Kurapika

Kurapika (クラピカ, Kurapika) is the last survivor of the Kurta Clan. He is a Blacklist Hunter and the current leader of the organization founded by Light Nostrade. He became a member of the Zodiacs with the codename "Rat" ( 子(ね), Ne). His goal is to avenge his clan and recover the remaining pairs of Scarlet Eyes.

Appearance
Kurapika has medium blond hair with brown eyes; blue in the 1999 series (grey/dark grey in the 2011 series). His eyes glow a beautiful and coveted scarlet when experiencing intense emotion. In his first appearance in the series, he wears a blue tabard decorated with an orange-colored (red in the 2011 series) hem and a white full-body training suit underneath. He changes his tabard and training suit for the duration of the Yorknew City arc. His shoes are periwinkle Chinese style flats.

Kurapika also wears a single, drop earring ornamented with a ruby in his left ear. After learning Nen, he starts using black contact lenses in order to hide his Scarlet Eyes.

Personality
Kurapika is an intelligent individual, possessing vast knowledge. He is reticent; not one to open up to people easily and quite judgmental. His distance from others initially keeps him level-headed and moralistic, but his heart has been poisoned with sadness and hatred. Having been traumatized from losing everyone he loved at the age of twelve, Kurapika closes his heart to new people and remains introverted as to stay focused on his goal. Though Kurapika outwardly states that he desires to become a Blacklist Hunter and his ultimate goal is to capture the band of thieves that massacred his family, he is willing to compromise his personal morality and delve into the squalid side of society in order to achieve his goal. He is prone to fits of uncontrollable anger should the memory of his clan be insulted in any way.

After becoming a professional Hunter, Kurapika starts upon a self-destructive path. His anger leads him to commit villainous acts of wrath as catharsis for his pain. Kurapika's reserved demeanor makes him very ruthless and unreasonable, but his friends are the only ones able to slightly settle his seething enough for him to think rationally. Even so, he considers his friendships to be a weakness hindering him from succeeding in his aims.

Background


Kurapika is a member of the Kurta Clan. As a child, he almost fell from a cliff if not for the interference of his best friend, Pairo. While he was unharmed, his friend Pairo had harmed both his legs and both of his eyes and their condition gets worse everyday. This incident deeply affects Kurapika with feelings of guilt. Considering this as his own fault, he decided to solve it by going to the outside world and bringing back the best doctor to cure Pairo. Kurapika thus approached the Kurta Clan's elder to request to go to the outside world but he was constantly refused and argued with the elder, seeing the Kurta Clan's fear of the outside world as unreasonable and backward. After the argument, he talked to Pairo and they had a conversation about the "mysterious" world which give Kurapika some clues and facts.

At some point, Kurapika and Pairo saved a female outsider called Sheila, and as thanks she gives them a book about the adventures of a professional Hunter in the outside world which they read together and kept preciously. After the outsider girl left, Kurapika realized that the Kurta Clan's elder had stolen it and confronted him about it. Having an argument again, the clan elder finally allowed Kurapika to take the test to go to the outside world. Studying hard and passing all the tests successfully, the elder gave him his last test: to go shopping in the outside world with a partner without revealing their Scarlet Eyes. Kurapika chose Pairo as his partner, much to everyone's shock. After departing for the outside world for the last test, Pairo eventually fell asleep during the journey to the town and Kurapika decided within himself that he will pass the test to go to the outside world and find a doctor that can cure Pairo and after that, they will explore the outside world together.

Kurapika passes the final test with some difficulty, but has been granted unrestricted permission to go to the outside world as promised by the clan elder. Before leaving, Kurapika promises Pairo that he will return with a doctor and that they will one day go to the outside world together. He also promised Pairo that he will have fun and enjoy himself while outside, having adventures just like the Hunter they read about from Sheila's book. 6 weeks later, while Kurapika was away, the Kurta Clan was approached by the Phantom Troupe for their valuable eyes and massacred. The news reported the death of all 128 members of the Kurta Clan and of scores of dead bodies with eyes gouged out in their wake. As the last surviving member of his clan, Kurapika vows to gain back all the stolen eyes of his people and to arrest all of the members of the Troupe.

Preliminary Phase


Kurapika makes his first appearance on board a ship that goes from Whale Island to a testing site of the 287th Hunter Exam. He, Gon, and Leorio are the only 3 candidates unaffected by a storm the night before. The Captain reveals that he is an examiner and asks them why they want to become Hunters. With some reluctance, Kurapika replies that he wants to capture the Phantom Troupe. Leorio on the other hand answers the captain that he is attracted by the material possessions provided by being a Hunter. The two quarrel over their different opinions and decide to end it with a fight out on the deck while another storm is raging. When they are about to start, a crew member is knocked off the deck by a piece of wood broken off from a yard. Gon jumps off the ship to catch him and in turn, is kept from falling into the sea by Kurapika and Leorio. After the incident they apologize to and make up with each other. Seeing that, the captain laughs and decides to take the trio to the nearest testing place, Zaban City.



In Zaban City, following Gon, Kurapika and Leorio head for a tree on a mountain that the captain advised them to go to. They encounter a group of people on the way and an old lady, also an examiner, asks them a question which they only have 5 seconds to answer. The question is such a dilemma that none of them can give an answer within due time. Getting annoyed, Leorio picks up a wooden stick and attacks her but is blocked by Kurapika, who explains to him that they have passed because keeping silent is the correct answer to this question. The old lady then tells them to go to a house in the forest to find a couple, who will be their navigators if they consider the trio qualified. Upon entering the house, they see a wounded man lying on the floor and a woman being held captive by a Kiriko. The monster flees as soon as it sees them. Telling Leorio to take care of the husband, Kurapika and Gon chase after it and force it to let go of the wife. Kurapika catches her and notices the strange tattoos on her hands and face.



Leorio then shows up and says that there is nothing to worry about the husband. Kurapika suddenly hits Leorio in the face with his wooden sword. It turns out this Leorio is a Kiriko in disguise. After the monster runs away, he asks the wife who she really is, to which her answer is a strange smile. Meanwhile Gon is able to tell 2 identical-looking Kirikos apart, which greatly surprises them. The 2 Kirikos and the husband and wife, who are actually their son and daughter, then explain to the trio how they have qualified for the next test—Kurapika for his vast knowledge, Leorio for his good medical skill and confidence, and Gon for his extraordinary movement and observation. They finally decided to take them to the exam center.

First Phase


At the starting site of the first phase, a large tunnel, Kurapika, Leorio, and Gon see a lot of experts. Tonpa, nicknamed Rookie Crusher, offers each of them a can of his laxative-spiked drink but Kurapika pours it on the floor after Gon claims that it has a bad taste. An examiner, Satotz, then appears and tells the candidates to follow him through the tunnel. He runs faster and faster but Kurapika has little problem keeping up with him. While running, he reveals to Leorio the story about the stolen scarlet eyes of his people and his determination to retrieve them and capture the Phantom Troupe. The marathon finally ends when they reach the Numere Wetlands, also known as the Swindler's Swamp.

Satotz warns them of the dangers and tells them to follow him through the Swamp in another marathon. On the way, Kurapika, Leorio, and a number of other candidates are attacked by Hisoka, a man notorious for his bloodthirstiness. All of them are killed in a short time, except for him, Leorio, and Cherry, examinee #76. Knowing that they have no chance of winning against Hisoka, they split up in 3 different directions. After a while, Kurapika returns and sees Gon kneeling there with a shocked expression on his face. While running together to the site of the second phase, the Visca Forest Reserve, Gon tells him about what happened to him and Leorio.

Second Phase


At the site of the second phase, two Gourmet Hunters, Menchi and Buhara, appear. The second phase starts with Buhara asking them to cook roast pork. Even though the kind of pig that they need to catch, the Great Stamp, is the most dangerous pig in the world. Kurapika, his 3 friends, and many other contestants have little difficulties passing the test after they discover that these pigs have a spot of weakness on their foreheads.

The next test has however proven to be a real problem as the other examiner Menchi asks them to make sushi. Despite having read some books about this dish and his careful analysis of the hints that Hanzo, a contestant from the country of sushi, and Menchi unintentionally gave away, Kurapika still failed like the rest. When the second phase is on the verge of having no qualifier, Chairman Netero of the Hunter Association arrives in an airship, criticizes Menchi for losing her temper as an examiner, and tells her to give them another test, which she herself also has to take. This time around Menchi asks them to cook boiled Spider Eagle eggs, which hang from strong strings connecting the two sides of deep ravines. Even though they have to jump into a ravine to find the egg, Kurapika and 41 other examinees pass the test and are subsequently taken to the site of the 3rd phase in the Chairman's airship.

