Part 8: The Past, 1-5

Do you really keep a bunch of people locked up in this dreadful place?

Stuck way underground?

I guess it does sound cruel, doesn't it?

But the truth is it's not really an underground prison.

It's still a prison, of course. I mean, they're not allowed to leave this place. However, their activities within the facility are not restricted.

So tell me. What exactly did these people do?

Not a thing.

What?!

As I tried to explain, these people haven't actually done anything wrong, yet.

According to the criteria of the Seireitei, they were people who were determined to be dangerous elements within the Soul Society.

They committed no crime, so we cannot try them. However, if they were left free, they could well end up being dangerous.

That's why we keep them confined in here, safely tucked away.

That's crazy! They haven't done a thing! And you still keep them locked up?

Hiyori, something's been on my mind ever since I was assigned to this place as a unit leader.

I don't argue that the people here are all potentially dangerous.

But in many cases, I believe that negative energy could be turned into something extremely positive if we could only provide them an environment where they could put their abilities to use.

Beyond here is the only person in this place dangerous enough to be confined to his own cell.

What business do you have with someone like that?

Is that you, Kisuke Urahara? What brings you to a place like this?

I came down here because I wanted to have a chat.

Let me ask you something, Mayuri Kurotsuchi.

Would you be interested in leaving this place with me?

Wait. Who is this creepy guy?

Oh, you call someone creepy the first time you meet? From my point of view, you're quite a disrespectful boy.

Boy?! Who are you callin' a boy?! What are you, blind? I'm a girl!

You want me to show you my boobs? I'll do it! I'll show them right here!

She happens to be my squad's lieutenant.

Lieutenant, you say? Guess you must have gotten promoted. Congratulations.

Thanks, it's not always a pleasant job. But getting back to the subject, can I have your answer?

I need your assistance.

Let's dispense with the lies, shall we? You don't really expect me to believe that.

When you put it that way, I guess not. You really don't trust me, do you?

I believe in your skills. And that is the truth.

I'm in the process of creating an organization unlike anything ever seen in the Soul Society. It'll be under the control of Squad 12.

It's the Department of Research and Development. I would like you to assume the seat of Deputy Chief.

You mean you want me to work under you?

That's correct. It's not such a bad offer, is it? You'd be second in command to me. In other words...

...if I were to pass away, you would end up having total control.

Heh, heh, heh.

As I stated before, you really are a most unpleasant fellow.