"A gift?"
Yoriichi felt a bit confused.
But soon, with Hiyori Sarugaki's arrival, his confusion dissipated like clouds.
Because he saw the two gifts Kuchiki Sōjun had mentioned.
After Hiyori's detailed explanation, Yoriichi had to admit that these two gifts perfectly fit the situation he was currently facing.
The Seireitei, seemingly restored to calm, was in reality still rife with unceasing conflict.
It had merely shifted the battlefield quietly.
From among the Captains, it moved to among the various clans.
And the struggles between clans had nothing to do with Yoriichi.
The Tsugikuni Clan had always been reclusive, so naturally, no short-sighted noble would causelessly target them.
However, as far as Yoriichi knew, since the Hollowfication incident ended yesterday, three of the Tsunayashiro Clan's subordinate clans were on the verge of bankruptcy, and four were imprisoned.
Although they were all minor clans, it still showed the intensity of the conflict.
Under such tense circumstances, although the possibility of an accident was small, necessary preparations absolutely could not be neglected.
One of the gifts was a barrier to protect the clan territory.
Because it incorporated reishi technology, even an ordinary Captain would find it difficult to break.
Coupled with the protection of the killing stone.
Even Yamamoto, as strong as he was, would need two moves to destroy it.
Let alone anyone else.
It added a layer of security for Hisana and Rukia's safety.
Yoriichi nodded slightly.
Then, he took an instrument.
Hiyori Sarugaki explained:
"This is a complimentary product; once someone launches an attack, you will know immediately."
"At the same time, by judging the wavelength, you can also determine the strength of the enemy's Reiatsu."
"Honestly, we didn't sleep for two days making this thing."
"If the compensation wasn't generous, we would never make such a thankless item."
Although she had a hot temper, she still reined it in considerably in front of high-ranking nobles.
As long as she got paid, it was fine.
Taking a deep breath, Hiyori Sarugaki tried hard to suppress her unusual emotions and quickly explained the second item.
According to her explanation, the object that looked like a humanoid board was actually an auxiliary tool called a "Tenshintai."
Its function was very simple.
It could forcibly copy and materialize the Zanpakuto's true form; as long as one defeated the materialized Zanpakuto, they could instantly learn Bankai.
As an essential tool for Bankai quick learning, Kisuke Urahara had already had this idea long ago.
However, because he was in the Second Division at that time, he lacked the necessary conditions, making it difficult to realize.
It wasn't until he became the Captain of the Twelfth Division and faced Kuchiki Sōjun's request that he remembered it.
Afterward, utilizing the Gotei 13's resources, he invented it in just one day.
Of course, this seemingly convenient tool was not for Tsugikuni Yoriichi to use.
It was meant for him to develop subordinates, to unearth those geniuses who were strong in Reiatsu but unable to achieve Bankai.
Coincidentally, there was one such person in the Ninth Division.
Zaraki Kenpachi.
"?"
Tsugikuni Yoriichi was somewhat confused by this.
"I remember Kenpachi hasn't even learned Shikai, has he?"
"Using this Tenshintai, can one even skip Shikai??"
This was indeed quite unusual.
The Tenshintai, at its core, skipped the process of communicating with the Zanpakuto, directly engaging in battle with the Zanpakuto itself.
However, if one didn't even have Shikai... the Zanpakuto would be a pure blade.
It had no name.
And the name was everything to a Zanpakuto, the source of its power.
The process of Shikai was to know the blade's name and release its power.
Without a name... where would the power come from?
Hiyori Sarugaki snapped her fingers:
"That's right, your thinking is very sharp. This is indeed the only flaw of the Tenshintai; one must know the blade's name to copy it."
"But that has nothing to do with us. We are only responsible for developing the product. As for the product itself, it was never intended for Shinigami who can't even use Shikai."
"Zaraki Kenpachi was just an example I gave."
"His Reiatsu is quite powerful, so once he learns Shikai, if he then uses the Tenshintai, he will definitely learn Bankai easily."
"How to use it is up to you."
"Of course, I must warn you, there is a chance of failure when using the Tenshintai."
"Once you lose to the Zanpakuto, the probability of self-awakening Bankai will drop to around 0.001%."
"Because it's forcibly materialized... you should understand this."
"Someone pulls you up and beats you violently while you're asleep; any Zanpakuto with a bit of a temper wouldn't forgive you again."
"So, once you fail, you must use a second Tenshintai."
