"Really?"
Lan Fei was slightly taken aback by the system's words.
He knew well that Nen was the dominant force in this world. Even though he had mastered the Eight Gates and devoured the Glint-Glint Fruit, there were still far too many monsters in this world. Nen users could unleash abilities that defied common sense. Even with unparalleled physical strength, he could still be easily outmatched by skilled Nen practitioners.
Not to mention the beasts lurking in the Dark Continent or the terrifyingly powerful Chimera Ants like Meruem.
"Yes. The system will randomly assign Nen abilities suited to the host's category."
The system's voice was calm and precise.
"That's great."
Lan Fei nodded. Nen was the true foundation of strength in this world. Even though he had external powers, he still needed to develop his Nen.
At that moment, the captain of the ship turned his attention toward Leorio, pushing the conversation forward.
"And you? Why do you want to be a Hunter?"
"I have only one reason. Money!"
Leorio didn't hesitate at all as he raised his arms excitedly.
"In this world, money can buy anything! A mansion, luxury cars, gourmet food… even women!"
Hearing Leorio's response, Kurapika narrowed his eyes.
"Mr. Leorio, you should remember… money can't buy character."
His words were calm, but they carried a deeper meaning.
"You bastard…!"
Leorio's face turned red with anger. He clenched his fists, ready to explode, but just as he was about to step forward—
"Enough."
Lan Fei's voice cut in sharply.
"Do you really want to get eliminated before we even reach the exam venue?"
Leorio paused, his anger momentarily subdued. He glanced at the captain, who had the power to disqualify them on a whim. The thought of being sent back before even taking the exam was enough to make him grit his teeth and hold back.
"Hmph!"
With a huff, he turned away, choosing to glaring daggers at Kurapika instead.
Kurapika, however, simply exhaled and kept his emotions in check. If it weren't for the risk of elimination, he wouldn't mind teaching Leorio a lesson on the deck.
One Hour Later – Port Dore
As the ship docked at Port Dore, the four candidates stepped off the vessel.
"Thank you, Captain!"
Gon, ever polite, gave a small bow.
Lan Fei stood beside him, quietly observing their surroundings. The port was bustling with life, filled with merchants, sailors, and passengers coming and going.
"You're welcome."
The captain took another puff from his pipe before exhaling a long stream of smoke.
"As someone who's been through this before, let me give you some advice…"
The four of them turned their attention back to him.
"There's a huge cedar tree on top of the mountain near this port. If you're looking for the exam venue, I suggest heading in that direction. It's the fastest route."
With that, the captain waved his hand, signaling their departure.
"Good luck to all of you."
"Thanks, Captain!!!"
Gon waved enthusiastically, while the others turned toward the lively crowd of the port.
"Wow! This place is way livelier than Whale Island!"
Gon's eyes sparkled as he took in the rows of food stalls, colorful banners, and the bustling marketplace.
"Lan Fei, look! There's so much food!"
Lan Fei sighed and patted his forehead.
"Gon, we're here for the Hunter Exam, not a vacation. Let's focus on finding the exam venue first."
As they walked further into the town, Leorio suddenly stopped in front of a large road map posted on a wooden signboard.
"Wait a second."
He squinted at the map, deep in thought.
"Something's not right… the exam venue is supposed to be in the Saba region. But the cedar tree the captain mentioned is in the opposite direction."
His expression darkened slightly.
"Could that old man have been lying to us?"
Gon scratched his head.
"But I heard him clearly. He said the cedar tree on the mountain top was the fastest route."
Lan Fei crossed his arms and smirked.
"Maybe this is another test before reaching the exam venue."
Kurapika nodded in agreement.
"I believe the captain was telling the truth. He has no reason to deceive us."
"Not only that, but he transports exam candidates every year. If anyone knows the best route, it would be him."
Leorio frowned.
"Are you guys even using your brains? There's a bus that goes straight to the Saba region! We could just take the bus!"
Lan Fei smirked again.
"You really think the Hunter Exam would be that easy? If all it took was riding a bus, anyone could pass."
Kurapika added, "The real exam venue won't be that easy to find. This is likely another obstacle we need to overcome."
Lan Fei turned toward the mountains and stretched.
"I say we follow the captain's advice. He's been doing this for years—he knows what he's talking about."
With that, he began walking toward the mountains.
"Hey! Wait for me!"
Gon quickly caught up, followed by Kurapika.
Leorio hesitated for a moment, frustration evident on his face.
"Ugh… you guys are insane!"
Realizing he was outnumbered, he let out a sigh of defeat and finally ran after them.
Meanwhile…
Unbeknownst to them, a mysterious figure hidden behind a stack of cargo had been listening to their conversation.
His lips curled into a smirk.
"So, the cedar tree, huh? Sounds like a good shortcut for me, too…"
With that, the shadowy figure silently followed Lan Fei and the others, his presence unnoticed.