Third Phase


The third phase of the Hunter Exam starts atop the Trick Tower, which has numerous passages, and they have seventy-two hours to get to the bottom of it alive. Kurapika, Leorio, Killua, and Gon are forced to form a team of 5 with Tonpa to pass through the 1st door. They advance, using the majority rule several times on the way, and their road leads them to a platform set up in the middle of a bottomless abyss where they have to participate in a best-of-five series consisting of 5 no-hold-barred one on one matches against a team of 5 long-term prisoners. Tonpa is the first to fight and he deliberately forfeits the match to undermine his teammates. Gon's match is the second and thanks to his quick thinking he manages a win to level the score at 1 - 1. The 3rd match is Kurapika's and his opponent is Majtani, an impostor with a spider tattoo on his back who brags about his fake Phantom Troupe membership to Kurapika. Enraged, his eyes turn scarlet and he knocks Majtani down with a single punch, however the match is still going on because he refuses to kill his opponent, who seems to be unconscious.



Seeing that, Leorio steps in, makes a bet that Majtani is still alive and pretends to drop him into the abyss. Majtani is so scared that he stops playing possum and admits defeat. The score is now 2 - 1 in favor of Kurapika's team but they have lost 40 hours due to betting. Leorio's own match is the 4th, and he loses it after a rock-paper-scissors game along with a bet of ten hours on the gender of his opponent, Leroute. With the score being 2 - 2, Killua quickly kills his opponent, Johness the Dissector, in the last match, putting it at 3 - 2 in their favor, but Kurapika's team now have less than 10 hours to reach the bottom. As they advance, they have to use the majority rule some more times and face many other obstacles such as electric quizzes, a multiple choice labyrinth, mine camps, "Go", etc. Thanks to a brilliant idea of Gon's in choosing ways, they manage to reach the bottom of the tower with just thirty seconds left, thus qualifying them for the fourth phase.

Fourth Phase


During the fourth phase, the remaining examinees are taken to Zevil Island to take part in a 7-day manhunt among themselves to capture each other's number badges. Kurapika's designed target is Tonpa, who in turn has Leorio as his target. After Leorio is tricked by Tonpa and Sommy and loses his badge, Kurapika appears, knocks Tonpa down, and asks Leorio to team up with him, to which Leorio agrees. They take the badges #16 and #118 from Tonpa and Sommy.

Even though Kurapika already has 6 points from his own and Tonpa's badges, he still helps Leorio find his target Ponzu, examinee #246. As they are looking for the target, they again encounter Hisoka, who tells them to give him their badges if they want to live. Kurapika says that he will give him the badge #118 which only means 1 point to them, as for the other 3 badges, they will fight with their lives to protect them. Hisoka agrees, lets them go and takes the badge #118.

At the end of the 6th day, he and Leorio meet Gon and tell Gon about Ponzu. Gon helps them find her by tracking the smell of the medicine that she uses to defend herself. Finally they find Ponzu, but together with her they are trapped in a cave full of snakes whose owner Bourbon, examinee #103, is already dead due to anaphylactic shock caused by her bees. Thanks to Gon's bravery and ability to hold his breath for an extended period of time, all of them are able to get out of this situation by using a soporific gas of Ponzu's to make the snakes sleep. Before they go, Gon takes the badge #246 from a sleeping Ponzu and leaves her the badge #103. With this, Kurapika and his 2 friends qualify for the next and also the last phase.

Final Phase


The last phase of the Hunter Exam is an elimination tournament with a twist—the winner of a match will be removed from the list and receive his very own Hunter License and the loser will be given more chance. Kurapika's first fight is against Hisoka. After fighting for a while, Hisoka whispers something to him and quits the match, allowing him to become a licensed Hunter. When Illumi Zoldyck wants to go murder Gon, Kurapika, Leorio, Hanzo, and some examiners block his way. Later, he also requests that the Hunter Association examine the nature of Killua's act of murder against another contestant, Bodoro, during the last phase and has a brief argument with Pokkle, who wins by default thanks to Killua's disqualification, but they make up with each other after the exam has ended. He then decides to go with Gon and Leorio to Kukuroo Mountain to rescue Killua from the control of his family.

Zoldyck Family arc


Kurapika, Leorio, and Gon arrive at the entrance of the Zoldyck Estate, the Testing Gate, on Kukuroo Mountain on a tour bus. They tell the old gatekeeper, Zebro, that they are Killua's friends but he says he can not let them enter until they can at least push open the first testing door which weighs four tons, because going into the estate via any other way will result in them getting killed by the huge guard dog named Mike. The trio then accepts Zebro's invitation to stay in his house to train, using his heavy equipment. After 20 days, they are all able to open a testing door and head for the Zoldyck Residence without any problem until they are stopped at another gate by a female attendant named Canary. She beats Gon up to prevent them from advancing but thanks to Gon's insistence, she becomes more and more reluctant to block their path and finally asks them to save Killua. Kikyo Zoldyck then appears with her son Kalluto, knocks Canary unconscious, and tells them to leave. Shortly after she and Kalluto leave, Canary regains consciousness and says she is going to lead them to the attendants' room.



While staying in the servants' room, they are forced into playing a guessing game with some butlers of the family, which they manage to win. Killua at last arrives and leaves the Zoldyck Estate with them. Kurapika then tells his three friends what Hisoka whispered to him during the final phase. He would wait for Kurapika in Yorknew City, where the largest auction in the world takes place, on September 1st to tell him some interesting things about the Phantom Troupe. It is 6 months until that day so Kurapika says goodbye to his friends, after telling them that he is going to look for some work as a Hunter and arranges to meet up with them later in Yorknew City in September.

Heaven's Arena arc
At some point after parting company with his friends, Kurapika succeeds in finding an agency specializing in providing rich and famous people with bodyguards and hirelings. However, he is immediately told that despite his Hunter License, he is not qualified for such work. The agent says that his Hunter Exam is not finished. During Gon and Killua's training in the Heaven's Arena, it is revealed by Wing that Kurapika learned Nen after the Hunter Exam.

At The Flesh Collector's Mansion


Kurapika learns Nen in 6 months and looks for a customer who has strong connections with the auction in Yorknew City. At the beginning of August, he appears at the mansion of a collector who collects body parts to apply for a job as bodyguard. In the mansion he meets five other people, three of them Hunters themselves: Melody, Baise, Shachmono Tocino, Basho, and Squala. A man shows up on the screen in the hall where they are waiting and tells them that if they want the job, they at least have to get out of the mansion alive. As he finishes, a group of 11 people who wear black hooded robes and masks and are armed with guns and swords suddenly appear and attack them. Using his Dowsing Chain, Kurapika blocks a number of bullets fired at him and jumps onto a chandelier to avoid the sword users and observe the situation.

Noticing that Tocino is the only person who is not being attacked, he jumps down, puts a knife at Tocino's throat and orders him to stop the attackers in 3 seconds. Tocino obeys by making the Eleven Black Children disappear and tells them that he is a Hunter ordered by the owner of the mansion to test them and that they can get out of the mansion now. Kurapika suspects that he is trying to confuse them. Using his Dowsing Chain again, he discovers that Squala is another infiltrator, which is further confirmed by Melody's, Baise's, and Basho's techniques. He and 3 other genuine applicants thus pass the test. After each of them completes another mission of finding a rare body part, they are all officially hired by the man who was on the screen previously, Dalzollene.

In Yorknew City


Kurapika and company's first task is to guard their boss on a journey to Yorknew City, where they will be participating in the Mafia's Underground Auction. The boss turns out to be Neon Nostrade, the daughter of the Nostrade Clan's leader. Neon, besides being spoiled, is also a Specialist whose ability—Lovely Ghostwriter—allows her to make accurate predictions about the future. Her father has been using her ability to gain high status within the Mafia, hence the need for a large number of bodyguards. They arrive in Yorknew City on September 1st and on the night of that day the Underground Auction is attacked by the Phantom Troupe, who want to steal all the auction items. Some of Kurapika's comrades and many clients from the Mafia are slaughtered by the Troupe. However, having been warned about a possible attack via Neon's predictions, one of the Shadow Beasts, a group of the best ten Nen users within the Mafia, has already removed all the items from the vault.



