Squad Zero brings Ichigo back to the Royal Palace to prepare for the coming battle. Meanwhile, Kyoraku is appointed as the new Head Captain to lead the Thirteen Court Guard Squads.

Ichigo learns that he is the child born of a Soul Reaper and a Quincy. Finally understanding the truth behind his heritage, Ichigo decides to return to Hoohden with a renewed resolve to finish what he has started.

The tides of battle seemed to have turned after the captains reclaimed their stolen Bankai. However, the Stern Ritters release their Quincy Voll Stern Dich to drive the Soul Reapers deeper into a corner.

Kenpachi defeats Gremmy, but his moment of victory is cut short when he is suddenly struck by Candice’s thunderbolt attack. Meninas, Giselle, and Liltotto also join Candice to take down Kenpachi, who is considered to be a Special Threat.