章 24: Apologies
"Single Strike" is a Hakuda technique pioneered by Yamamoto Genryūsai Shigekuni.
Though its origins lie with the Captain-Commander, it's categorized as a basic technique, taught to every student as foundational material.
The reason for this categorization is simple and unpretentious:
Single Strike involves utilizing one's entire body—muscles, reiatsu, and momentum—to deliver the fastest and strongest punch possible.
There are no frills or clever tricks.
Only through relentless practice and sheer determination can this technique be honed to its peak potential.
That simplicity led to a common misconception.
"Most people instinctively underestimate this technique," Seiya thought, exhaling a deep breath.
Lowering his still-trembling hands, faint traces of blue spiritual particles swirled around them like weightless fish in water.
He relaxed his stance and turned his gaze toward a still-stunned Ōmaeda Marechiyo.
With a calm smile, Seiya remarked:
"Ōmaeda-senpai, I assume you've neglected your Hakuda training since graduation?"
A simple observation. Anyone who paid attention to Single Strike would notice a subtle but vital detail:
"The muscle and reiatsu flow used in Single Strike can seamlessly transition into Double Strike, enhancing both precision and power."
One blow won't break them, but two can shatter everything.
This is the essence of the technique.
Seiya chuckled softly to himself. He reached up to sweep aside the stray strands of hair falling over his forehead, only to grimace in pain.
"Ouch, ouch, ouch..."
The recoil from his failed Double Strike had caused visible swelling in his hands, leaving them numb and throbbing.
Ōmaeda stared at him, mouth agape, taking several deep breaths before finally managing to speak:
"Why didn't you follow through?"
Seiya shrugged and smiled, his tone casual yet sincere.
"Ōmaeda-senpai, we don't have any personal grudges, do we?"
"This was just a friendly match, not a battle to the death. The outcome is already clear, and there's no need to drag things further. Especially since this farce has gone on long enough, don't you think?"
More bloodshed would be meaningless.
Embarrassing a Vice-Captain of the Second Division wouldn't do anyone any favors, let alone benefit Seiya's own position.
Escalating the spectacle would only make the story of this match spread further, turning his academic life into an even greater focal point of attention.
Acting out of pride at the expense of both sides would be nothing short of immature.
"Ōmaeda-senpai, I just want to focus on my studies and stay out of the spotlight."
The main storyline was still over a century away.
Seiya had no urgency; he preferred to take each step deliberately, savoring the journey of growth.
That was his foundation, his approach to life.
Of course, Seiya also had his personal motives.
Winking conspiratorially, he leaned closer and murmured:
"Senpai, consider this match a favor. I hope you'll return it by cutting me some slack in the future."
Though the Ōmaeda family lacked the clout of the Four Noble Houses, they still boasted significant wealth and influence.
Even if Ōmaeda Marechiyo retired tomorrow, he'd still be a wealthy landowner.
Having a connection with someone like that could only benefit Seiya.
While Ōmaeda remained frozen in disbelief, Yoruichi appeared beside them in a blur of motion.
As the head of the Shihōin family, her commanding presence was undeniable.
Despite standing between two towering men, she exuded an aura that was impossible to ignore.
Tilting her head confidently, she raised Seiya's left hand high and declared to the crowd:
"By the name of Shihōin, I declare this match won by Seiya Arima!"
What? Why is this happening now?
"Um… excuse me…"
Seiya began to protest, but Yoruichi's sharp glare silenced him.
Any words he might've had were swallowed back down.
While Seiya had outsmarted a Vice-Captain, facing the head of the Shihōin family was an entirely different matter.
He couldn't outfight her. He couldn't outargue her.
And if he dared to speak out of turn, who knew what this unpredictable noblewoman might do next?
Is my peaceful student life really about to end like this?
Though this was officially just a Hakuda sparring match, reiatsu had been involved, lending it a weight far beyond an ordinary exercise.
Watching the crowd erupt into cheers and chatter, Seiya could only muster a strained, awkward smile.
Everything's gone completely off the rails.
"Hey, Seiya."
Yoruichi's voice pulled him from his thoughts. Turning to face her, he saw her studying him intently, her gaze filled with a peculiar mix of amusement and interest.
After a few heartbeats of silence, she spoke again:
"Have you ever considered marrying into the Shihōin family?"
"…What?"
One Day Later
"So, what's your answer?"
It was nighttime at the dojo. After finishing their sparring session, Seiya and Tōsen Kaname sat side by side, sharing bottles of green tea.
"Of course, I refused! What kind of question is that? If I'd agreed, do you think I'd still be here now?"
"True enough."
Tōsen set his bottle down, turning his head slightly so his ear faced Seiya.
"But why refuse? Marrying into the Shihōin family would've brought you nothing but benefits."
"Nobles possess resources far beyond what we commoners could ever dream of. And if they value your talent, they wouldn't hesitate to invest in you. Seiya, from your perspective, I can't see any reason to say no."
Seiya pulled a face, clearly unimpressed.
"You're so pragmatic, Tōsen. I'm not some prize panda they're trying to breed—I want love, not matchmaking."
Besides...
"Marriage into their family wouldn't be up to me anyway. Sure, the Shihōin women are all stunning, but who knows what surprises they'd spring on me?"
Tōsen hesitated, his tone suddenly curious.
"What's a panda?"
"…A rare and protected animal. Never mind, forget I said anything!"
Truthfully, Seiya vaguely remembered that Yoruichi had a younger brother. While his demeanor seemed gentle, Seiya had no interest in "feminine men."
No traps! Absolutely no traps!
These surface-level reasons aside, the real issue lay deeper.
"I just prefer life as it is right now."
Seiya smiled at Tōsen, feeling a wave of gratitude for his current circumstances.
Though Yoruichi's sudden proposal had been unexpected, reflecting on it afterward revealed it to be a trap in disguise.
Becoming a Shihōin son-in-law would sever his connection to Aizen and make joining the Gotei 13 significantly harder.
As a noble family's son-in-law, he'd have no freedom—especially in a feudal society. At best, he'd be a pampered ornament; at worst, a caged bird.
No thanks.
Remaining in the academy provided Seiya with everything he needed.
Sparring with Tōsen—a future Captain-level talent—ensured his swordsmanship advanced steadily.
The other foundational skills would follow with time, especially with Aizen nearby to guide him when needed.
Could the Shihōin family offer such resources? Of course not!
While Seiya mulled over his thoughts, Tōsen suddenly broke the silence.
"Seiya, I'm sorry."
"…What are you apologizing for?"
Lowering his head, Tōsen hesitated before speaking softly:
"As your friend, I failed to step in when you needed me most. I ignored my conscience and betrayed my principles."
Tōsen clenched his fists, his voice trembling.
"I told myself I'd changed, but I still hesitate. I still feel afraid…"
Seiya blinked, momentarily taken aback, before responding with a gentle smile:
"It's fine. I'd have done the same in your position."
"But that doesn't make it right!"
Tōsen's voice rose, his body trembling.
"I didn't come here to compromise my ideals. I want to be strong enough to pursue true justice—"
"Hey, Tōsen."
Cutting him off mid-sentence, Seiya looked up at the sky, his tone light yet firm.
"I've told you this before: don't get too caught up in the present. As long as you stay true to your convictions, you'll find your way eventually."
"Justice, equality, whatever it is you seek—just hold onto that belief and let it guide you. Think of your struggles now as training. It might make them easier to bear."
With a playful grin, Seiya patted Tōsen's shoulder.
"And as for everything else... come on, Tōsen, don't be so formal!"
After all…
"We're friends, aren't we?"
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