"Why do you say that?"
"They're all learning Nen. Even though I started at the same time as Siper, she developed her ability before me. Hanzo had his figured out ages ago… I'm the slowest."
Kaizen fell silent for a moment.
"Do you know why I arranged things differently for you and Siper?"
"...I don't."
Ponzu shook her head.
"Because your talent surpasses hers."
Kaizen continued, "I want you on my team. Your ability is valuable. With Siper, it was more of an investment. I gave her training, yes—but the results show her potential is optional for what I need."
"So I gave her a choice. She can become a free Hunter, form her own team… or she can join mine in a less vital role. But I can't offer you that kind of flexibility."
It might've sounded unfair.
But there was no resentment in Ponzu's heart—only the warmth of being recognized.
That's just how people are.
When the strong speak, it feels like truth.
Even the most logical words from the weak sound hollow.
Hearing someone you like speak of love is intoxicating.
When it's someone you dislike, it's repulsive.
"But... Captain," Ponzu murmured, "it's only because of the Queen Bee. Without her, I probably wouldn't have developed any talent at all..."
She lowered her head, unsure of herself.
Kaizen studied her for a moment.
"The Queen Bee is yours, so her ability is yours too."
"Ponzu."
He placed both hands gently on her shoulders—small, soft, and trembling slightly.
"You don't have to reject the Queen Bee. She's part of you. That's your ability. That's your talent. Accept it~"
"...Yes, Kaizen."
"Rest up. We don't know exactly when we're leaving tomorrow, but it won't be late."
"Okay."
Ponzu headed to her room.
Kaizen had reserved a suite—two bedrooms and a shared living area.
Once back in his room, he pulled out his phone and dialed Tucker's number.
It rang only once before being answered.
"Kaizen?"
"Tuck, things on my end are wrapped up for now. What's the status over there?"
"Still quiet, but I've got a bad feeling. Something's going to happen soon. Where are you?"
Kaizen reported his location.
"That's not too far," Tucker replied. "But not exactly close either. Can you head out early tomorrow? I think those assassins are showing up tomorrow night—and I don't know if I can handle them alone."
"No problem, as long as the payment's solid."
"Don't worry, the reward will be worth it."
"Alright. See you tomorrow."
"Yeah. See you."
Kaizen hung up and sat on the bed.
His gaze fell on the crystal ball that hadn't changed in days.
Suddenly, it flickered—jumping from 98% to 100%.
Just as it did, a burst of excited shouting came from the next room.
"I did it! I finally did it!"
Footsteps thundered through the suite.
Bang!
Bang!
One door slammed open, then another.
Ponzu burst into Kaizen's room.
"Captain! I completed the matching! I developed my ability!"
She was flushed with joy, eyes bright, breath quick.
She ran to the bed and grabbed Kaizen's hand.
He blinked, momentarily stunned—then smiled.
"Congratulations."
Ponzu suddenly realized what she'd done, pulled her hand back, and bowed her head.
"I—I'm sorry!"
"It's fine. Totally understandable. Developing your first Nen ability is exciting. Hanzo and Siper were the same way. I was too."
Kaizen paused.
"So, what's your ability, Ponzu?"
"Let me show you."
A translucent screen appeared in front of her—clearly materialized using Nen.
Two small bees flew from her hat.
As they moved, two glowing dots appeared on the display.
"This is my ability—Bee Radar."
Ponzu pointed to the interface.
"It shows the locations of my bees and how far they are from me. It also transmits their current status."
"There are three states total," she continued.
"Normal… Goodwill… and Hostile."
"A normal state just means things are stable."
"A goodwill state means they've found a target with friendly intent."
"And hostile… means they've identified a threat."
She explained with breathless energy, gesturing as she spoke.
Kaizen nodded in approval.
It was a solid ability—especially for a team environment. Being able to locate allies and enemies in real time was an asset, particularly when paired with Ponzu's bee-based control.
"A great ability."
Kaizen smiled. "Looks like you listened to what I said."
"I told you your talent was real. The reason your ability didn't manifest earlier was probably hesitation, not lack of potential."
"You're not worried anymore, are you?"
Ponzu nodded, eyes shining.
"Mm-hmm! Captain, thank you. Without your help, I might've been stuck for a long time."
Kaizen waved it off.
"Don't mention it. You're part of the team now."
"And now that your ability's awakened, you'll join the next assignment—and that means you'll receive a full share of the reward."
Ponzu hesitated.
"But… I just got my ability. Am I really ready?"
"Don't doubt yourself. Your power is solid. It'll make things much easier for me."
"I can really help you, Captain?"
"That's right."
"...Then I'll do my best!"
"Good. Try to get some sleep—we're heading out early tomorrow morning."
"Got it!"
Ponzu left, returning to her room.
But sleep didn't come easily.
She was still too thrilled to settle down.
...
Kaizen also remained awake.
Because now, at long last, his Ninth Beast was about to awaken.
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