NOVEL NEXT Chapter 4: Chapter 4: Time For The Trial
The next day, the elders call me to the chamber of the head elder. The room is dimly lit, filled with the weight of centuries of tradition and responsibility. They sit in a semi-circle, their expressions grave but not unkind.
"Kai, we elders are grateful for your contributions to the clan," the head elder begins. "For the courage and intelligence you have shown in our time of need, you and your family will be welcomed into the main branch."
I bow my head in acknowledgment, but before I can express my gratitude, the elder continues, "Now, we will focus on dealing with the most important issue." The elder says hitting the ground with his cane, "Bring him!"
At the elder command, a couple of guards drag Captain Bone into the chamber. His head is still bandaged, and he is bound by ropes with strange symbols engraved on them.
It is the first time I see the people of the island restrain someone, but after a while of looking I recognize the strange engravings. They are the same as the mysterious inscription used by Wing and Gon's father in the series. A mysterious drawing pattern that interacts in an unknown way with Nen.
I had forgotten about it because its appearances had been so fleeting in the series, but these symbols possess amazing properties, as they are even a key element in the creation of <
I find it impossible to believe that my people possesses such a resource when they are so backward in learning and using Nen. But considering that Captain Bone isn't breaking free, I guess it's the real thing. It is surely something akin to a national treasure for the people of the island.
"This man known as Captain Bone, under a false pretext of friendship and guidance, together with his crew, invaded our forbidden lands, stole the ancient relic that protects our home and tried to subjugate our island under his rule with it." The head elder says while taking out the mysterious crystal retrieved from the battle.
"As the head of the clan, I am of the opinion that such serious crimes must be punished with the execution of Captain Bone and his underlyings."
"I ask for mercy, not for myself, but for my crew. This whole situation is the result of my actions and ambition. I ask you not to condemn them for my mistakes." Captain Bone says with a dry and despondent voice. All the confidence and bravery he once displayed have disappeared, replaced by resignation and concern for his crew.
Despite this, the guards points their spears at him, the burning anger lighting up their eyes.
"You're in no position to negotiate the sentence, Captain Bone. Elders, what is your opinion on this matter?" At the head elder question, the others express their agreement with the sentence he has proclaimed.
"And you, young Kai? As the hero of this fight, and a new member of the main branch, I would like to hear your opinion on the matter."
The chamber is silent for a moment until I finally get ready to speak, "I think that's the worst decision you could make." I answer without vacillation in my voice.
"Insolent! How you dare to answer us so disrespectfully?!" One of the elders shouts indignant at my response.
"Elder Hiroshi." The head elder says hitting the ground with his cane. "I have been the one to question the young Kai about his opinion. Getting angry because he gives it to us is nothing more than an immature and shameful act."
At the words of the head elder, the elder named Hiroshi lowers his head and remains silent. "Young one, can you share why you think our decision is wrong?" The head elder asks while everyone else turns their eyes to me, including Captain Bone.
"It's true that Captain Bone and his crew betrayed our trust in them by trying to steal our relic, and that such an act cannot go unpunished. However, executing them would be negligent on our part, as it would bring us nothing after all this chaos, and we would be taking cruel and barbaric actions on someone who had no control over his own actions." I say.
"What do you mean he had no control over his actions?" The head elder asks listening to my words with intrigue.
"It was because of that crystal." I say pointing my finger to the crystal in the head elder hand.
"I noticed this when we faced Captain Bone in the cavern. That crystal has the power to manipulate creatures. When Captain Bone took it, some defense mechanism must have been activated which greatly increased his greed and ambition, turning him into a madman obsessed with power." I state.
"What is your basis for believing in such a theory?" The head elder asks.
"Well, when Captain Bone took control of its power, his crew members, Greyback Wolves and Werewolves, who were unconscious and had been enemies before, stood up and fought together as a united army." I answer.
"But that could have simply been another ability of Captain Bone, just like those strange weapons he summoned out of thin air." An elder says trying to refute me.
