Inside the First Division Barracks, Head Captain Yamamoto wore his Captain's Haori and stood with his back to Sister Hana and Asano Kiyoshi, who had just arrived. At his side stood Jushiro Ukitake and Shunsui, both wearing grave expressions.
Everyone looked solemn. Asano Kiyoshi swallowed, unable to make sense of the situation for a moment.
Old Man's imposing voice rang out:
"It's time, isn't it?"
Jushiro Ukitake looked toward the setting sun outside, drew a deep breath, and said to Head Captain Yamamoto:
"Yes, Teacher Genryusai. We can act now."
A trace of helplessness appeared on Shunsui's face. He sighed, his gaze turning sharp as he said in a deep voice:
"So it really has come to this. Then, let's get serious for once."
Hearing them, Asano Kiyoshi was completely dumbfounded. The Thousand-Year Blood War came early?! Did Yhwach wake up from a nightmare?!
Captain-Commander tossed aside his Captain's Haori without a care, utterly disregarding how he usually scolded Shunsui and Kenpachi for not cherishing theirs. Then again, like master, like disciples. This terrible habit of not valuing Captain's Haori had probably started with Head Captain Yamamoto himself.
Roaring flames emanated from the Captain-Commander's blade. Old Man looked at Sister Hana and shouted:
"Come! Unohana, bring out all the ingredients I told you to bring! Let me demonstrate the greatest cooking skills of the past thousand years!"
Shunsui and Captain Ukitake moved at the same time. At some point, the two had changed into aprons—one pink, one blue—and looked exceptionally cute.
Both had released their Zanpakuto and assumed their stances. Watching this, Asano Kiyoshi inwardly ranted, Hey! Won't Sogyo no Kotowari and Katen Kyokotsu cry if you use them like this?!
Looking at the three master and disciples baring their fangs before him, countless expressions flashed across Asano Kiyoshi's face.