"I, Benjamin, will personally prune the diseased branches!! I swear here and now to protect the great tree of Kakin!!" — Benjamin Hui Guo Rou to his father in "Nen Beast" |
Benjamin Hui Guo Rou (ベンジャミン＝ホイコーロ, Benjamin Hoikōro) is the First Prince of the Kakin Empire's fourteen Princes, first of Kakin's King Nasubi Hui Guo Rou and his first wife, First Queen Unma Hui Guo Rou's three sons. He has two younger full brothers; the older is 4th Prince Tserriednich Hui Guo Rou,[1] and the younger was 9th Prince Halkenburg Hui Guo Rou until his eventual adoption by Nasubi's second wife, Second Queen Duazul Hui Guo Rou.[2] Benjamin is also the Deputy Military Adviser of the Royal Army of the Kakin Empire.[3]
Appearance[]
Benjamin's appearance
Benjamin is a large, physically imposing man; he is tall, muscular, and has broad shoulders. On his angular, rectangular face, he has relatively small eyes with tadpole-like eyebrows that taper upwards quickly and a wide, flat nose. His neck is noticeably but not unnaturally thick and he has spiky blonde hair.[1] His hair color, nose, and face shape are likely inherited from his mother,[2] and his height and spiky hair are some of his most prominent features.
Benjamin is one of the tallest, most muscular characters seen in the series thus far. He is the tallest in his family by a large margin and close to Botobai Gigante in height; it is not clear which of them is taller.[4] With the bulk his muscles provide, he is large and strong enough to wrestle a lion, though he does not appear to be larger than one.[5]
He is most commonly seen in various military outfits, most commonly the standard outfit of a light-colored military outfit puffer jacket, a pair of similarly-colored pants with a dark-colored belt, and dark-colored combat boots. In the eve festival, Benjamin is seen wearing what is likely to be a Kakin royal army ceremonial outfit when he stands on stage with Beyond and his fellow Princes. Shortly after, Benjamin changes into a tuxedo and wears a uniquely-shaped bowtie;[6] he wears this outfit as well the next day during the departure ceremony, but with a different tie.[7] When Benjamin exercises, he is usually seen without his shirt on,[8] and he was wearing only shorts in his introduction scene as he wrestled a lion.[5]
Personality[]
Benjamin is a very aggressive man, as seen when he easily becomes riled from his younger brother's taunting. He is also extremely self-confident, causing Tubeppa to view him as arrogant.[9] Despite that, he is sociable as he is seen having a courteous conversation with the formal party guests. He treats his soldiers with respect and honors the memory of the deceased ones.[8]
His ultimate goal is not only the throne of Kakin, but the unification of the world under Kakin rule.[8] To achieve it, he has no qualms about killing his own siblings, which he, in fact, sees as a duty in order to maintain the "tree" of the royal family.[3] In particular, he seems to hate Tserriednich, while also having a sort of rivalry with him,[5] and is determined to kill him with his own hands. Despite Tserriednich thinking lightly of Benjamin's intelligence, Balsamilco believes this to be a byproduct of his impulsiveness and tendency to take the shortest route to a goal but regards him as flexible and logical once he has been supplied the necessary information to act upon.[3]
Plot[]
Succession Contest arc[]
Before the Voyage[]
Benjamin crushes the lion
Benjamin is first seen wrestling with a male lion as he contacts his biological younger brother 4th Prince Tserriednich to inform him that their father had declared "The sole survivor of this voyage will be the next King." Tserriednich experiences a moment of euphoria and thanks god, before expressing his delight in being able to dispose of "the rotten trash" (his siblings). Tserriednich says that he will be the next king and tells Benjamin to quake in his sleep. Unfazed, Benjamin taunts Tserriednich and asks if he's high on something. Tserriednich says that he's on a natural high and asks if Benjamin had told the others yet. Benjamin says that Nasubi's messengers would let the others know, and that he wanted to let Tserreidnich know first before telling him that he would get rid of him personally and break every bone in his body. Tserriednich feigns fear at Benjamin's threat and gets another taunt in before hanging up. Annoyed, Benjamin chokes the lion with one arm, unfazed as it scratches his arm.[5]
Later, Benjamin and his fellow Princes are formally introduced. Benjamin is seen saluting while dressed in a military uniform, introduced as the 1st Prince of Kakin, son to 1st Queen Unma.[1]
Beyond Netero and the princes of Kakin Empire
During the eve (of departure) festival, Benjamin is seen with the rest of his fellow Princes and Beyond Netero on a stage while wearing a military-inspired outfit, waving at the crowd with his hands high above his head. While waving to the crowd, he notes that all his fellow Princes are present, but wonders how many will still be around for the ceremony the next day. Kakin's Royal Family is flown into the Black Whale 1 shortly after. Benjamin is next seen attending a ceremony taking place in the Black Whale 1 wearing a black dinner suit, walking beside three of his half-siblings—2nd Prince Camilla, 3rd Prince Zhang Lei, and 5th Prince Tubeppa.[6]
Benjamin's opening actions[]
The next day (Day 1 of the voyage), as the Black Whale 1 departs, Benjamin attends a ceremony in Tier 1's ceremonial hall and notes 8th Queen Oito leaving with her daughter, 14th Prince Woble after Nugui informs her of her time to leave. Seeing Woble present, Benjamin notes to himself that all 14 Princes attended the ceremony, confirming that the succession contest would be a 14-way battle royale for the Throne. As he entertains guests, he internally declares reaching past him for the crown an act of folly, and internally tells his fellow Princes to consider themselves lucky if the die at the hands of another Prince; death at his hands would not be simple. Nasubi watches Benjamin and his siblings as they entertain guests at the ceremony.[7]
