Around the Senkaimon, a heavy silence lingered in the air.
The Shinigami stood with their heads lowered—there was none of the joy one would expect from a hard-won victory.
The severely injured Captains and Lieutenants were the first to emerge from the gate.
With the Human World now confirmed secure, they had returned to the Soul Society. Given their conditions, remaining behind would only burden the other squad members.
Although emergency treatment had been administered, Hanataro Yamada's senior, Isane Kotetsu—had limited mastery of healing techniques, and Unohana herself had just come out of an intense battle.
At this moment, the highest priority was clear: treat the wounded.
There were far too many critically injured—some Captains were even on the brink of death.
---
On the hills near the Senkaimon, the squad members watched familiar figures step through the gate. A lump rose in their throats.
These were the Captains, figures who always stood as symbols of overwhelming strength.
And yet now… they looked fragile.
Even Yamamoto was scorched black from head to toe. His once-proud white beard had been burned away in places, leaving him almost unrecognizable.
But among them—
There was one exception.
The soldiers' eyes quickly gathered on him, whispers spreading through the crowd.
"Did you notice? Captain Shimo doesn't look injured at all!"
"Wasn't he supposed to be the main force in this war?"
"Has Captain Shimo… really become that powerful?"
"Terrifying…"
Their hushed voices didn't escape the ears of the Captains and Lieutenants.
But hearing them, the officers could only respond with bitter smiles—and the lingering fear deep in their eyes.
The Battle of Karakura Town had completely shattered their understanding of what a Shinigami could be.
Whether it was Aizen, the Espada, Yamamoto himself… or Shimo—
The level of power they displayed had gone far beyond comprehension.
Even Yamamoto's Ryūjin Jakka, capable of reducing an entire city to ash, was something no ordinary Captain could withstand.
At the time, it had felt like Yamamoto intended to drag everyone down with him.
Under Ryūjin Jakka, all life was equal.
And when they recalled Shimo's performance…
Their expressions grew even more complicated.
He had only graduated from the Shin'ō Academy not long ago.
And yet now, he had surpassed nearly every Captain, rivaling the Captain-Commander himself… or exceeding him.
...
As the massive Senkaimon closed, Shunsui Kyōraku stepped forward.
His voice, amplified through spiritual pressure, carried clearly to every soldier present.
"Everyone. Due to the Captain-Commander's severe injuries, he is unable to continue overseeing duties."
"For the time being, I will take charge of post-war reconstruction and all administrative matters of the Gotei 13."
"I ask for your cooperation."
Gone was his usual laid-back demeanor.
Now, Shunsui stood solemn and composed.
Off to the side, Shimo watched and muttered inwardly:
"That's a rare sight…"
He knew Shunsui well.
For him to act this serious, things had to be truly dire.
Even during Aizen's betrayal and the battle itself, Shunsui had remained carefree.
This alone showed how much Yamamoto meant to him.
...
No one objected.
The injured Captains remained silent, offering no resistance.
In their eyes, Shunsui was a veteran Captain with immense prestige. His usual laziness never diminished that.
Seeing this, Shunsui wasted no time.
He immediately began issuing orders:
"All injured personnel—Captain Kotetsu will oversee their transfer to the Fourth Division's medical facilities."
"Dispatch all available members of the Third Division to Karakura Town for cleanup and recovery."
"Additionally…"
He turned toward Kisuke Urahara, who had returned with them.
"Urahara-san, there's something I'd like your help with."
Since Urahara had not officially returned to the Gotei 13, Kyōraku addressed him without rank.
Urahara adjusted his hat slightly and smiled.
"Of course, Captain Kyōraku. Just say the word."
"Even if I'm no longer part of the Seireitei, I still consider it my duty to help."
Shunsui smiled back.
"If I recall correctly, there's a girl in the Human World—Orihime Inoue."
"Due to the influence of the Hōgyoku, she possesses the ability to reject and heal all phenomena."
"I'd like her to come to Soul Society to assist with treatment."
Urahara hesitated for a moment, lowering the brim of his hat.
"That shouldn't be a problem."
"I'll need to inform Tessai first."
Of course, he understood the implication.
You created the Hōgyoku—so you'll help deal with the aftermath.
Still, he didn't object.
Given his understanding of Orihime, she would never refuse such a request.
With that settled, Shunsui continued assigning responsibilities.
Though he often appeared lazy, his leadership in times of crisis was flawless. Every task was distributed with precision—no room for complaint.
Once everything was arranged, the Shinigami dispersed to carry out their duties.
At that moment, Unohana turned toward Urahara with a gentle smile.
"Urahara-san, I have a question."
Urahara blinked, slightly surprised.
"Of course, Captain Unohana."
She nodded politely.
"I've heard that you once created a special puppet-type device capable of communicating with Shimo."
"I'd like to understand how it works."
"And if possible… I'd appreciate receiving one."
The moment she finished speaking—
Cold sweat formed on Urahara's forehead.
Because at that exact instant…
He felt multiple gazes lock onto his back.
Urahara forced an awkward smile.
"Ah… about that…"
-----------------------------------///
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