Bleach: Belmont Legacy and Anime Series (ON HOLD)

by tmdrago

Base from the Bleach Anime series to be in certain order...This takes place after the Bount Saga - of Sonia Belmont and Alucard team up with Team Ichigo and the others to stop Dracula and his army, before the darkness, vampires, and demons are running loose in all the worlds. From love, comedy, action, sci-fi, a bit or horror, and lots of fighting. A big game and Anime crossover.

2. Rescuing Rukia

Bleach – The Heart of the Matter

By Tayla Drago

(Soul Society Saga: Part 1)

In the Seireitei in Soul Society, several alarm tiles slot into place as a voice declares that a distortion has been detected in the western Rukongai and alerts the Shinigami, who proceed to run toward the source of the disturbance as 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai wonders what is going on. Meanwhile, in the Dangai, Ichigo Kurosaki and his friends run along the path. Looking back, a shocked Uryū Ishida wonders what is happening and points out how the wall behind them is catching up due to the area they just ran through encroaching and collapsing in on itself, prompting Yoruichi Shihōin to chide him for talking instead of running faster before frantically asserting that it is all over if the Kōryū catches them. Suddenly, a tendril of the collapsing Kōryū latches onto Uryū's cape and begins dragging him backward by it, to his surprise. As Ichigo criticizes Uryū for wearing such a flamboyant outfit to begin with and grips the handle of his Shikai, Zangetsu, Yoruichi stops and warns him to not use his Zanpakutō because it will get him caught up in the Kōryū as well due to being part of his spiritual being. Yasutora Sado runs back and rips off Uryū's cape, freeing him from the Kōryū, and while Uryū thanks him, Sado hoists Uryū over his shoulder and rejoins the others in running ahead despite Uryū's protests of being able to run on his own. However, upon looking over the area behind them, Uryū notices something and warns his friends that something is coming after them. With a light shining through the Kōryū from its front, the Kōtotsu bursts into view behind the group, and when a startled Uryū wonders what it is, Yoruichi reveals that the Kōtotsu is a cleaner of the Dangai that appears once every seven days before bemoaning how it had to show up right now. Telling the others to run faster due to the incredible speed of the Kōtotsu, Yoruichi sees that they are close to the exit, but as the Kōtotsu draws closer, Uryū declares that it is impossible for them to outrun it. Upon hearing this, Orihime Inoue suddenly stops in her tracks and turns around to face the approaching Kōtotsu with a determined look on her face. While Ichigo and Sado express surprise at this, Orihime uses Santen Kesshun to block the approach of the Kōtotsu, resulting in a powerful explosion of energy that sends Ichigo and his friends hurtling out of the exit from the Dangai and into the Rukongai outside as they scream in fright. The dust clears to reveal Orihime has caught everyone with another Santen Kesshun, and as she cheerfully asks her friends if they are alright, Orihime compliments Ichigo's embarrassing landing pose, to his irritation. Admitting that this journey into Soul Society was more intense than he expected, Uryū pulls out another cape from within his uniform. When Uryū states that he never thought he would use his extra cape so soon, Ichigo and Sado are left speechless at him bringing a spare to begin with. Though Orihime concludes that it all ended well because no one got hurt, Yoruichi headbutts her in the eye for being so naive and explains that she was lucky the Kōtotsu only hit the shield area of her Santen Kesshun because touching the Shun Shun Rikka themselves would have killed her.

Yoruichi: Just be careful next time, will you.

Orihime: Sorry...But we did make it.

Chad: We did.

Uryu: And we're finally here.

Ichigo criticizes this berating and points out that they would have died without Orihime's intervention, which is what allowed them to enter Soul Society without a scratch, but Yoruichi merely claims that he does not know how serious this is.

Ichigo: Is this place really the Soul Society?

As the dust around him and his friends clears to reveal the rural buildings of the Rukongai, a surprised Ichigo questions if this is Soul Society, prompting Yoruichi to explain that this is the area where Souls first come to live after entering Soul Society and comprises the area encircling the Seireitei, where the Shinigami live.

Yoruichi: Yes. And the specific area we're in is called the Rukon District. It's here in the Rukon District that souls come to live when they first arrive in the Soul Society. In fact, it's right on the perimeter of the Seireitei where Soul Reapers live.

While Yoruichi notes that it is both the poorest and freest area of Soul Society with the largest population of Souls, Uryū observes that there does not seem to be anyone around despite this, and when Ichigo notices the more refined area of the Seireitei nearby, Yoruichi begins to tell him what it is, only for him to realize it is the Seireitei on his own.

Ichigo: Hey. Look at those buildings over there. Why do they look so different from everywhere else? I know. I bet that's the Seirei-whatever you mentioned where all the Soul Reapers live!

Yoruichi: Wait! Stop, you idiot! You can't run up to the gate like that!

Running off toward the Seireitei, Ichigo proclaims that he is going to be the first one there, but Yoruichi frantically warns him that he will die if he gets too close, to Ichigo's confusion. Suddenly, dozens of enormous slabs of Sekkiseki drop down around the Seireitei and in front of Ichigo, creating a massive wall with an equally large gate barricading the city, as he and his friends are engulfed in the resulting dust cloud. As Ichigo coughs violently, Jidanbō Ikkanzaka kneels nearby and notes that it has been a long time since someone tried to pass through his gate without a travel permit before greeting a shocked Ichigo as his friends watch in astonishment. Within the Seireitei, with several Shinigami assembled on the other side of the gate, one of them observes that they do not need to pursue the Ryoka because they landed on the other side, leading 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi to claim that this is especially true because Jidanbō is on the other side. On the other side of the gate, Jidanbō slams the hilt of his axe into the ground next to Ichigo, cratering it, as he invites Ichigo attack him from anywhere.

Jidanbo: Well, well...It's been a long time since anyone tried to pass through the Spirit Gates without a travel permit. And I don't get many guests these days. So welcome to you, little man.

When a stunned Uryū wonders who Jidanbō is because he is far too large to be Human, Yoruichi details how he was chosen to guard the White Way Gate as the strongest giant in Soul Society.

Uryu: He's a leviathan. What kind of creature do you suppose he is, anyway? He's way too big to be a human being.

Uryū concludes that they will have to beat Jidanbō in order to get inside if this is the case, but Yoruichi asserts that this will not be easy because no one has illegally passed through the White Way Gate in the three hundred years that Jidanbō has been guarding it due to his power and strength. Upon being asked how they should fight someone like this, Yoruichi states that intelligence will be the key factor and decides to hold a meeting with everyone in order to produce a plan.

Yoruichi: He is known simply as Jidanbo. He was chosen from among the very best warriors the Soul Society has. His task is to guard the Hakuto Gate, one of four entrances that make up the Spirit Gate.

Uryu: He's the guard? If we intend to get through this gate, it looks like we have no choice but to defeat him.

Yoruichi: Yes. But that will not be an easy task, I'm afraid. the first thing we need to do is to have a meeting to decide on a strategy. Ichigo, let's start with...

Ichigo: Well, if we have to beat him, what are we waiting for?

However, Yoruichi is shocked to see Sado and Orihime running toward Ichigo and Jidanbō, and as Yoruichi pleads with them to come back, Orihime mentally promises Ichigo that she is coming to help.

Yoruichi: Ahhhh! Come back here, Ichigo! Have you lost your mind?

Seeing this, Jidanbō suddenly slams his axe into the ground behind Ichigo and drags it to the side, upturning the broken rock to create a large barricade between him and his friends, who shield themselves with their arms, as Uryū expresses astonishment at his tactics. Jidanbō criticizes the manners of Sado and Orihime and assumes that they are from the country before explaining the three rules of cities like the Seireitei; washing one's hands when one comes in from the outside, not eating food that has fallen on the floor, and keeping all fights one-on-one. After declaring Ichigo will be his first opponent, Jidanbō asks Sado and Orihime to wait there until he is done as he turns around. When Sado quietly tells Orihime to fire Tsubaki at Jidanbō through a hole he is about to make in the rock, Jidanbō looks back and inquires if they are still scheming something, leaving Sado and Orihime stunned by his sharp hearing. Suddenly, Ichigo calls out to Sado and Orihime, and after confirming that he is alright, Ichigo asks them to simply stay there. With Orihime surprised by this, Uryū runs up and refuses to do so because of their limited time before proposing that they all attack at once and move on, only for a surprised Ichigo to comment on him being there as well, leading an irritated Uryū to point out that he has been here the whole time. While Ichigo and Uryū continue to bicker, Sado walks closer to the barricade and asks Ichigo if he can do it, prompting Ichigo to state that he can. Angered by his uncertainty, Uryū bangs on the rock wall while demanding to know if Ichigo understands the situation, to the latter's exasperation. Ichigo explains to his friends that he regained his Shinigami powers in only five days after originally planning to spend ten going through the process, and when a surprised Uryū inquires what he did for the remaining five days, Ichigo reveals that he spent that entire time fighting against Kisuke Urahara, which leads Uryū to assume that he was taught the secrets of combat. However, Ichigo denies this and clarifies that Urahara did not teach him anything specific before asserting that this training boosted his stamina and guts more than he ever expected as he draws Zangetsu and faces Jidanbō. When Jidanbō asks him if he is done talking, Ichigo observes that he never asked Jidanbō to wait for him. Irritated by this, Jidanbō assumes Ichigo is from the country as well because he does not know his manners and details how he is supposed to thank someone who waits for him before slamming his axe down onto Ichigo, resulting in a powerful shock wave that rushes over the rock barricade as Ichigo's friends brace themselves with their arms in response. Suddenly, Jidanbō is shocked to see his axe slowly being pushed back toward him as the dust clears to reveal Ichigo effortlessly blocking his strike with a one-handed grip on Zangetsu, and when Jidanbō demands to know what he is, Ichigo simply asks him if it is not bad manners to attack someone before they are ready. Though initially irritated by this, Jidanbō quickly begins laughing heartily, knocking Ichigo off-balance with the resulting winds as his friends express confusion. Praising Ichigo's guts, Jidanbō reveals that it has been decades since someone stopped his first attack and stands up straight while declaring that he gets to go all-out today.

As he explains that only two people other than Ichigo have stopped his first attack, Jidanbō proclaims that no one has ever stopped his second and slams his axe down once more onto Ichigo, who blocks with Zangetsu while slightly exerting himself. After commending Ichigo for remaining standing, Jidanbō promises to keep coming and initiates Juppon Jidanda Matsuri, where he begins slamming his axe repeatedly down onto Ichigo while counting to ten. While Ichigo's friends watch in shock and wonder what is going on, Jidanbō loses track of his strikes and hits Ichigo three extra times before dragging his axe through the wall behind him for the final strike. Jidanbō swings his axe at Ichigo horizontally, resulting in the rock barricade behind him being cut in half horizontally and sending chunks of rock raining down on Ichigo's friends as Uryū jumps around to dodge them and Sado pushes aside a chunk that hits him. However, with Jidanbō expressing shock, the remaining barricade crumbles to reveal Ichigo, who stands blocking Jidanbō's axe by holding Zangetsu vertically over his left side, with his right arm over his head and his left hand bracing the blade. While Jidanbō questions how Ichigo can still be standing and Orihime expresses relief, Sado realizes what Urahara actually helped Ichigo gain with his training. Recalling Urahara's explanation of Ichigo being unable to control his immense power, Sado sweats as he observes that Ichigo primarily lacked experience when he fought Shinigami prior to this before mentally asserting that Ichigo will be frighteningly powerful once he acquires this. As he inquires if Jidanbō is finished, Ichigo assumes a battle stance and declares that it is his turn, prompting a nervous Jidanbō to claim that he is not finished yet before pulling a second axe out of his shihakushō with his free hand, to Uryū's surprise. Jidanbō holds both axes above his head and visibly strains himself, causing the armor on his left arm to shatter and fall to the ground. After rearing back, Jidanbō proclaims that this is his final lethal attack and unleashes Banzai Jidanda Matsuri by bringing down both axes on top of Ichigo, only for the latter to apologize in advance for needing to break his axes before swinging Zangetsu forward, which shatters the blades of both axes. The resulting shock wave destroys the remnants of the barricade behind Ichigo, prompting Orihime to protect herself and the others with Santen Kesshun as the debris hurtles past them, and Jidanbō is sent flying back before crashing into the gate and sitting up in confusion as an astonished Uryū wonders what Ichigo did to send such a giant opponent flying. Upon hearing this, Jidanbō jumps to his feet and claims that he merely slipped before mocking Ichigo for assuming that he had sent Jidanbō flying.

Jidanbo: Hrhrhrhrhrhahahaha! You're gusty. I'll give you that, spikey head. I can't remember the last time someone was able to stop the thrust of my axe. This is going to be fun. For once, I'll be able to give it everything I have. My ultimate attack. See if you can withstand...The Jidan Banzai Strike Festival!

Asserting that he cannot be blown back like this, Jidanbō bemoans having to deal with such people from the country and prepares to resume his assault, only to express shock upon seeing that both of his axe blades have been shattered. Yoruichi leaps up onto one of the blade fragments and echoes this observation, to Uryū's shock, while Ichigo tells a stunned Jidanbō to say something before Jidanbō begins weeping over his broken axes and repeatedly slamming the hilts into the ground, surprising and embarrassing Ichigo.

Chad: He's done it.

Jidanbo: M-My axes...My axes are ruined! Wahh! Why did you have to do it? Why did you have to! Why did you have to destroy my beautiful babies! Waaahhhh!

Ichigo: Ngh...

Uryu: This giant is such a big tough guy on the outside, but on the inside...

Orihime: He's more like a little boy.

As Uryū is left incredulous over Jidanbō crying and Orihime notes that it sounds like a siren, Ichigo reluctantly apologizes for breaking both axes when he did not have to, prompting Jidanbō to look up and express gratitude for Ichigo worrying about him despite the two of them being enemies.

Ichigo: Look, I'm sorry about your axes and everything, but hey, I couldn't let you keep swinging 'em at me. Although I guess I could've just destroyed one of them and let you keep the other one. My bad.

With Jidanbō placing both firsthand Ichigo's shoulders and praising him for having a big heart, a sweating Ichigo claims that it is only natural to want to console someone who is crying so much. Jidanbō criticizes himself for acting so childish over a pair of axes and proclaims that he has completely lost to Ichigo as both a warrior and a man, to the latter's surprise.

Jidanbo: No, you're not bad. Even though you're my enemy, you care. Instead of thinking of only your quest and your desire to get through the gate, you're actually concerned for your opponent and his axes. What a good person you are, my spike-headed enemy. What a generous heart you have. I'm a total loser! You beat me not only as a warrior and gatekeeper, but you have also defeated me as a man well! It has been three hundred years since I became the keeper of Hakuto Gate. In all those years, never have I lost a challenge or allowed anyone to pass this way. I thought the day would never come, but you are the first man to defeat me. Therefore, I, Jidanbo, hereby grant you passage through the Hakuto Gate. Now stand back, and I'll open the gate for you. Hrgh...Hrrr...Rahhhh! Nh.

Wiping the tears away, Jidanbō reiterates how he has never lost once during his three hundred years of guarding the White Way Gate and asserts that Ichigo is the first to defeat him before granting him permission to pass through the gate. Shortly afterward, with everyone gathered near the gate, Uryū inquires if he and the others can also pass through the gate, prompting Jidanbō to confirm this on the grounds of having lost to their leader. When Uryū expresses outrage over the idea of Ichigo being their leader, Jidanbō picks up on his mention of Ichigo's name and remarks that "Ichigo" is a cute name, which Ichigo angrily denies due to its kanji meaning "one" and "protect". Jidanbō tells Ichigo to be careful regardless of why he is entering the Seireitei because everyone on the other side of the gate is powerful, and when Ichigo confidently asserts that he knows this, Jidanbō acknowledges his resolve before telling him and his friends to stay back while he opens the gate. Digging his fingers into the ground underneath the gate, Jidanbō promises to open it in one heave and strains as he begins slowly lifting up the gate, to the awe of Ichigo and his friends. As he moves from a kneeling position to standing on his feet, Jidanbō braces himself against the gate with his arm muscles bulging before yelling as he pushes it up the rest of the way.

Ichigo: Jidanbo, what is it? Why are you frozen like that? Okay, now. Who the hell's this?

Yoruichi: Captain of Squad 3...Gin Ichimaru! I didn't think someone of his caliber would show up.

However, while his friends express amazement over Jidanbō actually being able to lift up such a heavy gate, Ichigo notices that Jidanbō is not moving and runs to his side as he asks him what is wrong. Upon seeing 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru approaching, Ichigo questions who he is, leading a visibly frightened Jidanbō to identify him as Gin smiles.

At the White Way Gate of the Sekkiseki wall encircling the Seireitei in Soul Society, Jidanbō Ikkanzaka holds up the gate with Ichigo Kurosaki standing next to him as he fearfully stares at 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru. When Ichigo wonders who Gin is, Yoruichi Shihōin identifies him while Gin comments that this is not good before slashing Jidanbō's left arm with his Shikai, Shinsō, leading to it spurting out a massive amount of blood. No longer able to move his left arm, Jidanbō lets go of the gate with it and is forced to his knees as the gate presses down on him, with his remaining hand holding it behind his head above his neck, prompting Ichigo to call out to him in concern. While Gin criticizes Jidanbō's actions as unacceptable because a gatekeeper is not meant to open gates, Yoruichi expresses surprise at him coming all the way out here and nervously asserts that they must avoid fighting him at all costs because Ichigo and his friends are not remotely ready to face a captain yet, especially not Gin.

Gin: Being a guardian of the gate doesn't mean you're supposed to open the gate.

Jidanbo: I defended the gate and lost. Once I got lost, I had to open the gate. There was nothing else I could do.

Jidanbō tries to explain that he is only opening the gate because he lost, but Gin asserts that a gatekeeper who loses does not open gates because defeat means death.

Gin: What you're saying makes no sense. A gatekeeper who loses isn't supposed to open the gate. When a gatekeeper loses...it means death.

However, as Gin approaches Jidanbō, Ichigo leaps forward and slashes at him with his Shikai, Zangetsu, which forces Gin to block with his Zanpakutō before the two of them separate and leap backward.

Ichigo: What's the big idea, showing up now and trying to butt in? You stupid freakin' ass clown!

Pointing Zangetsu at Gin, Ichigo demands to know what he is doing, which an astonished Yoruichi mentally claims is not his line in this situation and berates him for interfering before promising that anyone who would attack an unarmed man like this will be killed by him.

Yoruichi: You must stop, Ichigo! It is best if we retreat for now!

Amused by Ichigo's words, Gin inquires if Ichigo is really not afraid of him at all. As Ichigo denies this, Yoruichi tells him to stop so they can retreat, leading Gin to pick up on Ichigo's name and recognize him.

Gin: (Ichigo? So then, it's him...) You must be Ichigo Kurosaki. All the more reason why I can't let you pass.

Ichigo: So, what now?

Ichigo tells Yoruichi that he is just getting started and cannot forgive such people, only for Gin to interrupt by identifying him, and when a surprised Ichigo observes that Gin knows him, Gin states that this confirms what he thoughts before turning and walking away, to Ichigo's confusion. Asserting this is simply another reason he cannot let Ichigo enter, Gin stops several meters away and holds his Zanpakutō out to the side while Ichigo wonders why he is standing so far away.

Gin: Impale him, Shinso (Sacred Spear)!

When Ichigo asks him if he is going to throw his wakizashi, Gin reveals that this is actually his Zanpakutō and spins around before releasing Shinsō once more, causing the blade to rapidly extend toward Ichigo, who blocks it with the broad side Zangetsu and is pushed backward into Jidanbō as the two are sent hurtling out of the gate and into the Rukongai.

Orihime: Ichigo!

Upon seeing Ichigo cough up blood, Yasutora Sado and Orihime Inoue run to his side, but Uryū Ishida and Yoruichi see the gate falling down.

Yoruichi: No! The gate!

Gin: Bye-Bye, now!

After contracting his blade and returning Shinsō to its sealed state, Gin walks up and leans down to bid the Ryoka farewell as the gate crashes down in front of him. With Jidanbō lying unconscious next to him and Zangetsu embedded in the ground, Ichigo sits up and rubs his head in pain as his friends run up to him in concern before cursing when he sees the gate has closed.

Uryu: What happened?

Orihime: Ichigo! Are you alright?!

Ichigo: Ow, that hurt. What's his problem? That could have caused some pretty bad injury!

Orihime: He seems fine. In fact, he doesn't look hurt at all.

Yoruichi approaches and expresses relief that Ichigo is alright, and though Ichigo apologizes for causing the gate to close, Yoruichi dismisses this due to Gin's presence on the other side making it impossible for them to get through anyway and tells Ichigo to consider himself lucky for not getting hurt.

Yoruichi: Well, you are alright.

Ichigo: I'm sorry guys. It's all my fault that the gate closed.

Yoruichi: No, don't start blaming yourself. The gates may be closed again but consider who we were up against. Even if you hadn't jumped at him, thing would've been the same. You should just be glad that you were not hurt. We should move somewhere a little safer.

Standing up, Ichigo pulls Zangetsu out of the ground and asks Orihime to tend to Jidanbō's injury, which she agrees to do. Suddenly, Ichigo and his friends are surprised to see villagers emerging from the Rukongai behind them, and as Ichigo wonders who they are, Uryū observes that they must have been hiding up until now while Yoruichi explains that Souls like them who enter Soul Society illegitimately are called Ryoka and considered the cause of terrible events. As Ichigo expresses confusion over the Rukongai denizens considering them enemies, his friends prepare to fight, if necessary, but an elderly man steps forward from the assembled villagers and bows before introducing himself as the Elder of the Rukongai and welcoming the Ryoka as Jidanbō's saviors due to their actions. Shortly afterward, as the Rukongai villagers gather around Jidanbō's body and Orihime prepares to heal his arm, two of the villagers discuss how Jidanbō has always been kind to the people of the Rukongai due to being born there himself despite most Shinigami being bullies, and a third tells Ichigo that they consider him a good person for fighting Gin on Jidanbō's behalf, to his embarrassment, before expressing concern over how bad Jidanbō's wound is. However, Orihime finishes her inspection and confidently states that she can heal Jidanbō's injury, to the confusion of the villagers, as she affirms Ichigo's stunned inquiry of whether she can tend to such a wound. Orihime holds out her arms and summons Shun'ō and Ayame, who fly into the air from her left hairpin and enter their humanoid forms as they float down to her face. When Orihime asks them to lend her their power, Shun'ō reminds her that they are her power and that all she needs to do is desire it. Upon being prompted by Shun'ō, Orihime recites the kotodama for Sōten Kisshun, causing Shun'ō and Ayame to form an oval-shaped barrier and lower it onto Jidanbō's wound, to the amazement of those watching. Wondering where Orihime acquired this power, Ichigo is startled when he hears Yūichi Shibata asking the crowd to let him through.

As he pushes his way into the clearing, Yūichi looks around for a moment before spotting Sado and cheerfully calling out to him. Though Sado initially does not recognize him or his name, when Yūichi identifies himself as the parakeet, Sado remembers the day he spent with Yūichi when the latter was still trapped in a parakeet's body in the Human World and is shocked to realize that it is the same boy standing before him. Sometime later, as the Rukongai villagers go about their day in the marketplace, Sado walks around with Yūichi sitting on his shoulders and remarks that the latter gained some weight, to Yūichi's bemusement. Yūichi explains that Souls do not physically change while in Soul Society, and after ruminating on this, Sado begins to ask Yūichi about his mother, only to be interrupted when Yūichi points out his house, which is dilapidated and in need of repairs. Acknowledging that it is run-down, Yūichi asserts that it is fine because it is cool during the summer and his family is nice, and as Sado picks up on his mention of family, Hironari Horiuchi runs up behind them and tells Yūichi that their parents were worried. With Sado confused by the mention of parents, Yūichi introduces Hironari to him as his older brother, prompting Hironari to bow and greet a further perplexed Sado. Soon afterward, Sado, Yūichi, and Hironari sit on a bridge as Hironari details how Souls in the Rukongai form families with people they are not related to because it is rare to find a real family member who died earlier than they did. While Yūichi watches a girl and her parents walk along the road nearby, Sado inquires if the Shinigami do not reunite Souls with their families, which Hironari affirms before revealing that he died in 1947 in Yamanashi and commenting on how far removed his death was from Yūichi's. Surprised by this, Sado turns to Yūichi and asks him if he has not found his mother yet, and Yūichi sadly confirms this as he clarifies that he is still searching. Hironari assures Yūichi that he has his new family and tells Sado to not worry because all Souls are like Yūichi at the beginning before changing with time. Seeing Yūichi crying at the prospect of never meeting his mother again, Sado asks Hironari if he can stay with Yūichi for a bit longer, which Hironari affirms as he promises to tell their family. Later, as the sun begins to set, Sado continues to walk through the Rukongai with Yūichi on his shoulders, and when Yūichi asks him why he is in Soul Society, Sado denies having died before admitting that he is not sure himself. Suddenly, Yūichi points out Ichigo, who is sitting on the roof of a nearby tower. Though Yūichi asserts that Ichigo will not be able to see beyond the wall surrounding the Seireitei even if he goes that high up, Sado notes that he will still keep looking without giving up because that is the type of person Ichigo is. With the sky darkening and the lamps in the streets turning on, Sado sits with Yūichi on a bench and recounts how he was around Yūichi's age when he started worrying about how he looked different from everyone else and had incredible strength which he could not control. As he recalls his fight with Bulbous G that awoke his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, Sado wonders what his power is and theorizes he will get answers here. With Sado concluding that he decided to risk everything for answers, Yūichi observes that he is giving it his best, and Sado promises that Yūichi will find his mother if he keeps searching without giving up, to Yūichi's visible delight. Holding out his little finger, Sado invites Yūichi to make a promise with him, which Yūichi does by linking his own little finger with Sado's. Afterward, as he walks along the street, Ichigo stops and turns around to find Sado standing behind him. When a startled Ichigo tells him to speak up if he is nearby, Sado merely asserts that he is always behind Ichigo and gives him a thumbs-up to Ichigo's visible confusion.

That night, inside one of the houses in the Rukongai, Ichigo expresses shock upon learning that Yoruichi wants them to give up on breaking through the gate, but Yoruichi clarifies that security has likely been increased even further within the Seireitei after the gate was opened for the first time, which means that the same strategy is not the best one.

Ichigo: Are you serious? You really want us to give up trying to get past the gate?

Yoruichi: No, I don't mean give up completely. Once the gate has been opened, it's only logical that the security on the other side becomes that much tighter. Which means that continuing with the same strategy is not necessarily the best approach.

With Uryū in agreement, Sado wonders if the other gates are viable alternatives, only for Yoruichi to dismiss them as equally guarded. When Ichigo questions what they are supposed to do in this case, Yoruichi simply states that they must enter in another way and asks the Elder if he knows Kūkaku Shiba.

Uryu: I have to agree with you on that.

Chad: So then, what about the other gates?

Yoruichi: There won't be much difference from what we've faced with this one.

Ichigo: Well in that case, then what the hell are we gonna do?

Yoruichi: Well, isn't it obvious? If we cannot use the gate, then naturally, we must enter another way. There's a person by the name of Kukaku Shiba who might be able to help us. Follow me.

While the Elder expresses shock at this question, Yoruichi admits that Kūkaku changing location frequently means she is not in the last place Yoruichi found her. With Bonnie running toward the house on the street outside, the Elder questions if Yoruichi really intends to enter the Seireitei with "that", and as Orihime wonders what he is referring to, Ichigo asks the others if they can hear something approaching. Suddenly, Bonnie stops outside the door to the building and launches Ganju Shiba forward, causing him to break down the door as he crashes into the room, to the shock of those present, before getting up and rubbing his head in pain. Upon seeing Bonnie walking into the room, Ichigo demands to know why a boar is here. As he notes that Bonnie has thrown him once again, Ganju greets the Elder, who questions what he is doing here and tells Ganju to go home.

Ganju: What do we have here? Would someone explain to me why there's a stinkin' Soul Reaper here?!

Ichigo: What did you just say?

Ganju: What's the matter? Your ears not workin'? What I said was, would someone explain to me why there's a stinkin' Soul Reaper here. Well then, say somethin, you snivelin' dandelion!

As Ganju criticizes this greeting for such an old friend like him and tells the Elder that he is scaring his guests, he stops smiling upon seeing Ichigo standing nearby and removes his sunglasses before demanding to know what a Shinigami is doing here. With Ichigo confused by his hostility, Ganju pats his face and reiterates his question, and when Ichigo does not answer, Ganju grabs his chin and demands that he say something. Suddenly, Ichigo punches Ganju in the face and sends him flying away, to the shock of his friends. Landing on the floor near the door, Ganju leaps to his feet and expresses outrage over Ichigo starting a fight like this, though Ichigo angrily asserts that it is Ganju who started it.

Ichigo: You walked in and picked on me for no reason! What kind of a moron are you?!

While Orihime tells the others that they need to stop Ichigo and Ganju, who continue to argue, the Elder drinks his tea and admits that this is exactly what he expected to happen, prompting Uryū to berate him for drinking tea at a time like this and inquire who Ganju is. When Ganju asks them if they do not know who he is, Uryū, Orihime, Sado, and Ichigo all confirm this in succession. Ganju introduces himself as the self-professed "Crimson Bullet" of West Rukongai, the self-professed but universally-acknowledged boss of West Rukongai, and the self-professed number one Shinigami hater of West Rukongai, astonishing Ichigo's friends with all of his titles being self-professed while Ichigo calls him hopeless.

Ganju: Let me introduce myself. My given name is Ganju! The self-proclaimed deep red bullet of West Rukon! And self-proclaimed, but universality acknowledged boss-man of West Rukon! And finally...The self-proclaimed number one Soul Reaper hater of West Rukon!

Orihime, Chad, and Uryu: Self-proclaimed?!

Angered by this, Ganju yells and tackles Ichigo out of the house, sending him skidding along the ground outside.

Ganju: Get outta here while you still can! Now listen. As long as I'm alive, no Soul Reaper will ever be allowed to step one stinkin' foot inside West Rukon!

When Ichigo's attempt to follow him outside in concern, Ganju's Gang blocks their path as Taichi Miyamoto asserts that they cannot let the Ryoka interfere with Ganju and Sadatomo Saionji threatens to start a fight with them if they continue. With Mitsuru Ishino finishing Sadatomo's sentence, Orihime, Uryū, and Sado are primarily surprised to see that they are all riding boars.

Yoruichi: That's enough fighting, Ichigo! You should not be using up your strength in a meaningless brawl.

Ichigo: Hey, don't forget he started the fight. So, if you want this to stop, then tell him.

Yoruichi: Sheesh! (Getting all worked up over such a silly thing. The fool!)

Standing over Ichigo, Ganju orders him to leave and declares that no Shinigami will ever set foot in West Rukongai while he draws breath, only for Ichigo to respond by kicking him in the face, to the shock of Taichi and Sadatomo.

Ganju: The way I see things, you and I are destined to fight. We don't have a choice in the matter.

As Ganju falls back, Ichigo stands up and berates his aggressive behavior before agreeing to fight if Ganju wants to. Ganju expresses outrage at Ichigo punching him in the face twice, but Ichigo points out that he kicked him the second time as Yoruichi admonishes him for wasting his strength on this. When Ichigo observes that Ganju started this and should be the one to be lectured, Yoruichi mentally criticizes him for getting worked up over such a minor offense. Claiming that he and Ichigo seem destined to fight, Ganju draws his short sword, and when the Elder tries to tell him that Ichigo is not an evil Shinigami, Ganju asserts that all Shinigami are equally bad, to the Elder's concern, before rushing at Ichigo. As Uryū realizes that Ichigo does not have his Zanpakutō on hand, Sado emerges from within the house and throws Zangetsu at Ichigo, who thanks him while catching it in a reverse grip, unraveling the cloth binding the blade, and pointing it at Ganju. Ganju comments on the size of Ichigo's Zanpakutō and slashes forward horizontally, prompting Ichigo to block by sticking Zangetsu into the ground and intercepting perpendicularly as sparks fly, before warning him that he will not be able to win simply by having a bigger sword. After tracing a circle on the ground near Zangetsu with his foot, Ganju uses Seppa to turn it into sand and shoves Zangetsu downward up to the handle, trapping it. As Ichigo's friends express shock at this, Ganju kicks Ichigo in the face, sending him flying several meters away, and while Ichigo gets to his feet and curses him for using strange tricks, Ganju attacks him once more. However, upon seeing Ganju slashing downward at him, Ichigo blocks his sword arm with his wrist, grabs Ganju's wrist to push his sword aside, and pulls Ganju himself inward before punching him hard in the face. With Ganju reeling back from the force of this blow, a surprised Ichigo admits that he must be tough to take such a blow without losing consciousness. Ganju rushes at Ichigo once more, leading Ichigo to sidestep his subsequent attack and punch Ganju in the gut. When Ganju manages to hit him in the face, Ichigo responds with a knee to the chin, and the two continue trading blows and blocking each other's attacks before Ichigo grabs Ganju's shirt and throws him away.

Ganju: Gah!

Ichigo: All I can say is, if that didn't drop you, then you are a one tough warrior.

Rrrrriiiiiinnnngg*

Members: It's nine already, boss-man! This is gonna be had!

Ganju: What? Nine o'clock? Come on, we gotta go!

As Ganju lands on the ground, Ichigo leaps into the air and attempts to stomp on his head, only for a shocked Ganju to roll away right before Ichigo lands. Ganju gets to his feet, and when Ichigo dares him to resume his assault, an angered Ganju rushes at him once more and prepares to throw another punch. Suddenly, the clock on Taichi's back begins ringing, leading Ganju to attempt to stop himself and trip as he skids forward on his face, to Ichigo's confusion. When Ganju demands to know what time, it is, Taichi frantically reveals that it is 9 P.M., leading Ganju to whistle and call for Bonnie, who leaps over a perplexed Ichigo from behind.

At night in the Rukongai, the clock on Taichi Miyamoto's back starts ringing, and when Ganju Shiba skids to a halt after tripping onto his face and demands to know what time it is, Taichi frantically tells him that it is already 9 P.M., prompting a frightened Ganju to call out and whistle for Bonnie, who leaps over the head of a perplexed Ichigo Kurosaki. When Bonnie subsequently crashes into him, Ganju is sent flying dozens of meters away and skids along the ground as he passes his gang. Praising Bonnie's performance and energy, Ganju asserts that they do not have time for this tonight and asks Bonnie to let him ride her, only for Bonnie to charge into him once more, sending him flying into the air. An outraged Ichigo demands to know if he is running away, but Ganju denies this as he lands abruptly on Bonnie's back to begin riding her in reverse and tells Ichigo to stay here so they can settle this tomorrow.

Ichigo: What! Hey! Come back here!

Ganju: Oh, I'm not runnin' away. Just wait! I'll be back here again tomorrow, and we'll settle this thing finally! You just wait for me, dandelion-head! And try not to turn to fluff and blow away!

While Ichigo attempts to insult him back, Ganju's Gang suddenly rides over him from behind on their boars to catch up with Ganju, who orders them to follow him.

Orihime: That was weird.

Uryu: If you ask me, that was a disaster.

Startled by this, Ichigo is caught underfoot and left in a cloud of dust, and when he finally stands up to finish, Ganju and his gang are gone, prompting Uryū Ishida to place a hand on Ichigo's shoulder in solidarity over how strange this was as Ichigo demands to know who Ganju is.

Ichigo: I'm gonna kill that guy as soon as I find out who he is!

The next morning, with Jidanbō Ikkanzaka continuing to lie outside under dozens of blankets, Orihime Inoue stands with Uryū and Yasutora Sado at a distance while wondering if Jidanbō is alright despite his injury having been healed. With Jidanbō snoring, Sado assures Orihime that he will be fine because big-bodied men have lots of stamina to keep them healthy. Reassured by this, Orihime admits that he will surely be okay because of how big and strong he is as Uryū wonders who Kūkaku Shiba is, since Yoruichi Shihōin never gives them any details.

Uryu: The question now is, who exactly is this Kukaku Shiba we're supposed to be looking for?

Chad: Who knows...

Uryu: As usual, Yoruichi left out a lot of the details.

Orihime: It would have to be someone Yoruichi thinks can help us get into the Seireitei without going through the gates.

Uryu: Which would be someone with great skill.

When Orihime theorizes that it is someone Yoruichi knows who can get them into the Seireitei without using the gates, Uryū assumes that Kūkaku is famous for her skill, leading Orihime to conclude that it is a cat with pedigree papers like a Persian, an American Short hair, or a Dalmatian, only for a perturbed Sado to remind her that Kūkaku will not be a cat just because Yoruichi knows her before pointing out that a Dalmatian is a dog, to Orihime's sincere surprise.

Uryū asserts that Kūkaku will be a well-built samurai judging from her name, but Sado counters that she will actually be an old hermit-type master. Inspired by this, Orihime begins drawing in the dirt at their feet, and after several seconds of Uryū and Sado watching in astonishment, she finishes her drawing and describes it as a hermit-like macho samurai with cat ears and a tail. Upon being told by Sado that he has no idea what she drew, Orihime suggests that she be a skinny guitar-wielding samurai, and Uryū informs her that she needs to have a cape as well, which Orihime acknowledges as Sado continues to stare in silence.

Orihime: A dog? A cat? Both?

Chad: I doubt it.

Suddenly, Uryū realizes that Ichigo is late.

Uryu: What's the hold-up with Ichigo anyway?

Orihime: He's inside. Should I call him?

Uryu: That's okay. I'll get him.

Chad: Innovative idea.

When Orihime offers to call Ichigo, Uryū decides to see for himself and walks inside, leaving Orihime to think up the next Kūkaku while Sado tells her that she does not have to think. Inside the house, Uryū expresses shock as Ichigo reiterates that he is not going before revealing that he is going to stay here in order to finish his fight with Ganju from yesterday.

Uryu: Huh? What do you mean, not going?!

Telling Ichigo to stop joking around, Uryū attempts to pull him out of the house, but Ichigo stubbornly grabs onto the edge of the floorboards and refuses to let go while asserting that Ganju will assume that he ran away if he does not stay here, though Uryū points out that this should not matter.

Ichigo: That's what I said! I'm staying to finish my battle with that pin head from yesterday!

Uryu: That's not an option! You're coming with us if I have to drag you myself!

Ichigo: If I don't show up, he'll think I'm a chicken!

Orihime sticks her head through the door and asks them if they are not leaving soon, prompting Uryū to request her help in dragging Ichigo out. As Ichigo promises to beat Ganju quickly and catch up to them, Yoruichi suddenly slashes three claws across his face and the bridge of his nose, causing Ichigo to scream in pain.

Yoruichi: What's wrong with you? Have you forgotten why we came here in the first place? Lives are at stake. Rukia's life in particular is in your hands. Surely you haven't forgotten about that!

With Ichigo lying motionless on the ground, Yoruichi criticizes him for forgetting the purpose of his journey by letting blood go to his head and reminds Ichigo that Rukia Kuchiki's life depends on him before asserting that he cannot waste time just to see who is more stubborn as Ichigo slowly sits up with a solemn look on his face.

Ichigo: Mmmph.

Yoruichi: You don't have time to waste on foolish grudge matches with strangers! Are you ready for the task at hand?

When Yoruichi tells him to get ready if he understands, Ichigo looks down. Meanwhile, in the prison ward in the Sixth Division barracks, Rukia sits in her cell as the bars open behind her, leading her to ask Lieutenant Renji Abarai if her execution date was moved up.

Rukia: What is it now, Renji? Have they moved up my execution date?

Renji: Yes, it's less than 14 days from now. We're here to transfer you to the Repentance Cell.

Standing with four members of the Kidō Corps, Renji reveals that it is less than 14 days until her execution and the use of the Sōkyoku has been granted before explaining that he is transferring her to Senzaikyū. Soon afterward, Ichigo and his friends walk through the outskirts of Rukongai as he observes that they have reached the edge of a village before questioning if this is really the right way.

Ichigo: *Sigh* Looks to me we're heading out towards the empty countryside. Are you sure this is the right way?

Irritated by Ichigo's questioning, Uryū asserts that the map which the Elder gave them points to Kūkaku's house being somewhere around here and suggests that Ichigo take the lead if he has complaints, which Ichigo claims he does not. Orihime assumes that Kūkaku lives in such a remote area because she just wants to keep her identity a secret, but Yoruichi denies this and clarifies that this is just part of Kūkaku's personal preference before continuing to walk ahead. With Ichigo and his friends following, Yoruichi details how Kūkaku moves around often and always builds her house in the same way, which will allow them to recognize it once they see it.

Yoruichi: Living in these types of surroundings is just Kukaku's personal preference. The fact is, Kukaku moves frequently, but the houses themselves always look much the same. I guarantee you'll know it's the house when you see it.

Ichigo: What's that supposed to mean?

Yoruichi: You'll see soon enough. Just wait.

Ichigo: When will that be...?

A few minutes to finally arriving there...

Yoruichi: Ah, it looks like we've arrived.

Though Ichigo expresses doubt at this, Yoruichi reaffirms this and continues walking before stopping upon spotting Kūkaku's house, which the others do as well.

Ichigo: Wha-!

Uryu: No way!

Orihime: Oh, it's fantastic!

Chad: It is?

While Ichigo and Uryū are left shocked, Orihime praises the design as cool and Sado remains silent as they look at Kūkaku's house, which has two giant stone arms holding a banner in front and a large smokestack behind it.

Yoruichi: Like I said, you know it when you see it.

With Yoruichi taking their reactions as proof that Kūkaku's house is recognizable on sight, a flabbergasted Ichigo and Uryū assert that there is no way Kūkaku wants to keep her identity secret and that she is not allowed to live in town because she builds houses like this.

Ichigo: What kind of person would want to live in a house like that?!

Uryu: I don't know, but whoever he is, he sure doesn't care about keeping his identity a secret! And building houses like this one, it's no wonder he doesn't live in town anymore!

When Yoruichi notes that it is human arms holding the banner this time and commends the style, Ichigo and Uryū are left aghast at Kūkaku changing the motif each time.

Yoruichi: Hmph. So, this time the banner is help up by giant human arms. It's actually quite clever, don't you think?

Uryu: That is one word for it, I guess.

Yoruichi: Come on. Let's go.

Orihime: Yeah!

Chad: OK.

Yoruichi, Orihime, and Sado begin approaching the house, but Ichigo and Uryū remain still as they agonize over the prospects of entering such an embarrassing house.

Ichigo: (I can't let anyone see me walking into a house that ridiculous.)

Yoruichi: What's the matter with you two? Hurry up!

Ichigo: Alright...

Upon being prodded by Yoruichi, Ichigo and Uryū reluctantly resume walking, with Ichigo angrily telling Uryū to hurry up even though he knows how much the latter does not want to go. Unsure of what this means, Uryū looks up at the smokestack behind the house and observes how much larger it is before noticing the opening is covered up. Suddenly, Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko tell Ichigo and his friends to stop, and as they come to a halt, Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko stand on top of the two pillars while observing that they are strangers with a Shinigami among them. Leaping down to the ground in front of them, Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko proclaim that they will not allow Ichigo and his friends to pass before promising that they will die if they do not leave. However, as Ichigo expresses exasperation at encountering more gatekeepers in Soul Society, Yoruichi emerges from behind his leg and looks at Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko, who immediately address Yoruichi respectfully. Shortly afterward, with Shiroganehiko guarding the entrance, Koganehiko leads Ichigo and his friends down a set of stairs within the house as Uryū comments on the strangeness of having a stairway starting at the front door and Orihime wonders how one reaches the second floor. When Koganehiko apologizes for not knowing that he and his friends were Yoruichi's attendants, Ichigo mentally refutes this identification while Yoruichi apologizes in turn for not notifying Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko in advance, leading Koganehiko to praise this as a generous sentiment from a great personage. Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, Koganehiko asks the others to wait. When he hears tapping at the sliding doors next to him from Kūkaku, Koganehiko interprets this as her welcoming the guests inside and slides open the doors, revealing Kūkaku lounging on several pillows and a rug at the other end of the room.

Kukaku: Well, it's been a long time, hasn't it, Yoruichi?

Yoruichi walks toward Kūkaku, who greets her, as Ichigo and his friends are left astonished by Kūkaku being a woman.

Ichigo, Uryu, Orihime, and Chad: What...? K-Kukaku is...a woman?!

While Yoruichi points out how no one said Kūkaku was a man, Kūkaku wonders who Ichigo and the others are, and when Yoruichi requests a favor from her, Kūkaku notes that this is usually the case when Yoruichi comes by before inquiring if this is a difficult problem. Upon being told that it is, Kūkaku grins.

Kukaku: Hmm? What's this? You seem to have brought a bunch of brats along with you.

Yoruichi: I shall explain that. First though, I have a favor to ask of you, Kukaku.

Kukaku: That is usually the case when you look me up, Yoruichi. Is it dangerous?

Yoruichi: Probably.

Kukaku: Heh. It's been a long time since we talked like this. Well, well, my friend. Lucky for you, I enjoy danger.

Observing that it has been a long time since she and Yoruichi talked, Kūkaku agrees to hear them out because she loves difficult things.

Yoruichi: Well?

Kukaku: Alright, I think I get the picture. Ah, what the hell. I'll take the job.

Meanwhile, within the Seireitei, Renji walks along a bridge to Senzaikyū with a veiled Rukia behind him, escorted by the four members of the Kidō Corps who carrying staffs attached by red rope to a collar around her neck. After they enter the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, the Kidō Corps members remove the veil and rope from Rukia before bowing as Renji asks Rukia if she can see the Sōkyoku-on-Sōkyoku Hill from the sole window within the cell, as they are the instruments which will be used to take her life. One of the Kidō Corps members explains that this place is called the "Palace of Penitence" because its prisoners can look out at the Sōkyoku and repent for their crimes every day during their incarceration while Renji looks up at the curving staircase above. Standing up to remove the bindings from Rukia's wrists, which retract into the collar around her neck, the Kidō Corps member picks up his staff alongside his fellow members and walks over to Renji, whom he thanks for his assistance in escorting Rukia before suggesting that they leave as the other members walk past.

