After over a thousand years, the blood war between Soul Reapers and Quincies has finally begun. News of the sudden attack by the Wandenreich also reaches Substitute Soul Reaper Ichigo Kurosaki, propelling him to join the battle to save the Soul Society. However, the Soul Reapers are slaughtered one after another by the invading Stern Ritter led by Yhwach, the father of all Quincies. Even the captains of the Thirteen Court Guard Squads struggle before the enemy’s ability to steal their Bankai. And while Ichigo puts up a good fight at first, he is no match for Yhwach’s powers. In the ensuing battle, Ichigo’s sword is destroyed. Unable to fix his broken Zangetsu, a disheartened Ichigo is visited by his father, Isshin, who reveals the secret behind Ichigo’s heritage: he is the child born of a Soul Reaper father and Quincy mother. Isshin goes on to explain the life and memories he shared with Ichigo's mother, from their first meeting to their final farewells. Finally understanding his true heritage, Ichigo gets back on his feet with a renewed resolve and begins the next stage of his training—obtaining new powers to protect his friends and everything else he holds dear. Meanwhile, Uryu Ishida, the last surviving Quincy of his family, uncovers the truth hidden in his grandfather’s diary and comes to understand his purpose in this world. The battle enters a new phase as Yhwach names his successor, stirring controversy among the Wandenreich. “These are the last 9 days of the world.” The time of separation looms in the air as darkness shrouds the Seireitei.