Gon, Kurapika, Leorio, and Sakura had passed the Fourth Phase, along with Killua, Hisoka, Hanzo, Pokkle, Gittarackur, Bodoro. Ten applicants in all. After that, they left the island via the airship. Sakura did not think she could have been happier to be leaving the island. Though the experience wasn't anything she would forget anytime soon. She parted with Gon and the rest of her friends on the airship so that she could make use of the showers. A week of constantly watching your back was more than enough to disrupt a regular routine and really wanted to have a respite under hot water. She wanted to keep her mind blank, but that wasn't possible when someone like her was alone with her thoughts. Reviewing the details of the recent past, the entire exam running through her mind. Then the intercom went off with Bean's voice echoing throughout the airship.
"I have an announcement for all applicants. The chairmen wishes to interview the remaining candidates. When your number is called please come to the first reception room on the second floor."
Sakura looked down at her hands, small streams of water running over her palms. Starring for several minutes before she clenched them tightly.
'I still have a ways to go,' Sakura moved to turn off the shower and stepped out, wrapping a towel around herself. She glanced at herself in the mirror by the sink. 'A long way,'
Killua was standing in front of the bathroom when Sakura came out, wringing her hair. He gave a curt wave, "Hey,"
Sakura smiled a little, "Hey."
Sitting one of the benches lining the lower half of the airship by the windows, they stared out watching the clear skies outside. It wasn't much of interest, but it kept them occupied.
"So," Killua turned his head that was resting on the windowsill over to Sakura, "How'd you find the Fourth Phase?"
Sakura scrunched her nose, more happened in this phase than she was expecting so it was difficult to place her opinion on one side. "Well, I didn't particularly hate it. What about you?"
With a somewhat arrogant smirk, Killua lifted his chin, "It was so easy. My target couldn't even touch me with help; I got his tag and threw away the other guy's, it was fun seeing the looks on their faces. I was kinda bored after that though."
The pinkette laughed, "Yeah? Well, I had some trouble since I was Kurapika's target and we ended up fighting for my badge. So I had to get my three points-
Killua jumped up, "Seriously, you lost to him?"
Chuckling Sakura explained that the fight was operated under a single-hit system, like when they played ninja so that they could avoid any major injury. It had lengthened the fight though and she also mentioned how Kurapika managed to get her off guard.
"I was taken by surprise,"
"Man," Killua shook his head, "I don't get it. Why'd you let him have your badge? You could've just escaped right?"
Killua didn't know the full length of Sakura's abilities, but he was certain that she was capable of more than she had let on. He at least knew the extent of her stamina and strength (or at least he believed he did).
"No way, our agreement was he'd get the badge if he landed a hit. He wouldn't take it otherwise and I even offered it to him."
Killua nearly fell from his seat and blinked rapidly at Sakura. "You offered it to him first!? That's so stupid!"
Sakura pouted, her cheeks puffed and her mouth turned small. She looked like a gerbil to Killua and he almost pointed it out as well. "It's not stupid."
"I think it is," Killua threw his hands behind his head, "I mean why would you inconvenience yourself like that for someone?"
"It's what friend's do for one another, Killua."
Killua didn't say anything after that, but his silence was accompanied with something else. It was a sense that told Sakura he wanted to know something but it was as if he didn't want to say it, or rather that he did not know how to voice it.
"Would you have done the same for me?" he finally asked.
"Huh?" Sakura was confused.
"If you turned out to be my target, would you have given me your tag then on the boat?"
Sakura didn't miss a beat, and that took the white-haired boy by surprise. "Of course. You're my friend too."
Killua seemed to really be thinking now, and after another full minute he finally asked, "How do you know when someone becomes your friend?"
The question was odd coming from Killua, who often stood out as very intellectual despite his appearance. He had admitted to playing on the fact that people didn't take him seriously although Sakura knew this wasn't the case with her and it was a genuine question. One befitting a child.
"Mmmm, well," the pinkettes eyes met the ceiling as she spoke, "There's no easy way to really answer that. You meet someone, you spend time with them and before you know it yourself, you have a friend."
"How did you decide that we were friends then?" Killua asked.
Sakura seemed taken aback by the abrupt question but it only took one look for her to see that Killua genuinely wasn't comprehending what she was saying; it was as if she had spoken to him in another language. Then she remembered that Killua wasn't like other children. He was raised in a family of assassins and that sort of business didn't often make room for friendships. He probably spent his entire childhood perfecting the dark craft that there wasn't time for anything else in his life. More so than that he might not have been allowed that luxury.
The thought had Sakura's heart give a tight clench, and Killua frowned when he saw the change in expression when he looked at her. He leaned forward a little.
"Why are you look at me like that? Are you gonna cry again or something?"
Sakura blinked, "Huh? What no, why would you think that?"
Killua pointed at her, more specifically her glossy eyes. "Because you looked like you were."
"I wasn't," Sakura cleared her throat and she wanted to lift the atmosphere before it became heavy.
"So," Killua pressed, his expression turning serious. "How did you decide?"
"Secret!" She grinned which took Killua by surprise before throwing her arm around his shoulders and one from in front of him, pulling him in a side-hug. He struggled a little since he was startled but Sakura just snickered.
"Hey!" Killua blushed, "Cut that out! It's embarrassing!"
