Gourmet Hunter - Chapter 45 (Patreon)

Chapter 45: The Battle

After robbing Cook's nest, they did not encounter any subsequent trouble, which was a relief. Luo didn't bother to investigate the reasons; with the money, the medical expenses and living costs for a while were no longer a concern. Not having to scavenge in the Junkyard meant Luo had ample time. Recognizing his weaknesses, he knew he had to strengthen himself quickly.

Luo devoted all his time to training, pushing his aura to the limit every time, a desperate approach that rapidly improved his Nen abilities. Initially, he could only maintain Ten on his upper body, but now he could stabilize it across his entire body, evenly distributing his aura. Control of aura, ensuring its smooth flow, is basic, but allocating it precisely is a more advanced skill. Being able to quickly distribute aura to any part of the body is a skill every top fighter must have.

Luo was very dedicated to his training. After more than a month, he had solidified his grasp on the four basic Nen techniques, maintaining a smooth flow of aura. He could concentrate most of his aura on a specific body part, but only when calm and still. Applying this skill in real combat would require extensive practice and familiarity.

During this month, Luo focused on training, and both Uvogin and Nobunaga's injuries healed well. Perhaps because they were Enhancers, their recovery sped up after learning Ten under Luo's guidance.

Not only had Uvogin and Nobunaga stepped into the realm of Nen users, but Machi was also on the threshold, likely soon to begin learning Nen.

During this time, Chrollo and Pakunoda occasionally visited to check on Uvogin and the others. Seeing Uvogin and Nobunaga practicing Nen, Chrollo realized it was getting closer to the time to form a team. The thought of forming a team wasn't acted upon immediately because a key condition was missing: the strength of the team members and his own.

Anyone exposed to Nen would try to enhance their abilities, and Chrollo was no different. He knew Luo had been training intensively in Nen, so recently, he spent less time reading and more on practicing Nen.

Observing those around him advancing rapidly, no one wanted to fall behind.

Two months later.

In the western area of the Junkyard, a desolate land on the edge of the Junkyard, the place is open and flat with few rocky mountains, causing the wind to whip up sand into small dust storms.

Luo and his group came here to train, away from the garbage of the Junkyard. According to Uvogin, it was to have a fight.

After two months, both Uvogin and Nobunaga had healed and made significant leaps in mastering Nen. They were now fit to be sparring partners, so when Uvogin suggested it, Luo immediately agreed.

Initially, Luo wanted Uvogin and Nobunaga as his sparring partners but hesitated due to their injuries. Uvogin's suggestion was most welcome.

Crack, crack...

Uvogin clasped his hands, pressing and wringing them together, producing a crisp sound of bones. He wore a white sweatshirt and earth-colored shorts, exposing his muscular arms, thighs, and somewhat bushy body hair.

Having mastered Nen, he no longer needed protective gear and adopted his usual attire when venturing outside Meteor City.

"Arm wrestling to determine the winner is indeed boring. Just to be clear, Luo, I won't be holding back," Uvogin said, baring his teeth in a grin. It was menacing but not intimidating.

"If you hold back, don't blame me for going too hard," Luo responded, neck twisting, ready to face Uvogin.

He looked forward to the battle, seeing it as a test of the fruits of his two-month-long monotonous training. Since it was a standard training battle, God's Hand wouldn't be used. The fight would test their Ten and Ren and control over aura.

Standing a hundred meters apart, Uvogin and Luo faced off, with Nobunaga and Machi keeping their distance as spectators.

"Are you ready?"

Luo's gaze lifted, his aura subtly emanating from around him, reaching towards Uvogin like invisible tendrils.

"That's my line. Besides, you know your aura has no effect on me. Better save it," Uvogin said, stepping forward, readying himself. With a thought, his aura, emanating from his pores, was enveloped by his Ten, a higher technique combining Ten and Ren called Ken, creating a stronger defensive and offensive force.

Uvogin had mastered this skill in just two months, not just due to his talent but also because he chose the Enhancer path.

Luo withdrew his aura, acknowledging Uvogin's point. Aura had minimal effect on Nen users, except when filled with malice or killing intent, which wasn't the case here in a mere training match. Without any ill will, the aura's impact on Uvogin was negligible.

With determination, Luo also applied Ken, wrapping his body in a dense layer of aura. Although neither he nor Uvogin knew the technique by name, they understood its application through practice.

"I'm coming!" Uvogin, seeing the substantial aura around Luo, couldn't hide his excitement. He lunged forward, his right foot kicking off the ground so fiercely that a cloud of dust exploded beneath him. He charged at Luo like a wild bull, straightforward and without any finesse.

"Head-on, huh? The impact from an Enhancer is stronger than from other types, but I should be able to withstand it. It's a good chance to test my training results," Luo mused, his eyes gleaming. He neither dodged nor retreated, meeting Uvogin head-on.

This decision made Nobunaga and Machi tense up. As Nen users themselves, they knew Luo's choice was risky.

"Good!" Uvogin shouted in excitement, thrilled by Luo's direct approach. The two figures raced towards each other, kicking up dust dragons that swiftly closed the distance between them. They each threw a punch, colliding with immense force.

"Boom!"

When their fists met, a fierce gale burst forth, whipping up the surrounding sand into a mini sandstorm that spilled outwards.

Nobunaga and Machi quickly shielded their faces with their arms. When the sandstorm subsided, they dropped their arms to see the outcome.

Uvogin was seated on the ground, a few meters in front of Luo, indicating Luo had the upper hand in the clash.

Undeterred, Uvogin stood up, his fighting spirit undiminished. "Let's go again!" he declared, ready for another round.

-------

Table of content - Next Chapter >>>

• Your invaluable feedback and ratings mean the world to me. Please take a moment to rate this novel at Novelupdate.

• You can also check out the other Novels I'm currently translating by clicking HERE.