Chapter 42

Traveling alone in this world may offer a sense of freedom, but it can get monotonous.

However, having a beautiful and pleasing companion by your side changes everything.

Only a fool would refuse.

"Still, can I ask why you decided to follow me?" Morin inquired, wanting to clarify.

"I want to learn about Specialist-type nen abilities," Pakunoda replied calmly, without hesitation.

"The leader's own ability isn't fully developed yet, and he needs to focus on refining it. If I were to stay with him, it'd distract him, as he'd also have to take my progress into consideration."

"But your abilities, Vice-Leader, are already well-developed and quite exceptional," she continued. "You have the experience and time, so I believe I can learn a lot from staying with you."

Her reasoning was sound, leaving no room for objections.

"Help with ability development, huh?"

A subtle smile appeared on Morin's lips.

If it were anything else, he might have struggled to help. But when it came to nen ability development...

That's something he was exceptionally skilled at!

Among the Phantom Troupe's 13 members, Morin knew every single nen ability—even the original members like Owl, who faked his death and left the group.

The only exceptions were the 8th member, who was killed early on by Silva Zoldyck, and Kortopi, who used paper-based abilities.

"Ability development? If you don't mind some of my small ideas, I'd be happy to help," Morin said casually.

"Then I'll be in your care."

Pakunoda nodded lightly.

Throughout the conversation, Machi had been quietly observing Morin and Pakunoda.

Their exchange seemed open and honest, with no hidden meaning. To the others, it looked like an ordinary discussion between teammates. Even Chrollo didn't overthink it.

But Machi frowned slightly, feeling something was off.

Her unease resembled the feeling of having a beloved toy suddenly taken away by someone else to play with.

I was the one who brought him back—when did he become so popular?

She had no real reason to stop them, so in the end, she stayed silent.

"Forget it. Instead of wasting time thinking about this, I should figure out how to make money at Heaven's Arena," she muttered, shaking her head to clear her thoughts.

The idea of all the money she could earn helped lift her spirits.

With everyone having decided on their goals, it was time for them to part ways.

The Phantom Troupe's formation and subsequent scattering had taken only a few days.

For Morin, it didn't feel very significant.

After all, he wasn't a true native of Meteor City and didn't share the deep emotional ties of Uvogin, Nobunaga, or Machi.

To them, the Troupe's creation wasn't just the start of a group—it was a sanctuary.

Morin could see this sense of belonging in all of them: Uvogin, Nobunaga, even the usually aloof Machi, and the perpetually irritable Feitan.

For them, the Troupe wasn't just an organization—it was home.

As Morin watched his companions leave in their various directions, he noticed their optimism and enthusiasm despite the parting.

They didn't seem sad or lost, but happy and hopeful.

At that moment, Morin began to understand why the Troupe remained so cohesive and united, despite rarely gathering as a whole.

It was the shared sense of belonging, forged by their common roots in Meteor City.

"Shall we head out too?"

Morin packed away his Something-from-Nothing Door Sticker and turned to Pakunoda, who had been waiting quietly by his side.

"Ability development should start as early as possible. Let's discuss as we go."

He smiled. "First, tell me about your personality and interests. Be honest—it'll be important for developing your nen ability."

They chatted as they walked out of the chaotic city, their shadows stretching long in the sunlight.

"Where are we going next?" Pakunoda asked, watching as Morin pulled out a plain-looking cane and an umbrella.

She glanced up at the sky.

The weather was perfect—bright sunshine without being too hot. There was no need for an umbrella.

"These are my tools," Morin explained casually, planting the cane firmly on the ground.

Tool: Locator Cane

Effect: Place the cane upright and let it fall naturally. It will point toward the person you're looking for.

Accuracy: 70%.

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