1st Division Barracks, Kendo Hall.
The Head Captain held a wooden sword in his hand, his breathing calm and steady—there wasn't even a drop of sweat on his forehead. Meanwhile, Asano Kiyoshi lay on the floor, covered in wounds and drenched in sweat.
Looking at the heavily panting Asano on the ground, Old Man Yamamoto shook his head and said:
"Your swordsmanship is too immature, lacking the necessary killing intent. Also, your handling of last night's matter was rather clumsy."
Hearing the Head Captain's words, Asano struggled to sit upright, respectfully positioning himself to receive the elder's teachings.
Seeing his attentive posture, Yamamoto nodded slightly before sitting down cross-legged as well. The old and the young sat face to face, exchanging thoughts.
"I know what happened yesterday was intentional on your part. As for your reasons, I can more or less guess."
"Why are you in such a hurry to grow stronger? Kanyashiro Kojirō was already set to apply for early graduation in two months. That's not a long time. But your display yesterday may push the Kanyashiro family to accelerate their plans—possibly cutting that time in half. Do you really think that will be enough?"
Asano met the slight reproach in the Head Captain's eyes. After a moment of hesitation, he nodded and replied:
"Teacher, I believe I can manage. And…"
Before Asano could finish, the Head Captain cut him off:
"Enough. Don't hesitate. If you choose to do something, then commit to it. If something makes you hesitate, don't do it. If something must be done, then do it without hesitation! A person in power must not be plagued by such indecisive weakness!"
Hearing that, Asano nodded seriously. He understood what those words meant.
Then Yamamoto continued:
"Now, let's talk about the flaws in your actions."
"First: While accelerating your own growth, you've also sped up the Kanyashiro family's plans. At first glance, it seems harmless—but you must realize: if their plan changes, then all of my arrangements must also be revised. That means gathering new intel, creating new countermeasures—all within a tighter time frame and under greater pressure. This harms my side more than it helps. Of course, you're not in my position yet, so it's natural you wouldn't consider this."
Asano's heart sank with guilt. After hearing Yamamoto's analysis, he realized that he had indeed overlooked how his actions could disrupt his teacher's strategic layout. His position was still too low to see the full scope of the situation.
Yamamoto noticed the guilt in Asano's eyes and felt a hint of satisfaction—but he continued:
"Second: You failed to consider the awkward position of the other captains. By exposing yourself too early to the higher-ups, you've forced them to take a stance on your presence. But in the Soul Society, one's standing is inseparable from one's strength. Right now, you're a genius at best—but there's still a fundamental difference between a genius and a true powerhouse. Do you understand what I mean?"
A bitter smile tugged at Asano's lips. He knew this was a test of his comprehension, so he carefully formed a response:
"My current strength is still too weak. Although the captains are all members of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads, they each have their own affiliations. Setting aside the captains who came from Rukongai, many are tied to noble houses. Regardless of their personal will, their positions will influence their attitudes toward me. For example, Captain Kuchiki—he's both the captain of the Sixth Division and the head of the most prestigious noble clan. His stance on me will influence many other nobles."
"To maintain stability in the Seireitei, the attitude toward the nobility must be moderate—not extreme. But I am still too weak. For them to support me now is essentially an investment. And if that investment fails, it could ruin their family's reputation. Among nobles who already compete fiercely within, such mistakes are unacceptable."
"My actions have made it harder for the captains to decide whether to 'invest' in me, and in turn, I've made my future path more difficult. I've also added pressure to your side, giving your opponents more leverage."
As Asano continued, his voice grew softer, filled with shame. Under Yamamoto's guidance, he realized his seemingly clever strategy was actually reckless and naïve in the treacherous waters of Soul Society politics.
Seeing his student's crestfallen expression, Yamamoto furrowed his brow and said:
"There's no need to be so disheartened! Your decision wasn't a bad one. Every move has its pros and cons. By revealing your strength, you've also created leverage. Besides—with me here! While your path won't be smooth, you will have my protection until you become a true powerhouse. There's no need to worry!"
As he spoke, the air around Yamamoto grew scorching hot. Waves of heat made the surrounding grass wilt. In that moment, he looked like a blazing sun walking upon the earth!
Hearing his teacher's words, Asano felt comforted and quietly vowed to himself: I need to stop relying on clever tricks. Until I gain more experience, everything I do can be easily seen through by these old veterans.
Seeing that Asano had regained some confidence, Yamamoto added:
"Right now, your priority must be to improve your strength as quickly as possible. And it's often in life-or-death battles that people grow most. So, I've decided: I'm sending you to the final three districts of North Rukongai. Your task is simple—survive. Kill every Hollow and enemy that opposes you."
Asano nodded. Even if Yamamoto hadn't suggested it, he would have made the same request himself.
Seeing his nod, Yamamoto concluded:
"Remember—survive. That is the test I'm giving you. I won't let anyone interfere. No one will protect you. If you die there, it will simply be the price for your choices. But if you survive, you will earn greater opportunities—and a far higher status."
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