"It's alright, it's alright," Sakura said, ruffling Killua's hair gently. Little did Killua know the hug was more for her sake than his after she had an inkling of what Killua had endured as a child, especially since he was still a child.
"After all we're friends right?"
Killua paused reluctantly and looked at Sakura, his chin resting on her arm, while Sakura rested her chin on his head. He couldn't even bring himself to look at Sakura now because of their proximity.
"I still want an answer," Though he didn't move from his position, gripping Sakura's across his chest.
"You shouldn't think so hard about this kind of thing. Because usually, no one knows when they become friends with someone. It usually happens unexpectedly. You'll figure it out for yourself." Sakura stared out the sky. Keeping her hold of the younger boy.
..
..
..
Sakura was among the last to be called in by the chairmen for the interview, she had thought it was maybe the last phase but her friends who went before told her that they were just asked some questions. Entering the room, Sakura saw chairmen Netero sitting before a table, a single pillow laying on the opposite side where the other applicants had been.
"Come have a seat," Netero gestured to the pillow. Sakura sat down, noticing the brush and writing pad that the chairmen picked up.
"Firstly, why do you want to become a Hunter?"
"Well, it's not really that I want to become a Hunter." Sakura told him honestly, "I was just curious about the exam."
Netero nodded, "You're the second person to tell me that."
She guessed the first was Killua. He had wanted to come to the Hunter Exam to kill time and the other's all had their own motives for wanting to become hunters.
"Now, out of all the applicants who are you keeping a close eye on?"
Sakura looked confused, "Who I'm keeping an eye on?"
Netero nodded, "Someone who's caught your eye,"
The kunoichi didn't even blink before she answered, "#44, Hisoka."
Sakura didn't explain her reasons why though, she had thought the reason she was keeping an eye on him, was perhaps to the fact that she was cautious and that's when she realized her answer wasn't entirely accurate. But Hisoka was the one applicant that haunted her thoughts and the answer seemed right with the unspoken implication. There was this knowing at her whenever she thought of Hisoka. It was something more complex than aggravation or fear.
Netero noticed the stiff posture of the only female applicant to make it to the Final Phase this year, but he did not point it out to her. He found it a bit ironic that she would say Hisoka was the one she was keeping an eye out for when he had said the same for her for that question. There was a rather dangerous glint in his eyes when he admitted to that, but Killua and Gon were also mentioned.
"For the final question; which of the nine applicants would you want to fight the least?"
Sakura paused, "I wouldn't want to fight any of my friends, that's #99, #404, #403, #405. I'd probably quit right away."
Again, it was an answer that Gon had given the chairmen as well.
Netero found it splendid that there were seven rookies that managed to make it to the Final Phase but he was especially partial to Sakura, after hearing her feats during the Fourth Phase. She had gone to great lengths to ensure her friends achieved the points they needed to pass, and she managed to secure the points for herself as well and quite well. Adding to that, she had adapted to each situation and showed little intimidation when encountering the other applicants. Her ability was another thing. Of course, Netero had this sought of data on all the applicants as they were evaluated during the Fourth Phase.
"Alright then. You're excused."
Sakura stood up and left, giving a slight bow before exiting the room, but she had a sneaking feeling that those questions were pertaining to the Final Phase and already she knew what was coming.
'I might not need the book to figure this one out.'
"Hey Sakura," Gon called to the pinkette as she came out of the room, Leorio and Kurapika were also standing with him.
Leorio pointed his thumb to the back, "Come on, we're gonna go get dinner."
Sakura grinned, "Sounds good to me."
That night went by so peacefully, Sakura forgot to read the book to see what was up ahead.
The following day, the airship landed and Sakura had a feeling that was going to be their last trip on the contraption. They were brought out to a large building with dome rooftops, extravagantly designed with lush gardens. The inside was well kept, everyone observed when they entered into a giant hall. It seemed to be completely vacant though, aside from the Hunter applicants and the examiners for that year's Hunter Exams, Satotz, Menchi, Buhara, Lippo, Beans and Netero, and a few individuals in suits who were probably part of the Hunter organization.
Netero stood in front of the group of applicants to address them, "This hotel is owned by the Hunter Exam Selection Committee. The place is all yours until the battles have concluded."
Someone came in, rolling a board covered with a cloth and placed it next to Netero. "For the Final Phase, we will be holding a one-on-one tournament."
'Called it,' Sakura thought.
Grabbing the cloth, Netero pulled it to reveal the board. Everyone lifted their heads, they weren't able to see who would be fighting who because of the large tape at the bottom, hiding the applicants for the tournament, but they were still a bit baffled because of the brackets.
"So, only the last person standing passes?"
"No," Netero held up a finger, "One win is all you need to pass. The winners are removed from the competition, while the loser continues up the bracket."
That would mean only one person would fail this exam; so this was going to be a bit different than a regular tournament. Although it settled everyone somewhat, there was still a new tension in the air as everyone knew there was no room for error in this final phase of the exam.
"And here is the bracket,"
Netero pulled back the tape and the whole room went silent. The tension increased. Sakura especially felt like her heart had dropped into the pits of her stomach and was being devoured by her stomach acid because it hurt with every beat all of a sudden. She stared at the bracket, barely blinking. There were pictures of all of the applicants and their numbers, including herself. On the left of the chart, there was Gon and Hanzo, who were paired to fight first, Killua, Pokkle, and Gitarackur were also there, but the brackets were uneven. The same went on the right side where Sakura was situated. The side of the chart she was in, made her closer to battle Leorio and Kurapika if she didn't win her first match.
