I'm writing this while I'm currently writing the TYBW arc But I'm retroactively adding these next two chapters in between the Soul Society and Arrancar Arc as it's the only place it realastically makes sense. That means if you're already caught up to the story then don't expect (Y/N) to use most of the abilities that you're used to him having.

If you're just now reading this then don't worry about spoilers, these next two chapters were written to fit into the story as seamlessly as possible with no spoilers of events that happen later into the story.

With that out of the way, onto the chapter. Happy Holidays Everyone!

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One week after Leaving Soul Society.

On a windy day in a park, the citizens of Karakura Town enjoy their day peacefully, ignorant of the danger they are currently in. Currently, a ghost girl was running through the park being chased by a hollow. The hollow, in its pursuit, knocked down a tree, causing some panic among the citizens at the park. Thankfully a group of three individuals came to the rescue. Three Shinigami to be exact.

Rukia Kuchiki

Ichigo Kurosaki

And (Y/N) (L/N)

Rukia: Get ready!

Ichigo: Right!

(Y/N): On it! You're up Calavera!

On (Y/N)'s back was a small backpack that fit his mod soul, Calavera. Calavera hopped out of (Y/N)'s backpack and hit her chest full of stuffing before her soul candy popped out. (Y/N) grabbed the candy and swallowed it, forcefully transforming into a Shinigami while Calavera took control of (Y/N)'s human body.

Rukia followed suit and swallowed a Gikon that took control of Rukia's Gigai as she took her original shinigami form.

Ichigo on the other hand opted to use his combat pass instead of using Kon's soul candy.

As the three caught up to the Hollow, Ichigo managed to cut off an arm while (Y/N) managed to land a slash into the back of the hollow. The hollow attempted to flee as it jumped from tree to tree, but (Y/N) cut off its escape route as (Y/N) flash stepped in front of the Hollow. Meanwhile, Ichigo tried to attack the hollow from behind, but only managed to cut off its tail.

In desperation, the Hollow attacked (Y/N) as he was the only person that the hollow could see and swung its only fist at. However (Y/N) repelled him with Bakudō #8. Seki. This gave Ichigo the opening he needed to cut the hollow directly in half.

(Y/N): Nobody got hurt and we took it out in a secluded area. Good job killing it so quickly.

Ichigo: Heh, we could've killed it quicker.

Just then, the two boys heard Rukia call out to them. As the two boys turned around, they saw Rukia walking towards them with the young spirit with her.

Rukia: Ichigo. (Y/N). It seems that Hollow was after this child.

Ichigo lowered himself to get a look at the girl. The girl subtly tried to hide herself behind Rukia out of fear but Rukia reassured her.

Rukia: It's all right. He only looks scary.

(Y/N): She's right. You can trust him.

Ichigo: Shut up!

Ichigo replied with a slight annoyance but took no offense. Ichigo then returned his attention to the young spirit girl.

Ichigo: All right then, let's go.

Rukia: Don't worry. Soul Society is not a scary place. It's where all the souls come from.

Girl: But...

Ichigo: If you stay here another monster like that will come after you.

(Y/N): You'll find others just like you on the other side.

The girl pondered for a moment before giving a nod. Ichigo then performed the Konsō, sending the girl to the Soul Society.

(Y/N): Another job done... Now then, let's head back.

Ichigo and Rukia nodded as they tried to reconvene with their original bodies (at least in Ichigo and (Y/N)'s case). As the three shinigami walked, (Y/N) decided to make small talk.

(Y/N): I have to say, I wasn't expecting you to come back so soon, Rukia. Especially since you lost your powers.

Ichigo: Yeah, I thought it would take like a year or more to regain it.

Rukia: The Soul Society is filled with reishi in the atmosphere so regaining my powers wasn't as slow as you think.

(Y/N): Well if your power starts to diminish in any way, don't hesitate to tell us, alright?

Rukia: No need to worry about me, (Y/N). I'll be fine.

The trio then saw Chappy alongside Calavera (in Y/N's body) and Kon standing at the bottom of a staircase.

Rukia Gikon: Is it over already?

Rukia: Yes. Thanks.

Chappy gave Rukia a high five, seamlessly relinquishing control of the Gigai back to Rukia.

(Y/N): Thanks for keeping me safe again, Cal.

Calavera: All in a day's work.

Similarly to Chappy, Calavera freely gave control back to (Y/N). Calavera then climbed back into (Y/N)'s backpack. As this was happening, Rukia turned to Ichigo.

Rukia: Ichigo!

Ichigo: Huh?

Rukia: Don't use your Combat Pass so freely.

Ichigo: Huh? Why?

Rukia elbowed Ichigo in the side.

Ichigo: Oww! What's the big idea?!

Rukia then pointed at Kon.

Rukia: You have Kon. You keep leaving your body here and there, and thanks to that, I'm the one who has to deal with the messy aftermath. Take notes from (Y/N), will you?

Ichigo: Why's that?

Rukia: For example... A passerby approaches.

Rukia then acted out a scenario.

Rukia: "Excuse me, is something wrong? Oh no, this man isn't breathing! Ambulance. No, if he's dead, I must get a hearse!" Get the idea?

Ichigo: Like they'd call a hearse!

(Y/N): You're skipping a few steps but I understand where you're coming from...

Rukia: As long as Ichigo gets the point... In any case, it's a big hassle if there's a commotion.

The three walked around the corner and irony struck as the three watched as Ichigo's soulless body was being carried off by an ambulance.