Renji: Can you see it, Rukia? The instruments of your execution. The Sōkyoku. You can stand at that window and gaze out at the Souyuku to repent your sins.

However, while the members approach the exit, Renji remains still. With the member of the Kidō Corps expressing confusion, Renji approaches Rukia and leans down to her ear as he reveals that one of the five Ryoka who arrived in Soul Society yesterday wielded a sword as long as his body and had orange hair, visibly shocking Rukia.

Renji: I want to leave you with some unconfirmed information. They say that a group of intruders attempted to enter the Soul Society yesterday. Five of them. Now my sources say one of them carries a sword as long as his body. A Soul Reaper with orange colored hair.

Rukia: !

Back in the Shiba Clan household, Kūkaku, having been fully informed of the situation, smokes a pipe and expresses understanding before agreeing to take on the job, to Yoruichi's surprise. As she admits that she cannot refuse even if she wanted to because Kisuke Urahara is involved, Kūkaku gets to her feet and clarifies that she does not trust Ichigo and his friends even though she trusts Yoruichi. When Kūkaku reveals that she wants to send her henchman with them to oversee the operation, Ichigo picks up on her mention of a henchman, leading Kūkaku to admit that he is actually her younger brother who is not very useful yet.

Kukaku: However...While I trust you completely, Yoruichi, not trust these kid accompanying you. So I'm going to send an overseer with you, just to keep an eye on them for me. You don't mind, do you?

Yoruichi: That's fine.

Ichigo: Overseer?

Kukaku: Yeah. Well, I call him that but he's actually my kid brother. He's still kind of a doofus and not all that useful, but he'll have to do it. Hey in there! Are you ready?

?: Yeah sis, I'm ready.

Kukaku: Alright, I'm opening the door, so behave yourself.

?: Kay, I promise.

Yoruichi: Here we go.

Opening the door for him to show up again...

Ganju: It's an honor to meet you. My name is Ganju Shiba, and I'm pleased to be of service. Uh...

Ichigo: No way...

They both screamed out.

Ichigo and Ganju: Gaaaaahhhhh!

Walking over to another set of sliding doors, Kūkaku inquires if her brother is ready, and as he expresses surprise and begins tidying up, Kūkaku requests that he behave himself, which he agrees to do, before opening the door to reveal Ganju, who bows his head and politely greets Ichigo and his friends, only to look up and see them all staring at him with astonishment and confusion as he and Ichigo stand up and begin screaming in shock. As she watches this, a perplexed Kūkaku wonders if the two of them already know each other.

Kukaku: You two already know each other?

Back in the Seireitei, Renji walks away from Senzaikyū and notes that he has not seen Rukia look so alive in days before concluding that he was right to not tell her that 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru is the one who confronted the Ryoka, since this means Ichigo is dead.

Renji: Unfortunately, it was Gin Ichimaru who met them at the gate. So the Substitute Soul Reaper is dead already. It's a good thing I didn't tell her that.

Suddenly, 5th Division Captain Sōsuke Aizen calls out to Renji from afar and comments that it has been a while since they last met before asking Renji if he has a moment to talk.

?: Hey there.

Renji: Captain Aizen.

Aizen: I haven't seen you for a while, Renji. Do you happen to have a minute to spare?

Renji: Sure.

Shortly afterward, in a storage room, Aizen observes that they have not talked since Renji joined the Eleventh Division. With Aizen wondering how many years it has been since then and if he is part of the Sixth Division now, Renji inquires what Aizen wanted to talk to him about, prompting Aizen to walk past him and close the curtain in the doorway leading outside before asking Renji if he is close to Rukia.

Aizen: Renji, would it be accurate to say that you are fairly close to the prisoner, Rukia Kuchiki.

Renji: Uh...Huh?

Aizen: You can tell me the truth. Weren't the two of you good friends in your younger days back in the Rukon District?

Renji: Yes?

As Renji expresses shock, Aizen assures him that he can be honest because Aizen knows they were friends during their early years in the Rukongai, and when Renji affirms this, Aizen decides to get to the point and inquires if Renji believes Rukia should die. Renji admits he does not understand what Aizen is talking about as the latter asserts the circumstances of her execution are odd.

Aizen: In that case, I'll get right to the point. In your personal opinion, does Rukia deserve to die?

Renji: How...How can you ask such a thing?

Aizen: Doesn't it seem a little strange? Her crime was the unauthorized transfer and the subsequent loss of her spiritual powers, and then refusing to return. Serious offenses to be sure, but does this punishment fit the crime? The lessening of the grace period from 35 to 25 days and the use of the Sōkyoku on a Soul Reaper ranked lower than captain. All these measures are outside the norm. I have a strong suspicion that these things are happening as the result of the will of a single person.

Pointing out how Rukia is only guilty of the unauthorized transfer of her Shinigami powers and staying in the Human World longer than permitted, Aizen concedes that these are heavy crimes but observes that they are being dealt with in a strange manner, with her Gigai being ordered for immediate return and disposal, her grace period being shortened from 35 to 25 days, and the use of the Sōkyoku on someone below captain-level power, all of which are outside the norm.

Renji: What are you suggesting, Captain? You're not saying that-

When Aizen theorizes that this is all the will of one person, a stunned Renji demands to know what he means, leading Aizen to admit that he has a bad feeling while Gin listens from outside.

Aizen: I'm suggesting only that you keep your eyes open. Be careful. There's something not right about all this.

"Attention, all captains! Attention! Please assemble and report for an emergency meeting immediately! I repeat, all captains are to report immediately!"

However, before Aizen can further explain, an alarm begins to sound off as an announcer instructs all captains to gather for an emergency meeting.

Back in the Shiba Clan household, Ichigo and Ganju punch each other in the face simultaneously, and after reeling back from this, Ichigo grabs the back of Ganju's head and throws him forward, resulting in Ganju crashing through a set of sliding doors that shatter around him. As Ichigo confidently runs toward him, Ganju springs up and kicks Ichigo in the face, sending him rolling back past his friends, before running up and spreading his legs as he eagerly jams his foot into Ichigo's crotch, to the latter's immense pain. Angered by this, Ichigo kicks Ganju across the room, sending him crashing through the sliding doors next to a shocked Koganehiko before an angered Ganju runs back inside to resume the fight. Watching calmly and smoking her pipe as Ichigo and Ganju continue to fight around her, Kūkaku has her pipe knocked out of her hand when Ganju slams one of the sliding doors into Ichigo, irritating her, and when she sees Ichigo inadvertently snap the pipe in two by running over it, an enraged Kūkaku unleashes a powerful Hadō spell that rips through the floor, sends Ichigo and Ganju flying, and explodes out of the top and the front door of the house right after the others evacuate. With the house, the smokestack, and the arm-shaped pillars all tilting over as the energy dissipates, a stunned Uryū questions if Kūkaku really had to go this far in order to stop them, prompting an equally stunned Sado to note that this must be why she moves often as a speechless Orihime observes that it must be hard. Inside the ruined house, Kūkaku berates Ichigo and Ganju for fighting from the moment they laid eyes on each other and ruining her house, and as Ganju tries to protest this, Kūkaku strikes him repeatedly before asking Ichigo's shocked friends, who have just returned, if they have any complaints, leading them to deny this in unison. Watching this from the ground nearby, an incapacitated Ichigo is astonished by the disposition of both brother and sister before expressing fright when Kūkaku turns to face him. Kūkaku walks over to Ichigo and picks him up by the back of his head before declaring that he can get out if he does not like the way she does things, and when Ichigo meekly apologizes, Kūkaku lets him go and acknowledges his understanding as she walks away, leaving Ichigo to collapse and crawl over to Ganju, where they concur that Kūkaku is scary. After telling everyone to stand up, which they do, Kūkaku orders Koganehiko to go outside and start the preparations with Shiroganehiko. With Koganehiko affirming this, Kūkaku tells the others to be quiet and follow her.

Kukaku: All right, everyone on your feet! Gather up your crap and follow me.

Shortly afterward, as the group walks through a well-lit corridor, Uryū wonders why there is light underground when he did not see any generators earlier, prompting Kūkaku to explain that she keeps Hotarukazura in the ceiling and on both sides of the wood paneling, but when Uryū inquires if this is some sort of plant found only in Soul Society, Kūkaku ignores him and merely announces that they have arrived, to his confusion. As Kūkaku orders Ganju to open the door in front of them, which he enthusiastically agrees to do, Uryū tries to get Kūkaku to answer his question.

Ichigo: Wh-What is that thing?

Uryu: It's huge!

Kukaku: So, did that scare you kids? This is my one-and-only enhanced fireworks launch pad!

Ganju: And that's the Flower-Crane Cannon!

Hits her brother on the head in anger.

Kukaku: That was my line! You can quit worrying about getting through the wall. With this launcher, I'll get you all into the Seireitei through the air!

Surprising, ain't it? But somehow, it'll work out.

Ichigo: The air?!

Kukaku: Or my name's not Kukaku Shiba, fireworks expert of the Rukon District!

Suddenly, Ichigo grabs Uryū's mouth and pulls him back before warning Uryū to not defy Kūkaku when he demands to know what this is about. With considerable effort, Ganju manages to pull open the door, revealing the base of the smokestack behind the house. As Ichigo and his friends marvel at the size of it, Kūkaku explains that she is going to use this to launch them into the Seireitei from the sky, and when Ichigo and Uryū express incredulity at this, Kūkaku introduces herself as the best fireworks technician in the Rukongai.

Uryu: I know that you're supposed to be a pyrotechnical wizard, but I'm still not fully convinced of it. The idea of shooting us up into the air is completely-hrg!

This has Kukaku hitting Uryu on the arm a little.

Kukaku: Now, pay close attention everyone. You may think that the only thing guarding the Seireitei is that barrier, but you are dead wrong. It isn't that simple. The Seireitei has a spherical barrier which surrounds them, protecting them not only from the sky above, but even below the ground.

With Ichigo Kurosaki stunned to learn that she is a fireworks expert as he stands with his friends in front of her Kakaku Taihō, Kūkaku Shiba affirms her statement before looking up and commanding Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko to raise it. Outside, a crank rises in front of Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko, who each grab one side as they begin to enthusiastically turn it. When the floor beneath them begins shaking, Ichigo and his friends realize that they and the Kakaku Taihō are rising. The smokestack behind Kūkaku's house crumbles as the Kakaku Taihō rises up through it, and the ceiling above Ichigo and his friends begins pulling back in two halves to create a circular opening.

Uryu: From sky to ground?

Kukaku: We would instantly turn to dust if we were to simply jump in. This cannonball is the Special Hard Spiritual Partition Penetration Device I invented. In other words, if all four of you combined put your spirit energy into this Reishu-Kaku, you can create a temporary cannonball that can break through the barrier. Then I'll use the Flower-Crane Cannon to shoot that cannonball into the sky, and it'll punch a hole straight through the barrier. Might not be the most peaceful of strategies, but there's no other way! Any questions?

Chad and Uryu: Eh...

I guess they got nothing at all...

Orihime and Ichigo: ….

Same with both Ichigo and Orihime the same thing. Turning the crank faster and faster, Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko come to a stop and point to the Kakaku Taihō upon fully raising it above ground while Ichigo and his friends stare in astonishment. As she inquires if they are scared, Kūkaku declares that this is her fireworks stage. When Ganju Shiba excitedly tells Ichigo and his friends the name of the Kakaku Taihō, an annoyed Kūkaku kicks him over and admonishes him for saying it before her, which he meekly apologizes for while lying on the floor. However, when he and his friends are teased about being speechless by Kūkaku, Uryū Ishida assumes that she is joking and asserts that she could not fire them into the Seireitei with the Kakaku Taihō even if she is a fireworks expert, only for Kūkaku to suddenly hit him in the face by the Reishūkaku, breaking his glasses, as it spins before launching itself into a confused Ichigo's hands while Uryū collapses. Looking at the Reishūkaku, Ichigo questions what it is, prompting Kūkaku to reveal its name and instruct him to channel his Reiryoku into it while he holds it, only for Ichigo to attempt to squeeze it for several seconds before asking Kūkaku how one channels their Reiryoku. Perplexed by this, Kūkaku indicates what she is referring to by creating an orb of energy in her left and points out that Ichigo should know how to use Kidō if he is a Shinigami. Upon being informed by Yoruichi Shihōin that Ichigo is an inexperienced Shinigami who cannot use Kidō, a surprised Kūkaku bemoans this and orders Ganju to demonstrate instead. Ganju agrees and attempts to take the Reishūkaku from Ichigo, who repeatedly moves it out of his reach in response. Angered by this, Ganju demands to know if Ichigo wants to fight, and as the latter proclaims that he would rather die than be taught by Ganju, an irritated Kūkaku hits them both in the head and tells them to cut it out while they meekly apologize. After getting to his feet, Ganju holds the Reishūkaku in his hands and imbues it with his Reiryoku, causing it to glow blue, and grunts with exertion before using the Reishūkaku to create a spherical barrier around his body, to the astonishment of Ichigo and his friends.

As she taps the barrier with her hand to demonstrate its solidity, Kūkaku refers to it as the cannonball and explains how the wall surrounding the Seireitei is made of Sekkiseki, an ore rare even in Soul Society, which she places a fragment of on the floor before slamming her hand into it, resulting in a spherical area around the Sekkiseki being destroyed while the fragment and the small portion of the floor it is sitting on remain intact. Kūkaku reveals that this is due to Sekkiseki breaking down Reiryoku on contact, which makes it impossible to bore through the wall with Reiryoku, and picks up the fragment, causing the intact floor it was sitting on to crumble. Detailing how Sekkiseki also emits a wave that breaks down Reiryoku from all sides even when cut, Kūkaku informs Ichigo and his friends that this surrounds the Seireitei in a spherical barrier extending high into the sky and deep underground, known as the Shakonmaku. With Ichigo and his friends stunned by this, Kūkaku declares that this is where the cannonball comes in, and when a visibly fatigued Ganju complains about his exhaustion, Kūkaku orders him to keep maintaining the barrier before elaborating that Ichigo and his friends all infusing the Reishūkaku with Reiryoku at once will create a cannonball that can break through the Shakonmaku. After concluding with her intention to fire that cannonball out of the Kakaku Taihō so it can pierce through the Shakonmaku, Kūkaku asks Ichigo and his friends if they have any questions. Though Ichigo attempts to ask one, Kūkaku tells them that they are dismissed and instructs them to practice concentrating their Reiryoku in the dojo before ordering Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko to take them there, which they comply with by grabbing one Ryoka in each hand, to their bewilderment. Watching this unfold, Kūkaku informs Ichigo and his friends that losing their concentration while using the Reishūkaku will cause an explosion, shocking Ichigo. While Ichigo points out that she should have told them about this earlier, Kūkaku simply tells him and his friends to practice hard as Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko carry them back to her house.

Kukaku: I did ask you guys, oh well. All right, then! Now take them to the underground training room so they can practice concentrating their spirit energy. Listen you guys. If any one of you loses concentration, then you'll blow up on the spot.

And now she tells them.

Ichigo: What? Hey, you never mentioned that!

Turning to a collapsed Ganju, Kūkaku tells him that he did an excellent job and requests that the help teach Ichigo and his friends how to use the Reishūkaku. As he gets to his feet, Ganju asks Kūkaku if she is really going to help them, and when she questions what he means, Ganju asserts that he is against helping a Shinigami because he does not know what he would say to his brother, Kaien Shiba, only for Kūkaku to coldly remind him that he is never to speak of that.

Kukaku: Sorry, brother...I've decided to help that Soul Reaper who came to me. A Soul Reaper not unlike the one who killed you. If you were alive and saw me not helping them...you'd be the first to scold me. You, who loved Soul Reapers all your life, and also died as a Soul Reaper.

Kūkaku orders Ganju to go if he understands and to never show such a weak face in front of them, prompting Ganju to jump off the platform and run toward the house as well.

Meanwhile, in the Seireitei, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai walks along a corridor with 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba and puts on his lieutenant's badge while noting that this is the first time, he has ever had to wear it. After admitting that this is the first time, he has been forced to wear it too, Iba recalls the order all the lieutenants received to put on their badges and wait in the second conference room, which he observes is interesting, as he and Renji reach their destination. When Renji and Iba open the door to the conference room, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori greets them while sitting against a wall. Upon being asked if no one else has shown up yet, Hinamori confirms this as 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto enters the room and observes that the lieutenants are all working diligently across Soul Society, which will prevent them from all coming together for around half a day. Rangiku walks across the room while complaining about her inability to contact her captain, Renji inquires who her captain is, and when Iba reminds him that it is Tōshirō Hitsugaya, Renji wryly comments on him being the genius boy. Suddenly, Hinamori asks Renji if he has seen her captain, Sōsuke Aizen, which he nervously denies, and tearfully explains how he has been acting strange recently while refusing to tell her what is going on. Unnerved by this, Renji moves closer to Hinamori and assures her that there is nothing to worry about because this summons will be cancelled soon. Internally, Renji recalls his earlier meeting with Aizen and wonders what is going on.

Back in the dojo underneath Kūkaku's house, Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko attempt to instruct Ichigo on how to properly channel his Reiryoku into the Reishūkaku, but Ichigo continues to struggle while his friends watch.

Ichigo: Hrr...Rahh...Urh...Ugh... *Pant*

Holding Reishūkaku of their own, Orihime Inoue, Uryū, and Yasutora Sado question the instructions Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko are giving while Ichigo angrily demands that they explain it better. As he watches this from the corner of the room, Ganju scratches his nose and sighs.

Ganju: I can see you're trying really hard.

Outside, with dusk approaching, Kūkaku finishes pouring two cups of sake and apologizes for deciding to help a Shinigami like the one who killed him as she picks up one of the cups. However, Kūkaku observes that he would scold her for not helping them if he were still alive because he loved Shinigami and died as one before drinking her cup of sake. Back in the dojo, Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko have each of the Ryoka form a barrier with the Reishūkaku: Orihime forms a perfectly spherical barrier, which Shiroganehiko praises her for, Uryū forms a slender and oval-shaped barrier that draws in Reishi, which Shiroganehiko notes reflects his body shape, and Sado creates a barrier that lightly fluctuates in size, which Shiroganehiko praises as unstable but powerful. However, when told to make a barrier as well, Ichigo can only cause a small amount of energy to emerge from the Reishūkaku despite his great exertion, leading Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko to begin berating him for his failure. With Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko concluding that he has no talent at all, an enraged Ichigo hits Shiroganehiko in the face with the Reishūkaku and begins beating Koganehiko up while demanding that he be taught something useful. Later that night, an exhausted and sweating Ichigo remains unable to use the Reishūkaku properly and kneels in front of his concerned friends. Opening the door to the dojo, Taichi Miyamoto informs Ganju that dinner is ready, and when Ganju passes this on to Ichigo and his friends while noting they must be hungry, Uryū realizes this is true as Ganju reveals they were not fed in the Rukongai because its denizens do not use Reiryoku.

Though Ganju tells them to go eat, Ichigo's friends are uncertain, but when Ichigo assures him that he will join them after he finishes his training, Uryū and Sado decide to do so. However, when Uryū asks her if she is coming as well, Orihime claims that she will wait down here because she is not hungry at all, only for her growling stomach to disprove her immediately. While Orihime tries to cheerfully brush this off as her not realizing how hungry she is, Ichigo insists that she go eat because he will be fine. Orihime attempts to claim that she wants to practice some more, only to change her mind and grow quiet when Ichigo solemnly requests that she leave. After a few seconds of hesitation, Orihime agrees due to Ichigo himself asking her and pushes Sado and Uryū out of the room, to their surprise, before closing the door behind them, leaving Ichigo and Ganju in the dojo. Attempting repeatedly to use the Reishūkaku with varying results, Ichigo eventually drops it on the floor, where it rolls away, as he pants heavily. With Ichigo cursing his failure, Ganju picks up the Reishūkaku and begins spinning it on his finger while inquiring if the Shinigami that Ichigo intends to save is really that important to him. When Ichigo denies this, Ganju expresses confusion as Ichigo grabs the Reishūkaku back from him.

Ganju: Is she that important to you? That girl, the other Soul Reaper. You know, the one you came to save?

Ichigo: Not really.

Ganju: Huh? I know why you're doing this. It's gotta be because you promised to save her, right?

Upon learning that Ichigo did not promises to save Rukia Kuchiki, Ganju assumes that she must have promised to pay him a lot of money if he saved her, but an annoyed Ichigo points out that he cannot use money from Soul Society in the Human World.

Ichigo: No, that's not it.

Ganju: Then it's money. That's gotta be it! She promised to pay you if you saved her, huh?

Ichigo: No way! How the hell am I supposed to use money from here in my world?

Ganju: Then why the hell are you so damned determined?!

However, when Ganju demands to know why he is so determined, he is stunned by Ichigo claiming he owes Rukia. Ichigo explains how Rukia saved his life, which he has not repaid her for yet, by giving him her Shinigami powers so he could save his family even though they had just met. Revealing this is why she was arrested and sentenced to execution, Ichigo declares he is not pathetic enough to turn his back on her.

Ichigo: I owe her! You see, she saved my life. And I haven't repaid her yet. She gave me her power in order to save me and my family, even though she'd just met me. Because of that, she was captured, and now she's about to be executed. I don't want to turn into some kind of deplorable guy who would just turn his back on her. Understand?

With Ganju left staring at him, Ichigo inquires what he is looking at. Suddenly, Ganju grabs the Reishūkaku out of Ichigo's hands, and as the latter tells him to give it back, Ganju walks to the other side of the room while claiming that he is going to practice and ordering Ichigo to not look at or listen to him. Noting that he is going to be reviewing his personal trick for using the Reishūkaku, which surprises Ichigo, Ganju holds the Reishūkaku up to his chest and details how he visualizes a dark and heavy circle in his mind that he proceeds to jump into, and as a spherical barrier forms around his body, Ganju tells a stunned Ichigo that this is the basis of all Kidō. As he lets the barrier fade, Ganju holds up the Reishūkaku and declares it is a very easy technique which he did not even need to practice before tossing the Reishūkaku back to Ichigo. Walking out of the room, Ganju apologizes for bothering Ichigo and shuts the door, leaving an embarrassed Ichigo to criticize his terrible acting. After stepping into the center of the room, Ichigo prepares to use Ganju's visualization technique. Meanwhile, as he and Sado finish their meals in the dining area, Uryū expresses his thanks, only to notice Orihime has barely touched her food and inquire if she is done. Orihime attempts to confirm this, but her growling stomach interrupts her. After punching her stomach repeatedly, Orihime tells an unnerved Uryū and Sado that she is full, prompting Uryū to assure her that she does not need to go this far and that they will not tell anyone. When Orihime admits that she was planning on bringing it to Ichigo, Uryū realizes that he still has not come up from the dojo. Suddenly, the three of them feel an intense Reiatsu permeating the area as Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko see one of the stone arms holding up the banner outside beginning to crack and break apart, leading them to believe that it will fall over. With Orihime recognizing it as Ichigo's Reiatsu, Uryū decides that they should go to him. In the hall outside the dojo, Kūkaku runs up to a stunned Ganju, who is sitting against the wall, and demands to know what is happening, prompting Ganju to apologize to her because he only showed him the technique once and did not expect this to happen. As Orihime, Sado, Uryū, Koganehiko, and Shiroganehiko watch in astonishment from another part of the dojo, Kūkaku opens the door and is shocked to see Ichigo generating a large and powerful barrier with the Reishūkaku while sweating. Upon being instructed by Kūkaku to condense his Reiryoku, Ichigo manages to shrink his barrier down to a normal size and looks around before declaring that he did it. However, when Orihime congratulates him and Ichigo turns his head to thank her, a small section of his barrier begins to distort, and Kūkaku berates him for losing his concentration as the barrier cracks and explodes, shaking the Kakaku Taihō with its force. Afterwards, Kūkaku angrily reminds him of her warning about a loss of concentration resulting in an explosion while stepping on an incapacitated Ichigo's head, which he meekly acknowledges, and when Ganju attempts to claim superiority over Ichigo for his mistake, Kūkaku punches him in the face and declares he is just as guilty before deciding that neither of them get dinner tonight while Orihime smiles.

Meanwhile, in the First Division barracks in the Seireitei, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru stands outside the doors to the captains' assembly hall, which open to reveal almost all of the other captains standing on either side of the room - 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi, Hitsugaya, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki, 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana, 2nd Division Captain Suì-Fēng (or Soi Fon), Aizen, 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura, 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen, and 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, with Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto sitting on the other end of the hall.

As Yamamoto acknowledges his arrival, Gin walks into the hall and comments on how all the captains who control Soul Society have been assembled just for him, only to notice that 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake is absent.

Yamamoto: You acted independently and permitted the target to escape. Would you care to defend your actions, Captain of Squad 3, Gin Ichimaru?

Gin: An unexpected summons. Tell me, should I be appalled or impressed? And look at this distinguished crowd. The captains who control the Soul Society all here just for me?

With Gin wondering if something happened to him, Tōsen states that he has fallen ill again, and as Gin expresses sympathy for him, Kenpachi berates him for joking around and reminds Gin of how he fought the Ryoka by himself earlier before demanding that he explain why he failed because a captain should have no trouble with four or five Ryoka.

Kenpachi: Quit joking around. It's my understanding that you went and played with that Ryoka by yourself, didn't you? And I also hear that you failed. Explain yourself. You should have no trouble dealing with four or five Ryokas without backup.

However, Gin merely acts surprised about them not dying, to Kenpachi's confusion.

Gin: I see. So then you're saying that they survived?

Mayuri: Stop all this monkey business right now. There's absolutely no way that captains such as us could fail to instantly tell whether an opponent's spirits has ceased to exist.

Gin: Can you not, see? You pretty accusations seem to simply that I let them go on purpose.

Gin asserts that he thought the Ryoka were dead and claims that his intuition has gotten dull, but Mayuri admonishes him for pretending to not know and reminds Gin that captains can sense the disappearance of a being's Reiryoku. With Hitsugaya complaining about two old men bickering again, Gin observes that Mayuri is making it sound like he let the Ryoka go on purpose, which Mayuri confirms is what he is saying. Telling Mayuri to shut up, Kenpachi declares that he is the one questioning Gin right now.

Kenpachi: Shut up, Kurotsuchi! Can't you see I was the one who was talking to him first? Or you'd rather be done in by me.

As he and Mayuri approach each other, Kenpachi questions if the latter wants to be cut up by him, leading Suì-Fēng to call them stupid.

Shunsui: Wow, whaddya know. Tempers are running high today.

Hitsugaya: Oh no, not again. Old fools caught up in stupid bickering.

Soi Fon: So stupid...

Byakuya: ...

While Shunsui notes that tempers are running high again and Byakuya remains silent, Yamamoto orders Kenpachi and Mayuri to stand down, which they do, and notes that Gin is aware of why he has been summoned now before inquiring what his defense is for acting alone and letting his target escape.

Yamamoto: Stop! Enough of this foolishness! I think the true reason for which you have been summoned here to stand before your peers has been made abundantly clear. It is the fact that you acted alone. That, coupled with the fact that you also permitted the target to escape. So then, how do you defend your actions, Ichimaru?

Gin: I cannot.

Yamamoto: What?

However, Gin simply states that he cannot defend this, to Yamamoto's confusion, and claims that he made a simple mistake for which there are no excuses, but as Gin promises that he will accept whatever punishment Yamamoto decides on, Aizen steps forward and reveals that there is something he would like to ask Gin, who merely grins widely in response.

Gin: Well you see, there's nothing to say. I made a simple mistake. I'm not going to stand here and make excuses. I'll accept whatever punishment-

Aizen: Just a minute, Ichimaru.

"Red alert! Red alert! The Seireitei has been breached! All squads report to battle stations immediately!"

Suddenly, an alarm begins sounding as an announcer informs the Gotei 13 that an intruders have been spotted in the Seireitei and all the divisions need to assemble. With the captains surprised by the alert and wondering if the Ryoka have returned, Gin is left smiling. Within the Shishinrō in Senzaikyū, Rukia looks outside and says Ichigo's name.

In the dojo of the Shiba Clan house, as Kūkaku Shiba berates Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba for Ichigo damaging her house by losing focus while using the Reishūkaku, a smiling Orihime Inoue is surprised to see Yoruichi Shihōin standing nearby. Yoruichi approaches a snoring Ichigo and notes that he has learned to create a cannonball while Ganju wonders what is wrong with him. After assuring the others that Ichigo is merely sleeping, Yoruichi instructs Orihime, Uryū Ishida, and Yasutora Sado to sit down. Though the three of them are confused by this, Orihime, Sado, and Uryū listen as Yoruichi observes that they do not have much time left even though Ichigo is asleep and begins to explain what the Ryoka can expect within the Seireitei, only to suddenly start screaming in pain. Sometime later, while Ganju intently reads the contents of a scroll out loud, Ichigo continues to sleep with his hand outstretched in a fist, where he suddenly wakes up while thinking of catnip. When Ichigo wonders what he was dreaming about, Ganju questions how he is supposed to know this, and as Ichigo inquires why he is sleeping here and if he slept well, an annoyed Ganju reiterates that he does not know. Upon being asked what he is reading, Ganju asserts that it is none of Ichigo's business and tells him to get lost.

Ganju: Ah!

As Ichigo is left angry by this, Uryū opens the door to the dojo and observes that Ichigo is awake before informing him that it is time to leave, to Ichigo's surprise.

Uryu: Come on, it's time for us to get out of here.

Ichigo: Huh? We're leaving now?

Outside, Yoruichi stands with a bent tail in front of the Kakaku Taihō with Kūkaku, Koganehiko, and Shiroganehiko while inquiring if all the Ryoka are here, which they confirm.

However, Ichigo points out that Yoruichi's tail looks like a flexible toothbrush, shocking his friends. Glowing with Reiatsu, a furious Yoruichi demands to know if he has a problem with this, leading a stunned Ichigo to meekly claim that it is still beautiful as always. Uryū reveals that Ichigo himself is responsible for this, and as Ichigo expresses confusion, Uryū recounts how he grabbed Yoruichi's tail while sleeping and it took Uryū, Orihime, and Sado to free Yoruichi from his grasp. Tearfully looking at Ichigo in annoyance, Yoruichi expresses dismay over the ruin of the beautiful tail Yoruichi felt such pride over and walks away as Uryū advises Ichigo to avoid the subject. Upon being asked by Kūkaku where Ganju is, Ichigo admits that he does not know and informs Kūkaku that he was reading something in the dojo prior.

Kukaku: Very well. Are we all here now? Hey, wait. Why isn't Ganju here with the rest of you?

Ichigo: Hm? Last time I saw him...

Suddenly, Ganju tells those assembled to wait and appears before them, out of breath and dressed in a new outfit, while declaring that the hero always arrives last.

Ganju: Never fear! Ganju is here! You should know, the hero's always the last one to make his entrance.

Ichigo: Okay, but what's with that outfit?

When Ichigo questions what his outfit is meant to be, Ganju explains that it is his battle costume and preemptively refuses to lend it to Ichigo no matter how much he begs. Ichigo wonders what the point of such a costume is when Ganju is just seeing them off, only for a solemn Ganju to confront him before revealing a Shinigami killed his brother, Kaien Shiba.

Ganju: You like it, huh? This is my custom battle costume. Pretty sweet, right?

Ichigo: Hey wait, what battle? You're not coming!

Ganju: Hmph...A Soul Reaper killed my big brother!

Kukaku: Ganju, don't you dare.

With Ichigo and his friends shocked to hear this, Kūkaku angrily begins to berate Ganju, who leaves her surprised by telling her to shut up and listen.

Ganju: Why don't you just listen and let me talk for a change? I was still just a kid back then, so I don't remember all the details of what happened, but there are two things I'll never forget. Faces. Those two faces. The cruel face of that Soul Reaper as he dragged my brother' mangled body back home. And the face of my dear dying brother, happily giving thanks to that same Soul Reaper. Why did he do that? Why would my brother be so forgiving? To this day, I just don't know. But there's one thing I do know for certain. Somehow, my brother never blamed the Soul Reapers. And he never hated them. But how?! Why didn't he hate the fiends who completely destroyed him?! Why did he continue believing in them to the end?! Somehow you seem different from the other Soul Reapers. That's what I think. I think that's what makes you different. And I think if I go with you, I might discover something important. That's why I've decided I'm going to help you. I'm willing to go along with you into the heart of enemy territory and try to learn what being a Soul Reaper really means.

Ganju details how Kaien was special because he made it through the Shin'ō Academy on his first try and had spiritual powers strong enough to qualify him for the position of Lieutenant within the Gotei 13, which consisted of him finishing a six-year curriculum in one year and becoming a Lieutenant five years after that. However, Ganju asserts he was betrayed and killed by the Shinigami whom he considered his friends, and with Ichigo listening silently, Ganju concedes he cannot remember all the details due to being a child. Stating that he specifically remembers two faces, Ganju recalls that the Shinigami who dragged his dying brother to their house had the face of the devil and Kaien himself looked happy when he thanked that Shinigami before dying. As he reveals that he still does not know why Kaien did this and looked so happy, Ganju asserts that he knows Kaien did not blame or hate Shinigami while Taichi Miyamoto, watching from behind the corner of the house with the rest of Ganju's Gang, admits that he did not know Ganju had such a painful experience. After demanding to know why Kaien did not hate Shinigami and continued to trust them, Ganju grabs Ichigo by the collar. Ganju asserts that Ichigo is not like the other Shinigami and explains that he has a feeling that he might discover something if he goes with the Ryoka. With Ganju declaring that he is going to help Ichigo for this reason and go as far as possible in order to learn what Shinigami are really like, his gang, Koganehiko, and Shiroganehiko are left in tears over his speech and growth while a smiling Kūkaku merely notes that he has made up his mind.

Kukaku: Heh heh. Well it sounds like you've got your mind made up about this. If you're all ready to go, then the final countdown begins now! Get inside, everyone.

Having been released by Ganju, Ichigo grabs his collar in turn and observes that they are working together now, to Ganju's amusement. Afterwards, Yoruichi asks Ichigo and his friends if they are ready for the cannonball. After confirming this alongside his friends, Ichigo realizes something and inquires if Yoruichi can use the Reishūkaku he is holding as well, prompting Yoruichi to decide to try it. Though Uryū is perplexed by the idea of this being Yoruichi's first time, Yoruichi tells Ichigo to set the Reishūkaku down on the ground, which he does, and stands on top of it before easily generating a perfectly spherical barrier, to the astonishment of Ichigo and his friends. As Yoruichi states that this is as easy as breathing in and out, Orihime claps and points out how long it took them to do it, but Ichigo is left on his hands and knees in despair as Yoruichi mocks how comparatively hard it is for him. Meanwhile, Kūkaku asks Ganju if he was able to master it, and when Ganju admits that this is only true while hopping up onto the platform, Kūkaku decides to use the Flower Crane Archery Second Style and inquires if Ganju can handle it, which he affirms. After staring at him for a second, Kūkaku smiles and tells him to not run off in the middle of the operation before asserting that he needs to put his life on the line if he is going, prompting Ganju to acknowledge this. Kūkaku turns to face the Ryoka and questions if they are ready because there will be no more delays before slamming her hand against the side of the Kakaku Taihō. After the Ryoka enter the Kakaku Taihō at her command, Kūkaku begins drawing a circle around the base of the cannon with a large brush and explains that their signal to begin the launching ceremony will be the sun, which will rise soon. Upon finishing the circle, Kūkaku tosses the brush behind her while inside the Kakaku Taihō, Yoruichi tells the Ryoka that they need to stick together once they enter the Seireitei and run away from any captains they encounter because their only goal is to save Rukia Kuchiki before cautioning them against taking any unnecessary risks. As Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko stand behind Kūkaku, the sun begins to shine over the trees.

Yoruichi: Is everyone ready?

Ganju: Ready!

Ichigo: Me too.

Orihime: Same.

Uryu: So I am.

Chad. Yes.

Drawing the sword on her back, Kūkaku kneels and embeds it into the platform as she begins chanting an incantation.

Kukaku: Far away, copper-colored greed desires the domination of 36 degrees. 72 pairs of legends, 13 pairs of horns. The right paw of the monkey captures a star! Embraced by the 25 wheels of the sun, the cradle of sand will flow with blood! Flower-Crane Cannon Number Two! Kagizaki Blossom (Bound Blossom)!

Upon being told by Yoruichi to pool their Reiryoku because the launch is beginning, the Ryoka infuse the Reishūkaku with their collective Reiryoku and form a barrier around all five of them. Outside, with Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko assisting, Kūkaku walks forward and continues chanting the incantation while removing the bandage from her head, which wraps itself around her left arm as it ignites.

Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko: Missions Accomplish!

Kūkaku slams her fist into the circle, causing the flame to leave her arm and split as it runs along the length of the circle in both directions. With the flame returning to her arm upon completing its two circuits and running up the length of the Kakaku Taihō, which has its restraints broken in the process, Kūkaku completes the incantation for the Flower Crane Archery Second Style, Kagizaki, as the Kakaku Taihō fires the cannonball containing the Ryoka high into the air in a plume of smoke. As Koganehiko and Shiroganehiko congratulate her on her success, Kūkaku pulls her sword out of the platform and emotionally tells Ganju to be careful.

Kukaku: ...May the fates smile on you, Ganju.

High in the sky above, Ichigo stares in shock alongside his friends at the distant ground below before noting that the jolt was not as bad as he expected.

However, Ganju merely tells him that this is just the beginning, and when the cannonball suddenly changes direction and starts hurtling to the side mid-flight, Ichigo and his friends are left screaming in fright while Ganju pulls the scroll he was reading earlier out of his vest. When Ichigo wonders what he is doing, Ganju explains that Kagizaki is a two-part incantation, with the first part controlling the launch and direction while the second part controls the acceleration and trajectory, allowing him to gradually increase the accuracy of the cannonball. With Ichigo expressing understanding, Ganju tells him to not get in the way if he wants to arrive safely.

As an unnerved Ichigo acknowledges this, Ganju tells him and his friends that they need to stabilize the cannonball in order to enter the Seireitei and will accomplish this by evening out the discharge of their Reiatsu, which they can accomplish by keeping their firsthand the Reishūkaku so they can see how much energy everyone is releasing, before requesting that they adjust their outputs accordingly because they will all die if anyone makes a mistake. With Ichigo and his friends affirming this, Ganju begins reading the second incantation of Kagizaki aloud while the others continue to infuse the Reishūkaku with their Reiryoku.

Orihime meekly informs Ichigo that he is releasing too much Reiryoku, and though he apologizes for this and tries to adjust, Uryū tells him to lower it a little more, prompting a flustered Ichigo to claim that he is trying and has already lowered it by a lot. With Sado merely saying his name, Ichigo grows frustrated and frantically acknowledges Sado's second request while continuing to try to lower his Reiryoku output. Distracted by this, Ganju accidentally reads the same line of the incantation twice and angrily accuses Ichigo of causing this, only for Ichigo to express exasperation at this being his fault too while Ganju criticizes him for talking so much. However, as Ichigo and Ganju butt heads, causing Orihime and Uryū to attempt to stop them, a nervous Sado directs their attention outside, where they see the Seireitei rapidly approaching while the cannonball hurtles toward it.

Ganju: It's the Seireitei!

Uryu: We're going to crash!

Yoruichi: The only way to survive this is for you to pour in all the spirit energy you've got!

Within the captains' assembly hall in the First Division barracks, the assembled captains listen to the announcement of intruders within the Seireitei, and 5th Division Captain Sōsuke Aizen expresses disbelief at intruders being able to enter the Seireitei while 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki wonders if it is the Ryoka.

Aizen: Intruders in the Seireitei? It must be those Ryokas...

Yamamoto: This is most unfortunate, but such a major disruption leaves me with no choice in the matter. This Squad Captain meeting is hereby dismissed. All squads are to heed the alert and depart immediately to their battle stations.

With the Shinigami outside rushing to secure entrances, Kenpachi runs out of the assembly hall despite Aizen's protests. Watching Kenpachi run through the alleys below with a smile, his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, leaps off the top of a nearby building and somersaults multiple times as she calls out to him. As Kenpachi looks at her, Yachiru lands on his shoulder and inquires if he is pursuing an enemy, prompting Kenpachi to confirm this before explaining that it is a Ryoka who survived an encounter with 3rd Division Lieutenant Gin Ichimaru, whom he cannot wait to fight. Back in the assembly hall, Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto notes that it cannot be helped and declares this meeting adjourned for now, as he will issue Gin's punishment later. Upon being ordered to assemble their individual divisions at their respective battle stations, the captains begin filing out of the room, only for Gin to remain standing in place.

Aizen: Saved by the security alert. Convenient timing, eh, Ichimaru?

Gin: Why don't you just come out and say it? You're not making much sense.

Aizen: You don't really think you'll get away with this, do you? Just remember. Don't underestimate me, Ichimaru.

Stopping next to Gin, Aizen observes that the intruder alert came at a very good time for him, and when Gin claims to not understand what he means, Aizen asserts that he cannot get away with it and warns Gin to not take him lightly before walking away, leaving 10th Division Lieutenant Tōshirō Hitsugaya to stare at the area where he was standing with interest.

Hitsugaya: ….

In the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia is surprised to see the sky outside her narrow window lighting up.

Boooooom*

Kenpachi: Gah! All this searching and we found nothing!

Yachiru: It's just bad luck!

Rumble*

Kenpachi: Huh? What's that sound?

A bright light appears in the air above the Seireitei, and as Kenpachi stops to look at it, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai stands with his captain, Byakuya Kuchiki, and nervously wonders what it is while Aizen stands elsewhere with his lieutenant, Momo Hinamori, whom he assures that the object is unlikely to make it through the Shakonmaku, though she decides to order the other Shinigami present to get back regardless.

Renji: What the hell is that?

Aizen: Whatever it is, the Soul Shield Membrane should stop it.

Momo: Just in case, we ought to clear the area!

With other unseated Shinigami realizing that it is coming their way, the cannonball rockets through the air, which flickers with electricity in front of it, as a frightened Uryū declares that they are going to crash into the Shakonmaku. Asserting that they have no other choice, Yoruichi instructs the Ryoka to pour as much Reiryoku into the Reishūkaku as they can, which they comply with as the cannonball smashes into the Shakonmaku, sending multiple shock waves rippling across its surface and onto the area beyond the Seireitei. While the Shinigami below watch electricity flare outward from the cannonball and realize that it stopped, Aizen expresses astonishment at something being composed of Reiryoku dense enough to survive impact with the Shakonmaku. Above, the cannonball pushes through the Shakonmaku and comes apart, leaving Ichigo and his friends suspended in midair.

When Ichigo wonders why this is happening, Yoruichi tells the Ryoka to not get separated and reveals that the cannonball is only temporarily holding them up due to being dissolved when it hit the Shakonmaku. With Uryū realizing what this means, Yoruichi explains that it will soon form a vortex of energy that will explode and vanish before clarifying that they will be blown apart by the shock if they are separated when this happens. Suddenly, the remaining energy around them begins to swirl around in a vortex, sending Ichigo and his friends flying around while they scream in fright, and Yoruichi notes that it has begun, prompting Ganju to refuse to be blown away.

Upon seeing Ganju swimming through the air toward him, Ichigo expresses shock and tells Ganju to not come near him, only for Ganju to counter by telling Ichigo to get away if he does not like it as an embarrassed Uryū berates them for arguing at a time like this. With Yoruichi instructing them to grab onto whoever is nearest and not let go, Ichigo curses and grabs onto Ganju, who questions his reaction, as Sado grabs Orihime and Yoruichi lands on Ichigo's shoulder. However, upon failing to grab Uryū's hand, Sado lets go of Orihime and propels himself forward to grab Uryū by the collar before throwing him back to Orihime, leaving Sado to fall toward the Seireitei.

Kenpachi: Damn! The intruders have split into four! Which one is he? Which one is the strongest? That's the one I have to find.

As Ichigo and his friends call out to Sado in concern, Yoruichi assures him that Sado will be fine and reminds Ichigo that he needs to ensure his own safety first in order to search for Sado later. Frustrated by the situation, Ichigo reaches out for Orihime, who reaches back and calls out to him in return as they hold onto Ganju and Uryū, respectively, but the energy vortex explodes before the two of them can grab each other's hands, resulting in the Ryoka being sent flying in four different directions while cloaked in energy. Watching this from below, Kenpachi looks at each of the flying energy trails and grins as he wonders which of the Ryoka is the strongest.

Having been split up by their exploding cannonball, the Ryoka begin falling all across the Seireitei. As he sees the ground rushing up toward him, Yasutora Sado summons his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, and prepares to unleash an energy blast. Meanwhile, Orihime Inoue tells Uryū Ishida to hold onto her before creating a Santen Kesshun beneath them.

With Yoruichi Shihōin hurtling through the air above the Seireitei alone in a different direction, while struggling with Ichigo Kurosaki elsewhere, Ganju Shiba projects a Seppa wave outward from his palm right before the two of them crash into the ground below.

Ichigo: Er...Looks like we landed safely.

Ganju: I wonder if the other are doing okay. That strange guy with the glasses and white cape, and that cutie-pie with the great big eyes.

Ichigo: A cutie pie, huh. That word's not exactly hip...Hey! Orihime's not your type!

He still loves her, and she loves him.

Ganju: Oh, I see. You like her more than a friend.

Ichigo: What of it?! She's fine the way she is! (She's really cute what she's wearing...)

I guess Ganju can already tell of Ichigo's crush on Orihime to hide his feelings a bit.

Ganju: I get it...You point?

Ichigo: Right...Uryu and Orihime have both proven they're a lot smarter than I am. I think those two know better than to take on an enemy that they couldn't manage. They're still alright. I' sure of it.

The dust clears to reveal a large sand pit, from which Ichigo and Ganju emerge as they begin coughing up sand.

Ganju: What about the other one? The one that you were calling Chad.

From Uryu and Orihime were good and Yoruichi is very strong, and Chad...Well, strong but he still needed to be careful.

Ichigo: Even less to worry about. I've been able to feel his Spiritual Pressure no matter the distance between us. Anyway...We should try and find out where Rukia is.

