*Toshiro POV*

I trained in Urahara's underground training area, fixing any flaws I had in my fighting technique. Don't be to reckless...keep a cool head...use your most powerful attacks when your opponent expects nothing better from you...I wonder how Mamoko is doing...ah! Focus Toshiro! I couldn't help but daydream about her. Her beautiful head of curls, that heart-melting smile, her assertiveness...damn...

"Ah, I see you're training hard!" I heard Urahara's clogs behind me. I wiped sweat from my forehead. "How're ya doing?"

"It's too hot down here." I complained, taking a beverage from him. "Did you find a location?" He nodded.

"Mayuri contacted me a few minutes ago. He said that it's going to take place in Egypt. The pyramid of Khufu."

"Egypt?" he nodded. Why the hell...?

"It's one of the tallest structures in the world. And low in population. The perfect place to execute his plan." I sighed.

"This isn't going to be easy, Kisuke."

"I know...I'm sorry."

*Mamoko's POV*

That night, I snuck out of my room and to Squad 1 barracks. I must speak with Captain-Commander Yamamoto!

"What are you doing here?" I spun around, coming face-to-face with Chojiro Sasakibe.

"Lieutenant Sasakibe, please, I must speak with Captain-Commander Yamamoto." he shook his head.

"I do not think that is a good idea, 5th Seat Hirosan."

"W-why not?" I demanded, hands on hips.

"You aren't exactly on good terms with the Captain-Commander."

"I don't care, Lieutenant! This is very important!"

"Is this about Toshiro Hitsugaya?" he questioned. I paused for a moment. Then answered:

"Yes." he took a deep breath.

"Under those circumstances...I'm afraid not." he walked past me.

"Please Chojiro!" I begged desperately. "If you gave me the tiniest hint as to where he could be...you don't know how grateful I would be." he looked back at me, then towards his Captain's office. He sighed.

"Ask Captain Kurotsuchi." he flash-stepped away. Probably so he couldn't give me the chance to get any more information out of him. Kurotsuchi...I flash-stepped as fast as I could to Squad 12. When I reached the doors, I hesitated. Mayuri...he doesn't like me. Or anyone really. What makes me think he'll give me any kind of information just because I ask nicely? I took a deep breath, then opened the giant door silently. I tip-toed through the lab, looking for his central computer. I finally found it, and began searching for any type of mission that could be given to Toshiro. Then, I found something labeled "CLASSIFIED" I began to click on it, and automatically, a familiar name caught my eye.

"Kisuke Urahara?" I whispered. What could he be up to now?

"Looks like we have a rat in our lab, Nemu." my blood ran cold and my eyes widened. I stood abruptly and turned to face a cross Mayuri Kurotsuchi. Alongside him, Nemu Kurotsuchi.

"C-Captain Kurotsuchi..." I stuttered stupidly. He fingered his zanpakuto dangerously.

"Get out. Now." he ordered.

"But sir!" I protested.

"OUT! ! ! !" he roared, and I flash-stepped out of there as quickly as possible. I took a breath of relief. He was so angry, I almost ended up on a testing table...my mind wandered. Kisuke Urahara...what does he know? My eyes widened. Of course! When Toshiro's spiritual pressure disappeared, he went through a Senkaimon! It's the only explanation!

"He's in the World of the Living...but...why?" I rubbed my eyes, tired. Tomorrow, I'm going to pay Urahara a little visit...

It's short, I know, but I feel it needed to end here...more chappies soon! ^_^