Archive of Our Own

Shunsui inhaled deeply, taking in the different scents that already tainted the air of the Seireitei. A soft breeze brushed his skin and he lifted his chin to let the sun bathe his face. Spring had arrived to the Soul Society, an awaited respite after the harsh winter and its dire weather. Though this meant a period of more intense work, setting in motion many projects that the rough winter storms had inevitably delayed, that didn’t stop the Shinigami from excitedly looking forward to this season. Many festivities were just around the corner and Shunsui let his mind wander serenely, already picturing what was to come. Reunions under blooming sakura trees, soft music playing in the background and sake being passed around in friendly conversation. Shunsui exhaled and let his back fall against the rooftop of one of Division Eight’s offices, closing his eyes and lowering his hat to shield them from the sun. He would visit Jūshirō later, and they would share some tea and sake and bask in this pleasant weather on the peaceful grounds of the Thirteenth Division. Looking forward to those shared moments with his dear friend, along with the warm sunlight, he sluggishly started to doze off.

“Maybe I can sneak a quick nap before…”

His trail of thought was then abruptly interrupted by the sharp bang of somebody opening the window to the rooftop. If Shunsui wasn’t used to the regular interruptions by his lieutenant (and wasn’t a skilled warrior), he might have been startled. Instead, he kept laying down with his eyes closed when the hollering from her subordinate came.

“Captain!!!!!” came Lisa’s only barely breathless voice, Shunsui knew, from looking throughout the whole division for him. “You are NOT going to be late to this meeting!”

“Ahh, Lisa-chan.” Shunsui sighed a few seconds later as he heard his lieutenant climb through the window. “You see, I’m sure my fellow colleagues will understand that such a fine day should not be spent huddled inside a darkened room and dwelling over the same tedious matters over and over…”

“How many times do we have to go through this?” Lisa reprimanded her superior, standing before him and blocking the sunlight. Shunsui lifted the brim of his hat, grimacing at her with humor in his eyes. A halo of sunshine surrounded Lisa's figure, which was obscured by the light contrast.

“Yare-yare! What a heavenly sight for…!” Lisa didn’t allow him to finish his compliment as she mercilessly stomped on Shunsui’s spread foot, this time making him sit up with a yelp.

“Let’s get going already.” Came her sober and unapologetic response while pushing her glasses up the bridge of her nose, the sun catching the glass and providing an even further punishing look to his vicious lieutenant.

Shunsui sighed, this time finally standing up and smoothing out his kimono and haori.

“My sweet Lisa-chan, you really should start treating me more kindly. I am becoming frail with age” he said as he lowered his hat over his eyes. 

Lisa was about to reply when Shunsui flash-stepped away from the rooftop and to the outer corridors of the First Division barracks. He started marching inside, Lisa appearing a step behind him a couple of seconds later, brow wrinkled in frustration for being left behind. It seemed like she was going to say something but then saw the smirk on his Captain’s obscured face and refrained from further playing into his games. Shunsui chuckled lightly.

“Tell me, anything special on schedule for today?”

“Aside from the regular weekly reports, the special visit from the Korinoishi family is taking place in a couple of days.” she informed, eyes pointed forward without much excitement. “Apparently, the Captain of the Sixth Division reported that some ‘special arrangements’ need to be made before their arrival”.

“Hm?”

This perked up Shunsui’s interest, who lifted his head in order to see beyond the brim of his hat. The Korinoishi family was a lineage of high-ranking noblemen who lived in the Northern regions of the Soul Society, fairly far from the Seireitei and its domains. Faithful to their family name, which translated roughly to “ice as hard as stone”, they were stated to be cold and distant, and highly disregarded the rule of the Gotei 13 and the Seiretei over the Soul Society. 

Many centuries ago, they had been very close to the Five Noble Families, but they had become separated out of their own volition, retiring to where nobody could easily reach them. The Korinoishi family visited once every six decades or so. That is, if they felt like it. Even Shunsui, belonging to a high-ranking noble family himself, had only seen them on very few occasions and hadn’t engaged in conversation with them. He did remember, though, their peculiar appearance.

They were, indeed, most captivating. Most of the family members were extremely pale, but not ghastly, just enough to make them look as if their skin was made of the finest porcelain. Their hair was light blond, enough so to cover any grey hairs and keep you wondering just how old they really were. What Shunsui found more peculiar about them was their eyes. They ranged in all kinds of blue, but that wasn’t it. There was something about the way they looked at others. Half disregard and disgust, half humor and wit; they seemed to consider themselves superior to anyone that surrounded them, no matter the rank. This didn’t help in any way the relations with the other nobles.

They also had very distinct attires. In winter, they wore large woollen robes in a deep blue color with white fur, making them seem even more belonging to the North. When the weather was kinder, they still didn’t dispose of their dignified attire, opting for thin but quite covering kimonos in the same deep blue, along with thin silk gloves in the same color. This particular garment caused much disarray between the noble families, spreading rumors that they were too dignified to let themselves be touched by anyone not belonging to their family. This gossip was whispered with special malice behind closed doors, since many branches from the Korinoishi family were rumored to still practice endogamy. 

Being the head of one of the Five Noble Families, it was only natural that Captain Kuchiki was deeply involved in the preparations of the reception of these peculiar nobles. What caught Shunsui’s interest was that old, prideful and stubborn Ginrei Kuchiki was apparently having some sort of issue with this, and moreso, that he would share it with the rest of the Captains. What could possibly require their assistance?

“Kyōraku.” A deep, familiar voice called behind him. 

“Ah, how are you doing, handsome?” Shunsui turned around to meet his friend. Jūshirō was approaching him with calm steps, his white ivory tail and haori trailing gracefully behind him.

“Fairly good, truth be told.” Jūshirō answered, catching up with his friend and lover while Lisa followed them a few steps behind them, to provide them some sense of privacy. “Maybe it has something to do with how utterly nice and beautiful this morning has risen.”

Shunsui’s smile turned soft while hearing his friend. The past few weeks before spring came, Jūshirō had suffered another bout of illness. Though it hadn’t been particularly serious, the dire weather had kept him cooped up in his Division and had also made his recovery a bit slower than usual. Today, he looked totally fine, his pale skin finally rid of that waxy hue. 

“I see we agree. The day’s far too nice to spend it in a boring meeting.”

Jūshirō nodded beside him. 

“Hopefully, we’ll be done soon and this won’t take much time of the morning. I was thinking, if you are done with those reports from yesterday,” he said, sneaking a knowing look with Shunsui’s lieutenant, "we could meet later in the afternoon. Kaien has got his hands on this new sake that he thought you would specially appreciate."

“Ah, Kaien-kun always knows how to get on my good side.” he chuckled. Shiba Kaien was Ukitake’s current Fifth Seat, even though his lover was tirelessly trying to change that situation. He was always pestering the poor boy to make him accept the lieutenant post. And Shunsui was all for it. The boy had talent, having ended up top of his class at the Academy without much effort. Belonging to the Shiba clan, the boy was sure to become something great, but all his greatness definitely didn’t come from his lineage. Also, his soon wife-to-be, Miyako, was the Third Seat of the Thirteenth Division, and constantly reprimanded his partner for dismissing his Captain’s offer. “Yes, of course, those reports are already…”

“Far from being finished.” Lisa interrupted from behind the two men, throwing daggers with her gaze to his Captain. “But you will finish them today, right?”

“Of course, Lisa-chan.” Shunsui reiterated, lowering his hat over his eyes. “Any other way and you wouldn’t let me enjoy this beautiful day.”

Lisa regarded his Captain suspiciously, but decided to let the matter be. When they reached the fork in the corridor, she sharply turned left, to the Lieutenant’s meeting room, while Shunsui and Jūshirō continued their way to the right. 

“Wow, you got her mad today.” muttered Jūshirō. “What in the heavens did you do?”

“You know me, Jū-chan.” he said while stealing a devilish look to his lover. “I can never let pretty things get away, even if it is just the weather.”

“Oh, do I know…” he purred, his eyes green and full of mischief. Shunsui’s skin tingled, but refrained from acting. They were in a far too public and respectful place. He would later have his friend all for himself. 

They finally reached the Captain’s meeting room. They had arrived fairly early so the only Captains present yet were Unohana, Ōtoribashi, Kuchiki and Aikawa. Shunsui placed himself next to Captain Kuchiki, greeting him with a nod, while Jūshirō took his place next to where the Eleventh Captain should be, if he were to bother himself to come today. The rest of the Captains continued to arrive, with Urahara being the last, as usual, just mere moments before Captain Commander Yamamoto entered the room and took his seat, starting the meeting. 

The meeting proceeded as usual, nothing remarkable. All Captains proceeded to report on their recent activities. Shunsui himself didn’t have much to report on, and listened to his colleagues without much interest. When Ukitake finished talking about his Division’s last endeavours in the World of the Living, Yama-jii nodded.

“Very well.” He said. “Now, I believe Captain Kuchiki needs to share some additional important information.”

“Yes.” Ginrei nodded beside Shunsui, finally lifting his gaze from where he had kept it lowered with noble arrogance throughout the whole meeting. “It is related to the visit of the Korinoishi family. Captain Shihoin has helped me prepare everything to receive them, but there is something that I would like to share with you.”

“Those two…” Yoruichi sighed exasperated with her arms crossed before her chest.

“Yes.” Agreed Ginrei, lowering his gaze once more. “The envoy from the Korinoishi family involves five people: the actual head of the family, his two twin daughters and two male cousins. The patriarch doesn’t enjoy good health, and it is rumored that it won’t be long before he passes. He wasn’t able to conceive a male heir, so these two girls will take the lead of the family when their father passes. As some of you may already know, the Korinoishi family is heavily involved in the commercial trade with the Northern regions of the Soul Society. Despite the disrespect that they might have shown to the Seireitei on a great number of occasions, keeping relations with them civil and friendly is of extreme importance to all of us. These two girls are known to be… quite fickle.” Shunsui was amused to see the old Ginrei hold his tongue and look for words proper of a noble. “And their father just indulges in their eccentricities. They have told me quite a wild tale, something that their grandfather saw on his last visit to the Seireitei. It has to do with an apparent…” Ginrei sighed, exasperated, “moon goddess.”

This perked up the interest of the rest of Captains, some genuine and others mocking.

“It seems that in the welcoming party that received their grandfather on a visit some centuries ago,” continued Captain Kuchiki, “there was a tall woman of striking beauty, something like no one from the Korinoishi family had ever witnessed before.”

Shunsui found this interesting. All women from the Korinoishi family were extremely beautiful. Also taking into account the arrogance of the family, this woman they spoke of must have indeed been quite breath-taking if they themselves called her a goddess.

“This woman danced beneath the light of the moon, the glow making it seem that her hair shined like silver. Everyone from the noble family was quite taken by the view, and the girls grew up listening to this story time and time again. They have requested to meet this moon goddess.”

Silence fell upon the room while the Captains took in all the information.

“Well, that isn’t too hard,” said Captain Hirako with a shrug, “You just need a beautiful woman that dances well for them.”

