NOVEL NEXT Chapter 233: Chapter 234: Willing to Be the Flame Bearer
The so-called "Capture-Makoto Association" had never caught Aizen's attention before—it had always seemed like an insignificant, eccentric little group.
After all, no matter how much it grew, it was still just a casual interest group at its core.
However, things changed when Unohana proposed during a captains' meeting that associations be formalized and officially established within the Gotei 13 to promote cross-division interaction.
That was when Aizen realized something significant…
Associations—this was a concept capable of easily crossing the barriers between divisions. If an association could wield influence that spanned both noble houses and the Gotei 13, then a question would arise: which would be more powerful—the authority of the Central 46 or the influence of a particular association?
Soon after, Aizen noticed that the largest self-formed association in Seireitei was none other than the "Capture-Makoto Association." Its members spanned multiple squads and ranks, including nobles from various houses.
The only puzzling aspect was that over 95% of the association's members were female, with very few male participants.
But with a moment's thought, Aizen understood Makoto's brilliance.
By operating from the shadows, Makoto allowed his subordinate, Aoki Risa, to act as the president while Unohana served as the liaison to the high-ranking members of the Gotei 13.
Furthermore, since Seireitei was predominantly governed by men, the low number of male members ensured that the association wouldn't arouse suspicion or vigilance from either the Central 46 or Captain-Commander Yamamoto.
Now that Captain-Commander Yamamoto had agreed to formalize and support the association, the "Capture-Makoto Association" had undoubtedly secured a significant advantage.
With this special status, Makoto would inevitably gain influence and power far beyond that of an ordinary captain.
"Brilliant!"
After carefully analyzing the entire development of the "Capture-Makoto Association," this was Aizen's only conclusion.
Starting from the subtle and ending with the grand, establishing dominance with startling swiftness.
What made it even more remarkable…
Aizen glanced once more at the oversized portrait of Makoto displayed prominently.
This seemingly logical yet inconspicuous maneuver ensured that Makoto's mark was deeply embedded in the core of the "Capture-Makoto," guaranteeing his unrivaled status and influence within the group.
"As expected, Makoto-kun, you never intended to serve under anyone, did you?"
Pouring himself a cup of tea, Aizen sipped slowly, his eyes gleaming behind his glasses.
"Could it be that Makoto-kun's ultimate goal is to seize control of Seireitei and perhaps even the entire Soul Society?"
With Aizen's, the tense standoff between Unohana and Zaraki was momentarily interrupted, especially when Kusajishi Yachiru happily seated herself on Makoto's lap.
For a brief moment, both Unohana and Zaraki's expressions flickered slightly.
However, Zaraki ultimately chose not to comment. He merely found a seat for himself and sat down without a word.
As soon as Zaraki sat, the seats around him were immediately vacated—no one dared to sit too close.
Meanwhile, Unohana and Aizen took seats to the left and right of Makoto, their presence as captains deterring many of the "Capture-Makoto Association" members from approaching too eagerly.
In no time, the large conference hall—originally designed to accommodate all members of the Fourth Division—was filled to capacity.
Members from various squads and noble houses…
This only confirmed Aizen's suspicions.
"If my guess is correct, Makoto-kun's next move will be…"
Aizen's gaze shifted to Makoto, who had stepped up to the podium.
Standing at the podium, Makoto felt like he was about to give a concert, with all the eager eyes fixed on him.
"First of all, I sincerely thank you all for coming…"
Makoto began with a brief expression of gratitude, welcoming the members of the "Capture-Makoto Association" before smoothly transitioning to a more serious tone.
"When I first learned about the association's existence, I was filled with mixed emotions…"
"It wasn't just excitement or joy—it was a feeling tinged with unease and apprehension!"
"I am merely a humble healer. My only duty is to do my job well, saving lives and witnessing the joy of recovery. That, to me, is the greatest reward."
"Yet now, I find myself with a certain degree of influence. And with influence comes responsibility—an obligation to do more…"
Makoto spoke with sincerity and warmth, as though revealing his innermost thoughts. His words began to resonate with the audience, drawing them in emotionally.
"Therefore, I propose that we rename the 'Capture-Makoto Association,' to the 'Women's Shinigami Association.' Its core values will be equality, mutual aid, friendship, and harmony, with the goal of protecting women's rights and elevating their status!"
"This may seem like an ambitious goal. But I am willing to be the flame bearer, and all of you here will be the sparks of that flame…"
"And even if we can only light a small part of the darkness, it is not without meaning…"
For a moment, under the influence of Makoto's gentle yet powerful voice, the audience felt their eyes well up with tears, a fire igniting within their hearts.
Willing to be the flame bearer…
All of you will be the sparks…
Even if it only lights a little, it is not meaningless…
These captivating words seemed to possess a magical power, giving the weary souls of Seireitei—trapped in the monotony of daily life—a cause worth pursuing.
Looking at Makoto on the podium, many saw him as a shining spiritual guide!
Aizen's expression remained calm, but a knowing smile appeared on his lips as he gently began to applaud.
"Clap, clap, clap…"
In an instant, the entire hall erupted in thunderous applause.
After countless years of stagnation, had Soul Society finally welcomed someone willing to be a flame bearer for women?
For the female Shinigami and noblewomen present, this moment was especially moving.
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