At long last, the awaited moment had come.
To prove that the many training methods had not been in vain!
To uphold the ideal of raising even greater disciples!
To achieve the ultimate modified evolution!
Kazama-ryu Main Dojo! I have returned!!
...
…Alright, let's stop thinking such stupid things. For some reason, right after that phrase, I imagined the main dojo being blown to smithereens.
Anyway.
Hmm… this is rather nostalgic. After being away for nearly fourteen years, it's only natural that feelings of homesickness would surface. After all, in my former life that spanned 132 years, I spent nearly a third of it here.
It hasn't changed much. The dojo is still built in the same Japon-style architecture as when I was here.
Though more than sixty years have passed since its construction, so it's grown a bit weathered. If you look closely, parts of the gate have been repaired with newer wood. It looks unchanged at first glance, yet there are subtle differences.
And somehow… that makes me a little sad.
"Whoa. So this is Kazama-ryu's main headquarters? It's pretty huge."
"Yeah, the gate looks really impressive. And the dojo building you can see further inside is big too."
"I've heard there are as many as a thousand disciples training here at once. The grounds must be enormous."
"A thousand?! That's amazing!"
Heh heh. Somehow, hearing that makes me feel like I'm the one being praised.
Go on, praise it more. I might start trembling with joy.
"Across all branches worldwide, there are apparently over a hundred thousand disciples now. They say there's no one in the martial arts world who doesn't know the name Kazama-ryu."
"Huh. With that many, I bet there are quite a few Nen users too."
Back in my time, we didn't have a hundred thousand disciples. I think it was around sixty thousand three hundred or so. Riina and the others must have worked hard to expand it even further.
That makes me happy.
"Most branch chiefs are Nen users. Naturally, you can't manage a branch without a certain level of strength."
"Of course, there should be Nen users here at the main dojo as well. The master instructors and their assistants, and anyone from Kazama-ryu who passes the Hunter Exam, are required to master Nen."
So much time has passed that I don't know how many Nen users there are now, but there's no way there are none.
"Well, let's head in already. We're training here, right?"
"Yes. We'll conduct sparring sessions in as close to real combat format as possible. Since it won't be life-or-death combat, we can't expect the same level of results, but it will still be valuable experience."
True combat, with real tension, would teach them far more than simulated matches… but that would be difficult. Once you know it's training, the tension inevitably lessens.
If possible, I'd like everyone to experience real combat against a Nen user at least once. I wonder if there's a good way to make that happen?
"Sparring, huh? Are they all as strong as you, Aisha?"
"Don't worry, Gon. If that were the case, every other martial art in the world would've been wiped out by now, and only Kazama-ryu would remain."
"Just how monstrous do you think I am?"
Lately, Biscuit's treatment of me has been rather harsh. I formally object.
"Hm. So even ordinary people are free to pass through this gate?"
"Yes. Reception is immediately to the right after entering. Anyone wishing to enroll—or even just observe—may enter the dojo grounds as long as they properly register at reception. Of course, pranksters or those with poor manners are promptly shown the door."
"You sure know a lot about this place, Aisha. You been here before?"
"…Yes. A very long time ago."
Oops. I explained a bit too much without thinking. But everyone already knows I practice Kazama-ryu, so it should be fine.
"Well then, shall we?"
"Yeah!!"
"So energetic. Ah, youth is wonderful~"
Biscuit, you might want to avoid saying such old-lady lines with that appearance.
"Welcome to Kazama-ryu Main Dojo. How may I—oh! Lady Krueger! Welcome! You weren't scheduled to visit today—how may we assist you?"
"Just a little something~ Is Riina around?"
"Yes. However, she is expecting an important guest today, so I would need to confirm whether she can see—"
"Oh, that's fine. This girl is that important guest."
It seems Biscuit is well remembered here. She must visit often—perhaps even more frequently than when I (Ryusho) was still alive.
I'm genuinely happy that Riina and Biscuit became close. Though the catalyst being my death is… complicated.
"And this young lady is…? May I ask your name?"
"My name is Aisha."
"Lady Aisha. My apologies. The Headmaster has instructed us to welcome you with the utmost courtesy. I will notify her at once—would you kindly wait in the guest room?"
"Of course."
I did inform Riina of my arrival today… but how exactly did she describe me?
…Actually, I can guess. Probably something like "the most important person" and "absolutely no mistakes allowed."
"Wow, this room's amazing. Is this Japon architecture too?"
"Yes. It's called a washitsu. The scent of grass filling the room, the paper sliding doors—it has a unique atmosphere. In Japon, they call this aesthetic wabi-sabi."
