"Now that I've avenged Miyako, and the nobles of the Seireitei have all received the punishment they deserved..."
"So I feel like there's nothing left that I want to do."
"For the rest of my life, I only want to return to the Shiba Clan and spend my remaining years with Miyako."
"I'm sorry, Captain Ukitake. I failed to live up to your expectations and disappointed you."
"I ask that you permit me to retire."
Under the gazes of the Vice-Captains, Kaien Shiba solemnly removed the Vice-Captain's armband from his left arm. He bowed to Jūshirō Ukitake and respectfully presented the armband before him with both hands.
"Sigh..."
Jūshirō Ukitake let out a sigh.
He had not expected Kaien Shiba to choose retirement just as he was preparing to push him into a captain's position.
"I should be the one apologizing, Kaien."
"As my Vice-Captain, you have served dutifully all these years. Though you bore the title of Vice-Captain, you helped me handle many of a captain's responsibilities."
"It was precisely because of your support that I was able to enjoy these decades of leisure."
"On the other hand, you helped me so much, yet when you needed my help, there was nothing I could do..."
Jūshirō Ukitake gently reached out and took the Vice-Captain's armband from Kaien Shiba's hands.
"Kaien, I approve your request."
"However, as you know, Captain Aizen has defected to Hueco Mundo. It is possible that the Rukon District may also come under attack from Hollows from Hueco Mundo."
"In that case, Kaien, I will not reclaim your Zanpakuto. I hope that when Hollows descend upon the Rukon District, I will still see you fighting to protect everyone."
Zanpakuto were the signature weapons of Soul Reapers.
After a Soul Reaper retired, every Zanpakuto would be recovered