Chapter 218: Huangmu: Blue Dye! The Captain of the Thirteenth Guard of the Protective Court

Huangmu! Meet your doom!

Youhabahé stood in the sky and roared at Huangmu.

Divine Evade!

Huangmu was too lazy to waste words with Youhabahé.

We're already about to fight with real guns and ammo; who still has time for harsh words?!

If you have time for harsh words, you'd better swing a few more cuts instead!

Boom!

As Huangmu swung his Soul‑Cutting Blade.

A black crescent instantly slashed the sky, charging straight at Youhabahé.

Leave it to me!

Since entering the Pure Spirit Court, Youhabahé's top four bodyguards' leader Li Jie·Ba Luo had been on the losing end; when he saw Huangmu's slash, he hesitated not, immediately activated his Sacred Script ability, vowing to pierce Huangmu's strike!

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh...

Li Jie·Ba Luo kept pulling the trigger, firing meteoric bullets one after another from his barrel; the bullets formed a shield in front of Youhabahé and shot toward Huangmu's slash!

It must be said, Li Jie·Ba Luo truly lives up to his title in the Star Cross Knights as the first person granted blood and power by Youhabahé, and also deserves the nickname "the man most loyal to Youhabahé, closest to a god" within the Star Cross Knights!

Unfortunately, no matter how close Li Jie·Ba Luo is to a god, he is still not a god!

And Huangmu's slash, even if a true god appears, must still temporarily evade its edge!

Boom!!

The moment Li Jie·Ba Luo's all‑penetrating bullets met Huangmu's slash, Huangmu's Sacred Script Ability A (Irresistible Force) activated, instantly destroying Li Jie·Ba Luo's bullets and continuing toward Youhabahé!

What?!

Li Jie·Ba Luo's pupils jolted; it was the first time since gaining the all‑penetrating ability that he was directly countered!

Huangmu's blade not only severed Li Jie·Ba Luo's all‑penetrating power, but also cut his confidence and pride!

Boom!

Before Li Jie·Ba Luo could think further, Huangmu's slash landed on him; a mere glance at Li Jie·Ba Luo caused the divine wings behind him, revealed by his Perfect Saint Body, to shatter into countless fragments!

But it wasn't over! Huangmu's slash didn't stop after crushing Li Jie·Ba Luo; it kept propelling the stunned Li Jie·Ba Luo, slamming him hard into the sky‑borne, boastful Youhabahé!

Boom!

With a muffled boom from the sky!

Everyone present changed expression!

Your Majesty!

Hasuwode and the other bodyguard members, aside from Li Jie·Ba Luo, anxiously stared at the sky! As for the other Annihilation Masters, though their eyes showed shock and tension, they mostly felt anticipation, seeming to expect Youhabahé to fall under Huangmu's slash!

Huangmu! Is this your ability?

After the dust cleared, Youhabahé, his body visibly wounded, his entire arm covered in scars and blood, appeared cold‑faced before everyone present.

He calmly caught Li Jie·Ba Luo, who had been hurled toward him by Huangmu's slash, and took Huangmu's strike head‑on.

Next? Not bad, Youhabahé!

Huangmu looked at the Youhabahé who had taken his charged strike and laughed aloud.

It's not quite a complete take yet...

I have to admit, that slash just now actually wounded me!

Youhabahé stared coldly at Huangmu and said in a deep voice.

But it's useless!

Youhabahé said, and with his unblemished hand he gently pressed the wounded spot, then in a low voice declared: "I grant myself the power of healing!"

As Youhabahé's words faded...

Youhabahé's injuries vanished instantly!

Huangmu, did you see that?

The damage you inflicted on me is negligible!

After restoring his wounds, Youhabahé coldly said to Huangmu.

Oh~

Huangmu heard that, raised an eyebrow casually, said nothing more to Youhabahé, and just watched quietly as Youhabahé pretended to be impressive in the sky.

Next! It's time you see my own slash!

I hope you can take this sword without a single hair of injury!

Youhabahé said, first tossing the unconscious Li Jie·Ba Luo in his hand to the nearby Yu Gelan·Hasuwode, then drawing the knight's sword at his waist and assuming a slashing stance! Clearly, Youhabahé intended to return the favor in kind.

In Youhabahé's view, nothing is more gratifying than defeating Huangmu using Huangmu's own method.

However, just as Youhabahé prepared to strike...

Behind Youhabahé, countless shadows suddenly writhed!

At the same moment, black shadows swarmed around every Annihilation Master!

Hm?!

Youhabahé looked at the constantly twisting shadows around him, his pupils showing a hint of confusion; he seemed not to understand what was happening.

Your Majesty, our time to operate outside the Shadow Realm has arrived!

At this moment, Hasuwode stepped in front of Youhabahé and whispered.

Impossible! It shouldn't be time yet...

Youhabahé, after hearing Hasuwode, showed a trace of impatience in his eyes.

Then, Youhabahé seemed to recall something, his expression shifting slightly!

Could it be that guy Lan Ran Zong Youjie, during the time I met you, used the power of Mirror‑Flower Water‑Moon to interfere with my accurate judgment of time?!

Youhabah said, his complexion growing increasingly grim.

At this moment Youhabah could not possibly be any less understanding—since he entered the Serene Spirit Court to go to Avici Hell to meet Lan Ran Zong Youjie, he has been caught in the filthy, disgusting scheming of Lan Ran Zong Youjie and Huangmu, that wretched master‑disciple pair~

"Damn!"

"Fine, since the time has come, we'll have to wait for the next time!"

"When Huangmu waits for the next invasion of your Serene Spirit Court by the Invisible Empire, that will be the end of you death gods!"

Youhabah finished speaking and headed straight into the shadows!

"Farewell, all you death gods!"

As Youhabah departed…

The few surviving Eradicators on the battlefield finally hung their heads, looking embarrassed and like beaten dogs, and left the Serene Spirit Court for the Invisible Empire in the shadows!

