Chapter 97: A Gift from Heaven, Aizen's Plan

"I think they are truly insane," he muttered to himself, shaking his head in disbelief. "Even the old man couldn't defeat Captain Shiroha. What makes them think they stand a chance? These fools are merely seeking their own demise!"

A smile crept across his face as his mood lightened. He decided he would sneak out to find Uehara Shiroha, share some sake, and celebrate their good fortune. After all, the paperwork piling on his desk could certainly wait another day.

---

Meanwhile, Byakuya Kuchiki wore an expression of unusual complexity as he contemplated the recent decree.

"As the captain of a noble squad, the Sixth Division has always stood as guardian of the Noble Street," he said softly, his voice betraying the faintest hint of uncertainty. "Now the Central 46 has suddenly issued such an order, yet I received no prior notification?"

A familiar weight of guilt settled in his chest. The Kuchiki family was meant to be the voice of nobility, the steadfast defender of aristocratic traditions. Yet as heir to the Kuchiki legacy, he had broken those sacred rules twice—first by marrying a commoner from Rukongai, and later by adopting Rukia from the same humble origins to fulfill his deceased wife's final wish.

The burden of these actions had never left him. He had always felt unworthy of his family name and his position as captain of the Sixth Division. This shame had driven Byakuya to make a solemn vow: never again would he break the rules, and no exceptions would be made for anyone.

Now that his authority over Noble Street had been stripped away and given to the Court Army, Byakuya was not angry as one might expect. Instead, he felt only self-reproach and a deepening sense of guilt.

---

When Captain-Commander Yamamoto Genryusai Shigekuni heard of the order, he merely snorted with disdain, not even bothering to open his eyes.

"It's ridiculous," he said. "The hyena attempts to bribe the dragon!"

"Captain-Commander," Chojiro Sasakibe spoke up, confusion evident in his voice, "if you are aware of everything, why allow the other party to grow in power?"

In Chojiro's mind, Captain-Commander Genryusai had always stood firmly with the nobility. The Gotei 13 had indeed received considerable support from noble families in its early years. The Shihoin and Kuchiki families, two of the Five Great Noble Houses, had even integrated themselves into the Gotei 13's structure. With such deep ties, it seemed inconceivable that the Court Army would turn against the nobility.

But Uehara Shiroha was different. In his eyes, nobles were nothing but trash to be disposed of at will. For the sake of stability, shouldn't such a person be suppressed rather than empowered?

Over the years, the Gotei 13 and the nobility had become so deeply intertwined that they could no longer be separated. If this new captain proved too radical, the delicate balance they had worked so hard to achieve might crumble.

Yamamoto Genryusai Shigekuni shook his head slowly. "Chojiro, there are some people who cannot be suppressed. Just as you completed your Bankai training in a single month—an impressive feat in itself—Uehara Shiroha's brilliance shines even more brightly than our own. It is my responsibility to eventually entrust the Gotei 13 to someone of such caliber."

Balance and order were what he, as the current Captain-Commander, had always prioritized. Whatever came after his time would be for the new leader to consider. Ultimately, strength determined everything. With strength came the ability to maintain balance. Without it, what purpose was there in showing deference to nobility?

So his responsibility was clear: select the right successor. And in his mind, no one was more suitable for this position than Uehara Shiroha.

---

If Uehara Shiroha could have heard these thoughts, he would have certainly scoffed, "You've all been thoroughly deceived by that old silver-tongued devil, Aizen."

He had to admit that Aizen was truly a master manipulator, skilled at twisting people's perceptions and exploiting their psychology.

Aizen's order carried multiple layers of meaning. The first was an apparent show of goodwill, an attempt to appease Shiroha. The second served as both warning and test. After all, Shiroha had previously caused significant trouble on Noble Street using Otsutsuki Naruto's identity. Aizen's decree was essentially saying, "I know what you did," a subtle flex of power.

Simultaneously, Aizen sought to determine whether Shiroha had ulterior motives beyond what was already known.

The final layer was perhaps the most devious. Shiroha knew that Aizen would soon betray the Gotei 13, leaving chaos in his wake. Anyone associated with Aizen at that critical moment would suffer the consequences. Though the Court Army appeared to benefit greatly from this new authority, once Aizen's treachery came to light, they would be forced to repay both principal and interest.

