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.