Chapter 103: [Spiritual Cases Arc] Part 103: A Fraction of Issues
# August 15th - Karakura Town, Minamikawase — Yasakani's House #
- 09:00 a.m. -
Yato was lying on the couch while watching TV, seemingly carefree. The next semester wouldn't start until September, and even Hollow attacks seemed to have decreased during these days. However, other concerns were now occupying the young man.
Due to his interference in the events of the Soul Society, many things were changing abruptly, and now Yato no longer knew how to prepare for what might happen in the future.
Yato: 'Aizen doesn't have the Hōgyoku, which means many of the Espadas won't be around at the moment... maybe just Aaroniero, Nnoitra, and Szayel... but their levels shouldn't be the same, so they probably won't be an issue...' - He pondered while glancing at the TV. - 'But without the Hōgyoku, Aizen won't be able to create and modify Wonderweiss to seal Yamamoto's zanpakutō, so Aizen will surely try to get the Hōgyoku at some point...'
The young man shifted his gaze briefly toward Rukia, who lounged on the floor absorbed in one of Yato's manga, munching on cookies.
Almost as if sensing being watched, Rukia looked in Yato's direction.
Rukia: "What?"
Yato: "Just pondering a few things." - He sighed, his expression reflecting a mix of contemplation and concern.
The petite shinigami had already noticed the shift in Yato's demeanor since their time in the Soul Society. Initially, she thought it was due to the Aizen incident, but it seemed there was much more weighing on Yato's mind.
Each time she cautiously approached the topic, Yato would retreat into a stoic facade, attempting to convey that everything was under control. However, perhaps due to the strange connection between them, Rukia at least had a sense that the situation was far worse than it appeared.
Yato rubbed his eyes for a brief moment before responding.
Yato: "It's cool... just a coffee shop... the owner there took my number to let me know the work hours, and it seems like, for now, I'll be working from 04:30 p.m. to 08:30 p.m." - He tried to sound as nonchalant as possible. - "By the way, Rukia, how are you feeling?"
The petite shinigami sighed, knowing that Yato was referring to the Hōgyoku within her. She sensed that it weighed heavily on his mind, and he asked that question quite frequently, which mildly irked her. At times, it seemed like Yato used his concern for her as a way to sidestep certain topics.
Rukia: "I'm doing fine. I've told you, if there's anything wrong, I'll let you know." - She shifted her attention back to the manga, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy.
Yato: 'It's not just the Hōgyoku that's bothering me...' - He reclined, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. - 'The Fullbringers showing up this early... could it be because there are two substitute shinigamis this time?'
He sighed, draping his arm across his eyes as if shielding himself from the weight of his thoughts.
Since receiving the substitute shinigami badge, the first thing Yato did upon returning home was toss it into a drawer, avoiding any further contact. He was well aware that the Soul Society used it as a means to control and monitor him. Initially, the thought of simply discarding the badge crossed his mind, but that would only raise more suspicion from the Soul Society.
Just as Yato was lost in thought, Rukia's cellphone buzzed, breaking the momentary silence. She picked it up, her brow furrowing as she answered the call.
Rukia: "Hello? Urahara? Yes, this is Rukia... What? Both of us? Okay, we'll be there soon."
Ending the call, Rukia turned to Yato with a slightly puzzled expression.
Rukia: "Urahara just called. He wants us to drop by his shop. Said it's urgent, and he specifically mentioned you should come too."
Yato, intrigued by the unexpected summons, sat up.
Yato: "Urgent, huh? Wonder what he needs." - He stood up, ready to head out. - "Well, no time like the present. Let's go see what Urahara wants."
# A few hours ago - Soul Society, Seireitei — Shinigami Research and Development Institute #
The atmosphere within the 12th Division Headquarters was tense as Captain Ukitake, accompanied by scientists from the research and development institute, issued urgent orders to secure the barriers between the Soul Society and the world of the living.
In the 12th Division laboratory, technicians frantically worked to enhance the security protocols of the Senkaimon gates, ensuring a temporary lockdown.
Ukitake: "How long until the barriers are secure, Captain Kurotsuchi?"
Kurotsuchi, his usual cold demeanor heightened by the gravity of the situation, responded briskly.
Mayuri: "Within the next few minutes."
As the scientists diligently continued their work, Captain Soi Fon, leader of the 2nd Division, received an urgent message from Yoruichi, her former mentor.
Soi Fon: "What's the urgency, Yoruichi-sama?"
Yoruichi's voice resonated through the communication device, conveying a sense of urgency.
Yoruichi: "Soi Fon, Soul Society is implementing a temporary communication lockdown with the world of the living. I need you to reach the word of the living before the communication is severed completely. I need your help in an investigation of mine."
Soi Fon: "Understood, Yoruichi-sama. I'll head to the world of the living immediately."
Without wasting a moment, Soi Fon sprinted through the winding paths of the Seireitei, her determined expression reflecting the urgency of the situation. She reached one of the Senkaimon gates and passed through it so quickly that no one noticed her moving.
As the gate closed behind her, the Soul Society prepared for a brief isolation from the world of the living, leaving Captain Ukitake and the scientists to monitor the situation closely from their end.
# Present time - World of the Living, Karakura Town – Urahara Shop #
After a few minutes passed, Yato and Rukia arrived at Urahara's shop. Upon entering, they found Ichigo, Chad, Tatsuki, Orihime, and Uryū all seated around a small table.
Urahara: "Well, if it isn't Yasakani-san and Kuchiki-san gracing my humble establishment."
Ichigo: "Hey." - Ichigo's greeting came with a nonchalant wave.
Yato: "Hey there, everyone." - Yato's warm greeting infused the room with a friendly vibe.
After exchanging brief pleasantries with the others, Rukia, still in her shinigami form, gracefully took a seat beside the table. Her violet eyes scanned the surroundings, reflecting both curiosity and readiness.
Rukia: "What's going on, Urahara?" - Rukia's voice carried a mix of intrigue and concern.
Urahara leaned forward, his fan clicking open with a smooth motion as he addressed Rukia.
Urahara: "There's something crucial I need to discuss, but I'd prefer to wait for Yoruichi to arrive. She's been investigating recent disturbances, and her insights will shed light on the matter."
Tessai silently approached, carrying a tray with steaming cups of tea. He skillfully distributed the cups to each individual at the table, the aroma of the brew permeating the air.
Urahara: "Let's enjoy some tea while we wait, shall we?" - Urahara's eyes sparkled beneath the brim of his hat, his mischievous demeanor adding a layer of intrigue.
As everyone sipped their tea, the atmosphere in the shop became a blend of anticipation and relaxation. Ichigo, not known for his patience, broke the silence.
Ichigo: "So, Urahara-san, mind giving us a hint about what's going on? Waiting for Yoruichi-san is fine, but a little context wouldn't hurt."
Urahara chuckled, his eyes twinkling behind the fan.
Urahara: "Patience, Ichigo. All will be revealed in due time."
Just then, the door swung open, revealing Yoruichi and Soi Fon standing at the entrance. Yoruichi's eyes locked onto Urahara, conveying a sense of urgency.
Yoruichi: "Kisuke, I've discovered that the recent issues... are caused by a Bount."
Everyone looked at Yoruichi with serious expressions, unaware of the situation, while Yato stared at her with a blank expression.
Yato: 'The Bounts become a canon event?!?!?'
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