Chapter 9 : Separate X Secret X Nen!?
"Eh? It was a trick!?" Gon shouted in perplexed, unable to believe that she just got tricked by Gotoh.
"Yup" Kurapika said by showing the trick in when Gotoh actually held two coins and after showing clearly which hand the coin goes to, he held his hand upwards and slightly open his fingers to let the coins slip inside his sleeve and showing the other coin in the other hand. Hearing that only made Gon grit her teeth in anger especially when Killua added when Gotoh hates cheating and must have cheated on the final turn.
It was then the group is now riding the train with the destination to go to the airport. Along the way, they started to talk a bit.
"Eh? You're here on tourist visa!?" Killua yelled in surprise while Gon only nodded "Didn't you pass the exam? You could have used the hunter license. It lets you stay in other countries for as long as you want"
"That's what we said" Leorio said, sounded giving in Gon's stubbornness as he remembers along with Kurapika whom only had `I agree' face.
"So I'm the only one using the hunter license then?" Kallua asked in surprise as well.
"I'm surprised that you are not going together with them" Killua asked, wanting to know why Kallua and the group are not coming at the same time.
Kallua avert his gaze at that especially when he feels another gaze towards him. It was none other than Kurapika of course.
"I already decided. I'm not using the license until I've finished what I need to do" Gon said suddenly, causing the group to look at her which made Kallua breathe a sigh of relief.
"What do you have to do?" Killua asked, his attention is now fully towards Gon along with everyone.
"The tag" Gon shuffles her pocket to search for the tag and showing it"That Hisoka gave me!" Gon said in determination as she recalls the memory when Hisoka punch her and gives that tag for her.
"I'll return it to Hisoka when I punch him in the face!" Gon said again, this time in determination "Until I do that, I won't use my Hunter License. I can't go back to Whale Island, either"
"Hmm,," Killua nodded in understanding "So, where's Hisoka?"
Gon flinched at that then showed an awkward smile face.
"Thought so" Leorio said, seems knowing that Gon didn't know where Hisoka would be.
"I know where he is, Gon" Kurapika piped in suddenly.
"Huh? Really?" Gon asked in surprise.
"How?" Even Leorio asked in no different surprise tone like Gon.
"He told me" Kurapika said simply.
"So it was that time" As Leorio said that, he recalls the memory of Hisoka whispering something in Kurapika's ear during the match before Bodoro's.
"No, this was after the orientation" Kurapika said in too calm tone.
"But it's still related, right?" Leorio adds in.
"I guess" Kurapika simply said.
"I've been itching to ask…" Leorio stopped a bit "What did Hisoka say to you?"
Kurapika's look turned serious "He told me…I have some information for you regarding the spider"
"The Phantom Troupe" Leorio is now nervously sweats as he mention the name.
"I do not recall mentioning the Phantom Troupe to Hisoka. So either he overheard our conversation during the first stage, or he heard it from another. The spider is the Phantom Troupe's symbol so those familiar with the organization refer to the Troupe as such. I was interested in his information" Kurapika said, trying to control his emotion.
"I see" Leorio said in understanding as he thought `So that's why you swallowed your pride and accepted Hisoka's surrender'
"After the orientation. I asked him about it" Kurapika said, recalling Hisoka's words.
`I shall await you in Yorknew City on September 1st'
"September 1st?" Leorio seems a bit taken aback with that.
"Then you've still got over half a year" Gon said before turns curious "What's going to happen in Yorknew City?"
Leorio snapped his fingers as Kallua realizes it "They'll hold the world's largest auction" Both Leorio and Kallua said it in the same time.
"Correct" Kurapika said "From September 1st through September 10th, there will be an auction for unusual items, rare goods and national treasures from around the world. The event attracts all manner of nasty folk who come looking to satisfy their greed. It's the biggest gathering of money in the world"
Gon seems amazed by that fact.
"So the Troupe will be there?" Leorio asked.
"They're a group of bandits. They would not let this chance escape" Kurapika said.
Hearing that statement made Kallua silently agree as if he goes there, he would have to face another person he knows very well. A former member of the gang of thieves that definitely won't let the chance pass as well.
`He' will be there. Won't he?
Kallua silently nodded `Heard the rumours and stories that he will be there. Looks like our paths meant to be cross with each other' Kallua said through telepathy towards Karuze.
"So on that day, Hisoka will be somewhere in Yorknew City" Kurapika continued.
"Okay. September 1st" Gon repeats the information to confirms it "Got it. Thanks" Gon said gratefully towards Kurapika.
As they arrive in the airport, it was then Kurapika nudged Kallua while Gon look amazed at the airport and Killua along with Leorio can only chuckle at her antics.
"I have a question that I have been meaning to ask you" Kurapika said in suspicious tone "Are you related to the Zaoldyeck by any chance?"
Hearing that made Kallua silently gulped. He then slowly turned to face Kurapika with a calm demeanor.
"Yes. That is all I can tell, the rest is classified" Kallua said simply.
Kurapika narrowed his eyes at that. He wants to say something but Kallua beats him into it.
"Please understand that I have things to keep. I'm sure you could as you are also keeping more about your past as well, right?"
Hearing that made Kurapika flinch before nodded.
"Fine. I won't pry anymore, but I hope that you are on our side" Kurapika said.
As Kallua look at both of his parents, he can't help but letting out a slight smile at their childish behavior as he said "I am and always will be" before then he look at his left thumb `for their sake'
It was then Kurapika announced that he shall depart, earning surprised look from Gon.
"We managed to see Killua again so I'm finished here. I'll need money to participate in the auction. So I shall search for a patron to employ me as a Hunter" Kurapika said.
"Really…" Leorio said in understanding "I guess I should go home, then"
Now Kallua, Killua and Gon are turn their heads towards Leorio "You too?" Gon asked in slight surprise.
"I haven't given up my dream of becoming a doctor. If I'm accepted to medical school, I can use this to pay the ridiculous fee" Leorio showed his hunter license "I'll have to go back and start cramming"
Gon nodded at that "Uh-huh, good luck"
It was then, Killua turn his head towards Kallua "What about you?"
