Author's Note 1: Yes! The long awaited (or forgotten but it was in the back of a few of your minds) sequel to The Rise of Madness is finally here. Dante's back and so is his fourth wall breaking, ebonic slanging, black comedic, non-sequitarial sense of broken humor. I would have uploaded this sooner, but my computer's been acting up badly.

This story takes place not long after the arc, during the mini-adventure on the Wii console called The Shattered Blade. If you've played the game, then I'm sure you get where this fanfic might lead. If not, then consider this a treat. This will be the first story to cover the game, though not really the events.

Author's Note 2: I've also decided to change Dante's powers a bit. It will still be the same premise (Lagi from Panzer Dragoon Saga in an unstable black teen's body), except that he will only have access to a few of his powers during different releases.

Also, I decided to throw in a few pairings. So be prepared to see some RangikuxOC and NemuxOC (mini harem or one of them, I'm not sure). As an added mix, Hanataro's also gonna get paired. Who the lucky lady is, I won't tell. But you're free to guess or suggest who should be thrown in with him. After all, I feel that he deserves a little love.

Author's Note 3: I do not own Bleach or know any celebrities mentioned. The only thing I own is Dante Blaine.

Shattered Sanity

Chapter 1: A New Beginning

"The seal… It's weakened… I can feel it. At last… After all these eons in darkness, I shall return and take my vengeance … But my power… It's been diminished… But what is this I am sensing…? Yes… They're full of spirit energy… I must have them… I shall restore my power and then put an end to this wretched land… All shall kneel before me soon…"

About a week ago, a young man named Dante Blaine was flung into the Seireitei from his home dimension. Soon after, he aligned with a group of trespassers known as ryouka to fight against the Seireitei's 13 Court Squads. However, while the other members' goal was to save the life of a close comrade, Dante had his own agenda. His reason for being here was to exact revenge against the person who terminated his former life and then experimented on him, bringing about the possession of his dual zanpakutos. After an extensive battle with Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya and his brief encounter with Aizen, who revealed himself to be the cause of the young man's suffering, the black teen was placed in the care of Squad 4.

Three days have passed since Aizen's defection from the Soul Society. Thanks to the efforts of Squad 4 staff and his own regenerative abilities, Dante was discharged from the hospital. With his room door closed, the black teen grabbed his clothes from a nearby table and switched them with the white hospital robes worn during his stay. "Feels good to finally move," he said as he stretched his limbs. He moved around and felt surprisingly comfortable. It was as if he were wearing newly bought clothes. "Man, Nemu did a pretty good job on my threads. It's like they're straight out of the cleaners." Pushing these thoughts aside, the black teen picked up a bag near the table and placed two gifts (a glass of sake and a bowl) inside. "Alright. Now I just need to find Captain Unohana to get my swords back. Hey, maybe while I'm there, maybe she can give me another check-up." The black teen began to think about the captain and her visits to his room. "I always did have a thing for nurses." In all honesty, nothing happened between him and the Squad 4 captain except for standard medical checks. This was just Dante having another one of his daydreams.

Pushing that thought to the side, the young maverick left his room and was now in the hall. Due to his involvement against Aizen and the whole misunderstanding that occurred between Soul Society and the ryouka, Dante, along with the other intruders, were treated like allies and pardoned from whatever charges which were held against him. This meant that the black teen was free to wander the grounds of the Seireitei like any other shinigami.

As he walked traveled down the hall, the young man caught a few glances directed toward him by much of the female personnel. Ever the playboy, the black teen shot a few looks back with a flirtatious smile. A few girls blushed while others giggled from the young man's display. "Oh man," the maverick thought. "I still got game. Anyway, where's that sexy Captain Unohana's office? I better get some 4-1-1 at the front desk." Acknowledging this plan, Dante continued down the hall until he took a right turn. Now at the lobby, the black teen was about to go to the front desk, but stopped as he noticed a tall woman nearby. She had silver hair with braided strands on the right side. The black teen remembered who this lady was as thought back on his earlier visit from Sokyoku Hill. It was Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu of Squad 4 and protégé of Captain Unohana. Feeling that she might have an idea on the captain's whereabouts, Dante decided to change tactics and ask her for information. "Hey!" he called. "What it is?"

Isane whipped around and saw Dante standing in front of her. "Hey, wait…" she said. "You're the ryouka from the chamber and Sokyoku Hill, aren't you?"

"Well, maybe I am," he said as he popped his collar. "Name's Dante Blaine. I take it you're the lieutenant around here, right?"

"That's right. I am Isane Kotetsu, the lieutenant here in Squad 4. So what business do you have with me?"

"Business? Only if you want to mix it with pleasure, girl. But really, we just met. I didn't think you were the type to jump the gun so soon. Especially when it's an R.P.G.," the black teen said with a suggestive and provocative tone. All the while, he sported a small flirtatious grin.

Isane pulled her head back and stared at the young man with a questioning eye. It didn't take long until she realized what the young visitor was saying. "H-Hey! That's not what I meant!" she replied with a flustered face.

Dante only chuckled at the riled response he got. "Hold on, settle down," he said. "I was just messin' with you. Seriously though, I'm looking for the head hauncho in this joint. Know where I can find her?"

"Captain Unohana? She should be in her office," Isane answered. She then turned back around and pointed to a passageway in front of her. "Just walk down the hall and make a left to get to her quarters."

