Hunter exams End: Missing Killua

Hello everyone! I'm back with more drama and more chapters for you! It has been a hectic week. From mountains of work, to my sister convincing me that our house was on fire-not kidding, I'm finally able to post these new chapters. 

Hope you enjoy! 

Gon, Kurapika, Leorio, and Sakura emerged victorious from the treacherous Fourth Phase, just like shining stars amidst a darkened sky. Their triumph was shared with Killua, Hisoka, Hanzo, Pokkle, Gittarackur, and Bodoro, forging a group of ten resilient applicants. Together, they boarded an airship and left to face the next phase of the Hunter exam.

As Sakura stepped onto the airship, a sense of urgency consumed her. The weight of the past week clung to her like an unshakable shadow, infiltrating her every move. The constant need to be vigilant had disrupted her usual rhythm, making even the simplest tasks feel foreign. She longed for the comfort of a routine undisturbed.

But keeping her mind blank proved to be an impossible feat, akin to a delicate glass sculpture resisting cracks under the pressure of a tempestuous storm. Alone with her thoughts, Sakura found herself drawn into a whirlwind of memories, replaying the intricate details of the recent exam within the theater of her mind. Each challenge, each triumph, and each setback danced before her.

Suddenly, the airship's intercom crackled. Bean's voice, amplified, resonated throughout the vessel's corridors, announcing a message. The chairman sought to interview the remaining candidates. The call to gather in the first reception room on the second floor.

As Sakura listened to the announcement, she found her gaze drifting downwards, captivated by the sight of water streaming over her palms. For several minutes, she stared, lost in contemplation, as though searching for answers in the watery labyrinth of her hands.

Eventually, Sakura's resolve solidified, a determined spark igniting within her core. She clenched her hands tightly, squeezing out any lingering doubts. 

"I still have a ways to go," she whispered to herself, her voice a barely audible echo within the confines of the bathroom. With a resolute gesture, Sakura turned off the cascading shower, its steady flow reduced to a mere murmur, and stepped out onto the cool tiles beneath her feet.

Wrapped in a towel, Sakura caught a glimpse of her reflection in the mirror above the sink. Her eyes, once filled with uncertainty, now shimmered with a newfound resolve. 

..

..

.. 

Killua stood in front of the bathroom, as  Sakura emerged, a fleeting smile came to her lips. Their encounter was punctuated by a curt wave from Killua and a reciprocal greeting from Sakura, their words exchanged as gently as a breath carried on a breeze.

Seeking solace and a momentary respite, they settled upon the benches lining the lower half of the airship, their eyes fixated on the expanse of clear skies. The view offered little in terms of excitement or intrigue, yet it served as a tranquil backdrop where their contemplations could unfold.

Killua, his head resting upon the windowsill, turned his gaze towards Sakura, his eyes probing for her perspective on the Fourth Phase. The question hung in the air. Sakura scrunched her nose, for the Fourth Phase had been a whirlwind of unexpected encounters. 

"Well," she began, her words tiptoeing delicately, "I didn't particularly hate it. What about you?"

A somewhat arrogant smirk adorned Killua's face as he lifted his chin, his expression painted with the hues of triumph. "It was so easy,"

He regaled Sakura with the events of the fourth phase, amused as he did so. Talking his target feeble attempts to outwit him with the help of his brothers. The thrill of witnessing the defeated opponents' stunned faces had brought a sense of satisfaction, but as the adrenaline subsided, a lingering sense of boredom took its place after.

Sakura chuckled her laughter a melodic interlude in the conversation. "Yeah?" she teased. "Well, my experience was a bit different. I found myself in a fight with Kurapika because I was his target. I had to get back three points after-"

Interrupting Sakura's account, Killua leaped from his seat. "Seriously, you lost to him?" 

Amusement flickered in Sakura's eyes as she explained the nuances of their confrontation, the rules they had abided by. The fight had been governed by a single-hit system, akin to their game of ninja. Yet, the battle had stretched on, catching Sakura off guard at a pivotal moment, allowing Kurapika to seize an advantage.

"I was taken by surprise," 

Killua shook his head in disbelief, "I don't get it. Why did you let him have your badge? Couldn't you have escaped instead?"

Killua's words held an underlying curiosity, a desire to unravel the depths of Sakura's capabilities. He recognized her resilience, her stamina, and the strength she possessed.

"No way," she refuted, her voice firm. "We agreed that Kurapika would get the badge if he managed to land a hit on me. I wouldn't have given it to him otherwise, but I offered it willingly."

"You offered it to him first!? That's so stupid!"

Pouting, Sakura's cheeks puffed up, lending her the appearance of a small creature with a touch of whimsy. It was a momentary distraction for Killua, who had to resist the urge to point it out.

"It's not stupid," 

"I think it is," Killua replied, leaning back, his hands finding support behind his head. "Why would you inconvenience yourself like that?"

  "It's what friends do for one another, Killua."

Silence fell between them, thick with unspoken words and lingering inquiries. Killua's stillness spoke volumes, a language of curiosity and uncertainty. Finally, he found the words to voice it. 

"Would you have done the same for me? If I were your target, would you have given me your badge back on the boat?"

Confusion etched itself upon Sakura's features. Peering into Killua's earnest eyes, Sakura responded without hesitation, her words carried on the wings of unwavering loyalty. "Of course. You're my friend too."

Killua's brow furrowed, his mind engaged in deep contemplation before he finally posed a question. "How do you know when someone becomes your friend?"

The inquiry, unexpected coming from Killua's typically astute mind, reflected his unique upbringing and the shadows. He had honed his skills as an assassin, dedicating his formative years to a craft that allowed little room for companionship. Perhaps he had been denied the luxury of forging genuine connections, or he simply hadn't known how to navigate the complexities of friendship.

