Makoto was taken aback—this was his first time witnessing such sharp words from Unohana. Her tone was a stark contrast to the usual gentle demeanor she displayed. Neither the kindness she showed in daily interactions nor the ruthless bloodlust she revealed when drawing her sword was present. Instead, hidden beneath her calm gaze was an unmistakable hint of disdain.
Perhaps, from the very beginning, Unohana-sensei had never held any respect or goodwill towards the so-called Central 46 or the noble class.
In that moment, vivid memories of Unohana's past flashed through Makoto's mind.
Just like him, the seemingly graceful and gentle Unohana was also originally from Rukongai. Her rise to prominence had been paved with countless corpses and severed limbs.
For someone of her nature—a legendary figure and an unparalleled villain in the history of the Soul Society—it would be truly baffling if she had any genuine reverence for the current ruling class or the existing system.
Makoto's eyes flickered thoughtfully. While it was still too early to make any overt moves against the hierarchical structure of the Soul Society, the situation would be entirely different if Unohana were to support him.
As one of the only two surviving captains from the original Gotei 13, Unohana's strength, status, and influence were leagues beyond those of ordinary captains.
Even Central 46, the Four Great Noble Houses, and even Aizen—the one who toyed with and scorned the entire Soul Society—had to regard Unohana with utmost caution.
After a brief moment of contemplation, Makoto uttered a cryptic remark.
"Sensei, while medicine can cure the souls of the sick, it cannot save the Soul Society."
Upon hearing this, a gentle smile appeared on Unohana's lips.
Clearly, she had discerned the underlying message and stance that Makoto sought to convey through his seemingly obscure words.
"In that case, how about establishing a governing council for the 'Womens Shinigami Association'? Since Isane Kotetsu is diligently managing the affairs of the Fourth Division, I can temporarily take on the role of the council head."
Makoto was pleasantly surprised by this unexpected development—he had unknowingly found himself aligned with Unohana-sensei. Yet, at the same time, he felt a twinge of guilt.
'Diligent and responsible'… Makoto wouldn't dare to describe himself that way. Most of the division's administrative work was flawlessly handled by Isane and Risa. As for major decisions, all Makoto needed to do was skim through them and sign his approval.
However, with Unohana-sensei's reputation and resourcefulness, her appointment as the head of the Womens Shinigami Association wouldn't just offer the organization its greatest shield—it would effectively overshadow Yachiru Kusajishi, the nominal president.
"That… that would be a great help, Unohana-sensei," Makoto said, trying to suppress his unease.
Without responding verbally, Unohana simply turned slightly, her expression hidden from view as she casually caught a falling cherry blossom petal. In a seemingly offhand manner, she continued,
"Since you've already made a promise to Yachiru, you should fulfill it. While you're at it, mention this new arrangement to her."
Makoto didn't hesitate to agree. After all, Yachiru was just an innocent, playful child who loved giving people nicknames. He harbored no ulterior motives toward's her whatsoever.
Still, the thought of heading to the Eleventh Division to find Yachiru made Makoto scratch his head in exasperation. "That promise… it's really going to be troublesome…"
Unohana smiled softly. "Didn't you agree to it rather enthusiastically?"
"I couldn't help it. Yachiru is genuinely adorable, and with a name like 'Yachiru,' I sometimes just can't resist…" Makoto admitted helplessly.
Unohana paused momentarily, an unusual smile appearing on her face—different from her customary gentle expression.
"Well, since you've made a promise to Yachiru, you shouldn't break it. You'd better get going."
This time, there was an almost imperceptible lightness to Unohana's tone, as though she found the situation amusing.
"True," Makoto agreed, nodding. Now that the general direction for the Womens Shinigami Association had been set, he needed to treat the matter more seriously and finalize the necessary arrangements as soon as possible.
Though Unohana-sensei's involvement reassured him, Makoto knew it was wise to prepare additional safeguards.
'Perhaps I should subtly hint to Risa to shift some of her focus from the Fourth Division's affairs to the association…'
'But if I do that, Isane will end up shouldering even more of the workload…'
At that moment, Makoto paused mid-step and looked towards an empty corner of the path ahead.
In the next instant, ripples spread through the air, revealing a familiar figure—Aizen, the seemingly mild-mannered captain of the Fight to Division.
Aizen stepped forward, appearing in front of Makoto in the blink of an eye. "Makoto-kun, it seems you really can sense my presence effortlessly."
Makoto offered no response, neither confirming nor denying Aizen's observation.
In truth, his ability to detect Aizen's location stemmed from the spiritual particles linked to the Zanpakuto Kyoka Suigetsu. As long as Aizen carried Kyoka Suigetsu, Makoto could easily pinpoint his position.
"Captain Aizen, what a coincidence," Makoto remarked pointedly.
"It's no coincidence," Aizen replied with a slight smile, adjusting his glasses. "I anticipated that you would head to the Eleventh Division to find Yachiru, so I chose to wait for you here."
Makoto's wariness instantly heightened, though he feigned mild curiosity. "Oh? Is there something you need from me, Captain Aizen?"
"Nothing significant. I merely wish to confirm your stance on a certain matter."
A rare look of seriousness crossed Aizen's face, prompting Makoto to narrow his eyes instinctively.
"Makoto-kun, regarding the position of council head in your newly established 'Womens Shinigami Association'… may I assume that role?"
Makoto was dumbfounded.
This… is the Womens Shinigami Association! Women!
And now, the mastermind behind countless schemes in the Soul Society wanted to join—and even lead—the association?
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