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RoseWhisky
Chapter 46: Haruki Wants to Write a Novel
New
January 24
Isn't this the perfect example of "training an army for a thousand days to use it in one moment"? Didn't I just show off in front of Nanao Ise?
Nanao Ise's favorability toward me was originally only 17, but after that conversation, it shot up to 48!
This is the power of culture.
Haruki happily arrived at the division.
"Vice-Captain!"
"Vice-Captain Haruki, did something good happen? You look so happy!"
Everyone in the division greeted Haruki, who just chuckled without saying much and returned to his office.
Looking at the pile of documents on his desk, Haruki clicked his tongue.
He set the documents aside and pulled out a book from his drawer.
The Rejection of Pisces
This was an action-adventure novel serialized in the Soul Society Bulletin, a magazine run by the 9th Division, written by Captain Jūshirō Ukitake of the 13th Division.
The novel followed a protagonist named "Pisces" who protected villagers and fought against evil forces. Each chapter was a standalone story, featuring themes of punishing enemies and encouraging people to do good. It was quite popular in the Soul Society.
After all, there wasn't much entertainment in the Soul Society, so reading novels was one of the most enjoyable ways to pass the time at work.
Plus, reading more of it would give him something to talk about with Ukitake when they met, which would help boost his favorability. Why not?
After finishing the last section, Haruki put the newspaper down and fell into deep thought.
This kind of novel can become a hit?
If I wrote some of the masterpieces I read in my past life, wouldn't I completely dominate the scene?
At this thought, Haruki got excited.
I'm such a genius!
I could write a novel. After all, vice-captains are often required to publish small articles in the Soul Society Bulletin to promote their division's reputation and earn some extra money.
I could follow Ukitake's example and write a novel.
But what should I write about?
Since this is the Soul Society, it should be something that fits the Soul Society's unique flavor.
The Soul Society's unique flavor...
Thinking about the Soul Society's unique flavor, Haruki somehow thought of Young and Dangerous.
Well, the people in the Soul Society really do resemble a bunch of gangsters. Each division is like a gang, the vice-captains are the enforcers, and the Captain-Commander is the boss.
"Teacher, do you support me becoming the Captain-Commander?"
"You have so many supporters, you don't need me."
"I will definitely run for it, and we'll see who has the real skills."
Actually, they're a proper military organization, but Haruki couldn't help but laugh at the mental image.
He immediately took out a piece of paper and started writing.
"Aizen, stop this. Captain-Commander Yamamoto has agreed to let you take over next term."
In the depths of Muken, several of the Soul Society's most powerful captains were imprisoned. Kyōraku Shunsui, the captain of the 8th Division, tried to reason with Aizen.
"And I'll let you be the Soul King next term! Who knows who will have the strength then? Maybe I'll be dead by then!" Aizen kicked the bars of Muken in anger. "By then, you'll all be dead too. Who will I negotiate with? Negotiate my ass!"
"If this continues, there will be war, and we won't be able to help you! There will be no more business," Gin Ichimaru also tried to persuade him.
"We can't help you either!" Tōsen couldn't help but shout.
"Don't help! Don't you dare help! I don't need you old fools! I'll handle this myself!"
"The New Gotei 13!"
Haruki burst out laughing as he wrote this.
"What are you laughing at?"
Suddenly, a voice made Haruki's smile freeze, and he quickly hid the paper.
He turned around, his smile stiff. "Captain Aizen, when did you get here?"
"You didn't hear me come in?"
"I did," Aizen, who had somehow appeared behind Haruki, adjusted his glasses. "You just didn't notice."
"Uh..." Haruki quickly stood up. "Captain Aizen, please have a seat. Let me get you some tea."
"No need for tea. It seems you were writing a novel?"
"...Uh..." Haruki's smile became even stiffer. He nodded. "Yes, you caught me. But don't worry! It's just a novel. It's definitely not my real thoughts!"
"Captain, you know how novels are. They have to be a bit exaggerated."
"Don't write things that undermine unity," Aizen said with a smile. "We are Shinigami who protect the Soul Society and maintain the balance of the three worlds. We should promote our righteous brilliance to ordinary Shinigami and souls."
"I understand," Haruki nodded, forcing a smile. "That was just a joke earlier. How could I possibly write something like that?"
Giving up was out of the question. If I can't write it in the Soul Society, I'll just take it to Hueco Mundo! No one will care if I badmouth the Soul Society there, right?
