The Black-Bellied Store Manager's Prank

"Saikyō, what's the matter with you? Why did you suddenly zone out?"

Just when Saikyō was immersed in his joy, Yoruichi's voice abruptly brought him back to reality.

"Oh, it's nothing. I just felt a little tired," Saikyō casually made up an excuse to cover up.

He couldn't exactly tell Yoruichi that he had just maxed out his Hadō skills, could he?

"That's right. After practicing all afternoon, you must be a bit exhausted, right?" Yoruichi approached Saikyō and lightly placed her arm on his shoulder.

"Why don't you go back inside first, and I'll give you a little shoulder massage later?" Yoruichi suddenly suggested.

"Yes, I love Sister Yoruichi's massage technique the most," Saikyō agreed without hesitation.

Who wouldn't want to have the famous Goddess of Flash give them a shoulder rub? It's the ultimate luxury!

"By the way, Saikyō, the Shin'ō Academy will start recruiting students this fall. Don't miss it!" Yoruichi reminded him deliberately as if she suddenly remembered.

"Sister Yoruichi, don't worry. I'm the young master of the Shihōin family, and I'm your own brother. Spiritual power tests won't be a problem for me," Saikyō said casually.

He really didn't take this matter seriously.

Apart from special recommendations, admission to the Shin'ō Academy is mainly through the "spiritual power test." As long as one meets the standard, they can pass the assessment.

Although Saikyō's current Reiatsu isn't as strong as that of an ordinary squad member, it is more than enough to pass the entrance exam!

"That's good to hear. The Shin'ō Academy takes six years to complete. Are you sure you can graduate early?" Yoruichi joked suddenly.

"Six years is way too long. Or..." Saikyō paused for a moment and then said jokingly, "To avoid bringing shame to the Shihōin family, I have to graduate in one year!"

"Hey, brat, aren't you afraid you're blowing your own trumpet a bit too much?"

Yoruichi chuckled and didn't take it seriously. "In the entire history of the Soul Society, those who've graduated a year early can be counted on two hands. It's a monumental challenge that can't be overcome with words alone."

"Sister, why do you look down on me so much?"

Saikyō leaned closer to Yoruichi on purpose, using his ultimate weapon—his cute little brother act.

He deliberately shook his head, sighed dejectedly, and pretended to be hurt.

"Of course not. I'm just teasing you. You're the future hope of the Shihōin family!" Although Yoruichi's personality was a bit straightforward, seeing Saikyō's sad expression, her heart melted instantly.

Her words were filled with care and affection for Saikyō.

"Sister, with your encouragement, I'll definitely not let you down!" Seizing the moment, Saikyō threw himself into Yoruichi's arms, taking in the faint fragrance she carried.

The atmosphere suddenly grew warm!

"Oh... I almost forgot. I need to introduce someone to you later," Yoruichi suddenly remembered that there was an invitation that evening, and the time was fast approaching.

"Huh? Who do you want me to meet?" Saikyō asked curiously. "Can you give me a hint beforehand?"

"You'll find out soon. He's a close friend of mine for many years and currently the captain of the Second Division. You'll be interacting with him often in the future," Yoruichi said with a light smile.

"Could it be him?"

Upon hearing Yoruichi's brief description, a figure instantly appeared in Saikyō's mind.

The man known as "the greatest mind," who always carried a carefree attitude and exuded a mysterious aura every time he appeared—Urahara Kisuke!

Based on Yoruichi's description, the person he would meet later was very likely to be the shopkeeper himself!

"Thinking about it this way, Sister Yoruichi really has my best interests at heart. She's introducing me to people early on to lay the groundwork for me," Saikyō suddenly realized.

Thinking this, he couldn't help but feel that no matter which dimension, having the right connections and backing is essential.

Luckily, he had a strong background and Yoruichi, a powerful sister, to support him.

When it comes to "having a strong sister," he truly stands out!

"Let's go. It's almost time. Follow me to the main hall," Yoruichi said, leading Saikyō out of the courtyard.

---

Soon after, in the main hall of the Shihōin mansion...

"Oh ho ho ho…"

"Captain Yoruichi, you're right on time. I've just prepared a pot of hot tea," said a cheerful voice as soon as Saikyō stepped into the hall.

The owner of the voice had short, light-yellow curly hair, army-green, gem-like eyes, was dressed in a black Shihakushō, and had a bit of stubble on his handsome face.

"It's really him, Urahara Kisuke!"

Although it was their first meeting, Saikyō felt a deep sense of familiarity.

Urahara Kisuke, a character he had admired long before his transmigration.

To meet him in the world of the Shinigami, and see that the shopkeeper was even more charming in person!

"Kisuke, it's rare to see you so punctual," Yoruichi greeted him warmly and sat down at the head seat.

Saikyō followed closely behind and brushed shoulders with Urahara Kisuke.

"So, this is the next head of the Shihōin family you've mentioned so often, Brother Saikyō, right?" Urahara Kisuke initiated the conversation.

"Hi, my name is Saikyō. And you are?" Although he already knew the other's identity, Saikyō decided to play along to give the shopkeeper some face.

"Oh ho ho, my name is Urahara Kisuke. I'm currently the Third Seat of the Second Division and also the Vice-Captain of the Onmitsukidō. It seems we'll be seeing a lot of each other," Urahara Kisuke said, picking up a teapot and pouring tea into an empty cup.

"I think so too, Mr. Urahara. You seem very approachable," Saikyō replied with a slight smile.

"Brother Saikyō, you're very good with words. Here, try the tea I made. I'm quite proud of my tea-making skills," Urahara Kisuke offered a cup of tea to Saikyō.

"Kisuke, this guy…"

Seeing Urahara Kisuke's actions, Yoruichi, who was seated at the head, slightly frowned.

She immediately saw through his intentions.

"Well then, I won't be polite."

Without overthinking, Saikyō took the teacup from Urahara Kisuke's hand and downed it in one gulp.

But...

After a few seconds, his expression changed dramatically.

"Damn, I was tricked! I almost forgot the shopkeeper loves to play pranks!"

By the time Saikyō realized it, it was too late.

His face turned a deep purple as his stomach churned violently, as if a storm was raging inside.

"Mr. Urahara, your way of greeting is truly unique." Saikyō clutched his stomach in pain and rolled his eyes dramatically.

In a moment of carelessness, he had fallen for the shopkeeper's prank.

No way!

He couldn't just let this slide!

He had to find a way to get back at him later!