When was the last time I wrote something? Never. This attacked my brain this morning. I've been on such a Bleach kick lately.

Byakuya x Renji (sorta, more than friendship, but not quite there…)

Disclaimer: Nothing.

-=And when it's over=-

It always happens in Seireitei. War. Attacks. Massacres. Invasions.

They trained for this and indulge excessively in the bloodshed of their enemies. They were never taught to mourn though, for their own losses. These abilities lay dormant, nestled between the repression of fear and the swelling of adrenaline. Their power for survival radiates a unique color and from the far distance, Byakuya can feel and see Renji's red aura, dwindling like a smothered flame.

His feet are unable to move fast enough. He arrives and watches as the explosions demolish the surroundings. He can feel the bone shards fall on his head and shoulders. In the rubble, Renji as well, falls to the ground.

Byakuya arrives in an instant and scatters his sword. This enemy still manages to pierce his core and cause severe internal damage. Renji is barely breathing; blood is filling his lungs. The pink aura is power is noticeably similar to the stubborn remnants of red, fighting for life but it does not break into pieces, it scatters.

There is blood everywhere, staining the debris of the carnage.

And yet they survived.

Renji survived the operation and Byakuya was still recuperating. This time, however, the superior officer waiting for his subordinate to grace the day with his red eyes. He waited for days, silently, until Renji grinned and groaned, as expected of his battered body. Byakuya strolled across the floor and his stature blocked the lights above their heads. Renji could see. And Byakuya watched him.

"Taichou…"

"Abarai."

"Thanks…"

It hurt too much to stand there but the pain was overwhelming when he tried to move away. Byakuya had to be the first person Renji saw when he awoke from his rest. He was more than just a powerful savior or protector. He was…in so much pain that he collapsed. Renji struggled to move but it was futile. The thick bandages and wounds outnumbered his reserve of strength. He stared at his captain, on his knees, at his bedside and wished the moment to disappear now or last forever.

"Help!" His hoarse voice shouted.

But the only momentary response was from his captain. Byakuya reached out for his tattooed wrist, for support but instead, took hold of Renji's hand and did not let go.

-=EndE=-