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Ichigo Kurosaki is a Human who also has Shinigami powers. He is the son of Isshin and Masaki Kurosaki, and older brother of Karin and Yuzu. He is the main protagonist of the Bleach series.

Appearance:
Ichigo looks like a normal teenage boy; the one exception to that is his spiky orange hair, a trait that he has been ridiculed about for years. He is a fairly tall, lean-built person with peach skin and brown eyes. Since becoming a Shinigami he has become noticeably more muscular, as noted by his sister Karin. When in his spiritual form, Ichigo wears standard Shinigami attire with the addition of a strap across his chest. Initially it was a thick brown belt to hold his Zanpakutō sheathe,but it later became a red rosary-like strap. Ichigo's appearance has caused several people, including Jūshirō Ukitake, to notice a similarity to Kaien Shiba; the former lieutenant of the 13th Division.

Personality:
When he was young, Ichigo considered his mother to be the center of his world. Ichigo always smiled whenever he was with Masaki and he was regularly at her side, holding her hand. Despite crying whenever he lost in a match at the dojo he attended, Ichigo started to smile again as soon as he saw Masaki when she came to pick him up. At a very young age, Ichigo heard his father saying that his name means "to protect one thing", which instilled in him a desire to protect his mother. When his sisters were born he began attending a dojo for the sake of protecting them, since then the number of people he wished to protect has continued to grow,causing Ichigo to risk his life to protect both his family and strangers.

As a Human teenager, Ichigo's personality is much more complex. Stubborn, short-tempered, strong-willed and impulsive, he attempts to maintain a detached and "cool" image, despite claiming not to care about what other people think about him. He generally keeps his face set in a permanent scowl, with his eyebrows drawn together. His outspoken, hot-headed demeanor is a trait Ichigo himself acknowledged, and that if somebody picks a fight with him, he cannot help fighting back. He coldly refers to his teachers as “instructors”. He is shown to be genuinely compassionate and empathetic about others, as seen by him promising to bring a Plus flowers and a toy plane or soothing others when they become upset. Ichigo is also a capable student, ranked 23rd in his high school. He studies regularly and does not neglect his schoolwork, claiming that he has "nothing better to do at home", though he actually works as hard as he does simply to overcome the misconceptions many have about him, which are based on his hair color and fighting. Ichigo hates fortune telling, horoscopes, fengshui, psychics and anyone whose trade involves taking money from people for things that they cannot see. He has difficulty remembering people's faces and names. Ichigo becomes extremely shy and uncomfortable around nude or immodestly dressed women, a fact both Rangiku Matsumoto and Yoruichi Shihōin have teased him for. Ichigo has some trouble with authority and traditional respect, often quite rude and disrespectful when talking to those older than himself, calling Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto "gramps" and referring to several of the Shinigami captains by their given names.

When it comes to fighting, Ichigo has a complex sense of honor; he regularly seeks to exact revenge for the actions of his opponent, such as instilling the fear of being murdered in Shrieker and cutting off the right arm of Yammy Riyalgo in retaliation for him ripping Yasutora Sado's right arm apart. He would often taunt and belittle his opponents when fighting, sometimes even attacking without warning. Ichigo has a strong desire to win his fights and to win them in what he views as a legitimate manner. To this end, he has refused the aid of his inner Hollow, even when knowing that it would allow him to win. Similarly, after regaining control of his body, he tells Ulquiorra to cut off his limbs so that they may have a fair fight and refuses to kill him when he is dying; saying that it was not the way he wanted to win.

Ichigo has even shown that he despises those who mistreat their allies in any way, even if they are his own enemies. He is disgusted when an individual berates his/her own allies, such as when Yammy calls Ulquiorra Cifer, Nnoitra Jiruga, and Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez "trash". He also expresses anger towards those who go as far as attacking their own allies, expressing that he cannot forgive those who murder their own comrades.

Despite Ichigo's strong sense of honor, his will to win can waiver at times, which directly affects his overall energy levels and fighting abilities. His absolute resolve is depicted by his eyes glowing bright blue and his body being engulfed in a bright blue aura. The same is included with his Hollow powers, in which his eyes glow yellow and his aura turns black. Ichigo’s abilities at their peak allow him to hold his own, if not contend, against the toughest opponents. His will to protect his friends is shown to be so great that, even when battle-worn, he can fight at deceptively high levels, as seen when he effortlessly caught Grimmjow’s punch when in his released state. However, at the same time, his lack of resolve to win can also impede his spiritual energy and fighting prowess, shown when he goes into a state of depression and self-loathing when he loses a major battle or lets a friend down; after losing his fight against Yammy and Ulquiorra, thanks to the crippling fear of his inner Hollow, Ichigo's will became so weak, he was unable to even defeat a weak Hollow until Rukia helped restore his resolve.

History:
Young Ichigo with Tatsuki Arisawa.Ichigo was born on July 15th, as the son of Isshin Kurosaki and Masaki Kurosaki, 15 years before he became a Shinigami. His sisters Karin Kurosaki and Yuzu Kurosaki were born a few years later. When he was four, Ichigo joined a karate dojo, where he met and befriended Tatsuki Arisawa. Tatsuki beat Ichigo in every match they had. Tatsuki would also help Ichigo if he was being picked on by bullies and cheer him up if he was upset.

Ichigo was able to see Pluses for as long as he could remember. He could see them so clearly that, as a child, he could not tell the living from the dead. This resulted in him appearing to other people to be looking at deserted places and talking to himself. This caused people to say that he could see ghosts, though when Tatsuki Arisawa asked him about this, he denied being able to see them.

On June 17th, when Ichigo was nine years old, he and his mother were walking home alongside one of Karakura Town's rivers; which was swollen from heavy rain. Ichigo saw a girl near the river and thought that she was about to jump into it. Unable to tell the difference between ghosts and living people, Ichigo ran towards her to stop her, unaware that the girl was the lure of the Hollow Grand Fisher. Masaki tried to stop him, but he did not listen. After failing to grab hold of the girl, Ichigo lost consciousness for a time. When he awoke, Masaki was lying on top of him, covered in blood. Starting the day after Masaki's death, Ichigo repeatedly skipped school to go to the riverbank where Masaki died. Tatsuki found him there, where he would stay from morning until night, wandering along the bank as if searching for his mother; squatting down if he was tired and then wandering some more.


Ichigo risking his life to protect Chad's coin.One day when Ichigo was twelve, prior to the Clinic opening, he heard the bell ring and answered the door to find a girl with her brother on her back. He had been in a car accident and was covered in blood. The clinic did not have the equipment necessary to save him and he died before an ambulance arrived to transfer him to Karakura Hospital. Sometime later, he learned that the girl was Orihime Inoue.

Ichigo later entered Mashiba Junior High School. During this time, Ichigo had finally defeated Tatsuki in a karate match and had not had another match with her since. Ichigo regularly got into fights with thugs, due to the unusual color of his hair. During one of these fights he protected Yasutora Sado from a group of thugs. When the thugs later abducted Chad, Ichigo found them and knocked down their leader, Yokochini. He used Yokochini's phone to ring for an ambulance for each of the five thugs, and then beat up all of them. After Chad was freed they made a pact to protect and fight for each other, they have remained good friends since.

