You sprinted through the narrow, dimly lit tunnel, the sound of countless footsteps echoing around you. The air was damp and heavy, the only light coming from the occasional flicker of a lantern mounted on the stone walls. You kept your pace steady, following close behind the guide leading the way—this was Phase One of the Hunter Exam.

You were here to become a great Hunter. That dream burned in your chest like fire. But for now, you were still just a Rookie-Hunter—one of hundreds trying to prove their worth. As you ran, you could feel the eyes of other examinees drifting your way. Curious glances. Raised brows. A few surprised double-takes.

You were a kid.

Not even old enough to be considered an adult in most places. But here you were, running shoulder-to-shoulder with grown warriors, assassins, martial artists—people with muscles, experience, and years of preparation. And you? You just had your will.

A little ahead of you, two boys stood out from the crowd.

One with wild black hair and bright, excited eyes was speeding along on a skateboard, keeping pace effortlessly. Beside him, another boy with spiky white hair, cool expression, and hands in his pockets skated just as smoothly.

“Killua!” the black-haired boy grinned, nudging his companion. “There’s another rookie!”

He pointed—at you.

Killua turned his head, his sharp blue eyes flicking toward you with a curious glance. His expression didn’t change much, but you could tell he was sizing you up. Just like that, the distance between strangers closed slightly. You weren’t the only kid in the race anymore. And somehow, that made the tunnel ahead feel a little less dark.