In other words - Chad will be just fine. Noting that Ganju's strange spell saved them, Ichigo sees that he is still coughing and kicks him in the back annoyance.

Ganju: Sure but where do we start looking?

Yeah...Where can they get where they needed to be?

Ichigo: Hmm, I guess we could catch someone who might know something and pry some answers out of them.

After falling forward onto the sand in front of him and coughing up more sand, Ganju turns around and angrily grabs Ichigo by the collar. Ganju accuses Ichigo of having a lot of nerve to attack the one who saved his life, but Ichigo refutes this and begins to explain that he was just trying to show his appreciation, only to stop in shock as 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame and 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa appear on the roof behind him. When Ikkaku declares that he is lucky today, Ichigo and Ganju look up at him and Yumichika as they leap down from the roof to the ground next to the sand pit.

Ikkaku: Woohoo! What luck! Can you believe this? First, we skip out on our boring guard duty, and then these two fall right into our hands. Lucky! Lucky me! Today, I'm lucky! However, you, on the other hand, most certainly aren't.

Noting that they found two intruders after skipping out on guard duty because it was boring, Ikkaku gleefully hops from foot to foot while praising how lucky he is before stating that Ichigo and Ganju are not.

Ichigo: Yeah?

Ganju: Wait a minute.

Ichigo: Hm? Oh come on.

Meanwhile, while they look at a large crater in the ground, several unseated Shinigami question how this is possible and observe that the lack of a body means the Ryoka is still alive as they move out to find him. Sitting on the branch of a nearby tree with a bird standing on the shoulder protrusion of his Brazo Derecha de Gigante, Sado wonders what he should do next. Elsewhere, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira runs through an alley with several unseated Shinigami from his division, and upon seeing Yoruichi hurtling toward them, Izuru stops and commands the others to get ready as he assumes a battle stance, only for Yoruichi to disappear right before hitting him.

Caught off-guard by the resulting flash of light, Izuru and his men assume that Yoruichi is run off to search elsewhere. However, Yoruichi reappears on a nearby rooftop and notes that being alone may prove more convenient before walking away.

Boooooom*

In another part of the Seireitei, Uryū kneels over a sleeping Orihime as she mutters that Ichigo is misunderstanding the rules of the video game they are playing, and as Uryū moves to wake her up, Orihime bolts awake out of frustration, slamming the back of her head into Uryū's face in the process. As Orihime turns around to see him, an aching Uryū inquires if she is alright while clutching his nose in pain. Upon being informed by Uryū that they seem to have landed in a deserted area, Orihime claps her hands together in celebration of their luck, only to cringe in pain and clutch her bandaged upper right arm.

Uryu: It appears as though we have landed in an unpopulated area.

Orihime: Hehe! How lucky! Ow!

Uryū tells her to be careful and recounts how she was injured in the fall, leading to him administering first-aid with the bandages he was carrying around, before admitting that he does not have any painkillers, prompting a surprised Orihime to thank him while questioning his decision to carry bandages around. Though Orihime assures him she is fine, Uryū apologizes for her getting hurt in the process of protecting him, which would not have happened if he were not there.

Uryu: Ah, careful Orihime. I'm afraid you may have injured your arm in the fall. Once I realized you were hurt, I administered first aid with the bandages I had but unfortunately, I didn't have any pain killers with me.

Orihime: I, see. So you did this? Thank you.

However, Orihime asserts that it would have happened anyway due to how clumsy she is, to Uryū's surprise, and describes how him not being there with bandages would have resulted in her losing a lot of blood and becoming unable to move.

Uryu: Let's just get going. We made a lot of noise when we landed. I'm sure it won't be long before we attract a crowd.

Orihime: Right!

With Uryū smiling at her optimism, Orihime questions if this sounds weird, which he nervously denies before adjusting his glasses and deciding that they should get moving because their loud landing is sure to bring people to investigate soon. Affirming this, Orihime runs off with Uryū as 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi steps out behind them. Back at the sand pit, Ikkaku performs and completes his Tsuki-Tsuki Dance. With Ichigo and Ganju left speechless while a butterfly flutters past them, Yumichika sighs as an annoyed Ikkaku demands to know what they are doing before detailing how he was performing his Tsuki-Tsuki Dance in order to give them time to get out of the sand pit.

Ganju: Listen to me! I'm gonna make a run for it first chance I get.

Ichigo: So now you're gonna run?! What are you, some kind of little pansy?

Ganju: These guys have too much spirit energy for an amateur Soul Reaper like you. Don't you understand anything, you damn idiot!

As Ikkaku continues to rant angrily at them for not understanding human kindness, Ganju tells Ichigo that he is going to run away as soon as possible, and when a surprised Ichigo questions this choice, Ganju points out how Ikkaku and Yumichika have much greater Reiryoku than ordinary Shinigami. When Ikkaku interrupts them to inquire what they are arguing about, Yumichika assumes Ichigo and Ganju are scared of facing them.

Ikkaku: Hey, what are those two arguing about?

Yumichika: Well, it could be they're both scared out of their minds to fight us.

Ikkaku: So then, why don't we just let them take their time and argue about it.

Yumichika: But then again, if we let them take too long, some of the other Soul Reapers may shot up. And then they will steal our glory.

Ikkaku: Yeah, that's true.

Though Ikkaku is content to let them argue for as long as they like, Yumichika points out that taking too long will result in others coming to take the glory of killing them, which Ikkaku acknowledges as he decides to perform the Tsuki-Tsuki Dance once more as a time limit before they begin fighting.

Ganju: You wanna fight, be my guest!

However, Ganju merely tells Ichigo that he can fight them if he wants as he exits the sand pit and begins running away from Ikkaku and Yumichika.

Ikkaku: Aw, you two have a falling out?

Ichigo: Something like that.

Ikkaku: He really shouldn't have run away. Get him.

After asking Ichigo in confusion if this was a disagreement, which Ichigo confirms, Ikkaku bemoans Ganju giving them trouble and has Yumichika begin chasing after him, which Ganju notes is what he expected to happen.

Yumichika: Right. I'm on it.

As Ichigo jumps out of the pit, Ikkaku asks him why he did not run away as well and theorizes that Ganju ran because he knew how far apart, they were in strength, which he believes is the right decision, prompting Ichigo to note that running away is pointless if Ikkaku is stronger because the latter will just catch him before asserting that his own strength being greater means that he just needs to defeat Ikkaku and keep moving.

Ikkaku: So tell me. Why didn't you run away like your friend? He obviously ran because he sensed that our powers are far superior to his own.

Ichigo: If your power really is greater than mine, it'd be useless to run. But, if on the other hand my power is greater, then I'll just defeat you and be on my way.

Admitting that Ichigo is not stupid, Ikkaku stares him down for several seconds before drawing his Zanpakutō and slashing down at Ichigo, who leaps out of the way at the last second and draws his Shikai, Zangetsu.

Ikkaku: Is that so. I guess you're not stupid. At least tell me your name.

With Ikkaku impressed that he dodged this attack and mentally praising his moves, Ichigo rushes forward and brings Zangetsu down on Ikkaku, who uses his other hand to block with his scabbard at the base of the blade and handle of Zangetsu. Surprised by Ikkaku using his scabbard in this way, Ichigo sees Ikkaku swinging his Zanpakutō at him and steps on top of Ikkaku's scabbard before leaping off of it just as Ikkaku's Zanpakutō swings through the air where he was standing. Landing on top of the roof behind Ikkaku, Ichigo turns around and yells as he leaps down and slashes at Ikkaku, who jumps back and hops over Ichigo's subsequent horizontal slash. Ichigo swings Zangetsu sideways at Ikkaku once more, prompting the latter to block it with his Zanpakutō and push it back before running forward to swing at Ichigo with both his Zanpakutō and his scabbard. After fending off Ikkaku's attacks, Ichigo jumps over him and swings Zangetsu forward while upside-down as Ikkaku turns and attacks him simultaneously, resulting in both of them being cut above one of their eyes on opposite sides before Ichigo lands. Stepping forward as blood drips from his wound, Ikkaku requests that Ichigo tell him his name, and upon learning it, he comments that Ichigo is a good name, which Ichigo admits is the first time anyone has ever praised it before.

Ichigo: Ichigo Kurosaki.

Ikkaku: Heh, Ichigo. That's a good name.

Ichigo: You think so? No one's ever told me that before.

Ikkaku: Yeah, they say that guys with "ichi" in their names are overflowing with talent and good looks. At least that's what I've heard. I'm 3rd Seat Assistant Adjutant, Squad 11, Ikkaku Madarame! Well, "ichi." Let's say we be friends.

As he explains that men with the "ichi" character in their names are often powerful and handsome, Ikkaku introduces himself in turn and suggests that the two of them be friends, only for Ichigo to decline.

Elsewhere, Ganju runs through the alleys with Yumichika following him close behind, and when Yumichika continues to pursue him after multiple turns, Ganju bemoans his persistence and wonders if he will ever stop. Criticizing Ganju's running as ugly, Yumichika directs his attention ahead, where Ganju sees a wall at the end of the alley he is running in and motions with his hand before using Seppa to create a hole in the wall that he leaps through. Yumichika comments on how strange this technique is and realizes that this is how Ganju created the sand pit earlier but warns him that he should be careful before leaping through the hole as well. Upon seeing another wall ahead, Ganju uses Seppa once more to create another hole to pass through and continues running on the other side, only to suddenly stop upon finding himself standing at the edge of an enormous pit. As Ganju notes that he could have been killed and wonders what this place is, Yumichika appears behind him and explains that it is an old execution ground where the Shinigami would bring Hollows to fight criminals while watching from above. When an unnerved Ganju observes that the Shinigami do crude things, Yumichika asserts that they are not as crude as his face, and upon Ganju saying that he pities him, Yumichika states that Ganju is recognizing his handsome face by calling him pretty, only to claim that he was making a witty joke when Ganju clarifies that he mentioned pity and not pretty. Noting that this form of execution is no longer practiced, Yumichika reveals that those who fall into the pit can never get out and grasps the hilt of his Zanpakutō while deciding that this is enough chasing and talking for now. Yumichika tells Ganju that he can choose as he draws his Zanpakutō. As he gives Ganju the options of being killed by him or dying by falling into the pit, Yumichika requests that Ganju turn to face him because he loves seeing the look of agony on the faces of those who must choose how they die, prompting a nervous Ganju to note that this reinforces his notion of the Shinigami as crude.

Back at the sand pit, Ichigo stares down Ikkaku and wipes the blood from his eye, which leads Ikkaku to admit that he does not understand this before detailing how only a novice would remove a hand from his sword during a fight regardless of the distance between him and his opponent as an irritated Ichigo asserts, he cannot see with blood in his eye.

Ikkaku: Heh, you sure are one strange guy. You behave like a greenhorn, and you don't look like much of a fighter, but you have excellent reflexes, and fierce attacks! One could even say that some of your movements are close to matching mine.

Ichigo: So what?

Noting that even a shallow wound on the forehead will bleed profusely, Ikkaku uncaps the end of his Zanpakutō's manage and scoops out a substance from within it before applying it to his wound while asserting that it is pointless to wipe away the blood unless one can stop the bleeding with a styptic. With more blood spilling from his wound, Ichigo angrily accuses Ikkaku of cheating for having a styptic on hand, only for an annoyed Ikkaku to declare that it is smart, and that Ichigo should admire him for being experienced, which Ichigo questions. While Ichigo tries to clean his face, Ikkaku observes that he is a strange guy for behaving this way and not looking like a fighter. As he rushes at Ichigo and begins attacking him once more with both Zanpakutō and scabbard, Ikkaku commends his reflexes and praises his attack while blocking Ichigo's subsequent downward slash with both his weapons. After Ikkaku pushes Zangetsu to the side, Ichigo evades several more of his attacks before slashing forward horizontally, prompting Ikkaku to leap into the air sideways and clash with Ichigo as he lands. Asserting that Ichigo's movements are close in skill to his own, Ikkaku crosses blades with Ichigo above and below before leaping back in unison with him, where he tells Ichigo to not look angry because this was meant as a compliment.

Ikkaku: You're too good to be dismissed as merely a greenhorn with natural abilities. There's something about the way you move. Who is your master, Ichigo?

Ichigo: Truth is, I only trained for ten days, so I don't know if I can really call him my master, but there is a man who taught me the skills to fight.

Ikkaku: Who is he?

Ichigo: It's Kisuke Urahara.

Ikkaku describes Ichigo as being too good to dismiss as a novice with natural abilities and inquires who Ichigo's expert is, and when Ichigo admits that he is not sure if he can call the man who taught him how to fight a master because their training only lasted for ten days, Ikkaku reiterates his question, only to be shocked when Ichigo reveals that he was taught by Kisuke Urahara.

Ikkaku: I see. So he was your master. In that case, it would be rude to kill you without giving it my all. Extend, Hozukimaru (Grow)!

Deciding that it would be rude to kill Ichigo without going all-out if this is the case, Ikkaku slams the end of his Zanpakutō's manage into his scabbard and releases his Shikai, Hōzukimaru, causing his Zanpakutō and scabbard to glow and merge into a wooden spear.

Ichigo: Erh!

Ikkaku: Now's not the time to look surprised, Ichigo! Let's go!

After proclaiming that there is no time for Ichigo to look surprise, Ikkaku tells him to not misread this, which Ichigo declares he will not, and thrusts Hōzukimaru at Ichigo's head as the latter dodges. With Ichigo avoiding his bladed jabs, Ikkaku laughs and swings the tassel end of Hōzukimaru at Ichigo, who blocks it with Zangetsu while expressing surprise. However, as Ichigo continues to block Ikkaku's strikes and assumes that Ikkaku thought he would misread the length of his spear, Ikkaku denies this and pulls Hōzukimaru back before spinning it around and grabbing it near the base of its tassel end, which Ichigo believes is an opening.

With Ichigo rushing forward, Ikkaku swings Hōzukimaru down at him, and as Ichigo presses back against it with Zangetsu and gets close to him, Ikkaku commands Hōzukimaru to split, causing it to divide into three sections connected by short lengths of chain and rotate at 90-degree angles as the bladed end moves toward a shocked Ichigo's head.

Meanwhile, at the execution pit, Yumichika requests that Ganju turn around so he can see the last expression of Ganju's life because such things make his beauty grow keener every time he sees them, only for Ganju to throw a fistful of sand into his eyes while telling him to grow more beautiful on his own. As Yumichika reels back in pain, Ganju turns the ground beneath them to sand with Seppa, but Yumichika leaps atop the wall to the right at the last second, leaving Ganju to slip into the pit alone. Demanding to know what Ganju is trying to do to his beauty, Yumichika sees that Ganju is clinging onto the hole he made in the edge of the pit and smiles as he jumps down in front of Ganju, whom he mocks for digging his own grave. With Ganju losing his grip and falling into the pit, Yumichika dismisses this affair as trifling, only to be shocked when Ganju rises out of the pit while surrounded by a barrier generated by the Reishūkaku he is holding. Yumichika declares that this is some sort of strange trick and slashes at Ganju, but when his Zanpakutō bounces off the barrier, Yumichika is left speechless as Ganju notes his good fortune in bringing a spare Reishūkaku before explaining that this is a cannonball developed by Kūkaku Shiba, whom he refers to as the best sister in the world and asserting that even a Zanpakutō cannot easily pierce it. However, as he notes that Ganju is underestimating him, Yumichika introduces himself as the 5th Seat of the 11th Division, the strongest division in the Gotei 13, and warns Ganju to not think that he is just an ordinary Shinigami as he raises his Zanpakutō. Releasing his Shikai, Fuji Kujaku - (Blossom, Ruri'iro Kujaku or Fuji Kujaku (Split and Deviate)! which curves his Zanpakutō's blade, Yumichika promises to break through Ganju's barrier in a single blow as Fuji Kujaku splits into four blades before rushing forward and slashing at Ganju but is shocked when Fuji Kujaku embeds all four blades into the barrier instead and cannot be pulled out. With Ganju revealing that the barrier generated by the Reishūkaku quickly explodes once pierced, the barrier detonates in a large explosion, sending Ganju flying across the pit toward the other side, where he lands and bounces repeatedly along the ground before slamming into the wall on the far end of the walkway. As the smoke clears to reveal he is unharmed, Yumichika stands and curses Ganju, who notes that it was a clever trick and gets to his feet as rubble falls off his body before bemoaning how tough Yumichika is. After admonishing Ganju for thinking this would be enough to kill him, Yumichika angrily promises to make him pay, but Ganju claims that he cannot hear him and makes another hole in the wall in front of him with Seppa, leaving Yumichika astonished that he is still running. Smacking his rear end to taunt Yumichika, Ganju leaps through the hole in the wall, leaving Yumichika to furiously call him too ugly before leaping over to the other side of the pit.

Meanwhile, Ichigo leaps back from Ikkaku as his arm bleeds heavily, and the latter pulls back Hōzukimaru and positions it around his neck while explaining that this is what he expected Ichigo to misread because Hōzukimaru is actually a sansetsukon and not a spear. Seeing Ichigo's arm bleeding heavily, Ikkaku assumes that it is no longer able to hold a sword due to the pain and explains that he would have normally taken Ichigo in alive because he is a nice guy before asserting that he does not get any credit unless he kills Ichigo, which he apologizes for, while Ichigo wraps the cloth of Zangetsu around his hand and wounded arm to stem the blood flow.

Confused by what Ichigo is doing, Ikkaku leaps to the side as Ichigo rushes forward and jumps into the air before slashing downward at him, resulting in the portion of the wall behind where Ikkaku was standing being completely destroyed. Expressing shock at this level of power, Ikkaku rolls to a halt as Ichigo admonishes him for speaking as though it is over when Ichigo has not shown him his skill yet, and when Ichigo declares that the fight starts now, Ikkaku praises his choice of words as the two silently stare each other down.

In the Seireitei in Soul Society, the Shinigami race to find the Ryoka by splitting up into groups and searching in different sectors. Perched on a rooftop, Yoruichi Shihōin watches four Shinigami run into an alleyway in hopes of finding one of the Ryoka first, only to discover it is a dead and run back the way they came while bickering among themselves over the behavioral shift of their peers, before walking away down the side of the roof.

Meanwhile, in the Sixth Division barracks, as he walks past the rushing Shinigami while carrying a tray of food and wearing a confused expression on his face, 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada finds himself being confronted by other Shinigami who berate him for getting in the way as a member of the Fourth Division while they swarm past him and hurl insults, leaving Hanatarō to be spun around repeatedly while holding the tray above his head in order to let them pass. Left dizzy by this encounter, Hanatarō slowly comes to a stop and carefully continues walking forward.

Eventually, Hanatarō reaches the Sixth Division prison ward with the intention of delivering the food he is carrying to Rukia Kuchiki, only to find the cell empty. As Hanatarō calls out for Rukia, a female Shinigami enters the room and inquires who is there, prompting Hanatarō to introduce himself as the caretaker for Rukia before asking the Shinigami where he is. Realizing that Hanatarō is from the Fourth Division, the Shinigami reveals that Rukia has already been transferred to Senzaikyū. Visibly shocked by this, Hanatarō begins trembling, and when the Shinigami expresses concern for him, he merely admits that he did not know about this.

After ordering Hanatarō to return to his division at once in order to aid in the search for the Ryoka who have infiltrated the Seireitei, the Shinigami walks out of the room, leaving Hanatarō to drop the tray of food to the ground as he expresses fear over Rukia's situation. From within the Shishinrō, Rukia stares out at the Sōkyoku-on-Sōkyoku Hill and questions what the light she saw this morning was, due to being unable to sense Reiatsu from within her cell, before solemnly wondering if Ichigo Kurosaki really came for her. Elsewhere, Ichigo stands in front of and faces away from 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame after having destroyed part of a nearby wall. With Ikkaku unnerved by the power displayed in his last attack, Ichigo warns him to not speak as though their fight is already over because he has not displayed his true strength yet and turns to face Ikkaku while asserting that the latter will be the one unable to hold his sword this time. Ikkaku expresses amusement at Ichigo's confident words and holds the sansetsukon form of his Shikai, Hōzukimaru, over his shoulder as he questions where this confidence comes from before whipping the bladed end of Hōzukimaru toward Ichigo, who narrowly blocks it with his own Shikai, Zangetsu, only to see that Ikkaku has disappeared from his sight. As he runs toward Ichigo from the side, Ikkaku criticizes him as being slow and at him with the tasseled end of Hōzukimaru, which Ichigo knocks aside with his free hand while Ikkaku passes by him. Landing behind Ichigo, Ikkaku turns and rushes at Ichigo, who responds in kind before slashing downward at Ikkaku with Zangetsu as the latter blocks with the chain links connecting two segments of Hōzukimaru. With Ichigo pressing down on him, Ikkaku reconnects the two segments of Hōzukimaru connected by the chain links blocking Zangetsu, allowing him to force Zangetsu aside and swing the tasseled end of Hōzukimaru at Ichigo. Having pushed Ichigo back, Ikkaku fully reconnects Hōzukimaru and begins repeatedly jabbing and slashing at Ichigo, whom he mocks for claiming that Ikkaku will soon no longer be able to hold his sword because it is in fact Ichigo who will never be able to hold his sword again. After separating the bladed end of Hōzukimaru from the rest of the spear and binding Zangetsu with the chain links, Ikkaku pulls Zangetsu downward and jumps before kicking Ichigo in the face. As Ichigo staggers back and stabs Zangetsu into the ground to support himself, Ikkaku leaps into the air and comes down onto Ichigo while slashing with Hōzukimaru, which Ichigo narrowly evades. However, when Ikkaku follows up by slashing at him from the side, Ichigo turns and deflects Hōzukimaru, which is separated into its sansetsukon form from the impact, leaving Ikkaku stunned. Upon being reminded by Ichigo of his assertion that the former was slow, Ikkaku leaps back and reconnects Hōzukimaru as he affirms this statement and claims that what Ichigo just did was a fluke, leading Ichigo to promise that he will show Ikkaku this was not a fluke before leveling Zangetsu at Ikkaku and charging forward. As he leaps out of the way and onto the roof of the wall next to them, Ikkaku reiterates that Ichigo is too slow to catch him like this. Suddenly, Ichigo tears Zangetsu horizontally through the section of the wall underneath Ikkaku, causing the roof he is standing on to begin crumbling and forcing him to jump back down to the ground. With the portion of the wall having crumbled completely, Ichigo turns and charges at Ikkaku once more while proclaiming that he is lucky, and as Ichigo jumps forward and slashes at him, Ikkaku hops back, leaving Zangetsu to crash into the ground, and hurtles the tasseled end of Hōzukimaru at Ichigo, who raises his hand in front of his face before being sent flying back by it. Watching Ichigo slide to a halt, Ikkaku spins the bladed segment of Hōzukimaru. Ikkaku questions if talking is the best Ichigo can do and assumes that the latter cannot keep up with the movements of a transforming weapon like Hōzukimaru, only for Ichigo to deny this and stand up as he reveals he has finally gotten used to Ikkaku's fighting style. No longer spinning Hōzukimaru, Ikkaku is shocked to see Ichigo drop the severed tassels of Hōzukimaru from his free hand and realizes that the tasseled end of his spear has been damaged, which he concludes Ichigo did with his bare hand as Ichigo grins.

Meanwhile, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki runs through an alley with his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, on his shoulder. Though Yachiru insists that the Ryoka are up ahead, Kenpachi notes that they have not found anyone despite running around for a considerable amount of time. Claiming to have keen intuition, Yachiru tells Kenpachi to turn right, where they find themselves at a dead end. With Yachiru deciding that they should keep running along the alley, Kenpachi questions whether he can trust her intuition. Elsewhere in the Seireitei, as he peaks around the corner, Uryū Ishida cautions Orihime Inoue to remain hidden in the alcove they are standing in and moves into the shadows with her while several Shinigami gather at the intersection several meters away.

Uryu: Ah, get back Orihime!

The two hide from another army of Soul Reapers...

Soul Reaper: No sign of the Ryoka in this sector. Damn, where did they disappear to?

A very close call there.

Uryu: It looks like our arrival has caused quite a commotion. It's going to be almost impossible for us to meet up with Ichigo and the others with so many guards out looking for us. Instead of risking capture, you and I should just start looking for Rukia on our own. Or we could start a fight and hope Ichigo shows up. I dunno...What do you think, Orihime? Huh? Orihime? Where are you? Great, where did she disappear to?

She comes out running back to him.

Orihime: Uryu, help! They're after me! I'm sorry! I just went down that alley to take a look around, and a bunch of them spotted me!

Uryu: Huh?! Ahh!

Observing that they have caused a commotion and that it will be difficult to meet up with their friends before they go after Rukia, Uryū states that they would find one of the Ryoka at the center of such a commotion and wonders if they should simply confront the Shinigami before inquiring what Orihime thinks they should do. However, Uryū finds Orihime missing from where he last saw her, and as he nervously wonders where she is, Orihime frantically calls out to Uryū and runs back into the alley while being chased by several more Shinigami.

Soul Reaper: There they are! We got you now!

Orihime: Now there are even more. What do you think? Do you have a strategy?

Uryu: I do...Run!

Soul Reaper: There they go! Go after them! Attack!

Stunned by this, Uryū joins Orihime in running away and demands to know what happened in exasperation and disbelief. Orihime apologizes and explains how the Shinigami spotted her when she went scouting, which prompts Uryū to decide that they will have to fight. When Uryū stops in the middle of an intersection and turns around to face the pursuing Shinigami, Orihime declares that she will fight as well and prepares to summon her Shun Shun Rikka, but Uryū insists that she leave it to him and tells Orihime to stand back while the Shinigami continue to charge at them. However, upon seeing more Shinigami rushing toward them from two other alleys connected to the intersection, Uryū is left shocked as Orihime questions if he can really take on all of them. With Uryū deciding that they should run, he and Orihime frantically flee down the remaining empty alley, causing the three hordes of Shinigami to collide in the intersection behind them, and continue running as Yasutora Sado sees the commotion from afar while sitting on a tree branch. Wondering what this is, Sado leaps down and begins running down an alley toward the source of the commotion as he wonders if this is Ichigo's doing.

Meanwhile, while Ikkaku stares in disbelief at the broken tassel of Hōzukimaru, Ichigo steps on the shredded tassels on the ground and tells him to not look so stunned before questioning if he has lost his nerve from this. Promising to attack if Ikkaku does not, Ichigo grips Zangetsu with both hands and leaps high into the air above Ikkaku, who reattaches the remaining segments of Hōzukimaru and holds it up horizontally to block. As he reminds Ikkaku of his assertion that the former will be the one no longer able to hold his sword, Ichigo comes down on Ikkaku and unleashes a Getsuga Tenshō, releasing a surge of blue energy around the two of them. Blood spurts into the air and splatters on the ground as a stunned Ikkaku stands with a large cut running down his chest, the tassel segment of Hōzukimaru having been cut cleanly in two by Ichigo's attack. Upon seeing Ichigo standing calmly before him, Ikkaku demands to know if he thinks the fight is over and throws away the severed section of Hōzukimaru before proclaiming that he can still hold his sword. After gripping the central segment of Hōzukimaru and raises the bladed segment above his head, Ikkaku begins spinning it horizontally and grips the remaining chain with his other hand while asserting that Ichigo will need to cut off his arm if he wants to stop him. Ichigo tells Ikkaku to put down his sword, and when Ikkaku refuses, Ichigo angrily warns him to not do this because the fight is over, but Ikkaku claims that a fight is only over when one of them is dead. Screaming maniacally, Ikkaku leans forward, causing his wound to bleed further from the strain, and begins rushing toward Ichigo while continuing to whip Hōzukimaru around his head. Reminded of his training with Kisuke Urahara by Ikkaku's approach, Ichigo declares that Ikkaku is slow by comparison and releases another Getsuga Tenshō upward, cutting Ikkaku's arm all the way up to his shoulder and shattering Hōzukimaru. As his blood spurts into the air, Ikkaku praises Ichigo's strength and falls to his knees while bemoaning his poor luck.

Ikkaku: You are...strong. I'll give you that. Not...so lucky...after all.

With Ikkaku collapsing with a smile on his face, Ichigo states that neither of them were lucky as his arm bleeds. Elsewhere, Ganju Shiba runs through an alley and slowly comes to a stop upon realizing that 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa is no longer chasing him. As Ganju wonders where he went, Yumichika runs along the roof behind him and leaps off before slashing at Ikkaku with his Shikai, Fuji Kujaku, which Ganju narrowly evades by rolling away. Noting how close this was, Ganju dodges another slash from Yumichika and draws his short sword. When Yumichika inquires how long he will keep running away for, Ganju promises to keep doing so until Yumichika gives up, prompting Yumichika to claim that he will end it with his Fuji Kujaku as it splits into four blades. However, Ganju merely chuckles at Yumichika claiming he will end it and takes out a bomb before asserting that Yumichika should not be so hasty as he scrapes the fuse down the length of his gauntlet and throws the bomb to the ground, releasing a cloud of red smoke that engulfs the two of them. When Yumichika expresses discomfort at how the smoke stings his eyes, a laughing Ganju explains that this is a chili pepper smoke bomb called "Tears of Blood" developed by Kūkaku Shiba, only to realize that his own eyes sting as well and begin coughing profusely along with Yumichika, who berates Ganju for harming himself with his own strategy. As the two of them wander out of the smoke cloud, Yumichika asks Ganju where he is while Ganju refuses to be caught by him. Suddenly, Ganju and Yumichika slip off the edge of a nearby pit, and when Ganju grabs onto the edge, Yumichika grabs the bomb pouch on his back, leading Ganju to demand he let go while Yumichika inquires how he could do this.

Meanwhile, Ikkaku opens his eyes and wonders how he is still alive, and when Ichigo observes he is awake, Ikkaku sees him sitting on a chunk of rubble nearby and questions why he is still here. Ichigo holds up Ikkaku's sealed Zanpakutō and notes he did not know it would return to this form when Ikkaku lost consciousness. Though Ikkaku angrily demands that he give it back, Ichigo assures him that he is not going to steal Ikkaku's Zanpakutō and explains that he just wanted to use the styptic substance contained within the handle to stop the bleeding before admitting that he seems to have used up all of it, leading Ikkaku to realize that his chest wound has been completely sealed up with the substance. While Ichigo praises the effectiveness of the styptic, Ikkaku asserts that this was a dirty move on his part and clarifies that he is angered by surviving what should have been a fatal injury when Ichigo assumes that this is due to him using up all of the substance to cover their wounds. With Ikkaku agonizing over having to live in shame like this and claiming that he would beat Ichigo up if he could still move, an irritated Ichigo claims that he should not have saved Ikkaku if he is going to be this ungrateful and gets up before admitting that he does not care how grateful Ikkaku is because he just wants answers.

Ichigo: I just need some answers from you.

Ikkaku: So what is it you want from me? You wanna know my birthday?

Observing that this is just his luck and that he knew something like this was coming, Ikkaku sarcastically asks Ichigo if he wants to know when Ikkaku's birthday is, only to be shocked when Ichigo inquires where Rukia is being held.

Ichigo: I want Rukia Kuchiki. Where is she?

Back at the pit, Ganju tells Yumichika to let go because he is heavy and struggles to continue holding on. As Yumichika begs him to not let go because no one who falls into the pit can ever get out, Ganju finds his grip loosening and ends up letting go, resulting in the two of them falling into the pit as they scream. However, Ganju quickly hits a pile of trash bags and emerges while declaring that he does not want to die, only to realize how bad the area smells and clamp his hands over his nose as he wonders what this place is. Turning to Yumichika when the latter emerges from the pile of trash bags, Ganju reminds him of his claim that no one who fell into the pit could ever get out, but Yumichika reveals that this is just an ordinary garbage dump. After removing some refuse from his head, Yumichika admonishes Ganju for causing him to fall in here and promises to make him pay before resuming his attack with Fuji Kujaku, which Ganju narrowly dodges. Though Ganju points out that Yumichika made himself fall in here, Yumichika tells him to shut up and slashes at him once more, leading Ganju to evade and begin climbing up a nearby ladder to the surface, where he begins running away once more while Yumichika leaps out of the pit and continues to pursue him with irritation.

Ikkaku: Rukia? Yes, I know about that capital offender. What do you want with someone like that?

Meanwhile, Ikkaku questions what the Ryoka want with a condemned prisoner like Rukia, Ichigo bluntly asserts that they have come to save her.

Ichigo: We're here to save her.

Ikkaku: What the?! Do you mean a rescue? How many of you are there here?

Ichigo: Five humans and one animal.

Stunned by this, Ikkaku inquires how many of Ichigo's team came here. While Uryū and Orihime move out after waiting for two Shinigami to leave the area they are hiding in, Sado runs down an alley, and Yoruichi looks out over the Seireitei, Ikkaku assumes that there are seven or eight Ryoka, only for Ichigo to reveal that his team consists of five people and a cat.

Ikkaku: Five humans and an animal? And you seriously intend to rescue her with so few?

Ichigo: That's right.

When a bewildered Ikkaku picks up on the mention of a cat and questions if he really intends to save Rukia with so few people, Ichigo confidently affirms this, causing Ikkaku to begin laughing wildly as he claims that Ichigo will never pull off something like this and wonders if he is stupid. Suddenly, Ikkaku grimaces and notes that his laughter caused his wound to open up again as blood spurts from his chest, leading Ichigo to question who is the stupid one between the two of them.

Ikkaku: Alright, listen. If you go directly south from here, you'll come to the stations for the Thirteen Court Guard Squads.

After calming down, Ikkaku tells Ichigo that the barracks for the Gotei 13 are located directly south of here, and when a surprised Ichigo inquires if he is really going to tell him, an annoyed Ikkaku promises that he will not if Ichigo does not shut up before asserting that Rukia should be in a white tower west of the barracks. Though Ichigo is unsure about the validity of this information, Ikkaku informs him that he has no interested in what Ichigo does with Rukia.

Ichigo: Huh? So, you are willing to give me the information?

Ikkaku: Just shut up and listen before I change my mind! Off by itself at the far west end of all the squad stations, you'll see a tall white tower. That's where the prisoner's being held.

Ichigo: What? Are you sure?

Telling Ichigo to save Rukia if this is what he wants to do, Ikkaku instructs him to leave before any other Shinigami arrive to fight him. As he complies with this, Ichigo tells Ikkaku he owes him, though Ikkaku brushes this off as annoying, and begins to walk away.

Ikkaku: Now you're doubting me? I have no interest in the success of failure of your rescue. Save the girl if you want. I don't care about it either way. But if you stay here any longer, I guarantee you other Soul Reapers will find you So go, if you're going!

Ichigo: Right. Thank you. I owe you for this, Ikkaku.

However, Ikkaku stops him and asks Ichigo who the strongest member of his team is, and when Ichigo confirms it is him, Ikkaku warns him to watch out for Kenpachi because the latter has no interest in weak fighters and will most likely come after Ichigo if he is the strongest.

Ikkaku: Don't go getting sentimental on me. It's annoying. Just a minute. Can I ask you a question? Who's the strongest member of your group?

Ichigo: Well, that would be me.

Ikkaku: If so, then I suggest you keep an eye out for me captain, Ichigo. the Captain has no interest in fighting against weak opponents. If it's true that you are the strongest, then it's you he will come after.

When an unnerved Ichigo wonders if Kenpachi is strong, Ikkaku promises he will find out how strong Kenpachi is if he survives him.

Ichigo: He's that good?

Ikkaku: You'll find out when you meet. That is, if you can somehow manage to stay alive long enough after he finds you to take his measure.

Ichigo: Tell me what his name is.

Ikkaku: Captain of Squad 11, Kenpachi Zaraki.

Ichigo nervously asks Ikkaku for Kenpachi's name, which Ikkaku gives him. Elsewhere, Kenpachi finds himself at another dead end, which prompts Yachiru to claim it is his fault for being the first in pursuit despite having no sense of direction. Claiming that they are stuck because he trusted Yachiru's intuition, Kenpachi decides to keep moving and runs off as Yachiru cheers him on.

As he runs through an alley in the Seireitei, Ichigo Kurosaki wonders where Ganju Shiba ran off to and recalls how 11th Division 5th is pursuing him Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa, whom Ichigo knows is the fifth strongest member of the division despite not being able to properly remember his face, as he notes that he will need to rescue Ganju due to the latter being outclassed.

Ganju: *Pant* *Pant* Hrroooahh!

Expressing frustration at how all of the areas he has run through look the same, Ichigo comes to a halt and inhales deeply before loudly demanding to know where Ganju is and instructing him to set off a firework so Ichigo can reach his location. Suddenly, Ichigo realizes that Goteitaishi and three other members of the Eleventh Division are smoking and playing cards nearby, and after bemoaning how he gave away his position, Ichigo begins frantically running away from the Shinigami, who pursue him while promising to kill him. With the pursuing Shinigami not caring if they die in the process, Ichigo frantically runs through several different alleys and demands to know where Ganju is. Elsewhere, a bloodied Ganju runs through a different alley before coming to a stop at the edge of another execution pit, which prompts him to question how many such pits there are in the Seireitei.

Yumichika: Heh. What beastly running.

Ganju: Dammit! This guy sure is persistent. Come on, doesn't he ever get tired?

From behind Ganju, Yumichika asserts that this is the last hole he will see and approaches Ganju, who refuses to believe this and asserts that he will escape Yumichika even if it means jumping into a hole. Chuckling at this, Yumichika offers to let Ganju try and explains that the bottom of the pit is covered in Sekkiseki. As he details how this Sekkiseki coating blocks Reiryoku on contact, Yumichika concludes that this is why those who fall in can ever get out again before rushing toward Ganju, who rolls out of the way at the last second and rolls along the ground until he slams into a wall, where he clutches his shoulder in pain. Observing that the damage he inflicted is still there, Yumichika commends Ganju for having eluded him for so long despite his injuries and ugliness. When Ganju expresses his disgust at this, Yumichika merely claims that this cannot be helped because it is natural for the ugly to envy the beautiful and chuckles as he raises his Shikai, Fuji Kujaku. Upon hearing Ichigo screaming Ganju's name and being chased by Shinigami nearby, Yumichika inquires if he is Ganju's comrade because he has been calling Ganju's name this entire time. While Ichigo notes the persistence of Goteitaishi and the other Shinigami pursuing him, Yumichika states that he behaves in the same ugly manner as Ganju does and observes that it only draws hordes of Shinigami before mocking Ichigo as lacking common sense. However, Ganju notes that Yumichika is the one who lacks common sense and points out how Ichigo can only be running around here because he defeated 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame, shocking Yumichika. Yumichika declares that this is impossible because the Eleventh Division is the strongest of the Gotei 13 and Ikkaku is the third-strongest fighter within the division, but as Yumichika questions how Ichigo could defeat Ikkaku, Ganju reaches down to his waist and pulls out a series of wrapped tubes bound together by a fuse, the end of which he scrapes along the length of his right arm gauntlet before throwing the tubes at Yumichika. With the tubes detonating in minor explosions in front of Yumichika's face, Ganju sprints away and slides next to another nearby wall, where he makes a circle with his hand on the ground while Yumichika berates him for being a coward.

As he resumes running away, Ganju proclaims that Yumichika has not seen anything yet and withdraws dozens of small bombs from his vest before throwing them at Yumichika to initiate Senpen Banka. Angered by Ganju calling this a technique, Yumichika splits Fuji Kujaku into four blades and slashes through the bombs, only to have his cheek cut by one of them as they explode. Upon seeing blood on his fingers when he touches his cheek, a furious Yumichika demands to know how Ganju could do this to his face, prompting Ganju to claim he looks more like a man now while moving his hand in a circle on the ground before being kicked in the chest by Yumichika. Criticizing Ganju as having no finesse, Yumichika theorizes that he plans to kill both of them by collapsing the ground with one of his spells, but Ganju refutes this on the grounds of considering it a waste to die in order to kill Yumichika and moves his hand in a circle on the ground next to him once more. After Ganju dodges his subsequent attack by rolling away, Yumichika praises his toughness in still being able to move despite how long he has been running and dodging attacks. With Yumichika claiming to marvel at his physical strength, Ganju mentally notes that he only needs a little more time because Seppa can only be used while Yumichika's guard is down. However, Yumichika merely notes that it is regrettable for Ganju to be so ugly because he would have been Yumichika's favorite had he been just a bit more beautiful as he uses Shunpo to appear behind Ganju, who realizes he cannot dodge in time, and slashes him across the back, sending Ganju rolling along the ground and into the pit, the edge of which he barely grabs onto with one hand at the last second. Walking up to Ganju, Yumichika mocks him for no longer being able to float out of harm's way with a Reishūkaku and asserts that he should at least die beautifully rather than persist in living as an ugly person, only for Ganju to disagree. As he raises his free hand up to the portion of the wall underneath where Yumichika is standing, Ganju moves it in a circle while observing that his and Yumichika's sense of aesthetics are different, to Yumichika's surprise, before declaring that he was taught to believe the one who survives is the greatest regardless of physical beauty while using Seppa, which causes the portion of the ground Yumichika is standing on to erupt sideways in a torrent of sand. Caught off-guard by this, Yumichika slips into the pit and manages to grab onto the edge of the newly-created hole, allowing Ganju to get back on the ground by pushing himself off of Yumichika's head. Though Yumichika is left enraged by Ganju putting his hand on his head, Ganju merely moves his hand in a circle on the ground one last time and asserts that Yumichika constantly underestimating him helped immensely. While Yumichika leaps back up onto the ground, Ganju slams his hand into the ground and unleashes Renkan Seppa Sen, causing large waves of sand to erupt into the air on either side of an astonished Yumichika. Seeing a substantial portion of the ground in front of him sliding back and tilting upward, Yumichika curses and leaps high into the air as the severed portion of the ground slides into the pit alongside the sand behind him.

Yumichika: How are you holding up? I doubt you have much energy left to continue this escapade. Since our first encounter, you've exhausted yourself running away from me while sustaining my attacks, and yet you can still move when you need to. I should commend you for making it this far, considering how perfectly ugly you are.

Ganju: You really make me sick, you self-serving bastard!

Yumichika: Oh, is that right? Well, that can't be helped. It's only natural. Ugly always envy the beautiful ones. This proves my point. Unfortunately for you, to rely solely on that is...regrettable. If only you has been born more beautiful. Your death at my hand would most certainly have been my very favorite.

With Yumichika berating Ganju for thinking such a trick would be enough to finish him and demanding that he show himself, Ganju calls out to him from below and hurls a lit firework directly at Yumichika, who finds it stuck to his head upon impact.

Ganju: Heh. It comes down to the fact that our ideas about aesthetics are completely different. I was taught that when it comes to mortal combat, it doesn't matter if you're ugly or beautiful in the world, what matters is who survives! It helped that you continued to underestimate me to the very end.

After being told that it is a bomb, Yumichika screams in terror as it detonates, creating a large firework explosion that Ichigo sees from far away.

Yachiru: I thought all along you should've turned right at that last corner.

Kenpachi: But you're the one who said to come this way!

Criticizing Ganju for signaling his location so late as he stands over the incapacitated Shinigami who were chasing him, Ichigo stomps on the back of one of them when he tries to get up. Elsewhere in the Seireitei, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi sees the firework as well. As she realizes that they are close, Yachiru tells her captain, Kenpachi Zaraki, that they cannot reach the Ryoka this way due to having run into yet another dead end, and when Yachiru asserts that they should have turned right at the last corner, Kenpachi angrily reminds her that she is the one who decided they should come this way, prompting Yachiru to claim that Kenpachi should not blame others like this.

Yachiru: Hey, come on, Kenny. It's not like you to blame someone else. See that? Wasn't I close? Go over there.

Kenpachi: This way, right?

After having his attention directed to the firework above and to his right, Kenpachi simply kicks down the wall on his right and confirms with Yachiru that this is the way he should be heading before running off in that direction with Yachiru on his shoulder. Peering over the top of a nearby roof, Orihime Inoue asks Uryū Ishida if they are gone, which he affirms, and stands up alongside him while noting that they are lucky such a strong combatant did not notice them.

Uryu: They're gone, aren't they?

Orihime: I think so? He seemed terribly strong. It's lucky he didn't see us, don't you think?

Uryu: Yes. But he must be the same type as Ichigo. He has incredible strength, but his powers of observation are quite weak.

Uryū theorizes that Kenpachi has great power but poor observational skills like Ichigo and questions where they should go from here after having changed locations, then more group of Soul Reapers seem them.

Soul Reaper: There they are! Get 'em!

Uryu: Ah! Run!

They ran fast for Uryu and Orihime to outsmart them all for the second time now.

Orihime: Wow, which was a close one.

Uryu: Now, I know that we should keep moving, but the real question is, where do we go from here?

Orihime: Well, how about that way? I can see a tower in the distance.

Uryu: Yeah? Where is it?

Orihime: Look. Over there.

All was well again, but when Orihime tries to direct his attention to a tower in the distance, Uryū turns his head to see 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka standing next to Orihime and preparing to attack her as she obliviously continues to point at the tower, to Uryū's shock.

Uryu: Huh? Orihime, watch out!

Jirōbō slams his Zanpakutō downward and realizes that he did not hit Orihime when it crashes into and destroys part of the roof.

Jirobo: I'm impressed that you were able to dodge me at such close range. Very good. If our paths had not crossed this way, then perhaps you might have lived a while longer.

As he turns to see Uryū holding Orihime, having saved her with Hirenkyaku (Flying Bamboo-Blind Slide), Jirōbō praises him for being able to escape at such close range and asserts that they may have lived a bit longer if they had met anyone other than him before holding out his Zanpakutō as be begins counting to ten in order to give them time to regret. Elsewhere in the Seireitei, Yoruichi Shihōin senses the various clashes of Reiatsu and encourages the Ryoka to live rather than die before jumping down off the corner of a roof. While Jirōbō continues to count to ten, Orihime assures Uryū that she is alright, which he affirms, and mentally observes that he is not the same Uryū as before while recalling how he briefly vanished from her perception when saving her faster than she could realize from Jirōbō.

Uryu: Orihime! You must run!

