Becoming a Soul Reaper wasn't out of the question. Hiyori just hadn't prepared herself for it. Besides, she would have to fight powerful monsters all the time, and she might die one day.
But wasn't living like that what made life meaningful?
Was she supposed to drift through every day until she died of old age?
"Okay, I'll do it. But..." Hiyori's face suddenly reddened. She glanced sideways at Kiryu. "Can I work with Miss Kiryu?"
Yamabuki Chidori walked to the window and opened it. An autumn breeze carried the scent of citrus into the room.
"Of course. You're free to apply to whichever division you like. Though someone's plan is probably ruined now!" Yamabuki Chidori said with a smile.
"Achoo!" Aizen sneezed in the Fifth Division Barracks. Was someone talking about him behind his back?
"If you want to work with me, hurry up and get well." Kiryu gently stroked Hiyori's head, making her blush even harder.
Yamabuki Chidori knew that a girl who looked only ten probably didn't have an adult's feelings. She likely saw the gentle, powerful woman before her as a mother.
"Getting hungry? How about we go get something to eat?" Kiryu asked. "You've only just recovered, so I'll make you some porridge. I'm quite confident in my cooking."
No Guarding Against a Thief in the Family
When Aizen learned that Hiyori planned to join the 12th Division, he didn't mind. His original goal had been to annoy Hirako. Which division Hiyori joined had nothing to do with whether Aizen could use her against him. With the right scheme, she could become more than a tool. If Hirako and Hiyori grew close someday, she might even become his weakness.
No one could walk through life without a single weakness.
Family, lovers, friends—there was always something