No one can fault you for believing she was making headway. There have been criminals present here before who were given the benefit of the doubt, some unwisely, others not so much so. That is the rule of Anatole.

[A sigh.]

Perhaps the thought that it might be manipulation didn't occur to you because you wanted so much to believe she had not fooled everyone, not just you. It's unfortunate that you were wrong, but you alone are not to blame for believing that.

There were many who were convinced she might be . . . better. At least better than she was.

[Not Isley, of course, but that's because he's been out for her blood since she killed Yachiru.]

Byakuya . . . I hope that man doesn't intend to go on his own in his state. Will Merlin be accompanying him?