Chapter 76: Chapter 77: Sorrow and Resolve
Without a doubt, under the crushing force of the massive tree and the explosive white lightning of "Shunko" even the protective captain's haori—designed with defensive qualities—was completely obliterated.
Not only that, but even Yoruichi's tightly fitted combat attire bore multiple tears, exposing her smooth, healthy sun-kissed skin. A few minor wounds, trickling with blood, added an uncharacteristic vulnerability to her typically unassailable image.
Makoto's gaze faltered, his expression betraying a moment of unguarded focus. Unconsciously, he licked his lips.
"Hmm?"
Noticing where his eyes lingered, Yoruichi stretched languidly, unabashedly showcasing her elegant and proud figure in full view.
"Makoto Senju," she teased, her voice laced with mischief, "between me and Unohana-senpai, who do you think is more... captivating?"
Her tone was playful, but she subtly activated a small recording device, waiting for him to have a slip of tongue. She imagined holding this over him, just as Kuchiki Byakuya bore the burden of his family's noble symbols like the Senkaimon Seal and the Silvery White Windflower Silk Gauze. This recording would become Makoto's Achilles' heel, a switch she could toggle for her amusement.
Surely, he would understand how disastrous it could be if disparaging words about Unohana-senpai reached her ears.
However, Makoto's response was immediate and resolute. "Is that even a question? Of course, it's Unohana-sensei."
"…What?"
Yoruichi froze, her expression briefly blank. Was she... insulted?
Not even a moment of hesitation?!
Crack!
Her fingers clenched reflexively, crushing the recording device into splinters. She glared at Makoto with a dark expression.
"So," she said coldly, "are you prepared to face the consequences of offending the head of the Shihoin family, one of the Four Great Noble Houses, commander of the Onmitsukidō, and Captain of the Second Division?"
"...Huh?"
Makoto blinked, utterly bewildered by her sudden shift in demeanor.
This woman… she's moodier than a cat!
Meanwhile, a familiar teasing whisper echoed in his ear, courtesy of Urozakuro.
"My, my, Makoto-kun. Looks like you might just become my master's cellmate in the depths of Muken."
Makoto twitched, hastily explaining, "Captain Shihoin, I wasn't trying to offend you. I was just observing your injuries, thinking I could help treat them."
"Injuries?"
Yoruichi blinked and followed his earlier gaze, finally noticing the wounds caused by her use of Shunko. Turning back, she found Makoto's eyes clear and sincere. Realizing her mistake, she felt a pang of self-reproach.
This guy… Tch, is he as indifferent to women as Byakuya?
Her initial annoyance melted into newfound appreciation. Perhaps this pure-hearted demeanor was why someone like Soi Fon found it easy to befriend him.
"Well, these little scratches are nothing," Yoruichi said dismissively, waving it off.
"That won't do..."
Makoto's hands glowed with a soft, healing light as he approached, determined to help. Ignoring any protest, he began treating her injuries with gentle precision.
This brat…
For someone who was used to imposing her will on others, Yoruichi found herself at a rare loss. Still, she let him continue, even commenting, "The technique I used earlier, Shunko, is a fusion of Kido and Hakuda. It compensates for Hakuda's reliance on physical strength while addressing Kido's delay and lack of sustained damage."
"But it's extremely taxing on the spirit body," she added. "A slight misstep can result in self-inflicted damage, like these wounds."
Makoto nodded, secretly planting a seed of healing energy within her as he replied, "Captain Shihoin—"
"Call me Lady Yoruichi," she interrupted with a smirk.
"…Yes, Lady Yoruichi."
Makoto sighed and complied before continuing. "This technique is far too dangerous. In the worst-case scenario, it could cause complete collapse of your spirit body."
Yoruichi, however, waved off his concern. "Don't worry. I've already figured out a way to perfect it."
Realizing she wouldn't be dissuaded, Makoto focused on completing the treatment. Despite her dismissive attitude, he could see the internal damage caused by the unstable Kido energy. Only someone as physically robust as Yoruichi could carry on as though nothing had happened.
A moment later, Makoto finished, offering a satisfied smile. "All done, Lady Yoruichi."
Under her sharp gaze, he quickly corrected himself, earning an approving nod. Stretching her limbs, Yoruichi praised, "Not bad. As expected of Unohana-senpai's student. Your Kaido skills are better than most seated officers in the Fourth Division."
"You flatter me, Lady Yoruichi," Makoto replied humbly. "There's still so much I need to learn."
"Hmph..."
Yoruichi didn't respond directly but shifted the topic instead.
"By the way, about that tree-controlling Zanpakuto ability of yours—what was that about?"
Makoto hesitated, his clear eyes glistening with unshed tears. Even his glasses fogged slightly as he bit his lip.
In that moment of silence, Yoruichi, aware of the recent Soul Society incident involving missing spirits in Rukongai, felt as though she understood his grief.
Witnessing the death of comrades… He's buried his sorrow deep inside, channeling it into his resolve, hasn't he?
With this realization, Yoruichi placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Same time tomorrow. Come here for some real Shunpo training. I'll make it fun."
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