Yoriichi had witnessed these two challenges in their entirety, but he wasn't surprised.
After all, Komamura Sajin's original intention for becoming a Shinigami was to repay the kindness of the former Captain-Commander, Yamamoto Genryusai.
Previously, his willingness to serve under Yoriichi was also out of respect for Yamamoto Genryusai.
For him, if his strength was insufficient to hold the Captain's position, then he would temporarily put it aside and reconsider once he became stronger.
But now, with Yoriichi gone, Komamura Sajin had no one to repay.
Coupled with Yamamoto Genryusai's retirement, his former goal instantly vanished into thin air…
Weighing his options, it seemed he was left with only one path: becoming a Captain.
As for Zaraki Kenpachi… in Yoriichi's view, his challenge was also due to Yoriichi's departure.
Without an opponent to challenge, he couldn't continue to waste time in the Ninth Division.
To become stronger, he could only return to his old ways.
After all, his name was Zaraki Kenpachi.
The two battles quickly concluded, with each achieving victory.
Due to the current situation in the Seireitei, the defeated were not killed.
On the day of their appointments, Yoriichi met with them and gave some relevant instructions.
Afterward, he didn't pay much attention to the matter, instead focusing his attention on Matsumoto Rangiku.
…
Inside the 1st Division, Yoriichi Tsugikuni sat in a room, letting out a soft sigh.
His gaze fell upon the gilded invitation in his hand, his mind filled with countless thoughts as past memories surged like a tide.
"A wedding, huh…"
He murmured softly, his voice tinged with emotion, "Thinking about it carefully, it's already been almost ninety years."
"I vaguely remember Rangiku was still a little girl back then, I didn't expect her to grow so big now."
"I hope Gin treats her well; after all, they are childhood sweethearts with deep affections."
"By that count, besides Ai, Rukia is the only single one left in the family."
Thinking of this, Yoriichi Tsugikuni couldn't help but feel a bit more concern.
No wonder Uta was so anxious at the time; in a sense, Rangiku was also raised by her since she was young.
Because when Uta appeared, Rangiku was still in her teens.
Watching her grow from her teens to her twenties, about to get married, she must have felt a surge of reluctance.
Alas…
Yoriichi Tsugikuni sighed heavily again.
He lowered his eyes, immersed in these tangled thoughts.
Just then, the door was gently pushed open, and Chōjirō Sasakibe entered with steady steps.
Chōjirō Sasakibe came before Yoriichi, bowed respectfully, and then reported a piece of news in an orderly fashion:
"Reporting, Captain-Commander, the Shinigami you previously asked me to keep an eye on, Rinshiro Tsukishima, has successfully become a Seat Officer."
"He just visited me and asked when he could be stationed in the Human World. What do you think…"
Yoriichi Tsugikuni collected himself and raised his eyes.
He first put away the invitation, then looked at Chōjirō Sasakibe with a calm gaze, and after a moment of thought, slowly nodded in response: "He has become a Seat Officer?"
"Indeed."
Yoriichi's tone was somewhat gratified, "If I remember correctly, this is only his fifth year as a Shinigami…"
"To achieve such accomplishments at such a young age is truly not easy."
"Since he works so hard, we naturally cannot treat him unfairly. Let him go if he wants to."
"Remember to have him go to the Twelfth Division to find Kisuke Urahara to customize a Gigai."
"Is there anything else?"
Chōjirō Sasakibe nodded gently: "Yes, Captain-Commander."
Next, he slowly recounted several incidents, hoping Yoriichi Tsugikuni would make a decision.
The reason they weren't recorded in writing was primarily because they were personal matters.
Among them, there were the most matters concerning Zaraki Kenpachi, either challenges or sparring sessions.
Although Chōjirō Sasakibe knew that Yoriichi Tsugikuni might not agree, he still carefully recorded them.
What if Yoriichi was interested? As a Vice-Captain, he couldn't overstep his authority.
In response, Yoriichi naturally refused.
Zaraki Kenpachi was already strong enough; simple combat could no longer make him stronger. From now on, he could only rely on his own comprehension.
