What made one feel as though a lifetime had passed was not a long stretch of time, but one or two things that left regrets behind.
Take Nel right now, for instance. She had changed from the form of a small child into the mature figure she now possessed.
This was somewhat beyond Ulquiorra and Halibel's comprehension. Put simply, it was outside the scope of their knowledge.
Something wasn't right!
Though Hueco Mundo was vast and full of wonders. Some Hollows did undergo drastic changes in appearance after evolving, but Nel herself was already an Arrancar... How could she evolve again?!
And could evolution really change someone this much?!
Her species had practically changed altogether, hadn't it?!
Seeing the surprise on their faces, Asano Kiyoshi did not know how to explain it for the moment. However, this was not the time to explain such matters. He said to Ulquiorra and Halibel:
"Both of you, I know you have your doubts, but she really is Nel. Right now, the urgent matter is dealing with the invading enemies. My power can only send two people over at once, so I'll be counting on you!"
Hearing Asano Kiyoshi's words, the two nodded. Then, amid a flash of golden spiritual pressure, Ulquiorra and Halibel vanished from where they stood.
In the distance, two terrifying spiritual pressures erupted once more.
Asano Kiyoshi's face was pale as he watched the columns of spiritual pressure explode in the distance. He felt as though not a single drop of spiritual pressure could be squeezed from his body anymore. He was like a dried fish hung on a wall for three or four months, shriveled and emaciated.
Seeing Asano Kiyoshi's haggard face, Nel's expression flashed with concern. She asked him:
"Little Kiyoshi, are you all right? Can your body