“Do you think that I would have told you this fairytale if I hadn’t already tried that?” Ginrei frowned, upset. “The Five Noble Families sent a welcoming party made up of twenty beautiful women. I can confirm that all of them were most enchanting. Still, the Korinoishi twins were not impressed, and even thought of them as a joke. It was quite an unpleasant moment. Besides, it is not only the beauty that we look for. We need quite a tall woman with light hair, like the one from this legend.”

“How tall does this woman need to be?” asked Captain Aikawa.

Ginrei hummed while thinking.

“Well, the whole Korinoishi family is quite tall. If the woman isn’t remarkably so, she won’t strike as someone tall to the two envoys. I met them in person just the other day, and I would say that they were around 5’8 feet, so this woman would ideally need to be taller than that.”

Captain Muguruma whistled. 

“That’s quite tall for a woman.”

“It’s important that we don’t forget that she has to dance too.” Captain Ōtoribashi added. “And moreso, in front of nobles. Might her skill be lacking and it would look as an insult to the envoys.”

Ginrei nodded. 

“As you see, there are quite a number of qualities that we need to find in a single woman. Finding a female of such height is already rare, and if she has to be of striking beauty, have very light hair and skill in dancing, our options are quite reduced. That is why I wanted to ask you,” Shunsui could see that it was taking quite an effort from Ginrei to ask for help in this, moreso for such an odd mission, “to help me look for a woman that reunites all these qualities. She doesn’t need to be of high-nobility and can be from anywhere in Soul Society, but she needs to be here for the party that will take place tomorrow night. If we don’t, we are at risk of worsening our already dwindling ties with the Korinoishi family. Of course, all Captains and high-ranking officers are expected to attend the occasion."

The Captains fell in silence, all of them trying to remember if they had ever seen such a woman. It would indeed be difficult to find her. The loud bang of Yamamoto’s cane took them out of their trance.

“That is all for today.” He announced. “Do as Captain Kuchiki has said and try to find this woman, for the good of the Seireitei.”

All Captains nodded and calmly started to leave the room. Out in the corridors, Shunsui caught up with Jūshirō, whose hand was risen to his chin while in deep thought.

“What a weird history Captain Kuchiki has been dragged into.” He murmured.

“Aye.” Shunsui agreed. He looked at his friend, whose soft features were suddenly hit by the bright sunshine outside, instantly bringing Shunsui’s mind back to more enjoyable affairs. “Say, Ukitake, what if we go ahead to your…”

But before he could finish his proposal, which of course included flacking work, her Lieutenant appeared out of nowhere, grabbed his Captain’s kimono and pulled him in the opposite direction.

“I think you have something to finish first.”

Shunsui pouted while being mercilessly dragged away, Jūshirō waving to him with a compassionate look. The Captains still around observed the scene with a humorous look, knowing there was nothing to do to stop Lisa.

“I’ll see you later.” Jūshirō said.

-------------------------------------------

Shunsui sighed, cracking his back while he continued walking. Finishing those reports took him longer than he had initially expected. When he was finally released from his office by a satisfied Lisa, it was well past the afternoon and well entered in the evening. Still, it would take a while until the sun came down, even though the sky was already starting to paint itself with an orange tenor.

He finally reached the Thirteenth Division barracks, making his way through well-known corridors and gardens. The Shinigamis he came across greeted him respectfully but amicably, the vision of the Eighth Division Captain clad in pink a common one for them. Shunsui finally arrived at the lake that surrounded the Ugendō and saw from afar the silhouette of Jūshirō seated beneath a willow tree. Shunsui smiled and approached him, greeting him when he was still a few feet from him.

“Good to see you're already settled.”

Jūshirō had spread out a blanket on the grass, a tray with a teapot, a couple of glasses and a bowl of ohagi sitting upon it. His friend smiled up at him.

“I was thinking that you'd only make it to dinner by now.”

“Ah, you already know Lisa-chan.” He said, taking off his hat and sitting himself beside his friend, who was already pouring him some tea. “She'd rather pull her own teeth out than let me have some fun.”

Jūshirō chuckled while Shunsui took the cup in his hands, taking a sip of the surprisingly still warm tea.

“Sometimes I don’t understand how she puts up with you.”

“I don’t know.” Shunsui said, snuggling closer to his partner. “Maybe you could give her some advice on the matter.”

“Oh, believe me.” Jūshirō said with a smirk, resting his shoulder against Shunsui’s side. “I have plenty.”

“Of that, I’m sure.”

The two lovers sat in silence, taking a look at the magnificent view, which they had all for themselves, the Shinigamis having already called it a day and retreating to the different bars that lit the streets of the Seireitei to celebrate the much awaited good weather. The sky was now almost full of every orange color one could come up with, the lake reflecting its shine in mesmerizing and calming ever-so-subtle waves. The breeze blew slightly, enough to hear the rustle of the tree leaves above them, which hadn’t looked so alive with green in the past six months. Above them, the swallows chirped to each other while retreating for the day. 

Shunsui looked at Jūshirō, whose eyes sparkled and a soft content and smile sat upon his lips. Shunsui busied himself admiring him, taking pleasure in observing the way the evening light reflected on his lover’s skin, hair and eyes. After a minute, Jūshirō sneaked a knowing look towards him.

“What are you doing, Shunsui?”

“Can’t a man take in the beautiful view before him?” he retorted.

Jūshirō scoffed even though a light flush took over his cheeks. Oh, how Shunsui loved that. A tanned and sturdy hand came to caress his partner’s face.

“You always know what to say, don’t you?” Jūshirō’s hand rose to the base of Shunsui’s neck, combing through chestnut curls.

“And you love that about me, don’t you Jū-chan?” he teased.

Jūshirō smiled and placed a light kiss on his lips, but when he attempted to move away from him, Shunsui’s hand swiftly moved to his nape, forcing the white-haired Captain to prolong the kiss. A surprised squeak escaped from Jūshirō’s lips, but he complied anyway and relaxed into his lover’s touch, knowing there was no one around. When he was finally released, his lips were a bright pink.

“Gods, Shunsui, what's gotten into you today to…?”

Before he could further question him, Shunsui had quickly manoeuvred him to rest his head upon the brunette’s legs, skilfully spreading the tail aside so it wouldn’t get caught under his head. Jūshirō seemed perplexed but didn’t resist, getting comfortable in his lover's touch.

“Well, I have a beautiful view before me and even more beautiful company beside me. What else could a man ask for?” He asked, looking down at Jūshirō, who shook his head while smiling at his friend’s antics. Shunsui undid his friend’s ponytail, combing with his fingers through the long white locks. “Besides, it’s been some time since we were able to spend a day outside, let alone such a good one.”

“You mean an evening?” He teased his friend's tardiness. 

“You want to play semantics with me, Jū-chan?” Shunsui smirked.

“Mmm…” Jūshirō made a show out of thinking, unable to keep a mischievous smile from creeping up his features. “It could be interesting. After all, you've always been very skilled with your tongue.” 

“Yare-yare, Ukitake!” Shunsui roared with laughter. “It’s the second time today you've implied such naughty affairs! What would people think hearing such obscenities coming from the mouth of the Thirteenth Division Captain?”

“Oh, like you’re one to talk!” Jūshirō scoffed, playfully smacking his friend’s arm. “Besides, you’re right. It’s been some time since we have been able to share moments like these.” His eyes turned a bit serious, remembering the past few weeks he had spent basically confined by illness. “I was thinking you could stay tonight after dinner.”

“Mmm… I see you've already planned everything.” Shunsui scratched his chin, his other hand still playing with Jūshirō’s hair. “Is Kaien-kun involved in these machinations?”

“Oh, wouldn’t he love to…” Jūshirō looked over to the lake, the smile returning to his lips. “But no. The invitation truly came from him. Miyako's also cooking tonight.”

“I see. Well then, how could I refuse? I wouldn’t want Miyako-chan to take offense in my absence!”

“I’m sure that’s the only reason…” Jūshirō teased.

Shunsui chuckled, but let the bickering end as he looked to the lake. Though it had been a busy day, with the Captain’s meeting and the endless reports he had to fill, now, with Jūshirō and the calmness that surrounded the Thirteenth Division barracks, all of that seemed so distant. He looked down at his friend, who also seemed pleased with the company and their surroundings, a soft exhale escaping his lips. Shunsui’s hands were still in his friend’s hair, running through the long locks in an absentminded way. He observed the way the white mane shone in the twilight, taking in the colors produced by the sunset and almost perfectly camouflaging its distinct pallor. That was when a sudden thought occurred to him. What if…?

“Hey… Jū-chan.” He muttered.

"Hm?" Jūshirō hummed, his eyes still looking towards the lake serenely.

“I was thinking about what old Ginrei said about that woman we need." 

Jūshirō nodded. When Shunsui didn’t continue, he looked up at him.

“What about it?" 

“I was thinking,” Shunsui continued, as he softly grabbed the long locks of his friend’s hair, "that we have the perfect candidate"

He lifted the hair he had in his hand. Jūshirō stared blankly at him for a few seconds and then chuckled while he turned to look at the view again.

“Oh, Shunsui…” he sighed while shaking his head. When Shunsui didn’t laugh along, he turned to look at him again, a sudden serious look in his eyes knowing the workings of his lover’s mind a bit too well. “You can’t possibly be serious.”

"Well… high stature." Shunsui said, his eyes darting across his body. "Light hair, enough so to make it look silvery." He lifted Jūshirō’s hair, still on his hands. "And, of course,” Shunsui let go of his lover’s hair and gently took his chin on his hand, staring deeply into his eyes, "striking beauty”.

A light blush took over Jūshirō’s cheeks. It was no lie that Ukitake was a handsome and attractive man. Ever since they were young, many women had swooned over him, taken in by his beauty and his gentle personality. Shunsui had heard many people say with pity what a shame it was for the man to be sick, for he would have been one of the most eligible bachelors in the whole Seireitei. Many men too had been attracted towards Ukitake, his eyes and hands lingering for too long where it was not appropriate when they had had one too many drinks. Shunsui hated it, the way their voracity could be read in their every expression, and always gently, yet rapidly, pushed them away. 

But still, how could one not be entranced by Jūshirō’s beauty, Shunsui considered. With his full and straight dark brows, which stood in perfect contrast to the lightness of his hair. His white, long mane, always silky and perfectly straight, in contrast to Shunsui’s unruly dark curls. His long and thin neck, which Shunsui loved to fill with kisses in the dead of night, out of the sight of prying eyes. His high cheekbones and sharp jawline, which accentuated his features without taking away their gentleness. His straight nose whose tip stood slightly up, which Shunsui loved to touch and kiss, much to his lover’s disarray. His full and pink lips, which Shunsui always felt the need to gently kiss or passionately bite on, sometimes at the most inconvenient of moments. And, of course, his green and gentle eyes. Shunsui thought he had never seen the same shade of green in the eyes of any other person, and comparing them to the lively green of the tree leaves or the deep shade of a forest always felt insulting to their uniqueness.

“Are you sure you didn’t escape Lisa’s surveillance to have some drinks during the evening?” Jūshirō questioned his friend, not quite believing his words and interrupting Shunsui’s musings.