In response, Huangmu did not object at all; after all, the good show had only just begun~

Huangmu had no intention of merely slaying Youhabah; he intended to kill the person and crush the heart, to completely break Youhabah's defenses~

"Youhabah, I hope you will do your utmost to make your Invisible Empire stronger; only then will I feel pleasure and enjoyment~"

Huangmu watched Youhabah's back and gave a cold smile.

"We've won! We've won…"

"Even though the enemy's tactics were low and filthy, we still won!"

"Yeah! They even brought back the resurrected—how disgusting!"

"Too bad, no matter how many times Youhabah resurrects, he will never match Captain Huangmu! If Captain Huangmu can slay Youhabah once, he can slay him a second, a third time—until Youhabah finally dies and cannot resurrect again…"

Meanwhile, after Youhabah fled with a group of Star Cross Knights, the unaware ordinary members of the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad burst into successive cheers!

From the perspective of those ordinary Guardian Court Thirteen Squad members, Huangmu successfully slayed the enemy leader Youhabah! Yet, for some unknown reason, the enemy leader Youhabah strangely resurrected!

Nevertheless, even the resurrected Youhabah was still no match for Huangmu; in their clash, he was clearly the disadvantaged side!

Immediately after, Youhabah seemed to realize he couldn't beat Huangmu—pressing on would only mean death here—so he fled at once, taking his remaining dozen or so remnants with him!

In any case, the battle between Eradicators and death gods ends with victory belonging to the Serene Spirit Court! Victory belongs to the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad! And it also belongs to Huangmu as Captain!

"Guardian Court Thirteen Squad members, tally the battle losses of the Serene Spirit Court!"

"Fourth Squad members, immediately take to the streets to treat the wounded!"

"All squad leaders and deputy leaders of the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad, proceed at once to the First Squad leader's room for a meeting!"

Huangmu showed no intention of delay; after Youhabah left, he immediately activated the Heavenly Sky Net, broadcasting his voice to the entire Guardian Court Thirteen Squad.

"Soldiers! Did you hear Captain Huangmu's command?"

"Be quick—clear the streets of the Serene Spirit Court!"

"Fourth Squad members, assemble! This mission has only three tasks: rescue the wounded! Rescue the wounded! And rescue the wounded!"

As Huangmu's orders rang out, the massive, precise mechanism of the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad sprang into action! Squad members darted through the Serene Spirit Court, following Huangmu's directives, and began their operation plans—perhaps because Huangmu constantly conducts drills, their efficiency was astonishing!

In an instant, throughout the vast Serene Spirit Court, the massive debris left by battles between squad‑leader death gods and Star Cross Knights members was cleared away. Countless ordinary squad members who had rushed in too hastily and were inadvertently caught in the after‑effects of those clashes lay in the ruins, bleeding continuously, half‑dead, and were taken to the Fourth Squad's emergency room~

Indeed, thanks to Huangmu's pre‑arranged plans, few ordinary squad members were actually killed by Star Cross Knights. Most members of the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad, while pursuing holy soldiers and ordinary Eradicators, became blood‑thirsty from their exploits, lost sight of the path, and were swept up by the after‑effects of stronger fighters' battles, ending up embarrassingly collapsed in the ruins.

This made Nie Jianli and Pu Yuan Xizhu, who assist Huangmu in planning, furrow their brows. Especially Nie Jianli, upon seeing the casualty report exceed his expectations, scowled and shouted, "Damn it! I underestimated humanity's greed! This casualty ratio could have been lower! Indeed, Captain Huangmu should have followed my earlier suggestion and turned those brainless, sightless, combat‑inept, glory‑seeking ordinary squad members—who only drain the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad's medical resources—into bio‑engineered soldiers who obey their master absolutely! After all, bio‑engineered beings don't eat, don't use the restroom, and never die! They're perfect!"

"Nie Jianli, don't even think about it~"

In response, without Huangmu needing to speak, Pu Yuan Xizhu, one of the six judges of New Central Room 46, preemptively rejected Nie Jianli's elite troop plan!

"They are the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad that protects the Serene Spirit Court, not the Galactic Empire that conquers the stars and seas; could they show a little humanity?!"

"Foolish guy! Absolutely unreasonable…"

"Fine, I'm too lazy to waste words with you; I'll go straight to Captain Huangmu!"

"A guy like you probably will never understand in this lifetime!"

"It's not an exaggeration to say that the current Serene Spirit Court is a nation led by Huangmu!"

Nie Jianli said, ignoring Pu Yuan Xizhu, took the compiled report and headed straight to the First Squad, intending to report directly to Huangmu~

After all, the current Central Room 46, though reborn in strength and no longer subject to assassination or manipulation as before, has had its actual influence further reduced by Huangmu; Room 46 no longer wields the vast authority it once did~

The present Serene Spirit Court is effectively centralized: from the Spirit King Palace's royal secret unit Zero Squad at the top, down to the Serene Spirit Court's Room 46 and the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad, all matters concerning the overall direction of the Soul Society—big and small—are decided and settled by Huangmu, the sole Regent of the Three Realms.

"This guy…"

Pu Yuan Xizhu looked at Nie Jianli's back and sighed helplessly.

As for Nie Jianli's head‑butt‑through‑walls, never‑looking‑back nature, there's nothing he can do~

In short, let Nie Jianli give it a try!

However, given Pu Yuan Xizhu's understanding of Huangmu…

"It seems the Soul Society is about to undergo a change again~"

Pu Yuan Xizhu recalled the moment Youhabah escaped from Avici Hell, when he sensed someone's spiritual pressure and furrowed his brows tightly.

In an instant, Pu Yuan Xizhu thought a lot, wondering whether, back when Lan Ran Zong Youjie schemed against him and the Masked Army, Captain Huangmu truly was unaware?

Was Huangmu really that slow to realize? Or perhaps, from the start, whether it was Lan Ran Zong Youjie or anyone else in the Guardian Court Thirteen Squad, they were all merely pieces in Huangmu's plan, a pawn in his hand?!

"Um…"

Thinking of that, Pu Yuan Xizhu couldn't help but shiver.

