Shimo's words caused mixed reactions among the group.
But more than anything else, there was awkwardness.
Among the injured, Byakuya's expression was especially complicated.
As Shimo's friend, he had always hoped to support him when it truly mattered—but after all these years, it seemed he had never once managed to be of real help.
"Shimo-kun."
Unohana lowered her gaze, her voice gentle.
"The enemy may still have many hidden traps and contingencies. If you go alone—"
Before she could finish, the concern in her tone was already unmistakable.
Shimo had intended to reassure her, but what she said next left him momentarily speechless.
"Please, take me with you."
She raised her eyes, unwavering determination within them.
"And me too!"
Nel quickly added, "I know the layout of Las Noches. I can help!"
Compared to the other captains, Nelliel was in the best condition.
Her spiritual pressure had only been slightly depleted.
Aside from that, she hadn't even lost a single strand of hair.
The difference between her and Yammy was, frankly, absurd.
That said, it wasn't entirely Yammy's fault.
As a Vasto Lorde-class Hollow, Nel's inherent potential far exceeded his.
This meant that the amplification provided by the Hollow Soul Barrier benefited her far more than it ever did Yammy.
In fact, Yammy hadn't even died at Nel's hands—he had been undone by Aizen's own reckless schemes.
Shimo hesitated.
For the coming advance into Las Noches, he had no certainty that Aizen had already left.
Moreover, the Top Three Espada had yet to reveal themselves.
In short, Las Noches was filled with unknown dangers.
If he went alone, coming and going freely would not be an issue.
But if he brought others with him, he could not guarantee their safety.
Seeing the hesitation on Shimo's face, Yoruichi, who had initially intended to follow, quietly abandoned the idea.
She knew her own strength well.
Compared to someone like Soi Fon, she might still have the edge.
But compared to Unohana or Nel, she clearly fell short.
If even their proposals gave Shimo pause, then the smartest choice was not to add to his burden.
After a moment of contemplation, Shimo shook his head and said calmly:
"This expedition ends here."
"As the commander of the Hueco Mundo subjugation force, I order all of you to return to Soul Society immediately."
"And report everything you have seen and experienced."
Hearing this, Nel hesitated and stepped forward, wrapping both arms around Shimo's arm.
"Shimo…"
Unohana, however, appeared thoughtful rather than distressed.
"…I understand."
Her voice was lower now, lacking its usual warmth.
"As for the Visored—"
Her composed gaze settled on Shinji Hirako and the others.
"I expect you to follow Shimo's decision."
Kensei Muguruma gritted his teeth and struggled to stand, clearly about to object.
Before he could speak, however, a chilling killing intent locked onto him.
A freezing sensation surged up his spine, making his heart tremble.
"Kensei Muguruma," Unohana said slowly, enunciating each word clearly.
"Do you have a question?"
Her face still bore a gentle smile—but it carried a cold, razor-sharp edge.
Seeing this, Shimo rubbed his nose inwardly.
So this is the other side of Captain Unohana…
Two completely opposite personalities, once again laid bare before everyone.
Shinji immediately pressed Kensei back down into the sand, clamping a hand over his mouth.
"Captain Unohana," Shinji said awkwardly, forcing a smile.
"We're already injured. Naturally, we won't be continuing the operation."
"We're at least self-aware enough to know our limits."
Having once been comrades, how could he not understand just how terrifying Unohana truly was?
First Kenpachi. The most infamous murderer in Soul Society's history. Master of the so-called 'Eight Thousand Styles'…
Shinji had no illusions of winning against her.
As for Kensei—best not even think about it.
With Unohana taking charge, Shimo felt reassured.
"In that case, I'll be departing first."
"Nel, assist Captain Unohana."
Reluctantly, Nel released his arm.
"Shimo… please be careful."
He smiled gently and reassured her.
"There's no need to look so worried."
"Just like when we first met—"
"Trust me."
He placed a hand atop her head, lightly ruffling her emerald-green, waist-length hair.
Nel lowered her gaze and nodded softly.
Shimo turned and left.
The instant his foot touched the ground, his figure vanished—already far beyond sight.
Only then did the others fully realize something unsettling.
Since entering Hueco Mundo, they had been slowing Shimo down all along.
That Shunpo speed alone was already beyond reason.
A quiet sigh escaped the group, carrying their worry and unease.
"Let's return to the original Garganta coordinates."
"There are too many wounded. We'll need reinforcements from Soul Society."
After Shimo's departure, Unohana naturally assumed command of the group.
No one objected.
Under her organization, Soul Society reinforcements soon arrived—
A medical and rescue unit led by Shunsui Kyōraku, with Nanao Ise assisting.
Isane was among them as well.
With so many injured, some recovery was necessary before attempting Garganta travel.
---
Meanwhile, deep within Hueco Mundo…
Shimo moved alone across the white sands, Shunpo carrying him forward at terrifying speed.
With time acceleration and other enhancements active, his velocity had reached its absolute limit.
Afterimages trailed endlessly behind him.
After a period of high-speed travel, he finally reached his destination.
Before him stood a vast white palace.
Even merely gazing upon it inspired overwhelming awe.
Massive streams of reishi flowed across its surface, radiating oppressive pressure.
Shimo's eyes gleamed. His steps did not slow.
Las Noches...
I've arrived.
--------------------------------///
Advance Chapters on Patreon!
p(a)treon(.)com/HudaLin
-Remove the parenthesis to access patreon normally
Thanks for the Support!