The other part of Ron's training focused on mastering the foundational four techniques along with Gyo practice.
For a Nen user, overall ability can be broken down into four aspects:
1. **Technique**
2. **Physical Strength**
3. **Aura**
4. **Nen Abilities**
Technique includes Nen manipulation skills, physical combat techniques, and weapon proficiency.
Physical strength is self-explanatory, referring to raw physical capability.
Ron recalled how, in the original storyline, one member of the Phantom Troupe, Uvogin—a powerful Enhancement-type Nen user—had cultivated his body to an extraordinary degree. Similarly, Netero and Biscuit had achieved exceptional physical mastery.
Aura is assessed through both quantity and quality.
Ron's training regimen aimed to improve each aspect comprehensively.
Two days later, Zeno returned to the Zoldyck estate. Behind him trailed a line of ten young men. However, Ron only needed one butler, which meant that only one of these candidates would ultimately be selected as his attendant. The rest would face either death in the competition or, if they were lucky, survive and earn a lesser role somewhere within the Zoldyck grounds.
The Zoldyck family operated beyond the bounds of simple mercy or cruelty. They didn't kill without purpose. In other words, as a family of assassins, they only took lives for a price.
For instance, at the estate's perimeter, there was a man who had once sought to infiltrate the Zoldyck estate, attempting to challenge the family and make a name for himself. He was no match for even the outermost defenses; shortly after stepping onto the grounds, he hadn't even seen another person—just a large dog. Watching as his companions were mauled before his eyes shattered his spirit. Yet, the Zoldycks hadn't killed him. Instead, they allowed him to live on within the estate as a reminder of the dangers it posed.
"Zebro, these are for you," Zeno instructed.
"Yes, Lord Zeno."
Zebro, one of the estate's butlers, had loyally served Zeno for many years. He was a Conjurer-type Nen user and one of Zeno's trusted aides. Eventually, when Zeno stepped back from his duties, the estate would pass fully into Silva's hands, with the butlers following suit. However, Zeno would always retain his personal aides, as Maha Zoldyck did.
After issuing his instructions to Zebro, Zeno went to the courtyard where Ron was practicing. This time, Zeno didn't mask his aura, allowing Ron to sense him.
"Ron."
"Grandfather Zeno."
Ron's situation within the estate was somewhat unique, as he lived near Maha Zoldyck and rarely ventured outside. As such, few of the family members had met him, though Zeno knew him well. Ron referred to Zeno as his grandfather, as he was Maha's brother.
"Where is your great-grandfather?"
"He's resting in seclusion. He told me to continue my practice and to reach out to you if anything comes up."
"Very well," Zeno replied. "Feel free to ask me for guidance on your training or anything else."
Pausing for a moment, Zeno continued, "Ron, would you like a sparring partner?"
Ron hesitated briefly. "If you have a sparring partner who's skilled in martial arts, I'd appreciate it."
"A fighter? Not a Nen user?"
Zeno raised an eyebrow.
"No need. My Nen abilities aren't fully developed yet, and my mastery of 'Observation' is still in its initial stages. Fighting a Nen user would put me at too much of a disadvantage. And if the opponent had to limit themselves to only 'Ren' and 'Ten,' it wouldn't be worth it. I'd rather face a martial artist," Ron explained.
"Understood," Zeno nodded. "I'll find a suitable candidate as soon as possible. Now, regarding your personal butler—do you have any preferences? Personality, appearance—any specific qualities you're looking for?"
"My own butler?" Ron glanced briefly at the butler by the door.
Zeno noticed the look.
"It's simply a matter of practicality. A personal butler can handle trivial tasks, letting you focus on what's important. This is per your great-grandfather's wishes."
"Nothing specific—just someone quiet. I don't like too much noise."
"Understood."
----
Later that evening, Zeno's chosen sparring partner arrived—a middle-aged man with no Nen abilities but a clear, seasoned martial artist aura. Judging from his bearing, it was clear he had undergone significant training.
As Ron assessed the man, he in turn studied Ron. The butler approached them, introducing the man to Ron.
"Master Ron, this is the sparring partner Lord Zeno arranged. A martial artist from a school of karate; he broke into the estate but was captured alive. Outside, he's known as a martial arts master."
Ron gave a slight nod. The butler then addressed the man.
"Sangitas, you will be sparring with Master Ron. Use any technique you wish within the confines of this courtyard. Should you defeat him, you'll earn your freedom."
Sangitas' gaze shifted as he considered this.
"If I defeat this kid, I can leave?"
"Yes," the butler replied.
"Why should I believe you?"
The butler's tone remained calm. "This is the Zoldyck estate. If we wanted you dead, you'd already be so. You pose no threat to us. Your death or survival is of no consequence to us."
Sangitas scowled but had to admit the truth. Before coming to the estate, he'd thought little of the Zoldycks and doubted the tales of their prowess. Assassins didn't intimidate him—he was confident he could best them and make his school the strongest in the world. But since his capture, he realized his own arrogance. He hadn't even faced any Zoldycks yet, only their butlers and maids, who easily subdued him.
"Hmph!" Sangitas scoffed, looking at Ron. "Aren't you afraid I might accidentally kill the kid?"
The butler gave him a cold stare. "You're welcome to try."
To the butler, it seemed nearly impossible.
First of all, Sangis was indeed a powerful fighter, a master in his own right who could establish his own school outside.
But Ron was not an ordinary child.
Even at the age of nine, Ron had been raised under the guidance of Maha Zoldyck.
The Zoldyck family was not merely a family of Nen users.
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