.
Ichigo pushed away the hands supporting him. The Quincy Cross fell into his right palm as azure and blackish-red Spiritual Power spiraled down from his fingertips, condensing into a spiritual bow with savage diamond-shaped angles, sharp as blades.
"Give up, Ryoka. Your body can no longer support a second battle."
Aizen frowned slightly and said with a trace of concern, "If you came for Isshin Shiba, then you may as well wait a little longer. I have already submitted a request to the Captain-Commander and Central 46 to reduce the sentence of the Sokyoku execution as much as possible."
At those words, Ichigo's expression froze, and his imposing aura weakened somewhat.
But he quickly came to his senses. Thinking it might be a delaying tactic, his gaze hardened once more.
"No need. I'll bring my old man home myself."
"Mr. Isshin's son? You do resemble him somewhat around the brow."
Aizen smiled. "In that case, I can only fulfill my duty as a guard."
As they spoke, a blade radiating a stern chill slowly slid from its sheath. Tangible Spiritual Power swirled around it, and a dangerous presence swept forth, enveloping the entire open area.
"Everyone, to avoid unnecessary casualties,