Toshiro's expression remained stern. He clearly believed his speculation held merit.
Shigure, naturally, had no intention of sharing what he actually knew.
So he adopted an equally grave expression and said:
"Captain Hitsugaya, have you discussed this matter with anyone else?"
Toshiro shook his head.
"No. When I rescued that squad member yesterday, I told him to keep this matter confidential for now."
"This morning, I had Rangiku contact you."
Shigure nodded slightly.
"You handled this correctly, Captain Hitsugaya."
"I trust your judgment on this matter."
"However, this remains merely your personal intuition and speculation—it cannot serve as evidence."
"In other words, even if Captain Ichimaru was truly responsible, your testimony alone would prove insufficient."
"To expose the truth, we need concrete, substantial evidence."
After Shigure finished speaking methodically, Toshiro's eyes immediately lit up with understanding.
He nodded and replied: "You're absolutely right."
"However, this matter carries grave implications."
"At present, you're the only one I can trust. With your abilities, you won't fall victim to any schemes."
"But please don't mention this to Rangiku or anyone else," Toshiro cautioned.
Shigure nodded. "Your caution is well-founded, Captain Hitsugaya. I understand completely."
...
After departing the 10th Division barracks, Shigure began piecing together the situation in his mind.
He was starting to understand the broader picture of these events.
This was undoubtedly another component of Aizen's grand scheme.
They had no logical reason to eliminate an ordinary 10th Division member.
Their true objective was to manipulate Hitsugaya Toshiro's perceptions.
To deepen his suspicions regarding Ichimaru Gin.
All to facilitate their upcoming staged death plan.
Shigure's eyes gleamed with realization.
This was the only explanation that made sense of the inconsistencies.
However, Shigure had no immediate plans to interfere with Aizen's machinations.
After all, he still had sign-in tasks awaiting completion.
When Aizen finally revealed his true nature—that would be Shigure's moment to strike!
Shigure walked at a leisurely pace, his mind at peace as he made his way toward the 13th Division barracks.
With the additional task now complete, he genuinely needed time to rest and prepare.
For the momentous events that lay ahead.
...
Two tranquil days passed.
Shigure had enjoyed an unusually quiet period, though he felt somewhat restless from the lack of activity.
For the past half month, he had visited the 4th Division daily to practice swordsmanship with Unohana Retsu.
Now he had returned to his regular vice-captain duties.
After completing his routine midday patrol, Shigure learned from Kotetsu Kiyone that Ukitake was experiencing another bout of illness.
Following a brief visit to check on his captain, Shigure realized Ukitake would need at least two to three days of rest.
Consequently, the division's administrative responsibilities fell to Shigure.
That afternoon, Shigure was organizing documents in the 13th Division's office when the division's emergency bell suddenly activated.
This communication system, developed by the Department of Research and Development, signaled the detection of anomalous activity near Seireitei!
Immediately following the bell's activation, an urgent voice crackled through the communication device.
"Emergency alert! Emergency alert!"
"Hollow reaction detected in Seireitei's western outskirts!"
"Implementing security protocols for sectors three through eight!"
"Repeating!"
"Western Seireitei..."
"..."
The messenger's voice echoed throughout Seireitei, immediately causing unrest among all divisions.
"What's happening?!"
"Are these Hollow reactions caused by Ryoka?!"
"What in the world is going on?!"
Hollow reaction was terminology coined by the Department of Research and Development.
It indicated that souls had illegally traversed the Dangai to enter Soul Society.
Such souls were classified as absolute intruders—Ryoka.
...
While the 13th Division members outside grew increasingly agitated, Shigure remained calm in his office.
He suddenly rose to his feet, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
He understood exactly what was causing this disturbance.
Urahara Kisuke's Senkaimon had opened with its exit point in West Rukongai.
The Senkaimon's activation naturally generated spiritual particle fluctuations.
Moreover, several individuals from the World of the Living were currently passing through it!
This meant the time for his sign-in had finally arrived!
The moment this realization struck him, the system's notification chimed in his mind.
"Ding!Ryoka invasion of Soul Society detected—conditions satisfied!"
"Host must proceed immediately to the Penitence Palace, Fourth Underground Prison, and sign in beside Rukia Kuchiki to receive system rewards!"
Before the system finished its announcement, Shigure had already exited the office.
He had waited long enough—his impatience was finally justified.
...
Meanwhile, at the 5th Division barracks.
After receiving the messenger's report, Aizen slowly raised his head, a subtle smile playing at his lips.
"So they've arrived... fresh pieces for the board."
His words seemed directed at himself.
"My, my, Captain Aizen... is this the opportunity you spoke of?"
Seated across from him was another figure.
3rd Division Captain Ichimaru Gin.
His characteristic narrow eyes remained half-closed, his face bearing its perpetual wide grin.
Aizen met his gaze, speaking with calm amusement: "The game begins, Gin. Proceed to West Rukongai's main gate and intercept the Ryoka."
"Intercept?" Ichimaru Gin appeared momentarily puzzled. "What exactly do you mean, Captain Aizen?"
Aizen rose from his seat, his smile widening:
"Simply 'intercept' them—nothing more. Given your capabilities, this should prove effortless."
"Ah, child's play indeed, isn't it?"
Ichimaru Gin stood with his characteristic grin, then pushed open the captain's office door.
Concealing his spiritual pressure, he departed using high-speed Shunpo toward West Rukongai's entrance.
Aizen stepped outside the division barracks, tilting his head skyward.
Above stretched the mighty barrier encompassing all of Seireitei, generated by the Sekkiseki walls—
The Shakonmaku.
Aizen's smile grew more pronounced.
"I eagerly await your breakthrough into Seireitei..."
"Though I expect it to be far more... spectacular."
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
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