Sakura's eyes drifted upwards, her gaze locked on the ceiling as if seeking answers from above. "There's no easy way to answer that," she began, her voice a soft melody of introspection. "You meet someone, you spend time together, and before you realize it, you've become friends. It's something that happens unexpectedly. You'll figure it out for yourself."

Killua absorbed her words. But as he processed Sakura's response, he couldn't help but notice her fleeting expression, a subtle shift in her countenance. He recognized the ache of empathy, the glimpse of understanding that flickered in her eyes. His concern drew him closer, leaning forward, his voice tender yet tinged with uncertainty. "Why are you looking at me like that? Are you going to cry again or something?"

Caught off guard by the question, Sakura blinked, her surprise momentarily displacing the contemplative air surrounding them. "Huh? What? No, why would you think that?" she replied, her confusion etching lines of innocence on her face.

Killua pointed at her, specifically at her glistening eyes, the ethereal shimmer that lingered within. "Because you looked like you were," 

A small smile curled upon Sakura's lips, her voice gentle and reassuring. "I wasn't," 

Killua pressed on. "So, how did you decide? How did you decide that we were friends?"

Sakura observed the vulnerability in his eyes, the yearning for understanding that shone through his usually guarded demeanor. Killua was not like other children. His journey had been marred by shadows and secrecy, leaving little room for the formation of bonds. 

"It's a secret!" she teased, a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. Her arm draped around his shoulders, her presence offering comfort and solace. Little did Killua know that the embrace served as much to support Sakura as it did to reassure him. 

"Hey!" Killua protested, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Cut that out!"

Sakura laughed. "It's alright, it's alright," she reassured him, her fingers gently ruffling his hair."After all, we're friends, right?"

Killua's reluctant pause spoke volumes, his gaze fixed upon Sakura, his chin resting upon her arm. He couldn't bring himself to meet her eyes, yet his grip on her remained firm, a silent affirmation of their bond

"I still want an answer," he persisted, 

Sakura's gaze drifted back to the vast expanse of the sky, her chin finding solace upon the crown of Killua's head.

..

..

..

Sakura was among the last to be called in by the chairmen for the interview, she had thought it was maybe the last phase but her friends who went before told her that they were just asked some questions. Entering the room, Sakura saw Chairmen Netero sitting before a table, a single pillow laying on the opposite side where the other applicants had been. 

"Come have a seat," Netero gestured to the pillow. Sakura sat down, noticing the brush and writing pad that the chairmen picked up. 

"Firstly, why do you want to become a Hunter?" 

"Well, it's not really that I want to become a Hunter." Sakura told him honestly, "I was just curious about the exam." 

Netero nodded, "You're the second person to tell me that." 

She guessed the first was Killua. He had wanted to come to the Hunter Exam to kill time and the others all had their motives for wanting to become hunters.

"Now, out of all the applicants who are you keeping a close eye on?" 

Sakura looked confused, "Who I'm keeping an eye on?"

Netero nodded, "Someone who's caught your eye," 

The kunoichi didn't even blink before she answered, "#44, Hisoka."

Sakura didn't explain her reasons why though, she had thought the reason she was keeping an eye on him, was perhaps to the fact that she was cautious and that's when she realized her answer wasn't entirely accurate. But Hisoka was the one applicant that haunted her thoughts and the answer seemed right with the unspoken implication. There was this knowing at her whenever she thought of Hisoka. It was something more complex than aggravation. 

Netero noticed the stiff posture of the only female applicant to make it to the Final Phase this year, but he did not point it out to her. He found it a bit ironic that she would say Hisoka was the one she was keeping an eye out for when he had said the same for her. There was a rather dangerous glint in his eyes when he admitted to that, but Killua and Gon were also mentioned. 

  "For the final question; which of the nine applicants would you want to fight the least?" 

Sakura paused, "I wouldn't want to fight any of my friends, that's #99, #404, #403, #405. I'd probably quit right away."

Again, it was an answer that Gon had given the chairmen as well. 

Netero found it splendid that seven rookies managed to make it to the Final Phase but he was especially partial to Sakura, after hearing her feats during the Fourth Phase. She had gone to great lengths to ensure her friends achieved the points they needed to pass, and she managed to secure the points for herself as well. Adding to that, she had adapted to each situation and showed little intimidation when encountering the other applicants. Her ability was another thing. Of course, Netero had this type of data on all the applicants as they were evaluated during the Fourth Phase. 

"Alright then. You're excused." 

Sakura stood up and left, giving a slight bow before exiting the room, but she had a sneaking feeling that those questions were about the Final Phase and already she knew what was coming. 

'I might not need the book to figure this one out.' 

"Hey Sakura," Gon called as she came out of the room, Leorio and Kurapika were also standing with him.

Leorio pointed his thumb to the back, "Come on, we're gonna go get dinner." 

Sakura grinned, "Sounds good to me." 

That night went by so peacefully, Sakura forgot to read the book to see what was up ahead. 

..

..

..

The following day, the airship landed and Sakura had a feeling that was going to be their last trip on the contraption. They were brought out to a large building with dome rooftops, extravagantly designed with lush gardens. The inside was well kept, everyone observed when they entered into a giant hall. It seemed to be completely vacant though, aside from the Hunter applicants and the examiners for that year's Hunter Exams, Satotz, Menchi, Buhara, Lippo, Beans and Netero, and a few individuals in suits who were probably part of the Hunter organization. 

Netero stood in front of the group of applicants to address them, "This hotel is owned by the Hunter Exam Selection Committee. The place is all yours until the battles have concluded." 

Someone came in, rolled a board covered with a cloth, and placed it next to Netero. "For the Final Phase, we will be holding a one-on-one tournament."

