Bleach: Watch Closely, This Is How You Use a Zanpakutō novel Chapter 168

Chapter 168 - 168: Adorable

Kirio Hikifune's Gikon technique was something Mayuri Kurotsuchi had only heard of—never witnessed firsthand. But he knew all too well that this technique wasn't just "helpful" to him; it was the key to the success of the Artificial Soul project.

"What do you intend to do?"

Mayuri took a deep breath, steadying himself before asking.

"I've discussed it with Kisuke. The research data related to Gikon can be made available to you, and we will grant you the necessary access rights."

As he spoke, Masatsuki Aozaki placed his hands on the cold, hard metal lab bench and leaned forward slightly, as if applying more pressure through sheer presence.

"However, keep in mind—this data is for your eyes only. You are strictly forbidden from disclosing even a single word of it to anyone else."

His tone grew serious as he emphasized the warning.

"What do you want from me in return?" Mayuri frowned, his gaze sharp.

He knew full well that nothing in this world came for free. No one handed out favors without expecting something in exchange. If fate had ever been so generous to him, he wouldn't have ended up imprisoned all those years ago.

"Kisuke wants you to master all the necessary techniques. In addition, he's conducting an important experiment and needs your assistance."

Masatsuki propped his chin on his fist, pausing briefly before continuing.

"As for me... I want the results of your research. I want the final product of this experiment to be mine."

"No problem." Mayuri agreed without hesitation, nodding decisively.

The true core of scientific achievement was technology. As long as he controlled the technology, the finished product could be reproduced indefinitely. Compared to a single product, the knowledge and methodology behind it were far more valuable.

Besides, it didn't matter if the other party was after the Gikon technology. His only goal was to uncover its secrets—what happened to it afterward was of little concern to him.

"Then..." Masatsuki extended a hand, a faint but genuine smile playing on his lips. "Pleasure doing business with you."

Mayuri studied the bright, confident face in front of him for a moment before lowering his gaze to the outstretched, pale hand. After a brief pause, he reached out and shook it.

...

Accompanied by the flirtatious glances of a group of female Shinigami, Masatsuki Aozaki left the 12th Division barracks in high spirits and made his way back to the 11th Division, which wasn't far away.

The 11th Division barracks.

Under the blazing sun, squad members trained tirelessly, their sweat never ceasing to fall.

At this moment, inside the dojo, Mashiro Kuna was facing the greatest challenge of her life.

Standing before her was Gin Ichimaru, challenging her for the position of 11th Division Lieutenant. Since both of them held lieutenant-level strength, their battle was bound to be fierce.

"Third Seat Ichimaru defeated Lieutenant Mashiro! I guess we should start calling him Lieutenant Ichimaru now."

"That means Mashiro got knocked back to Third Seat. She'll definitely run to Masatsuki-sama for comfort."

"I feel like she lost on purpose... Damn, I'm jealous!"

"Yeah, but who would've thought we'd go through three different lieutenants in just five years?"

"Three? Who was Mashiro's predecessor?"

"If I remember right, it was Ittora Yamazaki."

"Ugh, don't even bring up that old guy. He actually went off to work in the Central District—what a disgrace to our squad!"

Amid the cheers of the squad members, Gin Ichimaru emerged victorious.

According to the 11th Division's rules, if a lower-seated officer defeated a higher-seated officer in an official match witnessed by the squad, they would automatically take over the higher-ranking position.

In other words, Gin Ichimaru had officially become the 11th Division's Lieutenant.

Back in the office, Masatsuki Aozaki casually signed an appointment letter and handed it to Gin.

"Congratulations, Gin. The 11th Division is yours now."

"You say that like you were actually managing it. We both know I've been the one handling squad affairs this whole time."

Gin took the letter with an exasperated roll of his eyes.

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