Bleach: Spirits Are Forever With You

Part 8

Chapter 8:

Soul Society, Seireitei's Shopping District, In Front of Silver Dragonfly Glasses

The sun had cast its midday rays over the Seireitei, but the once-bustling shopping district now lay eerily still. A haunting silence hung in the air, interrupted only by the occasional gust of wind that rustled through the empty streets. The usual chatter and clamor of merchants and shoppers were absent, replaced by a palpable sense of tension. The recent Arrancar attack had left its mark, and though the immediate threat had receded, a somber quiet remained. Most shops had shuttered their windows and closed their doors, seeking refuge from the uncertainty.

Among the few businesses still open was Silver Dragonfly Glasses, a quaint shop that boasted a modest array of eyewear and accessories. It was run by Ginjirō Shirogane, a former Vice-Captain of the 6th Division, who had found solace in his work after leaving the ranks of the Gotei 13. The shop's interior was warmly lit, a stark contrast to the dreary mood outside. Shelves lined with various styles of glasses and delicate frames glimmered softly under the shop's gentle illumination.

The bell above the door chimed as Mareyo Ōmaeda, the youngest member of the esteemed Ōmaeda family, stepped inside. Mareyo's expression was one of resolve mixed with anxiety. Her eyes darted around the shop, taking in the surroundings with a mixture of curiosity and unease. She had braved the dangers outside to collect a special order—glasses meant for her brother, Marejirōsabu, who had recently been invited to join the Development Institute.

Ginjirō looked up from behind the counter, his face creased with concern. His once-formidable demeanor had softened with age, and his eyes, though weary, still held a glint of his former sharpness.

"You shouldn't be out here, Mareyo," Ginjirō said, his tone laced with genuine worry. "The danger is still very real, especially with the threat of the Ryoka reappearing."

Mareyo offered a sheepish smile. "I'm sorry, Ginjirō-sama. I really needed to pick up these glasses. It's a birthday gift for Marejirōsabu. He's always been so supportive, and I wanted to do something special for him. Besides, I hear he might be joining the Development Institute soon."

Ginjirō's gaze softened. "Ah, Marejirōsabu, yes. I've heard good things about him. It seems the Ōmaeda family has some promising members after all." His expression grew thoughtful. 

"Though, if you're hoping to join the 4th Division, you've got quite the challenge ahead of you."

The two exchanged a few more pleasantries as Ginjirō went to the back of the shop to retrieve gift-wrapping supplies. Mareyo settled into a nearby chair, glancing around the shop and attempting to distract herself from the tension of the day. The shop, though comforting, seemed oddly subdued in the absence of its usual bustle.

A minute passed, and Mareyo's eyes were drawn to a sudden movement near the entrance. A white shadow flickered at the edge of her vision. Her heart skipped a beat as her instincts screamed danger. Her first thought was that it might be another Ryoka, but as she focused, she saw the haori—the traditional captain's cloak worn by the Shinigami.

Her initial fear began to wane as she saw the figure more clearly. The man was not one of the current captains; he was someone she didn't recognize. Her anxiety gave way to confusion as the man approached the counter, his steps measured and deliberate.

He placed a cloth bag on the counter with a soft thud. The sound of clinking coins could be heard as the bag was set down. His presence was commanding, and his aura, though not overtly threatening, carried an undercurrent of authority.

"You're... Mareyo Ōmaeda, aren't you?" the man's voice was deep, with a tone that suggested both familiarity and disdain. "Out of the good-for-nothing Ōmaeda Clan, you're the best one. You should leave that house immediately if you don't want to waste the rest of your life."