As Vice Chairman of the Hunter Association, Pariston Hill had access to vast resources and kept an eye on all the noteworthy individuals in the world.
Ronnel, who had once won the championship in the Battle Olympia, naturally caught his attention.
Pariston's interest deepened after discovering Ronnel's involvement in the Cruz Cemetery ruins. Intrigued, he began a thorough investigation, growing increasingly impressed with what he uncovered.
Of course, Ronnel had no idea about any of this.
When he walked into the Association Chairman's office, Netero was seated on the tatami, sipping tea with his eyes closed. He looked relaxed, almost serene.
In contrast, Beans sat at the desk nearby, diligently working through towering stacks of paperwork—each stack nearly double Beans' height.
Ronnel couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy.
Netero, the quintessential hands-off leader.
"You're here~"
Netero gently set down his teacup, turning his head toward Ronnel before opening his eyes.
"It seems you've made significant progress recently~"
A flash of brilliance flickered in his gaze, like an ancient beast awakening from slumber. It was the unmistakable aura of Netero—the strongest Nen-user in the world—and his indomitable fighting spirit.
"Thanks to you, I've had quite a few adventures~"
Despite the intense energy radiating from Netero, Ronnel remained unaffected. He grinned and plopped down opposite the old man without hesitation.
Progress? Of course. Between Yorknew City, the Bone King, and the Marta Family, Ronnel had gained plenty of strength and experience.
During his time with the Marta Family, he had absorbed Nen from various sources, building up a considerable reserve of aura and collecting useful skills.
However, Ronnel had yet to fully comprehend the Bone King's unique Nen. He had decided not to absorb any additional energy until he'd mastered what he already had. For now, all those gains were stored safely in his space backpack, waiting for the right moment to unlock their potential.
"This level of growth isn't something ordinary adventures can achieve~"
Netero's sharp eyes scanned Ronnel carefully. He saw no signs of unstable power or restrictive vows, and he relaxed slightly. Yet, there was still a spark of curiosity—and perhaps a hint of excitement—in his expression.
"Maybe it's just luck~"
Ronnel's tone was casual, but his eyes seemed to ask: Do you want to fight again?
Netero chuckled, stroking his beard.
"Don't worry, I'm not looking for a fight right now. By the way, do you have any plans for the near future?"
Ronnel shrugged and poured himself a cup of tea.
"Not really. I've had so many adventures recently, and my strength has grown so quickly. I figured I'd take some time to rest and process everything."
"I see~"
Netero nodded, his beard curving into a sly grin.
"I have a way for you to relax. How about you give it a try?"
"What kind of way?"
"Be the examiner for this year's Hunter Exam~"
"…What??"
Ronnel blinked, his expression blank. Netero, however, looked completely serious.
"Today's the start of the Hunter Exam. Registration closes at 5:30 PM, and the first phase is in a neighboring city. There's still about an hour and a half left, so you can make it in time."
"Wait a minute, old man," Ronnel said, shaking his head. "Haven't the examiners already been chosen? Why the sudden change?"
"That's perfectly normal. If an examiner falls ill or has an emergency, we appoint a replacement. The examinees don't know who the examiner is beforehand, so it's not an issue."
Netero took another sip of tea, his tone calm and matter-of-fact.
"But I've only had my Hunter license for a year. Am I even qualified to be an examiner?"
"Technically, no," Netero admitted. "But you're a One-Star Hunter now. Star Hunters enjoy special privileges, including the authority to serve as examiners in exceptional circumstances."
"I see…" Ronnel nodded thoughtfully. "But does the current examiner really have an emergency?"
"Indeed. A very serious illness."
"And when did this illness strike?"
"Just now—right before you walked in. He called to inform me."
Ronnel stared at Netero, his disbelief evident.
This old man is shameless!
Still, the idea wasn't entirely unappealing. His master, Bisky, had served as a Hunter Exam examiner before. Revisiting the process could be a chance to follow in her footsteps.
Plus, he'd get to see some familiar faces—like Killua.
After a moment's consideration, Ronnel nodded.
"Alright, I'll do it."
Netero chuckled, his eyes twinkling.
"Excellent. I'll leave it to you, then. Good luck!"
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