Chapter 55: Killua X Banquet X Attack

Turning back to Kurama and Mokona. In truth, the fox spirit had not been troubled by the earlier misunderstanding for very long.

To Kurama, the Zoldycks' mistaken assumptions about his relationship with Illumi were nothing more than an unexpectedly amusing accident. He had been surprised, and in that surprise found both entertainment and a bit of fun; once the moment passed, so did his concern. At most, it would be a minor inconvenience to explain and clarify the truth to the Zoldyck family members later, but compared to the laughter he and Mokona had just shared, such trivialities hardly mattered.

With his attention freed from the incident itself, Kurama finally had the time to examine the "guest room" that had been arranged for him.

—Though it was called a guest room, Kurama suspected it was really intended for the future partner of Illumi, meant to reside in the main house of the Zoldyck estate.

The entire room was centered around a deep brown palette, understated yet dignified at first glance. Kurama guessed this was the result of the butlers adjusting the decor to suit his gender. The furnishings were not complicated, but their simplicity was surprisingly pleasing. The suite consisted of a living room, a lounge, and a bedroom; the bedroom boasted a lavish bathroom, while the living room connected to a small open kitchen and a cleverly designed dining area linked to the balcony.

Brilliant sunlight poured through the wall of glass windows by the balcony, illuminating a row of plush cushions set along the edge. The scene was inviting, exuding comfort.

After touring the room, Kurama and Mokona simply sprawled out among the cushions, ready for a leisurely nap.

Wutong had mentioned earlier that the dinner would begin promptly at seven in the evening, and until then, Kurama was free to rest and relax.

The fox spirit nestled lazily amid the soft cushions, while the white fluff ball burrowed into the crook of his neck, wriggling and nudging him, prompting Kurama’s low laughter and Mokona’s own delighted giggles.

Kurama let him be.

Though the Hunter Exam had lasted only a few days, Kurama knew the little one had felt quite stifled. Kurama had never forbidden Mokona from speaking in front of others, nor had he restricted his words during the exam, but the considerate little creature, not wanting to cause trouble for Kurama, had always chosen moments with few people or when they were alone to speak. This thoughtful gesture moved Kurama deeply, and he became even more indulgent, so even now, knowing Mokona was purposely squirming to make him laugh, he played along, letting the little one have his fun.

Such indulgence was quickly noticed by Mokona.

The little one patted Kurama’s cheek with his tiny hands, drawing his attention, then leaned in with a bright smile:

“Kurama, Kurama~”

“What is it?” Kurama’s voice was so gentle it could melt a heart.

Mokona was used to this, yet his smile grew even more radiant:

“When shall we contact Yuko?”

Kurama had amassed enough treasures for another transaction, but the fox spirit was in no hurry, a stark contrast to his earlier urgency in the world of Reborn.

But that was because Kurama could now accelerate the growth of his demonic powers through training in Nen; even without reclaiming his original strength, he could eventually recover it naturally, so the urgency to restore his power was not as pressing.

Mokona knew this well.

Still, he thought, it was better to reclaim some power sooner rather than later—who knew what accidents might happen? After all, there could never be too much strength, could there?

Kurama understood the little one’s confusion and tapped his forehead:

“There’s no rush. We’ll trade when we’re about to leave.”

It was not arrogance.

With his current abilities, the fox spirit could easily handle the Hunter storyline prior to the Chimera Ant arc, and after that…

He stroked his chin, reflecting. Though his two years in this world had been joyful and he’d made close friends like Gin and Illumi, his decision to leave before the Ants arrived remained unchanged. Still…

“A little help is not out of the question.”

Kurama’s thoughts raced.

He was no savior, nor would he claim to fight with all his might to prevent tragedy. His desire to change things stemmed from two reasons: first, he did not wish to see his friends risk their lives; and second, he personally admired the old Chairman who died in the Ant arc—a witty, upright, and charismatic elder who, Kurama felt, deserved a fate less tragic and premature.

But for now, these were only vague intentions. Kurama had no concrete plans, merely an initial resolve.

He kneaded Mokona’s soft little belly and closed his eyes.

“Mokona, don’t worry. I know what I’m doing.”

Throughout their journey, Kurama had never hidden his peculiarities from Mokona—such as his unusual familiarity and insight into a world he should have known nothing about, or his foresight in certain matters.

Though Mokona noticed these oddities, he never questioned Kurama. Instead, he offered unwavering support, care, and trust. For that alone, Mokona was worthy of all Kurama’s indulgence and affection.

Their companionship grew ever more harmonious, without a single issue.

So, reassured by Kurama’s words, Mokona let it go.

The white fluff ball relaxed beside Kurama’s cheek, and together they basked in the warm sunlight, drifting into sweet slumber—a scene uncannily reminiscent of a certain afternoon in the Sawada family’s backyard in the Reborn world, only now Kurama felt no pressure, and Mokona had fewer worries. Their tranquility carried a deeper sense of ease, making their nap especially… sweet.

Thus, when Killua happened to pass by Kurama’s window, he witnessed this tableau.