(Y/N): What comedic timing.

Ichigo: There's nothing funny about that! My body!

Ichigo ran off to rejoin with his body and alarmed the medics as the human body, that stopped breathing, suddenly came back to life.

Ichigo: Uh, hi.

Medic 1: Are you all right?

Medic 2: You still need to lie down!

The medics tried to hold Ichigo down but Ichigo resisted.

Ichigo: I'm telling you, I'm fine!

Medic 1: Hey, hold him down! He's delirious!

Ichigo: Stop it!

(Y/N) and Rukia watched from afar as Ichigo wrestled with the medics to prevent being taken away.

(Y/N): So... what do we-

Rukia: Don't worry, I'll handle it.



Rukia took out what looked to be a lighter and flicked it. However, instead of fire emitting from the lighter, a duck head attached to a spring popped out of it before emitting a puff of smoke, enveloping the area.

Rukia: Let's make a run for it.

(Y/N) and Rukia ran, helping Ichigo off the ground and leaving the park. The trio stopped to catch their breath the moment they got to the park exit.

Ichigo: Man, that was bad.

Rukia: That's my line! You're lucky I had my Memory Replacement to switch everyone's memory.

(Y/N): Do you always carry that thing around or...

Rukia: I'm starting to believe it's a necessity when working with Ichigo. That aside... Kon.

Kon: Yes, yes!?

Rukia picked up Kon and threw him directly at Ichigo. (Y/N) and Calavera just stared at each other in confusion.

(Y/N): *whisper* I kinda feel bad for the guy...

Calavera: *whisper* I usually don't but he didn't deserve it this time...

Kon: Hey! What's with you?! Why, Sis?!

Rukia ignored Kon as she continued to speak to Ichigo.

Rukia: There's no point unless you hold him!

Ichigo: Why would I?

(Y/N): Because he's "your" mod soul. You're responsible for him.

Ichigo: He gets on my nerves!

(Y/N): You're just hot headed. Take it easy on him. Just because he's a stuffed animal doesn't mean he doesn't feel pain.

While (Y/N) tried to explain to Ichigo why he should treat Kon better, Rukia felt her phone buzz. As she checked it she found more spiritual energy readings in the area.

Rukia: What's the meaning of this?

Ichigo and (Y/N) heard Rukia's concerned tone and stopped their conversation.

Ichigo: What? Another Hollow?

(Y/N): Sounds pretty serious...

Right on cue, the three felt a spiritual pressure wash over them.

(Y/N): It's nearby.

Rukia: The train station!

The trio took off to the train station.

Ichigo: Hey! What's with this Spiritual Pressure?

Rukia: I don't know. I've never experienced this kind of Spiritual Pressure before.

(Y/N): It's not Human, Shinigami, or Hollow. So what is it?

The group soon found their answer as they ran into a large group of white ghosts with pin-shaped heads.



One of the ghosts bumped into Ichigo. The ghost didn't seem to care and walked past him.

Calavera: Uh... So did the hollows decide to have a costume party or...

Ichigo: What the hell are they?

Kon: White ghosts?!

Rukia: No one else can see them. They must be spirit beings.

(Y/N): That's weird... They're missing a chain of fate...

Rukia: We have no choice.

Rukia, once again, returned to her shinigami form.

(Y/N): I guess it's time to purify more spirits. Cal, you know the drill.

Calavera: Already ahead of you.

(Y/N) switched to his Shinigami form again. Ichigo's face twisted into one of annoyance.

Ichigo: What? Again?

Ichigo reached into his pocket to pull out his combat pass but Rukia stopped him.

Rukia: Use him!

Rukia said, referring to Kon. Ichigo, for whatever reason, didn't like the idea but took Rukia's advice anyway and took the Soul Candy out of Kon's body and swallowed it, transforming into his Shinigami form.

Ichigo: Kon! Go hide somewhere!

(Y/N): You do the same, Cal! Try to avoid them at all costs!

Kon: Hey, don't leave us!

Calavera: Come on, Kon! We'll just be in the way!

Calavera ran away but Kon somehow got surrounded by the ghostly figures.

Kon: Hey, what are you doing?!

Calavera: Aren't you an Underpod Mod Soul? Just jump over them!

Meanwhile Rukia was trying to contact the Soul Society.

Rukia: This is Rukia Kuchiki of Squad 13, in World of the Living area 3888! Reporting on the situation!

...

...

Rukia: Unidentified spirit beings possessing spiritual power have appeared in large numbers.

Unluckily, Rukia wasn't getting a response.

Rukia: Wait! My connection with Soul Society...

While Rukia was trying to get into contact with the Soul Society, (Y/N) and Ichigo were trying to interact with the ghost as carefully as they could.

(Y/N): Do you think they can talk? You know... Like telepathically?

Ichigo: Let's try...

Both (Y/N) and Ichigo tried to speak to the ghost but got no response.

(Y/N): They don't have eyes but maybe they can sense movement.

(Y/N) tried to wave his hand in front of one of the ghosts but he got ignored.

(Y/N): Huh... No dice. My only other idea is trying to use the Konsō.

Ichigo: It's worth a try...

Ichigo and (Y/N) tried to send the ghost to the Soul Society but surprisingly, the Konsō failed.

(Y/N): I'm all out of ideas... You got anything Ichigo?

Ichigo: Can't say that I do...

