Chapter 2: Fruits of Training

Stupid Izuru... I know he's just using me as an excuse to slack off.

Huh?!

Oof!

Rukia?!

Oh... It's you, Renji!

What the hell are you doing, coming out from between the trees like that? You scared me for a second!

I was on my way to get some water from the springs, and this path happens to be a shortcut. You didn't know?

How should I know? I would never think to take such a weird shortcut, especially seeing how you were barely able to squeeze through.

Well, what are you doing here, then?

I was practicing my Kido nearby. We're taking a break, so I decided to go for a walk.

I see. If you're on a break, you should drink some water. Follow me.

So? Have you made any progress with your Kido skills?

Hell yeah! Of course I have!

You sound rather confident. I take it you're able to control your attacks so that they don't explode anymore.

Y-Yeah... Of course!

I told you I got better, didn't I? I'm a different man now. You wanna see my true power?

Hmph, all right. If you're so sure, then show me what you can do.

You're in for a surprise! Keep your eyes peeled!

Hado 4: Byakurai!

Woooah! See that, Rukia?! It hit something!

That's it?! How are you able to get so excited over such foolishness?!

Oww!

What the hell was that for?! It actually hit something! Didn't you see?

What I'm trying to say is that you shouldn't be so proud of such a half-hearted Kido attack! And to think you're in the advanced class... How pathetic!

Urg... Well, if you're able to criticize my Kido, you must be really good at it. Show me what you can do, come on!

Hmph, sure thing. Don't be too shocked now.

Hado 31: Shakkaho!

Wuh... Wow...

See that, Renji? Now do you regret trying to belittle me?

You know, you're pretty amazing. You must have top scores in your class.

Forget about me. I worry more for you. Will you really be able to pass the exam like that?

That's exactly what I'm training to do. I'm sure it'll be fine. I can't possibly come up with a bad mark after dragging those guys into helping me practice.

Speaking of which, I need to go back soon. I'm sure they're still waiting for me.

All right. Well, you take care.

Yeah, you too. Don't get stuck between those trees the next time you pass through them.

Mind your own business! Hurry up and go already.

Do your best.

Yeah. See ya later.

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