Though Dragon's core had been destroyed, the One-Eyed King's physical remains were still there.
Byakuya directly transferred the body into the Kamui dimension.
The Washuu Clan's One-Eyed King from a century ago was an important figure. He didn't want to leave the body in the underground world forever...
Meanwhile, Dragon's entire body had gone still.
However, Dragon Orphans continued to emerge throughout the underground world.
Byakuya then returned to Arima and the others.
"Dragon has quieted down. Don't worry about the Dragon Orphans for now."
Byakuya said calmly. "I'll take you back—same method as before."
He immediately opened a spatial portal with Kamui, and Arima and the others followed him through.
When they arrived in the Kamui dimension again, they noticed the One-Eyed King lying on the ground.
"Who is this? Why is he here?"
Shio asked immediately.
"This is the One-Eyed King from the Washuu Clan a century ago. The Dragon in the underground world was born because of him."
Byakuya explained. "Though he died of old age, his body remained inside Dragon, preserved quite well."
"Ohh, so this is that One-Eyed King..."
Shio nodded.
"He never managed to change this world, but you did."
Arima looked at Byakuya.
"It's still too early to say that. Changing the world..."
Byakuya's expression remained calm. "Overthrowing the Washuu Clan was just the beginning."
"It seems you have other plans."
Arima immediately caught on.
"Yes... the war is far from over."
Byakuya nodded.
...
Byakuya left the One-Eyed King's body in the Kamui dimension temporarily, then transported Arima and the others back to the Ward 1 headquarters.
While they had been in the underground world, Marude had led all the investigators back to CCG headquarters.
Fortunately, headquarters hadn't been attacked by any ghoul organizations.
Though with the power Byakuya had demonstrated, even a surprise attack wouldn't have been cause for panic.
"Byakuya? You got back faster than us?"
Encountering Byakuya and the others at headquarters' main entrance, Marude was amazed.
When he noticed Arima's appearance, his surprise grew. "Arima, you look younger! Even your hair changed!"
"Yes. We've absorbed the Dragon toxin. Our lifespans should now be the same as normal humans."
Arima replied.
"That's wonderful! You're only thirty. It would've been such a waste if you'd ended up in a coffin in just a few years."
Marude clapped Arima on the shoulder and laughed. "And I remember you're still single, right? It's about time you found someone."
"..."
Arima remained silent at this topic.
"Speaking of which, you all went to the underground world. According to Byakuya, that Dragon is a terrifying creature that can transform humans into ghouls. Does it pose a threat to the surface?"
Marude asked with obvious concern.
"I've already controlled Dragon. It won't release those toxins anymore. However, it did produce many creatures called Dragon Orphans that might indiscriminately attack both humans and ghouls. That's something to be aware of."
Byakuya warned.
"Not just humans... ghouls are targets too?"
Marude pondered. "But normally, getting from the underground world to the surface requires passing through Ward 24. Wouldn't the ghouls in Ward 24 also be in danger?"
"Yes. I'll handle Ward 24's ghouls together with Eto."
Byakuya looked toward Eto among Marude's group.
Eto stepped forward, looking quite pleased. "Sure thing! I know Ward 24 better than anyone."
"With your abilities, you certainly don't need our support."
Marude was reassured.
"Byakuya-senpai, I want to come too."
Hairu requested.
Seeing this, Akira couldn't stand still either. "Then I also—"
"My, so popular~"
Eto immediately teased Byakuya.
"Arima, learn from Byakuya—spend more time with the ladies. Your qualifications are nothing to sneeze at."
Marude nudged Arima with his elbow, a mischievous grin on his face.
"No... I don't have Byakuya's way with women..."
Arima shook his head with an expressionless face.
Even Arima's words seemed to tease Byakuya.
Just then, Kiyoko Aura approached Byakuya.
She didn't ask to join them. Instead, she personally straightened his clothes and smiled at him. "Stay safe."
"I will."
Byakuya nodded.
Seeing this, Marude froze for a moment.
"Don't tell me even Special Class Aura has already..."
Marude was now genuinely envious. "Damn it! This is just unfair!"
Among the veteran male investigators who'd worked at the CCG for some time, many admired Kiyoko Aura.
But they could only dream. Everyone knew that Special Class Aura, who had never dated anyone, must have extremely high standards. Pursuing her rashly would only invite humiliation.
Eto whispered to Akira beside her. "That one seems to be a Special Class investigator from your CCG? Looks like quite a high-level rival."
"..."
Though Akira didn't respond, she was certainly paying attention.
She seemed unreactive, but Eto could tell her eyes had wavered slightly.
"By the way, Byakuya formed an organization a while back. Our Aogiri Tree merged into it long ago. The organization's name is... 'Akatsuki.'"
Eto suddenly revealed this—clearly deliberate.
Now Akira couldn't ignore her even if she wanted to. She instinctively turned, staring at Eto with astonishment.
"What are you two chatting about?"
Just then, Hairu suddenly inserted herself between Eto and Akira.
Her slightly coquettish yet innocent tone of curiosity seemed genuine.
...
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