"Captain Segawa!" "Captain Segawa!"
Walking through Seireitei's outer court, patrolling squad members saluted Shigure.
His destination: the Department of Research and Development.
The expedition to Las Noches was coming. Shigure needed thorough preparations.
He had an idea. Only Mayuri Kurotsuchi could help him with this.
He'd been here several times before. He knew the way.
Shortly after entering, a voice spoke beside him.
"Captain Segawa of the 5th Division?"
The voice was soft but completely emotionless.
Shigure looked over. Nemu Kurotsuchi, lieutenant of the 12th Division.
"Nemu, I'm here to see Captain Kurotsuchi."
"Mayuri-sama is conducting a new experiment. I'll inform him, but you may need to wait."
Shigure nodded. Nemu went through a side door.
No urgent business. Waiting was fine.
Less than ten seconds later, hurried footsteps came from inside.
Mayuri walked out quickly.
Shigure smiled. "Captain Kurotsuchi, in such a hurry?"
Mayuri grinned strangely. "Hehe, Segawa, you're the impatient one. Coming here right after Hollow extermination today."
As Research Department director, he knew about World of the Living matters.
He knew Shigure had recently been there.
Shigure chuckled. "I have an idea. Want to collaborate. Wonder if your superior skills can accomplish it."
"You said 'can accomplish'?"
Mayuri grinned wider. "Come on. I want to see this remarkable thing."
He turned toward the laboratory.
Shigure followed, lips curving slightly.
Late night. Shigure finally left and returned to 5th Division barracks.
Mayuri needed three days for what Shigure mentioned.
Time wasn't an issue. Shigure agreed.
Next morning.
The sun rose. Another peaceful day seemed to arrive.
But those in the know felt the approaching storm's pressure.
"C-Captain! Good morning!"
A cheerful voice came from beside him.
Shigure looked down and chuckled. "Good morning, Rukia."
"Captain, I have the day off... I wonder if you have time for guidance... please!"
Rukia bowed.
Shigure nodded with a smile. "Of course. Let's go to Training Valley."
"Yes!"
Yesterday Rukia had mentioned wanting guidance. But Shigure had been busy.
Today he had nothing urgent. Good opportunity to test her abilities.
Training Valley was Seireitei's large training area.
North of Shinō Academy. Lower terrain, but forest and grassland.
More "forest" than "valley."
Academy students came here for Zanpakutō training.
Rukia had new insights about Sode no Shirayuki's Shikai. Regulations required coming here.
When they arrived, students were already practicing.
Seeing Shigure's white captain haori, they were shocked wide-eyed.
They rarely saw active captains. This one looked so young.
They were amazed.
At first they discussed who this captain was. Then some recognized him.
The students became excited.
"Captain Segawa Shigure of the 5th Division!"
"The genius who enrolled four months ago and graduated in one month?!"
"He's more imposing than rumors say!"
"He single-handedly destroyed all Hollows on Death Plains... true?"
"How could it be false?! Our instructor said so!"
"He fought three traitorous captains to a standstill!"
"No way..."
Students looked at Shigure with admiration while chatting excitedly. Training forgotten.
Such a legendary figure appearing before them. Naturally exciting.
Moving forward, students continuously saluted Shigure.
He responded with gentle smiles but kept walking.
Behind him, Rukia's eyes filled with admiration and pride.
A petite figure appeared ahead that surprised Shigure.
Red and white Academy uniform. Face flushed red. Very shy but loud:
"C-Captain Segawa... g-good morning!"
Shigure stopped slightly and chuckled. "Long time no see, Homura. Your abilities have improved."
Satō Homura from the lower noble Satō family. She'd taken entrance exams with Shigure.
Back then, same identities.
Now, a vast gulf between them.
Hearing his words, her face turned redder with barely contained joy:
"Th-thank you for your praise!"
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
🔥 Want to read the next 30 chapters RIGHT NOW?
💎 Patreon members get instant access!
⚡ Limited-time offer currently running...
👉 [Join on Patreon - patreon.com/DarkGolds]