Oh, Aizen might care. Well, I'll just replace Aizen with someone else!
Haruki's eyes darted around as he added, "To be honest, I've already thought of what to write. Of course, it will promote our 5th Division!"
"What's your idea?"
"How about In the Name of the Shinigami?" Haruki suggested. "The story will be about severe corruption in the Soul Society's central bureau. The Soul King, to investigate the matter, appoints you, Captain Aizen, as the head of the central bureau, leading to a series of political struggles."
Aizen gave Haruki a meaningful look and shook his head. "When writing a novel, it should be closer to life. Your story is too far removed from ordinary Shinigami."
"How is it far removed? The title is In the Name of the Shinigami. How can it be far from Shinigami?" Haruki asked, confused.
"Anyway, think of something else."
"Alright, alright, you're impossible. I guess I'll have to write an action-fantasy novel instead," Haruki said, coming up with another idea.
"A thousand years ago, the Quincy were defeated in a war against the Shinigami, and their king was captured."
"At the moment of his execution, the Quincy king shouted: 'Do you want my power? Do you want my wealth? Do you want my authority? If you want it, then take it all!'"
"'I left everything in the depths of the Soul Society. Go and chase it!'"
"And so, the Great Quincy Era began!"
How's that?
Haruki raised an eyebrow at Aizen. "This theme should work, right?"
Aizen looked intrigued. "And then?"
"Hmm, let me think," Haruki pondered. "Of course, we Shinigami represent justice, so we'll be the 'World Government.' The Hollows, though our enemies, share a common goal in fighting the Quincy."
"So, the Hollows will be called the 'Seven Warlords of the Sea,' a temporary alliance with the Gotei 13 to deal with the Quincy."
"The main antagonists of the story will, of course, be the Quincy. This aligns with the Soul Society's main narrative. No problem, right?"
Aizen patted Haruki on the shoulder. "Not bad, very imaginative. You should give it a try."
"What will you call this novel?"
"How about... The Thousand-Year Blood War?"
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RoseWhisky
Chapter 47: Persuading Rukia
New
January 24
Writing a novel during work hours—what a comfortable life.
In the blink of an eye, the workday was over.
Haruki looked at his 20,000-word manuscript, feeling pleased, and carefully stored it in a folder.
He had plans to meet Hisagi for dinner tonight and thought it would be a good opportunity to discuss submitting his work to the Soul Society Bulletin.
As the vice-captain of the 9th Division and the managing editor of the Soul Society Bulletin, Hisagi was the second most influential editor after Tōsen, the editor-in-chief. Naturally, Haruki needed to talk to him about the submission.
Since they hadn't brought Hisagi along last time at Daruma-ya, they decided to meet there again. The food and drinks at Daruma-ya were excellent, after all.
This time, it was just Haruki and Hisagi. As soon as they sat down, Haruki placed the folder in front of Hisagi.
Hisagi, curious, took the folder and asked, "What's this?"
"I wrote a novel. Do you think it could be serialized in the Soul Society Bulletin?"
Hisagi was shocked. "A novel?! You can write novels?!"
"Why not? Can't I write novels?" Haruki replied. "I love reading, you know."
"Really?" Hisagi pulled out the draft from the folder, glanced at it, and quickly became engrossed.
By the time Haruki had finished two bottles of sake, Hisagi finally put the manuscript down.
He looked astonished. "This is incredible. It feels even more engaging than Captain Ukitake's The Rejection of Pisces."
"Of course," Haruki said proudly. "Not that The Rejection of Pisces isn't excellent."
"It's just that The Rejection of Pisces always tries to teach a lesson. While it's a great and educational novel, it inevitably falls a bit short in terms of pure entertainment."
"Alright, I'll take it. Don't worry, I'll find a prime spot for it in the Soul Society Bulletin. It's guaranteed to sell well!"
If the sales were good, Hisagi, as the editor, would also earn a share of the profits.
Unlike Haruki, who came from a noble family and had some savings, Hisagi, despite being a vice-captain, had significant expenses.
After settling the matter of the novel with Hisagi, Hisagi hurried off to make arrangements, leaving after only a few drinks.
Haruki watched Hisagi leave with a smile, then shook his head and prepared to head home.
But just as he was about to leave, he spotted Rukia Kuchiki.
Daruma-ya was close to the Kuchiki estate, so it wasn't surprising to see Rukia nearby.
After some thought, Haruki decided to approach her.
He hadn't had many opportunities to interact with Rukia, so he needed to create one.