“I can assure you I did not.” He stated matter-of-factly. “I mean, you can not deny you fulfill our requirements.”

"I think,” Jūshirō said, one of his hands coming to snatch the one still grabbing his chin, "you forget a very important detail. Dancing skills. And besides, don’t be ridiculous, Shunsui. There’s no way I could pass as a woman.”

“Come on, Jū-chan! Don’t act as if we’ve never danced before. Your movements have always been most gracious. Even while training or fighting, you make holding up a sword seem like the finest of arts.”

“Don’t try to win me over with your poetry!” Jūshirō sat up, unable to believe what Shunsui said. “I can’t believe you are serious about this!”

“Jū, you and I both know that few women, noble or peasant, reunite the qualities Ginrei is looking for. And even if there are any out there who fulfill them all, they won’t be able to find her in less than a day.”

“So you are truly serious.” Jūshirō stated blankly.

“Well, why not? What else is there to do? The Korinoishi family won’t take no for an answer, you know that. If nobody does anything, this could end up being a real problem between the nobles. And you know how things end up when those above us are pissed.”

Jūshirō scoffed and looked away, his arms crossed before his chest. After a few seconds of silence, he finally turned back to his lover.

“Even if I agreed to do this,” he saw Shunsui’s face light up in victory, “which I absolutely won’t,” Shunsui let out a whimper, “there are so many issues with this plan, which I don’t think should even qualify as such.” Jūshirō raised his index finger. “Firstly, all Captains and high-ranking Shinigamis will be there. My absence would be questioned and, besides, they'd be able to know it’s me by feeling my reiatsu.” He raised a second finger. “Also, you'd have to inform Ginrei that you have found the ‘adequate woman’.”  He said, his words dripping with sarcasm. “I don’t even want to imagine Captain Kuchiki’s reaction to such a proposal but, might he not take it as if you are laughing at his expense, he'd without a shadow of a doubt say no.” He raised a third finger. “And lastly, and more importantly, I am clearly a male! If those two sisters saw a man cross-dressing, then that'd be a real problem. Besides, as ‘gracious’ as I may be, dancing with a partner is not the same as the performance a woman has to put up for such an occasion. You are absolutely mad for even thinking that this is a good idea in any way.”

Shunsui hummed in agreement. Still, he didn’t want to let go of his idea just yet.

“Well, the Captains feeling your reiatsu could be a problem, I’ll give you that.” He conceded, folding his hands in the sleeves of his haori. “About Ginrei, I could make something up so he doesn’t need to check who the woman is, that shouldn’t be much of a bother. And those girls… I’m pretty sure some make-up could do the trick!” He exclaimed triumphantly, smacking a fist to the palm of his hand, the ideas coming to him one after another. “And you could wear a veil so the Captains and other nobles don’t have to see your face, and only lift it for the Korinoishi family. They have never seen you, right?”

Jūshirō stared at his lover, his mouth slightly agape in a dumbfounded way.

“Are you actually listening to yourself?” He finally asked when he seemed to find the words, his brows crinkled in disarray. Even if Shunsui was partly serious with his plan, though he knew Jūshirō’s doubts were reasonable, he decided to keep the act up to tease his friend a bit longer. Moreover, maybe they could actually find a solution for this nobles’ issue. “You sound mad!”

“Why?” Shunsui smiled. “You can’t deny that my plan doesn’t make even a little bit of sense. Besides,” he added, his smirk turning even more playful, “I’m sure we could find some clothing that would make your figure seem more… well, feminine.”

Now Jūshirō’s face turned completely red, and not because of the reflecting light of the already setting sun. He sighed, trying to contain his will to smack some sense into his friend.

“Really, how much of this is just you wanting to see me dress and act like a woman?”

“Now, now, Jū-chan.” Shunsui smirked, lowering the brim of his hat. “That is a sight I wouldn’t want to share with anybody else.”

-------------------------------------------

“And then that little brat told me, me!” Kaien emphasized, shoving a thumb into his own chest. “To mind my own business. Who does that punk think he is?”

Miyako chuckled by his side.

“It’s your fault for letting him get on your nerves. It’s way too easy sometimes.” she argued.

“Ahh?” Kaien complained looking at his partner, who just shot him a knowing look while taking a sip of her sake.

“Miyako is right, Kaien.” said Jūshirō, a soft smile in his lips. “You already know Byakuya-kun. He’s not prone to listening to what others have to say. You shouldn’t let that unsettle you.”

“Yes.” Kaien admitted defeatedly. “Honestly, Captain, I don’t know how you put up with him. His grandfather really should do something about that temper of his. It’s improper of someone of his class!”

That said, he gulped his sake in one go and instantly served himself another cup. The two Captains and his partner observed him amusedly.

“What?” He barked. Jūshirō chuckled.

“You should give the poor boy a rest.” He said. “You know he already has enough on his plate.”

Kaien looked at his Captain, knowing what he meant, but still grunted and cursed under his breath. Shunsui laughed and took a sip of his sake.

“Don’t let that bother you, Kaien-kun!” he said. “You know Ukitake has always liked to play favorites.”

“Keep playing like that and you'll be out of that list sooner than you realize.” Jūshirō answered, taking a sip of his sake while his subordinates chuckled at their Captain’s harsh response. 

It was already well into the night and the Shinigamis had enjoyed a fulfilling dinner, the plates having already been set aside in favor of Kaien’s new sake. And the boy hadn’t lied when he said it was good, Shunsui thought. It was sweet but with a ping of bitterness, the nutty taste standing out among many other different flavors. They had already had a few cups and a light blush graced Jūshirō and Miyako’s features.

“Nyah, Ukitake, you won’t tell me you're still upset?” Shunsui whined.

Jūshirō didn’t answer and stubbornly took another sip of his sake. Kaien and Miyako shared a confused look.

“What was that all about?” Kaien asked.

“Well, you see, …” Shunsui started.

“Kyōraku…” Jūshirō warned.

“What? You trust your subordinates, right? I’m sure Kaien-kun and Miyako-chan won’t run their mouth.”

“Of course not!” Miyako exclaimed. “We won’t say anything if that is how you want to keep it, Captain! If there’s any way we can be of assistance, we’ll do anything in our hands.”

Kaien nodded seriously by her side and a resigned smile appeared in Jūshirō’s features. Shunsui smiled. His friend truly couldn’t have picked any better close subordinates.

“It’s truly nothing.” he assured. “Just one of Kyōraku’s crazy ideas.”

“Ah, you can call me crazy all you want, but maybe I can solve this issue we are all into!” He joked, even if there was some truth in his words.

“Well, what is it?” Kaien asked curiously.

Shunsui looked at Jūshirō. If he really didn’t want to tell them, he would drop the subject. Jūshirō returned his glance and sighed.

“It’s about the visit from the Korinoishi family.” Jūshirō started. “I’m sure you’ve heard something about it.” He said to Kaien.

“Ah, yes.” Kaien sighed and scratched his neck. “Those mad nobles surely are bored to come here talking about some fairytale about a woman they saw centuries ago.”

“Oh, is that what you told me about that ‘moon goddess’?” Miyako asked.

“Yeah.” Kaien said. “But, if you ask me, I think that’s all bullshit. They just wanna make us go crazy trying to please them and then complain about whatever silly detail.”

“Well, it seems we don’t have much explaining to do!” Shunsui said.

“And what does that have to do with the two of you?” Kaien asked.

Jūshirō threw another exasperated look at Shunsui, but continued explaining nonetheless.

“Captain Kuchiki has asked the Captains to try to find a woman that could act as this goddess. And Kyōraku…”

Jūshirō trailed off, the blush in his face becoming more noticeable. Unable to continue, he busied himself pouring some sake. Kaien and Miyako’s faces turned simultaneously towards Shunsui.

“Well. Very high stature. Long silver hair. Striking beauty… Do I need to further explain myself?” Shunsui said while intently looking at Ukitake.

The two seats from the Thirteen Division looked dumbfounded for a few seconds between the two Captains, Jūshirō’s face turning increasingly red and Shunsui’s smile getting bigger.

“Oh.” Miyako managed to say.

“Yeah.” Shunsui agreed.

Kaien said nothing, still looking wide-eyed at his Captain, who sighed.

“I told you it was crazy.”

They all fell into silence for a few seconds until Kaien clicked his tongue.

“Well… I mean…” he continued to watch his Captain up and down, this time more scrutinizing.

“Oh, Kaien, please not you too!” Jūshirō complained exasperated, running a hand through his face.

“It’s not something bad, Captain!” Kaien assured, encouragingly. “You just… happen to give the profile.”

“Wait, you're not talking about an hypothetical situation?” Miyako asked.

“Well, if nobody finds a woman with all the qualities, we will need to find another solution.” Shunsui sipped his sake. “So… kind of?

Miyako hummed, a hand raised to her chin in deep thought while examining his Captain.

“Well, in that case, maybe some clothes and make-up could do the trick…” She muttered.

“That’s just what I said earlier!” Shunsui exclaimed triumphantly.

“If it comes to it, I could help with all of that!” Miyako said, a ping of enthusiasm in her voice.

“You all do realize that I haven’t agreed to anything, right?” Jūshirō said, his face red from embarrassment and exasperation and eyes lowered to his cup. “Instead of these fantasies, you should focus on finding an actual woman for the task. I’m sure Captain Kuchiki or any of the other Captains will be able to find her.”

“Well, I don’t know about that.” Shunsui said. “Ginrei did say that he had already looked far and beyond… and nothing. Besides, there’s truly nothing wrong with it and nobody has to know it’s you, you know? You would save the Seireitei some big trouble.”

“And how do you pretend that my reiatsu goes unnoticed in a room full of Captains and officers?”

“You see, I already came up with a solution for that too.” Shunsui said and Jūshirō sighed defeatedly. “I’ve heard some… rumours that someone in the Seireitei has devised a way for someone’s reiatsu to go totally unnoticed. And I happen to be acquaintanced with this person.” Jūshirō raised a suspicious brow at him. “I could ask for this person's help, they don’t need to know who it is for and I will keep their secret.”

“Wait, is that even allowed?” Kaien intervened.

“I think they have managed to fly under the radar with this one. I will, of course, promise to keep it a secret.”

“And what about my absence?” Jūshirō desperately tried to make up more excuses. “It wouldn’t be well looked upon in an event of this importance.”

“Well, I really doubt that the Korinoishis will mind if one out of thirteen Captains is missing. I actually don’t think they will give the Captains any mind at all. Besides, everybody would understand if you weren’t feeling well.”

“You want me to feign illness?” Jūshirō asked flustered.

“Wouldn’t be the first time!” Shunsui replied easily. “I can recall several times back in the Academy…”

“Ah-ha!” Kaien exclaimed triumphantly and hit the table with his fist, his eyes glistening with delight and daring a mischievous look towards his Captain. “I knew you had surely done it some time!”

“That was a long time ago.” Jūshirō justified himself. “Still, what about the dancing? I think that may be the most important part in this situation.”

“Well, you already have the talent…” Shunsui said, his voice low and expression naughty.

“Talent?” Jūshirō asked sceptically.

“Besides, you’ve been present in many welcoming events where such performances were executed.” Shunsui continued. “I’m sure you already know the basics.”

