The time for high school graduation has finally arrived. In this era, many who complete higher education move into white-collar jobs. Quite a few also go into administration. It really was a high-society educational institution.
Since that's the case, I made sure to ask my friends to look after the Anderson family. It's just a verbal promise, but they call themselves my followers, so they'll take care of things.
In fact, they were extremely disappointed in my chosen path. They said I could have become the greatest Boss. Well, my mind was made up from the start. When I told them I was going to attempt the most difficult Hunter Exam in the world, they seemed to accept it and cheered me on.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't sad to leave them after such a long time together, but being a Mafia boss truly isn't for me. I also told them to support Michael. I know they'll do it.
Michael's training has entered its final stage. He already possesses the Aura of a mid-tier Hunter. His Nen control has ultimately become as skilled as mine, so I think he's ready.
His unique ability, [Blessings Upon You, Anderson Familia], has also successfully manifested.
I have one last thing I must pass on to him.
At the Slag Heap
"Michael, you did well. I hereby grant you my full certification. You can now take a close-range gunshot and walk away with only a minor injury.
However, there is one last thing I need you to promise me.
First, never attack ordinary people with Nen. Limit it to other Nen users. I've forbidden this before, but if your opponent survives, there's a possibility they might awaken to Nen. If you absolutely must use it on a non-user, you must ensure they are permanently dealt with.
Second, do not spread this power unless absolutely necessary. There is a huge advantage in knowing it versus not knowing it, and if it becomes public, there's a risk of being targeted by many people.
Finally, if you ever use your Nen ability to oppress innocent people, I, who taught you, will personally take responsibility and kill you.
Well, I know you'll be fine. I'm sorry to put this burden on you, but please look after Dad, Mom, and the family business for me."
"...Honestly, hearing 'full certification' from the monster standing right in front of me doesn't feel real at all, Big Brother.
But I understand what you're saying. I promise to obey your rules. I will further enhance this power and protect the family and the Family.
Don't worry about the business. I'll do my best. Just chase your dream without a single concern."
He truly is an admirable little brother.
"So, should we do it?"
"Let's do it."
We bit our fingers and mixed our blood—the blood oath. It's been six long years since the last one.
"As long as I live, I will return home once a year. That's a promise."
"And I will become a man worthy of being the Boss of the Family. That's a promise."
We exchanged promises and laughed together. Family really is the best. I'm definitely going to keep my promise.
Immediately after, Michael saw my wounds rapidly restore themselves and, yelling, "That's still cheating! I was in so much pain!", he punched me. I promptly knocked him down. It's ten years too early for you to beat your Master.
He was muttering things like, "That's not fair..." but I pretended not to hear and carried him home.
"Dad, Mom. Thank you so much for everything. I'm going to become a Hunter. But I'll come back home once a year. I'll write letters, too."
"My sweet Kam has grown up so much... Truthfully, I still don't want you to go. You were always so frail when you were little. But this is your decision, isn't it? Please be careful of injuries and illness and do your best."
"Thank you, Mom. I still need to ask you for the family's tomato pasta recipe, so I'll definitely come back."
Thank you, Mom. I'll definitely return to be a good son.
"I'll be lonely without you here. But once a man decides something, he must see it through. As I said before, don't worry about the family business. Also, this is a parting gift. Take it."
Dad handed me a heavy leather pouch. When I checked inside, it was tightly packed with bank notes.
"No, I don't need this much!" I tried to give it back, but he firmly refused, saying,
"It's money I saved up just for you. Let your father do this much." I guess I'll graciously accept it then. I can never repay him.
"Michael! I'm counting on you to look after the family!"
When I yelled toward his second-floor window from the front door, my little brother—who was apparently too shy to say goodbye in person and was watching from the window—returned my call with a thumbs-up.
"I'm off."
Time to go. I left the house and started walking down the road. After walking for a while, I turned back for one last look at my home, and then...
"Bwaah!?"
Something slammed into me with tremendous force. Looking closer, it was Michael. I didn't even notice him until I turned around. He's improved his technique. As I thought these pointless thoughts, Michael buried his face in my stomach and said,
"Big Brother, you absolutely have to come back."
You cute little idiot.
"I promised, didn't I? I will definitely come back."
"You better!"
"Absolutely."
We separated and bumped our fists together. Michael's eyes were slightly teary, but I pretended not to notice.
"Well then, goodbye, Big Brother."
"Michael, we don't say goodbye when we part. We say this so we know we'll meet again."
"See you later..."
Michael grinned and replied,
"I understand, Big Brother."
"See you later..."
I really love Michael. I feel like writing a side story about him. Actually, I did write one. But I love Joseph too. Saying goodbye is truly lonely.
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