With Orihime noting that Yoruichi's explanation of Uryū being a Quincy whose enemy are the Shinigami holds true with how quickly his demeanor changed once confronted by a Shinigami, Jirōbō finishes counting to ten and declares that the time for regret is over before inquiring if they were able to regret to their satisfaction, leading Uryū to warn Orihime that he is coming. After proclaiming that it is now time for more regret, Jirōbō leaps toward Orihime and Uryū as he slashes downward, prompting them to leap away in opposite directions as Jirōbō's Zanpakutō crashes into the area where they were standing. Though Uryū claims that he will be Jirōbō's opponent, Jirōbō merely picks up a handful of dust and throws it at Uryū's face, causing him to lose his balance and roll down the side of the roof before managing to grab onto the ledge at the end while pieces of tile fall to the ground below. With Uryū holding on with one hand, Jirōbō asserts he is not the one that decides who fights as he turns to face Orihime, who assumes a combat stance.

Orihime: (No, you're wrong. I must not run. I've got to stay and fight. Otherwise, how could I save Ichigo?) Tsubaki! Koten Zanshun! I reject!

Promising to end Orihime's regret with her death, Jirōbō begins attacking her as a concerned Uryū tells Orihime to run away. However, while she dodges Jirōbō's attacks, Orihime mentally declares that she has to fight and save Ichigo rather than run before summoning Tsubaki, who expresses eagerness at finally getting to fight as he tells Orihime to aim well. Unnerved by Jirōbō noticing Tsubaki's appearance, Orihime lands and uses Koten Zanshun, causing Tsubaki to hurtle toward Jirōbō, only for the latter to contemptuously slash through Tsubaki mid-flight. As a surprised Orihime expresses concern and catches him, a wounded Tsubaki criticizes her hesitation.

Tsubaki: Dammit!

Orihime: No, Tsubaki!

With Tsubaki returning to Orihime's hairpin, Jirōbō walks up behind her and admits that this is the first time he has seen such a technique before criticizing her lack of killing intent, as such a move will not work against Shinigami even if it can destroy Hollows.

Jirobo: I have never seen a move like that before. And yet, I sense no murderous intent behind your attack! I assure you it will have no effect whatsoever on Soul Reapers. This is a battleground. And by you not fighting to skill, you'll never succeed in stopping anyone!

As a frightened Orihime realizes she cannot move, Jirōbō raises his Zanpakutō above his head and proclaims Orihime will not be able to stop anyone on a battlefield without killing intent while bringing his Zanpakutō down onto her. Suddenly, a Heilig Pfeil (Sacred Destruction Arrows) hurtles toward them from the side and slams into Jirōbō's hand, pushing his Zanpakutō away from Orihime and wounding the back of his hand. While Jirōbō expresses astonishment at this, Uryū invites Jirōbō to fight him because he will find plenty of killing intent in Uryū's bow as he stands with the latest version of his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, fully formed and with steam trailing from his fingers.

Uryu: If you want to face an attack with an intent to kill...Then why not fight me? I'm sure you'll find it here in my bow. It's a thrill I'd love to give you.

Within the Shishinrō in Senzaikyū, Rukia Kuchiki looks out her single narrow window and expresses surprise upon seeing 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada approaching the tower along the bridge. As Rukia recognizes him, Hanatarō stops in front of the two Shinigami guarding the entrance, who demand to know why he is here and order him to leave, prompting him to reveal he cleaned Rukia's cell in the Sixth Division barracks.

Though Hanatarō explains that he thought the Shishinrō might need cleaning as well with the broom he is holding, one of the Shinigami emphatically states that the Shishinrō cannot be opened until its inhabitant's sentence is conducted, and when Hanatarō protests this, the Shinigami threatens to cut him to pieces with the staff he is carrying. Intimidated by this, Hanatarō agrees to leave and walks back to the other end of the bridge while Rukia solemnly stares at the interior of her cell in silence. Elsewhere, Ichigo finds himself surrounded by dozens of Eleventh Division members, who taunt him as being unable to escape and worth a promotion for his killer. As Ichigo observes that they all became very confident when he let up on the offensive slightly and nervously questions what he should do, the Shinigami begin to pile on top of him, leading an irritated Ichigo to throw them all off while demanding that they stop so he can run away again, which he does. With the Shinigami resuming their pursuit of him, Ichigo wonders how many of them there are. Back on the roof, Jirōbō expresses interest in Uryū and asks him if he is a Quincy, and while Uryū confirms this, a stunned Orihime observes that his Kojaku is completely different in both appearance and Reiatsu from the last time she saw it.

Jirobo: Ahh, very interesting. So I guess that makes you a Quincy?

Uryu: You're right about that.

Noticing the Sanrei Glove that Kojaku is attached to, Orihime realizes that he must have been training alone in order to use it properly. A chuckling Jirōbō notes the strange situation of a combatant with unknown abilities and a Quincy who both use projectile weapons fighting him, which he calls a twist of fate, and decides to show them the true form of his Zanpakutō before sliding his free hand into its blade to release his Shikai, Tsunzakigarasu, which causes the blade to separate into dozens of spinning, radially symmetrical, dual-edged blades that begin whirling through the air around him as he places the handle of his Zanpakutō into its scabbard. While Orihime expresses shock at this, Jirōbō tells Uryū to regret and introduces himself before revealing his moniker of Kamaitachi Jirōbō, which he explains refers to his mastery over projectile weapons and how no one has ever lived after seeing the countless blades of his Tsunzakigarasu.

Orihime: (Uryu's bow...It's totally different from the one I saw before. Both in its appearance and even its Spiritual Pressure. Compared to the time he was battling Hollows alongside Ichigo...he's become a completely different person.)

Jirobo: How interesting. One uses an unfamiliar skill, the other is a Quincy, and both employ projectile weapons. And you have both come to this very place at this very time to fight against me. So do I call this an amazing coincidence, or a brilliant twist of fate? Either way, I must show you the true form of my Zanpakto! Spread your wings, Tsunzakigarasu!

Jirobo's Zanpakuto = Flap Away - Tsunzakigarasu (Splitting Crow!). As Jirōbō assumes that Uryū cannot follow the blades of Tsunzakigarasu with his eyes and asserts that they are the prelude to a brilliant death, Uryū simply remains silent, prompting Jirōbō to further claim that his bow and arrow are helpless before Tsunzakigarasu and that he will regret having met Jirōbō as a fellow expert in projectile weapons.

Suddenly, every single one of the blades whirling around Jirōbō is destroyed by dozens of Heilig Pfeil fired all around Jirōbō, who is left stunned as Uryū observes that the weapons masters of Soul Society like to make long-winded speeches unlike those of the Human World. Proclaiming that this was a fluke, an unnerved Jirōbō attempts to recreate the blades of Tsunzakigarasu by drawing his Zanpakutō manage from its scabbard while warning Uryū to not be cocky, but Uryū merely notes that he still does not understand and fires another Heilig Pfeil that destroys all of the newly-created blades as well as part of the handle of Jirōbō's Zanpakutō. With his hand having been injured by this attack, Jirōbō screams in pain and falls to his knees while clutching his bleeding hand. Apologizing, Uryū states that he is taking Jirōbō's moniker if this is the best he can do because he is clearly the superior projectile weapons user, though he does not consider the title Kamaitachi Uryū to sound very cool.

Meanwhile, in a different part of the Seireitei, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi stands in a street with his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, as he instructs the Shinigami of his division standing before him to take the Ryoka alive if they find any because they may make interesting research specimens for him. Instructing the Shinigami to not let the other divisions find the Ryoka first, Mayuri orders them to move out, which they comply with. As Mayuri admits that he does not expect the Ryoka to be very good research subjects because they are only Human, Nemu catches an approaching Jigokuchō on her finger, and when Mayuri inquires what the message it is carrying is, Nemu lets it fly away as she informs him that Ikkaku encountered and fought a Ryoka earlier. Though a surprised Mayuri assumes this means the Eleventh Division already has a Ryoka, Nemu reveals Ikkaku was beaten by the Ryoka and taken to the Fourth Division's Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho for treatment. With Nemu concluding that the Ryoka escaped and his whereabouts remain unknown, Mayuri is shocked by the idea of a Ryoka defeating a Shinigami and grins as he notes that there seem to be interesting subjects among the Ryoka. When asked where Kenpachi is, Nemu states that he is searching for Ryoka, prompting Mayuri to realize that he does not know about this yet and decide to get there first in order to obtain information on the Ryoka before he finds out. When Mayuri begins walking away, Nemu questions where he is going, only to be insulted for being slow to understand that he is going to see Ikkaku before being ordered to follow Mayuri.

Chad: I thought I sensed Ichigo's Spiritual Pressure. It looks like I just missed him.

From Yoruichi and Chad missing out Ichigo and/or Ganju, an army of other Soul Reapers appeared.

Soul Reaper: Hey, you there! Who are you and what do you know about all these bodies lying here? What's with that stupid outfit you're wearing? Hey, are you with the intruders we saw earlier?

Chad: Intruders you saw earlier? Probably, yes?

Well, they're not idiots to fall for it.

Soul Reaper: If you think you could answer us in riddles and get away with it, you're about to pay for that with our life, intruder! you're gonna get cut to shreds in five minutes.

So Chad was ready to fight them just to knock all the Soul Reapers out cold.

Chad: I am sorry, but I'm afraid I cannot give you that much time. This won't take five minutes. Only two.

Does so in seconds to make his escape afterwards just in time. Wow, he isn't strong for nothing.

Chad: Yoruichi, Orihime, Uryu, Ichigo...I hope everyone is fine. I hope they're not hurt.

Elsewhere, after running along several different rooftops, Yoruichi comes to a stop upon sensing Kenpachi's Reiatsu and realizes he is on the move while warning Ichigo to be careful. With Ichigo running through an alley and Rukia sitting quietly in the Shishinrō, Yasutora Sado blows a hole in a wall with a blast from his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, before hearing the yelling of a swarm of Shinigami as they chase a screaming Ganju through a nearby alley. Back on the rooftop, Uryū coldly stares at a sweating and panting Jirōbō.

From Jirobo's Zanpakto skills in its form and ready to fight...

Jirobo: See how my countless blades dance through space? No one who has seen my attack has lived!

With Uryū Ishida having shot his left hand with a Heilig Pfeil in the process of destroying his Shikai, Tsunzakigarasu, 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka clutches it in agony while a stunned Orihime Inoue observes that Uryū is completely different compared to when she last saw him fighting with and alongside Ichigo Kurosaki. During this, Uryū inquires if Jirōbō regrets encountering him as a fellow expert in projectile weapons. Despite angrily cursing Uryū for suggesting such a thing, Jirōbō's subsequent attempt to resume his attack is interrupted when Uryū casually fires two more Heilig Pfeil into the rooftop right in front of his left foot, each missing it by less than an inch, and asserts that he missed on purpose before promising not to miss next time. However, Uryū is caught off-guard when Jirōbō bows his head and responds by praising the speed, power, and accuracy of his technique while admitting that it surpasses his own. Claiming to be utterly defeated by having met such a skillful practitioner, Jirōbō offers to let Uryū dispose of him in any manner he wishes, only for Uryū to lower his Heilig Bogen, Kojaku, after a few seconds of consideration. Upon being asked by Jirōbō if his refusal to shoot him means that he is letting Jirōbō go, Uryū states that he has no mercy for Shinigami as a Quincy and clarifies that he simply does not like bullying the weak. As he lets Kojaku disperse back into ambient Reishi, Uryū instructs Jirōbō to get out of here before he changes his mind, prompting Jirōbō to note he is a kind-hearted person before proclaiming this will be his undoing as he turns to attack Orihime. Suddenly, Uryū appears between Jirōbō and Orihime with Kojaku fully reformed, to the shock of both of them, and theorizes that Jirōbō thought he could at least get Orihime if he could not beat Uryū himself as he questions if Jirōbō intended to take Orihime hostage. When Jirōbō nervously inquires how he knew this, Uryū forms and draws back a Heilig Pfeil while explaining that he does not mind exposing cowards even if he does not like bullying the weak before pointing out how Jirōbō was targeting Orihime from the moment he arrived. As he aims the Heilig Pfeil at Jirōbō, Uryū notes that most people would not attack a woman when she is not looking. Uryū asserts that any warrior with honor would never do such a thing because this is a coward's way of fighting, and as he bids Jirōbō farewell, Uryū claims that he does not deserve time to regret before shooting a screaming Jirōbō in the chest with two Heilig Pfeil at once, sending him flying back across the rooftop.

Uryu: I bid you farewell, and good riddance. You're not even worth lamenting.

Orihime: Thank you, Uryu.

Uryu: Er, there's nothing to thank you for.

With Uryū letting Kojaku disperse once more and looking at the steam emanating from his Sanrei Glove, Orihime thanks him and preemptively finishes his sentence when an embarrassed Uryū begins to assure her that she does not need to thank him because he did not do much, leading her to smile as he stares in surprise. Upon being asked by Orihime if Jirōbō is dead, Uryū denies this and explains how he shot Jirōbō's Saketsu and Hakusui, the source of his Reiryoku, in order to destroy his spiritual powers and prevent him from ever becoming a Shinigami again once he wakes up, which Uryū considers a sufficient result for this battle. When Uryū suggests that they leave, Orihime agrees and walks away with him as she mentally recalls Yoruichi Shihōin's explanation of how Quincy fight by gathering Reishi from the atmosphere around them. Theorizing that Uryū's Sanrei Glove increases his ability to gather Reishi, Orihime concludes that Uryū trained by himself in order to protect them. After marveling at Uryū mastering the Sanrei Glove to such a degree after training with it for just ten days despite how powerful and dangerous it is, Orihime questions what she has accomplished with her training by comparison before losing her balance as she walks, prompting Uryū to leap back and catch her by the hand.

Orihime: (Uryu had been training on his own. And to think he mastered the skill to such a degree in only 10 days, all by himself. Uryu is really incredible. But it does make me wonder. What did I accomplish in those 10 days?)

Though she is disheartened by Uryū's dismissive response to her thanks for this, Orihime hears Tatsuki Arisawa's voice telling her to persevere while a light shines from the heavens, and as Orihime remembers promising to come back to Tatsuki, a concerned Uryū frantically asks her if she got hurt earlier, leading her to apologize equally frantically. Orihime claims that she simply got teary-eyed while looking at the sun and compares it to needing to sneeze when looking at a bright light, needing to use the restroom while waiting at the bookstore, and having one's gums bleed when biting into an apple, leaving Uryū bewildered as she walks past him and says that they should get going.

Uryu: What's wrong, Orihime?

Orihime: It's nothing, Uryu. I'm just fine, really! Well, we better get moving, Uryu! We've got places to go! (I'll just do my best. I better find a safe place to heal Tsubaki as soon as possible. I have to fight for Tatsuki's and Ichigo's sake.)

With Orihime confidently stating that she is going to do her best, Uryū wonders if she is sure that she is alright and finds himself uncertain of how to explain when she requests to know why.

Uryu: OK...?

Elsewhere in the Seireitei, a screaming Ganju Shiba runs from a horde of Shinigami and questions why he is always the one being chased.

Ichigo: Dammit! Ganju! Where the hell are you?

Upon having his appearance repeatedly insulted by the Shinigami behind him, Ganju demands to know why they are saying this and admits that 11th Division 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa was attractive before asserting that the Shinigami chasing him are just as ugly as he is, only to begin crying when he further angers them with this and realizes that he cannot win an argument with so many enemies chasing him.

Ganju: Gaaaaahhhhh! Why is it that no matter where we go, I'm always the one being chased all over the place?!

Soul Reaper: Come back here, you side-burn clown!

When he sees Ichigo run into the intersection ahead, Ganju expresses relief at finally receiving reinforcements, but is left shocked when even more Shinigami pour out of the alley behind Ichigo and continue following him.

Ichigo: Ganjuuu!

Ganju: Ichigo! Just in time! I could really use some backup right about now!

Despite Ganju's confusion over him also being chased and pleas for him to stop waving and running this way because he is riling up his Shinigami pursuers, Ichigo continues to run toward Ganju while calling out to him, resulting in the two of them simultaneously attacking the Shinigami around them upon meeting up. As he lands after kicking a Shinigami in the face, Ichigo draws his Shikai, Zangetsu, and instructs Ganju to duck before attacking several more Shinigami in rapid succession. Nearby, 4th Division 3rd Seat Yasochika Iemura leads 8th Seat Harunobu Ogidō and several other Shinigami from his division through an alley toward the fighting Shinigami. Informing the Shinigami that the first, sixth, and fourteenth relief teams are approaching their position, Iemura orders the Shinigami behind him to run faster because this is not a drill, which they comply with. Meanwhile, Ganju tearfully berates Ichigo for swinging Zangetsu with no warning and demands to know why he did this as they stand over several incapacitated Shinigami. Though Ichigo points out that he warned Ganju in advance, Ganju asserts that he did so without giving Ganju enough time to properly respond, and when Ichigo claims that he should have reacted right away, Ganju angrily questions how he could have done this. Upon noticing the remaining Shinigami leering at them on either side, Ganju wonders what they should do now because these Shinigami do not seem like the type to back off just because he and Ichigo displayed their strength even if they managed to take out some of them with a surprise attack earlier. Nearby, 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada walks along and notes that he is very late before debating whether he should go back, as it will be hard to tell Iemura where he went but the latter will be even angrier if he does not show up.

Hanataro: Ah, I'm totally late. I'm gonna be in big trouble if I don't get there soon. Where is everyone anyway...Hm? I know, I'll ask these guys if they've seen my group. Excuse me everybody, but by any chance have you see Squad 4, Group-oh, whoa-ah!

Suddenly, Hanatarō sees the crowd of Shinigami standing in front of him and decides to ask them for help while approaching them. However, Hanatarō trips on a raised flagstone and crashes into the Shinigami, who begin berating him and demanding to know what he is doing here while Hanatarō apologizes.

Soul Reaper: Hey! Let go! Ow! Walk straight!

Hanataro: Oh, excuse me, oh!

Soul Reaper: Get your hands off me!

Hanataro: Yaw-ah! Well, that didn't work out exactly like I planned it.

Watching this, a confused Ichigo wonders what is causing this commotion before Hanatarō is thrown headlong into the center of the crowd with him and Ganju.

Ganju: Hm? Ichigo, I think I have an idea how we can get ourselves out of this place.

Ichigo: Is that right? Me too.

As Hanatarō expresses discomfort over what he just went through, Ganju smiles and tells Ichigo that he has produced an easy plan for them to get out of there, and as Ichigo affirms that he has had the same idea, Hanatarō nervously picks up on their mention of a plan and questions if they are the Ryoka he has been warned about.

Hanataro: So, you guys are trying to find a way to get out of this place? But why would you be trying to get away from here? Unless of course, you happen to be the Ryoka everyone is...so...worried about...

Suddenly, Ichigo and Ganju yank Hanatarō to his feet and hold Zangetsu to his neck while threatening to kill him if the other Shinigami do not let them through as Hanatarō screams in fright.

Ganju: Back off ya punks and let us through!

Hanataro: Ahhhh!

Elsewhere, an irritated 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki runs down an alley with his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, clinging to his back and questions if this is really the right way to go, only to be angered when Yachiru admits that she is uncertain. As Yachiru decides on a whim that they should change direction, Kenpachi berates her for this, but sullenly complies with her proposed change when she threatens to let him decide which way to run by himself. Kenpachi insists that Yachiru make sure this is the right direction as he moves further and further away from Ichigo and Ganju's actual location. Meanwhile, though he initially begs for his life, Hanatarō quiets down upon realizing that the other Shinigami are standing in silence instead of reacting to his being taken hostage.

Soul Reaper: What the hell are you idiots doing?

Ichigo: Huh? What does it look like? We took a hostage.

Soul Reaper: I see. And does he look like one of us to you?

When a stunned Ganju wonders what is going on, Ichigo theorizes that the Shinigami did not hear them the first time and suggests that they try again, leading to Ichigo and Ganju once again threatening to kill Hanatarō if the Shinigami do not let them through, with Hanatarō half-heartedly screaming as well at Ichigo's insistence.

Ichigo: Uh, who are you?

Hanataro: We're all on the same side, but I'm Squad 4 and they're Squad 11.

Ichigo: So? What difference does that make?

Upon being asked by two of the Shinigami what they are doing, a bewildered Ichigo points out that they are taking a hostage, only for another Shinigami to inquire if it looks like Hanatarō is their friend. While Hanatarō clarifies to Ichigo that he is from the Fourth Division and they are from the Eleventh Division, which Ichigo is confused by the difference between, one of the Shinigami observes that the Ryoka really are outsiders and decides to explain the situation to them, so Ichigo does not compare the two divisions.

Soul Reaper: I shouldn't bother explaining it to you, but it's much too insulting to have you lump us together, so listen up! We of Squad 11 are led by the strongest captain. As such, we are the strongest unit and always the first into battle!

Ichigo: What's your squad again?

Hanataro: It's Squad 4. It's a great squad to be in.

The Shinigami details how, of the Gotei 13, the Eleventh Division is the strongest in combat because the strongest captain leads them.

Soul Reaper: Don't make me laugh. Squad four is just the rear echelon service squad that provides first aid for minor injuries. That's where all the loser wimps who can't even wield a sword get assigned. The rest of us can't stand the little weasel. So whatever you do, don't confuse them with us. Because when it comes to Squad 4, WE HATE THEM! If you wanna kill this one, go right ahead!

Hearing this, Ganju notes that the Shinigami of the Eleventh Division all have weird hairstyles while Hanatarō's is normal, and as Hanatarō meekly thanks him for this, Ichigo questions where he is from again, leading Hanatarō to remind him that he is from the Fourth Division, which the Shinigami describes as being the lower echelon of the Gotei 13 that specializes in relief and a bunch of wimps who cannot even wield a sword properly.

Ganju: Wait a minute! Don't you think it's kinda cruel recommending death for someone just because they have different responsibilities?

Ichigo: Hey, that almost makes sense.

After the Shinigami of the Eleventh Division claim the Fourth Division is comprised of weaklings with no reason to exist, they assert Ichigo and Ganju would do them a favor by killing Hanatarō because they hate the Fourth Division. Unnerved by this as Hanatarō screams in fright, Ganju claims it is cruel for the Shinigami to not care what happens to Hanatarō just because they do not like him, which Ichigo sarcastically states is a rational argument. With the Shinigami charging toward them from the front, Ichigo expresses annoyance at having to fight their way out once again, only for the Shinigami to be suddenly blasted away by a large explosion of force from the wall next to them.

Soul Reaper: Hey! Get 'em! Let's go!

Ichigo: Looks like we're in for a fight!

Though unsure of what caused this, Ichigo seizes the opportunity as having reduced their enemies by half and proceeds to attack the remaining Shinigami behind them as Ganju follows with Hanatarō over his shoulder. While Ichigo and Ganju fight their way through the remaining Shinigami, Yasutora Sado steps through the hole in the wall and sees the incapacitated Shinigami, prompting him to note that he thought he sensed Ichigo's Reiatsu earlier before concluding that he must have missed Ichigo. Upon being confronted by several more Shinigami who demand to know if he is responsible for the earlier explosion, Sado confirms that he is a friend of the guys who were here prior, and when the Shinigami promise to crush him in five minutes for disrespecting the Eleventh Division, Sado asserts that this will be done in two minutes as energy flares from his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante. At the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho in the Fourth Division barracks, 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi blasts a small hole into the wall with Kidō while standing with his lieutenant, Nemu Kurotsuchi, in front of a bedridden 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame.

Mayuri: Heh heh heh. So, you're going to refuse to cooperate, eh? Well, we'll see how long that lasts, Ikkaku Madarame.

Ikkaku: It's not that I won't talk. It's just that I really don't know anything. I don't know who the Ryoka are, and I have no idea what they're planning to do.

Mayuri: So what you're telling me is, even though you met and fought against these mysterious invaders in the streets, you were defeated in battle and then just retreated like a dog without learning a single shred of useful information?

Ikkaku: I'm afraid so. It may seem strange to you, but sometimes battle is like that. I've not seen the enemy's face nor heard his voice. So I'm afraid I have no information for you.

While Mayuri inquires if Ikkaku is really not going to say anything, one of the nurses in the building attempts to plead with him to stop his interrogation, only to be scared into silence when Mayuri blasts another hole into the door frame next to her head as he demands she shut up.

Mayuri: You lie. And now, you shall receive punishment appreciate to your failure.

Nemu: But Captain-!

When Nemu begins to speak up, Mayuri threatens to tear her to pieces again if she does not shut up as well.

Mayuri: Shut up, Nemu! Not now!

Nemu: I'm sorry...!

With Nemu meekly apologizing, Ikkaku clarifies that he simply does not know anything about the Ryoka's objective or destination, and when an irritated Mayuri inquires if he is saying that he fought a Ryoka and lost without gaining any information, Ikkaku confirms this and claims that he also did not see the enemy's face or hear his voice, leaving him with nothing to say. Angered by this, Mayuri declares that Ikkaku shall receive a punishment equal to his failure and raises his left hand into the air, only for Kenpachi to grab it by the wrist as he appears behind Mayuri and questions when the latter received the authority to punish Shinigami from other divisions.

Kenpachi: Interesting. Since when, I wonder, are you entitled to discipline members of squads other than your own, Mayuri?

Mayuri: Well, since his captain is here, there's no need for me to continue this interrogation. Good luck getting anything out of him, Zaraki. Nemu, let's go. You worthless girl.

Nemu: Yes, Captain. I'm coming.

After freeing himself from Kenpachi's grasp, Mayuri observes that there is no need for him to interrogate Ikkaku now that his captain is here and decides to withdraw as he orders Nemu to move out, which she complies with while respectfully nodding at Kenpachi on her way out.

Kenpachi: Captain.

When Kenpachi notes that he seems to have gotten himself beaten up badly, Ikkaku questions if Kenpachi is really here just to visit him, prompting Yachiru to pop and reveal that they just got lost, to Ikkaku's surprise.

Kenpachi: Is it true that you were defeated in battle?

Ikkaku: Yes, that is true. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I was defeated by the enemy and then allowed to live.

Yachiru claims that they only wound up here by coincidence and informs Ikkaku that they were worried while calling him "baldy", which Ikkaku reiterates that he told her not to call him.

Yachiru: Hi, Baldy! Boy, you sure are a mess.

Ikkaku: Don't call me that...!

While Yachiru produces further variants of "baldy" to call Ikkaku, Kenpachi reveals that he heard Ikkaku lost. With Ikkaku apologizing for coming back despite the shame of his defeat, Kenpachi asks him if the Ryoka who defeated him is strong, leading Ikkaku to confirm this and describe Ichigo as a Shinigami with orange hair and a sword as long as his body with no guard or handle before detailing how he is headed toward the Shishinrō in Senzaikyū, which Kenpachi realizes means he is after Rukia Kuchiki. Ikkaku states that he described Kenpachi to Ichigo and warned him to be on the lookout for his captain after their earlier battle.

Kenpachi: Is he strong?

Ikkaku: Yes, very strong. He is a Soul Reaper. He has short orange colored head and carrying a sword as long as his body. By now, he is headed toward the Shishinrō Repentance Cell. I gave him your description and I told him to be on the lookout for you, Captain. My warning about you did not seem to concern him. Regardless of where you meet him, you will surely enjoy an excellent battle.

As Ikkaku observes that Kenpachi will enjoy a great fight with Ichigo if the latter heeded Ikkaku's words because he is still growing stronger despite his already considerable power, a grinning Kenpachi asks Ikkaku for Ichigo's name.

Kenpachi: And his name is...?

Elsewhere, in a storage room, Hanatarō introduces himself to Ichigo and Ganju, who simultaneously declare that his name is hard to remember.

Hanataro: I am Hanataro Yamada.

Ichigo and Ganju: Dude, that name is so lame.

Though a flustered Hanatarō claims that others tell him his name is easy to remember, Ichigo lists similar-sounding alternative names that stand out more while Ganju wonders why Hanatarō is casually introducing himself despite being their enemy, which Hanatarō has no answer for.

Hanataro: What are you talking about? I like my name, and it most certainly is not lame.

Ichigo demands to know why Ganju brought Hanatarō along, and when Ganju admits that he accidentally carried Hanatarō when they were fleeing earlier, an incredulous Ichigo questions if Ganju just picks up anything he finds lying on the ground, prompting Ganju to point out that Ichigo himself did not notice Hanatarō was there until just now.

Ichigo: Why should we bother learning the enemy's name anyway? And why are you being so friendly and introducing yourself in the first place? Here's another question. What'd you bring him for?

Ganju: I couldn't help it, okay? He was sitting there, and I just picked him up and carried him by accident!

When Hanatarō requests that they stop fighting over him, Ichigo and Ganju angrily proclaim that no one is fighting over him in unison as Hanatarō reminds them that someone may find them if they raise their voices, astonishing Ichigo and Ganju as they quickly cover their mouths with their hands in response. After confirming with Ganju that they are safe for the moment, Ichigo observes that they do not know which road to take in order to reach the white tower even if Ikkaku was right about Rukia being there. With Hanatarō expressing surprise at the mention of Rukia, Ganju pulls out a hand-drawn and simple map of their location while noting that they do not want to run into any captains on the way as Ichigo realizes that there are no roads on the map. Upon noticing Ganju's signature in the bottom left-hand corner, a bewildered Ichigo inquires if Ganju drew this himself, leading Ganju to defensively claim that it is better than them having nothing to work with at all.

Ichigo: We're still screwed. Cause even if that bald guy I beat up was telling the truth about Rukia being held in some white tower...we still don't know where it is or which road we need to take to get there.

Hanatarō attempts to draw their attention, but Ichigo tells him to shut up because they are strategizing as Ganju assures Hanatarō that he can go home because he will not be of much use to them.

Hanataro: It's Rukia Kuchiki you're looking for, isn't it? I thought so. It all makes sense now. The younger sister of the Squad 6 Captain, currently being held as a capital offender. And that means, the white tower you were talking about must be the Repentance Cell. If you'll trust me, I can help you. I know the way into that tower. I'll guide you to the Repentance Cell.

However, Ichigo is shocked when Hanatarō asks him if he is referring to Rukia Kuchiki, and when he sees Ichigo's reaction, Hanatarō observes that he was right before describing Rukia as being the sister of 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki who is being held in Senzaikyū and revealing that he knows a hidden way into the tower. Elsewhere, with Kenpachi running along a rooftop, Yachiru points out that he is happier than she has seen him in a long time.

Affirming this, Kenpachi recounts how Ichigo survived 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru, defeated Ikkaku, and was described as strong and becoming stronger still by Ikkaku. As he wonders where Ichigo is, Kenpachi proclaims that he is waiting for Ichigo and leaps off the edge of the roof.

4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada guides Ichigo Kurosaki and Ganju Shiba through the canal network underneath the Seireitei, and when Ganju admits that he never would have thought to use it like this, Hanatarō explains that the network spans the entirety of the Seireitei, allowing them to go anywhere they like unimpeded. Though Ganju points out that the canals seem easily accessible due to the entrance being underneath a tile, Hanatarō dismisses the idea of them being caught by the Shinigami. Upon being asked by Ichigo why he thinks this, Hanatarō reveals that the only ones who fully comprehend the complex network are the members of the Fourth Division who specialize in relief and aid. However, when Ganju assumes that this is the case because the canals are used as a pathway for relief and aid, thus only requiring those who specialize in it to memorize the routes, Hanatarō stops and clarifies that the Fourth Division is simply tasked with cleaning the canals as part of the chores they are given due to being weak. As Ganju expresses pity for him and his comrades, Hanatarō claims it is not that bad and resumes walking forward, but Ichigo remains still and inquires why Hanatarō is doing all this for them despite being their enemy.

Ichigo: Why are you doing this for us? Why should our mission be any of your concern? We're still your enemies.

With Ganju protesting this, Ichigo demands to know why Hanatarō is guiding them without question even though they plan to go to a notorious prisoner being held in Senzaikyū, only to be surprised when Hanatarō reveals he has heard a lot about Ichigo from Rukia Kuchiki before expressing his desire for Ichigo to save Rukia.

Hanataro: I know more about you than you think, from listening to Rukia. She talked a lot about Ichigo Kurosaki.

Meanwhile, at the First Division barracks, 4th Division 7th Seat Yasochika Iemura delivers a situation report to the lieutenants. With 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, 8th Division Lieutenant Nanao Ise, 4th Division Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu, 2nd Division Lieutenant Marechiyo Ōmaeda, 12th Division Lieutenant Nemu Kurotsuchi, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai, and 1st Division Lieutenant Chōjirō Sasakibe standing before him, Iemura reports that 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame and 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa are withdrawing from the front lines due to serious injuries. While the lieutenants murmur in surprise, Iemura notes that a detailed damage report for the individual divisions is still pending investigation before revealing that the Eleventh Division was annihilated, to the shock of those present. With Hinamori expressing disbelief and Hisagi observing that the Ryoka have wreaked a lot of havoc in just a few hours since they entered the Seireitei, Marechiyo asserts that this is pathetic as Iemura continues by detailing how they have confirmed the presence of three Ryoka and have intelligence that two of them have taken a member of the Fourth Division hostage and are headed this way with him. Listening intently as Iemura concludes that the location of these two Ryoka is unknown because they have been unable to detect their Reiatsu for a considerable period of time, a stunned Renji recalls being overpowered by Ichigo during their first fight while Rangiku observes that they need to collect more information regardless. After recalling that he has not heard from 7th Division 4th Seat Jirōbō Ikkanzaka in some time, Iba admits that he believes Jirōbō has been defeated and requests that they check the area of twenty west for him. With a surprised Rangiku inquiring if he is referring to Kamaitachi Jirōbō, which Iba confirms, Hisagi notes he is Jidanbō's brother. An unnerved Izuru questions what is going on, and as Marechiyo decries the defeated Shinigami as pathetic, Hinamori turns to Renji in search of solidarity over how strange these events are, only to discover that he has left through a nearby window while the other lieutenants bicker over the Eleventh Division's conduct. During this, with Rukia sitting next to the narrow window in the Shishinrō in Senzaikyū and staring at a bird sitting next to her in the light of the window, Hanatarō explains to Ichigo and Ganju how she was held in the Sixth Division's prison ward prior to her transferal to Senzaikyū, where he was assigned to cleaning duty.

Hanataro: After Rukia was captured and before she was transferred to the Repentance Cell, or the white tower as you call it, she was held in a cell within the Squad 6 barracks.

Sitting with Ichigo and Ganju in an alcove along one of the canal paths, Hanatarō admits that he was scared of Rukia on his first day due to her being nobility. In the past, Hanatarō holds a broom while in Rukia's cell and formally informs her that he will start cleaning now, only to be surprised when Rukia requests that he address her normally instead. After Rukia smiles and thanks him when he calls her Rukia, Hanatarō expresses happiness. In the present, Hanatarō explains that Rukia's voice was much kinder than he had expected and that his daily cleaning at the barracks became something he looked forward to because Rukia began telling him things. In the past, Hanatarō sits next to Rukia and asks her what it is like to eat and drink in the Human World, but as Hanatarō immediately apologizes for his bluntness and assures her that she does not have to answer, Rukia reveals that they have a beverage called juice which comes in a paper package. When Hanatarō inquires what kind of drink this is, Rukia describes it as a difficult beverage, to his confusion, and clarifies that there is a trick to drinking it which even she had trouble with. While Hanatarō expresses amazement at there being a drink even though she had difficulties with, Rukia asserts that he may not be able to drink it even after hearing the trick.

Hanataro: At the time, I was assigned to cleaning duty there. So I saw her when she was brought in. To be honest, I was scared of her at first. I mean, she was nobility. But then, I...On that first day, when I spoke to her, I called her Miss Rukia" out of nervousness. But she told me not to address her formally. So I called her Rukia, and she thanked me for it. Her voice was so gentle. She was so much kinder than I expected her to be. It was such a relief to me.

With Hanatarō shocked by this, Rukia looks up and recalls having been taught the trick by Ichigo. Sometime later, upon being asked by Hanatarō if there was anything unusual in the Human World, Rukia asks Hanatarō if he was aware that a Modified Soul can be inserted into an inanimate object, and as a stunned Hanatarō notes that those are illegal, Rukia recounts how Ichigo inserted one into a stuffed doll that he found on the street. Hanatarō clarifies that stuffed dolls are the things made with cotton and expresses exasperation at how reckless some people can be to put a Modified Soul into one, though Rukia merely smiles at the description of Ichigo as reckless.

Hanataro: From that day on, my cleaning chores at the barracks stopped being something I dreaded and became something I actually looked forward to. And little by little, Rukia started telling me all kinds of things.

And this is what she said to him...

Hanataro: Rukia, is the person you gave your Soul Reaper powers to the same person you always mention in your stories about the World of the Living?

In the present, Hanatarō observes that the majority of the stories which Rukia told him about the Human World revolved around one person before recalling how she received an official execution order soon afterward.

Rukia: Yes, his name was Ichigo Kurosaki. I only spent a little time in that world with Ichigo, but somehow even after such a brief time, I felt I could trust him with my very life. Because of me...Because of me, Ichigo's ow destiny was changed and became twisted, and he was hurt terribly. There's no forgiving what I've done to him.

In the past, while cleaning Rukia's cell, Hanatarō questions if the person whom Rukia transferred her Shinigami powers to is the same person she is always speaking of, prompting Rukia to tell Hanatarō Ichigo's name as she admits that she always felt she could trust him sincerely despite only spending two months with him. However, Rukia clenches her fists and tearfully claims Ichigo became hurt and had his destiny twisted because of her. After shaking the tears out of her eyes, Rukia asserts that she can never atone for this.

Hanataro: Rukia sounded so sad when she said those words.

In the present, Hanatarō describes her as looking very sad as she said this, which leads a stunned Ganju to state that she is a strange Shinigami.

Ganju: Sounds to me like this Rukia's one strange Soul Reaper, don't you think?

Agreeing with this, Ichigo stands up and declares that this is why they are here to save her before walking off, to the confusion of Ganju and Hanatarō, who wonders if he said something wrong while he and Ganju chase after Ichigo.

Ichigo: Yeah, she's something else. And that's why we're gonna rescue her.

Ganju: Hey, stop! Where are you taking off to? Wait for me, Ichigo!

And soon enough, Hanataro follows the two boys to join in the rescue mission.

Hanataro: Did I say something wrong?

As he recalls Rukia's statement about being able to trust him completely despite the brief period of time she spent with him, Ichigo remembers the various battles and events he and Rukia found themselves involved in.

Ichigo: (You're wrong, Rukia. All of this was my fault. I swear there's no way I'm gonna let you die, Rukia!)

With Rukia's claim of having hurt him and twisted his fate ringing in his ears, Ichigo asserts that this is really his fault and begins running down the canal walkway as he proclaims that he will not let Rukia die. Soon afterward, in the misty area outside the steps leading up to Senzaikyū, Hanatarō peers around the area from underneath the entrance hatch to the canal network before assuring Ichigo and Ganju that it is safe for them to come up.

Hanataro: This is the quickest way to the white tower. There it is, up there. That's the white tower.

As he and Ichigo climb out, Hanatarō notes that this is the closest entrance to Senzaikyū itself while Ganju pokes his head out of the entrance and expresses relief at being able to breathe fresh air again. Upon having Senzaikyū pointed out to him and Ichigo by Hanatarō, Ganju marvels at the size of the prison despite how close they are and observes that the road ahead will still be rough. Noting that the mist shrouding the area is clearing, Ichigo states that they should get going, and he, Ganju, and Hanatarō begin approaching the stairs leading up to Senzaikyū.

Ganju: What do you see?

Ichigo: There's someone over there by the stairs.

However, Ichigo stops partway, and as a surprised Ganju inquires if something is wrong, Ichigo holds a hand up in front of him and reveals that someone is on the steps while the mist in front of them clears to reveal Renji standing on the steps, visibly shocking all three of them.

Renji: It's been a while. I wonder if you still remember my face.

Ichigo: Oh, you'll be gone and forgotten soon enough, but first, I've got a while mountain of payback I'm gonna extract from you, Renji Abarai.

As he lifts up his visor, Renji comments that it has been a long time since they last met and questions if Ichigo remembers his face, prompting Ichigo to admit that he would have preferred to forget it before asserting that he still owes Renji a mountain of payback and identifying him. Renji begins walking down the steps and grins while praising Ichigo for remembering his name, which Ichigo sarcastically thanks him for.

Renji: You not only remembered my face, but my name as well. You're full of surprises.

When a stunned Ganju wonders who Renji is and observes that his Reiatsu is on a completely different level than the Shinigami they have faced up until now, a frightened Hanatarō identifies him as the 6th Division Lieutenant, further shocking Ganju.

Ganju: Woah, who is this guy? His Spiritual Pressure is on a completely different level from all those guys we were tangling with before.

Hanataro: No, I can't believe it. That's Renji Abarai. He's the lieutenant of Squad 6!

Renji admits his surprise at Ichigo having survived 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki's attack as Ichigo begins approaching him despite Ganju's protests. Complimenting Ichigo's tenacity, Renji continues walking toward him and unsheathes his Zanpakutō while declaring this is as far as Ichigo goes.

Renji: I must admit, I'm surprised to see you. I was certain you'd be a dead man after I saw Captain Kuchiki attack you like that. I don't know how you ever managed to survive that, but it would seem that there was more to you than I first believed. But as I told you, I'm going to kill the one who stole Rukia's powers. So this is as far as you go.

With Renji reminding him of his promise to kill the one who stole Rukia's powers and claiming Rukia cannot get her powers back as long as he is alive, Ichigo angrily admonishes him for saying this after bringing her back to Soul Society just to kill her, and the two of them begin running toward across the pavilion each other while Ichigo draws his Shikai, Zangetsu.

Ichigo: What do you care about that when you've just sentenced her to death?! I'm gonna cut you to pieces!

Renji: Just go ahead and try!

As Ichigo proclaims he is coming through, Renji dares him to do so if he can defeat Renji and clashes with Ichigo, causing sparks to fly from their crossing blades. Elsewhere, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki runs along a rooftop with his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, on his shoulder before coming to a halt and observing that Renji is fighting the Ryoka who defeated Ikkaku before asserting that he will not be a fun opponent if he cannot defeat a lieutenant next. When Yachiru inquires how he can sense people fighting from far away despite his inability to detect Reiatsu, a grinning Kenpachi claims he can do so because he is strong, to Yachiru's confusion.

In a different part of the Seireitei, three Shinigami discuss their inability to find the Ryoka despite them having been in the Seireitei for a few hours and their own casualties continuing to rise. While one of the Shinigami explains that this is due to the craftiness of the Ryoka and explains how the captains and lieutenants to obtain the latest status report details, another Shinigami frantically calls out to them and reveals that they have found Jirōbō defeated nearby. Alarmed by this, the three Shinigami run off to investigate as Uryū Ishida and Orihime Inoue move out of the shadows of a nearby alcove into the alley and express relief at them being gone. Uryū observes that security is tightening due to Ichigo and the others causing so much damage in other parts of the Seireitei, and as she asserts that they can at least manage unseated Shinigami by now, Orihime expresses concern upon seeing Uryū's serious expression and asks him what is wrong while Uryū senses the Reiatsu of Ichigo and Renji. Nervously stating that Ichigo has found a tough opponent, Uryū is left shocked when Shun'ō and Ayame appear in front of his face and inquire if he is okay. Though Ayame assumes that he has a fever, Uryū assures them and Orihime that he is fine before requesting that they not worry about him, to Orihime's relief. As Orihime explains that she was worried because Uryū spaces out sometimes, Ayame expresses disappointment at not getting to use Sōten Kisshun, and Shun'ō bids Uryū farewell before returning to Orihime's hairpin alongside Ayame. After declaring that they should get going, Orihime runs off with Uryū. Meanwhile, Yasutora Sado runs along a road and up a set of stairs into an alley while observing that Ichigo's Reiryoku is rising, and his opponent's Reiatsu is very strong before concluding that he needs to hurry.

Back outside the stairs to Senzaikyū, Ichigo and Renji cross blades repeatedly, creating a shock wave of force around them. After staring each other down for a few seconds, Ichigo and Renji leap forward and clash once more, creating another shock wave of force that emanates outward. Watching this from afar, Ganju warns Ichigo that he cannot win because he is fighting against a lieutenant, but a stunned Hanatarō denies this and requests that Ganju look closely at Ichigo, who grunts as he presses back against Renji, forcing the latter back and eventually slamming him against the wall next to the steps. As he expresses amazement at Ichigo completely overpowering Renji like this, Hanatarō wonders what he is, though Ganju can only admit that he would like to know this as well. Upon being asked by Renji how he plans to save Rukia, Ichigo is left confused as Renji elaborates that there are eleven lieutenants and thirteen captains for Ichigo to defeat even if he beats Renji if he wants to save Rukia.

Renji: So, tell me the truth, Ichigo. Do you actually believe you're going to be able to rescue Rukia?

Ichigo: I do!

Renji: Even if somehow you were to defeat me, there are still eleven more lieutenants left. And then of course, above them are thirteen full-fledged Squad Captains. You would have to utterly defeat every single one of us to even have a chance of reaching the tower. You can't believe that you can pull that off.

Ichigo: I don't care about the odds! I don't care about how many captains or lieutenants there are! I'll defeat the all, every one of them. I'll defeat anyone who makes the mistake of getting in my way!

With Renji inquiring if he can really do this, Ichigo affirms this and proclaims that he will defeat anyone who gets in his way regardless of how many captains and lieutenants there are, though Renji merely questions where this confidence comes and why Ichigo is so worked up about this. After noting that Ichigo's Zanpakutō has changed, Renji warns him to not think that this makes him stronger and tilts his Zanpakutō, distracting Ichigo with the light reflection.

Renji forces Ichigo back and into the air with an outward thrust of his Zanpakutō before releasing his Shikai, Zabimaru, and sending it hurtling toward Ichigo, who blocks the tip with the broad side of Zangetsu. However, despite landing on the ground, Ichigo finds himself unable to stop Zabimaru as it stretches out and slams him into the side of a nearby building, to Ganju and Hanatarō's shock. As he retracts Zabimaru from the hole in the building, Renji observes that Ichigo seems to think he knows Renji's strength after fighting him once and reveals that captains and lieutenants have their Reiryoku suppressed when sent to the Human World as he approaches the hole.