"Thanks. Oh, and by the way, if you ever need some stress relief, just let me know. Height don't matter, but be prepared to feel the Gs!"

Now Isane knew exactly what Dante meant by 'stress relief.' Her face was beet red in embarrassment. "You friggin' pervert!" she hollered as the tall woman took a few steps toward the cocky teenager. Dante quickly dashed away, chuckling mischievously from his little taunt's success. The last thing he heard before turning the corner was Isane yelling, "No running in the halls!"

A few minutes passed as he walked down the hallway. It was relatively empty, with only a few medical staff. Once he turned left at a fork, the black teen took a few steps forward and found himself standing in front of a door. A sign hung from the top that displayed 'Captain Retsu Unohana. M.D.' "Well, here it is," the black teen thought.

Opening the door, Dante stepped inside the room. It was a sizable quarters which held a professional air to it. On the far side was a large table with a couple of piles stacked on surface. Behind the furniture sat a seemingly young woman with long black hair styled in a braid, which hung at the front of her body. Her captain's haori, unlike many others in her position, was white (a throwback to earlier years). This was Retsu Unohana, Squad 4's captain. Seeing Dante, Unohana gave the black teen a warm smile. "Ah, Dante," she said. "I've been expecting you. How are you feeling?"

"Oh, I'm good, Doc. Thanks for asking," the black teen said as he rotated his left arm. He then took a seat in a chair in front of the table. "You have my swords, right?"

"Your zanpakutos are right here." Bending to the side, the captain picked up two swords encased in scabbards and laid them on the table. Seeing his weapons, Dante smiled. "So, Dante I have a question to ask."

"Shoot," the black teen replied as he picked up his swords and strapped them to his back.

"You are familiar with Hanataro Yamada, aren't you?"

"Hanataro? Oh yeah, he's a cool kid. A little backbone and some pimp training, and he could be a great pimp in history. Why do you ask?"

"Well, Hanataro seems to be quite fond of you and the other ryouka. In fact, I believe he looks up to you like something of a role model."

"Me? A role model?" Dante asked as he pointed to his face. "Well of course I am!" he replied jovially. "After all, I am that kind of guy. Kids love me and women adore me."

"I'm sure you know this, but Hanataro is usually a target for many of the shinigami. Yet even through all of the abuse, he is still kind and a hard worker. If you find Hanataro, I ask that you watch over him during your stay. Isane and myself are much to busy here, and our third seat Iemura… I think he may hold some disdain towards him."

"Say no more, Hot Doc! Dante Blaine, master of the G-arts, is on the case! Hell, the two of us are tight like teriyaki sauce and chicken. Don't worry about ol' Taro. I'll take the little guy under my feathered and clawed wing."

"That's good to hear," Unohana replied. "I'm sure that he will benefit from having you around."

"You know it. By the time you next see him, Taro's gonna be just as much ladykiller and badass like me! Peace!" After saying his goodbye, Dante left the room.

As the young man closed the door, Retsu continued to work. As she filled out forms, the medical captain pondered about her decision in asking for Dante's aid. True the young man was strong and he appears to be one of the few people that her 7th seat trusts (oddly enough). Still, given Dante's level of sanity and unpredictable nature, surely there were other possibilities open. "Perhaps it would have been wiser to ask another ryouka to watch after Hanataro," she thought. "Maybe that tall young man or the blonde-haired girl. Perhaps the substitute shinigami would have been better choice…"

After leaving the 4th Division, Dante headed south to Squad 10's area. For the black teen, it felt strange to walk around out in the open like this. After all, he was pretty much hunted by most of the Seireitei for nearly a week. The only way he was able to freely move was if he assumed the identity of one of his pursuers. Still, that thought was placed at the back of his mind. The only thing that mattered now were either the room or phone numbers he was getting from whatever young woman crossed his path.

After about a good ten minutes thanks to his shunpo, Dante reached the 10 Division's Headquarters. With the bottle of sake in hand, the black teen walked inside. The black teen stepped through the hall, which were rather quiet. After a few steps, the black teen stood in front of an open door. Inside the room sat Rangiku Matsumoto, staring idly out of her window. It was clear that she was bored, enough to not even notice Dante at her window.

The black teen stood against the entryway and took in the picture of beauty before him. Her long golden locks, smooth skin, crystal colored eyes, and of course her large bust. A true maiden of sexuality if there ever was one. "Damn, this girl's hella fly!" he thought with a smirk. "Jessica Simpson's got nothin' on her!" Pushing those thoughts aside, Dante knocked on her door. "Looks like someone's slouching on the job," he quipped

"Dante!" Rangiku replied as she turned her attention to her visitor. "So you finally got out of the hospital."

"You know it. I'm a pretty fast healer," the black teen replied nonchalantly. "So is my bro around?"

"Toshiro's still not in yet," Rangiku replied. "But I heard he'll be discharged today."

"Yeah, I heard that," "Guess he's busy checking up on Momo," the black teen thought. The last he heard, his brother was supposed to be released the same day he was. To hear the news was quite a surprise considering the intense battle they engaged in at the Seijōtōkyorin. Still, it was good to hear that Toshiro would recover none the less.

"Hey! Isn't that the sake bottle I gave you?" replied Rangiku as she walked over to her guest.

Dante snapped out of his thoughts and remembered that he still had the bottle in his hand. "Yeah and that's why I came," the black teen replied. "I wanted to thank you for the gift and see if you can help me drink this thing. I mean, unless you're too busy."