Shortly before Ichigo became a Shinigami, he and Chad began attending Karakura High School, and their reputations preceded them. During a fight with a gang led by Reiichi Ōshima, Ichigo and Chad met Keigo Asano and Mizuiro Kojima, saving the former in the process. While Keigo was initially afraid of Ichigo and Chad, both he and Mizuiro later became friends with them.

Plot:
Agent of the Shinigami arc:
Rukia, wounded, about to give Ichigo her power.One evening, Ichigo confronts a group of skateboarders who had knocked over an offering to a dead girl. After beating an explanation out of them, he orders them to apologize to the ghost of the dead girl; who is floating behind him. When the skateboarders run away, Ichigo tells the girl that they scared them so much that they will leave her alone and apologizes for using her to scare them. He then promises to bring her some new flowers and tells her to hurry up and go to heaven. When he arrives home, he has an argument with his father, Isshin Kurosaki, and storms off to his room; where he sees Rukia Kuchiki. Ichigo mistakes the Shinigami for a burglar and kicks her. Isshin comes to Ichigo's room to tell him to stop creating a ruckus, but when Ichigo informs him about the intruder, he tells his son that he cannot see anyone else in the room. As a result, Ichigo accepts that she is a ghost of some sort, but refuses to believe Rukia's explanation about Shinigami; causing Rukia to bind him with Kidō. As Rukia continues her explanation a Hollow attacks the Kurosaki Clinic. Hearing his sister's pleas for help, Ichigo breaks out of the Kidō and rushes to stop the Hollow. Upon seeing the Hollow, Fishbone D, Ichigo is gripped by fear, having expected the evil spirit to be similar to a Human, rather than the monster standing before him. While reassuring himself, he notices that it is holding Yuzu and charges at it with a baseball bat in a futile attack. Rukia injures the Hollow, freeing Yuzu, and explains that the Hollow's target is likely him. Ichigo thinks this means that it is his fault that his family is in danger and his reckless actions force Rukia to shield Ichigo with her body; causing her severe injuries. Seeing that Ichigo is truly determined to protect his family, Rukia offers to temporarily turn him into a Shinigami by piercing his chest with her Zanpakutō and transferring half of her power to him. However, Ichigo absorbs almost all of Rukia's power. Transformed into a Shinigami, Ichigo makes short work of the Hollow, collapsing afterwards.

Rukia removes Ichigo’s soul from his body.The following morning, Ichigo awakens from a nightmare to find that his family have no memory of the attack and instead believe that a truck hit the clinic. When Ichigo goes to school he is horrified to find that Rukia, who is visible to the other students, is now a part of his class. After she threatens him not to make a scene, Ichigo brings Rukia outside, where she informs him that she is using a Gigai while she awaits the return of her powers. While she is recovering, Rukia insists that Ichigo take over her job. Ichigo initially refuses, saying that the only reason he fought the previous night was because his family was in danger. But Rukia forces his Shinigami form out of his body and takes him to a park where she has received word that a Hollow is about to attack. She then manipulates the situation to persuade Ichigo to perform her duties. After having undergone some training with Rukia to improve his combat tactics, Ichigo hears a beeping sound from inside his room and is startled when Rukia jumps out of his closet whilst trying to warn him of a Hollow attack. As a large hand bursts through the floor, Rukia dons her Skull Symbol glove and forces Ichigo's soul out of his body. Ichigo slashes at the Hollow's head, but only manages to slice off a portion of its mask, revealing the Hollow to be Orihime Inoue's brother; Sora. Rukia explains that all Hollows were once a Plus, causing Ichigo to angrily say that he thought they were just monsters that had to be defeated, questioning what he has been killing up to that point. Rukia cuts him off, saying that Orihime is in danger. As Rukia explains that Hollows often attack their relatives, she and Ichigo rush to Orihime's apartment. Ichigo manages to stop the Hollow before it eats Orihime's soul, positioning himself between her and the Hollow and telling it that it will have to kill him first. Ichigo notes that Tatsuki has been caught up in Sora's attack before realizing that Orihime's body is lying on the other side of the room. Ichigo turns to confirm that Orihime is still behind him and she exclaims that she thought it was him. Remembering Rukia's words that only other spirits can see Shinigami, Ichigo is puzzled by why Orihime can see him. Sora explains that he is talking to her soul, and that Orihime is already dead.

Sora uses Ichigo's Zanpakutō to purify himself.The Hollow attacks Ichigo with its scale-covered tail, which Ichigo is unable to cut, sending the substitute Shinigami flying through the wall. As Ichigo lands and comes to a stop in mid-air, the Hollow spits acid at him, burning his hands and causing him to drop his Zanpakutō. Sora then hits him from above, knocking him into the ground before returning to Orihime. As Rukia wakes Ichigo, he notes that the battle is different, and that it has affected him. Rukia reminds him that Orihime's soul will be eaten if he loses. Ichigo jumps back into the apartment, but is again shrugged off by Sora. As he threatens to kill Orihime, Ichigo cuts off his hand, telling Sora that older brothers are supposed to protect their siblings. Sora demands to know why Ichigo is interfering and insists that he will not give her to anyone else, especially Ichigo. As Sora tries to bite him, Ichigo tells him that Orihime does not belong to anyone. Sora charges at Orihime and bites her. Ichigo listens as she talks to her brother. As she collapses, Rukia arrives and tells him that she can be saved as long as the Chain of Fate is still attached to her body. As Rukia attempts to heal her, Ichigo reveals that Orihime had told him that her hairpins were a present from him and tells him that he should not think that he is the only one who is sad. Sora grabs Ichigo's sword and uses it to break off his mask, saying that he wants to disappear before he lose himself again. Ichigo tries to talk him out of it, but Rukia stops him, saying that he should let him disappear. She explains to him that Hollows defeated by a Zanpakutō are purified and sent to Soul Society. After Sora purifies himself, Ichigo asks Orihime how her injuries are but instead she tries to ask him other questions; only for Rukia to erase her memory.

Ichigo senses Yūichi Shibata inside the parakeet.When Ichigo remarks that his wounds have healed very well, Rukia tells him that she excelled at Kidō in the Shinigami Academy. Ichigo asks if there is a school for Shinigami, but Rukia changes the subject by asking him how to open a juice box. Mizuiro Kojima interrupts, noting that Rukia and Ichigo are together again, saying that they get along well. Ichigo denies this. When Mizuiro questions the impression Ichigo is giving those around him, Ichigo tells him that he would have dyed his hair long ago if he was worried by such things. As Mizuiro introduces himself to Rukia, Ichigo says that his hobby is womanizing, warning Rukia to watch out for him. As Keigo Asano arrives, Mizuiro tells him that Ichigo asked her out. Despite Ichigo's denial, Keigo congratulates him and introduces himself to Rukia, only to be interrupted by Reiichi Ōshima. Reiichi then asks Ichigo when he will dye his hair, claiming that Ichigo is copying his style. Ichigo reminds him that it is his natural hair colour and tells him to do something about his own hair, calling him a chicken and claims to be a thousand times stronger than him. Angered, Reiichi ignores Keigo's pleas not to fight and produces brass knuckles. He is then knocked out by Sado. As Sado explains his injuries, Ichigo notices that he has a parakeet with him. Rukia tells him not to worry, as the spirit inside of it is just a lonely Plus, which they should send to Soul Society that night. Ichigo complains about missing another night of sleep. When Ichigo returns home, he finds his sisters busy helping with the injured from a car accident. He asks Isshin if there is anything he can do to help, but is told to stay out of the way. When Sado is brought into the clinic, Isshin asks him to help his friend. Ichigo notes that the wound on his back were inflicted by a Hollow, which Rukia confirms.


