The Shiba Clan residence.
A black passage opened in the center of the courtyard. Senjumaru Shutara stepped out first, followed by several puppets carrying three stretchers.
Rukia was pale, her chest covered in bandages.
Renji's left arm was secured in front of him, and traces of blood remained on his face.
Byakuya Kuchiki was in the worst condition.
He lay quietly on his stretcher, his Reiatsu so faint it was almost imperceptible.
Ichigo Kurosaki stepped out right behind them. His expression immediately darkened as his gaze fell on the stretchers.
"How are Rukia, Renji, and Mr. Byakuya?"
"They won't die for now."
Senjumaru spoke calmly as the puppets behind her set the stretchers down at the edge of the courtyard.
"But if they stay in Soul Society, they probably won't survive until the next invasion."
Ichigo clenched his fists.
Yoriichi emerged behind him and glanced at the three patients' injuries.
"Can the Soul King Palace treat them?"
"The Zero Division's treatments are more effective than the Fourth Division's."
Tenjirō Kirinji walked over to the stretchers with two swords slung over his shoulder and examined the patients.
"Provided they make it up there alive, of course."
Renji frowned.
"Can't you say something a little more encouraging?"
Tenjirō looked down at him.
"If you want something nice, I can tell you that arm of yours is beyond saving."
Renji's face darkened on the spot.
Rukia turned her head aside, unable to suppress a soft cough.
Her body was very weak now, but she was still far better off than Byakuya.
Yoriichi looked at Ichibē, who stood at the front.
"Is this the Shiba Clan's home?"
"To be precise, it's the residence of the Shiba Clan's current head."
Ichibē stroked his beard and looked deeper into the courtyard.
"To reach the Soul King