“I think I have some books on the matter. They’re truly educational, I’m sure they could be of help!” Miyako said, while Kaien nodded enthusiastically by her side.

“Really, what side are you two on…” Jūshirō muttered, his expression defeated.

“Come on, Ukitake!” Shunsui exclaimed. “There’s truly nothing wrong with it. No damage done if nobody figures out who the mysterious woman is! And I’m sure old Ginrei would be most grateful if we took this matter out of his hands.”

Jūshirō continued to eye his friend sceptically, but Shunsui could tell that he was beginning, even though against his will, to consider the possibility.

“Of course!” Kaien continued. “Plus, Miyako and I will be there in representation of the Thirteenth and in case you need anything. We’ll make sure nobody questions anything.”

Miyako nodded by his side with conviction. Ukitake sighed, continuing to look at his three companions with doubts, but this time actually considering their words. 

“Besides,” Shunsui added, conspiratorially eyeing his friend in front of him, “I can’t wait to see the look on those nobles when they can’t complain ‘bout what they see…”

Despite himself, Jūshirō smiled, his face flushing a bit. He then got serious again, and stared into his cup. Shunsui was at the edge of his seat and could see that Kaien and Miyako were also looking at his Captain expectantly. He knew Jūshirō was going to agree, but he couldn’t pressure or he might budge. That’s how Jūshirō was, and he knew it. He needed to give him some time and space. And if he waited just…

“Well…” Jūshirō started, dubious, after some excruciatingly long seconds. “I agree that the physical qualities that Captain Kuckiki is looking for are very rare and I fit into them… But still, the dancing…”

Ukitake’s cheeks flushed a bit deeper. Ah, so that was it. He didn’t want to make a fool out of himself dancing. But Shunsui knew that there was no need to worry. He wasn’t lying when he said that Jūshirō had always been most gracious while dancing, or even training. Many men had found themselves captivated by the extreme fineness and precision with which the Thirteenth Division Captain wielded his zanpakutō. Still, nobody could deny the deadliness of his blade. Shunsui also knew from experience that Ukitake had an aptitude for dancing. True, dancing with a partner is nothing like dancing alone, but Shunsui knew Jūshirō could pull it off.

“I know I’ve said this before, but you don’t need to worry about that. You’ll do well.” He reassured his friend. “Besides, I’m sure those two girls are more interested in the face of the dancer than anything else. And, trust me, they’ll find nothing there to complain about either.”

“Kyōraku…” Jūshirō admonished him, though only half-heartedly, for his continuous flirting.

“Let’s do something.” Shunsui said. “I’ll speak with Ginrei tomorrow first thing in the morning. If he hasn’t found anyone by then, I will recommend you.” When he saw the panic on Ukitake’s face, he rushed to correct himself. “Obviously I won’t say it’s you. I’ll just make something up. So, you don’t have to decide right now. Still, if they haven’t found anyone by tomorrow, chances are that they will find no one…” he considered.

He could see that Jūshirō had reached the same conclusion. If they hadn’t found anyone tomorrow morning, the reception being late in the evening, he might as well be the only option. Jūshirō sighed.

“Well, if it’s like that… I guess you’re right. Okay, let’s do that.”

“Really?” Kaien asked, unable to believe his Captain had actually accepted.

“Yes.” Ukitake said, with his always reaffirming conviction. “It seems we don’t have much of a choice. If there’s no such woman available, I suppose I could pose as one well enough until the reception ends. And no one has to know. And I mean it.” He said, looking sternly, like a father warning his children, to the three people at the table with him. “No one other than us should know about this.”

“You have our word, Captain.” Kaien said, Miyako nodding by his side severely.

Jūshirō looked at Shunsui. He knew Kyōraku would never even think about betraying his trust. Still, the brunette gave an almost imperceptible nod in his direction, his eyes sparkling with his peculiar humourness. Jūshirō smiled at him.

“Well, then it’s settled.” He concluded and took a final sip of his sake.

A few seconds passed, while all the Shinigamis sipped their drinks quietly now that the matter was settled. Then, Miyako turned to her Captain, resolution marked all over her face. Her cheeks were also lightly flushed by the effect of the sake.

“Captain, if you’re going to do this, you’ll need someone to help you get ready. I will make sure everything is to your liking, sir.”

“Ah.” Jūshirō nodded, the blush returning to his face. “Thank you, Miyako. I know you’ll do well.”

“Oh, but we’ll also need some women’s clothes.” She exclaimed urgently, adding to Jūshirō’s embarrassment. “I don’t think I have anything that fits you, nor do I know anyone who might!”

“I’m sure Ginrei could provide some garments.” Shunsui said and smirked. “The old man might trust me with the decision of the dancer, but I don’t think he’ll leave it all in my hands without intervention of his.”

Miyako nodded, calmer now that it was off her shoulders. A few seconds passed and she turned again to her Captain.

“Captain, I’ll also have to do your make-up! But you don’t need to worry, I won’t do anything you are not comfortable with, sir.”

Now, Jūshirō’s face was full-on red. Shunsui chuckled lightly into his cup, amused to see his friend try to hide his mortification.

“Now, now, Miyako!” Kaien intervened, slinging an arm over the shoulders of his partner. “Don’t you see you are embarrassing our poor Captain? Don’t worry about that! Everything will be perfect for tomorrow.”

“Ah, is that true, sir?” She asked worriedly. “I apologise.”

“It’s okay.” Jūshirō assured, but he looked appreciatively to Kaien for his interruption.

“Well, it seems tomorrow will be a busy day, so we two should probably head to bed.” Kaien said, at which Miyako nodded. The two of them got up. “Good night, Captain Kyōraku. And Captain Ukitake, make sure to get some beauty sleep!”

Jūshirō grinded his teeth in annoyance, but still dismissed his subordinates.

“Good night Kaien, Miyako.”

Once they were gone and the door was closed again, Shunsui looked playfully at his friend. 

“Don’t say it.” Jūshirō instantly said while finishing his sake.

“What?” Shunsui played dumb.

“That you knew I’d end up agreeing or something like that.”

“Ah, my dear Jū, but you see, I knew that you would.”

Jūshirō grumbled and ran a tired hand through his face. Shunsui chuckled and approached his friend.

“You know what, handsome?” He said while his hand came to the small of Ukitake’s back. “Since it seems tomorrow we might be quite busy, we should make our best of tonight.”

“Oh, really? After you pulled me into this mess?”

“I thought you would already be used to being roped into messes by me.”

“You know, it’s like every time I discover a new discomforting sensation when it happens.”

“I can very much think of… other more pleasant sensations.” Shunsui said while he buried himself into his friend’s neck, softly biting his skin. He felt Jūshirō tremble.

“Don’t you think I should be well rested for tomorrow?” Even if he couldn’t see his face. Shunsui could hear the smile on Jūshirō’s words.

“You don’t need to worry about that, my dear.” Shunsui’s mouth went up from Jūshirō’s neck to his ear to whisper to him and bite on his lobe. He felt Jūshirō practically melt at the touch. “After I’m done with you, you’ll have plenty of time to rest.”

-------------------------------------------

Loyal to his word, the first thing Shunsui did after leaving the Thirteenth Division barracks in the morning was talk to Captain Kuchiki. He met old Ginrei at his Sixth Division office. As he had obviously predicted, they had yet to find a suitable candidate for that night. That was when Shunsui deployed all his best efforts in convincing Ginrei. As he had also predicted, when he told the old Captain that he knew someone who had all the needed characteristics, the Captain asked to meet the woman. He could not let this person present themselves in front of the noble Korinoishi family if he himself hadn’t checked that she was appropriate for the task. It wasn’t easy to sway him from that decision.

Shunsui needed to make up a convoluted yet realistic enough story about how some years before he had met this incredible courtesan in the deep districts of the Rukongai. How her delicacy had conquered even the most seasoned warriors and thugs, the way her mysterious appearance caused awe wherever she went, and the way the whole world went quiet when she performed. Shunsui was well aware that Jūshirō would kill him for setting such high expectatives, as he would think that he was setting him up for failure. If only he knew that this was how Shunsui saw his lover through his eyes. 

Ginrei listened politely to the complete story. He found it interesting, though Shunsui knew the old Kuchiki was way too wise to believe such fairytales, but still demanded to meet this woman in order to check if her beauty would be sufficient to the two Korinoishi nobles. Shunsui then had to add more fantasy to his story. He told the Sixth Division Captain how part of the legend and enigma that surrounded this made-up woman came from the fact that she always wore a veil so as not to reveal her face. She only lifted her veil when she was alone with a man. When they left her private quarters, the men were dumbfounded, as if the sole sight of this woman’s face had set them into a deep trance. Even through all the accounts from the men who were lucky enough to lay with her, an accurate depiction of the woman could not be reached, but they all agreed that her beauty was otherworldly, like no woman they had ever seen in their whole lives. Shunsui told Captain Kuchiki that the woman would wear a veil during the performance and reception, and would only lift it for the Korinoishi sisters.

At this point, Shunsui could see through the old Captain’s steel mask that he was getting annoyed. Perhaps he was overdoing the whole act. But still, despite himself, Ginrei seemed interested in this woman. Perhaps because of his reluctant curiosity or most likely because he knew he would find no other candidate in a matter of hours, he begrudgingly admitted this woman for the reception dance. 

They then proceeded to discuss the arrangements for the evening. Ginrei asked for the direction of the courtesan in order to send a carriage to urgently get her to the Seireitei. Shunsui sleek as ever, apologised to the Captain for being ahead of himself and told him that, since he knew he would end up agreeing, he had already sent for her to be sent to the Seireitei. That cleared up, Ginrei told him the time and hour at which this woman should present herself at the reception site, which was to take place around a lake at the outskirts of the Noble District. Now that everything was settled, Shunsui only made a couple of requests from the head of the Kuchiki clan. 

First, he asked for bonfires to be placed around the reception site. Even if the dance was arranged to take place during the sunset, which was enough to kind of hide the distinct pallor of Jūshirō’s hair, he probably would need to spend a bit of the night there before he could scurry away. The reflections of the fire would be enough to disguise Ukitake’s white ivory hair and to highlight its silvery reflections. He didn’t want anyone making a correlation between the mysterious courtesan and the missing Captain of the Thirteenth Division. 

Then, of course, he asked for some appropriate garments for said courtesan. Thankfully, Ginrei had already supposed he would need to provide for the clothes, which needed to be up to the nobles’ standard. Captain Kuchiki took him to his mansion, where many women's kimonos had been gathered to dress the courtesan. They were all indeed of the highest quality and of exquisite taste, which was to be expected if Ginrei had a hand on this. He told Shunsui to choose the garments that would best fit the woman, since he knew the courtesan and would have a better idea of what to dress her in. Shunsui feigned to take his time thinking, much to the older Captain’s dismay, but since he stepped a foot into the room a particular outfit had stood out to him. He knew that it would look spectacular on Jūshirō, and couldn’t wait to see him in it. 

