Bleach: The Unique Time Zanpakutō

Kyōraku Callum and Retsu Unohana stood still, their positions slightly shifted. A cool breeze blew through the deep forest.

Retsu Unohana suddenly realized a lock of her unbound black hair had been severed by Kyōraku Callum's final strike! It floated in the air, drifting towards the ground. Before it could touch the earth, a pale hand gently caught it.

"Captain, may I keep this as a souvenir?" Kyōraku Callum asked, a slight smile playing on his lips in the silvery moonlight.

Retsu Unohana paused, then smiled radiantly.

"Of course."

In the moonlight, her black hair danced on the breeze, her beautiful face a stunning sight.

"But I'd like to know the name of your final sword technique," Retsu Unohana said, still captivated by his skill.

Kyōraku Callum considered his answer. While the form was derived from Shingansō Ichiryū, the underlying intent was a synthesis of his various sword styles.

"Mugen," he replied confidently. The Mugen style, encompassing all he'd learned, perfected his unique sword intent.

"The Mugen style?" Retsu Unohana tilted her head, pondering the name's meaning. "Limitless, boundless?" she mused. "Kyōraku-kun, your ambitions are quite grand!" she added with a warm smile, making it sound like a lighthearted joke.

Retsu Unohana in battle and Retsu Unohana in peacetime were stark opposites. Now, she was gentle and calm, embodying grace and refinement. But moments before, during their fight, she exuded a murderous aura, like a demon from hell.

Kyōraku Callum could only smile in response. He couldn't exactly reveal the style's true origins.

"Right," Retsu Unohana said, gathering her loose hair and braiding it again. "Why did you call me 'Captain'?" This was a question that touched upon something deeper.

Kyōraku Callum's expression froze. Why was Retsu Unohana focused on something so different from Rukia's concerns?

"Is it not acceptable to call you that?" he countered.

Retsu Unohana paused, considering his question.

"I suppose there's no reason it shouldn't be," she said. "I rather like it."

Kyōraku Callum's eyes lit up.

"Excellent."

After Retsu Unohana had composed herself, they walked towards the exit of the training ground.

Today's swordsmanship duel had pleased her greatly. The 4th Division hadn't seen such a talented recruit in a long time. While she sensed his motives might not be entirely pure, he was far superior to the purely support-oriented members.

However, Retsu Unohana felt Kyōraku Callum's current 6th Seat position might be a waste of his talent. Considering this, she asked,

"Kyōraku-kun, are you interested in becoming the 4th Division's lieutenant?"

At that moment, Kyōraku Callum was considering requesting a seat-a challenge for a higher seat. How could she offer him the position the very next second? Was this the legendary unspoken understanding?

Kyōraku Callum pondered this, but suddenly sensed something was off. Turning, he saw Retsu Unohana's bright smile, yet it held an unsettling chill.

"What dangerous thoughts are you having?" she asked.

Kyōraku Callum vehemently denied it. "I was merely considering whether I could handle the responsibilities of lieutenant. And what will become of the current lieutenant, Seinosuke Yamada?"

Retsu Unohana's murderous intent vanished, her smile softening.

"It's alright, I believe in your abilities. You'll continue to lead the 6th Squad. As for Seinosuke..." Her smile faded when she mentioned the lieutenant. "He'll be leaving the division to take up a position at the Shinigami Academy's medical department."

Retsu Unohana clearly understood her lieutenant's character. While obedient, many in the 4th Division feared or disliked him. He was unsuitable to remain as lieutenant. She'd also heard about the events in the 6th Squad barracks that afternoon; Kyōraku Callum's actions had won over many. He seemed better suited for the lieutenant position, especially considering his strength.

Retsu Unohana shook her head, chuckling softly. Few Shinigami possessed such refined swordsmanship. Kyōraku Callum's skill could stand among the Captains. If possible, she wanted him as lieutenant, giving her more time for flower arranging. She'd planned everything perfectly.

"In that case," Kyōraku Callum said with a bow. "I'll submit my request for a seat-challenge tomorrow!"

Normally, a genius like Kyōraku Callum, who graduated early, would receive a welcome ceremony upon joining a division. However, due to Retsu Unohana's busy schedule, it was postponed until today.

4th Division assembly hall. Seated officers and some squad leaders gathered. The hall was large, but the numerous attendees made it feel crowded.

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