After dealing with these matters, a seemingly trivial detail caught Yoriichi's particular attention.
Due to the passage of time, some of the former Demon Slayer Corps members had reincarnated or transmigrated.
After some of them became Shinigami, they chose to guard the underworld in that world.
It was precisely because of this that, through their observations, they discovered that the technology in that world had made a leap forward.
In just a few decades, it had transitioned from the electrical age to the information age.
A few decades, how short a time.
One must know that the Human World in this world had not seen any significant technological advancements for several centuries.
If technology was interconnected.
Then, did it mean that, in the future…
Shinigami could promote the technological advancement of the Human World by studying the technology of that world?
This was undoubtedly a very creative idea, and from the current situation, it seemed to have the potential to be realized.
Because up until now, before the information age, the development trajectories of the electrical age in both worlds had been identical.
It was just that the duration of their development differed.
"Chojiro, pay close attention to this matter."
Yoriichi Tsugikuni said with a solemn expression, earnestly instructing Chōjirō Sasakibe,
"If you find that their technological level surpasses that of the Human World, be sure to bring back some samples."
"Considering that the fundamental particles composing the two worlds are different…"
Yoriichi suddenly recalled the mysterious disappearance of his straw hat back then.
He frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and continued: "Leave this matter to Kisuke Urahara."
"He's quick-witted; he should be able to perfectly replicate the technology from that side."
"Yes." Chōjirō Sasakibe responded solemnly.
As an experienced "elder," he naturally understood Yoriichi's thoughts.
It was currently unclear whether such rapid scientific development was due to the short lifespan of their species, but regardless, this matter could not be ignored.
What if one day their technology developed to the point where they could detect the underworld…
Chōjirō Sasakibe didn't believe that humans would remain complacent and ignore it.
Protective measures must be taken to prevent war and harm to the innocent.
He turned and quickly left, informing Kisuke Urahara of the matter immediately.
Afterward, he also notified some of the Shinigami guarding the underworld to continue to maintain close vigilance in the days to come.
Currently, the Demon Slayer Corps world is roughly in the 1980s.
Because there were no wars, its technological level was much stronger compared to other worlds in the same 1980s.
Even computers had long been popularized.
Although the Soul Society also had computers, they were all large terminals, bulky and complex to operate.
Upon hearing that the other world used convenient and compact personal computers, Kisuke Urahara immediately became interested.
He immediately put down his work and prepared to go there, attempting to develop personal computers for Shinigami.
He could already imagine the bright future this item could create.
In terms of work, although there were Hell Butterflies, during leisure time, everyone lacked a convenient tool for information exchange.
If he could integrate a series of functions like transactions, communication, and entertainment, and add some other practical features.
Then… the living standards of Shinigami would undoubtedly be greatly improved, and the entire Seireitei would benefit from it.
Yoriichi Tsugikuni knew Kisuke Urahara's abilities and enthusiasm, so he let him proceed.
Not long after this matter, another relatively special incident occurred in the Human World.
A Fullbringer was suspected of having the ability to steal the power of other Fullbringers by killing them.
The incident occurred in Naruki City, and a large number of Fullbringers had unfortunately been killed by him.
To be on the safe side and prevent the situation from escalating further, Yoriichi Tsugikuni decided to dispatch Shiba Isshin to handle the matter.
Shiba Isshin had lived in Naruki City for six years and was well-acquainted with the environment there.
Actually, Yoriichi originally wanted to handle it himself, but unfortunately, as Captain-Commander, he could no longer act as freely as before.
At the same time, Matsumoto Rangiku's wedding was approaching, and if the opponent detected danger and hid, he would undoubtedly miss the wedding.
There was no other way; after weighing the options, he could only assign this task to Shiba Isshin.
For a Fullbringer, anyone could go.
Thus, a week after Shiba Isshin left, Matsumoto Rangiku's wedding officially began.
…
At the wedding venue, flowers bloomed, and laughter filled the air.