At that moment, the three shinigamis (alongside Kon, Calavera, and Chappy) felt a strong wind.

Ichigo: What's going on?!

(Y/N): Beats me...

Once the breeze passed, all of the ghosts' in the area started to change appearance as their pink pin headed heads turned to a strong red. Their appearance wasn't the only thing that changed as the ghosts surprisingly became hostile.

(Y/N): What the hell is going on?!

Ichigo: I-I don't know?!

Kon: What's this all of a sudden?! Stop! Stop!

Kon's voice alerted Ichigo and (Y/N). (Y/N) then looked around and saw Calavera was about to be cornered.

Calavera: Come any closer and I'll knock your lights out! Got it?!

Ichigo regrouped with Rukia while (Y/N) went to save Calavera.

Calavera: We might have to kill these guys, (Y/N).

(Y/N): Do they even die? I'm starting to think they aren't even spirits.

Just then a whirlwind appeared behind the horde of ghosts and a girl in a Shinigami Shihakusho appeared, cutting down the ghosts with ease.





Calavera: Is that someone you met in Soul Society?

(Y/N): Never met her before in my life...

The girl in question then created a whirlwind that allowed her to levitate.



Rukia brought a crucial piece of information to the group.

Rukia: She's going to release her zanpakuto!

Ichigo: What?!

(Y/N): I'm torn on whether that's a good idea or not...

Mysterious Girl: Bring them to the twilight...

As the girl's zanpakuto was starting to change shape, Ichigo stopped her by attacking her.

Rukia: Ichigo!

Ichigo: Stop! What the hell are you doing?! Those things aren't Hollows!

Mysterious Girl: Shut your mouth, stupid!

The girl then stepped on Ichigo's face to jump over him, causing Ichigo to fall back to the ground. The girl then resumed her release command.

Mysterious Girl: Bring them to the twilight! Mirokumaru!

The girl's zanpakuto changed into a Khakkhara. With her Shikai, the girl created a tornado that wiped out all of the ghosts.

Rukia: They vanished...

(Y/N): I hope killing those things doesn't come with horrible repercussions...

The shinigamis didn't have much time to think about it as they heard a voice behind them speak.

"Yes! That was awesome! That felt so good!"

The group immediately noticed the voice as the shinigami girl that took out the ghost. The mysterious girl had somehow changed into a school uniform instantly. The girl took notice of the shinigami trio as well.

Mysterious Girl: Oh, it's you.

Ichigo: YOU! H-How'd you change into your gigai so quickly?

(Y/N): That's a good question... The time between you taking out those ghosts and changing forms was too quick... I didn't even see another gigai in the area.

Mysterious Girl: I dunno.

Ichigo: Just who are you?

Mysterious Girl: I'm a Shinigami.

Ichigo: I know that!

Mysterious Girl: If you want to know someone's name, shouldn't you introduce yourself first?

(Y/N): She has a point... I'm (Y/N) (L/N).

Ichigo: And I'm Ichigo Kurosaki.

Mysterious Girl: Oh, you two are pretty obedient.

(Y/N): *thinking* Does she think we're some sort of pet or something?

(Y/N) was pulled out of his thoughts as he heard the girl speak again.

(Y/N): My name is Senna. Later!

Ichigo: Don't "Later" me! Why'd you do such a thing?

Senna: Why not?

Rukia: Do you know something about those things?

(Y/N): You looked like you had no qualms wiping them out. Have you dealt with them before?

The girl now known as Senna, ignored the trio and ran towards the window of a nearby shop in shock.

Ichigo: Hey! What's the matter?

(Y/N): Did you notice another enemy?

Senna: This is bad! I knew it!

Ichigo: What is it?!

Senna then started checking herself out in the mirror, more specifically, the color of her hair ribbon.

Senna: Hmm... Yellow just isn't my color.

(Y/N): Is she serious right now...?

Ichigo was becoming fed up with Senna becoming easily distracted and grabbed her shoulder.

Ichigo: Never mind that. Come!

Senna brushed Ichigo's hands off of her shoulder.

Senna: Ichigo, right?

Ichigo: Yeah.

Senna: Over there!

Ichigo: Huh?

Ichigo looked behind him and Kon's soul candy was knocked out of his body. Calavera, who was in (Y/N)'s body, had to piggyback Ichigo's unconscious body. Unfortunately, Calavera was in the middle of an argument with multiple policemen.

Calavera: I'm telling you, my friend's fine.

Police #1: You'll have to come with us, for questioning. Don't worry, if everything you said is true then you'll be let off scot-free.

Ichigo: Kon! Not again!

(Y/N): It's just one thing after another...

Senna: See, you better hurry!

Ichigo: Not so fast! Come with me! (Y/N), can you handle this?

(Y/N): Yeah... I'll catch up with you.

Ichigo grabbed Senna by the wrist and dragged off somewhere.

Senna: Hey!

Ichigo: I just want to ask you some questions!

(Timeskip)

The trio were now at a fairground in their human bodies alongside Senna. (Y/N), Ichigo and Rukia watched Senna run around the fairground as she observed everything.

Senna: A Ferris wheel! Look! I didn't know they had one of these here. Wow... Anyway, what were you saying?

Rukia: What squad do you belong to?!

Senna: I don't remember such things. Hmm... What squad did I belong to?

Senna seemed to ponder a bit but she didn't care to give it much thought.

Rukia: Listen here. You wield a zanpakuto and know how to release it. There is no question that you are a Shinigami. And if you are a Shinigami, you must belong to a squad! How can you not remember that?

