Ukitake turned weary eyes onto his visitor's stricken face.
"Kiyone," he whispered, "I'm scared of falling asleep."
The petite girl blinked, but understood. She reached out for his damp hand and smiled. "Shall I stay here with you and pinch you if you go to sleep?"
Her Captain chuckled weakly. "Please do."
"Lean on me," ordered Kiyone gently. Ukitake complied, resting his feathery head against her small, strong legs. He closed his eyes. But he wasn't worried; Kiyone would wake him up. She said she would, so she would. He trusted her. Death couldn't touch him when Kiyone's hand was enclosed over his.