Ep. 153: Szayel Aporro's Devilish Research Plan and the Exequias' Sacrifice

153

Ichigo defeats Dordonii, prompting the latter to engage Rudbornn Chelute and the Exequias to facilitate Ichigo's retreat. Upon learning of the attack, Sousuke Aizen questions the orders given to the Exequias, leading Szayel Aporro Grantz to accept responsibility. Aizen pardons him, noting that Dordonii's remains will benefit Szayel Aporro's research. Concurrently, Uryuu Ishida fights the Privaron Espada Cirucci Sanderwicci. Rukia encounters Espada Aaroniero Arruruerie, who removes his mask to reveal the face of Kaien Shiba, the former thirteenth division lieutenant whom Rukia had previously killed. This sequence occurs within the Arrancar: The Fierce Fight arc, specifically episode 2 of 16.