Eikichirou Saidou

Saidou is playful, talkative and fond of poor jokes. He makes lewd guesses about Rukia’s reasons for remaining with Ichigo and later embarrasses a young Plus by mentioning her exposed underwear.

His frivolous manner disappears when civilians are threatened. He believes Shinigami must prevent innocent people from dying and spare their families the emptiness left by Hollow attacks. He is particularly protective of children.

Saidou is an experienced swordsman who initially overwhelms the newly empowered Ichigo. He uses Shunpo and reacts quickly enough to sever Grand Fisher’s hand before the Hollow can consume his hostage.

He carries a Zanpakutō, but neither its name nor Shikai is disclosed. No Bankai is shown.

Saidou is ordered to find Rukia Kuchiki and determine why she has not returned to Soul Society. After she refuses to cooperate, he briefly fights Ichigo Kurosaki.

The confrontation is interrupted by Grand Fisher. Saidou frees Karin and shields her from the Hollow’s tendrils, suffering serious wounds. After observing Ichigo and Rukia’s commitment to protecting others, he abandons his retrieval mission and allows Rukia to remain in the Human World.

He later appears near Fake Karakura Town as the Shinigami responsible for Kagamino City, guiding a young Plus away from the impending battle.

Rukia Kuchiki attended the Shin’ō Academy two years behind Saidou, although she does not remember him. Ichigo Kurosaki initially opposes him but earns his respect.

Karin Kurosaki is the child Saidou protects from Grand Fisher. His willingness to risk his life for her helps explain to Ichigo what being a Shinigami means.