Hunter Trial · Badge Hunter

The battered warship, scarred with mottled metal damage, slowly sailed into Exam Island's harbor.

The twenty-four examinees stood in neat rows on deck, carrying fatigue, tension, and a faint excitement. The sea wind stirred the broken mast, and strips of tattered canvas fluttered from it.

On the pier, the Hunter Association examiners had been waiting for some time. Standing at the very front was the seemingly frail old man—the chairman, Netero. He smiled with both hands behind his back, his eyes sharp.

"Welcome to the fourth phase of the Hunter Exam."

The examinees disembarked and gathered on the pier.

Ryan stood at the back of the crowd, his expression calm and focused as he rapidly surveyed Shu:

—Gon, Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika stood shoulder to shoulder.

—Hisoka stood alone to one side, slowly flicking through a deck of cards with his fingertips.

—Gittarackur (Illumi) stood at the edge of the examinee group, quiet and unobtrusive, as if he didn't exist.

—Hanzo, Ponzu, and the other important examinees adjusted their breathing and watched Shu warily.

Netero lightly raised a hand and said with a smile, "This round is the most symbolic part of the Hunter Exam."

"Badge Hunter."

The examiners carried out two boxes.

Netero continued, "Each person has one badge worth three points."

"Each person will draw the badge of a designated target. Taking it is worth six points."

"The badges of other examinees are each worth one point."

"Gather six points within seven days to pass."

He narrowed his eyes slightly. "Remember—you cannot kill anyone."

The air instantly grew tense.

**

The drawing began.

The examinees took turns stepping forward.

Gon held the small slip of paper, his eyes suddenly tightening—number 44. Hisoka.

Leorio frowned at his slip. "Number 246... Ponzu?!"

Kurapika glanced at his own and frowned. "Number