"Oh, Dante!" Rangiku replied as she suddenly embraced him. "How thoughtful of you! I knew it was a good idea to buy that sake!" she added while her body turned side to side.

During the bear hug, the black teen's arms flapped violently as he fought for oxygen. Never in his life did he think a large breast size would be such a hazard. If anything, this is the first time in his life that boobs terrified him. "Can't… breathe…" he replied. "Help…!"

Rangiku looked down and saw her comrade struggling for air. Realizing what was happening, the lieutenant quickly released her hold. Now out of her death grip, the black teen started to catch his breath. "Sorry about that," the busty blonde replied. She then pushed her bust up and glanced at them, "Sometimes these things can get in the way."

Dante wanted to respond, but was too winded to speak. All the black teen knew was that he nearly met his demise, not from battle, but from a show of affection. "Death by titties... Should I smile at that or be upset…" was all he could think as he shot a glare at the lieutenant.

However, Rangiku innocently ignored his glance with a ditzy smile. "Well, let's start drinking!" she replied happily. "I already have some cups!" With the bottle in hand, Rangiku returned to her desk and grabbed a couple of small glasses from a nearby drawer.

"She had some shots ready?" Dante thought with a confused eye. "Call me paranoid, but I have a feeling that she was expecting me..."

"Come on, Dante! This sake's really good." The black teen blew out air from between his lips. There was no point in pondering about the case. What mattered was that he would finally have a taste of the liquor. Taking a seat across the lieutenant, both shinigami took their glasses and gulped down the contents. Though warm, the sake was very sweet and went down rather smoothly. Fifteen minutes passed since the two first drank and the effects of the alcohol were taking place. The two slumped over their seats, feeling relaxed and calmed. It was relatively silent between the two of them. The only sounds were from their gulps and satisfied sighs. Finally, Rangiku decided to break the ice between them. "So what do you think about Captain Hitsugaya being your brother?"

"Meh… It's cool, I guess," Dante responded. "I mean, we're on a pretty rocky road. Especially after what went down at the Seijyotokyorin."

"Not to mention the trouble you caused to his squad," Rangiku quickly added. "Especially with that one guy you gave a two story wedgie to."

"Okay, maybe I overdid it."

"Maybe?" Rangiku asked cynically. Dante only blew out air as he glanced to the side to dust his shoulder. "Look, you don't need to worry about the captain. It just takes a while for him to get close to people."

"Right, I get that."

"But what matters is that you two will watch out for each other, right?"

"You know it. If shit gets heavy, I got Shiro's back covered. Like Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta or Damon Wayans and Jim Carey. Even Dave Chappelle and Jim Breuer."

"Right… Who are they again?"

Dante sighed at the lieutenant's ignorance of pop culture in the real world. Clearly, the knowledge of American comedians and legendary film icons was rather rare here in the Soul Society. "Nevermind," he sighed before downing another cup. After about an hour passed and a dozen or so shots were consumed, both Rangiku and Dante's cheeks were now red from intoxication. Though they were strong drinkers in their own right, but the sake proved to be more powerful than expected. Still, the two drinkers managed to gulp down half of the contents inside. "Damn, this is good. Makes a bottle kristal taste like a 40 ounce."

"You got that right," Rangiku agreed. "So creamy and warm. I haven't had anything this tasty and smooth in a while."

Hearing this, a lecherous grin grew on Dante's face. Even in a drunken stupor, he couldn't help but respond to, what he felt was, a sexual innuendo. "You don't say? I guess you ain't had any melted Hershey's, have you," he quipped.

"Pervert!" the lieutenant replied as she reached over and playfully pushed on the black teen's chest. "I'm shocked that you have such a dirty mind for someone so young."

"Hey, when I hear an entendre, I can't help but to jump in!" the black teen replied innocently. "And what do you mean by 'someone so young'? I'm twenty years old… Or was it nineteen? Seventeen? Whatever, it'll come to me sooner or later."

"Looks like somebody needs to get off the alcohol," Rangiku said with a wryly tone.

"Look who's talking," the black teen shot back. "You're the one who's drinking on the job."

"Only because you brought the sake here."

"Well… you're supposed to know better than me. I'm too young to be accountable for my actions," Dante said innocently. For the next few seconds, Rangiku was busy trying to make an excuse for herself. However, that was hard to do when inebriated. Seeing that he won, the black teen grew a large smile on his face. "Ha! I'm ups, girl!" he replied victoriously.

"Yeah, yeah," Rangiku said as she waved her hand. Deciding to drop the subject, the blonde took another gulp of sake. Dante, with a smile still on his face, also took another shot. "Hey, Dante. That thing you always carry around. What is it?"

"You mean this?" Dante replied as he held up his I-Pod. "It's my music player. You know, a piece of tech that holds all my tunes."

"Really?" the lieutenant asked, pulling her head back in skepticism. "No way. That little thing can play music?"

"Hell, yeah!" Dante replied. "I got a shit load of banging beats here in this little device. Ah, Apple. What ever will you make next for the casual young music lover?"

After learning about Dante's item, Rangiku started to come up with an idea. She smiled before taking another shot. Red in the cheeks and full of alcohol, the strawberry-haired shinigami decided to share her plan with her drinkmate. "I know how we can have more fun," she said.

"Fo' real?" Dante asked.

"Let's do some karaoke!" she blurted as she stood up. "Right here, right now! Let's have some fun!"

