2-5 Memory of a Crime

Rukia, listen.

I know I have serious responsibilities as a Soul Reaper, but I was wondering, could I maybe take tomorrow off?

What?

Did you just ask me for a day off? Are you crazy? There is no way!

It's the anniversary...the anniversary of my mom's death.

Ah...

Well, actually...

It's not just the day she died.

It's when she was killed.

Ah... Boy, we're never gonna get to the top.

Speak for yourself. This hill's no problem.

You can do it, Yuzu! Hang in there! You see? Dad's on your side!

Look! I'll even stand on my hands and climb all the way to the top!

Now you did it. Just ignore him, or else he'll never stop.

Someone's up there already. Wow, she had to climb up there pretty early to beat us to the top. She's waving like she knows you, Ichigo.

No, don't say that! Hey, I just remembered! I think I do know her!

In fact, she's the girl from my class back in middle school. Maybe I should go talk to her or something, you know? Haha! I'll go and have a little chat with her and you two go on ahead to mom's grave without me, okay?

What are you doing following me here, Rukia?

Isn't it obvious? I'm here in case a Hollow shows up. You certainly can't handle it yourself.

Hey, way to keep a low profile in front of my family! Why were you waving at me like that?

I suppose I could have been more discreet. I just didn't think of it.

That's okay. So what are you upset about?

Actually, I'm not upset about anything.

Listen, about your mother. I heard you mention that someone killed her.

Could she have been killed by a Hollow?

If your spiritual capabilities were that high as a child, then there may have been a Hollow who sensed you, and when he came after you, it could have-

Stop it! Just shut up!

Sorry to wreck your theory, but all the usual suspects -- like Hollows, serial killers, thugs -- they're not to blame.

...I am.

Wait, Ichigo!

*Beep Beep Beep*

It's a Hollow!

It's close, and it's big. The spirit energy reading is higher than usual.

Your family may be in danger!

Ah!!!

Karin? What's wrong? What do you see?

Yuzu, run away!

Urg...gh... Raaahhhh!!!

Hrhrhrhahahaha...

Oh no! What is it Karin?! What's happening? Is there something on top of her? Get off!

You're too noisy.

But perhaps you'd make a great appetizer!

A Soul Reaper?

It's not possible. It's her... It's the girl I saw that day six years ago! The one down by the river.

That's a long time, and there have been so many. But you say you've seen me before?

Impressive. You have been lucky, little boy. You saw my lure and yet you lived.

Hahahaha...