Chapter 63: Phinks and the Examiner

In fact, Oboro held no particular feelings toward the Phantom Troupe. Though they were exceptional Nen users with outstanding talents, their actions seemed wasteful. Still, he wasn't one to judge, understanding how their origins and backgrounds shaped their path.

The Troupe dominated early storylines before the Chimera Ant and Dark Continent arcs eclipsed them. In the Hunter world, they remained powerful thieves, nothing more. Though Meteor City provided nation-like backing, their combat strength couldn't match a true country's might, even if they maintained independence.

In Oboro's eyes, Chrollo's intellect and the Troupe's abilities could achieve far greater things beyond mere theft and murder. But these were outsider's thoughts. Growing up in constant poverty and mortal danger would prioritize survival over ideals. Money and resources became paramount, especially when supporting their homeland of Meteor City.

The arrival of Phinks and Shalnark marked just one episode. Their aura, along with Oboro's, clearly separated them from other candidates. Oboro pocketed his phone and waited quietly as discussions grew louder, candidates impatient for the examiner's arrival.

"What's going on? Where's the examiner?" someone shouted irritably.

Through hazy eyes, Oboro spotted a shadow in the second-floor corridor. A muscular man in a black short-sleeved shirt stood watching - the Hunter Association examiner. He'd been there ten minutes already, though most candidates hadn't noticed.

A clap from above silenced the venue. Everyone looked up as the examiner emerged from dim light, hands on the railing, cigarette in mouth. He surveyed them with undisguised mockery, though his gaze paused on Oboro, Phinks, and Shalnark.

"You trash... congratulations on passing the preliminaries. I'm Aldama, your examiner. You'll face several trials, starting with mine."

While most candidates bristled at being called trash, veterans like Tonpa remained unfazed.

"From now on, stay here quietly. You're not allowed to leave. Survive 24 hours, and you pass," Aldama said casually.

"That's all?" a young man asked excitedly.

"Yes," Aldama replied expressionlessly, hanging a pocket watch before turning to leave.

"Wait a moment!" Phinks called out with a sneer.

Aldama turned slightly.

"If I kill everyone here, they're eliminated, right? If I'm the last one standing, we can skip this test?" Phinks gestured at the surrounding candidates.

The temperature seemed to drop as silence fell.

Aldama took a drag of his cigarette, exhaling smoke. "Kid, this is the Hunter Association. If you want trouble, go home."

Veins bulged on Phinks's forehead. "Oh? Since you make the rules, what if I kill you instead? Would that count as passing?"

"Phinks..." Shalnark sighed.

The candidates were stunned by his audacity to challenge the examiner.

Oboro removed his sunglasses, twirling them between his fingers with amusement. He enjoyed watching explosive situations unfold.

"I'm the examiner. By the rules, I decide who qualifies for the next phase. I hold your fate here," Aldama's voice rose thunderously. "SO, DO YOU UNDERSTAND?! When you're here, you obey ME! If you don't like it, GET OUT!"

A sound wave ripped through the museum, shattering windows. Most candidates covered their ears in pain, but five people remained unaffected.

Oboro continued twirling his sunglasses, noting two other figures in the crowd - one clearly a Nen user. Though this was a "weak year," capable fighters still sought Hunter licenses.

Phinks's murderous aura intensified as Shalnark held him back. The Spider members were truly lawless.

Though Oboro had hoped for a fight, Phinks suddenly calmed himself. "Alright, Examiner Aldama, I'll comply." He emphasized the name deliberately.

His neck cracked as he twisted it. Though appearing calm, his killing intent remained palpable even to Oboro.

This was clearly a promise of future retribution. Aldama seemed formidable, but Oboro wondered if he could match Phinks in combat.

Sensing the murderous intent, Aldama left without comment. The other candidates retreated further from the three of them, terrified by Phinks's menacing presence.

Oboro yawned and slid down the wall for a nap, drawing Phinks's sideways glance.

"Easy now, let's get the license first," Shalnark urged.

"I'll find him later," Phinks sneered, crossing his arms. "We'll see how tough he is then."