Chapter 3

Sorry about that. That was an unwelcome interruption.

Anyway, where were we?

Very well. I won't ask you to explain what that thing was.

I don't think either of us has enough strength left to continue this fight for very much longer. We'll finish this off with one final attack.

All right. But first, let me ask you just one more question.

Tell me why. Why wouldn't you save Rukia?

If you actually succeed in defeating me, then I will answer that question.

Shukei Hakuteiken!

You wanted to know why I would allow Rukia to be executed.

Criminals must be brought to justice. Once their punishment is decided, it must be carried out. That is the rule of the law.

You honor the law even over the life of your own sister?

Sympathy towards a relative... What could be more pointless?

Feelings and emotions have no value compared to the law. Luckily, I've never been burdened by such useless sentiments.

The Kuchiki Clan is one of the Four Great Noble Clans. We're duty bound to serve as examples for all Soul Reapers.

How can we enforce our laws if we ourselves are not willing to obey them?

I'm sorry. I still can't understand.

I swear, even if I were in your position, I would fight the law. I would fight until I ended your stupid law.

(Now I see.)

(I was never his true enemy. What this child was fighting against since the very beginning was the law of the Soul Society.)

(That unrestrained nature of his reminds me of that detestable man.)

Ichigo Kurosaki, because of your free spirit and reckless abandon, you have broken my sword. You have my word: I will pursue Rukia no more.

You have won.