"No, it wasn't. I was able to see that the bodies of the henchmen and Captain Bone were connected with aura flows to the crystal, and when I held it myself, I could feel like I had a connection to them and the sea creature" I respond, defending my point.
"If that's true, why didn't it take control of you too when you holded it?" The head elder asks, completely focused on the conversation.
"Do you see the symbols graved in the crystal?" I ask pointing my finger once again at the relic, which is observed by the elders who notice them.
"I hadn't noticed it in the cavern when it was shimmering with that mystical light, but they are the same symbols as those on the ropes that hold Captain Bone. Therefore, I believe that this relic is a work of our ancestors to give the people of the island control over their creatures so they can defend themselves from intruders."
"That is why the sea beast moved away from the shore when it noticed my Ren, and why the crystal could not control any of us in the cavern." I state this, clarifying any doubts that the elders may have about this discussion.
The elders look at each other, dissatisfied with the situation, but convinced of the veracity of my statements. "Then, young one, could you share which punishment for the transgressors would most benefit our people in your opinion?"
"I believe that Captain Bone and his crew should compensate us for their transgressions by trying to make our town prosperous, as they had done before but under new conditions." I start explaining.
"Captain Bone and some of his crew would become trade workers, bringing monthly items and resources from the outside world that cannot be found on our island. While they do that, most of their crew will stay on the island as laborers, teaching us about craftsmanship, navigation, harvesting of new foods, and above all, theory and training on the Blessing, all while being under close surveillance and control."
"From what we could see, Captain Bone possessed a mastery and application of Zeraka's Blessing far superior to that of any inhabitant of this island, and so did his crew when I first saw them fight. Captain Bone, do your crew members also know how to handle the Blessing like you?" I ask Captain Bone, who has his eyes wide open from the shock of my arguments.
"They are not as skilled and experienced as I am in the use of Nen, but they do know the four fundamental principles." Captain Bone answers.
"Nen?" The head elder tilts his head.
"That is the name this power is given in most of the world." Captain Bone clarifies.
"Even if we take his crew as captives, who says he won't abandon them and leave, never to return? Or that he won't return with a larger army at his command? Why take those risks when we can end it all here and now?" The elder Hiroshi asks in retaliation to my suggestions.
"Because if this incident has taught us anything, it's that our people needs to improve in order to survive!" I respond in frustration to the negative approach of the elder Hiroshi to my ideas, rendering him instantly speechless.
"If you are so afraid of letting go someone willing to sacrifice his life to save that of his men, then you can use the crystal to force him to serve his sentence, but I assure you that I believe this is the best decision for the clan. I would bet my life on it." I say with a very firm tone, and the chamber is filled with a deathly silence, seeming as if time has stagnated.
"Alright. Since we cannot think of any objection to your reasoning, we will follow your idea and let the accused spend their lives making the clan thrive." The head elder says, with me nodding as a matter of course.
"Not only have you helped us save the island, but your observant and caring nature has saved us from making a terrible mistake. So in addition to your family promotion, you may also present one request."
Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself. "Elders, I wish to leave the island."
A murmur of surprise ripples through the chamber. The head elder's eyes widen in disbelief. "You wish to leave the island? After all we've just been through? Your life is here, my boy. Why leave?"
"You're joining the main branch, and you have prepared a program for Captain Bone's men to impart their knowledge to us, which gives you more opportunities to learn about the Blessing. And now that we have the crystal orb that was hidden on the island, we can control the sea creature and destroy any visitors who try to enter our shores."
"And that's exactly why I want to leave, elder," I reply, my voice firm.
"I have no reason to stay and protect this place anymore. You now have something that can keep others out and protect you fully for now. Plus, I can use Captain Bone's crew to help me on my journey. Once you let down the veil, the only thing that lies ahead is adventure and endless possibilities."