Kallua shrugged at that "I have to go somewhere too"
Hearing that made both Killua and Gon letting out a disappointed sigh but after that, the group promises to meet again in September 1st, in Yorknew City.
As Kallua, Killua and Gon said their farewells towards Leorio and Kurapika whom are off now, Gon realizes that soon Kallua would be leaving too.
"So, when Kallua's gone. It will be only two of us then" Gon said as she look at both Kallua and Killua "So what are we and you going to do?"
"You have to ask? We train, obviously?" Killua answer as if it's the most obvious thing to say.
"Huh? Train for what?" Gon asked in not knowing tone "Shouldn't we having some fun?"
Hearing that made Killua look annoyed while Kallua letting out some sweatdrops.
"Do you remember what you just said?" Killua asked in a annoyed smile face "Think you can punch Hisoka in the face without training?"
`Uh-oh, seems Papa is about to explode' Kallua thought as he slightly scratch his cheek.
And Killua did.
"You couldn't land a punch in ten years, let alone six months!" Killua finally exploded then Kallua proceed to calm his father down.
"Alright Killua, just calm down" Kallua said, trying to be rational.
While Gon answered with short `okay' in fright.
"Here, I'll make it easy to understand" Killua said as he takes a stick nearby and starting to draw. "This is Hisoka. This is Hanzo"
"Uh-huh" Gon nodded in understanding
"If this is the gap between Hisoka and Hanzo, in tems of strength" Killua pointed the quite short line with the stick as he mention the gap " The gap between Hisoka and you" Killua then starting to move very, very, very far away at the edge of the airport. "Is this far! And I'm being generous"
Kallua sweatdrops at that "Isn't that a little bit too much?"
`Now I'm mad' Gon thought in anger as she points at Killlua "Then where are you?"
"Me?" Killua asked before then pointing the gap that is much more shorter than Gon "Well, probably around here"
`Yep.. I'm so humble' Killua thought as he shows his cat like face.
Unbelievable, your father is clearly much stronger than Hanzo
`He's being humble. Let him be' Kallua thought telepathically towards Karuze.
"Oh. Hanzo is stronger?" Gon seems didn't expect that.
"What is it?" Killua asked questioningly
"You really are amazing!" Gon compliments Killua, whom is now blushing at that sudden compliment.
"Cut that out.. It's embarrassing" Killua said as he blush and avert his gaze away from Gon.
"I don't know how to tell the difference in strength between my opponent and myself" Gon said, still in amazed tone.
"Stupid! It doesn't matter. I'm only estimating. You probably have a general idea" Killua said as he walks off then followed by Gon and Kallua "Once you have enough experience, your guess will become more , the stronger someone is, the better they are at hiding that strength. So you shouldn't rely on this method" Killua said, giving a quick teaching.
"Oh.." Gon seems to understand about it more.
"Well, in any case. Hisoka is strong" Killua said, followed by both Kallua and Gon whom are agree on it.
"You won't land a blow on him in six months through normal means" Killua said, directing it towards Gon whom nodded in agreement.
"Gon, do you have any money?" Killua said suddenly.
"Actually, I'm running out" Gon said awkwardly.
"I don't have much either" Killua said then look at Kallua "What about you, Kallua?"
Kallua shrugged "Not much as well, which is why I'm going to go to the place where you can train and earn money at the same time"
Killua eyes shine at that "You mean, you are planning to go to The Heavens Arena? Then the three of us can go together!"
"Heavens Arena?" Gon seems confused at the new place name.
"Well, since Kallua is familiar about it along with me. Both of us can explain later, we should get moving!" Killua said excitingly and run inside, followed by Kallua and Gon.
As they finally order their ticket with combining their money, they are now boarding the airship to go to The Heavens Arena. Gon look amazed when the airship finally arrived at the destination.
"That's The Heavens Arena. Two hundered and fifty-one stories. Nine hundered, ninety-one meters tall. The world's fourth tallest building" Killua explained as he wanted to look smart in front of Gon.
"So this is where we'll be training…" Gon said excitingly.
The airship finally landed, the three of them then on their way towards The Heavens Arena.
"Since all of us are now has used all of our money for the trip fare. We'll have to make more here" Kallua said, noticing his empty, thin wallet.
"After we disembark, we'll start from zero" Killua continued.
Gon nodded "Okay, got it.
"Good… Let's go" Killua said, leading the way.
The group then found themselves on the long line to register to The Heavens Arena.
"There's a long line. Everyone's going to Heavens Arena?" Gon asked, quite amazed with the length of the line.
"There aren't any conditions here like there were for the Hunter Exam. You just have to defeat your opponent" Killua explained "The higher you go, the more prize money you earn. This is as good as it gets for those looking to make a living with their fists.
The lady at the registration then proceed into giving out the form for them to fill. During filling the form, Kallua had a little problem.
`Uh, should I really put my family name?' Kallua thought in anxiety as he heard the lady had called both of their family name. It surprises Kallua a bit that Killua is not scared in revealing his family name.
"What took you so long?" Killua asked as he looks at Kallua.
"Eh, right! Here!" Kallua said as he handed his form and already filled the name.
The receptionist lady then typing the information written in the form then face Kallua "Kallua Zareecs-sama, you are #2056"
"Zareccs?" Both Killua and Gon are now looking at Kallua in puzzled looks.
"Ha..Ha" Kallua averts his gaze away from his parents while having short awkward laugh.
I can't believe you combine both of your parents family name.
`Zip it!' Kallua could feel his face is burning in embarrassment now.
"They'll call your number on the first floor of the arena so make sure you remember it" The receptionist lady said again, causing both Killua and Gon attention goes towards them "Then please go ahead"
As they are walking towards the arena, Kallua's family surname topic started again.
"Zareccs? That's kinda funny" Killua started to chuckle a bit "Never thought that kind of name exist"
"Well, it's unique" Gon said, feeling a bit sorry since she knows that Kallua is embarrassed.