Karin pleads with IchigoThe following morning, Isshin tells Ichigo that Sado has disappeared from his room in the clinic. Ichigo rushes to school and asks Mizuiro if Sado is there. Realizing that he is not there, Ichigo runs out of the class just as his teacher is entering; telling her that he has a stomach ache. Rukia catches up to him, saying that she did not find him nor has she received any information about Hollows from Soul Society. She explains that Hollows can hide between the Human World and Soul Society, so Ichigo decides to try to track the spirit inside the parakeet. To Rukia's shock, Ichigo finds the Reiraku of the Plus and begins to follow it. When they find Sado, he runs away from them. Ichigo tells him that it is dangerous to be by himself, but is distracted by a weakened Karin. Rukia tells him to bring Karin, who has collapsed, home. He complains, but when Rukia insists, he tells her to be careful as her power still has not returned. As he runs home with Karin in his arms, she tells him that she saw the memories of the child trapped within the bird and that the Plus saw his mother being murdered. She asks him to save the child. After placing her in her bed, Ichigo rushes back to help Sado. Reflecting upon how long it has been since he last saw Karin cry, he promises to send the Plus to Soul Society.

Ichigo returns Shrieker's bombs.When Ichigo arrives to fight the Hollow, he stamps on its head and tells Rukia not to try to act cool when she is beaten up. He introduces himself to the Hollow, Shrieker, and tells him that he is the one that he should be fighting. Rukia releases Ichigo from his body and he immediately injures Shrieker's shoulder while Rukia takes care of his body. Ichigo notes the small creatures nearby, commenting that he had seen them carrying Sado's birdcage and he was glad that he killed them. Rukia tells him that they spit out explosive leeches. Ichigo slices the creatures that jump at him, but the leeches they contain spill out and explode when Shrieker makes a noise with his tongue. Ichigo emerges from the smoke and hits Shrieker, asking him if he was the one who killed the child's parents, which he confirms. After listening to Shrieker's explanation, Ichigo becomes disturbed and the Hollow pushes his sword away; throwing more of his artillery creatures at him. Ichigo catches one and slams it into Shrieker's mouth. When the Hollow does not detonate them, Ichigo rips out its tongue, before stabbing his sword into Shrieker's leg. Ichigo asks him how it feels to be unable to move or fight, and if he can savour what it is like to be murdered. Shrieker rips his leg off to escape, causing Ichigo to mock him before cutting through his head. From this wound, the gates of Hell emerge. Rukia explains to Ichigo about Hell as the gates open and Shrieker is dragged inside. When Rukia tells the Plus that they will send him to Soul Society, Ichigo tells him that he might be able to see his mother there.


Ichigo questions the use of the Artificial Soul.The following day, Ichigo notes that Sado's memory has been erased. Rukia asks to speak with him and punches him when he refuses to talk in private. She drags him outside and gives him a Gikongan, a dispenser of Artificial souls. After explaining its purpose, and striking Ichigo for making fun of her, she forces him to try one. Ichigo is unconvinced by the replacement soul's personality, but is forced to leave it in his body when they receive an order from Soul Society. After defeating the Hollow Ichigo rushes back, concerned about how the artificial soul is getting on. Upon noticing a broken window in his class, Ichigo jumps up to it, only to see his body jump out the same window and run away at an extremely high speed. As they chase after him, Rukia tells him that it must be a Modsoul. Angered by the Modsoul's actions, Ichigo argues with Rukia, before asking her to explain what a Modsoul is. While listening to the explanation and looking at Rukia's drawings, he complains to himself that he cannot take it seriously because her pictures are so bad. Ichigo questions if Rukia is alright with the idea of the Modsouls being created and killed all for Soul Society's convenience, but she tells him that it is irrelevant as it is Soul Society's law which is there to protect Humans. Ichigo thinks to himself how the Modsoul must feel about being persecuted and then gaining his body. As they search for him, they receive an order informing them of an immanent attack by a Hollow. Hurrying to its location, they find the Modsoul is already fighting it. Ichigo rushes to his aid. When the Modsoul tries to ask why Ichigo saved him, he demands to know whose body it is while fending off the Hollow. The two continue arguing as they defeat the Hollow together. Kisuke Urahara arrives to reclaim the Modsoul, removing it from Ichigo's body. Ichigo asks him what he is going to do with it and, realizing that Kisuke can see him, he asks who he is. Rukia snatches the Modsoul back, dismissing him as a greedy merchant. She tells Kisuke that she is happy with the Modsoul and gives him to Ichigo; who thanks her for not throwing him away.

Ichigo has trouble sleeping, plagued by memories of Masaki's death.On the 16th of July Ichigo is woken by Kon who threatens to sneak inside his bag when he goes to school, to get him in trouble, if he does not get up. Ichigo throws Kon at the wall, reminding him that he has been told to act like a normal stuffed toy animal. Ichigo recalls how he and Rukia had searched for a body to place the Modsoul in, but ended up placing him inside a stuffed animal they found by the roadside. He also reminisces about how he came to call him Kon. Rukia complains about the noise they are making. Ichigo scrambles to hide her and Kon as Yuzu comes into the room to tell Ichigo that Mizuiro is waiting for him. Whilst hurrying to get dressed, Ichigo tells Mizuiro from the window that he has just woken up and to wait inside for him. Ichigo notes that Mizuiro's memory seems to have been erased, remembering that Rukia had told him that Kisuke , whose name he cannot remember, must have worked hard. As Rukia leaves via the window, Ichigo complains that Isshin did not wake him up as usual before noticing the date. Rukia asks why he has such a long face, but Ichigo says it is nothing and that "it's soon". When he arrives in school, Orihime says hello to him and he smiles back as he returns the greeting. That night, the Kurosaki's hold a family meeting to discuss their trip to Masaki's grave the following day for the anniversary of her death. Ichigo asks Rukia if he can take tomorrow off from the Shinigami work for just one day, telling her that it is the day Masaki was killed. Ichigo lies in his bed, a towel over his eyes as memories of that rainy night flash through his mind. As he walked with his mother he had seen a girl by the river bank take a step into the raging waters and had gone to rescue her. Ichigo covers his eyes, trying to block out the painful memories. His attempts are unsuccessful, as he remembers his mother calling after him as he ran to the girl. The next thing he remembers is being by the side of his dead mother.

