Chapter 1
Present
Renji quickly flash-stepped through the Soul Society. According to Captain Kuchiki, the Head Captain requested his presence, as of immediately, and that the mission he was issuing was of the most importance involving the World of the Living.
Although he was excited to finally do something outside of recruit training and lieutenant meetings, he was reminded of the painful and forgotten past he had associated with the world of the living.
Eventually, Renji did arrive at Squad I's barracks and entered the Head Captain's chamber. As he reached the center of the hall, he kneeled before the captain and bowed his head.
"Renji, you know I hate formalities, at least from those I like. So stand up and look at me."
Renji appreciated the shared sentiment of dislike for formalities, and immediately stood at ease in front of the playboy soul reaper in front of him.
"Ah good, good. So, Renji Abarai, lieutenant of the Squad 6, blah, blah blah, you know who you are, I'm assigning you to a patrol in the World of the Living, most importantly, to watch the Hero of Soul Society, Ichigo Kurosaki."
Renji was shocked by this news. Why would he be patrolling the World of the Living? And why would he have to watch Ichigo? He hadn't talked to the man since that day at the portal, and hoped to continue to do so.
"I'm assuming you're confused, right? Well the answer is pretty complicated, but, you are expected to follow Ichigo Kurosaki and take note of the development of his new found behavior. We are concerned that there may have been something that has been released inside of his soul which may be taking control. You will decide whether or not this new Ichigo is a danger to the Soul Society. Do you understand your assignment?"
"Yes, Head Captain. And where would I be staying because I don't think Ichigo's house is an option."
"That is my next point. Before leaving, which you shall do before the end of the day, you will given these." The Head Captain threw a pill bottle of small blue pills at the soul reaper. "They are a soul-suppressing drug which will completely conceal your presence. They are actually based off of the cloak made by Kisuke Urahara, funny enough. This will help you stay hidden while you spy, for no better word really, on Kurosaki-kun. You will stay with Kisuke Urahara during this time, but make sure you don't just show up without announcing yourself. The man has no more eyesight so he's a little slow to recognize people. With that, you're dismissed."
"Thank you, Head Captain." And with that, Renji dashed back to the Squad 6 barracks.