Ashura Phantom

Shortly after.

With the arrival of Unohana Retsu and a fair judgment, the conflict finally came to an end. The squad members returned to their training, and the 4th Division restored its usual order.

In the squad room.

The warm and bright sunlight filtered through the window's gaps, casting a soft glow on the floor. The room's traditional style, combined with the sandalwood furniture, created a calming atmosphere.

A faint fragrance lingered in the air.

Unohana Retsu sat cross-legged in front of a wooden desk, gracefully handling a tea set. In addition to her mastery of Zanjutsu and medical skills, she was also highly skilled in the tea ceremony.

More impressively, all the tea utensils were crafted by Unohana-taichō herself. Her craftsmanship was simply extraordinary.

The more you spent time with her, the more you understood that Unohana-taichō was like a hidden treasure—her strengths seemed endless.

"Saikyō-kun, I hope you don't take today's events too seriously," Unohana-taichō said, pouring tea into the cup in front of Saikyō.

The aroma of the tea was rich and fragrant, instantly refreshing Saikyō.

"Unohana-taichō, I'm not one to hold grudges. After all, I'm now the third seat. I should be more accepting," Saikyō said, making a lighthearted joke as he picked up the tea cup.

In truth, the change in his rank held no real significance to him. Whether third seat or squad member, it made little difference.

Even if he were to replace Kotetsu Isane and become the vice-captain of the 4th Division, his main goal remained unchanged. From the start, Saikyō had joined the 4th Division solely because of Unohana-taichō.

Everything else was secondary.

"I trust you will take your responsibilities seriously," Unohana-taichō smiled gently. "Saikyō-kun, I've always believed that about you."

"And... regarding Seinosuke, I will discuss with the other captains and have him transferred out of the Gotei 13," she added, changing the subject.

"Eh? Is that considered expulsion from the division?" Saikyō asked in surprise.

For Yamada Seinosuke, being stripped of his position as third seat was already a heavy punishment. But expulsion from the squad seemed unnecessary to Saikyō.

"No, not an expulsion. My intention is for him to leave and work in the Mōgyokuyoin," Unohana-taichō explained patiently.

"Mōgyokuyoin?"

Saikyō asked, confused. He wracked his brain but had never heard of such an institution in Seireitei.

"Saikyō-kun, it's normal that you haven't heard of it, since you've never been in need of treatment there." Unohana-taichō smiled warmly at Saikyō's puzzled expression.

What? Did I just see... Unohana-taichō smile like that?

Saikyō almost couldn't believe it.

He could be 100% sure that in that moment, Unohana-taichō's smile carried something extra—something warm. It felt like her gentle demeanor was enveloping him completely, filling him with an indescribable joy.

Unohana-taichō's smile had, without a doubt, captured Saikyō's heart!

"Saikyō-kun, is something wrong?" Unohana-taichō asked, smiling again.

"No, it's just that..." Saikyō hesitated for a moment.

"What is it?"

Unohana-taichō's curiosity was piqued.

"Unohana-taichō, I just wanted to say... you look especially beautiful today," Saikyō said, turning on his charm.

"Saikyō-kun... you..." Unohana-taichō chuckled softly, clearly amused.

For over two thousand years, she had held a position of great authority, and her aura was overwhelming. To most members of the Gotei 13, she was a revered figure who could not be approached casually. Even fellow captains treated her with immense respect.

But here was Saikyō, casually flirting with her—a first for her!

"Honestly, considering your talents and strength, I initially thought the 4th Division wasn't the right place for you," Unohana-taichō admitted. "But now... I hope you will stay."

As she spoke, a rare blush crept onto her usually composed face.

That feeling...

It was as though she were a young girl, a stark contrast to her usual dignified demeanor. If anyone else had witnessed this, they would have been shocked.

Unohana-taichō, always so poised and noble, revealing such a soft side?

"Unohana-taichō..."

"I also enjoy the atmosphere in the division and the time we spend together," Saikyō said, taking another sip of the tea.

He hadn't expected that his initial goal of practicing Zanjutsu would lead to winning Unohana-taichō's favor. What a pleasant surprise!

"Alright, enough of that. After you finish your tea, let's head to the training hall," Unohana-taichō said, quickly transitioning from warmth to her strict, mentor-like demeanor.

Moments ago, she had shown a tender side, but now, as soon as Zanjutsu was mentioned, her focus shifted to that of a disciplined teacher.

Her dedication to swordsmanship was unwavering—no wonder she was a master swordswoman.

Soon after.

In the old training hall, Saikyō and Unohana-taichō stood in the center, both holding their Zanpakutō.

"Saikyō-kun, you've already mastered the basic forms. Today, we'll begin advanced techniques," Unohana-taichō said, gripping her Zanpakutō.

Instantly, an intense, bloodthirsty aura radiated from her.

Fortunately, Saikyō had grown accustomed to her presence, and it no longer overwhelmed him like it had the first time.

"Unohana-taichō, what exactly are we practicing today?" Saikyō asked eagerly.

"Saikyō-kun, I can sense your strong desire to learn the sinister art of Yachiryu Zanjutsu," Unohana-taichō smiled.

"That's right! I really want to master that aura!" Saikyō's eyes lit up with excitement.

The malevolent spirit of Yachiryu Zanjutsu was akin to the Haki in the world of One Piece, adding a lethal intensity to the user's swordsmanship. Mastering it would elevate his Zanjutsu to new heights.

"Excellent!"

"I can see the determination in your eyes," Unohana-taichō said with satisfaction.

"Today's lesson..."

"Is mastering the Ashura Phantom Seven!"

[T/N] Now I feel like that slightly romantic interaction was a little forced but hey who am I to stop it]