The tense atmosphere that had persisted for so long finally dissipated with the arrival of one individual.
The Vice-Captain of the 1st Division, Chōjirō Sasakibe.
Though his official title was merely "Vice-Captain," everyone knew that the Vice-Captain of the Head Captain's division undoubtedly wielded authority comparable to that of a captain.
Moreover, having served under Yamamoto Genryūsai Shigekuni for a millennium, his reputation within Seireitei was unparalleled.
After assessing the situation on site, he decisively issued his orders:
"Captains and Vice-Captains, for now, please return to your respective districts and continue your patrol duties.
Even though such a tragic incident has occurred, it is precisely during times like these that we cannot neglect the surveillance of other areas.
As for this matter, it will be handled by the 1st Division's investigation team in collaboration with the 5th Division."
Within the 1st Division, there existed a specialized squad dedicated to intelligence gathering and evidence investigation. During peaceful times, they were often dispatched to resolve disputes among the nobility.
Hearing this, the captains and vice-captains naturally had no reason to linger any longer and began to disperse.
Before leaving, however, Gin Ichimaru deliberately approached Shigure Segawa, flashing a cryptic smile.
Tōshirō Hitsugaya cast a deep glance at Shigure before turning away, saying, "Let's go, Rangiku."
Rangiku Matsumoto followed in silence.
In the end, only the members of the 5th Division and Chōjirō Sasakibe remained.
With a gentle tone, Sōsuke Aizen asked, "Vice-Captain Sasakibe, will you require our assistance for this matter?"
Chōjirō shook his head, casting a brief glance at Shigure before responding to Aizen, "If nothing unexpected occurs, this matter will soon be reported to the Central 46 Chambers. When that happens, they will undoubtedly issue a formal investigation order.
Given the sensitivity of this incident and the fact that it occurred within the jurisdiction of the 5th Division, it would be inappropriate for you to intervene further."
Aizen's face grew solemn, and he bowed slightly. "Understood."
Chōjirō nodded and continued, "Please proceed with your respective duties and await the ruling from the Central 46 Chambers."
"Yes," Aizen replied.
Shigure Segawa also bowed his head. "Thank you for your efforts."
Chōjirō gave a slight nod, then, after a moment of silence, added, "Vice-Captain Segawa, the Head Captain holds you in high regard. If the Central 46 Chambers were to issue an unjust punishment, I believe he would fight for a fairer and more just ruling on your behalf. You can rest assured."
Having just assessed the situation, Chōjirō also found the circumstances suspiciously coincidental. However, due to his unwavering trust in Tōshirō Hitsugaya's character, he chose to believe in Shigure Segawa as well.
Upon hearing this, Shigure offered a polite smile. "Thank you for the Head Captain's concern."
"Good."
After giving some additional instructions, Chōjirō left to coordinate with the investigation team.
"Since Vice-Captain Sasakibe has said so, there's no need for you to worry, Shigure. Continue with your patrol duties," Aizen said warmly.
Shigure lowered his head slightly. "Yes, Captain Aizen."
Aizen nodded before disappearing in a flash step.
Though Shigure's expression remained unchanged, his mind was racing.
Due to the presence of the Kekkaimon Gate, such incidents of death within Seireitei were exceedingly rare.
And yet, this time, the victim was a member of the patrol team.
An incident of this magnitude could not simply be brushed aside.
Even if the Head Captain wished to suppress the matter, the Central 46 Chambers would not allow it.
Ultimately, a verdict would have to be reached.
Either the true cause of the incident would be uncovered, or the perpetrator would be identified.
However, regardless of the outcome, Shigure's unauthorized absence from his post was an inescapable issue.
The stubborn elders of the Central 46 Chambers would never entertain any explanations.
To them, the term "reason" was synonymous with "excuse."
Thus, no matter the final outcome, Shigure was certain to face some form of punishment.
And this, perhaps, was exactly what Aizen and his accomplices intended.
As for their motives...
Perhaps it was because Shigure had disrupted Aizen's plans.
Or perhaps it was because the power Shigure had displayed had made Aizen wary.
In any case, Shigure was now almost certain that this was a trap they had set for him.
A clever trap, exploiting the pretext of "dereliction of duty" and leveraging the authority of the Central 46 Chambers to impose punishment.
However, a mere failure to perform his duties could not possibly endanger Shigure's life.
Their true goal was likely to force him out of the 5th Division.
At this thought, a faint smile flickered in Shigure's eyes.
Though these were merely his current speculations, the more he followed this line of thought, the more plausible it seemed.
He could very well turn the tables on them.
After all, leaving the 5th Division was precisely what he wanted to do at the moment.
"Vice-Captain Segawa... please, lead us in continuing the patrol of our jurisdiction..."
As Shigure was lost in thought, the 9th Seat of the 5th Division, Shion Fushimi, approached him hesitantly, her voice weary.
Understandably so, given that the deceased had been a close companion.
Shigure turned to her and nodded. "Let's go."
However, just as he took his first step, a sudden system notification echoed in his mind.
Ding! A new sign-in task has been issued!
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