En is a pivotal skill in Nen combat, with mastery divided into two key aspects:
Range and Acuity
Balancing both is nearly impossible. Those who manage it are top-tier powerhouses.
Take Nobunaga of the Phantom Troupe, for example. His En—a circle with a four-meter diameter—is precision-focused. According to Nobunaga, anything entering his circle will be cut down immediately, regardless of its nature.
Others emphasize range over acuity. For instance:
Kite's circle spanned 45 meters. Zeno's circle extended beyond 300 meters. Neferpitou's circle reached several kilometers.
While their acuity wasn't highlighted, the sheer scope of their circles showcases a contrast in focus.
Nobunaga once stated that anyone maintaining a circle of 50 meters or more is a master.
"A circle has two main purposes," Kaizen mused.
"One, to detect enemies, like how Zeno tracked Chrollo in the building.
"Two, for defense.
"I need the latter more."
Kaizen had a clear direction: prioritize defense. Acuity wasn't essential for him—he had other ways to probe the enemy.
Next, there was Ken.
Ken reinforced one's aura to boost offense and defense, much like activating a high-energy buff in a game. However, it came with a downside: significant energy depletion, leaving the user vulnerable afterward.
"Hardness can wait until later," Kaizen decided. "For most Nen users, Ko—the advanced application of hardness—is a last resort. Either you win, or you die."
Kaizen paused, evaluating his approach. "But as an assassin, survival is everything. I'll learn it, even if it's only as a backup. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it."
He summarized his training:
En for defense. In for concealment. Ken for explosive power. Ko for lethal strikes.
Combined with Zoldyck assassination techniques, Raiken's combat skills, and his poisoned blades, Kaizen felt confident.
"Among others at my level, I might not dominate completely. But I'll never be considered weak."
Kaizen's standards, however, were high—far beyond the average Nen user.
He began thinking about his next steps. "Should I focus on creating more beasts or improving my body directly?"
For Kaizen, the choice was clear. Unlike others, his Nen Beasts were automatic and fixed in ability from the moment they manifested. They didn't require much ongoing training. This freed him to strengthen his physical body.
Figures like Bisky and Zepile came to mind. Bisky's Nen ability supported her training but relied on her physical strength in battle. Similarly, Zepile's combat was rooted in physical prowess.
"Then it's settled," Kaizen decided. "I'll focus on the flow of mind—enhancing my body while maintaining a steady pace of creating beasts. Overloading myself won't lead to success."
He recalled Hisoka's disdain for Nen users like Genthru, whose mismatched abilities stagnated their growth. Kaizen would avoid this pitfall.
That night, Kaizen slept soundly in the safety of Zoldyck Manor. For the first time in a long while, he didn't need to keep watch or rely on his beasts for protection. The manor was the safest place on the continent for him.
...
The next morning, Kaizen woke early, ate a quick breakfast, and headed to Maha's courtyard.
Gotoh greeted him at the door, his expression a mix of awe and pride.
"Master Kaizen," Gotoh said, stepping aside.
A year ago, Gotoh could have bested Kaizen in combat. But now? He couldn't even gauge Kaizen's strength. Despite this, Gotoh wasn't jealous. As a loyal member of the Zoldyck household, Kaizen's growth was a source of pride.
Inside, Maha Zoldyck sat cross-legged on a stone slab, his eyes sharp and focused.
"Let's begin," the great-grandfather said, his tone calm but commanding.
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