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The plot thickens when a mysterious girl named Rukia, a Soul Reaper (or Shinigami, if one prefers the more traditional term), appears at Ichigo's home. Rukia's job is crucial: she guides the souls of the deceased to the afterlife, known as the Soul Society. The series introduces two primary types of spirits: Plus Souls, benign spirits needing help to move on, and Hollows, malevolent spirits that have succumbed to despair and become monstrous.
Ichigo's life takes a dramatic turn when a Hollow threatens him. In a fierce battle, Rukia sacrifices her powers to save Ichigo, inadvertently making him a Soul Reaper. This leads to a new life for Ichigo, who now has to protect his friends and family from the Hollows and, as an added twist, provide housing for Rukia, who moves into his closet.