Chapter 157

Ah...

Aragaki just silently looked at Rokushiro Kenji in front of him...

Aragaki gazed at Rokushiro Kenji's hairstyle, which resembled that of a small-time gangster on the street of Wandering Souls Street, and the aura and appearance typical of a gangster in early TVB dramas, and after a long while, he sighed helplessly.

Indeed, no matter from which angle you look at this kid Rokushiro Kenji, he's clearly a good-for-nothing ah~

In early Hong Kong films, he's just the type that looks fierce but actually has little combat power; his whole fighting style is just a contrast between appearance and reality, a minor villain that the protagonist can KO with three punches and two kicks...

However, Aragaki's sigh was unintentional, but it was listened to attentively.

"What? Teacher Aragaki actually sighed just now?" Shitan, who had been keeping an eye on Aragaki's expression, felt his pupils twitch slightly upon hearing Aragaki's sigh, and he thought to himself, "Uh-oh, does Teacher Aragaki also disapprove of Rokushiro Kenji's ability? But the Soul Society is currently extraordinarily peaceful, with no external enemies; Rokushiro Kenji's ability is insufficient for a military post, but more than enough for a clerical position. Could it be that something else about me is troubling Teacher Aragaki? I see, has Teacher Aragaki already seen through my plan? Truly, he lives up to his reputation as Teacher Aragaki..."

"Yes, Shitan, who nominated Rokushiro Kenji, naturally knows his capabilities..."

"Captain-Commander Aragaki, you actually sighed just now?"

"Did I offend Captain-Commander Aragaki in some way? Or did I do something wrong to cause his dissatisfaction? Damn, I just can't figure it out!"

Rokushiro Kenji's face changed dramatically, and his heart trembled with fear due to Aragaki's sigh.

Yes, it was just that Huangmu's unintentional light sigh frightened Gangmidai, Shitan, and Liuche Quanxi so much that their faces kept changing; this is Huangmu's position in the minds of Quanxi and Shitan...

As the saying goes, serving a lord is like serving a tiger; Huangmu is the uncrowned king of this 'Soul Society', this 'Tranquil Spirit Court'; in the current era when the Soul King has gone into hiding, saying Huangmu is the regent of the Soul Society is no problem.

But poor Shitan and Quanxi, no matter how they thought, could not figure out where they had offended Huangmu, causing him to be so dejected; for a moment, both Shitan and Quanxi were at a loss.

Perhaps Shitan and Quanxi themselves don't even know that Huangmu's sigh is not because they did something wrong, but because Huangmu, after Quanxi became captain of the Guardian Thirteen Squads, feels a bit of worry and sorrow about the future safety and combat strength of the Soul Society; that's all.

Come on, kid! I'm very optimistic about you; don't let me down.

Just when Quanxi and Shitan didn't know what to do, Huangmu suddenly walked up to Quanxi, and in front of Shitan, lightly patted Quanxi's shoulder to show his approval of Quanxi.

Huh?! I, I understand!

I will absolutely not let Captain-Commander Huangmu and Captain Shitan feel disappointed in me!

Liuche Quanxi said, bowing deeply to Huangmu and to Shitan, who had promoted him to captain.

Hmm, then you go on ahead! Prepare well for your captain's examination, and try to pass it in one try.

After hearing Liuche Quanxi's words, Huangmu lightly nodded and said.

Yes, sir.

Upon hearing that, Liuche Quanxi immediately straightened his chest and walked out of the office of the First Division. After receiving Huangmu's praise, he suddenly felt confident, swearing to create a fair and just Ninth Division that would put everyone at ease, for Captain-Commander Huangmu and all the people of the Soul Society.

Hehe, this kid Quanxi is just too honest and impulsive in character, but I think he will someday become a qualified captain of the Guardian Thirteen Squads.

Shitan watched Quanxi really leave and gave a light smile. In fact, he appreciated this trait of Quanxi, which is why he recommended Quanxi as captain of the Guardian Thirteen Squads, after all Quanxi's personality is really easy for others to manipulate.

Growth?

After hearing Shitan's words, Huangmu muttered to himself. If it weren't for Huangmu's clear knowledge of what kind of person Quanxi would become in the future, he would probably really believe what Shitan said.

It's hard to imagine that, after fighting Lanran in the Blood War arc, according to the timeline, Quanxi should already be called a 'century captain' and possess Hollowfication abilities, yet after saying "I won't waste your time," he was truly defeated without wasting anyone's time.

Sigh...

Thinking of this, Huangmu sighed again.