Sometimes, Pu Yuan Xizhu even despised his own brilliance; being too clever meant he was constantly schemed against—knowledge invites vigilance, covert plotting, and ultimately elimination…

"Enough, it's all over anyway! It no longer concerns me~"

Pu Yuan Xizhu said, shaking his head helplessly. Let the big players worry about their scheming and games; he'll stop wasting effort and just do his own job—that's enough. Thinking this, while Nie Jianli was at the First Squad meeting and the leader's room was empty, he strode toward the Technology Development Bureau behind him~

Of course, Pu Yuan Xizhu wasn't going to steal the data Nie Jianli had painstakingly compiled…

Can a scientist's work be described as "stealing"? He was clearly going to seize it!

At the same time, in the First Division Captain's office.

As Aramaki issued the order to convene a meeting.

Within an hour, all the captains and vice-captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads gathered outside the door of the Captain's office~

"Click~"

Not long after, the door of the Captain's office swung open……

Only to see Aramaki, captain of the First Division, vice-captain Saito the Immortal, and all the captains and vice-captains of the First Division's detachments already standing inside this spacious Captain's office. Evidently, Aramaki and the others had been waiting for them for a while!

"Good afternoon, Commander Aramaki!"

"Good afternoon, Teacher Aramaki!"

The captains summoned by Aramaki's order gazed at the massive formation inside Aramaki's Captain's office, first stunned for a moment—obviously they hadn't expected Aramaki to also summon all the detachment leaders of the First Division—then they reacted, nodding in greeting to Aramaki as they strode into the Captain's office, forming two neat rows before him~

"Hmm!"

Aramaki saw that no further words were needed; the captains, having automatically taken their places in the Captain's office according to odd/even division numbers, gave a slight nod, which he took as having greeted everyone.

"I called you all here today……"

"It's because I have something very important to tell you!"

Aramaki's brows were furrowed, his expression unusually stern.

"Teacher Aramaki, you look so stern—it's really rare!"

"It makes me think you're about to part ways in life and death……"

Kyoraku Shunsui gazed at Aramaki's stern expression, beads of cold sweat breaking out on his forehead unbidden; in his impression of Aramaki, the latter had never looked so stern—not even when Aizen, accompanied by Gin, was about to defect from the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, had Aramaki furrowed his brow.

"For certain special reasons! I, along with Teacher Genryūsai, can no longer remain in Seireitei for the time being; we must return to the Soul King Palace at once……"

"In order to fulfill our duty as royal agents—members of the Zero Division—to guard the Soul King Palace and protect His Majesty the Soul King!"

Facing the members of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads standing before him, Aramaki, with an extremely solemn expression, laid out the upcoming tasks for himself and Genryūsai.

"What? Commander Aramaki, you're returning to the Soul King Palace?"

"Then who will protect Seireitei from now on?"

The moment Aramaki's words fell, Suì-Fēng (Hebi Shōryō) was the first to lose her composure, stepping up to him with a look of utter anxiety.

"This is also why I summoned you all!"

"From now on, the safety of Seireitei is in your hands!"

Aramaki looked at Suì-Fēng's anxious eyes and spoke softly.

"But……"

Suì-Fēng's brows knit tight; she seemed to want to say more.

Obviously, Shōryō, who had grown up bathed in Aramaki's great brilliance, could not imagine a Thirteen Court Guard Squads without him.

"Suì-Fēng! Remember, we are the Thirteen Court Guard Squads!"

"Protecting Seireitei has always been our duty from the start……"

"It's because we're useless that Commander Aramaki has to guard us down here!"

"Perhaps it's because Commander Aramaki is too invincible! He's protected us so well that we've forgotten he doesn't belong in the lower world—he should be commanding the Zero Division in the Soul King Palace……"

Before Suì-Fēng could say more, Hinamori Momo stepped forward from the ranks and gave her a lecture! It must be said that Hinamori is worthy of being a captain-level figure with a century of experience; despite her many weaknesses and controversies, she is quite good at educating others, and what she told Suì-Fēng was pure fact, hitting the nail on the head~

"Sorry, I lost my composure—that's my fault!"

After hearing Hinamori's words, Suì-Fēng loosened her clenched fists and returned to her rank, thinking to herself: "Yeah, we've relied too much on Commander Aramaki—but life is long, we can't depend on one person forever; it's time we protect Seireitei with our own strength."

"Then I'll continue……"

After seeing Suì-Fēng and Hinamori return to their places, Aramaki continued speaking.

"Because I will be temporarily going to the Soul King Palace……"

"So I can no longer serve as captain of the First Division and commander-in-chief of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads! In other words, I will appoint a successor to take over my duties while I am away from Seireitei……"

Aramaki then finished what he had left unsaid.

"A successor?!"

As Aramaki's words fell, all the captains present were taken aback.

"In other words, you mean the third-generation commander-in-chief, right?"

Rokugō Kenpachi stroked his chin, speaking with interest.

"Oh ho ho, this is really something to look forward to!"

"According to the tradition of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, the next commander-in-chief will most likely be chosen from among Commander Aramaki's disciples, right?!"

Nemu Mayuri, with his orange-yellow eyes, continually swept his gaze across the faces of Kyoraku Shunsui, Kisaragi Shigekuni, Kuchiki Byakuya, and Zaraki Kenpachi.

"Among Commander Aramaki's disciples, in terms of strength, there's no doubt that Zaraki Kenpachi is the most fit for the commander-in-chief position! But his personality and intellect are indeed a major problem—he's enough to lead the Eleventh Division, a bunch of muscle‑heads, but to command the entire Thirteen Court Guard Squads, he's clearly lacking~"

Mayuri's gaze lingered on Kenpachi for less than a second before moving on.