(Y/N): Hold on now, she may be a Shinigami but that doesn't mean she necessarily belongs to the Court Guard Squad. She may be a Substitute Shinigami like me and Ichigo. And if that's true, then who gave her shinigami powers?

Senna gave (Y/N)'s question some thought as well, but just like Rukia, she just gave a half-hearted response.

Senna: A Substitute Shinigami, huh? Who knows. Can't remember. Now I have a question. Why are you here?

Rukia: Well, that's...

Senna: I said I forgot! What does it matter, anyway?

Ichigo: Then do you know what those guys were back there?

Senna: Don't know that either.

(Y/N): I don't like that answer...

Senna was then distracted by a passerby's pet dog.

Senna: Oh, he's so cute! Can I pet him?

Passerby: Sure.

Once Senna petted the dog, Senna resumed her answer to Ichigo's question.

Senna: But I thought I should take care of them that way. Instinct. You know what I mean?

Senna began to run off again. The trio looked at each other as Senna began to look around the fairground again.

Ichigo: What's with her?!

(Y/N): She gets sidetracked pretty easily...

Rukia: Ichigo. (Y/N). I'm going to Soul Society.

Both: Huh?

Rukia: I'm having trouble contacting them. And I'm concerned about the phenomenon earlier, too. Do not let that girl out of your sight! (Y/N), please don't allow Ichigo to do anything rash.

Ichigo: Hey you! First you dump babysitting duty on us, and now you're saying I need to be watched!

Rukia: I'm counting on you two.

(Y/N): Uh... All right, I guess...

Rukia left to return to Soul Society. Ichigo did his best to calm down.

Ichigo: Boy, what's she so uptight about?

(Y/N): This whole ghost incident is pretty weird, so I think it's for the best. And speaking of ghosts, Senna vanished like one. We should find her, and fast.

Ichigo: What?! Dammit!

Ichigo and (Y/N) ran off to catch up with Senna. Leaving the fairground and entering the premises of the mall, the two boys caught up to Senna.

Ichigo: Hey!

Senna: Jeez, you two are so persistent!

As Senna continued to run through the mall, Ichigo and (Y/N) were forced to follow.

(Y/N): *thinking* I can't keep up with her hustle and bustle personality...

Senna then spoke up.

Senna: Remember when you told me that if I answered any of you guys' questions, you'd do anything I asked you to?

Ichigo: We never said anything like that!

Senna: Let's play tag!

Ichigo: Hey! I told you! We never said such a thing.

(Y/N): Let's split up. We'll cover more ground that way.

Ichigo: Right.

The two boys split ways and looked over the mall for Senna. It took close to a minute for (Y/N) to finally find Senna.

(Y/N): I finally caught up to you....

Senna: You took your sweet time. Come on, you have to do whatever I want, remember?

(Y/N): We never made that agree-

(Y/N) stopped mid sentence as he came to a simple realization. Why not just do what she wants? Her condition was that she'd answer any questions they had if they did what she wanted. As long as it wasn't anything questionable, then it should be fine.

And now that (Y/N) had time to gather his thoughts, maybe he shouldn't have been so hard on Senna before. As Senna stated, she didn't know anything about herself. She was an amnesiac. Her habit of jumping from one activity to another in quick succession may have been a product of that.

(Y/N): *thinking* She probably just wants to make up for her lack of memories.

(Y/N) took a deep breath and accepted Senna's offer.

(Y/N): Alright then... What do you wanna do first?

Senna practically dragged (Y/N) around the mall, visiting every shop that came into view. Senna attempted to buy anything she thought was cute. Despite having a part time job, (Y/N) knew he couldn't realistically buy everything Senna wanted.

The last hour or two from (Y/N)'s perspective was...

Senna: Hey hey. Don't you think this necklace is cute?

(Y/N): Yeah, but the price isn't friendly for a highschooler... Maybe you should pick something else...

Senna: Fine...

~~~~

At A pastry Shop

Senna: We should get crepes!

(Y/N): Sure why not... Which flavor do you want?

Senna: Hmm... Maybe chocolate. But strawberry is tempting too. But then there's also blueberry... How about all three?!

(Y/N): I doubt you'd be able to finish all of them.

Senna: Then you can help me finish it!

~~~~

At a Clothing Store

Senna: There's so many adorable outfits! I hope you're ready for a fashion show!

(Y/N): By all means. Wow me.

Senna ran through various outfits. One was very colorful, busy with decorations. (Y/N) rightfully dubbed it too "flashy" which gained a playful pout from Senna. Senna then changed to a more minimalistic outfit. One that (Y/N) believed didn't fit Senna's personality. Senna then changed to other styles of fashion. From preppy, to an Idol outfit and even formal clothing.

(Y/N): I'd say you're getting closer to a good outfit.

Senna: Just you wait. The next one will blow you away.

As Senna picked up a bunch of clothes and walked into the changing room, (Y/N) immediately heard a voice call out to him.

"*huff* *huff* I finally... caught up to you kid... *huff* "

(Y/N) turned around and saw Soi-Fon's lieutenant, Marechiyo Omaeda. (Y/N) was confused why he was in the World of the Living.

(Y/N): You're Omaeda, right? What are you doing here?

Omaeda: That's "Lieutenant Omaeda" to you, kid!

