The moment they stepped through the Garganta, the scenery changed. A dim passage appeared before them.
This was Karakura Town, the space between Soul Society, the Human World, and Hueco Mundo.
Compared with Urahara's private Garganta, the passage connected to the one managed by Soul Society was more stable in its concentration of reishi, making accidents less likely.
"Stay close. Don't fall behind."
Shūsuke Amagai gave Yuko a slight nod, then led the way forward.
Nearly every division member present was among the best of the best. Even the weakest was close to Seated Officer level, and they all knew the passage well.
It also seemed Katsura wasn't on duty today. Under Shūsuke Amagai's lead, the group passed through without incident and arrived in Hueco Mundo.
As Yuko stepped out of the Garganta, her view opened onto a vast expanse of white sand that stretched beyond sight.
"So this is Hueco Mundo?"
The scene was reflected in Yuko's red eyes. A crescent moon hung overhead, half-veiled by a few dark clouds. Pale moonlight washed over endless white dunes, and several twisted tree trunks stood faintly in the distance.
"That's right. This is Hueco Mundo." Shūsuke Amagai smiled. "Captain Yuko, is this your first—"
Before he could finish, Yuko turned without a word and walked toward the Garganta behind them, which had yet to close completely.
Shūsuke Amagai stared at her, stunned.
Only when she was halfway through did Yuko turn back and say flatly, "You aren't going to stop me? I'm heading back."
"Huh?" Shūsuke Amagai froze for a second, then cried out in shock.
"Whaaat?"
It wasn't just Amagai. The other Soul Reapers gaped at her too.
"Please! Wait!" Forgetting all decorum, Shūsuke Amagai rushed forward and pulled Yuko back. "Captain Yuko! What are you doing?"
"We only just