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"How did skiing feel?"

After a moment of silence, Kazehara Tetsu turned his head and asked her.

Sakayanagi Arisu looked at the sprawling ski runs in the distance and nodded.

"It was interesting, I suppose."

More interesting than she had expected.

The feeling of controlling her body, and having someone patiently teach her by her side, had both been far better than she had imagined.

Kazehara Tetsu gave a quiet "Mm" and glanced toward the ski resort entrance. A few scattered little buildings could vaguely be seen there—the small shopping street beside the slopes, selling souvenirs, food, and the like.

"How about we check out the shops nearby later? We've been skiing all morning, so it's getting a little dull. A stroll through the stores might be nice."

Repeating the same movements over and over was indeed monotonous. It was a good chance to walk around and relax during their break.

"That works. I'm getting a little tired of skiing too, so a walk would be nice."

The two fell silent again, sitting side by side and quietly enjoying their rest.

After about ten minutes, most of their fatigue had eased, and their hands and feet had warmed up again.

Kazehara Tetsu stood first, brushing the snow clinging to his pant legs before extending a hand to Sakayanagi Arisu.

"Let's go."

Sakayanagi Arisu looked up at him and placed her hand in his palm.

With a slight pull, Kazehara Tetsu helped her up from the bench.

After brushing the snow from themselves and organizing their ski poles and goggles, the two headed toward the gentle slope where the three girls were.

They had to let them know where they were going, at least, so no one would have trouble finding them later.

Before they even reached them, laughter drifted over.