Disclaimer: I do not own, nor claim to own Bleach or any related material.
A/N: Couldn't resist writing a few Bleach one-shots. Had to jump on the bandwagon. Not planning on any specific number of one-shots, so we'll see what comes of it. Reviews and constructive criticisms are highly appreciated.
Prompt: Atmospheres
Characters: Jyuushiro Ukitake, Implied UkitakexShunsui
Word Count: 393
Notes: Mild fluff
Despite the majority of days the captains ran around ignorant of the light cast on their faces; occasionally one would notice subtle changes in the air. Unfortunately, the one most often to notice was the one most often absent from the daily running. His eyes observed the days that felt inadequate, the days when he wished he felt well, and even the days when he would rather not be seen. Perhaps it was a subtle difference in the emotions portrayed that created the atmospheres he saw, or perhaps the air would change absently, as if it were purposely ignoring someone. Neither was he sure of, though while his mind wandered over the important papers he should attend to, he occasionally gave it an idle moment.
Once in awhile when he was bedridden, Jyuushiro received visits from a dear friend, who no matter the feel of the world outside his window could make the white-haired captain laugh gently. It was precious little time that he was allowed to share with his friend, punctuated with coughs and breathless words. The other captain remained patient and playful throughout the times, reassuring Jyuushiro that he was wanted, no matter his inabilities sometimes. On the occasions when he was able to be about and there was a lull in the shinigami activities, they would walk together, discussing unimportant issues, telling one another tales. And during those walks, Jyuushiro would often forget the atmosphere around him, except for one created by his companion.
When the shinigami were drawn into fights, hollows threatening the well being of their ranks, the 13th captain would remind himself of his position and trail the battle lines with a determination that while befitting of the man, seemed out of place on the normally pensive face. He held his swords with a quiet strength, and the blades remained sharp as his will. He tossed all other thoughts from his mind and concentrated on the task at hand, effectively creating another air around him. After the battles subsided and his heartbeat slowed, he strode slowly towards his division station, a face of calm returned, though his eyes betrayed his wish to be speaking with another man.
As he sat down in a chair situated next to a table of paperwork, a couple of subordinates squabbling for attention nearby, Jyuushiro idly observed the atmosphere of the day.