"Well, most of the tracks I got are rap, some rock, and stuff from video games…" Dante said as he shuffled through his device's playlist. "But I guess I have a few songs we can try and sing."

"Alright!" Rangiku exclaimed in drunken enjoyment. "Let's do this! I swear, you're gonna fall in love with my beautiful singing voice." As she began to move to the other side of the table, the blonde lieutenant's legs wobbled. She tried to guide herself by shuffling along the table. However, thanks to her drunken state, Rangiku lost her balance and footing, falling head first into the ground.

Dante, picked his head up as he heard the loud thud. The drunk black teen was too busy browsing through his music and was surprised to see Rangiku suddenly disappear. "Rangiku?" he called as he scanned the room. "Hey, where'd you go? Rangiku? Oh, Ran-Ran? Oh shit… Don't tell me… global warming took her… Dammit! Al Gore was right! We should have listened! We should have listened!"

"Dante, I'm down here," said the muffled voice of the lieutenant. Thanks to her fall, the shinigami's face was seemingly glued to the floor.

However, Dante could barely make out what she said. "Where are you?" he called.

Turning her head to the side, Rangiku answered again. "I'm down here!" she repeated in a much clearer voice.

"Rangiku?" he said. "How did you get on the floor?"

"I tripped. Duh."

"'Ight. Here, let me get you up," Dante replied as he pushed himself off his seat. Turning the corner around the table, Dante bent over to try and grab Rangiku. However, there were two things wrong with his approach. First, the alcohol's effects effected the black teen's field of vision. And secondly, said effects also caused him to loose balance. Adding these factors up together meant Dante was not only lifting up a person not there, but he, too, found himself on the floor with his drinking buddy. The black teen turned his head to Rangiku and said, "Damn… How did you get over there…"

"I don't know… Well, since we're here, let's start the karaoke!" Rangiku replied, tossing away the supposed rescue mission.

"Alright! I'm down for that!" Dante replied as he spread his arms over his head triumphantly. For the next couple hours, the two began to sing the best that their drunken, tone deaf voices can try. However, it was pretty hard when half of the lyrics you sang to came out as inebriated and incomprehensible slurring. Even so, credit had to be given to the boozed duo. Dante, thanks to his familiarity with most of the songs, was somewhat on key with the notes (albeit rambling on a few fast verses). Rangiku, was also trying her best and follow through a few of the songs.

Unknown to them, their chaotic duet did not go unnoticed. Their unceremonious vocals were heard from the office's open window by every shinigami who was nearby. They're faulty renditions of the many hip hop or soft rock songs that they lyrically butchered became a chaotic concert of an annoyed audience. Of course, the soul reapers who were driven by curiosity to see the cause of such a distasteful racket (which, quoted by one on duty officer, "was more painful than Captain Soifon's torture procedures and Captain Kurotsuchi's experiments combined") soon held their hands to their ears.

Two hours and three horribly remixed Three 6 Mafia raps passed and the front of the 10th Division building was deserted. Only a few sheets of paper fluttered about. Standing in confusion by the barren setting stood the squad captain, Toshiro Hitsugaya. Before his arrival, the white-haired prodigy decided to pay a visit to his close friend, Momo Hinamori, soon after his discharge.

An hour and a half earlier…

Standing against the doorway to her room, Toshiro watched his old friend vigilantly. His stoic look hid his concern and sorrow. Thanks to Aizen, Momo was now in a comatose state. Between the injuries the traitor dealt, and the heavy realization from his defection, it was unclear whether or not the lieutenant would regain consciousness. "Momo…" he thought as he gazed at her slumbering form. "All of this happened because I was unable to save you in time. I only wish there was something I could do…" The best medics of Squad 4 had done all they could in order to stabilize Momo and treat her severe injuries. All Toshiro could do is wait and hope for her recovery.

It wasn't long until the Squad 10 captain heard the sounds of footsteps approaching his post. He turned his eyes down to the left and saw Captain Unohana making her way towards him from the hall. "Captain Hitsugaya," she said as she arrived at his location. "It's good to see you walking about. Do you feel any discomfort."

"I'll be alright," Toshiro replied with a nod. "It's all thanks to your medical expertise and healing kido that I'm here today."

"Please, there is no need to thank me," Retsu replied graciously. "I'm just glad to see that you've recovered."

Toshiro gave another nod before returning his glance to Momo. Watching her sleep, Toshiro continued to wonder if there was anything else that could be done. "There has to be something I could do than just stand here and watch her fade away like this," he thought. Driven to save his friend, the young prodigy turned to Retsu. "Unohana, is there anything more that can be done to improve her condition?" he asked. "Please, tell me." Retsu turned to the young lieutenant and analyzed her condition. After inspecting the young woman, the captain's expression, which was usually cheerful and bright, turned saddened. Toshiro saw this and knew what it meant. He lowered his eyes, feeling crestfallen from the loss of hope.

"I'm sorry, Toshiro," the braided woman responded. "The medical staff tried their best to help Momo. Between the grave injuries and Aizen's departure, it seems that she has lost the will to live. The chances of her survival are very small. It is likely that she may not survive the night." Hearing the news, the young captain looked on with a melancholic expression on his face as his worse fears were realized. Momo Hinamori, a fellow shinigami and his oldest friend, was about to meet her demise. A forlorn sigh soon escaped his lips. "However…" the medic continued, bringing the young captain's attention back to her. "There may be some hope of saving her. Though I'm not sure if it would work."