Believing that the Phantom Troupe have stolen them, the Mafia organizations in Yorknew City give chase, and Kurapika is instructed to join in. The Phantom Troupe decide to confront the Mafia, in the hope of luring out the Shadow Beasts to question them about the auction items. One member of the Troupe, Uvogin, is an extremely strong Enhancer. He single handedly massacres a large number of armed Mafia gangsters. This has the intended effect, as four of the Shadow Beasts appear and attack him. Even though they manage to injure and paralyses Uvogin, they are ultimately killed by him. Seeing the spider tattoo on Uvogin's back, Kurapika flies into a rage. Despite his comrades' discouragement, he goes forward, takes advantage of the situation to capture Uvogin using his Chain Jail then leaves on a car with his comrades. The Troupe immediately chase after them, but their pursuit is halted by the arrival of the rest of the Shadow Beasts. On killing most of the Shadow Beasts, the Phantom Troupe manage to find out the Owl is the one with the auction items.

Back at their headquarters, Dalzollene tries to torture Uvogin to force information about the items from him. Despite being impervious to these attempts thanks to his strong Enhancement aura, Uvogin reveals that the Shadow Beasts took the items away. He also suggests that, since the Spiders could not steal anything, if they are to release him immediately, he will spare their lives. Kurapika questions Uvogin about his comrades. On hearing that they were killed according to the Spider's plan, Kurapika hits him in a rage, managing to damage his nose and lips slightly. After Kurapika has left to meet up with Hisoka, Dalzollene calls members of the Mafia in to take Uvogin in custody. Shortly afterwards, the Phantom Troupe arrive, dressed as Mafia members. They kill Dalzollene, cure Uvogin's paralysis and free him. His furious shout upon release is heard by Melody, allowing Kurapika's teammates time to escape. Finding no one, Uvogin swears to hunt down the chain user, Kurapika. Meanwhile, at the pre-arranged rendezvous Kurapika meets up with Hisoka, who tells him about his secret purpose of joining the Phantom Troupe and offers to team up with him. Kurapika tells Hisoka to meet again the next day, September 3rd, at the same time.



Meeting up with Melody and the rest later, he suggests that they get Neon to contact her father and ask for his advice. Light Nostrade promotes Kurapika to team leader, and makes arrangements to meet them later. Meanwhile, Uvogin has managed to track them down. Kurapika stays behind to confront him. After agreeing to go to a place far from the city where they can fight freely, Uvogin and Kurapika face off in a Nen battle. He manages to capture Uvogin and deprive him of his Nen. After questioning him fruitlessly, he is forced to kill Uvogin. Kurapika's defeat of Uvogin makes him the main target of the Phantom Troupe, who begin to actively search for him. On September 3rd, they catch Gon and Killua. One of them, Pakunoda, has the ability of mind-reading through touching. Since neither Gon nor Killua know the "chain guy" is Kurapika, Pakunoda assumes that they have nothing to do with him. Shortly afterwards, Killua realizes that Kurapika is the one the Troupe are searching for, but luckily he and Gon manage to escape at night, before being questioned by her again.

Just before Gon and Killua are captured, Kurapika meets with Light Nostrade. He learns that the Ten Mafia Dons have hired a group of professional assassins to eliminate the Phantom Troupe and that Light wants him to join the assassination team. After meeting up with the assassins in the auction building in the night of September 3rd, he is told that Neon has slipped away from her guards to attend the rescheduled auction herself. Using his Nen ability, he manages to find her whereabouts. The auction building is once again attacked by the Troupe in revenge for Uvogin, and most of the hired assassins and 2,000 Mafia gangsters protecting it are killed quickly. Two elite assassins, Zeno and Silva Zoldyck, however almost succeed in killing the Troupe's leader, Chrollo, but just before they can finish the job, Illumi Zoldyck calls and tells them the Ten Dons have been assassinated in a mission whose client is Chrollo. The Zoldycks thus spare his life and leave. Then, using the ability of a member, Kortopi, the Phantom Troupe fake their own deaths, create copies of all the items and continue the auction using the fakes. Kurapika arrives just in time to see the fake corpses and win the last item: a pair of fake Scarlet Eyes.



The next day, September 4th, Kurapika meets up with Gon, Killua, and Leorio again. He tells them about the secrets of his Nen abilities and his connection with Hisoka, knowing that they are true friends. Now that Gon and Killua have learnt of his abilities, they realize the threat Pakunoda poses. He then receives a message from Hisoka saying that the bodies are fakes. Kurapika decides to keep chasing after the Phantom Troupe alone but Leorio, Killua and Gon want to help him.



While following the Phantom Troupe, Gon and Killua are again captured. Pakunoda questions them again and finds out who Kurapika is. With the help of Leorio and Melody; Kurapika manages to capture Chrollo Lucilfer before Pakunoda could reveal what she has found out. When Pakunoda comes with Gon and Killua to meet him for a hostage exchange, Kurapika uses his Judgment Chain to forbid Chrollo from using Nen or communicating with the other Phantom Troupe members, and also to forbid Pakunoda from revealing what she knows about him. After the exchange, Kurapika collapses from exhaustion due to his continual use of his Scarlet Eyes. Once he recovered, he leaves Yorknew City to continue his search for the Scarlet Eyes.

Greed Island arc
When Killua temporarily leaves Greed Island, he informs Kurapika of the possibility that the Judgment Chain on Chrollo was removed. However, Kurapika assures Killua that it is still staying in Chrollo body. After that, he has a short conversation with Light Nostrade, who is in a state of great confusion due to the loss of his daughter's prophetic ability.

13th Hunter Chairman Election arc


Kurapika is one of the absentees during the first four rounds of the election, despite the reappearances of his comrades under Light Nostrade such as Melody, Basho, and Linssen. He has not visited the hospital where Gon is being given intensive-care treatment and is not available on the phone either, which makes Leorio wonder, what he may be doing. After the events regarding the election and Gon's recovery, Leorio tries to call him again. Kurapika is seen in a church, making a funeral for his murdered comrades, ignoring all incoming calls. He managed to find several of their stolen Scarlet Eyes, looking more than ever determined to avenge them.

Dark Continent Expedition arc


Mizaistom approaches Kurapika and requests that he accompany them to the Dark Continent, which Kurapika initially refuses. Mizaistom asks Kurapika about his progress retrieving the Scarlet Eyes. Enraged, Kurapika warns Mizaistom to choose his next words wisely. Mizaistom then reveals he has identified the owner of a large number of Scarlet Eyes that was uploaded in a darknet site six months ago, and offers to share this information in exchange for Kurapika joining the Zodiacs and spending two months on a ship before reaching the Dark Continent. Mizaistom points to Kurapika that figuring out that person's identity was only by mere chance after performing background checks on a VIP for the Dark Continent trip, and that it would be impossible for Kurapika to know from the video alone. Kurapika then asks if that person will be on board, to which Mizaistom refuses to answer. Kurapika decides to join the Zodiacs in their trip since his main priority is to recover his brethren eyes. He asks about the owner's identity, and as Mizaistom spells the owner's name he shows Kurapika a picture of his: Kakin's fourth prince, Tserriednich Hui Guo Rou.



Later, Kurapika is seen back in the church, staring at the remains of his brethren, recalling all the people he had threatened, coaxed and paid off to get them back. He addresses his childhood friend Pairo about the prospect of his journey finally beginning, after he should reclaim the last of the eyes from the last monster, wondering where he should go after that, since he has no home to return to, or anybody to welcome him back. En route to the Hunter Association's headquarters, he talks to Leorio on the phone, who demands to know his e-mail address. Instead of answering, Kurapika says Mizaistom informed him of Gon's situation and offers his help, but Leorio assures him that Gon is already fine. After the call ends, Kurapika thinks Leorio would have no problem getting accustomed to his new status since he's not the bashful type. Mizaistom also notes that Leorio seems to have a lot of faith in him, which Kurapika doubts, since he believes his abilities would not be of much help in the upcoming mission. Kurapika thanks Mizaistom for the news about the Kakin prince, and Mizaistom assures him in return that he can prioritize his own business on board, but warns him that dark rumors surround Tserriednich, and that he should be careful and aim for an amicable solution. Kurapika merely replies he knows how to deal with the likes of him.

When Mizaistom asks Kurapika what he will do with the prince after getting the eyes back, Kurapika assures him that he will yield to most demands as long as he reclaims his brethren. Mizaistom presents the possibility of the prince refusing to hand him the eyes, which angers Kurapika who then recounts the story of the two men who claimed they would rather die than give them up, but ultimately renounced without dying. He assures Mizaistom it will be the same for the prince, although Mizaistom is still doubtful.