Forget it, anyway the position of Captain-Commander of the Guardian Thirteen Squads will always be passed to Lanran Zongyoujie...

And when Lanran successfully becomes Captain-Commander, he will naturally, just as he did before, establish his own private faction within the Thirteen Squads, and then the issue of the strength of the Guardian Thirteen Squads' captains will naturally be his concern.

Anyway, as long as Huangmu is in office, the strength of the Guardian Thirteen Squads' captains is worthy of everyone's peace of mind in the Soul Society! As for those who gallop about the Tranquil Spirit Court and are considered relatively strong captains among the Guardian Thirteen Squads, choosing to move from the light to the dark, Huangmu does not advocate it, but he will absolutely oppose it.

After all, in Huangmu's view, having these strong combat forces move from light to dark also has its benefits—for example, when, over a hundred years later, a certain Quincy king fully awakens, comes and recovers his power, leads the Quincy army, and launches his second invasion of the Soul Society, Huangmu could suddenly have these old six emerge collectively from the shadows, and then, under the astonished gaze of the Quincy, give them another yin strike, which wouldn't be bad~

Alright, you also get out!

Thinking this, Huangmu's mood seemed to improve a bit; he lightly nodded at Shitan and the others before him, indicating they could leave.

Well, Teacher Huangmu, since you're busy, I'll be going first...

Shitan knew he had taken up too much of Teacher Huangmu's time, and Huangmu was already beginning to grow annoyed with him; thus, the perceptive Shitan first bowed slightly to Huangmu, then headed straight for the door of the First Division's office, about to leave Huangmu's office.

Huh?!

However, just as Shitan's hand was about to touch the door of the First Division's office, he seemed to recall something important, turned around, and said to Huangmu, "Hehe, Teacher Huangmu, I suddenly remembered I have something I must tell you: for the convenience of apprehending those troublesome Fullbringers in the Human World,"

I mean, to conveniently invite those Fullbringers respectfully and politely as guests to our Soul Society, I might use the World-Passing Gate to go to the Human World...

Of course, I will definitely use our Gangmidai family's own World-Passing Gate to go to the Human World, so no records will be left in the Thirteen Squads; therefore, Teacher Huangmu, you can rest assured on this point~

Shitan corrected his earlier misspoken words, patiently looking at Huangmu as he explained.

Got it, scram! Upon hearing this, Huangmu first showed disdain by waving his hand at Shitan, then added, "Oh, right! Remember not to make a big fuss. I don't want, at my age, to have to clean up the messes my disciples make."

Hehe, regarding this, please put your mind at ease, Teacher Huangmu; I have my own discretion~

Upon hearing this, Shitan gave Huangmu a light smile, then turned and left.

It's precisely because your sense of discretion differs fundamentally from that of ordinary people that I really can't rest easy about you, which is why I'm warning you, you inferior disciple!

Huangmu watched the departing Shitan and sighed again. Unbeknownst to him, those brats from back then have all grown up; whether it's Shitan or Lanran, they have now reached an age where they possess some strength and are most prone to causing trouble.

Rest assured~

As Huangmu's words fell, a shout from Shitan came from outside the office of the First Division.

Well then, what's next...

Huangmu helplessly shook his head at the office door.

After Huangmu saw Shitan off, the rest of the time was his personal time; usually no one would come to the First Division to disturb him, so Huangmu decided to return to the rear hall of the office and have a good time with Maozhālie.

However, just as Huangmu's front foot had just reached the rear hall of the office, the office door suddenly began to ring with an irregular knocking, making a 'Duang~Duang~' sound. This forced Huangmu, who had lifted his foot to enter the rear hall, to put it down again and turn back toward his position.

Captain-Commander Huangmu, pardon my intrusion! I am Suifeng, captain of the Third Division.

Exactly at the moment Huangmu looked toward the door that was making the knocking sound, Suifeng's voice rang out from outside the door.

Is that Suifeng? Come in!

Upon learning that the visitor was Suifeng, Huangmu let out a helpless sigh and then spoke softly to Suifeng, who was standing outside the office door.

Thank you, Captain-Commander, for your permission!

The Sui Feng standing outside the gate, upon hearing Huangmu's words, immediately pushed open the gate before her.

Click—

Accompanied by the slow opening of the gate to the First Division captain's chamber……

Coming toward Huangmu were two people: first, a woman who looked about twenty-six or twenty-seven, exuding mature charm while also having a slender, sexy figure; according to Huangmu's time, this woman had top-tier loli quality, and closely following behind her was a man with artistically vibed golden long hair, his eyes hesitating, unsure where to look.

