Chapter 24: The Yorbian Continent

After a week of sailing through the stormy sea, Kai finally landed on the Yorbian Continent. He felt a burst of excitement as he beheld the wonders of this vast and diverse land, where the traces of ancient civilizations such as the Zalians, the Korans, the Lunars and the Xanans could be admired in the form of mysterious ruins and relics in places like the Lost City of Zal, the Temple of Kora, the Lunar Palace and the Dragon's Lair.

He scoured the libraries, the markets and the taverns for information on the diverse countries that inhabited the continent, each with its distinctive culture, history and challenges.

He learned about the prosperous and peaceful kingdom of Loria, where magic and technology coexisted harmoniously, creating a society that was advanced and enlightened.

He heard about the magnificent capital city of Lorion, where the royal palace and the grand academy stood side by side. He also heard about the beautiful countryside of Loria, where farms and villages were protected by magical barriers and flying machines.;

He learned about the war-torn and divided empire of Raxus, where factions fought for power and resources, plunging the land into chaos and violence.

He heard about the ruthless emperor of Raxus, who ruled with an iron fist and a cruel army. He also heard about the rebellious lords of Raxus, who opposed the emperor and formed alliances with other countries;

He learned about the nomadic and adventurous tribes of Kora, where people valued freedom and exploration, living a life of wanderlust and discovery.

He heard about the brave and skilled warriors of Kora, who rode on swift horses and wielded powerful spears. He also heard about the wise and mysterious shamans of Kora, who communed with nature and spirits.;

He learned about the isolated and secretive nation of Yuna, where ancient traditions and customs were preserved, creating a culture that was mysterious and intriguing.

He heard about the elegant and graceful people of Yuna, who wore silk robes and ornate masks. He also heard about the hidden and forbidden secrets of Yuna, where dark and ancient magic was practiced.

Lastly, he learned about the mysterious and hidden land of Xana, where rumors said that dragons and other mythical creatures still lived, creating a land that was full of wonder and danger.

He heard about the elusive and secretive people of Xana, who had a bond with the dragons and could ride them and about the majestic and perilous places of Xana, where ancient ruins and treasures were guarded by fearsome beasts.

He also had a list of famous and dangerous places that he wanted to visit, places that lured adventurers and thrill-seekers with their beauty and peril.

Such as the Volcanic Valley, where fiery eruptions and lava flows were common, creating a landscape that was scorched and barren.

He heard about the dangers and rewards of exploring the Volcanic Valley, where rare minerals and plants could be found among the craters and geysers and about the legendary Fire Dragon that lived in the heart of the Volcanic Valley, where no one dared to venture.

the Crystal Caves, where sparkling gems and crystals adorned the walls and ceilings, creating a spectacle that was dazzling and enchanting.

He heard about the beauty and mystery of exploring the Crystal Caves, where hidden chambers and passages could be discovered among the stalactites and stalagmites. He also heard about the mythical Crystal Dragon that lived in the depths of the Crystal Caves, where it guarded a priceless treasure.

the Lost City of Zal, where an ancient civilization had vanished without a trace, creating a mystery that was puzzling and intriguing.

He heard about the history and mystery of exploring the Lost City of Zal, where magnificent buildings and monuments could be seen among the ruins and rubble. He also heard about the legendary Zal Dragon that lived in the center of the Lost City of Zal, where it guarded a secret that could reveal the fate of the civilization.

Lastly, the Forbidden Forest, where dark and twisted creatures lurked, creating a place that was terrifying and dangerous.

He heard about the horrors and challenges of exploring the Forbidden Forest, where poisonous plants and deadly traps could be found among the trees and vines. He also heard about the fearsome Forest Dragon that lived in the heart of the Forbidden Forest, where it hunted anyone who entered its domain.

He was captivated by the secrets and wonders that this continent had to offer. He first went to the prosperous and peaceful kingdom of Loria, where he marveled at the harmony of magic and technology.

He then went to its famous areas such as the Royal Palace, where he was impressed by the elegance and grace of the royal family, who welcomed him warmly in their splendid palace, adorned with gold and jewels. He met the king and queen, who greeted him with smiles and compliments. They invited him to join them for a feast, where they offered him delicious food and wine. They also asked him about his travels and his plans, showing genuine interest and curiosity.

"So, Kai, where have you been before coming to our kingdom?" the king asked.

"I have been to many places, your majesty. I have seen the Meteor City, where I trained some kids in Nen and eliminated some gangs. I have seen the Republic of Padokea, where I participated in the Heaven's Arena and fought some strong opponents. I have also seen the Kukan'yu Kingdom, where I joined the Hunter Exam and met some friends and enemies." Kai answered.

"Wow, that sounds amazing. You must have had many adventures and experiences." the queen said.

