Soul Society, Seireitei, Seventh Division, dungeon entrance.
"It's getting dark!"
Muttering softly, Shūhei Hisagi, dressed in a sleeveless Shihakushō, looked through the window at the darkening sky outside. He shook his head, folded his arms across his chest, stood tall and straight, and surveyed his surroundings with a grave expression.
"Do you really have to be so serious, Hisagi?"
A helpless voice came from near to far. It was Iba Tetsuzaemon, the Lieutenant of the Seventh Division.
"Those two are both experts. Until we know whether they're enemies or allies, of course we have to keep a close eye on them!" Shūhei Hisagi looked at Iba Tetsuzaemon as he approached and asked, "You went to see Captain Komamura, right? How is he?"
"His condition has stabilized, and his life isn't in danger." Iba Tetsuzaemon raised the sake gourd in his hand and took a swig, then burped. "I'm saying, Hisagi, you ought to relax a little. Leave the guarding to the squad members!"
"But, Iba..."
"What are you worried about?" Iba Tetsuzaemon smiled. "You know it too. That black-haired brat was badly injured to begin with. Even after Captain Unohana treated him, there's no way he could recover so quickly. Besides, his dog isn't here, is it? As for that other guy who uses insects, he took Captain Kurotsuchi's medicine. If he can't even use Reiatsu, he's no threat at all, right?"
"That may be true, but..." Shūhei Hisagi still could not put his mind at ease.
"I heard some incredible news while I was out this time!" Iba Tetsuzaemon put down his sake gourd and became serious for once.
"What?" Shūhei Hisagi froze.
"I heard Shadow's Zanpakutō manifested during the day!" Iba Tetsuzaemon said solemnly. "Not only did he injure Shadow, he completely suppressed Captain Hitsugaya, Captain Ukitake, Captain