Chapter 367: What If It Concerns the Safety of the Soul Society?
"Is there anything else you need?"
Knowing that two of the most dangerous criminals—Mazuru and the Kenpachi Azashiro—had joined forces, Captain Yamamoto’s expression was grim. The storm of conspiracy brewing against the Soul Society weighed heavily on his mind. His voice was low, indifferent, even as he looked at Kyouraku Shunsui.
"There is indeed something."
Shunsui answered calmly. Then he smiled slightly and added, "After returning from Hueco Mundo, I suddenly remembered that a new tavern opened recently in Rukongai. Would you like to join me for a drink, sensei?"
"It might help lighten our mood a little."
Captain Yamamoto’s first reaction was to reprimand him—as he always had when Shunsui suggested something so casual in the middle of a crisis. But this time, the scolding never came.
He heard something else in his student’s words.
Shunsui never used the term "sensei". He had always called him "Old man Yama". Even in private. Especially in private.
Now, suddenly, he used a formal address. It wasn’t habit—it was intent.
Yamamoto narrowed his eyes and studied Shunsui’s face. Serious. No trace of the usual playful grin. He understood at once.
"Since you want to drink." Yamamoto said quietly, "This old man will accompany you."
He informed his lieutenant, Sasakibe Chojiro, then departed Seireitei alongside Shunsui. The sight of the Captain-Commander and the Eighth Division Captain walking together down from the white stone corridors into Rukongai turned a few heads—but they were, after all, master and student. It raised no true alarm.