Currently, the divisions of the Gotei 13 had little interaction with each other. The only time captains and vice-captains from different divisions gathered was during the regular captain meetings at the 1st Division.
Even then, the captains would stick together, and the vice-captains would do the same.
Because of this, many vice-captains didn't even know the captains of other divisions.
By the time the main story began, Renji didn't even know who the captain of the 10th Division was, which was absurd.
Haruki also had few opportunities to meet captains from other divisions, and approaching them out of the blue would be considered rude.
So, for the most part, Haruki stayed put, focusing on strengthening his own position first.
However, since Rukia's abilities were too important, Haruki decided to make an effort to connect with her.
"You are…"
Haruki walked up to Rukia and said, "Rukia Kuchiki, right?"
Rukia was startled. She looked at Haruki, who had suddenly appeared in front of her, with confusion.
As a member of the Kuchiki family, everyone in the 6th District knew her. People treated her with such reverence that she found it hard to make friends.
She was familiar with most people who frequented the 6th District, but now…
Who was this?
Rukia felt that Haruki looked familiar, as if she had seen him somewhere before.
"I'm a friend of Renji Abarai," Haruki introduced himself. "I'm also a graduate of the 2061 class, so I'm your senior. I'm currently the vice-captain of the 5th Division, Haruki Murakami."
"A friend of Renji's…" Rukia was surprised, then bowed slightly. "Vice-Captain Haruki, is there something you need from me?"
"Huh?" Haruki was taken aback and quickly took a step back. "Please don't let anyone see you doing that. Even though I'm a vice-captain, you're a member of the Kuchiki family. Our statuses are equal."
Legally speaking, a vice-captain and an ordinary member of a great noble family were considered equals.
Of course, if Haruki were her direct superior, it would be appropriate for Rukia to bow.
But he wasn't the vice-captain of the 13th Division, so he had no authority over Rukia.
"Vice-Captain Haruki, what did you want to talk about?"
"I wanted to discuss Renji. I just finished dinner here. Would you like to come in and sit for a bit?" Haruki pointed to Daruma-ya.
Rukia hesitated.
After a moment, she said, "Alright, but I can only stay for ten minutes. If I'm late getting back, my brother will be upset."
"No problem."
Ten minutes was enough. Haruki led Rukia back into Daruma-ya.
Before entering, Haruki grabbed a bottle of sake.
"Care for a drink?"
"No, thank you," Rukia shook her head.
Haruki poured himself a drink and said, "Renji is in the 5th Division now. He's mentioned you, and I couldn't help but be curious about the person the Kuchiki family adopted."
Rukia smiled bitterly. "Now that you've seen me, are you disappointed? If I didn't resemble Lady Hisana, I wouldn't have been worthy of being adopted by the Kuchiki family."
"…" Haruki looked puzzled. "Why wouldn't you be worthy? You've just graduated from the Shin'ō Academy, and you already have such strong spiritual power. I'd say it won't be long before you become a seated officer."
"…Really?"
Rukia lowered her head. Even though Haruki was complimenting her, she didn't seem uplifted.
During this period, Rukia struggled with feelings of inferiority.
Haruki shook his head. "Sometimes, the truth can be seen in the smallest details. What you think is real might not be the whole truth."
"…What do you mean?" Rukia looked up, confused.
"Miss Kuchiki, you like sweet foods, right?"
"Huh? Did Renji tell you that?"
Haruki didn't answer but instead gave a mysterious smile. "The food you eat at the Kuchiki estate is always sweet, isn't it?"
"…Yes," Rukia replied, though her voice lacked confidence despite her noble status.
"But Captain Byakuya prefers spicy food," Haruki added.
"Wha—?! That's impossible!" Rukia became visibly agitated. "The food at home is always sweet!"
Haruki still didn't answer, just smiled at Rukia.
Seeing Haruki's smile, Rukia gradually lost her confidence and sat back down, falling into silence.
She liked sweet foods, Byakuya liked spicy foods, and yet every meal at home was always sweet.
What did this mean?
Was her brother…
Actually caring about her?
But…
Why?
Was Vice-Captain Haruki lying to her?
Rukia looked at Haruki, momentarily lost in thought.
"I'm Renji's good friend," Haruki said. "To be honest, I've seen you a few times, and every time, you seem to be in a gloomy mood."
"You're Renji's friend, and I'm Renji's friend, so that makes us friends too. I don't want my friends to be unhappy every day, which is why I'm telling you this."
