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 Kurosaki, who was born with the ability to see ghosts, is surprised when his friend Nel Tu reverts to her true form to shield her human protectors, and unforeseen changes put Ichigo and his friends at the mercy of the enemy.
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.
As Ichigo battles the inner Hollow trying to consume him, a sinister transfer student asks him to complete a mysterious job that earns him some dangerous new enemies.
Ichigo Kurosaki thought that Soul Reapers were the only ones hunting Hollows, but the Quincys are also hunting them. A contest ensues between the Soul Reapers and the Quincys to see who is the more powerful.
Rukia lends Ichigo some of her powers so he can save his family, but Ichigo takes all of her energy and now it is his responsibility to protect the innocent from Hollows, an evil spirit that preys upon humans.