In Mayuri's view, as long as Aramaki isn't crazy, he certainly wouldn't let Zaraki Kenpachi take over his post! Kenpachi is simply not fit to be commander-in-chief~

"As for Kuchiki Byakuya, his strength is passable, his intelligence barely sufficient, his temperament and background are highly suitable—but he's still a bit too young……"

"As for Yoruichi Shihōin, her personality is too flighty—she's utterly unsuitable! Shunsui Ukitake is too weak, also unsuitable! Gin Ichimaru lacks sufficient background……"

"As I expected, if nothing goes wrong, the position of third commander-in-chief of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads will be decided between Kyoraku Shunsui and Shigekuni Yamamoto……"

After conducting an analysis, Mayuri locked his gaze onto Kyoraku Shunsui and Shigekuni Yamamoto! Among Aramaki's disciples, the only ones who meet the criteria of strength, personality, background, and intellect are Shunsui and Yamamoto……"

"So it looks like the next commander-in-chief will most likely be Kyoraku!"

"Although, personally, I prefer the ruthless Yamamoto~"

Mayuri quickly crossed Yamamoto off his mental list.

"Yamamoto's personality is too extreme; he acts with no scruples, willing to sacrifice anything to achieve his goals—of course, this isn't to say his temperament is bad, but it simply doesn't suit the current Thirteen Court Guard Squads~"

"Thus, in Mayuri's view, in the final analysis, the burden of commander-in-chief of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads will most likely fall on Kyoraku Shunsui's shoulders! After all, Kyoraku's strength and temperament are, at best, barely adequate for the role."

Congratulations~

Niejuanli's thought was also the thought of most of the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads! Only seeing Liujuan Quanxi and Pingzi Zhenzi, etc., before Huangmu opened his mouth to announce the third-generation captain-commander selection, they had already prematurely offered congratulations to Jingles Chunshui~

No no no! Teacher Huangmu, you haven't even spoken yet~

You prematurely congratulate me—aren't you just harming me?!

Besides, I'm not interested in the position of captain-commander~

I just want to retire peacefully and collect my pension sooner……

After receiving everyone's congratulations, Jingles Chunshui's complexion turned slightly pale.

If he were a few hundred years younger, he might harbor ambitions for the captain-commander position!

But now, Jingles Chunshui only wishes to retire smoothly~

Especially now, it's wartime as we battle Youha Bahe~

This period is too sensitive! If he assumes the position now, a single misstep would backfire, burdening him with unimaginable guilt and infamy~

He, Jingles, still wants to enjoy his twilight years! He doesn't want to be old and have people point at his nose and say: 'Back then, it was this old fogey who brought the invincible lineup left by Captain-Commander Huangmu! That's a hand so strong that even if you lay your cards bare, you wouldn't know how to lose! And then he just lost like that to Youha Bahe, causing the Seireitei and the Thirteen Court Guard Squads to suffer heavy losses—truly heinous crimes! He is the great sinner of the Soul Society, nay, the Three Worlds, for all ages~

Jingles, you're too modest!

Among the Thirteen Court Guard Squads right now, is there anyone more suited for the captain-commander position than you? There's none left, right?!

From now on, I entrust you to faithfully inherit Captain-Commander Huangmu's will, complete the command of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, and handle the Seireitei's upcoming defensive duties~

Everyone took Jingles' demurral as his modesty.

Thus, the captains all patted Jingles on the shoulder, chuckling as they spoke.

No, I don't!

Upon hearing that, Jingles' expression changed instantly. Beads of sweat kept sliding down his deathly pale forehead! If no one were chosen, forcing him to take the post would be like pushing a duck onto a shelf—well, that would just have to do……

At present, the Thirteen Court Guard Squads are brimming with talent, and in their war against the Quincy led by Youha, they have also gained an absolute advantage!

In this situation, with his abilities, taking the captain-commander position would be courting death! As Teacher Huangmu once told him, that is, he simply lacks the virtue to match the post~

Hehe, it seems everyone approves of Jingles, huh~

Huangmu stood before the crowd, hearing Liujuan Quanxi and Pingzi Zhenzi's words, couldn't help but smile faintly, somewhat teasingly, and laughed at everyone.

Teacher Huangmu, please don't join them in the clamor!

I know my own limits better than anyone……

Upon hearing that, Jingles Chunshui immediately stepped out of the ranks, gazing at Huangmu before him, his expression tinged with helplessness, his eyes full of weariness, and he spoke softly.

Haha! All right, no more joking with you……

After hearing Jingles' words, Huangmu's expression gradually became serious.

Huh?!

Along with that, Huangmu's expression changed!

The captains present all straightened up. Everyone knew deep down that Huangmu was about to formally announce the captain-commander selection!

Although the captains present had all guessed whose name Huangmu would call out next, they still tensed up, waiting in silence~

After all, what if Captain-Commander Huangmu chooses someone other than Jingles Chunshui? Although the probability seems minuscule to everyone, it's not zero!

Not me! Not me! Not me……

As for Jingles, at this moment he tightly grips the hilt of his Zanpakutō at his waist, constantly praying.

The next captain-commander is none other than Jingles Chunshui……

Huangmu can naturally hear everyone's thoughts; hearing Jingles' inner words, he smirked slightly, intending to tease his own disciple properly.

See? It's definitely Jingles, right?!

As Huangmu spoke, everyone seemed to take a breath together with Jingles.

Among them, Liujuan Quanxi and Pingzi Zhenzi shrugged helplessly, wearing expressions that said, 'You see, it's indeed like that, right?'

As for the others present, there was no noticeable change in expression, because this final result was hardly different from what they had imagined—no big deal~

Ah?!

On the contrary, Jingles Chunshui wore the expression of a man whose wife had just died.

Teacher Huangmu, you're not joking, are you? It's really me?

Jingles frowned, his mind racing as he thought about how he would next manage the joint defense of the Seireitei and the Thirteen Court Guard Squads.

... his junior disciple!

However, just when everyone thought the situation was settled……

After announcing the new captain-commander's name, Huangmu simply picked up the teacup on the table, silently sipped a mouthful of tea, and after lightly moistening his throat, he then finished the rest of what he had been saying halfway through.

Ah?!

For a moment, everyone present was stunned.

Immediately, the captains all complained to Huangmu: 'Captain-Commander Huangmu, please try not to gasp like that when you speak, okay?!'