Grabbing the cloth, Netero pulled it to reveal the board. Everyone lifted their heads, they weren't able to see who would be fighting who because of the large tape at the bottom, hiding the applicants for the tournament, but they were still a bit baffled because of the brackets. 

"So, only the last person standing passes?" 

"No," Netero held up a finger, "One win is all you need to pass. The winners are removed from the competition, while the loser continues up the bracket." 

That would mean only one person would fail this exam; so this was going to be a bit different than a regular tournament. Although it settled everyone somewhat, there was still a new tension in the air as everyone knew there was no room for error in this final phase of the exam. 

"And here is the bracket," 

Netero pulled back the tape and the whole room went silent. The tension increased. Sakura especially felt like her heart had dropped into the pits of her stomach and was being devoured by her stomach acid because it hurt with every beat all of a sudden. She stared at the bracket, barely blinking. There were pictures of all of the applicants and their numbers, including herself. On the left of the chart, there were Gon and Hanzo, who were paired to fight first, Killua, Pokkle, and Gitarackur were also there, but the brackets were uneven. The same went on the right side where Sakura was situated. The side of the chart she was in, made her closer to battling Leorio and Kurapika if she didn't win her first match.

Which was Hisoka.

Gon, Killua, Kurapika, and Leorio looked over at Sakura while trying to maintain passive demeanors, there was an obvious concern for the girl. 

"Impressive right?" Netero asked the tense group, "After all, everyone has at least two chances to win."

"But some people like #294, #405, and #405, get five chances."  Pokkle pointed out. 

Sakura was also wondering how she wound up with so many chances. To distract herself from her fear, she chose to keep to the present and not what the near future would bring. 

"Why didn't you use a balanced bracket?" asked Bodoro 

Netero explained to them that the bracket was assembled based on their performance throughout the entire exam and those who performed better were the ones who received more chances and were granted a higher chance of success. 

She couldn't register to do much herself when she was always with Gon, Killua Kurapika, and Leorio. The only time she was on her own during this exam was really during the Fourth Phase and that didn't last long.

Killua then chided, "Can you tell us how you scored our performances?" 

Sakura knew why Killua was demanding to know, he was probably looking for a re-evaluation of sorts because the brackets were meant to represent their performance and he did not believe in any way that what was represented right now was accurate on his own accord.

  'Got a bit of an ego too,'

Killua was curious as to how they were scored since he only had three chances, and this was based on performance. But Netero refused to tell them, saying it was classified. Much to Killua's disappointment and aggravation. 

"I can't explain how you were scored but I can explain our methods. First, we consider three major criteria: physical strength, mental strength, and overall impression. For physical strength, we use an aggregate of agility, flexibility, endurance, and perception. For mental strength, we use an aggregate of resilience, adaptability, judgment, and creativity. However, this information is only used as a reference point. After all, you were strong enough to advance to the Final Phase."

Netero paused briefly, allowing everyone to reflect on their performances; "We are most concerned with your overall impression. This refers to any intangible factors not previously mentioned. You could consider this your evaluation of your potential as a Hunter." 

When Sakura heard this she reflected on something different, the whole reason she had taken the exam in the first place was that it was a means to an end that was meant to be the conclusion of the book. It was so that she could finally return to her world; so she didn't even need to pass this exam. But it left her to wonder what would come next.

"And we also incorporate the opinion of your peers," Netero said, looking directly at Killua. 

Sakura could see that Killua was contemplating everything he had been told but at the same time, he hadn't changed his opinion of his evaluation. To break him from his thoughts, she threw her hand against his back to jolt him back, since everyone was being so subtle with their reactions in anticipation of what was to come. Killua looked up at Sakura with a light glare; she smiled back reassuringly in turn and seemed to calm somewhat after. 

"Now, the battle rules are simple. Weapons are allowed. No cheating. If your opponent admits defeat, you win. However! If you kill your opponent, you will immediately be disqualified. All remaining applicants will pass and the exam will end." 

Now there was something good Sakura could take from that; they wouldn't be able to kill their opponent so that worked both ways. She could use her weapons-another plus, but it all seemed redundant compared to the rule where you had to make your opponent admit defeat. 

With everything set, the first match was about to commence. 

..

..

..

It took no less than a minute for Gon and Hanzo to prepare themselves for battle. Sakura was anxious about this fight, and very concerned for Gon because she had witnessed some of Hanzo's abilities and she didn't know if the younger boy would be able to handle it. Despite the amount of opportunity he had, Gon had a strong nature that rivaled Naruto's and in Sakura's terms, that was a great deal. If it was just to judge power, she knew Hanzo held a flame that Gon was unable to hold a candle to right now.

When Gon and Hanzo were called to the front, placing them at a good distance from the other applicants and examiners so that they could be observed safely; Hanzo addressed the man, Masta who was serving as the referee. Hanzo thanked the man for the evaluation he had given Hanzo during the Fourth Phase. 

As it turned out, all of the applicants had someone shadowing them, and Sakura realized that's why she had constantly felt like someone was watching her but the presence didn't feel threatening. 

Hanzo then asked to confirm that the only way they could win their battles was to make their opponent surrender and it was confirmed that no other method could be used, which included knockouts and killing your opponent. 

'That's what I was worried about,' Sakura had gotten the impression but now that was confirmed, she knew this was going to be hard. And it made her more anxious about Gon's battle. 

Sakura's instinct of concern was not paranoia because the second the match began between Hanzo and Gon her interpretation was realized.

..

..

  Gon sprung to the side to put distance between him and Hanzo but the shinobi covered it with a single step. He was right beside Gon, complimenting him on the confidence in his legs before knocking him out in a second. His hand came down on the back of Gon's neck, the blow caused Gon's vision to not only become blurred but nearly distorted. 