Explaining that this is done so their power does not adversely affect Humans, Renji declares that he is currently five times stronger than the last time he fought Ichigo and asserts that the latter cannot defeat him no matter how strong he became. Despite this, Ichigo simply asks Renji if this means his last attack was the best he has got, and as he picks up Zangetsu and emerges from the hole, Ichigo proclaims that this attack did not affect him at all while standing with a head wound. With Ichigo thanking him and claiming that he can manage eleven more lieutenants of this level of power, a grinning Renji calls him an idiot. Above, Rukia opens her eyes in shock.

With the sun beginning to set in Soul Society, Ichigo Kurosaki and 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai stare each other down near the steps leading up to Senzaikyū in the Seireitei, with Ichigo having sustained a head wound from Renji's last attack with his Shikai, Zabimaru, that drips a considerable amount of blood onto the ground. When Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada express concern for him, Ichigo assures them this is nothing and Hanatarō is amazed that he can remain standing in this condition, though a sweating Ichigo notes his vision is blurry and his legs are trembling as he mentally urges his body to stop shaking. Grinning at the sight of this, Renji begins running toward Ichigo and taunts him as being just barely able to stand despite how confidently he is speaking before leaping into the air and bringing Zabimaru down onto Ichigo, who narrowly dodges by rolling away. As he angrily proclaims that Rukia Kuchiki would not be going through this if Ichigo did not exist and had never met her, Renji extends Zabimaru overhead and brings it down onto Ichigo once more, prompting Ganju to warn him to run away. Ichigo leaps out of the resulting dust cloud and onto the roof of the building next to the one he crashed into prior, and upon seeing this, Renji declares that he will not let Ichigo get away while slashing Zabimaru diagonally through the corner of the rooftop. With Ichigo running away from this, Renji jumps up onto the rooftop and rushes toward Ichigo, who clashes with him in an explosion of force that radiates outward.

Renji: Where does that come from? You know, this confidence of yours borders on the insane. Such a quality would be admirable if it weren't so irrational. Now Roar, Zabimaru!

Ichigo: Crap...!

While Ichigo and Renji continue to clash, a stunned Hanatarō sees Ichigo being pressured and concludes that it is impossible to fight a lieutenant. Elsewhere, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori stands with 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira as she shows him Renji's lieutenant badge and explains how she found it in front of Renji's room in the Sixth Division barracks after he left the lieutenant's meeting early. When Izuru inquires if the captains are aware of this, Hinamori admits that she has not told them and sadly notes that she only refrained from telling her captain, Sōsuke Aizen, because she did not want Renji to get punished for this. Though Izuru assures her that this was the wise decision because they do not know what is going on, Hinamori questions what it could mean for Renji to remove this before he left, and Izuru observes that it must be important as he recalls how Renji has been concerned about Rukia's situation before promising to look for him as well. Back outside the steps leading up to Senzaikyū, the ground shakes with the force of the battle while Renji sends Zabimaru hurtling into Ichigo, who is sent sliding back after blocking it with the broad side of his Shikai, Zangetsu.

Renji: You seem to think just because you fought me once before back there in the World of the Living, that now you know my true power. Well let me tell you something, you amateur. Whenever captain or lieutenant ranked Soul Reapers are sent outside, severe limits are placed on our powers. My strength right now is five times what it was that first day we met. So no matter how confident you are, or how strong you've become...there's still no way you can defeat me.

Retracting Zabimaru, Renji breathes heavily while he glares for several seconds at a panting Ichigo. As Renji inquires if he really wants to save Rukia this badly, Ichigo clarifies that he will save Rukia, prompting an angered Renji to slash Zabimaru into Ichigo's right should while reminding him that Rukia's crime became more serious because he stole her powers. Proclaiming that it is Ichigo's fault that Rukia is going to be killed, Renji slams Zabimaru into him, but Ichigo manages to stand his ground while blocking with Zangetsu and asserts that he is going to save her because knows this before pushing Zabimaru away.

Ichigo: I see. If all I have to worry about is 11 more like that one, then I think I'm gonna be just fine, Renji.

Renji: I'm going to enjoy this.

Ichigo watches closely as a surprised Renji retracts Zabimaru and mentally notes that he has finally deduced Renji's limit of three attacks.

In the past, as they stand in his underground training area, Kisuke Urahara details to Ichigo how attacks are limited to fewer consecutive uses the more powerful they are. When Ichigo expresses confusion at this concept, Urahara uses revolvers that can only fire six bullets and missiles that can only fire once as examples of how successive attacks are limited to certain numbers. In the present, Ichigo mentally reviews Renji's three attacks of extending Zabimaru and attacking with it twice before he is forced to retract it, which he decides to evaluate while recalling Urahara's explanation of how the maximum number of attacks matters more than the total each time. As he remembers Urahara's assertion that an enemy will always use the maximum number of attacks when the battle is intense, Ichigo runs toward Renji, who curses him while sending Zabimaru hurtling toward Ichigo. Sidestepping Zabimaru, which crashes into the ground, Ichigo mentally counts this as the first attack and recalls Urahara stating that his chance lies in figuring out the maximum number of successive attacks. Dodging Renji's second strike with Zabimaru, Ichigo remembers Urahara's conclusion that the most important attack is the last one before the enemy begins their successive attacks once more and deflects Zabimaru once more on its third strike. Ichigo runs toward Renji as the latter begins to retract Zabimaru and recalls Urahara revealing that the enemy will be completely open during this period before leaping toward a surprised Renji and declaring that this is the end. However, when Ichigo slashes Zangetsu downward at him, Renji evades his attack and sinks Zabimaru deep into Ichigo's left shoulder. As he reiterates that Ichigo cannot defeat him, Renji rips Zabimaru partway down Ichigo's chest, resulting in the wound spurting blood while Ichigo falls to his knees and wonders how Renji countered him. With Ganju and Hanatarō watching in concern, Renji observes that Ichigo seems shocked by this.

After admitting that Ichigo's strategy of looking for an opening between attacks was good and his timing was perfect, Renji asserts that this came about because Ichigo is slower than he is and cannot overcome the difference in their power. Raising Zabimaru above his head, Renji claims that Ichigo cannot save Rukia before slamming Zabimaru down onto Ichigo, creating a cloud of dust that spreads over the area while Ganju calls out to Ichigo. In the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia expresses astonishment and looks out the narrow window.

Elsewhere in the Seireitei, Yoruichi Shihōin stands on a rooftop as multiple Shinigami run around below. Upon sensing the powerful Reiatsu surge from Renji's attack, Yoruichi expresses concern for Ichigo. Meanwhile, Hinamori is left stunned by Renji's Reiatsu as Izuru leads three other Shinigami toward the battle when he senses it as well. Back at the battleground, the dust clears to reveal Renji standing several feet back from Ichigo, who uses Zangetsu to push himself to his feet while Hanatarō expresses relief at him being alive and Ganju realizes that he dodged the blow at the last second. With Renji commenting that he really is stubborn, a heavily panting Ichigo stares at him and recalls more of his training with Urahara prior to entering Soul Society.

In the past, while kneeling several feet away from Urahara to catch his breath, Ichigo angrily accuses Urahara of having actually tried to kill him with his last attack, which Urahara confirms before revealing that he is trying to push Ichigo into a corner. Walking over to the chasm Ichigo left in the ground earlier, Urahara explains that his plan is to push Ichigo until he can use the technique that created the chasm on command, but Ichigo asserts that this was a fluke and not something he can do whenever he wants. However, Urahara states that he has to be able to use it at will and observes how Ichigo has only just begun to access the true power of his Zanpakutō. Though he notes that Ichigo has potential, Urahara describes him as only being at the level of a 3rd or 4th Seat right now and begins approaching Ichigo as he concludes that Ichigo will need to be able to use his technique at will if he wants to fight evenly with combatants of Lieutenant-level strength and above. When Ichigo admits that this is easier said than done because using the technique before took everything he had and he does not remember how he used it, Urahara cheerfully affirms this before suddenly leaping forward and jabbing his Shikai, Benihime, at Ichigo, who narrowly blocks it with the broad side of Zangetsu as he is sent sliding back by the force of the blow. Jumping into the air above Ichigo, Urahara slashes and jabs at him, both of which Ichigo dodges, as he takes advantage of Benihime being lodged in the ground by his second attack to balance on top of the handle and kick Ichigo in the face, sending him crashing to the ground. With Urahara pulling Benihime out of the ground and lunging toward him, Ichigo barely manages to block his subsequent slash with Zangetsu while lying on the ground and angrily attempts to push Urahara back, only for Urahara to flip over his head and onto the side of a nearby rock pillar, which he leaps off of before clashing with Ichigo once more as the impact pushes the latter back. After reiterating his plan to push Ichigo until he remembers how to use his technique, Urahara sends him flying into the air with a slash of Benihime, resulting in Ichigo smashing into the top of another rock pillar. As Tessai Tsukabishi, Ururu Tsumugiya, and Jinta Hanakari attempt to tend to Ichigo's injuries, Urahara steps in front of them and requests that they not do so yet before running toward the pillar Ichigo crashed into, leaving his crew surprised. Having fallen onto the ground behind the pillar, a bloodied Ichigo realizes that he really will die at this rate and is shocked when Urahara appears in the air in front of him and slashes at Ichigo with Benihime.

Ichigo narrowly dodges Urahara's slash as the pressure created by it gouges a fissure into the ground behind him, and while Ichigo rolls out of the way upon seeing him rushing forward, Urahara slams Benihime into the ground where he was standing, creating a significant impact crater around himself as a cloud of dust rolls over Ichigo. While Ichigo pants heavily, a solemn Urahara expresses disappointment in Ichigo's condition before asserting that his blade only resonates with fear. Detailing how Ichigo's every move revolves around his fear, Urahara declares that this will not bring him victory in battle because nothing is born of fear as he raises Benihime above his head. With the air around him distorting due to his intense Reiatsu and chunks of the ground flying upward, Urahara tells Ichigo that his actions should revolve around his resolve to kill and not let himself or others be killed before drawing attention to Benihime, which he describes as being filled with his own resolve to kill Ichigo. Upon seeing Benihime glowing with red energy, a stunned Ichigo gets to his feet and glares at Urahara, who is startled to see Ichigo's eyes glowing blue. As Urahara's crew watches in astonishment, Ichigo raises Zangetsu above his head and begins exerting his Reiatsu, resulting in the air around him distorting as well while Zangetsu glows with blue energy. While a smiling Urahara notes that this will do, Jinta and Ururu realize that Zangetsu and Benihime are howling, which leads Tessai to observe that they are crying out because they cannot wait to cross blades. In unison, Ichigo unleashes a Getsuga Tenshō as Urahara uses Nake, Benihime to fire an energy wave of equal strength, and the two attacks detonate on contact, creating a massive explosion that rips through the surrounding landscape. The dust and light clear to reveal Tessai shielding Jinta and Ururu with his body, and as they sit up, the three of them express shock upon seeing Ichigo and Urahara standing on opposite sides of a newly-created X-shaped chasm. As Ichigo pants in exertion, Urahara commends him for having resolve. In the present, Ichigo glares at Renji, who is unnerved by his newfound resolve, and rests Zangetsu on his shoulders, prompting Ganju to realize he intends to continue fighting while Hanatarō notes he is completely different from before. Apologizing for keeping Renji waiting, Ichigo claims he has resolve now and promises to get Renji this time as his eyes glow blue. Stunned to see Ichigo's body briefly glow with blue Reiatsu before exerting pressure outward, Renji wonders what has happened to him and remembers how something similar happened during their first battle in the Human World. However, Renji concludes with astonishment that it is different because Ichigo is currently calmly controlling his Reiryoku, which is now much stronger, instead of exerting it at random like he did before. Upon seeing Ichigo bearing down on him in the air above while yelling, Renji sends Zabimaru hurtling toward him, but Ichigo dodges it in midair and mentally recalls Urahara's instructions to revolve his actions around not letting himself or others be killed. When Ichigo lands behind him, Renji curses and slashes a still-extended Zabimaru at him, prompting Ichigo to block vertically with Zangetsu as the segments of Zabimaru grind across his blade.

Ichigo repels Zabimaru and lifts Zangetsu above his head, and as it begins to glow with blue Reiatsu, Ichigo repeats Urahara's instruction to kill when one attacks. Though he slashes at Ichigo once more, Renji finds Zabimaru shattered and his chest deeply cut by Ichigo's subsequent Getsuga Tenshō, resulting in a large amount of blood spurting into the air while Renji's hairband is destroyed.

Renji: (He got me...It hurts. My body feels heavy. I can't move my legs. I can't lift my arms. Damn it...Have I lost? Damn. Rukia, I...)

With a sphere of energy expanding outward from the point of impact, Ganju declares that Ichigo did it as Renji is sent flying back, where he crashes into a large chunk of rubble. As he realizes Ichigo got him, Renji questions what just happened and sees Zabimaru has been broken.

Mentally cursing as he looks along the length of the newly-created fissure in the ground to see Ichigo still standing, Renji recalls Ichigo asserting that he has resolve now and notes how much pain he is in, with his body feeling heavy, his legs not moving, and his arms unable to rise. Upon realizing that he has lost, Renji coughs up blood and screams skyward as he thinks of Rukia.

Screaming in agony after being grievously wounded by Ichigo Kurosaki, 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai falls to his knees, to the shock of Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada, before looking forward, where he envisions Rukia Kuchiki standing in Ichigo's place. As he briefly recalls his history with Rukia, Renji begins reaching forward while mentally asserting that he is the one who did not go after her when she left.

In the past, in the Inuzuri district of southern Rukongai, dozens of its inhabitants walk through the central street and purchase items from vendors. With Renji observing the four quarters of the Rukongai divided into eighty districts each were safest at the center next to the Seireitei and extremely dangerous at the outskirts where he was, a young Renji and his friend approach the table of an old man selling jugs of water, who sends a customer off before swiping at the two boys with a wooden rod. While Renji claims they did not do anything, another friend of his sneaks underneath the table. As Renji notes that children like them did not know what would happen to them if they even slightly provoked the adults, the old man continues to wave the wooden rod around and tells Renji and his friend to stop staring, prompting Renji to comply by walking away with his friend. However, Renji asserts that he and his friends did anything they could to survive, and upon meeting up with a third friend of his, Renji sees the boy under the table signal that he is done. Telling his other friends to do it, Renji rushes back to the table and grabs a jug of water off of it while his friend crawls out from underneath. Angered by this, the old man attempts to attack him. Suddenly, having had his ankle tied to one of the table's legs by the boy who was underneath it, the old man loses his balance and falls forward, knocking the table's contents onto the ground and spilling water everywhere. After declaring that this serves him right, Renji tells his friends that this is their chance as they pick up jugs of water as well and celebrate acquiring them. When the old man tells them to stop and picks up his wooden rod once more, a surprised Renji instructs his friends to run and begins fleeing, prompting the old man to untie his ankle before pursuing them while promising to not listen if they beg him for forgiveness. Renji tells his friend to shut up and keep running as the old man pursues them through a deserted alleyway. While Renji states they hated this town, one of his friends claims he can no longer run. However, as Renji looks ahead and expresses shock, a young Rukia runs past him and his friends before sliding into the old man's ankle, tripping him up and sending him crashing to the ground. With the old man remaining conscious and cursing at her, Rukia repeatedly stomps on the back of his head to keep him down and runs past Renji and his friends, whom she orders to follow her. Though Renji hesitates, Rukia reminds him others will come for their water if they do not leave. Looking back at the old man lying on the ground, Renji and his friends run after Rukia as Renji concludes that they met in a town like this. Sometime later, in a hut in a different part of the Seireitei filled with several other children, Renji holds out a cloth containing something to Rukia, and when she questions what this is, Renji explains that it is her share of the snacks he and his friends acquired which he divided up. When Rukia unfolds the cloth and holds up a small, transparent, spiky and round snack in confusion, Renji observes that it is confetti candy, only for Rukia to be further confused, prompting one of Renji's friends to clarify that it is a sweet candy.

As she smiles at this and prepares to eat the candy, Rukia stops upon noticing an older boy holding a younger boy's sack of candies out of reach. With the older boy taunting him and asserting that the candies are his, the younger boy demands that he give them back and manages to grab onto the sack, which is ripped open by the boy's weight, sending the candies flying all over the room. While the younger boy begins to cry at this, the older boy berates him for wanting the candies when he does not have any Reiryoku and reminds the younger boy that he does not get hungry as long as he has water before demanding that the younger boy stop crying. With a stoic expression on her face, Rukia walks over to the older boy and grabs him by the shoulder to get his attention, where she questions his claim that the younger boy does not need to eat because they are all the same. When the older boy angrily dismisses her as a newbie and attempts to attack her, Rukia kicks the back of his legs, causing him to fall on his back, and pins him down by climbing onto his chest as she proclaims that happiness should be shared among everyone because they can all taste and smell even if they cannot get hungry. Having quieted the rest of the children down with her words, Rukia reprimands the older boy for acting like the adults do.

After the older boy confirms that he understands this, Rukia gets off of him and walks over the crying younger boy, whom she gives her own bag of candies, so he no longer has to cry before exiting the hut while Renji observes that she did this despite being reluctant to give them up. As he runs outside in search of Rukia, Renji notes that she was different because she had an attitude and spoke like a man. Upon seeing Renji searching for her, Rukia calls out to him, leading Renji to see her sitting on a tree branch above him, and inquires if something is wrong, leading an embarrassed Renji to cross his arms and claim that nothing is wrong while blushing. A laughing Rukia calls Renji weird and continues laughing as he counters that she is the weird one, and while Renji angrily demands to know what Rukia is laughing at, he admits that there was always an aura of refinement around her regardless of what she did. Sometime later, Renji and his friends run through a crowd of people in the marketplace. As she follows them, Rukia comes to a stop and places a hand over her stomach while panting, only to assure Renji that nothing is wrong when he expresses concern before continuing to run along. Eventually, Renji's friends come across a rickshaw and marvel at how shiny it is as they make faces in the reflective surface. Nearby, three adults discuss someone they know becoming a Shinigami and the pride of Inuzuri. When one of them expresses a desire to become a Shinigami as well, another dismisses this as unlikely because becoming one requires a great amount of Reiryoku, piquing the interest of Rukia and Renji as they join their friends by the rickshaw. With the adults admitting that they are out of luck in this regard, the driver of the rickshaw emerges from a nearby building and scares Renji's friends away from the rickshaw while berating them for touching it with their dirty hands. As the driver moves to the front of the rickshaw, a Shinigami within the building announces his departure. The adults outside cheer on and encourage the blue-haired Shinigami, who emerges from the building as well and begins walking over to the rickshaw. Suddenly, an astonished Rukia collapses, prompting a concerned Renji to ask her is something is wrong while she struggles to get to her hands and knees. Walking over to Rukia, the Shinigami inquires if she is okay as well before wondering if she and Renji are hungry. Though Rukia denies this, the Shinigami kneels in front of them and assures her that he was also confused when he became hungry in a world where no one is supposed to be hungry, which is a reality they will have to accept. After theorizing Rukia's body instantly used up all her Reiryoku after feeling his own Reiatsu, the Shinigami opens and hands her a small basket containing three onigiri, which he instructs Rukia to eat without hesitation, before walking back to his waiting rickshaw as Rukia stares in awe. Sometime later, Renji stands with his friends and Rukia in a deserted area while yelling in exertion, eventually resulting in him channeling his Reiryoku into a glowing blue orb above his palm. Clapping in amazement, Renji's friends praise his skill and claim he will become a real Shinigami one day. However, while Renji basks in this praise, he is distracted by Rukia shining with blue light.

Rukia reveals that she has easily made a large orb of Reiryoku in the palm of her hand, and as his friends gush over how much bigger it is than the orb he produced, an irritated Renji crosses his arms and looks away. When one of Renji's friends suggests that she and Renji both become Shinigami, Rukia dismisses this and asserts that she will always stay in the Rukongai because she wants to be with them. With her friends happy about this decision, Rukia looks to Renji for affirmation, which he confidently gives, and the children celebrate being together forever as they run off. While running after them, Renji reflects on how it did not matter who had Reiryoku back then. Later, with the sun beginning to go down, Renji notes that Rukia always shined even though she lived in the dregs as Rukia wades into a river and sticks her hands into the water. Upon being told by Rukia that it is coming his way, Renji jabs a spear into the water further along the river, only for the fish he was aiming for to briefly emerge from the water a couple feet away. Annoyed by this, Renji begins walking around the water and stabbing into it in an attempt to catch the fish, and as Rukia begins to warn him that this will allow the other fish to get away, Renji loses his footing and falls completely into the river, leaving Rukia irritated while his friends warm themselves by a fire.

Emerging from the river, Renji curses and tells Rukia to shut up. However, they all fall silent upon seeing flowers floating down the river toward them. While Rukia picks up one of the flowers and identifies it, a confused Renji notices the fish near his leg and jabs his spear into the water once more, successfully impaling the fish on it. Upon turning to his friends and telling them to get the fire ready after bragging about his talent, Renji finds them staring in awe at Rukia, who continues to hold the flower and smiles as the setting sun shines on her. Though he is also enraptured by this, Renji walks up to his friends and kicks them down in annoyance. With Renji berating them for standing around as he kicks them, his friends question why he is doing this as Renji observes that they were a family and always together before they knew it.

Renji: It wasn't like she was soft. Rukia was tougher than most men I know. She didn't take any crap from anyone. She even talked like a man. It didn't matter what she was doing. There was something classy about Rukia. We had become a family. We knew it was still no kind of a life. All the grownups were either thieves of murders, and all the kids were delinquents. And to get out of that life, well, there was only one way.

As night falls and the friends sit around the fire while laughing, Renji notes that this was still a dirty town where the adults were criminals and the kids were delinquents, leaving them surrounded by human garbage with only one way to get out of such a life. Ten years later, Rukia stands with Renji on a cliff overlooking the Rukongai, where she proposes that they become Shinigami so they can live in the Seireitei because she has heard it is nice to live inside there. Renji recounts how Inuzuri was too cruel for kids like them to survive in even though they had come together in search of a family, and as he stands in front of the graves of his three friends, Renji agrees to become a Shinigami alongside Rukia.

Rukia: "I think we should become Soul Reapers."

Sometime later, Rukia and Renji enroll in the Shin'ō Academy and begin their school life among the arrogant nobles. During one of his classes, Renji insists that the professor allow him to answer the question because he knows what it is, but though he praises Renji's spirit, the professor points out that the other students around Renji would have to stand up in order to let him pass and write the answer on the blackboard. With the professor concluding that he will be the one to write the answer today as a result, an embarrassed Renji sits back down while his classmates laugh at him. As the other students mock him as vulgar and lacking common sense for trying so hard to prove himself as someone who came from Inuzuri in the Rukongai, Rukia expresses irritation and shock at their callous attitudes while the professor orders the class to be silent before moving on to the next problem. Later that day, while all the other students mingle outside, Rukia finds Renji still sitting in the classroom with two books on his section of the elongated desk in front of him. Alerted by Rukia calling out to him, Renji gathers up his books and asserts that he cannot be wasting time like this because he is in a special promotion class unlike her and is consequently very busy. However, Rukia informs Renji that she likes it when he raises his hands eagerly as he did earlier, and with Renji blushing in surprise, Rukia insists that he keep showing this enthusiasm. When Renji expresses confusion at this, Rukia walks down the steps and explains how the majority of the students at the academy cannot understand the feelings of people who have led existences like her and Renji because they come from nobility, which cannot be helped. Affirming this while Rukia walks away, Renji notes that there was still a gap between them and the other students even after they left the Rukongai and recalls his vow to make the noble students eat their words. Sometime later, Renji frantically runs through a hallway and weaves around the surprised students in his way as he approaches the sliding doors to Rukia's room at the end, which he opens before announcing to Rukia that he passed the second exam.

Renji: All the rest of our friends were gone. Shortly after the day we made that fateful decision, we both entered the Soul Reaper Academy. We quickly learned we were different from the rest of the spoiled brats from noble families. And then, that day came...

Suddenly, as he begins to explain what this entails, Renji sees that Rukia is standing with two Shinigami, Byakuya Kuchiki, and the Nobutsune Seike while she stares at him in astonishment.

Renji: (What are nobles doing here?)

With Renji recognizing Byakuya's kenseikan and realizing that he is a noble, Nobutsune observes that they have been interrupted and leaves the room with Byakuya and the two Shinigami after telling Rukia that they hope she will accept their proposal. A sweating Renji finds himself completely unable to move as Byakuya passes him due to the latter's intense Reiatsu and remains standing there for several seconds after Byakuya and his entourage leave. Snapped out of his stupor by Rukia saying his name, Renji notes this seemed intense and inquires what the meeting was about, only to be stunned when Rukia reveals the Kuchiki Clan wishes to adopt her.

Rukia: Renji.

Renji: Oh, uh, Rukia. How are you doing? You had some pretty important looking visitors there, huh. Sorry to interrupt. So tell me, what was that all about anyway?

Rukia: That was the Kuchiki family, Renji. They want to adopt me as their daughter. Renji, I don't know what to do...

Somberly explaining how they will have her graduate immediately and decide for her to enter the Gotei 13, Rukia expresses doubt over this plan, only to be shocked when Renji proclaims that this is great and points out how the Kuchiki Clan is an important family that will prevent Rukia from ever going hungry again should she join their ranks. With Rukia staring at him, Renji wonders what nobles eat and proclaims that he is jealous over Rukia getting to graduate early as he claps a hand onto her shoulder.

Renji: Rukia! What do you mean? Of course you know what to do! You say yes, Rukia. This is fantastic! Don't you see? You're in!

After acknowledging this, Rukia removes Renji's hand from her shoulder and positions it sideways in front of his abdomen with both hands.

Rukia: You think so? Thank you.

Rukia tearfully thanks Renji and runs away from him, leaving Renji speechless as he reflects on how he repeatedly urged himself to not interfere because Rukia had finally found a family. In the present, Renji falls to his knees and admits that he was really just scared at the time. Cursing himself for being a stray dog who does not have the courage to jump up and grab the star rather than bark at it, Renji forces himself to his feet and walks over to a stunned Ichigo before grabbing him by the collar. As he accuses Ichigo of being the reason Rukia was imprisoned in Senzaikyū and claims thinking about it made his blood boil, Renji concedes this was not the real reason.

Renji: Rukia had finally found a family. A real family. And I knew I mustn't interfere. That's what I had to keep telling myself. But now that I think back, I think I was just scared to lose her, to lose the only family I ever had. Not only that. I didn't want to face the fact that I'm nothing more than a stray dog. And I'm so sick of it. All I do is bark wildly at the moon. I don't have the guts to actually bite. All this time, I've been blaming you for the fact that Rukia's been imprisoned. Every time I thought of you it made my blood boil! But I was wrong. It wasn't you. It was me from the start. Because I don't stop Rukia. So Ichigo, now I'm swallowing my shame and my pride. And I'm asking you to save Rukia. Will you promise? I'm begging you! Will you save her?

Ichigo: Yes.

Declaring that it was his fault for not stopping Rukia from joining the Kuchiki Clan and eventually becoming a condemned criminal, Renji expresses his belief that Rukia would find happiness in doing this. Renji details how he has always wanted to defeat Byakuya from the day they first met but reveals that he has been unable to do so despite training every day since, meaning that he cannot save Rukia through strength. When Renji requests that he save Rukia in his stead despite the shame it brings him, Ichigo somberly promises he will as Renji mentally asserts, he will put the unreachable star in flames, so he does not need to look at it and does not need to slash his throat.

In Karakura Town, dozens of people curiously inspect a crop circle that has been left in the grass of a local park. When Karin Kurosaki declares that this is pointless and leaves while carrying her soccer ball, her sister Yuzu Kurosaki chases after her in protest.

Karin: What do you wanna play today?

Yuzu: Since you brought the ball with you, why don't we play a game with that?

Karin: Oh, then let's try hitting targets! The one who wins gets to pick tonight's dinner!

Walking down the steps to the street with her sister, Yuzu observes that there have been many incidents like this lately with people seeing UFOs and poltergeists.

In response, Karin concludes that it is due to "them" as she looks up, only for Yuzu to question what she is looking at.

Passerby: What's going on? How did this happen? I know it wasn't here yesterday.

Karin watches two small Hollows flying around in the air above and assures Yuzu that it is better for her to not see them because they will only make her sick.

Karin: This is no good.

Hollow: Roaaaarrr...

Yuzu: Huh?

Karin: Hey, Yuzu. Maybe we should call it off today.

Yuzu: Why?

Karin: Come on, let's go home.

Yuzu: Hey, Karin! Wait for me!

Suddenly, Karin sees a twinkle in the sky, and as she wonders what it was, Raku falls down and lands on Yuzu's face, to her shock and fright.

Yuzu: There've been so many incidents like this lately. I wonder what's going on.

Karin: I think this is probably because of them.

Yuzu: What? Do you see something?

Hollow: Cawwww! Cawwww!

Karin: Yeah, It's better you can't see them. It'll only drive you crazy. Huh? What was that? It's...

Yuzu: Ahhh?!

Alerted by this, the Hollows dive toward Karin and Yuzu, and while her sister begs for her to remove Raku from her face, Karin admits that she does not know what is happening before refusing to lose regardless as she kicks her soccer ball at the Hollows, who are left stunned and spinning in midair upon being hit by it.

Karin: A cat? Why'd it come falling from the sky?!

As Karin grins maliciously and notes that this will teach them, Yuzu succeeds in removing Raku from her face and excitedly points out to Karin that his face looks like that of Ichigo Kurosaki, which a startled Karin agrees with.

Yuzu: That was sure scary. Ah, Karin, look! What a cute little kitty. It kinda reminds me of our brother.

Karin: Oh, yeah! It's him!

Yuzu: Haha! I guess it's true that animals can really resemble a person!

Though Karin believes something is strange about Raku, Yuzu reveals she has the strange feeling of having seen Raku somewhere before.

Yuzu: I wonder where he came from.

Karin: I doubt he really came from the sky. Hm? Do you think there's something wrong with this cat?

Yuzu: Uh, well I...I had this really strange feeling like I'd seen him somewhere before. Hmm. But now that you mention it, it does seem like there's something wrong with this little kitty. Right?

Cat: Meow.

When Raku meows at her, Yuzu interprets this as him being hungry and claims this is a woman's intuition to a bewildered Karin.

Yuzu: Hm? Meow?

Cat: Meow!

Yuzu: Oh, really now? Is that so?

Karin: Uh, what'd it say?

Yuzu: He said that he's hungry.

Karin: Are you serious?!

Yuzu: Yup! Let's just call it a woman's intuition! Cat food! Let's go buy cat food!

Karin: I guess we can do that.

Admitting she does not remember where she saw Raku before despite this, which leaves Karin at a loss for words, Yuzu decides to get cat food for Raku and walks off with Karin. Behind them, the two flying Hollows land on the ground, one on top of the other, and merge into a larger Hollow which stares at them. Meanwhile, outside the Urahara Shop, Jinta Hanakari complains about how useless it is to clean up the front of the store because no one shops there as he and Ururu Tsumugiya sweep the ground outside. Ururu protests this but is unable to produce an answer when an annoyed Jinta asks her how many customers they have had this month, prompting Jinta to grind his fists into her head while proclaiming that they have not had a single customer while Ururu expresses pain and flails her arms around in response. However, upon noticing a Hollow clambering down the roof of the Urahara Shop, Jinta and Ururu immediately stop squabbling as the latter jumps and sends the Hollow flying into the air with a powerful kick.

Jinta: Got one!

Ururu: I got one too.

With the Hollow roaring as it disintegrates, Ururu lands on the ground and declares that the disposal has been completed while Jinta observes that the number of Hollows in the town has increased since Ichigo Kurosaki left. After realizing something, Jinta slides open the door to the Urahara Shop by a few inches and looks inside to see Kisuke Urahara claiming he has gained weight recently from not getting enough exercise as he stocks some products on the shelves. Claiming to have a solution for this, Tessai Tsukabishi holds up a box of "Karugaru-kun", the original weight-loss remedy, and reveals that he bought it off a shopping channel. When Tessai reacts negatively to him stating that this sounds questionable, Urahara clarifies that he simply does not believe in such products, but Tessai asserts that the results were amazing when he tried it as he pours a mound of the remedy into his hand from a bottle before swallowing it. While Urahara inquires if something is wrong upon hearing Tessai's stomach growling, Ururu tries to get Jinta's attention, only for him to silence her by slapping a hand over her mouth. Jinta proclaims that it is time for them to exterminate the Hollows for the good of Karakura Town, and when Ururu attempts to remind him that they will get scolded if they do not clean up, Jinta resumes grinding his fists into her head while claiming that he cannot understand what she is saying.

Urahara: Did you hear something, Tessai?

Tessai: Nope. I don't think so.

Meanwhile, as she walks with Yuzu, who is still holding Raku, Karin reiterates her belief that something is wrong with Raku, though she cannot determine what exactly it is. With Yuzu addressing Raku by name to affirm that nothing is wrong with the cat, Karin questions what "Raku" is, prompting Yuzu to note she chose the name Raku for the cat due to its color reminding her of a camel. Suddenly, as they reach the Kurosaki Clinic, Karin and Yuzu are shocked to find a large pink car parked in front of the entrance.

Yuzu: Huh? Look at that car that's parked in front of our house. It's huge.

Karin: It's obstructing our business.

While Karin decries it as obstructing their business, Don Kanonji opens the passenger door of the car and addresses Karin and Yuzu, who are startled when a flock of doves flies out of the door, before stepping out and proclaiming that spirits are always with them, delighting Yuzu and embarrassing Karin.

?: How's it going, little ladies?

Karin: Huh? Who is that?

?: The spirits...are always...with youuuuu!

However, as he lands on the ground after performing multiple poses in midair, Don Kanonji breaks one of his toes and is sent crashing into the nearby shrubbery by his resulting loss of balance, prompting Yuzu to express concern for him.

Yuzu: Ah! Look! It's Don Kanonji!

Upon being asked by Don Kanonji if they are the family of the "boy" after he apologizes for startling them, Yuzu expresses confusion, only to be awestruck when Don Kanonji clarifies that he is referring to Ichigo, whom he claims is his number one pupil.

Don: Wait, don't tell me you're the kid's family, right? Of course these beautiful ladies must be related to my number one pupil, Ichigo!

With Yuzu screaming in excitement over her brother being his number one pupil, Don Kanonji explains that he came here incognito to spend time with Ichigo due to having a rare day off before inquiring where he is.

Yuzu: Are you serious? Do you mean to tell me my brother's your number one pupil?!

Don: And since I had a rare day off, I came here incognito to hang out with him!

As Karin expresses disbelief at this being Don Kanonji's way of traveling incognito, Yuzu reveals that Ichigo is not home right now, and as Don Kanonji screams in shock, Karin tells him to go home if he is done here.

Karin: Incognito? Looks to me like you're doing a bang-up job of that. Our brother isn't home right now. Guess you're done here, so why don't you go on home?

The flying Hollows roar as they fly overhead, interrupting and surprising the sisters and Don Kanonji, before diving down toward them.

Hollow: Roaaaarrr!

Karin: Huh?!

Don: Wait, what is that?! Ooh, you bad spirits! Stay put, children!

Identifying the Hollows as bad spirits, Don Kanonji pulls out his Super Spirits Stick and tells the sisters to stay back as he runs forward and swings at the Hollows, who fly apart to dodge his strike. When Yuzu calls out to Don Kanonji and questions what the Hollows are, Karin is left astonished that she can actually see them now, leading Yuzu to realize the difference as well.

Yuzu: Karin, what do you think those things were?

Karin: Uh, you mean you can actually see those things?

After apologizing for going straight to the finish, Don Kanonji forms and unleashes his Golden Kanonball, only for one of the Hollows to evade it. With the Hollows rushing toward him, a frightened Don Kanonji screams and runs away, but the Hollows quickly catch him and pull him into the air as he comments on their mercilessness. Though Yuzu is concerned, and Karin is apathetic toward Don Kanonji's fate, Jinta suddenly leaps into the air and destroys three of the four Hollows carrying Don Kanonji with a swing of his Muteki Tekkon, surprising the two sisters. After landing on and leaping off of a telephone pole, Jinta declares that he is the legendary "Red Bat" and smashes his Muteki Tekkon into the last Hollow, destroying it and causing Don Kanonji to smash into the ground below.

?: It's time for...the legendary Red Bat!

Yuzu: Ah?!

Hollow: Roaaaarrr...

Running up to Don Kanonji alongside Karin, a concerned Yuzu asks him if he is okay, only for a battered Don Kanonji to ignore this and instead ask her if she has been hurt, which Yuzu denies.

Jinta: Heh! Too easy!

Ururu: Uh, are you alright?

Karin: Did you guys just do that?

Passerby: Was that for real?! Look! It's Don Kanonji!

As a crowd gathers around them upon recognizing Don Kanonji, Isshin Kurosaki calls out to his daughters from the back and claims to be jealous over them being saved by Don Kanonji, who performs his signature pose and laugh while the crowd copies him in unison. Isshin puts his arm around a member of the crowd and invites Don Kanonji to join his family for some good tea, but Don Kanonji runs off with Karin, Yuzu, and Raku under his arm, leaving Isshin to wonder where he is going.

Isshin: Hey, Don Kanonji! I'm a huge fan of yours!

Don: Hm? Mission complete! Bohahahaha!

Karin: Hey, this isn't the time to be rallying your audience!

Ururu: We have to get away from all these people.

Don: Right! Let's get moving, kids!

Later, in a park, an out-of-breath Don Kanonji pants heavily as Karin, Yuzu, Jinta, and Ururu stand behind him, with Yuzu still carrying Raku. When Karin asks them who they are, Jinta introduces himself as the future clean-up batter in the Major League Championship while Ururu simply states her name and bows, prompting Yuzu to introduce herself while bowing in return.

Karin: Pardon me for asking, but who are you anyway?

Jinta: I'm Jinta, the one who'll be batting cleanup in the majors someday.

Ururu: And I'm Ururu.

Yuzu: Ah, I'm Yuzu Kurosaki. Thanks for helping us out!

Picking up on Yuzu having the last name Kurosaki, Jinta inquires if they know the guy with the orange hair, and when a surprised Yuzu questions if they know her brother, Ururu downplays this and shares a look with Jinta, who details how Raku's Reiryoku is luring Hollows to it.

Jinta: Kurosaki? Then I'm sure you must know Carrot Top.

Yuzu: Huh? Do you mean you know our brother? We've been running into so many of his friends today.

Ururu: Sort of. See that cat? Seems a number of Hollows are popping up, lured here by its spiritual power.

With Karin realizing that he is referring to the monsters that just attacked them, Jinta confirms this and suggests that they let Raku's spirit pass over peacefully.

Jinta: It'd be best for everyone if we just let that cat's spirit, um...Pass on peacefully.

Confused by this, Yuzu asserts that Raku is not a spirit and admonishes Jinta for saying such a thing when he reiterates his statement. Upon being told by an angry Jinta that Raku is already dead, Yuzu denies this and begins crying as Jinta berates her and Karin for not being able to figure this out despite being Ichigo's sisters.

Yuzu: Huh? Wait, what are you talking about? This kitty isn't a ghost.

Jinta: Huh? You got it all wrong. That cat is a spirit. Believe me, that mangy old cat's already dead!

Yuzu: No way this cat is dead! Why are you being so mean?! Wahhhh!

Expressing his amazement at kids with such talent gathering here even though they pale in comparison to him, Don Kanonji claims they will all be his disciples, only for Jinta and Karin to punch him.

Don: Wonderful and totally great! Imagine kids with such talent gathered here before me though your skills are weakened than mine. Do you know what's next? You are all going to be my pupils!

Karin: Not interested!

Jinta: We were having a serious conversation here!

As he reels back from this with a bloody nose and one of the lenses of his glasses cracked, Don Kanonji shoves a tissue in his bleeding nostril and states that he is liking them more and more before declaring that he has been seeking out those with youthful power. While Don Kanonji invites the children to come with him, an irritated Karin inquires if he wants to be punched again, resulting in a dejected Don Kanonji promising to acknowledge the power hidden within them by examining their powers. When an intrigued Jinta declares that this is his chance to show off his true power, an equally intrigued Karin claims that she has not gotten serious yet either.

Don: Yes, all right! The first thing I need to do, if I'm going to help you, is to take a good look at your powers!

Jinta: I don't understand what this is all about, but I guess this is my one chance to explore my true power!

Karin: Just in case you couldn't tell, I haven't had the chance to get serious either!

Don: I've never seen such energetic children! Come one, kids! The future's in your hands!

Jinta and Karin begin bickering over their superiority in relation to one another as Don Kanonji praises their energy and runs off while commanding them to follow him, which they do, leaving Yuzu and Ururu behind.

Yuzu: Wait, Karin?!

Ururu: Where are we going?

When Ururu informs her that Hollows will attack Raku again if left as is, a concerned Yuzu notes that Don Kanonji is gone and wonders what she should do, leading Ururu to decide to tell Urahara.

Yuzu: I hope Karin will be all right.

Ururu: You know what? Without protection, that cat will be attacked again.

Yuzu: Do you think so? Before, we had Don Kanonji to make sure we were safe. What'll we do now?

Ururu: I could ask my boss if he would help.

Yuzu: Huh?

However, upon arriving at the Urahara Shop, Ururu and Yuzu find that Urahara and Tessai are out to lunch, to Ururu's disappointment.

Ururu: Out to lunch? Sorry about that.

Yuzu: Oh, it's alright. Don't worry. Well, if you think this man, Kisuke, can do something, then I guess I'll wait 'til he comes back.

Assuring Ururu it is fine, Yuzu states she will simply wait for Urahara since he can do something about the situation. With Ururu remaining dejected despite acknowledging that there is nothing else they can do, Yuzu thanks her, to Ururu's surprise and delight. Suddenly, Ururu's eyes go wide as she whips around upon detecting Hollows approaching.

Multiple flying Hollows land in front of her and Yuzu, whom Ururu pulls into the Urahara Shop and brings to the back alley before telling her to run as she dashes back toward the Hollows with her Senren Bakusatsu Taihō in hand.

Ururu: Hollows! They're come here now!

Hollow: Cawwww!

As Raku meows in concern, Yuzu promises to protect the cat and runs off.

Yuzu: Ah!

Ururu: Go, get away from here!

Elsewhere, in an alleyway, Jinta stands in front of a door with Karin and questions how long Don Kanonji will make them wait.

Karin: First he tells us to follow him, and now he just wants us to sit here?

Jinta: Dammit. How long is he gonna keep us waiting like this?

Don: Sorry to keep you waiting, children!

However, Jinta and Karin are alerted when Don Kanonji apologizes for keeping them waiting, and as they assume battle stances, the door in front of them swings open to reveal Don Kanonji standing before them in a new outfit.

Jinta: You wanted to see my true power? Then, ready or not, here I go!

Karin: I'm coming too!

Don: Hold your horses! You don't think that I'm the enemy, do you? Come on now, kids. Thank about it. What's the point in heroes trying to fight each other?

Upon being told by Don Kanonji he is at their service as the charismatic medium of the new century, Jinta and Karin declare they will show him what they have got while rushing toward him, only for Don Kanonji to order them to halt before clarifying he is not their opponent, to their confusion. Questioning why heroes should fight each other, Don Kanonji reveals he wants to put together a team of like-minded children in order to protect the town.

Karin: Heroes?

Don: That's right! The Karakura Superheroes! I've been kicking around the idea of creating a special team of kids who share my vision and want to join me in keeping the peace in this town! And I'm happy to inform you that since both of you are the first two Karakura Superheroes I've recruited, guess what? It's your lucky day! The Red position is still open!

Don Kanonji dubs this team the Karakura Superheroes and details how it is natural for children who have undergone rigid auditions in the entertainment world to take active parts while he observes Jinta and Karin have potential. With Don Kanonji requesting they form a team with him and help protect Karakura Town, Jinta and Karin are left believing this is stupid and a waste of their time. However, when Don Kanonji tells them the "Red" position on the team is open due to them being the first two individuals he has scouted, Jinta and Karin are astonished and express further interest as Don Kanonji elaborates that he will be turning this into a segment of his television show.

Jinta and Karin: Woah, Red?!

Don: It's the lead! Oh, and did I mention that I intend to turn this little project into a segment of my top-rated Spirit Hunter TV show?

Jinta and Karin: Television?!

Convinced by the idea of being on television, Jinta and Karin agree to join as they pretend to have no choice in the matter, pleasing Don Kanonji with their enthusiasm.

Jinta: I'm in! Great! Since no one objects, I'll be Red. Okay?

Karin: Hey! You can't just decide like that! I'm Red! You got that?! Me, Red! Red, Me!

Jinta: Shut your pie-hole!

Karin: What?! Are you looking for a fight?!

Though Jinta asserts that he will be Red, Karin angrily declares that he cannot decide like this and that she will be Red, only for Jinta to claim that a girl cannot be Red, further enraging Karin, who demands to know if he is looking for a fight. While Jinta brushes this off, Karin stomps her feet and refuses to let him be Red.

Don: Hm? That's it!

Karin: What now?!

Don: She's in terrible danger! Bad spirits are after your sister!

Jinta: I can't understand a single word he's saying.

Don: Get ready for our first job, Karakura Superheroes! Let's go!

Suddenly, Don Kanonji hears a Hollow roaring and realizes they are after Yuzu before ordering Jinta and Karin to get ready for their first job, though they do not understand him.

Karin: Wait, where are we going now?!

Jinta: Guess we just have to follow him!

Meanwhile, Yuzu runs from four identical green Hollows with a single back limb each through another alleyway while carrying Raku and runs up a stairway to the top of a building, where she reaches a railing and takes a moment to catch her breath before looking up in surprise.

Yuzu: *Pant* Pant*

Hollow: Roaaaarrr!

In the air above Yuzu, nine flying Hollows appear and dive toward Yuzu, who closes her eyes and looks away in fear. However, as the Hollows approach, Raku glows pink and emits a pulse of energy that repels the Hollows away from Yuzu, prompting her to open her eyes and express surprise while Raku hisses.

Yuzu: Ahhh!