"Congratulations, Rangiku. After so many years with Ichimaru Gin, enduring trials and tribulations, you've finally achieved a happy ending."
Yoriichi Tsugikuni said with a relieved smile, sincerely wishing them well, "Have you found a place for your marital home?"
Earlier, Yoriichi wanted to give them one, but Rangiku refused, saying she already felt very indebted for Yoriichi's many years of care.
She hadn't changed her name or joined the Tsugikuni Clan, being only Yoriichi's nominal younger sister, so she naturally couldn't accept such a valuable gift.
To Yoriichi, a property might be insignificant, but Rangiku still wanted to acquire it through her and Gin's own efforts.
At this moment, Rangiku smiled and nodded:
"Don't worry, Brother."
"Gin and I have worked for so many years and have accumulated some savings, so the marital home is not a problem."
"Thank you for your concern and care; I can never repay your great kindness."
"If Gin and I have children later, we will definitely let them become Shinigami to serve you."
"There's no need for that." Yoriichi shook his head, refusing. Becoming a Shinigami should still depend on personal will.
If the other party didn't want to become a Shinigami, Yoriichi wouldn't force them.
Saying this, he took out a yellow paper bag from his person and handed it to Rangiku:
"I don't need your repayment; after all, you and Gin have had a tough time."
"The first few decades were spent roughing it, and the latter few decades were spent undercover."
"Although you said you didn't want those things before, in my opinion, material possessions are the foundation of a happy life."
"It's certainly possible to live happily without material possessions, but that's ultimately a very small minority."
At this point, Yoriichi paused, seemingly to give Matsumoto Rangiku time to react.
After she took the paper bag, Yoriichi looked at her and continued:
"Haven't you always liked beauty and fitness? You even bought many beauty cards for it."
"As your brother, I naturally can't give you nothing for your wedding."
"Here are the deeds to several beauty salons in the Seireitei; I've already acquired all of them."
"Now, they are all yours."
!
Upon hearing this, Matsumoto Rangiku stared at the paper bag in her hand, stunned for a long time.
She slightly widened her eyes, her face full of disbelief.
—What?
Deeds?
Are these deeds inside?
Matsumoto Rangiku felt her thoughts couldn't keep up, suspecting if there was something wrong with her ears.
But when she slowly raised her head and her gaze met Yoriichi's calm and gently smiling expression, she knew that all of this was real.
For a moment, various emotions surged like a tide in her heart, and her mood instantly became extremely complicated.
She subconsciously kneaded the corner of the paper bag, her fingers rubbing against its rough edge, trying to calm herself down.
Then, she took a deep breath, her chest rising and falling slightly, and said with a hint of hesitation:
"Um… Brother, isn't this too extravagant?"
"Although I know you want Gin and me to live better, there's no need to buy a beauty salon, right?"
"Normally, a few membership cards would be enough… How many Rings did these cost you?"
Matsumoto Rangiku felt very apologetic.
One must know, beauty salons are different from other shops; they sell youth, and their potential value is extremely high.
Although Shinigami have long lifespans, they will eventually age, and for female Shinigami, nothing is more important than maintenance.
Just like Retsu Unohana, her perfect figure and youthful appearance made countless female Shinigami envious.
Who wouldn't want to be as radiant as a blooming flower even at over a thousand years old? Matsumoto Rangiku was no exception.
The amount she spent on maintenance each year accounted for half of her salary.
If a young Shinigami was like this, what about other Shinigami?
It's no exaggeration to say that, under the influence of the general environment, beauty salons are arguably the most profitable industry in Seireitei, if not the most.
Well-managed shops can easily make over a hundred million in profit annually.
However, Yoriichi actually gave away such "money-making machines" all at once, and he gave away several of them.
Anyone would be confused by such an act, their mind a tangled mess.
After the confusion, naturally came embarrassment, because Matsumoto Rangiku clearly knew that she was incapable of managing these shops.
Yoriichi seemed to have noticed Matsumoto Rangiku's worries; he nodded gently, his eyes full of warmth and understanding:
"There's no need to talk about money; some things cannot be measured by money. Extravagant? Actually, no."
