With the battle of Seireitei over Ichigo and his friends return home, but things are only about to get worse for Ichigo--his inner Hollow is getting more powerful, he must deal with a sinister new transfer student, and a new enemy is poised to attack Karakura Town.
"Unable to use their Bankai special abilities, the Soul Reaper captains are at a severe disadvantage against the invading Quincy army. Urahara has a plan to turn the tide of battle, but will it be enough as the Quincies continue their onslaught?!"--Page 4 of cover.
As they near closer to the center of Hueco Mundo, Ichigo and his allies have their talents further tested by the Arrancars and attempt to hold onto their honor as they fight.
After Izuru Kira defeats Avirama Redder, Findor duels Hisagi, who reveals his true strength, but when a pillar is destroyed, the Shinigami rush to the aid of Ikkaku, who suffered a defeat against Poww because he held back.
Ichigo and his friends finally reach Las Noches, Aizen's stronghold, and attempt to rescue Orihime. There they meet powerful forces who don't fight honorably. Meanwhile, Rukia encounters a familiar ghost she was once forced to kill and is offered redemption for a price.
As Ichigo and his friends continue to train, Orihime realizes that she won't be able to participate in the upcoming battle. Meanwhile, Ichigo continues to have difficulty controlling his Hollowfied self.
As Ichigo continues to rescue Orihime from the Hollow world, he faces a new, hopelessly powerful enemy who knows the secret about his young friend, Nel.
When Orihime is convinced to join the Arrancar Ulquiorra at Hueco Mundo, she is labeled a traitor by the Soul Society and is deemed unworthy of rescue. Ichigo refuses to give up on her, however, and sets out to set her free.
While Ganju experiences difficulties with his opponent and Ury? gets the opportunity to prove his strength, Ichigo defeats Ikkaku and discovers where Rukia is being detained before her execution. Presented in graphic novel format.