Leorio greets Kurapika as he arrives at the headquarters, stating that the mission seems tougher than expected and wonders about his opinion on it. Kurapika's already aware of the mission's premise about traveling to a primeval continent, however he is not worried. Shortly after, Cheadle assigns Kurapika the codename "Rat" and leads the two into the Zodiacs meeting room. She starts explaining about V6; the 6 countries representing each of the continents who all tried (except Kakin) to explore the Dark Continent in the past and have failed, the Five Great Calamities; the reasons behind V5 failures. Cheadle surmises that the difficulty level of all five range from B+ to A, whereas the Chimera Ants were ranked B. She explains their mission is to overcome any of the five threats and return with something beneficial to mankind, all while supervising and escorting Beyond to the pretend "New Continent", mentioning also they haven't reached a consensus on whether they should take Beyond to the Dark Continent or not since there are pros and cons in both sides of the argument. At this point, Cheadle asks if there's any questions, Kurapika raises a hand and says he has a few: his first being the number of allies Beyond has within the Association, much to everyone's shock. Kanzai asks him how he would know the existence of allies in the first place, which surprises Kurapika, as he thought it was obvious: It is clear that Beyond was waiting for his father's death and had been making preparations all along, while being confident in his ability to control a project of this scale even under confinement. And since he was the one who turned himself in, it's clear involving the Association is also a part of his plan. In order to pull the strings, Beyond needed both a competent right-hand man and a substantial group of followers, which Cheadle recognizes as Pariston and the Temp Hunters. Kurapika reflects that everything up to the election makes sense, and ponders his next question before getting interrupted by Mizaistom who asked for a talk outside the room.



Mizaistom reveals to Kurapika that he and Cheadle have already begun an internal investigation about the matter, and that they reached the same conclusion that there's a mole among the Zodiacs; and since no one has direct connections to Beyond, all Zodiacs are considered suspects. He continues to explain that the former Chairman had appointed Pariston as the Vice-Chairman for entertainment, while refusing to listen to any objections. Mizaistom voices his concern that Pariston might be a red herring to cover for the real spy. He admits to Kurapika that part of the reason he was chosen to join the Zodiacs was because he is an outsider, and therefore unrelated to either side. Mizaistom then demands that Kurapika keeps the existence of a mole in the Zodiacs a secret, and Kurapika agrees. Kurapika later apologizes to the rest of the Zodiacs for making accusations without having a grasp on the complicated situation within the Association, and states that he is willing to use his connections with outlaws to offer information about Beyond and Kakin that government sources could never provide. Cheadle later assigns him to the Information Team with Mizaistom, Pyon, and Saccho in preparation for the voyage to the Dark Continent.

One month later, as the 289th Hunter Exam comes to an end, Pariston informs Ging that his replacement seems to be quite competent, failing all Beyond's assassins. One of the applicants Muherr comments on how everyone who could've passed the lie detector test was failed by this guy, and that he might've known about Beyond's escape plan if they had been told the details. Pariston shakes off the possibility knowing they don't have an escape plan yet.



Through a flashback, Kurapika watches a video recording of the candidates during the final test of the 289th Hunter Exam. He uses his Dowsing Chain to determine liars and eliminate spies from infiltrating the Association. While listening to their Q&A session, he passes one applicant and disqualifies two others: the first for hiding important information, and the second, Muherr, for mixing lies with some truth. Kurapika didn't expect many spies to have survived the psychological test of the first round, outsmarting both the thermography and lie detector procedures. Mizaistom, who's in the same room providing assistance, is impressed by Kurapika's ability as he was overly modest about it. Kurapika suggests not overestimating it since the ability's mechanism is still unclear to him. Kurapika then offers his own interpretation; he can unconsciously perceive minute changes in the target that would otherwise go unnoticed by using the chain as a medium, but normally he would need to be directly in front of the subject. Emperor Time is able to circumvent this by letting Dowsing Chain work through a video recording provided he's met the subject beforehand. Kurapika then explains that the ability can only see through trained liars, meaning if a spy wanted to hide any clues to his identity, he could have somebody erase or alter his memories; that way, since the target does not know he is lying, the chain would most likely stay still. While Mizaistom mulls this over, Kurapika inquires whether there is anyone in the higher ranks of the Hunter Association capable of doing so: if they were on the enemy’s side, they could easily pass all the tests.

After reflecting some, Mizaistom concludes he does not deem it possible. He tells Kurapika there should be no one in the Zodiacs with the ability in question. He then proceeds to explain why he cannot be completely sure. In the past there were three factions among the Zodiacs, corresponding to their political orientation. In normal missions, the members of each faction often worked together; so Cheadle, Botobai, and Ginta (who, alongside Mizaistom, were a part of the moderate conservative faction, supporting balance) can be counted out. And since they will be split into specialized teams during the Dark Continent voyage, all Zodiacs agreed to share information on their abilities. Kurapika asks if he will have to do the same, and Mizaistom reassures him of the opposite; having been aware of his situation from Leorio, he promises to not press for any details or divulge whatever he hears regarding his ability. In return, he won’t be able to share with him everyone's abilities. Kurapika is relieved, and realizes it is thanks to Leorio's intervention that things are going smoothly for him. Mizaistom admits he's been a huge help to the Association as well.



Continuing on with his rationale, Mizaistom sums up that, to their current knowledge, none of the Zodiacs can alter memories, and they probably don't know anyone who can do it, since he had examined the detailed history of all the past hunts for all members. Kurapika objects that a person with that ability could have been given top secret missions or worked outside the Association, but according to Mizaistom the results of the Hunter Exam rule out this possibility. In fact, if there were a mole of that caliber within the Association, their party must've taken measures to ensure the passage of top-rated personnel such as Muherr the mercenary, and Juhnde the biochemist. Mizaistom even admits that he had considered Juhnde as a mediator between the Science and the Flora/Fauna teams, to the point where he doubted the machines when Juhnde failed the first test. Mizaistom still acknowledges the possibility of those two being used as mere decoys to distract them from even more powerful spies, but what really worries him is Pariston’s quiet and quick departure after the election, as only the existence of an ally on the Zodiacs' side would justify it. Kurapika then activates Emperor Time, offering his help to test the members in secret. As the Zodiacs (minus the new "Boar" and "Rat") share information about their abilities, Kurapika watches them through a video camera. He passes Kanzai and three others. Immediately after, his Dowsing Chain starts to swing, indicating that Saiyu is the informant.

Succession Contest arc


Afterwards, Kurapika and Mizaistom watch the recording of the latter's conversation with Beyond. While Beyond was eating, Mizaistom announced the departure date is on August 8th, 35 days from then. King Nasubi Hui Guo Rou had petitioned directly to V5 for Beyond to attend the eve festival and the departure ceremony, as it would pain him for his benefactor to miss this historical event. Mizaistom promises Beyond he will be free to go to the ceremony, provided he reveals which of the Zodiacs is on his side. After a moment of silence, Beyond stated that Mizaistom is wrong on two things: he knows nothing about any spy, and he doesn't care about any ceremonies. All he knows is that he will have to eat and sleep in that cell for a month, and then wait two more months for the Black Whale to reach the New Continent. Until then, he will behave in Hui Guo Rou's sake even though he'd like to decline all ceremonies, seeing that his true goal lies after the voyage. But since he is still considered a hero and a pioneer who will lead the way to the new world, and that honor is important to Kakin, Beyond is sure they will pressure V5 anyway, and in that case, the Zodiacs themselves will be begging him to attend. At the end of the recording, Kurapika states that Beyond has been telling the truth. Mizaistom concludes that Pariston is the mastermind conspired with Saiyu, and the one plotting to free Beyond.

Kurapika suggests they leave Beyond alone until landing, since he's not hiding any ulterior motives. Mizaistom remains skeptical as Pariston and Saiyu might still encourage him even if Beyond didn't plan to escape before landing. Kurapika explains why it is unlikely: Beyond’s contract with Kakin includes taking civilians to the "New Continent" as he wishes to highlight Hui Guo Rou’s achievement, so he won’t be causing any problems en route. And in the worst-case scenario of him escaping, V5 might turn the ship around, even if it means breaking ties with Kakin. All of which contradict Beyond's initial decision of announcing a truce and letting himself be captured. Consequently, it would be unwise for them to do anything about Saiyu in the meantime. Mizaistom agrees, but says he'd rather avoid sitting idly while Pariston and his spy are plotting. Kurapika is then given permission to watch the part of the recording where Saiyu explains about his Nen ability (Three Monkeys). He concludes that Saiyu was much more stable during his explanation, contrary to his proclaimed worry. On the reverse side, the remaining Zodiacs were obviously nervous about the risk of the spy learning about their abilities, yet still desiring to trust the others, which in turn affected their body language; all stereotypical behavior of the innocent. Kurapika surmises that Saiyu was telling the truth about his ability, and he is also on Beyond's side. He then proposes keeping tabs on Saiyu in secret to uncover his plans while gathering evidence. Mizaistom agrees it is safer than tailing him at all times, even if it means leaving him free to act.