"And as the number of Tenshintai uses increases, the Zanpakuto will also become stronger and stronger. Generally, after three failures... you will be completely out of luck with Bankai."
"This is a crucial matter; you must remember this, even if you are a Captain."
"My task is complete, so please accept these two products. We will meet again if fate allows."
Hiyori Sarugaki slowly stood up, her movements composed, like a businesswoman.
Speaking of which, the Twelfth Division did indeed have some characteristics of merchants within it.
Yoriichi reluctantly accepted them.
Only after Hiyori left did he silently sigh.
He mused.
This Tenshintai truly was a blessing in disguise.
Zaraki Kenpachi's strength was obvious.
What a pity.
He couldn't use Shikai.
Given his personality, it was unknown when he would learn Shikai.
And during this time, if the Tenshintai were used by others...
It didn't seem impossible either.
He would see for now.
The immediate priority was the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell.
Facing Kuchiki Sōjun, Yoriichi expressed his sincere liking for these two gifts; they truly could alleviate his urgent needs.
If the team became stronger, casualties could be reduced.
The clan territory was safe.
So there was no need to worry about those monsters and demons.
Kuchiki Sōjun nodded gently, smiling as he said:
"I'm glad you like them. Consider them a token of our friendship."
"Also, regarding Byakuya..."
"This matter shouldn't be finalized yet, should it?" Yoriichi glanced at Kuchiki Byakuya, who was training not far away but seemed a bit distracted, and suggested, "Let's wait and see. Perhaps it's just a momentary impulse, or perhaps, a momentary illusion."
"This matter cannot be treated lightly."
Kuchiki Sōjun thought about it and realized it was true. Byakuya had never seen women from outside; it was quite normal for him to lose himself for a moment.
He might get better after a while.
Of course, it might also worsen.
And when it worsened, his true intentions could be confirmed.
At that time, it would not be too late to contact him.
Having sorted everything out in his mind, Kuchiki Sōjun dismissed the matter and turned to discuss the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell, as well as the candidates for using the Tenshintai.
For Yoriichi, there was no need to limit his focus to within the Ninth Division.
Every year, the Reiatsu Academy produced a batch of geniuses. These individuals had very clear backgrounds, and using it on them would have the same effect as using it on Zaraki Kenpachi.
"Perhaps."
Perhaps it was true as Kuchiki Sōjun said, that every year, among the geniuses graduating from the Reiatsu Academy, there would always be suitable candidates for using the Tenshintai.
However, since this year's graduation season had passed and the allocation of every Freshman had been completed, even if he wanted to implement Kuchiki Sōjun's plan, he would have to wait until next year.
Furthermore, there was a chance of failure when using the Tenshintai; even a genius could not guarantee that they would definitely defeat the Zanpakuto's true form.
To ensure the success rate, back and forth, it would require at least ten years of accumulation.
Ten years...
During this period, could Zaraki Kenpachi achieve Shikai?
Yoriichi was hopeful.
Compared to risking an uncertain Captain-level combat power on those Freshmen, it was better to focus on already famous experts.
Thus, even if they failed, having thought it through thoroughly, they would never regret it.
In the quiet atmosphere, Yoriichi contacted Yamamoto Genryusai.
After learning that the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell had been prepared, he softly asked if there were any restrictions on who could bathe in the hot springs.
Yamamoto Genryusai mistakenly thought Yoriichi wanted to use it, so he asked Yoriichi what had happened, if he was injured, and if so, who had done it?
Even without meeting in person, Yoriichi could deeply feel the profound concern in his words.
Under the effect of Tenkei Korin, he shook his head slightly:
"It's not that I'm injured. I'm currently a guest at the Kuchiki Clan."
"Kuchiki Sōjun and his sister want to use it. By the way, teacher, the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell should have the effect of eliminating illness, right?"
"That's right." Yamamoto Genryusai's aged voice slowly echoed in his ear.
Knowing that Yoriichi was not injured, he secretly breathed a sigh of relief, then explained:
"Both illness and fatigue can be eliminated."
"Kuchiki Sōjun, well, I remember his health isn't good. Is it for that reason?"
"Let them come. It's a good opportunity to try and promote the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell among the Captains."
The White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell had limited production; even with the combined strength of the entire Gotei 13, only five portions could be prepared in a short time.
These five portions did not represent five people; as a special medical procedure, the number of uses completely depended on the user's Reiatsu and the extent of their injuries.
After all, the White Hot Springs were designed to replenish Reiatsu, like a battery.
