Chapter 23: A Bowl of Ramen
A massive fireball erupted from Aizen's mouth. The wave of heat washed over them, causing the air temperature to spike instantly.
"He actually learned it..."
Kurenai stared, dumbfounded, at the majestic fireball, her delicate hand covering her slightly parted lips in surprise. She had only suggested it on a whim, a mere attempt. She never expected Aizen to not only grasp it without a teacher but to perform the Great Fireball Technique flawlessly on his first try.
What did this mean?
It meant Aizen was not only a genius in genjutsu but also possessed both Lightning and Fire nature chakra. This kind of heaven-defying talent was one in a million.
"Aizen's talent is even more terrifying than I imagined," Kurenai thought. The word "genius" solidified in her mind. Konoha had seen many prodigies—the Legendary Sannin, Uchiha Itachi, Hatake Kakashi—but Aizen's innate gifts were in no way inferior.
"That's too strong, Aizen! Did you really just memorize it? You mastered the hand seals after just one look?" Kiba yelled, his voice a mix of sheer shock and awe.
Aburame Shino didn't speak, but his gaze, fixed on Aizen, was profound. From this moment on, Aizen had carved an indelible mark in his mind.
"That's amazing, Aizen. Really amazing," Hinata whispered from the side, peeking at him shyly, genuinely happy for him. Yet, the memory of him accidentally falling on her flashed in her mind, causing her face to flush with a deep, embarrassed red.
"It's nothing, really. Just a fluke," Aizen said, scratching his head with a slightly shy demeanor. "Besides, this is just a common Fire Release ninjutsu." Despite his astounding performance, his face maintained its humble and gentle smile. This low-key attitude only increased Kurenai's admiration for him.
She suddenly felt that Aizen was her greatest find among all the students. Not only was he talented, but his personality was humble and kind, and he was keen on teamwork. This kind of mentality was truly commendable in a genius.
"Alright, you've all worked hard these past few days," Kurenai said, her beautiful eyes full of affection. "Let's call it a day and head back to rest early. We'll meet here again in three days. At that time, I will teach you the most basic Body Flicker Technique."
Looking at this group of vibrant students, she couldn't help but feel how precious youth truly was.
After the team disbanded, Aizen walked alone on the path back to his residence.
He recalled the Great Fireball Technique, a disdainful smile touching the corner of his mouth. In his opinion, such a mediocre ninjutsu was practically useless; its power couldn't even compare to a mid-level Kidō spell. For Aizen, who had once been capable of casting level 90 Kidō without an incantation, he still looked down on these low-level techniques.
"By displaying such 'powerful' talent, I've finally secured Kurenai's trust," Aizen smiled knowingly, his eyes filled with the confidence of one who had everything under control.
The plan was progressing exactly as he had envisioned. After these days of careful acting, he had successfully implanted the image of a humble, low-key, and kind-hearted boy in everyone's minds.
But this was only the first step. Next, he would continue to display unparalleled talent, but never reveal his full strength. This way, Konoha would cultivate him without growing suspicious.
Aizen's fingers brushed over the hilt of Kyōka Suigetsu at his waist. "When will it be your turn to make an appearance?" he murmured. "I look forward to that day."
He had not drawn his Zanpakutō for a long time, biding his time. He was waiting for the perfect opportunity—an opportunity for everyone in Konoha to witness its Shikai release.
A former emperor who had stood atop the heavens, how could Aizen ever be content with being trapped in a place like Konoha? When the time was right, Kyōka Suigetsu would make its grand debut!
Just as Aizen was lost in these thoughts, a voice as soft as a silver bell, timid and shy, called out from behind him.
He turned to see Hinata standing a short distance away, her face flushed. She bowed her head shyly, her small hands clenched tightly together. It was clear her heart was pounding with nervousness.
"A-Aizen-kun... would you... would you like me to buy you a bowl of ramen?"