Rukia asks about Masaki's death.On the 17th of July, while walking to the graveyard, Ichigo notes that it is very hot, completely different from the day Masaki died. When the twins see Rukia waving at them, Yuzu asks if Ichigo knows her, which Ichigo denies. Karin then says she thinks she has seen her before, prompting Ichigo to claim to have suddenly remembered that she is from his school and goes to talk to her, sending the girls ahead to the grave. Ichigo asks Rukia why she followed him and gets annoyed when she says it was in case of a Hollow attack, saying that she should be more covert. He then denies being angry about it. Rukia asks him who killed Masaki, questioning if she was killed by a Hollow. Ichigo reacts angrily to the suggestion that a Hollow could have been targeting him and killed Masaki by mistake, saying that she blames everything on Hollows. As he is saying this, Ichigo notices the same girl he saw the night Masaki died and he runs after her. When Rukia catches up to him, he tells her that the one who killed Masaki was himself. At Masaki's grave, Ichigo looks on as Isshin declares that it is time for the annual "Kurosaki Family Tombstone Domino Rally", with Isshin and Ichigo being the first match. However, Yuzu stops Isshin. Ichigo stands at the grace, reflecting on the night his mother died and what impact it had on the family. Later, Isshin uses a whistle to call Ichigo and the twins. Ichigo tells him to stop, as he can hear him even without the whistle. Ichigo asks him if Karin and Yuzu are there yet, but Isshin tells him that he would have left without him if Ichigo was the only one that he was waiting on. He tells Ichigo to find the girls, but he refuses, saying it is tiring and that he should go himself. Isshin grabs Ichigo, asking if his little sisters are not precious to him and decides that they will split up search for them. He tells Ichigo to search in one direction, and then says he will stay there, prompting Ichigo to kick him. Isshin complains that Ichigo broke his jaw. Ichigo then senses the reiatsu of a Hollow.

While running, Ichigo realizes that Yuzu and Karin are easy targets. He meets up with Rukia, saying that he must be heading in the right direction if she is there too. He asks her if she is going to question him further on his mother's death, but she tells him that it is his problem and that she will wait until he is ready to talk about it. Kon pops out of Rukia's backpack, telling them to stop acting so cool, surprising Ichigo. Ichigo questions when Kon became so devoted to Rukia and tells him that Orihime is there. Seeing his reaction he says that Kon is not devoted at all as the little plushy is left behind. As the Hollow attempts to eat Yuzu, Ichigo arrives and cuts off the tentacle holding Yuzu before severing its hand, freeing Karin. Ichigo demands to know why the girl he saw when Masaki died is there; asking if she is a Hollow's crony or if she is controlled by a Hollow. The Hollow tells him that he is wrong. The girl's form changes and it sprouts a tentacle from its head, connecting it to the Hollow's body. As Ichigo asks if the girl is a part of him, Rukia tells him that the Hollow is called Grand Fisher, and that it uses a lure to trick and devour Humans who have souls with high levels of spiritual power. Ichigo realizes that the girl he was trying to save when Masaki died was actually Grand Fisher's lure and that the Hollow killed his mother. Despite Rukia's protest, Ichigo lunges at Grand Fisher, who dodges his attack. Grand Fisher grows a new hand and attacks Ichigo, who blocks the attack, only to find the furry Hollow launching 's hair growing and attacking him. Rukia begins to chant a Kidō spell, but Ichigo tells her to stop and cuts his way free from the hair. he tells Rukia that he will fight the Hollow alone, and instructs her to look after his sisters with Kon. When she protests, he cuts her off and asks her not to interfere, claiming it is his fight.

Grand Fisher attempts to manipulate Ichigo.Ichigo struggles against the faster Grand Fisher, who mocks him. Ichigo realizes that all he can do is shrug off the Hollow's attacks and that his stamina will not last at this rate. He stops himself, saying that this is his mother's killer. Thinking of Yuzu and Karin, he remembers that he decided to protect them and swears to defeat Grand Fisher. He dives at the Hollow's chest, but Grand Fisher catches Ichigo's sword. As he tells Ichigo that he hesitated, his fingers tear apart and grow, stabbing Ichigo in the chest. Angered by Grand Fisher's taunts, Ichigo slashes at the Hollow, swearing to defeat him even if his arms and legs are ripped off. Grand Fisher remarks that he is so young and easily manipulated, before transforming his lure into an image of Masaki. The Hollow explains that, using the hand that impaled Ichigo, he can look into an enemy's memories and create an image of the one thing that they cannot cut more than anything else in the world. Ichigo screams at him that this is not the kind of place to bring out Masaki's form. He charges at Grand Fisher, but he uses the lure to block him, telling him to sheath his sword. The Hollow punches through Masaki's form and pierces Ichigo's chest, telling him that anger can dull the blade. Ichigo stabs the Hollow's chest and grabs his arm, saying that he has finally caught him. He says that his dulled blade is all he needs to defeat someone like him and turns the Hollow's own words back on him; slashing open his chest. As Grand Fisher collapses, a severely injured Ichigo uses his sword to prop himself up. When Rukia arrives, Ichigo tells her that she is late and that he has already cleaned up. Rukia reminds him that it was him who told her to stay out of the fight. As Grand Fisher stirs behind Ichigo, Rukia warns him just in time to dodge another attack. The Hollow then transfers its form into the lure, saying that both parts of him are the real body. The Grand Fisher leaps into the sky and escapes. Rukia tries to convince Ichigo that he cannot fight him any more, but he insists that he can still fight and that the Hollow is still not dead yet; despite this he soon collapses on Rukia.

Isshin gives Ichigo some advice.Ichigo awakens back inside his body, in great pain. Rukia tells him not to make a fuss as the wounds his soul received will show up when he returns to his body, insisting that he should know that by now. Ichigo complains that she always returned him to his body after healing all his wounds, this prompts Rukia to apologize as she says that she used most of her strength to heal his stomach wound. When Ichigo thanks her, she tells him that the pain numbed in battle returns when one re-enters his body and gives him some plasters for the cuts on his face. Ichigo asks her if he lost, but she tells him that the Hollow fled and nobody died, so he won. Ichigo says that Grand Fisher is not dead and walks off. Back at Masaki's grave, Ichigo apologizes to her for being able to avenge her. Isshin offers him an umbrella, but Ichigo refuses the offer, prompting Isshin to repeatedly poke Ichigo in the head until he hits him back with it. Isshin notes that the time has gone past quickly and that it has already been ten years since Masaki died. Ichigo says that it has only been six years, to which Isshin replies that he was "so close". Ichigo loudly complains about this, causing Isshin to say that Masaki can rest easily if she sees him being so lively. When he starts smoking a cigarette, Ichigo says that he thought he had quit smoking when Karin and Yuzu were born. Isshin explains that Masaki complimented him when they started dating about his hand looking cool when he was smoking. He notes that this was the only time that she had complimented his looks. As a result he smokes at her graveside every year on the anniversary of her death. Isshin tells Ichigo not to look so sad. When Ichigo asks why nobody blames him for Masaki's death Isshin asks why he would blame Ichigo, saying that if he blamed her death on him, Masaki would become mad at him. He explains that Masaki was a woman who would die to protect her son. Isshin reminds Ichigo that he is the one that the woman he loved gave her life to protect. He then knees Ichigo in the back and tells him to live his life well and leaves. Ichigo asks Rukia if her powers are returning and asks that she allow him to remain a Shinigami for a while longer, regardless of whether it is returning or not. He says that he wants to become stronger so that he can defeat Hollows, protect those that are targeted and to defeat Grand Fisher; otherwise he will not be able to face Masaki.

