Bleach: Watch Closely, This Is How You Use a Zanpakutō novel Chapter 23

Chapter 23 - 23: Fireworks

Masatsuki Aozaki spoke calmly, "Maybe. All I know is that this world is dangerous, and I need to get stronger. Whether my talent is good or bad, that's no excuse to give up."

"Well said. I like you more and more," Yoruichi Shihōin chuckled. "Unlike Kisuke—he's got talent but refuses to train."

Masatsuki remained unbothered. "Urahara-san is talented, but I don't think it's just laziness. He's simply not interested."

"He's highly motivated when it comes to research. Those medicines, the training ground equipment—none of that happens without effort."

Yoruichi's eyes lit up as she considered this.

"You've got a point."

Having known Kisuke for years, she was well aware of his genius. He had a knack for invention, constantly coming up with new creations.

So, his usual laziness wasn't because he lacked discipline—he just wasn't interested in training. Invention was his true passion.

Captain Kirio Hikifune of the 12th Division focused heavily on scientific research and encouraged her squad to innovate.

That settled it.

Once she became a captain, she'd recommend Kisuke to the 12th Division.

Coincidentally, her family had recently mentioned that Captain Hikifune was developing new technology and might be promoted to the Royal Guard in the next few decades.

With Kisuke's abilities, he might reach captain level and achieve Bankai before then—perhaps even take command of the 12th Division himself.

As she mapped out Kisuke's future in her head, an odd sense of pride welled up within her—like a parent watching their child finally grow up. She unconsciously straightened her posture.

"I need to become a captain soon and send Kisuke to the 12th Division," Yoruichi murmured.

Not far away, Kisuke felt an uneasy jolt in his chest. He knew Yoruichi was just speaking on impulse, but even so, his heart started racing.

Masatsuki, on the other hand, turned serious. After a moment of silence, he said, "It's still better to ask Urahara-san what he wants. No matter what we say, it should be his decision."

Kisuke's throat tightened, his lips pressing together.

The doubts he had harbored toward Masatsuki only moments ago faded, replaced by an unexpected sense of gratitude.

"No need," Yoruichi said after a pause. "I've known him for years—I understand him better than you do. He'll love the 12th Division."

She hesitated briefly before adding, "He's been secretly doing research at home. He probably thinks I don't know."

After a long silence, she grinned. "This time, it's not a prank—he's going to love it."

Kisuke remained quiet.

Sure, he liked to slack off, but he couldn't deny that he had a deep interest in this kind of work.

Masatsuki smirked. "You're not becoming a captain anytime soon, so maybe focus on the present first."

Then, with an amused glint in his eyes, he added, "Speaking of which, aren't we getting off track? Weren't you supposed to help me practice sword pressure? If this keeps up, I might have to ask Urahara-san for help instead."

"No way! I've never been a teacher before—you're not going anywhere."

Masatsuki stood to leave, only for Yoruichi to grab his arm.

...

Beneath Sōkyoku Hill, under the night sky, two young Shinigami—neither yet 200 years old—spent the night training, tirelessly honing their combat techniques.

By the next morning, Masatsuki successfully unleashed his first sword pressure attack.

Noticing Yoruichi fast asleep, he draped a piece of clothing over her before stepping away to find a secluded spot.

Drawing Banshō Senran from his waist, he swung his blade repeatedly at the surrounding rocks.

Arcs of blue Reiatsu burst from the sword like the energy waves described in martial arts novels, slicing through the stone.

Still, she had always been the one doing the teasing. Who would dare flirt with her?

It vaguely reminded her of the years when she used to dress up with care. Seriously... aside from my parents, when was the last time someone actually called me pretty?

To be honest, this guy's got a good face... and he's pretty amusing too.

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