Wabi-sabi… one of Japon's core aesthetics.
Even in a different world, the air that resembles my homeland feels calming.
"Whoa, there's a garden too. It's pretty big. What's that 'clack-clack' sound?"
"Hm… could that be the shishi-odoshi?"
"You know about it, Kurapika?!"
"Yes. I once read about it. The shishi-odoshi is said to originate from a merchant who encountered a lion. In desperation, he struck an instrument he happened to be carrying, and the lion fled. Ever since, that sound was believed to ward off evil and misfortune. The device that recreates that sound is what we now call the shishi-odoshi."
What kind of nonsense document did he read? It wasn't a lion—it was deer. Originally, it was meant to scare off animals.
…Though, technically speaking, deer are sometimes called "shishi," so maybe it's not entirely wrong?
Probably just a misunderstanding that evolved over time.
"Oh~ I didn't know that."
"As expected of you, Kurapika. You really know a lot."
…Wait. This has become a situation where it's hard to correct him. Saying "Actually, that's wrong" now would feel awkward.
…Guess I'll stay quiet.
"But seriously, we're getting the full VIP treatment. What's going on?"
"It seems Lady Riina—the current Headmaster—holds Aisha in extremely high regard."
"Why would someone that important respect Aisha so much?"
"That… I do not know."
I told you not to overdo it, Riina! You're being too respectful. The way everyone's staring at me hurts. I don't even need to read their auras to know what they're thinking.
Biscuit… oh, she's pretending not to notice. Traitor.
Ah. Riina's presence is getting stronger. She's not running, but she's walking at quite a speed—almost like race-walking.
She's already outside the room.
"Excuse me for the wait."
Riina entered.
"Thank you for waiting. Lady Aisha, welcome.
And to all of you—welcome to the Kazama-ryu Aiki Jujutsu Main Dojo. I am Riina Rockbelt, the current Headmaster."
Oh, good! I was worried she might call me "Master." Seems that concern was unnecessary. She really has grown.
"Though it is only until September, I look forward to working with you."
"Rather than only until September… we would be honored if you stayed indefinitely."
"I'm afraid I have other obligations starting in September. But I appreciate the sentiment."
"I see… And these are the ones who have come to train?"
"Yes. From the left: Killua, Gon, and Kurapika. You've met Kurapika before."
"Yes. Killua, Gon—pleasure to meet you.
And Kurapika… I remember well the pervert who peeped at Lady Aisha's naked body."
"Oh yeah, I remember that."
Before Biscuit even finished speaking, Kurapika bolted like a rabbit—but Killua instantly stopped him.
Kurapika's reaction speed was impressive—but Killua's was even faster. Like lightning. Even Riina and Biscuit looked stunned.
…Did I just see electricity flicker across Killua's body?
"Where do you think you're going?"
"L-let go, Killua! This is a misunderstanding!"
"Yeah? Pretty sure you meant 'talk it out,' not 'let go.' Not happening."
"It's a trap! A trap set by Lady Riina to frame me!"
"I'll decide after hearing the details. Might even tell Leorio."
"Not him! If he finds out, my dignity is finished!"
I'd like to question everyone's perception of Leorio for about an hour.
"Aisha, did Kurapika really peek at you?"
"Well… it wasn't intentional. There were extenuating circumstances. And I don't mind. It's in the past."
Riina's expression screamed "just as planned." She hadn't lied—but she definitely said it to corner him.
"Sigh…"
"Killua, Kurapika did not intentionally peek at me."
"Oh. Aisha, please explain."
Just as I was about to clarify, Riina delivered the finishing blow.
"That's correct. He did not knock nor seek permission before entering the room of a young maiden, and merely stared for several seconds at Lady Aisha, who happened to be completely naked while changing.
Since he did not know she was changing, it was not deliberate. I apologize for calling you a molester, Kurapika."
"Guilty."
"That's not—! Well, it's not entirely wrong, but that was heavily dramatized!"
"You shouldn't enter a girl's room without permission, Kurapika."
"Gon too?! Have I truly lost all allies?"
What is this chaos?
Kurapika was physically and mentally cornered by Killua, Gon, and Riina alike.
Yet—
"Alright, that's enough, Riina. Kurapika really didn't mean it. He entered because he was worried about Aisha. It was just a misunderstanding. Since Aisha herself has forgiven him, there's no need to press further."
"...You're right. Kurapika, I formally apologize. I spoke in a way that tarnished your honor."
"I see… Thank you. I should also apologize for entering without knocking. To Aisha and to Lady Riina—truly, I'm sorry."
