In the early morning, sunlight filtered through the clouds, casting warmth and brightness across the land.
Hisana rubbed her eyes as she slowly woke from a peaceful dream.
However, it wasn't the rising sun that had stirred her from sleep—it was the steady sounds of shouting coming from outside her window.
"Ha!"
"Ha!"
The voice was clear and resolute, brimming with energy and determination.
Pushing open the window, Hisana's gaze fell upon the figure in the courtyard—Rukia.
She was practicing her sword swings with unwavering focus, each movement accompanied by a sharp cry, as if pouring all her strength into every strike.
Hisana sighed softly, a tinge of worry surfacing in her heart.
Ever since Rukia had set her sights on becoming a Shinigami, she had trained with relentless dedication.
Each morning, before the first rays of sunlight could fully illuminate the room, Rukia was already outside, throwing herself into rigorous practice.
Hisana had tried many times to persuade her to rest more, but the answer was always the same:
"Nii-san once told me that training requires perseverance. If you don't have the will to push through, no amount of practice will make a difference."
"Even my brother gained his strength only after years of daily training."
She would always say this, her eyes shining with firm resolve.
Hisana knew that for Rukia, becoming a great Shinigami wasn't just about personal ambition—it was a promise, a tribute to someone she deeply admired.
Watching her sister grow stronger with each passing day, Hisana's feelings became increasingly complicated.
She understood that, in Rukia's heart, that man likely held a place even higher than she did.
The bond they shared, the connection forged through hardship, was something she could never replace.
And yet, even as she felt a faint pang of loss, she was also proud—proud that Rukia was walking her own path, chasing her dream with everything she had.
"Nii-san… Nii-san… With that person by her side, does Rukia really still need me?"
The thought lingered in her mind, bringing a quiet sadness with it.
But she quickly took a deep breath, pushing those emotions aside.
Even if she couldn't guide Rukia in training like he could…
She could still protect her in her own way—by supporting her, standing by her side, and helping her reach her dreams.
...
As she reached for her jacket, Hisana caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror.
Her reflection was radiant, her complexion fair and smooth, carrying a soft glow.
She gently touched her cheek, feeling the warmth of her own skin, an inexplicable sense of joy rising within her.
"Have I… really changed?"
Murmuring to herself, she recalled the words of praise she had heard recently.
Her fingertips brushed over her flushed cheeks, and for a moment, she found herself lost in thought.
Since coming here, everything had changed.
For the first time in her life, she felt an overwhelming sense of warmth.
Family—something she had long been without—had finally embraced her.
Rukia, Nemu Kurotsuchi, and Aura had all witnessed her transformation.
They had seen her go from a quiet, withdrawn woman to someone who now laughed freely, who no longer carried the weight of loneliness in her gaze.
Her once solemn expression had softened.
Her heart had, at last, found peace.
She was no longer the woman burdened by suffering.
As she reminisced on the time she had spent in the Aozaki household, Hisana found herself momentarily dazed.
She was grateful—for the love and warmth she had received from this family.
And she was thankful to fate… for bringing her to him and to these wonderful people.
"Rukia, how long have you been practicing?"
Hisana pushed open the door and saw Rukia diligently training with her sword, sweat beading on her forehead.
Rukia paused and smiled. "Not long, Onee-san, just an hour."
Nemu Kurotsuchi gently wiped the sweat from Rukia's face.
Hisana looked at her sister with a mix of pride and concern, knowing how hard she always pushed herself. She stepped forward, softly stroking Rukia's hair. "Take a break, don't overwork yourself."
Rukia nodded and followed Hisana into the room.
Hisana poured her a glass of water, and the two sat on the bed, chatting. She asked about Rukia's training, and Rukia excitedly shared her progress.
"Nii-san said I'm getting stronger!" she declared, her eyes shining with confidence.
Hisana smiled warmly. "Of course, my little sister is amazing! But remember to take care of yourself too—don't push too hard."
Rukia nodded obediently. She glanced at Hisana and, after a brief pause, curiously asked, "Onee-san, you seem really happy today. Did something good happen?"
Hisana blinked in surprise, then laughed softly. "No, I'm just happy to see you working so hard."
But deep down, it wasn't just Rukia's progress that brought her joy—it was the sense of belonging she had found here.
Rukia's eyes flickered with understanding. She took Hisana's hand gently. "Onee-san, thank you for everything. We'll always be together, right?"
Hisana felt a warmth spread through her chest, her eyes misting over. She pulled Rukia into a hug and whispered, "Yes, always."
...
"You must be hungry. I'll go make something to eat—go wake up Masatsuki-sama."
Wiping at her eyes, Hisana glanced at Rukia, who was still covered in sweat from training, and shook her head.
Ever since Masatsuki Aozaki had started personally teaching her, Rukia had become even more dedicated. She had made it clear—her goal was to become a Shinigami and join the 11th Division.
Hisana understood her sister's determination and chose not to interfere.
"I'm not done training yet, you go instead," Rukia protested, her cheeks flushing as she quickly shook her head.
"You stubborn child..." Hisana sighed, unable to hide the fondness in her voice. She shook her head and turned toward Masatsuki Aozaki's room.
Although the Aozaki household housed noble ladies from various families, Masatsuki Aozaki had his own way of seeing things. Even though Rukia and the others had arrived later, he still preferred to stay with them.
With a soft creak, Hisana pushed open the door and stepped inside.
Her breath caught. "So beautiful..."
Masatsuki Aozaki lay on the bed, eyes closed, his face serene and breathtakingly handsome.
Hisana's gaze lingered on him, unable to help but admire his features. His steady, deep breathing made him look like a celestial being lost in slumber.
Carefully, she stepped forward, afraid to wake him. Her heart pounded, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks.
No matter how many times she saw him, she was always struck by his unparalleled beauty. He seemed almost otherworldly, his presence as radiant as the stars.
Rukia and the others had given Hisana confidence in her own appearance, but standing next to Masatsuki Aozaki, she couldn't help but feel overshadowed. His brilliance was simply too dazzling.
"Huh...?"
Lost in thought, Hisana suddenly realized something—she wasn't alone.
Beside him lay another figure—a young woman with tanned skin.
"Hisana-san, have you taken a liking to this bad boy?"
A playful voice broke the silence.
Yoruichi Shihōin slowly opened her golden eyes, a teasing smirk on her lips.
"How about becoming my sister instead?"
"Huh?!"
Hisana's blush deepened.
"I-I was just... here to invite you both to breakfast!" she stammered before quickly retreating from the room.
...
Masatsuki Aozaki watched her go and let out an amused sigh. "She really is adorable."
"Why did you tease her?"
"Because it's fun," Yoruichi replied with a mischievous grin. "Hisana is just too cute."
Her golden eyes sparkled with amusement, clearly pleased with her little prank.
...
(40 Chapters Ahead)
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