Rukia frowned slightly, but nodded. "We should try to flank it, then. It can't look at both of us at the same time so long as we remain on opposite sides. If you can keep its attention focused on you, it'll be easier to cast spells. As a Warrior with no secondary Job attached, you will be stronger and more adept at your Job than someone who has Warrior and something else. On the other hand, your skills won't be quite as versatile. So there are benefits and disadvantages."

So intent was Rukia on her lecture that she almost missed the fact that someone was speaking to them. When she saw Ichigo's head turned, she followed his gaze, and blinked. Then she smiled.

"Oi, K'pandolu!" she greeted her. "If you're here about the giant cockatrice, then we share the same mission indeed. Would you like to join us?" Surely the woman hadn't intended to go after this thing on her own.