Holding Seireitei in the Palm of His Hand

At the same time.

Having returned to the First Division, Chiba Makoto headed straight up to the top floor of the central structure resembling an ancient Tenshukaku.

This was also the most distinctive difference between the First Division's building and those of the other divisions.

Since ancient times, a Tenshukaku had symbolized ruling authority. It was also where the Captain-Commander of the Thirteen Divisions usually resided.

"Tap, tap~"

Accompanied by soft footsteps, Chiba Makoto reached the top floor, swept his gaze around, then looked toward Unohana Retsu, who stood with her back to him at the balcony.

The First Division haori occasionally billowed in the night wind.

Unlike her old habit of wearing a braid tied across her chest, ever since Chiba Makoto had erased the scar left upon Unohana Retsu's chest a thousand years ago and she had formally assumed the position of Captain-Commander, she had let her waterfall-like black hair fall freely down her back.

Only a strand of vibrant green grass, like a hair tie, simply bound the ends of that black hair.

As if sensing Chiba Makoto's arrival, Unohana Retsu's voice, as gentle and elegant as ever, rang out.

"You're back?"

Or rather, apart from Unohana Retsu and Chiba Makoto, no other Soul Reaper was qualified to set foot on this top floor.

Because...

Chiba Makoto did not, like Chōjirō Sasakibe, the former Captain-Commander's lieutenant, kneel respectfully behind the Captain-Commander and respectfully answer her question.

Instead, smiling, Chiba Makoto walked behind Unohana Retsu. His outstretched arms wrapped directly around Captain-Commander Unohana Retsu from behind and drew her into his embrace.

Unohana Retsu showed neither resistance nor discomfort. Feeling the warmth and broadness of the embrace behind her, she obediently leaned back slightly.

From up close, Chiba Makoto inhaled the fresh fragrance from Unohana Retsu's body, somewhat