Which was Hisoka.
Gon, Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio looked over at Sakura while trying to maintain passive demeanors, there was an obvious concern for the pinkette.
"Impressive right?" Netero asked the tense group, "After all, everyone has at least two chances to win."
"But some people like #294, #405 and #405, get five chances." Pokkle pointed out.
Sakura was also wondering how she wounded up with so many chances. In an effort to distract herself from her fear, she chose to keep to the present and not what the near future would bring.
"Why didn't you use a balanced bracket?" asked Bodoro
Netero explained to them that the bracket was assembled based on their performance throughout the entire exam and those who performed better were the eons who received more chances and granted a higher chance of success.
She couldn't really register doing much herself when she was always with Gon, Killua Kurapika and Leorio. The only time she was on her own during this exam was really during the Fourth Phase and that didn't last long.
Killua then chided, "Can you tell us how you scored our performances?"
Sakura knew why Killua was demanding to know, he was probably looking for a re-evaluation of sorts because the brackets were meant to represent their performance and he did not believe in any way that what was represented right now as accurate on his own accord.
'Got a bit of an ego too,'
Killua was curious as to how they were scored since he only had three chances, and this was based on performance. But Netero refused to tell them, saying it was classified. Much to Killua's disappointment and aggravation.
"I can't explain how you were scored but I can explain our methods. First, we consider three major criteria: physical strength, mental strength, and overall impression. For physical strength, we use an aggregate of agility, flexibility, endurance, and perception. For mental strength, we use an aggregate of resilience, adaptability, judgment, and creativity. However, this information is only used as a reference point. After all, you were strong enough to advance to the Final Phase."
Netero paused briefly, allowing everyone to reflect back on their performances; "However we are most concerned with your overall impression. This refers to any intangible factors not previously mentioned. You could consider this your evaluation of your potential as a Hunter."
When Sakura heard this she reflected on something different, the whole reason she had taken the exam in the first place was that it was a means to an end that was meant to be the conclusion of the book. It was so that she could finally return back to her world; so she didn't even need to pass this exam. But it left her to wonder what would come next.
"And we also incorporate the opinion of your peers," Netero said, looking directly at Killua.
Sakura could see that Killua was contemplating everything he had been told but at the same time, he hadn't changed his opinion of his evaluation. To break him from his thoughts, she threw her hand against his back to jolt him back, since everyone was being so subtle with their reactions in anticipation for what was to come. Killua looked up at Sakura with a light glare; she smiled back reassuringly in turn and seemed to calm somewhat after.
"Now, the battle rules are simple. Weapons are allowed. No cheating. If your opponent admits defeat, you win. However! If you kill your opponent, you will immediately be disqualified. All remaining applicants will pass and the exam will end."
Now there was something good Sakura could take from that; they wouldn't be able to kill their opponent so that worked both ways. She could use her weapons-another plus, but it all seemed redundant compared to the rule where you had to make your opponent admit defeat.
With everything set, the first match was about to commence.
It took no less than a minute for Gon and Hanzo to prepare themselves for battle. Sakura was anxious about this fight, and very concerned for Gon because she had witnessed some of Hanzo's ability and she didn't know if the younger boy would be able to handle it. Despite the amount of opportunity he had, Gon had a strong nature that rivaled Naruto's and in Sakura's terms, that was a great deal. If it was just to judge power, she knew Hanzo held a flame that Gon was unable to a hold a candle to right now.
When Gon and Hanzo were called to the front, placing them at a good distance from the other applicants and examiners so that they could be observed safely; Hanzo addressed the man, Masta who was serving as the referee. Hanzo thanked the man for the evaluation he had given Hanzo during the Fourth Phase.
As it turned out, all of the applicants had someone shadowing them, and Sakura realized that's why she had constantly felt like someone was watching her but the presence didn't feel threatening.
Hanzo then asked to confirm that the only way they could win their battles was to make their opponent surrender and it was confirmed that no other method could be used, which included knockouts and killing your opponent.
'That's what I was worried about,' Sakura had gotten the impression but now that was confirmed, she knew this was going to be hard. And it made her more anxious for Gon's battle.
Sakura's instinct of concern was not paranoia because the second the match began between Hanzo and Gon her interpretation was realized. Gon sprung to the side to put distance between him and Hanzo but the shinobi covered it with a single step. He was right beside Gon, complimenting him on his confidence in his legs before knocking him out in a second. His hand coming down on the back of Gon's neck, the blow caused Gon's vision to not only become blurred but nearly totally distorted.
Hanzo held Gon by his shoulders before digging his knee into the boy's back. It was clear that Gon had taken a very powerful strike and it was making him nauseous. Sakura cringed, watching as Hanzo continuously asked Gon to give up but he would not surrender. Hanzo even attempted to reason with him, that if he quit as he was he'd still be able to fight after but Gon continued with the same defiance.
"I'm never gonna quit!"
After that, it was all a matter of endurance for the onlookers who had become so fond of the boy; as even they were unable to convince Gon to give up this battle. Every strike Gon received ran through all of his friends who were watching.