Those arriving were naturally Sui Feng and her little lackey, who was also her vice-captain……

Hehe……

Huangmu seeing this scene before him, roughly figured out why Sui Feng had come.

Huangmu could only say now, the captains of this masked force really either none come, or when they come they all come together, sticking together wherever they go; no wonder Lanran kicked you all out……

Little Sui Feng, you wouldn't also be here to submit a leave-of-absence application, would you?

Huangmu looked at the charming, no longer youthful, increasingly radiant Little Sui Feng before him and asked aloud.

Haha, truly worthy of Captain Huangmu! You so easily guessed my thoughts~

Upon hearing that, Sui Feng first exaggeratedly praised Huangmu. After years of training, she had become much smoother than before; at least when facing Captain Huangmu, she no longer gave him indifferent answers as before, but instead knew to pick pleasant words to say to him, making him feel pleased.

Hehe, Sui Feng, you've grown……

So tell me, what exactly are you looking for me this time for?

Huangmu first exaggeratedly praised Sui Feng, then asked aloud.

Captain Huangmu, did you see that blond little brat behind me? In fact, that blond brat already successfully obtained his own complete release a few days ago……

Sui Feng pointed to the man behind her with a head of golden long hair and eyes flashing with a bit of hesitation, and introduced him to Huangmu.

Complete release?

Huangmu murmured to himself upon hearing that.

Captain Huangmu, according to what we discussed earlier, as long as I train a captain-level Shinigami for the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, you will transfer me back to the Second Division, right?!

Upon hearing Huangmu's words, Sui Feng merely gave a light smile; yes, she too had come to submit a leave-of-absence application.

No, to be precise, Sui Feng did not come to Huangmu to submit a leave-of-absence application, but to submit a transfer application; she hopes Huangmu can transfer her back to the Second Division so she can be beside Yeyi of the Four Maple Institute again.

It seems there really is such a matter……

Huangmu hesitated after hearing Sui Feng's words and spoke.

What do you mean 'it seems'? This is clearly a fact, alright?!

Sui Feng was quite dissatisfied with Huangmu's attitude.

Haha, then let's do as you say~

Huangmu looked at Sui Feng's anxious appearance, gave a light laugh, and considered it agreement to her request.

Hmph~

Upon hearing that, Sui Feng's previously furrowed brows finally relaxed slightly.

By the way, Captain Huangmu, let me properly introduce this little brat behind me! This blond-haired, dead-fish-eyed little brat is named Fengqiaolou Shilang, a complete genius……

Although after graduating from the Spiritual Arts Academy for three hundred years, his spiritual pressure has already reached the standard of a captain of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, and in recent days, under my supervision, he has successfully obtained the complete release of his Soul-Cutter Sword……

It can be said that Fengqiaolou Shilang has undoubtedly reached the level of a captain of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, and is fully capable of taking my place to become the new captain of the Third Division~

Sui Feng introduced to Huangmu the motionless Fengqiaolou Shilang standing behind her.

Hehe, a genius?!

Upon hearing that, Huangmu gave Fengqiaolou Shilang a deep look.

To be honest, Fengqiaolou Shilang's strength is somewhat better than Liuche Quanxi's, but the improvement is quite limited, especially since Fengqiaolou Shilang also has a 'JB' mouth that likes to explain abilities to others.

Although Jingle also likes to explain abilities, he does so only after his ability takes effect and after using it, whereas Fengqiaolou is more rebellious; whether he can win or not is utterly unimportant to him……

Anyway, you must pop champagne at halftime! This guy especially loves to hold an absolute advantage, and when he sees he's about to win, he teases the opponent while spilling his own ability's weaknesses, pure and simple a big parachute trooper.

Heh, even Niejuanli uses his own ability better than Fengqiaolou Shilang……

In a sense, Fengqiaolou is indeed a rare genius in the Soul Society~

Sigh……

I understand; then in the coming days, let's arrange his captain's examination~

By the way, let's also hold the captain's examination for the newly appointed Ninth Division captain, Liuche Quanxi, together……

Huangmu lightly nodded after hearing Sui Feng's words.

Thank you, Captain Huangmu!

Upon hearing Huangmu's words, Sui Feng immediately excitedly bowed to him.

After she straightened up, she still didn't forget to remind Fengqiaolou Shilang behind her: 'Fengqiaolou Shilang, why are you just standing here? Are you waiting for someone to invite you?! Hurry up and thank Captain Huangmu!'