Omaeda spoke rather loudly. Thankfully, being a spirit meant nobody heard him. Though, this made (Y/N) remember that he couldn't bring suspicion to himself talking to Omaeda.

(Y/N): *whisper* Let's move out of view of the rest of the customers... I don't want to look like a crazy person talking to myself.

(Y/N) and Omaeda walked behind a clothing rack and continued their conversation.

(Y/N): *whisper* So, what's the situation? Is it Aizen-related?

Omaeda: No, but it's pretty crazy. Captain sent me here to give you the details.

Now (Y/N) was curious. Aizen only just double crossed the Soul Society a week ago and now the Soul Society is dealing with another situation.

Omaeda: You see, Some weird things have been going on in the Dangai.

(Y/N): *whisper* Weird how?

Omaeda: Three days ago, the team at the Research and Development Institution found a new dimension in between the World of the Living and the Soul Society. I don't know all the scientific stuff, but to keep things brief, this new dimension is causing the World of the Living and the Soul Society to fuse.

(Y/N): Maybe those ghosts we've been seeing are a product of this phenomenon.

Omaeda: Ghosts?

(Y/N): Me, Ichigo and Rukia ran into a horde of white ghosts that weren't like Pluses or Hollows. Performing a Konsō didn't work on them.

Omaeda: Can't say I know how to help you there... Whatever the case. The situation is getting worse. Just today, a town from this world appeared over the Seireitei. The moment it showed up we lost communications between the two worlds.

(Y/N): That explains why Rukia couldn't get a hold of anyone from the Soul Society...

Omaeda: Alright. It's time to take my leave. I don't want to stay any longer here and possibly become a casualty to that weird dimension thing.

Omaeda left, just in time as the moment (Y/N) returned to his original spot, Senna swung the curtains of the changing room open.

Senna: So what do you think?

Senna wore a casual outfit that allowed her to move freely.

(Y/N): It looks great on you. Seems like a style that fits you perfectly.

Senna: Really? Well if that's the case, maybe I should consider buying it!

As Senna went back into the changing room to change into her school uniform, (Y/N) thought to himself.

(Y/N): *thinking* Ichigo should've caught up by now. I hope he didn't give up and leave me to handle this situation by myself.

Ichigo's POV.

Right after parting ways with (Y/N).

After splitting off from (Y/N), Ichigo did his best to search for Senna but somehow ran into Toshiro and Rangiku in the process. This meeting led to Ichigo being dragged from the mall to Urahara shop, where Ichigo got a rundown on the situation.

Urahara: I see... Rukia went to Soul Society? You just missed her then. Well, where shall we start?

Toshiro: At 12:50 a.m. Today, a town from the World of the Living suddenly appeared above the Seireitei. At the same time, the Research Technology Commcenter detected a trail of spiritual waves flowing into the World of the Living, and one minute later, we lost all communication between the two worlds.

Ichigo: What're you talking about?

Toshiro: Don't you even understand this much?

Urahara: Now now... I'll explain it to you in a simple manner. First off, our universe has two worlds, which are the World of the Living, where we are, and the Soul Society. Between them is the Dangai Precipice World, to keep the two worlds from colliding. You ran through it once. Remember? However, about three days ago, a new dimension appeared between the Dangai Precipice World and the World of the Living. It began to expand rapidly, bridging the gap and adhering to both worlds. At this point, it appears the area that attached itself is acting like a lens and the World of the Living is being visible from the Soul Society, which is in a different dimension. I guess you can say it's like a mirage.

Toshiro: The Stealth Force was sent out to investigate this newly created dimension, but they failed. Our only choice now is... to check out the influx of spiritual waves into the World of the Living. It was decided that I would head up the operation.

Ichigo: Why you?

Rangiku: The other captains backed out.

Toshiro: Never mind that!

Ichigo: Then it was probably those guys.

Toshiro: You saw something?

Ichigo: Yeah... hoards of 'em, all white wearing pointy red hats.

Urahara: Blanks...

Toshiro: As suspected, the Valley of Screams.

Ichigo: Huh?

Urahara: All right then. Explanation Number Two. Ready? As you already know, souls migrate between the World of the Living and the Soul Society. From time to time however, some may, for example, encounter accidents in the Dangai Precipice World and become detached from this Cycle of Transmigration. These souls wander aimlessly through the Dangai Precipice World and are slowly drawn together over a period of time. As the souls come together, it causes a new dimension. It is known as the Valley of Screams. In the Valley of Screams, the souls separate into memory and energy in preparation to return to the Cycle of Transmigration. Are you following me?

Ichigo: I'm following!

Urahara: Kurosaki, the ones you saw were the souls with no memory, Blanks.

Ichigo: What happens to the memories?

Urahara: It's said that the memories merge together into one entity and returns to the World of the Living. Hence, it is called a Shinenju. That is the name for the collective of memories. In any case, the appearance of the Valley of Screams is a natural phenomenon, and its existence has been verified a number of times... But the problem is... This time, the Valley of Screams has connected the World of the Living and the Soul Society.

Ichigo: Is it that unnatural?

Toshiro: There's no way a tunnel connecting two stars can be created naturally! This is the same thing! There's no doubt that someone is doing this deliberately.

Kon hopped off of Ichigo's shoulder and spoke his piece.

Kon: Hey! Speaking of which!

Ichigo: Huh? What is it?

Kon: There were some guys wearing strange armor with those white monsters! I saw it!

Toshiro: Armor?

Urahara: Do you remember it in more detail?

