Graduation

Kota walks into a large hall. Rows of seat line the floor and a podium stands facing them. He glances at the students already filling the seats. He heads over to an empty chair marked with his name. He removes the sign and sits down. He closes his eyes and swallows a bit. Kota was finally going to graduate. He reflects on the day he entered the Academy, two years ago. He also thinks about the incident with Misa Yamoto that happened shortly after, and his hard work during the two years

Kota reflects for a few more minutes

After a few more minutes, the rest of the seats are completely filled up; including the seat area for family and friends. Kota takes a deep breathe before looking at the podium, where an instructor is approaching. The ceremony starts with a a brief greeting and speech from both the instructor and a student. They quickly proceed to announcement to graduates one-by-one. Kota calmly waits for his turn to walk up there and receive his diploma.

"....Kota Kojima" The instructor announces.

Kota walks up to the podium. He receives his diploma and greets the instructors who smile while congratulating him. Kota then return to his seat where he gives of a small sigh of relief. Graduating from the Academy means he can now move on to joining the Gotei 13. He is quickly approaching his goals.

"...Father..." Kota thinks deeply.

Kota recalls his father told him when he was younger. The stories of Kota's father attending the Academy, where he met his wife, and his intention of teaching after he retires from the Gotei 13. The ceremony ends while Kota reflects the memories of his father. Realizing everyone is leaving, he quickly makes his way outside. He doesn't bother looking if anybody is there to congratulate him.

"Woah, are you in a hurry?" A familiar voice asks.

Kota quickly turns around, and looks at the smiling Yuu. He sighs a little after confirming it's him.

"...I have some matters that need tending." Kota replies.

"Liar~. It's your graduation day; shouldn't you be, you know, celebrating like the rest?" Yuu asks.

"I can celebrate when I'm dead, can't I?" Kota replies.

"Haha, indeed...So, what are your plans now?" Yuu asks.

"I'll obviously join a division. Also, shouldn't you be trying to graduate yourself? Won't Alfen Kleen leave you behind as well?" Kota asks.

"Haha, don't worry. I won't let that chump pass me so easily. That goes for you too. Enjoy your lead for now." Yuu responds.

"I am. Don't worry; I'll make you my subordinate when you fail." Kota playfully adds.

"Haha, we'll see about that!" Yuu replies.

Kota walks along the road leading up to the Academy. He had just said his goodbyes to Yuu, several instructors, and students who Kota sometimes associated with. He pauses and looks up at the sky, now turning orange. He slowly continues to walk along the path, while gripping his diploma.

"...I should hurry up and join a division...I'll have to visit "him"." Kota quietly says.




[End]