I must admit, reading other people's drabbles inspires me. I'm going to get these finished, I promise!

I'd also like to thank the people who've all reviewed so far; you're one of the reasons I love writing these.

Disclaimer: All characters used belong to Kubo Tite. If I owned Bleach, we would've seen Shinji's Bankai by now.

Chapter... crap. 12? Something: Ichigo's POV.


"Again," I insisted. We were sweaty, dirty, and tired, but I needed more practice. You knew this.

You sighed exasperatedly. "Tomorrow," you said, the weariness creeping into your voice.

"No!" Without warning, I lunged forward, attempting to continue our sparring session. You parried my sword with yours, using your free hand to stifle your yawn. Shoving my weapon aside with ferocity that didn't match your expression, you sheathed your Zanpakutou, and headed back toward the stairs that led up to the warehouse.

"G'night, Ichigo."

"Shinji! Get back here!" I fumed, running after you. Before you reached the stairs I pounced, sending both of us into dirt, sputtering.

"Ichigo! Whaddya think yer doing?"

I grinned widely. "Fifteen more minutes, or I'm not letting you go."

You sighed, leaning your head back. "No."

"Shinji, this is important, I can't-"

"Ichi-kun, even shinigami who plan to save the world need sleep. Now get off before I-"

Before you were able to finish your threat, I assaulted your lips with mine. It was something you usually did to persuade me; I thought maybe it would work on you. After a moment you pulled yourself way, lips twitching.

"That aint' gonna work, Ichigo. Go get some sleep, at least before sunrise."