"Yes, I have. I have met many people and learned many things. I have also faced many dangers and challenges." Kai said.

"What made you decide to come to our kingdom?" the prince asked.

"I wanted to see the wonders of magic and technology that your kingdom is famous for. I also wanted to learn more about your culture and history." Kai said.

"Well, you have come to the right place. Our kingdom has a lot to offer for someone like you. We are proud of our achievements and heritage." the princess said.

"I can see that. Your kingdom is truly beautiful and prosperous. I am grateful for your hospitality and generosity." Kai said.

"It is our pleasure to have you as our guest. We hope you enjoy your stay here." the king said.

"Thank you very much. I appreciate your kindness." Kai said.

He felt honored and flattered by their hospitality and kindness. He also met the prince and princess, who were friendly and charming. The prince had blond hair and blue eyes, and wore a white suit with gold trimmings. The princess had brown hair and green eyes, and wore a pink dress with silver accessories. They showed him around the palace, where they pointed out the paintings and statues that depicted the history and culture of Loria.

He saw paintings of famous kings and queens, who had ruled with wisdom and justice. He saw statues of legendary heroes and heroines, who had fought with courage and honor. He also saw paintings and statues of magical creatures and inventions, which had shaped the destiny of Loria.

They also shared some stories and jokes with him, making him laugh and enjoy their company. He felt comfortable and relaxed with them, as if they were old friends.

The Grand Academy, The academy was a large and impressive building, with a dome-shaped roof and a clock tower. It had many classrooms and halls, where students learned and practiced various subjects and skills. It also had a huge library, where thousands of books were stored and cataloged.

He was also amazed by the brilliance and skill of the academy students, who showed him their magic and inventions in their magnificent academy, equipped with libraries and laboratories.

He saw students who could cast spells and create illusions with their wands and rings. He saw students who could build machines and gadgets with their tools and wires. He saw students who could combine magic and technology to create amazing effects and results.

He was impressed by the creativity and innovation of the academy students, who were always eager to learn and improve.

He then went to the library to read some books, where he learned about the culture and history of Loria. He read about the origin and development of magic and technology in Loria, and how they had influenced the society and economy. He read about the customs and traditions of Loria, such as the festivals and ceremonies that celebrated the seasons and events. He found the books here very informative and interesting.

He did not shy away from exploring the perilous parts of the land, such as the Dark Forest, where he encountered the horrors that dwelled in the gloom. He felt a surge of fear as he saw the twisted shapes and heard the sinister sounds of the creatures that hunted him. He barely managed to evade their clutches and flee from the forest, his heart pounding in his chest.

He also ventured to the Cursed Lake, where he gazed at the dark and murky water that seemed to whisper curses. He felt a shiver run down his spine as he sensed the malevolence that radiated from the lake. He accidentally brushed his hand against the water and felt a coldness seep into his bones, as if the lake was trying to claim him.

He would track down and confront the outlaws in their hideouts or on the roads, using his wits and his weapons. He would fight them with his two weapons: a pair of tonfa, which he uses for close combat, and a sniper rifle, which he uses for long-range attacks. as well as his two hatsu's: dragon fist and dragon eye. Dragon fist allowed him to enhance his punches with fire and force and that can bites his enemies, while dragon eye allowed him to see through illusions and lies as well as a developed ability he made called lightning strike where he could add electric power to his attacks.

He would capture or kill them, depending on the mission and the situation. He would collect the bounties and the rewards, as well as the gratitude and the respect of the people.

He would also learn more about the law and the justice of Loria, as well as the corruption and the injustice that plagued it. He would face some moral dilemmas and ethical choices, as he discovered that not all outlaws were evil and not all authorities were good. He would also make some friends and enemies, as he met other hunters and rivals along the way.

He spent five months traveling in the kingdom of Loria, where he witnessed the splendor and the secrets of the land. He visited the royal palace, where he marveled at the majestic architecture and the lavish decorations. He explored the grand library, where he immersed himself in the ancient lore and the hidden knowledge. He did not shy away from exploring the perilous parts of the land, such as the Dark Forest, where he encountered the horrors that dwelled in the gloom. He also ventured to the Cursed Lake, where he gazed at the dark and murky water that seemed to whisper curses.

He then left Loria and headed to the war-torn empire of Raxus, where he hoped to find more adventure and excitement. It took him two weeks to cross the border, as he had to avoid the patrols and the checkpoints of both kingdoms.

He traveled to its famous areas, such as the capital city, where he witnessed the clash of cultures and factions. The city was a sprawling metropolis, divided into districts by walls and gates. Each district had its own identity and allegiance, reflecting the diverse and often conflicting interests of the people.

