Standard disclaimers apply to the fictional characters of BLEACH used in this story. They are the property of the esteemed Kubo Tite-sensei, and I have no claim over them. Please don't sue.
-.-
The night was just as lively as it was in the morning at the city. Even so, normal people were oblivious to the fight happening in the air above the small playground.
The Hollow let out a high-pitched cry before charging headfirst toward Katagiri. She felt its presence during her return trip from the corner grocery store and went immediately to the scene. Her left hand steadily held the large ornate bow as her right pulled back the spirit arrow. Not a second later, she released it directly at the cavity located on the Hollow's mask. It shrieked and evaporated into spiritual particles.
Sighing mutely, Kanae dispelled her Quincy weapon and jumped gracefully back onto the ground but taking care not to be seen. A moment of dizziness overcame her senses and she had to press a hand against the steel structure of the swing set to steady herself. At the back of her throat, she could taste the coppery tang of blood but she swallowed it forcefully. Not long after she felt his presence and then she spotted Ryuuken standing nearby. He was still in his hospital lab coat.
"Ryuuken-sama, you didn't have to worry. I have taken care of the Hollow," she told him dutifully as he walked up to her.
"You're sick again," he stated bluntly as he grabbed hold of her forearm. His gaze travelled to the dark circles underneath her eyes and her pale face. He felt her reiatsu drop after firing the killing blow.
With a forced smile, Kanae gently unhinged his grip and said, "I assure that's not the case, Ryuuken-sama."
Ryuuken clenched and unclenched his fist as she went over to grab the bag of forgotten groceries. He stayed his ground when she turned around and spoke to her, "I said before that not to lie to me, Katagiri. I'm not blind to the bloody tissues in the bathroom."
Her upturned lips immediately became downturned at his comment. Katagiri stood tall and chin tipped up with trembling dignity. "While I am still capable of walking and fighting, please understand that I am healthy. I have to return to prepare dinner now, so I hope that you'll successfully complete your shift before coming home."
With a quick bow, she turned around without making eye contact with him and walked in the direction of the apartment complex.
All throughout, Ryuuken remained silent and she could feel him watching her walking away from him.
-.-
AN: And the rough patch continues. I guess breaks don't exist during senior year, even at college.
Thank you my dear readers and reviewers, especially to DrkSpphrGT, Artemis2013, Anna Riza Kurosaki, Stresses, Amulet Misty, Nessie910, and Isame Kuroda.