Chapter 34: Chapter 34 - Her Name Is Unohana Retsu!
Chapter 34 - Her Name Is Unohana Retsu!
In the balcony overlooking the swordsmanship aptitude test, Sosuke Aizen adjusted his glasses, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes, though he kept it hidden. He wasn't alone in noticing something unusual; the other captains sensed it too.
Isshin Shiba couldn't help but voice his thoughts, "Did I see that right? Gilgamesh was already prepared to defend before Kano-sensei's attack?"
No one responded to Isshin's question because Miho Kano had launched another attack.
This time, her offensive increased in intensity, delivering two strikes in a split second from different directions at Gilgamesh. She did this to confirm her suspicions. The strength Miho Kano displayed in these two strikes exceeded the scope of the swordsmanship aptitude test, making it impossible for the examinees to track the trajectory of her attacks.
But Gilgamesh remained unfazed. He had already anticipated Miho Kano's thoughts.
'This strike, aimed at his right leg.'
'This strike, aimed at his left hand.'
Calm and composed, Gilgamesh effortlessly raised his sword to block both of Miho Kano's strikes.
Clang! Clang!
The two collision sounds almost merged into one, shocking the onlookers. They couldn't see the trajectory of Miho Kano's strikes, but they knew she had struck twice. The fact that Gilgamesh blocked both strikes, with the sounds almost simultaneous, indicated the brief interval between them.
The examinees were witnessing a glimpse of Miho Kano's true strength, and it left them anxious. They wondered if their swordsmanship aptitude tests would be this challenging.
Renji Abarai's face turned slightly pale. He finally understood why Gilgamesh had stopped him from going first. He knew he couldn't have blocked even Miho Kano's first strike, let alone her double strike.
For Rukia, it was a mix of trepidation and anticipation. She saw hope and a future in Miho Kano's strength, aspiring to become just as powerful.
Miho Kano's offensive continued to intensify, yet Gilgamesh parried every strike. Although Miho Kano's swordsmanship was profound, Gilgamesh's physical strength, reaction speed, agility, mindset, and will were evidently superior. Most importantly, Miho Kano confirmed that Gilgamesh could foresee her strikes.
After another failed attack, Miho Kano withdrew. This time, her face was no longer gentle; her eyes were fixed on Gilgamesh with an intense gaze. An invisible pressure descended upon the examinees, causing their hearts to race and feel a weight on their shoulders.
The observing captains couldn't help but react. Even the always cold and composed Byakuya Kuchiki showed a change in expression.
Shunsui Kyoraku, usually nonchalant, spoke with rare seriousness, "I didn't expect Gilgamesh to surprise us this much. Though his swordsmanship isn't on par with Kano-sensei's, without using spiritual pressure and energy, even she can't defeat him if he can foresee her strikes. This match might end in a draw."
Kaname Tosen couldn't help but ask, "How is he doing this? Why can he foresee Kano-sensei's strikes?"
Aizen Sosuke replied, "It's not clear yet, but it might be related to his innate talent. I suspect it's an extraordinarily strong combat intuition, similar to Captain Kenpachi."
Inwardly, Aizen thought, 'Gilgamesh, you're becoming more intriguing.'
Gin Ichimaru, now fully opening his eyes like a fox, fixed his gaze on Gilgamesh, remarking, "It seems the Soul Society is about to witness an unimaginable genius."
Isshin Shiba couldn't contain himself, "I'm calling it now—Gilgamesh is ours in the Tenth Division. I'll groom him as a captain candidate!"
Sajin Komamura, the masked captain of the Seventh Division, interjected, "Such talent is too precious to let go. I wish to vie for him as well."
The captains, except for Yamamoto Genryusai and Kaien Shiba, joined the fray to claim Gilgamesh. Even Byakuya Kuchiki wasn't an exception. Initially, his interest in Gilgamesh was due to Rukia, but now, Gilgamesh's talent had truly astonished him. If Gilgamesh joined the Kuchiki clan, it would certainly elevate their status.
In the midst of this competitive spirit, Isshin noticed Kaien. He was stunned to see Kaien's trembling eyes fixed on Gilgamesh, his expression filled with shock and disbelief.
Isshin knew Kaien must be aware of something significant. This intense battle for talent among the captains would have caused quite a stir if seen by others.
Finally, Yamamoto Genryusai intervened to end the contest.
Back in the testing area, Miho Kano took a deep breath, suppressing her urge to continue the fight. She tried to regain her composure and said, "Your test is over."
Gilgamesh was momentarily surprised. He was confident of victory, knowing he hadn't fully utilized the abilities of Sha Nagba Imuru. Through its power, he saw that Miho Kano was eager for an all-out physical fight.
During her years at the Shin'o Academy, Miho Kano hadn't encountered an opponent who could challenge her, let alone push her to her limits. She still had a trump card, a memory of a person who had influenced her swordsmanship deeply.
In his mind, Gilgamesh saw a figure with braided hair, exuding overwhelming killing intent, resembling a murderer's aura. Her name was Unohana Retsu.
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