Upon arriving, the green Hollows are also held at bay by a still-glowing Raku.

?: Hwaaahhh!

One of the flying Hollows lands on the roof and roars as it charges at Yuzu. Suddenly, Don Kanonji leaps into the air and proclaims that it smells like bad spirits before firing another Golden Kanonball at the Hollow, which it dodges by leaping into the air, only for Jinta to appear behind it and smack the Golden Kanonball into the Hollow's back with his Muteki Tekkon, disintegrating it on impact while Don Kanonji cowers.

Don: Smells like bad spirits!

Yuzu: Don Kanonji! And Karin too!

Don: Sorry to have kept you waiting, little girl! But there's no need to worry anymore because we're here!

As Raku stops glowing and meows at her, Yuzu smiles and looks up to the billboard ad behind here, where Don Kanonji stands alongside Jinta and Karin while apologizing for keeping Yuzu waiting because they are here now.

Hollow: Roaaaarrr...

Karin: Yeah! Take that!

Jinta: They didn't even put up a fight!

While Karin introduces herself as Karakura Red, Jinta claims to be the real Karakura Red, which leads Karin to grab the back of his pants and berate him for not hearing her call herself Karakura Red.

Karin: Karakura Red, Karin Kurosaki!

Jinta: And the real Karakura Red, Jinta Hanakari!

With Jinta and Karin continuing to argue over which one of them is Karakura Red, Don Kanonji declares that they will decide who Karakura Red is based on their performance today, resulting in Jinta and Karin ceasing their bickering as they agree to this.

Karin: Hey, just one minute there, jerk face! I'm Red! Got it?!

Jinta: Will you shut up?! It's already decided! I'm Red!

When the remaining flying Hollows dive down at a distracted Yuzu, Don Kanonji leaps down to the rooftop between her and them alongside Jinta and Karin before transforming his Super Spirits Stick into the Super Spirit Javelin.

Don: Look, this is what we're gonna do. We'll decide who will be Red based on your performance today. Okay?

Jinta: Yeah! I'll show you who's Red!

Karin: I'm not gonna lose!

Incoming Hollow going after Yuzu and Raku cat again...

Hollow: Cawwww!

Yuzu: Ahh!

Karin: Yuzu!

Don Kanonji advertises the Super Spirit Javelin as allowing one to reach an evil spirit at any distance with its extending bladed section, only to be interrupted when a flying Hollow forces him to duck as it hurtles over him. As Don Kanonji shouts angrily at the Hollow for this, Karin grabs the Super Spirit Javelin from him and waves it wildly at the Hollows, impressing Don Kanonji, who decides to entrust it to her. With Karin chuckling over having the lead, Jinta announces himself as the clean-up batter with jersey #55 while he leaps into the air and slams his Muteki Tekkon into a Hollow's jaw, prompting Don Kanonji to praise him as a memorable superstar. Bemused by this, Jinta claims this is due to him being Karakura Red. Upon being told by Karin to run away, Yuzu begins running toward the stairway, but this results in several flying Hollows pursuing her. Though Karin chases after the Hollows as Yuzu trips and falls to her knees, the Hollows are all destroyed by a barrage of blasts from Ururu's Senren Bakusatsu Taihō.

Ururu: Are you okay?

Yuzu: Ururu! Oh, thank you so much!

Don: Huh? What is this?! Another one of the new generations? Wonderful!

The smoke clears to reveal Ururu, who walks up to a stunned Yuzu as Don Kanonji expresses delight over meeting another potential candidate for the position of Karakura Red, which leads Jinta to admonish Ururu for showing up out of nowhere before refusing to let her take the title from him.

Jinta and Karin: Hah! Rah! Tah!

Karin: Hrahhh!

Don: This is great!

Jinta: Jinta Homerun!

With Karin reiterating her refusal to let Jinta be Karakura Red, Don Kanonji proclaims that only the one who gives the number one performance is worthy of the title of Karakura Red.

Don: Fantastic! You show 'em!

Yuzu: Wow, Karin.

Having had their rivalry further inflamed by this, Jinta and Karin begin furiously attacking the remaining Hollows to outdo each other, delighting Don Kanonji as he declares that Karakura Superheroes is born. However, a confused Yuzu inquires if Don Kanonji is not going to fight as well, and as he is caught off-guard by this, Don Kanonji pulls out a bullhorn and criticizes Karin as not fighting well enough to earn the title of Karakura Red, prompting her to throw away the Super Spirit Javelin. Upon noticing a soccer ball on the rooftop, Karin kicks it at a Hollow that Jinta is about to attack, sending it flying away and leaving him stunned while she declares that this is the power of Karakura Red, though Jinta continues to contest this. Suddenly, all the remaining Hollows land on the rooftop and begin glowing with red Reiatsu before converging into a single, massive blue Hollow with a snake-like lower body that roars loudly. While a stunned Jinta wonders what this is, Don Kanonji addresses the Hollow as the Bad Spirits King and asserts that it has revealed itself as the Hollow begins advancing on them by pulling itself forward with its arms.

Hollow: Roaaaarrr!

Yuzu: Ah, again?! We have to run!

Karin: Yuzu!

Don Kanonji tells the children that this is a job for the Karakura Superheroes, and as all but Yuzu prepare to fight, he claims that they should plan their strategy first, only for Jinta and Karin to angrily remind him that they do not have time for this.

Don: Aha! It's still after the little girl! Whaddya say there, children?! This looks like a job for the Karakura Superheroes!

Jinta: Yeah!

As it reaches the group, the Hollow slams its head into the stairway behind them, shattering the ground and scattering them across the rooftop, before noticing Yuzu and swiping at her with its hand, with the resulting impact sending her flying over the side of the building while still holding Raku after she narrowly evades the attack, leading Karin to cry out to her in horror while the others stare in shock.

Yuzu: Ahhh!

Karin: Yuzu!

However, as the Hollow pulls itself over the side of the building as well and begins climbing down the side of it in pursuit of them, Raku separates from Yuzu and glows pink once more, to her confusion, before transforming into a lion-like creature with a flaming mane and red armor, astonishing the other Karakura Superheroes watching from above. After propelling past Yuzu, Raku catches her on its back before she hits the ground and gently lays an unconscious Yuzu against a wall while Ururu wonders if he is an ally, prompting Don Kanonji to declare that he is a miracle called forth by their unified desire for justice while Raku roars and leaps up at the Hollow.

Jinta: What's that down there?

Ururu: Do you think it's an ally?

Crashing into the Hollow, Raku pushes it upward and slams it into the rooftop behind the Karakura Superheroes as Don Kanonji describes him as a Hero Robot sent to them by the gods and names him Karakura Lion Jet.

Don: It's a miracle! Our combined desire for justice called forth a miracle! That is the heroes robot sent to us by the gods! Karakura Sonic Lion! It's time for us to join the Sonic Lion, too! Let's go!

With the injured Hollow getting up and roaring, Raku's body is engulfed in flame as he runs forward and slams into the Hollow, sending them both flying off the other side of the building. Upon seeing this, Don Kanonji commands the children to join it, and the four of them run down the stairway and reach the ground right before the Hollow crashes into it. With Don Kanonji ordering the Karakura Attack Formation, Karin, Jinta, and Ururu prepare to attack. As he performs several hand seals, Don Kanonji unleashes a Golden Kanonball that splits into two spheres of energy, which Jinta smacks into the roaring Hollow by using his Muteki Tekkon to perform Jinta Home Run, followed by Karin kicking her blazing soccer ball into the Hollow's head with Karin-Style Death Shot. With the Hollow flying overhead and Jinta telling her that it is coming, Ururu unleashes a barrage of blasts with her Senren Bakusatsu Taihō, obliterating the Hollow.

Don: The Karakura Superheroes prevail! And our mission was accomplished!

Afterwards, Don Kanonji proclaims that the first mission of the Karakura Superheroes is complete as he laughs and poses with Karin, Jinta, and Ururu. When Karin questions if his attack really anything did, Don Kanonji claims that it was the finish blow, only for Jinta to deny this while Raku watches from atop the building before dissolving into a swirl of pink energy that dissipates.

Yuzu: Oh, I remember now. I did meet this little kitty before. It was raining...If I hadn't come by, then you wouldn't have had to die. I thought you'd hold a grudge against me. But...

Yuzu recalls having met Raku before at a construction site while it as raining, where she found Raku hiding from the rain in a stack of pipes and gave him some cookies to eat before attempting to leave, only for Raku to follow her into the nearby road and be struck by a car as a result. Later that day, as the sun begins to set, Yuzu sits on a bench with Raku in her lap and admits that she thought Raku would hold a grudge against her for this.

Calling out to Yuzu, Karin stands in front of her alongside Don Kanonji, Jinta, and Ururu before hugging Yuzu in relief over her being okay.

Karin: Yuzu! Thank goodness!

Upon being told by Don Kanonji that the Karakura Lion Jet which was summoned with their power of justice saved her, Yuzu is left confused as Karin lets go of her and excitedly explains how they summoned something impressive.

Don: You see, the legendary Karakura Sonic Lion, which was properly summoned through our extreme power of justice, was responsible for saving your life!

Cat: Meow.

Yuzu: Secret? All right, then. I guess that it can be our little secret.

Cat: Meow!

While Jinta wonders where he went and agrees that he was amazing, Yuzu looks down at Raku and tearfully agrees to keep this a secret from them, prompting Raku to smile before glowing pink, to the astonishment of the others, and transforming into a ball of energy that flies off into the sky.

Don: What?

Jinta: It's for the best. I'm glad though. I think that it was able to pass on.

Ururu: If that's what happened, then it was able to come to terms with whatever regrets it had.

Yuzu: *Sobbing* I wasn't...able to do anything for him. Nothing. I couldn't do anything... *Sobbing*

Jinta theorizes that this was Raku finally passing over, and as Karin expresses astonishment at him actually being a spirit, Ururu concludes that he was able to resolve any regrets he had. Upon seeing Yuzu crying over being unable to do anything for Raku in return, Jinta bashfully claims that Raku thanked her as he passed over and asserts that a man senses these things when Karin expresses doubt.

Jinta: Hey, uh...See, that was just his way of saying thanks to you just now.

Yuzu: Is that true?

Jinta: Of course it is. A man sense these things, okay?

Yuzu: I hope it's true. *Sobbing* I hope it's true! Wahh!

With Yuzu crying into her shirt, Karin pats her head and soothes her as Yuzu mentally thanks Raku.

Karin: We all did great for him today.

Afterwards, Yuzu introduces herself as Karakura Yellow; Ururu introduces herself as Karakura Pink, Karin and Jinta resume their argument over who deserves to be Karakura Red, and Don Kanonji proclaims himself Karakura Gold as well as the leader and producer of the group.

Yuzu: Karakura Yellow, Yuzu Kurosaki!

Ururu: Karakura Pink, Ururu Tsumugiya!

Karin: Karakura Red, Karin Kurosaki!

Jinta: Karakura Red, Jinta Hanakari!

Karin: I said I'm Red! Do you hear me?!

Jinta: Shut up already! I'm Red!

However, as Don Kanonji tells them to follow him, Jinta and Karin are angered enough by his title to punch him in the face and quit.

Don: And Karakura Gold, the leader-producer of the Karakura Superheroes...is the charismatic, highly-rated television personality, and natural born her, Don Kanonji!

Karin: Leader?!

Jinta: What do you mean Karakura Gold?! That's a bunch of crap!

Don: Tune in, everyone! It's time you put aside your differences and follow your leader-producer!

Jinta and Karin: We quit!

Don: Gahh!

As the sun begins to set in the Seireitei, a grievously wounded 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai clutches a bloodied Ichigo Kurosaki's collar before succumbing to his injuries and collapsing in front of Ichigo, who drops his Shikai, Zangetsu, as he also topples forward. Calling out to Ichigo, Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada frantically run to his side. Upon noticing other Shinigami running toward them in the distance, a concerned Hanatarō informs Ganju that there are at least three people approaching them, prompting Ganju to decide that they should retreat for now, so the enemy does not find them as he hoists Ichigo over his shoulder and runs off, with Hanatarō picking up Zangetsu and rushing after him down a nearby alleyway. Shortly afterwards, 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira and his men reach the site of the battle, where they are shocked to find Renji lying unconscious. With two of his men running over to Renji to see if he is still alive, Izuru is left standing still in astonishment at the thought of Renji having been defeated. When the third Shinigami inquires if they should chase after those who defeated Renji because they seem to have gotten away, Izuru denies this because their priority is seeking medical treatment for Renji before ordering the Shinigami to fetch a stretcher so they can take Renji back to their barracks. Meanwhile, in a room down in the canal network below the Seireitei, Ganju expresses surprise at the idea of Hanatarō being able to heal Ichigo without using medicine or other supplies. Hanatarō explains that members of the Fourth Division can use their Reiryoku to heal others, unlike members of other divisions who can only use it for combat and turns on a lamp mounted on the wall as he admits that this is all they can do. Leaning against the doorway, Ganju asks Hanatarō how Ichigo is doing, leading Hanatarō to walk over to an unconscious Ichigo and kneel beside him before detailing how he is in bad shape due to taking direct hits from a lieutenant's Zanpakutō, which would ordinarily kill him were it not for his incredible will to live. As he takes off his medical kit, Hanatarō promises to fully heal Ichigo in a single night. Elsewhere, 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori is left horrified by Renji's condition as she stands over him with Izuru inside a small waiting room.

Momo: It's Renji!

Izuru: When I found him, he was unconscious. If only I'd gotten there in time to fight alongside him, then this never would've happened.

After recounting how he found Renji in this condition, Izuru bemoans not arriving sooner and assisting Renji in his fight, but Hinamori insists that he should not blame himself.

Momo: Don't blame yourself, Izuru. None of this is your fault. I'll go make the call for the emergency relief team.

Izuru: Renji...

However, when Izuru promises to contact the Fourth Division and request emergency relief, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki appears behind them and asserts that there is no need for this before ordering Izuru and Hinamori to put Renji in a cell, prompting Hinamori to remind him that Renji fought the Ryoka by himself. Despite this, Byakuya claims that there is no excuse for his defeat when he chose to enter a fight alone and that he has no use for a fool who does not understand such a concept. With Byakuya concluding that Renji should be taken away as an eyesore and turning around to leave, an angered Hinamori begins to protest further, only for Izuru to stop her by holding a hand out in front of her and bow toward Byakuya while firmly apologizing, which Hinamori reluctantly copies. Silently watching this, Byakuya turns back and walks away, leaving Izuru to stand up alongside Hinamori as he decides that they should take Renji to a cell in line with Byakuya's command.

Byakuya: This will be his punishment for not listening to orders.

Harsh, huh? Suddenly, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru comments on how scary Byakuya is, surprising Hinamori, and as Izuru addresses him, Gin observes that Byakuya is always like this before assuring the two of them to not worry because he will contact the Fourth Division.

Gin: Don't worry about him. I'll call in Squad 4, so you won't get in trouble.

Izuru: Captain Ichimaru!

Gin: Come on, Izuru.

When Gin tells Izuru to come with him and walks away, Izuru complies, leaving a flustered Hinamori to bow while thanking Gin.

Izuru: Yes, sir!

As Hinamori solemnly looks down, 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya appears behind her and bluntly notes that Renji has been severely beaten up. Upon having his named yelled by a shocked Hinamori, Hitsugaya reminds her he is a captain and should be addressed as such.

Hitsugaya: Wow. Renji is in bad shape. What a mess.

Momo: Toshiro!

Hinamori dismisses this and demands to know why so many captains sneak up on people, only to calm down and inquire why Hitsugaya is here without his lieutenant upon realizing that he is alone.

Hitsugaya: Hey, hey. Mind your manners now. You still have to address me as a captain, you know.

Momo: Oh, you can forget about that! What is it with you captains always creeping around silently and what were you doing sneaking up behind me like that anyway? Wait s sec. What are you doing here, Toshiro? Where's your lieutenant?

Looking around, Hitsugaya reveals that he came here to warn Hinamori to be wary of the Third Division, and when Hinamori questions if he is referring to Izuru, Hitsugaya clarifies that he is speaking of Gin, though he is not sure about Izuru either.

Hitsugaya: I have come here to warn you. Be careful dealing with Squad 3.

Momo: What does that mean? You mean, Izuru?

Hitsugaya: Actually, what I meant was Ichimaru, but watch Izuru too. It's strange. I wish that I could give you more specifics. Just be careful.

Recalling Gin's earlier vague and threatening interaction with 5th Division Captain Sōsuke Aizen at the captains meeting, Hitsugaya states that it cannot hurt to be careful and elaborates further to a speechless Hinamori.

Momo: (Be careful around both Izuru and Captain Ichimaru? Toshiro?)

Sometime later, in the captains' assembly hall in the First Division barracks, Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto addresses the other captains and declares that the situation is critical now that they have lost a lieutenant, meaning they can no longer leave this matter to the lower-ranked members of the Gotei 13. After noting that he will not discipline Gin for his earlier actions, to the latter's gratitude, Yamamoto reveals that he will also allow all high-ranking Shinigami, including lieutenants, to carry their Zanpakutō at all times and release them within the Seireitei as they are permitted to do during wartime operations.

Yamamoto: The situation has become critical. As a result of recent events, the 13 Court Guard Squads are now short by one lieutenant. Obviously, we can no longer afford to leave these matter in the hands of lower ranked officers and members. Subsequently, no disciplinary measures will be taken against Ichimaru for his earlier independent actions.

Gin: Thank you, sir.

While 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen makes note of them being allowed to carry their Zanpakutō at all times, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki expresses delight at being allowed to operate under wartime rules. When 12th Division Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi asserts that they would not be talking about this had he not allowed the Ryoka to get away, Gin requests that he stop bringing this up as a grinning Kenpachi notes that the Ryoka which Gin fought will now be his prey. With Byakuya remaining silent, Yamamoto firmly tells the captains that this is now an all-out war they are waging, leading Aizen to look at Gin while the latter continues to smile.

Yamamoto: Furthermore, senior officers, including lieutenants, shall hereby be allowed to carry their Zanpakuto at all times with full wartime usage of their powers. Everyone, let us declare all-out war on these Ryoka.

Meanwhile, in the canal network, as Hanatarō applies bandages to his wounds, Ichigo opens his eyes. Expressing relief at Ichigo being awake, Hanatarō requests that he not move because his wounds have not closed yet, leading Ichigo to recall his fight with Renji. Suddenly, Ichigo sits up and asserts that he will be alright now, and when Hanatarō protests this on the grounds of him not being healed yet, Ichigo points out how Yasutora Sado and his other friends do not know where Rukia Kuchiki is, meaning that he has to go. Upon seeing Ichigo struggling to walk over to Zangetsu, which is leaning against the wall, Hanatarō points to this as proof of him not being healed yet. Though Hanatarō declares that he is guaranteed to die if he goes out in this condition, Ichigo continues walking toward the exit as he uses Zangetsu as a crutch, only for Ganju to punch him in the face when he reaches the doorway, knocking Ichigo out and sending him crashing to the ground. Cracking his knuckles, Ganju observes that Ichigo cannot be fully healed if such a blow can knock him out and tells him to sleep until his wounds are closed while Hanatarō bemoans Ichigo having another wound to heal now. While Ganju defends this as him having stopped Ichigo and not being worth complaining about, Hanatarō drags Ichigo back to the area where he was healing him. As he looks down at Ichigo, Hanatarō mentally admits that he was not expecting the wound resulting from Renji's slash across Ichigo's left shoulder and chest to be so shallow and notes that it should have been fatal before looking over at a Hollow-like mask he found in Ichigo's pocket, which he concludes saved Ichigo from being killed by that attack. Hanatarō wonders what the mask could be made of to stop Renji's Shikai, Zabimaru, why it looks like the mask of a Hollow, and what Ichigo could be doing with it.

That night, at Senzaikyū, two Shinigami stand guard outside the Shishinrō and are alerted when Rukia draws their attention from within. When Rukia inquires what is going on outside and assures them that it is alright if they only tell her a little, one of the surprised Shinigami clarifies that they do not know the details before informing her that Renji was defeated, shocking Rukia. Elsewhere, in a prison ward, Hinamori watches as a member of the Fourth Division tends to Renji within a cell, with Renji still unconscious and his hands bound as he lies on a bed. Upon being told by the Fourth Division Shinigami that he has finished treating Renji's wounds for the day, Hinamori thanks him and slides open the cell door to let him out. After the Shinigami departs, Hinamori enters the cell and sits next to Renji. Watching Renji pant and sweat heavily, Hinamori wonders why he attacked the Ryoka alone and if it has anything to do with Rukia as she recalls their past at the Shin'ō Academy.

In the past, Renji runs through the forest and leaps high into the air, where he slashes at a surprised Hinamori in midair, resulting in her Zanpakutō being knocked out of her hands as she falls to the ground below. With Renji landing several meters away from her, Hinamori stands up next to her Zanpakutō, which has embedded itself in the ground, and rubs her arm as she berates Renji for being so serious because they cannot afford to get hurt while practicing combat like this. Renji asserts that there is no point in practicing unless they are serious and claims that Hinamori simply was not paying attention, prompting Izuru to offer to be his next opponent as he approaches them. When Izuru observes that it must not be fun for Renji to beat a woman, an annoyed Hinamori asks him if he is making fun of women, and while a flustered Izuru denies this, Renji repeatedly punches him in the back for acting embarrassed. Admitting that he was not thinking of Izuru as an opponent, a grinning Renji declares that he will not be bored this way, leading Izuru to promise that he will make Renji regret these words as they begin sparring and cross blades. While Hinamori sits on a nearby rock and watches, Renji forces Izuru back to end their clash and dodges Izuru's subsequent thrust aimed at his head before crossing blades with Izuru once more. With sparks flying as he holds back Renji's Zanpakutō, Izuru praises his skill, which prompts Renji to assert that he has also improved as they leap back. However, before they can resume their duel, Renji notices Rukia walking nearby and asks Izuru to wait for a moment as he runs over to her, leaving Izuru and Hinamori to stare in surprise as they watch him happily talk to Rukia.

In the present, a Shinigami enters the prison ward and informs Hinamori that wartime orders were just issued. Shortly afterward, in the Fifth Division barracks, dozens of Shinigami run through the halls to pass along the wartime orders while another Shinigami kneels before Hinamori in her room nearby. The Shinigami elaborates that the wartime orders permit all high-ranking Shinigami, including lieutenants, to carry their Zanpakutō within the court and full wartime usage of them is permitted by Yamamoto himself, which she acknowledges as she kneels on a mat in the center of the room. After the Shinigami departs, Hinamori wonders how the situation could have escalated to the point of lieutenants being allowed to carry and release their Zanpakutō as they would in wartime. Mentally asserting that they do not have to let the lieutenants carry their Zanpakutō because she only wants peace, Hinamori recalls Hitsugaya's warning to her about the Third Division and thinks of Aizen. Later that night, Aizen sits in his room and writes a letter before noticing Hinamori standing outside his doors and inquiring if something is wrong.

Aizen: What's the matter, Momo? Are you alright?

As Hinamori opens the door and apologizes, Aizen questions what the problem could be this close to dawn, only to be surprised when Hinamori asks to speak with him despite acknowledging how rude it is. Though Hinamori promises to not make any errors, Aizen simply walks up to her and smiles.

Momo: I know it's late.

Aizen: It's either very late or it's early since it's daybreak now.

Momo: I know this is incredibly rude of me, but can I talk to you for a little while about some things? If you say no, I'll understand, but I don't know who else to go on.

Aizen wonders if she really thought he would cold-heartedly send her away for being rude, and as Hinamori denies this, Aizen invites her to come inside and talk to her heart's content because she must have had a difficult day, to Hinamori's relief.

Aizen: Momo, do you really think that I could turn you away? Surely you don't think I'm that heartless, even at this hour?

Momo: No, that's why I came here.

Aizen: Why don't you come inside? Today was a difficult day for everybody. You can tell me all about it your heart's content, Momo. So what is it, Momo? Wasn't there something specific you wanted to talk about?

Momo: Yes, I was...

Meanwhile, in the room within the canal network, Ichigo wakes up once more and rubs his chin in pain as he sits up. While Hanatarō observes that he is awake again, Ichigo curses Ganju for laying firsthand an injured man, only for Hanatarō to admit that he is glad Ganju stopped Ichigo earlier because he would have begun bleeding again otherwise, which Ichigo acknowledges as proof that he needs to cool his head. After Hanatarō assures him that he can rest a bit longer because no one will come looking for him down here, Ichigo questions what happened to Renji, leading Hanatarō to explain that he would normally be sent to emergency relief. Noting this, Ichigo smiles at Hanatarō before staring at the wall. Back in his room, Aizen continues writing his letter while Hinamori sits behind him. Upon being reminded by Aizen that she wanted to talk about something, Hinamori begins to brings up her concerns, but is sidetracked when Aizen inquiries about Renji's condition.

Aizen: How is Lieutenant Abarai's recovery coming along?

Hinamori reveals that Renji's life is not in danger, which Aizen expresses relief to hear.

Momo: Oh, um. He's stable and not in danger anymore.

Aizen: That's good to hear. You're worried about what was decided at the meeting, aren't you. Captain Kuchiki wanted Renji discharged, but then he backed down when there were objections. So Renji will be allowed to return to his post once he's finally recovered.

Promising Hinamori that she does not need to worry about the captains' meeting, Aizen recounts how Byakuya backed down from his request for Renji to be discharged after he was met with objections and concludes that Renji will be able to return to his division once his wounds heal.

Momo: I'm so glad! And I bet you were the one who objected, weren't you, Captain?

Aizen: I wasn't alone. Most everyone recognizes that he's an excellent officer. Despite their differences, no one in all the 13 Court Guard Squads would rejoice in Renji's dismissal.

When Hinamori asks him if he is the one who objected, Aizen clarifies that he was not the only one because Renji is an excellent Shinigami and well-liked by everyone, meaning that no one in the Gotei 13 would rejoice at his dismissal.

Momo: Good! Can I ask a favor? If it wouldn't bother you, and I promise no more questions. I'll just sit here and watch. Could I stay with you a while longer?

Aizen: Stay as long as you like, Momo.

Momo: Thank you.

As Aizen turns back to his letter, a smiling Hinamori requests to sit and watch him while refraining from disturbing him if it is not imposing. With Aizen stating that he does not mind and that she can stay as long as she likes, Hinamori smiles and remains sitting. However, as dawn begins to break, Aizen leaves Hinamori sleeping underneath his coat within his room and closes the door as he steps outside and walks away, with someone else standing behind him next to the door. Later, Hinamori bolts awake and apologizes for oversleeping, only to find that Aizen is gone. When Aizen's alarm clock begins sounding, Hinamori realizes what time it is and dashes out of the room.

Momo: Oh dear! I'm sorry, Captain! I was so tired, I fell asleep. Captain? Ten o'clock? Look at how late I am! I don't know how I'm going to ever make it to the meeting on time.

As she runs down the hall, Hinamori bemoans Aizen for not waking her up earlier and expresses doubt over making it to the meeting on time.

Momo: Oh, I wish the Captain would've woken me up before he left. I actually made it.

Running past the site of Ichigo and Renji's battle and up the stairs leading to Senzaikyū, Hinamori enters an opening to the side of the stairs and declares that she is taking a shortcut before jumping onto the roofs of several of the buildings surrounding Senzaikyū in order to reach the corridor surrounding the tower nearby.

Momo: Ah...Ah...Ah...

However, as she observes that she made it and runs through the pavilion, a drop of blood falls from a Zanpakutō's manage onto a streak running up the wall behind her, prompting her to stop and turn around in confusion before screaming loudly in shock, which alerts the lieutenants waiting in the conference room ahead.

Momo: Ahhhhhhhhh!

7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto, and Izuru rush toward Hinamori's location after realizing that the scream came from the East Holy Wall and sounded like Hinamori.

"Huh?"

"I think it was coming from the Eastern Wall."

Izuru: That sounded like it was Momo. Momo! What is it, Momo? Please, tell me what happened!

Upon reaching Hinamori, who is standing completely still in shock, Izuru shakes and asks her what is wrong, but when Hinamori does not respond, Izuru looks up at the wall she is staring at to see Aizen impaled through the chest with his own Zanpakutō to the top, with a long trail of blood dripping down from his body. While the lieutenants are stunned by this discovery, Hinamori screams Aizen's name.

Momo: Ah...You can't be dead...You can't be. You can't. Oh, Captain Aizen...Who did this?! CAPTAIN AIZEN!

With 3rd Division Lieutenant Izuru Kira, 7th Division Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba, 9th Division Lieutenant Shūhei Hisagi, and 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto all shocked to find the corpse of her captain, Sōsuke Aizen, pinned to the top of the East Holy Wall with his own Zanpakutō, a stunned 5th Division Lieutenant Momo Hinamori begins to approach it.

Momo: Captain Aizen….! CAPTAIN AIZEN! Who…? Who did this to? Why would someone murder…?

Expressing her disbelief at the situation, Hinamori falls to her knees and screams Aizen's name.

Iba: Is that Captain Aizen's body on the building wall?

Hisagi: That means with all the blood he's…!

Izuru: He's dead…!

Rangiku: But…who would do such a thing?

Suddenly, 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru wonders what all this racket is about so early in the morning, alerting Hinamori, as he appears behind the other lieutenants, who turn to look at him.

Gin: What's all this racket so early in the morning? Oh, that? Yes, it certainly is a tragedy.

Momo: Ah….

While Gin nonchalantly comments on how terrible the situation is, Hinamori recalls 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya's warning to be wary of the Third Division, especially when Aizen goes out walking alone, and stares coldly at Gin for several seconds.

Hitsugaya: Listen to me, Momo. Be careful dealing with Squad 3. Especially if you ever see Captain Aizen go out walking alone.

As tears fall from her eyes, Hinamori blames Gin for this.

Momo: It was you!

Gripping her Zanpakutō, Hinamori rushes toward Gin and slashes at him, only to find Izuru intercepting her at the last second by blocking her strike with his own Zanpakutō, which causes Gin to smile.

Izuru: Momo! Stop!

When Hinamori asks him why he is doing this, Izuru asserts that he cannot allow anyone to raise their sword against his captain as the 3rd Division Lieutenant.

Momo: Izuru, stand aside.

Izuru: I can't do that. I'm the lieutenant of Squad 3. No matter what reason, I cannot allow anyone raise their sword to my captain.

Momo: He's a murderer, Izuru. Let me go.

Izuru: You know that I cannot.

Momo: Can't you hear me? I'm telling you to step aside!

Izuru: Can't you hear me?! I'm telling you to remember your place!

Upon seeing Gin walking away, Hinamori attempts to move around Izuru and resume her attack on him, but Izuru catches her and pushes her back in another blade lock as he shakes his head. Though Hinamori tearfully begs him to move aside twice, Izuru staunchly refuses both times.

Momo: Snap! Tobiume! (Flying Plum Tree!)

An enraged Hinamori demands that Izuru move, and when Izuru emphatically refuses once more, Hinamori releases her Shikai, Tobiume, and unleashes a fireball that creates a large explosion, shocking the other lieutenants while Gin continues to walk away. Sent flying back by the explosion, Izuru brings himself to a halt and criticizes Hinamori for her thoughtlessness in releasing her Zanpakutō in such a place before questioning if she realizes what she is doing. As Izuru tells her to not confuse public and private matters, Hinamori charges up Tobiume and unleashes another fireball, which arcs past Izuru into the wall above Gin.

Izuru: Raise your head! Wabisuke! (The Penitent One!)

After deciding that he has no choice but to eliminate her as an enemy, Izuru leaps into the air above Hinamori and releases his own Shikai, Wabisuke, before coming down on Hinamori as she assumes a battle stance and glows with red Reiatsu, only for Hitsugaya to interrupt their clash by blocking Wabisuke with his partially-unsheathed Zanpakutō while pinning Tobiume to the ground with his left foot.

Hitsugaya: Back away now, both of you.

Momo: Toshiro!

Hitsugaya: Place these two under arrest.

Izuru: Captain Hitsugaya?!

Telling Hinamori and Izuru to not move, Hitsugaya orders the other lieutenants to arrest them, prompting Rangiku and Hisagi to restrain Hinamori by the neck and arm as Hisagi pulls back Izuru by his collar and restrains his right arm.

Hitsugaya: Momo! At a time like this, you accept arms against your own? Especially when your first priority should have been to take Captain Aizen's body down from up there. I will report this incident to the Head Captain. get these two out of my sight! Lock them both up.

With Hinamori protesting this, Hitsugaya points out that this is no time to be crossing swords with one another and that her first priority should be lowering Aizen's corpse from the wall, leaving her speechless, before promising to report this to Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto as he instructs the lieutenants to put Hinamori and Izuru in cells. While the lieutenants take her and Izuru away, Hinamori looks back at Aizen's corpse and glares defiantly at a grinning Gin, only to look down despondently afterward.

Gin: Thank you, Squad 10 Captain. Sorry you had to waste your time on one of mine.

Gin apologizes for Hitsugaya having to waste time with one of his men, but Hitsugaya accuses Gin of having been preparing to kill Hinamori.

Hitsugaya: You know, Gin. I believe that, just now, you were about to kill Momo.

Gin: Now, what ever could you be talking about?

As Gin claims to not know what he is talking about, Hitsugaya declares that he will kill Gin if the latter makes Hinamori bleed, leading Gin to assert that he should keep a close eye on her, so she does not get hurt as the two stare at each other intensely.

Hitsugaya: Play innocent if you like, but I'll tell you this - if you allow Momo's blood to be spilled, I promise you I'll kill you.

Gin: Oh, how scary. But I suggest that you keep an eye on her. You don't want any misfortune to befall her.

Suddenly, three Shinigami wielding pole arms run up to Hitsugaya and Gin while inquiring about what happened, only to stop in shock upon seeing Aizen's corpse. Upon being ordered by Hitsugaya to get Aizen down, the Shinigami approach the East Holy Wall to do so, leaving Hitsugaya to silently walk past Gin. Meanwhile, in the canal network below the Seireitei, Ganju Shiba sleeps against a wall.

Waking up, Ganju is startled to find 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada sleeping and drooling on his leg. After throwing a still-sleeping Hanatarō off, Ganju demands to know why he was sleeping on his knee, and upon noticing the drool on his pant leg, Ganju berates Hanatarō for getting his good pair of pants slimy with drool. However, Ichigo Kurosaki requests that Ganju not give Hanatarō a tough time because the latter is exhausted as he steps out from the nearby room. When a surprised Ganju inquires if he is alright, Ichigo confirms this and states that it is thanks to Hanatarō before noting that Ganju should be feeling better too, which Ganju realizes is true. Ichigo explains that Hanatarō was treating Ganju's injuries early this morning even though he was already exhausted, leading Ganju to observe that Hanatarō was helping him before he even knew it before staring at Ichigo, who wonders what is wrong. As he makes note of how things are going to get harder from here on out because the enemy is getting irritated by now, Ganju tells Ichigo that he had better be serious about his desire to rescue Rukia Kuchiki. Recalling the last time he saw Rukia, when she saved his life in the Human World by voluntarily returning to Soul Society, Ichigo states that she is waiting and that he did not come here to tour the canals. While Ichigo and Ganju smile at this, Hanatarō suddenly bolts awake and protests being hit on like this, only to realize Ichigo and Ganju are staring at him. As Hanatarō greets them, Ganju inquires what he was dreaming about, prompting Hanatarō to bashfully claim that he cannot tell him, to Ichigo and Ganju's confusion. Above them, atop the roof of one of the buildings surrounding Senzaikyū, 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki sits and waits as the bells on his hair jingle in the wind. In the past, as he stares at Yasutora Sado's name tag, Ichigo calls him "Chad", prompting Sado to correct him, before commenting on the latter's size.

Lying on the ground in an alleyway with a bloodied forehead, Ichigo asks Sado if he is wearing his school's uniform and notes that he has never seen Sado before. Sado reveals that he is transferring to Mashiba Middle School today and is in class 2-F, shocking Ichigo with the knowledge that they are the same age and in the same class as he gets to his feet and wonders why Sado did not fight back. When Ichigo stumbles while thanking him for his help, Sado questions if he should be standing up at all, and when Ichigo claims to be fine, Sado points out how he is bleeding, which leads Ichigo to explain that he would have been fine had the teenagers they beat up not used rocks. With Sado noting that the teenagers are third-year students and asking if he did something to them, Ichigo bluntly states that they simply did not like his hair and target anyone who stands out before observing that it must be the same with Sado, who is surprised. After remarking that Sado also stands out due to his size, Ichigo picks up his bag and declares that they should get going as he begins walking out of the alley while staggering, leading Sado to correct his usage of "Chad" while pointing out Ichigo's unstable walking. As the two of them walk away, Ichigo asks Sado if he does not like the name "Chad" because it is a cool name like Dominic Chad. When Sado admits that he has never heard of this man, a bemused Ichigo inquires if he knows Chad Smith, though Sado denies knowledge of him as well before mentioning that he does know Eugene Chadbourne, to Ichigo's confusion.

In the present, Sado opens his eyes and sits up on top of a stack of boxes in a warehouse, where he realizes that he was dreaming about the past like an old man. Upon hearing the voices of Shinigami outside preparing to check the warehouse he is hiding in and seeing the barricaded doors being impacted as they try to get inside, Sado holds out his arm and manifests his Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante. Sado expresses gratitude for waking up early because being woken up by this would have resulted in a dreadful day as the doors burst open.

Back down in the canal network, Ichigo and Ganju are left puzzled by the pill Hanatarō is holding out for them to look at. Upon being asked by Ichigo what it is, Hanatarō claims it is a special nutritional fortification pill supplied to everyone in the Fourth Division so they can continue working even when they are tired, only for Ichigo and Ganju to question the veracity of this due to the pill having a skull design on it. Despite this, Hanatarō swallows it, but nothing happens as he gets to his feet and decides they should get going. Astonished by this, Ichigo and Ganju demand Hanatarō wait before pointing out how the pill clearly did nothing, and when Hanatarō asks them if his face does not look like he is full of energy right now, Ichigo states it looks the same as before while Ganju notes Hanatarō was clearly tricked. Soon afterward, Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō emerge from the same canal network entrance outside Senzaikyū that they used the previous day after confirming that no one is around. When Ichigo expresses confusion at there not being any guards present even though he fought here just yesterday, Ganju theorizes the Shinigami did not think they would come back to the same place. With Ichigo admitting that this sounds plausible, Hanatarō claims to be full of energy right now, but Ichigo reiterates that he does not look like he does as Ganju wonders how Uryū Ishida and Orihime Inoue are doing while describing their appearances. As Ichigo states that Ganju calling Orihime a "chick" is not a popular term anymore, Hanatarō points out that Ichigo's phrasing is not popular either, prompting Ichigo to grind his fists into the sides of Hanatarō's head while the latter apologizes. Upon being assured by Ichigo that Uryū and Orihime are a hundred times smarter than he is, Ganju realizes that this means Ichigo is a hundred times dumber than they are. After grinding his fists into the sides of Hanatarō's head once again when the latter confirms this, Ichigo clarifies that he is saying Uryū and Orihime are fine because they would not take on enemies whom they could not beat. When Ganju brings up Sado, Ichigo asserts that there is even less reason to worry about him and walks forward a few steps before revealing he has been able to sense Sado's Reiatsu ever since they got here. While Ganju and Hanatarō express surprise, Ichigo concludes he cannot imagine Sado ever losing. Back outside the warehouse, a Shinigami is launched high into the air and falls to the ground below alongside his defeated comrades.

As the Shinigami rolls over onto his stomach and calls him a monster, Sado lifts him up by the collar and demands to know where Senzaikyū is, to the Shinigami's surprise. Sado explains that the last Shinigami he asked said that name before he lost consciousness and that he does not know where it is, and at Sado's insistence, the Shinigami points at the white tower in the distance and indicates that it is Senzaikyū. Staring intently at the Shinigami for several seconds, Sado lets go of him and responds to the Shinigami begging for his life by politely bowing and thanking him before running off while the Shinigami tells him to not mention it. Suddenly, the Shinigami narrows his eyes and picks up his Zanpakutō before rushing toward Sado as he berates him for turning his back on an enemy, only for Sado to grab his Zanpakutō by the blade mid-swing with Brazo Derecha de Gigante and bend it, leaving the Shinigami astonished. With Sado exerting his Reiatsu, the intimidated Shinigami leaps back and kneels as he repeatedly begs for his life, only for Sado to toss his Zanpakutō to the ground and warn him to not do this again. As Sado runs off, the Shinigami promises to do so and expresses surprise at Sado not killing him.

Meanwhile, Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō approach the stairs leading up to Senzaikyū. At Ichigo's prompting, Ganju and Hanatarō begin running up the steps alongside him.

Ichigo: We had a major battle here just yesterday. Wouldn't you expect them to at least have a couple guards posted?

Ganju: They think we feel lucky just to have gotten away alive and they figure that this is the last place we'd come back to.

Ichigo: Yeah, you're right.

Ganju: Alright then, guys. Let's just head straight for the tower.

In the Eighth Division compound, Sado defeats several more Shinigami and runs up a set of stairs toward the main barracks. In his office, 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku rests on his back and hums to himself as his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, informs him that Sado has arrived and has broken through the guardhouse while looking out the window.

?: He's here, Captain. It's the Ryoka. Captain Kyoraku!

Expressing annoyance at Sado being here already, Shunsui decides to head out and confront him in person as he gets to his feet, leading Nanao to question this and assert that she should be more than enough for a Ryoka. As he holsters his twin sheathed Zanpakutō, Shunsui clarifies that he is going because Yamamoto ordered the captains to combat the Ryoka and he does not want anyone to think the Gotei 13 is still having problems with them because old people hate being embarrassed.

Shunsui: Already? Ahh, I wasn't expecting the guy so early. Oh, what the hell. Guess I'd better head out there and given him a proper greeting. It won't take long. I'm just gonna have some fun.

However, when Shunsui lays his hand on her shoulder and teasingly claims that he would be heartbroken if she got injured in battle, Nanao rebukes his statement of ownership over her and smacks his wrist with a folded fan. Clutching his wrist in pain, Shunsui observes Nanao is more heartless than ever and claims this is what he loves about her, which prompts a flustered Nanao to demand he leave already. Having donned his flowery kimono, Shunsui complies and tells Nanao to not worry because it will be over before she knows it and he will just have some fun.

Back at the Senzaikyū compound, Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō continue running up the stairs while Rukia looks out her window from within the Shishinrō above and closes her eyes. With Ganju complaining about how many stairs there are, Ichigo tells him to shut up, only for them both to be surprised when Hanatarō passes them while asserting that the pill he took really does work, to their disbelief.

Hanataro: Ngh...Ah...

Ganju: This Spiritual Pressure! It's incredible!

Ichigo: Yrgh...Crap!

Eventually, the three of them reach the top of the stairs, where they pause to catch their breath.

Upon seeing that the courtyard in front of them does not have any Shinigami patrolling it, Ichigo declares that they will be going straight into the inner area and begins running forward as Ganju and Hanatarō follow him. Suddenly, the three of them experience an incredibly intense Reiatsu enveloping them, which alerts Rukia as well, and as they struggle to stay standing while wondering what the source of this Reiatsu is, Kenpachi crouches on a rooftop above them and grins. In the first Special Confinement Gaol within the Fifth Division barracks, Lieutenant Momo Hinamori sits and holds her head in her hands as she recalls finding the corpse of her captain, Sōsuke Aizen, earlier that day.

Momo: ...Oh Captain...Rangiku, I...

As she enters the room, 10th Division Lieutenant Rangiku Matsumoto observes that Hinamori looks awful and inquires if she has calmed down from earlier.

Rangiku: So have you finally calmed down yet?

Though Hinamori meekly apologizes for causing her trouble as well, Rangiku dismisses this because she could not do anything either.

Momo: Yes, I have. I'm sorry I lost control out there.

When Hinamori requests to know what things are like out in the Seireitei, Rangiku describes it as chaotic due to such an unprecedented tragedy occurring within the barracks alongside the Ryoka situation, resulting in the high-ranking Shinigami pursuing their own goals while losing focus. A stunned Hinamori questions why they are not arresting the perpetrator, but Rangiku clarifies that they are still investigating the crime scene and have no choice but to await Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto's decision. However, with Hinamori beginning to accuse 3rd Division Captain Gin Ichimaru of having killed Aizen, Rangiku angrily reprimands her for saying such reckless things and reminds Hinamori that her division is suffering the most right now despite the chaos outside because they have lost both their captain and their lieutenant, which Hinamori should know the meaning of. As Hinamori stares at her in shock, Rangiku admits that she understands how Hinamori feels before wondering if there was really no alternative to the actions which Hinamori took after finding Aizen's corpse and asks Hinamori to at least consider this, as the title of lieutenant should not be taken lightly. While Hinamori apologizes once more, Rangiku's expression softens as she hands Hinamori a sealed letter which was found in Aizen's room and is addressed to her.

Rangiku: This was in Captain Aizen's room. It's addressed to you.

Momo: These are from the Captain? They're for me?

Asserting that Hinamori is lucky her captain, Tōshirō Hitsugaya, found it because anyone else would have submitted it as evidence and prevented it from reaching Hinamori, Rangiku instructs Hinamori to treasure Aizen's last words as she reads them even if Rangiku does not know what they are because a captain leaving their last words to their lieutenants should be a happy thing.

Rangiku: I haven't read any of it and I don't know what it says. But it seems to me that as a loyal lieutenant, you should be very honored to know that your captain's last words were for you. I hope you appreciate it.

Rangiku departs and walks outside the prison ward, waving to Hinamori when the latter thanks her for her delivery.

Momo: Oh, I do. Thanks so much, Rangiku...

After looking up at the sun, Rangiku rubs her eyes. Back inside the cell, Hinamori unties the string binding the letter and opens it, where she finds Aizen stating that her reading this means that he was unable to return. As Hinamori realizes that this means Aizen knew he was being targeted and wrote this letter after she fell asleep the previous night, she reads Aizen apologizing for how much grief he has caused her, as he has no words to express his gratitude.

