A Kind Smile

"Captain Unohana Retsu..."

"The First Division has just issued a notice that our Fourth Division will be welcoming a new member."

As soon as Vice-Captain Kotetsu Isane entered the office, she brought this news.

"A new member?" Unohana-taichō raised an eyebrow, looking a little surprised. "Why wasn't I informed about this earlier?"

"Captain, this was a last-minute decision by the General Commander, so we were only just notified as well." Kotetsu Isane walked over to the wooden desk, handing the official notice to Unohana.

"I see."

After reading through the notice, Unohana's expression softened in realization.

A peaceful, warm smile spread across her beautiful face, a smile so calm it seemed as if it could melt away all the troubles of the world.

"I never would have guessed that Shihouin Saikyō, the academy's legendary prodigy, would choose to join the Fourth Division." Unohana-taichō gently folded the document.

"Saikyō? No way!" Kotetsu Isane exclaimed, startled. "He just started at the academy a few months ago, didn't he?"

Having never met Saikyō personally, most of what Kotetsu Isane knew about him came from rumors and gossip.

The most striking detail was that Saikyō had achieved the rare "tenth-class Reiatsu" during the academy's entrance exam just a few months prior.

That's why Kotetsu found it hard to believe that he was about to join their division so soon.

Graduating in such a short time? It seemed too unbelievable!

"Isane, the world often presents us with things that ordinary people can't understand. It's best not to be surprised." Unohana spoke with a calmness that reflected her long life experience. As a former Kenpachi, having lived for over two thousand years like Yamamoto-sōtaichō, Unohana had witnessed much of the Soul Society's history.

Once known as an unparalleled villain, Unohana-taichō had weathered countless storms, and thus, could remain composed in the face of extraordinary events.

Her words carried an elegance, serenity, and wisdom born of centuries of experience.

"Captain, graduating from Shin'ō Academy in just half a year... that's terrifyingly fast!" Even as she tried to convince herself, Kotetsu Isane still found it hard to comprehend.

She simply couldn't wrap her mind around how Saikyō had managed such a feat.

"Isane, instead of speculating, why don't we wait and meet him in person?" Unohana's soft smile was like that of a mother gently chiding her child.

"My apologies for losing my composure, Captain!" Kotetsu Isane bowed quickly.

"Please prepare and inform the entire division. We will hold a formal welcome ceremony for Saikyō tomorrow," Unohana ordered.

"Understood!" Kotetsu Isane nodded respectfully.

The welcome ceremony was a tradition unique to the Fourth Division, a way to foster camaraderie among its members. Since the Fourth Division was often looked down upon by other divisions for their focus on healing rather than combat, this ceremony was a morale booster, creating a sense of unity and belonging.

Under Unohana-taichō's leadership, the Fourth Division had a harmonious atmosphere, free from much of the internal conflict that plagued other squads.

For Saikyō, it was truly the best place to shine.

---

The next day…

The corridors of the Fourth Division's headquarters.

"No wonder they're considered the weakest division. The senior officers of the Fourth Division… their strength really isn't impressive." Saikyō observed quietly as he walked down the hall, watching the Shinigami around him.

Even from just a brief glance, he could tell that the Fourth Division's members were far weaker than those of the combat-focused divisions like the Eleventh Division or even the Second Division, known for its stealth operatives.

But for Saikyō, this was exactly what he wanted.

The weaker the competition, the more opportunities for him to stand out. And once he mastered Kaidō and maxed out his skill points, his abilities would reach godlike levels. The entire division would soon witness his rise.

At that moment, a figure approached him.

"Saikyō-san, you're right on time!"

It was Kotetsu Isane, the vice-captain of the Fourth Division, greeting him with a smile.

"Vice-Captain Kotetsu? This is our first time meeting, isn't it?" Saikyō replied, somewhat surprised.

"Of course, I know who you are—Shihouin Saikyō, the genius who graduated in just half a year. You've made quite the name for yourself," Isane smiled warmly.

"Your kind words are too generous, Vice-Captain Kotetsu," Saikyō said, smiling in return.

"Saikyō-san, there's no need to be so formal. From today onward, you're part of the Fourth Division. I'm sure you'll get used to it soon." As she spoke, Isane couldn't help but take a second glance at Saikyō.

Beyond his talent, his handsome face was undeniably striking.

Even someone as reserved as Isane found herself momentarily captivated.

---

"And those are...?"

Saikyō gestured toward a group of people in the distance.

Ahead, a large number of Fourth Division members had gathered since Kotetsu Isane's arrival.

"Oh, that's part of our tradition," Isane explained with a smile. "We're all here to formally welcome you to the Fourth Division. From now on, we'll be fighting alongside you."

"Such an elaborate welcome?"

Even though Saikyō usually wasn't one to care about ceremonies, he couldn't help but feel flattered by the effort.

The Fourth Division had truly gone out of their way to give him a warm reception.

"Saikyō-san, this way, please. Captain Unohana is waiting for you in her office. I'm sure you're looking forward to meeting her." Kotetsu Isane gestured politely for him to follow.

With a nod, Saikyō followed.

Meeting the legendary First Generation Kenpachi—the only other kendo master besides Yamamoto-sōtaichō—was a daunting prospect, and deep down, Saikyō held a great deal of respect for Unohana-taichō.

---

Soon, under Isane's guidance, Saikyō arrived at the captain's office.

The sunlight filtering through the windows cast soft patterns on the floor, and the room, decorated in a traditional Japanese style, was filled with a delicate fragrance.

---

"Saikyō-san, you're finally here."

As soon as Saikyō stepped into the office, Unohana's soft voice greeted him.

She was sitting cross-legged at a wooden table, her eyes gently fixed on him.

Her graceful, elegant demeanor, combined with her quiet smile, exuded an aura of charm that was utterly captivating.

"Captain Unohana," Saikyō greeted, bowing respectfully, feeling slightly nervous in her presence.

He tried his best to remain composed, hoping to leave a good impression on this remarkable woman.

But…

Faced with Unohana's gentle, warm smile, Saikyō felt his heart begin to melt.