Chapter 3: A New Suspect

Wait, where did you come up with that idea?

Who is the suspect?

It's faster if we go there.

All right. Lead the way.

Hey, this is Squad 9. I thought you wanted to confirm Izuru's alibi.

What's a group this big doing here? Is something going on?

Sorry about this. We were doing a little investigation about the fires, and...

Oh, I've heard about that. Some Sword Beast's been causing it, right? Is it hiding nearby?

Well, uh... That's not quite the reason.

They're saying that there's a possibility that the culprit isn't a Sword Beast but a Zanpakuto.

You mean, like us?

If a Zanpakuto who still feels dissatisfied with his master is acting subconsciously, they may be involved in the incident.

What?! So you're trying to say I'm the culprit? I'm gonna reap your soul!

I doubt it. He's not acting subconsciously.

Oh, good. I knew you would understand, Master Izuru.

Shuhei was at the Squad 4 treatment room until earlier because of his injuries caused by Kazeshini.

Not to mention, Kazeshini's the type to go around destroying things of his own will.

What if he were being affected by his master's mental state?

That's it!

Kazeshini was born from the suppressed negativity within Shuhei's mind without him realizing it.

In other words, it's stress. Kazeshini is a manifestation of his destructive urges. And if that's being heightened by the current situation...

Did you just call me a manifestation of stress?!

Calm down, everyone!

Izuru, that was a bit rude, to be quite honest. Shuhei's not the type to stress over anything.

Hold on. What's that supposed to mean, Renji?

Huh...?

Just stop it already!!!

Ahhhh!!!