If one side absorbed too much, even if it could be used ten times, after three uses, it would lose all its efficacy and become a pool of ordinary hot springs.
Coincidentally, Yamamoto Genryusai was very powerful.
After some testing, to repair his shattered right arm, at least one-tenth of the White Hot Springs would be consumed.
Coupled with internal injuries and fatigue, a fresh pool of White Hot Springs being usable three times was already a blessing.
The sudden appearance of Kuchiki Sōjun and his sister, although unexpected, would accelerate the depletion of the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell.
However, considering that neither of their Reiatsu was very strong, Yamamoto Genryusai didn't pay much attention to it.
Knowing the general situation, Yoriichi nodded: "Understood."
Soon after, he ended Tenkei Korin, slowly stood up, and turned to look at Kuchiki Sōjun, softly saying:
"Teacher has agreed. Please follow me now."
"Regarding this medical procedure, please keep it confidential for now."
"Teacher has many opponents; once those nobles learn about it, they will inevitably monopolize the supply of materials."
"Understood." Kuchiki Sōjun was well aware of the despicable actions of petty individuals.
He did not resist Yoriichi's request and stood up, leaving the courtyard.
Soon after, he returned, carrying a woman in his arms.
The woman's eyes were tightly closed, and she was in a coma. Her face still faintly showed traces of rejection.
But unfortunately, all rejection could not withstand the determination of a brother.
The three then left the Kuchiki Clan.
...
Soon after, Gotei 13.
"Little junior brother, you're here." Kyōraku Shunsui had also arrived here at some point.
He heard the commotion outside the door, saw the door open, and immediately waved at Tsugikuni Yoriichi, a smile on his face:
"The Head Captain has recovered very well. No wonder this hot spring is hailed as the strongest medical procedure; I even feel he looks a few years younger."
"I originally wanted Ukitake to soak in it too, but unfortunately, the Head Captain said it was useless."
"Why useless?" Yoriichi quickly approached, his expression thoughtful, "I remember Ukitake senior brother's health isn't very good either, is it?"
"Yes, but that's not his reason." Kyōraku Shunsui sighed.
"I just found out that Ukitake's poor health is because a local god in East Rukongai called Mimihagi left a part of its power in his body, causing his organs to stop developing at the age of three."
"Ukitake had a serious illness when he was a child and survived by relying on Mimihagi's power."
"Because it's a standstill, no method can improve his condition."
"If the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell hadn't appeared, I wouldn't have known about this hidden secret regarding Ukitake. No wonder even Captain Retsu Unohana was helpless."
Although they were friends and fellow disciples, it was impossible for them to know all of each other's secrets.
Regarding this.
"What is Mimihagi?" Yoriichi asked, puzzled.
This was the first time he had heard of a local god in the world of Shinigami.
Shinigami were not gods, and there couldn't be gods in the world. Even if there were gods, they should be those powerful souls.
Controlling the power of stillness?
It sounded like a Kido ability.
"I don't know either."
Kyōraku Shunsui gave an expected answer, but then, he changed the subject.
"So, I'm planning to go to the Great Spirit Library Corridor later to look up some information. How about it, Yoriichi, want to come with me?"
The Great Spirit Library Corridor was located in the underground council hall of Central 46. It recorded a series of major events that had occurred in the Soul Society from ancient times to the present. Non-nobles were not allowed to access it.
Considering that Mimihagi appeared in East Rukongai, there must be clues, so going there to search for information was not wrong.
Yoriichi thought for a moment: "No problem, but you'll have to wait for me first. I need to safely send Soujun and his sister back."
"Alright." Kyōraku Shunsui nodded with a smile.
After Kuchiki Sōjun entered the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell following Kisuke Urahara's guidance, his sister also woke up.
Knowing that she was in the Gotei 13 and that she couldn't escape, she could only follow the other person's words and enter another branch of the White Bone Hell and Blood Pond Hell.
At this moment, the room became much quieter after the two left. Yoriichi sat quietly, then suddenly remembered something and looked up at Kyōraku Shunsui.
Coincidentally, Kyōraku Shunsui also looked up.
"Oh, right." Both spoke at the same time.
"..." Again, simultaneous silence.
"You first." They spoke at the same time again.
"Okay... I'll go first..." Their voices intertwined.
"Cough cough..." Kyōraku Shunsui suddenly coughed, interrupting this strange conversation, and said seriously:
"Yoriichi, there's a result regarding Tōsen Kaname, whom you asked me to investigate."
"How to put it... it's very troublesome."