The Soukyoku has been released, but many parties are still racing to save Rukia. In the end, it is Ichigo who manages to stop even the true, fiery form of Soukyoku, King Kikou with just his Zanpakutou. Ukitake also arrives with an artefact bearing the Shihouin family’s crest, and with it, he and Shunsui successfully destroy the Soukyoku. This provides Ichigo the opportunity to destroy the execution stand and thus save Rukia. But it is not over yet. Renji slashes his way to Soukyoku Hill, where he catches Rukia after she is thrown down by Ichigo and runs off while Ichigo takes care of the fighting.