Chapter 1

Finally! Exams are done.

Speaking of which, are you even able to understand what's on those tests, Rukia?

Hmph. It was super easy!

If you say so...

Either way, I was up late last night reviewing for the test and taking care of those Hollows. I think I'll go home and take a nap.

Idiot! You think a Soul Reaper has time to take naps?

There are so many more things you still have to learn to handle being a Soul Reaper!

What? Can't I get just a little rest? It's been like this every day!

You're still lacking the skills as a full-fledged Soul Reaper. Hurry up and learn everything if you want to rest at all.

Now that we've got school exams over with, you have some time. Which means, after this we can...

You two really like making noise, don't you?

Uryu... What do you want?

Nothing important. Just thought I'd give a word of warning.

Warn me? Of what?

You stand out enough because of your hair color.

Don't you think it'd be smarter if you took things more quietly? That is, if you don't want people questioning you for your strangeness.

And Rukia's supposed to stay on the down-low, right?

You should think about her situation a little more and-

Ugh! I can't tell if you're worried for us or trying to pick a fight with me!

I mean, you should be doing the opposite and stand out a little more!

If you hadn't appeared in front of us as a Quincy, I probably wouldn't have even noticed you existed.

Shut it! Actually, you should at least try remembering the faces of all your classmates!

I know I stand out because of my hair, and that's why I'm prepared for my tests! If I had bad grades on top of that, I'm sure the teachers would keep an eye on me.

You know, for being prepared, you're nowhere close to my grades.

So you are trying to pick a fight with me!

I said I just wanted to warn you. What's with the attitude?

I say you're the one trying to pick a fight with me.

Oh yeah? Bring it! Let's continue where we left off the other day.

Sure thing. Let's settle it.

Rules are: Whoever beats more Hollows within the boundaries of the park wins. Sound fair?

Sure, I guess. But how are you going to get Hollows near the park?

Have you forgotten about the bait? With this, the Hollows are sure to come towards us.

Rukia, can you put up a barrier so that people don't come near us?

Oh, me?

Alright, that works. Make sure you don't let anyone in there, Rukia!

Hey! Don't just go and decide on your own!

Don't come crying to me when you lose, Uryu!

You're the one who should start thinking of excuses for why you're gonna lose!

Those idiots! Have they forgotten that I'm not at my full spiritual powers?

If I had the power to put of a barrier that could cover such a wide area, I'd already be using it to take care of my own situation!

Ugh... I better go get some barrier items from Urahara quick!

Take that!!!

Gotcha!

Looks like you're keeping up.

You, too. However, I've defeated quite a number of Hollows already.

Let's see how long you'll be able to keep up that smirk on your face.

Hah. Keep talking while you can. You won't be able to say much after we're done.

Grahhhhh!!!

Ah, no time to talk.

Yeah.

Alright! Keep it coming!

Oh, why hello there, Miss Rukia.

Urahara! Perfect timing!

Give me an item that can put up a big barrier field! Hurry!

Uh... What's the rush?

I need it right now!

Fine, fine. A barrier item, right? I actually have one on me, so I can take care of the transaction here.

Let's see... Rukia's account... Uh oh.

I'm in a hurry! Come on!

I would love to, really, but... You don't have enough money.

Wh-What?!

You see, barrier items that cover wide areas actually cost quite a bit.

Well, let me think. I don't want to say no and lose a customer like this, so...

How about I do you a favor this time, and you repay me back another time?

Er, I guess I can't help it. Fine!

Alrighty! Thanks for your custom!

Mmm. I thought I'd come and check out this strong presence of Hollows, and here I am making big bucks!

Wait... Urahara, are you saying... You actually came out here to put up a barrier?!

Why, yes. I mean, it could get a little troublesome with this many Hollows gathered in one spot. I don't want anything bad happening, you know?

Why didn't you say so?!

Forget the favor then and-

Ooh, no no no. You already agreed to buy my wares.

Well, yes, but...but...

Then, I'll be counting on you when something happens next time, Rukia!

Hehehe. Now what should I have you do?

Grrr!

Ichigo, Uryu... You guys owe me for this!