Three months had passed since the battle with Guiganjo.
As the seasons turned, autumn gave way to winter.
Old Spring Festival had just ended.
Still carrying the lingering scent of fireworks, Arima Shizuya stood with his back against the outer wall of the True Spiritual Arts Academy, constantly rubbing his hands together and breathing warm air into them.
Winter in the Soul Society was equally harsh. The biting wind cut like knives, and after winter arrived, it was often impossible to see the sun.
"Achoo!"
Arima Shizuya rubbed his face, only to discover that even his nose was starting to stiffen.
This was ridiculous.
"Ah! Sorry to keep you waiting..."
Kotetsu Isane's voice came from behind him. Turning halfway around, he saw her leaning against the wall and panting, wisps of short hair stuck to her forehead, her expression slightly weary.
"It's fine. I just got here too."
Though he had already waited for half an hour, Arima Shizuya had no complaints.
After all, Kotetsu Isane had clearly put on makeup before leaving.
Considering she usually went barefaced, her appearance today was exceptionally refined.
"Um..."
Wrapped in a scarf, Kotetsu Isane awkwardly turned her head away.
"Does it... look strange?"
Before leaving, Kiyone had dragged her off to redo her makeup.
She had also added perfume and foundation—though really, could something so sticky on her face actually look good?
Her skin did look a little paler. Kiyone said it would make her face as smooth and tender as an egg, but it still felt strangely unnatural.
She had thought she would only fuss with such things when wearing a Shiromuku.
It just felt...
Like she no longer looked like herself.
If gazes had warmth, Kotetsu Isane felt as though she would melt under his right now.
*Ugh... stop staring at