Chapter 1: Senbonzakura's Intervention

Hey there, Captain Kuchiki. What brings you here?

I'm here to make my interim report in regards to the strange fires in recent days.

Oh, that. Yeah, it's pretty disturbing. I heard you guys were having trouble with it though. Any progress?

We've yet to track the behavioral pattern of the Sword Beast assumed to be the culprit. It's making the capture rather difficult, but we are doing our best to investigate.

I see. So I guess it'll still take some time.

May I ask why you're here?

Actually, I've just been asked to find some people to help out with Squad 1's construction project to restore their stone sauna.

Those mysterious fires are dangerous, but rushing the investigation won't necessarily lead you to the culprit.

It's like rebuilding the Seireitei. We have to be patient and take things step-by-step.

............

What are you doing, Senbonzakura?

Need you ask? I'm going to help with the investigation of the fires.

I'm quite certain I already told you that Renji is handling that case. You need not go.

Yes, I understand. But seeing as there's been no progress, I fear it could bring shame upon my master's name.

I simply can't ignore such...

Fire!!!

!!!

I see the squad members working to extinguish the fire, but where is the culprit?

Senbonzakura?! Why are you here?!

It's our job to secure this area! What are you doing?!

I was at the manor when I heard there was a fire, so I rushed over. I assume this is another one of those strange fires.

We can't say for sure, but we think it is. Looking at the evidence, it seems similar to the previous ones.

Just as I thought. I don't understand why you're struggling so hard with something as simple as this.

Byakuya told me not to interfere, but the situation calls for immediate measures. As of this moment, I will take up command.

When you get involved, things that should get resolved become more complicated! Follow your master's orders and stay out of this!

It's because you fools are useless. I refuse to leave this matter to you any longer!

What the hell are you guys doing?!

Oww!!!

What was that for, Renji?!

Don't you "what-was-that-for" me! Where's the Sword Beast?!

Looks like it got away. We were so close to catching it too.

Damn. We're back to square one.

You let the target you were chasing get away? What were you doing, really?