Shigekuni Genryusai Yamamoto confronts Yhwach for the first time in a thousand years. Stern Ritter members NaNaNa Najahkoop, Äs Nödt, and Bazz-B join the fray but are quickly defeated by Genryusai. Despite losing his subordinates before his eyes, Yhwach condemns them for their foolish actions, further convincing Genryusai that his old nemesis has not changed at all. As Yhwach finally draws his sword against Genryusai, the Soul Reapers notice an abnormal change taking place across the Seireitei.

Rescue efforts are being made across the Seireitei to find and help those who've survived the Stern Ritter attack. Meanwhile, Ichigo visits the Squad 4 barracks to check up on Renji and Rukia, who are receiving medical treatment for their injuries. He then meets with Mayuri Kurotsuchi about fixing his broken Tensa Zangetsu. However, Mayuri explains that once a Bankai is destroyed, it can never be restored to its original state. Afterward, Mayuri takes a still-shaken Ichigo outside to join the rest of the Thirteen Court Guard Squad captains, where they await the arrival of Squad Zero from the Royal Palace.