Hunter X Hunter: Tombbound Power

These three substances wouldn't harm the human body directly, but they were dangerously addictive. Those who indulged became lost, just like Punk.

Ronnel could never forget the sight of Punk's twisted face when addiction gripped him. It was a grotesque image, one he never wanted to experience again. That was why he stayed far away from those substances, uninterested in whether others indulged or abstained.

He wasn't here to revel in luxury or enjoy the noble life. His goal was different: to replace Baker and gather critical information.

V5 officials had explored the Dark Continent countless times, and whatever they discovered had to be invaluable. As a high-ranking official of the Mimbo Republic, Renji Creston was sure to possess knowledge about the Dark Continent—and as one of the top aristocrats across the Six Continents, he likely had access to secrets that few could even dream of.

This was Ronnel's real goal: to unearth those secrets. He was endlessly curious about this strange and dangerous Hunter world.

Posing as Baker, Ronnel often visited the family library. The servants assumed their master was hunting for books on romance—strategies to win the heart of Princess Anna. Since Baker had always been fond of reading, no one thought much of it.

Even Renji Creston, deeply involved in the affairs of state and entertainment, barely noticed. His demanding schedule left little time to connect with his son. He left early and returned late, so much so that they rarely saw each other.

It was little wonder that Punk's upbringing had gone awry, neglected and left without proper guidance. Though Baker's behavior sometimes earned Pilusi's approval, the father had been mulling over whether he needed more heirs—a contingency plan, should one son not be enough.

This gave Ronnel a valuable advantage: freedom to move without suspicion.

Meanwhile, the Republic of Padokea, Kukuroo Mountain, and Gon's training sessions were nearing their conclusion. Gon and Killua had successfully completed their goal: opening the Testing Gate.

The following morning, the group dispersed. Leorio left to pursue medical school, while Kurapika headed to the Association to search for both a suitable employer and any lead on the Scarlet Eyes.

After some discussion, Killua and Gon decided to make their way to Heavens Arena.

At the same time, in Heavens Arena, Wing received a call from the Hunter Association.

"A new examinee passed the Hunter Exam? Alright, I understand. I'll handle the training for now."

In the hallway, Wing ended the call and stepped into the room where Zushi sat cross-legged, finishing his meditation.

"Master Wing, I've completed the basic training. Can I fight in Heavens Arena now?"

Zushi's eyes gleamed with anticipation—ready to showcase all he had learned and carve out his legend, just like Uncle Ronnel.

"Yes, it's time," Wing said with a small smile, ruffling Zushi's hair. "Blind practice will only take you so far. You've reached the stage where battle is your best teacher."

Zushi beamed with joy. "Heavens Arena, here I come!"

Wing turned to gaze out the window, his eyes lingering on the upper floors.

"Ronnel... Is his talent truly as great as they say? I'd like to see for myself."

Meanwhile, the arena buzzed with excitement.

BOOM!

"Wow! Hisoka finishes the match with another clean victory using his signature card trick! That brings his record to eight wins and two losses. Just two more wins, and he'll be eligible to challenge the Floor Master!" the commentator shouted with enthusiasm.

On the stage, Hisoka shuffled his cards lazily, turned on his heel, and left the arena.

"Hm… Kastro should be arriving soon," he murmured to himself. "And this Hunter license really is a gem—gives me access to all sorts of interesting travel logs."

He grinned. "I thought I'd have to wait here for Kastro, but it seems two other 'green fruits' are on their way. Oh, this should be fun~!"

Hisoka's expression darkened with amusement as he slipped into the shadows, chuckling to himself.

Not far away, a woman with soft, pink-purple hair watched him leave. She twirled a casino voucher between her fingers with a satisfied grin.

"Another small profit," she whispered.

With the Hunter Exam concluded, everyone went their separate ways, diving into their new lives. Time slipped by quietly, almost unnoticed.

Half a month passed in the blink of an eye.

"Banquet?"

Ronnel raised an eyebrow as he glanced at the ornate invitation handed to him by a servant.

The invitation bore the royal seal of Princess Anna, the pride of the Mimbo Republic, summoning the young heroes of the imperial capital to a grand banquet three days from now at Palace.

Ronnel received the same invitation as Punk, along with 197 other young nobles. It was clear from the presentation that the event would be more than just a banquet—it was likely where Princess Anna would begin her search for a suitor.

Ronnel, however, felt nothing about it. He wasn't really Baker, after all, and he had never even met Princess Anna. It wasn't his concern if she wanted to pick a prince charming from the crowd.

His mission was simple: gather information, uncover the truth, and leave quietly once he had what he needed.

He tossed the invitation aside and returned to his book.

Three days flew by, and the city burst into life as the banquet approached.

Every young noble worth mentioning had received an invitation, and the streets of the imperial capital buzzed with excitement. The evening's festivities added to the usual bustle, as royal carriages paraded through the streets, carrying eager young aristocrats toward Palace.

Ronnel sat in his study, book in hand, as Punk left for the banquet in high spirits, accompanied by an entourage of bodyguards and servants.

He didn't even glance up as they filed out.

The night was just beginning...

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