In the days that followed, Kurotsuki Renya assumed responsibility for negotiating the contracts with Shiba Kūkaku, overseeing the setup of her newly established factory.
The factory operated on a modest assembly-line structure, divided into smaller groups. The formula for the bombs' spiritual powder mixture remained exclusively in Kūkaku's care—she personally handled its production to prevent leakage of secrets.
The facility wasn't overly large. Each batch produced was sufficient to supply the Stealth Force during training sessions, though their missions rarely called for aggressive bombardment. Even so, the factory provided steady employment to a handful of Rukongai residents. Only twenty were hired, but Kūkaku carefully chose from impoverished families, ensuring one income could support entire households. In this way, her project indirectly relieved the struggles of many more.
Renya approved wholeheartedly. Having grown up in the chaos of Rukongai's outer districts, he understood the pain of poverty firsthand. To see others lifted from it filled him with genuine satisfaction.
The bombs were now officially in use by the 2nd Division, and even several captains of the Gotei 13 had expressed interest in their tactical applications.
"You've done good work," Soi Fon remarked one day after training. Her uniform clung to her with sweat—the heat of summer weighed heavily on Soul Society.
Renya grinned. "Then… is there any reward from Captain Soi Fon?"
Soi Fon picked up a towel, dabbing her forehead, and arched an eyebrow. "And what reward would you dare ask for?"
Renya hesitated briefly, then said with an almost shy smile, "I'd like to invite Captain… to the Summer Festival."
Soi Fon paused. "The festival? You mean that new event modeled after the Human World's celebrations? I've heard many Shinigami stationed in the Living World have taken to it."
Renya nodded eagerly. "Yes. It's starting in about a month. I was hoping you'd go with me."
But Soi Fon frowned. "…The Women's Soul Reaper Association already planned to attend together."
At that, Renya's smile faltered. "…I see. In that case, forget it."
Soi Fon glanced at him sidelong. His expression was tinged with disappointment, and despite herself, her stern exterior softened. He had worked tirelessly, training with her every day, managing projects for the division, even supporting Rukongai's poor. She sighed quietly. "…You have done much lately. If it is your wish, then… I will accompany you."
Renya's eyes brightened. "Really? That's wonderful! I even had a yukata tailored for you. It should arrive soon."
Soi Fon blinked, frowning. "A yukata? Isn't that just casual clothing worn after bathing? Why would I need such a thing? And why have it made specially?"
Renya laughed softly. "It's similar to a kimono, but lighter, with brighter patterns. In the Human World, it's considered essential for summer festivals. You'll look incredible in it."
Soi Fon narrowed her eyes. "So you ordered one already… Meaning I have no say?"
Renya chuckled. "I knew Captain wouldn't reject me."
"Bold words," she muttered, fixing him with a dangerous glare. "Tell me—did you at least get my size right?"
Renya nodded without hesitation. "Of course. Captain Soi Fon is 1.5 meters tall, weight around—"
Smack!
Her hand cracked against his head before he could finish.
"I've trained with you for years," Renya said quickly, rubbing the sore spot. "I know your height, shoulder length, waist, hips, everything. It's not strange for me to know, right?"
At that, a faint, reluctant smile tugged at Soi Fon's lips. She didn't often show it, but their long years of training had bred familiarity few others shared with her.
"…Bust and hips, though?" she muttered irritably, then shook her head. "Fine. I'll wear the yukata."
Renya pressed his palms together, brimming with excitement. "Then, just one more request."
"Don't push your luck," Soi Fon warned.
Renya pleaded, "Please—it's small."
She exhaled sharply. "…Speak."
"Change your hairstyle."
That caught her off guard. "My… hairstyle? Why should I?"
Renya smiled warmly. "Captain, your braids swing around in battle. They loosen, they get in the way, and honestly…" He hesitated. "They don't suit you. You deserve something sharper. Stronger."
Soi Fon touched her braids, frowning. "I don't care for appearances."
"But this isn't just about looks," Renya pressed. "It's about leaving behind the past. You've worn this style for decades. Maybe it's time to let go… to move forward."
His words stirred something in her chest. She thought of her past—the devotion she had given, the betrayal that had followed, the years of clinging to unshakable pain. Forgetting had never been an option. And yet…
"…Perhaps," she murmured. "Perhaps it is time. But what style would I change to?"
Renya's grin widened. "I've already designed one. I'll have a stylist take care of it. I promise—it will suit you perfectly."
Soi Fon gave a small nod. "Fine. I'll trust you."
Renya clenched his fists in triumph. Two goals accomplished: taking her to the festival, and giving her a new hairstyle. Only one remained.
Soi Fon caught him grinning to himself and immediately slapped him on the forehead again. "Stop smirking like an idiot!"
⸻
A month later, the day of the Summer Festival arrived.
Renya stood outside Soi Fon's quarters, knocking softly. "Captain, are you ready?"
"…Yes," came a quiet reply. The voice was uncharacteristically soft, tinged with shyness.
The door slid open—and Renya's breath caught.
Soi Fon stood before him in a white yukata patterned with lavender designs. More striking still was her hair. The stylist had followed Renya's design: shorter, swept back on one side while the other fell diagonally, leaving her face unobstructed. It was the same look she had briefly worn in battle against Yoruichi—when lightning had blown her hair loose, revealing her sharp, beautiful features.
Renya stared, stunned. "Captain… you're beautiful."
Soi Fon flushed, scowling lightly to cover her embarrassment. "This is foolish. I should stay. If others see me like this, it will only be humiliating."
Renya shook his head. "No. I've prepared for this for a long time. Please—come with me."
She hesitated, recalling the mirror's reflection earlier. For once, she hadn't looked like the commander weighed down by shadows. She had looked… free. "…Very well. But only this once."
She stepped forward, but the unfamiliar yukata restricted her stride. Misjudging her step, she nearly stumbled over the threshold—only for Renya to catch her in his arms.
"Captain," he said gently, helping her upright, "just for tonight, live like an ordinary soul. No stealth force commander, no captain—just enjoy the festival."
Soi Fon lowered her gaze slightly. "…I'll remember."
Renya grinned. "Then let's go."
"Release me," she snapped, though her voice lacked its usual bite.
Renya laughed nervously. "Can't I hold your hand? What if you trip again?"
"I said let go," she insisted, cheeks faintly pink.
"…Alright." He obeyed, though in his heart he hoped that by night's end, she would willingly let him hold it again.
Soi Fon walked forward in careful, practiced steps. After a moment, she glanced back. "Keep up."
"Yes, Captain." Renya jogged to her side, the two of them setting off together toward the bright lights in the distance.
The first Summer Festival of Seireitei had begun.