"You are also one of my family, aren't you? After all, you still call me Brother."
"This is not just a wedding gift for you, but also the starting capital for you and Ichimaru Gin to build your own small family."
Yoriichi paused, looking at her with a hint of deeper meaning,
"Rangiku, you think it's extravagant. Are you treating me as an outsider?"
"Of course not!" Matsumoto Rangiku quickly denied, like a cat whose tail had been stepped on,
"I just feel that all of this is too sudden."
"After all, I clearly haven't done anything for you, Brother, and instead, I've been taken care of by you everywhere."
"Now, you've given me these valuable properties…"
Her voice gradually became softer, as if these words were difficult for her to utter.
Soon after, she looked up, Rangiku mustered her courage, seemingly having made some kind of decision,
"I truly feel unworthy."
Saying that, she slightly tightened her hand, and solemnly handed the paper bag back,
"I'm very sorry, Brother, I appreciate your kindness, but please keep these deeds."
"Actually, even without these, Gin and I can still live very happily."
Seeing Matsumoto Rangiku's firm attitude, Yoriichi couldn't help but sigh, feeling that she had truly grown up.
Not just in terms of age, but her mindset had also gradually matured.
If it were the old her, she would have accepted everything without hesitation, as she had no strong opinions back then. Now, it was different.
Yoriichi didn't insist, only sighed softly, took back the paper bag, and nodded:
"Since that's the case, then fine. However, this is your wedding after all."
"If you feel the gift is too valuable and you're unworthy, then surely you can accept the annual profit dividends, right?"
"It can also be a safeguard for your and Gin's family, so you don't lack money to deal with unexpected situations."
Upon hearing this, Matsumoto Rangiku felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted from her heart; her entire being relaxed, and a brilliant smile appeared on her face:
"If it's like that, then there's no problem."
"Thank you for the gift, Brother. I'm very satisfied, and I believe Gin will be satisfied too."
"The wedding is about to begin. Please take your seat now!"
She bowed slightly and made a gesture to invite him.
Yoriichi followed Matsumoto Rangiku to the seating area.
As the brother, he was equivalent to the "father" figure at this wedding. The subsequent procedures were almost identical to Hisana's wedding.
The wedding began with Matsumoto Rangiku and Ichimaru Gin drinking the nuptial cup, followed by both sets of parents giving speeches on stage, their words full of blessings and expectations for the newlyweds.
Before long, the wedding gradually concluded amidst the guests' clamor. This time, no incidents occurred, perhaps because the couple's status wasn't particularly significant.
Everything proceeded in an orderly manner.
Yoriichi was quite satisfied. By the time he left the wedding venue, the sun was already setting.
The blood-red afterglow dyed the sky orange-red, and the lingering light scattered across the land, as if covering the world with a golden veil.
Uta followed beside him. Yoriichi turned his head and saw that Uta's face was filled with sadness and emotion.
Her eyes were also a bit hazy, as if her thoughts had drifted far away.
Yoriichi was about to ask what was wrong when Uta suddenly spoke:
"Yoriichi, when Ai gets married in the future, will we be as open-minded as we are today?"
"Come to think of it, she's not young anymore this year."
"If we go by Shinigami age, meeting someone she likes at one hundred and marrying at one hundred and fifty, then there are only a few decades left until that day."
"However, at that time, we will only be one or two hundred years old. How many children will we see get married before we reach the end of our lives?"
This question piqued Yoriichi's interest.
He tilted his head slightly, looking at the sky dyed orange-red by the setting sun, pondered for a moment, and was about to answer.
Uta suddenly stopped, turned her head, seemingly about to discuss something serious, and her expression became somewhat stern:
"Yoriichi, at the wedding just now, I already heard from Yoruichi."
"You plan to set up Shiro and Ai, is that true?"
It was the first time Yoriichi had seen Uta so serious, and he wondered if she was angry.
Just as he was about to explain, a smile bloomed on Uta's face again, slightly dispelling the previous serious atmosphere:
"Don't worry, I'm not angry, I just find it strange."