Haruki continued, "In daily life, there's no need to lock away your heart. Accept your identity openly, and you'll naturally notice the love people around you have for you."
With that, Haruki stood up.
He walked over to Rukia and patted her shoulder.
"Ten minutes is almost up. You should head home now. Don't make your brother worry."
After saying this, Haruki left the room.
After settling the bill, Rukia also walked out.
She saw Haruki standing at the door, approached him, and bowed slightly, whispering, "Thank you."
This time, Haruki accepted her gesture of respect without hesitation.
He smiled. "Don't look so down anymore. If the stars were unhappy, how boring would the night be?"
He pointed to the sky.
It was already dark, and the weather wasn't great. The night sky was almost devoid of stars.
"…" Rukia didn't say anything, just watched as Haruki waved and walked away.
She then turned and headed back to the Kuchiki estate.
After leaving the 6th District, Haruki chuckled softly.
This was the benefit of doing his homework.
If he hadn't done his homework, how could he have accurately recommended books to Nanao?
If he hadn't done his homework, how could he have known that Rukia liked sweet foods and Byakuya liked spicy ones?
Well, this part was thanks to his memories from his past life. After all, he had been an ultimate Bleach fan in his previous life, so he even knew about the Kuchiki family's private affairs.
Thinking this, Haruki felt a sense of satisfaction.
As for how things would develop between Rukia and the Kuchiki family from here, he didn't know.
All he knew was that Rukia's favorability toward him had now reached 55. He was close to obtaining the one-time ability "Star."
Humming a tune, Haruki returned home and let time flow by.
Three months later, Haruki had raised Nanao's favorability past 60.
During these three months, Nanao had come to the 5th Division's library several times to borrow books, all recommended by Haruki.
Nanao's impression of Haruki had also improved significantly. She believed that someone who loved reading couldn't possibly be a bad person.
"I don't know what kind of spell you've cast on little Nanao, but even I, a captain, got told by her to 'learn from Vice-Captain Haruki.' It's really embarrassing."
Once, during a drinking session, Kyōraku Shunsui couldn't help but complain to Haruki.
Haruki just chuckled.
Look at Nanao. Someone who initially didn't pay much attention to me is now willingly offering her soul ability.
In a little more time, Haruki was confident he could raise her favorability to 80 and permanently obtain "Mirror Reflection!"
Now look at you. Your favorability is stuck at 50 like it's glued there!
It was 50 three months ago, and it's still 50 now!
So ungrateful!
Later, Haruki's gaze at Kyōraku even carried a hint of resentment, making Kyōraku feel a bit uneasy.
However, the biggest change during these three months was White.
White had successfully completed its transformation and gained a peculiar ability.
That is…
Whenever White killed a Shinigami, it would evolve.
Not only would it become stronger, but it would also grow more intelligent.
Its Hollow hole was now filled with a heart-like tumor, though it was unclear how many Shinigami it had killed.
Haruki had only seen White twice since then. He knew that Aizen hadn't stationed White permanently in the human world. Occasionally, it would go to the Rukongai to ambush patrolling Shinigami.
As for Rukia, Haruki had seen her once during a work-related visit to the 13th Division.
Rukia thanked Haruki again, but what had happened in the Kuchiki household remained a mystery to him.
Haruki had thought time would continue to pass uneventfully like this until the main story began decades later.
But on this day, as Haruki was heading to the 5th Division as usual, he overheard the division members discussing something.
"Something happened?"
Curious, Haruki approached Momo Hinamori.
Momo was startled at first but relaxed when she saw it was Haruki.
She said, "Yesterday, Shinigami from the 13th Division were attacked by Hollows. Our people went to rescue them, but they also ended up sacrificing their lives."
Haruki was surprised. "This isn't a small incident. Who died?"
"9th Seat Shinta died, and I heard the 3rd Seat of the 13th Division also perished."
Shinta had been promoted to 9th Seat after Haruki, but Haruki hadn't had the chance to obtain his soul ability before he died.
As for the 3rd Seat of the 13th Division…
Shiba Miyako?
The Shinigami who died at the hands of Metastacia in the original story, Shiba Kaien's wife—she had still ended up dying?
Was this the so-called inertia of history?
Even though Metastacia had been killed by Haruki, she had still met her end?
Although Haruki didn't know the details, he knew that whenever something bad happened, it was best to go straight to Aizen.
Everything was Aizen's fault.
Haruki bid farewell to Momo and entered Aizen's office.
