Make sure to check my Patre.on out if you want to support me and want to read advanced chapters: Patre.on.com/VQuintessence
[30 Chapters in Advance on Patre.on]
...........
Chapter 23: Snake. Darkness. False God II
...........
Gin let out a soft chuckle, the sound more unsettling than amused. "Oh well. But just so you know, I'm going to keep talking. Whether you like it or not."
It seems that Gin has yet to give up on annoying Akashi.
The Fifth Division barracks were sprawling, a testament to the division's importance within the Gotei 13.
Gin guided Akashi through its various sections, pointing out key areas with a flourish of his hand.
"Training grounds," He said, gesturing to a large open space where Shinigami sparred with intensity.
"That's where the magic happens; or the bruises, depending on your perspective. Our people here are top-notch in almost everything. Captain Aizen makes sure of that."
Akashi observed the sparring pairs with interest. The Fifth Division's reputation for producing well-rounded Shinigami was evident in their fluid movements and disciplined techniques.
"Don't let them fool you," Gin continued, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "They're probably already plotting how to knock you down a peg or two. Got to prove you're worthy, after all."
Akashi glanced at him briefly and nodded, "I'm looking forward to it. They look very experienced, much to learn from them."
Gin's grin faltered for the briefest of moments, a flicker of something unspoken passing through his eyes.
Then it returned, sharper than before, "Oh, I like you," he said, his tone dripping with amusement, "I feel sorry for them."
"Why?" Akashi raised a brow, "I'm not that strong, so I'll likely lose."
"..." Gin was speechless, "That's not... Nevermind." That's not what he meant at all.
Next, Gin led him to the administrative offices, where unseated Shinigami busied themselves with paperwork and logistical tasks.
The atmosphere here was quieter, the hum of conversation replaced by the scratch of brushes on parchment.
"This is where the real grunt work happens," Gin said, his smile never wavering. "Every mission, every patrol, every little thing that needs organizing; it all passes through here. Boring, huh?"
"It's necessary but sounds boring indeed," Akashi nodded in agreement.
Gin's laughter echoed through the corridor. "You're a real piece of work, Akashi-kun. Serious as a heart attack."
"Do you lack social awareness?" Akashi had to wonder, directly asking unironically; much to Gin's dismay.
"Why do you say so?" Gin felt like he should be asking that question.
"Everything," Akashi stroked his chin, thinking back on all of Gin's eerie and weird behavior, "It's not really a problem. I kind of lack it as well, not as much as you, but we can always learn and improve."
Akashi caught something from the corner of his eyes, and naturally, he walked straight towards it, the wall adorned with more than a dozen calligraphy paintings, so gorgeous and perfect they were.
Gin followed after him, his mouth twitching, and annoyance started to surface on his face. The man before him... He was weird, annoying, and oblivious.
Yet that only drove him to want to mess around with Akashi even more, Gin's remarks growing more pointed, his words like needles pricking at the edges of Akashi's composure.
"You know, it's funny," Gin mused, his voice taking on a mockingly thoughtful tone as he stood alongside Akashi before the wall of calligraphy.
"You've got that quiet, broody vibe going on, but I bet there's a storm brewing under that calm surface. Secrets, maybe? Or just a whole lot of anger you're keeping bottled up?"
Akashi didn't respond, his gaze fixed on the calligraphy.
Gin leaned closer, his grin widening to unsettling proportions. "Or maybe you're just plain boring. That'd be a shame."
Akashi suddenly turned to face Gin with a curious gaze, "Who made these?"
Gin blinked, clearly taken aback by the change of subject. For a moment, his grin faltered again, replaced by something closer to genuine confusion,
"Captain Aizen, and others in the division that pursue the same hobby, pretty much everyone..." Wait, why did I answer that? Gin frowned, "You're very rude, you know, ignoring my words."
"Huh? Have you said something? If so, I apologize, the Calligraphy caught my eyes," Akashi's eyes shone as he walked about, eyeing them one by one, "They gave me some brilliant ideas."
'Aghhh, I really want to do... To do some things to this kid,' The thought crossed Gin's mind before he quickly put it down, 'I can't. He's Aizen's toy.'
The final stop was the barracks' common area, a spacious hall where division members gathered to eat, rest, and socialize.
The atmosphere here was livelier, with Shinigami chatting and laughing over meals or lounging in small groups.
"This is where you'll spend your downtime," Gin explained, gesturing grandly.
"Assuming you ever take a break, that is. Something tells me you're the type to work yourself into the ground."
Akashi's eyes scanned the room, noting the mix of curious and wary glances directed his way.
He could sense the unspoken tension, the unasked questions hanging in the air.
Gin leaned in, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "They're watching you, you know. Judging you. Wondering how you managed to skip the line. But don't worry; I'm sure they'll come around eventually. Maybe."
Akashi turned to him, his expression as calm as ever, and seriously nodded, "Don't worry, I have been told I'm a very social animal, I will try to make friends with them."
Gin straightened, his grin faltering, and simply said, "You're officially acquainted with the Fifth Division. Welcome to the family, Akashi-kun."
In his mind, however, he was thinking a completely different thing, 'Social? Fucking social animal? Actual fucking poison... I need a drink.'
With that, he quickly walked away, not willing to look at Akashi's face for a second longer.
Akashi was confused, but after a few seconds of deep thought about the calligraphy, he continued on his way to learn more about the division.
The Gotei 13 served as the military backbone of the Soul Society, each division specializing in different aspects of its defense and governance.
From the fierce warriors of the Eleventh Division to the covert operatives of the Second, each division played a vital role in maintaining order.
The Fifth Division's role was multifaceted. Under Aizen's command, it excelled in both combat and strategy.
Its members were trained to adapt to any situation, whether it be a Hollow extermination mission or an internal investigation.
Aizen's influence ensured that the Fifth Division was always prepared, and its reputation as one of the most balanced and capable divisions firmly established.
The division prides itself on excellence in all areas.
Every member was expected to uphold this standard, and the competition for recognition was fierce.
Akashi's appointment as Tenth Seat was met with mixed reactions.
While learning Shikai was undeniably a great achievement, many still resented his direct entry into a seated position.
The Fifth Division's ranks were filled with skilled Shinigami, each one rigorously trained by Aizen himself.
Earning a seat required more than skill; it demanded respect and trust, both of which Akashi would have to earn.
----------------------------------------------
[ 1000 Power Stones For An Extra Chapter!!! ]
----------------------------------------------