The garment consisted of a light green furisode, layered with different silks and gauzes filled with intricate and elaborate embroideries and sparkly beads. The silhouette seemed to hug the waist, while the skirts and sleeves were wide enough and floated around the torso and legs. He knew that no other garment would be more adequate to make the dancing stand out even more. He then picked out a fragment of fabric that could serve as a veil and some hairpins and other complements. Ginrei agreed with Shunsui’s choices and let him part with the garments, not without reminding him again to make sure the courtesan was there in time. 

After leaving the Sixth Division barracks, he set his way to another part of the Seireitei, where he would find the man able to make Jūshirō’s reiatsu go totally undetected. So he went to the Twelfth Squad barracks, where he found Captain Kisuke Urahara. Shunsui was well aware that many Captains thought of the new member as incompetent, but he knew that behind that sheepish and clumsy facade was a highly intelligent and cunning man. He would have no filters when speaking to the Captain, and knew that Urahara would have nothing to oppose. Both men sat one in front of the other in a foyer adjacent to the research laboratories, only separated by a small low table and a couple of cups of tea. And so Shunsui began his courtship. He told the blond man a similar version of the story he had previously told to Ginrei, but made special emphasis on the fact that this courtesan wanted to keep her identity a secret.

“You understand, Captain Urahara, that it should be within a man’s cavalry instinct to comply with a woman’s desires.” He eyes the man with a knowing look and, for a fragment of a second, he saw something shift in the eyes of his companion. He knew what Shunsui was looking for. “I know, as well as you do, that hiding sealing off someone’s reiatsu completely from another's senses is not well seen unless you have to resort to desperate attempts in a fight. Even if there are no specific laws that forbid it, it’s something people refrain from doing. But I think that you and I both know that people always find a way to fly under the radar.”

Urahara eyed him curiously. Behind the apparent gentleness in the researcher’s eyes, Kyōraku could see the gears turning in the man’s mind. 

“Ah, you’re absolutely right, Captain Kyōraku.” He agreed. Urahara eyed the man for another moment and then smiled easily. “I see you’re in quite need of something that might be useful for this task.”

“Indeed. The whole Seireitei could benefit from this situation if everything goes according to plan.”

Urahara continued to look at him, then leaned in a bit closer.

“You see, Kyōraku-san.” He said. “Forgive me, do you mind if I call you that?”

“Not at all, my friend.” Shunsui complied easily.

“Then, Kyōraku-san, I think I may have something along the lines of what you’re looking for. But, as you have perfectly put into words, this kind of item is not most agreeable with the Soul Society’s standards.”

“I understand.” he said severely.

“The garment is undetectable, so I’m not worried about people noticing it.” Urahara continued and, suddenly, his smile disappeared. “But, if I were to lend it to you for this courtesan, I would kindly ask you to keep it a secret. You know that some people wouldn’t agree with certain methods.”

“Indeed, you have my word, Captain Urahara.”

Urahara smiled again and stood up from his seat, disappearing through a door. Shunsui waited for a while, though he did not care to count the minutes, and finally the other Captain came back with a thin wrapped package in his hand. Shunsui stood up and Urahara gave it to him. Both captains looked gravely into each other's eyes.

“I promise I’ll give it back as soon as all of this is over.” Shunsui said, at which Urahara only nodded. Now, Shunsui smiled. “I owe you one, my friend.”

Finally, Urahara smiled easily again, the secretive atmosphere finally dissipating. 

“You’re fine, Captain Kyōraku.”

With a final smirk and tipping his hat forward in sign of farewell, Kyōraku left the Research and Development Department. 

-------------------------------------------

“I can’t believe you went through all that trouble for this!” Jūshirō said with an unmovable shocked expression when Shunsui retold the events of his morning. 

“To be honest, it wasn’t as hard as it seems.”

When Shunsui had finally reached the Thirteenth Division barracks, using a combination of swift shunpo so nobody could see the items he carried with him, it was well past the morning. Now, he was in the Ugendō, all the women’s garments and Urahara’s packet placed on a low table in Jūshirō’s office. Both men were kneeled on the ground. Shunsui calmly sipped his tea while Ukitake’s eyes didn’t peel off the clothes he would have to wear that evening. The urgency and anxiety were visible on the white-haired man’s face.

“Still, this is too much…” Ukitake mumbled.

“Oi, Jū.” Shunsui said calmly. After a few seconds, Jūshirō finally took his eyes off the garments and looked at him. “You have nothing to worry about, it’ll all go fine.”

Jūshirō looked dubious at him and then turned to continue to look at the furisode.

“And, if it doesn’t go perfect, it’s not as if it’s the end of the world.” Shunsui said easily. “Those nobles will just go North again and continue to despise the Soul Society, just as they have done for the last millennia. Plus, nobody will know it’s you, so no damage done.”

“Well, that’s truly reassuring.” Jūshirō said sarcastically, though Shunsui noted his shoulders were less tense. 

Just then, there was a knock at the door. 

“Captain, lunch is ready to be served!” came Miyako’s voice from the other side of the door.

“Do come in, Miyako.” Jūshirō said.

When the Third Seat opened the door, her eyes went wide and her mouth fell open while looking at the furisode. She hurriedly closed the door and kneeled before the garment, feeling it with her hands.

“This is absolutely beautiful.” She said in awe.

“Aye, of course, I couldn’t let our courtesan walk around in some rags!” Shunsui smiled while Jūshirō threw him an exasperated look.

“You have a good eye for this kind of stuff, Captain Kyōraku! This will look amazing on you, Captain Ukitake. The color really suits you!” Miyako continued excitedly.

Jūshirō’s cheeks instantly flushed a bit, but he looked aside to hide it. Suddenly, the door to his office was thrown open, and the three Shinigami turned like kids who had been caught in the middle of some mischief.

“Oi, what’s the hold up, Miyako?” Kaien’s face went blank when he noticed the scene before him. Then, a smirk crept up his face. “Well, that’s some pretty good-looking dress if I do say so myself, Captain.”

“For the Gods, Kaien, come in and close the door!” Jūshirō hushed, his face burning from the embarrassment as much as he tried to avoid it.

Kaien closed the door without any rush and approached the table, leaning in to take a better look at the furisode.

“So, this is what you are wearing?”

“Apparently so, yes.” Jūshirō sighed.

Kaien inspected the clothes for a bit longer and then clasped a hand to Ukitake’s shoulder.

“Well, you’re going to be quite the heartbreaker tonight, Captain!”

“You should really learn to show a bit more of respect towards your superiors.” Jūshirō said with his eyes casted-down, both in annoyance and fluster. 

Kaien chuckled and sat between his Captain and Miyako.

“So, what’s the plan for the evening?” he asked.

“Well, you two are to attend the event in representation of our Division. I’ll have to be there earlier.” Jūshirō added, his tone showing that he still had his doubts with his plan.

“Aye, since I was the one who found the woman, a couple of Shinigamis from my division will be the ones to accompany you to the site of the reception.” Shunsui explained. “I’ve already arranged for them to pick you up in a carriage at the North Gate of access to the Seireitei. You will wait at the house of that old lady that sells our monaka.” 

“Does she know about this?!” Jūshirō asked alarmed.

“Oh, no! If she did, we wouldn’t hear the end of this little adventure.” Shunsui smirked knowingly. “I just told her she must host this woman for a while until she’s picked up.”

“Then I really do must leave early…” Jūshirō mumbled, his eyes turning once again towards the furisode. Miyako seemed to jump at those words.

“Captain, we shouldn’t delay ourselves in getting you ready. Time is our best ally in this situation!” She said, her eyes full of conviction.

“Well, then I guess we can have lunch and then…” Jūshirō started, but was quickly interrupted by a vigorous Miyako.

“I should start doing your hair right away, sir!”

“Right now?!” Jūshirō did nothing to hide his dismay. Shunsui chuckled into his cup, the sound of which propelled Miyako to turn now towards him.

“I’m sorry, Captain Kyōraku, but you really should get going! We can’t allow ourselves to have any distractions!”

“Ahh??!!!” Shunsui’s whole expression turned into that of a stray puppy, but Miyako had already turned away and disappeared into the Captain’s bathroom.

“She’s right, you know.” Jūshirō agreed with her subordinate. “Lisa’s going to berate you. You haven’t set foot in your Division in the whole morning.”

Shunsui and Jūshirō both perfectly knew that he actually hadn't been to his Division since yesterday evening, since he spent the night in Jūshirō’s quarters, but they weren’t about to say that in front of Kaien and Miyako. The look they gave each other was enough to prove they both remembered the events of the previous night. 

Still, the thought of his vicious lieutenant finding a way to make him pay for scurrying away from working did nothing to make him want to go back to his division. But both Miyako and Jūshirō were right. He should probably get going. 

“Well, then I guess I’ll see you later when you’re all dolled up, handsome.” He said while standing up and putting on his hat. Jūshirō gave him a murderous look but said nothing. Kaien, at his side, smiled mischievously at Kyōraku’s comment. At that moment, Miyako emerged from Ukitake’s bathroom with everything she found could be useful, from brushes and hair ties to lotions and colognes. 

“Kaien, you should leave as well, I’m not going to have you here distracting me.”

“Ahh??!!!” Kaien’s disappointment sounding exactly like Shunsui’s made Jūshirō chuckle this time.

“You heard me.” She said, pointing an accusatory finger to her partner. “Both of you.” She added, this time looking at Kyōraku. “I have a lot to do and you’re just going to get in the way of my work.”

She said this while ushering both Shinigamis towards the door, closing it with a bang on their faces. Kaien and Kyōraku shared a defeated look.

“Well, Kaien-kun, looks like it’s been decided we’re of no use here.”

“Ah.” Kaien agreed, scratching his neck. “Miyako really does take her job seriously.”

Shunsui hummed while lowering his hat and starting to walk down the hallway.

“I guess we will have to wait until the evening for the final result.”

-------------------------------------------

Sooner than he had expected, Kyōraku was at the lake situated at the outskirts of the Noble District. A cup of sake already in his hand, he took in his surroundings. The place had been arranged and decorated with exquisite taste by Ginrei’s intervention, Shunsui didn’t doubt. Several large tables had been placed in the meadow that surrounded the lake. A special and much smaller table, facing the rest and in front of the lake, had been arranged for the newly arrived nobles. The rest of the tables were set in a semi-circular manner to face the lake. Nobody was seated yet, since the Korinoishi family had yet to arrive. Shunsui could imagine that the old Ginrei would be fuming. And then, just in front of the lake and between the table for the Korinoishi and the rest of tables, surrounded by still extinct bonfires and white and blue floral arrangements, was a stage not higher than a step. It was quite extensive, in order to allow the dancers to move freely during their performance. But there would only be one performer today, and that would be Jūshirō.

Besides the Korinoishi family, basically everybody else was there. All Captains were already there. He could see Hirako, Muguruma, Aikawa and Ōtoribashi conversing not far away from him. Urahara was also around, her small lieutenant in tow berating him about something. They hadn’t even exchanged a look. Even if nobody would suspect anything if they did, they really didn’t have much to talk about since the matter was settled. Even Yama-jii was also there talking with some judges from Central 46 about some boring issues, Shunsui didn’t doubt. When he had previously talked with his master and had told him that Ukitake wouldn’t be attending today, the old man had thrown him a suspicious look, but said nothing else.  

