A Short Break While Patrolling [Open]

SHUNSUI let out a long, low sigh, as he wandered the dull streets of district seventy-six, known as Sakahone (Reverse Bone). Despite being in the middle of the day the lanes between rows and rows of residential houses were surprisingly quiet. The souls that lived in the area, like so many others since the attack by the Sternritter under the command of the Wandenreich, had been remaining in their houses, seeking protection in case of another invasion. The tall Captain didn't rush, his pace calm and casual, as he sauntered along the dirt roads. The sun beat down, casting most of his face into shadow from beneath his straw hat, though a subtle breeze kept things feeling cool.

"It's a good day for it," Shunsui said to himself, his handsome features set in a frown. "It's a shame you couldn't join me today, Jūshirō... soon, though, when you're well enough."

There was a lot on the Shinigami's mind, a whirlwind of thoughts and concerns and fears. Not for himself, of course, because Shunsui could handle himself; no, instead he worried about his best friend, his loved ones, his squad members and all the souls in Soul Society that were relying on protection. The Sternritter invasion had been a near-rout, and had it not been for brave sacrifices and the enemy underestimating the Gotei Thirteen, perhaps today's walk might not have been possible. Shunsui clenched his jaw at the thought of the streets he traveled being little more than death and destruction... it was almost enough to ruin his mood. Almost.

Nearby other members of the Hachibantai patrolled like their Captain, keeping eyes and senses alert to possible threats. The possibility of another attack was very real and Shunsui required that even his usually laid-back style be altered during the time of alert. No basking in the sun or snoozing today, or any other day, not until enough time had passed to begin returning to normal. And considering how much the Shinigami wanted to close his eyes and rest, he hoped it would be sooner rather than later.

Such a good day for it, no doubt about it, Shunsui thought to himself, as he noticed faces peering out the windows nearby at him. Some children, some adults, all scared. With a smile and tip of his straw hat, the Captain greeted them silently, hoping to put some concern at ease with his presence outside of Seireitei. It wasn't often someone like him was seen this far from the center of Soul Society, but times were changed and the residents needed some stability and reassurance in their existences.

"Okay, time for a short break!" Shunsui said suddenly, stopping in the middle of the road. "I've been walking all day and Nanao-chan is nowhere to be seen."

The Captain crossed his legs and sat down in one fluid motion, his kimono flourished out around him, wafting up dirt clouds. Shunsui reached inside his robes and produced a small bottle of sake and a drinking dish. Tenderly the Shinigami placed the items in front of him, before he just as carefully unplugged the bottle and poured himself a drink. Immediately a sense of relief passed over Shunsui, as the beverage touched his tongue and filled him with that familiarity he had come to enjoy so much...

"So, are you just going to stand there, or are you going to join me?"

Shunsui glanced over his shoulder, from beneath the brim of his hat, at the individual that was behind...