Hanzo held Gon by his shoulders before digging his knee into the boy's back. It was clear that Gon had taken a very powerful strike and it was making him nauseous. Sakura cringed, watching as Hanzo continuously asked Gon to give up but he would not surrender. Hanzo even attempted to reason with him, that if he quit as he was he'd still be able to fight after but Gon continued with the same defiance. 

"I'm never gonna quit!" 

After that, it was all a matter of endurance for the onlookers who had become so fond of the boy; as even they were unable to convince Gon to give up this battle. Every strike Gon received ran through all of his friends who were watching. 

Three hours passed and still, the first match was continuing, Gon's body hadn't left the floor as Hanzo knocked him around with little effort. Leorio and Kurapika wanted Gon to give up the fight but knew they wouldn't be able to tell him to. He'd have to decide that for himself. But Sakura watched quietly. Leorio had nearly interfered but the other examiners warned him that if he did, then Gon would be the one who gets disqualified. It might have been another novel if Leorio was the one who would get disqualified but he couldn't squander Gon's chances, because he knew the boy would probably not appreciate his interference then. 

Though the words had Gon getting back on his feet slowly despite the pain, attempting to reassure Leorio. "It's okay Leorio…..this is….nothing." 

It was far from that, but still, Gon was determined to hold in despite all the pain that must be running through his entire body like hot water.

Hanzo decided to change tactics after that, threatening to break Gon's arm. He placed the boy's arm behind his back again telling Gon to give up and once more the boy refused. 

The snap echoed through the entire hall. 

Gon's left arm was broken in an instant. But there was one thing Sakura knew about that break. She had studied the human body thoroughly to the point where she could identify every organ, vein, and artery that lurked beneath the surface, as well as bones. It was a clean break. Nothing shattered. 

It was probably what helped keep her composure as well. From lashing out at Hanzo right then. The same couldn't be said for Kurapika and Leorio.

"Kurapika, don't try to stop me. If this guy does anything else to Gon…..

"Me? Stop you?" Kurapika hissed, clenching his jaw. "Not a chance."

  Kurapika's eyes were already starting to turn red from rage and Leorio was trembling and was at a point where he had become so rigid most of his veins could be seen on his hands. 

Sakura grabbed both of them by their arms, "Both of you better calm down, you can't lash out aimlessly."

Kurapika and Leorio were about to protest, demanding to know how the pinkette could hold such composure when the person she considered her friend was getting tortured right in front of her, but what she said threw dirt on their flames of anger. 

"If Gon fails this exam, he will probably never forgive you," Sakura told them, silencing the two. "His resolve is so strong he's able to endure all that pain. It shows how much passing this exam and winning this round means. If you take that away from him-you of all people." Sakura paused, gripping her arms tighter so that the fabric of her gloves burned her skin. "It'll all be meaningless and that's worse than letting this match continue." 

Killua glanced stoically from Sakura back to Gon; even though the pinkette was saying that it was clear she was having a hard time watching this match too. He couldn't understand the sympathy that the others had for Gon and he had simply been comparing how he and the other twelve-year-old were different from one another. Reevaluating himself.

Hanzo looked down at Gon, his forehead was pressed against the floor and he was clutching his broken arm. He had a feeling that this match was going to be difficult, not in terms of combat reasons but the resilience that the young boy showed right before they fought. And hearing what the pinkette said, made him more concerned. 

  'I have to finish this quickly,' 

Placing a hand on the ground where Gon lay, Hanzo lifted himself on that hand, straightening his body like a pillar. "I'm sure you're in too much pain to listen but hear me out. I am descended from the shinobi, a clan of covert agents. From the day I was born, I was forced to endure harsh training to master the art of ninpo. I have trained my body and technique without rest." Hanzo explained to Gon, going from resting his weight on his hand to the tips of his fingers until he was balancing on his index finger alone. "At this point, you cannot defeat me in combat. Admit defeat-

Hanzo was unable to finish his words because Gon had somehow managed to bring himself back to his feet and muster enough strength to deliver a swift kick to his face. This caused Hanzo to topple back and landed on the ground. Gon stood up, still clutching his arm. 

"My head a little clear after all the pain and that long explanation." 

While this quick recovery was surprising, Sakura knew this didn't make for a win despite Leorio's chanting and Kurapika's smirk. Gon still struggled to hold himself up. 

"This isn't a battle to see who's stronger," Gon stated. "It's to see who's willing to surrender first." 

Hanzo pushed himself up, with a stoic expression despite the blood running from his nose and the bruise on his face from where Gon had kicked him. "You don't understand. This isn't a warning. It's an ultimatum." Hanzo wiped his face, "If that's too hard for you to understand, then I'll make it easier." 

Everyone watched as Hanzo brought his hand out to the bandages wrapped around his arm, from under the cloth, he revealed a sharp blade as he spoke, "I'll cut off your legs so that they can't be reattached. A permanent injury should help you wake up. But first I'll ask you once more," Hanzo held up the blade, a dangerous smirk on his face, "Surrender." 

Gon continued to stubbornly stare back at Hanzo and what he said next made everyone flabbergasted. "I won't accept that! I don't want my legs cut off, but I don't want to surrender. So let's find a different way to fight!" 

Hanzo gaped at Gon in disbelief before glaring at the arrogant boy who was giving such demands, asking if he even understood his own position. The applicants and examiners were trying to hold back their laughter at how comical it seemed that Gon had become the one making demands. Even Sakura had to cover her mouth to stop her snickers from escaping. 

'Gon's so...' Sakura giggled behind her hand. 

"Do you even understand your position!" Hanzo asked, fuming. "I'm seriously going to cut off your legs!" 

