- The attack was stopped.

- Fine. Losses?

- Yes. Many, on both sides, but we won.

- Yes, probably.

The wound on his chest had slowly been closed again, just letting appear like a gaping shade the mark of his pain.

- Here is the list of those who have been chosen to go to Hueco Mundo.

- Fine. You will go with them.

- Yes, Taichou.

A silence

- Taichou?

- Yes?

- Try to get some rest.

- I'll try

The pain. Dull. Sly. Deep. Like an old enemy close to your heart, who tortures your mind and numbs your senses.

- So?

- All went for the best. The enemy has been neutralized and taken to be questioned.

- A progress at last, then

Another silence.

- What about you Taichou?

A surprised look.

- Do you feel better?

- Yes, thank you.

A new test. A new medicine. A new promise. And all the senses screaming, struggling, tearing away, gasping for air. And the gaping abyss of evil digging its den in the depths of life.

- How is the division?

- All is for the best. The new recruits integrate quickly.

- Good.

Again a silence.

- Why did you come?

An embarrassed look.

- I just wanted to know how you were feeling.

A hand curled up.

- I'm fine.

The cold sweat ran along the marble back. And always the same company of a venom which spreads like a wave on the surface of a lake, like the frost which slowly devours the stone and makes its heart burst.

- The cherry trees will soon blossom. Will you come with me to see them, Taichou ?

Always the silence.

- I am going to die, aren't I?

A veiled look

- Taichou, I….

A hand on his.

- Thank you, Renji.