This development was noticed by the Adjuchas hiding within the Garganta. They finally confirmed that the Shinigami were truly retreating toward Soul Society.
After all the Vice-Captains had withdrawn, the next to leave were the squads personally led by several captain-level officers. Those squads had retained the most intact formations during this mission in the World of the Living, without a single casualty.
"Captains, haha! Please proceed! I hope you'll cooperate when the time comes!" Ronglin used Kido to contact the captains, showing none of a subordinate's deference toward his superiors.
However, the other captains were not the fussy sort and did not care about Ronglin's attitude. They all agreed, then passed through the Gate of the Worlds one squad after another, returning to Soul Society.
Once the ones within the Garganta noticed this, a considerable commotion immediately broke out.
"Don't rush. First, make sure they aren't trying to deceive us!" Some Adjuchas were eager to fight, but the more cautious ones insisted on waiting longer.
After all the captains had led their units away, Ronglin frowned slightly. This calm was far from the development he had hoped for.
So Ronglin began peeling away his main force, sending them back to Soul Society in batches.
Kuchiki Byakuya watched as groups of Shinigami beside him entered the Gate of the Worlds one after another and began withdrawing to Soul Society. He could not help but feel doubtful. "You're pulling everyone out at once. If the Adjuchas really attack, will we be able to handle them?"
Ronglin thought for a moment, then smiled. "Haha! Sorry, I don't know. That depends on whether they're willing to come. We'll only know once they do. But if these guys can be killed, don't leave them alive. Otherwise, people will keep setting their sights on our