"But I don't want to surrender." Gon repeated seriously before his expression softened, "Besides if you do that I'll bleed to death and you'll be disqualified right?"

The referee confirmed Gon's assumption; although he didn't seem too sure how seriously he should be taking the question given the situation. 

Killua didn't understand. 

How was it possible now that the atmosphere had become so much light when nothing had changed? Gon's arm was still broken, he was still weaker than Hanzo, there was no difference in power nor position and yet everyone was behaving as if something miraculous had happened. 

Hanzo then pointed his blade directly at Gon's forehead, enough to make the tip cut through the skin and break it. "You really don't get it, if you die, you'll never get another chance. If I kill you here, I only need to try again next year." 

'But he won't,' Sakura assured herself. She knew Hanzo wouldn't kill Gon based on her encounter with him. If he was just about that, then he would have tried to kill her during the Fourth Phase just to save himself the trouble. He wasn't needlessly malicious. But he was determined to make pass the exam through this round. Although she sincerely doubted he was going to. 'Besides…if he does try to do something like that to Gon,' Sakura felt her chakra spike in her fists, 'He won't make it to next year.'

But she could also see Hanzo wavering now.

"Why won't you concede? It's so easy to do. You can always try again next year. Do you value your pride over your own life!?" Hanzo asked raising his voice now. 

Gon held a firm face as he spoke, "I'm going to find my dad." 

"Your dad?" 

"My dad is a Hunter. So I'm going to become a Hunter and find him! I will find him someday…." Gon trailed, "But if I give up now, I'll never find him and also…..I won't be the only one who gives up becoming a Hunter!" 

Sakura tensed, her demeanor cracking a little on the surface but none too noticeable as she tried to hold back. She realized then that Gon had taken her words to heart and somehow took a greater meaning to what she told him back in the forest. 

'Oh, Gon…'

Gon felt the cold metal against his forehead disappear and Hanzo pulled away, placing the blade back under his bandages. "I give up. You win." 

While some were more surprised than others, Hanzo stated that he was unable to think of any other way to make Gon surrender and he wasn't going to kill him either. So he was going to concede himself. While this may have settled most other applicants who had endured what Gon did; the self-centered part of the boy reeled its head again. 

"I can't accept that! That's not fair!" Gon pointed. 

Sakura slapped her forehead, listening to Gon rant to Hanzo about figuring out another way to resolve their fight, despite Hanzo's arguments that it wasn't possible when Gon wouldn't surrender anyway. He had proved that much by enduring all that pain. The two began a back-and-forth dynamic. 

"I've already given up this match, but you want me to try and win again while helping to determine a way to make you feel good about a victory?" Hanzo asked, his eyebrow twitching from the irrationality of the boy. "Is that right?" 

Gon looked at him with an innocent smile on his face, bluntly replying "Uh-huh!" 

"Idiot!" 

Losing what remained of his patience, Hanzo delivered a powerful uppercut to Gon's chin and sent him into the air, knocking him unconscious. Hanzo began to walk back to the other end of the room where the spectators stood; while some of the examiners went to check on Gon's condition. 

Sakura watched as Gon was carried out of the room carefully and into another where he was to be treated and into another room to be treated for his injuries. Sakura knew she likely couldn't leave right now because she still hadn't had her match. 

"When this guy wakes up, he'll probably reject his license." Hanzo told the committee, "Only one person will fail this exam right? If Gon fails then won't that make all our battles meaningless?" 

Netero spoke, "He's already passed. Nothing he says can change that." 

Receiving the response he wanted to hear, Hanzo went to return to the line of other applicants in the running when Killua called him. 

"Why did you let him win?" 

Hanzo gave Killua a questioning look, "Let him win?" 

"I'm sure you knew how to make Gon surrender without killing him," Killua stated in a deadpan voice, so void it was almost disturbing. 

"When I torture someone, I expect that person to hate me for the rest of their life. When someone is in pain their eyes show a gleam of hostility towards the person that caused that pain." No one could disagree with that notion when many had personal encounters with that sort of situation. "Even with extensive training, it is difficult to surpass that gleam of hate and rage. But there was no gleam in Gon's eyes. Can you believe it? I had just broken his arm. But his eyes had already forgotten about that. I guess you could say that he won me over."

Killua seemed genuinely intrigued and surprised by what Hanzo told him. He couldn't handle that sort of transaction. He'd become fueled with rage and hate and he'd kill anything to sate those feelings. 

"It's time to start the second match, #44 Hisoka and #402, Sakura step forward." 

The tense atmosphere returned once again, to the point where it was suffocating. Leorio and Kurapika watched Sakura walk forward, Hisoka a little ways from her. The two maintained a distance while they continued their pace. 

Leorio felt his throat go dry and looked to Kurapika, whispering, "Am I the only one who's nervous about this one?" 

"No," Kurapika murmured back. "You're really not." 

It looked like everyone in the room was fixated on this next match. Even the examiners seemed a little anxious about this one. Some of them didn't understand the chairman's decision to put Sakura up against Hisoka for their first round.

'She doesn't stand a chance against him,' Killua thought. He might have seen her strength, but Killua could also see the gap he had created between Sakura and Hisoka's ability and power.

  'Don't be an idiot Sakura.'

'The chairmen sure has a nasty streak,' Menchi thought, watching the two applicants as they stepped into the fighting area. 

'I'd say the chairmen's outdone himself this time,' thought Satotz. 

..

..

..

When they got to the front, Sakura turned to face Hisoka. He remained with a smile on his face, completely tranquil and with that same glint in his eye that sent a chill down her spine before. It truly was like a predator waiting for the chance to strike its prey. 