Three hours passed and still, the first match was continuing, Gon body hadn't left the floor as Hanzo knocked him around with little effort. Leorio and Kurapika obviously wanted Gon to give up the fight but knew they wouldn't be able to tell him to. He'd have to decide that for himself. But Sakura watching quietly. Leorio had nearly interfered but the other examiner's warned him that if he did, then Gon would be the one who gets disqualified. It might have been another novel if Leorio was the one who would get disqualified but he couldn't squander Gon's chances, because he knew the boy would probably not appreciate his interference then.
Though the words had Gon getting back on his feet slowly despite the pain, attempting to reassure Leorio. "It's okay Leorio…..this is….nothing."
It was far from that, but still, Gon was determined to hold in despite all the pain that must be running through his entire body like hot water.
Hanzo decided to change tactics after that, threatening to break Gon's arm. He placed the boy's arm behind his back again telling Gon to give up and once more the boy refused.
The snap echoed through the entire hall.
Gon's left arm broken in an instant. But there was one thing Sakura knew about that break. She had studied the human body thoroughly to the point where she could identify every organ, vein, and artery that lurked beneath the surface, as well as bones. It was a clean break. Nothing shattered.
It was probably what helped keep her composure as well. From lashing out at Hanzo right then. The same couldn't be said for Kurapika and Leorio.
"Kurapika, don't try to stop me. If this guy does anything else to Gon…..
"Me? Stop you?" Kurapika hissed, clenching his jaw. "Not a chance."
Kurapika's eyes were already starting to turn red from rage and Leorio was trembling and was at a point where he had become so rigid most of his veins could be seen on his hands.
Sakura grabbed both of them by their arms, "Both of you better calm down, you can't lash out aimlessly."
Kurapika and Leorio were about to protest, demanding to know how the pinkette could hold such composure when the person she considered her friend was getting tortured right in front of her, but what she said threw dirt on their flames of anger.
"If Gon fails this exam, he will probably never forgive you," Sakura told them, silencing the two. "His resolve is so strong he's able to endure all that pain. It shows how much passing this exam and winning this round means. If you take that away from him-you of all people." Sakura paused, gripping her arms tighter that the fabric of her gloves burned her skin. "It'll all be meaningless and that's worse than letting this match continue."
Killua glanced stoically from Sakura back to Gon; even though the pinkette was saying that it was clear she was having a hard time watching this match too. He couldn't understand the sympathy that the other's had for Gon and he had simply been comparing how he and the other twelve-year-old were different from one another. Reevaluating himself.
Hanzo looked down at Gon, his forehead was pressed against the floor and he was clutching his broken arm. He had a feeling that this match was going to be difficult, not in terms of combat reasons but the resilience that the young boy showed right before they fought. And hearing what the pinkette said, made him more concerned.
'I have to finish this quickly,'
Placing a hand on the ground where Gon laid, Hanzo lifted himself up on that hand, straightening his body like a pillar. "I'm sure you're in too much pain to listen, but hear me out. I am descended from the shinobi, a clan of covert agents. From the day I was born, I was forced to endure harsh training in order to master the art of ninpo. I have trained my body and technique without rest." Hanzo explained to Gon, going from resting his weight on his hand to the tips of his fingers until he was balancing on his index finger alone. "At this point, you cannot defeat me in combat. Admit defeat-
Hanzo was unable to finish his words because Gon had somehow managed to bring himself back to his feet and muster enough strength to deliver a swift kick to his face. This caused Hanzo to topple back and landed on the ground. Gon stood up, still clutching his arm.
"My heads a little clear after all the pain and that long explanation."
While this quick recovery was surprising, Sakura knew this didn't make for a win despite Leorio's chanting and Kurapika's smirk. Gon still struggled to hold himself up.
"This isn't a battle to see who's stronger," Gon stated. "It's to see who's willing to surrender first."
Hanzo pushed himself up, with a stoic expression despite the blood running from his nose and the bruise on his face from where Gon had kicked him. "You don't understand. This isn't a warning. It's an ultimatum." Hanzo wiped his face, "If that's too hard for you to understand, then I'll make it easier."
Everyone watched as Hanzo brought his hand out to the bandages wrapped around his arm, from under the cloth, he revealed a sharp blade as he spoke, "I'll cut off your legs so that they can't be reattached. A permanent injury should help you wake up. But first I'll ask you once more," Hanzo held up the blade, a dangerous smirk on his face, "Surrender."
Gon continued to stubbornly stare back at Hanzo and what he said next made everyone flabbergasted. "I won't accept that! I don't want my legs cut off, but I don't want to surrender. So let's find a different way to fight!"
Hanzo gaped at Gon in disbelief before glaring at the arrogant boy who was giving such demands, asking if he even understood his own position. The applicants and examiners were trying to hold back their laughter at how comical it seemed that Gon had become the one making demands. Even Sakura had to cover her mouth to stop her snickers from escaping.
'Gon's so...' Sakura giggled behind her hand.
"Do you even understand your own position!" Hanzo asked, fuming. "I'm seriously going to cut off your legs!"
"But I don't want to surrender." Gon repeated seriously before his expression softened, "Besides if you do that I'll bleed to death and you'll be disqualified right?"
The referee confirmed Gon's assumption; although he didn't seem too sure how seriously he should be taking the question given the situation.
