Graduation ceremonies were over, and the captains had made their rounds, observing and recruiting the top students into their divisions. But for me, the day wasn't over yet. I stood in the quiet courtyard of the academy, watching the sun drip below the horizon, deep in thought.
Which division should I join?
Each division had its pros and cons. The First Division , under Captain Yamamoto, was the most prestigious but also the most rigid. The Second Division specialized in stealth and assassination, but that wasn't my style. The Third and Fourth Divisions had their niche, but neither seemed to fit my goals.
The Eleventh Division was tempting. Kenpachi Zaraki's group promised raw, unrestrained combat. But blending into a division filled with battle maniacs? That would draw too much attention.
Then there was the Eight Division, led by Captain Shunsui Kyōraku. He seemed laid-back, almost lazy, but I could tell there was more to him than met the eye. His division had a balance of combat and intellect, and it didn't demand the kind of formality that other divisions required. Plus Kyōraku had already shown some interest in me during the graduation ceremony.
It was settled. The Eighth Division would be my starting point.
But there was one more thing I needed to do.
The moment I arrived at the Eighth Division barracks, I requested a meeting with Captain Kyōraku and Lieutenant Nanao Ise. The captain was lounging on the veranda, sipping sake as usual. Nanao stood nearby, her serious demeanor contrasting sharply with her captain's relaxed attitude.
"So, you've decided to join us, huh?" Kyōraku asked, raising his cup in a mock toast.
"Yes," I replied. "But I'm not here to simply follow orders. I want to make an impact—and I want the lieutenant position."
Nanao blinked in surprise, her eyes narrowing as she studied me. "You're bold, I'll give you that," she said. "But what makes you think you can handle the responsibilities of a lieutenant, let alone defeat me in combat?"
"I guess we'll find out," I said with a smirk.
Kyōraku chuckled, clearly enjoying the exchange. "Well, Nanao-chan, what do you say? Let the kid prove himself?"
Nanao hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Fine. But don't expect me to hold back."
The training grounds were eerily quiet as word of the challenge spread. A small crowd had gathered, including a few captains, lieutenants, and recent graduates. Among them, I noticed Rukia, her arms crossed as she glared at me.
"I knew it," she muttered, just loud enough for me to hear. "You've been lying about being lazy this whole time, haven't you?"
I ignored her and stepped into the ring, where Nanao was already waiting. She stood tall, her hand lightly resting on Shinken Hakkyōken, her gaze unwavering.
"This is your last chance to back out," she said.
"I'm not going anywhere," I replied calmly.
Nanao drew her weapon, its blade gleaming in the sunlight. Though Shinken Hakkyōken was not a traditional Zanpakutō, it was a weapon of immense spiritual significance, and her skill with it was undeniable.
She moved first, closing the distance between us with lightning speed. Her blade struck out in a series of precise arcs, each one aimed to exploit any opening in my defense.
I met her attacks with my own blade, the clash of steel ringing out across the training grounds. Her movements were sharp, disciplined, and unrelenting. I adjusted my stance, matching her speed while ensuring I didn't reveal too much of my true power.
The crowd murmured as she continued to exchange blows. Our blades met in a perfect rhythm, speaks flying with every clash.
Nanao's eyes narrowed as she increased the pace of her strikes, trying to overwhelm me. Her movements become more aggressive, her attacks aimed to push me off balance.
I held my ground, countering each strike with precision. But I couldn't let this drag on too long. Nanao was skilled and sharp enough to notice if I slipped up, and the last thing I needed was for someone to suspect the full extent of my abilities.
As the fight wore on, I couldn't help but notice Rukia in the crowd. Her expression had shifted from frustration to awe, though she still muttered under her breath.
"He's been hiding his power all along," she said. "I knew it."
Nanao stepped back, her breath steady but her gaze sharper than ever. "Impressive," she admitted. "But you won't win by holding back. Show me what you're truly capable of."
I hesitated for a moment. Then, I took a deep breath, focusing my spiritual pressure.
When she came at me again, I disappeared using Shunpo, reappearing behind her in a single, fluid motion. My blade hovered near her neck, the tip just grazing her skin.
"It's over," I said softly
The crowd gasped, and Nanao froze, her expression a mix of shock and begrudging respect.
Kyōraku clapped his hands, his smile wide. "Well, well, that was quite the show! Nanao-chan, it seems we've got a new lieutenant."
Nanao turned to face me, her gaze steady. "You're stronger than you let on," she said. "But don't think this means I'll make your life easy."
"I wouldn't expect anything less," I replied with a smirk.
As the crowd began to disperse, Rukia approached me, her arms crossed and her brow furrowed.
"You really are something," she said grudgingly. "But don't think this means I'm impressed."
I chuckled. "Of course not.You're just here for the extra practice, right?"
Her face turned red, and she stomped away, muttering under her breath.
Kyōraku sauntered over, his hands tucked into his haori. "You've got potential, kid," he said. "But don't let it go to your head. Nanao-chan's still got plenty to teach you.
"Don't worry," I replied. "I'll keep things interesting."
As I walked away from the training grounds, a sense of accomplishment settled over me. This was just the beginning.
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Hey guys I hope you enjoy this chapter. If you have any feedback, don't be afraid to let me know. Also give me powerstones so I can continue. With that being said good morning, evening, and good night bye :D