Bleach: Threads of Destiny

Drop Some power stones! If you like the chapter! It helps to keep me motivated to upload more!💎💎💎 

------

Since Aaron's Reiatsu had reached the level of a Lieutenant, he rarely participated in Hollow-slaying activities.

On most days, aside from mandatory Kidō lessons, he would remain in his dormitory, utilizing his "Omniscience and Omnipotence" ability to refine his skills and knowledge.

Half a year ago, when the academy term began, Aaron accepted a challenge from Unohana Retsu. Their duel ended in a draw, an outcome that shocked many. Since then, Unohana had rarely appeared at the Shin'ō Academy, seemingly preoccupied with other pursuits.

Rumors circulated about her being trained by a mysterious mentor or engaging in fierce battles in Rukongai. With no consistent challenger like her to test his abilities, Aaron found his life at the academy relatively peaceful, spending most of his time honing his talents.

When boredom struck, he would occasionally visit Ōetsu Nimaiya, the "Sword God," at the Phoenix Palace. However, Nimaiya's incessant chatter often left him exasperated. During one such visit, Aaron overheard that Unohana was learning Kaidō techniques from Tenjirō Kirinji, a revelation that aligned with the events of the Bleach novels. Reflecting on this, Aaron couldn't help but marvel at the mysterious forces shaping their lives.

Having completed all six years of coursework in a condensed period, Aaron submitted an application for early graduation.

Although his class belonged to the general curriculum with fewer resources compared to the elite tracks, no one doubted his strength after the legendary enrollment battle. Since that day, the academy buzzed with tales of "the prodigious rogue" and "the genius girl."

Due to Aaron's frequent absences from class, few students saw him regularly. Unohana also maintained a low profile, leaving after each lesson. Over time, the spotlight shifted to members of the five noble clans, who had recently enrolled at the academy.

On the day of the graduation assessment, Aaron unexpectedly encountered Unohana at the examination site.

It had been half a year since their duel, and Unohana's demeanor had transformed. The hostility she once carried was gone, replaced by an aura of calm and inscrutable elegance.

Sensing his gaze, Unohana turned briefly toward Aaron before resuming her composed expression.

"Students, welcome! I am the chief examiner for this year's graduation exam," the Deputy Headmaster of Shin'ō Academy announced.

"Due to certain circumstances, the rules for this year's examination have been adjusted. Specific details are posted outside the main performance arena. All examinees and supervising instructors, please proceed to the Grand Martial Arts Arena."

A wave of murmurs rippled through the crowd as they approached the arena. When students read the posted rules, shock and disbelief were evident on their faces.

The rules of the examination were startlingly straightforward: Death Match.

While the notice specified no time limits or structured rules, it stated that the test would end when only ten participants remained.

Students who were injured or unwilling to continue could voluntarily leave the field, forfeiting the exam. Participation was entirely optional.

The crowd erupted with protests:

"What kind of rule is this? I'm not risking my life!"

"If I get injured, it won't be worth it. I'm withdrawing!"

"Is the academy insane? What if someone dies?"

Amidst the uproar, Aaron and Unohana remained composed.

Noticing the students' reactions, the Deputy Headmaster's expression darkened momentarily. Clearing his throat, he addressed the crowd:

"Silence! Let me elaborate on the rules.

Each participant will wield their Zanpakutō as their weapon. Out of 332 students registered for this exam, the final ten standing will be deemed to have passed. If you are unfit or concerned for your safety, you may withdraw now.

A stick of incense will burn to mark the start. Those who remain at that time will be considered participants. Good luck."

The ultimatum caused further panic, and a significant number of students withdrew, reducing the original group of over three hundred to just under a hundred.

Some of those remaining were determined, while others hoped to "play it safe" by avoiding direct confrontations and quitting later if necessary.

Aaron stood silently with a faint smile, curious but unconcerned about the new rules. With his strength, passing this exam would be effortless.

After a stick of incense burned down, the Deputy Headmaster announced, "Eighty-nine participants remain. Examinees, take your places and prepare your Zanpakutō. Supervising Shinigami, ensure safety protocols are in place."

As the students entered the arena, Aaron surveyed his surroundings, speculating about the academy's intentions.

Once everyone was in position, the Deputy Headmaster declared from a high platform:

"All examinees are ready. Begin the graduation exam!"

---

For early access to advanced chapters visit my P@treon:

P@treon/ Dexy3

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!