Meanwhile, the stealthily moving Ichiro finally arrived at Squad 4's barracks. He responded to the squad members' greetings along the way while quickly making his way toward Squad 4's reception hall. Azashiro's presence was over there.
Upon entering the reception hall, Ichiro ignored the smiling Azashiro who came forward to greet him. Instead, he waved for everyone else to leave, then began chanting:
"Eight inches of military formation, there is no reason to retreat. Blue gate, white gate, black gate, red gate. Interlock and sink into the sea. The Dragon Tail's gate, the Tiger Bite's gate, the Turtle Shell's gate, the Phoenix Wing's gate—Four Beast Gate!"
A massive barrier unfolded before the astonished eyes of the squad members, sealing Ichiro and Azashiro within.
"What are you doing? You specifically called me here for this?" Azashiro's gaze turned somewhat cold. No one would feel good about being treated this way.
"I mean no offense, but I need to confirm something with you." Ichiro slowly drew the second Zanpakuto at his waist, Flame Sparrow, and said, "What do you think of the nobles who persecuted you?"
(Before Azashiro Kenpachi joined the squad, he had been a noble. However, something happened to the Azashiro family. Then, one by one, his family members were framed by nobles coveting their property. His older sister also died in the jaws of a Hollow because of it. Only afterward did he join the Thirteenth Division.)
"Nobles? I feel nothing but hatred for them! But I'm a Soul Reaper! Are you doubting me?"
"Yes." Ichiro did not evade the matter. "There is hatred in your heart! The human heart is the most unfathomable thing in the world. I'll ask you one final question: will you launch an act of revenge against the Five Great Noble Clans because of