When that happened, the Court Army would undoubtedly face retribution from the Tsunayashiro family, which had already suffered heavy losses. This old schemer wanted to pit Shiroha against the Tsunayashiro—a classic case of killing with a borrowed knife. The privilege being offered was poisoned bait: enticing, but potentially deadly.

Realizing this, Uehara Shiroha inwardly sneered. "It's not so easy to outmaneuver me. I'll take the benefits you offer while leaving the poison for you to swallow."

His overwhelming strength and foresight were his greatest advantages. With the numerous rewards provided by the mission system, he had already become virtually invincible. Combined with his knowledge of future events, Uehara Shiroha could easily maximize his gains.

No matter how cleverly Aizen and Urahara Kisuke schemed and plotted, in the end, Shiroha would effortlessly claim the greatest prize. To him, these two exceptionally intelligent and shrewd individuals were nothing more than useful tools—tools that would help him complete his latest special mission.

From his perspective, the more capable agents he had working unwittingly on his behalf—especially those who didn't demand payment—the better.

As for Noble Street, since the nobility would eventually turn against him anyway, he preferred to strike first. Aizen's Kyoka Suigetsu might be formidable, but Shiroha's Shunkyō was no less powerful. He was curious to see how the soon-to-be dead would attempt to oppose him.

The Tsunayashiro family might be at the peak of their influence now, wielding tremendous power, but their ascension had come at the cost of countless middle and lower noble houses.

"If you wish to destroy them," Shiroha thought, "you must first drive them to madness."

Moreover, Uehara Shiroha held another powerful card up his sleeve. To him, the seemingly mighty Tsunayashiro family was nothing but a collection of dry bones in an ancient grave—barely worth acknowledging, let alone fearing.

---

In the 5th Division barracks of the Seireitei, Captain Aizen dismissed Vice Captain Hinamori Momo with an uncharacteristically dismissive wave of his hand.

The moment she had disappeared from sight, Ichimaru Gin materialized from the shadows. His eyes, narrowed to their customary slits, followed the retreating form of the young Vice Captain.

"She truly is a useful chess piece," Gin remarked with a sigh. "Lord Aizen, your disguise is more terrifying than Kyoka Suigetsu ."

"In truth, my control over her isn't as absolute as I had hoped," Aizen replied, his voice gentle despite the coldness of his words. "If she had been a blank canvas, I could have painted whatever pattern I desired. Unfortunately, this particular canvas already bears another's mark. So, I haven't invested excessive time in her development."

Gin's face took on a concerned expression. "Is that Uehara Shiroha's doing again? Are you certain he won't interfere with our plans? We're at the most critical juncture now."

"Gin, there's no need for concern. I've already sent my gift," Aizen said, his gaze drifting toward Noble Street in the distance, confidence radiating from his serene smile. "Whether now or later, Uehara Shiroha no longer poses a threat to us. If he wishes to remain in Soul Society, he'll need to tread carefully. Otherwise, those nobles will show him no mercy. Noble Street is not so easily managed."

After all, what was there to fear from a powerful man who had lost his backbone and persistence?

"My old classmate is not one to compromise," Gin noted with genuine interest. "Who do you think will prevail—him or the nobility?"

He posed this question strategically, hoping to extract more information, particularly regarding the Five Great Noble Houses and the Zero Squad. Even as a captain, his knowledge of these matters was severely limited. Only by fully understanding Aizen's plan could he eventually strike with lethal precision.

"I find myself equally curious about the outcome," Aizen responded, a mysterious smile playing across his lips. "I truly hope to witness a magnificent battle."

Though the Tsunayashiro family had grown corrupt over the centuries, they still maintained a formidable foundation. More importantly, they maintained connections with the Zero Squad. While Aizen eagerly anticipated Uehara Shiroha forcing the Zero Squad to reveal some of their hidden powers, he recognized the improbability of such an event.

Given the reputation of both the Zero Squad of the Soul King's Palace and the five ancient noble houses, Aizen believed Uehara Shiroha would not dare to directly confront the Tsunayashiro family.