"Momo...If you're reading this letter, then it means I didn't make it back. Therefore, to you, who I trust more than any other, I leave this record of the truths I have uncovered."

Aizen's letter details how he never spoke to her about his concerns because he did not want her to get involved before expressing hope that Hinamori will forgive him for involving her now. With Aizen revealing all he has discovered so far in the letter to Hinamori, whom he trusts more than anyone else, because he is no longer alive, Hinamori is left astonished and sweating in shock.

Momo: Oh no...!

Meanwhile, in the Senzaikyū compound, Ichigo Kurosaki, Ganju Shiba, and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada are stunned and intimidated by the intense Reiatsu crushing down on them. As Ganju wonders where the Reiatsu could be coming from, Ichigo declares that they need to run ahead because he knows someone terrible is nearby and they need to get out of here before the enemy finds them, which Ganju and Hanatarō agree with.

Ichigo: What could be...What could be doing this?! We gotta run! I don't know what's going on here, but I'll tell you for sure, there's someone close by we don't want to meet up with. We have got to move and get to the tower before the enemy finds us!

Ganju: Right!

Hanataro: I'll try.

Ichigo, Ganju, and Hanatarō begin running forward as 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki comments on them finally getting here just as he was getting bored before questioning which of them is the Ryoka he has been searching for. Continuing to run with Ganju and Hanatarō, Ichigo observes that something is wrong because it does not feel like they have put any distance between themselves and the enemy despite how far they have run. While Ichigo concludes that it feels like he constantly has a sword at his throat, Hanatarō suddenly collapses behind him, leading Ganju to demand to know what he is doing as he runs back. When Hanatarō states that there is no strength left in his body, Ganju berates him for requiring so much care as he hoists Hanatarō over his shoulders before responding to Ichigo wondering if he is alright by telling him to shut up and run. Kenpachi looks over each of them as Ganju rejoins Ichigo in running, and after dismissing Ganju and Hanatarō as not being the Ryoka he is looking for, Kenpachi sees Ichigo, who experiences the sensation of Kenpachi leaning over his shoulder and inquiring if he is the one, causing Ichigo to turn around in shock and look upward, where he sees Kenpachi crouching on a rooftop above them as he grins and stares back down at him. Upon being asked by Kenpachi how long he is going to keep staring over there, a stunned Ichigo envisions being impaled through the chest from behind by a Zanpakutō, only to quickly realize that he is unharmed. Gripping the section of his shihakushō where he believed the Zanpakutō came through, a frightened Ichigo mentally asserts that he was certain that he had been stabbed and wonders if killing intent alone could really do this. As he stands behind Ichigo, Kenpachi asks him if he is Ichigo Kurosaki, and when Ichigo questions how Kenpachi knows his name and who he is, Kenpachi notes that his 3rd Seat, Ikkaku Madarame, should have told Ichigo.

?: You're finally here. Are you Ichigo Kurosaki?

Ichigo: How do you know my name? And who are you anyway?

Kenpachi: Come on. I'm sure Ikkaku told you that.

Ichigo: Wait...!

Ichigo recalls Ikkaku describing Kenpachi as tough, seeking the strongest fighter among the Ryoka, and someone Ichigo may not survive facing while Kenpachi introduces himself and declares that he is here to fight Ichigo to the death.

Kenpachi: I'm Captain of Squad 11, Kenpachi Zaraki. I'm here to fight you to the death.

Inside the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū nearby, Rukia Kuchiki is startled and gets to her feet as she mentally notes that she felt Reiatsu again, which she realizes must be incredibly strong if she can feel it from within the Sekkiseki building, before wondering what is going on outside as she recalls 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai informing her of an intruder in Soul Society matching Ichigo's description two days prior. Though she is not sure if Ichigo is really here, Rukia mentally asserts that she could not wish for anything more than for Ichigo to be alive and kneels as she clasps her hands in prayer and urges Ichigo to run away so he can live because there are forces in Soul Society which defy the logic of the Human World.

Back outside Senzaikyū, an unnerved Ichigo stands across from Kenpachi and mentally identifies him as he recalls Yoruichi Shihōin's warning to flee immediately should he encounter a captain.

Ichigo: (So this is him. Kenpachi Zaraki, the famous Captain of Squad 11. The Spiritual Pressure I've been sensing all this time was his!)

With Ichigo questioning how he could escape from such Reiatsu, Kenpachi asks him what is wrong and reiterates that he is here to fight Ichigo to the death.

Kenpachi: What's wrong? Is something the matter with your hearing? I've just challenged you to a fight to the death. I assume, since you won't answer me, it's all right with you if I start.

When Kenpachi inquires if he should start because Ichigo does not seem like he has anything to say, Ichigo moves to draw his Shikai, Zangetsu, only to stop upon seeing that Ganju has fallen to his knees and Hanatarō has collapsed behind him.

Ichigo: Hey, Ganju!

Ganju: Right here.

Ichigo: Get Hanataro up and go on ahead. You save Rukia. I'll deal with this guy somehow.

Ganju: No way, you're gonna need-

Ichigo: Ganju, please!

Seeing Hanatarō drooling with blank eyes, a shocked Ichigo begins to ask him if he is okay, but Ganju interrupts by insulting Ichigo and explaining that he and Hanatarō will be fine because they simply got caught up in Kenpachi's Reiatsu before urging Ichigo to focus on what is in front of him because Kenpachi will kill him if he does not.

Kenpachi: You really don't understand, do you? Don't make me repeat myself. I've been waiting for you to get here for some time now in the hopes of a decent fight. I'm not the least bit interested in your two friends, nor, for that matter, your mission to free that Rukia. But even with that, you're still nowhere near my level.

Suddenly, 11th Division Lieutenant Yachiru Kusajishi pops up from behind Kenpachi's shoulder. As she comments on Hanatarō drooling, Yachiru leaps onto Ichigo's shoulder and expresses sympathy for how scared Hanatarō must be, prompting a startled Ichigo to throw her off. Yachiru lands next to Kenpachi and observes that Ichigo got mad at her, and as Kenpachi affirms that it is her fault, Ichigo wonders where Yachiru came from and how she is remaining completely unaffected by Kenpachi's Reiatsu.

Yachiru: Oh boy, Ichi. Are you in trouble now for Kenny to teach you a lesson after playing with him.

With Yachiru rebuking that Kenpachi is the one who taught her such mannerisms, Ichigo demands to know who she is, only to be shocked to learn that she is a lieutenant just like Renji when Yachiru cheerfully introduces herself and says it is nice to meet him. After noting that Yachiru is not ordinary either because he did not detect her until she jumped onto his shoulder, Ichigo instructs Ganju to take Hanatarō and find Rukia while he manages this. Having gripped the handle of his cleaver in preparation for fighting, a surprised Ganju protests this, but Ichigo pleads with him to do this, leading Ganju to curse as he hoists an unconscious Hanatarō over his shoulder and runs off. As Yachiru comments on them leaving, Ichigo confidently proclaims that he cannot let Kenpachi pass through here, only for Kenpachi to remind him that he is here to fight Ichigo and clarify that he does not care what happens to Rukia or Ichigo's friends. Noting this, Ichigo draws Zangetsu and begins exerting his blue Reiatsu, which Kenpachi praises as being not bad despite Ichigo's guard being stiff and full of openings before concluding that it is unsurprising for Ikkaku to have lost because ordinary lieutenants would have no chance against Ichigo. However, as he states that Ichigo is still not on par with him, Kenpachi offers to give Ichigo a handicap by letting him take the first swing and cutting Kenpachi wherever he likes as he pulls open his haori, stunning Ichigo.

Kenpachi: I'll tell you what, Ichigo Kurosaki. I'll give you an advantage. I'll stand here and you can cut me anywhere you want.

Ichigo: Don't mock me!

Kenpachi: Come on, lighten up. Let's have a little fun. It's a question of kill or be killed. Really, what better way can you think of to spend one's days? If you're lucky, you might kill me with a single strike. Just quit your quivering and attack!

Awed by this, Yachiru commends Kenpachi for being so generous, prompting Kenpachi to claim that he is a bleeding heart of generosity. Though Ichigo assumes that Kenpachi is mocking him and asserts that he cannot attack someone who has not drawn their weapon, Kenpachi assures him that it is a service rather than mockery and instructs Ichigo to save the admirable gesture of refraining from striking a defenseless enemy for another time. Kenpachi encourages Ichigo to have some fun with him because life-and-death situations like this are something to be enjoyed, and with Kenpachi describing how he could kill him with this attack by aiming for a vital area of his body and demanding that he stop hesitating, a yelling Ichigo runs up to Kenpachi before slashing Zangetsu downward at him.

Elsewhere, Hanatarō opens his eyes and begins frantically warning Ichigo that he is in danger, causing Ganju, who is still carrying him over his shoulder, to lose his balance and fall over, sending Hanatarō rolling several feet. While Ganju berates him for moving so suddenly because it was dangerous, Hanatarō inquires where they are and where Ichigo is, only to be astonished when Ganju reveals that they are approaching the Shishinrō while Ichigo stayed behind to face Kenpachi alone. Hanatarō declares that he has to go back and help Ichigo because the latter cannot defeat Kenpachi by himself and is certain to be killed as Ganju tells him to calm down. Confused by Hanatarō's insistence on this, Ganju questions if he knows Kenpachi, which prompts Hanatarō to detail how the title "Kenpachi" belongs to the one who loves to fight the most and has slain more foes than any other Shinigami, meaning that Kenpachi will never fall no matter how many times he is cut. As he concludes that this is beyond the realm of strong or weak because Kenpachi is immortal, Hanatarō insists that Ichigo will surely be killed if he fights Kenpachi alone, but Ganju instead interprets this as further proof that they cannot go back. When a surprised Hanatarō begins to protest this, an irritated Ganju tells him to shut up and listen. Ganju reminds Hanatarō that Ichigo asked them to take care of Rukia and that they all felt Kenpachi's Reiatsu as he walks forward. Stating that both he and Ichigo know Kenpachi is not normal, Ganju stops next to Hanatarō and concludes that Ichigo made up his mind to fight Kenpachi alone because he was determined to make saving Rukia the priority before pointing out that Ichigo entrusted the two of them to conduct this determination. As he declares that they cannot be waiting here, Ganju resumes running toward Senzaikyū, with Hanatarō following him as his insistence, and mentally promises to come back for Ichigo once they save Rukia. After claiming to still have many things which he wants to tell Ichigo, Ganju mentally instructs him to not die until then. Back at the fight, blood splatters on the ground in front of Ichigo as a bored Yachiru watches with her hands propping up her head.

With Zangetsu not having harmed Kenpachi at all and his hand bleeding as it grips the handle, a stunned Ichigo mentally questions why Kenpachi is not even scratched by his attack performed at full force and why his hand is split open instead.

Ichigo: This can't be happening. How can there not even be a scratch on him?

Kenpachi expresses disappointment at this being the best Ichigo can do and begins pushing Zangetsu back by grabbing the blade with his bare hand, further shocking Ichigo.

Leaping several meters back from Kenpachi, Ichigo frantically wonders how Kenpachi could have touched the blade of Zangetsu with his bare hands, only to be caught off-guard when Yachiru appears in front of him and reveals that he cannot cut Kenpachi because Zangetsu may as well not have a blade to him. With Ichigo confused by this, Kenpachi explains that two spiritual forces colliding results in the weaker of the two absorbing the impact, which means that the sword Ichigo has created by honing his Reiryoku to its limits is weaker than the Reiryoku leaking out of Kenpachi unconsciously.

Kenpachi: Is that it? Is that really all you have? I'm disappointed. Shall I tell you? You'd like to know why your sword can never cut me. It's simple, really. Whenever two Spiritual Pressures collide, the weaker one gets pushed down. It's forced to submit. It gets hurt. What a joke! When I think of all the time I spent looking for someone as unworthy as you. Try to live long enough to at least let me get the rust off this thing. I am counting on you, Ryoka.

As he bemoans spending so much time looking for someone at Ichigo's level, Kenpachi asserts that this will not even be good as a joke and draws his own Zanpakutō while requesting that Ichigo at least get the rust off of it, resulting in an intimidated Ichigo yelling as he attacks Kenpachi once more.

In the Eighth Division compound, an energy blast from Yasutora Sado's Fullbring, Brazo Derecha de Gigante, blows a large hole in a wall, sending several unseated Shinigami flying through it in the process.

Soul Reaper: Ugh...Guh...I give! Please! Just don't kill me.

Chad: Tell me where the Repentance Cell is.

Soul Reaper: H-how do you even know that name?

Chad: I asked the last guy I hit where Rukia Kuchiki was and that's what he said just before he passed out. Tell me where it is while you still can.

Soul Reaper: I-It's there. It's right there! Did you see that tall white tower way up there, right next to the mountain top!? The Repentance Cell is at the top.

Chad: Very well. Thanks for your help. Hm.

As he walks through the hole and along the trench gouged into the ground, Sado finds himself confronted by 8th Division 3rd Seat Tatsufusa Enjōji, who declares that Sado has gone far enough and introduces himself before proclaiming that this road is a dead end for Sado with him here. After drawing his Zanpakutō, Tatsufusa initiates Hōzan Kenbu by rapidly and repeatedly slashing in all directions around his body while screaming a repeated kiai, leaving only his smirking face visible between the whirling strikes.

Enjoji: Dance Madly! Hōzan! (Crumbling Mountain!)

However, with Tatsufusa arrogantly goading Sado to make a move and not be timid just because Tatsufusa's swordplay has never been beaten, Sado simply punches him in the face with his Brazo Derecha de Gigante fist between the slashes, sending Tatsufusa hurtling into the sky and vanishing with a twinkle.

Chad: I should thank Yoruichi of the training I went through when we all meet each other again.

Sado looks at his steaming fist and notes that he will have to thank Yoruichi Shihōin for training him because he can now fire more than five blasts in a row without fatigue after previously having only two blasts per day as his limit. Looking toward Senzaikyū behind the Eighth Division captain's office, Sado begins running toward it, but stops in his tracks upon hearing 8th Division Captain Shunsui Kyōraku praise his performances. As an unnerved Sado searches the area for Shunsui, he is surprised to see flower petals falling around him while Shunsui lands on the ground in front of Sado before introducing himself and politely greeting Sado.

Shunsui: Whoa! That was pretty good. My name is Shunsui Kyoraku, Squad 8 Captain. It's a pleasure to meet you.

With Sado stunned to learn that he is the 8th Division Captain, Shunsui affirms this and chuckles, only to look up in confusion when the flower petals falling around him increase in number and density.

Chad: So, I take you're that last guy's captain?

Shunsui: Mm hm. For what it's worth.

While Sado looks upward as well, Shunsui asks his lieutenant, Nanao Ise, to stop throwing petals as she stands on the balcony above him with a large basket of petals in her left hand and uses her right hand to throw clumps of them down. When Shunsui repeatedly requests that she stop and refers to her with affectionate terms, an irritated Nanao dumps the remainder of the flower petals on top of him, leaving Shunsui buried up to his waist, before throwing the basket at him too.

Nanao: *ahem* Just do you job, Captain. Please.

Having had his hat knocked off by this, Shunsui sits still with the basket covering his head, prompting an embarrassed Sado to apologize for not having time for his skit as he asks Shunsui to let him pass. Shunsui bemoans Sado not being willing to play along because everyone is so indifferent these days as he puts his hat back on, and when Sado asserts that he does not want to fight Shunsui because he seems like a good person, Shunsui reveals that he also does not want to fight, if possible, but states that he cannot allow Sado to pass and inquires if the latter cannot retreat.

Chad: I'm in a hurry. You seem like a decent enough guy. So if there's any way to avoid it, I'd rather not fight you.

As Sado denies this being possible, Shunsui concludes that he is left with no other choice. However, though Sado tenses up and prepares to fight, Shunsui merely brings out a jug of sake and two cups before suggesting that they have a friendly drink together, leaving Sado stunned. With Shunsui explaining that he thought Sado could stop here for a while if he is not willing to retreat and promising to only keep him for a while, Sado bluntly refuses due to it being illegal for minors like himself to drink alcohol, which a surprised Shunsui admits is a good point and something he cannot condone. Elaborating that it will all be over soon anyway because the other captains are on the move, Shunsui begins to request that Sado simply sit out until the battle is over. Upon picking up on Shunsui's mention of the other captains, Sado realizes that his friends are being pursued by them and firmly requests that Shunsui move out of his way because the situation as changed.

Shunsui: Haha, then I guess we have a slight problem, since neither one of us is anxious for a fight, but of course I can't just let you through either. I don't suppose you'd be willing to retreat, would you? This whole thing will be over soon now that other captains are all on the move. Probably if you were smart, you would just—

Chad: The other captains?! Wait, you mean Ichigo and the other are being pursued by captains too?

Shunsui: Ah, should I not have said that?

Chad: That changes things, Mr. Kyoraku. So I suggest you move. Now.

Shunsui: Hmm, you are quite stubborn.

Sighing, Shunsui asks him what will happen if he does not comply and drinks sake from one of the cups, prompting Sado to proclaim that he will not allow this before firing an energy blast at Shunsui, only for the latter to catch the blast with his free hand and throw it to the side, where it slams into a wall, knocking his flowery kimono off in the process and stunning Sado. As he stands up, Shunsui observes that things are getting complicated now. While a concerned Nanao watches from above, Sado fires several more energy blasts, each of which shake the compound and destroy portions of the surrounding area as Shunsui nonchalantly dodges them. After Shunsui evades his last blast and drinks more sake, a sweating and confused Sado wonders why he has not been able to hit Shunsui once and recalls Tatsufusa introducing himself as a 3rd Seat before questioning if two ranks can really make that much of a difference and if captains are really this powerful. Shunsui tells Sado to give up because he should know by now that, despite how hard and fast his attacks are for a Human, they cannot hit Shunsui.

Chad: What…?

Though Shunsui concludes that he will never be able to land an attack and suggests that he go home, Sado merely thanks him for the suggestion before declaring that he cannot withdraw as he rushes at Shunsui and fires another energy blast, which Shunsui avoids by ducking at the last second. With the blast destroying a substantial portion of the area behind where he was standing, Shunsui appears behind Sado and explains that the two types of moves one can perform are those that cannot be performed at all once one's limit is reached, and those that can be performed beyond one's limit at the cost of one's life force, the latter category of which he concludes Sado's move is in. Pressing two fingers against Sado's right shoulder, Shunsui uses Tsukiyubi, sending Sado hurtling across the compound and down the length of the trench his first blast gouged into the ground for several seconds while he yells in surprise.

Shunsui: What's you purpose? Why did you come here in the first place?

Chad: I've come to save the life of Rukia Kuchiki.

As Sado comes to a halt near the wall he destroyed and sits up while panting heavily, Shunsui encourages him to leave and promises to not disparage him for doing so, only to realize Sado has still not changed his mind and sigh before inquiring why Sado insists on fighting and what purpose he came here to fulfill. After standing up, Sado proclaims that he is here to save Rukia Kuchiki, to Shunsui's surprise.

Shunsui: Oh, come on. You mean Rukia, the Soul Reaper who went missing in the world of the living a few months ago? That's not enough time for a true friendship. A relationship like that can't be worth risking your life over.

Shunsui observes that Sado could only have a thin friendship with Rukia at best after having known her for a few months with her going missing in the Human World in the spring, and as he affirms that he has only known Rukia for a short while and that this may fall short of being worth risking his life for, Sado concludes that Ichigo Kurosaki wants to save her and that he does not need any other reason to put his life on the line.

Chad: I can't deny, I don't know very much about Rukia. That's not the point. I might not risk my life for her, but...Ichigo wants to save her life. And that's all I need to know. What may seem like an unworthy cause to you is more than enough reason for me.

Shunsui: Well, I tried. But it you're that determined, it would be insulting for me to ask you to back down. I guess it can't be avoided. Unfortunately, it means now I'm going to have to take your life.

While musing that it would be insulting to ask Sado to leave after learning how strong his resolve is, Shunsui draws his twin Zanpakutō and asserts that he now has no choice other than to take Sado's life. Upon seeing this, Sado begins charging at Shunsui and prepares to unleash one final energy blast as he mentally notes that this might kill him before promising Ichigo that he will swear once more what they swore before should he survive.

Chad: (Ichigo…. I will defeat him somehow. I swear. Even if it costs me my life. And should I survive this battle, I vow...I will renew the pledge I made to you in the same words that were spoken.)

In the past, on a riverbank in Karakura Town, two thugs beat up Sado, who remains standing as he refuses to fight back, and mock him for being so stubborn. However, when one of the thugs attempts to hit Sado with a large rock, Ichigo runs up and kicks him to the side as he wraps his legs around the other thug's neck and flips him onto the ground. With Ichigo landing on the ground, the thug with the rock recognizes him. The two thugs run up the riverbank and flee from Ichigo as they tell Sado to remember this, leading Ichigo to spit after them. Shortly afterward, while Sado lies on the riverbank and looks at his coin, Ichigo stands on the road above and inquires why Sado was just standing there. With Sado correcting his usage of "Chad" once more, Ichigo brushes this off and points out how Sado could have been seriously hurt had he not shown up to help before questioning why Sado let the two thugs beat him up despite his great strength instead of fighting as he did when he saved Ichigo before. Sitting up, Sado reveals that he promised his abuelo to never use his fists for himself. When Ichigo expresses confusion at the term abuelo, Sado details how it means grandfather and names Oscar, and when a confused Ichigo wonders what ethnicity that name is, Sado clarifies that it is Mestizo before noting that he lived in Mexico with his grandfather prior to coming to Karakura Town. A bewildered Ichigo notes that Sado said he came from Okinawa when they first met last month, which Sado is surprised by. As Ichigo declares that Sado only talks nonsense and that he will not bail Sado out next time as he walks down the bank to stand next to him, Sado merely chuckles and holds his coin, which Ichigo wonders about the significance of. While Sado confirms that it is more precious than his own life, Yokochini listens to the conversation with a cell phone in a different part of town. Sitting on the grass next to Sado, Ichigo remarks that the coin looks foreign and inquires where it is from, only to be irritated when Sado reveals it is also from Mexico. Suddenly, Ichigo notices a cell phone lying open in the grass and questions whose it is. When Sado observes that it belongs to one of the thugs who were attacking him earlier and decides to give it back to them, Ichigo declares that he should just throw it away and breaks the phone, leaving a startled Yokochini listening to the dial tone.

The next day, Sado walks down the street with headphones over his ears and mentally notes that he had not lied about his past because he was born in Okinawa and moved to Mexico when he was eight due to his parents dying when he was young and him not having any other relatives. Further in the past, a young Sado stands on a dirt road as Oscar gets out of a pickup truck and calls him over. Sometime later, Sado bumps into another child while walking in a town and punches him to the ground in retaliation before fending off his friends as he recalls how he would use his strength to bully anyone who annoyed him because he was a rotten child. Soon afterward, Oscar approaches a battered Sado sitting against a wall and kneels as he holds out his hand, but Sado merely slaps it away before running off. Back in Karakura Town, Sado recounts how Oscar is the one who showed him the error of his ways and taught him how to be good as he admits that he was hopelessly careless that day. Behind Sado, the two thugs who had attacked him the previous day run up and hit him over the head with a large rock. Later, Sado is tied with thick cable to a chair under Onose river bridge in Nishi-Toriya district two, where he is surrounded by Yokochini's men as Yokochini himself lounges on a couch across from him. Proclaiming that this is the end for Sado of Mashiba Middle School, Yokochini asks Sado if the pain makes him want to wet himself, only for Sado to question if people wet themselves from pain before apologizing for not feeling the urge. Irritated by this, Yokochini gets up and decides to take a different approach as he yanks Sado's coin off his neck, to Sado's shock, and reveals that he knows how Sado values this more than his own life, to the point of wanting to die if he lost it. As he holds up a pair of pliers to the coin, Yokochini tells Sado to die. In the further past, a young and injured Sado runs into an alleyway and is confronted by two older men wielding wooden poles. Though Sado closes his eyes in anticipation of the beating he is about to receive, he finds himself not being attacked and opens his eyes in surprise to find Oscar standing between him and the men as he takes the beating in his stead. Though he begins bleeding from the mouth due to his wounds, Oscar remains standing until the men stop attacking, at which point he kneels and asks them for forgiveness. Humbled and humiliated by this, the two men walk away, leaving Oscar to smile at Sado before taking the coin necklace off his neck and pressing it against Sado's forehead as he inquiries about what Sado believes he was blessed with his strong fists for. Oscar gives Sado his coin to help him learn what that purpose is. Eventually, Oscar dies, and after burying him and leaving flowers at his grave, Sado returns to Japan.

Back under the bridge, as he mentally attributes his decency to Oscar and claims that he could never thank his abuelo enough, an angered Sado begins straining against the cables binding him, startling the thugs around him. Assuming that Sado could not break his bindings, Yokochini orders his men to kick him down before being kicked in the face by Ichigo and being sent skidding across the ground. Having stood on top of Yokochini the entire way, Ichigo grabs Sado's coin from his hand. After thanking Yokochini for this, Ichigo begins searching his pockets while the thugs identify him and demand to know why he is doing this. Upon finding Yokochini's cell phone, Ichigo picks it up and starts dialing, and as his men call out to him, Yokochini berates them for calling him "Yokochin". As he stomps on Yokochini's face to knock him out, Ichigo contacts emergency services and requests an ambulance be sent to his location, leading Yokochini's men to presume that he is calling an ambulance for Sado before facing them. However, Ichigo turns around and counts up the five of Yokochini's men before concluding that this is how many ambulances they will need. Enraged by this, Yokochini's men rush toward Ichigo, who tosses away the cell phone and begins fighting them. After beating up all of Yokochini's men, Ichigo lies on his back in front of Sado and proposes that they fight for each other and for what each other wants to protect with their life so he does not have to violate his rule of not using his fists for himself, which Sado agrees to.

Ichigo: I've got an idea, Chad. How 'bout if you just stay the way you are and never throw a punch for yourself. Instead, throw those punches for me. I'll throw my punches for you. If there's ever anything so important you'd protect it with your life...I'll protect with mine as well. Whaddya say?

In the present, Sado recalls this promise and reaffirms it as he continues to run toward Shunsui while charging up one last energy blast with Brazo Derecha de Gigante.

Chad: (Yes, Ichigo. I promise. And that's why I know I can't lose.)

As he approaches Shunsui, Sado remembers the events of the past two months and Oscar's words about his purpose.

Shunsui: ...I'm sorry.

However, after Sado unleashes his blast and destroys the captain's office, he expresses shock as Shunsui lands behind him and apologizes, leaving Sado to spurt a large amount of blood from a wound on his chest while his coin falls to the ground.

In the Eighth Division compound, Lieutenant Nanao Ise stands atop a damaged wall and inquires what the Riteitai wants with her because an order could have been delivered via Jigokuchō. Kneeling on the ground behind her, a Riteitai affirms this before revealing that both Captain-Commander Genryūsai signs his message Shigekuni Yamamoto and 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya, prompting a surprised Nanao to wonder if it is a top-secret order being delivered to her.

Nanao: Captain, what does this all mean.

Shunsui: My Sweet Nanao, I wish I knew.

Meanwhile, within the Senzaikyū compound, Ichigo Kurosaki frantically runs through the alleys between the buildings away from 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, who swiftly runs after him in pursuit.

Kenpachi: Is running away the only thing you know how to do? that's enough of this running around. Stop embarrassing yourself. I'm not very fond of chasing rabbits.

Upon being confronted by Kenpachi in an intersection between several buildings when he rounds a corner in front of him, a frightened Ichigo barely manages to block a grinning Kenpachi's subsequent slash of his Zanpakutō with his Shikai, Zangetsu, and struggles to hold Kenpachi back before angling Zangetsu, so Kenpachi's Zanpakutō slides off it and slams into the ground next to him, leaving Kenpachi to glare at Ichigo. As Ichigo runs off, Kenpachi questions if running away is the only thing he can do. With Rukia Kuchiki standing silently in the Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Ichigo continues to run through the compound and tells himself to calm down, as he knows that he can cut Kenpachi. After recalling his prior failure to even scratch Kenpachi with a full-force attack that cut open his hand instead, Ichigo grips his shaking sword hand and asserts that he is not scared.

Ichigo: (Damn...How can that be? I hit him. I hit him straight on, but I couldn't cut him. What does it mean? No, calm down...Gotta calm down. The only reason I couldn't cut him is that I'm overwhelmed by his Spiritual Pressure. That's the problem. If I calm down and sharpen my Spiritual Pressure. I should be able to cut him. Remember what Zangetsu said. Rid yourself of fear. Focus only on the task ahead.

Suddenly, a wall near Ichigo begins to crack, and as Ichigo comes to a halt in front of it and assumes a battle stance, Kenpachi bursts through the wall and criticizes him for running around so much. With Ichigo intimidated by this, Kenpachi states that he does not like to chase down weaklings and swings his Zanpakutō at Ichigo, who dodges before clashing with him. Pushed back several meters by the force of Kenpachi's blow, Ichigo leaps into the air and comes down onto Kenpachi with another slash, only for the latter to effortlessly block this. As he lands, Ichigo attacks Kenpachi twice more, and Kenpachi blocks each strike before slashing at Ichigo, who has the ground underneath him cratered by the force of the blow. Ichigo and Kenpachi clash once more, and as he glares at Ichigo, Kenpachi sends him skidding back with a forceful slash of his Zanpakutō. Though intimidated by this, Ichigo simply curses and resumes his attack on Kenpachi while the latter's lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, watches from a rooftop above in concern. After pushing Kenpachi back, Ichigo strikes at him, but Kenpachi merely smiles and allows Zangetsu to hit his left shoulder, once again not being harmed by it. Stepping back from Kenpachi in astonishment, Ichigo runs off, leaving Kenpachi to express his annoyance at this, and stumbles into an alleyway, where he jams Zangetsu into the ground and leans on it while panting. Ichigo recalls his failure to cut Kenpachi and wonders if there is that great a power difference between them. Despite this, Ichigo forces himself to calm down and notes that there is no reason for him to not be able to cut Kenpachi because he is simply overwhelmed by the latter's Reiatsu. Theorizing that he should be able to cut Kenpachi if he simply sharpens his own Reiatsu, Ichigo repeatedly tells himself to calm down and remembers Zangetsu's words about dying if he hesitates or retreats, allowing him to find his resolve. However, as Ichigo pulls Zangetsu out of the ground and prepares to resume the fight, he is shocked to sense the disappearance of Yasutora Sado's Reiatsu and wonders if he lost or died, which Ichigo refuses to believe.

Back at the Eighth Division compound, Captain Shunsui Kyōraku looks over the damage inflicted to the compound by Sado's final attack and admits that he would have been in trouble if it had hit him as he stands over a defeated Sado, who lives on the ground with a blood spatter on either side of his body. While Shunsui muses on how impressive it is for any Human to fight so well on top of entering the Seireitei to begin with, Nanao frantically runs over to him and declares that they have received a message. With Shunsui inquiring why she is so out of breath and observing that a Riteitai was here earlier, Nanao reveals 5th Division Captain Sōsuke Aizen has died. Nanao elaborates that Aizen was killed by having his Saketsu and Hakusui removed, as well as his heart destroyed, and concludes that he was murdered by an unknown assailant before asserting that she believes the message is accurate because it was signed by Yamamoto and Hitsugaya. Acknowledging this, Shunsui decides that they should pay their respects and begins walking away, but as she starts to follow him, Nanao stops and narrows her eyes upon noticing Sado.

Meanwhile, at the Senzaikyū compound, a nervous Ichigo concentrates his spiritual perception and realizes that Sado is still alive with a flicker of Reiatsu left.

Ichigo: ...?! (Chad's Spiritual Pressure! It's gone! No...It can't be. Chad's been defeated? That can't be possible. Chad's too strong to lose.) Chad! He's alive! It's faint, but I can still feel his Spiritual Pressure. So then, what am I waiting for? I can't be afraid. I don't have the time!

Back at the Eighth Division compound, Nanao asks Shunsui what is wrong and points out how Sado is still alive before offering to deal the finishing blow as her hand glows with Kidō. Suddenly, Shunsui grabs Nanao's hand and calmly states that this is not something which girls should do, and when Nanao claims that Aizen was murdered by one of the Ryoka, Shunsui expresses doubt of this being an absolute certainty. With Nanao confused by this, Shunsui clarifies that he is talking about possibilities and orders her to have the Fourth Division take him to a cell because it is all the more important for him to stay alive if one of the Ryoka really is the killer. Apologizing for her attempt to interfere, Nanao promises to contact the Fourth Division immediately, leaving Shunsui to sigh as he notes that things have gotten out of hand.

Shunsui: Something else is going on behind this Ryoka mess. I have to say, they didn't kill Captain Aizen.

Nanao: Sir?

Shunsui: I don't know why, but I just got this gut feeling is all. We should care for this Ryoka in prison just in case for some questioning to give us some leads.

Nanao: Clever idea.

Meanwhile, at the Senzaikyū compound, Ichigo expresses relief at Sado still being alive and berates himself for his hesitation due to all his allies being put at risk if he fails. After declaring that he does not have time to be afraid, Ichigo confronts Kenpachi, who is sitting against a nearby building. When Kenpachi stands up and inquires if he has come back to die or give up, Ichigo proclaims that both of these are wrong before rushing at Kenpachi with Zangetsu held out.

Kenpachi: So I see you decided to stand your ground at last. Does this mean that you are prepared to die like a warrior? Or does it just mean you've given up.

Ichigo: The answer is...neither one! Sorry to say, but I don't feel like dying just yet. Because if I die, then everyone who was counting on me will be destroyed too.

As Kenpachi raises his Zanpakutō in an attempt to block, Ichigo knocks it aside with his first swing and mentally promises to come for Sado once he wins as he slashes Kenpachi across the center of his chest, successfully cutting him. Kenpachi stares at the blood spurting from his wound while Ichigo apologizes and states he cannot die because everything on his shoulders will be destroyed if he does. However, with Ichigo mentally observing he can actually cut him, Kenpachi merely grins and claims he knew Ichigo could do it before approaching a surprised Ichigo as he instructs the latter to stay sharpened and not let his guard down yet due to the fun beginning here.

Kenpachi: What is this? You're thinking you can beat me now, aren't you? Don't let your guard down yet. Stay like that, razor-sharp. You see, this is where the fun begins. Now, Ichigo Kurosaki.

Ichigo: Bring it on!

Holding up his Zanpakutō, Kenpachi exerts his Reiatsu, causing Yachiru to smile and note that he seems happy as Ichigo and Kenpachi clash once more.

Yachiru: Wow! Kenny sure looks happy.

In the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho within the Fourth Division barracks, Captain Retsu Unohana kneels in front of a bed containing Aizen's corpse as she informs 9th Division Captain Kaname Tōsen and 7th Division Captain Sajin Komamura that Aizen has passed away. With her lieutenant, Isane Kotetsu, standing to the side, Unohana elaborates that Aizen was no longer breathing when he was lowered from the East Holy Wall, and when Tōsen suggests the possibility of a Gigai being used, Unohana acknowledges it. However, Unohana reveals that her efforts to investigate all other possibilities, including a Gigai being used to fake death, only resulted in her confirming the truth of his death. After noting that a new 5th Division Captain will be selected by the Central 46 and the other captains after the wartime operations are concluded, Unohana requests that Tōsen and Komamura return to their divisions before promising to join the front lines soon as she stands up with her sheathed Zanpakutō in hand. Upon exiting the barracks, Tōsen and Komamura are met by their lieutenants, Shūhei Hisagi and Tetsuzaemon Iba, who appear before them with Shunpo. When Hisagi thanks them for their efforts and asks them how Aizen was, Tōsen simply shakes his head, and when a saddened Hisagi inquires what Unohana said, Tōsen relays her statement of Aizen's passing as he observes that the quickest route to learning the truth behind Aizen's death lies in ending this fighting. With Hisagi realizing what he means, Tōsen confirms that he will be joining the fight and walks past the two lieutenants while admitting that he would prefer to not fight at all before noting that things will not go so smoothly. Tōsen asserts that fighting is the reason that people are misled by ugly emotions and that such tragedies occur to begin with. As Hisagi watches this and observes that Tōsen's Suzumushi will finally get to cry out, Tōsen walks out of the pavilion as he concludes that he wholeheartedly detests fighting.

Back in the Senzaikyū compound, Kenpachi drags his Zanpakutō through the ground and Ichigo swings Zangetsu downward through the air as they clash, causing a shock wave to ripple outward around them. Grabbing Zangetsu by the blade as it cuts into his hand, Kenpachi twists it around, yanking Ichigo off his feet and into the air, and thrusts his Zanpakutō forward, prompting Ichigo to let go of Zangetsu with his right hand so he can narrowly evade this attack. With Kenpachi's Zanpakutō ripping through the collar of his shihakushō, Ichigo kicks Kenpachi's hand off Zangetsu and flips over in midair as he lands several feet away, only to discover that Kenpachi has vanished when he looks at where the latter was standing. Suddenly, Ichigo hears the chime of the bells in Kenpachi's hair and holds Zangetsu above his head just as Kenpachi brings his Zanpakutō down on him from behind, resulting in another struggling clash as Kenpachi praises Ichigo's reaction speed. Ichigo pushes Kenpachi's Zanpakutō away and leaps several feet back as Kenpachi notes that his concentration is improving if he can hear Kenpachi's bells. Explaining how he wears the bells and his eye patch so he can get more enjoyment out of his battles, Kenpachi asserts that there is no point in doing so if Ichigo does not take advantage of them.

Kenpachi: That's good. Good reaction! your concentration is improving.

Ichigo: Dammit. You take me for a fool? I suppose that's also the reason you won't call on your Zanpakuto.

However, when Ichigo assumes that Kenpachi is mocking him by not releasing his Zanpakutō either and warns him to not let his guard down because Zangetsu can cut him now, Kenpachi claims that his Zanpakutō does not have a name, surprising Ichigo, and details how it has never had a sealed form to begin with.

Kenpachi: My Zanpakuto doesn't have a name. My sword is completely out in the open. It has never had a sealed form. What you see here is the true form of my Zanpakuto.

With Ichigo grinning and deciding this is good to hear because it means Kenpachi's Zanpakutō will not get any stronger, Kenpachi swiftly jabs his Zanpakutō at Ichigo.

Ichigo: Is that so? You shouldn't have revealed that. Because that tells me your sword isn't gonna get any more powerful than it is right now. And in that case...

While Ichigo blocks this with the broad side of Zangetsu at the last second, Kenpachi inquires if he was thinking that this would allow him to win soon and elaborates that he does not seal his Zanpakutō because his Reiatsu is so powerful that he actually cannot do so.

Kenpachi: In that case, what? In that case, you were going to be able to win? Is that what you were thinking? Now, you're the one who's taking me for a fool. You should have thought to ask me why I don't seal my Zanpakuto. It's my Spiritual Pressure. It's so huge even if I use all of my might, I can't seal it. So when I fight, I make sure to hold back. I never swing my sword with my full strength. Do you see why? If I didn't do that, my enemies are so weak, the battle wouldn't last long enough for me to enjoy it.

Ichigo: Ngh….!

Kenpachi: Didn't I tell you not to let up on your Spiritual Pressure? Relaxing just because you found a glimmer or two of hope for victory?

As Kenpachi concludes that he constantly holds back while fighting so he has time to enjoy his battles rather than instantly crushing his weak enemies, his Zanpakutō pierces Zangetsu and stabs a stunned Ichigo in the chest, prompting Kenpachi to remind Ichigo of his instruction to not lose his concentration and focused Reiatsu just because he found an opportunity for victory.

Ichigo: What….? Ah!

Kenpachi pulls his bloodied Zanpakutō out of Ichigo's chest and through Zangetsu, which snaps in two along the puncture it created, leaving Ichigo to fall to his knees and collapse as Kenpachi expresses his disappointment in this conclusion.

Kenpachi: No more, huh. What a boring way for this to end.

Observing that it had been a long time since he met someone who could give him a real fight and hear his bells, Kenpachi stares down at Ichigo and wonders if this is the end before turning around and walking away as he moves his Zanpakutō to his right hand. As he repeatedly curses and mentally asserts that he does not want to die in a place like this, Ichigo claims that he cannot afford to die yet while coughing up blood. With Ichigo mentally urging his body to move and stop bleeding because he still has to save Rukia, Kenpachi swings his Zanpakutō over his shoulder, only to stop as time comes to a halt around a confused Ichigo.

Ichigo: (Dammit...Damn! I can't...I can't afford to die yet! Move...Move, body. Gotta...stop the bleeding. I have...to save Rukia!)

Suddenly, Zangetsu walks past Kenpachi, and as Ichigo stares at him in shock, Zangetsu's cape flares out toward Ichigo.

Zangetsu: Ichigo….

Approaching Ichigo Kurosaki as he lies bleeding on the ground after being grievously wounded by 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki, Zangetsu inquires if he wishes to fight, win, or survive.

Ichigo: Zangetsu…?

Zangetsu: Do you want to fight?

Ichigo: Gh...!

Zangetsu: Do you want to win? Or do you just want to live? Which one?

Ichigo: (Just fighting for its own sake is meaningless. And mere survival is not enough of a purpose. Winning is the only thing!)

When Ichigo decides that he wants to win, Zangetsu claims to not hear him, prompting Ichigo to elaborate that simply fighting or surviving have no meaning on their own before proclaiming that he wants to win as he grips his broken Shikai, Zangetsu.

Zangetsu: Very well. I will take you there.

As he kneels before Ichigo, Zangetsu acknowledges this and declares that he will take Ichigo there as his cape flares outward and engulfs Ichigo, transporting him to his inner world, where he finds himself standing on the side of a skyscraper.

Ichigo: What?

Zangetsu: Stand up, Ichigo!

Upon recalling his last visit here where he was falling toward the ground, Ichigo frantically lies flat against one of the windows and clings to the sill, and when Zangetsu questions what he is doing as he appears nearby, a bewildered Ichigo claims that he will fall again if he does not do this. Zangetsu explains that he does need to worry about this because he only fell due to his transformation into a Hollow causing his inner world to lose its stability and points out how it is not even shaking now despite the intense combat Ichigo has been engaging in. Though Ichigo wonders if this means his mind is normally in this upside-down state, Zangetsu ignores this and comments on Ichigo having grown a bit stronger before commanding him to stand as he tosses Ichigo an Asauchi, which a surprised Ichigo struggles to catch. With Ichigo berating him for throwing an unsheathed sword, Zangetsu instructs him to hold onto it because it is his sword.

Ichigo: A regular sword…? I don't get it.

While Ichigo expresses confusion at this, Zangetsu describes an Asauchi as being the nameless Zanpakutō wielded by Shinigami who are too weak to join the Gotei 13. Ichigo protests that his Zanpakutō is Zangetsu, only for Zangetsu to note that he is referring to the blade which he allowed to be broken earlier as he brings out Zangetsu, to Ichigo's astonishment.

Zangetsu: It's a Zanpakuto for a low-ranking Soul Reaper unworthy of joining the 13 Court Squads. Hang onto it. It's your sword.

Ichigo: But my sword is Zangetsu, not this thing.

Zangetsu: Ah, Zangetsu. The sword that was broken in two by your opponent earlier? I cannot allow you to have this one.

Ichigo: What are you doing?

Zangetsu: Now begins the test to decide whether or not you deserve to wield me, Ichigo. If you truly want me to return, then you must take me from yourself. This time, your enemy is YOU!

Declaring that he cannot give this to Ichigo, Zangetsu throws Zangetsu over the side of the building, and when an incredulous Ichigo attempts to run after it, Hollow Ichigo tells him to get out of the way before hurtling past a surprised Ichigo and grabbing Zangetsu in midair.

Ichigo: W-who are you?

Hollow Ichigo: Come on, you know me, partner.

After somersaulting, Hollow Ichigo lands on a separate skyscraper, and when a stunned Ichigo asks him who he is, Hollow Ichigo asserts that Ichigo should know him as Zangetsu appears next to him and reveals that they will be testing whether Ichigo deserves to wield Zangetsu by seeing if he can take it from his own hands, due to his opponent being himself.

Zangetsu: If you think you're worthy of having me, then prove it. Take me from yourself, from your very own hands!

As he dares Ichigo to take Zangetsu if he can, Hollow Ichigo leaps forward and attacks Ichigo, who blocks with the Asauchi as he is pushed back to the other side of the skyscraper by the force of the blow and realizes that he cannot stop himself.

Hollow Ichigo: Heh. You think you're going to take this sword away from me? Good luck. Go ahead and do it, partner. If you can!

Smirking, Hollow Ichigo disengages the blade lock and leaps back. With Hollow Ichigo exerting his powerful red Reiatsu, an intimidated Ichigo expresses amazement at how powerful Zangetsu is and observes that its Reiatsu is burning up the atmosphere, leading him to envision his Asauchi as a useless wooden stick by comparison. Suddenly, Hollow Ichigo begins spinning Zangetsu around by the cloth wrapped around its handle and promises to kill Ichigo if he just stands around before initiating Deadly Darts by hurling Zangetsu at Ichigo, who narrowly dodges as it crashes into the wall behind him. While an annoyed Hollow Ichigo pulls back Zangetsu, Ichigo is left astonished by his fighting style. Ichigo mentally admits he would have never thought of a move like Deadly Darts as Hollow Ichigo declares Ichigo is pathetic and questions how he got so bloody despite holding such a mighty sword. When Hollow Ichigo inquires if one can become friends with someone just by asking for their name, Ichigo is left confused as Hollow Ichigo goes on to accuse him of doing this because he believes simply calling out Zangetsu's name is all there is to it and focuses on himself instead of bringing out Zangetsu's power or understanding him, leading him to proclaim Zangetsu is capable of so much more and would have become stronger had Ichigo opened his heart. While Hollow Ichigo claims that Ichigo could not do this due to not caring about his Zanpakutō at all and thinking he only has to train himself, Zangetsu watches intently from a pole far away. Upon having Zangetsu thrown at him by Hollow Ichigo once more, Ichigo evades it, and while a laughing Hollow Ichigo pulls it back, Ichigo mentally concedes that he is right because Ichigo did not even try to understand Zangetsu. Rolling away from Zangetsu as it sinks into the ground where he was standing, Ichigo mentally asserts that Zanpakutō are living things with names rather than soulless tools and recalls his relief at Kenpachi claiming that his Zanpakutō is always released. As he berates himself for being so relieved at the time when he is really no different from Kenpachi, Ichigo dodges two more swings of Zangetsu before attempting to clash with the third, only to be knocked back by the force of the blow. Ichigo props himself up with his Asauchi as Hollow Ichigo catches Zangetsu and reiterates that he is no different from someone like Kenpachi who does not know their Zanpakutō's name. After swinging Zangetsu over his shoulders, Hollow Ichigo suggests that they end this and promises to show Ichigo what it means to master Zangetsu while mocking him as someone who could never do even if he tried trying. With a cackling Hollow Ichigo leaping into the air toward him, Ichigo grips his Asauchi with both hands and mentally implores Zangetsu to tell him about himself, even if it is only a little at a time, because he wants to learn more about the source of his power and fight alongside him as Hollow Ichigo brings Zangetsu down upon him.

