"Then I'll leave it to you. In a few days, Silva will take Killua with him on a mission."
"Grandpa Zeno is being polite."
Kaizen returned to his quarters and started packing.
When it came to aura techniques, Maha had already taught Kaizen most of the fundamentals. The training wasn't limited to Zoldyck Manor and could be practiced anywhere.
Maha had retreated into a semi-secluded state, so heading to Heavens Arena wouldn't disrupt his training. Besides, Kaizen could also use the opportunity to teach Shizuku some techniques.
"Master Kaizen, I've prepared everything you'll need."
"Thanks, Shinji."
"Master, you're too kind."
Kaizen hoisted a suitcase and slung a backpack over his shoulder.
"By the way, Shinji, do you remember anything about Meteor City?"
Shinji shook his head. "No, I don't."
"The last time I went to Meteor City, I saw someone who looked remarkably like you. I'm not sure if it's connected, but his name was....."
"...Nobunaga," Kaizen added.
Shinji's pupils shrank for a moment but quickly dimmed again.
"Master Kaizen, family ties mean nothing in Meteor City. I'm a member of the Zoldyck household now, the people there have no connection to me."
"Fair enough. But if you're ever curious, you could look into it yourself. He seems to hold some influence in Meteor City—not an ordinary guy."
With that, Kaizen left the courtyard.
Shinji watched his retreating figure for a long time before someone approached him.
"#4…"
Sangris stepped beside him.
"Sangris."
Sangris sighed. "Some people are just on a different level... Master Kaizen's talent is truly terrifying."
He mistook Shinji's distraction as marveling at Kaizen's abilities.
Kaizen descended the mountain, where two figures waited at the midpoint of the trail.
One was a tall, elegant woman radiating charm, dressed in intricate attire with a wide, rounded hat. The other was a small boy with delicate features, easily mistaken for a girl.
"Aunt Kikyo."
"Little Kalluto."
Kalluto eyed Kaizen curiously. "Cousin Kaizen."
Kikyo smiled. "Kaizen, thank you for helping with Killua. This is his first time traveling, and as his mother, I can't help but worry. Here, take this."
She handed him a small object.
"What's this?" Kaizen asked.
"I heard from your grandfather Zeno that you obtained a crystal feather bone. This pairs well with it and can amplify its effect."
Kaizen hesitated but accepted it. "Thank you, Aunt Kikyo."
"You're welcome," she said, handing him an envelope.
"This contains information about Killua. Take a look when you have time."
"Alright. Don't worry. I'll look after him."
"Thank you. Please take care of Killua."
"I will."
As Kaizen prepared to leave, he waved at Kalluto.
"Goodbye, Little Kalluto."
"Goodbye, Cousin Kaizen."
Kikyo and Kalluto watched him disappear into the distance. Kalluto glanced up at his mother.
"Mother, when can I go to Heavens Arena?"
"I don't know. That's up to your father."
"Okay."
The dynamics of the Zoldyck family might seem strange to outsiders. Maha rarely interacted with other members, spending most of his time in seclusion.
Illumi often worked alone on assassination missions. His focus had shifted to completing contracts rather than further honing his skills.
Zeno operated semi-retired, taking on jobs only when they interested him. Meanwhile, Silva was the family's primary operative, handling most of the work.
Kikyo stayed home, primarily overseeing Kalluto, while Milluki was absorbed in his tech pursuits. Alluka remained locked away.
Though the Zoldycks appeared distant, Kaizen had come to understand the unique bond they shared. While they handled resources, tasks, and money with professional detachment, they prioritized family when it mattered.
For instance, Zeno secretly protected Kaizen during his first visit to Heavens Arena, turning down several jobs without ever asking for compensation.
Similarly, Kikyo's gesture wasn't repayment—it was a way to help Kaizen grow stronger. Despite her quirks, she remained loyal to the family.
Elsewhere, Silva received a call.
"Father," Illumi's voice came through.
"Illumi, what is it?"
"I heard you're sending Killua to Heavens Arena for training."
"That's right."
"Shall I go?"
"No, I've already made arrangements."
"Understood."
Illumi hung up, a faint distraction in his eyes.
Among Silva's children, Killua occupied a unique place as the heir. Illumi, obsessed with shaping him into the perfect successor, wouldn't hesitate to stand against anyone to achieve his goal.
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