Hehe~

Huangmu merely smiled in response.

Tsk~

Looking at Huangmu's undignified appearance, the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads wondered where any trace of his former dignity had gone! They felt he was clearly about to step down, so he was beginning to let loose~

Just like Huangmu's predecessor, Captain-Commander Yuan Liuzhai, after Yuan Liuzhai stepped down, he now roams everywhere wielding the Soul Society's most powerful flame-type Zanpakutō, Ryūjin Jakka, roasting sweet potatoes for the students of the Shin'ō Academy~

But who could blame him? Whoever keeps a poker face for hundreds of years, even their downtime is full of dignity, like a divine needle stabilizing the sea, supporting everyone, calming winds and waves—of course they'd get tired!

So then, Teacher Huangmu, who is the next captain-commander?!

At this moment, Ribangu Dongshilang stepped out of the ranks and looked at Huangmu to ask.

Although Huangmu hadn't really taught Dongshilang, having only given him a few pointers when Dongshilang trained in the Spirit King Palace, Dongshilang still regarded Huangmu as one of his most important teachers~

"The next Captain-Commander selection is……"

"Huangmu said, pointing his finger at Sui Feng beside him."

"Me?"

"Sui Feng looked in the direction of Huangmu's finger and was momentarily stunned."

"Before Sui Feng could think further, Huangmu's finger had already landed on Maohualie Lie."

"Oh! So it's Captain Maohualie!"

"Everyone looked at Huangmu's finger and suddenly realized!"

"Right, they had forgotten Maohualie……"

"Given Maohualie's status, strength, and position, he is indeed worthy of the position of third-generation Captain-Commander of the Guardian Thirteen Squads!"

"……"

"As for that, Maohualie Lie, who knew the inside story, didn't even lift an eyelid."

"She merely gave Huangmu a sideways glance in secret, as if saying to him: 'Having a little fun, are you? I really hope you can be this playful tonight as well~'"

"Er……"

"Huangmu seemed to understand Maohualie Lie's meaning, and his finger immediately pointed to Xiumu Baizai beside Maohualie Lie."

"Huh?"

"Immediately, before Baizai could think further, it fell again on Jingle Chunshui."

"Then it fell on Ribangu Dongshilang……"

"Little Bai, great!"

"At the moment Huangmu's finger landed on Ribangu Dongshilang, treating him like a son……"

"Er, no, it should be treating him as his own younger brother, whom Songben Luanju had raised with her own hands; from behind Ribangu Dongshilang, she flung her arms around him, embracing him in her ample bosom!"

"Then Songben Luanju, without letting Ribangu Dongshilang think further, lifted him high like a child, playing a game of 'high-high' in front of everyone."

"Let go! Wanton!!"

"For a moment, due to his height issue, Ribangu Dongshilang, who usually strained himself to maintain the dignity and face of the Tenth Squad captain, always pretending to be an adult, instantly blushed. The persona he had upheld for years, successful because of Luanju, was ruined in an instant~"

"Oh ho~"

"At that moment, behind Pingzi stood Chusen Tao, the Soul Society's strongest shield, who covered her cherry lips with her pale palm and cast a strange glance at Ribangu Dongshilang."

"I didn't expect Little Lion to still be playing the high-high game~"

"Next, Chusen Tao spoke the cruelest words in the gentlest tone."

"I'm basically ruined for life!"

"Upon hearing that, Ribangu Dongshilang showed a smile of utter hopelessness."

"However, just a second after Ribangu Dongshilang was lifted high……"

"Huangmu's finger had already pointed to Niejuanli, and then toward the currently unoccupied gate of the First Squad captain's quarters."

"Eh?!"

"For a moment, all the captains of the Guardian Thirteen Squads were dumbfounded."

"You also know that the Captain-Commanders of the Guardian Thirteen Squads throughout history have all been handsome and suave, graceful as jade trees in the wind! Strong in ability and wise in strategy!"

"So the selection for the Guardian Thirteen Squads' Captain-Commander must be made carefully! After long consideration, I found that only one person in the Guardian Thirteen Squads is suitable~"

"At the moment everyone was dumbfounded, Huangmu's voice continued to echo in the captain's quarters."

"Without letting anyone speak further, Huangmu already smiled, as if about to formally speak that person's name: 'That is……'"

"That's right!"

"Along with Huangmu's words, Gangmidaishitan stepped out from behind him."

"Unafraid of ridicule, in Gangmidaishitan's view, the things Huangmu had just said were met by only him in the Pure Spirit Court~"

"So it's Gangmidaishitan!"

"For a moment, the captains in the captain's quarters showed a hint of realization in their expressions."

"Shitan?"

"On the contrary, Jingle furrowed his brows. Letting Shitan be Captain-Commander would be worse than him taking the role~"

"That's right! It is I!"

"Just as everyone was realizing, the gate of the First Squad captain's quarters suddenly swung open……"

"There stood a man with a handsome face, brown short hair combed back, wearing a robe bearing the insignia of the First Squad on his back, a captain's haori, smiling gently like a spring breeze, walking swaggeringly into the First Squad captain's quarters."

"Ha?!"

"When the squad members of the Guardian Thirteen Squads saw this newcomer, they all froze."

"Aizen Sosuke?!"

"Immediately, everyone sucked in a breath of cold air. They never imagined that this third-generation Captain-Commander would be Aizen Sosuke!"

"Indeed, the newcomer was none other than Aizen Sosuke, who had just stepped away after tangling with Youhabahè to change his clothes~"

"Lord Huangmu, have you made a mistake?"

"Pingzi Zhenzi's body trembled slightly as he looked at Huangmu standing before the crowd and asked softly."

"Don't worry, I haven't made a mistake! After all, in the entire Pure Spirit Court, only Sosuke meets the qualifications for Captain-Commander~"

"Huangmu looked at Pingzi and replied softly."

"But Aizen once betrayed the Soul Society!"

"Pingzi looked at Huangmu, emphasizing Aizen's crimes."