For the moment, Shunsui had seen himself dragged into a conversation with some nobles. Since a visit from the Korinoishi was not a casual occurrence, all nobles from every part of the Soul Society had gathered in the Seireitei. So Shunsui was not only here today as a Captain of the Gotei 13, but also as representation of the Kyōraku clan. He had also seen Yoruichi around before, but she had scurried away when she had had the chance. Smart woman she was. Anything would be better than having to exchange pleasantries with these greedy nobles. Kaien, for his part, didn’t seem to care as he mingled with different members from high-ranking noble families. Though the older nobles looked at him with some superiority and disgust because of his friendlier manners, he had seemed to find a more easy going group, most of which were around his age and were laughing loudly along with him. Kaien wasn’t alone as his uncle, Captain Isshin Shiba, was also there and they had brought their younger sister, Kukaku. Shunsui had heard that the woman had started a very proficient business of pyrotechnics and explosives, which some nobles deemed unfitting for a young lady of the high aristocracy. Not that the Shibas had ever cared. Kyōraku didn’t personally know Kukaku, but Jūshirō knew her from some visits to the Shiba residency and had defined her as ‘welcoming and very strong-willed’.

As for Ginrei, he had excused himself some time ago to make sure everything was going accordingly. Some nobles were already starting to whisper about the indecency of the Korinoishi family to be late to an event celebrated in their honor.

“Just as snobbish as always…” He heard an aristocrat whisper near him.

“We can consider ourselves lucky if they even present themselves.” Another one grumbled in response. 

At that same moment, Shunsui heard many voices lower at the same time behind him and turned to look in that direction. As expected, the Korinoishi had finally appeared. Five members formed the small committee. The first of them was the head of the clan, an old grey-haired man that walked upright only because he leaned on the arm of one of his servants. The man looked pale, more so than the rest of his family. It was evident that he was sick. It reminded Shunsui of Jūshirō’s worst bouts of illness, when his skin took on a certain waxy pallor. Behind the head of the family walked two blond very tall men, cousins of the head of the clan. Apparently they weren’t on the line of succession, but still played an important role in the family dynamics. Their icy blue eyes were set straight ahead, not minding to even look at the nobles and Shinigami that bowed as they passed. Finally, behind these two men, came the heiresses of the Korinoishi dynasty. Some gasps could be heard as the young women passed. When Shunsui managed to take a look at their faces, he understood why. 

The women’s features were of extreme delicacy and beauty. Their thin face, with their pale lips and eyes and their skin as white as snow was a sight to be admired. Their svelt and tall figures were clad in deep blue kimonos that hang loosely around their hips. Though they didn’t have any exceptional body measurements, there was something mesmerising about the way they carried themselves that made you unable to take your eyes away from them. The two sisters didn’t look at the crowd that observed them either, but their expression wasn’t cold and shut off as that of their elders. There was something about their eyes that seemed kind of cheerful, though they seemed to be more mocking, and the slight curve of their lips that couldn’t be quite depicted as a smile, that seemed more like they were biting their tongues in order to hold a laugh. Nothing clear could be said about these mysterious sisters, but Shunsui could most assuredly claim that they gave even less of a damn than their family about this whole ordeal. The Shinigamis, the noble families, the reception. They didn’t care. They were here just to ridicule everything around them. They wouldn’t be obvious about it, of course, but you just could feel that venomous energy irradiating from them.

For a moment, Shunsui almost regretted roping Jūshirō into this mess. These noble sisters weren’t going to be surprised for nothing. If they saw something that they didn’t like, they would make themselves clear without being loud. Shunsui shook these thoughts away from his mind. It wasn’t the time to doubt. These girls could have all the noble arrogance in the world, but he, better than anyone, knew that there were no walls high enough against Jūshirō’s charms. 

He wished he could have seen his partner before having to mingle with the aristocracy, but he had taken a look where Ginrei had been reunited with the servants organizing the place and Jūshirō hadn’t arrived yet. When he had seen Kaien, the boy had raised his brows, giving him a look that said ‘Wait and see’. Shunsui knew quite well that Jūshirō wouldn’t leave these girls feeling indifferent.

The Korinoishi family finally arrived at their table. They didn’t direct their eyes or a word towards anybody. Shunsui was quite sure that if Ginrei and other members of the Kuchiki clan hadn’t been waiting by their table, the nobles would have just sat, ignoring the crowd that had gathered to greet them. Captain Kuchiki exchanged a few words with the head of the Korinoishi family and the other two men. Then, he bowed his head and the nobles took their seats. So, that was it.

The rest of the people present took the message and, gradually, everyone began to sit down. Shunsui preferred not to spend more time with the nobility than necessary, so he chose to sit at the table designated for the Captains of the Gotei 13, which was fairly upfront, only a couple of tables separating them from the stage. Behind them, Lisa was sitting at another table with high-ranking officials, where he saw Kaien and Miyako hurriedly whispering into each other’s ears. Shunsui took the seat that was empty, next to Captain Hirako, whom he greeted with a tip of his hat. The other Shinigami raised his glass to him while smiling in response.

Pretty soon, the servants began to bring out every dish and drink you could imagine. Every kind of fish, meat, fruits or berries, along with wine and sake, were passed around the table. All Shinigamis and nobles present ate and drank as much as they pleased. 

When the feast ended after a couple of hours, everyone kept drinking while chatting at their table, even though some Shinigamis had had a couple too many drinks and were more like hollering mads. Still, nobody seemed to care much, except for the usual noble who would obnoxiously roll their eyes. It was a celebration, after all. 

Shunsui did as everybody else and mingled with his peers, enjoying an amicable chat with Captain Shiba and Shihoin. Still, while drinking and joking around, his mind only wandered towards Jūshirō. Sooner than later, the dance would take place. And he couldn’t wait to see it. He just hoped that his friend wasn’t too nervous.

As expected, the time for the dance finally arrived. It was well into the night when the bonfires around the stage were lit and a noble woman from one of the higher-class families walked up the stage to address the attendees.

“Good night, everyone.” The woman greeted with a sweet voice. “We are gathered here today to properly welcome the Korinoishi clan, whose history of fellowship with the Seireitei dates hundreds of years back. Please, let our gracious guests share and feel this comradeship tonight.”

Though it was all lies, you could not expect less from the high sphere of the aristocracy. A polite yet not much enthusiastic round of applause followed. Shunsui could see the members of the Korinoishi family. Not one of them smiled, nor looked toward the rest of attendees. Their eyes kept pointing stubbornly forward with marked coldness. They didn’t signal any acknowledgement, not from the crowd or the woman on the stage, who they looked at without much interest. After a short minute, the clapping died awkwardly. Well, Shunsui thought, this isn’t a good start.

“As a token of the Seireitei’s appreciation of our bond with the Korinoishi clan, we now present to you ‘the moon goddess’.”

That’s when Shunsui noticed a shadow next to the stage, who soon calmly climbed onto it, followed by two ladies in waiting. A change in the atmosphere of the crowd could be felt as Jūshirō stepped onto the stage, suddenly revealed by the light provided by the bonfires. It was only natural. A tall lean figure walked graciously towards the center of the stage, their hands folded into the sleeves of their attire. This person was clad in a light green furisode, the different motifs, silks and beads shimmering in the moonlight and the light of the bonfires providing an array of colors. But what most people muttered about was the veil the performer wore hanging from their forehead, just above their eyebrows. It was the same matching green as the rest of the attire and made in chiffon. It was not opaque, but the face of the dancer remained perfectly hidden, only the faint silhouette of its features being merely visible. The hair, long and silky, hung mostly loose around the hips while some locks were held in intricate loops through golden hairpins. He could see that Miyako had clipped away Jūshirō’s bangs, which might have been recognizable. And just as Shunsui had predicted, the light from the bonfires perfectly camouflaged the particular pallor of his friend’s mane as a very light blond, providing the desired effect of a platinum shimmer. It was truly a breathtaking view, and Shunsui could even sense as some of his fellow Captain’s breath hitched at the sight. He did his best to hide his fluster. 

The noble woman presenter bowed slightly to Jūshirō, who nodded his head in response. Once he was at the center of the stage, the ladies in waiting and the noble woman left the platform, leaving the lone clad figure front and center, the eyes of all presents fixed upon him. After a long few seconds, Jūshirō turned towards the table of the Korinoishi family and bowed deeply, his knees buckling and hair brushing the floor of the stage, his clothes falling in orderly folds around him. The crowd held his breath at the graceful movement, while the noble clan only observed him without any particular expression. Then, Jūshirō turned to the front and repeated the bow. The silence was astonishing, one being able to hear even the faint sing of the crickets and owls and the murmur of the lake’s water.

A couple of seconds passed after Jūshirō straightened his posture. Then, a small quartet of women’s courtesans gathered next to the stage started playing a beautiful slow melody that spread through the meadow. Jūshirō made a fan appear from his obi, in the same shade of green as his attire, and lifted his arms, slowly swaying them while following the rhythm of the stringed instruments, the fabric of the sleeves of the furisode rustling and bellowing around him. He moved his torso and upper-body to the soft strums of the koto and the shamisen, the movements alluring and full of purpose. The dancing was paused, sometimes staying still with his arms in a determined position, the veiled face looking intently towards the crowd. All presents stared at him in awe, glasses raised halfway to agape mouths. 

As the music started to slowly pick up its pace, Jūshirō started softly moving around the stage, delicately tiptoing around the edges and bowing to the closest Shinigamis and nobles, who softly took his hand and kissed it, their eyes looking entranced to the veiled face. In one of these instances, Jūshirō looked in Shunsui’s direction, whose eyes were fixed obscurely on the noble who held his hand and was lowering his head to kiss it. Instantly, Jūshirō gently disentangled himself from the grasp of the noble and gave him his fan instead. The crowd exploded in laughter and applause at the bold audacity, yet full of fineness, of the mysterious courtesan. The aristocrat, too entranced to take offense, took the fan to his chest and bowed his head. 

The music continued to grow in intensity, the melody colourful and sounding like the arrival of the spring, and Jūshirō started softly twirling while moving around the stage. When he spinned, the fabrics of the furisode floated and sparkled majestically around him, eliciting gasps and exclamations from the public, followed by rounds of applause. Soon, Jūshirō was twirling non stop around the stage, so much that the presents thought that the courtesan would drop to the floor out of dizziness. But the movements didn’t seem to stop, and both nobles and Shinigamis stood from their seats to acclaim and clap to the courtesan. Shunsui scrambled to his feet in a dazed manner, his eyes never leaving Jūshirō.

At first, he had wanted to berate those nobles in the first row who had had the audacity to kiss the hand of his lover. But now, he could see that even the high-aristocracy, who were usually entitled and full of themselves, looked at Jūshirō with nothing but amazeness and full-on respect. Shunsui admired the way his lover’s hair moved while he spinned, his mind replaying all the times he had been fortunate to run his fingers through it or help his lover brush his mane in the morning. 

