The raw power that surged through Kisaragi's being after Byakko's final dissolution was unlike anything he had ever experienced. It was a profound connection, a merging of his soul with the very essence of his Zanpakuto. The desolate training ground in the Rukon outskirts, silent once more, seemed to hum with the residual energy of their epic struggle. Thirty years. Thirty years had passed since he had opened his eyes in this new world, a lifetime spent in relentless pursuit of strength. And now, finally, he had achieved the milestone he had strived for since his reincarnation: Bankai.
A wave of contemplation washed over him. Six years had passed since the unsettling Adjuchas incident, six years of dedicated training, of balancing his duties with his personal growth. And now, looking ahead, he could feel the subtle currents of fate beginning to shift. He knew, from the fragmented memories of his past life, that in approximately ten years, the Turn Back the Pendulum arc would begin. Kisuke Urahara, the current Third Seat of the Second Division, a man whose intellect and unconventional brilliance were already becoming apparent, would be thrust into the position of Captain.
Kisaragi considered his own future. His current position within the Onmitsukido provided him with invaluable access to information and a degree of autonomy. His strength had grown exponentially, now firmly within the ranks of Captain-level Shinigami even before fully mastering his Bankai. He contemplated the widely accepted notion that learning Bankai typically took a minimum of ten years, and mastering it required another decade of dedicated practice. He had managed to achieve the initial breakthrough in six years, a testament to his unique circumstances and relentless drive. This gave him what he calculated to be more than enough time to not only master his Bankai but also to prepare for the tumultuous events that lay ahead. His immediate plans revolved around understanding the full scope of his Bankai's power and diligently refining its control. Beyond that, he knew he would need to tread carefully, navigating the delicate balance of observation and calculated intervention in the unfolding events of the future, ensuring his own growth without prematurely attracting the attention of those who would seek to manipulate or destroy him.
With a deep breath, Kisaragi dispelled the lingering spiritual energy around him and Shunpoed back towards the Seireitei, the familiar pathways of the Second Division barracks appearing before him. The passing Shinigami, many of whom now regarded him with a mixture of respect and awe, offered curt nods as he made his way towards Captain Shihōin's office. The air within the Second Division, usually charged with a tense efficiency, seemed to carry a slightly different weight in his perception now, his enhanced senses picking up subtle shifts in spiritual energy with greater clarity.
He reached Yoruichi's office door and offered a respectful knock.
A moment later, her voice, laced with its usual playful undertone, called out, "Enter."
Kisaragi slid the door open, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. Perched on Yoruichi's windowsill, a half-empty teacup resting beside her, was a man he hadn't seen in this world: Kisuke Urahara. A younger version of the enigmatic shopkeeper, with messy, light-blond hair framing his face, and those ever-present, knowing gray eyes. He was a tall, lean figure, clad in the standard Shinigami shihakushō, a stark contrast to the flamboyant attire he would later adopt. He and Yoruichi were engaged in a lighthearted exchange, their easy banter a testament to their long-standing friendship. As expected of the two of them, even their playful banter, as expected of longtime friends, Kisaragi thought, a subtle reminder of the close-knit relationships that existed within the Gotei 13. He also vaguely recalled that Captain Tessai Tsukabishi of the Kidō Corps was another member of this close circle, their shared history stretching back to their childhood in the Shihōin Territory.
"Captain Shihōin," Kisaragi greeted respectfully, offering a slight bow to Yoruichi, then turning to the younger man. "Third Seat Urahara."
Yoruichi hopped down from the windowsill, a mischievous glint in her golden eyes. "Shiba, allow me to formally introduce you. Kisuke Urahara, this is Kisaragi Shiba, our Fifth Seat and a Corps Commander within the Onmitsukido. Shiba, this is Kisuke Urahara, as you know, our Third Seat."
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person, Shiba-san," Urahara said, a hint of that familiar, playful tone already present in his voice. "I've heard… interesting things about your… unique approach to problem-solving." His eyes twinkled.
Kisaragi simply nodded, his expression carefully neutral. "The pleasure is mine, Urahara-san." He had known of Urahara's brilliance, his unconventional methods, and his eventual, tragic downfall. This meeting felt… significant, a subtle reminder of the ticking clock, the approaching storm.
He then turned back to Yoruichi. "Captain, I wished to request a day off today."
Yoruichi's eyebrow arched, a flicker of surprise in her eyes. "A day off? The stoic Shiba requesting leisure? This is a first." A playful smirk danced on her lips. "Are you finally taking my advice to cultivate some… personal time?"
Urahara chuckled softly from his perch.
Kisaragi maintained his composure. "My intentions are purely familial and… to visit an old friend, Captain. I have not seen my family and relatives in six years, since the Adjuchas incident, and I have been… focused on my duties and training. There is also someone I wish to reconnect with after a long absence." The unspoken name of Byakuya hung in the air.
Yoruichi's gaze softened slightly, a hint of understanding flickering in her eyes. She was perceptive and knew of the deep bond Kisaragi had once shared with the Kuchiki heir during their time in the Academy.
"Six years is a long time," she conceded, taking a sip of her tea. "The bonds of family and friendship are important, even for those who walk in the shadows. Very well, Shiba. I will grant you a day off. But ensure you return by nightfall. The Second Division never truly rests."
"Understood, Captain. Thank you," Kisaragi replied, offering a respectful bow.
With Yoruichi's permission granted, Kisaragi left the Second Division barracks, a sense of anticipation mixed with a quiet contemplation settling within him. Six years was indeed a long time. He looked forward to seeing his uncle Isshin's boisterous welcome, the quiet strength of his cousin Kaien, and the familiar, if somewhat chaotic, energy of his parents and cousins in the Shiba compound. The prospect of seeing Byakuya again after so long held a particular significance, a chance to rekindle a bond forged in their youth, a connection built on mutual respect and shared aspirations. He hoped that despite their different paths and the passage of time, that foundation would still remain strong. The weight of his newfound power rested on his shoulders, but today, he would carry the lighter burden of reunion and remembrance.