Another two more years had carved themselves into the tapestry of Soul Society's silent unease. For Kisaragi, these years had been a crucible, forging his latent potential into a formidable strength that now bordered on the realm of Advance Captain-class. Bankai remained the sole, elusive peak yet to be conquered, a final hurdle in his relentless pursuit of power.
His swordsmanship had transcended mere proficiency, reaching a level of artistry that he estimated few in the entirety of Soul Society could truly match, let alone surpass. He had dissected countless forms, internalized the flow of battle, and honed his reflexes to an almost precognitive degree. In his internal assessments, he placed only a handful above him in pure swordsmanship: Captain Retsu Unohana, the First Kenpachi whose ancient skill held the weight of countless battles; Captain-Commander Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto, whose Zanjutsu was an extension of his overwhelming power; his steadfast training partner, Byakuya Kuchiki, whose own dedication had mirrored Kisaragi's growth, their resumed sparring pushing them both to unprecedented heights; and, though he had yet to witness his full potential, the future Eleventh Kenpachi, Kenpachi Zaraki, a raw force acknowledged by Unohana herself.
His mastery of Kidō had also blossomed into an extraordinary talent. The creation of Rasengan and Rengoku had been mere stepping stones, unlocking a deeper understanding of spiritual manipulation. He could weave intricate barriers with effortless grace, unleash devastating offensive spells with pinpoint accuracy, and manipulate the very fabric of space around him. In this domain, he estimated his skill to be comparable to few: Captain-Commander Yamamoto with his vast knowledge and raw power; Captain of the Kidō Corps, Tessai Tsukabishi, whose understanding of forbidden arts was legendary; his Vice-Captain, Hachigen Ushōda, whose spatial Kidō was unparalleled; the future founder of the Shinigami Research and Development Department, Kisuke Urahara, whose inventive genius extended to Kidō; Captain Shinjī Hirako, whose unique prowess provided another layer to his spiritual manipulation; Captain Unohana, whose healing arts were but one facet of her profound spiritual control; and, the orchestrator of the current shadows, Aizen Sōsuke, whose intellect and spiritual pressure were simply terrifying.
Shunpo, honed through countless solo drills across the desolate Rukon outskirts, had become second nature. He moved with a blurring speed, leaving afterimages that danced in the wind. He had truly become a Shunpo Master, yet he recognized a slight deficit compared to Byakuya. Ever since his initial, fleeting encounter with Yoruichi Shihōin years ago, his progress in Shunpo had plateaued. Hard work had yielded significant improvement, but there was an undeniable truth: nothing truly rivaled the guidance of a master.
Fate, however, had a serendipitous encounter in store. During one of his routine visits to the Kuchiki Compound for their now-established training sessions, Kisaragi had crossed paths with the elusive Captain Yoruichi Shihōin once more. Her surprise at witnessing their resumed sparring was evident in her widened eyes and playful smirk.
"Well, well, well," she had purred, leaning against a nearby cherry blossom tree, her movements as fluid and silent as a shadow. "Look what the cat dragged in. You two are at it again? I thought Byakuya had become too… dignified for such youthful exuberance." Her gaze flickered between Kisaragi and Byakuya, a teasing glint in her golden eyes.
Byakuya, as he had for the past two years, remained outwardly unmoved by Yoruichi's familiar taunts. The fiery, easily provoked noble of their Academy days was long gone, replaced by a man burdened by responsibility and a quiet grief that seemed to have dulled his reactions to such playful jabs. Yoruichi sighed dramatically, shaking her head. "Honestly, Byakuya, where has all the fun gone?"
Nevertheless, the playful banter soon gave way to a more serious discussion. Yoruichi, as the Captain of the Second Division and Commander-in-Chief of the Onmitsukido, had been directly tasked by Captain-Commander Yamamoto to investigate the incident involving the Third Seat of the Seventh Division. They exchanged their observations and suspicions, Kisaragi carefully omitting his knowledge of future events while highlighting the unnatural nature of the spiritual disruption he had perceived.
It was during a lull in their conversation, as they stood amidst the tranquil beauty of the Kuchiki gardens, that Yoruichi turned her piercing gaze towards Kisaragi. A thoughtful expression replaced her usual playful demeanor.