Thank Captain Huangmu!

Fengqiaolou Shilang only bowed and thanked Huangmu after hearing Sui Feng's reminder.

Hn……

Huangmu merely gave a slight nod upon hearing Fengqiaolou Shilang's thanks, and said nothing.

Huangmu really didn't want to talk more with Fengqiaolou Shilang, whose mouth seemed blessed; it was just bad luck……

Well then, goodbye, Captain Huangmu~

Satisfied, Sui Feng waved goodbye to Huangmu, then took the absent-minded Fengqiaolou Shilang and left the captain's chamber gate on her own.

Hah……

Now at last no one will disturb me, right?

Huangmu said, turning around once more and heading toward the rear hall of the captain's chamber.

Thump thump thump……

However, just as Huangmu once again arrived at the rear hall of the captain's chamber, the gate of his captain's chamber was knocked on again.

What the hell?!

Araki furrowed his brows tightly, feeling as if he were being targeted.

Captain-Commander Araki, it's me, I'm Jakubu Jiro!

Yes, the one who came to see Araki this time is Jakubu Jiro.

Honestly, Jakubu himself was a bit surprised; he actually encountered the 9th Division Captain Gangmida Shitan on his way to the 1st Division, and then ran into the 3rd Division Captain Sui Feng at the gate of the 1st Division barracks, making him think something big had happened in Soul Society, which is why Araki called a captains' meeting~

Only after Jakubu asked did he find out that the reason the 9th Division Captain Gangmida Shitan and the 3rd Division Captain Sui Feng came was to handle transfer procedures and to nominate a new division captain.

Oh! So it's Jakubu~

Since it's Jakubu, it doesn't matter; the business hours of the 1st Division Captain's office have ended today, so come back tomorrow if you have anything... just like that...

Upon hearing that, Araki realized the person who came to see him this time was actually Jakubu Jiro, and he immediately gave an indifferent smile, casually tossing Jakubu outside the gate as he himself walked toward the rear hall of the captain's office.

Hahaha, Araki, you're really humorous, even giving your own division a business hour thing...

Outside the captain's office, Jakubu felt amused upon hearing Araki's words, thinking Araki was joking with him, so Jakubu looked at the gate of the 1st Division Captain's office and laughed lightheartedly.

Until Jakubu had stood outside the gate for a full fifteen minutes did he realize something was off.

Huh? Really or fake...

Could it be that you weren't just joking with me earlier? Are you really planning to just leave me outside like this?

Jakubu's face changed in shock at that moment; he looked at the captain's office gate ahead, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead.

Araki! Araki bro, Araki Captain-Commander!

Araki Captain-Commander, it's not me who's looking for you, it's Lord Genryusai who's looking for you!

Jakubu stood anxiously outside the gate at this moment, shouting repeatedly.

In an instant, Jakubu's behavior attracted the onlooking of countless 1st Division soldiers.

Jakubu senior, what are you doing standing in front of Captain Araki's captain's office gate?!

Yeah, Jakubu senior! You're not going into Captain Araki's captain's office; is it because you don't want to go in?

Jakubu senior, what are you planning to do by looking for Captain Araki? Who wants to hear that~

Those 1st Division soldiers, who were old oilies that had lived hundreds of years in Seireitei, each looked at Jakubu's anxious appearance and chuckled.

I...

After hearing those 1st Division soldiers' words, Jakubu revealed a gentleman's smile, and in his heart he gave everyone before him a big middle finger, despising this bunch of damned bastards!

At the same time, the rear hall of the 1st Division Captain's office...

Araki, Jakubu seems to be looking for you with an urgent matter; shouldn't you go out and ask to make sure there's no problem?

Unohana Retsu, facing Araki who was surrounding her, spoke up to ask.

Nothing! No matter what, nothing is more important than what I'm doing right now...

Araki said, gradually entering the state.

That's true~

At this moment, Unohana Retsu's eyes were like silk, stirring endless temptation in people's hearts.

Hehe~

Seeing this, Araki naturally felt deep affection and swung his Zanpakuto with even greater vigor.

The next day...

When Araki finished his count, he pushed open the captain's office door feeling refreshed, and saw a 'corpse' that had been dead for a long time.

After Araki's brief silence, he prepared to close the captain's office door; he had no other flaws, only that his heart was too kind, unable to bear such miserable sights, so he'd rather not look...

Araki!!

However, just as Araki was about to close the captain's office door, the corpse lying on the ground suddenly moved, using its rotting body to shout a hoarse voice, and pressed its hand against the door Araki was about to close.

