~ Next Bonus, 300!
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For the past few days, Shin had been spending an unusual amount of time in the 2nd Division barracks, dedicating himself to studying the Hōgyoku.
At the moment, only two things truly held Shin's interest: the Quincy and the Hōgyoku. The Quincy were currently holed up in the Wandenreich, and with Yhwach yet to be revived, he wasn't in a rush to deal with them. He figured he would confront them when they finally made their move.
"So, have you figured anything out?"
Yoruichi asked Shin. Nel and Harribel, standing nearby, looked on with curiosity.
Harribel was now also staying in the 2nd Division. After Nel had asked Shin to save her, she had remained here instead of returning to Hueco Mundo. She had even pledged her loyalty to Shin, an offer he had readily accepted.
Harribel was a powerful fighter. Why would Shin turn down a free enforcer who'd practically delivered herself to his doorstep? Between her and Nel, their combined combat strength surpassed that of the average Captain. Only the most senior, veteran Captains could truly match them.
"I haven't discovered anything groundbreaking, but I can use it to boost your strength."
Shin said.
He had lost interest in continuing his research. It was tedious, and he knew that at its core, it was just another form of power.
"Take this and use it to get stronger. But don't rely too heavily on the Hōgyoku's power."
Shin handed it to Yoruichi. He explained that they didn't need to fully fuse with it to gain its power. They could perform temporary fusions to achieve greater strength, and the Hōgyoku could be removed afterward without issue. It was excellent for enhancing one's Reiatsu, which would be a great boon for Soi Fon, whose Reiatsu was somewhat lacking.
"You've been lingering here all this time. It's because of the Hōgyoku, isn't it?" Shin asked, turning his attention to Shutara Senjumaru.
Aizen had been dealt with, yet this woman hadn't left. It was clear she had her eyes on the Hōgyoku.
"No, I simply don't wish to return. I've already given up any ideas about the Hōgyoku," Shutara Senjumaru said, shaking her head.
"I know you might not believe me, but I'm telling the truth. I'm no longer after the Hōgyoku, because it's in your hands now."
"Even if I wanted it, I couldn't get it without turning against you. That's something I would never do. If you don't believe me, you can tell me to leave."
"Is that so? I believe you. Because I don't think you could lie to me." After studying Shutara Senjumaru for a moment, Shin chose to trust her.
First, he couldn't detect any hint of deception in her voice. Shin didn't believe anyone could successfully lie to him. And with the Hōgyoku in his possession, getting it would mean a direct confrontation, which he doubted she was willing to risk after their last encounter.
"It's quite rare for you to trust me." Shutara Senjumaru had been prepared to be sent away. She hadn't expected Shin to actually believe her.
"In your eyes, am I the kind of person who doesn't trust anyone?" Shin asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, you are. And honestly, Shin Uzumaki, I can't see through you at all."
Shutara Senjumaru nodded seriously. If there was one person she couldn't figure out, it was him.
"Heh, you can stay in the 2nd Division for as long as you like, as long as no one comes looking for trouble with you," Shin said with a chuckle.
"Well, that's a relief. I was afraid you were going to kick me out. I'd be homeless then," Shutara Senjumaru said with a seductive smile.
Shin chuckled again, not believing a word she said.
"If you're interested in the Hōgyoku, you can go take a look. Just don't think about walking away with it," Shin said to her.
"No, I'm not really interested in the Hōgyoku anymore." To Shin's surprise, Shutara Senjumaru shook her head, making him look at her with renewed curiosity. He was genuinely surprised that she was now claiming to have no interest in it.
"Really? This is a golden opportunity for you. Are you just going to let it slip away?" Shin asked.
"Yes. My interest in the Hōgyoku has waned. In fact, I'm more interested in you," Shutara Senjumaru said, looking at Shin intently.
And she meant it. Before, she knew Shin was strong, but she had no idea how strong. Now, she did. His power was on a level that left even her shaken.
"More interested in me? What are you planning?" Shin asked, eyeing the ancient woman warily. Though she looked young, he knew she was an old relic.
"What's the matter? Are you afraid I'll eat you alive?" Shutara Senjumaru asked with a faint, teasing smile.
"I am, actually. I guess it's true what they say—a guy has to be careful when he's out and about. It's to avoid dangerous women like you."
Shin nodded seriously.
Shutara Senjumaru's expression didn't change in the slightest, even after hearing Shin's shameless remark.
"I have to go out for a bit," Shin said, standing up.
"Is that so? Perfect, I'd like to come with you," Shutara Senjumaru said, rising to her feet as well.
Shin glanced at her but said nothing. If she wanted to follow, let her. He had no objections. It wasn't as if he was doing anything shady; he was just heading to the 4th Division.
Shutara Senjumaru followed Shin, genuinely wanting to understand him better. Her investigations had revealed that his origins were incredibly mysterious. It seemed only Retsu Unohana knew the truth, but if she asked, she was certain Unohana would tell her nothing. So, for now, she would follow Shin to learn more about him.
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The 4th Division barracks were bustling with activity.
The chaos was a direct result of Aizen's recent attack, which had left a large number of casualties. The once-quiet 4th Division had become the busiest squad in the Seireitei. Even Retsu Unohana had little time to spare. So, when Shin arrived, she immediately asked for his help.
If it had been anyone else, Shin probably would have ignored them. But it was Retsu Unohana. He really couldn't refuse.
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