5th Division?
The 5th Division where Sōsuke Aizen resides?
They want me to be Aizen's lieutenant?!
Segawa Shigure could hardly believe his ears.
Just then, from the high platform came the calm yet playful voice of Shunsui Kyōraku.
"Segawa, remember to report to the 1st Division barracks early tomorrow. Here's your identification badge."
With a flick of his wrist, Kyōraku tossed a black wooden plaque down.
Shigure caught it mid-air, nodding to indicate his understanding.
"Then, see you tomorrow. I'm looking forward to your decision."
Kyōraku smiled warmly before vanishing in an instant with Shunpo.
Shigure left the Central Chamber, heading back towards his dormitory.
At night, students of the Shinō Academy were prohibited from roaming outside, so the pathways were deserted.
As he walked, Shigure's mind raced.
Without a doubt, he had to complete this sign-in task. After all, it was his only way to grow stronger.
However, this time, both the task and its location were far too unusual.
He was required to become the vice-captain of the 5th Division and sign in at Aizen's captain's office.
Shigure had considered many divisions before, but the 5th Division was never among them.
This was because it housed the most dangerous man in all of Soul Society—Sōsuke Aizen.
Shigure had always been cautious, planning to confront Aizen directly only after gaining absolute strength.
Thus, when he first heard the system's task, he was momentarily shocked. The encounter had come far sooner than expected.
However, as the cold night breeze brushed against him, he gradually calmed himself.
After all, there was no need to fear Aizen.
First, Aizen's Kyōka Suigetsu requires witnessing its release to fall under its spell. In Seireitei, releasing a Zanpakutō is strictly forbidden under normal circumstances.
Before his official rebellion, Aizen would never risk making such a mistake.
With Shigure's current abilities, he could remain vigilant and guarded on all fronts.
Second, Shigure's spiritual pressure and Kidō proficiency were on par with Aizen's.
Without the influence of Kyōka Suigetsu, the immense power of Candle Dragon would be more than enough to contend with Aizen.
Third, Shigure already knew all of Aizen's plans.
From sending Rukia Kuchiki to Karakura Town, to assassinating and impersonating the Central 46, and even his staged death.
All Shigure needed to do was respond appropriately to these key events.
Most importantly, Shigure had the ultimate trump card—the sign-in system.
With the main storyline yet to begin, he had ample time to grow stronger.
By the time the plot unfolded, he would surpass Aizen in every way. There was no need for fear.
Thinking of this, Shigure's confidence soared.
The only remaining issue was how to handle the "vice-captain" task.
The current vice-captain of the 5th Division was Momo Hinamori.
To take the position, Shigure would need to defeat her and replace her as vice-captain.
This posed a unique challenge.
In Aizen's grand scheme, Momo Hinamori was a crucial pawn. If Shigure replaced her abruptly, it might trigger unforeseen butterfly effects.
"In other words... after obtaining the vice-captain position and completing the sign-in, I should orchestrate a way for Hinamori to continue being Aizen's pawn..."
Shigure's eyes gleamed as a plan began to take shape in his mind.
The next morning, Shigure rose early.
He shed the uniform of the Shinō Academy and donned the noble attire of the Segawa family. Following Kyōraku's instructions, he made his way to the 1st Division barracks.
The 1st Division, which oversees the Gotei 13, is responsible for issuing orders from the Central 46 and holding regular meetings. Its captain also serves as the commander-general of the Gotei 13.
Unlike the barracks of other divisions, the 1st Division's barracks resembled a complex of various facilities.
For a prodigy like Shigure, who had garnered widespread attention, it was customary to be summoned to the 1st Division barracks before officially joining the Gotei 13.
There, he would demonstrate his abilities in front of all the captains and vice-captains of the thirteen divisions.
Afterward, he would choose the division he wished to serve.
Of course, the process was mutual.
Captains could extend offers to recruit him, but he also retained the right to decline.
When Shigure arrived at the entrance of the 1st Division barracks, he was surprised to find someone already waiting.
Seeing him approach, the Soul Reaper immediately bowed, "The captains have all gathered. Please follow me."
Shigure nodded slightly, "Thank you."
Upon entering the courtyard of the 1st Division barracks, Shigure's eyes widened in surprise.
The more than twenty figures before him... were all familiar faces!
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