Chapter 1: Summer Festival Preparations Begin

To thank everyone for their exceptional efforts in the past series of battles, I have decided to host a summer festival in the Seireitei.

Each of the 13 Court Guard Squads will take part and all will be responsible for making this an enjoyable event.

That's the message I've received from the Head Captain.

I will entrust the details of how you wish to participate to each squad.

However, I do want to request Squad 12 to prepare a grand finale for the festival.

You're asking us to waste our time on making a stupid show? That's nothing but trouble.

Perhaps you misunderstand what our research is all about.

Well, he did say he was going to entrust the details to each of the squads.

Think of this as a chance to show off your squad's capabilities. Why not try and surprise us with your show?

Hmph. Well, I suppose you make a point.

As you said, though, the details are up to us.

Squad 2 will have a shooting range, and Squad 7 is still deciding.

We're set on having a shaved ice booth, right? With you and Hyorinmaru, we can make all the ice for free!

Seriously, who do you think we are?

Oh? Then what else can you do that is fitting for a festival?

I can't come up with anything off the top of my head right now, but...

Then, shaved ice it is! Now, we just have to decide on our menu.

I have an idea, Rangiku. I saw it in a magazine the other day.

Rangiku!

So Squad 10's serving shaved ice, huh? That's one of those necessities at a summer festival. It gives it that summery feel.

Yeah, we need to get back to our squads and come up with a good idea too.

So, what's Squad 9 planning to do at this festival thing?

There's only one thing I have in mind, and that's to make a special summer issue of the Seireitei Bulletin!

That again?! Is that all you can do?

Don't complain! It's an important ongoing mission that Squad 9 is responsible for. Now, come on. Let's go do some interviews.

And that's why you've come to Squad 4?

I'll cut right to the chase. Can you tell me what Squad 4 plans to do for the festival?

Depending on what it is, I was hoping to write an article on how you're going to prepare.

Squad 4 will have a special flower arrangement class. Students will be able to enjoy the summer flowers to cool down their minds, and if they wish, they can take their arrangements home.

We were just about to start a practice session with our squad members. Would you like to join?

Usually, I only hold these classes for women, but I expect men would like to participate in our class during the festival, so it'd be very helpful if you can give us your insights.

It would be a great help for me too! I would love to join!

So, why do I have to do this too?

This is part of the interview. Of course you're gonna join me.

I'm asking why I need to help you do your job! Want me to reap your life, huh?!

Quiet, please.

You must calm your mind and face your inner self in order to make a good flower arrangement.

Uh... Sure...

Hmm... Maybe one over here?

I think it might look better over here.

Hiyah!

Heyyyy! I was still trying to decide on the better spot!

Oh, you were? I'm so sorry! I'm truly sorry!

I-It's okay! I'm sorry for yelling too.

I promise I'll do the next one right. That flower will go...

...right over here.

Ow!!!

Ahhhh! I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!

Hey, you! Be careful with what you're doing!

Oh, dear. Kazeshini, you seem to have a little extra energy pent up inside you. I'm not saying that's a bad thing, but...

...perhaps we should have a little chat over there.

Why am I the one getting in trouble?

Hey, you're still outside? I'm done with my interview. We can go home now.

Yeah? Well, good for you! I'm never coming back here ever again!

I have to put this together in an article as soon as I can. Female squad members pay a lot of attention to this flower arrangement class, so I'll feature this in the special issue!

Does this even have anything to do with the summer festival anymore?