Bleach: The Fifth Division Captain

Certain formalities were skipped as Seiya Arima accompanied Tōsen Kaname to complete the discharge procedures.

As they walked, Seiya shared the events of the previous days, recounting everything that had transpired.

"So, it was a method to train your spiritual pressure control," Tōsen said, resting his hand lightly on the hilt of his blade.

"Though somewhat crude, it's not without its merits."

"Eh? Why would you say that?"

"Because, Seiya, you haven't yet developed the resolve to kill."

Tōsen's tone was calm, as though he were a detached observer, describing the situation without judgment.

"Your swordsmanship is precise, and your progress is undeniable. Yet, to me, it lacks the most essential element… I sense no killing intent."

Seiya didn't take offense to Tōsen pointing out his shortcomings. Scratching the corner of his mouth, he gave a thoughtful hum.

"Isn't it normal to lack killing intent?"

What, am I supposed to attack you in training with the intent to kill?

As if responding to his thoughts, Tōsen's voice turned stern.

"That is a sign of weakness."

These people… so Spartan in their ways.

"Seiya, the sword is a weapon meant to take lives. Without the will to kill, you will not stand victorious in the end."

"Is that so?"

Seiya hadn't dwelled too deeply on such matters, yet his outlook remained optimistic.

Having witnessed the harsh realities of the Rukongai slums, he believed that, when faced with a genuine life-or-death situation, he would not hesitate.

Besides…

"Humans are creatures of remarkable adaptability," Seiya remarked.

Tōsen tilted his head slightly, puzzled.

"What do you mean?"

Seiya smiled, his expression contemplative.

"Exactly what it sounds like. Things that are foreign, unbearable, or even repulsive at first… with time and persistence, the pain dulls. Eventually, one might even come to embrace it."

"In short," he continued, "it's all about practice and acclimation."

Yes, that was it.

The metallic tang of blood, the visceral sensation of slicing flesh—these things would fade into familiarity.

Until, one day, he too would wield his blade with an expressionless face, taking life without hesitation.

Though the topic was heavy, Seiya saw no harm in sharing his thoughts.

"I'm someone who believes in figuring things out as they come. There's no point in overthinking now. When the moment comes, I'll decide for myself. I appreciate your concern, Tōsen."

Seiya maintained his own perspective on matters.

He could accept advice and adapt when necessary, but it didn't mean he would fully agree with others.

After all…

Is the way it has always been necessarily the right way?

"Well, isn't it natural for the young to have their own ideas?" Tōsen quipped, his tone carrying a rare trace of humor.

Even without sight, Seiya could tell his companion was smiling, though it seemed tinged with exasperation.

Tōsen remained silent for a while, as though weighing his next words carefully.

Then, after a pause of two measured breaths, he spoke again, his voice devoid of its earlier sharpness.

"I once had a friend. She was clumsy, naïve, and far from perfect. Yet, her sense of justice never wavered. I admired her… even envied her."

This side of Tōsen was unusual, almost vulnerable.

Turning slightly toward Seiya, he continued, "Now, I have very few I could call friends. But, Seiya… you're one of them.

"That's why I hope you'll stay safe and well."

So that's how it was.

Standing from the perspective of a friend, Tōsen was offering heartfelt advice.

Kind of touching, actually, Seiya thought, surprised by his place in Tōsen's heart.

Still, he couldn't resist breaking the tension.

"Whoa, Tōsen, that sounded like a deathbed farewell."

"…Do you always fail to read the room?"

"Oh, by the way, can I have an orange from that fruit basket? It looks fancy, like a noble's exclusive brand. I bet it tastes amazing."

"Don't touch my fruit basket."

"What?! I thought you brought it for me!"

The Next Morning

In the first-floor mutual aid area of the academy, Seiya sat across from Isane Kotetsu, explaining why he had been absent from work the previous day.

"Because so much happened yesterday, I didn't even have time to request leave," he confessed, clearly embarrassed.

"Now my pay's going to be docked…"

Sitting opposite him, Kotetsu Isane smiled warmly, nodding her understanding.

"Ah, so you're the one everyone's been talking about recently," she said casually.

"Eh? What do you mean?"

"Just rumors. The student who destroyed the kendo hall with nothing but his spiritual pressure. The one who accidentally injured a Fifth Division seated officer. You've become quite the topic of discussion, Seiya-kun."

"…"

Huh?!

The revelation left Seiya dumbfounded.

While he'd considered the possibility of one day standing out, he hadn't expected it to happen this way.

Kotetsu, shuffling through some papers, leaned forward slightly as though sharing a secret.

"I understand the situation. I'll report it to the student council and suggest they attribute the dojo's damage to wear and tear. That way, we can get it repaired without you needing to pay for it."

"Wait… you can do that?"

"It's not exactly by the book, but it's within acceptable bounds."

She tilted her head proudly, her tone light.

"That's the wisdom of a senior for you, Seiya-kun."

"Ah, I'm honored!"

The conversation shifted to Seiya's Asauchi.

"Have you already received one?" Kotetsu asked, gesturing toward the blade at his hip.

"Yes. Aizen-sensei approved it, so I was able to pick one up early."

"Impressive! With your talent, I bet you'll learn its name in no time."

Their talk turned to upcoming exams and, more importantly, the first on-site training exercise.

Isane explained the significance of the event, smiling as she noted Seiya's growing excitement.

"By the way," she added, "the first placement is up to you. You get to choose where you'd like to train."

Hearing this, Seiya's eyes lit up.

So many possibilities!

But before the conversation could end on that high note, there was one pressing matter Seiya had to address.

"About my pay…" he began, pressing his palms together in a pleading gesture.

Isane's warm smile didn't waver.

"That'll still be docked. Rules are rules, after all."

"Nooo…"

Seiya's despair only made Isane's smile brighten further, her expression filled with playful satisfaction.

"You'll just have to learn from this, Seiya-kun," she teased.

Later, as the two prepared to part ways, Kotetsu hesitated. Twisting her braid nervously, she avoided Seiya's gaze.

"Um, Seiya-kun…"

"Yes?"

"If… if you're free, would you like to have steak together later? My treat."

Though startled by the sudden offer, Seiya quickly nodded.

"Of course! Thank you, Senpai!"

Isane's face turned beet red, and with a hurried goodbye, she dashed off.

Watching her retreating figure, Seiya chuckled softly.

Definitely better without the makeup and perfume. Much cuter this way.

Hearing his comment, Isane stumbled slightly, her blush deepening.

As she disappeared into the distance, Seiya turned and headed to class.

After an uneventful morning of lectures, Seiya left the classroom for a break.

While refilling his water, a familiar—yet wholly unexpected—figure appeared in the corridor.

Seiya's eyes widened in surprise.

Her? What's she doing here?