Shows other Gotei 13 members preparing for the next invasion, including Shuhei Hisagi being forced into a brutal training session by Kensei to achieve Bankai. Viewing Tips for the "Lazy" Fan

Ichigo stops treating his Zanpakutō as a separate tool or ally; he realizes that the spirit, the power, and the blade are all extensions of his own soul.

, titled " The Blade Is Me " (overall episode 379), is the emotional finale of the first cour that focuses on Ichigo's heritage and the reforging of his soul. Quick Episode Guide Manga Chapters: Adapts 537–542 .

Unlike before, Ichigo does not choose between his Hollow and Quincy sides. He accepts both as part of himself, leading Ōetsu Nimaiya to forge dual-wielding blades .

Ichigo discovers that the man he knew as "Zangetsu" is actually the personification of his Quincy powers (resembling a younger Yhwach), while his Hollow was his true Shinigami power all along. Critical Moments