Kon: Of course, I remember!

Kon sat down on the table and started to think.

Kon: Uhh... now let's see. I remember... I mean...

As Kon struggled to remember the details, Urahara placed a Gokon Tekkō on his hand and poked Kon, easily removing Kon's Soul from the stuffed animal. Tessai then picked up the Soul candy.

Tessai: Let me analyze this.

Urahara: Yes, please do.

Tessai then left the room.

Urahara: Anyway, if this is being done intentionally, then it is done with a grudge.

Ichigo: What do they want?

Urahara: Well, I don't know. It's just... I have this feeling... that they're looking for the Shinenju that have returned to the World of the Living. That's my hunch. We'll try to identify the enemy. Kurosaki, please keep watch over the town. They are bound to appear again. And, if possible... find the Shinenju. And pass on the information we told you about the Blanks and the Valley of Screams to (Y/N) as well.

Toshiro: That would be for the best. If (L/N) was with you during the hordes of blanks you encountered then I'm sure he told Lieutenant Omaeda information as important as that. However, I don't think Omaeda would know what the Blanks or the Valley of Screams are.

Urahara: If it's too much to remember, I can tell him myself.

Ichigo: No, I'll do it. Calling (Y/N) now will probably distract him...

Urahara: Distract him?

Ichigo: It's nothing... I'll go meet up with him now.

Urahara: Alright then. We'll leave it to you.

With that, Ichigo left the shop and headed back to the mall.

(Timeskip)

It was dark out but the sky was illuminated by the lights of the mall. As Ichigo ran through the mall, he heard a voice call out to him.

"Wow! You really came back?! Over here! Over here!"

Ichigo turned to Senna, who was standing on the second floor of the outside mall. (Y/N) followed a short distance behind. (Y/N) was clearly exhausted.

(Y/N): It's about time... Where did you go?!

Ichigo: I'll explain soon. I still have questions I wanna ask.

(Y/N): That makes two of us...

Senna: Fine! Let's pick up where we left off! But first, let's get something to eat!

(Y/N) looked into his wallet before looking at Ichigo.

(Y/N): Mind being a pal and splitting the bill with me...

Ichigo: Don't worry about it, I'll pay for everything.

(Y/N): Thanks best pal!

Ichigo: Don't mention it.

(Timeskip)

In the outdoor food court, (Y/N) alongside Ichigo and Senna sat around a table ready to eat. On the way there, Ichigo made sure to explain the Valley of Screams, the Blanks and the Shinenju to (Y/N).

Senna: Thanks for the meal!

Ichigo: You didn't have any money?

Senna: So what about it? Besides, (Y/N) treated me to everything today.

Ichigo: That explains the look on your face prior.

(Y/N): I'm just glad I'm not completely broke. It's going to take a couple of shifts at Urahara Shop to make back what I just spent.

Ichigo then turned to Senna.

Ichigo: Is there anything you know about the Blanks and the Shinenju?

Senna: Nope, I don't know anything. It's the first I've heard of them. So someone used those pointy-hat things to... what was it again?

Ichigo: Shinenju.

Senna: Look for that thing, right?

Ichigo: Yeah.

Senna: So who is this someone?

Ichigo: We're checking into that, too.

Senna: For what?

Ichigo: I dunno.

Senna: Have you got any idea what this Shinenju looks like?

Ichigo: Not a clue.

Senna: You're no help at all. You just have to wait until the pointy hats appear again, right?

(Y/N): Honestly, it's our only clue at this point.

Senna: Oh well, I'll help.

Ichigo: Huh?

(Y/N): Really?

Senna: But in return...

Ichigo and (Y/N): I knew it!

Senna: That!

Ichigo: That?

Senna pointed at the ferris wheel behind them off in the distance.

Senna: Take me for a ride on that and I'll help you with whatever you want!

Ichigo: I'm not fallin' for that again-

(Y/N): Fine.

Ichigo: Hey, you don't have any money. Besides, you spent all of it on her and she hasn't been any help in answering our questions.

(Y/N): It really isn't about whether or not she's of help...

Ichigo noticed the change in (Y/N)'s facial expression. Ichigo came to the conclusion that he found out something about Senna and didn't want to mention it in front of her.

Ichigo: Fine...

Senna: You're an understanding guy, aren't you, (Y/N)? That's what I like about you.

Senna then stood in the chair as he stared into the sky.

Ichigo: You love heights, don't you?

Senna: If you look at things from above, all the things that seem confusing or messed up... suddenly become clear.

Ichigo then noticed her usual yellow ribbon was replaced by a red ribbon.

Ichigo: Hey, that ribbon.

Senna: Oh, you noticed? Don't you think red is cuter?

(Y/N): It fits well don't you think. After all, Shinigami spirit ribbons are red.

Ichigo: I don't mean that. How'd you get it?

Senna: I saw it in some shop and tried it on... And then (Y/N) paid for it. Thanks by the way! Now about the Ferris wheel?

(Y/N): Definitely not today... High-schoolers don't have that much money. You're lucky I have good money management or else most of the things I bought today wouldn't have been possible.

Senna: Alright, I'll let you off the hook for today.

Senna got out of her seat and walked off.

Ichigo: Where are you going now?

Senna: I'm just going to the restroom!

Senna ran off while (Y/N) and Ichigo continued to sit in their seats. Ichigo used this time to ask (Y/N) why he was so insistent on fulfilling Senna's request.