One thing that Sakura continued to remind herself was that Hisoka had great confidence in his abilities; which he had blatantly pointed out during the last phase. And then there was something that was constantly nagging at her, something about Hisoka that she couldn't place yet. Something just below the surface of his exterior. An unknown source which was giving him this edge. 

'Of course, it's not as if I've shown anyone my full abilities yet either.' She reminded herself then, reaching back into her bag for her kunai knife, twirling it around her finger before strengthening her grip on it. 

"I hope Sakura isn't going to be as reckless as Gon," Leorio muttered to Kurapika. 

"As do I," was his subtle reply. 

Hisoka did not miss the way she looked at him. He was a very perceptive person and he often knew the intentions of all his opponents just with a single look. He could see the flickers of embers that would become a great fire, even in the deadest kindle. He knew who would burn brightly and who would turn to ash. He enjoyed the risk and excitement of getting burned a little before evidently extinguishing the flames with his bare hands. And Sakura was no exception. 

It couldn't hurt for him to reach out to that small flame right? Just to get a taste of what's to come in the future. 

Sakura felt her shoulders tense when Hisoka drew a card between his fingers and held the arm diagonally across his chest. 

The referee stood between them at a distance, his arms extended out as a barrier, and he was ready to break it.

"Begin!" 

The anticipation in the room reached new heights as Sakura became the first to move from her position. Taking a few throwing stars from her pouch, she swung her arm, releasing the metal stars between her fingers. Five. All of which did not reach their target, as Hisoka started moving swiftly around and Sakura followed in the opposite direction so they would be going in a circle. Several cards then came flying in Sakura's direction, at a difficult speed but she used her kunai to knock them away. Each Strike was like hitting hard steel instead of laminated paper. 

The two moved, circling each other, but it was clear to onlookers that this wasn't for the sake of keeping a distance from each other. They were drawing in closer with each turn and eventually would meet. 

Sakura threw her kunai at Hisoka but he jumped high into the air to avoid it; he bent to the back intending to flip before landing. However Sakura didn't want to wait for him to hit the ground and she jumped higher so that she was hovering right above Hisoka, but it had been a quick step that surprised a few members of the audience and drew in for a punch but at the same time Hisoka threw his arm forward and pushed hard on Sakura above her chest to launch himself back quicker and stop her attack.

'Dammit!' Sakura cursed internally. She had been waiting for an opening to strike her opponent, but he managed to counter her before she could do anything. He wasn't one to become disadvantaged easily and his eyes were much more calculating than she anticipated. 

"They're so fast!" Leorio exclaimed, watching completely awestruck.  "Is that really Sakura?" 

Kurapika's eyes were completely fixated on the battle; now he was certain Sakura had been holding back when she was fighting against him. He had a hunch about this but he didn't want to acknowledge the fact, that Sakura was stronger than him; the aspect surpassing physical strength alone. 

As Sakura landed, she felt Hisoka's unwavering stare on her form and returned it with a glare. He smirked, "Well now, this is an interesting surprise. You're able to keep up better than I predicted." 

Strengthening her stance, Sakura poured chakra into her feet and hands, her fists clenching hard. Her heart felt like it was trying to punch her ribcage even though she had only just started fighting. She knew just by looking at who had more experience on the battlefield between the two of them, and she also knew that the rules right now were the only safety net she had to catch her if Hisoka threw her off balance. Yet somehow, the thought of tempting him to that point was tantalizing in a way she couldn't place.

That feeling was begging to burn inside her again. In the pits of her being, she felt it as her fear began to dissipate without warning.  Sakura's hand reached to her neck, her fingers lightly grazing over the skin, and just like that, her throat no longer felt dry, her heart wasn't drowning in her stomach and her hands became dry under her gloves. 

'What is this?' 

Hisoka felt his mouth water when he caught a whiff of bloodlust beginning to stir and it was coming from his opponent. It was obvious she didn't know what that feeling was, but it excited him to think he was causing this. However, getting this spike of passion in battle told him she was more experienced in combat than she appeared to be; even if she wasn't anywhere near his standard in this case. There was also something that pulled at Hisoka about this girl. While he may have had a greater incentive for scouting potential; there was something that stood out about this particular person; that was just driving him to break her before the time was right and he wanted to know what it was before he called this match to an end.

'I will find out,' 

With a burst of energy, Hisoka shot forward like a lightning bolt, leaving everyone astounded. It was the first time he had initiated an attack without Sakura's coaxing, catching everyone off guard.

"Look out, Sakura!" Leorio's voice echoed in the chaotic scene.

Hisoka extended his fist, aiming to strike, but his blow met only empty air as Sakura swiftly evaded, her head swerving aside. Simultaneously, she lifted her leg, delivering a forceful kick. Hisoka, his muscles tensed, brought up his arms to block, but the impact was stronger than expected. He staggered backward, his feet sliding across the floor as he desperately tried to regain his balance. Finally, he managed to halt his momentum, his feet grinding against the ground.

"That's--" someone began to exclaim, but Sakura wasted no time reveling in the awe of the spectators. Instead, she seized the opportunity, darting toward Hisoka with remarkable speed. As she closed in on him, she struck without hesitation, attacking relentlessly. Hisoka, now focused on her movements and the power behind her blows, evaded her attacks, keenly aware of the force in each near miss. He refrained from counterattacking, realizing that Sakura had no interest in evading his strikes; she desired a full-fledged exchange of blows.

Sakura raised her leg, her stance unyielding, and began to spin, drawing closer to Hisoka. In less than a second, he dropped to less than half his height, his body recoiling with astonishing agility. Just as quickly, he rose to his feet, but Sakura continued her relentless advance. Observing Hisoka's back hit a wall, she readied her fist to strike. However, in the blink of an eye, Hisoka vanished from her line of sight, reappearing at her right. Caught off guard by his last-moment maneuver, Sakura's blow landed against the wall, causing the concrete to crumble like soft sand, creating a gaping hole through which the outside world could be seen.