"That was merely a play Aizen put on to deceive Youhabahè and me!"

"In response, Huangmu gave his own explanation."

Then what about the things he did to us a hundred years ago?

Hirako looked at Arisaka and continued asking.

Captain Hirako, I'm truly sorry for having offended you back then!

In fact, that was merely an act to deceive Yhwach!

To deceive Yhwach, I could only resort to this!

For your outstanding contributions to Soul Society back then, I, as the new Captain-Commander, hereby express my gratitude!

At the same time, I will personally compensate you with all my strength, for the harm my past plan caused to you.

Aizen looked at Hirako and spoke sincerely.

You mean, everything we went through back then was planned by you?

Hirako looked at Aizen and asked aloud.

Of course! Otherwise, why would none of you have sacrificed?

Although it was indeed perilous, I have already kept casualties to a minimum!

Aizen looked at Hirako and spoke seriously.

I see! If that's the case, then before the true Yhwach appeared on the battlefield, he had actually been entangled with you all along, right?!

Hearing Aizen's words, Hirako showed a hint of realization, then continued to ask.

Exactly so!

After hearing Hirako's words, Aizen nodded seriously.

You've worked hard!

Upon hearing that, Hirako said to Aizen, "You've worked hard."

Afterward, Hirako had no further doubts.

Hirako has always been someone who understands the bigger picture and knows the overall situation!

Thank you for your understanding~

Aizen smiled at Hirako, then walked over to Arisaka.

Aizen, in my absence from now on, you will act as the Captain-Commander of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads!

Arisaka looked at Aizen and spoke seriously.

To prevent any resentment toward Aizen Sosuke should there be a captain vacancy in the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, he first gave Aizen only the acting Captain-Commander position~

Although, Arisaka actually had no intention of taking back the Captain-Commander position after handing it over to Aizen……

Thank you, Teacher Arisaka, for your recognition over the years! I will exert all my strength to lead the Thirteen Court Guard Squads toward the dawn of victory~

Aizen said this, then bowed deeply to Arisaka.

Immediately, Aizen walked to Arisaka's spot, stood beside him, turned his body, and faced the gathered captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads.

Everyone! Rest assured, for ahead of us there is no opponent!

Aizen, smiling, extended his hand.

Hehe, this is getting interesting~

I suppose no one in the Seireitei would have imagined……

Our third Captain-Commander would actually be Aizen Sosuke, my junior!

Kyōraku Shunsui gazed at Aizen Sosuke standing in the Captain-Commander's position, beads of cold sweat breaking out on his forehead! To be honest, after reviewing all of Arisaka's disciples, disregarding any blemishes, indeed only Aizen Sosuke is the most suitable to succeed Arisaka as Captain-Commander of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads~

Then next, I will act as Captain-Commander……

Begin making preparations for the Thirteen Court Guard Squads' war readiness for everyone!

Next, we will face Yhwach head-on, along with his pitifully few, severely lacking members of the Star Cross Knights~

Rest assured! We will absolutely not lose; everything is firmly under my control!

Aizen wore a smile, as if in his eyes the so-called Yhwach and his Star Cross Knights were merely a bunch of weaklings~

Aizen-sensei……

Captain-Commander Aizen, what do you plan to do first with the upcoming deployment?!

Kyōraku Shunsui looked at Aizen and asked aloud.

Well, first we need to do two things~

The first matter is personnel changes among the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads~

The second is to send someone to the living world to summon Ichigo Kurosaki~

Aizen glanced at Shunsui, smiling, and replied.

Huh? You said personnel changes!

Upon hearing Aizen's words, everyone was shocked.

First, Captain Suì-Fēng (Hōsō Ayā) of the 2nd Division, I've seen your performance! Given your excellent performance in this battle, I recommend you take a post in the new Central 46, and you may not refuse~

Then Captain Fèngqiáo Lóushí Láng, Captain Píngzi Zhēnzi, Captain Liùchē Quánxī, and Captain Xiǔmù Lùqíyà! You all performed exceptionally in your battle against the Quincy, and I highly approve of you, so please go to the Central 46~

Upon taking office, Aizen immediately dismissed the captaincies of Suì-Fēng, Luózī, Píngzi, Quánxī, and Lùqíyà~ Because in Aizen's view, these five are truly useless~

Although Rukia's ability is actually not bad, her inability to fully master her Bankai is a serious problem……

Aizen does not want to see Rukia perish together with the enemy, for that would make his scheme look incompetent! He aims for zero casualties among the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads~

Eh?!

As Aizen's words fell, all the captains present were stunned.

No, he just fired five right off the bat—who can stomach that?!

As for Captain Suì-Fēng, you need not worry too much after leaving office!

Because your captain duties will be taken over by Sìfēngyuàn Yèyī, Shìyuán Yín, Gāngmídài Shítān, Dōngxiān yào, and Fúzhú shísìláng!

As for you five, just temporarily take over; Ye Yi's senior sister and the others have finished their work in Central 46~

By the way, starting today, Central 46 and the Thirteen Court Guard Squads will no longer be in a superior-subordinate relationship! Central 46 is merely serving as the judiciary of the Soul Society, nothing more~

Yes, the first thing Lanran Zongyoujie did upon becoming Commander-General was to replace all the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads with his own right and left hands and his fellow disciples.

At the same time, Lanran Zongyoujie, having already sliced Huangmu Budiaohua's Central 46 once, made another cut, to ensure his absolute authority in the Soul Society~

Oh! Speaking of which, I almost forgot~

These are the traitors of Central 46 that I personally slain back then!

The evidence of the crimes committed by their families, as well as proof of their covering up for their families~

I've placed these documents here; everyone can come check them anytime!

Lanran Zongyoujie said this, and still didn't forget to pull out a stack of documents, placing them on the desk in the First Division captain's room; however, as Lanran Zongyoujie moved, with that smile hiding killing intent in his eyes, not a single person dared to step forward to examine whether these documents were genuine or not~

These documents are naturally genuine, after all, Huangmu Budiaohua prepared them early so that Lanran Zongyoujie could smoothly take over his position~ Huangmu Budiaohua, this old father, worried himself sick for his unfilial son Lanran Zongyoujie~

Well then, what's next……

Let us begin, the meeting that leads to victory~

Lanran Zongyoujie said, smiling softly at everyone present.