"Ah, the arena is up ahead!" Kallua said, trying to avoid the conversation.
As their arrive, thunderous roar along with applause reach their ears. The three of them looking for a seat, waiting for their number to be called.
"It's been a while" Killua said as he took a seat "but the place hasn't changed"
"It certainly is true" Kallua agreed as he noted too that the place hasn't changed much.
"Huh? Both of you have been here before?" Gon asked.
"Yeah, when I was six. My dad left me here without a penny. He said I should reach floor 200 before coming home. It took two years" Killua said.
`Two years.. Sure, he was only six, but it really took Killua that long?' Gon thought in amaze before recalls something.
"What about you, Kallua? How old are you when you are here?" Gon asked which makes Killua turn his head towards Kallua that makes Gon do the same thing.
Kallua silently gulped. There's no way he would said that he went to The Heavens arena for training when he was 6 as well after the Hunter Exam but quit after he was 7 and already became a floor master. That would damage his father pride in front of his mother.
Kallua scratch the back of his head "Well, uh. We should just focus on training so Gon can at least fight Hisoka to give back her tag"
Killua narrowed his eyes at Kallua's sudden changing conversation topic but went along with it "if you want to fight people of Hisoka's level, you'll need to go higher. Let's hurry"
Gon nodded at that "Okay"
It was then the sound of the speaker echoing the number of the participants to against each other "#1973. #2055 Please enter ring E"
Gon stood up immediately "#2055! That's me!"
"I'm getting nervous now" Gon said as she puts down her belongings.
"Gon, you got through the Testing Gate, right?" Killua asked.
Gon look confused but then nodded after Killua gives her a tip to pass.
The moment Gon step into the ring, lots of comments were thrown by the audience.
"Look at that! It's a little girl!"
"Hey Kid! This is your last chance to run!"
"This ain't a game!"
"Be gentle big guy!"
"One punch and she'll fly out of the ring!"
Hearing that made both Killua and Kallua glare towards the nearby audience which makes them cringe.
"Shut up and watch" Killua said in deadly tone while Kallua only glares, not saying anything as he might goes berserk if he said something.
"On the first floor, we appraise each participants level. You are allowed three minutes to demonstrate your powers" The referee said. "Then begin!" The referee gives the starting signal.
"Sorry" The guy cracking some of his knuckles "I'll end your suffering with one punch"
As Gon dodge the coming punch, she remembered what Killua said.
"You got through the Testing Gate, right? In that case, all you have to do is push hard"
`Just push, hard' Gon thought then push the guy out of the ring and collide against the wall, causing it to crack which makes everyone gape in surprise.
"No way!" one of the audience said, completely flabbergasted.
Both Killua and Kallua smirk and give thumbs up towards Gon "Yes" "Nice"
"That kid's incredible!'
"She's got some crazy power!"
Even Gon unable to believe it as she sees her hand `When did I become so strong?'
The referee then allows Gon to proceed to floor 50.
Afterwards, it's Killua's turn. He finishes it quickly with a chop at the back of his opponent neck.
"Hey, here's another kid who's a beast!"
The referees checked and sees that Killua had reach 200th floor last time. He gives Killua access to 180th floor but Killua refused, saying he wants to take it slow in 50th floor as he sees both Kallua and Gon clap for him.
Then, it was Kallua's turn.
"Good luck" Gon said while Killua nodded which makes Kallua nodded as well in their direction.
It happens in the blink of an eye.
"Then, begin!" The referee gives a signal.
In a second after the signal, Kallua's opponent already down and everyone even gape in surprise as they sees that Kallua is still remain in the same spot.
"Did that opponent just lost without that guy doing anything!"
Killua widen his eyes "What an unbelievable speed…"
"Did Kallua just do that?" Gon even look in surprise.
The referee checks the opponent before goes towards Kallua "Splendid performance. You may go to the 200th floor"
Kallua shook his head "50th floor is fine" Kallua then takes the ticket "Sankyuu"
Then the audience went wild again.
"Yet another strong kid there!"
The referee then gives permit to advance to the 50th floor for the kid that Kallua knows.
"Zushi" Kallua mumbled quietly.
Afterwards, the group along with Zushi are inside the elevator to advance to the 50th floor.
"The first 200 floors of Heavens Arena are divided into classes, each comprised of ten floors. So after someone defeats an opponent in the 50s floor, they advance to the 60s. If they lose, then they'd drop back to the 40s" The elevator lady explained.
"Oh, so that's how it works" Gon said in understanding.
"Plus.." Killua got cut off by Zushi.
"After you pass the 100th floor, you get your own room!"
Kallua, Killua and Gon are now turn their heads to see Zushi.
"Oh, I forgot to introduce myself. Osu! My name is Zushi!" Zushi introduce himself. "What about all of you?"
"I'm Killua" Killua introduced himself
"I'm Gon" Gon introduced herself too"Nice to meet you"
"I'm Kallua" Kallua goes along, although he already knows Zushi.
As they done introduced themselves, they have arrived at the 50th floor.
"I saw your fight earlier. That was really amazing, yo!" Zushi said excitingly.
"What are you talking about? You made it up here with one match, too" Killua said as he looks at Zushi.
"That's right" Gon added along with Kallua "So true.."
"No.. I still have a long way to go" Zushi said, being humble "By the way, which martial arts discipline do you practice? I study the Shingen-ryu fighting technique"
The three look surprised a bit "School? We don't have one, right?" Killua said immediately as he looks at both Kallua and Gon.
"No" Both Kallua and Gon said at the same time.
"What? You're that strong with no training?" Zushi exclaims in surprise before look gloomy "I'm kind of shocked…" then he turned determined "I still have so far to go!"
A clapping sound turn their attention.
"Zushi. You did well"
"Master!" Zushi said as he face his master
"You adhered to my teachings' The master said.
"Osu!" Zushi gives a bow "I am honored!" Zushi then notices something from his master "Master, your shirt is untucked again"
"Oh, sorry about that…" He immediately fix his shirt right away "Who are they?" He mentions the group.
