Inside the First Division barracks, "This past month, I have been seeking candidates for the vacant captain positions," Head Captain Yamamoto began, his tone light and joyful. "The results have been quite promising."
"I imagine you have all received the notification."
"Upon the recommendation of Thirteenth Division Captain Jushiro Ukitake,"
"And with the agreement of all the current captains."
"I hereby appoint Naruto Uzumaki, previously the Third Seat of the Thirteenth Division, as the Captain of the Seventh Division."
"I hereby appoint Kaien Shiba as the Captain of the Tenth Division."
"Sosuke Aizen, previously the Vice-Captain of the Fifth Division, submitted an application for evaluation. Under the witness of myself, Yamamoto Genryusai, Fourth Division Captain Unohana Retsu, and Eighth Division Captain Shunsui Kyoraku, he passed the qualification tests. It was unanimously agreed that his character and ability are more than sufficient."
"Therefore,"
"I appoint Sosuke Aizen as the Fifth Division Captain."
"Thus, these are the three new captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads."
As for the other squads, the captaincy of the Second Division is still being decided by the Shihouin family.
For the Third, Ninth, and Twelfth Divisions, no suitable candidates have yet come forward.
Head Captain Yamamoto called out towards the door.
The paper sliding door opened.
Three individuals stepped inside.
Kaien Shiba strode in nonchalantly, his attitude somewhat relaxed.
Sosuke Aizen entered with calm composure, a trademark gentle smile on his face.
Naruto appeared slightly nervous.
"If any suitable candidates emerge, they may be further recommended," Head Captain Yamamoto said, his gaze sweeping over the assembled captains.
Yet not a single person spoke.
"Since there's nothing else, let's adjourn." He raised his cane and tapped it lightly on the floor.
With a thud, Kyoraku Shunsui swiftly walked out.
"Captain Uzumaki, please stay." Just as Naruto was about to leave with the others, Head Captain Yamamoto spoke up and held him back.
Naruto was puzzled.
Only when the others had left, leaving just Vice Captain Charanko behind, did Head Captain Yamamoto speak gently, "Naruto, congratulations on becoming the youngest captain."
Naruto was a bit tense, "Thank you, Head Captain."
"I have an important task for you," Head Captain Yamamoto continued directly, waving his hand.
Naruto's eyes lit up, "Is it about capturing Captain Kisuke and his team?"
Yamamoto paused, giving him a meaningful look, "The criminals, Urahara Kisuke and Yoruichi Shihouin."
"Shunsui has already discussed this matter with me. If you handle it, I have no objections."
"The critical task I have for you is something else."
Naruto stood at attention.
In the presence of Head Captain Yamamoto, he always felt immense pressure, especially after the release of "Asura."
This sensation was magnified several times over, like the "sun" mentioned by Yoruichi.
Perhaps it was not merely a "metaphor."
"In the Seventh Division, Third Seat Komamura Zajin is known for his loyalty and courage and is quite capable," Head Captain Yamamoto continued. "However, for certain reasons, he has refused the position of captain."
"I need you to resolve his issue and persuade him to assume the role of captain."
Naruto responded, "Yes, Head Captain Yamamoto."
"Then what is the reason..."
Before the sentence could be finished, Head Captain Yamamoto's sharp voice cut through like a blade, "Naruto, despite your youth,"
"Remember the role you now hold."
"You are the Captain, the Captain of the Seventh Division."
"No matter how fierce the storm, you must advance unwaveringly."
"An old man like me,"
"won't be there to care for your every need."
Hearing these words, Naruto felt no dissatisfaction and nodded, "Yes, I understand."
"Go then," Head Captain Yamamoto waved a hand, "I hope you complete your first mission splendidly."
Naruto tilted his head slightly, reflecting on something Uncle Kyoraku had mentioned.
The Seventh Division's quarters were located in the center of the Seireitei, its architecture embodying a tranquil, serene style.
Vice-Captain Kotetsu had been waiting at the barracks' entrance.
"Captain Uzumaki," he greeted.
Naruto looked up, "Sorry to keep you waiting."
Standing before him was a tall, imposing man, face square and authoritative, wearing deep red sunglasses that barely covered his eye sockets, with short black hair but a long strand trailing down his back.
He seemed quite serious.
"No, I just got here myself," replied Komamura Zajin, not underestimating the blond kid despite his height and age.
Although the Seireitei was already suppressing the spread of "that matter,"
to vice-captains and high-ranking officers like them, it was no secret.
That night, Captain Uzumaki alone managed to contain and suppress four captains and four vice-captains who had been "hollowfied."
Even though they had lost their sanity and hadn't unleashed their Zanpakutō, this level of power was extraordinary.
"The welcoming ceremony is ready. Please follow me, Captain Uzumaki," Komamura led the way.
The inner court guards were numerous, and Naruto met one by one with the officers and high-ranking officers.
Among them was Yamamoto's Third Seat, "Komamura Zajin,"
a rather peculiar individual.
His physique was even larger than that of Komamura Zajin.
His spiritual pressure was powerful, far exceeding that of a "vice-captain," making him a perfect candidate for a "captain."
What intrigued Naruto even more was his attire.
His entire head was encased in a helmet resembling "kendo armor," tightly sealed, with not even the slightest opening for eyes or ears.
"Third Seat Komamura," after greeting everyone, Naruto approached Komamura Zajin, "Could you come with me for a moment? There's something I'd like to discuss with you."
Komamura Zajin nodded silently.
Entering a private room, he greeted softly, "Captain Uzumaki, what is it you wish to discuss?"
His voice, like his build, was deep and steady.
"The Head Captain spoke to me about your situation," Naruto stated softly. "Could you tell me why you don't wish to take on the role of a captain?"
He thought of Unohana Retsu.
He thought of Sosuke Aizen.
He also recalled Shihouin Yoruichi on the tower that day.
Awkwardly, he tried to emulate them, to taste their emotions from that moment, and then capture it to use now.
"I am indeed not suitable." Komamura Zajin shook his head. "Now that there is a young talent like Captain Uzumaki stepping forward, I have even less reason to appear."
"To serve as the Third Seat in the Seventh Division, to guard the Seireitei and the Head Captain."
"This has been the wish I prayed for day and night."
"I do not desire more."
Naruto smiled, "I can tell you're not exactly against being a captain."
"There's just something unspeakable, binding your hands and heart, stopping you from taking that step."
Komamura Zajin lowered his head.
It was a long while before he spoke softly, "Captain Uzumaki, you truly are perceptive."
"But I-"
He still showed reluctance.
Naruto interrupted him, raising his head to look at the impenetrable helmet, "Even though we are meeting for the first time, and this is our first conversation."
"It feels a bit strange to say this."
He raised a hand to scratch his head, smiling sheepishly.
"But anyway, I am your captain now."
"If you would, please tell me."
"I will accompany you to resolve this issue."
"And if it's truly impossible."
"I will also help you, go and completely refuse Head Captain Yamamoto."
Komamura Zajin lowered his head even further.
(End of Chapter)