"I already said it's fine."
"For my own peace of mind, I must. And Biscuit—thank you for defending me."
"It's nothing. Don't worry about it."
◆
"Don't worry about it," she says. Honestly, Biscuit has some nerve saying that.
I understand perfectly. This is the true trap.
She took advantage of that "molester's" completely isolated situation. She didn't say a word while the so-called "disciple wannabe" was being cornered by everyone—no, she even supplemented the very remarks that started it all. And only after the "teacher thief" had been thoroughly driven into a corner did she extend a hand of salvation.
The result? The "lowly" Biscuit's favorability rises.
As expected of Biscuit. Thorough and calculating.
From my perspective, it's actually convenient if Biscuit and that "effeminate man" end up in a relationship. If that happens, Sensei will finally be free—and those blissful training days with just the two of us can begin anew.
If she truly manages to form a relationship with him, I suppose I can start looking at her without prejudice.
From what I've heard, he's quite the catch. As long as he keeps his hands off Sensei, I have no complaints.
So I don't mind assisting Biscuit a little. Just like earlier—when she offered salvation to that "industrial waste," I followed her eye signal and played along.
However…
If he continues to cling to Sensei, that's another matter entirely.
This training camp could be considered an opportunity. I shall use this chance to make the "hearth-dweller's" thinking change.
To begin with, I'll thoroughly break him under the pretense of training.
Heh heh… I wonder how long he'll last. If he endures three days, I'll even praise him.
"Well then, standing around talking won't accomplish much. You've all come here to train."
"Right. Could you show us around?"
"Of course. This way."
Ah… to walk through this dojo once more while conversing with Sensei like this! It's like a dream! It seems I made the right choice in cutting short my branch inspections to return early.
"Aisha-san, how is your health?"
"I'm perfectly fine."
"I see. Please tell me immediately if anything feels wrong."
Please… never leave again without saying anything.
If Sensei were to die again, I would die before her. Even if I had to generate Nen after death, I would protect her.
"Aisha-san, are you hungry?"
"No, I've already had lunch."
"I see. Then we shall prepare dinner here. Tonight, we are planning a kaiseki meal."
Sensei preferred Japon cuisine, so I arranged for the finest kaiseki.
Fresh seafood—especially sashimi, which she loved—has been prepared, of course. With soy sauce and wasabi as well. I used to be unable to eat raw fish, but since it was Sensei's favorite, I tried it. Now it's one of my favorites too.
Ideally, I would also prepare Japon sake… but as Sensei is currently underage, that would be inappropriate.
"Aisha-san, are you thirsty? We have high-quality tea leaves."
"I'm fine for now."
"Understood. Then I shall prepare tea later. We also have fine sweets—hopefully they suit your taste."
Tea ceremony as well… Since it's a cultural practice from Japon, Sensei's homeland, I couldn't help but learn it myself. Now that I finally have the opportunity to serve her tea, I have no regrets.
"Aisha-san, the sun is strong today. If you plan to go outside, please use this parasol."
"N-no, that's not necessary. My skin doesn't burn easily."
"We must not let your marble-like beautiful white skin be damaged. Ah, and if you stroll through the garden, please allow me to accompany you."
"(Hey… is she really the most important person in this dojo?)"
"(Unfortunately, yes. Very unfortunately.)"
"(I heard the Head of Kazama-ryu is a very dignified person…)"
"(She's really fussing over Aisha a lot.)"
"(She's not usually like this… She only gets like this around Aisha…)"
"(Between Shion and Riina, are all Kazama-ryu people like this?)"
"(I want to deny it, but when the top is like this… I can't say anything.)"
There's some background noise during my blissful conversation with Sensei, but I'll overlook it.
Compared to the supreme joy of being by her side, even the destruction of the world would be trivial. Such minor noise deserves mercy.
"Now then, everyone. This is one of our training halls. There are several more, both large and small, but this is the main one. All main-branch disciples gather here each morning to begin their training day."
Since we're giving a tour, I may as well explain the facilities for the others. Sensei already knows everything, of course.
Inside, disciples are diligently training. Good. They haven't grown lax in my absence.
"Good work, Headmaster!"
"Good work. Please focus on your training and do not mind us."
"Yes!!"
"Wow… with this many people, the energy's intense."
"Yeah. It's impressive… Are we being watched?"
"Of course you are. It's rare for Headmaster Riina to personally give a tour. Not attracting attention would be stranger."
Indeed. Even while training, some are stealing glances at us. And if I listen closely…
—Who are they? Why is the Headmaster personally guiding them?