Kurapika states that knowing Saiyu's ability enables them to narrow down possible escape plans. However, if they were to restrain him too soon, Pariston may arrange something else. Kurapika expects them to escape right after the festival on the New Continent. Therefore, the best course of action would be to arrest Saiyu right before landing without Beyond noticing, ideally with some kind of proof to support their claim. In the off-chance of failing to do so, Mizaistom will have to admit he acted on his own in league with the newcomer, much to Kurapika's dismay. Mizaistom confirms his suspicions, stating he will also be criticized after speaking of resolve, when in reality he has been working behind their backs to identify the culprit. Some of the Zodiacs might even change their approach to the mission if they find out that Mizaistom's means were based on a farce. Later, Kurapika answers a phone call from Linssen, who tells him that six of Kakin princes are hiring bodyguards to "eliminate risk factors" aboard the ship. None of their identities are shown, only each prince's respective salary.



Kurapika hires Izunavi, Hanzo, Basho, Melody, and Biscuit Krueger—whom was recommended to him by Killua—so that the six of them can apply to all offers, and he can get closer to his main target, Prince Tserriednich. After a brief clash with Biscuit, he remembers Killua's advice and pacifies her with flattering. Looking at the six offers, he tries to deduce which of the anonymous employers could be Prince Halkenburg, whom appears to have a close relationship with Tserriednich. In hopes of finding his client, he singles out two offers that state the prince will personally conduct the interview, as it shows signs of maturity and confidence. One has the highest pay as a result of the one-upping competition, and the other's pay never changed. Kurapika surmises Halkenburg is mostly likely the latter as it signifies his strong self-esteem and self-control.



He sends his request and heads to a hotel managed by Hui Guo Rou, where he is surprised to discover that his employer is in fact Queen Oito, mother of Fourteenth Prince Woble. The Queen reveals the reason it was decided the offers had to be anonymous was to fend off assassins from infiltrating the popular princes' security. Halkenburg figured this much and did not put up a post. On the other hand, Queen Oito is looking for guards that would try to contact Halkenburg, seeing most of them are either assassins or fake followers, which would simplify a give-and-take relationship. The assassins will get to wait for their chance while protecting them, and the followers plotting to manipulate Halkenburg can learn his weaknesses. Queen Oito explains that pro guards only specialize in protecting dignitaries, and are not trained in proactively killing someone, before she reveals the Black Whale voyage will turn into a war due to the rules of Kakin's succession as enforced by Nasubi. When Prince Halkenburg becomes the next King, and if this succession battle becomes public, he will be the one to suffer the most damage. For that reason she hopes to buy hers and Woble's safety by blackmailing Halkenburg with his participation. She tells Kurapika if he accepts the job, she will give ten times the promised pay provided he can get them off the ship alive. And if he leaves now, he'll still be paid the promised fee if he keeps this conversation confidential. Kurapika agrees to protect her, so far as his terms are respected. Oito agrees and tells him about the gap in status between higher and lower wives. After reminiscing about her past life, she lets Kurapika hold her daughter.



Sometime later, Kurapika boards the ship with Oito and Woble. He repeats the security measures before thinking to himself that the battle strength of his side is weak, especially since some Hunters may be spies. He has a phone conversation with Mizaistom, during which the latter informs him of the conditions of the three lower decks, leading Kurapika to think the meeting of the Zodiacs will be called off. He warns Oito that if something unexpected happens, they may be able to flee to the lower decks, escaping the succession war. While he contacts the system control room, he is startled by aura radiating off Woble's cradle.



One of Oito's bodyguards is found dead in a toilet, all blood drained out of him. Kurapika inspects the body and concludes the culprit may have used Nen; however, the bodyguards who are not Hunters have never heard of it, while the Hunters do not say anything. He later confronts them about their silence, causing them to reply they are surprised he disclosed the information. From their conversation, Kurapika gleans he is the only one who knows about the succession war, meaning Pariston may be unaware of it as well. When the corpses of four more bodyguards are found, Kurapika conjures his Dowsing Chain, and, pointing a gun at his colleagues, states he will shoot them if they lie.



The assistants and Hunters are revealed to be innocent, but the other two guards admit each of them is working for a higher ranking queen. They are tied to chairs before they continue their confession. From what they say, Kurapika infers Woble has received a Nen ability, which is probably triggered by her self-defense instinct. Kurapika deduces Woble sensed Woody's malice and killed him. However, he has trouble accepting Woble could have learned Nen in one month, but Bill tells him it would be possible with parasitic type Nen. At that point, the Nen beasts of multiple princes swarm into the room. Kurapika quickly contacts Melody and Biscuit. The latter tells him that there were Nen beasts in their quarters, but only the Hunters were able to see them, leading her to believe it is a parasitic type ability. Kurapika has Bill tell him everything he knows about that type of Nen, and later accepts to reveal his agenda to improve cooperation. When Sayird stabs Kurton and the two restrained bodyguards to death, Kurapika prepares to fight him to take him alive.



Kurapika manages to subdue Sayird and inquires Bill if he's one of the important people mentioned. Bill claims that Kurton was more important due to his transformation skills. So Kurapika then tries to interrogate Sayird on his Nen type and Hatsu, but to no avail. Although Bill first against against such a personal question, Kurapika convinces him due to the situation at hand and he reveals Sayird's Nen type and a brief explanation of his Hatsu. In a flashback Kurapika has, Izunavi advises him to focus on co-operation with allies. Back in the present Kurapika use his index finger's ability to steal Sayird's Hatsu, while forcing him to go into a state of Zetsu. With Sayird's power stolen the Nen beast that was Manipulating him escapes, while Kurapika summons a Nen dolphin that equips the Hatsu and gives a little more detailed explanation of Sayird's Hatsu. No longer of use and to use less energy, the Stealth Dolphin is put on stand by. Regaining consciousness and now restrained Sayird explains what happened to him and before being taken away by the Kakin Empire army for questioning explains his Hatsu ability in greater detail to Kurapika. With only Kurapika and Bill left to protect Prince Woble, Kurapika inquires what options they now have, now that Kurton is dead. Bill expounds that they have to either ask Pariston Hill or, harder still, Beyond Netero to leave the Black Whale.

After listening to the rest of his explanation concerning parasitic-type Nen, Kurapika concludes the real battle will start once all princes are back from the ceremony.

The two review their options, with Kurapika refusing to use Sayird's ability due to the lack of information on the other princes. When Vincent arrives, he immediately kills one of Oito's attendants with the excuse of acting in self-defense, which leads Kurapika to realize he's not there as a spy, but as an assassin.



Kurapika considers attacking Vincent, but quickly gives up when he surmises even an act of self-defense would be held against him due to Prince Benjamin's influence. He raises his hands and declares Vincent is the biggest threat to Woble's life. The hitman replies by asking him to "cooperate", by which he implies he wants the two Hunters' help in murdering Oito and Woble, leading Kurapika to insult him mentally. Removing his contact lenses, he turns to the queen and asks her if she trusts him. When Woble reaches her hands towards him, Oito declares she has the utmost faith in him. Kurapika then stabs her with Steal Chain, transferring Little Eye to her. As Bill attacks Vincent, Kurapika steals the latter's ability and restrains his hand. He accuses Vincent of wanting to kill Woble, which Vincent denies, but Oito promises she'll testify against him. Noticing his earpiece, Kurapika states he has an ability that can force him to tell the truth. Defeated, Vincent commits suicide by drinking poison hidden in his back of one of his teeth. Kurapika calmly states it could not be avoided and points the earpiece to an agitated Bill, crushing it only after giving anyone who might be overhearing misleading information.

Kurapika wonders if he should wait until the next banquet and have Oito use Little Eye on Prince Marayam's hamster, but due to the backlash of Emperor Time, he quickly realizes it is an impossible plan. Thus, he explains Little Eye to the queen and instructs her to use it on a fly or mosquito. He then declines the dolphin-like construct, which asks him if it should equip Vincent's ability. He orders Bill to search the room and Shimano to answer the phone. The maid informs him there are three princes wishing to speak to him: Prince Benjamin, Prince Zhang Lei, and Prince Tubeppa. Since speaking with any of them first would be interpreted as an act of disrespect towards the others, who'd also believe him to be allied with the first prince he spoke to, and not replying would be a declaration of war, Kurapika reflects on his next move, while Benjamin's new envoy arrives.



