Ichigo is kicked out of the Royal Palace by Oh-etsu Nimaiya for failing his test. When Ichigo next opens his eyes, he finds himself standing in front of his house in the World of the Living. Too ashamed to face his family and friends, Ichigo runs off to seek shelter at his workplace, Unagiya. But he is soon found by his father, Isshin, who appears before Ichigo dressed as a Soul Reaper to take him back. Returning home, Isshin explains to Ichigo that he cannot expect to fix his broken Bankai because his son doesn't know anything about himself. Deciding that the time has finally come, Isshin reveals his past to Ichigo, including the story of how he first met his mother, Masaki, and the truth surrounding her. It all began on a rainy day...

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. Meanwhile, the Soul Reapers are seen training or seeking new powers to prepare for the next battle. Back at Hoohden, Ichigo passes the Asauchi test and is brought to the next stop by Oh-Etsu, who tells Ichigo that he must now bid farewell to his Zangetsu.