The Ancient Forest encampment buzzed with activity as the fifth fleet's hunters prepared for their first expedition. Hunters hurried to repair gear, organize supplies, and ready themselves for the challenges ahead. Hunter moved quietly among the tents, Pyro perched alertly on his shoulder. To most, he seemed like any other hunter — blending effortlessly with the crowd.
Yet his sharp eyes scanned for a familiar face. Three years ago, in the Old World, he had crossed paths with a veteran hunter during his early adventures — the MC of the first Monster Hunter. That hunter had taught Hunter important survival techniques and Haki basics, and their meeting had left a lasting impression.
---
Among the bustle, Hunter spotted the MC from his first Monster Hunter adventure near the central tent. Time had added confidence to the veteran's movements, but the presence was unmistakable. Hunter's lips curved into a quiet smile.
The MC noticed him immediately. "Hunter? Is that… you?"
Hunter inclined his head. "It's been a long time. You've grown stronger since we last met."
The MC grinned. "And you as well. I didn't expect to see you here in the New World."
---
They walked to a quieter corner of the camp, exchanging stories of past hunts. Hunter spoke sparingly about his own experiences, careful not to reveal the true extent of his abilities. Pyro perched quietly on his shoulder, ever alert.
"So," Hunter began cautiously, "how's your Haki progress? Have you been practicing since our last meeting?"
The MC scratched his head, smiling sheepishly. "I've been working on it. Observation Haki is improving… a little. Armament Haki too, though I still struggle to apply it reliably in battle."
Hunter nodded thoughtfully. "That's expected. Mastery takes time and patience. Even a small improvement now will matter greatly in future hunts. Keep practicing carefully — don't rush it."
The MC chuckled. "I know. You've come a long way already, haven't you? You seem… different somehow."
Hunter offered a small, reserved smile. "I've trained steadily. But Haki is only part of it. Discipline and observation are just as important. Focus on improving steadily, and the rest will follow."
Pyro flicked his tail, observing the interaction quietly. Only he was aware of the full extent of Hunter's abilities, including Conqueror Haki, which Hunter had never mentioned.
---
Even in the midst of the bustling camp, a quiet understanding passed between them. The MC respected Hunter's calm and confident presence, while Hunter assessed the MC's instincts and growth. There was trust, but Hunter remained cautious — his full abilities, especially Conqueror Haki, were kept entirely secret.
"We'll see each other again on the hunt," the MC said, glancing toward the edge of the forest.
Hunter nodded slightly. "Yes. Soon."
They parted ways to prepare for the next expedition. Hunter's mind was already calculating paths, potential monster movements, and strategies for remaining unseen while gathering information.
---
Later, Hunter crouched atop a ridge overlooking the encampment. The forest pulsed with life — unseen predators moved through the underbrush, rivers wound through dense foliage, and distant mountains hinted at larger threats.
Pyro leaned against him, tail flicking gently. Hunter flexed his fists within his gauntlets. "The New World will test us, Pyro. But we'll move unseen, strike unseen, and survive unseen. And when true threats appear… we'll be ready."
The horizon stretched endlessly, alive with untamed monsters and adventures yet to come. Hunter's Conqueror Haki remained hidden, known only to Pyro, while he continued mentoring the MC subtly through observation and discussion.