Confident that Benjamin believes him to be a Manipulator, he decides to speak to him and asks Bill to keep watch on Babimyna with Gyo, but he is surprised when he discovers Shimano has connected him with Zhang Lei. At the prince's request, Kurapika explains he decided to answer him because he would be the most open to discussion, but refuses to disclose any more particulars as they are likely to be related to the reason he was called: Nen. After Oito and Woble are allowed to come along, Kurapika accepts to meet the prince in 15 minutes. He finds out Benjamin has hung up, but Tubeppa is still waiting. Her guard Maor offers to exchange information regarding Nen beasts. When the bodyguard declares he is about to come over, Kurapika replies they have a private soldier of the first prince in front of their door, and letting Maor in but not to him may have consequences. They agree to meet in one hour. Kurapika then interrogates Shimano about her disobedience. Finding her explanation—Zhang Lei being likely more open to discussion than Benjamin, whose soldier they have killed and who was unlikely to be on the phone himself—convincing, he consults her about the best course of action to take with Babimyna, to which she replies they have to let him in lest they be detained by the army, which would allow Benjamin to kill Oito and Woble. With newfound respect for her, Kurapika contacts Benjamin's private soldier and informs him they are going to meet Zhang Lei. Babimyna resolves to wait in the room together with Bill. Kurapika, Oito and Woble thus reach Zhang Lei, who offers them bottles of water to drink. Kurapika immediately begins his explanation, which is partially directed at Oito, who is able to see Zhang Lei's Sacred Beast. Declaring the next piece of information could potentially affect the outcome of the succession war, he asks Zhang Lei if he intends to continue their conversation with the bodyguards Coventoba and Slakka who are spies sent by other Queens and Princes in the room.

The Prince pretends not to mind, but points out Kurapika likely has an appointment with either Tubeppa or Benjamin afterwards, and gives Oito two of his own body guards Sakata and Hashito. Under Queen Unma's orders, Slakka goes with them too. On the intercom, Kurapika quickly checks on Bill and, after entering, updates him. With the number of enemies in their midst, Kurapika starts to get nervous due to Emperor Time's lifespan-shaving condition, since he cannot have Oito use Sayird's ability.



In order to have Shimano and Bill search the room for bugs, Kurapika proposes the other bodyguards and Bill follow him in the bedroom. This results in a brief argument with Babimyna, which is won by Kurapika when he states he's doing it for the queen's peace of mind, as people were killed in the hall. Kurapika begins his explanation about Nen and the Guardian Spirit Beast protecting the princes, but is shocked to spot a cockroach on the ceiling. As he wonders what to do with it, Oito orders the bodyguards to catch it, feigning disgust. Kurapika summons Bill and Shimano and orders the former to catch it with Nen, allegedly in order to prove the truthfulness of what he told the guards. Bill and Oito understand his plan, which leads to its success: while Bill pretends to send out his aura, the queen utilizes Little Eye through Kurapika's dolphin construct. Kurapika then resumes his lecture, asking Babimyna for confirmation. He then proposes to teach Nen to all bodyguards within two weeks, stating the princes will decide if they should participate or not. To himself, he notes Babimyna's refined En and speculates the soldier already knows that it was Oito who gained control of the roach.



An hour later, Kurapika sees Oito turn the page of her notebook, from which he infers she finished investigating the first prince. However, he worries about his remaining stamina, as his eyes have been scarlet for about 3 hours. The queen suddenly screams that Momoze is being murdered in the next room. To save appearances in front of Babimyna, Kurapika pretends she only had a nightmare, but she knocks his hand away and insists on checking. Kurapika tasks Bill with it. As the prince's corpse is taken away from her room, Kurapika reflects the accident is worrying, as the timing seems suspect. Sakata interrupts his musings by demanding to know why Momoze's beast failed to protect her. Kurapika replies her unusual sleeping pattern may be related, and that both things were probably consequences of said beast being one of the two that attacked the other bodyguards. Despite acknowledging her mental state, Kurapika reasons he has to ask the queen to keep using Little Eye. When Babimyna asks Oito why she screamed, Kurapika realizes he knew about the queen all along, and is surprised when he withdraws with the other guards and removes his En. Oito agrees to keep spying on the Princes, but specifies she is doing it for her daughter and not Kurapika. As she takes notes, Bill informs Kurapika some princes have already accepted his offer, but there are two problems. The first is the number of bodyguards, and Kurapika suggest they limit them to two per prince. Due to the fatigue caused by his Scarlet Eyes, Kurapika passes out before he can hear the second.



9 hours later, he regains consciousness. Bill, who hid his fainting fit from the other bodyguards, tells him Oito passed out when he did. Kurapika grows horrified at the thought that Emperor Time has remained active for that long and questions its limit. He then asks the queen to resume her surveillance from the 4th Prince instead of the 12th. Oito becomes suspicious of his motives, but Kurapika explains that is the best move, as the first prince and probably the second have Nen users among their guards, and they are allies with the third, while they know nothing about the third. Kurapika then kneels in front of her, swearing again her and Woble's lives are his priority. When Woble reaches for him, he lets her touch his fingers. Oito thus agrees but, mere moments later, she screams in terror. Kurapika passes her shout off as a nightmare to dismiss the guards who came running, and she tells him that a woman, whom Kurapika speculates to be Tserriednich's Spirit Guardian Beast, killed the cockroach. Kurapika's ability is thus dispelled, but the fatigue caused by the prolonged use of his Scarlet Eyes does not decrease. When Oito asks him to teach her Nen, Kurapika apologizes, as lending her a Nen ability had the side effect of opening her aura nodes.



Not much later, at 9 a.m., the lessons begin. After all the participants have gathered around him, Kurapika, with his back to Oito's quarters, draws a line on the ground with white adhesive tape, demanding that no one cross it, lest they be forced to leave or he use force without warning. Myuhan immediately steps on it, causing Kurapika to ask his name and affiliation. Dropping the tape, he states that will be Myuhan's final warning. Myuhan pretends not to have noticed and apologizes, but threatens Kurapika and indirectly asks him if he is simply planning on stalling them. The Hunter promises once again they will all learn Nen in two weeks. He then retorts that if all Myuhan can do is speak in a provocative manner, it says a lot about his prince, causing the guard to lose his cool. Kurapika immediately draws his gun, but Danjin holds back his fellow bodyguard and apologizes on their behalf.

Kurapika suggests everyone state their name and affiliation. He subsequently repeats the purpose of the meetings, ensuring that even though there will be differences in individual proficiency, everyone will learn Nen in the promised time. To make the lessons go smoothly, he asks if anyone can already use Nen. Belerainte and Furykov raise their hands, and Kurapika nominates them supervisors. An unknown Nen ability suddenly attacks and kills Barrigen, with Sakata shooting the white snakes that crawl out of his clothes. Kurapika notices Zhang Lei's guards use 9mm bullets, which are hard to defend against even with Gyo, thinking he should also expect .45 caliber and HK handguns. He quickly deduces the attacker is not a Guardian Spirit Beast, but an assassin in their midst. He forbids his students from using firearms no matter the circumstances. He gives everyone 15 minutes to decide if they want to continue and heads to Oito's room. He uses his Dowsing Chain to ask Bill and Shimano if they are the users of Silent Majority, earning a negative response in both cases. He explains to her that due to the usage of Conjuration in the ability, it cannot be Woble's Guardian Spirit Beast, which leads him to speculate that, due to the complex system of Vows and Limitations that must be in place, it is possible that if one prince dropped out of the succession war, all Nen beasts would disappear. When he goes back to the hall, nobody has withdrawn. He begins his lesson and has Belerainte and Furykov check on everyone's aura flow.

Kurapika confronts Shedule and Yuhirai about their copious aura output, unattainable for a real beginner. For safety and secrecy reasons, he agrees to speak with one of them at the end of the lecture. Sakata insists on participating, using his superior experience and the deal with Prince Zhang Lei as leverage. Kurapika is reluctant, but Yuhirai gives his consent, stating Prince Halkenburg would do anything to put a stop to the succession war. Yuhirai explains about his strange mark, which Kurapika suspects to be the work of a soliciting-type Manipulation ability. The two convene it is related to the prince's Nen beast and that it serves as a symbol of unity, expressing a contradiction inside Halkenburg: he wants to put an end to the monarchy, and the fastest way would be to win the succession contest, but he refuses to participate; however, his Guardian Spirit Beast wants to fight. Kurapika tests Yuhirai, determining he has not fully awakened to Nen, and warns him that if Halkenburg really wants everyone to be the same, the Limitations that are probably in place risk being severe and affecting everyone who bears his mark. He manages to convince him Queen Oito wants to escape the contest too, adding that the lower princes must band together or they'll be killed off one by one. He then resolves to contact each of them via the Hunter Association.