……

While Lanran Zongyoujie was speaking……

The faces of all the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads went numb~

Too many things happened at today's captains' meeting!

To the point that they could barely tell north from south~

This huge amount of information made them feel dizzy and blurred~

At the same time.

After Lanran Zongyoujie succeeded Huangmu Budiaohua as Commander-General.

The roster of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads' captains was also freshly issued~

First Division Captain Lanran Zongyoujie, Vice Captain Huangmu Budiaohua.

Second Division Captain Sifengyuan Ye Yi, Vice Captain Daqian Tian Xiqian dai.

Third Division Captain Shiwan Yin, Vice Captain Jiliang Yi He.

Fourth Division Captain Maozhihua Lie, Vice Captain Hu Che Yongyin.

Fifth Division Captain Gang yi dai Shi tan, Vice Captain Chusen Tao.

Sixth Division Captain Xiumu Bai zai, Vice Captain Asan jing Lan ci.

Seventh Division Captain Kecun Zuo zhen, Vice Captain Shechang Tie Zuo Wei Men.

Eighth Division Captain Jingle Chunshui, Vice Captain Yi se Qi xu.

Ninth Division Captain Dong xian yao, Vice Captain Guizuomu Xiu bing.

Tenth Division Captain Ri fan Gu Dong shi lang, Vice Captain Songben Luan ju.

Eleventh Division Captain Gengmu Jian ba, Vice Captain Huangmu Ba qian liu.

Twelfth Division Captain Nie Jian li, Vice Captain Nie Yin meng.

Thirteenth Division Captain Fuzhu Shi si lang, Vice Captain Xiaochun Xian tai lang.

Oh, right! I forgot……

Captain Baicun, you've done well too; you can also go work in Central 46! As for your position, it will be taken over by Captain Ku wushi~

After the fresh roster of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads was issued, Lanran Zongyoujie also kicked Kecun Zuo zhen out of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads and sent him to Central 46.

And he promoted Ku wushi to the position of captain of the Seventh Division!

As for why Lanran Zongyoujie did this, he clearly knew in his heart that he could not suppress the numerous division leaders of the First Division!

These division leaders are so strong that they could rival the current Commander-General of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, and even surpass him! The reason they choose to stay in the First Division is entirely due to Huangmu Budiaohua's personal charm, and nothing else~

Therefore, what suppresses them is not authority or treatment, nor Huangmu Budiaohua's great strength, but his formidable personal charm—put another way, their loyalty is not to the Soul Society, but solely to Huangmu Budiaohua himself~

That is precisely why, upon becoming captain of the First Division, Lanran Zongyoujie's first act was to disband those division units of the First Division, and send those who were pliable, controllable, and strong enough to serve as captains in the Thirteen Court Guard Squads.

As for the original First Division's various detachments, under Huangmu Budiaohua's command they were all incorporated into the 'Inner Divisions' that mirror the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, and following Huangmu Budiaohua's intent three more divisions were added, turning the original ten detachments into the 'Inner Thirteen Court Guard Squads'.

Meanwhile, after Ku wushi became captain of the Seventh Division, his vice captain changed from the original Shechang Tie Zuo Wei Men to Ku wushi's assistant Wu zhu! As for Ku wushi's original Hollow extermination unit, it was taken over by the strong Axido as captain~

Just after Lanran Zongyoujie boldly overhauled the entire establishment of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads……

Lanran Zongyoujie looked at Xiumu Lu qi ya and chuckled: 'Speaking of which, Captain Xiumu Lu qi ya, Vice Captain Asan jing, I have a favor to ask of you~'

What favor!?

Xiumu Lu qi ya was still feeling disconsolate about having been driven out of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads.

When she heard Lanran Zongyoujie's words, her eyes lit up instantly.

Just as I said earlier!

Our Thirteen Court Guard Squads, facing the upcoming invasion by You ha ba he, need the fighting power of Heiqi Yi hu, so I want to ask you and Lan ci to bring Heiqi Yi hu back~

To be frank, the fighting power of Heiqi Yi hu alone surpasses the combined strength of everyone in the Thirteen Court Guard Squads! Of course, it also exceeds mine~

Whether he exists or not will determine whether we win or lose in our upcoming battle against You ha ba he! So I entrust this to you, because only you can accomplish it……

Lanran Zongyoujie looked at Xiumu Lu qi ya and spoke with a hearty laugh.

I understand!

Upon hearing that Heiqi Yi hu's fate is tied to the Soul Society's safety, Xiumu Lu qi ya immediately grew solemn.

Very good~

Upon hearing that, Lanran Zongyoujie immediately showed a faint smile.

Meanwhile, Lanran Zongyoujie also constantly calculated in his mind what formation You ha ba he would send next to deal with him~

"Youhabah will most likely go to the Void Circle to replenish his combat power, right?"

"Heh, he'll probably let those discarded Broken Faces I abandoned in the Void Circle join the upcoming battle!"

"Youha! Youha! Stop calling yourself the King of Annihilators! Just rename yourself the King of Waste! All you do is pick up other people's trash and can't even turn waste into treasure—just a fool…"

Lanyan's mouth twitched upward slightly; he felt a bit anticipatory at this moment…

Next came the days when he would wrestle arm‑wrestles with Youhabah.

Meanwhile, Huangmu had secretly transferred his two troops from the Spirit King Palace to the Pure Spirit Court! From now on, he would shift from light to dark and continue tormenting Youhabah.

At the same time…

While Lanyan was scheming against Youhabah…

Youhabah had already returned to the Formless Empire.

Just as Lanyan had imagined.

In the Formless Empire now, one after another, Broken Faces dressed in the Empire's German‑style uniforms stood before Youhabah!