Time stood still as everyone froze in disbelief. Leorio, his jaw-dropping, finally found his voice, never tearing his gaze away from the intense battle unfolding before him. "Okay, Kurapika, remind me not to tease Sakura anymore."

Kurapika himself couldn't fathom the spectacle before him. It wasn't just Sakura breaking through the wall that impressed him; it was her unwavering determination in facing off against Hisoka. Amongst the applicants, Hisoka was considered the most dangerous, yet they had been oblivious to another formidable strength lurking so close to them.

Killua found himself at a loss for words as well. While he had witnessed Sakura's strength during the Trick Tower, he had doubted her ability to hold her ground against Hisoka, given his experience. Yet now, he saw it. They were more similar than he had initially thought, and he wasn't sure if he liked that revelation.

The examiners of the Hunter Exams for that year watched in awe and admiration as the girl displayed her immense power. Lippo had shown footage of Sakura breaking through the wall to reach the Short and Easy path in the tower, but it hadn't been widely known among the participants. Nevertheless, it was a remarkable feat.

"She's got spirit," commented Netero, his eyes fixed on the unfolding battle.

Menchi, hands on her hips, glanced at the combatants and remarked, "Obviously, you were counting on that, Chairman. Otherwise, you wouldn't have chosen her for this fight."

During his interviews with the remaining applicants, Netero had asked who they would least like to face in combat, and almost everyone had mentioned Hisoka. Wanting to ensure an intriguing Final Phase, Netero had deliberately arranged the brackets accordingly.

"Yes, but the real fight is just beginning," Netero mused, aware that the true intensity was yet to unfold.

Sakura and Hisoka faced each other, both retreating, resuming their stalemate position. Despite the distance, a shiver ran down Sakura's spine as she locked eyes with him once more, noticing the sudden sharpness in his gaze.

Hisoka glanced at the hole in the wall, then back at the pink-haired girl who had caused it. He marveled at the fact that such a petite body held such unimaginable power, even more than he had anticipated. It sent a rush of excitement and restlessness surging through him.

"My, you're just a little wolf in sheep's clothing," Hisoka whispered, his tongue darting out to lick his lips. His fingers twitched with excitement as he battled the urge to eliminate the girl. "You're making this really hard for me."

Sakura's senses heightened, sensing the increased danger in the air. She channeled chakra to her feet, enhancing her speed, never taking her eyes off her target. However, something was different this time as she closed in on Hisoka. He moved before she could reach him, assuming a fighting stance with an air of indifference he had not shown earlier, blatantly dismissing the significance of this particular fight.

Hisoka skillfully blocked Sakura's punches, deftly redirecting them away from his body with well-timed strikes. When she attempted a kick, he swiftly evaded, and then he counterattacked, launching his assaults. The sequence of movements flowed seamlessly as if the two were engaged in a dangerous dance. The atmosphere was both captivating and suspenseful, leaving everyone uncertain of the outcome.

Then Sakura abruptly disengaged, leaping back as far as she could.

"What's the matter?" Hisoka taunted, one hand resting on his hip. "Giving up already?"

Sakura grunted in response, her determination unyielding. "Not even close."

Sakura, fueled by determination, surged forward once again, though this time at a slightly slower pace. Bringing her hands together in a flurry of swift movements, she weaved a series of intricate hand signs. In an instant, three identical Sakura's materialized, running toward Hisoka. The self-proclaimed magician appeared taken aback by the sudden multiplication of his opponent, mirroring the astonishment of their onlookers.

Each Sakura moved with her unique style, creating a complex array of attacks. One of the clones soared through the air, aiming to deliver a powerful dropkick from above, while another targeted Hisoka's chest with a lightning-fast punch. Hisoka reacted swiftly, adjusting his stance to block the simultaneous assaults. However, in that critical moment, the third clone dissolved into thin air, leaving Hisoka momentarily vulnerable. With impeccable timing, the real Sakura capitalized on the distraction, striking Hisoka square in the face with a blow that sent him hurtling backward, skidding across the ground.

Panting softly, Sakura straightened her posture, wiping a bead of sweat that trickled down the side of her face. "Just wanted to give you a taste of your tricks," she declared, her voice laced with a mix of exhaustion and triumph.

"They're going at it," Leorio commented, loosening his tie slightly as he struggled to catch his breath amidst the charged atmosphere.

"She's an incredibly skilled fighter, especially considering her age," Bodoro remarked, his initial underestimation of the younger applicants now shattered. He had included Sakura, along with Gon and Killua, among the few he wished to avoid fighting due to their young age.

"Man, that girl is a monster," Pokkle chimed in with undeniable admiration.

"That's a ninja for you," Hanzo thought to himself, a sense of pride and kinship surging within him. Sakura had mastered her jutsu to a level that surpassed anything he had witnessed in his village, instilling both awe and a sense of camaraderie.

Killua watched with a seemingly stoic expression, but beneath the surface, tension coiled within him. The battle had been dragging on for too long, and if it didn't conclude soon, neither combatant would pass the test. "This is only going to get worse," he realized, the weight of the situation pressing upon him.

It was no longer a matter of intuition; it had become an undeniable fact.

Hisoka let out a deep groan, the pain coursing through his body from Sakura's devastating punch. It packed an unexpected ferocity and power that left him reeling. He knew he should end the match soon, but a strange desire swelled within him. He wanted to continue, even at the risk of disqualification. He craved to revel in this experience, to explore the alluring depths of this unripe fruit.

