This is set around Episode 70.

Disclaimer: Nothing

-Caller ID-

Renji's dark, crimson eyes glanced down at this so-called cell phone that was given to him before his departure. Usually, it only rang when a hollow was detected but this time, the only message to appear in the display read out 'Unknown Caller'.

''Why doesn't this thing have Caller ID?'' The Shinigami frowned.

He was beginning to pick up on a lot of mortal habits.

Renji would have to answer it, but as it rang, once, then twice, he wondered just who could be calling him.

Who had this number?

It could not be another modified soul.

Perhaps it was Urahara or someone else from the shop.

The last person, Abarai, Renji expected to hear was his Captain, Kuchiki, Byakuya.

''Renji.'' The Captain needed not an introduction.

Renji's ears were trained to that voice.

''Yes, Captain.''

The call began as strictly business. Byakuya informed his Lieutenant that Kuchiki, Rukia would be joining them in the living world. He did not say why and gave no further instructions. These were simply orders that passed through him, to reach their destination.

''Yes, Captain.'' The world fell out of his mouth as if they were utterly natural to his tongue.

Then, there was a brief silence.

Renji could feel a smile forming on his lips.

''How are you feeling, Captain? Any better?''

Byakuya sighed and after a long moment, he answered the personal question. ''They're letting me leave my room now.''

His Lieutenant chuckled faintly. He could tell that his Captain's days were becoming dull and dreary. If he were there, then perhaps...they might spend the day conversing. Or, he might even tell his Captain about the adventures unfurling in the living realm.

In return, he said sincerely, ''At least you got to spend some time with your sister, I'm sure she appreciates it.''

''Look after her, Renji. And I want to know what is going on. Nothing is being said on this side.'' Byakuya replied, in his pressing intonation.

It was not an order, but the Lieutenant was more then willing to follow anything his Captain and concerned friend, said.

''Take care.'' Renji smirked. He could just imagine his Captain's face most likely frowning at his words.

Byakuya wanted Renji to take care of his sister, and yet he used those unspoken words against the elder, in a jesting fashion. He was the only person, alive that could say such teasing things.

''Be safe.'' But, in the end, Byakuya always did worry about his little sister and trusted Renji enough to protect her. However, his manners of showing such emotions were always done with precise subtlety.

He put all his trust into Renji and hoped that he too, would return safely and unharmed.

The line clicked off, but on each end, the men were smiling.

Their words were enough to get themselves through the long days.

-EndE-