Ichigo Kurosaki's life takes a sudden turn when a Hollow appears and attacks his home, putting his family in serious danger. In the middle of the fight, Soul Reaper Rukia Kuchiki steps in to protect them, but she is badly injured. With no other choice left, Rukia transfers her Soul Reaper powers to Ichigo. This unexpected event turns Ichigo from an ordinary teenager who can see spirits into a substitute Soul Reaper.
The next morning, Ichigo wakes up to a shocking reality. He is dressed in a Soul Reaper's uniform and holds a massive Zanpakuto. Confused and overwhelmed, he slowly begins to understand that his life has completely changed. Along with the power comes a heavy responsibility—protecting the living and guiding lost souls.
Determined to keep his family safe, Ichigo accepts his new role despite his doubts. Rukia, now trapped in a temporary human body, becomes his mentor. She teaches him about the duties of a Soul Reaper, including fighting Hollows and sending souls to the afterlife. Although they often argue, the two develop a strong partnership built on trust and teamwork.
Ichigo's early battles as a substitute Soul Reaper are intense and challenging. Each fight pushes him to grow stronger and more confident. He also learns a painful truth—Hollows were once human souls consumed by despair. This realization adds emotional depth to his mission, as Ichigo begins to fight not just to defeat enemies, but to save tortured souls.
As Ichigo continues to train and battle, his powers steadily improve. However, unknown to him, his actions begin to affect the balance between worlds. These events quietly set the stage for a much larger conflict. With greater dangers ahead and secrets yet to be revealed, Ichigo's journey as a Soul Reaper is only just beginning.