"There is?" Toshiro replied as he quickly clung on to the last bit of hope. "Please tell me what it is."

Retsu gave a light nod as she started to continue. "In order to help save Momo, I need the power of the Sokyoku shards."

"The Sokyoku shards…?" Toshiro remembered the Sokyoku. It was a large and powerful halberd that had rested on the execution site of Sokyoku Hill. However, from what he gathered, the weapon was destroyed on the day of Rukia Kuchiki's execution due to the combined efforts of her captain, Juushiro Ukitake and another fellow captain, Shunsui Kyoraku.

"Yes," Retsu began to explain. "They are pieces of the Sokyoku that have scattered throughout the Seireitei after its destruction. I know of a secretive, high-level kido spell which maybe able to save Momo's life. Though the spell requires high amounts of reiryoku to cast it. Due to this, the kido has been shrouded in obscurity with very few people, myself included, who know of this spells name. Not only that, any attempts at casting it have ever been successful."

"I understand," Toshiro said. "So all I need to do is obtain these Sokyoku shards. Then I can tap into the vast spiritual energy to complete the kido spell and save Momo's life." Toshiro's theory and morale was given a boost as he saw Retsu gave a hopeful smile. He then turned to Momo, now driven with determination and purpose. "Hold on just a while longer, Momo," he thought. "Thank you, Captain Unohana," Toshiro said with a bow, which Retsu returned with a respectful nod. The young shinigami hastily rushed down the hall. Now in a race against time, he knew he had to find the shards as soon as possible. However, he knew that he needed help and wished to return to his squad's headquarters to tell his lieutenant.

Now out of sight, Unohana's eyes, which were a normal light purple, became a golden yellow as a small smirk also crept on her face.

Present time…

Making his way to the entrance, Toshiro opened the door to the headquarters. As soon as he did, the white-haired captain could smell the mixed odor of fruit, sweat, and liquor. It was strange enough that the front of the building was devoid of life, but this was insane. "What the hell happened here?" the young boy asked himself as he walked down the hall.

With every step he took, the smell became stronger and it felt warmer. "Great. Rangiku must have broke the air conditioner again," he thought as he rolled his eyes. There were a few things Toshiro disliked, and heat was one of those he had a passionate distaste for. However, his thoughts on the current temperature were pushed aside as he heard a low, familiar moan coming from a certain office. "Wait, that sounds like Rangiku…" he thought. Quickening his pace, Toshiro moved to his lieutenant's office and found the door was closed. "Rangiku?" the small captain called as he knocked on the door. He then placed his ear against its surface and heard more moaning. He knew that it was his lieutenant, but there was someone else in there. Who it was, he didn't know because it was too incoherent to make out. Now he was a bit worried. True Rangiku was a slouch, but she was no pushover. Her lieutenant's position was earned due to her strength and fighting ability. To Toshiro, whoever was in there must have overpowered her somehow.

He then heard the new party starting to speak. "Now my game is tight, tight as fuck is my game, Easy motherfucking E or Eric Wright it's all the same…" the unknown individual said, almost in a rhythmic tone before his voice went into obscurity. Feeling that his lieutenant was in real danger, Toshiro began slamming his body against the door in hopes of busting it open. Then he heard more coming from the other side. "I gots to have it bitch!" the person shouted. "For the love of this shit!"

Backing up to the other side he collided into the door one final time while shouting "I'm coming, Matsumoto!" He managed to successfully get through the door, his body hitting the ground in the process.

"Motherfucker!!!" shouted both Rangiku and the other individual simultaneously in a loud and off-key yell. Hearing his lieutenant's voice, Toshiro quickly returned to his feet, his hand wrapped around the grip of his zanpakuto, Hyorinmaru. He was about to draw his sword before he studied the situation more closely. Standing in front of him with dumbfounded faces, hip to hip, and sharing a pair of earphones was the "endangered" lieutenant and his psychologically inept half-brother, Dante. The room was a mess as papers and shot glasses littered the ground and table. He could also smell the strong musk of sweat and perfume, which permeated in the air.

Caught in the act, the two individual froze like sweaty statues while they were in the act of dirty dancing and singing along to Bone-Thugs-N-Harmony's "Foe Tha Love of $". Rangiku was bent forward with her hand on her hips and butt held in the air. Dante's waist also connected to hers and his hands in the air as a show of triumph. Both also wore paralyzed smiles and were too afraid to move them. Upon seeing the captain, who at this point was seething and exerting his cold spiritual pressure, both dry hump dancers' faces were beat red from intoxication, surprise, and embarrassment. The words "oh shit" escaped Dante's lips before he and Rangiku quickly stood in normal positions, fixing their clothes and hair in the process.

"C-Captain…" Rangiku stuttered while she quickly put herself together. She tried putting on a smile to hide the aforementioned emotions (as well as fear). Of course, such a performance did not succeed. "Um… I see your back from recovery. I'm so glad to see you're okay."

"Yo, Whitey!" Dante replied, also fearing the small and angry shinigami, whose hand was still resting on his sword. "What it do, bro! Hey, not that it matters or anything, but the door was unlocked. You coulda just… You know…" The black teen, not wanting to say any more, made a turning motion with his hand before slowly lowering it. He then rubbed the back of his neck as an eerie silence filled the room. "Awkward…" Dante commented on the scene.

