Ashido Kanou

Ashido is disciplined, solitary and devoted to an old mission that has outlived every member of his squad. He has little familiarity with recent events in Soul Society but retains a Soul Reaper’s instinct to protect others.

Years of isolation make him initially guarded around Rukia. Once he accepts her account, he becomes a reliable guide and risks remaining behind so she can escape the forest.

Ashido is an experienced swordsman and agile Hollow hunter accustomed to fighting Gillian and Adjuchas-class Menos. He moves quickly through the forest and exploits his detailed knowledge of its terrain.

He carries a Zanpakutō, but its name and release are never disclosed. Hollow-mask fragments worn over his face and carried as shields can withstand or deflect Cero attacks; they are protective equipment rather than evidence that Ashido has undergone Hollowfication.

Ashido and his squad pursue Hollows through a Garganta into Hueco Mundo. Unable to return, they continue fighting in the Forest of Menos until Ashido is the sole survivor, preserving a fallen comrade’s mask as part of his equipment.

He rescues Rukia after she falls into the forest and helps her locate Ichigo Kurosaki’s group. Ashido remains behind to hold off attacking Hollows, promising to leave when Rukia returns for him. The anime never resolves that promise or depicts his death.

Rukia Kuchiki becomes Ashido’s ally and the person who renews his connection to Soul Society. She promises to return for him after the Hueco Mundo mission.

Ichigo Kurosaki, Renji Abarai, Uryuu Ishida and Yasutora Sado benefit from Ashido’s help when Rukia rejoins their expedition, though his direct bond is primarily with Rukia.