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Chapter 42: This is an Enhancer!
When Kurapika got off the train in Mordin City, his mind was filled with thoughts of Heaven's Arena.
But his worry didn't last long.
Someone sent him a text message.
Although Kurapika hadn't left the village long, his sharp mind led him to leave contacts behind at the arena.
A fighting enthusiast who frequented the arena sent the message.
The text was filled with descriptions of how shocking Ronin's battle with Uvogin was.
Ronin's titles had evolved from "Supernova" and "Red-Splendored Meteor" to "Fire God," "Flame Emperor," and "The Manipulator of Flames."
But Kurapika didn't care about the hype.
He focused on two things:
• Ronin didn't die, but he vanished. He hadn't appeared for two days.
• Uvogin didn't die either. He was heavily injured and rescued. Three people had attacked Ronin near the ring.
Kurapika noted their descriptions. Next time, he would recognize them instantly.
Reviewing Ronin's actions, Kurapika saw traces of idealism.
Clearly, Ronin wasn't a strategist.
If he were there to help, Kurapika was certain he could have bought Ronin enough time to kill Uvogin in the ring and escape safely.
A pity.
But he had learned about Nen from various sources.
One theory stated that Enhancers like Big Brother Ronin were simple-minded and acted on instinct.
Ronin's actions in Heaven's Arena felt like instinct, not calculation.
However, the fact that Big Brother isn't good at planning means he needs me even more!
Kurapika clenched his fist.
Big Brother Ronin could be the strongest spear. Kurapika's job was to ensure that spear could unleash its maximum devastation.
Two days later, Kurapika met Ronin at the station.
Ronin wore a simple disguise. Kurapika had also ditched his traditional Kurta clothes for casual wear.
They hugged immediately.
Ronin hadn't expected the usually reserved Kurapika to show such emotion.
"Sorry to keep you waiting," Ronin said, releasing him.
Kurapika shook his head.
"Unfortunately, my plan was too simple. I almost put myself in danger and failed to finish off Uvogin," Ronin said as he led Kurapika out of the station.
He had to admit, he was a good fighter, but a poor plotter.
If he had planned better, Uvogin would be dead.
Hisoka's personality test is disturbingly accurate.
Is this what an Enhancer is?
All points dumped into combat!
"You did very well. Burning him alive was too good for him. I heard about Uncle..." Kurapika looked at Ronin apologetically.
"I know," Ronin didn't shy away. "Uvogin stepped on his head while chasing me."
"I'm sorry," Kurapika whispered.
Ronin shook his head. "He was lucky to survive this time, but he's unlucky too. Next time we meet, I will take his head."
"We'll do it together!" Kurapika said firmly.
"Of course. You're my strategist," Ronin had gained self-awareness after this incident.
Compared to scheming, he preferred training.
Whether for revenge or collecting eyes, strength and money were indispensable.
Kurapika had a flexible mind and meticulous thinking. Leaving the planning to him was reassuring.
Chatting about trivial matters, they arrived at the hotel Kurapika had booked.
Ronin had used Genjutsu to influence people along the way, leaving no paper trail.
Kurapika booked the room, making it even harder to track Ronin.
"This isn't foolproof," Kurapika analyzed after sitting down. "If Nen didn't exist, your method would be perfect. But with Nen, there might be special ways to locate you.
"Furthermore, you're a celebrity now. The chance of being recognized is high. The best move is not to stay in one place for too long.
"Or, we set traps to detect if anyone is investigating, then decide to counter or retreat. We must keep the initiative."
"Can we use me as bait to lure the Troupe?" Ronin asked.
"No," Kurapika shook his head. "The strength you showed in the arena is enough to make them cautious.
"Using bait tactics might backfire and get you killed.
"Next time the Troupe faces you, it won't be like the arena with just five people and a 1v1 duel. They will likely attack you together. How many can you fight at once?"
Ronin shook his head. "1v1, I'm not afraid. 1v2 or 1v3, I'm confident I can escape. More than three? High chance of death."
With the Lightning Release Chakra Mode, Ronin was confident in his escape ability.
That was why he was fearless even when blocked by Shalnark in the tunnel.
What he lacked was control over the mode and sufficient Chakra. Once those improved, his combat power would skyrocket.
Kurapika's eyes lit up. "Can I learn Nen?"
He didn't just want to be a support; he wanted to kill the butchers with his own hands!
Ronin knew what Kurapika was thinking.
"Of course," Ronin said naturally. "But step by step. A solid foundation lets you go further."
Kurapika nodded heavily.
Ronin didn't believe in hoarding power. If Kurapika wanted revenge, let him have it!
He would be right there with him.
Revenge shouldn't be Kurapika's whole life. He deserved a broader future.
"I told you before, once we reached Mordin City, I'd tell you a secret," Ronin's expression turned serious.
Kurapika braced himself solemnly.
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