As soon as Shigure's words fell, the room was enveloped in silence.
Even Aizen himself showed a fleeting expression of surprise.
"Ah, did I hear that wrong?" Gin Ichimaru's exaggerated Kyoto dialect broke the silence. "Segawa, which division did you say you wanted to join again?"
Shigure maintained his calm smile. "Captain Ichimaru, I wish to join the Fifth Division and serve under Captain Aizen."
He raised his voice slightly to ensure everyone could hear him clearly.
Shunsui Kyōraku chuckled awkwardly. "Segawa, you might want to think this through. Captain Aizen's Fifth Division is a rescue unit. There aren't many opportunities for combat there."
After Shunsui spoke, Jūshirō Ukitake added, "Shigure, do you have a specific reason for wanting to join the Fifth Division?"
Shigure had anticipated that the captains would question his choice and had already prepared a suitable response.
He raised his head, still smiling. "During my time at the Shinō Academy, I often heard my peers talk about Captain Aizen's exceptional calligraphy. As I understand it, he was even a guest lecturer for calligraphy at the academy. I, too, am an enthusiast of calligraphy, but I never had the opportunity to attend his classes. Therefore, I wish to join the Fifth Division, hoping to receive Captain Aizen's personal guidance."
This polished excuse was a premeditated response from Shigure.
After hearing his explanation, Jūshirō Ukitake smiled wryly. "Ah... geniuses truly have their quirks. To go to such lengths for the sake of calligraphy, huh?"
As he spoke, he glanced at Aizen and laughed. "Captain Aizen, it seems I've been bested by your calligraphy this time."
Aizen, ever composed, maintained his gentle smile and nodded slightly. "Hehe, Captain Ukitake, I would never have imagined that Segawa would take an interest in my humble skills."
Just as Aizen finished speaking, Kenpachi Zaraki, who had remained silent until now, suddenly interjected. "Tch, all this talk about calligraphy and such nonsense! Someone like you should be throwing yourself into battle! Isn't that right, Segawa?"
Kenpachi's expression betrayed his impatience.
Shigure had anticipated that not everyone would be convinced by his reasoning, especially someone as straightforward as Kenpachi. However, he maintained his composed smile. "Captain Kenpachi, I beg your understanding. This is my personal wish. Once I have completed Captain Aizen's teachings and fulfilled this aspiration, I will naturally seek another division to serve the protection of Seireitei."
After hearing this, both Yamamoto Genryūsai and Chōjirō Sasakibe nodded slightly.
It was clear that Shigure's explanation had persuaded them.
Everyone has personal hobbies, and that is unavoidable. As long as he understood his duty to serve as a protector of Seireitei after fulfilling his interests, there was little room for criticism.
After all, Seireitei had enjoyed decades of peace, and there was no need for everyone to always be on edge.
At this point, a towering figure wearing a bamboo hat and mask spoke up. "I admire your mindset, Segawa. I approve of you joining the Fifth Division."
This was none other than Sajin Komamura, captain of the Seventh Division.
Hearing Komamura's words, Shigure immediately bowed and said, "Thank you for your support, Captain Komamura."
With Komamura voicing his approval, the captains knew it was time for them to express their opinions.
Ultimately, the decision lay with Yamamoto Genryūsai, but he usually considered the captains' input before making a final ruling.
Byakuya Kuchiki spoke in his usual indifferent tone. "No objections. I approve of him joining the Fifth Division."
One by one, the captains voiced their opinions.
Even Jūshirō Ukitake could only sigh and reluctantly agree.
Finally, it was Aizen's turn to speak.
He smiled at Shigure and said in a calm voice, "Segawa, I am pleased that you chose my division. However, please ensure that your passion for calligraphy does not distract you from your duties."
Shigure responded with his signature smile and nodded. "Thank you for the reminder, Captain Aizen. I will be mindful."
Aizen nodded in return. "Then, I approve of you joining my division."
After Aizen finished speaking, Yamamoto Genryūsai tapped his cane on the ground. "Since all the captains have no objections to your choice, as of today, Segawa Shigure will officially join the Fifth Division of the Gotei 13!"
"As for your specific seat, Captain Aizen, that will be your division's responsibility to determine."
Aizen bowed slightly toward Yamamoto Genryūsai and said, "Understood, Head Captain."
"With that, the assessment for Segawa Shigure's division assignment is officially concluded. Dismissed!"
Thud!
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