Pfft~

Ah!!

Accompanied by Araki's forceful door-closing sound, a miserable and piercing wail suddenly rang out like an alarm at the gate of the 1st Division Captain's office, echoing continuously down the hallway leading to the captain's office, distant and prolonged.

Twenty minutes later...

Inside the 1st Division Captain's office, Araki and that corpse sat face to face on the sofa.

Please have some tea~

Unohana Retsu's cheeks growing ever more flushed, she placed the tea on the table before Araki and the corpse.

Thank you!

Upon hearing that, the corpse immediately bowed its head respectfully toward Unohana Retsu.

Hehe, you two chat~

Upon hearing that, Unohana Retsu merely gave a light smile, her smile like sunlight breaking through gloom, making all beauties flourish~

After Unohana Retsu gave Araki and the still-living corpse a light smile, she rose and left on her own, having no interest in Araki's forthcoming conversation.

Slurp~

Phew! Finally came back to life...

The corpse sitting opposite Araki, after Unohana Retsu left, picked up the tea on the table and drank it in one gulp.

The warm tea nourished the corpse's five viscera and six bowels, giving his face a bit more vitality...

If one were to carefully examine this corpse at this moment, they would discover an astonishing fact, namely...

Eh, isn't this Jakubu Jiro?!

Jakubu, how did you end up like this?!

Before Jakubu could speak, Araki stepped forward and asked him.

How dare you say that? If it weren't for you, you wouldn't have frozen outside your captain's quarters all night yesterday—how could your complexion possibly be this bad?!

Quebu heard Araki's words, his eyelid twitched slightly, and he spoke coldly.

Huh? Did you stand outside my door all night yesterday? What incredible perseverance!

Speaking of which, since you came to see me about something yesterday, why didn't you just come straight to my captain's quarters to find me?

You didn't come in to see me because you didn't want to see me yesterday, right?

Araki looked at Quebu and asked.

Huh? Captain Araki, are you suffering from amnesia?

Look at what you just said—does that even make sense?!

Upon hearing Araki's words, Quebu felt like his lungs were about to explode from anger.

Haha, just joking...

Anyway, what exactly did you come to see me about this time?!

Araki chuckled lightly, then asked Quebu.

It's not me looking for you; it's Master Yuan Liuzhai who wants to see you...

Anyway, this story is long; I have to start from the beginning...

Quebu said this, then suddenly slipped into a recollection, as if he intended to explain to Araki in detail why Master Yuan Liuzhai was looking for him.

Since this story is long, just don't say it—let's go straight to Master Yuan Liuzhai.

Araki interrupted Quebu's chant and spoke lightly.

Huh?!

Upon hearing Araki's words, Quebu's eyelid twitched slightly. He had spent several hours last night preparing a manuscript while standing outside the First Division captain's quarters, and now Araki wasn't even going to let him read it?!

I...

Before Quebu could finish, Araki had already grabbed his shoulder...

Indeed, Araki had no intention of giving Quebu a chance to speak; the moment he grabbed Quebu's shoulder, he used Instant Step, arriving outside the First Division barracks in a single flash.

Fine, I won't say it!

Seeing this, Quebu also forced back the words he had prepared.

Master Yuan Liuzhai actually wants my help—how unusual~

Araki said this while using Instant Step once again.

Quebu merely blinked, and he and Araki arrived at the True Central Spiritual Arts Institute where Master Yuan Liuzhai resides.

So fast! So far...

After witnessing Araki's speed, Quebu's pupils contracted slightly.

Yo, Master Yuan Liuzhai, what do you need me for~

By the time Quebu came to his senses again, he and Araki were already standing outside the dean's office of the True Central Spiritual Arts Institute.

Araki stood outside the door and shouted at Master Yuan Liuzhai inside.

Come in and speak...

Immediately, Araki heard Master Yuan Liuzhai's voice from inside.

Sure~

Araki said this, then gently pushed open the gate of the Spiritual Arts Institute's dean.

As the door opened, Araki instantly saw Master Yuan Liuzhai standing inside, his hair nearly all gone, his beard beginning to turn gray...

Old Man Shan, you really are getting old this time...

Araki looked at Old Man Shan inside, feeling somewhat moved. Theoretically, after Old Man Shan obtained the power of the Spirit King and his body became the King's Key, he shouldn't age at all...

However, Old Man Shan seems to be deliberately letting his cells age; of course this aging is reversible—if he wishes, he can return to his peak condition at any time.

