The Wandenreich mobilizes its elite force, the Stern Ritter, to annihilate the Soul Society. Creating massive flaming pillars of Reishi as a distraction, the Stern Ritter easily enter the Soul Society to bring carnage to the Soul Reapers. Within minutes, the Thirteen Court Guard Squads suffer heavy casualties. The Squad captains rush to join the front lines, but even their attacks are ineffective against the enemies. Left with no other option, Byakuya Kuchiki and several other captains decide to perform Bankai in the hopes of turning the tide of war. But their hope quickly turns into further despair...