The Kido aptitude test site.
For Gilgamesh, the Kido aptitude test posed no challenge whatsoever. Beyond his natural talent, his Noble Phantasm, “Sha Naqba Imuru,” allowed him to effortlessly complete the Kido aptitude test.
The omniscient and omnipotent star granted him numerous abilities, including the power to perceive all things. This enabled Gilgamesh to understand the essence of the Kido aptitude test, which was the manipulation of spirit particles (Reishi).
Under everyone’s gaze, Gilgamesh extended his right hand, gathering Reiryoku in his palm and shaping it into the most difficult tenth-level figure. The process was seamless, without a hint of hesitation, leaving everyone in awe.
Even the examiners were stunned. They had presided over many entrance exams and had seen very few candidates manage the ninth-level figure, let alone the most difficult tenth-level.
Privately, they had tried it themselves and could complete it but not as smoothly as Gilgamesh. Despite their decades or even centuries of teaching, mastering Reiryoku manipulation, they couldn’t match Gilgamesh’s effortless display. This was a clear indication of his extraordinary talent.
In the surveillance room, the Captains were equally astonished by Gilgamesh’s performance. They realized that the tenth-level figure might not even be his limit, but it was the highest difficulty, and they couldn’t imagine anything more challenging. Gilgamesh’s display of talent in Kido made him the most outstanding candidate since the founding of the Shin’o Academy, surpassing even the former and current Grand Kido Chiefs.
After a moment of silence, Unohana Retsu, the Fourth Division Captain, gently spoke, “It seems we have an extraordinary new talent.”
“Even I am tempted to recruit him,” she continued, turning to Yamamoto Genryusai Shigekuni, “Head Captain, I’ve never asked for anyone before, but can I have him this time?”
The other Captains were taken aback by Unohana’s request. They had never seen her actively seek someone. Normally, they would oblige her, but the situation was unique. Such a talent was rare and not easily overlooked.
Shunsui Kyoraku lifted the brim of his hat slightly and said, “I think this talent would be better suited to my Eighth Division. If he joins, I will teach him everything I know and groom him to be the next Captain.”
Sosuke Aizen adjusted his glasses and said, “No, he should join my Fifth Division. If he does, I will immediately recommend him as Vice-Captain.”
Shiba Isshin and Shiba Kaien, along with other Captains, also wanted to speak, but Yamamoto Genryusai Shigekuni struck his cane on the ground, commanding, “The exam is not over, and he hasn’t enrolled yet. It’s too early to discuss which division he should join.”
Due to Yamamoto’s authority, the scramble for Gilgamesh was momentarily halted. However, each Captain had their own thoughts on how to recruit Gilgamesh after the exam.
Byakuya Kuchiki was particularly anxious. He wasn’t focused on Gilgamesh but on Rukia.
Yamamoto then asked, “Does anyone know whose child Gilgamesh is?”
The Captains exchanged glances. This question had been on their minds, but no one could determine the answer. None of the known noble families had a young member resembling Gilgamesh.
Despite this, they were certain Gilgamesh came from a noble lineage. His demeanor and appearance screamed ‘noble,’ as if the word was crafted just for him.
The Captains turned their attention to Byakuya Kuchiki and Shunsui Kyoraku, expecting them to have the answer since they were from the Four Great Noble Families and upper nobility, respectively.
Shunsui Kyoraku was the first to speak, “I don’t recognize him.”
Byakuya Kuchiki, frowning, added, “I don’t recognize him either. As far as I know, there’s no one like him among the younger generation of the Four Great Noble Families.”
He paused and continued, “However, he could be a hidden genius from a noble family or an unacknowledged offspring for some reason.”
Nobles highly valued family reputation, but their circles were often chaotic, with each household typically having unacknowledged illegitimate children. This was common knowledge among the Captains but not among ordinary souls or Shinigami.
The Captains speculated whether Gilgamesh was a hidden genius or an unacknowledged illegitimate child. They leaned towards the latter, given Gilgamesh’s unique gold hair and red eyes, which were exceedingly rare.
‘The rise of an illegitimate child seeking revenge on their family.’
Some Captains even imagined the storyline that might follow.
Yamamoto struck his cane again, interrupting their thoughts, “Since no one knows, let’s leave it at that.”
Meanwhile, in the Kido aptitude test site.
Renji and Rukia had returned to Gilgamesh’s side, reporting their results. Renji looked particularly dejected, his head hanging low. His poor result indicated a lack of talent in Kido, which worried him more about disappointing Gilgamesh than his personal performance.
Gilgamesh, understanding Renji’s thoughts, smiled gently, “Renji, Kido talent does not define your potential.”
“I believe in you. One day, the name Renji Abarai will resonate throughout the Soul Society.”
Gilgamesh’s words struck Renji like thunder, making him softly repeat, “The name Renji Abarai will resonate throughout the Soul Society…”
In his eyes, a spark of determination began to shine.
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