"Hamato-san, it's nice to meet you," Rukia replies immediately, bowing her head. Although Raphael hasn't yet offered much information about himself or his background, there's a certain straightforwardness in his character that Rukia appreciates. Focusing on what's directly at hand helps to distance herself from the unease — a little trick she picked up from Ichigo.

With a quick exhale, Rukia lifts her chin and grins. "Anything you've been working on? I might look small, but I can carry more than my fair share."