---

Meanwhile, in the flower district of Seireitei, surrounded by enchanting company, Uehara Shiroha clinked glasses with Kyōraku Shunsui amidst the revelry.

Although Kyōraku was well-known as a generous patron of the flower district, the beautiful attendants invariably gravitated toward Uehara Shiroha. Even setting aside his handsome features and prestigious position, his confident and uninhibited db emeanor alone captivated the young beauties who served them.

The room glowed with warm light, crystal glasses clinked melodiously, and the atmosphere was one of perfect harmony—talented men and beautiful women complementing each other like poetry in motion.

Observing Uehara Shiroha, who somehow appeared more youthful and handsome with each passing day, Kyōraku Shunsui suddenly felt his age weighing upon him. There truly was no pain like comparison. While Kyōraku considered himself reasonably attractive, next to Uehara Shiroha, he felt reduced to a mere supporting character.

His companion possessed extraordinary talent, held a prestigious position, and exuded charm and sophistication. Such good fortune seemed beyond even Kyōraku's wildest dreams. What's more, Uehara Shiroha had earned the reputation summarized in the saying: "The courtesans may change with the seasons, but Shiroha remains eternal."

Reflecting on Uehara Shiroha's legendary stamina, Kyōraku Shunsui could not help but ask with envious curiosity, "Brother Shiroha, you truly are gifted. They say you can entertain ten companions in a single night. Is there some secret technique I might learn?"

Only those who understood the limitations of middle age could appreciate Kyōraku's predicament. Moreover, the enchanting attendants of the flower district possessed skills beyond compare. Even the captain of the 8th Division found himself outmatched.

This explained why Kyōraku Shunsui always departed early from their drinking sessions. His capabilities simply had their limits! Yet he too aspired to match Shiroha's legendary prowess!

"It's innate talent, I'm afraid—something that cannot be taught," Uehara Shiroha replied dismissively, not even glancing at Kyōraku as he focused on enjoying the attentions of the beauties surrounding him.

For a spiritual being of his caliber, a mere fatal wound would hardly be worth mentioning. Entertaining ten lovely companions seemed trivial by comparison.

The beautiful attendants serving Uehara Shiroha giggled at his response, their eyes gleaming with mischief and admiration. The luxurious room, filled with delicate fragrances and warm light, resonated with joyous laughter and happiness.

Kyōraku Shunsui's weathered face flushed crimson as he took a deep gulp of sake. Happiness belonged to others; sorrow was his alone. He regretted broaching the topic—it had only served to humiliate himself!

---

After enjoying a fine meal and several rounds of drinks, Uehara Shiroha and Kyōraku Shunsui retreated to a more private room where they could speak freely about sensitive matters, particularly the recent developments regarding Noble Street.

"So, are you truly confident about taking on Noble Street?" Kyōraku asked, his expression turning serious as he broached the subject.

He understood perfectly what Noble Street represented. It was, without exaggeration, the power center of Soul Society. Those who resided and held influence there enjoyed the highest privileges and support throughout the spiritual realm. For the Court Army to establish itself there carried enormous significance.

Uehara Shiroha's Court Army now possessed the foundation to grow exponentially in power and influence. Such an immense benefit falling into Shiroha's lap made Kyōraku suspicious of hidden motives. Yet even if conspiracies lurked beneath the surface, the advantages were too substantial to dismiss lightly.

Uehara Shiroha maintained his characteristic composure. "What could possibly go wrong? How could I refuse such benefits when they're placed before me?"

In recent days, he had orchestrated the Court Army's takeover of both the defense and daily management of Noble Street. Effectively, half the lives of the nobility now rested in his hands. The benefits had been considerable—almost overwhelming. Fortunately, his ambition matched his appetite, allowing him to swallow all these advantages whole. As for any potential backlash, he didn't perceive it as a genuine threat.

Kyōraku Shunsui still harbored concerns. "Those people may overlook many things, but they cling to power with an iron grip. Are you certain this won't backfire?"

In truth, he was deeply curious. Although most nobles considered themselves too dignified to acknowledge the Court Army as equals, why had the Four Great Noble Houses acquiesced to their intrusion into Noble Street? The Court Army's presence would inevitably diminish their authority—could they truly tolerate such encroachment?

