- 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.
