Shigure likewise employed Shunpo directly, returning to the Thirteenth Division barracks.
Initially, he had intended to proceed alone.
However, since the meeting's resolution mandated he bring a squad, he naturally wouldn't defy orders.
Such arrangements posed no hindrance to his capabilities regardless.
Before assembling his team, he first visited Ukitake's captain quarters to relay the meeting's determinations.
Upon Shigure's completion of his report, an amused expression manifested across Ukitake's features.
"Segawa, Captain Zaraki... proves quite formidable to handle..."
"During our previous squad entrance examination, he desired combat with you... however, the Captain-Commander's presence compelled his restraint."
Upon receiving this intelligence, Shigure responded with characteristic composure: "I shall endeavor to avoid solitary encounters with him."
He naturally comprehended Kenpachi Zaraki's nature as a battle-obsessed warrior.
Were it not for the system's check-in mission designation at that location, he would prefer avoiding battlefield cooperation with Kenpachi Zaraki entirely.
"Hehe, I have confidence in your judgment." Ukitake smiled warmly. "Request Kiyone's assistance in personnel selection. No one possesses superior knowledge of our Thirteenth Division's capabilities."
"Understood." Shigure rose gracefully, subsequently withdrawing from the captain's chambers.
Time constraints demanded efficiency, so Shigure naturally eschewed delay. He immediately located Kotetsu Kiyone and explained the operational requirements.
Kotetsu Kiyone naturally approached the matter with utmost seriousness, promptly assembling a twenty-member squad.
"Lieutenant, shall I accompany the mission as well?" Kotetsu Kiyone inquired.
"Unnecessary." Shigure smiled reassuringly. "Captain Ukitake's current health condition requires your administrative oversight. Your absence would precipitate divisional chaos."
Upon this explanation, Kotetsu Kiyone immediately recognized her oversight.
"Then the matter is settled... time to rendezvous with Captain Soifon and her forces."
Speaking thus, Shigure prepared to depart.
Kotetsu Kiyone suddenly called out with evident concern: "Lieutenant Segawa! Please, please ensure your safe return!!"
Upon hearing her earnest plea, Shigure responded with gentle warmth: "Remain calm—I possess considerable strength."
Following this reassurance, he led the squad directly from the barracks without backward glance.
Kotetsu Kiyone remained motionless, subsequently lowering her head after momentary contemplation.
Meanwhile, Shigure guided his squad with rapid advancement toward the West Rukongai gate.
He naturally understood Kotetsu Kiyone's apprehension.
The previous Thirteenth Division lieutenant, Shiba Kaien, had perished during Hollow extermination operations.
"Th-that is, Lieutenant Segawa... will we engage in combat alongside the Eleventh Division?"
During their advance, a diminutive female Soul Reaper inquired with evident nervousness.
"Precisely, Sixth Seat Matsushima." Shigure responded with encouragement.
This individual, designated Matsushima Tsuki, served as the Thirteenth Division's current Sixth Seat.
Despite her petite physique, she demonstrated exceptional proficiency in Shunpo and swordsmanship.
Upon Shigure's confirmation, Matsushima Tsuki's expression shifted dramatically. "The Eleventh Division personnel... reportedly possess intimidating reputations..."
Her statement elicited unanimous agreement from surrounding squad members.
Shigure responded with light amusement. "Your adversaries are Hollows, not our allies. What cause exists for concern?"
Speaking thus, they had arrived at the West Rukongai primary gateway.
This entrance, designated "White Path," remained under Jidanbo's guardianship.
Upon approach, Shigure predictably observed Soifon'sStealth Force contingent.
They maintained their distinctive tight-fitting ninja attire—completely contrasting standard shihakushō—with facial coverings exposing only their eyes.
Among this specialized unit, several individuals wore conventional Soul Reaper garments.
The medical support team selected from the Fourth Division.
Observing Shigure's group's arrival, Soifon displayed evident irritation: "Excessive delay, Lieutenant Segawa."
Shigure approached with diplomatic composure. "Standard divisions naturally cannot match your Stealth Force's operational velocity."
The Thirteenth Division members immediately demonstrated respectful acknowledgment toward Soifon.
Simultaneously, Kenpachi Zaraki's contingent materialized.
The Eleventh Division truly exemplified their combat specialization—their mere presence radiated formidable intimidation.
Their demeanor contrasted completely with the Thirteenth Division's composed professionalism.
Kenpachi Zaraki bore Yachiru Kusajishi upon his shoulder, while his left flank featured a strikingly handsome individual.
Eleventh Division Fourth Seat, Ayasegawa Yumichika.
Behind them, sixty Eleventh Division members displayed uniformly fierce expressions and overwhelming battle auras.
Third SeatMadarame Ikkaku had presumably remained for Seireitei defensive duties.
Yachiru Kusajishi immediately gestured enthusiastically upon perceiving Shigure: "Another encounter! Little Rain!"
The previous squad entrance examination had established Shigure'sShikai demonstration as memorable to Yachiru.
Shigure responded courteously: "Lieutenant Kusajishi."
Soifon cast a frigid glance toward Kenpachi Zaraki before pivoting forward decisively.
"Given complete assembly, immediate departure commences."
The Stealth Force responded with instant compliance.
Witnessing such an imposing Soul Reaper formation, even gatekeeper Jidanbo demonstrated visible surprise.
However, his recognition of Soifon and Kenpachi Zaraki prompted swift gate operation.
Upon Rukongai's revelation, Kenpachi Zaraki's eyes immediately blazed with excitement as he bellowed:
"ADVANCE!!"
Eleventh Division members displayed savage grins while roaring collectively: "YEAH!!!"
Only Ayasegawa Yumichika exhibited a troubled countenance.
The Thirteenth Division members appeared thoroughly intimidated by this overwhelming display.
Following complete squad egress, Jidanbo immediately secured the gateway.
Rukongai civilians, observing the massive Soul Reaper deployment emerging from Seireitei, maintained curious observation from safe distances.
The Deadlands, positioned at West Rukongai's absolute terminus, seamlessly connected with West Rukongai's 80th District.
This region possessed abnormally elevated spirit particle concentrations, perpetually shrouding the atmosphere in dense fog.
Danger lurked within these obscured depths.
Central 46 had exiled condemned Soul Reapers to this location, hoping to exploit their capabilities for unlocking The Deadlands' mysteries.
Yet centuries of investigation had yielded no discoveries.
Instead, massive Hollow manifestations frequently occurred—phenomena designated "Hollow Swarms."
As temporal progression brought them closer to The Deadlands, they could gradually perceive distinct Hollow spiritual pressure signatures.
Soifon abruptly halted advancement.
Observing this cessation, Kenpachi Zaraki immediately expressed irritation: "What's the problem now?"
Soifon regarded him with cold assessment: "This marching velocity proves insufficient. Upon our arrival, the Proximity Corps may face complete annihilation."
"So... what's your point?" Kenpachi Zaraki casually cleaned his ear.
Soifon clenched her jaw, suppressing evident frustration: "I shall lead the Stealth Force in advance reconnaissance operations."
"Your forces may follow subsequently."
Her tone conveyed absolute finality, demonstrating no intention of consulting Kenpachi Zaraki.
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