Killua didn't understand.
How was it possible now that the atmosphere had become so much light when nothing had changed? Gon's arm was still broken, he was still weaker than Hanzo, there was no difference in power nor position and yet everyone was behaving as if something miraculous had happened.
Hanzo then pointed his blade directly at Gon's forehead, enough to make the tip cut through the skin and break it. "You really don't get it, if you die, you'll never get another chance. If I kill you here, I only need to try again next year."
'But he won't,' Sakura assured herself. She knew Hanzo wouldn't kill Gon based on her own encounter with him. If he was just about that, then he would have tried to kill her during the Fourth Phase just to save himself the trouble. He wasn't needlessly malicious. But he was determined to make pass the exam through this round. Although she sincerely doubted he was going to. 'Besides…if he does try to do something like that to Gon,' Sakura felt her chakra spike in her fists, 'He won't make it to next year.'
But she could also see Hanzo wavering now.
"Why won't you concede? It's so easy to do. You can always try again next year. Do you value your pride over your own life!?" Hanzo asked raising his voice now.
Gon held a firm face as he spoke, "I'm going to find my dad."
"Your dad?"
"My dad is a Hunter. So I'm going to become a Hunter and find him! I will find him someday…." Gon trailed, "But if I give up now, I'll never find him and also…..I won't be the only one who gives up becoming a Hunter!"
Sakura tensed, her demeanor cracking a little on the surface but none too noticeable as she tried to hold back. She realized then that Gon had taken her words to heart and somehow took a greater meaning to what she told him back in the forest.
'Oh, Gon…'
Gon felt the cold metal against his forehead disappear and Hanzo pulled away, placing the blade back under his bandages. "I give up. You win."
While some were more surprised than others, Hanzo stated that he was unable to think of any other way to make Gon surrender and he wasn't going to kill him either. So he was going to concede himself. While this may have settled most other applicants who had endured what Gon did; the self-centered part of the boy reeled its head again.
"I can't accept that! That's not fair!" Gon pointed.
Sakura slapped her forehead, listening to Gon rant to Hanzo about figuring out another way to resolve their fight, despite Hanzo's arguments that it wasn't possible when Gon wouldn't surrender anyway. He had proved that much by enduring all that pain. The two began a back and forth dynamic.
"I've already given up this match, but you want me to try and win again while helping to determine a way to make you feel good about a victory?" Hanzo asked, his eyebrow twitching from the irrationality of the boy. "Is that right?"
Gon looked at him with an innocent smile on his face, bluntly replying "Uh-huh!"
"Idiot!"
Losing what remained of his patience, Hanzo delivered a powerful uppercut to Gon's chin and sent him into the air, knocking him unconscious. Hanzo began to walk back to the other end of the room where the spectators stood; while some of the examiners went to check on Gon's condition.
Sakura watched as Gon was carried out of the room carefully and into another where he was to be treated and into another room to be treated for his injuries. Sakura knew she likely couldn't leave right now because she still hadn't had her match.
"When this guy wakes up, he'll probably reject his license." Hanzo told the committee, "Only one person will fail this exam right? If Gon fails then won't that make all our battles meaningless?"
Netero spoke, "He's already passed. Nothing he says can change that."
Receiving the response he wanted to hear, Hanzo went to return to the line of other applicants in the running when Killua called him.
"Why did you let him win?"
Hanzo gave Killua a questioning look, "Let him win?"
"I'm sure you knew how to make Gon surrender without killing him," Killua stated in a deadpan voice, so void it was almost disturbing.
"When I torture someone, I expect that person to hate me for the rest of their life. When someone is in pain their eyes show a gleam of hostility towards the person that caused that pain." No one could really disagree with that notion when many had personal encounters with that sort of situation. "Even with extensive training, it is difficult to surpass that gleam of hate and rage. But there was no gleam in Gon's eyes. Can you believe it? I had just broken his arm. But his eyes had already forgotten about that. I guess you could say that he won me over."
Killua seemed genuinely intrigued and surprised by what Hanzo told him. He himself couldn't handle that sort of transaction. He'd become fueled with rage and hate and he'd kill anything to sate those feeling.
"It's time to start the second match, #44 Hisoka and #402, Sakura step forward."
The tense atmosphere returned once again, to the point where it was suffocating. Leorio and Kurapika watched Sakura walk forward, Hisoka a little ways from her. The two maintained a distance while they continued their pace.
Leorio felt his throat go dry and looked to Kurapika, whispering, "Am I the only one who's really nervous for this one?"
"No," Kurapika murmured back. "You're really not."
In fact, it looked like everyone in the room was fixated on this next match. Even the examiners seemed a little anxious for this one. Some of them didn't understand the chairman's decision to put Sakura up against Hisoka for their first round.
'She doesn't stand a chance against him,' Killua thought. He might have seen her strength, but Killua could also see the gap he had created between Sakura and Hisoka's ability and power.
'Don't be an idiot Sakura.'
'The chairmen sure has a nasty streak,' Menchi thought, watching the two applicants as they stepped into the fighting area.
'I'd say the chairmens outdone himself this time,' thought Satotz.