With a swift, fluid motion, Hisoka sprang back to his feet. His intense gaze locked onto Sakura's stormy emerald eyes. Although she had not yet reached the pinnacle of her potential, her current prowess was already tantalizing to him.

"Calm down, calm down, calm down, calm down, calm down…" Hisoka repeated to himself, trembling with both excitement and the effort to suppress his raging bloodlust. "It's not time, it's not the right time."

As Hisoka struggled to contain his mounting desires, Sakura felt her fighting spirit wane. She sensed it being devoured by the overwhelming intensity of Hisoka's presence. The realization dawned upon her that she was unknowingly pushing him closer to the edge, a point of no return. Fear began to creep back into her mind, realizing that her safety net was endangered when she stood so close to the precipice of defeat.

The sharp pain of the first card sinking into her shoulder jolted Sakura out of her momentary paralysis. She managed to jerk her head to the side, narrowly avoiding a direct hit from the second card. Nonetheless, the force of the attack caused her hair to whip to one side like a feather in the wind, the cards slicing through the shortened strands, leaving them even more jagged and askew.

This time, Hisoka moved with lightning speed, leaving Sakura no chance to escape. He blurred before her, his sharp nails tearing through the fabric of her top and slicing into the side of her stomach. However, he withdrew his hand just in time, preventing it from plunging further into her vulnerable flesh.

"Sakura!" Kurapika and Leorio cried out in unison as they witnessed the pink-haired girl fall to the ground, the impact resonating with a resounding thud.

"What the hell are you doing!? You can't kill your opponent!" Leorio screamed, his fear of Hisoka momentarily forgotten as anger surged through his veins.

"I know, but I need her to surrender," Hisoka stated matter-of-factly, the frustration in his voice easing slightly as he savored the warmth of Sakura's blood under his fingernails. Though he relished the moment, he knew that his restraint was wavering, and he hungered to consume her entirely. With an ominous gleam in his eyes, he reached down toward Sakura's seemingly lifeless form.

"Now..."

Just as Hisoka's fingers grazed Sakura's body, she vanished in a cloud of smoke, sharpening the focus of everyone present. To their astonishment, Sakura reappeared behind Hisoka in an instant, launching a punch directly at his chest. But at the point of contact, Hisoka seized her arm in a painful grip, twisting it behind her back. He swiftly captured her other arm as she instinctively flailed, attempting to alleviate the excruciating pain, effectively immobilizing her.

This wasn't a normal grip, it felt as if something was binding her arms and somehow her chakra-enhanced strength couldn't break through it. Like some kind of barrier had wrapped around her, restricting her movements. The only other explanation was that her opponent suddenly increased in strength, but how was that possible? 

"What did you do?" Sakura hissed softly, "Why won't my arms move?" 

Hisoka chuckled, "Oh so you can't see it?" 

Sakura felt her tendons and muscles burn under the strain forced upon them by Hisoka's relentless grip. He closed the distance between their bodies, amplifying the torment. A hot breath brushed against the side of her face as Hisoka whispered hoarsely in her ear, his words laced with a menacing edge.

"If you don't stop, I'm going to break you."

She halted, feeling Hisoka's grip tighten to the point where he was ready to shatter the bones in her arms. However, as she turned her head slowly, a wide smile crept across her face, twisted with malice, and her eyes shimmered dangerously.

"Why don't I help you with that?"

With a sudden surge of strength, Sakura pushed off the ground, shifting her weight to lift herself at one end. A resounding snap echoed through the air, reminiscent of the previous match between Gon and Hanzo. Sakura delivered a powerful drop-kick to Hisoka, putting him in the same vulnerable position she had been in moments ago, the impact causing the ground to shudder beneath him. However, the pain overwhelmed her, and she slumped back to the ground, gasping for breath.

A chilling chuckle sent shivers down Sakura's spine as she watched Hisoka gradually come to life once again. He lifted his face, blood trickling from his temple and markings etched on his skin from her attack, yet a wicked smile adorned his lips. With effortless grace, he dusted off his clothing before turning to face her, his powerful presence towering over her petite form. 

"That was... marvelous. Simply marvelous," Hisoka remarked, his voice laced with admiration and lust. Sakura tensed, forcing herself to stand quickly, clutching her arm in pain. But Hisoka turned away from her, beginning to walk, his defenses lowered.

"I surrender," he declared, glancing back at the battered girl. "Consider this a reward."

The referee, momentarily stunned, raised his arm after a brief pause of surprise. "Number 44, Hisoka, has conceded. Number 402, Sakura, passes."

The examiners and applicants watch as Hisoka drew further away from his opponent. It was a wonder how he had come to admit defeat. But no one was able to find their voices just yet after witnessing the match. Giving an anti-climatic atmosphere. 

'I thought they were going to kill each other,' Satotz couldn't help but feel after witnessing the match. He didn't think that either would have stopped. 

'I knew this girl was strong, but this is just….' Lippo smiled. 

'That's probably going to be the best match,' Menchi thought, unable to hold back a grin. She was very impressed with Sakura, and the fact that she was only a rookie able to hold her own against someone like Hisoka said something. 

There were already two people rushing over to Sakura, carrying a medical kit to tend to her wounds, but when they reached her, Sakura just stood up and looked over to the examiners. Holding a calm place, despite also holding her broken arm and when she spoke, her voice drew on a blank. 

"Where was Gon taken?" 

Netero pointed to the side of one of the closed doors in the hotel, "He should be resting right in there. You can be treated there if you wish." 

Sakura nodded and started slowly making her way over, she glanced at Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua, she couldn't even bring herself to smile and reassure them that she was fine before she disappeared into the room with the medics. As the doors closed, everyone felt more content with speaking. 

Pokkle looked at Leorio and Kurapika, "Hey, you guys are friends with her. Who is that girl?" 

"We have no idea."