Seeing that Asano Kiyoshi remained silent for a long time, Shunsui assumed he could not accept it right away and tried to comfort him.
"Little Kiyoshi, those people will die sooner or later. There's no need to rush."
Hearing Shunsui's advice, Asano Kiyoshi nodded, then thanked him.
"I understand. Thank you for your guidance! Don't worry, Senior Brother Shunsui. I won't do anything impulsive."
Only after hearing Asano Kiyoshi's assurance did Shunsui nod in relief. He patted him on the shoulder and said,
"It's good that you think that way. Once we're back, I'll report the battle to Old Man Yama exactly as it happened. This time, you've truly established your reputation in the Gotei 13. It's also laid a solid foundation for your succession later on. Keep it up."
With that, Shunsui walked off to the other side and resumed teasing his Vice-Captain.
Seeing Shunsui return to his usual carefree self, Asano Kiyoshi smiled. Then, as he looked at the vast ranks before him, a new resolve settled in his heart.
No matter what, he had to change Soul Society's damned economic system!
Otherwise, the nobles would always remain a festering cancer in his path!
The Dangai slowly closed, and Asano Kiyoshi led the Shinigami back to their point of departure.
However, things were somewhat different from when they had left.
That was—
Almost every Shinigami wore a smile!
And in war, such a sight was nearly impossible!
War was always accompanied by death and sorrow. An entire army smiling like this could practically be called a miracle!
As the captain assigned to receive them, Aizen looked over the crowd, then at Asano Kiyoshi. He stepped forward, extended a hand, and smiled.
"Congratulations."
Asano Kiyoshi extended his hand. For the first time, he formally met Aizen's gaze, a smile