—That's Lady Krueger. Are the others her acquaintances?
—Focus on training! If Lady Riina notices, you know what'll happen. It won't end with just a scolding.
—That'd be a reward.
—A hero has appeared. I want Biscuit-tan to scold me. Not get angry—scold.
—Who's that cute girl? I want to know her name. I hope she's enrolling.
—Was that a lolicon just now?
—More importantly, I want udon.
—Kids? New recruits? Maybe children of some powerful figure?
—So cool… who is that?
—Handsome guys should die.
…Some of them are saying incomprehensible things.
I told them to focus on training, and this is the result? It seems I was mistaken in thinking they weren't slacking.
Perhaps they need a little discipline.
"It appears your focus has waned. Sparring in such a state would only result in needless injuries. For the remainder of today, you will run laps around the dojo grounds!"
"Yes! We're sorry!"
They immediately dispersed for running. Now the training hall is empty except for us.
More of them had actually been training seriously, but today we'll call it collective responsibility.
"Hey, now there's no one left. What about our training? Digging holes again? Or Ren?"
"Rest assured. Your training ground is not here. It lies beyond."
"Beyond? Those guys weren't our sparring partners?"
"Of course not. You wish to spar against Nen users, do you not? The existence of Nen is not something to be casually disclosed. The same applies even within Kazama-ryu. Unless one is deemed worthy of wielding such power, its existence remains concealed.
In other words, the training ground for Nen users is separate and hidden. Surely that much is obvious if you use your head. How dull of you."
"S-sorry…"
Hmph. Is that all this "peeping Tom" amounts to? Has he forgotten how to use his brain?
"You're really harsh on Kurapika…"
"One should think before asking others. Try using what little brain you have."
Apparently, it's not only this "brainless one" who receives instruction from Sensei—Gon and Killua do as well. But the root cause is this "incompetent."
Had this "pervert" not sought apprenticeship under Sensei, none of this would have happened.
To begin with, the fact that a man saw Sensei's naked body and continues to live without punishment is already a problem.
Therefore, this is merely his punishment.
It is not personal resentment.
Absolutely not.
"Now then, this way."
"The Nen users' training ground is beyond this door?"
"Yes. You're Gon, correct? Try opening it."
"O-okay. Hnnng—! Huh? It won't open! Grrr…! No good—it won't budge!"
"Maybe you're not supposed to push?"
"But there's no handle or anything… Ah! Maybe—"
At that moment, Gon used Ten and pushed again.
Oh? He noticed.
Perhaps he's encountered something similar before. With Sensei present, he likely learned it from her.
"Alright! It opened!"
"So it only opens for Nen users. That would indeed keep it hidden from ordinary disciples."
"Even entering this room requires permission. Naturally, you will not speak of this to others."
Other disciples likely assume only those acknowledged here are taught the ultimate techniques. That's not entirely wrong.
Though even if we teach Nen, we do not teach the deepest core of Kazama-ryu.
That is reserved only for those judged truly worthy of inheriting it.
There are a few candidates. Even Shion, the foremost among them, has yet to reach that level. There are those with greater technical skill than her, but they lack her talent.
If only she had the right catalyst, she would grow tremendously…
Perhaps I should have Wing light a fire under her.
"Well then, let us proceed."
From here on, it will be your hell, "scum."
Heh heh heh.
◆
"Seah! Hah! Shh—f!"
"Ku—tch! Still… too soft!!"
Kenmi strikes to break my posture, then shifts his body movement and transitions into a jū (aiki throw).
His strikes are properly infused with aura—if I take them lightly, I won't get off unscathed.
He's an Enhancer, after all. Even though he's got three fewer years of Nen experience than me, his ratio of offense and defense power far surpasses mine as a Specialist. I have to respond properly.
And he reads that response, flowing straight into a jū. Not bad—he's combining Nen and Aiki Jujutsu pretty well.
But he's still rough around the edges.
When he transitions into the throw, there's a mismatch between his aura and his physical body.
I exploit that gap and counter with my own jū.
Kenmi is sent flying and slammed into the ground. I bring my heel down toward his face, packed with aura—stopping just short.
No way I'm committing murder here.
"I—I yield!"
"Yeah. Well, you've grown quite a bit. But you've still got a ways to go. When you shift into a jū, you've gotta smooth out the aura flow. Right now your core collapses and your timing gets sloppy. That's why you got reversed so easily.
Move your aura's offensive and defensive distribution along with the motion of the throw. That part—you'll just have to drill it into your body through repetition. Keep at it. You can do it."
"Yes! Thank you for the guidance, Tonpa-san!!"
