Shizuku sat quietly, flipping through a book. She glanced up when Ronnel walked in, her expression unreadable but curious, blinking slowly at him.
Ronnel's heart softened seeing the two people who mattered most to him—Shizuku and Biscuit Krueger—gathered in the same room. A genuine smile spread across his face, rare and unguarded.
Without a word, Ronnel pulled out a small bag filled with gems, handed to him earlier by Menchi, and extended it to Bisky.
Bisky's eyes gleamed as if she'd anticipated this moment. Her grin widened as she began inspecting the contents.
"Oh! This is the deep ruby from King Gambiko's crown!"
"And this—" Bisky held up another gem—"the green diamond from the scepter!"
She continued rummaging, her enthusiasm contagious. Seeing her so pleased made Ronnel feel unexpectedly warm.
From the same bag, Ronnel withdrew several ornate necklaces and delicate jewelry pieces. He approached Shizuku and held them up.
"Do you like these?"
Without waiting for a reply, he gently placed the jewelry on her—one by one: earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets. As the gemstones shimmered against her, Shizuku's understated beauty seemed to bloom even more.
"Yes," she said flatly, though the glint in her eye betrayed her happiness.
"Good." Ronnel smiled, satisfied. "I'm glad you like them."
After Bisky had cataloged each gem, she straightened up, her expression turning serious.
"Alright, now that we've gotten the formalities out of the way—let's see how much you've slacked in your training."
But Ronnel was prepared. After facing Netero and growing stronger through their clash, he knew he wouldn't disappoint her.
"Hmm..." Bisky studied him with a sharp, assessing gaze, then gave an approving nod. "You've exceeded my expectations. You've gotten stronger."
Her smile turned sly. "Which means you can team up with me for this next job."
"Team up?" Ronnel raised a brow, puzzled.
"That's right," Bisky said, clearing her throat. "There's something I've been after. But it's located in a... peculiar place. I need someone reliable—and you're perfect for the job."
Ronnel's deadpan expression revealed everything:
So, you weren't here just to visit. You came to rope me into unpaid labor.
"Oh, don't give me that look." Bisky waved a hand dismissively, unfazed by his reaction. "This will benefit both you and Shizuku, too!"
That piqued Ronnel's curiosity. "What kind of job is it?"
Biski's eyes sparkled as she leaned in closer. "The item in question is called the Amethyst Grape Crystal."
"The Amethyst Grape Crystal?" Ronnel echoed, unsure if he'd heard her correctly.
Bisky handed him a few sheets of paper filled with her own notes and research.
"It's one of the Seven Beauties of the World," she explained.
Ronnel scanned the text at the top of the page: "Amethyst Grape Crystal – One of the Seven Beauties of the World."
This rare treasure was described as a gem that resembled a cluster of grapes—radiant like amethyst. In some cases, it was viewed as an exotic fruit.
To Gourmet Hunters, it was one of the most exquisite delicacies in the world, said to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To Stone Hunter, its beauty was intoxicating—so mesmerizing that anyone who gazed upon it would never forget its brilliance.
And for collectors? It was a treasure of unparalleled value, coveted by many.
"As a Stone Hunter, there's no way I could ignore this." Bisky's tone was matter-of-fact. "The crystal was discovered only two days ago. It's currently hidden in the depths of the Cruz Cemetery."
Ronnel frowned. "The Cemetery?"
Bisky nodded. "This ancient battlefield cemetery was so chaotic that the bodies of many soldiers were hastily buried without proper rites.. Over the centuries, the lingering resentment from the fallen turned that place into a breeding ground for dangerous Nen mutations. Ordinary people can't get near it—and even seasoned Hunters tread carefully."
Ronnel knew of the Cemetery's grim reputation. It was notorious, like the Bermuda Triangle from his old life—both feared and revered by those who sought adventure.
"But the Cruz Cemetery isn't just a deathtrap," Bisky continued. "It's also a treasure trove. Many legendary martial artists discovered powerful techniques there, including the founder of the Moon Shadow School, one of the top martial disciplines today."
Ronnel absorbed her words in silence.
"In addition to relics and techniques, the cemetery is a hotspot for rare medicinal herbs and exotic ingredients. That's why even Gourmet Hunters visit, despite the dangers. And now..." She tapped the paper in Ronnel's hand. "The Amethyst Grape Crystal has been found in the depths of that cursed cemetery."
"But if it's so dangerous, why not go alone?" Ronnel asked, suspicious.
Bisky gave a sheepish grin. "Because the news spread faster than I expected. Stone Hunter, Gourmet Hunters, and even some wealthy collectors have already sent their own teams to retrieve it. I'd rather not deal with the competition by myself."
"So, you need me to help you fight off the other Hunters?"
Bisky's grin turned sly. "Not just fight. You're also good at handling... tricky situations. Corpses, cursed relics, traps—stuff like that. You'd be a valuable partner."
Ronnel sighed. Of course, it came down to this.
"Besides," Bisky added with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, "if we succeed, you'll be the proud owner of one of the Seven Beauties. Imagine how that'll look around Shizuku's neck."
That did give Ronnel pause. He glanced at Shizuku, who was still sitting quietly, her new jewelry glinting under the light.
"Fine," Ronnel relented. "I'll help."
Bisky clapped her hands together, triumphant. "Excellent! I knew you'd come around."
Ronnel shook his head with a sigh. "What did I get myself into this time?"
And with that, the unlikely trio—Ronnel, Bisky, and Shizuku—began their preparations to venture into the haunted depths of the Cruz Cemetery, where both treasures and terrors awaited them.
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