Beauty is an inherent trait of all women, and Machi is no exception. However, her sharp wit and knack for recognizing value extend far beyond mere aesthetics. Her affinity for wealth ensures she won't miss the opportunity to acquire cards promising immense riches.
"I don't think this should happen. Once the card's effect is activated, it doesn't just vanish," she said, her tone pragmatic.
Shalnark nodded. "Exactly. After the effect is triggered, it's permanent."
Machi seemed satisfied with the explanation and gave a slight nod.
"Then we can focus on gathering cards that will benefit the leader and strategizing based on their effects."
Franklin, lost in thought, broke his silence. "Do you think the leader will follow the prophecy and come here?"
Shalnark frowned. "Unlikely. With his Nen sealed and only his physical strength to rely on, there's no way he'd traverse the Yorbian Continent in five days. He doesn't even know that the true destination is Greed Island."
"So, should we find someone to deliver a message?" Franklin asked.
"And who would that be?" Shalnark countered, raising an eyebrow. "Hisoka's not exactly reliable, and the Zoldyck family wouldn't bother helping us. Without Nen, the leader can't enter the game through the console. Crossing the sea directly is even more impractical."
Shalnark paused, his expression softening slightly. "Still, there's no need to despair. The prophecy said, 'Enjoy the intermission' and 'You will meet the one waiting for you.' The leader will return to us. I'm sure of it."
Meanwhile, deep within the dense forests of the Yorbian Continent, the crackle of a small fire broke the heavy silence of the night.
Chrollo Lucilfer sat by the flames, his trademark coat adorned with a reversed cross resting lightly on his shoulders. Blue gemstones gleamed against his earlobes, and his calm, dark eyes reflected the flickering light. His stoic demeanor suggested he had already processed whatever trials he had endured five days ago.
He absently stirred the fire with a wooden stick and spoke, his voice low and composed.
"You've been watching me for quite some time. Why not step into the light?"
From the shadows of the forest emerged a slender figure, the sound of geta clogs brushing against the undergrowth signaling their approach.
Chrollo didn't turn. His gaze remained fixed on the flames as he spoke again.
"What business does a member of the Zoldyck family have with me? Have you come to fulfill a contract on my life?"
The voice that replied was young but steady. "No."
Chrollo finally turned, his interest piqued. Standing before him was Kalluto Zoldyck, adorned in a blue-shaded kimono. His purple eyes shone with determination.
"I want to join the Phantom Troupe," Kalluto declared firmly.
A flicker of surprise crossed Chrollo's otherwise stoic face.
"Oh?" he said, rising to his feet and studying the young Zoldyck closely.
"You're quite an intriguing addition to the Zoldyck family," he mused. "But why do you want to join the Troupe?"
Kalluto's expression remained impassive. "Because joining the Phantom Troupe will give me the chance to accomplish my goal."
"And what is that?" Chrollo asked, tilting his head slightly.
"To bring my brother home."
Chrollo observed Kalluto in silence for a long moment before giving a small nod. He didn't fully understand how joining the Troupe connected to such a personal goal, but logic wasn't always a prerequisite for ambition.
"If that's your goal and you're capable, then you're welcome to join—though I must warn you, I'm currently unable to contact the Troupe."
"I know," Kalluto replied. "Illumi told me. You've been restricted from contacting any members of the Troupe. But…"
Kalluto stepped forward, pulling a small paper crane from his sleeve. His gaze locked with Chrollo's.
"I can help you break free from that restriction."
Chrollo's eyes gleamed momentarily with interest before his expression returned to its usual calm.
"Are you a specialist in Nen?"
"No," Kalluto admitted. "But I have the ability to find someone who is."
He held out the paper crane, its edges fluttering slightly in the night breeze.
"With enough information, I can use my Nen to locate anyone on Greed Island or beyond. Just give me a description of the person you need."
Chrollo covered his mouth in thought, studying the delicate crane. "The one who can remove the restriction on my body. Their location is said to be east of here. Is that enough?"
"Let's find out."
Closing his eyes, Kalluto activated his Nen. The crane in his hand began to sway, as if responding to an invisible pull.
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