Masatsuki Aozaki emerged from the underground training ground, his gaze sharp and clear, completely unaffected by the passionate affections of his lovers. His energy remained as boundless as ever.
With his current strength, even if all of them attacked together—including their Zanpakutō spirits—they still wouldn't pose a threat to him.
"This Hollowfication is quite interesting, but the duration is far too short..."
Recalling everyone's performance just moments ago, Masatsuki couldn't help but shake his head in mild disappointment.
The ability to help a Shinigami break through their limits was not to be underestimated—it greatly enhanced one's physical abilities.
Unfortunately, it just didn't last long enough.
Aside from Retsu Unohana, the only one who could maintain it for a decent amount of time was the exceptionally talented Mashiro Kuna.
... fre.ewebnov el.com
The moon cast its silvery glow over Seireitei, bathing everything in a serene tranquility.
Masatsuki Aozaki walked alone along the main avenue of the Noble District as the once-quiet surroundings gradually grew lively.
He strolled leisurely down the white-brick road, savoring the slightly damp breeze as it brushed against his face, while the distant hum of the marketplace reached his ears.
The nobles living here were nothing more than a group of people drowning in material excess, their spiritual lives utterly hollow.
To satisfy their ever-growing thirst for entertainment, countless recreational activities and establishments had sprung up along this very street.
At this hour, the area was bustling with noise and activity, as crowded and lively as a marketplace.
However, the moment Masatsuki appeared, everything changed.
Or, to be precise, the moment people caught sight of the white haori draped over his shoulders—emblazoned with the bold kanji for "Eleven"—the mood shifted instantly.
The once-busy street fell into an unspoken order as both nobles and servants alike instinctively stepped aside, clearing a path for him.
"Look, my lord, it's Masatsuki Aozaki! The family head specifically warned us—under no circumstances should we provoke that man!"
"Wow, he's incredible! That's Captain Masatsuki Aozaki of the 11th Division... Tomorrow, I'll tell my father—I want to join the Gotei 13!"
"You? Please. Every noble family is scrambling to send their daughters to Lord Masatsuki's household! Even if you make it into the 11th Division, what makes you think he'd even glance at you?"
Whispers and murmurs rippled through the crowd, growing louder with each passing second.
Every pair of eyes that landed on Masatsuki was filled with both admiration and deep reverence.
This reaction was nothing new to him.
Though he was only an upper noble in title, that status alone already placed him at the highest rank ordinary nobles could ever hope to achieve.
By Seireitei's laws, he did stand above the middle and lower nobles, as well as commoners.
However, a noble title without real power or family influence meant little in a society where power reigned supreme.
But in Masatsuki's case, the deciding factor wasn't just his status—it was his sheer strength.
And that was something no one could ignore.
...
"Boss."
The shop owner, who had been busy inside, immediately rushed out at the familiar voice, his face lighting up with a sycophantic smile.
"Oh my, Aozaki-sama! You're here again."
"Yeah, had some free time today, so I thought I'd stop by. Same as usual."
With that, Masatsuki casually found a seat inside and sat down.
This had long since become a habit—sitting here, listening to the chatter of those around him, picking up on all sorts of interesting stories.
It was, in its own way, quite entertaining.
"Alright, just a moment! It'll be ready soon!"
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