Squad Zero brings Ichigo back to the Royal Palace to prepare for the coming battle. Ichigo's first stop is Kirinden, where he and his friends receive Tenjiro Kirinji's unconventional yet very effective style of medical treatment. Fully recovered, Ichigo leaves with Renji to head to Gatonden and see Kirio Hikifune, who gives them a surprisingly warm welcome. Meanwhile, in the Seireitei, Kyoraku is appointed as the new Head Captain and Squad 1 captain to lead the Thirteen Court Guard Squads. As his first act as Head Captain, Kyoryaku decides to share with Central 46 his plan to help strengthen their forces.

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...