The rain in Seireitei was always a soft, drizzling affair, like a silent, sorrowful person standing in a downpour.
Asano Kiyoshi sat on the wooden corridor of the First Division Barracks. A gust of wind swept over, carrying a faint mist that left his face slightly damp, with even his eyelashes dotted with droplets.
Head Captain Yamamoto stepped out of the room, rubbed his slightly tired eyes, and looked at Asano Kiyoshi with a hint of satisfaction on his face.
"What's wrong? Regretting your choice?"
Hearing the voice behind him, Asano Kiyoshi turned back and smiled.
"No. I just feel a little nervous, I suppose."
Captain-Commander took a sip of tea. Then, watching the tea leaves rise and fall in the hot water, he smiled faintly.
"That isn't all, is it?"
Asano Kiyoshi sighed upon hearing that, then said, "Sigh, I knew I couldn't hide it from you, Teacher... I went to pay my respects at Kojiro's grave earlier. How should I put it? It just hurts a little. Not long ago, he was still alive. His mother even told me that if she got the chance, she would cook for me someday..."
Understanding appeared on Captain-Commander's face as he spoke softly.
"You feel somewhat guilty?"
"Yeah, something like that. I know I wasn't the direct cause of his death, but if it hadn't been for me, maybe he really could have cured his mother. After obtaining the King's Seal, he might have been able to spend the rest of his days peacefully with her..."
Captain-Commander merely blew gently over the steaming teacup. Wisps of white vapor drifted into the rain mist, stirring faint ripples, and his voice carried an indescribable weight.
"If that had happened, perhaps the one lying in this heavy rain would have been you. Even so,