Bleach: Watch Closely, This Is How You Use a Zanpakutō novel Chapter 233

Chapter 233 - 233: Marriage

West Rukongai, District 1—Junrinan.

A man clad in a white haori strode out of Hakutōmon with great fanfare, greeted with deep respect by Jidanbō Ikkanzaka, a gatekeeper of Seireitei. As he checked the man's credentials, he also offered a polite greeting.

Having guarded Hakutōmon for centuries, Jidanbō was well aware of the man's identity—someone who frequently passed through these gates. But protocol was protocol; even when faced with a captain of the Gotei 13, he never neglected his duty. Still, a certain level of reverence was only natural.

After all, though the war had ended decades ago, many still remembered this man's extraordinary achievements. Jidanbō's respect was not flattery but genuine admiration—this was the great hero who had ended the war.

Of course, as the gatekeeper, he had no interest in the mysterious ring that had suddenly appeared in his arms. His reverence came purely from the heart.

He pondered this as he watched the man step into Rukongai...

Masatsuki Aozaki walked through the streets of Junrinan, hands on his hips, exuding confidence.

"Masatsuki Aozaki! Masatsuki Aozaki has returned!"

"Aozaki-boss is back to see Ane-san again?"

"Aozaki-aniki is so cool! One day, I'm going to join the Shin'ō Academy and become a Shinigami too!"

Masatsuki Aozaki accepted the praise without hesitation. Given his close ties with Kūkaku Shiba, it was only natural that he had become one of Junrinan's big names.

"Junrinan... If I remember right, this is where Tōshirō Hitsugaya grew up," he mused, stroking his chin as he walked. "I wonder if that brat's even been born yet."

He wasn't interested in Hitsugaya himself—just his Zanpakutō.

With a crowd gathering around him, Masatsuki Aozaki made his way toward the Shiba household.

...

The Shiba family lived in the suburbs of Junrinan.

Once one of the Five Great Noble Clans, the Shiba Clan had long since lost their prestigious status, but their noble blood still flowed through their veins. Though they no longer held power, the comfortable lives they now enjoyed were thanks to the strength inherited from their ancestors.

It was precisely this strength that had allowed them to establish themselves in West Rukongai and become its dominant force. Rukongai had always been known for its chaos and bloodshed, and without the Shiba family's might, West Rukongai would never have become the safest district in the region.

"We plan to get married next year," said Kaien Shiba, kneeling with a solemn expression.

"Next year, huh? I see... But what does Miyako even like about my brother?"

"I mean, he's thickheaded, rude, not exactly good-looking, and as a Shinigami, he's nothing special. He's just one walking flaw after another! I can't believe someone actually likes him!"

Kūkaku Shiba shook her head as if she had just witnessed something unbelievable. A lock of her long, soft bangs swayed in front of her bright, expressive eyes.

Kaien Shiba let out a helpless sigh, covering his face with one hand. "Could you at least try to spare me some dignity? Show a little restraint in front of Miyako!"

Hearing this, Miyako smiled gently. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and spoke softly,

"I know that's only how he appears on the surface."

"In reality, Kaien is not only kind and warm-hearted but also deeply loyal and principled. Many of his squad members admire and respect him, and I am no exception."

"But he..,"

Kūkaku seemed like she had more to say, but before she could finish, Kaien cut her off.

"Ahem... Ahem... Kūkaku, there's a time to stop, you know. Even as your brother, I'll get mad if you go too far!"

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