章 136: Chapter 137: Emergency Appointment
As the Captain-Commander of the Gotei 13, Yamamoto first took note of the name "Senju Makoto" during a captain's meeting. On that rare occasion, Kenpachi Zaraki had personally requested an inter-division transfer for Makoto.
At the time, Unohana had firmly, albeit gently, denied Zaraki's request, leaving no room for negotiation.
A newcomer being sought after by two Kenpachis naturally piqued Yamamoto's interest. He decided to observe whether the individual in question was worth nurturing.
Following that, Makoto caught Yamamoto's attention again—first during the investigation into the disappearance of souls from Rukongai, and later in his confrontation with a young scion of the Kuchiki family.
"A youngster whose talent slightly surpasses that of Kuchiki Byakuya... perhaps worth keeping an eye on," Yamamoto had once evaluated.
Now, Makoto had emerged unscathed from Minazuki's domain, his shihakushō tattered and soaked in blood—evidence of the fierce battle he had endured yet survived.
"Captain-Commander Yamamoto," Unohana approached him calmly and addressed him. "I apologize for troubling you to wait here for me."
Yamamoto shifted his gaze back to Unohana, nodding slightly. "Captain Unohana, after a millennium of self-cultivation, have you finally managed to control your Killing Intent?"
There was no mistaking the anticipation in his tone.
As the original Kenpachi, Unohana's strength was terrifying. However, even a thousand years ago, her bloodlust often caused her to lose control in battle. If she had indeed mastered her instincts, her presence would be an immeasurable boon to the increasingly weakened Gotei 13. She would no longer need to be kept away from the front lines.
However, Unohana gently shook her head, her voice soft as she replied, "Instinct is instinct. My recovery this time is entirely thanks to Makoto, who risked his life to awaken me."
"Senju Makoto?" Yamamoto's gaze lingered on the young man, a thoughtful expression on his face.
Yamamoto doubted that Makoto, with his Vice-captain spiritual pressure, could have withstood Unohana's wrath for long. Was it a bond? A connection?
A glint of insight flashed in Yamamoto's eyes. In his mind, Makoto's value had just soared. As long as Makoto remained alive, they wouldn't have to fear Unohana succumbing entirely to her bloodlust and slaughtering indiscriminately.
At that moment, a group of Central 46 guards in unfamiliar attire surrounded Unohana and Makoto, holding ropes specially designed to suppress spiritual pressure and bind souls.
The lead guard stepped forward, his tone cautious yet firm. "Captain Unohana Retsu of the Fourth Division, under the orders of Central 46, you are hereby placed under restraint. Do not resist."
"Wait!" Makoto, who had been quietly standing by Unohana's side like a dutiful disciple, could no longer hold back. He stepped forward, shielding her, and demanded angrily, "Why are you restraining my teacher?"
"This is a direct order from Central 46 and cannot be questioned," the lead guard declared curtly. "Fourth Division officer Senju Makoto, do you intend to defy Central 46's orders?"
Before Makoto could respond, Unohana gently placed a hand on his shoulder. Turning to look at her, Makoto saw her serene expression. She spoke softly, "Makoto, it warms my heart that you would stand up for me. But it's all right. Central 46 simply wants to confirm a few things with me. I'll be back in at most a month."
Makoto hesitated before replying, "No, Sensei. Then I'll go with you."
Unohana's smile grew even gentler. "That won't do. The Fourth Division is in shambles right now. Someone needs to take charge of the repairs and restoration."
As she saw Makoto's reluctance, Unohana smiled mischievously. "Makoto, surely you wouldn't defy your teacher's orders now, would you?"
Makoto hesitated for a moment before nodding, his eyes reddening. He had understood from the start that his protest wouldn't change the situation. But if Central 46 truly had the audacity to detain him alongside Unohana, he wouldn't mind. After all, one of life's most enduring bonds is formed in the trenches—or, in this case, in captivity. Spending time alone with his beloved teacher would only deepen their connection.
Still, Makoto knew that appearing indifferent to Unohana's arrest would leave a poor impression—not only in her eyes but also in Yamamoto's. Thus, for both appearance's sake and to affirm his loyalty, he had to put up a fight, however symbolic.
Besides, with the help of Urozakuro's abilities, Makoto could keep tabs on Unohana's condition at all times. Even if Central 46 made a reckless move, he would be able to respond more effectively from the outside.
Only after Unohana had reassured everyone did the guards cautiously approach and bind her hands, sealing her spiritual pressure and taking her zanpakutō.
"Wait..." Unohana paused as she was about to leave with the guards. Turning to Yamamoto, she said, "The Fourth Division's Vice-Captain Yamada Seinosuke has hollowfied and gone missing. As Captain of the Fourth Division, I hereby recommend Senju Makoto for emergency appointment to the position of Vice-Captain. I request your approval, Captain-Commander."
"Approved," Yamamoto replied without hesitation. He then turned to Makoto. "Due to the urgency of the situation, Vice-Captain Senju, assume your duties immediately. The official ceremony will be conducted later."
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