This also indirectly promoted the prestige and power of the Hunter Association and Chairman Netero.
In any case, both sides benefited in some way.
Except for Pariston, who was genuinely surrounded by Silva and Zeno Zoldyck, nearly dying at their hands.
As for Luke, who commissioned the task, since it was not completed, Zeno Zoldyck carefully returned the money. No completion, no payment; this was the Zoldyck's business principle, which is why the family became strong and prosperous.
Luke suffered no loss. Although the Zoldyck Family exerted significant effort, they gained a new round of fame.
Chairman Netero's intervention further enhanced his prestige.
In this world, only Pariston was injured.
In the words of Zeno Zoldyck regarding the mission: "Although we couldn't kill him because of Chairman Netero, at least the injuries he sustained may not fully heal in three to five years."
Zeno Zoldyck said this with confidence. Though they failed to complete the employer's order, at the very least, they ensured the employer saw the results of their action.
Even Chairman Netero tacitly approved.
Thus, in the next few short years, it would be difficult for Pariston to cause Luke any further trouble.
Taking advantage of Pariston's current incapacity, Luke fully implemented the strategy of making a final, all-out effort to achieve victory, dealing harshly with those who were still stubbornly opposing him.
Over the course of that year, Luke solidified his control over the Hunter Association.
Even though his domineering methods caused some complaints among the Zodiac Twelve, they still fully adhered to the Hunter Association's regulations.
This ensured Luke remained unassailable, leaving no reason for rebuttal.
Moreover, many hunters inside the association came to recognize the young figure, Kastro, who served Luke as a personal aide. His appearance, demeanor, and strength were all excellent, comparable to those of the secretary-level figures serving powerful individuals.
Luke's representative figure was very impressive.
Thus, under Luke's series of measures, the entire Hunter Association returned to the right track.
Especially without Pariston's interference, professional hunters suddenly felt that the current Hunter Association was quite comfortable.
These lawless individuals, long devoted to freedom and adventure, were very satisfied with their current life.
Luke was also satisfied with the changes in the Hunter Association.
At present, the entire Hunter Association, aside from Chairman Netero, was basically under his control.
Even the Zodiac Twelve, as long as Luke followed the rules and had a justified cause, would not disobey or oppose him casually.
Except for one person, Ging Freecss, who still acted according to his own rules.
He didn't even respect Chairman Netero, let alone Luke, who was still considered a friend.
However, his independent streak was due to a child he was gradually raising.
…
On Whale Island in 1996, the weather remained calm.
This small island, named for its resemblance to a whale, was relatively far from the mainland and could be considered a secluded paradise.
Across the island, aside from the occasional waves from the outside world and the risk of unexpected visitors, the only real danger might be the Master of the Swamp living in the giant lake at the island's deepest point.
The entire island was known for its dense rainforests and deep lakes, harboring unique creatures like fish spirits and foxbears.
The terrain was complex, with thick jungles and bottomless lakes, home to various rare birds and beasts, and possibly intelligent plants.
There was a small village on the island. The native population was very small, and the residents mostly worked in fishing.
As for the children here, there were even fewer.
At present, the only child on the island was a little girl named Noko, and… a little boy with red-orange eyes, black spiky hair without bangs, wearing a green top and shorts.
"Gon, don't run too far, remember to come back in time for meals!"
"I know!!"
This was a conversation that played out almost every day, coming from the island's only bar.
Mito, gentle yet strong-willed, hardworking, and family-oriented, was very different in personality from her cousin, who reminded the little boy who ran outside.
As for Gon, the protagonist of this world, he simply responded with a simple word and then dashed out quickly.
Mito didn't mind; she just kept arranging the dishes in her hands.
Although Gon's response sounded casual and somewhat perfunctory, Mito knew his character well. Once he made a promise, he would follow through.
This child ran into the deep mountains outside every day, which was worrisome, but in situations where he couldn't be stopped, he had the virtue of keeping his word.
As long as he said he would return, he definitely would.
This was very reassuring to Mito.
"Have you decided what you'd like to drink, sir?"
After wiping the dishes clean and placing them aside on the counter, Mito looked at the only guest in the room.
"Give me a glass of your best, most flavorful liquor."
Luke sat at the bench and smiled at Mito.
"All right, please wait a moment."
Mito nodded; she had heard such requests countless times.
Any ship docking at Whale Island whose crew wanted alcohol would inevitably come to her bar, and they would always want the best liquor the tavern had.
Mito was used to it and immediately began preparing the drink efficiently.
"That boy who just ran outside..."
Watching Mito's skilled movements, Luke pretended not to know and asked, "Is he your child?"
"He's my nephew."
Mito's hands never stopped as she replied: "Gon is very reliable."
When mentioning Gon, a genuine smile appeared on her face.
"That child is indeed extraordinary."
Luke nodded in agreement. "I can see that he has excellent qualities and precious talents."
"Gon is obedient, but..."
Mito paused slightly in her movements: "He's just an ordinary child. I only hope he can grow up happily and safely."
Clearly, Mito had a certain resistance to Luke's mention of precious talents.
"You speak as if you don't truly believe that."
Luke smiled at her remark.
Mito offered no further response, only speeding up the preparation of the drink.
Did she really consider Gon just an ordinary child?
Gon was Ging's child!!
Mito was four years younger than Ging and had grown up with him on Whale Island.
She always followed Ging, but often got lost when she couldn't keep up.
No one in the village could find her except Ging.
Mito admired Ging and wanted to follow him.
But when Ging left Whale Island at twelve to participate in the hunter exam, he vanished without a trace.