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Shiraha's voice wasn't raised, yet it carried clearly across the court, drawing the attention of every captain and vice-captain present.

"Shiraha," Jūshirō Ukitake said gently, stepping forward, "I think you should reconsider. You may not fully understand the responsibilities of the Seventh Division. Captain Komamura's squad is primarily responsible for internal defense and maintaining order within the Seireitei. Perhaps the First Division—or your elder brother's Sixth—would be a better fit."

Ukitake's tone was kind, but there was concern beneath the smile. He genuinely believed Shiraha might have misunderstood the role of the Seventh. It was rare for someone of such immense potential to request placement there.

Turning to Komamura with a slight bow of apology, Ukitake added, "Of course, Captain Komamura, this isn't meant to diminish your division. I simply think Shiraha might not align with its purpose."

"No need to explain," Komamura said firmly, waving a large hand to dismiss the comment, his voice steady.

"Captain Ukitake," Shiraha responded with a calm smile, "I know the responsibilities of the Seventh Division very well. I'm not mistaken—I'm certain I want to join."

He wasn't lying. Last night, he had read through classified profiles on every captain in the Gotei 13—especially Komamura and Kurotsuchi Mayuri. Of all the captains, these two seemed the most manageable with his current 80% system template. The others, especially Yamamoto, Aizen, and Unohana, were simply too dangerous. If he wanted to rise quickly, this was the safest path.

"Ah, Captain Kuchiki," Kyoraku Shunsui said teasingly, "your little brother just chose the Seventh Division. You're not going to talk him out of it?"

"It was his choice," Byakuya said evenly, his voice devoid of any personal bias. "I respect it."

Kyoraku tilted his hat back and turned to Shiraha. "Then tell us, Shiraha, what made you choose the Seventh?"

"I believe Captain Komamura is a man of righteousness. I want to fight for the same values he stands for. That's why I've chosen the Seventh Division," Shiraha answered without blinking.

The words were smooth, noble—even idealistic. But nearly everyone present could see through them. The excuse felt rehearsed, generic, and unconvincing. They couldn't say he was lying, but none of them believed him either.

Kyoraku coughed into his sleeve, chuckling. "Righteousness, huh? Well, that's… a noble reason."

Unohana's eyes glimmered faintly with amusement, while Aizen's eyes narrowed, a strange glint behind his glasses. "Justice, is it?" he murmured to himself, thoughtful.

"Captain Komamura," Ichimaru Gin said with a grin, "looks like congratulations are in order. The Seventh Division just got a powerhouse."

Komamura stood tall and dignified, though his surprise was palpable. "I did not expect this," he admitted, his deep voice echoing slightly beneath his helmet. "But I welcome it."

It was clear he was pleased. To Komamura, Shiraha's choice meant recognition—perhaps even acceptance. Because of his concealed face, he had always been judged by appearance, feared or misunderstood. That someone like Shiraha—gifted, proud, and noble—would choose to stand with him, meant more than he could express aloud.

But not everyone shared that sentiment.

"Wait! I don't agree!" Zaraki Kenpachi burst out, voice booming like a canon. "Kuchiki Shiraha, you're a monster in combat. Why waste that in the Seventh Division? Join my Eleventh instead!"

"Captain Zaraki," Komamura said, eyes narrowing behind his mask, "what do you mean by that?"

"I mean what I said," Zaraki growled, stepping forward. "You think I'll just let a warrior like him rot in paperwork and patrols? He should be in my squad, where real fighting happens."

"Are you trying to provoke me, Zaraki?" Komamura's tone grew heavier, his posture stiffening.

"You want to go right now?" Zaraki barked, bloodlust surging. "Because I'll take your challenge and make it fun."

"Enough!" Yamamoto's voice cut through the air like a blade. He slammed his staff into the ground, silencing the court. "This is not the time for squabbling. We are here to determine Kuchiki Shiraha's assignment. Captains, voice your opinions."

"Agreed," Soi Fon said with arms crossed. "Let him join the Seventh Division."

"I see no issue," Ichimaru Gin said with a smirk. "If that's where he wants to be, so be it."

"I support Shiraha's decision," Unohana added, her gentle tone unwavering.

"No objections," Aizen said calmly, adjusting his glasses.

Then all eyes turned to Byakuya.

He gave a quiet nod. "I agree."

It was brief, but final. The vote was cast.

Komamura looked directly at Shiraha. "Third Seat Kuchiki, I welcome you. I'm honored that you see value in my principles. Fighting beside someone like you will strengthen us all."

Though his voice was controlled, there was a hint of emotion behind it. Komamura had long dealt with isolation due to his appearance. Most of his subordinates didn't even know what he truly looked like. But Shiraha's open acknowledgment—though not genuine—meant something to him.

If only he knew Shiraha had chosen him precisely because he seemed easy to overpower.

"Please take care of me going forward, Captain Komamura," Shiraha said with a light bow and a smile.

Ukitake, seeing the decision already made, gave a small sigh and nodded in agreement. "Very well. If everyone supports it, I have no objections."

Only Zaraki Kenpachi, arms folded and scowling, refused to offer support—but he didn't protest further.

Yamamoto raised his staff once more. "Then it is settled. From this moment, Kuchiki Shiraha will be a member of the Seventh Division. Captain Komamura, the matter of his rank is left to your discretion."

The decision was official.

"That concludes today's assembly," Yamamoto declared, and the captains began to prepare for dismissal.

But Shiraha took a single step forward. "Captain, Captains—please wait. I have one more matter to raise."

Yamamoto paused, turning slightly. "Speak."

All eyes returned to Shiraha once again, wondering what else this young Shinigami could possibly want.

Shiraha straightened, his eyes unwavering as he looked toward Komamura. "Now that I've joined the Seventh Division, I wish to make a formal challenge."

The air turned still.

"Captain Komamura," Shiraha said, voice firm and eyes burning with hidden purpose, "I challenge you—here and now."

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