HunterxHunter: I Became Stronger After Death

Unaware of the existence of Nen as a power, yet able to keenly perceive its traces...

Callista became aware of Nen after her match with Moro, especially when she saw him flawlessly use her Gazelle Step technique.

In contrast, Haruto Washitora deduced its presence purely through observation. He noticed that during Moro's battles, it seemed as though Moro was wearing an invisible suit of armor or that an impenetrable wall shielded him from all attacks.

Haruto speculated that this phenomenon might stem from some sort of internal energy. Though he had no understanding of it, he felt an intense desire to learn more about this unknown force that could dramatically enhance combat abilities.

Following his instincts, he made the bold decision to approach Moro directly and express his determination.

Moro glanced at Haruto, then at Callista.

To be honest…

He was more surprised by Haruto Washitora's arrival than by Callista seeking him out.

This was a man who, according to the original story, should have encountered Hisoka's "baptism" and later died at Hisoka's hands. Yet here he was, proactively seeking out Moro to learn the secrets of Nen.

Could Haruto's genuine behavior inadvertently break his own death trajectory?

Of course, that depended on whether Moro was willing to teach him Nen.

There was also no guarantee that Haruto wouldn't attract Hisoka's attention in the future.

Still—

Moro's gaze focused on Haruto.

He had the ability to help Haruto avoid his fated death. The only question was whether he wanted to do so.

If he taught Haruto Nen now, would it be akin to stealing Hisoka's "apple"?

Haruto stood firm as Moro scrutinized him, his expression resolute.

Haruto wasn't the type to pester or cling, nor did he lack other options. The Sky Arena was filled with talented individuals. Even if Moro refused him, Haruto believed he could find another way.

But he had set his sights on Moro and prepared himself for the possibility of pursuing him for a long time.

Callista, seeing the mutual understanding forming between Moro and Haruto, grew anxious.

She had come first!

In her panic, Callista grabbed Moro's arm without thinking, blurting out:

"Moro, I'm willing too! Any request you have, I'll do it! Besides, he's a man—there are things he can't do!"

"?"

Both Moro and Haruto were stunned, question marks practically forming above their heads as they turned to look at her.

Realizing her outburst, Callista froze, then quickly released Moro's arm and stammered, "I mean, like cooking and laundry."

"The Sky Arena has a 24-hour laundromat. As for cooking..."

Haruto smiled warmly at Callista. "I have a chef's license, so I should be able to meet most of Moro's needs."

"…"

Callista stared at Haruto in disbelief.

Haruto, meanwhile, returned her gaze with a calm smile, though his eyes conveyed unwavering determination.

An invisible tension crackled between them.

Both were martial artists who understood the value of being a personal disciple. They knew the immense benefit of one-on-one guidance.

This was the root of their rivalry.

Callista hadn't expected a competitor to emerge, much less someone so decisive and resolute in his intentions.

She had underestimated the situation.

Now that she had lost the initiative, she decided to go all out.

"But you don't have… assets," Callista said, puffing out her chest.

Haruto's smile faltered for a moment.

Beauty only hinders the speed of one's fists.

Haruto had no interest in physical appeal. Still, as he scrutinized Callista's features, he had to admit—putting aside his personal biases—that she was objectively attractive.

Her physique, honed through years of martial arts, lacked softness but exuded a sharp, athletic elegance.

He hesitated and glanced at Moro.

He didn't know Moro well enough to gauge whether this factor might influence his decision.

"Let's talk after my next match."

Moro didn't answer either of them directly, leaving only a brief statement before heading to the resting area.

Haruto, understanding his place, chose not to press further and stayed quiet.

Callista, on the other hand, instinctively wanted to say more but stopped herself when she saw Haruto looking like a devoted spouse watching Moro leave. She gritted her teeth in frustration.

"I came first!" she snapped, turning to Haruto after Moro had disappeared from view.

Haruto shook his head slowly.

"During the preliminary round, you hurt your hand trying to attack Moro. If not for that, I wouldn't have noticed him. So, in a way... I owe you my thanks."

"!!!"

A vein bulged on Callista's temple.

Resting Area

Moro sat on a chair, his expression contemplative.

Should I teach Haruto Nen?

He pondered the question.

Although he had entertained the idea of a "farmer's plan" to cultivate Nen users after coming to the Sky Arena…

He didn't consider himself a ruthless, selfish individual.

If he were to nurture "apples," they'd have to be people he could crush without remorse.

Someone like Tagore.

Moro firmly believed that while it was fine to lower one's moral boundaries, it was unacceptable to have none at all.

From what he recalled of the original story, Haruto seemed like a decent person. Moro had no desire to involve him in the "farmer's plan."

So the question remained…

What motive would justify teaching Haruto Nen?

Moro's musings were interrupted by the start of his next match.

Setting the matter aside for the moment, he made his way to the arena for his 20th match at the Sky Arena.

The venue was packed, every seat occupied.

Nearly everyone in attendance had come to witness Moro's ascent to the 200th floor.

Even before the match began, the crowd was certain of his victory. Moro had never let them down.

And he didn't this time, either.

With ease, Moro defeated his opponent and secured his ticket to the 200th floor.

The audience erupted into cheers, their faces flushed with excitement as they chanted Moro's name with all their might.

It wasn't just because Moro had won them a significant amount of money…

They also felt a deep sense of emotional satisfaction from watching his matches.

As the thunderous applause filled the arena, Moro reflected.

When he first arrived in this city, he hadn't understood the near-frenzied enthusiasm of the fans.

But on the day of the preliminaries, he had watched two martial artists battle with everything they had and found himself moved.

Now, he could somewhat understand the appeal.

Amid the overwhelming cheers, Moro walked toward the exit.

The Sky Arena was just a small corner of the world.

But it had allowed him to experience one of life's unique flavors.

And the world was vast—

So live well, and keep moving forward.

As expected, on his way to the 200th floor, Moro encountered Haruto Washitora and Callista.

"Follow me."

Moro left them with those words and headed for the elevator.

This time, he gave them an answer.

Haruto and Callista exchanged glances.

The next moment, they both turned away sharply, refusing to look at each other.

For 20 advanced chapters: https://www.patreon.com/c/Ely225