Ichigo: I know you're trying to help her and all, but even you should know that she's pushing it a bit. So what's the deal?

(Y/N): You remember what she said, right? How she doesn't remember anything.

Ichigo: Yeah?

(Y/N): Well, I thought about it some more but... She probably acts the way she does because she wants to make memories to fill the void that's missing... you know? I thought to myself "Does she even know where she lives?" "We never see her transform back to a human nor do we see a gigai, so is she a human or is she a true shinigami?" She doesn't even know those questions. She probably doesn't even know when she even got here. It must be scary for her.

Ichigo: I guess I understand... But there's more to it, right?

(Y/N): Originally that was it... But when you returned and told us about the Valley of Screams and the Shinenju, I started putting pieces together.

Ichigo: Huh? Like what?

(Y/N): Let me break it down. We met these Blanks today. We had no way of understanding what they were. Senna comes along at the same time and takes them out. Senna told us that the only way to get rid of the Blanks is to defeat them with our zanpakuto, yet the moment we asked her how she knew, she said it was "instinct". Senna didn't know how to deal with the Blanks because she knew what would happen, but because of instinct. That leads me to believe she either doesn't care or it was her first time fighting them herself. Are you following me so far?

Ichigo: Yeah.

(Y/N): Good. Now, what we know about the Blanks is that they are spirits that lost their memories. The Blanks are passive in nature. They didn't bother us even when we physically touched them. However, the moment Senna came, they got hostile. Why is that?

Ichigo: Hold on, you aren't saying Senna is the Shinenju, are you?

(Y/N): I'm not too confident just yet, but it's a really good chance. We've only encountered the Blanks once so it could've just been a coincidence that their original passive nature changed when Senna arrived.

Ichigo: But why would the Blanks want to attack Senna?

(Y/N): If my theory about Senna being the Shinenju is right, then it might be that the Blanks want to take their memories back from Senna. It would also explain why Senna's instinct was to fend them off.

Ichigo: But that also doesn't explain why Senna doesn't have any memories. If anything, it contradicts that.

(Y/N): Honestly, it's hard to say if it does or not. Senna seems to remember her name and that she's a shinigami, but that could all be from the collection of memories she's made up of. Who's to say Senna isn't the name of one of the many people of which Senna is composed of.

Ichigo didn't want to believe it but (Y/N) was making some convincing arguments.

(Y/N): Maybe as time goes on, she might regain more memories, but they won't be her own. That's why I decided to go against my better judgement and go along with Senna's wild request. So that if she really is the Shinenju, she could still say with confidence that she was her own person with her own memories and not just some amalgamation of memories.

Ichigo sat in his chair and mulled over the idea before he spoke up.

Ichigo: If that's true then that means whoever is causing the World of the Living and Soul Society to fuse is also trying to find Senna.

(Y/N): Yeah, which means Senna is going to need protection. That being said, if the Soul Society finds out, who knows what they'd do. If it comes to that, what will we do?

Ichigo: If it comes to that, then we'll stand up for her. Simple as that.

(Y/N): Are you sure about that? Even if it means going against the Soul Society again?

Ichigo: Are you having second thoughts?

(Y/N): Nah, I'm just making sure you know the possible problems we might end up getting into. But I'm sure things will work out somehow.

(Y/N) and Ichigo then noticed that the crowded mall was suddenly nearly deserted.

Ichigo: Huh?! This place was so crowded a minute ago.

(Y/N): You're right... Something eerie is going on.

(Y/N) tried to sense Senna's spiritual pressure but he couldn't feel it at the mall. Instead, (Y/N) felt her presence nearby. Not only that, but (Y/N) felt multiple other spiritual pressures nearby.

(Y/N): Senna's not here. I also sense 5 others heading in her direction.

Ichigo: Then let's go!

Ichigo used his combat pass to switch to his Shinigami form. Meanwhile, (Y/N) swapped places with Calavera.

(Timeskip) Senna POV

When Senna went to the restroom, she wasn't expecting to begin having flashbacks of her time as a child. She didn't remember any of it, but looking out of the restroom window and seeing the riverbed in the distance triggered a very valuable memory to her.

It triggered multiple memories for her. All that contradicted each other. Each memory showed her with her family. Each memory showed a different family member

Senna didn't know what to believe. However there was one thing that was consistent in those memories.

Her family's funeral.

In an attempt to clear her thoughts, Senna ran off to what she believed was the cemetery where her family was buried. As Senna walked further into the cemetery, memories of the funeral returned. However as Senna took a closer look, she realized that two people, namely her "father" and "mother" were holding a picture of her.

Senna: This... is my... This is my funeral? Dad? Mom?

Senna snapped out of her thoughts and walked closer to the tombstone but before she could look at the names engraved into the stone, Senna was approached suddenly by a group of Blanks.

Senna backed away from the Blanks but got ambushed by a shinigami wielding chakram blades. Senna thankfully was able to dodge his attack in time.



Senna: Now what?!

???: You've got better reflexes than I expected.

Senna's body fell limp to the floor before bursting into autumn leaves, now showing Senna in her Shinigami form.



Senna: What do you want with me?

???: Come with us. Our lord, Ganryu, summons you!

Senna: Ganryu? Never heard of him.

???: There's no need for you to know him, since you are the...

"Jai!"

A voice spoke from behind Senna. Senna turned around and saw four other Shinigami behind her.

???2: I told you not to blab.

The man now known as Jai laughed.

Jai: I'll catch her in an instant.