"Oh, these are Killua-san, Kallua-san and Gon-san" Zushi said, introducing the group.
"Nice to meet you. I'm Wing" Wing introduced himself.
"Osu!" Both Killua and Gon gives same greetings like Zushi, leaving Kallua whom only confused in why did they greet like that. Might be contagious.
"I didn't expect to meet other children beside Zushi" Wing said as he looks at both Killua and Gon before he looks at Kallua "At least you both had a guardian"
Kallua flinch at that as he gasp. Hearing that made Killua grin while Gon gives awkward laugh.
Kallua raise his hand slowly "Err, sorry but I am still 12 years old like them"
Both Zushi and Wing look surprised "Ah, my apologizes. I hope that didn't offend you" Wing apologized quickly.
"It's fine" Kallua gives a short sigh "I'm often being told that I look older than my age"
Wing decides to change the topic "Why are all of you here?"
"Uh.." Killua trailed off "Well, we want to become stronger. But we're also broke so we're making money simultaneously"
"Killua and Kallua are veteran here" Gon informed.
"Oh?" Wing seems taken aback a bit by that "If you're up here, you must be fairly skilled, but you should pay strict attention to your opponent's body, as well as your own" Wing said, giving advice
"Osu!" Both Killua and Gon gives their greeting again but this time followed by Kallua as well.
`This is definitely contagious' Kallua thought as he react that automatically.
The group with Zushi then goes to take their reward money with their tickets.
"One hundered, fifty-two jenny.." Gon said as she counts the money.
Killua already spend his money on buying a canned drink from the vending machine.
"On the 1st floor, win or lose, your rewards covers a canned drink. But beyond that, a loss gets you nothing. A win over an opponent in the 50s nets you fifty thousand" Killua explained.
"Fifty thousand…" Gon smiled
"That's a lot" Zushi even impressed with that amount.
As Killua drink his juice, Kallua continue the explanation "In the 100s, the wins are worth a million"
"What!?" Both Gon and Zushi are now shocked as they face each other.
"Once you're past the 150th floor, you get ten million a pop" Now Killua continue explaining.
"Ten million" now Gon gape as her eyes widen in surprise then remembers something "Didn't you make it to floor 200 when you were here before?"
"Th-the 200th floor?" Even Zushi is flabbergasted now.
"How much do you get for winning on the 200th floor?" Gon asked, still in shock.
Kallua was about to say something but Killua look at Kallua in a gaze like `let me explain look' "Well.. I don't really know, because I quit once I reached 200" Killua said.
Hearing that made Kallua realized one thing. The reason why Killua had to quit is because 200th floor are full of nen users and he didn't know.
"But when I was winning in the 190s, I had around two hundred million, total" Killua said, reminiscing the amount he had won at that time.
"T-Two hundred million…" Zushi said nervously, unable to believe such amount of money could be win.
"Where's that money now?"Gon look shocked to the point she almost can't say anything.
"That was four years ago. Of course it's gone now. Spent it all on snacks!" Killua said with smile, remembering so many chocorobots he had with that money.
"Two hundred million on snacks, in four years?" Gon face Zushi in unbelievable look.
"What kind of snacks are these?" Zushi face Gon with the same look she has.
"Well, that's better. I had my winning money cut off" Kallua said suddenly.
Hearing that made Killua interested "You made it to 200th either?" Kallua nodded half heartily at that
Killua blinks "What do you mean with your winning money cut off?"
Kallua gives awkward laugh "Well, yeah. Although I plan to save the money, my sister takes half of the amount and I spent the rest of it quickly on books and some equipments"
"Books..?" Gon unbelievable look still remains.
"Equipments..?" Zushi also had the same face.
Killua frowned "Your sister takes half of the money?"
"She loves money. Still thankful that she didn't take all of them" Kallua said simply, remembering how much Killia loves money and jewel so much when she was 5. Though she still loves them, at least she didn't involve him like she used to.
Killua then throws away his empty canned juice "Hey, let's head to the waiting room. We didn't take any damage in the last fight, so they'll probably assign us another match today" Killua said which makes all of them goes to the waiting room.
As they arrived, so many tough looking guys are waiting for their turn, some are exercising in last moments.
"Well, these opponents should be a cinch. Just take it easy" Killua said, quite in loud voice.
"Really?" Gon seems surprised with that fact.
Kallua and Zushi are now nervously looking at everyone who looks at them in menacing look.
"Killua-san! You're too loud" Zushi muttered.
"How blunt" Kallua muttered in low voice as well.
What happened with your father being humble! He is being haughty right now.
`Whatever' Kallua thought, anything his father do or say won't change his admiration towards him after all.
Sudden announcement suddenly are made "#2054, Killua-sama"
"I'm already up" Killua said, noticing his number and name called
"And #1963, Zushi-sama"
"What!?" Hearing that made Zushi exclaims in surprise
"Please head to the arena A, on the 57th floor"
Instantly, Zushi, Kallua and Gon are turn their heads towards Killua while Killua look at Zushi with quick `oh'.
Zushi immediately bows down saying he will do his best but Killua only relaxingly wave his hand indicating Zushi himself had no chance to win and wish Better luck next time.
"Good luck, guys" Gon cheered both of them.
Kallua only silently and intently looking at Zushi's back as both Killua and Zushi leaves to fight.
"I'll wait for you above" Killua said cooly.
"Uh-huh.." Gon only nodded impassively at that.
"He really didn't have to be so blunt…" Gon said in low voice towards Kallua.
"Who knows" Kallua shrugged as he stands up.
"Eh?" Gon jolted slightly in surprise "Where are you going?"
"Toilet" Kallua said casually before wave his hand dismissively "Don't worry, it won't take long"
After Kallua confirming the place he goes is quiet and empty, he asks Karuze to come out.
"So host" Karuze cross his hands "You want me to spy on your father with Zushi's fight?"