Kurapika returns to Room 1014. Unable to return to his real body, Hanzo enlists his help. Due to clearance issues, Kurapika replies the most can do is ask Halkenburg's guards to contact Room 1013 for him, but he will be able to do so only the following day. Shimano informs Kurapika that the Captain of the Guards of Prince Marayam is on the phone and would like to speak to him. Kurapika attempts to convince Vergei the room he is in has been isolated due to a Nen ability, but the bodyguard ignores him and requests that he investigate about the identity of Momoze's killer. When Kurapika reveals he already knows who the culprit is, Vergei initially pretends to be accommodating, accepting to open the door to a Hunter Association member in exchange for the information, but then asserts that he is not convinced by the rumors spreading about Nen, which seem to convenient for the Hunters. Still hoping to form an alliance, Kurapika tells him that the killer was Tuffdy and how he carried out the murder. Vergei states that Kurapika's explanation has only strengthened his belief that the Hunter Association intends to weaken Kakin from the inside and hangs up.

Kurapika relays his impressions to Hanzo and asks him to stay in Room 1013. He warns the ninja that Vergei might suspect the presence of a mole in their midst, since he did not inquire about his sources. When Hanzo asks him what he ought to do next, Kurapika tells him to prioritize finding information on how to ensure Prince Marayam's safety. When Hanzo leaves, with Babimyna's consent, Kurapika answers Sakata's questions about Room 1013, adding that he suspects the Nen beast of the Thirteenth Prince to be involved. Meanwhile, he wonders about Babimyna's conduct.

At 10:00 a.m. of the following day the lessons resume, but Myuhan is killed by Silent Majority as soon as he steps into the toilet. While giving dispositions to everyone else in the room, Kurapika surmises the user can see and control the snakes from afar, which likely makes them a Manipulator. Satobi and Maor accuse Kurapika's faction of being responsible for the attacks and of using the lectures as bait. The Rat acknowledges that the circumstantial evidence might be enough to indict all of them, which could result in Oito and Woble being imprisoned separately. Belerainte comes to Kurapika's aid and insists that if the lectures stop, the real culprit will get away and everyone will lose their chance to study the other princes' defenses. Kurapika asks to speak to the Hunter in private and thanks him. Belerainte requests to talk to Bill for 10 minutes, so as to make his report to Room 1013 without seeming to talk to himself.

Equipment


Bokken: During the Hunter Exam, Kurapika wielded two wakizashi-sized bokken as his weapon of choice. The handles of the two bokken are wrapped in bandages and linked together by a thread, which allows Kurapika to wield them as a nunchaku. In the 1999 anime, the bokken are revealed to actually be sheathed swords.

Knives: In the Hunter Exam, Kurapika carried at least three knives hidden under his vest. However, according to Majtani, he does not seem to rely on them much.

Shuriken: In the Hunter Exam, Kurapika had at least two shuriken hidden under his vest. Like his knives, they are an additional precaution.

Switchblade: After learning Nen and joining the mafia, Kurapika started to use a knife for intimidation.

Handgun: Kurapika started carrying a black handgun after being hired by Oito. So far he has used it only for purposes of intimidation.

Abilities & Powers
Kurapika has all the benefits granted by his status as a Hunter. As a Zodiac, his authority in the Hunter Association is inferior only to that of the chairman herself. Being Light Nostrade's right hand man, he had power over the clan, and is now the boss of Light's new organization. Kurapika's powers increase greatly as the series progresses. Hisoka was the first to grow interested in him, listing him as one of the "green fruit" with vast potential. Although at the beginning he was weaker than Killua, during the Yorknew City arc he had become stronger than him due to his Nen abilities. He is one of the few characters (the others being Hisoka and Silva) to have killed a member of the infamous Phantom Troupe, and a very potent one. His exceptional intelligence is matched by high combat prowess and iron will that stems from his desire for revenge. He is also very versatile as he has been seen wielding different weapons. In his showdown with Uvogin, he used his chains when afar and at close quarter combat. While he usually maintains a calm and collected persona, he tends to lose his cool whenever the Phantom Troupe or his clan, are nominated, often turning violent.

Scarlet Eyes: When a member of the Kurta Clan becomes enraged, their eyes turn a vivid shade of red, which triggers an amazing increase in physical strength. In this state, even as a child Kurapika could gain the upper hand in terms of speed and strength against three adults, and easily overpowered them. However, Kurapika admitted that when his eyes turn scarlet, he loses all restraint and rationality and becomes primal, which also occurs whenever he sees a spider. Furthermore, overusing his Scarlet Eyes can have severe repercussions on his health, as doing so caused him to become incapacitated and feverish for more than one day without Melody's Nen ability managing to lower his body temperature. His current limit is about 3 hours, after which the pain and fatigue become too intense and he passes out for 3 times as long. Kurapika also speculates that repeated long uses or ones induced by stealing particularly powerful abilities may cause him to reach the limit earlier than 3 hours. At some point during his Nen training, Kurapika learned to turn his eyes scarlet at will and acquired the ability to control his emotions.

Advanced Hearing: Kurapika has a keener sense of hearing than average humans.

Preternatural Perception: Even prior to learning Nen, he was one of the few candidates of the Hunter Exam to notice being followed by a proctor during the third phase. His first meeting with Izunavi demonstrated that he has a developed instinct, as he dodged an acorn imbued with Nen without knowing anything of inner energy, but understanding in a moment it would have been lethal for him to be hit.

Enhanced Strength: After training at Zebro's house, Kurapika managed to open the first door of the Testing Gate, whose total weight is 4 tons. His strength increases when his eyes turn scarlet. With Nen, his blows become more destructive, to the point he can not only inflict pain to Uvogin despite the latter's body being impervious to bullets, but also inflict damage on him.



Enhanced Speed and Reflexes: Kurapika struck Uvogin various times before he could react and even disappeared out of sight in a space clear of hideouts with a leap. He can catch bullets with one of his chains, with which he can entrap a target from a fair distance in 0.5 seconds.

Enhanced Agility: Kurapika can jump several meters in the air and hit his opponents from various angles with acrobatic moves without losing his balance. This is first proven when he leaps on top of a chandelier during the exam to be hired by Light Nostrade and later in the confrontation against Uvogin.

Enhanced Endurance: Possibly due to the loathing he harbors toward the Phantom Troupe and the absolute determination to win the fight, Kurapika seemed almost unfazed by Uvogin breaking his arm. However, in the anime, Hisoka's blows caused him pain.

Genius-Level Intellect: Kurapika is one of the most brilliant characters in the series. Because of this, he was appointed leader of Neon's bodyguards after the demise of Dalzollene. He outsmarted minds of Chrollo's level with carefully planned strategies, and his predictions have rarely turned out to be wrong. He also has an immense deal of knowledge about many topics, ranging from psychology to other cultures, from history to forensic, a quality that surprised his brethren when he was only a child. Due to his longing for new notions, he is a fast learner with an impressive memory. Kurapika's analytical skills are so outstanding they have led to the spreading of the rumor, among Muherr's assassins, that he is able to read minds. When searching for Halkenburg on the Kakin bodyguard registration, he used the vaguest of clues to choose whom he felt to be Halkenburg, something praised by Oito.

Master Strategist: Kurapika can formulate flawless plans even in combat to exploit his opponent's weaknesses to the fullest. His intuition is matched by his logical thinking and meticulous preparations. Although he can retain his cool in desperate situations, he can barely stick to his own plan when it concerns the Phantom Troupe, to the extent he might even snap and endanger not only himself, but his friends as well.



Proficient Hand-to-Hand Combatant: Kurapika was able to land several punches and kicks on a fighter specialized in unarmed combat such as Uvogin with almost no damage on his part.

Master Weapon Specialist: With the full extent of his abilities in the field being unclear, Kurapika used a pair of bokken swords linked by a thread before learning Nen, and could wield them also as a nunchaku. In the 1999 anime, it was revealed the bokken swords were actually two sheathed blades. He displayed the ability to use them skillfully against Hisoka. When he worked as Neon's bodyguard, he carried a knife with him, although he used it solely for intimidation. However, the weapon Kurapika specializes in currently are his chains, which he learned to use in battle with great skill in a rather short amount of time. He can move them with such mastery that they act as natural extensions of his limbs, being even able to entangle targets at a distance of almost 30 meters in less than a second. The chains are suited for both offensive and defensive purposes (usually the Dowsing Chain), as well as immobilizing the opponent (Chain Jail). Imbued with his Nen, they gain an abnormal destructive power, as commented by Uvogin, which allows them to easily break through rock.

Bilingual: Kurapika's mother tongue is the language spoken by the Kurta, but he has also acquired perfect proficiency in the language used in the world at large.