I wave him off casually.
Seeing juniors improve—that's a senior's joy.
"Hahaha. Quite the instructor now, aren't you? Hard to imagine from you seven years ago, Tonpa."
"Hey, cut it out, Land. I've got an image to maintain."
The guy cracking jokes at me is Land. We entered Kazama-ryu together and have trained side by side ever since.
He became a Pro Hunter a year before me, and he's a step or two ahead in Nen as well.
Bright, straightforward personality. Hard to hate him. Even treats an old guy like me as a buddy.
"Kenmi. You're with me next. After some sparring, we'll do Ren and call it a day. I say this every day, but don't neglect Ten and Ren."
"Yes, Rudol-shihan-dai! Understood!"
Kenmi's up against old man Rudol next? That's rough.
Rudol's easily one of the top three fighters in the main dojo. No way I could handle him. Oldest guy here, and tireless when it comes to mentoring the juniors. Even Headmaster Riina trusts him deeply.
Kenmi doesn't stand a chance—but that's expected. He's the newest one here.
"Tonpa! You're with me next. No rest for you!"
"Aida, huh? No Hatsu, okay?"
"Yeah, yeah. Let's go!"
Aida. Acts more like a guy than most guys.
If she uses her Hatsu, I'm done for. My ability isn't suited for combat.
"Ha! Got an opening!"
"Not yet!"
Sparring with her is brutal. She mixes in tons of strikes. No surprise—she trained in Shingen-ryu too. Every time I spar her, I end up covered in bruises.
"Yes! That's a point!"
"Not quite," Saizo cuts in. "Tonpa used Gyo to cushion the fall. That ain't a clean point."
"Tch! Harsh judgment, Saizo."
"I'm the ref. A 'point' means you finished 'em. That wouldn't have done it. Slack off and you'll get countered."
"Exactly—!"
Just as Saizo said, I counter immediately and transition into a ground hold.
Sharp eyes as always. He didn't miss that I used Gyo to brace the throw.
Still… what's with that Kansai dialect? I get it if he's speaking Japon, but this is common language. No need to translate yourself into dialect.
Whatever. Focus.
I'm at a disadvantage standing, but getting her into a choke is lucky. Breaking this would require a massive skill gap—and we're not that far apart.
This is my win. Better tap before you black out.
"Ugh… gah—!"
"Hey! Hatsu's banned—GYAAAH!"
"Haah… haah… saw that? I win!"
"Idiot! In a real fight, sure—but this is a mock match! Who fires that many Nen bullets in training!? Tonpa, you alive!?"
"Does it look like it!? I'm a human rag!"
"Talkin' that much means you're fine. Still… you're pretty beat up. Hey, Mizuha—check him out."
"Yes! T-Tonpa-san, are you okay?"
A goddess descends.
Without Mizuha, I'd've died a thousand times.
"Oh my… you're hurt so badly… I'll heal you."
"Please… ahh, that feels good."
Mizuha's an Enhancer, but she uses her ability for healing. Rare in this world.
Most Nen users create abilities to strengthen themselves. But Mizuha, probably because she's naturally kind, developed an ability to heal others.
Thanks to her, serious injuries here have dropped drastically. We owe her everything.
"Honestly, Aida! That was too much! Tonpa-san almost died!"
"S-sorry! But he wouldn't die from that, right? He survived Headmaster Riina's training!"
"That doesn't make it okay! Tonight you lose a side dish!"
"No! Please, Mizuha!"
"If you're apologizing, do it to Tonpa-san!"
Mizuha can also transmute her aura into a special seasoning that enhances the effects of food. Combined with her cooking skills, she's got everyone's stomach—and life—in her hands.
No one here seriously angers her.
"Sorry, Tonpa… but Mizuha's kinda soft on you, huh?"
"W-What!? That's not true!"
"You're stuttering."
"I-I just… Tonpa-san is…"
"I get it. Don't make her say awkward stuff, Aida. Falling for an old guy like me? Impossible, right?"
Mizuha's just kind. She probably doesn't want to hurt my feelings.
"T-That's not true! Tonpa-san is wonderful!"
"Haha. Even as flattery, I'll take it. I'm good now. Thanks, Mizuha."
"I-It was nothing!"
She's adorable.
Pierre steps up.
"Mizuha-san! Could I get treatment too?"
"Um… Pierre-san? That's just a scratch. No need. And relying too much on Nen healing can weaken natural recovery."
"I-I see… Tonpaaa! Spar with me!!"
"Why does it lead to that!? I'm resting!"
