Before Parting

Yoruichi and the others stayed for a while before leaving. Before leaving, Wang Xun specifically asked Kisuke Urahara for a set of clothes.

After all, his Spiritual Arts Academy were covered in cuts and bloodstains, making them unwearable.

After being inspected by the members of the Fourth Division, Wang Xun changed into the new clothes given to him by the members of the Second Division and returned to the Shin'ō Academy.

He put his Zanpakuto back in his dorm, tidied up briefly, and changed back into his spare academy uniform.

Then he went to the library.

The air was filled with the unique scent of books, quiet and familiar, which brought Wang Xun a sense of peace.

Wang Xun found Nanao in his usual spot by the window.

She was still clutching a thick book on the theory of Kidō, and was intently writing something in her notebook.

Sunlight shone on her short black hair and long eyelashes, creating a serene and peaceful scene.

Wang Xun gently pulled out the chair opposite her and sat down.

Nanao noticed the commotion and looked up to see Wang Xun. Her eyes widened slightly behind her glasses.

Her eyes held a complex expression, a mixture of surprise and joy, along with a hint of worry.

"Wang Xun?"

She put down her pen and carefully examined him.

What have you been doing these past few days?

"Hmm... it's quite complicated. I spent a long time in the Second Division, and then a day in the Fourth Division, but don't worry, everything's fine now."

Nanao seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, but her brows quickly furrowed again.

"You went to the Fourth Division again? Are you injured?"

"Is it because of your previous conflict with Tsunayashiro? You haven't gotten involved in any dangerous things again, have you?"

"Don't worry, it's all in the past. I have the Captain Kyōraku backing me up."

"Kyōraku... the captain of the Eighth Division? When did you first cross paths with him?"

"Hmm... you'll understand in the future."

Nanao looked at Wang Xun, who was keeping her in suspense, pouted, and gently kicked Wang Xun with her foot.

"What could be so important that you're hiding it from me?"

"It's not that we're hiding it, it's just that it's complicated to explain."

Wang Xun chose to skip this topic.

He then straightened his expression, looked into Nanao's clear eyes, and slowly spoke.

"Nanao, I've come today because there's something I want to tell you."

Upon hearing this, Nanao seemed to sense something, and her fingers unconsciously tightened their grip on the quill pen in her hand.

I'm preparing to apply for early graduation.

Wang Xun's voice was calm, yet carried an undeniable determination.

"Graduation procedures are being prepared, and I will formally apply to join the Gotei 13 in a few days."

The library was quiet, with only the faint sound of pages turning in the distance.

Nanao stared at him blankly, her lips moved as if she wanted to say something, but in the end, no sound came out.

She lowered her head, looking at the open notebook, her fingertips turning slightly white.

"Where to, Second Division?"

"Hmm, Second Division, Stealth Force."

Wang Xun nodded.

Nanao raised her head, her eyes showing no surprise, only a hint of worry and reluctance.

Although she knew this day would come, she didn't expect it to come so soon.

Is it dangerous?

"Danger is always present."

Wang Xun gently comforted him, his tone both gentle and firm.

"But you don't need to worry, you know I'm very strong."

"Maybe by the time you graduate, I'll already be Seated Officer."

Wang Xun's relaxed tone eased the slightly heavy atmosphere.

Nanao looked at him, her gaze lingering on his face for a long time, as if trying to Wang Xun's current appearance into her memory.

Finally, she sighed softly, a sigh that carried a maturity and understanding beyond her years.

"I see."

She adjusted her glasses, sat up straight, and her face regained its usual calm.

"Since it's your decision, I'll support you, but..."

She paused, her voice becoming even softer, yet exceptionally clear.

You must be careful and protect yourself.

Nanao spoke, her gaze shifted to the window.

"I will study hard and graduate as soon as possible. Then, perhaps we will have the opportunity to fight side by side."

She turned back to look at Wang Xun, her eyes clear and firm.

"So, until then, you need to take good care of yourself, okay?"

A warm feeling welled up in Wang Xun's heart, and he nodded solemnly.

"Don't worry, Nanao."

"Besides, it's not like we'll never see each other again. I'll come back to see you during my vacation."

Nanao's lips curved into a very faint smile, and she nodded gently.

The next day, at the training ground.

Kaien Shiba was practicing in the Kendō training ground, sweat dripping down his forehead, but his expression remained as focused as ever.

Not long after, he finished this round of training and turned his head to see Wang Xun, who had been standing to the side at some point.

Kaien's eyes lit up. She put the bamboo knife aside and strode over.

"Senior Wang Xun, it's been a long time. What's wrong? Has something happened again?"

As she spoke, Kaien's gaze became more serious.

"I heard from Ganju that some people have made a move against your shop. Is there anything I can do to help you?"

"Yes, there were some minor issues, but they've been resolved, so don't worry."

Wang Xun responded.

Seeing Wang Xun's calm expression, Kaien's worries gradually subsided.

"In that case, that's for the best. If there's anything you need my help with, just let me know."

"Don't worry, Kaien, I don't consider you an outsider. I've come to talk to you about something today."

Kaien was curious upon hearing this.

"What's up?"

I'm preparing to apply for early graduation.

Wang Xun said calmly.

Kaien's smile slowly faded. He stared at Wang Xun for a few seconds, his expression gradually turning surprised.

After all, based on previous interactions with Wang Xun, Wang Xun had always maintained a low profile.

Now they've suddenly changed their attitude...

It seems that Senior Wang Xun has been through a lot lately.

"It's a bit sudden, but with your abilities, it'll definitely be fine. By the way, which squad are you planning to join, senpai?"

"Second Division."

"Second Division?"

Wang Xun met Kaien's surprised gaze.

"That's right. I had spoken with the Second Division Captain before, and it was actually decided a long time ago. However, due to some recent events, I'm going to bring the process forward."

Kaien stroked his chin, surprised that Wang Xun and Yoruichi Shihōin had ever interacted.

At that moment, he suddenly remembered the scene of Ye Yi visiting their house Yoruichi before.

Wasn't that day after they had dinner with Wang Xun?

It seems that Yoruichi's visit was not just a spur-of-the-moment decision.

Kaien was silent for a moment, then suddenly grinned. The smile was less casual and more serious and approving.

"To be honest, I also plan to apply for early graduation, but I still need to work on my academic subjects."

He put his arm around Wang Xun's shoulder, his voice light and cheerful.

"As expected of a senior, I thought that after I applied for early graduation next year, I could join the Gotei 13 before you."

"However, the Second Division has many rules and its missions are dangerous. Since you've already made up your mind, I'm sure you're well-prepared. I wish you good luck in your battles."

Wang Xun nodded slightly.

Thank you, Kaien.