Gripping the ends of her gloves to pull them down her hand, she didn't attempt to echo any thoughts to her head right now to reduce anxiety and distraction. Each step she took began to feel heavy the closer she got the referee but she had no intention of surrendering before the fight even started. What's more, after seeing Gon's fight and witnessing his strength and determination, she felt nothing but the desire to win this round. No matter the cost.
When they got to the front, Sakura turned to face Hisoka. He remained with a smile on his face, completely tranquil and with that same glint in his eye that sent a chill down her spine before. It truly was like a predator waiting for the chance to strike its prey.
One thing that Sakura continued to remind herself was that Hisoka had a great confidence in his abilities; which he had blatantly pointed out during the last phase. And then there was something that was constantly nagging at her, something about Hisoka that she couldn't place yet. Something just below the surface of his exterior. An unknown source which was giving him this edge.
'Of course, it's not as if I've shown anyone my full abilities yet either.' She reminded herself then, reaching back into her bag for her kunai knife, twirling it around her finger before strengthening her grip on it.
"I really hope Sakura isn't going to be as reckless as Gon," Leorio muttered to Kurapika.
"As do I," was his subtle reply.
Hisoka watched the kunoichi carelessly, but he did not miss the way she looked at him either. He was a very perceptive person and he often knew the intentions of all his opponents just with a single look. He could see the flickers of embers that would become a great fire, even in the deadest kindle. He knew who would burn brightly and who would turn to ash. He enjoyed the risk and excitement of getting burned a little before evidently extinguishing the flames with his bare hands. And Sakura was no exception.
It couldn't hurt for him to reach out to that small flame right? Just to get a taste of what's to come in the future.
Sakura felt her shoulder's tense when Hisoka drew a card between his fingers and held the arm diagonally across his chest.
The referee stood between them at a distance, his arms extended out as a barrier, and he was ready to break it.
"Begin!"
The anticipation in the room reached new heights as Sakura became the first to move from her position. Taking a few throwing stars from her pouch, she swung her arm, releasing the metal stars between her fingers. Five. All which did not reach their target, as Hisoka started moving swiftly around and Sakura followed in the opposite direction so they would be going in a circle. Several cards then came flying in Sakura's direction, at a difficult speed but Sakura used her kunai to knock them away. Each strike was like hitting hard steel instead of laminated paper.
The two moved, circling each other, but it was clear to onlookers that this wasn't for the sake of keeping a distance from each other. They were drawing in closer with each turn and eventually would meet.
Sakura threw her kunai at Hisoka but he jumped high into the air to avoid it; he bent to the back intending to flip before landing. However Sakura didn't want to wait for him to hit the ground and she jumped higher so that she was hovering right above Hisoka, but it had been a quick step that surprised a few members of the audience and drew in for a punch but at the same time Hisoka threw his arm forward and pushed hard on Sakura above her chest to launch himself back quicker and stop her attack.
'Dammit!' Sakura cursed internally. She had been waiting for an opening to strike her opponent, but he managed to counter her before she could do anything. He obviously wasn't one to become disadvantaged easily and his eyes were much more calculating than she anticipated.
"They're so fast!" Leorio exclaimed, watching completely awestruck. "Is that really Sakura?"
Kurapika's eyes were completely fixated on the battle; now he was certain Sakura had been holding back when she was fighting against him. He had a hunch about this but he didn't want to really acknowledge the fact, but Sakura was definitely stronger than him; the aspect surpassing physical strength alone.
As Sakura landed, she felt Hisoka's unwavering stare on her form and returned it with a glare. He smirked, "Well now, this is an interesting surprise. You're able to keep up better than I predicted."
Strengthening her stance, Sakura poured chakra to her feet and hands, her fists clenching hard. Her heart felt like it was trying to punch her ribcage even though she had only just started fighting. She knew just by looking who had more experience on the battlefield between the two of them, and she also knew that the rules right now was the only safety net she had to catch her if Hisoka threw her off balance. Yet somehow, the thought of tempting him to that point was tantalizing in a way she couldn't place.
That feeling was begging to burn inside her again. In the pits of her being, she felt it as her fear began to dissipate without warning. Sakura's hand reached to her neck, her fingers lightly grazing over skin and just like that, her throat no longer felt dry, her heart wasn't drowning in her stomach and her hands became dry under her gloves.
'What is this?'
Hisoka felt his mouth water when he caught a whiff of bloodlust beginning to stir and it was coming from his opponent. It was obvious she didn't know what that feeling was, but it excited him to think he was causing this. However to get this spike of passion in battle told him she was more experienced in combat than she appeared to be; even if she wasn't' anywhere near his standard in this case. There was also something that pulled at Hisoka about this girl. While he may have had a greater incentive for scouting potential; there was something that stood out about this particular person; that was just driving him to break her before the time was right and he wanted to know what it was before he called this match to an end.
'I will find out,'
With that, Hisoka dashed forward at blinding speed. This was the first time he was making a move without Sakura coaxing him to attack and it surprised everyone.
"Look out Sakura!" Leorio yelled.
Hisoka drew his fist forward but it connected with the air as Sakura moved her head out of the way, whilst drawing her leg up. Clenching his muscles, Hisoka drew up his arms to block the kick, but the force was strong and he was pushed back before he drew further to the ground to slow himself down as his feet glided across the floor. Eventually coming to a stop.