Pierre being laser-focused on Mizuha is common knowledge. Except to Mizuha herself.
How does she not notice?
"No, Pierre-san! Tonpa-san just finished treatment. He's exhausted. I'll spar with you instead. Don't hurt him!"
"W-What!?"
She steps in front of me, glaring at Pierre with teary eyes.
Devastatingly effective.
Pierre's fighting spirit plummets.
"Y-you remember this, Tonpa! Mizuha-san doesn't belong with an old man like you! I'll settle this someday!"
He storms off.
What was that about?
Still… lucky. I'm drained. Mizuha's healing ability consumes the patient's stamina as a condition.
She can bypass that by using her own stamina instead—but that's a last resort.
"P-Please rest, Tonpa-san. I'll prepare something nourishing for dinner…"
"Thanks."
I ruffle her hair.
Maybe rude to a young woman—but she seems to like it.
"Fufu…"
"I don't get his tastes…" Saizo mutters.
"Huh? Say something?"
"Nah. Just thinkin' Pierre's pitiful. Maybe he should change the last letter of his name."
What's that supposed to mean?
"Anyway," Saizo continues, "your finish was sloppy too. Against a Nen user, if you get a choke, you drop 'em fast. Otherwise, expect a counter."
"…Yeah. You're right."
He's right. Real fights have no rules. Even in a choke, there are countless escape methods.
Aida's counter was perfectly valid in real combat.
If you're gonna choke someone—finish it.
Well. Training's mostly done. Time to reflect and work on Ten and Ren.
Skip that, and you'll never become a proper Nen user.
After that—eat, bathe, rest. Chat with the others staying here. Then sleep well for tomorrow.
Yeah.
Looks like today's another good day.
...
...
.
Wha— no, that's not it! Why am I feeling satisfied after having such a fulfilling day!?
Get a grip, Tonpa! What's your goal!? Is it to become a respectable Nen user here? That's not it, right!? Your goal is to see the hopeful faces of rookie applicants—those aiming to become Pro Hunters for their dreams and ambitions—twisted into despair, isn't it!?
This isn't the time to live a wholesome life and devote yourself to training!! Why the hell are you trying to walk a proper path!?
Damn it! I've been cooped up here so long my mind's been poisoned! That was close. I almost got brainwashed. What kind of place is Kazama-ryu!?
But what now? I've come back to my senses, sure—but escaping from here is nearly impossible. If it were easy, I wouldn't still be here.
During the day, I'm always with these guys, so slipping away is impossible. Especially with old man Rudol living here, and having been asked by Rina-sensei to keep an eye on me. Fooling him is extremely difficult.
Sneaking out at night won't work either. My room is rigged with various sensors, and at a certain time each night they activate automatically.
Once triggered, a signal is immediately sent to Rudol's phone. Thanks to that system, I've suffered hundreds of painful consequences.
Of course, Rudol isn't here year-round. He goes out sometimes. But even then, it's not an opportunity. Because he's a Manipulator—and the type that controls people, not objects.
His ability binds part of the target's actions. It doesn't manipulate deadly movements or consciousness, so the restrictions are relatively light and easy to apply.
And whenever Rudol leaves the dojo, he always uses that ability on me.
The one action he binds?
My attempt to leave the dojo.
That alone completely seals my fate. I'm stuck.
Fortunately, he doesn't use it constantly. When he's in the dojo, he doesn't activate it on me.
Which means the only time I can attempt escape is when Rudol is here.
But during the day it's impossible, and at night there's no way to bypass the sensors.
I'm cornered.
No—don't give up, me! If I give up here, it's over!
…Though maybe it already is.
After all, because I broke the vow of my Nen ability, "Absolute Ruler of the Miniature Garden," I've completely lost the will to become an examiner for three years.
I want to see the despair on the rookies' faces.
But to do that, I have to become an examiner.
And I physically can't feel motivated to do that for three years.
Damn it!! If only Rina-sensei hadn't found out back then, I could've handled everything!
This is all that cursed bad-luck magnet Aisha's fault! If she hadn't taken the Hunter Exam, none of this would've happened!!
…Calm down. There's no point complaining now. I should think constructively—about how to escape. How to see the rookies' despair.
If I can't be an examiner, then what…
Disguise myself and take the exam again?
No good. If I get caught, I might lose my Pro Hunter license.
…Wait. Would that really be a problem?
No—calm down. There's no guarantee someone who loses their license can retake the exam. I need to investigate that first. If I lose it carelessly, I might never even be able to become an examiner.
First things first—I can't do anything unless I escape.
—Defeat everyone here and escape by force.