Everything seemed to be unfolding with suspicious ease, giving Kyōraku an uncanny sense of unreality.

"Of course they resent it, but what can they do about it?" Uehara Shiroha replied, fully aware of the delicate balance at play.

The Tsunayashiro family had been caught off-guard by the Central 46's decree and could only adopt a wait-and-see approach while addressing internal matters. Meanwhile, the Kuchiki and Shihoin families had aligned themselves with Shiroha, so their silence was assured.

Seeing Uehara Shiroha's unwavering confidence, Kyōraku Shunsui felt his concerns ease. He lifted his sake cup with a renewed smile. "If you control both the Court Army and the Gotei 13, you effectively control all of Soul Society! Even old man Yamamoto has never wielded such comprehensive power. Come, let's drink to a brighter future!"

Privately, Kyōraku had little love for the nobility yet couldn't bring himself to abandon the Gotei 13, though he had no desire for increased responsibility. The meteoric rise of Uehara Shiroha and his Court Army represented the ideal outcome from Kyōraku's perspective.

"You're simply looking to pass the burden," Uehara Shiroha remarked, making it clear he didn't covet the position of Captain-Commander.

The various captains of the Gotei 13 were all "problem children" in their own ways, and managing their personalities alongside administrative duties held little appeal. He had established the Court Army for greater autonomy and personal benefit.

Once the Court Army completely assumed control over Noble Street, his position as Captain-Commander would carry more prestige than that of the Gotei 13's Captain-Commander. Perhaps, in time, even the Captain-Commander would find themselves taking orders from him.

From this perspective, the position of Captain-Commander represented a burden rather than an asset. Uehara Shiroha would be foolish to accept such a role when he could instead be the Captain-Commander who dictated terms to the Captain-Commander.

---

The following evening, Uehara Shiroha returned to the underground base at Sokyoku Hill to meet with Yoruichi Shihoin.

On this occasion, the purple-haired, dark-skinned beauty greeted him with unusual enthusiasm. When she looked at Shiroha, her eyes shone with gratitude. "Shiroha, thank you for saving Suì-Fēng!"

Yoruichi had learned of the incident in Naruki City, which she attributed to Aizen's machinations. Had Shiroha not intervened promptly, Suì-Fēng might have suffered severe injury or worse. Yoruichi blamed herself for placing her protégé in danger. That snake Aizen was truly insidious!

"She has already thanked me properly," Uehara Shiroha thought to himself with secret satisfaction.

Though it was his actions that had inadvertently endangered Suì-Fēng in the first place, he had indeed saved her in the end. Therefore, gratitude was still owed to him. And Suì-Fēng had already expressed her appreciation quite thoroughly.

Being a man of particular tastes, Uehara Shiroha responded with feigned righteousness, "You're too kind. I merely did what was necessary. However, if you truly wish to show your gratitude..."

"Is this sincere enough?" Yoruichi asked, letting down her long hair and beginning to remove her outer garment.

Uehara Shiroha regarded her with an intensely serious expression. "Not quite."

"How about this?"

"That's more appropriate."

---

Ultimately, Yoruichi surrendered herself to the situation with surprising ease. She approached their encounter with greater enthusiasm than during previous meetings. This was partly due to genuine gratitude for Shiroha saving Suì-Fēng, but she also harbored ulterior motives of her own.

Hours later, they relaxed in the familiar warmth of the hot spring. Uehara Shiroha dozed contentedly, his expression one of complete satisfaction. Soaking in the therapeutic waters after vigorous exertion truly felt divine.

As for the countless complications and hidden dangers of the outside world—the political machinations and veiled threats—they seemed entirely remote from this moment of tranquility.

Observing Shiroha's carefree demeanor, Yoruichi felt a pang of envy. Others lived life on their own terms—enjoying fine wine, beautiful company, and freedom from responsibility. How enviable such an existence seemed.

As the former Captain of the Second Division, Commander of the Onmitsukidō, and Head of the Shihoin family, she had never experienced such unfettered pleasure. Now, she couldn't even return to her ancestral home, with worries constantly plaguing her thoughts.

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