CHAPTER 11 — The Road to the Exam (Age 12)
Kael boarded a small ship heading for the Hunter Exam port.
The sailors felt uneasy around him, though he barely spoke.
His aura — even suppressed — was sharp enough to give grown men headaches.
One sailor whispered,
"Kid, are you… here for the Exam?"
Kael didn't look up.
"Obviously."
During a violent storm, the ship tilted dangerously.
Gon rushed to help secure the ropes, radiating determination like a beacon.
Kael observed him silently from the deck.
That boy's aura was pure.
Untainted.
Radiant like sunlight.
Interesting.
Killua noticed Kael too, narrowing his eyes.
"That kid… something's off."
Leorio shivered without understanding why.
But Gon smiled at Kael.
"Hey! Are you taking the Exam too?"
Kael finally spoke.
"Yes. And I intend to pass."
Gon laughed, unbothered by the cold tone.
"I hope we can be friends!"
Kael tilted his head.
"I don't need friends. But strong allies… perhaps."
Gon beamed anyway, as if Kael had accepted.
Kael didn't correct him.