Chrollo stood silently, patiently awaiting results.
The dense forest was still, save for the faint crackle of flames.
"Alright~"
After a brief pause, Kalluto opened his eyes and turned eastward.
"The person you're looking for is approximately XXXX kilometers to the east," he stated. "However, I'll need to reach the destination to identify who they are specifically."
Chrollo's lips curved into a faint smile.
"Knowing the exact distance is more than enough," he said softly, studying Kalluto, who seemed to be waiting for further instructions. Amused, Chrollo chuckled.
"You can meet someone named Shalnark. Explain the situation to him, and he'll facilitate your joining the troupe. Also..."
Chrollo reached to his ears, removing two sapphire earrings, their polished surfaces glinting in the firelight.
"With these, Shalnark and the others will trust you."
"I understand~"
Kalluto accepted the gemstones, a flash of joy crossing his eyes. He took a step back, bowing respectfully to his future leader before retreating into the dense forest, disappearing with purpose.
"A new companion?"
Chrollo watched Kalluto's silhouette fade into the trees, his expression unreadable.
"It seems this brief interlude will soon come to an end," he murmured to himself, his gaze shifting eastward with anticipation. Lost in thought, he failed to notice the dwindling flames beside him.
...
Exploration in Braga Canyon
Braga Canyon lived up to its infamous reputation.
Ronnel and Ging had been traversing its treacherous paths for days, covering barely a third of their route.
Still, Ging's exuberance was unshaken.
"This pace is incredible! Several times faster than my last trip here, even with all the precautions I took back then!" he exclaimed.
Ronnel smirked but said nothing, letting Ging's enthusiasm carry the moment. Traveling with him meant more than just exploring. Ging seized the opportunity to study ancient bones, examine the canyon's unique environment, and hunt for rare treasures.
Initially, Ging had been concerned about Ronnel's Nen abilities, particularly the potential backlash from dispelling so much negative energy. After all, Nen followed principles of balance and equivalent exchange. But seeing Ronnel unharmed, even thriving, Ging's worries faded.
"Everyone has their secrets," Ging thought, wisely refraining from asking too many questions. With his worries alleviated, he veered off his planned safe route and dove headfirst into exploration, dragging Ronnel along.
Ronnel didn't mind. The canyon's eerie silence, punctuated by scattered bones and treasures, intrigued him. Despite decay claiming most remains, a few intact skeletons yielded valuable items, some even untouched by time—like rare gems.
The canyon, deserted due to its fearsome reputation, felt like their private playground. Even the skeletal demon beasts lurking within posed little challenge. Ging dealt with them swiftly, whether alone or in pairs, and eventually, the creatures seemed to retreat entirely.
Treasures of the Canyon
"Aha!" Ging exclaimed, holding a beautifully crafted saber. "This is a royal sword from the ancient Kingdom of Karnat. There are fewer than five like it in existence! I can't believe we found one here!"
Kneeling, he wiped the blade carefully, his face alight with childlike wonder.
Click.
Ronnel snapped a photo of Ging's expression.
"Another masterpiece for the collection," Ronnel quipped, reviewing the picture. Ging's giddy grin reminded him of a mischievous dog—adorable but chaotic.
"If I take this sword back, this entire trip will be worth it!" Ging declared, stashing the saber in his cloth bag with exaggerated reverence.
Ronnel raised an eyebrow. Despite the bag's battered appearance, it seemed bottomless. The long sword slipped inside without distorting its shape.
"Space-type storage Nen items..." Ronnel mused aloud. "Convenient."
"Convenient? I'd say your ability is even more impressive," Ging retorted, glancing at Ronnel as he tucked away his camera.
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