Aizen was reading the latest issue of the Soul Society Bulletin.
Haruki's The Thousand-Year Blood War had been published three months ago and was now on its 13th chapter.
The current chapter featured the protagonist, "Kehokugama," gathering a group of allies to help his navigator fight a werewolf who had fallen into the realm of beasts.
"If you write it like this, Captain Komamura won't be happy," Aizen said as Haruki entered.
"It's fine," Haruki replied. "It's not like there won't be good werewolves. I'm even planning to have one join the protagonist's crew later."
"Anyway, let's not talk about that." Haruki sat down across from Aizen and asked, "I heard something happened last night. What's going on?"
Aizen continued reading the Soul Society Bulletin as he spoke. "I only know the general details. It seems the 3rd Seat of the 13th Division, Shiba Miyako, encountered a strange Hollow."
"She was too confident, thinking she could handle it, but in the end, she died by its blade."
"So that's how it is…"
Haruki narrowed his eyes and then said, "Can I go take a look?"
Aizen looked up at Haruki and replied, "I was originally going to send Tanimoto to check it out, but if you want to go, that's fine too."
The 5th Division was a rescue unit, so it was perfectly normal for them to assist other divisions in times like this.
Haruki had never met Shiba Miyako before, so he didn't feel particularly sad about her death.
Haruki…
Even now, he only felt a sense of reality about this world when it came to the people close to him.
However, if Shiba Miyako had died, then Shiba Kaien would definitely seek revenge.
This meant that Shiba Kaien might also die.
This was a great opportunity to boost Shiba Kaien and Rukia Kuchiki's favorability.
Moreover, the Hollow causing trouble this time might be White. Haruki wanted to check it out. What if Shiba Kaien ended up killing White?
He hadn't raised White's favorability to 80 yet, and if he didn't, he wouldn't be able to obtain the risk-free Hollowfication ability.
Two hours later, Haruki arrived at the 13th Division.
This was also the first time he met Jūshirō Ukitake.
Ukitake's ability was… "Host."
'Host: Can integrate an object into one's soul, gaining the characteristics of that object.'
'Note: If favorability is below 80, the integrated object will be expelled after three days. If favorability reaches 80 or above, the object can be permanently integrated.'
This ability…
It suited Ukitake's identity quite well.
Ukitake was the captain of the 13th Division of the Gotei 13, but at the same time, his soul also housed Mimihagi-sama, the right arm of the Soul King.
This ability would allow Haruki to integrate an external object into his soul. Could he integrate a Zanpakutō?
If he could integrate a Zanpakutō, would that mean he could achieve the state of unity between man and sword?
It felt like a waste, though.
Haruki thought about it. He had other ways to fuse with a Zanpakutō, such as obtaining the final Zanpakutō fusion from Shiba Isshin, breaking through the limits of a Shinigami, or undergoing the ancient man-sword unity ritual in the Soul Society.
There was no need to waste the slot for the "Host" ability.
The ability's description stated that he could integrate one object into his soul, which should include both living and non-living things. This meant he could theoretically integrate another soul into his body.
If he could integrate Aizen into his soul, wouldn't that make him invincible?
Haruki chuckled inwardly, then said to Ukitake, "Captain Ukitake, Captain Aizen understands the gravity of the situation and has sent me to provide assistance. Is there anything I can do to help?"
Ukitake's face still carried a trace of sadness, as the 3rd Seat of the 13th Division had died.
He had even considered stepping down and letting Kaien take over as captain, which showed how much he valued Kaien.
When Haruki arrived, Ukitake was somewhat surprised. He hadn't expected Aizen to send his vice-captain to assist them.
Ukitake nodded and said, "The enemy is different from any Hollow we've encountered before. It's extremely cunning, and we're currently trying to pinpoint its location."
"I've already asked the 8th Division for help. I believe we'll find its location soon."
The 8th Division was the intelligence unit, so they were the right people to call for tracking someone down.
Haruki nodded and said, "I'll stay on standby at the 13th Division. Captain Aizen's orders are to follow your instructions."
Before Ukitake could respond, the door was pushed open, and Shiba Kaien, dressed in his Shinigami uniform, rushed in. His face was filled with suppressed anger and grief.
"Captain!"
"Let me handle this alone!"
"Captain Ukitake, Vice-Captain Kaien!" This was said by Rukia Kuchiki, who had followed Kaien in.
Rukia had run after Kaien, but when she saw Haruki in the office, she was momentarily surprised. She then stood behind Kaien and remained silent.