"I remember you never cared about power, so why did you agree to Yoruichi so readily?"
Hearing this, Yoriichi finally understood the reason for Uta's question.
He clasped his hands in his sleeves, paused his steps, and replied:
"There's no special reason, it's just that Byakuya's example is right in front of us."
"They are still young now; if they're not suitable, they can separate."
"Yoruichi is taking good care of us right now, so we can't just refuse her directly."
"I will keep a close eye on it. If you don't trust others, don't you trust me?"
"Of course I trust you, but, have you told Ai about this?"
Uta asked.
This was a crucial question. If he hadn't, Uta could already imagine Ai throwing a tantrum.
Fortunately, some matters kept Ai from attending today, otherwise, if she had seen Yoruichi and Shiro at the wedding, who knows what kind of scene she would have caused.
Yoriichi was silent, and after a moment, he responded:
"I haven't told her yet, and there's no need to tell her. Just go with the first impression."
"If I tell her, she'll definitely think I, as her father, am meddling too much."
Yoriichi walked on, turning his head sideways,
"Uta, you haven't told her about this, have you?"
Uta, of course, hadn't told her, because she didn't want to become a "leaker" either.
But this concerned her daughter's important life event, and she couldn't calm down no matter what.
At this moment, hearing Yoriichi's reply, she sighed slightly in relief and nodded:
"Don't worry, my lips are sealed. It's good that you already have a plan."
"That child Shiro looks so gentle and weak. Can he really get along well with Ai?"
Yoriichi had initially considered this question, but then he dismissed it.
To put it bluntly, the reason why enemies to lovers are enemies to lovers is because one partner, either the female or the male, is somewhat more assertive.
This kind of assertiveness, which doesn't carry any meaning of bullying, can leave a deeper impression on both parties.
Complementary personalities stem from this, taking advantage of each other's strengths and weaknesses, and gradually, the relationship will become closer.
Thinking of this, Yoriichi sighed softly:
"Who knows? Anyway, time will tell us everything."
"At least, before Ai grows up, we don't need to worry about this."
"If you're worried, perhaps you can go to the Shihōin Clan and observe that child Shiro."
He turned his head, his gaze carrying a hint of encouragement,
"I believe Yoruichi will be happy too. After all, a marriage approved by both sets of parents is more perfect."
Uta thought that made sense, but upon closer consideration, it seemed too early to go now.
Even if there was a hurry, it shouldn't be her who was in a hurry. Yoruichi should be more anxious, after all, she was the one who first proposed the marriage alliance.
There was still a long road ahead… It was better to enjoy this rare time alone with Yoriichi first.
It was rare for Ai not to be around.
Thinking of this, a relaxed smile appeared on Uta's face.
She subconsciously took Yoriichi's arm and slowly leaned closer to him.
Her mood also lightened somewhat as her doubts were resolved.
…
In the Human World.
"Ugh, this is such a hassle." Shiba Isshin couldn't help but complain under his breath.
In stark contrast to Yoriichi's leisurely comfort, he was currently filled with a headache.
That guy who wielded X-cution was simply a master of "hide-and-seek."
Perhaps knowing that his hands were stained with too much blood, he not only evaded the Shinigami's pursuit but also guarded against the police.
His anti-reconnaissance abilities were truly top-notch.
Seven days had passed, and he still hadn't been caught.
Just as Shiba Isshin sat in his chair, frowning with worry, a soft "clang" suddenly sounded in front of him.
Kurosaki Masaki held a drink with a straw in her hand, the ice cubes in the cup gently clinking with her movements.
She tilted her head slightly, a gentle smile on her face, and couldn't help but ask Shiba Isshin:
"Shiba-sensei, you look like you have a headache."
"It's quite a coincidence, I just went out to buy some clothes, and I didn't expect to run into you so coincidentally."
She paused, her eyes showing concern,
"If you have any problems you can't solve, why don't you tell me? Maybe I can help you."
"Is it a mission assigned by the Soul Society?"