One Sunday morning, Ichigo leans out his bedroom window to beat Kon clean against the wall, in spite of Kon's protests. Rukia tells him to stop, as she has arranged for an implement to clean him with - the schools toilet brush. Ichigo orders her to take it back. Later, Kon, wearing a dress, leaps at Ichigo apologizing for having run away from home. Ichigo, who had been wondering where Kon was, questions why Kon is dressed in such a way. While Yuzu and Isshin are watching Don Kanonji's Ghost Bust TV programme one Wednesday evening, Ichigo asks Yuzu what the pose they are doing is. When Yuzu calls the show cool, Ichigo asks himself if that can be considered cool. Yuzu says that he can definitely see them, but Ichigo says that he does not know about that, annoying Yuzu. Ichigo then tells her that if he says he can see them, then he can see them. As Ichigo finishes his juice, he asks a distracted Karin what she is looking at. She says it is nothing, prompting Ichigo to tell her that she is acting weird. Ichigo asks her if she is not going to watch with Yuzu and Isshin, but she says she is not interested. She tells Ichigo that she can see spirits about as clearly as Ichigo can, hence her disinterest in the ghost show. Ichigo remembers that she was the only member of the family to see the Hollow that attacked the house when he first met Rukia. He then realizes that if she can see Hollows, then she might be able to see Shinigami as well. His thoughts are interrupted by Yuzu shouting as the announcer reveals that the show will be broadcast from an abandoned hospital in Karakura Town the following week. The next morning at school, Orihime performs Don Kanonji's pose as Ichigo arrives in class, confusing him. She asks Ichigo if he has not heard of it. When Ichigo says it is Ghost Bust, Orihime ask him to do the pose together, but Tatsuki drags her away. As Ichigo's friends all do the pose, Ichigo tells Keigo that he is not going to the show when it arrives in town. Keigo tries to convince him to go, but he retorts that Keigo is not even from Karakura. Keigo reveals that he has invited Rukia and tries to get her to do the pose.

Orihime apologizes to Ichigo.The following Wednesday evening an annoyed Ichigo, accompanied by Isshin and his sisters, watches his friends gather at the abandoned hospital where Ghost Bust is being filmed. When they note that he did come after all, Ichigo tells Keigo and Mizuiro to shut up and that he will kill them. Orihime apologizes to Ichigo for trying to get him to do Don Kanonji's pose, explaining that Tatsuki had told her he hates such shows. Ichigo, who did not remember it at first, tells her that it is okay and that it doesn't bother him. He reveals that Keigo and Mizuiro know he despises it, but yet still do it anyway. When asked why he came, he tells Orihime that Isshin and Yuzu are huge fans of the show, saying that they would look pitiful if just the two of them went. Orihime tells him that he is so kind, but Ichigo dismisses it as normal.[95] Ichigo notes that everyone is foolishly gathering at the hospital, thinking that the TV show's staff will think that they do not get any entertainment, calling them freaks. Rukia tells him that he must be tired from his dual life and instructs him to use this chance to spread his wings. Ichigo is surprised that she is concerned about his health, but gets annoyed with her when she reveals that she does not know what the "festival" is about. After explaining it to her, he asks if there really is a spirit in the abandoned hospital, noting that if a spirit really is there, the Shinigami would have dealt with it already. Rukia replies that that is not exactly correct. She says that it is likely to be a Jibakurai, or Demi-Hollow, and begins to explain what this is. When the Jibakurai begins screaming, Ichigo notes that it sounds like the voice of a Hollow. Rukia tells him that it is on its way to becoming a Hollow. Ichigo notes that it feels like there is a Hollow nearby, but it does not look like one; prompting Rukia to finish her explanation. As the Jibakurai screams at those who have gathered, Ichigo says that he is carrying "one hell of a greedy grudge". As the show begins filming Don Kanonji parachutes into the hospital grounds, causing Rukia to go watch the events unfolding. Ichigo asks her if they should not perform Konsō on the Jibakurai to prevent him from becoming a Hollow. Rukia tells him that it takes months, even years to turn into a Hollow. She says that it would be trouble if there was a struggle as somebody might get hurt and instead states that they will perform the Konsō after the show. Seeing that Ichigo is unconvinced, she seeks to reassure him. However, Don Kanonji jams his staff into the hole in the chest of the Jibakurai.


Ichigo fends off the Hollow.Concerned, Ichigo jumps over the cordon and shouts at Kanonji to stop. He is immediately pounced upon by security. He tells them to let him go or something bad will happen. Rukia tries to change him into a Shinigami, but is caught by security too. Ichigo tells her to break free and get over to him, as she only has two guys restraining her. Kisuke Urahara pokes his cane through Ichigo's head, freeing his Shinigami form from his body. Recognizing the sandal-hat guy, Ichigo asks what he is doing there, only to be told not to space out. Ichigo rushes towards Kanonji. Ichigo shouts at Kanonji to stop and knocks him away from the Jibakurai. Kanonji asks what he is doing, causing Ichigo to realize that the medium can see him. When Kanonji calls him a fan, Ichigo threatens him but is cut off by the screams of the Jibakurai, who vanishes in an explosion. Ichigo notes that it did not turn into a Hollow, thinking that Kanonji took care of it. When he asks him if he sent the Plus to heaven, he promises to send Ichigo to heaven too. Rukia shouts at him to look up, where they see the Plus reforming into a Hollow on top of the hospital. Kanonji asks what it is, surprising Ichigo, who tells him it is a Hollow; but Kanonji ignores him. As the Hollow charges at them Ichigo tells Kanonji to run away, but Kanonji pushes him back, telling him to run. Kanonji challenges the Hollow but Ichigo jumps in between them and knocks the Hollow back. The two momentarily bicker but when the Hollow attacks again, Ichigo blocks it. Ichigo knocks Kanonji out of the way of a charge by the Hollow, who gets its head stuck in the hospital wall. As it frees itself, Ichigo drags the medium inside the hospital.

