Chapter 161: Surveillance
The 1st Division captain's office was steeped in tension, as if an invisible shadow loomed over the room.
Yamamoto sat upright at his desk, leaning on his cane. His brow was deeply furrowed, his gaze as sharp as a blade, and a few more wrinkles seemed to have etched themselves into his forehead.
Seated nearby, Masatsuki Aozaki and Shunsui Kyōraku appeared relaxed, their expressions unreadable. In contrast, Jūshirō Ukitake wore a troubled look, weighed down by concern.
As the only one to have fought the intruder and survived, Masatsuki Aozaki began his report, recounting the entire chase in meticulous detail. By blending a small portion of truth with a sea of misleading information, he made the events appear convoluted yet undeniably thorough.
When he finished, Yamamoto finally spoke.
"You are certain the intruder used Bankai?" His voice was deep, carrying the faintest trace of doubt.
Masatsuki Aozaki responded casually,
"Absolutely. I distinctly felt his Reiatsu surge dramatically."
His tone exuded confidence and certainty.
Yamamoto raised his hand slightly, signaling for the Inner Court Troop—who had been standing by—to withdraw. Once they had left, he spoke again, his voice even heavier than before.
"Do you have any idea what kind of abilities his Bankai possesses?"