7-1 The Cat and the Hornet

Lord Tokinada, we have received information about assassins who are plotting to kill you. Please come under our protection until they have been eliminated.

I see. So that's how it's going to be.

This sort of tactic must be Shunsui's doing. It looks like the groundwork to drag me down from my new position hasn't been set yet.

He knows I made the first move, so he's stalling.

I'm afraid I don't understand what you're talking about.

You don't, you say? Stop playing games, ninth generation of the Fon Clan.

It's beyond obvious that you are forcing yourself to speak to me with respect.

I don't think it's fitting for a Stealth Force assassin to show such superficial respect.

The only people you truly respect are the Shihoin Clan, especially that absconder Yoruichi, who is no longer the head. Isn't that right?

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

Oh, I know, here's an idea! Perhaps you would respect me if I made Yoruichi my wife and became part of her family.

We're both members of the Four Great Noble Clans. Don't you think we'd be a perfect match? The man who carelessly killed his own wife and the woman who was tempted by Kisuke Urahara and carelessly betrayed the Soul Society.

Indeed. Don't you think we sound like the perfect pair?

You must really think little of me if you're considering marrying me just to annoy Soi Fon.

Lady Yoruichi!

Oh my, I'm embarrassed you overheard that.

It seems I'm also being targeted by assassins. I'm very scared, so I thought Soi Fon could protect both of us. Does that sound all right?

Yoruichi Shihoin, who doesn't possess a Zanpakuto, and a ninth generation Fon who specializes in martial arts.

I see, I see. You must've heard about my Zanpakuto ability from Shunsui. That blabbermouth.

How rude. I have a Zanpakuto, but in my case, I'm a stronger fighter if I strictly use martial arts. Thanks to that, I have to soothe a pouting sword every day.

Very well then. I will ask for your protection. I was worried myself anyway.

Worried?

Yes, I was recently attacked by assassins right after my succession. I don't currently have my guard Hikone with me, either. On days like this when I go out defenseless...

(Assassins?! Really?! Or do they work for the Tsunayashiro Clan?!)

Yes, it's scary. Assassins are frightening.

For that reason, I will cross over the hedge separating our positions, take the hand of a member of a lower noble house, and fight alongside you.

Proffer, Kutenkyokoku!