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The morning sun cast a golden glow over the vast expanse of the Kukuru Mountain range, where the Zoldyck family estate stood shrouded in an aura of mystery and power. Inside the mansion, the atmosphere was calm but charged with subtle tension as preparations unfolded for what seemed to be an important outing.
Breakfast at the Zoldyck Estate
It was exactly eight o'clock in the morning—breakfast time.
"Illumi."
Silva's deep voice broke the silence. Illumi paused mid-sip of his milk and turned toward him, setting the glass down gently.
"You won't need to train today. I'll take you somewhere."
Illumi nodded silently, signaling his understanding. He quickly finished his meal and followed Silva toward the dining hall's exit.
Kalluto sat listlessly at the table, staring blankly as his father and older brother left the room. His chopsticks idly stabbed at the rice in his bowl, moving without purpose or rhythm.
Zeno Zoldyck, seated nearby, kept his eyes lowered, merely glancing once at his grandson before continuing his meal in silence.
"Hmm?"
Just as he stepped out of the dining hall, Illumi suddenly furrowed his brow, stopping abruptly. He turned back to look at the three figures still seated at the table.
"Greed and envy?"
Through Illumi's unique perception, thick tendrils of emotion swirled around them. Around Kalluto, a dense blue mist representing greed coiled tightly, growing more intense by the second. On their mother Kikyo, wisps of pink smoke symbolizing jealousy drifted heavily, almost suffocating in their intensity.
In contrast, Zeno was enveloped by a thin layer of green mist—a representation of tranquility. It barely extended beyond his skin, indicating that his emotions remained completely unruffled.
After three years of studying these emotional manifestations, Illumi had discovered that every color carried both positive and negative connotations. For instance, the blue mist surrounding Kalluto could signify calmness, rationality, and caution on one hand—or insatiable greed on the other. Similarly, the pink mist around Kikyo might represent sensuality, empathy, or softness—but also jealousy when viewed through a darker lens.
Each hue told its own story, rich with nuance and complexity. And it was up to Illumi to decipher their meanings, piece by piece.
A Journey Begins
"Dad... dad..."
The rhythmic sound of footsteps echoed through the dimly lit corridors of the sprawling Zoldyck estate. Illumi walked half a step behind Silva, maintaining a respectful distance.
Silva's demeanor radiated calm authority, his body wrapped in a deep blue mist that spoke of steadfastness and resilience. Neither father nor son exchanged words as they made their way to the grand foyer, where Zebro and Canary awaited patiently.
"Master Silva, everything is ready for your departure," Zebro announced with a respectful bow. Both servants were cloaked in light blue mist, reflecting their composed and harmonious states of mind.
"Let's go," Silva replied curtly, nodding. Zebro turned and led the way toward the entrance, while Canary lingered until Silva and Illumi passed her, then fell into place behind them.
"Master Silva, Young Master Illumi," the two doormen greeted them with deep bows, pulling open the massive double doors. As Silva and Illumi crossed the threshold, the doormen bowed again, bidding them farewell.
Outside, a sleek black car emblazoned with a reversed 'Y' logo awaited them—a design reminiscent of an inverted Mercedes emblem. Zebro and Canary moved to either side of the vehicle, opening the doors for their master and his son.
Silva entered from the right, while Illumi took the left. Once inside, Zebro and Canary joined them, flanking the pair protectively within the spacious interior. A dedicated chauffeur sat behind the wheel, ready to drive.
The car sped smoothly away from the Zoldyck estate, weaving through the mountain roads of the Republic of Padokia until they reached a nearby city nestled in the foothills. There, a private airship awaited them, prepped for the journey to the destination: the city housing the infamous Heaven's Arena.
Onboard the Airship
Inside the luxurious cabin of the airship, Silva and Illumi faced each other across a small table, with Zebro and Canary standing guard on either side. The hum of engines filled the background, creating a serene yet anticipatory ambiance.
"Young Master Illumi, don't you have any questions?" Zebro asked, smiling warmly at the silent youth who had been gazing out the window since boarding.
"For example," she continued, "where we're headed?"
Illumi turned his attention inward, lowering his gaze thoughtfully. "If you wanted me to know, you'd tell me," he said evenly. "But even without asking, I've already guessed our destination."
"Oh ho ho!" Zebro chuckled, genuinely impressed despite herself. She couldn't recall giving anything away, yet Illumi's insight was undeniable. "You truly possess your father's sharp intellect and composure, Young Master."
Canary glanced sidelong at Illumi, her expression unreadable. Though typically stoic, there was a flicker of curiosity in her eyes.
"This trip is to the Heaven's Arena," Silva finally spoke, his tone measured and calm. "I want you to fight your way to the 200th floor."
"There's no time limit, but you must achieve this solely through combat—no shortcuts or outside interference. This will serve as a test of your training thus far."
"If you reach the 200th floor, you'll be deemed ready to undertake the family's assassination missions," Silva continued. "At that point, you'll have the freedom to act according to your own will—to leave home whenever you choose."
His piercing gaze met Illumi's, seemingly seeing straight through to the thoughts swirling beneath the surface. For a brief moment, Illumi's otherwise impassive face betrayed a flicker of surprise.
"How did Father know I've been considering leaving?"
Since becoming part of the Zoldyck household, Illumi had never once ventured beyond the confines of Kukuru Mountain. The desire to explore the world outside had always lingered in the recesses of his mind, unspoken and carefully concealed.
"As your father, I understand your thoughts better than anyone else," Silva explained simply, adopting a paternal tone that was rare but not unfamiliar. "Zebro informed me that you completed all your training months ago."
"Why didn't you summon me then?" Illumi asked, resting his chin on his hand as a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.
"At the time, I didn't believe I was strong enough to stand on my own," Illumi admitted. "Zebro suggested I stay longer to hone my practical combat skills—a decision I agreed with. If Zebro acknowledges that I'm ready..." He glanced at her briefly, his smile widening ever so slightly. "...then perhaps I truly am capable of standing alone."
"Oh ho ho, Young Master flatters me," Zebro replied modestly, though pride gleamed in her eyes.
"I see," Silva murmured, nodding thoughtfully. Zebro's strength was unparalleled among the Zoldyck family's retainers. If she believed Illumi was ready, then his abilities must indeed be formidable.
"Very well," Silva concluded. "Let us see if you can live up to Zebro's expectations."