The Demi-Hollow is defeated by Ichigo.Annoying Ichigo, Kanonji argues that he should not run away as he is viewed as a hero and must be a symbol to his fans. Ichigo stops him from returning to where the TV cameras can see him, asking the medium what he will do if the audience gets caught up in the fighting; insisting that protecting his fans is also a hero's duty. He explains that Hollows attack people with high levels of spiritual power, meaning that the Hollow will definitely come after them if they stay inside, avoiding harm to the hostages. As Kanonji compliments him, the Hollow bursts through the floor. Ichigo swings his Zanpakutō at it but it hits and becomes stuck in the ceiling. Realizing that the corridors are too confined to use his sword in, Ichigo admits to himself that he never thought of such a thing. The Hollow spits a goo-like substance at him, sticking his hands together. Unable to use his sword, Ichigo tells the Hollow that he will beat him with just his legs. Kanonji, however, steps between them and jams the Hollows mouth open with his staff. Ichigo tells him to run away, but he insists that Ichigo's words have made an impression on him and that his way of fighting is befitting of a hero. To Ichigo's chagrin, he calls Ichigo his battle buddy and says he will die protecting him. As Kanonji prepares his Kanon Ball technique, Ichigo says that it is useless. Kanonji fires the energy ball at the ceiling, freeing Ichigo's blade. He thanks the medium and charges at the Hollow. While Ichigo manages to injure the Hollow, he confirms his suspicion that he cannot target its head properly with his hands stuck together. As Kanonji cheers him on, he wishes that the medium would shut up. With his sword still embedded in the Hollow's shoulder it smashes through the external wall and climbs up on to the roof, dragging Ichigo with him. Freed from the Hollow, Ichigo takes advantage of the open space attacks, saying that as long as Kanonji does not come, the Hollow is nothing to him. Kanonji promptly steps through a nearby door onto the roof, attracting the Hollow's attention. Ichigo tells him to run away and stops the Hollow from attacking Kanonji; knocking it into the guard rail. Ichigo immediately slices the Hollow's head, prompting Kanonji to congratulate him and dance around. Ichigo tells him to stop. As the Hollow's body disintegrates, Kanonji notices that it is the same spirit he thought he sent to heaven. Ichigo explains what happened, causing Kanonji to become distraught. Ichigo tells him that he should not let it get to him, as he did not know and regretting it will do no good. Ichigo points out that the crowd is waving and tells him to answer them, asking if it is not his duty. Kanonji thanks him, complimenting his courage, quick-wits and strength and asks that they work together in future. Ichigo agrees to help him once in a while. Kanonji then annoys him by calling him his number one pupil. Before departing, Ichigo is forced to take a Don Kanonji fan club card, signed “to my #1 pupil”.

The following day, Ichigo is among a group of students brought before the principal regarding the events at the abandoned hospital. Showing a recording of the programme, Kagine complains that their escapades were broadcast live nationwide. He asks Ichigo if he has anything to say to this, prompting Ichigo to comment that the person in show looks a lot like him. Kagine insists that it is him, to which Ichigo replies that he is his twin brother, separated at birth. Kagine persists with his complaint, but is interrupted by Tatsuki. When Rukia says that it is her own fault for not stopping Ichigo and distracts Kagine, Ichigo and the others sneak out the window. After they make their escape, Keigo thanks Rukia, but Ichigo tells him not to, as she was going to sell just him out. When Keigo mentions that the announcer talked over Ichigo’s shouting during the show, Ichigo thinks that he owes the announcer one for preventing people from realizing that he had called Rukia by her first name. That afternoon, Ichigo answers the door when someone calls to the Kurosaki Clinic. Upon realizing that it is Don Kanonji, Ichigo closes and locks the door. When Kanonji questions why he did this, Ichigo demands to know how he found out about his house and tells him to go home. Kanonji reveals that he invited Rukia along and Ichigo realizes that it was her who told the TV star where he lived. Yuzu then sees Kanonji and knocks Ichigo over while opening the door. Rukia’s phone alerts her to a Hollow, and Ichigo says that he would rather be “anywhere but here” and transforms into his Shinigami form, ignoring Kanonji asking him where he is going. As Ichigo and Rukia pass by Uryū Ishida, Ichigo comments that while he always thought it better that Hollows did not appear, this time its appearance saved him. Rukia tells him not to ask for it or drop his guard, prompting Ichigo to complain to her about accepting food from Kanonji.

Ichigo fends off a clingy Plus.Arriving at what they believed to be the location of a Hollow attack, Ichigo and Rukia find a Plus cowering in a corner, but no Hollow. Ichigo asks Rukia how many times such a thing has happened in the past week, suggesting that Rukia’s phone is broken. The two bicker and Ichigo complains that he is in the middle of exams, even though Rukia is sitting the same exams. As Rukia insists that the phone is working, Ichigo asks if there is another Shinigami defeating the Hollows before him. Rukia tells him that Shinigami are strictly sorted and that it should not be the case. As the Plus jumps at Ichigo, thanking him, Ichigo hits him and orders him to say that to the person who saved him. When Rukia is unable to get the Plus to tell them who saved him, Ichigo performs Soul Burial on him.

At school, Ichigo tells a worried Keigo that exams do not hold a lot of meaning in life. Mizuiro points out that Ichigo is ranked 18th out of the 322 people in their grade, shocking Keigo. Ichigo replies that he studies at home and turns down the “nerdy” that Keigo presents to him. He points out that his orange hair causes him a lot of trouble as older students pick on him and teachers watch him closely, and so he studies so that the school does not complain about him. Mizuiro says that he has a lot of problems, but Ichigo replies that he is used to it. Mizuiro then asks him if he has seen Rukia, saying that they are always together. Ichigo tells Mizuiro that he has been trying to keep away from her at school to avoid the “creepy glances” and rumours since their appearance on Don Kanonji’s TV programme. Rukia then drags Ichigo off, causing him to complain about the rumours about them. Rukia tells him to complain later as there is a Hollow. Ichigo tells her that he will not forgive her if it is not there this time. After school, as they fail to find another Hollow, Ichigo complains about the current missing Hollow and the one from lunch time. As Rukia drags his body from its hiding place, she tells him to shut up and return to his body. Re-entering his body, Ichigo tells her to do something about the problem. The pair are approached by Uryū Ishida, dressed in a Quincy outfit, prompting Ichigo to ask if the unusual outfit means that he is a priest. Uryū asks Ichigo if it is correct that he can see spirits, which Ichigo denies is even possible. When a new Hollow appears, Uryū kills it with his bow and introduces himself, saying that he hates Shinigami,and that he hates Ichigo.

Uryū grabs Ichigo's red spirit thread.When Keigo and Mizuiro notice that Ichigo is ranked twenty-third in the freshmen first semester final exams, Keigo tells him that they will not invite him anywhere again. Ichigo reflects upon his encounter with Uryū, wondering why he would say such things to a complete stranger and why Uryū was angry when he was the one who interfered with Ichigo’s duties. He notes that remembering it irritates him and decides that he will not go easy on him the next time he meets the Quincy. Realizing that he cannot remember his full name, Ichigo lists of possible names out loud. Orihime overhears him and reveals that Uryū is in their class. Tatsuki tells her that he is poor at remembering people’s faces and names, guessing that he cannot remember half of the class yet. When Ichigo tells Tatsuki to be quiet, Orihime tells him more about Uryū. She takes him to the handicrafts club to show him Uryū. Ichigo notes that he is indeed in their class and they watch him sew a teddy bear for Michiru Ogawa. Orihime asks what happened between Ichigo and Uryū, but Ichigo dismisses it as no big deal. After school, Ichigo followings Uryū as he leaves the school. The Quincy asks him if he intends to follow him all the way home, noting that he had noticed him spying on him from the classroom doorway. When Ichigo applauds him, Uryū states that it is due to Ichigo’s inability to restrain his spiritual power, and that he lacks the ability to sense reiatsu, as evidenced by him not noticing Uryū until that day. Uryū then explains that he noticed Ichigo’s unusually high spiritual power and that in mid-May, he acquired Shinigami powers. Using Reiraku, Uryū explains that a Shinigami’s spirit thread is coloured red and invites Ichigo to fight him, saying that Shinigami are unnecessary in the Human World.

