Chapter 1: Development Begins

Aaauh...

What's your problem, geez!

Uaahhh... Uuh...

Staaark!

Help me out, Stark!

What now? Keep your voice down.

He keeps following me around!

Just put him back where you found him.

And how am I supposed to do that?

Kaname's away now.

Oh? Why's that?

He told me he needed to finish up his new menu or something, and just left. I'm not sure where he went.

*Sigh*

After rigorous review of the many recipes I inherited from my predecessors, I've mastered the complicated art of confectionery.

Now, it is time for me to come up with a new menu that will become the culmination of my Recipes for Justice. The only problem is...

...I have no clue what to make.

Rrraaahhhhh...

The cry of a Hollow. What's happening?

Mmph.

Aaroniero, what are you doing here?

Having a snack, of course. There just so happened to be a perfect Hollow for that.

Ah, right. You gain powers by eating Hollows, if I remember correctly.

Glotoneria, was it?

That's correct. We absorb the Spiritual Pressure and the abilities of each Hollow we eat. This gives us full control of their powers.

We've devoured over thirty thousand Hollows until now. It was with this power that we became an Espada.

Do those powers differ for each Hollow that you consume? Are there variations in how they feel upon ingesting them?

What?

I apologize for asking such strange questions. You see, I am currently performing research on cooking recipes.

For example, meat and fish are different in texture, and when consumed, provide distinct nutrients to the body. I was wondering if Hollows have this disparity as well.

I never considered using Hollows as a cooking ingredient, so it made me think.

What is this guy talking about?

Oh, I know. If you don't mind showing me, can I see Glotoneria's powers in person?

It might be able to help me as a source of reference.

............

Yeah, sure thing. But keep in mind...

...it's not my fault if you accidentally get eaten!

Damn... This guy's strong.

Hmm. Somewhat different from what I had imagined. The powers you consume convert directly into your physical form. I see it now.

Am I correct in assuming that when you devour a stronger Hollow, you gain stronger powers?

That's right. Our powers increase by far more if we choose to eat Hollows with high Spiritual Pressure or special abilities.

I see. In other words, choosing the right ingredient for your meal can be crucial.

I...suppose.

An elementary concept, but I am reminded of its importance. You were very helpful. Thank you.

He's a strange guy. I wonder what that was all about.