Dominica, usually composed and elegant, couldn't help but curse when she saw the photograph. Her reaction spoke volumes about the Fiora royal family's hatred for Taris.
In contrast, Wendy's expression remained calm, suggesting she might not fully understand the history behind this conflict.
"Kaizen, let's head to that town," Dominica said, forcing herself to regain her composure.
"Alright," Kaizen replied. Pulling out a map, he pointed to a marked red dot. "The town is here. We can take an airship to this city, then drive the rest of the way."
Dominica nodded.
"Sounds like a plan."
The trio purchased tickets for the earliest airship, departing later that evening. With time to spare, Kaizen and Dominica decided to stay in the city instead of returning to Heavens Arena. To express her gratitude, Dominica treated them to an excellent dinner.
As Wendy stood up, Kaizen noticed her height was almost the same as his, though her build was far less developed compared to others like Shizuku or Sally. Yet, Wendy's excitement shone through her demeanor. For her, this upcoming journey wasn't just a mission, it felt like an adventure.
"The Nen users from Taris are cunning and dangerous," Dominica said. "This operation won't be easy. I've warned you about this before. However, since we're a team now, we should share our abilities to work better together."
"I'll start," Dominica continued. "My Nen ability focuses on controlling and creating soil. It's more defensive than offensive. The Nen users of Taris are known for their bizarre attack styles, which is why His Majesty tasked me with leading this operation."
Next, Wendy introduced herself. "I have two types of Nen—one for healing and another for attacking. My offensive abilities are sharp but lack explosive power."
Both women turned to Kaizen.
"I'm a Specialist," Kaizen said. "I have two combat-oriented Nen Beasts. I can also use aura bombs for direct attacks." He withheld details about Killer Queen and Altan, noting that Dominica and Wendy had also been cautious about revealing everything.
Dominica nodded. "Once we begin, we'll be fighting side by side. The Zoldyck family's relationship with our Fiora royal family has always been solid. I trust we can rely on one another."
Kaizen smiled faintly. "I agree."
As their airship ascended into the night sky, its speed increased with the altitude. Kaizen's mind was preoccupied.
"I wonder what the fifth Nen Beast will be like," he mused. A crystal ball, visible only to him, hovered before him—empty and awaiting something.
"When we reach that town, I'll try to start absorbing traits," he thought. "But the last monster I defeated might not yield much."
Kaizen regretted not activating his trait absorption earlier. At the time, he hadn't realized the Taris Kingdom was behind the monster. Ordinary creatures didn't interest him; forcing their traits could produce weak Nen Beasts—or worse, fail entirely.
...
Meanwhile, at the Zoldyck Estate, Zeno received Kaizen's message.
"Investigating the Nen users of Taris Kingdom?" Zeno muttered, recalling memories of those troublesome individuals.
"With Kaizen's current strength, only the hidden veterans could pose a real threat to him. And with Dominica leading, known for her steadiness and nicknamed 'Iron Wall,' their chances are good. The Fiora royal family's Nen system is quite formidable."
The airship landed, and Dominica immediately purchased a car.
"Get in," she said. Her V5 driver's license was recognized even in this small country. Wendy took the passenger seat, while Kaizen sat in the back. With a roar, the car sped toward the town.
As they arrived near midnight, an ominous sensation hit Kaizen like a wave. The air reeked of malice, much like when he first encountered the monster.
"I already killed that thing," Kaizen thought, frowning. "Are there more monsters here? The town's aura wasn't like this before."
Dominica sensed it too and pulled the car to a stop. "Get out. Something's wrong with this place."
The trio stepped out, immediately activating Gyo. Faint black aura enveloped the town—a manifestation of death and strong, malevolent intent. Yet, amidst the stillness, traces of living people could be felt.
"Let's move into the town cautiously," Dominica instructed, taking the lead.
"Kaizen, guide us to where you encountered the monster," she added.
"Got it," Kaizen replied, pointing in the direction.
They soon reached a ruin, though it strangely emitted the weakest black aura in the area.
Suddenly, a figure emerged from a nearby corner—a flashlight in hand. The man, appearing to be a night watchman, eyed the trio warily.
"Who are you?" he demanded.
"We're travelers," Dominica said smoothly. "We booked a homestay here but lost our way."
The old man's suspicion eased slightly. "Which one?"
Kaizen quickly supplied the name of the place he had stayed at during his last visit.
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