Bleach: The Shinigami’s Zanpakutō That Unleashed Bankai On Its Own

After Unohana Retsu finished speaking, nearly every gaze shifted toward Moyu, standing calmly in his standard black Shihakushō. His Zanpakutō rested at his waist, his aura refined and serene—not fierce or aggressive.

Gentle as jade. Harmless to humans and animals.

"Then, following the terms in my application," Moyu said firmly, "the seat I wish to challenge is—Yashichiwa Iemura, Third Seat of the Fourth Division."

As his words fell, heads turned in unison toward Yashichiwa, who stood quietly beside Unohana.

With disheveled yellow hair and a thin frame, his presence felt malnourished. The distinctive glasses on his face seemed more expressive than he was.

"It's truly troubling," Yashichiwa said flatly, his voice calm. "I didn't expect Mr. Moyu to be so bold. It seems I, the Third Seat, have been underestimated."

Murmurs rippled across the training ground.

No one expected Moyu to directly challenge a high seat. Most assumed he'd start from the bottom and climb. Now, they couldn't tell if this was true confidence—or arrogant conceit.

"A genius from the Spiritual Arts Academy, sure, but this is gutsy…"

"Even so, don't underestimate Yashichiwa-senpai. He didn't earn that seat for nothing."

"Besides, you're all ignoring one important fact—he's a direct descendant of the Kuchiki clan. That outranks Academy merit any day."

The Fourth Division's chatter was less venomous than the Academy's. Perhaps life in the harsh grind of Seireitei had tempered them. The Fourth was known for its open-door policies—Unohana Retsu allowed almost anyone with basic Kidō talent to join. Naturally, their rules were more forgiving.

Unohana lowered her eyes slightly, scanning the field.

"Since there are no objections, then clear the ground for Moyu and Yashichiwa."

At her command, the crowd scattered, making space.

Unohana stepped between the two duelists, her smile gentle but composed. "This matter has been reported to Captain-Commander Yamamoto and approved. As per the rules of a seated challenge, the match will be decided without taking lives."

The moment she finished speaking, her body vanished—reappearing at the edge of the field in an instant.

[Your Shunpo comprehension has increased significantly after witnessing Unohana Retsu's technique. Mastery speed of Advanced Shunpo skills increased by 70%.]

Moyu blinked. A pleasant surprise before the fight even began.

Yashichiwa Iemura unsheathed his Zanpakutō, expression serious.

"I admit, activating Shikai against you might seem excessive, but these rules are set in stone. To hold back would dishonor them."

"This... is also my conviction."

He raised his sealed blade horizontally and intoned with composure:

"Roll over—Silverfish Pill!"

A hum echoed as the blade split apart, glowing with a faint reddish hue. A subtle but strangely sweet fragrance spread throughout the arena. The weapon took on a forked shape, resembling the split upper mandibles of a silverfish, glinting with icy menace.

Perhaps due to Moyu's reputation, Yashichiwa showed no hint of contempt. The moment his Zanpakutō was released, he charged.

To him, the best chance of winning was a swift, overwhelming strike.

Moyu's expression didn't change—but he was genuinely surprised. A seated officer of the Fourth Division with a Shikai? Hidden talents truly lurked in Seireitei's quieter corners.

"Smart move..." Moyu muttered, lifting a single finger toward Yashichiwa.

"Hmm?! Noticed already?"

Yashichiwa grinned, his voice rising with confidence. "The gas from Silverfish Pill is poisonous. It slows your movements and weakens your responses—you won't fight at full strength!"

"Victory… will be mine!"

His blade flashed as he closed the gap.

But Moyu only smiled calmly.

"It's not over yet. Don't celebrate too soon."

"Third Seat Yashichiwa…"

As he spoke, Yashichiwa was already upon him, raising Silverfish Pill high above his head.

"Admit defeat, Mr. Moyu!"

"The battle is over!!"