Shinigami: Medicine Can't Save The Soul Reaper Society

Listening to Makoto's tone, which seemed resolute and impossible to refuse, Rinka, who had initially been reluctant to accept such a grand gift, unexpectedly found herself unable to muster any thoughts of rejection. Instead, she asked hesitantly:

"But, in that case, where will Makoto-kun stay?"

Makoto smiled brilliantly, replying in a carefree tone, "Me? I'm fine with anything."

In truth, Makoto had already settled on his accommodations. Without a doubt, it would still be in Unohana's courtyard.

To separate from his teacher, Unohana? That was out of the question!

Their relationship had just begun to show the faintest signs of progress. To uproot that fragile sapling and transplant it elsewhere would be a tragedy Makoto could not bear.

Hence, during his earlier discussions with Omaeda Marenoshin about the reconstruction of the 4th Division barracks, Makoto had already contemplated making slight modifications to Unohana's courtyard—adding a room exclusively for himself.

This way, Makoto would no longer have to occupy the guest quarters as a mere visitor, allowing him to subtly draw closer to Unohana.

Conveniently, while Unohana was away from the Fourth Division, Makoto planned to take advantage of the opportunity to "cook the rice while the pot was hot," completing the renovations before she returned.

Knowing Unohana's usual gentle but cunning demeanor, she might grumble slightly, but she certainly wouldn't go as far as tearing it down to rebuild.

Rinka's presence also solved the issue of the vacant vice-captain's residence, providing Makoto with a perfectly justifiable reason to "reluctantly" move into Unohana's courtyard.

Moreover, this arrangement would grant Makoto a sterling reputation.

To Makoto, reputation within the Seireitei was far more valuable than rank. A stellar reputation could even make the Central 46 cautious about the opinions and reactions of the nobles when dealing with matters concerning him.

Regular vice-captains and even captains were, after all, mere tools for maintaining order and governance in the eyes of the Central 46.

Yet, to Rinka and Isane, Makoto's response sounded more like he was planning to live in the common barracks area.

"Makoto-kun... he's just acting nonchalant about it!"

Despite his youthful appearance, the pure-hearted exterior concealed a truly kind and gentle soul.

In that moment, both Rinka and Isane felt profoundly moved.

"Makoto-kun, why don't you consider staying at the vice-captain's residence instead?"

When Rinka voiced this suggestion, her cheeks flushed a deep red, completely shedding the frail and sorrowful demeanor she had displayed when Makoto first arrived.

Even as she spoke, Rinka felt a wave of heat and discomfort wash over her.

After all, as a woman who had recently lost her husband, the prospect of sharing a residence with another man at such a sensitive time was bound to invite misunderstandings.

Yet, Rinka still uttered those words.

Firstly, she felt indebted to Makoto and couldn't bear to see him make such a sacrifice. Secondly, she trusted his noble and upright character.

As expected, her suggestion was gently and decisively declined by the ever-considerate Makoto, who seemed genuinely concerned about causing her unnecessary trouble.

At this moment, Rinka's trust in Makoto had reached an unparalleled level. So much so that even if Makoto accidentally walked in on her bathing in the future, she would likely chalk it up to a misunderstanding.

"Makoto-kun… wouldn't do it intentionally..."

"Then, Lady Yamada, I'll take my leave for now. Please make yourself comfortable here. Once the vice-captain's residence has been repaired, you can move in."

As Makoto prepared to depart, Rinka rose to personally escort him to the entrance of the tent, her eyes filled with gratitude.

"Makoto-kun, wait…"

Just as he was about to leave, Rinka suddenly called out to him.

Makoto paused, turning back without the slightest hint of impatience. "Lady Yamada, is there something else you need? I'll do everything I can to assist."

Rinka shook her head gently and said, "Makoto-kun, you've already done so much for me. How could I dare to make more requests?"

After a brief pause, she looked towards Isane, who was standing beside her.

"Makoto-kun, I know the division is currently short-staffed, so I wanted to recommend Isane to you. While she may not match your level of talent, her aptitude for healing and medical arts is the highest I've encountered during my years at the mortuary."

"Even Seinosuke once considered training Isane as a potential successor for the vice-captain role to assist Captain Unohana in the future…"

Isane, startled by this, waved her hands frantically. "Lady Yamada, please don't joke about such things! How could I ever compare to Vice-Captain Senju?"

"I'm serious," Rinka replied firmly. "Not only is Isane talented, but she's also meticulous and diligent in her work. In fact, many of the mortuary's tasks over the past few months have been handled by her alone, and she's done so flawlessly. Her capabilities are undeniable."

She smiled at Isane before turning back to Makoto.

"Of course, once Makoto-kun appeared like a radiant star, demonstrating unparalleled talent, Seinosuke understood that the vice-captain position would surely be yours. Still, Isane is exceptionally capable. Even with only about a year of training in the mortuary, she's already on par with lower-ranking officers and could be a tremendous help to you."

Makoto nodded thoughtfully, his gentle gaze shifting towards Isane.

Meeting his eyes, Isane, shy by nature, instinctively lowered her head, her nervousness evident. Her heart raced uncontrollably.

As her anxiety reached its peak, Makoto stepped closer, extending a hand towards her.

The next moment, his warm, humble voice reached her ears.

"Isane, I look forward to working with you."

Isane's mind went blank, replaced by an uncontrollable surge of joy.

This wasn't just about leaving the mortuary for a significant promotion. What thrilled her even more was the opportunity to work alongside Vice-Captain Senju.

Overwhelmed, she grasped Makoto's hand with both of hers and responded with uncharacteristic enthusiasm.

"P- please take care of me!!"

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