I suppose, when Youha invades the Soul Society again in the years to come and sees Master Yuan Liuzhai, this great enemy, returning from his frail old age to his former valiant peak right before his eyes, he'll surely be delighted~

Yuan Liuzhai: "I'm just putting on an act; you don't really think I've grown old and my strength is waning, do you? No way! No way!"

Araki thought of this, cleared his mind of random thoughts, then approached Master Yuan Liuzhai and chuckled as he patted his elderly shoulder.

No respect...

Master Yuan Liuzhai habitually retorted to Araki.

Master Yuan Liuzhai, what exactly did you summon me for this time!!

Araki looked at Master Yuan Liuzhai and asked.

Come take a look at this...

Master Yuan Liuzhai said this, then led Araki to the bookshelf in his office. With a light wave of his cane, the mechanism on the bookshelf was instantly triggered, opening a secret door leading behind it...

Heh~

As expected of Master Yuan Liuzhai, just like me, he also built a partition in his own office.

But my partition is where I usually train with Maozhuhua Lie...

Master Yuan Liuzhai building a partition in his study—could it be...

Araki said this, glanced at Quebu beside him, and immediately shuddered with an intense chill.

Huh?!

Feeling Araki's gaze, Quebu's eyebrows rose slightly.

I don't know if it's my imagination, but I always feel Araki is thinking of something extremely rude.

Let's go~

Just then, Master Yuan Liuzhai's voice came from inside the secret room.

Immediately, Master Yuan Liuzhai, Araki, and Quebu hurried into that secret room.

Heehee...

Accompanied by a sound of footsteps, the three quickly reached the depths of the secret chamber, where there was an ordinary-looking door.

Yuan Liuzhai and his two companions didn't hesitate; they pushed the door open and entered.

As the gate inside the secret chamber swung open, a beautiful landscape instantly came into view...

Yes, the interior of this secret chamber is far larger than the outside...

Inside there were mountains, water, a waterside pavilion, and Xiang Ting; the scenery was truly breathtaking~ and Yuan Liuzhai himself seemed to have no intention of stopping, he walked to the courtyard at the foot of the mountain and immediately pushed the door open and entered.

"Professor Yuan Liuzhai sure knows how to enjoy himself."

Araki said, following closely behind Yuan Liuzhai.

After Yuan Liuzhai and the two others entered the courtyard, they saw a boy boiling water and cooking, as well as a middle-aged man with blood-red eyes, bound by the "Number Ninety-nine" restraint Dao and suppressed by the Manji seal; the middle-aged man bore some resemblance to the boy who had just finished cooking.

"Shusuke, we're back!"

After entering the courtyard, Yuan Liuzhai first greeted the boy, then asked: "Yuuki, how has he been while I was away?!"

"Director Yuan Liuzhai, you've finally returned…"

"His father still has no sanity whatsoever; no matter who he sees, he keeps shouting 'Kill! Kill! Kill!'…"

"Is there really any hope for his father?!"

The boy named Shusuke, while wiping his tears, asked.

"Don't worry! There will always be a way…"

Yuan Liuzhai said this, then turned to look at Araki behind him.

"That sword."

Araki was also sizing up the middle-aged man, who had been restrained by Yuan Liuzhai's binding Dao here, as if he had completely lost his sanity and become a pure killing machine…

When Araki saw the Zanpakutō in the middle-aged man's hand, his expression froze slightly; he seemed to realize something, and after a brief moment of thought, he fully understood what had happened here.

If Araki hadn't guessed, the knife the middle-aged man holds would be the demon sword forged by the Kasumi Ōji family, possessing its own consciousness to manipulate the user into slaughter—the Bakuya Blade.

"I see, this middle-aged man before us is likely the spy the old man sent to investigate the Kasumi Ōji family…"

"Speaking of which, I recall that in the Kasumi Ōji family arc, it was mentioned that the spy the old man sent seemed to be controlled by the Bakuya Blade, and in the end he was personally slain by the old man during their battle, which planted a foreshadowing for later events; but if that's the case, then this boy named Shusuke would be the big boss Amako Shusuke from the 'Original' arc? Hehe, interesting…"

Araki recalled the information he had about the Bakuya Blade and the Kasumi Ōji family, muttering to himself.

"Hey kid, what's your name?"

Thinking that, Araki looked at the boy named Shusuke.

"My name is Horiuchi Shusuke!"

The boy, upon hearing that, answered Araki.

"You don't have the surname Amako?"