Impossible. If I could do that, I wouldn't be struggling. The only one I can reliably beat is Kenmi. The others are at best fifty-fifty. As for old man Rudol, I don't stand a chance.
And this Nen training ground is divided into multiple squads. Even if I defeated this squad, the others would interfere. Even if it were possible, it would require enormous effort and time.
—Develop a new Nen ability to escape.
…Unlikely.
My capacity is already full with my current ability. I could increase it through training or reduce usage to create spare capacity—but either way it would take time.
And what kind of ability would I even create? Teleportation? Flight? Impossible—Emission is too far from my affinity.
Manipulation to control someone… maybe possible. But if discovered, I might be killed. Rejected.
Enhancement or Transmutation? Nothing useful comes to mind—and again, too far from my specialty.
Conjuration… depending on the properties granted to the object, maybe. I'll put that on hold.
—Earn their trust and gain freedom of movement.
Not entirely impossible.
But I already had freedom once—and got punished for it. I've got a record now. Earning trust again would take time.
In the end, every method takes too long.
Isn't there some better way…?
It was while I was pondering escape plans that the training hall doors opened and someone entered.
"Message!! Rina-sensei has ordered everyone to assemble in the main hall. Move!"
"Understood!"
The main hall?
A mock battle? Squad team matches? Maybe even a large-scale battle royale?
Whatever it is, it's a hassle.
But no one here would dare defy Rina-sensei. And I can't either.
Fine. I can't afford suspicion right now if I want to escape. I'll behave obediently for a while.
"Mock battle!? Alright! Today I'll win and get personal training from Lady Rina!"
"That's not necessarily decided."
"Huh? Then what is it, Land?"
"Hmm… A surprise match does seem possible."
"See!?"
"This morning, Rina-sensei said special guests would be coming. Perhaps that's it?"
"That must be it, Mizuha! As expected of you!"
"Hang in there. Don't lose."
"Why are you encouraging me, Saizo?"
"If you don't understand, that's for your own good."
"Even you, Rudol… I don't get it."
"Whatever it is, I hope it's not a mock battle. I've got no stamina left."
"If it's Rina-sama, participation will be mandatory…"
"Kenmi's right. She'll just say, 'There is no enemy who will wait because your stamina is low.'"
"Your imitation is terrifyingly accurate, Saizo."
Chatting idly, Rudol's squad arrived at the main hall.
Other squads were already gathered. We were among the last.
After about five minutes of waiting in silence, the front doors slowly opened.
As expected, Rina-sensei entered.
And behind her—
"Geh!? Aisha!!"
The moment I shouted, I shrank in terror.
Rina-sensei was staring at me.
She was smiling.
Her eyes were not.
…I might actually die.
"Thank you for waiting. Today, I would like to introduce some people."
Several stepped forward.
Besides Aisha, I recognized them. They were from this year's Hunter Exam. All but the one named Killua had passed and become Pro Hunters.
Why are they here?
Even if they're learning Nen from Kazama-ryu, outsiders have never been allowed this deep into the main dojo. If they were to be taught, it would've been elsewhere.
" They are here to gain combat experience in Nen. Normally, only members of our school and authorized Shingen-ryu practitioners may enter, but like Castro, they are an exception. Please introduce yourselves."
"I'm Aisha. Nice to meet you."
"I am Kurapika. You may have your thoughts about us, but I look forward to working with you."
"I'm Gon… I mean, I am. Nice to meet you!"
"Killua. Nice to meet you."
"You will spar with them. There is no need to hold back. They are Nen users. However, whether or not to use your abilities is up to you."
Fair enough. Even within the same school, plenty keep their abilities secret. I do too. Only Rina-sensei knows mine.
"First, to let everyone gauge their strength, we'll have one-on-one matches. Observe carefully."
"Yes!"
"Then… Goki— I mean, Kurapika-san. You first."
"Something other than my name just came out of your mouth—"
"Our side will be… Tonpa-san. Step forward."
"Eh!? Uh—"
Me!? This is definitely because of that earlier outburst!
"Is something wrong, Tonpa-san?"
"Actually, I'm not feeling well—"
(If you defeat that cockroach, I will forgive your earlier insult. And consider your path to freedom shortened.)
"Alright! I'm your opponent, Kurapika! Come at me!"
My motivation skyrocketed.
There's no way I can lose!
He's only known Nen for less than half a year, right!? There's no way I'd lose to someone like that!
Actually, I have to win. If I lose, I might suffer something worse than death.
I'll win! Stamina doesn't matter!
"Begin!"
"Haa!"