Senna wasted no time attacking Jai, but Jai blocked Senna's strike easily.

Jai: Oh, that tickles.

Jai taunted Senna as he punched her, launching her away. Jai didn't stop his assault as he tried to stomp on her afterward.

???3: Don't crush her.

???4: Hurry it up. Let's go.

Jai then picked Senna up by the throat. Senna struggled to get out of Jai's grip.

Jai: Now then, let's go.

"Hold it! Where do you think you're going?"

"We'll give you one chance to drop her and leave. Do that and we'll pretend like nothing happened. 3..."

Jai looked down and saw Ichigo standing in front of him while (Y/N) ambushed him from behind.

Jai: You... Where did you two come from?!

(Y/N): 2... 1...

In that moment Ichigo severed Jai's arm clean off.

Jai: My arm... my arm!

Jai fell to the ground, holding his arm in pain as he squirmed on the ground. Ichigo then spoke to Senna.

Ichigo: What's with all the wandering off?

Senna: Ichigo... That's my own business!

Ichigo: No way. You're gonna keep your promise.

Meanwhile (Y/N) was looking the other 3 dead in the eyes.

(Y/N): That countdown was meant for you guys too, by the way. As you can see, my friend is serious. And that goes double for me. I can give you guys a recount if you weren't prepared before.

One of the enemies wearing a green beret cap and a veil covering his face picked up his club and dashed towards (Y/N), swinging his club.

???4: What do you think you're doing, Bau?

(Y/N) picked up Senna and avoided the attack before pointing his finger at the man now known as Bau.

(Y/N): *thinking* Can I replicate that attack I did against that Menos Grande... Like I did against Gin and Aizen on Sokyoku Hill?

(Y/N) attempted to use a cero as he tried to think back on every time he's been successful. An orb of spiritual energy started to materialize itself in front of (Y/N).

(Y/N): Don't say I didn't warn you to leave...

The light from the cero intensified as he was about to release the Cero. Bau was frozen in fear as he felt the power emitting from the Cero.



However, the light fizzled out right as (Y/N) tried to release it.

(Y/N): I failed!

Everyone stood staggered at the anti-climatic scene. (Y/N) used this chance to punch Bau directly in the face, sending him flying past his comrades.



Ichigo: What the hell are you doing?

(Y/N): I was trying to replicate something I did before, alright... I'm still not entirely sure how it works yet.

Ichigo: Well I guess it doesn't matter if you take the guy out...

Jai: You won't get away with this! I won't let you!

???4: Jai! Enough. It is not yet the time. We're leaving.

The calm headed member of the enemy team picked up Bau and disappeared, and the others that were with him followed suit.

Ichigo: Time? What're you talking about?

Jai then disappeared too.

Ichigo: Dammit! Hey, hold on!

(Y/N): *thinking* Guess we found our culprits...

With the enemies' escape, (Y/N) put Senna down while Ichigo turned to Senna with a grumpy expression on his face.

Ichigo: You let someone treat you, then run off?

Senna: I didn't run away!

(Y/N): You definitely ran away. But I can't blame you. We kinda have been invading your privacy just for answers. So what brought you here?

Senna: My family grave is here.

(Y/N) and Ichigo look at each other with concern. (Y/N)'s hypothesis was seeming more and more likely.

Ichigo: But you said you didn't remember anything.

Senna: It's true. I remember it. It's hazy, but I remember when I was alive. That's why I came here for a look. My house used to be around here, too.

Senna began to walk off.

Senna: I'll help you tomorrow for sure. I'm not lying. See you!

Ichigo gently placed his hand on Senna's shoulder, which prompted her to stop walking.

Ichigo: You idiot. Like I can abandon someone who was just attacked.

(Y/N): You said your house was around here, right Senna? Do you remember which house in particular?

Senna: I... No, not yet.

Ichigo: Then you can spend the night at my place. You can share a room with one of my sisters.

(Y/N): That would be best. Sometimes my home could feel a bit empty with just me and (S/N).

Ichigo: So, what do you say?

Senna didn't waste a single second to think about it.

Senna: Let's go!

(Y/N): Good luck Ichigo. I'm going to head home for the night.

Ichigo: Alright then. Don't oversleep, alright?

(Y/N): I won't. Later!

(Y/N) broke off from the group. (Y/N) bumped into Calavera outside the gate of the cemetery, using this chance to return to his human form.

As Calavera returned to her stuffed rabbit, she immediately spoke to (Y/N).

Calavera: Say, those things Senna said...

(Y/N): Yeah... This is the one time where I hope I'm wrong, but that's getting harder and harder to disprove. If a group of people are actively trying to cause this collision between our world and the Soul Society, and need the Shinenju to do it, then that interaction we had felt exactly like what Ichigo said that Mr. Urahara theorized.

Calavera: So what are you going to do? Even if you defeat those guys, we don't know if that'll stop the collision. Also if we're 100% sure that Senna is the Shinenju, what will happen if she stays here?

(Y/N): I can't say for sure. Maybe Mr. Urahara knows or at the very least, an idea. He may also have info on that group. Aside from their Shihakusho being a dead giveaway of them being shinigami, we don't know anything else. I'll stop at the shop before I head home and ask.

Calavera: Then let's get going.

Part 1 End

To be continued in Part 2

Midway through writting this, I thought to myself "(Y/N)'s inclusion in this is just going to make this feel like the Hidden Inventory arc from JJK"