Araki, hearing that, asked in a flat tone.

"Amako is my mother's surname."

Horiuchi Shusuke, after hearing Araki's words, explained.

"I see, in the original story he probably hid his surname for fear of the old man discovering and exterminating his lineage, but he wasn't thorough enough~"

Araki realized that in the original story, the old man almost instantly recognized the other's identity upon seeing the Amako surname.

So sometimes, if you're planning to endure to the bitter end, you might as well get plastic surgery first~

"Or maybe Amako is still listening."

Araki said casually.

"Then I'll just be called Amako Shusuke…"

"As long as you can save my father, I don't care what surname I have."

Amako wasn't stupid; when Araki was 'invited' by Yuan Liuzhai, he already knew that this man before him might be the one who came to save his father, and perhaps the only one who could.

"Amako sounds pretty nice~"

Araki patted Amako on the head, then turned his gaze to the middle-aged man sealed by the Manji seal.

"…"

As for Yuan Liuzhai, who had been watching Araki ever since he arrived at the courtyard, he remained silent, unable to comprehend why Araki would casually change someone else's child's surname!!

He even let the child take his mother's surname, which isn't really excessive, but Yuan Liuzhai still couldn't understand…

Well, although Yuan Liuzhai didn't understand, he was greatly shocked!

"Could it be…"

Yuan Liuzhai suddenly thought of something, he blinked in surprise; he remembered that Yuuki's wife seemed quite pretty, could it be that Araki has some secret with her mother?!!

"Cough cough…"

Thinking this, Yuan Liuzhai lightly coughed twice, then gave up! After all, continuing to think would become impolite, fortunately he stopped while still being somewhat polite…

"That Araki, is there still hope for Yuuki?"

After ceasing his thoughts, Yuan Liuzhai asked Araki.

"Of course~"

"For others it's definitely impossible, but for me it's not too simple…"

Araki said while drawing the Zanpakutō from his waist.

"I entrust it to you."

Yuan Liuzhai spoke in classical Chinese, nodding at Araki; since Araki said that, there would definitely be no problem.

"Simple~"

Araki said, then swung his Zanpakutō down at the middle-aged man restrained by Yuan Liuzhai before him.

"Swish!"

In an instant, a silver-bright blade light flashed, simultaneously breaking Yuan Liu Zhai's Bankai, and also directly cutting down that middle-aged man, as well as half of his body that had fused with that Tap Yao Blade.

In an instant, endless crimson sprayed toward the sky, then splashed onto the earth, dyeing the courtyards within the manor red.

Father! You killed my father!

Tenbei watched the scene before him, immediately knelt on the ground, and then roared at Aramaki.

Kill? Don't joke, brat, open your eyes wide and watch……

Aramaki, hearing Tenbei's words, was not angry either; the Zanpakutō in his hand instantly shone with a glazed light.

Only to see, as that glazed light shone upon the middle-aged man's body, his lost flesh instantly recovered at a speed visible to the naked eye, and in the blink of an eye returned to its original state.

What is this?!

Tenbei gazed at Aramaki's feat that could be called a miracle of raising the dead, his eyes widened, and this kind of ability that could be said to belong only to true gods left Tenbei's small mind utterly unable to comprehend.

Hey, brat! Do you even understand the worth of the top-ranked recovery-type Zanpakutō of the Three Worlds?!

Aramaki patted Tenbei's little head and asked softly.

The top-ranked recovery-type Zanpakutō of the Three Worlds?!

Eh? You couldn't be Captain-Commander Aramaki, could you? You're joking, right? I must not be dreaming.

That Captain-Commander who handles countless affairs actually personally took action just to save my father?

Upon hearing Aramaki's words, Tenbei was stunned; he never imagined that the legendary Captain-Commander of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, who had only existed in tales and had not appeared in the Thirteen Squads or the Soul Reaper Academy for nearly a century, would actually appear before his eyes.

You've even summoned my master; how could I not take action?

Besides, what do you think I am, brat!

As long as the members of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads are sent to the First Division before their last breath, I will save them~

As you said, I am indeed the Captain-Commander of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads...

Just as the duty of the Thirteen Squads is to protect all the people of Seireitei and Rukongai from harm, protecting the lives of the Thirteen Squads' members is my duty as Captain-Commander~

Aramaki continually educated the young Tenbei Shusuke before him.

Protecting the Thirteen Squads is the Captain-Commander's duty?! So cool……

At this moment, Tenbei's gaze toward Aramaki had completely changed; his eyes were filled with starlight, as if he regarded Aramaki as his idol to worship.