These Broken Faces were all the ones Lanyan had discarded and that Jilu Jie had successfully captured back from the Void Circle to present to Youhabah as tools.

At the front of those Broken Faces stood, of course, Nuo Lao Wu, and, persuaded by Nuo Lao Wu, Ge Lao Liu, who for some reason also chose to join the Formless Empire.

If Youhabah's eyes could shine a bit brighter now, he would see the words "rebellious" written in the eyes of both Nuo Lao Wu and Ge Lao Liu.

"Your Majesty, with these Broken Faces and half of the Star Cross Knight Order, the combat‑power gap between us and the Pure Spirit Court will be restored!"

"We could even overwhelm the damned front‑line Shinigami of the Pure Spirit Court, creating an absolute advantage…"

Jilu Jie introduced this to Youhabah, who sat upon the throne.

"Hmm~"

"You've done well!"

Hearing this, Youhabah praised Jilu Jie.

"Thank you for the praise, Your Majesty~"

Jilu Jie's expression showed a hint of excitement.

Yet Jilu Jie did not notice that the great King of Annihilators, upon hearing Jilu Jie speak of the future, furrowed his brow slightly.

"Jilu Jie, I will now assign you three missions!"

"First mission: inform Shiti Yulong of the Present World to return to the Empire!"

"Second mission: invite Heizaki Ichigo to join our Formless Empire!"

"The third mission is special! If Heizaki Ichigo does not accept your invitation to join our Formless Empire, then you will have only one task left—use your abilities to stall Heizaki Ichigo and absolutely prevent him from successfully returning to the Pure Spirit Court to aid the Shinigami against the Annihilators!"

Youhabah looked at Jilu Jie and said coldly,

"Block Heizaki Ichigo?!"

Jilu Jie's expression flickered slightly at Youhabah's words.

"Can you accomplish it?!"

Youhabah stared at Jilu Jie and asked coldly,

"Of course I can!"

Hearing this, Jilu Jie immediately knelt on one knee and said gravely,

"Very well!"

Youhabah lightly nodded at the words.

Thus!

At the instant Youhabah and Lanyan Soosuke issued their commands,

Jilu Jie, who was to travel to the Present World to invite Heizaki Ichigo to the Formless Empire, and the counterpart who also headed to the Present World—tasked with inviting Heizaki Ichigo to temporarily join the Gotei 13 and fight alongside the Shinigami against Youhabah's Kurosaki Rukia and Asanai Renji—both set out on their journeys.

In the end…

When the interdimensional gates of both sides lit up simultaneously in the Present World!

Appearing together in Kurosawa Town and standing at the entrance of the Heizaki family at the same moment—

An inevitable battle broke out.

"Who are you?"

Jilu Jie, looking at the death‑overlord‑clad Kurosaki Rukia and Asanai Renji, furrowed his brow slightly, seemed to recall something, and asked, "Captain Rukia and Deputy Captain Renji?"

"It should be former captain, right? Looks like your intel network isn't accurate either!"

As Rukia spoke, she already released her Zanpakuto.

"Dance, White Snow of the Sleeve!"

As Rukia's words fell, countless white snowflakes filled the heavens and earth!

"Former captain?!"

"Heh, never mind~"

"It doesn't matter anyway!"

"May I be presumptuous and ask, you came here…"

"Surely also for Heizaki Ichigo, right?!"

Jilu Jie dodged Rukia's white snow and then retorted,

"Isn't that obvious?!"

"Roar, Snake Tail Maru!"

As Renji spoke, he directly released his Zanpakuto.

"Boom!"

Facing Renji's release, Jilu Jie blocked it with one hand and gently nudged his nearsighted glasses on his nose bridge with his other hand.

Since you came for Heiqi Yihu, then sorry!

I can't just let you guys go like that~

Jilu Jie said, pulling hard with his left arm, he took Lian Ci's Snake Tail as a rope and flung Lian Ci flying out!

Damn! This guy is obviously stronger than the other Quincy!

After Lian Ci flew into the sky, his expression showed a hint of anxiety.

You say I'm stronger than the other Quincy?

Right, you've already fought the other Star Cross Knights, right?

Sorry, your understanding is wrong; in the Star Cross Knights, due to my abilities, I can only be ranked in the middle-lower tier...

The reason you think my power is stronger than theirs! Is because His Majesty Ha Ba He has granted me stronger power~

Oh, sorry! My talk seems a bit too much! Speech is silver, silence is gold!

Jilu Jie chattered on and on, only then realizing his words were too dense; he pressed a finger to his lips, making a silencing gesture, and with a cold stare, he fixed his gaze on Lu Qi Ya and Lian Ci.

This guy is kinda troublesome!!

Lian Ci and Lu Qi Ya looked at the powerful Jilu Jie, their expressions slightly changing.

Being troublesome is normal!

If you leave now, I can still spare your lives~

Otherwise, I can only kill you~

Jilu Jie said, his hand already on the sword at his waist.

It seems if we disagree, he intends to draw his sword and fight to the death!

Crescent Moon... Heaven-Piercing!

However, just as Jilu Jie faced off against Lian Ci and Lu Qi Ya...

Accompanied by a low roar, a golden crescent moon sliced through the sky, rushing straight at Jilu Jie's back~

Huh?!

After feeling the chill behind him, Jilu Jie then turned his body sideways.

Then, Jilu Jie saw a huge slash appear in his field of vision.

Impossible...

Jilu Jie muttered, and was immediately struck by that slash!

Boom!!

Accompanied by a roar, Jilu Jie's whole body burst into scorched blackness, collapsing straight onto the ground...

Yo, Lian Ci and Lu Qi Ya!

Who is the guy fighting you guys?!

Exactly at the moment Jilu Jie was instantly killed...

With orange-yellow short hair, wearing a Shinigami uniform, and carrying two zanpakuto, Heiqi Yihu appeared before Lu Qi Ya and Lian Ci.

Heiqi Yihu?!

Lian Ci and Lu Qi Ya looked at the arrival and shouted his name excitedly.

Continue, sixteen thousand, big chapter~

(End of chapter)