"Yeah" Kallua nodded "Things might get rough for Papa"
Karuze only gives a haughty smirk at that "Because Zushi can learn nen and you know that your father hasn't learn nen yet, isn't it?"
"Both Papa and Mama hasn't learned it actually" Kallua tap his lower lips with his index finger "I want to observe but I might get called soon so I need you to do the job"
Karuze sighed at that "You want me to use my `Gaze Eye'?
Kallua shook his head "Nah, that would distract me to the point I could miss my fight. Just share it when you return"
Karuze nodded before leaves after getting the mission.
"Behave. Alright?" Kallua said, knowing he still didn't trust Karuze out from his sight a very long time.
"Yeah-Yeah" Karuze muttered lazily and leaves quickly, not wanting his host to lecture him.
And right that moment, Kallua receives a call for him to fight.
He won again easily, with his opponent already unconscious the moment the signal has been given.
After wait for quite a while, he goes to meet Karuze, whom telling him that the match has finished.
"That took a long time" Kallua commented.
Karuze shrug at that "Your intuition is right. Ren has been used"
Kallua seems no surprise as he anticipates it. Which is why he asks Karuze to spy for him.
"So, how did it go?" Kallua asked, his tone seems to indicate Karuze to hurry up as he afraid both of his parents will look for him now.
"So the match started. With the introductions of their abilities where Zushi uses martial arts and Killua defeats the opponent in flash. Afterwards, the bet has started in which Zushi had the odd favor from the audience. Man, your father angry face is quite priceless!" Karuze starting to laugh at that.
"Next!" Kallua said quickly causing Karuze to continue.
"After receiving the rule of the match decided by the points and knockout system, the moment the match start, Zushi had put up a stance that leaves few openings. I am impressed but not much as your father is also underestimate him by boldly walking towards him. The moment Zushi strike, Killua dodged it quickly and counter attack with a chop on the back of his neck. Killua thought that attack will already ended the match but proven to be wrong when Zushi stood up. Killua must have thought he hold himself back to much then continue approach him with ease and easily dodging strike another after another from Zushi then strike another chop on the back of his neck but again, Zushi stood up"
"Must be because Zushi is using Ten. If not, he would already unconscious since a graze from the chop that Papa landed is enough to do it" Kallua commented.
Karuze continued "Either way, Zushi keep stood up which made Killua abit angry at that. But it changed when Zushi change his stance and letting ren out causing Killua to jump back and take some distance. Immediately afterwards, Wing shouted Zushi's name really loud, making Zushi stop his Ren. Anyway, Killua receive TKO point causing him to win"
"I see" Kallua nodded "I'm sure Papa would have notice something wrong"
"Yeah" Karuze nodded as well "that ren reminded me of your sensei after all and you know which one"
"If it's connected with Papa, undoubtedly it's Illumi-sensei" Kallua said "Good work anyway. Sorry for troubling you"
Karuze only casually shook his head "It's not bad sometimes to out and having some environment changes. Also, your father knows ren from the conversation between Zushi and Wing which he eavesdrop, doubt that thing will leave his mind."
"I better tell them that the floor of 200th is full of nen users. Considering they are not mastering it, they would not be able to last long in 200th floor" Kallua said "Go back for now, I have to look for them"
"Fine" Karuze said then goes back inside Kallua whom are now looking for both of his parents.
As he found them, they told him that their goal was to reach the top floor.
Of course, that makes Kallua a bit nervous about it. He really need to tell his parents quicky.
"Let's go. I want to sleep and prepared for the next match" Killua said as he goes towards the room they are going to use.
"Wait Killua, Gon. There's something I have to say-" Kallua's words got cut off as Gon and Killua excused themselves to rest quickly.
Well-well, looks like you won't have a chance to tell them.
"I will, tomorrow" Kallua said, a bit dejectedly.
Alas, Kallua can't find the right timing.
It has been three days.. you know, host?
"I always lost the timing, alright?" Kallua snap causing some people to look at him.
"Err… Sorry" Kallua apologized, causing some people to goes back in their own activity.
Three days has been passed with Killua, Gon and Kallua fighting. They keep winning easily and bedcome famous with strange title of their attacks : Killua's chop, Gon's push and Kallua's instant death (only a metaphor) as they has reached 100th floor.
"Yay! A private room!" Gon skip happily as she goes towards the bed "We won't have to worry about money and lodging anymore"
"I wouldn't be too sure about that. If you drop below the 100s, you have to check out of this room" Killua said, warning Gon not to be relax so quickly "A world of difference separates making it to the 100s and staying in the 100s. The 100th floor is like a ceiling."
"A ceiling?" Gon asked, not too understand the meaning.
"Once you pass it, you get special treatment. So everyone focuses on holding their spot. Some people will do anything it takes to stay in the 100s. You can waste a lot on them. Be careful Gon" Killua said.
"Uh-huh" Gon nodded.
Now, Kallua thought he could say it.
"Right, so. There's this thing that I wanted to say-" Kallua stopped.
"Alright, it's almost bed time for us kids. Gon, you are a girl so you need to sleep early to take care of your skin or something of girl habit like that. Let's go, Kallua" Killua said as he drag Kallua out.
"Oh, right. See you guys tomorrow" Gon said as she wave a goodbye.
`WWHHYYYYY~' Kallua can only wailed in inside.
Afterwards, Killua drag Kallua inside his room which of course puzzled him out.
"Killua, why did you drag me inside of your room?" Kallua asked, not understanding.
"Oi" Killua blush suddenly "Aren't you going to be nervous!?"
Kallua only getting more puzzled "Nervous at what?"
Killua slap his forehead at that "She is a girl! And we are in her bedroom. Aren't you going to feel something!?"
Kallua blinked "Happy that she finally will get some rest!?"
"That's-" Killua seems want to say more but decided to against it "Seems I can't call you my rival then"
"Rival?" Kallua asked in surprise.
Killua only sigh before sitting on the bed, he mention Kallua to sit beside him in which he does so.