The silver-haired boy’s lips twitched twice—Kurama was hardly the first guest invited to the Zoldyck estate. No matter their reputation, the assassin family needed to maintain friendly relations with their “clients.” With considerable influence in the underworld, the Zoldycks had many “friends,” and each year, numerous guests were invited. Yet Killua had never seen anyone so relaxed as Kurama, so at ease in the main house…

—Sleeping defenselessly near the window, his expression utterly carefree, as if inviting trouble: “Come slice my neck~ come slice my neck~”!

Having just emerged from a three-day stint in the “black room,” Killua bit his lip, suppressing the urge to lash out.

He had learned about Illumi’s invitation to Kurama from his grandfather—during a break in his punishment, the old man had shared it as news and distraction.

Killua was surprised his punishment hadn’t fallen into Milluki’s hands, but considering Illumi’s odd behavior lately, the silver-haired kitten found anything possible.

Perhaps his brother had intervened, specifically barring Milluki from handling his penalty. Killua pursed his lips, uncertain how to feel.

He was used to Illumi’s cold oppression; now, suddenly treated with the “good brother” mode, he was at a loss.

To be honest, when he was younger, Killua had expectations for Illumi.

Illumi’s indulgence toward Milluki (the chubby one had poor talent, only half Killua’s training, yet strict Illumi was lax with him) and his gentle attitude toward Kalluto showed he could be warm to his younger siblings.

But Killua was the sole exception.

Both Illumi and Silva were extremely strict with him.

As a child, Killua thought he was disliked by the family, hence the harshest treatment. When he grew older and was told it was because they had the highest hopes for him, Killua wanted to laugh derisively.

Special expectations warranting such treatment? What a joke!

He had thought things would never change, yet during this Hunter Exam, an unexpected shift occurred.

And the person who brought about this change…

Looking through the glass at the red-haired boy sleeping sweetly among the cushions, Killua pressed his lips tighter.

Was it you? The one who altered his brother’s attitude—or rather, his methods?

Undeniably, at that moment, Killua felt a spark of curiosity and… interest toward the boy before him.

***

Kurama and Mokona awoke as evening fell.

Outside, the dense flower beds glowed with the orange-red hues of sunset, casting a mesmerizing, blood-tinted aura, a beauty distinct from the bright afternoon.

The two lingered among the cushions, admiring the scene for a long while before leisurely rising to bathe and change.

Since Wutong had emphasized tonight was a banquet, not merely dinner, Kurama chose a relatively formal outfit.

He was not Illumi’s true partner, so he didn’t dress with utmost care, but with his elegant appearance and stature, even without deliberate adornment, he easily embodied the phrase “peerless beauty.”

So when Wutong knocked precisely at the appointed hour to escort him to the banquet hall, for a fleeting instant, this seasoned chief butler could not help but be dazzled.

The moon-white robe, perfectly tailored and of unusual style, accentuated the youth’s slender yet not frail figure, his toned waist and flowing back forming a flawless, captivating silhouette that drew the eye irresistibly.

The white robe and the youth’s flamboyant crimson hair complemented each other, preserving his innate grace, and even hinting at the hidden brilliance beneath his gentle façade, making the mystery of Kurama’s true nature all the deeper.

Wutong’s gaze flickered, but he maintained the composure of an exemplary butler.

“Young master Kurama, please follow me,” he said with a slight bow.

Kurama nodded warmly, “Thank you, Butler Wutong.”

Together, they proceeded in silence to the banquet hall.

By now, the hall was filled with Zoldyck family members.

Though their attire was little changed from the afternoon, the overall atmosphere had subtly shifted, and Killua, absent earlier, was now at the table.

Kurama raised his brow in mild surprise.

Yet the fox spirit’s steps did not falter; with Mokona perched on his shoulder, he walked straight to the table and nodded:

“Forgive me for keeping you waiting. I am late.”

“Not at all, the banquet is only just beginning,” replied the hostess, Kikyo.

Tonight, she was even more welcoming.

She smiled and invited Kurama to sit, thoughtfully arranging a place for Mokona beside him—a gesture that won the fox spirit’s genuine appreciation.

Once everyone was seated, Wutong began issuing orders for the dishes.

The banquet was lavish, featuring delicacies from around the world, revealing hints of the Zoldyck family’s resources—though Kurama wondered if there was some deeper meaning behind such hospitality…

The meal was a delight for hosts and guest alike.

Led by Kikyo, the Zoldycks and Kurama engaged in lively conversation, beginning with the Hunter Exam and tales of the continent. Kurama’s remarkable insights soon drew Silva and Zeno into the discussion, and the atmosphere grew ever more friendly and harmonious.

Seizing the moment, Silva and Kikyo exchanged a quick glance. Kikyo raised her fan, covering her lips with a gentle laugh, preparing to say something to Kurama, when Wutong, having just taken a call in the corner, approached. His expression was calm, betraying nothing, but his tone carried a faint, barely discernible irritation:

“Master, a report from the gate. Someone claiming to be the young master’s friend has ignored the guard’s warnings and forced his way in.”

“!”

—In that instant, the lively atmosphere at the table froze.