"Thanks to your warning, Kaien avoided injury or even death. The Shiba family will never forget your kindness," Shiba Isshin said. Kyōraku C
"Thanks to your warning, Kaien avoided injury or even death. The Shiba family will never forget your kindness," Shiba Isshin said.
Kyōraku Callum savored his sake. "And the second matter?"
In his opinion, Rukongai sake and the Kuchiki family's special sake were of equal caliber, each reaching the pinnacle of flavor in different ways. The former was spicy and full-bodied; the latter, fragrant and sweet.
"Ah, the second matter!" Shiba Isshin looked around furtively, his expression becoming mischievous.
"Kyōraku, you're not married, are you?"
Cough! Kyōraku Callum nearly choked on his sake. What an unexpected question! Was Shiba Isshin's playful side showing? Why the sudden shift from Shiba Kaien to him?
"Captain Isshin, why the sudden question?" Kyōraku Callum asked, wiping his mouth.
Shiba Isshin's expression was mysterious, as if making a momentous decision.
"Answer my question first!"
Kyōraku Callum affirmed, "No, although…"
Before he could finish, Shiba Isshin visibly relaxed. "Good! That's best!" He pulled a photograph from his pocket.
Kyōraku Callum took the photo, somewhat puzzled. It showed a woman—tall, slender, with a bright smile and long black hair bound with white cloth. A stunning beauty.
"This is…" Kyōraku Callum had a guess but didn't voice it. The woman's appearance differed slightly from his expectation.
"My niece, Kūkaku!" Shiba Isshin said with a radiant smile.
"Even though she's from the main family, she still calls me uncle. Her parents passed away early, so I've been looking after her. Now she's of marrying age, but she hasn't found a suitable partner. So…"
He nudged Kyōraku Callum with his shoulder, giving him a knowing look. "Let's just say, my niece's looks are impeccable! She has a cheerful personality, and though not a Shinigami, she possesses exceptional spiritual power. Plus, we're a noble family."
If Kyōraku Callum still didn't understand Shiba Isshin's intentions, he'd be a fool.
"I think this requires further discussion," Kyōraku Callum said, not immediately agreeing.
Was this love at first sight?
This was too sudden. Why would someone offer him a wife out of nowhere? A beautiful, strong, talented noblewoman? It was unbelievable.
"Discussion?" a teasing voice came from the doorway. "I don't think so."
Kyōraku Callum's face fell as he turned to the entrance. The familiar pink-patterned haori appeared.
"Why discuss such a good thing?" Kyōraku Shunsui sat down beside them, unceremoniously pouring himself a cup of Rukongai sake and taking a sip.
"Ara ara, high-quality Rukongai sake, a rare find! Son-in-law, I offer you a toast."
Shiba Isshin was taken aback, then laughed heartily. "Haha, let's drink!"
And so, two elders began scheming to pair off their younger relatives.
"I think you should at least respect the opinions of those involved," Kyōraku Callum attempted to reclaim his agency.
Kyōraku Shunsui waved his hand dismissively.
"That's unnecessary. For the sake of the family's prosperity, the head of the family decides. Isshin, though head of a branch family, can still exercise authority when necessary."
Events were unfolding far beyond Kyōraku Callum's expectations. He stroked his chin, pondering when exactly the situation had started to go awry.
Surprisingly, Shiba Kūkaku hadn't lost her right arm in some accident.
In the photograph, she smiled radiantly, her clothing embroidered with the Shiba family crest of a collapsing vortex. A tattoo of the character sky adorned her left arm, adding a unique touch.
The Shiba family names are distinctive, usually using animals and natures: Kaien - ocean depths, Kūkaku - Sky Crane, Ganju - Cliff Eagle.
This symbolizes their philosophy: closeness to nature, and the belief that Hollows also possess hearts.
Their names also represent their abilities. Shiba Kaien's Zanpakutō, Nejibana, is a rare water-attribute type Zanpakutō.
Though spear users are often unlucky, Kyōraku Callum's intervention slightly altered Shiba Kaien's fate.
Shiba Kūkaku's abilities are fireworks and mastery of Kidō, both associated with the sky. Shiba Ganju's abilities are implied by his name Cliff Eagle, Renkan Seppa Sen.
Kyōraku Callum never underestimated any of the five great noble families. The Shiba clan, though in decline, held significant power in Soul Society due to the main family's control over access to the Soul King Palace. But this wife practically handing herself over…
Kyōraku Callum looked at the photograph on the table, conflicted. Should he accept? Should he not? Should he really?
Because they were both Gotei 13 Captains, Kyōraku Shunsui and Shiba Isshin were quite familiar with each other, having even frequented izakayas together.
As their conversation progressed, they transitioned from "Captain Kyōraku" and "Captain Isshin" to "father-in-law."
Before Shiba Isshin left, they arranged for Kyōraku Callum to visit the Shiba house at the end of the month.
Despite his strong objections, Kyōraku Shunsui, wielding his authority as head of the family, prevailed.
Kyōraku Callum sighed in resignation. Kyōraku Shunsui, however, saw through the surface.
"He scoffed, Don't play coy, kid. You've gotten lucky."
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