"…" Looking at his grieving subordinate, Ukitake sighed softly. "Kaien, this matter is no small issue."
"Thirty-four members of the 13th Division and sixteen members of the 5th Division who came to assist have all died. The enemy is no ordinary Menos. Not only is it terrifyingly powerful, but it also possesses a cunning mind! This is not something you can handle alone."
"So what?!" Kaien shouted. "Miyako is dead. If I can't avenge her myself, then what's the point of me being a Shinigami?"
"…" Seeing the determination in Kaien's eyes, Ukitake was moved.
The two of them locked eyes, and Ukitake finally nodded.
"Once we have information on the enemy's location, I'll notify you immediately."
"Thank you, Captain…" Kaien said softly.
He then turned and left.
Rukia glanced at Haruki and then ran after Kaien.
"I'm sorry. Kaien's emotions are a bit out of control because of Miyako's death," Ukitake said softly to Haruki.
"It's only natural…"
Haruki replied just as softly. "After all… the one who died was Vice-Captain Kaien's wife. That kind of grief is something no one else can truly understand."
"I'm glad you see it that way," Ukitake said. "So, this time, I accept the 5th Division's offer of assistance, but… this matter should still be handled by the 13th Division."
"I refuse," Haruki said. "Members of the 5th Division also died in this incident. I understand Vice-Captain Kaien's grief, but at the very least… I should witness the destruction of that Hollow with my own eyes."
"Very well," Ukitake nodded.
"I'll notify you once we have more information."
Haruki didn't return to the 5th Division but instead stayed at the 13th Division to wait.
That day, he saw many seated officers of the 13th Division.
He also saw the soul abilities of Kotsubaki Sentarō and Kotetsu Kiyone.
Although they were two people, their soul abilities had the same name.
'Captain's Assistant : When used, the user will perform their best when assisting the captain and completing tasks assigned by the captain.'
'Captain's Assistant : When used, the user can instantly appear by their captain's side.'
Hmm, fitting for side characters.
Although these two were somewhat notable side characters in the original story, their presence was minimal, essentially serving as Ukitake's two accessories.
It wasn't surprising that they had such abilities.
Moreover, Haruki thought both abilities were quite useful.
Captain's Assistant would allow Haruki to perform better when carrying out tasks assigned by Aizen.
Captain's Assistant would let Haruki instantly appear by Aizen's side, effectively giving him a form of teleportation.
In addition, the 13th Division had many other soul abilities.
But Haruki couldn't obtain them right now.
The entire 13th Division was engulfed in grief, and this wasn't the right time to try to befriend them.
He hadn't even spoken much to Rukia.
White didn't make Haruki wait too long, either.
A day later, Ukitake summoned Haruki, Shiba Kaien, and Rukia Kuchiki.
"We've located the target," Ukitake said solemnly. "It's near Mount Koiwa. I'll accompany you, but unless you're on the verge of death, I won't intervene."
He looked seriously at Kaien, who nodded in response.
Haruki observed the two of them, thinking about what he should do next.
He really wanted to obtain Kaien's "Resemblance" ability and Rukia's "Star." This mission was a great opportunity to boost their favorability.
As for Ukitake…
Haruki also wanted his "Host" ability, but after seeing how Kyōraku's favorability was stuck at 50, he lost interest in Ukitake.
These centuries-old veterans had walls around their hearts that were too thick to breach. Dealing with them was like dealing with Shinji Ikari.
Hah, wait until I initiate the Human Instrumentality Project. Let's see how thick those walls are then.
Haruki inwardly cursed these ancient monsters.
But what should he do…
to both protect White and boost Kaien and Rukia's favorability?
Well, he'd just have to adapt to the situation as it unfolded.
If it came down to it, he could sacrifice Kaien, but he absolutely had to protect White.
White wasn't just crucial for his Hollowfication; it was also essential for "recruiting" Ichigo Kurosaki in the future. How could he let it be destroyed here?
So, when Haruki followed Ukitake to Mount Koiwa, he sensed White's malevolent spiritual pressure even before getting close.
White had grown significantly stronger. Its spiritual pressure was far more powerful than when it had first transformed.
Haruki glanced subtly at Kaien.
He…
couldn't win.
White now likely possessed captain-level combat strength. Kaien, though talented, wasn't yet at that level.
Haruki wasn't sure if Ukitake knew this, but he still allowed Kaien to fight alone.
The three of them stood on a cliff, watching as Kaien jumped down and confronted White.