Seeing that there was no life or death situation, Toshiro released the grip of his zanpakuto and stood up straight. He closed his eyes as a hard sigh escaped his lips. He then gave the two people a glare that was as cold as the sudden drop in temperature. "How many times do I have to tell you? It's Captain Hitsugaya!" the high-ranking officer replied with a serious tone. "I come back from the hospital in hopes that my lieutenant was able to fill in when I was gone. Instead I find said official and my brother drunk and engaged in lewd behaviors and half of the division a ghost town. Would you two idiots care to explain what the hell is going on?"

"Well, you see Captain," Rangiku began, "Dante and I were having a little… fun. I mean, he taught me a wonderful new type of music called rap. I must say, it is very interesting. How come we've never heard of such a thing? I mean, it would be great if we shared it with the rest of the Seireitei."

Once more, Toshiro scanned his surroundings with an analytical eye before turning to the persons who were the target of his frustrations. He did not no what rap was, nor did he really care. But if it was the reason why it seemed that the room was hit by a cyclone, then perhaps it was best he never knew. "I'm sure the current shape of your work quarters and your behavior are enough of a reason. Then again, it's not like you need any more distractions to slack off." Rangiku glanced to the side. To be honest, she was grateful that she wasn't chewed out like usual. Of course, she knew that would be saved for later. Toshiro then turned to Dante with a cold stare. The black teen chuckled lightly before whistling an innocent tune. "Now it's your turn," the prodigy replied. "You can start by telling me why you were having mock intercourse with my second-in-command's ass like some idiot?"

"Oh that?" Dante asked as he scratched his head in thought. The black teen chuckled sheepishly from the circumstances, but saw no change in his brother's expression. "Okay, I can explain," the black teen began. "You see, we was just having a little fun. I mean, come on. What's a little pretend screw between wasted friends?" There was still no change in Toshiro's death glare. If anything, the murderous intent only increased. "Alright, let's try this again. And you might want to remember this for when you get older." Rangiku stifled a small giggle from the remark. Luckily for her, the young captain was too focused on Dante to take notice. "You see, when a man and woman really like each other after a good buzz, they get together and start listening to hip hop music from the years 1987 to about 2005. Then they start dirty dancing for the next four to six hours. But then shit gets a bit carried away and they wake up the next morning buck naked with a heavy ass hangover and enough regret to last for the next three years. Give or take a couple months. And that's how many of the people who were on the Jerry Springer show were conceived and why China has such a big ass population."

Throughout of his career as a captain, Toshiro has heard many senseless claims. However, most of those came from the mouth of his lieutenant. He always thought there was no way he'd ever hear anything crazier than the stories she told. But after hearing Dante's little excuse, the young prodigy was proven wrong. Momentarily baffled, Toshiro gathered himself before saying in a low tone, "So you're telling me that you two are drunk beyond belief and were… dancing?" Dante shook his head in a fast paced manner. "You have got to be kidding me! You two looked like you were… Like you were…"

"Fucking, sir?" Rangiku answered. Toshiro glared at the busty blonde, who immediately turned away.

"I'm sure there was less vulgar vocabulary that could have been used," Toshiro responded. "But yes."

"Hey, man, it's all good," Dante replied cooly. "Look, we weren't really gonna do that. I mean, the least we would have done was a little foreplay," the black teen added with a lecherous chortle. Rangiku's face was now looking redder than a cherry from the comment. "Besides if we did, then that would mean this story would get bumped up to an M rating. Plus it's a little too soon for me to be anyone's baby daddy. We can't have that. Nor can I afford it. And have you seen the cost of airfare? I am not gonna spend $200 and wait till the next season so that I can get on Maury! Is I right, Emmy Award winner from the hit show 30 Rock and SNL legend Tracy Morgan!?"

"Yo, man! I ain't see nothing!" replied the black comedian from Matsumoto's window. "Now if you excuse me, there's so many bitches up in here, and I think half of them aren't wearing bras. It's time to get buck wild and pregnant up in here! Peace!" With that said, the entertainer bolted from the scene.

"Who the hell are you talking to, Dante?" Toshiro replied.

Dante quickly turned snapped back to reality. Evidently, the black teen slipped into an alcohol-induced hallucination thanks to the high intake of sake that he consumed. "Oh, man," he replied as he rubbed his temple. "I'm bugging out. I got more plastered than I thought. Hey, you know what day it is?"

Toshiro growled under his breath while Rangiku erupted in a fit of laughter at Dante's rant. To see his lieutenant act like this was embarrassing enough. But to see his brother act in such a way was just appalling. Though tempted to take abrasive measures, the white-haired captain resisted the urge. There were more important things to do than watch these two mess around. "This is a waste," he replied. "I don't have time for this right now." Toshiro turned around and started walking out of the room. "You two, clean this mess up. And Matsumoto, for the umpteenth time, get to work."

"Y-Yes, Captain!" Rangiku said as she saluted her younger superior. She knelt down to the floor and began picking up whatever stray form was in her wake.

"As for you, Dante… I never want to see such display between you and my lieutenant again. The last thing I want are rumors spawned from such an incident. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal like a glass, bro!" Dante replied as he helped Rangiku with the task at hand. "Speaking of which, want some sake?" asked the black teen as he picked up the alcohol bottle. Now there was only a few pints left swirling at the bottom of the container.

Toshiro only stared at the black teen with a stoic expression. "Just clean this mess up while I'm gone," he repeated before he left the room and walked down the hall.