'That's-
Sakura didn't wait or take in the awe of the onlookers; instead of taking the chance to move forward. Rushing over to where Hisoka was now and strike when he appeared to waver less than an inch and then she attacked. Hisoka continued to evade the girl, his focus now on her attacks and movements that had this sudden strength behind it; that he could feel the force of wind with every missed blow. He didn't counter because he could see that she wasn't interested in evading his attacks; rather she wanted to exchange blows now.
With her leg raised and held strong, Sakura started spinning on the other getting closer to Hisoka who ducked to less than half his height in under a second and got back up but Sakura continued towards him. Drawing her fist as she watched Hisoka's back hit a wall, she readied to hit him when Hisoka's form vanished from her sight and to her right, but it was at the very last moment so she ended up hitting the wall instead. The concrete was like soft sand as it fell apart with nothing to support and crumbled creating a hole in the wall where they could see the outside now.
Everyone froze.
Leorio was finally able to bring his jaw back up and speak without ever taking his eyes off of the two battling in front of him. "Okay, Kurapika remind me not to tease Sakura anymore."
Kurapika himself couldn't believe this, it wasn't just Sakura breaking through the wall that was impressing him; it was the way she was fairing against Hisoka. He was considered the most dangerous amongst the applicants of that year and yet it seemed that they were all so focused on keeping their distance from him that they failed to notice another dangerous strength lurking this close to them.
Killua wasn't sure what to say either. Obviously, he knew Sakura was strong from what he witnessed at Trick Tower, but that didn't mean he believed she would be able to fight against Hisoka due to experience. Though now he was able to see it. They were more similar than he had first thought.
And he didn't know whether or not he liked that.
The examiners of this year's Hunter Exams watched stunned and impressed at the display of power the girl was portraying. Lippo had shown the footage to the chairmen of Sakura breaking through the wall to get to the Short and Easy path in the tower, but it hadn't really been shared information since it was common for certain talents to appear for the Hunter Exams. But it was still noteworthy.
"She's got spirit," commented Netero.
"Obviously you were counting on that chairmen," stated Menchi, her hands on her hips as she overlooked the two applicants. "Otherwise you wouldn't have chosen her for this fight."
When Netero had interviewed the remaining applicants the other day, almost everyone said Hisoka was the one they wouldn't want to fight and he wanted to ensure an interesting Final Phase, therefore he made sure to bracket them according to their answers.
'Yes, but the real fight's just beginning,'
Sakura watched Hisoka move back and she did the same; placing the two in a stalemate position again. But despite the distance, a chill ran down Sakura's spine when she met his eyes again that suddenly became sharper.
Hisoka glanced at the hole in the wall and then back to the pinkette that had caused it. To think that such a tiny body hosted so much power. Even more, than he had actually predicted. It brought a whole new rush of excitement and agitation through him.
"My you're just a little wolf in sheep's skin…." Hisoka licked his lips, his fingers twitching as he felt himself fill with excitement, trying to push down the urge to eradicate the girl. "You're making this really hard for me….."
The obvious increase in danger spiked another rush through Sakura, she pumped chakra to her feet to increase her speed, keeping her eyes on her target. But this time something was different when she saw Hisoka, he moved before she reached him, getting into a fighting stance whereas he had been nonchalant, showing his blatant disregard for this particular fight.
Hisoka blocked Sakura's punches, knocking at her arms to maneuver her punches away from his body and stepping back when she tried to kick him as well and then he went to counter, throwing his own however the pace he moved at was easy for her to avoid. All of this was in such a great sequence it was as if the two were performing a dangerous dance. It was enchanting and at the same time suspenseful as no one knew what the outcome might be.
Then Sakura pulled away. Leaping back as far as she could.
"What's the matter?" Hisoka asked, hand on his hip. "Giving up?"
Sakura grunted, "Not even close."
Sakura ran forward again, only this time moving a little slower than usual, she brought her hands together and formed several hand signs. In an instant, everyone was looking at three Sakura's running towards Hisoka. The self-proclaimed magician seemed taken aback by the sudden appearance; just as much as their audience was.
Each of the three Sakura's moved in their own manner, one coming up to deliver a dropkick above Hisoka, and the other aiming for his chest with a punch. Hisoka made the necessary movements to block the two but that had given the third an opening as the clones Sakura had produced were without substance and vanished in puffs of smoke. Allowing her to strike Hisoka right in the face with a force that knocked him far back, skidding across the ground.
Panting softly, Sakura straightened her body wiping a bead of sweat that ran down the side of her face. "Just wanted to give you a taste of your own tricks."
"They're really going at it," Leorio commented, loosening his tie a little as he struggles to breathe with the tension in the air.
"She's a very experienced fighter for a child," commented Bodoro. He himself wanted to battle Hisoka, but now he felt that he might have underestimated the other applicants on account of the fact that they were so young; he had included Sakura in one of the few he wanted to fight the least as she was just a child along with Gon and Killua.
"Man, that girl's a monster," Pokkle said with admiration.
'That's a ninja for you,' Hanzo thought, feeling pride as well as strengthened kinship with the younger girl. She had perfected jutsu to a point no one in his village ever had-or perhaps could.
Killua watched seemingly stoic, but he was tense. The math was going on for too long now and if it didn't come to end soon, then neither would be passing. 'This is only going to get worse.'
It wasn't intuition, it was fact.