I muster the last of my aura and unleash Ren at full power!
It feels stronger than ever. My body's at its limit, but my spirit surpasses my flesh.
I can do this! I'm stronger than I've ever been!
"Fuh."
…Huh?
Kurapika?
What is that Ren?
You haven't even been learning Nen for half a year, right!?
It's clearly more than double mine!!
What the hell is this!?
Damn it! He must've known Nen before the Hunter Exam and hidden his strength—!?
Stunned by his overwhelming aura, I froze.
From Kurapika's perspective, I must've been wide open.
In an instant, his chain wrapped around me, pulled me in, and struck me with a powerful blow that sent me crashing to the ground.
The last thing I remember before losing consciousness…
…was Rina-sensei looking at me the way one looks at a pig being led to slaughter.
Too bad!
My adventure ends here.
=================
The original characters introduced this time will probably not appear again in the future. They're just one-shot characters, so please keep that in mind.
In Kazama-ryu, to thoroughly learn combat styles and offensive/defensive balance for each Nen category, squad divisions are arranged so that natural affinities are spread out as much as possible.
Below is a rough introduction of the original characters:
Rudol Hoffman (62) – Male – Manipulator
The instructor of Tonpa's squad. His strength ranks among the top three within the main dojo. He is an assistant master and currently considered the leading candidate to succeed as head of the main dojo. In the past, he was defeated by Ryusho and transferred into Kazama-ryu.
He is thoughtful, takes good care of juniors, and is trusted by both Headmaster Rina and fellow members. Because of this, he is assigned to train a squad composed mostly of younger members.
He uses his ability to prevent Tonpa from escaping.
Secretly, he is in love with Rina. Though he knows it's an unrequited love, he has remained single.
Land Greiner (21) – Male – Enhancer
A young man who entered Kazama-ryu at the same time as Tonpa. Cheerful and straightforward, he does not judge people by appearances. He once fell for a beautiful woman and paid dearly for it.
He joined Kazama-ryu to forget painful experiences, and perhaps because of that, he voluntarily subjected himself to training as harsh as what Tonpa endured.
Despite the age difference, he considers Tonpa a friend, as they went through hell together.
Aida (19) – Female – Emitter
An orphan raised in the slums, which explains her rough manner of speaking. She survived through pickpocketing—but foolishly targeted Rina and Biscuit while they were shopping.
At Rina's suggestion, she was forcibly enrolled into both Kazama-ryu and Shingen-ryu for rehabilitation. She used to go back and forth between the two schools, but now focuses solely on Kazama-ryu.
She enjoys her current life—having warm meals and a place to sleep. She's grateful to Rina for taking her in and admires her strength.
She specializes in firing large numbers of Nen bullets. According to her, "If you shoot enough, something'll hit."
Saizo (25) – Male – Transmuter
From Japon. He deliberately speaks the common language using a dialect-style accent from a region in Japon, making him somewhat eccentric. However, his skill is high—he has even forced draws against Rudol several times.
Good-natured and quick-witted, he can handle both jokes and straight-man retorts, making him a valuable member of Rudol's squad.
He is actually a former member of a ninja assassination group from Japon—a so-called rogue ninja. Why he is in Kazama-ryu remains unknown.
If anything goes, he is the strongest member of the squad.
His real name is Saizo Kirigakure.
Mizuha Troia (18) – Female – Enhancer
The emotional and physical healer of Rudol's squad. Naturally gentle and disliking conflict, her parents worried about her personality and enrolled her in Kazama-ryu under the pretense of learning self-defense.
Using Enhancement, she created a healing ability to restore others. She is also skilled at cooking, and by transmuting aura into special seasonings and mixing them into food, she can enhance the effects of ingredients.
Because of her ability, she belongs to Rudol's squad but is often called to assist other squads as well. She achieved three consecutive wins as the "Most Desired Wife/Girlfriend" within Kazama-ryu.
Though she thinks she hides it well, she has a strong older-man/father complex—and Tonpa is exactly her type.
Pierre Carpenter (22) – Male – Conjurer
A self-proclaimed genius—and acknowledged as such by others. Though his mentality was once considered questionable, he managed to reach the stage of learning Nen at Kazama-ryu in just one year.
Before learning Nen, his arrogance was completely shattered by Rina. Since then, he is extremely uncomfortable around her.
After being healed by Mizuha while he was badly injured, he fell in love at first sight. He deeply dislikes Tonpa, whom Mizuha fusses over attentively.
_______________________________________________
Read 10+ chapters on Patreon (patreon.com/rinnaisera) to support us.
The next chapter link is in the comments.