"So, I have been meaning to ask you this for a very long time" Killua carefully craft his words "I hope that our friendship is not ruined because of this"
Kallua seems taken aback from that statement "Why would it be like that!? Of course our friendship is not going to change"
Killua look at Kallua in surprise before letting out a smirk "Guess it would depend on your answer"
"My answer?" Again, Kallua found himself puzzled by what Killua just said.
"So be honest with me" Killua put a serious face "What do you think about Gon?"
"Gon?" Kallua slightly tilt his head at that "She is a nice girl"
"Ah, yeah she is but-" Killua trailed off, unsure whether he should continue or not. A moments later, he spoke "Do you have feelings towards her?"
Kallua blinks then frown, unsure why this would ruin their friendship "Feelings like what?"
Killua can only slightly gape at that "Feelings like-you know" Killua scratch the back of his head "Love?"
"Oh, well I do love her" Kallua said casually, too casually.
Hearing that makes Killua frown, somehow his look turns heartbreaking.
Kallua begins to panic at his father condition.
"What the- Hey Killua. Did you eat anything weird or something!?" Kallua exclaims in panics, unsure what to do.
Host, you idiot! Your father is heartbroken because of you!
"What? Why!?" Kallua immediately answered and this time not through telepathy, that sure made Kallua confused a bit.
Killua slightly turn his head to look at Kallua "You are worried about me?"
"What are you talking about, of course I do!" Kallua said, with determination.
Killua starting to chuckle bitterly at that. He gives a sigh "I can't hate you, yet I feel so frustrated now"
"Did I do something wrong? If I did, I'm sorry" Kallua apologizes, he look like an abandoned little puppy.
Of course, looking at Kallua like that made Killua worry as well.
"Hey, I didn't mean to worry you or making you feel bad. You did nothing wrong, I'm just being sensitive" Killua said, hoping to cheer Kallua.
"Sensitive?" Kallua tries to process the information he gains from his conversation with Killua but again, he seems to be failed at it as he didn't know what to do "Why are you being sensitive?"
"Because you love her" Killua said in bitter tone "You would be a better match with Gon"
"Better match?" Kallua asked again, completely and utterly confused.
Host, your father meant you and your mother would make a great couple. How could you did not realizes it!?
"Couple?" Now Kallua understood. He may be blind about love and adult stuff but at least he knows now what are a kiss and a couple meant "Wait! You got it wrong!" Kallua said quickly, wanting to fix this mess.
"What?" Killua now turned his attention fully at Kallua.
"I did say I love her… but not in couple sense" Kallua trailed off "It's more like… platonic love"
"Platonic? You mean, you love her but just that, no desire to date her or something?" Killua's face seem a bit brighten at that.
"No, impossible!" Kallua strongly said so, after all, there is no way he would date his own mother.
"Wow…" Killua slightly laugh "Just.. wow"
Kallua gives a sigh of relief, knowing the misunderstanding is finally cleared.
"Sorry… so it's just misunderstand huh" Killua seems truly relieved "I don't think I can win against you, if you are my rival for her love"
"I don't think so" Kallua said "You are the only one she always thinks about ever since you disappeared after the last hunter exam, she even risk her life to come to see you"
"I guess, I have a chance?" Killua smile brightens at that "I hope that you will help me"
"Me?" Kallua points at himself.
"Yeah" Killua nodded "Will you?"
"Well, I'll try to help the best as I can" Kallua said, though he do hope he could be useful.
Afterwards, Killua tackled him into a hug.
"Thanks! You don't know how much that words means to me!" Killua said and gives a happy laugh.
Kallua frozen in place, he barely receives physical contact given his parents think he is too grown-up to do so but he really misses it.
`It's warm and nice'
"You really have to keep this a secret though!" Killua said in threat while Kallua chuckles a bit at that.
Kallua returns the hug then whisper "Sure, anything that makes you happy" which makes Killua's smile wider at that.
The next morning, the match for the three of them has started in which they advance easily and quickly. Even Killua knows know that he had no reason to worry about Gon after all.
"Wow, this is my first time to see many zeros and we don't need to worry" Gon said as she looks at her bank accounts deposited money "To think just a week ago, I was totally broke"
"I'm a little annoyed "Killua said casually.
"Huh?" Gon asked.
"Why?" Kallua continued.
"My first time here, it took me two months to reach floor 150. Meanwhile, you're breezing through" Killua said, truly frustrated a bit.
"But you were only six back then "Gon countered "And how old Kallua is when he is in The Heavens Arena?" Instantly Gon and Killua look at Kallua at that question.
"Oh, I saw Zushi's match earlier" Kallua said quickly, avoiding the topic.
"Oh right, I saw it too" Gon said, completely got in the flow that Kallua caused.
Killua knows Kallua is changing the topic again yet went along with it "I see it too, he is still in 50s"
"Speaking of which, I wonder if you are still hung up on the `Ren' that Zushi uses "Gon asked Killua.
"Eh? Ren" Kallua said then quickly remembered that he has to tell his parents about the 200th floor.
"Oh yeah, Kallua still didn't know yet. Well, we had no idea about it too" Gon said.
Killua gets an idea as he lift his finger index up "Maybe if we fight opponents higher up.."
Now Gon lifts her index finger too "Or wouldn't it be faster to just ask Zushi?"
"Good point" Kallua commented.
Killua then laugh and grip Gon's index finger for not thinking of that.
Then, they go to meet Zushi in 50th floor and ask about it.
"Ren is one of the four major principles. The four major principles for disciplining your mind and body. Fundamental to every martial art! You must know "Ten", learn "Zetsu" achieve "Ren" and reach "Hatsu"! This is all part of "Nen" training! That covers everything!" Zushi explained with teacher demeanor.
Kallua felt sorry for his parents as he completely understands it while Killua is having a sweatdrop and Gon has her brain overheat.
"Err, mind if you-" Kallua got cut off.
"I've no idea what you just said!" Killua scream in annoyance at Zushi's face.
"Alright Killua, just-" Kallua got cut off again.
"Zushi.." Wing suddenly shows up
`Is it me, or I have been cut off very often?' Killua thought as he realized that he did get cut off often.
