As Maou stepped forward towards them, Shinju stepped forward ahead of the others, towards the dark Lord, while the others had almost stepped back.
"Keep yourselves behind me, children," Shinju instructed.
"What do you intend to do?" asked Kenpachi, hoping she wasn't trying to play the hero at a time like this.
"I also have the same question, old woman," Maou said in anticipation, "what do you have for me?"
But Shinju remained silent, taking on her fighting pose, ready to take him on all by herself. Kenpachi couldn't have that, so instead of standing behind her as instructed, he stood right next to her, and so did Kazuya.
"You foolish children," she berated them, "this isn't about courage and bravery." "You wouldn't be of any use to Genta since you are both dead!"
"I'm sorry, Shinju," Kenpachi said, "but by my honor as a warrior and as a mage, I cannot let you defend me."
"What he said," Kenpachi complimented.
"Are you even a mage, big man?" asked Orihime from behind.
