Chapter 231: Patriarch
Gotei 13, 8th Division barracks...
Masatsuki Aozaki stood quietly in the distance, gazing at the pristine white building gleaming under the sunlight. It had a solemn, imposing presence, exuding an air of mystery and authority.
As the division responsible for intelligence gathering, its security was exceptionally tight—guards stationed every few steps, watchful eyes monitoring all who passed. Each office entrance was guarded by at least two Shinigami, as if protecting some deep, hidden secret.
Masatsuki Aozaki was a well-known figure here, and his popularity within the 8th Division was remarkable. Not only was he the junior disciple of the division captain, but he also shared a close bond with the Lieutenant. His ties to the 8th Division were so strong that they could almost be called family.
Of course, given that this was an intelligence unit, its members were highly perceptive. They were all well aware of the unspoken connection between Masatsuki Aozaki and their Lieutenant.
Taking his time as usual, Masatsuki Aozaki stretched what should have been a ten-minute walk into a leisurely half-hour stroll.
Along the way, he and Lisa Yadōmaru each held onto a small hand. The girl between them was none other than the 8th Division's cherished treasure—Nanao Ise, the beloved niece of Captain Shunsui Kyōraku. Her adorable presence had a way of brightening everything around her, as if the whole world became a little warmer just by having her there.
The sight of the three together—two adults and one child—gave off the unmistakable warmth of a small, happy family, despite the lack of any actual blood relation.
"We really do feel like a family, don't we?" Masatsuki Aozaki mused, his gaze soft.
"What family... Don't say such misleading things in front of the squad members!"
Lisa Yadōmaru's expression remained neutral, but she instinctively straightened her posture, like a proud swan lifting its head. Only the slight excitement in her voice betrayed the happiness she felt in that moment.