Ichigo calls the idea ridiculous, saying that his grudge against Shinigami has nothing to do with him and that Uryū is no match for him. Uryū taunts him, Uryū succeeds in convincing Ichigo to fight him. Ichigo takes Kon and places him inside his body, freeing his Shinigami form. He tells Kon to watch from there as he beats Uryū and then asks the Quincy what the rules for the fight are. Uryū takes out a piece of Hollow bait, explaining that it will cause Hollows to gather in Karakura Town and the one who defeats the most Hollows within twenty-four hours wins. Angered by this, Ichigo demands to know why he is exposing the residents of the town to such danger for their fight. Uryū tells him not to worry as they will kill all the Hollows. When Uryū kills the first Hollow, Ichigo leaps at him and tells him to undo it, but Uryū tells him that Hollows will soon flood the town and that he should run if he wishes to protect as many people as possible. When Uryū warns him that Hollows tend to prefer people with high spiritual power, Ichigo thinks of Karin and runs off, followed by Kon. After slaying his third Hollow and saving a pair of Pluses, Ichigo notes that Karin should be finished school and would be outside playing, but he struggles to think where she is. Noting that his detection range is too narrow and his reaction to Hollows appearing is too slow, he sends Kon to get Rukia’s phone. Ichigo defeats the Hollows between the Kurosaki Clinic and the last place where he saw Karin, thinking that it should be safe for her now. He then decides to go after Uryū to make him fix the mess he created, but sees a vision of Uryū mocking his ability to find him. He tells the vision not to underestimate his instincts, and then hopes that Kon hurries up with Rukia’s phone.

Ichigo tries to persuade Uryū to fight together with him.Having tracked down Uryū without Rukia’s phone, Ichigo tells him that he needs to trash Kon first. He demands to know what took the mod-soul so long and blames him for having to wander the entire town. The two argue over the situation, with Ichigo saying that if Kon was so dedicated to Rukia, he should have been able to find her immediately. Having failed to attract their attention by shouting, Uryū fires an arrow at Ichigo, who blocks it. Ichigo insists that it is a battle between him and Uryū, and that the amount of Hollows they beat is irrelevant. Kon points out that there is a large crack forming in the sky, and Uryū notes that the Hollows are converging upon it. When Uryū begins to fire arrows into the group of Hollows, Ichigo tells him there are too many and that they need to come up with a strategy. Uryū asks him if he is afraid and charges towards the Hollows, shouting that the last Quincy will be their opponent. Ichigo asks what he means by this, and Rukia explains about the fall of the Quincy at the hands of the Shinigami, prompting him to run after Uryū and attack several Hollows around Uryū. Ichigo tells him that he does not know or care about whether the Shinigami or Quincy were right and expresses his frustration at Uryū’s methods, but is interrupted by him. Uryū tells him that he thought the Shinigami were correct, until his sensei was killed in front of him. Uryū tells Ichigo of his sensei’s attempts to convince the Shinigami to work together with the remaining Quincy, but he died fighting a group of Huge Hollows without achieving that goal. Uryū says that he must prove the strength of the Quincy to the Shinigami. Ichigo complains that his story is too long to remember all of it and kicks his head into a Hollow, dazing it. Ichigo points out that his sensei’s wish was to work together, not to prove the Quincy’s strength and asks if he will do that now, saying that fighting back to back is the best way to deal with the situation.

Ichigo attacks the Menos Grande.As Uryū dismisses the idea as nonsense, Ichigo attacks a Hollow that had come up behind Uryū, while kills another Hollow. Uryū insists that he is not co-operating, but that he simply had to kill it or else he would have been killed. Ichigo tells him that that is good enough. Ichigo reveals that he does not know much about the Shinigami, nor does he have much pride in doing Shinigami work - he simply wishes to defeat Hollows. He attributes this to his mother's death and his desire to prevent others experiencing what his family went through. Ichigo tells him that his approach to their fight is endangering the people he wants to protect and says that he will not forgive him for that, but it is not the time to talk about such things. Stating his own reluctance to work with Uryū, Ichigo asks him if he will co-operate. Uryū kills another Hollow in reply, saying that his story is rather long as well. The pair agree to beat each other up after the Hollows have been dealt with, but as they are about to attach the horde of Hollows, a Menos Grande rips apart the sky. After they argue about how to deal with the Hollows and the Menos, Ururu Tsumugiya, Tessai Tsukabishi, Jinta Hanakari and Urahara arrive to fight the Hollows. Urahara tells them that they will take care of the "small fry" so that Ichigo can concentrate on fighting the Menos. Seeing its size, Ichigo questions whether it is in fact a Hollow and is shocked to see it eating the nearby Hollows. He tells Uryū that there is no way they can figure out how to fight such a monster and that the will have to simply cut it repeatedly until it succumbs to its injuries. He charges towards the Menos, calling for Uryū to accompany him. Ichigo attacks the Menos' leg, cutting it, but he is knocked back by the unfazed Menos. In response to Uryū's questions, Ichigo tells him that he is alright and that he thought he could cut its feet off and work his way up to the head and kill it that way. Uryū complains about his way of thinking and places his hand on Ichigo's Zanpakutō as he insists that they need to rethink their battle plan. While Ichigo thinks to himself that there was no plan to begin with, Uryū notices that Ichigo's power is flowing into his bow. Ichigo is shocked to see the increased size of Uryū's bow and asks what happened to it.

Uryū's strategy for attacking the Menos Grande.With Ichigo's Zanpakutō tied to his head, Uryū instructs a dubious Ichigo to increase his power to its maximum so that he can shoot an extremely large arrow at the Menos Grande. Ichigo points out that he never controls his energy output and that if people say that his power is great then it must be at maximum all the time. When the Menos starts to charge a Cero, Ichigo rushes towards it and blocks the Cero with his Zanpakutō. Uryū notes that Ichigo's power increases as he resists the Cero. Ichigo repels the attack, injuring the Menos in the process. As the Menos retreats from the Human World, Ichigo yells "Victory" and asks Uryū whether he is going to thank him for his help before collapsing. Ichigo notes that he cannot move and his Zanpakutō begins to destabilize, losing its form. The energy released from Ichigo and his Zanpakutō causes Uryū's bow to grow again, this time without having to touch it. Noting that it will explode, Uryū begins to fire arrows into the sky to release the excess power, injuring himself. Ichigo tells him not to over do it, as he will lose his arm. Uryū tells him to make sure that he lives so that they he can beat him later. The following day, when Uryū arrives late to school with both arms bandaged, Rukia tells Ichigo not to pay attention to it, as Uryū is responsible for his injuries. Ichigo denies being worried, but Rukia replies that she did not say anything about worrying, annoying Ichigo. Ichigo later overhears Keigo telling Mizuiro that he saw Uryū talking to himself the previous day, believing it to be related to a theatre. Ichigo is thankful, thinking that it is good that Keigo is an idiot. At lunch time, Ichigo asks Uryū to join Keigo, Mizuiro and himself for lunch. Uryū quickly declines, but when Ichigo tells him that it is Keigo's treat, he agrees. While they eat, Keigo notes the heavy atmosphere. Ichigo instructs him to tell some jokes to liven things up, thinking to himself that maybe he should not have invited Uryū. When Uryū asks Ichigo why he invited him, he replies that he is in a good mood and that he ought to be grateful that someone invited him. When the Quincy says that he prefers to eat alone, Ichigo says that he enjoys eating alone too and tells him to eat while facing the other way.

