"How many classifications of Hunters are there today? What are the tasks for each type? Basic knowledge like this is essential for any Hunter."
"There's also the perks that come with being a Hunter. Where you can use the license, the industries it grants you access to, and what the grading system is for Hunters, plus the criteria for star promotions."
"And then, there's the history: when the Hunter Association was founded, how many exams have been held, who the legendary Hunters are and their greatest achievements, the stories of past Association presidents, and of course, the current president, Netero."
"Wait, wait… all of this could be on the written test? That's… not too bad!"
"Simple..."
Faces of the examinees stiffened.
They came to the exam because they were drawn to the privileges and rewards of being a Hunter, or had other goals. They might have learned about some of the perks or about the type of Hunter they wanted to become, but otherwise…
Feeling cold!
Although Ronnel had said there was a chance to pass, everyone subconsciously ignored the word "chance" and assumed this year's phase would be a written test!
Even Bodoro frowned. He had initially wanted to showcase his reasoning and analytical abilities, but hearing Ronnel's words…
It seemed like there might really be a written test!
While several people were guessing the final exam's topic, the scene shifted to the main room of the airship.
In the large chamber, Netero, Chairman of the Hunter Association, sat with the other examiners, discussing this year's batch of examinees.
Sipping tea, Netero glanced at Menchi, who was busy tallying the gems she had collected. "Out of the ten finalists, six of them are rookies. Quite a harvest compared to previous years~!"
The other examiners nodded. This was indeed an impressive number.
Soon, the conversation turned to the final stage of the exam.
"Chairman, what will be the final phase's topic?"
Apart from Menchi, who was preoccupied, everyone was focused on Netero.
He coughed lightly and said, "I'm planning a special duel for the final phase, but before we begin, I'll have to talk to them."
The tension between a written test and a duel couldn't be more different. Once the examinees found out the truth, their reactions would surely be priceless.
Meanwhile, Ronnel leaned against the library door, watching Leorio and the others hastily scribbling cheat sheets. He couldn't help but find the scene amusing.
Not just Leorio—Pokkle, Hanzo, and even Bodoro were there. However, as a martial artist, Bodoro wasn't one to cheat. Instead, he opted to recite and memorize material.
Just as Ronnel was observing the commotion, an announcement echoed throughout the airship.
"Attention examinees. If your number is called, please report to the interview room." A clear female voice broke the silence.
"Please proceed to the first reception room on the second floor if your number is announced…"
"First up, examinees 406."
"Me?" Ronnel muttered, hearing the number over the PA. He turned and headed towards the interview room.
With a quiet click, he pushed the door open. Inside, Netero sat cross-legged on a futon with a table in front of him, an empty futon opposite.
"Please, have a seat," Netero invited calmly, his tone warm but direct.
Ronnel nodded, taking his place across from the legendary Hunter.
"For the final phase, I'm going to ask you a few questions," Netero began.
"First off, why do you want to become a Hunter?"
Ronnel replied without hesitation, "Because my master said I couldn't see her again unless I got a Hunter license. So, here I am."
Netero chuckled softly. The approach and tone were so like Bisky.
His amusement quickly vanished behind a small cough, and he continued with the next question,
"Who among the examinees stands out to you the most?"
"Honestly? No one," Ronnel said after glancing at the photos of the other finalists.
"Is that so~" Netero stroked his beard. "And who do you most want to fight?"
"Number 301. He's by far the strongest here, and I'm itching for a fight against him," Ronnel answered, referring to the mysterious Gittarackur. After sparring with Netero during the second exam phase, Ronnel's abilities had grown, and he had even begun to develop a second Nen ability.
Though he wasn't afraid of Illumi, he was more than eager to test his skills against him.
Netero's eyes flicked over Gittarackur's photo, but he said nothing.
"And who would you prefer not to fight?"
Ronnel didn't miss a beat. "Hisoka. Not because of his strength, but because he's just… unsettling."
He spoke casually, his tone light and easygoing. Hisoka didn't pose a threat to him, not now and not in the future.
While Gon and the others were steadily growing stronger, Hisoka was still fixated solely on Chrollo, and his abilities hadn't progressed much.
Netero scratched his head, reviewing Ronnel's responses. "That's all for now. You may go. And by the way, tell your master that this old man gets lonely. She should visit sometime—I'll treat her to tea."
"I'll let her know," Ronnel grinned and got up to leave. As he walked into the corridor, he spotted Leorio, Pokkle, and Hanzo lurking nearby, clearly trying to eavesdrop.
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