Masatsuki Aozaki frowned, puzzled. "So, what does that have to do with you not wearing any clothes?"
A blush crept onto Senjumaru Shutara's face as she stammered, "I-idiot... To learn weaving techniques, you must first understand the human body—things like waist and bust measurements, and other dimensions."
Although her head was lowered, hiding her expression, her tone and posture exuded charm.
Masatsuki scratched his head, thinking the reason was rather odd. But since Senjumaru had said so, he didn't argue; after all, these measurements were necessary. He gently cupped her face, observing her from the corner of his eye.
Facing this senior who had come to him willingly, Masatsuki wasn't about to act bashful. He observed her closely: though slender, she had curves in all the right places, with high, firm breasts, long legs, and a shy, girlish expression. She was, in a word, perfect.
He couldn't help but admire her silently. Truly, he had an eye for beauty!
Senjumaru cautiously asked, "Is there... something wrong with my body?"
Masatsuki gently shook his head. "Not a single flaw; it's absolutely perfect."
Joy flickered in her eyes as she looked up with anticipation. "Could you make me a dress?"
She pressed closer, her warm breath mingling with his, creating a wave of heat. Masatsuki had long understood her intentions but chose to stand still, slowly extending his arms to gently embrace her slender waist. Looking down, he could see her alabaster skin and the enticing cleavage, accompanied by a delicate fragrance.
However, recalling how she'd retreated at critical moments before, he wondered if she was truly ready this time. He hoped she wouldn't back out halfway; he was even a bit expectant.
At this point, the situation was clear—there was no turning back for either of them. As a straightforward man, he wasn't afraid to face such passionate feelings.
Lost in thought, he didn't notice when her Shihakushō slipped to the ground, leaving them both bare, facing each other without reservation. He gazed into her eyes, which held both clarity and confusion, and took a deep breath.
"What kind of attire would you like?"
Senjumaru continued to look at him quietly, her bashful gaze retaining a hint of rationality. Softly, she said, "I want a wedding dress. Can you make it?"
As her beautiful eyes slowly closed, a powerful spiritual energy surged through the room, enveloping the entire space. This energy, like turbulent waves, left Masatsuki deeply moved. At that moment, he finally understood Senjumaru's true feelings, and an indescribable mix of emotion and joy welled up within him.
...
In the early morning, Retsu Unohana stepped out of her room, feeling cheerful and relaxed, as if she had returned to her younger days.
She had had a long talk with her best friend last night and felt a great sense of satisfaction and relief.
Kirio Hikifune, that silly girl, had gotten so excited that she drank herself into a stupor.
Now, it was up to Hisana to look after her.
But perhaps it was for the best, as it would keep that little fool from overthinking matters concerning Senjumaru Shutara.
As the eldest among the Aozaki family matriarchs, Retsu managed household affairs with impeccable order, ensuring everything was perfect.
After Kirio Hikifune had passed out, she and her sisters delved into conversations only they could share, discussing topics like the family head's future plans.
Some of the sisters nearly came to blows over these discussions, but fortunately, Retsu was there to mediate and prevent any quarrels.
Stepping out with a refreshed smile, she pondered the one troubling matter:
"Where has Masatsuki gone?"
She inquired with Hisana and the household maids, but none knew his whereabouts.
Hmph, she had intended to reward the hardworking family head—and herself as well!
This was certainly not an act of indulgence!
After all, for the Aozaki family, expanding the lineage was of utmost importance!
As the head matron, it was naturally her duty to oversee this matter.
With these thoughts, a slight frustration welled up within Retsu Unohana.
Determined, she decided to visit Senjumaru Shutara's quarters.
Not long ago, Kirio Hikifune had last seen Masatsuki Aozaki with Senjumaru Shutara.
Reflecting on this, Retsu surmised that the two young individuals might still be sleeping in.
However, before she had ventured far, she unexpectedly spotted Senjumaru Shutara walking unsteadily along the path, her demeanor appearing dazed and disoriented.
"Senjumaru, what are you doing?"
A gentle, soothing voice reached her ears, prompting the senior sister to slowly turn her head.
She looked extremely strange—at first appearing slightly embarrassed, but then her expression turned despondent.
Observing this, Retsu Unohana seemed to grasp the situation, a look of realization dawning on her face.
She tenderly took Senjumaru Shutara's delicate hand, nodding gently, and spoke like an understanding elder sister:
"Don't worry; everyone's first experience is like this. So, where is Masatsuki now?"
"Masatsuki? Hmph, that scoundrel indulged himself and then vanished without a trace. He mentioned going to the World of the Living. What an outrageous man!"
Senjumaru Shutara stamped her foot in frustration, her heart filled with indignation, yearning to vent her dissatisfaction.
However, mindful of the grace and composure befitting her esteemed status, she restrained her impulse and reluctantly abandoned the thought.
Retsu Unohana gazed at her in astonishment, evidently surprised by the turn of events.
In her impression, the young man named Masatsuki had always been a clingy sort, eager to spend every moment with his sisters.
How could he suddenly abandon this beautiful woman and venture alone to the World of the Living?
Yet, witnessing her old friend's current displeasure, an inexplicable sense of delight arose within Retsu.
Feigning composure, she offered a slight smile and gently inquired:
"Did he only mention going to the World of the Living? Did he say anything else?"
"Well... he mentioned something about an entrance exam. What is that?"
Senjumaru Shutara furrowed her brows, growing increasingly vexed as she pondered, her tone laced with resentment.
Upon hearing this, Retsu Unohana's mind swiftly conjured a name—Masaki Kurosaki—the girl Masatsuki Aozaki had previously mentioned.
Could it be that Masatsuki had hurried to the World of the Living for this so-called "entrance exam" related to that woman?
The more she considered it, the more plausible it seemed.
The World of the Living, still attending school.
Retsu Unohana could think of only that girl.
She had heard that the child born to that girl would become the savior.
Of course, she didn't believe it, dismissing it as nonsense Masatsuki Aozaki used to deceive young girls.
"But to treat a new sister this way is truly too much; he must be properly punished."
Upon hearing this, Senjumaru Shutara was even more perplexed.
...
(40 Chapters Ahead)
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