Ichigo finds Kon tied up.That night, Yuzu complains when Ichigo takes the left-overs from dinner again. Ichigo claims that it is a midnight snack, as it is very tiring during puberty. When Yuzu tells him she will not care when he gets fat, he says he will be careful and goes into his room. Ichigo calls Rukia, but she is not there. Realizing this, Ichigo resigns himself to eating the meal, even though he is not hungry. At 2:00 a.m. Ichigo wonders whether Rukia is going to return that night, noting that it would be nice to get a full night's sleep for once, with no Shinigami duties to carry out. Hearing a muffled noise, Ichigo finds Kon gagged and tied to the back of the toilet bowl. Ichigo brings him back to his room, where Kon thanks him while Ichigo holds his nose due to the smell. Ichigo sprays him with deodorant, prompting an argument between them. When Ichigo asks why he was tied up, Kon tells him that Rukia is in big trouble. He shows Ichigo a note that is sitting on his desk and informs him that she has left. Not knowing why she left without any explanation, they open the note and are shocked to find that she has left the message in a word puzzle. Ichigo figures out the puzzle and reads the message, telling them that she has to leave and instead of looking for her, they should go into hiding. Still confused about the situation, Ichigo decides that nothing will be resolved if they just stay there. He tells Kon that he will become a Shinigami and find her. When Kon asks him how he will change into his Shinigami form, Ichigo realizes that he cannot change form without Rukia. He demands that Kon change him into a Shinigami, but he resists. Urahara appears at the window and offers to change him into Shinigami form, saying that he wants to help his frequent customer.

Renji unleashes his Shikai against Ichigo.As Renji Abarai attacks Rukia, Ichigo arrives and attacks him. Renji dodges and demands to know who he is. When Renji notes the size of Ichigo's Zanpakutō, Ichigo replies that he thought it was large compared to Rukia's, but there had not been anyone else to compare it to. Renji realizes that he is the Human who took Rukia's Shinigami powers and attacks him. As they clash swords, Renji asks if Ichigo's sword is just for show. Ichigo tells him that his yapping is becoming annoying and that he will end up biting his tongue. As he mentally notes Renji's speed, Renji cuts Ichigo's shoulder and tells him that it is over. He reveals that Rukia will be executed in Soul Society. Renji taunts him, saying that he could not even scratch him. Ichigo slashes at him, cutting his chin. He then apologizes for interrupting his speech and asks him to continue, reminding him that he was saying that he could not scratch the more experienced Shinigami. Captain Byakuya Kuchiki tells Renji that thirty three hours previously, their undercover forces witnessed Ichigo inflicting a scar upon a Menos Grande. Hearing this, Ichigo wonders what a Menos is, thinking that he must be referring to the "big-nosed guy" he fought with Uryū. Renji laughs at this, saying that while his sword is big, it has not power to back it up and asks Ichigo what the name of his Zanpakutō is. Ichigo replies that he has not named his sword and asks if they actually give them names. Renji activates his Shikai, surprising Ichigo with its change of form. He leaps into the air and slashes Ichigo's left shoulder, saying that it is the end of the rookie.

Ichigo's final blow to Renji is stopped.Renji explains that a Zanpakutō can change its size and shape based on the strength of the owner and that while he does not have a grudge against Ichigo, he will finish him slowly. Rukia attempts to stop Renji and tells Ichigo to run, but Ichigo grabs his sword. As he stands up, Ichigo's reiatsu increases, severing the tassel on his Zanpakutō's hilt. Ichigo injures the surprised Renji and quickly overwhelms him, claiming that his movements have slowed. Ichigo reveals that his wound no longer hurts and that he feels great. As he attempts to end the fight, the blade of his sword disappears. Stunned, Ichigo concludes that Renji is not responsible for it. He then notices that Byakuya is holding the severed blade. Ichigo thinks this to be impossible due to the distance between them and as he prepares for Byakuya's attack, Byakuya appears behind him and stabs him through the chest. As he falls to the ground, Ichigo wonders whether he was attacked from the front or from behind. Byakuya comments that he is slow, even when falling over and stabs him again. As Rukia runs to Ichigo's side, Renji stops her and Byakuya acknowledges that he greatly resembles "him". Ichigo grabs Byakuya's leg, telling the Shinigami captain not to talk about him as if he is dead. Byakuya tells him to let go, but Ichigo instructs the captain to look at him when he is talking so that he can hear him. When Byakuya threatens to cut off his arm, Rukia kicks Ichigo's hand away from her brother, telling him that as a Human, he should know his place. She then tells Byakuya that she is ready to leave for Soul Society. Ichigo protests, but Renji tells him to stop making things worse. Rukia tells Byakuya that there is no point in deliberately kill Ichigo, as he will soon stop breathing on his own. Ichigo asks if this is a joke, causing Rukia to reply that if he tries to follow her, she will never forgive him. She tells him to conserve what energy he has left so that he may live a moment longer. Byakuya acquiesces to Rukia's request and explains that he Ichigo should die within thirty minutes due to his injuries, but if he does survive, he will no longer possess any Shinigami powers. As Renji opens a Senkaimon and leaves with Rukia and Byakuya, Ichigo notes that he cannot move or speak. He reflects upon coming to protect Rukia, but instead she protected him again. As Ichigo contemplates his injuries in the rain, Urahara and Yoruichi Shihōin approach him.

Ichigo awakens with an unexpected bedfellow.Ichigo thinks to himself he must finally be dying, as he was just cold and now he has no pain and is warm. He then awakes to see Tessai Tsukabishi lying on top of him in a small bed on the floor. As Tessai calls Urahara, Ichigo recognizes him as one of "sandal-hat's" associates, and pushes him out of the bed, hurting his left shoulder. Heavily bandaged, Ichigo realizes that he is neither dead nor at his own house. Urahara enters the room, telling Ichigo that his wounds are not yet fully healed, and that if he moves too much he could die. Ichigo realizes that he is in Urahara's house, and that it was Urahara who saved him. He asks the shopkeeper if he found Uryū as well, and if he is alright. Urahara explains that Uryū's injuries were less severe, so he treated them on the spot. When he left, he was about Ichigo. Ichigo is sceptical of this, but Urahara continues, saying that Uryū had stated that Ichigo was the only one who could beat the Shinigami and save Rukia. Ichigo says that he cannot do anything as Rukia has been taken to Soul Society, which he cannot go to. Urahara reveals that he can send Ichigo to Soul Society, but on the condition that he trains with Kisuke for the next ten days. Ichigo replies that since they do not know when Rukia will be executed, he should go to Soul Society as quickly as possible. Urahara knocks him to the ground with his cane, saying that he will die if he goes there in his current condition. Kisuke then reveals that he purposely allowed Ichigo to fight Renji and Byakuya, as he believed that it would be easier for him to realize this after having fought them himself. As Urahara continues to force the point home, Ichigo stares at Urahara's cane, noting that it feels as if there is a sword pointed at his head. Urahara tells him that Soul Society typic