Once the two heard the sound of the door close, the two sighed in relief from his exit. "Oh man," Dante replied. "I thought that he was gonna ice us both. I mean, did you see his eyes? I think I saw them glow like cheap flashlights."

"No kidding. Talk about a killjoy," Rangiku agreed. "Hey, why don't we pick this stuff up. Then we can go out for some fresh air."

"But I thought you had to go to work?" Dante asked with a risen brow. "Captain Shawty looked like he was 'bout to crap an ice block."

"Don't worry about it. I'll get the work done soon enough," Rangiku said as she waved a hand. Dante couldn't help but smirk at his comrade's procrastination. "Now how about you grab the paper over there while I pick up the ones here?"

"Alright, but what about the door?" Dante asked. "I'm no carpenter, but that thing doesn't look like it's up to regulations."

"I don't know," the lieutenant replied. "We can just have someone fix it later on."

"That'll work," the black teen said with a shrug. For the next two hours, the two were hard at work cleaning the floor and desk. Papers were gathered from the ground and stacked neatly (to the best of their uncoordinated ability) on the table. Shot glasses were returned to the secret compartments (a small pit under the floor filled with more glasses and sake bottles). After all was said and done, Rangiku and Dante passed out on the ground, exhausted from the labor. "Finally…" Dante replied as he rested on the floor. The cool air from the AC (which finally kicked on) blew in their faces. "It's over…"

"You said it, Dante…" Rangiku replied as she panted heavily. "Now you know why I hate paperwork…"

"Yeah… No kidding…" Dante moved his face to the left, hoping for the breeze to cool off the exposed side of his face. He smiled as the air danced upon his face before opening them and suddenly feeling a rise in heat. Moving up and down like living mountains was Rangiku's bust, moving with every breath the shinigami lieutenant took. "Yo… Now those are what I call the Rolling Hills," he thought as a small amount of drool hung from his the side of his mouth. "When they're not trying to suffocate you, they look great."

"Hey. My face is up here." Snapping out of his perverted thoughts, the black teen turned to the blonde's face, who glanced plainly at him. Dante only gave a light chuckle in response. "Pervert."

"What? They're in my face," Dante said defensively.

"I see you're hard at work as usual, Lieutenant Matsumoto," said an old, gruff voice as a shadow grew over the two laid shinigami. Turning toward the door, the two saw an old man with a flowing white beard (wrapped in purple cloth), long white eyebrows, and wrinkled skin. He wore a large white haori over a black robe. Held in his possession was a large wooden cane that he used to support his body. It was none other than the head captain of the Gotei 13, Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto.

Seeing the man, Rangiku quickly stood to her feet and gave a respectful salute. "Sir!" she exclaimed while Dante took his time to get off the ground and simple stand. Rangiku looked at the corner of her eye and saw her friend just standing nonchalantly. The strawberry blonde pushed the teen's shoulder, who sighed and decided to give a salute of his own.

"At ease," said the elder, allowing both sword wielders to relax. He then turned to Dante and inspected him with squinted eyes. "So you're one of the ryoka who fought with one of my captains? I've been waiting for a chance to see you."

"Who me?" Dante asked. "So what? You want my autograph?"

"Dante, do you know who this is?" Rangiku asked.

"Hmm…" The black teen looked the man over and noted his features. "Let's see… Long white beard, wrinkly face, bald head, and layers of clothes… I know! You're Santa Claus!" Hearing the answer, Rangiku immediately doubled over, stunned by the answer she received. The commander general himself, was also surprised as he looked at the black teen with a risen brow. Dante, on the other hand, was still a bit buzzed and was really unsure who he was talking to. "But to be real with you, I was thinking you'd be on the larger side of the scale, knawmean? Guess you don't get the beer belly until Winter. But I always wondered, why'd you stiff me last Christmas. All I asked for was a pair of Heckler & Koch MP7s with a telescopic lens and a makeshift suppressor. Shit, I was good. Sure I cut off one guy's kneecap and took his Cheesy Puffs, but the bitch had it coming to him! Saying that John Mellencamp can beat Luther Vandross in a Steel Cage Match. Serves him right."

Silence once more filled the room. As the aged gentleman before him tried to make heads and tails over Dante's rant, Rangiku blanched in fear. She may still be drunk, but even the strawberry blonde knew better than to talk in such a nonsensical fashion when in the presence of high authority. Dante, on the other hand, was still feeling the buzz and had no idea whom he was speaking to. The only thing that ran through Rangiku's mind was, "This idiot's going to have us executed! And worse, we'll be burned to ashes by the Head Captain's zanpakuto! I gotta think of something fast!" The 10th Division lieutenant began to think hastily, using her excuse making abilities to their maximum in an act of preservation. "Please, excuse my friend," she pleaded as he backed Dante away. "Dante was just making a joke. It's his zanpakutos. Makes him say crazy stuff. Just ask Captain Hitsugaya or Captain Kurotsuchi."

"What? You mean he's not Santa?" Dante asked.

"See?" Rangiku replied as she covered her friend's mouth with one of her hands.

"Ah, I see," said the older captain, who decided to push the black teen's comment out of his mind. "Very well then."

"So, what may we do for you, Head Captain Yamamoto?"

"I'm glad you asked. As I said, I came to seek the ryouka's assistance in an important matter at hand. I fear that the future of the Soul Society may hang in the balance."