At that moment, Haruki looked up at the sky.
The night was pitch black.
A crescent moon hung in the sky, struggling to emit even a faint light.
Beyond that, there was nothing.
Haruki narrowed his eyes, spotting three glowing soul abilities beneath the moon.
'Ascension'
'Viper'
'Spirit of Vengeance'
The first two were obviously Aizen and Gin's abilities, while the third belonged to Tōsen.
Haruki hadn't paid much attention to this ability before because it was almost useless to him.
'Spirit of Vengeance: When activated, summons a highly aggressive "Spirit of Vengeance" that attacks the target you harbor intense hatred toward.'
This ability…
wasn't bad.
But the only problem was that Haruki had no enemies.
He had none in the past, none now, and likely none in the future.
Enemies weren't the same as foes. If the ability could be used against foes, it would be quite useful.
But if it was limited to enemies, its utility was too narrow.
Haruki…
had no enemies.
In his heart, there was no hatred.
As if noticing his gaze, Haruki sensed that one of the three had glanced at him.
These three…
really had too much time on their hands.
In the original story, it made sense for Shiba Isshin, a captain, to deal with White. After all, he was a captain, and observing the data from White's battle with a captain was necessary.
But Kaien was just a vice-captain. Was it really worth the effort for all three of them to come and watch?
What a joke.
Haruki expressionlessly looked down.
"Roar!"
White had already spotted Kaien. Of course, it didn't know about Kaien's hatred for it, but as a Shinigami, Kaien was its prey.
"It really is a strange Hollow…"
Kaien voiced the confusion he and Ukitake shared.
Compared to other Hollows, White was indeed bizarre.
Its black shell, filled Hollow hole, and humanoid appearance all screamed abnormality.
"But no matter what, I…"
Kaien's angry face showed a hint of seriousness as he muttered, "Reverse the flow, Nejibana!"
He had already judged that his opponent was a formidable enemy and immediately released his Shikai.
His Zanpakutō transformed into a trident-shaped, deep blue spear. But at the same time, White appeared right in front of him.
So fast!
Kaien's pupils dilated. He had just released his Zanpakutō, and White was already attacking him?!
He quickly raised his spear to block, but White was not only fast but also incredibly strong.
With a single strike, Kaien was forced to retreat, but White relentlessly pursued him, quickly pushing him into a corner!
"Captain!"
Rukia exclaimed, "This is bad! Vice-Captain Kaien is no match for him. We have to—"
She didn't finish her sentence because she saw the look on Ukitake's face.
His eyes were filled with concern, and his body tensed with the urge to rescue his subordinate. But he suppressed that urge.
He didn't move!
"This is… Vice-Captain Kaien's battle for honor," Haruki said softly. "If we interfere, where will his honor stand?"
"But if we do nothing… Vice-Captain Kaien will…"
"Die," Haruki whispered.
"Rukia, remember this."
"Not everyone fears death. For some, honor outweighs death."
"I… don't necessarily agree with that view, but I respect those who hold it. You should too."
"If you truly respect your vice-captain, don't move."
"Rukia, you should go back," Ukitake said gently. "What's about to happen here isn't suitable for someone as young as you."
"I…" Rukia was stunned. She hadn't expected Haruki and Ukitake to say such things, but she quickly replied, "No! I won't be a burden!"
Haruki ignored her and focused on observing the battle between the Shinigami and the Hollow below.
Shiba Kaien, truly a genius regarded by Ukitake as his successor. Though still a vice-captain, he likely already possessed captain-level strength.
Even though he was at a disadvantage now, it wasn't accurate to say he was completely outmatched.
Perhaps Kaien could still pull off a miracle…
White was created too recently. If it had more time to grow, it would definitely become even stronger; I can't even imagine its upper limit.
He glanced at Ukitake and saw that his face was grim.
Setting aside the fact that it was his subordinate currently fighting White, the appearance of such a powerful Hollow in the Soul Society alone was enough to command the full attention of the Gotei 13.
Which meant he had to think of a way to draw Jūshirō Ukitake away.
Haruki shot Ukitake a subtle look.
With him around, whatever I do will be difficult. I'm not even sure I can fool him.
Despite how he's always depicted as a gentle, sickly character in the manga, this guy has been a captain for a hundred years. Although he doesn't always look impressive, he's on the same level as Kyōraku Shunsui, so there's no way he's weak.
It's just that his body will eventually fail him.
