Hunter x Hunter Chapter 401: Kurapika’s Return and Beyond Netero’s Shocking Secrets
Hunter x Hunter has finally made a triumphant return after nearly two years of hiatus, thrilling fans with the release of Chapter 401. This chapter not only marks the long-awaited continuation of the story but also provides key insights into pivotal characters like Kurapika and the mysterious Beyond Netero. Let’s dive into the intricate details and explore what makes this chapter such a significant turning point in the Succession Contest arc.
Kurapika’s Crucial Role in the Succession Contest
Kurapika, a fan-favorite from the very beginning of Hunter x Hunter, takes center stage once again in Chapter 401. As a major player in the ongoing Succession Contest arc, Kurapika’s role has expanded significantly. Employed as the bodyguard of the 14th Prince of the Kakin Empire, Prince Woble, Kurapika has proven to be indispensable in navigating the dangerous political waters of the contest.
Fans will recall that Kurapika was last seen in Chapter 400, two years ago, in a tense discussion with Longhi, one of Beyond Netero’s many children. In Chapter 401, this conversation takes on new meaning as the stakes of the Succession Contest rise, and Kurapika finds himself at the heart of a potential peace treaty between the competing factions.
The Unfolding Negotiations Between Longhi and Kurapika
Chapter 401 offers a detailed continuation of the negotiations between Longhi and Kurapika that were hinted at in the previous chapter. Longhi, a character who has drawn significant attention due to her connection to Beyond Netero, reveals her unique Nen ability: Transparent World Moonlight Act. As a Manipulation-type Nen ability, this power allows Longhi to create binding contracts that can grant or strip Nen abilities depending on whether the conditions of the contract are fulfilled. The potential consequences of breaking these contracts are immense, making this ability both powerful and dangerous.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Longhi’s Nen ability is its requirement for complete honesty. She must disclose the entire truth to whoever enters into a contract with her, eliminating the possibility of deception. This honesty is further corroborated by Kurapika’s use of his Dowsing Chain, confirming that Longhi is telling the truth about her intentions. The gravity of this ability and its implications for the Succession Contest cannot be understated, as it adds a layer of complexity to the already tense situation.
Beyond Netero’s Biological Children: A Shocking Revelation
Arguably one of the most jaw-dropping moments in Chapter 401 comes when Longhi reveals that she is one of Beyond Netero’s biological children. This revelation adds a new layer of intrigue to the character of Beyond Netero, who has often been overshadowed by more overt villains in the series, such as Tserriednich Hui Guo Rou.
According to Longhi, Beyond had many children with high-ranking soldiers of the Kakin Empire, and these children were born with the innate ability to use Nen. This early awakening of Nen powers made them exceptionally formidable fighters from a young age, and many of them were later trained in military academies. However, this special ability came with a dark twist Beyond had cursed his children with a sinister Nen ability that would activate upon their death.
Longhi’s curse manifests as an eye beneath her tongue, a chilling reminder of her father’s twisted plans. The ultimate purpose of this curse remains unclear, but it seems likely that it is tied to Beyond’s desire to bring an end to the Succession War and install his chosen prince as the ruler of the Kakin Empire.
The Mystery of Beyond Netero’s Plan
One of the most intriguing questions posed by Chapter 401 is the identity of Beyond Netero’s chosen prince. Longhi hints that one of the princes of the Kakin Empire is actually the biological child of Beyond Netero, but she stops short of revealing who that might be. Kurapika speculates that it could be the First Prince, Benjamin, but Longhi’s revelations cast doubt on this theory.
The idea that Beyond has a secret child among the princes adds yet another layer of complexity to the already convoluted Succession War. Could this hidden prince be the key to ending the conflict? And if so, what role will Kurapika play in uncovering the truth?
The Peace Treaty Between Prince Tubeppa and Prince Woble
As the chapter progresses, the negotiations between Longhi and Kurapika shift focus to a potential peace treaty between Prince Tubeppa, whom Longhi serves, and Prince Woble. The terms of the treaty are straightforward but carry significant consequences for those who break it. The treaty stipulates that neither the princes, their mothers, nor their bodyguards can harm each other. Additionally, the contract must be renewed every Sunday at 9 a.m., and any breach of the contract will result in a severe penalty: the offender will be placed in a state of Zetsu for one week, rendering them unable to use Nen.
Kurapika, ever the strategist, sees the potential benefits of this treaty but remains cautious. The offer from Longhi comes with an additional promise if Kurapika agrees to the treaty, she will enter into a personal contract with him, granting him the ability to use her Nen power once. This could prove invaluable as the Succession Contest becomes more dangerous, but Kurapika must carefully weigh the risks and rewards.
Beyond Netero’s Imprisonment and Future Plans
In the final moments of Chapter 401, we catch a glimpse of Beyond Netero himself, chained and under the watchful eye of one of the Zodiacs, Kanzai. Despite his imprisonment, Beyond remains a key figure in the Succession Contest, and it’s clear that he has a larger plan in motion. There’s also a hint that Beyond wishes to speak to someone, though it remains unclear who that person might be.
The appearance of Beyond Netero at the end of the chapter serves as a reminder that, despite his absence from much of the arc, his influence is still felt throughout the story. As the Succession Contest continues to unfold, it’s likely that Beyond’s true goals will become clearer, and his actions will have a profound impact on the outcome of the war.
Hunter x Hunter’s Future
With Chapter 401, Hunter x Hunter has re-established itself as one of the most intricate and thrilling series in the manga world. The return of Kurapika, the shocking revelations about Beyond Netero’s children, and the ever-escalating tension of the Succession Contest have set the stage for an exciting continuation of the story.
Although fans may need to wait longer for the next installment due to creator Yoshihiro Togashi’s health, the quality of the storytelling and the depth of the world-building ensure that the wait will be well worth it. As we move forward, all eyes will be on Kurapika, Beyond Netero, and the princes of the Kakin Empire as the Succession War reaches new heights.
