Bleach: Watch Closely, This Is How You Use a Zanpakutō novel Chapter 338

Chapter 338: Chapter 338: Just Like the Old Days

When Masatsuki Aozaki heard the words "His Majesty the Soul King," an image surfaced in his mind—the figure of a mutilated being suspended high above the heavens.

Limbless, devoid of organs, neither alive nor dead.

And yet, despite this state, the Soul King still possessed consciousness and could issue commands to the Royal Guard.

This alone proved that the Soul King remained a threat to him.

By Masatsuki’s estimation, even after losing so many vital components, the power the Soul King retained had to be immense—far surpassing Yhwach, even after he regained The Almighty.

However, judging from the demeanor of Senjumaru Shutara and Kirio Hikifune, this so-called god didn’t seem to consider him an enemy.

In that case, should he go and meet him?

If the Soul King truly intended to eliminate him, then no matter where he fled within the Three Worlds, it would be pointless.

After contemplating for a moment, Masatsuki Aozaki silently nodded, signaling his acceptance of the invitation.

...

On the other side, Yamamoto rested both hands on his cane, deep in thought.

The Zero Division inviting Masatsuki Aozaki wasn’t surprising—he had anticipated this for some time.

In the past, Kenpachi Kuruyashiki had received a similar invitation due to his overwhelming strength.

Now, Masatsuki Aozaki, as his most gifted disciple, was just as exceptional. An invitation made perfect sense.

But... why wasn’t it an invitation to join the Zero Division?

Why did the Soul King himself want to see him?

That boy—despite always putting on an act as if he feared Yamamoto—had already surpassed him in strength.

There was no doubt about that.

To be more precise, his power was so great that he didn’t even seem like a Shinigami anymore.

Had the Soul King sensed something unusual about Masatsuki and wanted to confirm it personally?

Or...

Did the recent incident in the underground prison of Shin’ō Academy catch the Soul King’s attention?

Was he seeking answers from Masatsuki Aozaki?

Even though Kisuke Urahara and Retsu Unohana had close ties to the matter, neither had personally been part of the investigation.

So why Masatsuki?

Something felt off.

Yamamoto narrowed his eyes at Masatsuki Aozaki.

Only to find that the boy first looked deep in thought—

And then shot him a smug, almost defiant expression, as if saying, Who do you think I am?

This brat...

What is there to be so arrogant about?

Do you actually think I envy you for being able to ascend to the Soul King Palace?

What an idiot!

The corner of Yamamoto’s eye twitched a few times before he finally let out a long, heavy sigh.

...

"Then it’s settled. The time is set for three days from now. Masatsuki, make sure you’re prepared."

Kirio Hikifune spoke with a rare serious expression.

"Got it!" Masatsuki Aozaki nodded firmly.

"Since we’re back in Soul Society, Kisuke, take us to the 12th Division for a tour. I’m curious to see how it’s changed."

Senjumaru Shutara turned to Kisuke Urahara, a hint of anticipation on her face.

...

Yamamoto leaned on his cane, silently watching the three leave.

Behind him, Masatsuki Aozaki and Retsu Unohana also stood in silence.

Only after their figures disappeared did Yamamoto finally turn around. Narrowing his eyes, he spoke in a solemn tone.

"When you arrive at the Soul King Palace, remember—do not flaunt your power."

"That flashy, half-baked swordplay of yours—keep it to yourself. I refuse to be embarrassed."

"If they ask about the underground prison at Shin’ō..."

Yamamoto paused in thought before continuing.

"Captain Unohana will brief you. Just tell them what she says."

"Understood, old man."

Masatsuki Aozaki gave a small nod, signaling his understanding.

He had always carried himself with restraint—this request was hardly an issue.

Hiding his strength?

That was his specialty.

Yamamoto raised a hand, gesturing toward the nearby tea table.

Masatsuki Aozaki immediately picked up a cup of fine tea and handed it over.

The old man nodded in satisfaction before continuing.

"What you truly need to be cautious of in the Soul King Palace is the Royal Special Forces, Zero Division."

"As for the others, you don’t need to worry much—they’re just Shinigami promoted from the Gotei 13."

"Even Tenjirō Kirinji, who doesn’t know you, should still show me some respect."

"But the ones you should be wary of—the ones who could pose a real threat—are two specific members of Zero Division."

Yamamoto’s gaze grew sharp.

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