As the music reached its climax, Jūshirō’s twirls and movements became even more vigorous. Shunsui was lost in the performance. The grace still full of resolve with which Jūshirō moved reminded him of the times they had spent training and fighting together. How many times had Shunsui stopped since their Academy years to watch a sweat-faced Jūshirō catch his breath after sparring? How many times had he admired the way his green orbs abandoned their usual gentleness to be filled with determination when facing an opponent? How many times had he dared, in the midst of the battle, to take a look at his lover just to watch him moving as swiftly as the wind across the battlefield, taking on any opponents who might face him? It was no surprise that Jūshirō had the crowd right in the palm of his hand, for even in the most mundane of activities, he was always a sight to behold.

Sooner than he had realized, the melody was coming to an end. As the instruments emitted their final chord, Jūshirō twirled at the center of the stage and stood with his face looking up at the full moon above, his arm raised with a finger slightly pointing towards it. The crowd erupted in clamors and applause, and Shunsui reminded himself to clap, still dazed by the performance. Jūshirō bowed deeply to the crowd and then turned towards the Korinoishi family. Shunsui had totally forgotten about them during the performance.

The head of the family seemed surprisingly content with the performance. Not that he was smiling or anything, but he nodded his head when Jūshirō turned towards them. The two cousins looked at the elder man and, seeing his approval, they politely clapped along with the crowd. Though their expression remained closed-off and they could seem bored to the naked eye, Shunsui had been treating arrogant nobles long enough to know that they had actually really enjoyed the performance. Meanwhile, the two heiresses had their eyes fixed on Jūshirō. They seemed rather surprised, since they probably weren’t expecting such a good performance. Now, they looked at the clad figure inquisitively, trying to tear apart the dancer’s clothes and discover the secrets she hid. They would pretty soon find out, Shunsui thought. Now, it was Jūshirō’s turn to reveal his face and they would see if this whole ordeal had actually paid off. 

Jūshirō repeated the same bow he had done before the performance, low enough that his hair brushed the wooden floor of the stage. Then, still bowing, Jūshirō raised his head. Shunsui watched expectantly as Jūshirō lifted his hand to remove the veil. He could sense as the whole crowd held their breath at the movement. Shunsui saw as Jūshirō’s hand brushed the veil aside and instantly looked towards the Korinoishi heiresses. 

The eyes of the girl to the right went wide, but quickly hid her expression. On the other hand, her sister’s mouth fell open and her expression turned incredulous. After a couple of long seconds, she put her hands on the table as she made a movement to stand up. Shunsui felt himself tense, ready to intervene if anything went sideways. Instantly though, her sister put a hand on her arm, refraining her from acting. They looked at each other intensely, communicating solely through their eyes the way only siblings could. Then, they looked at the courtesan again and slightly bowed their heads, the movement so slight it could most accurately be described as a long nod. Shunsui was instantly relieved. Jūshirō bowed again deeply to the twins and with no rush made his way out of the stage, still amidst the clamors from the crowd. 

Shunsui looked at the Korinoishi family again. The head of the family was easily talking with his cousins. These two seemed dazed after getting a glimpse of the courtesan’s face. The two girls were hushedly whispering to each other, covering their mouths with one hand, in a rather alarmed way. It was obvious Jūshirō had made an impression.

Shunsui sighed and sat back down, taking a sip of the long-forgotten sake. Everything had turned out perfectly.

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After the performance’s intermission, everyone went back to mingling with the presents and enjoying their drinks. Shunsui felt obliged to spend some time with the nobles, all of whom were greatly impressed by the performance. Those who had held Jūshirō’s hand said that the only thing they could make out of the courtesan’s face through the veil was the beauty and intensity of her eyes. Shunsui saw the noble who had received the fan still holding it to his chest and faintly heard him say he would never dispose of it, even if his wife got mad. He saw the Shiba family and Shunsui winked an eye at Kaien and Miyako. Kaien raised his drink to him while Miyako flashed him a sudden and mischievous smile, who was gone before anyone could even take it in.

Everyone was also talking about the courtesan’s whereabouts. Apparently, she had disappeared some minutes after the performance, nobody knowing where she had gone. Many nobles said this in a disappointing manner, thinking they could have had a chance to win over her love. Shunsui wondered if Jūshirō’s sudden disappearance had offended the Korinoishi clan, but when he had talked to Ginrei, the Captain had told him that they hadn’t seemed to care, as they had been perfectly satisfied with the performance. Apparently, the head of the North clan had thanked Ginrei for such a warm welcome with such honesty that even the Kuchiki noble had been surprised. The old Captain put a hand on Shunsui's shoulder and thanked him for his help. Not that he was grandiose or anything about it, but the fact that the stubborn noble had even thanked him meant that he was really grateful. He told Shunsui to convey his appreciation to the courtesan and tell her to please keep the attire as a token of his gratitude. Shunsui’s naughty side instantly imagined Jūshirō surprising him one day by putting on the furisode and giving him a ‘private performance’, but quickly put those thoughts aside to mull them over in solitude.

Shunsui then went back to his table, where Captain Hirako, Muguruma, Ōtoribashi and Aikawa were still talking about the performance. 

“I’m telling you, that woman must’ve been hiding something to wear that veil!” Shinji assured, a cup of sake kept in perfect balance in his hand despite his sharp gesticulations.

“Shinji, there's something called an artistic choice, though I doubt you would know much about that.” Rose soberly shot back, to which Shinji stuck out his tongue.

“I thought it was cool, it kept up the mystery and made the whole act even more appealing.” Kensei said while shrugging. Suddenly, Mashiro appeared behind him, making the Captain jump off his seat.

“Wooow! Such smart words from Kensei! Kensei is in loooove!” 

While Kensei shouted to her subordinate and the lieutenant threw a tantrum, Shinji turned to Shunsui and playfully buried his elbow into his side. 

“I saw you were quite taken by this courtesan.” Came Hirako’s teasing drawl, his eyes full of intention. “You wouldn’t take your eyes off her!”

Shunsui chuckled.

“Seems you caught me quite captivated, Shinji-kun.”

“I didn’t think you’d be, since I heard you were the one who found this woman.”

“Ah, my friend, observing a piece of art countless times doesn't take away from its beauty.”

Shinji rolled his eyes at the comment, but Captain Ōtoribashi intervened before he said something.

“Such true words, Kyōraku-san. The talent of your friend is undeniable. Such simple grace in her movements! Such fierce delicacy!” 

“On that we agree. I'll convey your kind words to her, she'll surely appreciate them.” Shunsui said, a smile dancing around his lips, knowing Jūshirō would definitely not appreciate them.

“So, since you've seen her before, you surely must've seen the face under the veil.” Captain Muguruma said, sitting back down now that Mashiro was nowhere to be seen.

“Aye, indeed I have.”

“Well, what is she like?” asked Captain Aikawa this time.

Shunsui thought for a second before answering in complete honesty..

“I have never met someone as beautiful and unique.” 

Taken by surprise by the older Captain’s serious expression, his peers simply nodded and let the matter rest, even though Shinji looked at him suspiciously over the brim of his glass. They soon went on to talk about other matters. 

After a while, he saw Captain Urahara talking with Captain Shihoin. After she left, Shunsui approached him.

“Beautiful night, isn’t it, my friend?”

Urahara turned surprised to look at the other man.

“Ah, Captain Kyōraku…!”

“You can drop the title for tonight, Kisuke-kun.” Shunsui smiled. Urahara nodded, a knowing glint in his eyes.

“Of course, Kyōraku-san. Indeed, it’s a beautiful night. Though I fear its beauty pales in comparison to your friend’s performance. I understand now the importance of my assistance.” Urahara didn’t lower his voice or change his voice despite the secrecy of the topic. He kept his eyes straight ahead and spoke in the same tone one would talk about the weather. “This person should keep their talent a secret should they not want to be harassed all the time to perform!”

Shunsui chuckled and almost choked on his sake, the image of Jūshirō being relentlessly asked to dance by everyone in the Seireitei coming to his mind.

“Indeed, my friend.” He answered, and also spoke with absolute normality, not fearing to be heard. Everybody was already too many drinks in to bother to eavesdrop. “I wanted to thank you again for your help. I’ll return the item to you tomorrow first thing in the morning.”

“Oh, Kyōraku-san, only if it’s not a bother. Truly, there is no hurry.” Urahara assured.

“And, of course, you can rest assured this will be kept a secret. Not even my friend knows the identity of the owner of the mantle.”

Urahara eyed the older man.

“That’s good to know. Though no reassurances are needed, Kyōraku-san. After all, I wouldn’t have lent you anything if I didn’t trust your word.”

Though the comment was dark, Urahara spoke in the same light voice as ever. Shunsui eyed him curiously. He was right about the man. There was much more to him.

“And for that you are a smart man, Kisuke-kun.” he said as he raised his glass to him.

Urahara smiled and clinked his glass with Shunsui’s, both men taking a sip and taking a moment to observe the crowd. Though some of the most pretentious nobles had already left, most of the guests were still drinking. Both nobles and Shinigamis sat at their tables or walked from one group of people to another. It was obvious everyone was having a good time and that the night was far from over.

“By the way, how fares Captain Ukitake? I heard he suffered a relapse.” Urahara asked after a bit of silence.

“Oh, he’s fine. Thankfully, it was only a minor setback from a couple weeks ago. Still, he wasn’t in good condition to attend.” Shunsui said, still looking at the crowd.

“I see.” Urahara said, eyeing Shunsui curiously. Something shifted in Shunsui’s chest. Was it possible that he knew? Urahara sighed, after observing his expression. “Such a shame. I’m sure Captain Ukitake would have most enjoyed the beauty of tonight’s performance.” 

Shunsui’s expression remained as placid as ever as he answered and looked at the full moon.

“Indeed, he would.”

—---------------------

After, to Shunsui’s judgement, an acceptable amount of time had passed, he sneaked from the crowd and into the small woods that surrounded the lake. Under normal circumstances, people would have thought it was weird for the Eighth Captain to leave a party early. But, after all, it was only normal for him to check on the much demanded courtesan that he had brought for the occasion. So he walked without much hurry towards a small hidden lake in these very woods, not quite far off from the site of the reception but enough so that nobody would go there tonight. Even though he couldn’t detect even the smallest amount of Jūshirō’s reiatsu, he knew that his friend would be there.

After a while walking, only the faint sound of the music from the party could be heard. The woods were absolutely peaceful at this hour, only the faint rush of the wind in the tree leaves could be heard along with the occasional nighttime animal. The damp grass from the night’s humidity tickled his feet, and Shunsui walked easily while taking in deep breaths. 

Finally, he arrived at the small clearing he had been looking for. Only a lake, much smaller than the one alongside the reception, graced the surroundings, and full coverage from peeking eyes was granted thanks to the thick vegetation. Of course, there was another figure already sitting by the lake with his back to him. 

“Took your time.” came his voice, even though he didn’t turn to look at him.

Shunsui smiled. Jūshirō’s green clothes merged perfectly with the grass and the trees and bushes around him, and his white mane shone charmingly in the moonlight. 

“Sounds like someone’s impatient.” Shunsui teased while approaching his friend. When he was a couple steps from him he saw that the veil was laying beside Jūshirō’s knees. Jūshirō turned to look at him.

