Chapter 33

(ATSUNE POV)

The air in Soul Society had a certain clarity today, a stillness that I found oddly comforting. After Albedo's initiation as the captain of the 14th Division, I decided it was time to show her more of what Soul Society had to offer, beyond the sterile walls of the meeting chambers and laboratories. She had earned her place here, but to understand her role, she needed to see it for herself, our home, our responsibilities, and the wider reality of what lay beyond this world.

As we stepped out of the Captain's meeting hall, the soft breeze carried the scent of sakura blossoms, mixing with the subtle hum of spiritual energy that seemed to pulse through the very streets. I glanced at Albedo, who was now dressed in her new captain's haori, looking both regal and slightly out of place, though she carried herself with the confidence of a leader, her eyes still sparkled with the curiosity of someone in a new world.

"This place...It's so... peaceful. It's hard to believe the amount of space contained in a separate dimension."

Albedo said softly, her golden eyes scanning the streets and rooftops of the Seireitei.

"That's the nature of Soul Society. From the outside, it seems like a place of tranquillity, but underneath it, there's always a hum of tension. There are some nobles here and there, but they don't want to cause trouble. So they are trying to scheme, but not in a way that would harm the soul society overall."

We began walking through the winding paths of the Seireitei, the white stone buildings gleaming in the afternoon sun. Shinigami moved around us, some training in the distance, others conducting patrols or chatting among themselves. Many of them bowed as we passed by, acknowledging me with respectful nods and curious glances at Albedo.

I pointed to a group of Shinigami practising their swordsmanship in a courtyard.

"These are members of the 6th Division, Led by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki. They're known for their precision and discipline in combat. Each division has its own strengths and responsibilities. They for example are keeping nobles from interfering too much. That is also why the captain is a noble too."

This aroused her curiosity.

"Is no one concerned that the captain will use his position to bully other nobles?"

I just smiled at that.

"That's why we have other divisions responsible for gathering such information and handling it all accordingly."

Albedo nodded, clearly interested.

"And what of my division? What is the role of the 14th?"

"The 14th Division is going to be different from the others. Your squad won't just be made up of Shinigami originally from Soul Society."

Albedo's brow furrowed.

"Not from Soul Society? What do you mean?"

I stopped in front of a tall set of gates, the entrance to one of the larger senkaimon portals. The massive, ornate structure hummed with spiritual energy, almost as if it were alive.

"Albedo, this world we live in, Soul Society, is only one of many."

Her eyes widened in surprise, and I could tell she was trying to wrap her mind around the concept.

"You mean there are more realms? Like the mortal world?"

"Yes, but not just those, there are entirely different worlds, completely separate from the cycle of souls and reincarnation that we govern. Different universes, with their own laws, their own beings, their own powers. We realised it recently and those two maniacs are in the middle of figuring out how to travel."

Albedo's expression shifted from surprise to fascination.

"So the 14th Division will be responsible for... interacting with these other worlds?"

"Yes, your job is to govern over a squad consisting only of the beings from other worlds. Other than that you will be something like special forces. Not like second division responsible for spying and assassinations, but more like an elite military division."

As we continued walking, I led her toward a training field, where several captains were testing their abilities. Zaraki Kenpachi was clashing with Ikkaku and Yumichika, his reiatsu flaring wildly as he swung his sword with reckless abandon. In another corner, Yoruichi was sparring with her lieutenant, and both of them were moving so quickly that they were almost a blur.

It's actually weird to see them using the same training grounds. I mean they should have their own, right?

Unless they are doing this on purpose. Maybe they want to flex in front of Albedo? Knowing Zaraki he just wants to fight so he went along with it. It is useless, to be honest. Albedo was stronger than they so it will have no effect on...

"So cool!"

Or maybe not.

Alright then. Back to explaining.

"Each of the captains has their own way of doing things."

I said, gesturing toward the scene.

"Zaraki, as you can see, enjoys his battles a little too much. Yoruichi focuses on speed and precision. But your division... your strength will come from versatility."

"I see. So my squad will have to adapt to their powers and abilities, and I will need to ensure they are properly integrated into the Gotei."

Was she always that perceptive? I keep forgetting that despite her looks and how she is acting she was meant to be one of the most intelligent guardians comparable to Demiurge...

Getting out of my thoughts I responded.

"Exactly, But you won't be alone in this. The other captains will support you."

We made our way back toward the central part of the Seireitei, where the divisions were housed. Albedo was silent for a while, clearly deep in thought about everything I had shown her. Finally, she spoke.