Ichigo: (Show me, Master Zangetsu. I need to know how to borrow your power and your strength. Show me everything. Zangetsu, please let me fight with you one more time!)

Suddenly, with Zangetsu looking up at the resulting clash, Ichigo and Hollow Ichigo discover that they have swapped weapons as Ichigo blocks Hollow Ichigo's Asauchi strike with Zangetsu. Stunned by this alongside Hollow Ichigo, Ichigo looks at Zangetsu and realizes that he has been given one more chance, which he thanks Zangetsu for.

Back in the real world, Kenpachi stops walking away upon being alerted by Ichigo's recovery.

Kenpachi: What the hell? (He had no pulse, and yet he's standing again. His Spiritual Pressure...)

In Ichigo's inner world, with Ichigo gone and half the blade of his Asauchi embedded in the skyscraper beneath his feet, Hollow Ichigo asks Zangetsu if that was enough. Confirming this, Zangetsu thanks Hollow Ichigo for coming out, which Hollow Ichigo brushes off as necessary due to them needing Ichigo to win as the king of this world. Upon deciding to go back now that he is done, Hollow Ichigo begins dissipating into black smoke that enters Zangetsu's cloak and instructs Zangetsu to train Ichigo well because the latter's power will be his own one day.

Hollow Ichigo: He's gone. Whaddya know. So was that good enough? He's the king of this world, isn't he? We need him to win, right? He's a strong one, Zangetsu. Train him well. All that power is going to be mine, eventually.

Zangetsu mentally tells Ichigo that he hates rain and details how it grows cloudy and rains when Ichigo is upset and sad, which he cannot stand, before wondering if Ichigo can grasp the terror of being rained on in this lonely world. After promising to give Ichigo everything he has in order to hold back the rain, Zangetsu vows to not let any rain fall on this world if Ichigo places his trust in him and assures Ichigo that he is not fighting alone.

Zangetsu: Ichigo, do you know how I hate the rain? And it rains in this world, too. If your heart is troubled, the skies will become cloudy. If you grieve, it will rain ever so easily. And it is unbearable. I wonder if you can understand the fear of being rained on in this lonely world. To stop that rain, I shall lend you any strength, any power. If you just have faith in me, I will not allow any rain to fall upon this world. Trust me, Ichigo. As long as I am here, you'll never fight alone.

Back in the real world, Ichigo stands with a reformed Zangetsu over his shoulders as his blue Reiatsu surges around him, prompting a stunned Kenpachi to express disbelief at him move again after losing his pulse. While a smiling Yachiru watches from above, Kenpachi sees that Ichigo's wound has stopped bleeding.

Ichigo: Sorry, but I haven't got any time to waste here. I'm gonna have to make quick work of this.

Suddenly, as his Reiatsu dissipates, Ichigo leaps forward and slashes Zangetsu through Kenpachi's left shoulder before the latter can react, and as blood spurts from a shocked Kenpachi's wound, Ichigo presses forward and repeatedly clashes with Kenpachi, who finds himself unable to push his Zanpakutō downward when Ichigo meets him with a rising slash from the ground. Having forced Kenpachi's Zanpakutō aside, Ichigo slashes through his right shoulder, sending Kenpachi sliding backward until he brings himself to a halt by embedding his Zanpakutō into a wall.

Kenpachi: You wanna finish it quickly, eh? Oh, there's no way I can allow that. Not now when we're just starting to have so much fun!

Ichigo: Here I go!

Though Ichigo apologizes for needing to end this quickly due to not having much time, Kenpachi merely grins and proclaims that he cannot allow this now that the battle has gotten so fun before rushing at an unnerved Ichigo, who holds Zangetsu out in front of him, only for Kenpachi to allow the tip to slice through the bridge of his nose and his left cheek so he can get closer to Ichigo, shocking the latter.

Kenpachi: At last! Finally, I have met my equal. In fact, you might even be slightly better than me.

With Kenpachi thrusting his Zanpakutō at him and cutting his right cheek, Ichigo leaps back as Kenpachi declares that he loves it and clashes with Ichigo once more while wondering how he revived and suddenly became so much stronger than he was before. Despite Ichigo cutting the side of his abdomen, Kenpachi continues clashing with him and admits that he has many questions but decides to ignore them for now so they can have fun with this fight. After crossing blades with Kenpachi four more times and managing to slash him again, Ichigo leaps several feet back and watches as Kenpachi's Reiatsu erupts around him. Yelling as he runs toward Kenpachi, Ichigo clashes with him once more and questions why a grinning Kenpachi is not falling despite him having the upper hand. As he leaps back again, Ichigo claims something is wrong with Kenpachi and inquires if he is really not afraid of being cut or dying.

Ichigo: (Why's he still so confident?)

However, Kenpachi claims that something is wrong with Ichigo for not enjoying battle despite how strong he is and tells him to relish death and pain as the rewards of combat. Meanwhile, outside the Sōgō Kyūgo Tsumesho at the Fourth Division barracks, 11th Division 3rd Seat Ikkaku Madarame sits cross-legged on the veranda, and when 5th Seat Yumichika Ayasegawa slides open the door behind him while asking him if something is wrong, Ikkaku is astonished to see his hair has been permed into an afro by Ganju Shiba's firework and begins laughing hysterically, prompting an irritated Yumichika to put on a wig in the appearance of his usual hairstyle. With the sounds of battle echoing nearby as Ichigo continues to fight Kenpachi, Ikkaku explains that he was just noticing how Kenpachi seems to be having an enjoyable time. Upon being asked by Yumichika who his opponent is as he notes that the latter is strong, Ikkaku reveals that it is Ichigo and describes him as feeling like a completely different person from when Ikkaku fought him. As Ichigo repeatedly slashes Kenpachi's body, Yumichika worries that Kenpachi might be on the defensive and could lose, but Ikkaku declares that there is no way that this could happen. Back at the Senzaikyū compound, Kenpachi responds to his new wounds by laughing maniacally.

Kenpachi: I can't remember when I've ever felt such elation! Against you, I think I can fight with no restraints at all!

Kenpachi proclaims that Ichigo is now slightly stronger than he is and wonders when he last felt such elation, and as Ichigo mentally questions why he is still so confident, Kenpachi concludes that he can go all-out against Ichigo as he removes his eye patch, causing his yellow Reiatsu to surge out of him in a spiraling helix column centered around his body.

Ichigo: What the hell?! When he took off his eye-patch, his spiritual energy went through the roof!

As she watches the column pierce the clouds above, Yachiru is met by a Riteitai who appears behind her and announces that he has a message to deliver. Despite this, Yachiru merely tells him to come back later, leading the confused Riteitai to observe that it is a top-secret message he is relaying. Though the Riteitai brings up that the message has been signed by Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto and 10th Division Captain Tōshirō Hitsugaya, Yachiru reiterates that he should come back later, and when the Riteitai insists on delivering it immediately as he was ordered to, an angered Yachiru turns around and exerts her pink Reiatsu in the form of a cat, frightening the Riteitai, as she orders him to not bother her while Kenpachi is fighting.

Yachiru: Go away!

Riteitai: I'll come back later then! Please don't hurt me, lieutenant!

Back on the ground, Ichigo braces himself against Kenpachi's surging Reiatsu and is left bewildered by Kenpachi's Reiatsu drastically increasing in intensity as soon as he removed his eye patch. With Ichigo accusing him of having a dirty trick up his sleeve after all this time and assuming that there is something in his right eye, Kenpachi denies this and clarifies that the eye patch is something he had designed by the Shinigami Research and Development Institute to suppress his Reiryoku as he holds it up to reveal that the interior has five small eyes and mouths on it, unnerving Ichigo. Concluding that he will be using all his extra Reiryoku to kill Ichigo, Kenpachi lets go of the eye patch and casually flicks his Zanpakutō diagonally across the base of the building next to him, resulting in it being completely cut through and collapsing in on itself. Despite his apprehension, Ichigo closes his eyes and concentrates as Zangetsu manifests behind him and inquires if Ichigo can hear Kenpachi's Zanpakutō crying out.

Zangetsu: Can you hear that, Ichigo? Can you hear the cries of his sword? You hear it, but he cannot. And when two who do not trust each other fight together the strength they each possess is diminished. One who believes only in himself cannot understand this. Ichigo, do you have complete and utter trust in me?

Ichigo: It goes without saying. I'm putting all of my power in your hands, Zangetsu. Do with me what you will. And lend me all your power in order to win this fight.

As Ichigo affirms this, Zangetsu notes that Kenpachi cannot and details how those who fight together while not trusting one another only weaken each other. Zangetsu asserts that one who only believes in himself cannot understand this and asks Ichigo if he trusts him as Kenpachi concentrates his Reiatsu.

Kenpachi: So Zangetsu is the name of your Zanpakuto?

While stating that this goes without saying, Ichigo begins glowing with Reiatsu as well and promises to put all his power in Zangetsu's hands if the latter will lend him his power in return.

Ichigo: I'm borrowing Zangetsu's power and fighting alongside him. I can never lose to someone like you, who fights all alone. I'm twice as strong!

When Zangetsu agrees to this, Ichigo's Reiatsu flares up around him, prompting Kenpachi to praise him for still being able to power up even now, only to be confused when Ichigo explains that he is fighting alongside Zangetsu and declares that he would never lose to someone who fights alone.

Kenpachi: What nonsense. Your approach is that of a weakling. A boy who has so little confidence in his own strength that he must borrow the power of a Zanpakuto. Well, that's not my approach, weakling. Die!

Decrying the idea of fighting alongside a Zanpakutō because it is merely a tool for fighting, Kenpachi claims that this is the logic of someone too weak to win on their own and declares that this is not his mindset as his Reiatsu takes on the form of a large skull, which leads Zangetsu to inform Ichigo that he is coming before revealing he cannot stop Ichigo's bleeding for much longer. With Ichigo's own Reiatsu taking on the form of a Hollow mask, he and Kenpachi rush toward each other before clashing one last time, resulting in an explosion of blue and yellow Reiatsu that levels the surrounding buildings. Shielding herself with her arm, Yachiru stares in shock as the dust clears to reveal Kenpachi with his Zanpakutō piercing Ichigo's side and Ichigo with Zangetsu embedded in Kenpachi's chest, neither of them moving. After a few seconds, Ichigo apologizes to his friends and falls to the side, causing Kenpachi's Zanpakutō to tear out of his torso, where he collapses as Kenpachi looks down at him with intrigue.

Ichigo: Sorry...my friends...

Standing over an unconscious Ichigo Kurosaki as he bleeds on the ground after being run through and torn open by his Zanpakutō, a grievously injured 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki watches a large amount of blood spurt from the deep chest wound inflicted upon him by Ichigo's Shikai, Zangetsu, and grins as he rests his Zanpakutō on his shoulder. With the blade of his Zanpakutō snapping in two, Kenpachi questions Ichigo's apology to his friends and asserts that he won.

Kenpachi loses consciousness and collapses as well, and as a strong wind blows over the area, his lieutenant, Yachiru Kusajishi, solemnly approaches the two of them.

Kenpachi: Heh. Well? Why are you saying you're sorry? You stupid idiot. You won. Ugh….

After reaching Ichigo, Yachiru bows and cheerfully thanks him for giving Kenpachi his first truly enjoyable fight in a long time, as she has not seen him so happy in a while.

Yachiru: Thank you so much! Kenny had a wonderful time fighting you, Ichy. It's been a very long time since I've seen Kenny have so much fun! I really appreciate it. Hey, listen. try to stay alive, okay? That way, you'll get to play with Kenny again someday. Good bye!

As she hoists Kenpachi over her shoulders, Yachiru requests that Ichigo survive and fight Kenpachi again if he can before leap into the air with Kenpachi and repeatedly springing off two adjacent buildings as she disappears into the sky, leaving Ichigo to lose consciousness as well while watching them depart. Meanwhile, Ganju Shiba and 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada stand atop a building close to Senzaikyū as Hanatarō observes that the sounds of combat have stopped. When Hanatarō wonders if Ichigo is alright, Ganju asserts that they have come too far to turn back and have no choice but to believe in him.

Hanataro: Sounds like the fight's over. I wonder if Ichigo is still alive.

With Hanatarō unsure of this, Ganju declares that they cannot get distracted since it is their turn now before pulling a grappling hook out of the pouch on his waist and spinning it above his head.

Ganju: We have to keep on going, no matter what. He gave us a job to do, didn't he? So let's get moving! You ready for this? We're gonna go save Rukia!

Hanataro: Right!

Upon being told by Ganju that they are jumping across and being asked if he is ready, Hanatarō affirms this, prompting Ganju to begin running forward. Ganju spins around and attempts to throw the grappling hook across the gap with the force of his momentum, only to discover that the end of the rope has snapped as the metal grappling hook crashes into the ground a few feet away from Hanatarō. Shocked by this, Hanatarō admonishes Ganju for doing something so dangerous, which he bashfully apologizes for.

Inside Shishinrō within Senzaikyū, Rukia Kuchiki realizes that the fighting has stopped because both Reiatsu have disappeared and admits that she cannot tell which combatant died due to the Sekkiseki walls around her diffusing and scattering the Reiatsu she is sensing. Pondering why someone would spill blood for her sake, Rukia recalls dragging the body of another Shinigami and asks Kaien Shiba what he would do in her situation.

Rukia: The sounds of fighting have stopped. I can't sense any Spiritual Pressure. It's gone. The tower's Sekki-Seki rock is blocking any trace of Spiritual Pressure still out there, making it unreadable. Any why? Why should any blood be spilled on my account? For me of all people. Am I really worthy of being rescued at the cost of all this bloodshed? Can you explain? Please, Kaien...

Outside, Ganju ties the grappling hook to the rope it snapped off of with a butterfly knot and declares that it should be fine now, only for Hanatarō to point out that Ganju also tied up his arms as he holds up his wrists, which are bound together by the rope. After deciding that it would be too much trouble to untie him, Ganju proclaims that Hanatarō can simply fly alongside the grappling hook and begins spinning the latter above his head while Hanatarō protests that his arms are going to be ripped off. Despite this, Ganju throws Hanatarō toward Senzaikyū as he screams in terror over the perceived impossibility of this tactic. Meanwhile, Yoruichi Shihōin stands over Ichigo and apologizes for being late. While praising Ichigo for battling a foe as tough as Kenpachi to a draw even though he was heavily wounded, Yoruichi promises to not let him die and begins glowing blue before suddenly growing in size.

Yoruichi: I apologize. I know I'm a little late. you've been cut up pretty good, Ichigo. But against someone like Kenpachi Zaraki, you could not have expected any less. Don't worry. I won't let you die.

In the past, as a young Kenpachi sits in a clearing with his bloody Zanpakutō while surrounded by corpses, a toddler Yachiru smiles happily as she looks at his blade. Questioning where Yachiru came from, Kenpachi wonders if she is not scared of his sword.

Kenpachi describes his Zanpakutō as a tool for killing people, but Yachiru simply grabs the blade and giggles as her hand is covered in blood. When he realizes that Yachiru does not have a name, Kenpachi reveals that he does not either. In the present, Kenpachi opens his eyes to find Yachiru standing over him on a rooftop, leading Yachiru to jump up in down in joy while celebrating his survival.

Kenpachi: Yachiru…?

Yachiru: Ahaha! Yay! Kenny's awake! Yayy! I sent someone for Lady Unohana. She should be here any minute.

Kenpachi: Is he alive?

Yachiru: I think so. He was breathing when we left him.

Upon being asked by Kenpachi about Ichigo's condition, Yachiru assures him that she called 4th Division Captain Retsu Unohana to come tend to his injuries, and when Kenpachi reiterates his question, Yachiru admits she is not sure before theorizing Ichigo has survived. When Kenpachi asserts that this is good because he needs to pay Ichigo back, a confused Yachiru claims that there is nothing to pay him back for, only for Kenpachi to deny this on the grounds of him losing.

Kenpachi: That's one good thing then. There'd be no way for me to pay him back if he were dead.

Yachiru: To pay him back for what?

Kenpachi: He beat me, obviously.

With Yachiru insisting that he did not lose, an amused Kenpachi questions why she looks so distraught, which prompts Yachiru to explain that Kenpachi won due to Ichigo fighting alongside Zangetsu and the battle thus being two-on-one. As Kenpachi chuckles at this, Yachiru demands that he not laugh and pushes her hand into his cheek to press his head against the ground, causing a surprised Kenpachi to spit onto the ground in response.

Yachiru: But you beat him, Kenny. Ichy cheated! I heard him saying that Zangetsu is helping him. So it's two against one! her forfeits. You win!

Musing on the concept of fighting alongside one's Zanpakutō, Kenpachi asks Yachiru if she remembers the day that he decided her name, and with Yachiru confirming this and claiming to even remember how many clouds were in the sky that day, a smiling Kenpachi notes he does as well. Kenpachi grabs his broken Zanpakutō with his right hand, causing Yachiru to express confusion, and holds it up as he admits he had forgotten how painful it is to not have a name, with him having watched everyone around him be called by their name while he was never recognized this way in his youth. In the past, Kenpachi draws Yachiru's name in the dirt with his Zanpakutō. After Kenpachi notes that it is the name of the one person he has ever admired and that he is giving it to her, Yachiru happily says her name while Kenpachi decides to take the name of the strongest Shinigami in every generation. In the present, Kenpachi observes that he has kept his Zanpakutō waiting for a long time and requests that it tell him its name even though it has been so many years, only to not receive a response. As he smiles at his failure, Kenpachi holds his Zanpakutō over his face and expresses a desire to become stronger due to having found someone to fight for the first time in a long time, and as Yachiru looks away, Kenpachi slams his Zanpakutō into the ground. With Kenpachi emotionally yelling that he wants to become stronger, Yachiru recounts how she had neither a name nor parents as a baby in Kusajishi, the 79th district of the Rukongai, and only knew the color of blood red because the people around her were more beast than human and could have easily stomped her to death before Kenpachi came from Zaraki, the 80th district of the Rukongai, and hacked apart her blood-soaked world to give her a name. After concluding that she would not be here now if it were not for Kenpachi, Yachiru assures him that he can do it and promises to get stronger alongside him because she knows he is the strongest one of all.

Kenpachi: Hmm, getting help from one's Zanpakuto. It's been such a long time; I'd forgotten how painful it is to have no name. Everyone else had one. They were all called by their names. Only I was without one. After so many years, it's too late anyway...But if I ask, I wonder if you'd tell me...What your name is...Tch...Well then, I guess not, huh? I want to get stronger! It's been a long time since I felt this way. I must get stronger!

However, when she does not receive a response from Kenpachi, who let's go of his Zanpakutō, Yachiru repeatedly calls out to him in concern.

Yachiru: Kenny...

Meanwhile, on the walkway connected to the bridge outside Senzaikyū, one of the guards expresses relief at the intense Reiatsu finally dying down and notes that the fight was incredibly fierce. Upon being teased by the other guard as being pathetic for being shaken by the Reiatsu all the way over here, the first guard observes he is also shaking and is pathetic as well, leading the other guard to demand to know why he is considered pathetic. Suddenly, the second guard has a few drops of Shinten poured on his forehead by Hanatarō. With the second guard collapsing, the remaining guard sees Hanatarō creeping along the edge of the roof above and prepares to pursue him, only for Ganju to land on the walkway behind him and elbow him in the face, sending the guard hurtling down the walkway and crashing into the railing at the end.

Ganju: Well, here we are. So, it's a vault-style dor. Now the question is, how do we get it open?

Soul Reaper: Huh?! You! You're gonna pay for this!

As he descends the grappling hook rope to the walkway, Hanatarō chastises Ganju for overdoing it, and when an incredulous Ganju brings up the drug he used on the other guard, Hanatarō details how it is a type of anesthetic called Shinten that will knock out anyone with low Reiatsu with the application of a few drops to their skin, unnerving Ganju with its effect.

Hanataro: Now that's going to hurt him tomorrow. Ouch.

Hanatarō brushes this off and runs toward Senzaikyū, leaving Ganju to follow him.

Ganju: I have to say, I've never seen such an effort just to save one person. With all the people involved and everything we've gone through, this Rukia must be quite a cutie, huh.

Shortly afterward, Ganju and Hanatarō reach the entrance to Rukia's cell, which Ganju notes is a shutter-type as he wonders how they will open it. Suddenly, Hanatarō tells him to not worry and responds to a confused Ganju's inquiry of what he has this time by pulling a wooden block key out of his shihakushō and revealing that he took it from the storage room in the canal network last night. With Hanatarō inserting the key and working on the lock, a surprised Ganju questions if it is alright for him to do such a thing, only for Hanatarō to admit that it is not.

Hanataro: She's just Rukia herself.

However, Hanatarō details how he was thinking about how Ichigo keeps fighting so hard while he only runs away, which he considers to not look good, and concludes that he decided to do whatever it takes to save Rukia because that is also what he wants, even if it means he will be punished later. Though Hanatarō bashfully claims that stealing a key is all he can do and is not very helpful, Ganju assures him that he has done more than enough. As the shutter rises upward, Ganju theorizes that Rukia must be very attractive if everyone wants to save her so desperately, though Hanatarō denies this, and cheerfully looks inside the Shishinrō in search of her.

Ganju: I'll see for myself! Hey there Rukia, come on out here!

Despite this, Ganju is mortified upon seeing Rukia and remembers seeing her once before with a spatter of blood on her face. When a surprised Rukia asks Ganju who he is and if he is with Ichigo, Hanatarō pops out from behind Ganju and calls out to Rukia as he expresses relief at her being alright.

Rukia: Are you...Ichigo's friends? How do you know me?

Hanataro: It's me, Hanataro! Rukia, you remember me, don't you?

Rukia: Hanataro! Of course, but what are you doing here?

Hanataro: I can explain later. But we've got to move now! Come on, Ganju. Let's...

With Rukia wondering what he is doing here, Hanatarō runs over to her and promises to tell her later before attempting to pull Rukia by the wrist toward the door while telling Ganju to hurry because there is no time to waste.

Ganju: ….

However, Ganju remains standing still in silence, and as a concerned Hanatarō wonders what is wrong, Rukia recognizes the pattern on his pants. Rukia asks Ganju if he is a member of the Shiba Clan, prompting Hanatarō to question if they know each other.

Hanataro: Ganju? You look like you've just seen a ghost or something.

Rukia: I know that symbol - the trembling current of the fallen skies. You...You're from the Shiba clan.

Hanataro: Huh? Do you two know each other?

Affirming this, Ganju recalls the night of his brother's death and tensely states that he could never forget Rukia's face before claiming that she is the Shinigami who killed Kaien. Unnerved by this, Hanatarō attempts to assure Ganju that Rukia could never do something like this, but Ganju recounts how Kaien's slit throat and stabbed chest were wounds from a sword and not something he would have died from had he fought a Hollow.

Ganju: Ah...Yes, I know her. As if I could ever forget that face. The face...of the Soul Reaper who killed my brother.

Hanataro: you must be mistaken, Ganju. Rukia would never do that.

As Ganju angrily proclaims that she said she killed Kaien that night, Rukia somberly tells a protesting Hanatarō that he is right.

Rukia: It's all right, Hanataro. What he says is true. He wore the same symbol. It must have been your older brother. I am the one who killed Kaien Shiba.

When Rukia reaffirms that Kaien indeed died by her hand, an enraged Ganju grabs her by the collar, and as Rukia assures him that he can do as he wishes to her without complaint, Hanatarō grabs Ganju's free arm while begging him to stop and reminding him that they came here to save Rukia because Ichigo entrusted them with her life.

Ganju: Grrr!

Rukia: Do what you want. If you kill me now, I have no reason to complain about my fate.

Hanataro: No, Ganju! Don't do it. Please don't do it! We came to save her, not to kill her, right? Remember? You said it yourself! Ichigo trusted us. He trusted us to conduct a mission! No matter what happens. Ganju!

Suddenly, the three of them experience the sensation of a powerful Reiatsu crushing down on them, and as Ganju and Hanatarō turn around to face the doorway in fright, 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki approaches them on the bridge.

Rukia, Hanataro, and Ganju: ?!

During this, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake lies in the Ugendō Quarters in his division's barracks. Having been informed of 5th Division Captain Sōsuke Aizen's murder by his 3rd Seats, Sentarō Kotsubaki and Kiyone Kotetsu, Ukitake coughs repeatedly and props himself up with an ice bag held to his temple as he inquiries about the circumstances of the incident, prompting Sentarō and Kiyone to relay in unison that it occurred this morning while the murder and motive remain unknown. Upon being asked by Ukitake why he was not informed of this sooner, Sentarō declares that he delayed the report out of concern for Ukitake's health and requests to be punished for this, only for Kiyone to claim that this is not fair and ask to be punished as well. With Sentarō and Kiyone arguing over copying one another's words, Ukitake asserts that this is enough and gets to his feet before deciding that he cannot stay her like this.

Ganju: huh? What is this?!

Hanataro: Ah...It's coming this way!

Back at the bridge leading to Senzaikyū, a stunned Hanatarō identifies Byakuya, and when Ganju expresses recognition of him, Hanatarō is left surprised that Ganju knows of him.

Rukia: Brother…!

Hanataro: Oh no! That's the Captain of Squad 6, Byakuya Kuchiki!

Ganju describes Byakuya as the current leader of the Kuchiki Clan, one of the four highest noble families, and the most well-known of the Gotei 13 captains, leading him to nervously conclude that someone like Byakuya appearing at this time is the worst thing which could have happened to them.

Ganju: The Kuchikis are one of the four great noble clans that carry the highest rank, Shoichi! This guys' the current clan leader. For him to show up here at a time like this, it's about the worst thing that could've happened to us. There isn't a chance we could win in a fight with him. Heh. So, we should just get down on our knees and beg for our lives.

As Ganju states that there is no way they can win and suggests that they beg for their lives, a shocked Hanatarō reminds him that they came here to rescue Rukia, but Ganju points out how there is no way out of the cell other than across the bridge before demanding to know if Hanatarō wants him to sacrifice his life for Rukia.

Hanataro: I'll stay. I'll hold him as long as I can. I've come this far, and it's only because I wanted to help save Rukia's life. So how can I just leave now without having done anything? Thank you, Ganju, for everything you've done. Now wish me luck!

While Ganju refuses to do this for someone who killed his brother, a trembling Hanatarō acknowledges this and admits that it would be asking too much of Ganju to force him to stay here for her sake because he never had a personal reason to save Rukia, only to request that he take Rukia with him when he escapes from Senzaikyū.

Ganju: Such a fool! Without even a Zanpakuto, what does he thinks he's gonna do? Dammit! You crazy kid!

Upon being told by Hanatarō that he plans to stay here and hold off Byakuya, a stunned Ganju questions what he is talking about and declares Hanatarō's understanding of his reluctance to sacrifice his life for an enemy to be irrelevant due to neither of them being able to manage someone with Byakuya's Reiatsu. Affirming this, Hanatarō claims he came this far out of a desire to save Rukia and cannot simply leave without doing anything before bowing as he thanks Ganju for everything he has done.

Hanataro: Ganju?

With a smiling Hanatarō walking out of the entrance onto the bridge, Rukia desperately calls after him in an attempt to dissuade him, only for Ganju to block her.

Ganju: It's your lucky day, captain, because I'm the one you'll have to deal with now.

Byakuya: My sword is not for killing insignificant pests such as you.

Ganju: Maybe your noble families have cowards who run from a threat like that...but no Shiba man ever would!

Though Rukia insists that he get out of her way, Ganju berates Hanatarō for attempting this without even having his Zanpakutō and visibly trembling. After ridiculing the idea of acting so tough despite being a weakling, Ganju curses and throws Rukia back before yelling loudly as he runs after Hanatarō and leaps over him onto the bridge.

Byakuya: I see. You are from the Shiba clan, are you? Forgive me for taking it easy on you. Now, I'll make sure you don't leave here alive.

Ganju: What's this?

As he tells Hanatarō to stay back, Ganju picks him up by the collar and throws him back toward Rukia's cell, to Hanatarō's dismay. Turning to face Byakuya, Ganju mentally apologizes to Kaien for delaying his revenge due to Kūkaku Shiba not raising a coward who would abandon his friends as he proclaims that he will be Byakuya's opponent.

Inside a secret room within Sōkyoku Hill in the Seireitei, Ichigo Kurosaki rests on a mat surrounded by a healing field as Yoruichi Shihōin, and when Ichigo opens his eyes and realizes he is not dead as he wonders where he is, Yoruichi approaches him while noting that he is awake, leading Ichigo to realize that Yoruichi saved him and thank the latter, only for Yoruichi to assert he should thank his own incredible life force for allowing him to survive his wounds.

Ichigo: Where am I?

Yoruichi: Ah, you're finally awake.

Ichigo: Yoruichi? Ah, it was you who saved my life, wasn't it? Thanks for doing that.

Picking up on Yoruichi's mention of his wounds, Ichigo recalls his fight with 11th Division Captain Kenpachi Zaraki and admits that he was cut up pretty badly, only to open his eyes in shock upon remembering something.

Yoruichi: Be thankful to your strong life-force. Without it, you never would have survived such serious wounds, no matter what I did.

Ichigo: That's right. In fact, I thought he'd killed me. Oh no! I've gotta go help! Hh-urg!

As he startles Yoruichi by bolting up, Ichigo finds his stomach wound reopening and doubles over in pain.

Yoruichi: Hold still, you fool! You're going to open up those wounds. Don't you realize how badly you're hurt? Now just relax. You'd be useless if you went in that condition.

Though Yoruichi admonishes him for moving like this despite how badly he is hurt, Ichigo insists that he needs to save Yasutora Sado and tries to stand up. However, Yoruichi pushes Ichigo back down by slamming into his eyes and assures him that Sado, Orihime Inoue, and Uryū Ishida are all fine, to Ichigo's astonishment. After explaining that Sado was lucky to fight his last opponent and is injured but alive, Yoruichi notes that Orihime and Uryū concluded their battle with hardly any injuries. With Ichigo acknowledging this, Yoruichi instructs him to stay within the healing field for a while before pushing over a white object, which Yoruichi cites as the sole reason Ichigo was not cut in half in addition to having half his internal organs crushed due to having it in his pocket. Looking over, Ichigo is shocked to see a damaged Hollow mask. As Yoruichi admits surprise that he was still carrying this around, Ichigo inquires if he really had the mask on him, and when Yoruichi is left confused by his wording, Ichigo elaborates that he wanted to keep it after it saved his life during his battle with 6th Division Lieutenant Renji Abarai. In the past, while Ichigo and Ganju Shiba walk out of the room they stayed in within the canal network, 4th Division 7th Seat Hanatarō Yamada runs up to Ichigo and snatches the Hollow mask away from him before insisting they throw it away since it makes him feel uncomfortable, only for Ichigo to remind him the mask saved his life and state he wants to keep it as a good-luck charm. Despite this, Hanatarō throws the mask into the water of the nearby canal, to Ichigo's disappointment. In the present, Ichigo concludes that the mask sank to the bottom of the canal, and while Yoruichi turns to him in shocked silence, Ichigo clarifies that Hanatarō is a member of the Fourth Division who healed the wounds he received from Renji. Picking up the mask, Ichigo wonders how he can still have it even though it was gone forever after Hanatarō threw it away. Upon being told by Yoruichi that the latter will hold onto the mask, Ichigo begins to protest due to only just having gotten it back, but Yoruichi glows with Reiatsu and demands that he hand it over. An intimidated Ichigo slowly places the mask in front of Yoruichi, who mentally asserts that they cannot be too careful even if the scenario envisioned is very unlikely. When Ichigo admits that Yoruichi is amazing regardless, the latter questions what he means, prompting Ichigo to point out how Yoruichi carried him all the way here despite having such a tiny body, only to be told that this was easy in Yoruichi's original body.

Ichigo: Well, you certainly are strong. It's surprising. You carried me all the way here, despite being so small.

Upon registering what he has just been told, a stunned Ichigo picks up on the mention of Yoruichi's original form, and after realizing that Ichigo and his friends have not seen it before, Yoruichi decides that there is no point in hiding it any longer now.

Yoruichi: Oh that. Lifting things is no problem for me once I revert to my original form.

Ichigo: Ah, right, original form. I forgot...Hm? What do you mean, original form?

Yoruichi: Oh, that's right. I've never actually shown you and your friends my true form, have I? So, behold! Here is what I really look like!

With Ichigo watching in astonishment, Yoruichi walks over to the entrance to the hidden room and declares that she will reveal her true form as steam emanates from her paws, causing her to transform into a tall, naked, dark-skinned woman with purple hair, leaving Ichigo visibly bewildered as he sits up.

Ichigo: Uh...Ah...You...

Smirking, Yoruichi notes that she cannot blame Ichigo for being so surprised because everyone assumes she is a man due to how she speaks in her cat form and walks over to Ichigo while mocking the foolish reactions she receives whenever she reveals her true form, which she takes immense pleasure in eliciting, only for Ichigo to still be shocked that she is not a cat. After reminding Ichigo that cats cannot speak, to his shame, Yoruichi crouches in front of him and begins to explain how she brought him here, but a blushing Ichigo looks downward and interrupts her to demand that she put some clothes on.

Yoruichi: Yeah, you're even more shocked than I thought you would be. Can't blame you. I guess people always assume I'm a man because of the voice I use when I'm in cat-form. No matter how many times I reveal my true form, it's always fun to see the reaction I get. Anyway, let's get back to this matter and I'll show you how I carried you here. First of all, I used—

Ichigo: Stop! Will you please put your clothes on?!

Yoruichi pulls on a shirt while noting that she has not worn clothes in a long time and teases Ichigo about being so prudish when it comes to seeing a naked woman.

Yoruichi: Oh right, sorry about that. It's been so long since I had to wear clothes, I forgot.

With a still-blushing Ichigo reiterating his request for her to get dressed as he looks away, Yoruichi inquires if he is sure that he does not want to take this chance due to it being his last opportunity, prompting a flustered Ichigo to glare at her and tell her to stop. However, Yoruichi merely pulls up her shirt to reveal her crotch, causing a shocked Ichigo to clutch his abdomen as his stomach wound reopens, and instructs him to not scream so much because it will continue to reopens his wounds as Ichigo loudly insists that she put on her pants first like most people, only to reopen his wound yet again. After getting dressed, Yoruichi notes that clothes are so uncomfortable as Ichigo examines the bond wand, she was showing him earlier and reiterates her explanation of having used it to transport him here via flight, which Yoruichi affirms while declaring that it is a unique artifact even within Soul Society. While Yoruichi comments on how impressive it is, Ichigo wonders why she has such a valuable object, to her confusion, and points out how she changes forms, heals wounds, and possesses a priceless artifact, leading him to inquire just who she is.

Ichigo: Seriously...You can change forms and do it so effortlessly. And you have the ability to heal wounds. Yoruichi, who are you?

Yoruichi: I am-

Suddenly, before Yoruichi can answer, she and Ichigo experience the crushing sensation of 6th Division Captain Byakuya Kuchiki's Reiatsu.

Ichigo: Huh?! That Spiritual Pressure! It's him again!

With Ichigo recognizing this as belonging to the man who destroyed his Shinigami powers and took Rukia Kuchiki away, a sweating Yoruichi observes the Reiatsu is coming from Senzaikyū, and when Ichigo begins running toward the entrance, Yoruichi tells him to wait.

Yoruichi: Ichigo, wait!

When Ichigo reveals that Ganju and Hanatarō are headed toward the Senzaikyū, Yoruichi question what he can do in his condition, but Ichigo declares that no one else is going to save them and holds out the bone wand as he infuses it with his Reiryoku, causing the shaft to wrap around his arm while the mouth opens and the four protrusions expand into a large wing, before bursting through the hidden entrance and flying out into the air outside, leaving Yoruichi to angrily call him a fool.

Ichigo: The tower is where I told Ganju and Hanataro to go to! Just who do you think is gonna save them if I don't?

Yoruichi: Ichigo! You're such a fool...

Meanwhile, on the bridge leading to Senzaikyū, Ganju stares down Byakuya, who explains that he came to investigate upon sensing a slight Reiatsu moving toward the Shishinrō.

Rukia: Brother! Please, no!

And Byakuya's fast movements hits Ganju quickly to start bleeding out badly.

Hanataro: Oh, Ganju...

Having assumed that this was a powerful enemy concealing their Reiatsu, Byakuya expresses disappointment at it only being a bug like Ganju. Behind Ganju, a shocked Rukia attempts to run up to Ganju, and as Hanatarō grabs her by the arm and insists that she cannot do this, Rukia demands that he let her go because she needs to stop Ganju before he is killed, only to suddenly collapse while Hanatarō expresses concern.

Rukia: Brother, please stop!

With Rukia realizing that her stay within the Sekkiseki cell has weakened her and left her unable to move, Ganju mentally admits that just facing someone as powerful as Byakuya is making him tremble and that cheap tricks will not work against him. Mentally declaring that it is now or never, Ganju rushes toward Byakuya and yells before attempting to use one of his "Tears of Blood" smoke bombs, only for Byakuya to appear behind him and tell Ganju to disappear because his sword is not for crushing vermin as Ganju's arm is slashed from his shoulder to his wrist, causing a large amount of blood to spurt into the air while Rukia looks on in astonishment. With Ganju grunting in pain as he falls to his knees, Byakuya resumes his approach toward Rukia, but stops when Ganju demands that he halt while getting to his feet, leading him to reiterate his command for Ganju to get out of here. However, Ganju proclaims that a man of the Shiba Clan would never run in fear like this, and as Byakuya turns to face Ganju in surprise upon picking up on his mention of being a Shiba, a stunned Rukia mentally expresses fear toward what is about to happen. As he draws his Zanpakutō and holds it vertically in front of him, Byakuya apologizes for going easy on Ganju prior and declares that he will not leave here alive. Though Ganju is confused as to what Byakuya could do from so far away, Rukia begs him to stop as Byakuya releases his Shikai, Senbonzakura, causing the blade to separate into a thousand pink blade petals that scatter around Byakuya. Rukia warns a bewildered Ganju to run away, but as he stands on the bridge in anticipation of Byakuya's next attack, Ganju finds himself suddenly slashed across multiple areas of his body and collapses backward as a large quantity of blood spurts from his wounds. Seeing Byakuya turning to a stunned Hanatarō, Rukia moves in front of the latter and pleads with Byakuya to not continue his assault. Suddenly, as Byakuya gathers the blade petals of Senbonzakura and moves to attack, 13th Division Captain Jūshirō Ukitake appears behind him and grabs his wrist before he can complete his swing. After commenting on how dangerous it is here, Ukitake suggests Byakuya stop.

Ukitake: Phew, close one. Pretty dangerous! Why don't we leave it at that, Captain Kuchiki?

Rukia: Captain Ukitake.

Ukitake: Hey there, Rukia! It's good to see you. Are you alright?

While Ukitake greets an astonished Rukia and notes that she looks thinner, Byakuya questions what he is doing, only for Ukitake to turn the question back on him as he points out how releasing one's Zanpakutō within the Seireitei is a high-class offense even if it is for the purpose of expelling Ryoka.

Byakuya: What are you doing here, Captain?

Upon learning that a wartime exemption permitting this has been issued, a surprised Ukitake wonders if the Ryoka infiltration has really become so serious and if one of them killed 5th Division Captain Sōsuke Aizen.

Ukitake: Well, I could ask you the same thing. Even if it's to repel Ryoka, what were you thinking, Kuchiki?

Byakuya: The wartime exemption was issued.

Ukitake: War exemption? Has the Ryoka infiltration gotten that bad? Was it a Ryoka that killed Aizen?

However, the conversation is interrupted when Byakuya and Ukitake experience a powerful Reiatsu enveloping the surrounding area.

Hanataro: !

Ukitake: What Spiritual Pressure is this?! Clearly it's at the level of a captain, but...I don't recognize him at all.

Rukia: That Spiritual Pressure...Impossible!

Observing it is a captain-level Reiatsu, Ukitake admits he does not recognize it, and as Rukia realizes who it belongs to, Ichigo hurtles into the air above the bridge with the aid of the bone wand wing, to the shock of those present. After landing in front of Rukia, Ichigo allows the bone wand to return to its normal form and stands up, only to walk past a stunned Rukia and apologize to Hanatarō for letting him go on ahead into such a dangerous situation.

Ichigo: Rukia, I've come to get you out of here.

Rukia: You fool, Ichigo! I told you never to try and come after me. I told you I'd never forgive you if you did.

With Hanatarō assuring him he is fine, Ichigo approaches Rukia and declares he has come to save her. When he sees Rukia looking at him with tearful eyes, Ichigo demands to know why she is wearing such an expression.

Ichigo: Some other time you can yell at me all you want to about my coming here. After I defeat him!

With Ichigo reminding her he came here to save her and instructing her to look happier, Rukia recalls her tearful command for Ichigo to never come after her when she left him bleeding out in the Human World and berates him for not listening to her as she begins to cry. Looking at an unconscious Ganju, Ichigo acknowledges Rukia is right and gives her permission to yell at him as much as she wants after he beats Byakuya, whom he turns to face. As a concerned Rukia approaches him, Ichigo inquires if she wants him to leave after coming so far already and refuses to do so even if she wants to be executed before proclaiming that he is ignoring all her opinions from now on. Bewildered by Ichigo not listening to the one he is rescuing, Rukia demands to know what kind of tyrannical rescue this is, prompting Ichigo to assert that the rescued should not complain as he instructs Rukia to tremble in a corner and beg him to save her. Angered by the idea of trembling, Rukia glares at Ichigo while he sticks his tongue out at her, only for them both to suddenly calm down as a smiling Rukia observes that Ichigo has not changed at all and still does not listen to anything he says. Ichigo questions what she expects and claims that she only ever worries about him rather than about herself as he assures her that he has gotten a bit stronger. Upon being asked by an astonished Ukitake who Ichigo is, Byakuya clarifies that he is just an ordinary Ryoka rather than the man Ukitake is remembering and promises to end this trifling fight by killing Ichigo while walking forward, with Ichigo approaching him in turn. When Ichigo points out how Byakuya did not attack while he was talking to Rukia as he grips the handle of his Shikai, Zangetsu, Byakuya inquires whom Ichigo believes he is talking to and questions if the latter believes Byakuya needs to look for an opening in order to kill him, leading him to warn Ichigo to not be so confident as he exerts his Reiatsu on the surrounding area.

Byakuya: Very well, Obviously, you have improved even more than I would have thought possible. So you leave me no choice. Before you become too full of yourself, I shall show you the difference between us. The gap in power you could never hope to bridge, not even if you had a thousand years of training.

Ichigo: Then bring it on.

As an intimidated Ichigo braces himself, Rukia falls to her knees and confirms with Hanatarō that he is alright. Seeing Ichigo draw Zangetsu, Byakuya notes that he has improved considerably if he is not perturbed by this Reiatsu and admits that he does not know how Ichigo acquired Shinigami powers once more before admonishing Ichigo for coming here to throw away his saved life rather than live peacefully in the Human World. However, Ichigo declares that he is not throwing it away and will leave after he beats Byakuya, who reiterates that Ichigo should not be so confident as he disappears with Shunpo, to Ichigo and Rukia's surprise. Suddenly, with Byakuya moving behind him and attacking, Ichigo blocks his stab at the last second with the broad side of Zangetsu, shocking Byakuya, and claims he can see Byakuya now. Breaking their clash with a swing of Zangetsu that pushes Byakuya back, Ichigo asks Byakuya what he thinks of his movements being readable, and when Byakuya tells him to not think so highly of himself after a lucky blow, Ichigo suggests they evaluate if it was really luck as he rushes toward Byakuya, who disappears with Shunpo once more before Ichigo can reach him. Coming to a halt, Ichigo sees Byakuya moving behind him and swings Zangetsu to intercept his attack once again. As sparks fly from their clash, a grinning Ichigo begins repeatedly crossing blades with Byakuya while a stunned Hanatarō expresses amazement over the two of them clashing as equals. Despite admitting that Ichigo's reading of Byakuya's Shunpo was impressive, Rukia mentally asserts that Byakuya's power extends beyond his skill with Shunpo, which is child's play to him, and that she needs to stop the fight before Byakuya starts taking it seriously and kills Ichigo. Ichigo leaps back from his last clash with Byakuya and lands as the latter acknowledges that Ichigo has improved more than he expected before concluding that he is left with no choice.

Holding his Zanpakutō up in front of his face, Byakuya decides to show Ichigo the power gap that he could never bridge in a thousand years before his newfound skill goes to his head, and as Rukia begs Ichigo to run, Byakuya begins to release his Shikai once again.

Byakuya: Scatter, Senbonzakura (Thousand Cherry Blossoms.)

Suddenly, Yoruichi binds the blade of Byakuya's Zanpakutō with a long strip of cloth and appears on the bridge in front of him while pulling the cloth tight.

Yoruichi: Been a long time, hasn't it, Byakuya?

With those present shocked by her arrival and with Byakuya recognizing her, Yoruichi stands up and observes that it has been a long time since the two of them last met.

Byakuya: Yoruichi Shihoin? The former commander in charge of the Stealth Force and ex-general of the First Division Punishment Force, Yoruichi Shihoin.

What happens next? We'll soon find that out in the next chapter/episode.

TO BE CONTINUED….