"I'll be back to visit someday, of course. This is my home and you are all my family. But I also want to explore all the wonders that the world beyond this island has to offer, and ensure our bloodline continues. After all, we're barely 100 people on the island and we don't want our legacy to end with us, do we?"
The elders exchange thoughtful glances. The head elder speak again, more gently this time, "So, now that you're part of the main family, you wish for the title of searcher?"
"Yes, elder. I believe it is the best way to contribute to our future. I understand the obligations. Among all the new migrants, I will bring back at least ten women to join the family, ensuring they are protected until they arrive. I know I cannot claim any of these women for myself. They will be for the rest of the family."
The head elder sighs, a mixture of pride and sadness in his eyes. "Very well, Kai, we have received your sincerity. You are free to become a searcher. I will announce this tomorrow afternoon. But do tell your family, for tomorrow is your day of departure."
I bow deeply, gratitude and determination swelling within me. "Thank you, elder. I will make the necessary preparations."
Captain Bone just stays quietly by my side, recognizing the reality before his eyes with curiosity and amazement. 'He really is an eccentric young man. Not only he managed to defeat me with his tactical intelligence, but he was able to guide these old men to the conclusion that best suited him. All this without neglecting the well-being of his family or his compassion and pity for the villains who nearly destroyed his life. This boy's potential is exceptional.' He thinks looking at Kai with a mixture of awe and gratitude for this peculiar young man.
Leaving the chamber, I search out my parents. They are in our home near the shore, the place we had always known. My mother is weaving a new basket, and my father is mending fishing nets. They look up as I enter, sensing the weight of my news.
"Mother, father," I begin, my voice steady, "I have something important to tell you."
They exchange a glance, setting aside their work. "What is it, Kai?" my mother asks, her voice tinged with concern.
"I've been granted the title of searcher," I say, watching their reactions closely. "I'm leaving the island tomorrow."
My mother's eyes fill with tears, and my father's face hardens with a mixture of pride and sorrow. "You're leaving us?" My mother whispers.
"I must, mother." I reply gently. "The elders have agreed. It's always been my dream to explore and experience the world beyond this island, and in this way I can also ensure our family's future, bringing back new blood. After all, you've always taught me about helping our people. This is my way of fulfilling my dream and protect our legacy."
My father stands, his expression stern but his eyes shining with unshed tears. "We are proud of you, Kai. You've grown into a fine young man. Go, fulfill your dreams. But remember, this will always be your home."
I embrace them both, feeling their warmth and strength. "I will return," I promise. "and I will bring honor to our family."
That night, I prepared for my journey. I packed only the essentials, taking the small blade my father had given me for my first hunt, some food for the trip and the knowledge and skills I had acquired during my life here. I knew the road ahead would be filled with challenges, but I was ready.
Date: December 5th, 2010
As dawn broke, the village gathers to see me off. The elders formally announce my new role as searcher, and the villagers, though saddened, bid me farewell with kind smiles on their faces and cheer for my safe return.
Among the crowd are also members of Captain Bone's crew who have to stay to serve their penance, Greyback Wolves and Werewolves who, although once dangerous beasts, have now become our allies, as their duty had always been to protect the crystal orb and the people of the island.
My parents stand at the front, their faces a mix of pride and heartache.
"Kai, show the world what the Ikeda clan is made of." My father asks me with confidence and anticipation written on his face.
"Of course father." I answer him, without an ounce of hesitation in my voice.
Captain Bone and his crew, having been informed of my decision, await me at the shore, forced by the crystal relic to comply with the sentence imposed on them by the elders.
As I approach, Captain Bone nods in approval. "Ready for a real adventure, kid?"
I nod, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and resolve. "Ready as I'll ever be."
I board the ship, and I say goodbye with a final wave to my family and friends, who wave me back while I leave. As we sail away, I watch the island grow smaller, a sense of determination filling me.
This is just the beginning. My journey into the world of Hunter x Hunter has truly begun.
I know there are still many dangers and challenges ahead, but I am ready to face them.