Chapter 223: Anticipation
Sōsuke Aizen reached out with a slightly trembling hand and slowly shut off the flashing electronic screen.
As the only source of light disappeared, the laboratory was instantly swallowed by darkness, shrouded in an oppressive, almost tangible force.
He remained still, taking slow, deep breaths, trying to steady his emotions.
Seconds stretched into minutes. Finally, once he regained his composure, he reached forward and gently lifted the glass cover, his gaze locking onto the growing mass of black coal-like material.
Stepping forward, he moved with deliberate grace, shedding his black robe and draping the captain's haori over his shoulders. With practiced care, he smoothed out his disheveled hair.
For a brief moment, an overwhelming sharpness radiated from him—like a blade on the verge of being unsheathed, impossible to look at directly.
Standing before the mirror, Aizen studied his reflection.
At a glance, he appeared to be nothing more than a refined, kind, and approachable man.
But only a select few understood the depth of cunning and calculation lurking behind that facade.
Kōga Kuchiki pushed open the door and stepped inside, freezing in place the moment he saw him.
Aizen stood upright, an unusually radiant smile spread across his face.