"Lady Atsune, these other worlds... do you think we'll encounter beings as strong as you? Or even stronger?"

That is something I considered for a little bit before coming to the simplest, but great answer.

"No idea."

She looked at me with a deadpan expression.

"It's possible. Every world has its own set of rules and power structures. Some beings might rival me in strength, or even surpass me in certain ways. But that's why we need the 14th Division. We can't afford to be caught off-guard by something beyond our understanding."

"I won't let you down, Lady Atsune. I'll make sure the 14th Division becomes a force to be reckoned with, both here and in those other worlds."

"I know you will, Albedo. That's why I chose you."

Certainly not because she was the strongest being that is so loyal to me.

'I call bullshit'

'Shut up. I didn't ask you!'

"Let's celebrate!"

I said, breaking the silence that had settled between us. Albedo turned to me, golden eyes questioning but intrigued.

"Celebrate?"

"You've just been made a captain of the Gotei 13 or, well, the Gotei 14 now, I suppose. That calls for some sake. There's a great little tavern not far from here where the captains and lieutenants like to unwind after long days."

She looked confused until a look of realisation appeared on her face.

"That sounds… enjoyable. I would love to."

I hope I misheard her saying 'Oh, right Lady Atsune is an alcoholic.' from her quietly. 'Ruler of the dead, soul queen and alcoholic' I don't want this kind of reputation.

With that, I led her through the winding streets of the Seireitei, past rows of barracks and shops, until we arrived at a modest, traditional-looking tavern tucked between two large buildings. The wooden sign hanging above the door creaked in the evening breeze, illuminated by a few soft lanterns that cast a warm, inviting glow on the entrance.

"This is the place"

I said, pushing open the door and stepping inside.

As we entered, I immediately spotted a familiar face in the corner: Captain Kyouraku, his wide-brimmed hat tipped back slightly, an easygoing smile on his face as he lounged at a low table. Beside him sat his lieutenant, Lisa Yadōmaru, sipping from a small cup of sake, and not far from them was Rangiku Matsumoto, already deep into her drink, laughing loudly at something Kyouraku had said.

"If it isn't the Soul Queen herself, gracing us humble captains with her presence."

"You act like I don't show up here often enough, Kyouraku."

"Not often enough!"

He said with a chuckle, tipping his hat at me.

Albedo, for her part, remained composed but curious, her eyes scanning the group with mild interest. She bowed slightly, acknowledging them with the grace I'd come to expect from her.

"It is an honour to meet you, Captain Kyouraku."

"No need for all that, Captain Albedo, we're all friends here. Especially over a few drinks"

Rangiku, already holding a bottle of sake, stood up and gave Albedo an exaggerated, friendly wave.

"Welcome to the fun side of the Gotei! It's about time we got someone with your... style around here."

"Rangiku, we've only just met her. Don't scare the poor woman off."

Lisa scolded, though her tone was more amused than stern.

Albedo, to her credit, took it all in stride. She offered Rangiku a faint smile, the kind that showed she was observing everything, processing, and trying to understand the dynamic at play here.

I slid down onto the tatami at their table, motioning for Albedo to join me. She sat gracefully, her posture as composed as always, even as Rangiku poured us both cups of sake.

We all clinked our cups together, the sound of glass on glass ringing out as we took our first sips of sake. The warm, smooth liquid slid down my throat, and I let out a content sigh. It had been a while since I'd had the chance to sit and drink like this, and it felt good. Beside me, Albedo took a sip as well, her expression softening slightly as she seemed to enjoy the taste.

"The 14th Division, huh? I've heard a little bit about it, but what exactly are you planning to do with a squad full of... well, otherworldly beings?"

Kyouraku said, leaning back against the wall with a relaxed smile. I in turn gave him a knowing look.

"You know how it is, Kyouraku. We're always looking for new ways to strengthen Soul Society. The 14th Division will be a bridge to other worlds, recruiting powerful beings who can help us defend the balance of souls. Albedo here will be leading that charge."

"Lady Atsune has entrusted me with the responsibility of recruiting and training these new members. I will ensure that the 14th Division becomes an invaluable asset to the Gotei."

Kyouraku raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed by the courage.

"I like the sound of that. Just make sure you don't recruit anyone crazier than Zaraki. We don't need two of him running around. The secreted will be tuned to rubble if that happens."

And like that with merry atmosphere we spend the night having fun. Of course near the end of it I got wasted and barely standing went back home.

Albedo was worried, but Rangiku told her that this happens every time while Kyouraku sweatdropped grumbling that Yamamoto would scold him again.