"Are you sufficiently educated that you can teach others?" Wing said as he approach Zushi causing Zushi to nervously laugh.
"Gon-kun, Killua-kun, Kallua-kun. There's an old saying that if you learn something piecemeal, you'll end up knowing less than when you started" Wing said, seems implying them not to pry further.
"So a little knowledge is a dangerous thing? But I want to know right now. Because it's related to the secret behind my brother's power" Killua said seriously.
Seeing Killua's look made Wing turn serious too "Then, your brother is able to use Nen?"
"I need to know what Nen and Ren even mean! I'll agree to the full learning process rather than a quick explanation! And if you're willing to teach me, I won't try to figure it out myself" Killua said through determination causing Wing to look in Killua's eyes and show how truly determined and serious he is.
"I understand" Wing said as he look down, his glasses reflection lens covers his eyes "Come with me to my residence"
`This is good. They will finally learn nen' Kallua thought as he could heave a sigh of relief, knowing that his parents would be able to last longer in 200th floor.
With that all of them follow Wing to go to Wings direction where Zushi also stays to learn more about nen.
"Do I have all of your attention?" Wing said and begin his teaching "Nen means to burn your own soul"
"Wait.. What?" Kallua said it quickly, knowing it was not the teaching he expected.
"Kallua… shush" Gon mention Kallua to be quiet as she put her index finger in front of her lips.
"In other words, it tests your strength of will. And the four major principles are part of a training curriculum for strengthening your will" Wing said as he write some words on the whiteboard.
"Strengthening your will?" Gon asked.
Traning?" Killua showed not understanding look.
`This is definitely not wrong but it is not what I expected. Seems Wing wouldn't easily teach Mama and Papa' Kallua thought as once more, he has to back to square one. Telling his parents not to go to 200th floor as they are not ready for that.
"That's correct. Ten means to focus your soul to a single point, to increase awareness of your ego and goals. Zetsu means to express yourself in words. Ren means to temper that will. And Hatsu means to act upon that will" Wing said and point to each words, making Gon to read all the four major principles.
"Killua-kun, Zushi tempered his "refusal to lose", during his fight with you" Wing said making Killua to recall the memories of Zushi using Ren on him. Killua widen his eyes for a moment, seems to realize something. Kallua seems to get the idea why his father act like that.
"So, allow me to demonstrate Killua-kun" Wing called Killua to turn his attention at him.
"I think I'm going to kill you now" Wing said "Are you ready?"
"Yeah, sure" Killua said, not bothered with that threat that is not truly a threat for him "It's not happening"
"Then I'll take this step-by-step. First come Ten" Wing said as he bends down "I'll focus on my soul in single point. Zetsu, you can express yourself mentally or verbally" Wing smiles a bit "I will kill you"
Wing stated to let out his aura in which noticed by the group. Even Kallua impressed, his parents are not learning nen yet they are able to sense it. Even though he also like that but well, he now focus his attention on Wing.
Wings then letting out Ren, burst of aura that seems like a force that made them frozen. Kallua deliberately not using Ten to protect himself as Wing only focuses the Ren towards Killua, causing him to take less damage. The Ren ended as soon as Killua's retreat to the upper corner of the walls.
"That was Ren. If I temper my will enough, then I can act. Hatsu. If your will is strong enough, you can make your opponent back down, without moving a muscle. The concept of bluffing derives from this." Killua then jump off from the corner "Ren hardens that which is soft, and you lose the ability to correct an incorrect idea. Therefore, you should avoid using Ren until your soul has fully matured. Rightnow, you boys and girl with Zushi should be training your souls" Wing said calmly explaining while Kallua noted that his father is not buying any of it.
"Let's go, Gon, Kallua" Killua said as he is about to leave but stopped when Wing talks.
"If you wish to learn about Nen, you should focus on mastering Ten. If you master Ten, you will no longer feel the pressure of an opponent's will." Wing said.
Killua said nothing, only leaves making Kallua and Gon to follow him. Gon didn't forget to say thanks while Killua and Kallua only leaves.
"Wait up, Killua, Kallua" Gon exclaims as she tries to catch up.
"He was lying" Killua said as they are walking halfway to The Heavens Arena.
"He was lying?" Gon exclaims in surprise.
"Yeah. The explanation made perfect sense, and Wing is clearly very strong. But his story had holes" Killua said.
Hearing that made Kallua gives a slight smile, as he thought, his father notices it.
"Zushi's toughness. He kept getting up after I knocked him down. I was getting irritated, so I used all of my strength during my last attack" Killua said.
`Hmm, Karuze. You didn't mention that' Kallua ask Karuze through telepathy.
It's the same host, your father still won. I did tell you that your father wins by TKO.
"Willpower didn't keep him standing. He's hiding some other secret" Killua continued "Moreover, you notice it too right, Kallua?"
"Eh? Kallua?" Gon look at Kallua whom only blink in surprise.
"Your exclaims… isn't it implies that you notice the teaching are wrong?" Killua said.
Kallua can only nodded and muttered " Yeah"
Maybe this was his chance.
"There is something that I really want to tell you both" Kallua said quickly, didn't want to get interrupted again.
Now both Killua and Gon has their attention on him.
"Let's forfeit after the floor 190th" Kallua said that made both Killua and Gon widen their eyes.
"Why?" Gon asked.
"Both of you, are not ready for it" Kallua said, knowing he can't risk his parents are unprepared against nen users.
"Are you saying that we are not strong enough?" Killua looks darken.
"I didn't imply that. Listen!" Kallua hopes they would but they are not.
"Enough! Gon, let's go. We are definitely going to the top whether you like it or not!" Killua said quickly, he is already irritated by Wing and now even Kallua ridicules him and Gon!?
Both Killua and Gon quickly leaves while Kallua grit his teeth in despair.
Host, things are looking grim.
"I know, but I have to convince them. Whether they like it or not" Kallua said, hoping they would do as he says.
