Bleach: Gazing Mirage

Chapter 52

Yuichi, despite the pain and frustration of his repeated defeats, listened carefully to Yūshirō and Yoruichi's assessments, understanding that his skills needed significant improvement, especially in the realm of Hohō.

"I appreciate your feedback," Yuichi said, his voice steady despite his physical discomfort. "I know I have a long way to go, but I'm willing to put in the effort to improve. I won't let this spar deter me, and I'll work diligently to strengthen my Hohō and other combat skills."

"Good cause you're going to be living here for the next four days so that I can pound the concept of Shunpo into your body," said Yūshirō who offered Yuichi a hand to get off the floor.

Yoruichi turned to face Mei and Kira who had joined them near the end of the spar. "Mei, you and Kira head back to the academy for now. I'll head over later to inform Kensei that Yuichi will be unable to attend class for the next four days."

"Yes, I understand Lady Yoruichi." said Mei with a bow

Moments later Mei and Kira were led out by the maid Hui. Yoruichi also left the dojo while saying, "He's all yours for the next four days. Try not to break him Yūshirō."

Returning back to her empty study she asked out out, "How was it?"

Seconds later Suì-Fēng appeared out of thin air and reported, "It is as you thought Lady Yoruichi. This child Kira cannot be trusted. When you left she heeded your words and didn't open the scroll, however, she did search through this room. She didn't open any of the documents, returning everything to its proper place, before leaving."

Yoruichi burst out laughing, "No, I think she did that to show me that she's aware she was being watched. She's an intelligent girl after all so she must know she's under surveillance. Besides, I replaced all the documents in this room with false information, so even if she read it no harm would come to the Shihōin clan."

As Yoruichi and Suì-Fēng discussed Kira's actions, it became clear that Yoruichi had planned the entire scenario as a test of Kira's loyalty and trustworthiness. Yoruichi's laughter indicated that she had anticipated Kira's curiosity and had taken steps to ensure that no actual harm would come to the Shihōin clan through any information Kira might have discovered.

Suì-Fēng nodded in understanding. "Lady Yoruichi, Kira's actions were indeed calculated. She seems to be cautious and intelligent but more than anything I believe she's dangerous. It would be best to eliminate her along with Ankoku clan."

Yoruichi's expression turned more serious as she considered the implications of Kira's actions. "Cautious and intelligent, yes, but she also falls into the trap that all intelligent people fall into. Which is that she believes that nothing we do can catch her off guard. It's a fatal flaw smart people have, they look down on others too much. She currently trying her best to stick to us and appeal to us so that we may save her life. She values her life above anything, which is why she's betraying her family, and if someone could offer her a better chance at survival, then she would gladly take it. Keep a close watch on her, Suì-Fēng, and ensure she doesn't stray from our plans."

Suì-Fēng nodded in agreement. "Understood, Lady Yoruichi. I will continue to monitor her closely."

Yoruichi and Suì-Fēng's conversation revealed the depth of their understanding of Kira's character and motives. It was clear that they viewed her as a potential threat due to her strength, intelligence, and adaptability. While they recognized her value as an asset, they were also cautious and prepared to act swiftly if she ever deviated from their plans or posed a risk to the Shihōin clan.

"So, how did that other matter I asked you to take care of go?" asked Yoruichi

"Yes, I was able to disseminate the information to the Seike Lower Noble House. Since they serve the Kuchiki Clan this information should reach Lord Ginrei's ear." answered Suì-Fēng

"Good, Ginrei can focus on keeping the Tsunayashiro Clan in check, whilst we focus on stopping this possible war. I was surprised when Yūshirō found that they were feeding information to the Ankoku clan. I don't know what game they're playing right now, but no one will be spared if a war breaks out." said Yoruichi in deep thought. She sighed and said, "Suì-Fēng mobilize the Onmitsukidō right now. I want them to investigate all the lower noble houses underneath the Tsunayashiro Clan."

"Yes, at once my lady." said Suì-Fēng before disappearing

As Suì-Fēng mobilized the Onmitsukidō, Yoruichi remained in her study, her thoughts focused on the looming threat of war and the intricate political dynamics at play. She knew that the Tsunayashiro Clan's involvement with the Ankoku Clan and their dissemination of information posed a significant danger to the Soul Society's stability.

Yoruichi had always been a skilled and resourceful leader, and she understood that uncovering the full extent of the Tsunayashiro Clan's actions was crucial. She also needed to ensure that Lord Ginrei Kuchiki, the head of the Kuchiki Clan, was made aware of the situation, as his influence and connections within the Seireitei could be instrumental in addressing the crisis.

While Yoruichi continued to contemplate her next steps, she couldn't shake the feeling that there were even deeper layers to the conspiracy than what had been revealed so far. The potential for a war that could engulf the Soul Society was a dire threat, and Yoruichi was determined to do whatever it took to prevent it from becoming a reality.

As she contemplated she said out loud, "I hope Keisuke's ready on his end because things are about to get bloody. Now that I was forced to mobilize Onmitsukidō, Head Captain Yamamoto will probably call me in soon to question me. Ahhh, I really wanted to avoid making this move but those idiots at the Tsunayashiro clan forced my hand. If I ever get my hands on Tokinada then I'll strangle him for making me work this hard."