He saw the rich and the powerful in their luxurious mansions and palaces, surrounded by guards and servants. He saw the poor and the oppressed in their shabby huts and slums, struggling to survive and resist.

He saw the merchants and the traders in their busy markets and shops, bargaining and scheming. He saw the rebels and the loyalists in their hidden bases and camps, plotting and fighting.

He saw the beauty and the ugliness of the city, the harmony and the discord of its inhabitants.

He also visited the Great Temple, where he witnessed the faith and the devotion of the people. The temple was a magnificent structure, built on a hill overlooking the city. It was adorned with statues and paintings of the gods and goddesses, and filled with altars and shrines.

He saw the priests and the priestesses in their robes and crowns, performing rituals and ceremonies. He saw the pilgrims and the worshippers in their cloaks and veils, offering prayers and sacrifices. He saw the miracles and the mysteries of the temple, the grace and the wrath of its deities.

He also went to its dangerous areas, such as the battlefield, where he saw the carnage and the chaos of war. The battlefield was a vast and desolate plain, littered with corpses and weapons. He saw the soldiers and the generals in their armor and helmets, charging and retreating but contains the blood and the fire in their eyes, the fear and the rage in their hearts.

He saw the swords and the spears in their hands, the arrows and the bullets in their flesh and the explosions and the smoke in the air, the screams and the silence on the ground. He saw the horror and the tragedy of war, the glory and the futility of its heroes.

He was fascinated by the history and the politics of Raxus, which had been in a state of turmoil and conflict for centuries. He learned about the rise and fall of the emperors and empresses, who had ruled with varying degrees of power and legitimacy. He learned about the wars and rebellions, which had shaped the borders and the alliances of the empire.

He learned about the factions and parties, which had competed for influence and resources in the court and the parliament. He learned about the cultures and religions, which had enriched and divided the people of the empire. He learned about the secrets and scandals, which had shocked and intrigued the public and the press but he also faced many dangers and challenges along the way.

Such as how he had to deal with spies and informers of different factions. He had to evade the guards and the soldiers, who tried to capture him mistaking him a spy from other factions or kingdoms. He had to escape the traps and the ambushes, who tried to kill him and loot him. He had to survive the hunger and the thirst, the cold and heat and the different diseases.

Kai would also accept some hunter missions that he needs to eliminate gangs and bandit groups, but this time he would also include the assassination of corrupt and abusive leaders or high position people to let those who are capable rise. He would infiltrate and destroy more than a dozen gangs and bandit groups, each with their own territory and agenda. He would face different types of enemies, such as thugs, thieves, smugglers, kidnappers, murderers, and traitors.

He would also target and kill more than a handful of corrupt and abusive leaders or high position people, each with their own power and influence. He would face different types of challenges, such as security, guards, traps, alarms, and witnesses. He would use his skills and his hatsu's to complete his missions, as well as his intelligence and his intuition.

He would earn more money and fame, as well as more enemies and threats. He would also affect the balance and the change of the war-torn empire of Raxus, as well as the fate and the hope of its people.

Kai spent four months exploring the Empire of Raxus. He went to the capital city and saw the beauty and the ugliness of the city, the harmony and the discord of its inhabitants, The Great Temple where he witnessed the faith and the devotion of the people and the Battlefield where he saw the carnage and the chaos of war. He also learned about the history and politics and faced many dangers and challenges along the way.

His next journey will be the the Lost City of Zal, where an ancient civilization had vanished without a trace, creating a mystery that was puzzling and intriguing. He had heard many legends and rumors about the city, such as its advanced technology, its hidden secrets, and its mysterious fate. He wanted to see the city with his own eyes, and maybe discover some clues or answers to the mystery.

In the middle of his trip towards the Lost City of Zal, his grandfather Zeno Zoldyck contacted him through his phone. He was surprised and happy to hear from him, as he had not seen him for a long time.

"Hello, Kai. How are you doing?" Zeno asked.

"Grandpa! I'm doing fine. How about you?" Kai replied.

"I'm doing well. I'm glad to hear your voice. How is your journey going?" Zeno asked.

"It's going great. I've seen and done many things. I've learned a lot and had a lot of fun." Kai replied.

"That's good to hear. You're a true adventurer, just like your father." Zeno said.

"Thanks, Grandpa. That means a lot coming from you." Kai said.

"So, where are you now? What's your next destination?" Zeno asked.

"I'm on my way to the Lost City of Zal. You know, the one where an ancient civilization disappeared without a trace." Kai said.

"Ah, yes. The Lost City of Zal. I've heard of it. It's a very interesting and mysterious place. I'm sure you'll find something amazing there." Zeno said.

"I hope so, Grandpa. I'm really curious about what happened to them and why they vanished." Kai said.

"Me too, Kai. Me too." Zeno said.

