Chapter 243: The Life of A Captain.

Chapter 243: The Life of A Captain.

If you wanna read ahead go to /cornbringer

Right now I'm on chapter 221 in Patreôn

Discord Server: Invite needs to be updated. Will get on that today.

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[Third Person. POV.]

The courtyard of the First Division was bathed in the early morning's golden light. Birds chirped in the distance, their songs a melody in contrast to the stern atmosphere that had taken hold since the events of a few days ago.

Right now, most of the members of the Gotei 13 had gathered, forming a semi-circle around a raised platform.

Standing on the platform was Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto. To his left stood the enigmatic warrior that had taken the Seireitei by surprise, Adam, his posture relaxed yet every bit as intense.

In Yamamoto's hand was a pristine white haori, the symbol of a captain's authority in the Gotei 13.

All the captains present had their eyes on Adam, some with disdain, especially Mayuri, others with curiosity. Their collective gaze was heavy, filled with a mix of skepticism, expectation, and in some cases, sheer disbelief.

Here was an outsider, one who, mere days ago, had been their adversary, now being inducted into their ranks. Temporary as it may be, it was still shocking for them.

Yamamoto stepped forward, his voice echoing through the courtyard. "In light of recent events, the Soul Society finds itself facing an unprecedented threat in the form of Aizen and his associates. We must adapt to counteract this menace with the full power we have at our disposal."

Adam's gaze remained fixed on the horizon, thoughts flowing. This wasn't how he had planned things when he offered his help in exchange for training, not at all, but then again, life rarely followed the script.

Yamamoto continued, "Until Aizen is captured or eliminated, we are in need of strength, of capable individuals willing to die in battle. As such, Adam will be filling the captain's position for the 5th Division."

There were audible gasps and murmurs among the onlookers. Captains and lieutenants exchanged glances; the weight of the decision evident in their eyes.

Holding out the haori, Yamamoto addressed Adam, "Remember our agreement, young one."

Adam nodded, taking the haori and draping it over his shoulders. It felt surprisingly light and warm. "I haven't forgotten. Training in exchange for my services."

But as I looked at her, I couldn't help but notice the sadness in her eyes, a deep pain she was trying to mask. Her face was pale, and every so often, her lower lip quivered, as though she was battling tears.

"Are you okay?" I asked, my tone softer.

She blinked rapidly, averting her gaze. "Yes, Captain. Just... adjusting to the changes."

It didn't take much to connect the dots. Aizen's betrayal had rocked the very foundation of Soul Society, but for those closest to him, like Hinamori, the pain was personal. He had been her mentor, her guiding light, her idol, and now...

"You know," I started, trying to find the right words, "Sometimes we place our trust in the wrong people. It doesn't make you weak or foolish. It makes you... normal. And well, no matter how powerful one is, or how much you care about someone, we are always prone to error."

She looked up, tears glistening in her eyes, but she fought them back. "I should've seen it, Captain. I should've realized."

"You can't blame yourself for the actions of another, if that was the case, Yamamoto should've seen how much of a scum the guy was before anyone else. What's important now is how we move forward, learn from this, and next time you'll be prepared."

I smiled internally. I mean, look at me, ten minutes in the job, and I'm already being wise beyond my years. High five for me.

She nodded, taking a shaky breath. "Thank you, Captain."

"You can call me Adam, if you want," I smiled, patting her in the head. She was cute, and while it was very likely she was older than me, her size would beg to differ.

Her eyes widened in shock, and she looked like a deer caught in headlights. "Oh! Captain, that's... that's highly inappropriate!" she stammered. "It's against protocol."

I shrugged, Yamamoto hadn't said anything about being a stick in the ass Captain, and even if he had, I would've ignored his orders there. "Meh, I don't really care for that, so don't worry."

She blinked, processing the offer. "I... appreciate the sentiment, Captain. But I couldn't possibly—"

I guess the idea of going against protocol was very hard for her. I guess I did my part in offering, now if things are formal, it is up to her.

"Hinamori," I interrupted gently, "It's just an option. No pressure. I just want everyone to be at ease while we navigate this situation together."

She hesitated, then gave a small nod. "I understand, Captain. I... I'll think about it."

"That's all I can ask," I said, offering a reassuring smile. She returned it, albeit hesitantly.