The morning after Yoruichi's unexpected proposition dawned with a quiet sense of finality for Kisaragi. His decision had been swift, his mind already charting the new course. With deliberate strokes, he penned a letter of resignation from his position as the Sixth Seat of the Fourth Division, his words carefully chosen to convey his gratitude for their guidance and the invaluable experience he had gained. Alongside it, he carried a sealed letter of recommendation from Captain Yoruichi Shihōin, addressed to Captain-Commander Yamamoto, requesting his transfer to the Second Division.
The atmosphere within the Fourth Division barracks was somber when Kisaragi presented his letters. Captain Retsu Unohana, her serene countenance holding a hint of melancholy, accepted the documents with a quiet grace. Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu stood beside her, her usual gentle demeanor tinged with a palpable sadness. They had both seen the brilliance that resided within Kisaragi, a talent that extended far beyond the realm of healing. Over the years, they had subtly observed his keen intellect, his rapid mastery of various Shinigami arts during their occasional joint training sessions. They had foreseen, with a quiet understanding, that his extraordinary potential could not be confined to their division indefinitely.
"Kisaragi-kun," Captain Unohana said, her voice soft but carrying a weight of sincerity. "We have always known that your path might one day lead you elsewhere. Your contributions to the Fourth Division have been invaluable, and your skill as a healer is exceptional."
Isane nodded, her eyes reflecting a genuine warmth. "We will miss you dearly, Kisaragi-kun. Your calm presence and insightful observations have been a great asset to our team."
Kisaragi, his usual aloofness softened by a genuine respect for his former superiors, bowed deeply. "Captain Unohana, Lieutenant Kotetsu, I am eternally grateful for your guidance and the opportunities you have given me. The Fourth Division will always hold a special place in my heart." The farewell was heartfelt, a quiet acknowledgment of the bonds they had formed.
With his departure from the Fourth Division concluded, Kisaragi made his way to the Tenth Division barracks. This was distinct from the Shiba clan compound, a sprawling estate that housed the various branches of their noble family. The Tenth Division barracks held its own unique energy, a blend of Isshin's boisterous personality and the more disciplined nature of his subordinates. He found his Uncle Isshin holding court with a group of lower-ranking Shinigami, his booming laughter echoing through the corridors. As the branch head of their specific lineage within the larger Shiba clan, Isshin held a respected position within their family structure.
"Kisaragi!" Isshin exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise. "What brings my brilliant nephew to the Tenth Division?"
Kisaragi informed his uncle of his decision to transfer to the Second Division and join the Onmitsukido, his tone matter-of-fact. Isshin's initial surprise quickly morphed into a wide grin.
"The Second Division, eh? And Yoruichi's Onmitsukido! Well, I'll be! That old cat finally recognized your talent for the shadows, did she?" Isshin clapped him heartily on the back.
"Good for you, kiddo! You've always had a sharp mind and those… interesting eyes of yours. The shadows might just be your playground! Your mother will probably fret about the danger, but your old man and I… we know you'll handle yourself. Go get 'em, Kisaragi! Show them what a Shiba can do!" His uncle's encouragement, though characteristically loud, was genuine and filled with familial pride.
Next, Kisaragi sought out his older cousin, Kaien Shiba. He made the journey to the Thirteenth Division barracks, a place known for its gentle atmosphere under the compassionate leadership of Captain Jushiro Ukitake. He found Kaien, the head of the Shiba main clan, amidst a group of his division members, his calm and approachable demeanor immediately recognizable. It had been years since their brief encounter during the Shinigami Academy entrance exams. Despite Captain Ukitake's persistent requests for him to become his lieutenant, Kaien, with his disinterest in ranks and inherent humility, had consistently refused.
"Kisaragi," Kaien said, his warm smile genuine as he recognized his younger cousin. "It has been far too long."
They spoke for a while, bridging the gap of the intervening years. When the moment was right, Kisaragi informed Kaien of his decision to join the Second Division and the Onmitsukido, asking for his blessing as a member of the Shiba clan.
Kaien listened intently, his expression thoughtful. "The Onmitsukido… it is a path shrouded in secrecy and often fraught with peril. Are you certain this aligns with your aspirations, Kisaragi?"
"I believe it is a path where my unique abilities can be best utilized to protect Soul Society, Cousin," Kisaragi replied, his voice steady. "And Captain Shihōin herself has extended the invitation."
A knowing smile touched Kaien's lips. "Yoruichi-sama possesses a keen eye for talent. If she sees potential in you within the Onmitsukido, then I trust her judgment. As the Shiba main clan head, I offer you my full support, Kisaragi. Tread carefully in the shadows, and know that our family stands behind you." His cousin's encouragement was quiet but carried the full weight of his position and familial bond.
With his obligations to his former division and his family fulfilled, Kisaragi finally made the journey to the Second Division barracks as the day drew to a close. The atmosphere within was palpable – a sense of quiet efficiency and coiled intensity that spoke volumes about the nature of their work.
The following day, the news of the Fourth Division's enigmatic Sixth Seat joining the ranks of the Second Division and the Onmitsukido rippled through the Seireitei. Many were initially perplexed by the seemingly contrasting roles. However, whispers soon followed, with some recalling Kisaragi's exceptional skills in combat during his Academy days, a talent often overshadowed by his proficiency in healing. A growing sentiment emerged: perhaps the quiet genius had finally found the environment where all facets of his extraordinary abilities could truly be unleashed. The long silence of the Seireitei held its breath, unaware of the skilled shadow that had just joined its ranks.