What am I……

At that moment, Yūki, lying on the ground, suddenly opened his eyes; he blankly gazed at the blood-soaked ground and the Tap Yao Blade that had fallen beside him, fused with half of his body, perhaps because his fusion with the Tap Yao Blade was too deep, his memory showed some gaps.

Father……

As Yūki wondered, young Tenbei ran all the way and flung himself into Yūki's embrace.

Shusuke?!

Yūki looked at his son, brows furrowed.

Damn Xiadalu, what's the point of coming after me and targeting my son?!

As for what you want to know, I'll tell you frankly: nothing to report.

The moment Yūki saw Shusuke, anger flared in his chest; he straightened his body and shouted at the surroundings, while instinctively shielding Shusuke behind him.

Heh, looks like you've recovered quite well, Yūki……

As Yūki roared, Yuan Liu Zhai suddenly laughed and spoke.

Yuan Liu Zhai, sir?! How did you come here?

Seeing Yuan Liu Zhai before him, Yūki was first stunned, then quickly dropped to one knee and said respectfully: "Yuan Liu Zhai, sir, your subordinate has already figured out the Xiadalu family's factory for forging the Tap Yao Blade; unfortunately, a moment of carelessness led me into the enemy's trap, and a slight mistake caused me to fall for their scheme—I've embarrassed you, sir."

It's nothing……

Regarding the Xiadalu family, how did your investigation go?

Yuan Liu Zhai listened to Yūki's words, casually shook his head, not really caring about what Yūki said; for now he simply wanted to hear Yūki's investigation results on the Xiadalu family.

Um, the evidence I originally gathered was destroyed by the Xiadalu family; they must have moved their factory by now, and given this situation, gathering more evidence will likely be difficult—it's all my subordinate's fault……

Yūki watched Yuan Liu Zhai lower his head in dejection.

Evidence? This is the evidence.

At that moment, Aramaki looked at the Tap Yao Blade still writhing on the ground and spoke calmly.

But this isn't enough to prove that the Xiadalu family is truly connected to the Tap Yao Blade; if they simply deny it, we'll have no recourse, so we still need to find the factory where they forge the blades……

Yūki said this, then suddenly stopped, because he had clearly seen Aramaki's appearance.

You, you are… Aramaki, Captain-Commander?!

Yūki looked at Aramaki and spoke stammeringly.

You are Heshan Lao……

You were a former member of the First Division who left together with Teacher He Shanben back then, right?

Aramaki also recognized Yūki's identity; that person was a former First Division member who, after Aramaki defeated Yuan Liu Zhai and completely took over the First Division, went together with Yuan Liu Zhai to teach at the Soul Reaper Academy.

It can be said that the Soul Reaper Academy's current formidable teaching staff is precisely because there is an entire group of elite former First Division members conducting teaching work there~

Yes, yes! Exactly so……

Upon hearing that, Yūki immediately dropped to one knee toward Aramaki and lowered his head.

Remember, the First Division used to need evidence to make arrests, but the First Division I lead never needs any evidence~ Aramaki said, glancing at Quebu Changjiro beside him, and spoke softly: "Quebu Changjiro, please go to the Xiadalu family and tell their head……

Just say, Captain-Commander Aramaki, demanding that within one week they hand over the method of manufacturing the Tap Yao Blade and destroy all Tap Yao Blades their family has produced, and also hand over all the masterminds behind the Yūki squad members! After hearing this, the Thirteen Court Guard Squads will mete out punishment; I believe that when their head hears my name, they will know exactly what to do~

Understood~

Quebu nodded lightly after hearing Aramaki's words.

Immediately, he used a flash step and headed toward the Xiadalu family.

Alright, the matter is now neatly resolved~

After Quebu left, Aramaki smiled at Yuan Liu Zhai and He Cheng.

"Is this over?"

Jiecheng looked at Huangmu, asking puzzledly.

"It's over."

Huangmu nodded upon hearing that.

"What if, after a week, they neither hand over the goods nor the person?"

Xiuzhu asked this.

"Hehe, then I'll have to visit them in person..."

"I think although there are many nobles in the Corpse Soul Realm, not many would hope I visit them in person."

After hearing Xiuzhu's words, Huangmu gently rubbed the other's head, then gave a faint smile.

"Everyone in the Corpse Soul Realm knows that if one day Huangmu personally visits someone, it's either to demand money or to demand their life—nothing good will ever come of it~"

"A ten-thousand-word big chapter, twelve thousand!"