NVC Expert: Even without the usage of his chain, Kurapika is adept at recognizing lies by looking at his interlocutor's eyes. He demonstrated it when inquiring about Melody's motivation for becoming a bodyguard: he not only understood her answer was sincere, but also that she was hiding important details. When trying to identify a mole within the Zodiacs, he could tell it was Saiyu just by observing his body language.

Nen


Kurapika is a Conjurer, a Nen user that can create objects out of thin air according to his imagination, but he becomes a Specialist when his eyes turn scarlet. He learned Nen in a very short time, and is deemed a very skilled user. In terms of theoretical knowledge, he can divide Nen apprentices by aptitude, and is an expert in the mechanics of Limitations and Manipulation Nen. Kurapika has Hatsu abilities that incorporate elements of Emission, Manipulation, and Enhancement; in addition, he has exhibited proficiency in Transmutation, proving himself a well-rounded Nen users and one of the very few who can access all six Nen categories. The weapon that he conjures is a unique one—five chains that extend from each finger on his right hand. Some of the fingers were specially designed to deal vengeance on the Phantom Troupe. To increase the effectiveness of his chains against them, Kurapika placed strict Limitations on the usage of his chains. Since the chains are materialized, their size and length can be controlled to a certain degree. He is able to conceal his chain through In in order to bind his opponent without their knowledge until it is too late. Kurapika is also proficient in other branches on Nen, such as Shu and Gyo. He has reached a level of skill high enough that he can remain in a state of Ten without conscious thought.



By using a Limitation that puts his own life at stake, his abilities received a great boost. In fact, one of his chains is so strong that Uvogin, an experienced fighter, assumed that it was a real chain that Kurapika was manipulating. The combination of his Limitation, the increase in skill granted by his Specialization Hatsu and the aura boost granted by his Scarlet Eyes allowed him to reduce the gap in strength against a master Enhancer such as Uvogin. Repeated usage of his Scarlet Eyes combined with Nen takes a heavy toll on his mind and body, causing him an incapacitating high fever that, after the death of Pakunoda, lasted several days and could not be relieved by Melody's flute.

Quotes

 * "Not everything in this world can be bought, Leorio! You know that!"
 * (To Leorio) "Their eyes were stolen from every single body. All of them... Killed for what death creates. So I've sworn to capture the Phantom Troupe... And recover the eyes of my clan!!"
 * (To Leorio) "My own pride is nothing compared to my kinsmen's suffering."
 * "My mind perceived that tattoo was a fake, but my emotions... I just saw red... and... to be honest... Whenever I see a spider, any spider, my rationality collapses, and I turn primal! Heh... I suppose that's reassuring. It means the rage inside me has not yet faded."
 * (To Uvogin) "Some place remote where we won't cause a nuisance. I get the feeling your final moments will be raucous."
 * (To Izunavi) "Because there are people at large who need to be chained to hell."
 * (To Uvogin) "The noises, the physical contact, the smell of blood... They make me sick. How can you not think of anything or feel anything?!"
 * (To the freelance assassins) "Poor teamwork would only confuse people. Those who need help can rely on the community's staff. There'll be fewer arguments if we work on our own. I'll be fine by myself."
 * (To Zenji) "Step aside. Don't tempt me. I don't care who I lash out at. It might as well be you."
 * (Referring to Gon, Killua, and Leorio) "I've been blessed with good friends."
 * (To Mizaistom, who mentioned the Scarlet Eyes) "From this point on, choose your words wisely. This is no place for you outsiders. I am indeed looking for their eyes. What of it?"
 * "A daughter of the Mafia. Teacher. Lawyer. Musician. Investor. Priest. Doctor. Swindler. Board of members from multiple corporations. Tycoons. The founder of a religion. Politician. Artist. And... a king's son... I've threatened, coaxed, paid people off... I lost something every time I got back a part of my brethren. But this will soon end... This... This is the last monster with the last of the eyes...! Among them... Pairo... My journey may finally begin. But... where would I go...? There is no home for me to return to... and nobody to welcome me back. I have nothing left."

Trivia

 * In the Hunter × Hunter Character and World Databook, his name is spelled as "Curarpikt".
 * Despite his clan's name, Kurapika has never been shown with a full name. However, "Kurapika Kurta" is the name given by the fans. Among the four main characters, Kurapika is the only one whose last name has not been mentioned yet.
 * Kurapika wears two earrings, although only one is seen throughout the series.
 * Kurapika is the only character who falls under two different Nen categories.
 * After killing Uvogin, Kurapika temporarily stopped wearing his chains out in the open.  This probably contributed to him not being recognized as the "Chain Dude" by the Troupe members who passed themselves off for auction staff when he bid at the underground auction and picked up the forged Scarlet Eyes.
 * According to the "Hunter × Hunter Manual" section found in the Yu ☆ Yu ☆ Hakusho official character book (Shueisha Jump remix), Kurapika's stats are:

Anime and Manga Differences

 * In the 1999 series, both of his earrings are shown only once.
 * Although Kurapika wore a different outfit for the Zoldyck Family arc, in the 2011 version, he has the same outfit from the Hunter Exam.

Intertextuality and References

 * In Volume 11, the author revealed Kurapika was inspired by the Ohmu in Hayao Miyazaki's manga Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.
 * Kurama, one of the main characters in Yoshihiro Togashi's other manga and anime, YuYu Hakusho, bears some similarities to Kurapika:
 * both are cunning master strategists who always plan their attacks in advance;
 * both are prodigies who rapidly learned how to control their superhuman abilities;
 * both are highly intelligent with a vast knowledge in many fields;
 * both have an androgynous appearance that has lead readers to wonder if they were in fact girls. In one chapter, Kurapika is mistaken as being a girl by his archenemy, while on the last episode of YuYu Hakusho, Kurama is mistaken for Kuwabara's girlfriend;
 * both wear Chinese-style clothes;
 * a calm, collective, and friendly personality belies both Kurapika's and Kurama's sinister, wrathful, and hateful feelings towards those who had hurt them;
 * both bared a profound feeling of respect and platonic love towards their friends and family, and would never sacrifice their lives in order to achieve their own personal goals;
 * both are capable hand-to-hand combatants, although they mainly fight with weapons;
 * just as Kurama can manipulate plants in order to immobilize, capture, attack and kill his enemies, Kurapika has the ability to conjure up a chain from his aura, which is used for the same purposes as Kurama's plants are. Furthermore, Kurama wielded a whip in origin, making his combat style very similar to Kurapika's;
 * in the same way that Kurama was ranked second place for most popular character in the YuYu Hakusho manga, Kurapika was also voted on second place in the Hunter × Hunter popularity contest;
 * just like Kurama is the second person that Yusuke meets out of the main team, Kurapika is the second person on the main team that Gon meets;
 * and both Kurama and Kurapika have the same first two syllables on their names and are the only main characters to do so.
 * Kurapika is similar to Saint Seiya character Shun in his androgynous appearance and the usage of chains as weapons.
 * Kurapika bears resemblance to Lyserg Diethel from Shaman King in that:
 * both have androgynous traits which have caused them to be mistaken for girls;
 * their weapons of choice are similar;
 * both have dowsing abilities;
 * both are renowned for their deduction skills; furthermore, Lyserg sought to become a detective, Kurapika a Blacklist Hunter;
 * and both want to exact their revenge on a group of villains who murdered their family.

Miscellaneous

 * Kurapika was ranked second in all of the 3 popularity polls that have been conducted so far by Weekly Shonen Jump. In the first character popularity poll, he acquired 13,498 votes. In the second character popularity poll, he had 7,176 votes. In the most recent and third character popularity poll, he had 3,467 votes.
 * During the first poll, fans were impressed by his great will and often confused about his gender which gave him a lot of points.
 * Kurapika is referred to as the "Chain Bastard", the nickname the Phantom Troupe gave to him, in one of the tracks for the 2011 Original Soundtrack 2.
 * His voice actress in the Pilot OVA, Noriko Hidaka, also voices Shalnark in the 2011 series.
 * Kurapika is played by Akiko Kimura in the Hunter × Hunter stage play Hunter × Hunter: Real Stage.
 * Out of the 4 main characters, Kurapika is the only one whose birthday does not fall on a Japanese holiday.
 * Nevertheless, it is indeed relevant: in Japanese culture, the number 4, due to one of its possible pronunciations, is considered the number of death**, and April is the fourth month of the year. This date reflects his determination to apprehend or kill the members of the Phantom Troupe, and he is indeed referred as a "god of death" in one of their predictions.
 * The number of the month and day of his birthday are the same: Kurapika shares this characteristic with the other three protagonists and Hisoka.

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