"Grandpa, why did you call me? Is everything okay?" Kai asked.

"Well, Kai, there's something I need to tell you. It's about the Hunter Association." Zeno said.

"What about it?" Kai asked.

"They're calling in reinforcements for a very urgent and dangerous mission. It's about the Chimera Ants." Zeno said.

"The Chimera Ants? What are they?" Kai asked.

"They're a new species of insects that have evolved rapidly and dangerously. They can consume other creatures and inherit their traits and abilities. They have formed a hierarchy and a society, and they have started to threaten the human world." Zeno explained.

"That sounds terrible. How did they come to be?" Kai asked.

"No one knows for sure. Some say they're a result of genetic experimentation gone wrong. Some say they're a natural phenomenon that occurs every few centuries. Some say they're a curse from the gods or the devil." Zeno said.

"Wow. That's crazy. So, what's the mission?" Kai asked.

"The mission is to exterminate them before they cause more damage and chaos. The Hunter Association has sent some of their best hunters to deal with them, but they need more help. They're asking for any available hunters to join them." Zeno said.

"I see. And you want me to join them?" Kai asked.

"Yes, Kai. I want you to join them." Zeno said.

"Why me, Grandpa? I'm just a rookie hunter. I don't think I'm ready for such a mission." Kai said.

"Kai, you're more than ready for this mission. You're a Zoldyck, after all. You have the blood and the talent of an assassin and a hunter. You have the skills and the hatsu's of a fighter and an adventurer. You have the courage and the curiosity of your father and your grandfather." Zeno said.

"Grandpa…" Kai said.

"Kai, this is not just a mission. It's also an opportunity. An opportunity to test yourself, to challenge yourself, to grow yourself. An opportunity to see new things, to learn new things, to do new things. An opportunity to make a difference, to save lives, to change history. An opportunity to be promoted to 1-star hunter by the number of chimera ants you kill." Zeno said.

"Really? I can be promoted to 1-star hunter by killing chimera ants?" Kai asked.

"Yes, Kai. The Hunter Association has decided to reward the hunters who participate in this mission with a promotion based on their performance and contribution. The more chimera ants you kill, the higher your chances of becoming a 1-star hunter." Zeno said.

"Wow. That's amazing. It's finally my opportunity to be a 1-star hunter." Kai said.

"I know, Kai. I know. And you deserve it. You have the potential and the talent of a 1-star hunter. You just need to prove it." Zeno said.

"Grandpa…" Kai said for the second time.

"Kai, I know you have your own dreams and goals. I know you want to explore the world and find your own path. And I respect that. But sometimes, life throws unexpected situations at us that we have to face and deal with. Sometimes, we have to put aside our personal plans and join a greater cause." Zeno said.

"Grandpa…" Kai said for the third time.

"Kai, I'm not forcing you to do this. It's your choice in the end. But I'm asking you as your grandfather, as your mentor, as your friend…please join this mission." Zeno said.

"Grandpa…" Kai said for the last time.

He was silent for a moment, thinking about what his grandfather had said. He felt a mix of emotions: fear, excitement, doubt, curiosity, guilt, pride. He looked at his phone, then at the road ahead of him. He made his decision.

"Okay, Grandpa. I'll join the mission." Kai said.

"Thank you, Kai. Thank you so much. You've made me very proud." Zeno said.

"You're welcome, Grandpa. You've always been there for me. I owe you a lot." Kai said.

"No, Kai. You don't owe me anything. You're doing this for yourself, and for the world." Zeno said.

"Grandpa, where should I go? How do I join the mission?" Kai asked.

"I'll send you the coordinates and the details of the mission. Just follow them and you'll find the other hunters. They'll welcome you and guide you." Zeno said.

"Okay, Grandpa. I'll do that." Kai said.

"Be careful, Kai. The Chimera Ants are very dangerous and unpredictable. Don't underestimate them or overestimate yourself. Use your head and your heart." Zeno said.

"I will, Grandpa. I'll be careful and smart." Kai said.

"And have fun, Kai. The Chimera Ants are also very fascinating and diverse. Don't forget to enjoy the experience and the adventure." Zeno said.

"I will, Grandpa. I'll have fun and learn." Kai said.

"I love you, Kai. You're a great grandson and a great hunter." Zeno said.

"I love you too, Grandpa. You're a great grandfather and a great hunter." Kai said.

They ended their call with a smile and a tear in their eyes. They felt a bond and a respect that transcended generations and distances. They felt a pride and a joy that filled their hearts and souls.

Kai changed his course and headed to the coordinates that his grandfather had sent him. He left behind his original destination, the Lost City of Zal, for another time and another adventure. He embarked on a new journey, a new mission, a new challenge: the Chimera Ants.