Chapter 15: Evil-like Talent

When Su Li was summoned, Chōjirō Sasakibe had already informed him of Central 46's decision. Learning that his agreement with Soi-Fon held no weight, Su Li couldn't help but feel a twinge of helplessness and regret. It seemed his dreams of making a giant leap in rank had been shattered.

He sighed inwardly. Soul Society had its own rules, and not every team operated as straightforwardly as the Eleventh Team. Each division had its specific duties and stringent promotion criteria. If every division followed the Eleventh Team's approach, where strength alone determined everything, the world would be in chaos. So, Su Li quickly adjusted his mindset.

After all, it had been less than a week since he awakened the system. He reminded himself that he had to take things one step at a time.

Su Li followed Chōjirō Sasakibe into the meeting room, where he was met with the sight of Soi-Fon and Zaraki Kenpachi, both blushing and looking flustered.

Su Li couldn't help but wonder aloud, "What's wrong with these two? Why are they blushing like rabbits?"

Unbeknownst to him, Soi-Fon and Zaraki Kenpachi had just engaged in a heated argument over his fate, nearly coming to blows.

As Su Li entered, the captains of the divisions stood up once more, returning to their composed and confident demeanors. It was hard to believe that this same group of individuals had almost turned the conference room into a chaotic marketplace over the matter of his affiliation.

Yamamoto's voice broke the silence, instructing, "Come forward."

Su Li obeyed, walking forward slowly. As he did, he felt the collective gaze of the captains upon him.

Most of them regarded him with friendly, even eager expressions. However, a few stood out.

Soi-Fon, in particular, glared at him with fiery resentment in her eyes, as if she wished to incinerate him with her gaze alone.

Zaraki Kenpachi's gaze bore into Su Li with an intensity that suggested he was itching for an immediate fight. His eyes blazed with unbridled fighting intent, as if he couldn't wait to clash with the young recruit.

Kurotsuchi Mayuri and Byakuya Kuchiki regarded Su Li with cold, analytical expressions, their curiosity evident.

The short journey to the front of Yamamoto felt like a walk through the valley of judgment, even though it was just a dozen steps.

Su Li stood before Yamamoto, who began, "Before we delve into the formalities, I have some personal questions. You may choose to answer them or not."

Yamamoto's tone carried a hint of kindness, which surprised Su Li.

"What made you suddenly become so strong and exhibit such exceptional talent?" Yamamoto's question echoed the curiosity etched on the faces of the other captains.

Su Li was momentarily surprised but quickly realized that his background had likely been investigated. He wasn't offended, though, as he understood that such scrutiny was necessary to join Gotei 13.

"Sorry, I choose not to answer this question," Su Li replied casually. Revealing his biggest secret was out of the question.

Yamamoto and the captains showed disappointment on their faces, though it didn't linger. Everyone had their secrets, and they understood Su Li's stance. In any case, discovering and showcasing his talent was a positive development.

"Alright, onto the second question," Yamamoto continued after a moment of thought. "During the previous assessment, you faced Soi-Fon's Shikai and used an unknown skill. Can you shed some light on this?"

Su Li was briefly taken aback but quickly realized that the question was about his "Ultra Instinct."

Recognizing the inevitability of drawing attention to his transformation during the Ultimate Intent · Zhao stage, Su Li decided it was best to address it now, to prevent future misunderstandings.

"It's a technique I've developed called 'Ultra Instinct'," Su Li explained. His revelation prompted gasps from those in the conference room.

White Hits was widely considered one of the most challenging skills. While it was easy to get started with, mastering it was exceptionally difficult. It demanded not only sharp judgment but also a profound understanding of one's own body and the ability to adapt to complex situations. White Hits, as a close-combat skill, had the highest risk and difficulty among the Fourth Gate skills. This was why most Shinigami avoided it.

Few were willing to practice White Hits, let alone develop new techniques within it. Achieving Grandmaster status in White Hits was rare, and developing new moves within the art was a testament to extraordinary talent.

Hearing Su Li's revelation left the captains in awe. Their eyes, which had been filled with curiosity before, now brimmed with eagerness.

Soi-Fon, standing nearby, regarded Su Li with a newfound interest, a subtle spark in her eyes.

Yamamoto, the elder statesman among the captains, couldn't help but smile in satisfaction as he observed Su Li's potential.

"Excellent, as expected of a young genius," Yamamoto remarked, his demeanor paternal.

"In that case, can you tell us more about the specific characteristics of this technique?" Yamamoto inquired with genuine curiosity.

"For now, I can enhance speed and responsiveness. That's what I can manage at this point," Su Li replied. "As for the future, I believe it can become even more potent, but I'm still in the process of developing it."

Su Li replied, calmly sharing his current capabilities.

Soi-Fon's eyes gleamed with newfound understanding. She had been puzzled about Su Li's incredible speed and responsiveness during their duel, and now it made sense. She couldn't help but admire his prowess, even considering it beyond Yoruichi's abilities.

The other captains were equally astounded by Su Li's talent, especially when they learned that his technique wasn't fully developed yet.

Yamamoto complimented Su Li's exceptional talent and self-created technique, expressing his approval. Su Li accepted the praise modestly.

When Yamamoto asked which team Su Li wished to join, the other captains eagerly voiced their invitations. Zaraki Kenpachi, in particular, was adamant that Su Li should join the eleventh team, emphasizing its wild nature.

Soi-Fon however, intervened sternly, insisting that Su Li should make his own choice.

Yamamoto restored order with his authoritative voice, silencing the competing captains. All eyes turned to Su Li.

Su Li smiled and calmly made his decision, to the disappointment of many.

"I want to join the second team."

The captains' faces reflected varying degrees of disappointment, but Soi-Fon couldn't hide her pleased smile.