"What kind of mission are we talking about?" Dante asked.

"All throughout the Seireitei, most of our soul reapers are on the hunt for objects which hold great power. These items can increase the power of a shinigami to untold levels. They are the Sokyoku shards."

"The Sokyoku shards?" Rangiku asked.

"Wait, wasn't that the big ass spear that was destroyed when Ich and I saved Rukia from being fried?" queried Dante.

"It is," Yamamoto answered. "As a whole weapon, it was said to rival the strength of one million zanpakuto. Even though it's broken into numerous pieces, each shard still possesses great amounts of power. Holding just one of these shards can increase the possessor's spiritual energy to untold levels. Which is why I need your help."

"So the Sokyoku's power was divided into portions and everybody's after the shards," Rangiku mused. "Things sound like they're really getting out of hand."

"Hey, hold on," Dante replied. "I get that I'm great. I'm even better at whatever it is Ichigo, Wolverine, or Chris Jericho does. But why see me? You got captains in your corner. So why don't you give them a holler?"

"Numerous parties have risen to stake claim on the shards. Including your friends," the Gotei 13 leader responded. Dante cocked his head by the mention of his teammates. "Also, many of the captains are caught in the in fighting. I fear that if matters are not taken soon, then the Seireitei would descend into a state of civil unrest."

"I get it. So you can't give a shoutout to your G's and Big Ich's too busy in the treasure hunt, too. But you didn't answer why I should help? It's not like I'm on your payroll." Being something of a businessman, Dante was like most people. He only did certain things if there was a cash reward at the end of his troubles. Which is why, back in his home world, he took many odd jobs in order to sustain himself and his journey. A few being on the more on the shady and bloody side of the spectrum.

"I had a feeling you would say that. Which is why I shall seek a bargain with you," said the old man in a rather calm, professional manner. Rangiku gave a confused glance toward the elder shinigami. For the young woman, it was strange to see someone like the head captain want to negotiate with a ryouka. Then again, the Seireitei was in a troubling period after Central 46 crumbled at Aizen's hands. Perhaps this was the only alternative.

Dante, on the other hand, was more curious as to what the proposal would be. After all, it's not everyday he was confronted by, who may be, the strongest, wisest, and oldest in a community all at once. Wishing to know more, the black teen straightened himself up and crossed his arms. "Go on," he said in a calm tone.

"I ask that you bring the shards to me if you can," the high-ranking soul reaper replied. "If you are able to succeed in the task at hand, then I will reward you handsomely for your troubles. If you wish for wealth or prestige, then it shall be granted."

Hearing this, Dante mentally squealed like a little schoolgirl. Anxiety took over his mind at that point as he thought over the Squad 1 captain's proposal. The possibilities as to what his reward would be if he met success were endless. After all, this was the head captain of all the shinigami. "This is too sweet!" he thought with a large smile on his face. "If I collect those shards, I can get anything! Oh, maybe I can own the Playboy mansion… No, wait! I can date Scarlet Johansson! No, hold on! I can get me a friggin' magical rainbow turtle! Screw that! What matters is all the bling! When all this is said and done, Imma end up in a pool of gold and a platinum Xbox 360i! 'Cause like my boys Cryme Tyme say, it's about that money, money! Yeah! Yeah!"

"Judging from the enthusiasm on your face, I see you find the offer very appealing," said the observant veteran as he watched his client unable to contain his emotions.

"You bet you big, jolly white beard I do, gramps!" the black teen replied with excitement. "So I just need to bag you them shards, right? Though this sounds like something straight from a certain manga, and in the back of my mind I'm wondering if some hanyou with a oversized sword is gonna pop up outta nowhere and call me a bastard, you got yourself a deal!"

"Excellent news," Yamamoto said. "I am glad that I was able to meet with you." He then turned to the lieutenant, who straightened her stance upon his gaze. "Lieutenant, I ask that you accompany young Dante on the search for the shards. I feel he needs all the help he can in order to complete this mission."

"Yes, Captain!" Rangiku said with a respectful bow. She then turned to Dante and smiled.

The black teen responded with a smirk back. "A high paying job and some quality time with Rangiku," he thought. "This has to be the best day in my pimp life!" "Fine by me," Dante said nonchalantly. "Hope you can keep up, Rangiku?"

"Oh, I think I can," the blonde responded. "But the real question is…" Before Dante could even blink, Rangiku had disappeared from her spot by his side and was already standing just outside her office door. "Do you think you can catch me?" she asked with a flirtatious tone as she waved.

"Oh, you want to play tag with a ninja pimp?" Dante said in a challenging voice. The black teen shunpoed after Rangiku to catch up, a small breeze from his passing blow Captain Yamamoto's beard. The two continue their little game of tag after they left the building and continued jumping over rooftops.

Now the head general was alone in Lieutenant Matsumoto's office. With no shinigami nearby, the old man turned to the window. A small glint appeared in his elderly eyes as he looked on. "Looks like the last of the pawns have begun their search," he mused. "He was easier to fool than the others. It doesn't matter which Soul Reaper wins. In the end, I will be the one standing in victory." It was at that moment in which Yamamoto's irises gained a gold color. "And in due time, Soul Society will finally meet its demise."

Author's Note 4: Well that's the end of the first chapter. I know it's a slow start, but I promise that this story will pick up quickly. You'll see appearances by a few characters who didn't get any real roles in the first story. So please be sure to review and be on the lookout for Chapter 2.