The next day.
Aizen Sōsuke, the newly appointed captain of the 5th Division, brought his division's lieutenant, Ichimaru Gin, to the Captain's Office of the 1st Division.
"Teacher Araki, sorry to disturb you~"
As the doors to the 1st Division's Captain's Office slowly opened, Aizen entered with a smile, bringing the young Ichimaru Gin in behind him. He greeted Araki, who was standing inside the office with a cheerful smile.
"Aizen, I didn't expect you to be so well-connected~"
"You actually got nine active captains of the Gotei 13 to vouch for you!"
"Even for this old man, getting nine active captains to willingly do something for me at the same time would take some effort~"
Upon seeing Aizen, Araki casually set the book in his hand on the desk behind him and smiled at Aizen.
"Teacher Araki, please don't tease me~"
Aizen gave a wry smile after hearing Araki's words.
"Ha ha, I had originally planned to arrange your captain's examination within the next few months and have you succeed to the position of captain of the 5th Division..."
"I never expected you to lack even that much patience. You had barely finished your confinement before taking office in the 5th Division through another promotion channel."
Araki chuckled first, then continued.
"How could I possibly trouble you, Teacher Araki?!"
"Ever since Captain Hirako was framed and left the Gotei 13 years ago, you have been working tirelessly for the Seireitei. I heard from Mistress Unohana that you often worked until the middle of the night without getting proper rest! If I troubled you over my own affairs as well, I would be wracked with guilt..."
Aizen looked earnestly at Araki, as though his words truly came from the bottom of his heart. Like a qualified disciple, he sincerely considered