Things are not in his side, Killua and Gon are mostly ignoring Kallua now. It was worse for Kallua as slowly, they are now advancing towards the 190th floor. Kallua is now getting nervous as him along with Killua and Gon are announced to finally able to reach the 200th floor.
"Damn it! They left to 200th already!" Kallua said as he hurries up, he hopes that they didn't meet rookie crusher or something.
Kallua immediately gets into the elevator, anxiously waiting until he finally arrives and already feeling strong ren.
"This Ren.. Hisoka!?" that makes Kallua runs quickly until he sees both Killua and Gon are struggling to past Hisoka's Ren.
Instantly using Ten, Kallua runs up ahead of Killua and Gon "Hisoka! Stop it!"
"Oh? You are finally here" Hisoka licks his lips. "Such a fresh fruit"
"Stop your Ren this instant!" Kallua said and grab Hisoka, causing him to stop his Ren immediately.
Hisoka smiles "You pass. As I thought, you do know Nen. This would be interesting"
"Don't be ridiculous!" Kallua gives out a deadly glare "Do that again, I will kill you!"
Hisoka chuckles as Kallua let Hisoka go before looking at Killua and Gon "Are both of you alright?"
"Ye- yeah" Gon nodded.
"Nen.. Kallua, you know Nen!?" Killua asked in surprise, completely dumbfounded at that fact.
"Kallua-sama" The receptionist lady said suddenly "You need to register for a match right now. The receptionist is over there"
Hisoka smiles at that "You have to go, strawberry-chan"
Kallua can only cringe at that nickname Hisoka just gave. When did Hisoka came up with his future calling name!? Disgusting.
"Both of you have to retreat now. You two had no defense at all. Even Wing knows and come here" Kallua said which made Gon and Killua surprises to know that Wing had come.
Right in that moment, Wing steps out.
"Wing-san?" Gon asked in surprise.
"Kallua is right, the two of you are just like standing naked in blizzards, wondering why it's cold" Wing said "I will teach you the truth about Nen. So retreat for now"
"Hey, receptionist lady" Gon asked suddenly "What happens if we don't register for a fight today?"
"Gon-sama, you would have to start again, from the first floor. However, Killua-sama refused to register once before. So if he fails to register again, his commitment will be questioned and he will be banned from participating" The receptionist lady explained.
Killua look down before he asked "Hey, Wing-san, Kallua"
Both Wing and Kallua look at Killua.
"If we back down, will we be able to return in her, by midnight?" Killua asked as he is racing against time.
Kallua knows that his parents are special and there is a way to do that. Nevertheless, he needs to answer.
"That depends on you/ your ability" Wing and Kallua said.
As they retreat, Kallua follows as well as Killua ask him too. Making sure to help with teaching or the procedure is right. Kallua hasn't registered as well, even though Killua did say that he should register first before he came but Kallua insist that he will stay with them no matter what. As they goes back to Wing residence, Killua can't help but apologizing.
"Hey Kallua, I'm sorry" Killua said.
Kallua blinks "Seems you are often to say sorry for me"
"You are just trying to warn us right? That the place is full of nen users. I'm sorry that I just dismissed you, if I did listen to you, we might have time to learn more about nen. I'm sorry too, Gon. It's all because of me" Killua said, can't help but feel pathetic.
"it's fine, Killua. We should master it as soon as possible" Gon said, hoping to cheer Killua up.
"All both of you need to learn are Ten, then we can learn the rest afterwards" Kallua said.
Killua seems to realize something "Wait Kallua, since you learn Nen already, doesn't that makes you already go to the 200th floor?"
Kallua silently gulped as he scrambles for an excuse "No, I learn it afterwards I retreat the 190th floor"
"Ah, I see" Gon said.
"For now, just focus on learning Nen. We have to go before midnight after all" Kallua said.
Wing nodded "So I would explain, Nen refers to the ability to manipulate your aura, also known as life energy. Every person possesses a small amount of life energy. But in most cases, it's simply discharged"
"The ability to build up a shroud of life energy is known as Ten. You can make your body harder, and considerably slow the effects of aging. Then Zetsu, as you may guess, this nullifies your aura. It is effective for concealing your presence and recovering from extreme fatigue. Which brings us to Ren. A technique to create an especially strong aura" Kallua explained while Wing writes the symbol on the board.
"Your explanation are really good. You could be a good teacher" Wing said as he looks at Kallua whom only shrug.
It was then Wing letting out his Ten that is noticed by the group and Zushi.
"Can you feel that?" Wing asked.
"Yeah, I can feel the pressure" Killua said.
"But it doesn't feel dangerous" Gon adding.
"That's because I have no hostile intent" Wing said even though inside he is very impressed by both Killua and Gon senses. Perhaps it's because of how they've grown up. But their natural potential is also a major factor.
"If you have hostile intention. It should be like this "Kallua said and without any warning letting out slight aura killing intent that resembles Illumi in a flash, that certainly scares all of them suddenly.
"This feelings" Killua realizes it "So that was you! You are using your aura on me back at Zevile Island, don't you!?"
Kallua laugh awkwardly as he scratch the back of his head "Well, that was meant to be a prank, but I see that I have gone too much?" Kallua avert his gaze away from Killua's glare.
Wing cleared his throat causing all attention on him "Aura is an energy that comes from within humans. Which makes it very effective against other humans. For better or worse, if you attack a helpless person, with ill intent, you can use aura to kill"
"Only one thing can protect you from someone who uses Nen. You must also learn to use Nen. You must use Ten for defense. Block the other person's aura with your own" Kallua said, helping explaining.
"Otherwise" Wing started to put the palm of his hand against the wall and letting the aura out, successfully broke the wall. "Your body will be crushed"
"And now, we are going to start to help both of you to master Ten" Kallua said as he turned serious "Are both of you prepared?"
Both Killua and Gon are now turned towards each other, nodded and bowed towards Wing and Kallua "Osu~"
Silently, Kallua sweatdrop `Wait, did I just become their teacher!?'
Well, either way. It's already too late for him to turn back. He had agreed to help in teaching after all.