Adella watches the clouds as they drift by, wishing her life could be so carefree and breezy. But it wasn't, and it never would be, that was certain.

If the past few weeks had taught her anything, it was that it would only get worse from here.

"Really, Del. If you aren't going to listen, I may as well talk about my experiences with Beans's tea making skills."

Pulling herself from her thoughts, Adella turns her attention back to the Chairman of the Hunter Association. Netero has that same mischievous grin on his face he always seemed to wear, even despite her current circumstances.

Now the yearly Hunter Exam was over, he had taken it upon himself to escort his favorite applicant home. Adella was a very valuable member of the Hunter's chemical and toxicological division and taking this time off to become a Hunter had set them behind a bit.

As it was, the two were in his private compartment in the airship, headed for their base of operations in Yorknew City.

Adella sighs, knowing her wandering mind must be tamed, at least for a while. She couldn't wait to get home and be alone with her thoughts. "Apologies, sir. You were saying?"

He chuckles, aware the young woman's head is elsewhere, but trying to lighten her mood. "I was saying it made sense why you kept making excuses for meeting Beyond for tea. I mean, I am aware my son is a less than ideal companion, but you can't fault me for trying."

Netero lifts his cup to his nose, inhaling deeply. "I had hoped I could get you back with Kite at least, but Zeno's grandchild isn't…"

"Wait." Adella interrupts, setting her own cup down. "You know Zeno Zoldyck?"

Netero chuckles, amused as ever with the reactions he can pull from her. "Of course. We aren't friends exactly, more acquaintances."

"Business partners, for lack of a better term?" Adella queries. Knowing Illumi, she understood very well just how Zoldyck relationships worked. If you didn't offer something, you weren't of value, and therefore either prey or fodder.

"I suppose." Netero shrugs, sipping from his cup. "It isn't ideal, but the boy certainly seems intrigued by you." He smiles at her over the rim of his cup. "He refused to fight you."

She seems shocked, as if touched Illumi had chosen her of all people not to fight. "I was wondering why you had Killua fight him."

"Yes, I certainly wasn't aware Gittarackur was his brother, but I found it odd that you were his choice. No hesitation, may I add." The chairman watches her face as she processes the news.

She's rather reserved, but Netero can see the sadness in her face. The door slides open, Beans informing them that they will be landing soon. "Thank you, Beans."

The little creature nods, closing the door and leaving them alone once more.

"Home." Adella smiles. "Never thought I would miss it this badly."

Netero finishes his tea, stretching as he places the cup on the table between them. "Well, I suppose it's good that you are home. And can get back to work."

Adella rolls her eyes. "You think my phone hasn't been blowing up with questions since I left? I've been on the clock this entire time."

Netero shakes his head, knowing very well just how vital Adella had made herself to the success of the lab. "I'm sure. But it is only one day until the weekend. At least go in for a half day to do damage control."

She sighs, but smiles, letting him know she will do as he asks. "You're lucky I like you, gramps."

Netero offers her a hand, which she takes without hesitation. "I certainly am. Now, promise me something."

Adella's gaze narrows, clearly suspicious of the known trickster. "What's that?"

"That when that boy gets back home to you, you give him hell."

Adella throws her head back, laughing loudly. For a moment, it felt like the exam hadn't happened, like she didn't have the fall-out of a broken promise to deal with. "Oh, trust me, he already knows. I will not go easy on him."