Bleach: Watch Closely, This Is How You Use a Zanpakutō

The family elders exchanged glances, their smiles as sly as a pack of old foxes.

For nobles of high rank and great power, bloodline was undeniably important—but it was never absolute.

In the face of power, blood ties were disposable. Mercy and compassion? Even more so.

The only thing that truly endured was self-interest.

Within the Tsunayashiro Clan, the branch families only held military strength, while true authority remained firmly in the hands of the main family.

And "swords"—they were meant to be used and discarded. Replacements could always be found.

"In that case..."

"Is it really necessary for us to sour our relationship with Yamamoto over this?"

"With his strength, those fools in the branch family have no chance of winning."

"Indeed."

The elders voiced their agreement one after another.