Time flowed like a fleeting shadow, and before anyone realized it, more than a year had passed since the Shiba Clan's return to Seireitei.
During this long period, Kisuke Urahara and Mayuri Kurotsuchi had worked tirelessly—or, more accurately, under the relentless pressure and coercion of Masatsuki Aozaki.
These two eccentric scientists had managed to develop a groundbreaking technology, one with the potential to revolutionize the entire medical system of the Gotei 13.
It wasn't just Masatsuki's impatience that had been driving them forward, but also the strict oversight of an irritable and demanding Yamamoto.
"So, the 12th Division's experiment is finally complete? They now have a perfected method to restore Jūshirō's health?"
Inside the 1st Division's barracks, Yamamoto sat in quiet contemplation, his gaze fixed on his young disciple, who was beaming with confidence.
Nearby, Shunsui Kyōraku peeked out curiously, his eager eyes locked onto the two men standing before their old master.
Unlike his usual carefree demeanor, a rare seriousness filled his expression.
And his focus was entirely on Jūshirō Ukitake.
"Jūshirō can really recover?"
Hearing Yamamoto's words, Shunsui couldn't suppress the sheer joy on his face, even letting out an unrestrained laugh.
He and Jūshirō had known each other for centuries—not only as fellow disciples under the same master but as the closest of friends.
With such a deep bond, how could he not feel elated at the news that his dearest friend might finally be cured?
"Captain Kyōraku, mind your composure. Now that business has been handled, return to your division at once and stop embarrassing yourself here."
Yamamoto cast a sidelong glance at his most troublesome disciple, his hand trembling slightly as he lifted his teacup and took a slow sip.
Though he appeared composed, the truth was that his own emotions were no less turbulent than Shunsui's.
But as their Master, he had an image to uphold, and so he maintained his usual strict demeanor.
Of course, his three observant disciples saw right through it, and their hearts warmed at the sight.
"That's hardly important right now, old man Yamamoto."
Shunsui had already abandoned all other concerns. Taking quick strides into the room, he looked straight at Masatsuki, his voice filled with urgency.
"Masatsuki, are you absolutely sure that Mayuri has developed a treatment that can cure Jūshirō? Is it reliable?"
His question reflected the deep-seated doubt and concern in his heart—his complete lack of trust in Mayuri Kurotsuchi.
After all, Mayuri had come from the infamous "Nest of Maggots." Trusting someone like him was no easy feat.
However, Shunsui still had faith in his junior disciple.
And so, he desperately sought a firm and reassuring answer from Masatsuki.
Beside him, Jūshirō's pale, sickly face had taken on a faint flush of color.
His gaze was filled with both hope and nervous anticipation as he looked toward Masatsuki, as if placing all of his faith in whatever answer came next.
Masatsuki took a slow sip of tea before setting his cup down and replying with unwavering certainty,
"Captain Kisuke and I can both guarantee it—this technology is absolutely effective. It will cure Jūshirō-senpai."
"Kisuke personally conducted rigorous tests. There's no doubt—it works."
As he finished speaking, a stray thought crossed Masatsuki's mind.
The tea today is surprisingly good. Seems like old man Yamamoto's tea-brewing skills have improved quite a bit.
"In that case, there's no time to waste."
Yamamoto's staff struck the ground with a sharp thud, the crisp sound echoing through the room. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath before speaking.
"No more delays. Masatsuki, take Jūshirō to the 12th Division immediately."
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