Hisoka groaned deeply as he felt the pain shoot through his body from that single punch, packed with so much ferocity and power. He knew that he should end this match soon, but at the same time, he wanted to continue even with the risk of getting disqualified if he did. He wanted to bask in this experience and see what other tempting fragrances this unripe fruit had to offer.
With a single spring, Hisoka was back on his feet again. His eyes meeting the stormy emeralds of hers.
He knew she hadn't even reached the pinnacle of the tower yet but her quality was already so tantalizing.
'Calm down, calm down, calm down, calm down, calm down...' He trembled, swelling with excitement. 'It's not time, it's not the right time.'
As Hisoka attempted to push down his raging bloodlust that was seeping through every fiber of his being; Sakura felt her own slowly dissipating. Being devoured by the strength of Hisoka's own intense fighting spirit that she could practically see it. She was spurring him closer to the end of no return and that's when fear began to settle in again. Her safety net was in danger of being cut when she was this close to falling.
It was the pain of the first card sinking into her shoulder that broke Sakura from her state of paralysis, and she managed to swing her head to the side before the second card could hit her directly, though the force caused her hair to gather to one side like a feather in the wind and the card cut through the short tresses, making it even less but straight.
This time when Hisoka moved to strike, Sakura wasn't able to move away in time as he blurred in front of him. His sharp nails dug into her skin, shredding through the fabric of her top and then digging into the side of her stomach before he pulled back to keep his entire hand from just digging straight into her.
"SAKURA!" Kurapika and Leorio called as they watched the kunoichi fall to the ground, hitting with an echoing thud.
"What the hell are you doing!? You can't kill your opponent!" Leorio screamed, his fear of Hisoka forgotten as he felt the vein on his forehead throb.
"I know, but I need her to surrender," Hisoka stated; his aggravation dissipating somewhat as he felt the warmth of Sakura's blood under his fingernails. Although he was enjoying himself, he didn't know how much longer he was going to be able to hold himself back and devour her. Hisoka reached down towards Sakura's seemingly lifeless form.
"Now….."
Just then, Sakura's form vanished in a puff of smoke, that sharpened everyone's eyes again as Sakura appeared behind Hisoka and threw a punch directly at Hisoka's chest, but right at contact he grabbed her arm in a painful grip and twisted it behind her back, then taking her other arm as she gave a reckless wing in attempt to stop the pain and held them both behind her.
Sakura felt the tendons and muscles burn under the strain Hisoka forced them under. His closed the distance between their bodies from behind, increasing the pain. She felt a hot wind against the side of her face. A hoarse voice whispering in her ear.
"If you don't stop, I'm going to break you."
She stopped as Hisoka's grip tightened, reaching to that point where he was ready to break the bones in her arms. But then, when her head turned slowly, Hisoka saw a wide smile on her face, crooked with malice and her eyes sharp, glinting dangerously.
"Why don't I help you with that?"
Pushing off the ground, shifting all her weight to lift herself up to one end, all anyone heard was the perfect snap that they had become familiar with after Gon and Hanzo's match. Sakura delivered a powerful drop-kick to Hisoka, putting him in the same position as he had to her, groundbreaking underneath him from the force with her maneuver before the pain overcame her entirely and she slumped back to the ground.
Chuckling sent another chill down Sakura's spine as she watched Hisoka begin to come to life once again. He lifted his face, his temple bleeding from the impact and clear markings as a result of Sakura's attack but he was smiling wickedly, bringing himself to stand with no effort.
She watched in disbelief as he dusted off his clothing before turning to her, dwarfing her with his powerful presence. Sakura felt her hands trembling, and that only caused more pain to course through her body.
"That was...….marvelous. Simply marvelous."
Sakura tensed, bringing herself to stand quickly, clutching her arm; but then Hisoka turned away from her and began to walk, his back turned, his defenses gone.
"I surrender." He looked back at her for only a second, at the battered girl, "Consider this a reward."
The referee threw his arm up after a moment of surprise, "#44 Hisoka has conceded, #402, Sakura passes."
The examiners and applicants watch as Hisoka drew further away from his opponent. It was a wonder how he had come to admit defeat. But no one was able to find their voices just yet after witnessing the match. Giving an anti-climatic atmosphere.
'I thought they were going to kill each other,' Satotz couldn't help but feel after witnessing the match. He didn't think that either would have stopped.
'I knew this girl was strong, but this is just….' Lippo smiled.
'That's probably going to be the best match,' Menchi thought, unable to hold back a grin. She was very impressed with Sakura, and the fact that she was only a rookie able to hold her own against someone like Hisoka really said something.
There were already two people rushing over to Sakura, carrying a medical kit to tend to her wounds, but when they reached her, Sakura just stood up and looked over to the examiners. Holding a calm place, despite also holding her broken arm and when she spoke, her voice drew on a blank.
"Where was Gon taken?"
Netero pointed to the side to one of the closed doors in the hotel, "He should be resting right in there. You can be treated there if you wish."
Sakura nodded and started slowly making her way over, she glanced at Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua, she couldn't even bring herself to smile and reassure them that she was fine before she disappeared in the room with the medics. As the doors closed, everyone felt more content with speaking.
Pokkle looked at Leorio and Kurapika, "Hey, you guys are friends with her. Who is that girl?"
"We have no idea"