Bleach Vol. 73

Urahara releases Kannonbiraki Benihime Aratame, a Bankai capable of restructuring anything it touches, to counter Askin Nakk Le Vaar’s Gift Bereich. He uses its power to open a path through Askin’s defenses, allowing Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez to tear out the Sternritter’s heart. Askin’s death strengthens his poisonous domain, leaving Nelliel Tu Odelschwanck to rescue the trapped combatants.

Elsewhere, Kenpachi Zaraki releases his Bankai against Gerard Valkyrie, gaining monstrous strength but suffering severe damage because his body cannot withstand its power. Tōshirō Hitsugaya’s completed Bankai transforms him into an adult form capable of freezing Gerard’s abilities, while Byakuya Kuchiki helps destroy the Quincy’s body. Gerard nevertheless regenerates through The Miracle.

Ichigo and Orihime Inoue confront Yhwach, and Ichigo combines his Quincy and Hollow powers before releasing his restored Bankai. The Almighty allows Yhwach to alter the future and break Tensa Zangetsu immediately, after which he absorbs Ichigo’s power. As Ichigo falls into despair, Sado Yasutora and Ganju Shiba hold off pursuing enemies, while Isshin Kurosaki, Ryūken Ishida, and Shūkurō Tsukishima arrive to support the final resistance.