“Maybe I’m impatient because this furisode is really tight and uncomfortable and I can not take it off on my own without fear of tearing… What?” came Jūshirō’s confused question at his friend’s expression.

But Shunsui was just simply too stunned by his lover’s beauty. It was not only that the moon lightened up his features or that the green of the attire matched perfectly that of his eyes. It was not only the perfect hairstyle, even though Jūshirō had already unclipped his bangs. Shunsui observed his features, perfectly emphasized by the make-up Miyako had applied. His cheekbones and jaw still looked sharp and strong, though they looked a bit more feminine and soft thanks to the make-up. A glittery copper eyeshadow had been generously, though not exceedingly, spread through Jūshirō’s eyelids, complimenting the green on his eyes. The eyeshadow shined charmingly every time he blinked. Mascara had been applied to his natural long black eyelashes, making his eyes stand out even more. A soft rose blush graced Jūshirō’s features, though, Shunsui noted, the color was intensifying each second he stared at his lover’s face. And lastly, and what Shunsui couldn’t tear his eyes from, were his lips. Jūshirō’s perfect full rosy lips. Though the specifics of cosmetics were lost on him, it was obvious something had been applied to them. Jūshirō’s lips looked just a bit bigger and plumpier than usual, their color a bit rosier and a slight sparkle in them.

“Shun…?” came Jūshirō’s dubious question at the prolonged silence. 

“You look perfect.” Shunsui muttered.

Jūshirō’s eyes went wide for a second at the sudden statement, but he quickly closed them and sighed.

“Please, don’t…”

But he was again quickly interrupted by Shunsui abruptly pressing his lips to his. After a few seconds, Jūshirō gave into the kiss, which only ended when they separated to catch their breath.

“It’s no lie. You look wonderful.” Shunsui said in a low voice, licking the sweet gloss from his own lips as his hand came to caress Jūshirō’s cheek, still observing his lover in detail. “Even though that reception was full of people looking their best, you outshine every single one of them right now.”

Jūshirō stared at him for a few seconds, then shook his head, though Shunsui didn’t miss the small smile on his lips. With that, Shusui flopped next to Jūshirō and put an arm around his waist, pulling him closer. Jūshirō’s eyes were lost in the small lake before them, and Shunsui only had eyes for him.

“Is that your plan for tonight?” The white-haired captain finally asked, after a full minute of silence. “Sitting there and staring at me?”

“Well, I certainly wouldn’t complain.”

Jūshirō scoffed and, in a quick movement, grabbed Shunsui’s face with one hand and pulled him into a kiss. This time it was longer, the pace slower and both lovers simply happy to be reunited again. When they finally separated, Jūshirō rested his body against Sunsui’s side with a content sigh. Shunsui fixed the embrace around his lover’s waist.

“So, tell me.” Shunsui broke the silence. “What was it like for you, the performance?”

Jūshirō sighed, his hands playing with the gauze of the furisode. 

“Well, it was… surprisingly not as awful as I imagined.” Jūshirō admitted, finally looking at Shunsui with an apologetic smile on his lips. “Before going up the stage I was almost panicking. I thought that I'd just trip with the furisode and fall face first in front of everyone.” He chuckled. “But then, I…” Jūshirō trailed off, his eyes straying to the lake once more.

“What?”

“No, it’s just too corny.”

Shunsui cackled.

“Oh, come on. Humor me, Jū-chan. You know those are my favorites.”

Jūshirō smiled up at him, knowing too well his partner’s preference for mushy comments.

“I just thought…” Jūshirō worried his lip. “I imagined it was only me up there… and only you in the crowd. I just tried to think it was like one of those times when we scurry away from formal events and dance to the music on our own, with nobody around.”

Shunsui watched Jūshirō’s face light up with the memories. The faint sound of the quartet from the reception could still be heard in the death of night. A slow, deep melody floated around them. Shunsui suddenly got up, gaining a confused look from Jūshirō. Shunsui put a hand behind his back and offered the other to Jūshirō while bowing, looking directly into his eyes.

“May I have this dance, my love?”

Jūshirō’s eyes went wide, and then he smiled while shaking his head. It was the kind of resigned and fond smile he did whenever Shunsui clowned around a bit to make him smile. And it always worked.

“My, my. What a gentleman.” Jūshirō smiled as he took his hand.

Shunsui easily helped him to his feet. Jūshirō’s free hand went to rest on Shunsui’s shoulder, while the brunette’s other hand went to the familiar spot on the small of his lover’s back. They started moving their feet, ever so slowly, to the calm beat of the music. There was a nostalgic and endearing ping to the tone of the song. Shunsui could imagine that now was the time at the party when half-drunk Shinigamis would take their partner to the dancefloor to clumsily but happily spin to its beat. Not that he cared, because he had the best partner one could have right in his arms. He looked at Jūshirō, whose eyes reflected the moonlight and looked at him with the same fondness they had had over many centuries now. How did he ever get so lucky?

Shunsui lifted the arm holding Jūshirō’s hand and, on cue, his lover spinned and spinned, chuckling and never taking his eyes off his partner. The different fabrics of the furisode sparkled and floated around him in a mesmerizing fashion. Finally, Jūshirō returned to his lover’s arms.

“You look lovely tonight. Absolutely breath-taking.” Shunsui whispered, his mouth merely a couple of inches from Jūshirō’s. He saw the smile that formed on his face, and gave a little peck to his lips. 

“And you’re absolutely silly tonight.” Jūshirō said, though his ear-to-ear smile, the look on his eyes and his tone took away any bite the words may have had. 

Shunsui pulled Jūshirō a bit closer and they shared a kiss. All the while, they didn’t stop moving their feet absentmindedly from left to right, moving them in circles in the damp grass. When they separated, Jūshirō laid his head on Shunsui’s shoulder, a content sigh escaping his lips. Shunsui rested his chin atop his lover’s head.

The moment was truly magical, he thought. With the moon right above them, the murmur of the lake and the tree leaves rustling and the vague sound of the music. Shunsui buried his face in his lover’s hair, inhaling his scent. Though his usual fresh but deep fragrance, something between cinnamon and herbal tea, could still be perceived, today it was overpowered by a woman’s perfume, its essence floral and intense. Jūshirō chuckled at the intense sniffing coming from his partner.

“You’re going to swallow me whole that way.” he joked.

They kept spinning in slow circles, both of them lost in the moment until, after a while, Jūshirō broke the silence with a worried tone.

“Now, really, how was it?”

Shunsui lifted his head a bit, jolted of his musings by the sudden question, until he understood what his partner meant.

“Absolutely amazing, my love.” he answered in full honesty.

“Shunsui…” Jūshirō started complaining.

“I’m telling the truth.” Shunsui finally lifted his head from his lover’s hair, propelling Jūshirō to also lift his head and look at his partner. “In a couple of days, you can ask anyone you please. Everyone will tell you the same thing. You may not see it, but everyone else did. Even the Korinoishi family enjoyed your performance. Believe me, people will be talking about this for a long time.” he said with a smile, giving a small nudge to his lover’s side. 

“That’s not reassuring.” Jūshirō furrowed his brow a bit.

“Truly, everyone was quite taken by you.”

Jūshirō looked at him but didn’t say anything, resting his head again against Shunsui’s shoulder. Suddenly, as if he had remembered something, he looked up again.

“I saw you during the performance.” He said, a curious ping in his voice that Shunsui couldn’t quite place.

“Well, how curious. I saw you too!”

“Very funny.” Jūshirō conceded, rolling his eyes. “I saw the way you looked at those nobles… For a second I feared you might walk over them and smack them.” 

“Well, now, what are you trying to imply Jū-chan?”

“Maybe you were jealous.” He said now, his tone now fully teasing.

“Jealous?” Shunsui asked befuddled.

“Yes.” Jūshirō pressed with a mischievous grin.

“I wasn’t.” He lied.

“It’s okay, dear! There’s no need to be.”

“I know, I wasn’t.” Shunsui insisted, only a bit embarrassed to have been so obvious about his feelings. After all, if Jūshirō saw him from the stage, anyone around him might have seen it too. Maybe that was the reason for the looks Hirako had been giving him after the performance…

“You know it’s quite common in this kind of performance for the lady to offer her hand to the men on the first row.” Jūshirō continued his teasing with a smirk.

“I know, and I wasn’t…”

“In fact, I reckon you were one of those men on a number of occasions.”

“I… Well now, Jū-chan, are you saying that was your way of paying me back?” Shunsui shot back with his characteristic lazy smile.

“Nonsense! I was just dutifully playing my part.” Jūshirō replied innocently.

“I see…”

“But don’t change the subject.” Jūshirō pushed, gently slapping his shoulder. “You were jealous weren’t you?”

“Maybe I was, a little.” Shunsui finally admitted.

“Ah…” Jūshirō smiled victorious.

“You know, everyone was quite taken by you. Even some of our fellow Captains have…”

“Please, I do not need to know that.” Jūshirō looked to the side with half-hidden fluster.

“But still. I think it’s quite natural to be overzealous when you have something pretty to protect.” Shunsui said, looking for Jūshirō’s eyes, who looked back at him. “Had you stayed around, I’m sure many Shinigamis and nobles would’ve tried to get it going with you.”

“Well, I think they would’ve been quite disappointed.” Jūshirō smirked, imagining the situation in his head.

“Nonsense. You looked like an angel up there.” Shunsui said lovingly. “And now, here, with that thing out of your face,” Shunsui lifted his hand from Jūshirō’s waist to caress his lover’s face, “you look down right godly.” 

“Shunsui…” Jūshirō sighed resignedly.

They kept slowly spinning and Shunsui pulled Jūshirō just a bit closer to his chest.

“If the circumstances were different,” Shunsui continued, “you would’ve danced without a veil and everyone would’ve been even more enamored, unable to believe their eyes. But if you ask me… maybe I am a bit jealous.”

“Oh, really?” Jūshirō looked victorious to him.

“Yes, because I prefer it that you danced with your face covered.”

“And why is that?”

“Cause now I’m the only one who gets to bathe in the whole of your beauty, my love.” Shunsui’s lips were now almost touching Jūshirō’s. “I wouldn’t want anyone else sharing the view.”

Jūshirō smiled, despite himself, and they shared another prolonged kiss. This was nice, they both thought. No hurries, no prying eyes, just them and the silence of the night. 

After a while, they finally stopped spinning and they just stayed in each other’s arms, taking in the view before them. Some time after that, Shunsui felt Jūshirō laying against his side, trying to get comfortable. Poor man was probably tired, Shunsui thought. After all, he had been getting ready since the afternoon.

“Well, I think maybe it’s time we go to your quarters and I help you disrobe.” Shunsui proposed, his mind already going to what would happen after that.

“Shunsui…” Jūshirō exhaled.

“Hmm?” Shunsui asked expectantly.

“I thought you’d never ask. This thing’s killing me.” His lover blurted out.

Shunsui threw his head back and laughed. 

“Of course, my love.” He said as he started gently directing Jūshirō out of the clearing, soon flash-stepping on their way to Ugendō. They still were in for a night for only the two of them.