"Shiba," she began, her voice losing its teasing edge. "You possess a unique sensitivity, a keen eye for things others miss. And your dedication to your training… it's commendable. The Second Division currently has a vacancy for the Fifth Seat. We haven't found anyone with your… particular set of skills. I'm offering it to you. Join the Onmitsukido."
Kisaragi's gaze sharpened, his aloof composure momentarily cracking with genuine surprise. The Fifth Seat of the Second Division, directly under the command of the legendary Yoruichi Shihōin and within the ranks of the Onmitsukido – the stealth and intelligence arm of the Gotei 13. It was an unexpected proposition, a stark departure from the healing-focused path he had walked in the Fourth Division.
He considered the offer, his mind racing through the potential implications. The Onmitsukido operated in the shadows, dealing with threats before they could fully materialize. It was a world of espionage, infiltration, and swift, decisive action – a perfect environment to gather information about Aizen's movements and to hone his skills in a more clandestine manner. Furthermore, direct tutelage from Yoruichi in Shunpo would undoubtedly elevate his speed to a level he could only dream of achieving on his own.
Byakuya, who had been silently observing their exchange, offered a subtle, almost imperceptible nod. It was a gesture that Kisaragi interpreted as a tacit acknowledgment of the potential benefits.
"Captain Shihōin," Kisaragi began, his voice carefully neutral as he weighed his words. "I am… honored by your offer. My current duties in the Fourth Division are… demanding, but I recognize the unique opportunities the Second Division presents."
A knowing smile played on Yoruichi's lips. "Demanding, yes. But are they truly utilizing your full potential, Shiba? You possess a rare combination of perception and burgeoning power. The Onmitsukido can offer you challenges and training that the Fourth Division simply cannot."
She stepped closer, her golden eyes holding his. "Think about it, Kisaragi. You want to protect those you care about, to stand against the coming darkness. The shadows are where the true battles often begin. And in the shadows, speed and information are paramount."
Kisaragi met her gaze, the weight of her words resonating with his own internal convictions. He did want to be stronger, to be more effective against the unseen threats he knew were lurking. The direct approach wasn't always the wisest, especially against an opponent like Aizen. Operating from the shadows, gathering intelligence, and honing his speed under Yoruichi's guidance could be invaluable assets.
"What would be the nature of my duties as the Fifth Seat?" Kisaragi inquired, his interest piqued.
"Initially, you would assist in intelligence gathering and reconnaissance, as well as becoming the Corps Commander of the Inner Court Troop in charge of conveying and delivering important information," Yoruichi explained. "Utilizing your unique sensory abilities to detect anomalies and potential threats. As you prove your capabilities, your responsibilities would expand. And of course," she added with a sly wink, "I would personally oversee your Shunpo training. I can't have a member of my division being slower than a certain uptight noble, now can I?" She shot a playful glance at Byakuya, who remained stoic.
Kisaragi considered the offer one last time. It was a significant shift, a move away from the familiar comfort of the Fourth Division and into the dangerous world of covert operations. But the potential for growth, the opportunity to learn from a legend like Yoruichi, and the chance to actively combat the growing darkness were too compelling to ignore.
"Captain Shihōin," Kisaragi said, a newfound resolve hardening his gaze. "I accept your offer. I will join the Second Division and the Onmitsukido."
Yoruichi's smile widened, a flash of genuine approval in her eyes. "Excellent choice, Shiba. I have a feeling you'll fit right in. The shadows await."
Byakuya, who had remained silent throughout their exchange, finally spoke, his tone carrying a hint of something Kisaragi couldn't quite decipher. "I trust you know what you are doing, Kisaragi."
Kisaragi met his friend's gaze, a silent understanding passing between them. Their paths might be diverging once more, but their shared concern for the future remained a common thread. "I do, Byakuya."
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the Kuchiki gardens, Kisaragi felt a shift within him. The aloof dedication he had cultivated over the past two years now had a new direction, a new purpose. The long silence was about to be broken, and he would be ready, operating from the shadows, his strength growing, guided by the swift and enigmatic Captain of the Second Division. The fight against the encroaching darkness was about to enter a new phase.