Haruki narrowed his eyes. Ukitake's biggest issue is his poor health. Usually it's manageable, but if he gets sick in the middle of a fight, it could be fatal.
If that happens, forget White—he wouldn't even be able to beat Metastacia.
So as soon as he has an attack, I can make my move.
Haruki looked at White. He could only hope it would understand his intentions.
After all, White had been completed using a fragment of Haruki's soul, so it naturally had some connection to him. That also explained its innate favorable impression of him. Without Haruki doing a thing, White already had a favorability of 60 toward him.
Haruki likewise felt a faint sense of that bond. Right now, he tried to convey his intentions to White.
White had already overwhelmed Kaien Shiba; it likely wouldn't be long before it finished him off.
But at that moment, in response to Haruki's strong will, White suddenly turned its gaze in Haruki's direction.
Haruki breathed a sigh of relief. That meant White could sense his intentions.
Attack Jūshirō Ukitake,
Attack this captain in the haori next to me!
Once more, Haruki sent that message mentally, and indeed, White indicated it was about to strike.
"Be careful!"
Ukitake, sensing the killing intent, placed his hand on his Zanpakutō. If White attacked, he would counter immediately.
In the blink of an eye, White abandoned Kaien Shiba and charged straight at—
Rukia Kuchiki!
The sudden change astonished Kaien, who had been fighting it, as well as Ukitake, who was already on guard. Even Haruki—who was trying to direct White—and Aizen, who was watching from the shadows, were caught off-guard.
The only one who wasn't shocked was Rukia, the target of its attack, because she hadn't even realized what was happening!
Haruki hurriedly swung his blade to intercept. Ukitake had also stepped in front of Rukia, but White simply circled around him and continued its attack on Rukia!
It wasn't until White was right in front of her that Rukia finally reacted. She stared in horror at the black figure, whose arms were like blades about to slice off her head.
This is bad!
Just in time, Haruki's blade managed to block White's attack. The immense force slammed Haruki's sword against Rukia, sending her flying backward.
"Damn it!"
Haruki growled, and Ukitake was already rushing over.
Seeing that it couldn't continue after Rukia, White turned to clash with Ukitake instead.
"Captain!"
Down below, Kaien was frantic. From his vantage point, he couldn't see how Rukia was faring. Though he could still sense her spiritual pressure, it was very faint.
He tried to leap up but, still badly wounded, he clutched his abdomen and sank to one knee.
"Capt…ain… Rukia…"
He panted, calling out to them.
Haruki seized the moment to hurry over to Rukia's side, grabbed her, and used Shunpo to bring her down to where Kaien was.
"Hold on, I'll heal both of you."
Haruki's face was solemn. He never expected White would suddenly lose it and lunge at Rukia so recklessly. Given Rukia's level of skill, even a glancing blow from White would be crippling or fatal.
His own healing wasn't especially advanced, but that didn't matter. Recently, he had raised Hanatarō Yamada's favorability toward him above 60, so he had a one-time use of "Healing Wave."
Rukia was in bad shape. Even though Haruki had managed to soften the impact, she was still seriously hurt, breathing with difficulty—just like Kaien.
"Lie down, both of you."
Haruki's tone was firm.
Kaien wanted to get up and help Ukitake, so Haruki simply pushed him back down.
In the next second, a green light glowed in Haruki's palm—just a basic healing Kidō. Immediately after, he activated "Healing Wave!"
A golden light spread from his palm, flowed into Rukia's soul, then transferred from her soul to Kaien's, cycling repeatedly between the two. Their injuries rapidly mended.
Kaien, surprised, said, "I didn't know your healing skills were this good!"
He had intended to help Ukitake because he assumed Haruki's healing wouldn't do much.
In his mind, Haruki was a new graduate from the Shin'ō Academy who'd only become a lieutenant under special circumstances. If his spiritual pressure was already high, that was impressive enough—no one imagined he would also excel in healing.
Yet now, Haruki had shown extraordinary Kaidō expertise, practically healing both of them in mere moments.
"Go help Captain Ukitake."
Haruki's expression was serious. "Fight for your wife, your subordinates, and your captain."
Kaien froze for a second, then gave a firm nod.
"Absolutely!"
With that, he launched himself upward in a burst of Shunpo.
In that moment, Kaien's favorability toward Haruki broke past 60, reaching 69. This granted Haruki a one-time use of the "Resemblance" ability.
Moreover, given Kaien's personality, raising his favorability to 80 would now be within easy reach.