During the ceremony, Tubeppa approaches Tserriednich and invites him to work together with her, and while doing so describes Benjamin, Camilla, and Zhang Lei as being repulsive, arrogant, greedy, and indulgent, stating her belief that they should be purged for it. As Nasubi looks at his Princes, he observes their Guardian Spirit Beasts. The appearance of Benjamin's Guardian Spirit Beast is revealed, a vaguely humanoid creature with sharp claws, spikes extending from its collar, cape-like wings, and a phallic head baring a set of teeth.[9]
Benjamin and Camilla argue in front of their father
Benjamin later approaches Nasubi as he has a conversation with Camilla, and hears her ask about the specifics of the requirements to win the succession contest. Benjamin inserts himself into the conversation and dismisses her concerns, calling them a trifling worry since one who believes that they will be king has no need to bother with how others define things. Camilla retorts, enraging Benjamin with her conceit. The two bicker for a short while more and stare at each other. Nasubi breaks off the situation by telling Camilla to show respect to her older brother, and she leaves without saying another word.[3]
Benjamin expresses shame to Nasubi for what he feels is the disgraceful reality of his younger sister, who does not know her place. He vows to personally prune the diseased branches and protect the Great Tree of Kakin. Nasubi tells Benjamin his high expectations for him as he observes his Guardian Spirit Beast, and Benjamin storms out of the hall. Area One is put on high alert as Benjamin leaves, tearing his shirt off as he is consumed with a desire to immediately kill his siblings. He is received by two of his personal soldiers (Rihan and Coventoba) and asks them to have their captain Balsamilco Might bring Tserriednich to him to kill.[3]
In his quarters of Room 1001, he is calmed down by Balsamilco and dresses himself as Balsamilco tells him about the parasitic Nen beasts. Balsamilco explains his theory that rules for the Nen beasts exist, explaining why Benjamin cannot see his own Nen beast despite being a user, and why the Nen beasts did not attempt to kill Woble directly. Balsamilco advises him to wait, saying that getting the information correct before the other princes will be key to the survival battle, and that premature action could be fatal. Balsamilco tells Benjamin that going off on his own without being able to see the enemy Nen beasts was dangerous, and that their advantage is lost[3] owing to Kurapika's announcement over the emergency channel,[10] making Nen beasts and Nen itself common knowledge among all Princes and guards. Balsamilco explains that the Hunters have more experience with Nen than them, and says that they had the advantage in the information war until Kurapika's announcement. Balsamilco suggests that the announcement was made to encourage a stalemate, and after hearing of the possible Nen threats and that other Princes might seek to learn it, Benjamin thinks for a moment before asking Balsamilco to summon his private soldiers.[3]
Benjamin orders his men to guard the other Princes
Benjamin orders his soldiers to join the guards of his fellow Princes, to continue to protect them and report their observations to him. He warns them to exercise extreme caution in ascertaining the abilities of the Hunters and the Nen beasts, and authorizes them to use lethal force in the name of self-defense to eliminate the enemy if an enemy attack happens or seemed imminent. The other Princes are seen reacting to Benjamin's soldiers joining their guards.[3]
Room 1014 and Vincent, Babimyna, and Furykov[]
On Benjamin's orders, Vincent makes his way to Room 1014 and is received by Sandra, but kills her and immediately confronts the guards of Room 1014.[3] Vincent is subdued by Kurapika and Bill before getting a chance to use his Nen, and chooses to commit suicide when restrained. Benjamin and Balsamilco hear the exchange over Vincent's communication device until it is found and destroyed by Kurapika, and discuss the matter. Benjamin expresses surprise that Vincent was restrained as quick as he was, and speculates that one of them stripped his Nen, forcing Vincent to use his gun instead, and the other has an ability to force a confession, which is why Vincent chose to commit suicide. Balsamilco suggests the opposite, that Vincent hesitated to show his Nen and chose to fire first instead. At Balsamilco's suggestion, Benjamin considers that their actions and words could be a bluff if they had known about the listening bug. Benjamin smiles, entertained by how interesting the situation was. He summons Babimyna, and sends him as Vincent's replacement to Room 1014.[11]
As Babimyna waits outside Room 1014 to be received, Room 1014 receives a call from Benjamin's, Zhang Lei's, and Tubeppa's rooms simultaneously. Benjamin's side hangs up after Room 1014 accepts Zhang Lei's call over his. Woble's servant Shimano had chosen to accept Zhang Lei's call over Benjamin's because she believed that Benjamin, who she sees as a cold-hearted and ruthless man, only called to offer them their choice of method of death because of the death of Vincent, and that it was likely Balsamilco on the phone instead of Benjamin.[12]
After hanging their call to Room 1014 up, Balsamilco asks Benjamin for his read on the situation. Benjamin interprets their actions as a defensive offense, and Balsamilco says that they will not confront Babimyna if they want a stalemate. The two prepare to send Furykov, in order to figure out the abilities of the guards in Room 1014.[13] Later that day, Benjamin is contacted by Room 1014 and agrees to send his bodyguards to learn Nen under Kurapika.[14] At 9 a.m. the next day, Furykov turns up at Room 1014 as a participant of the Nen lessons, despite already being able to use Nen.[15]
During a conversation with Oito on which Prince to conduct surveillance on, Kurapika mentions that Benjamin's soldiers are all likely Nen users and would notice their surveillance bug. Kurapika says that if there were no time limit, they would try infiltrating Benjamin's quarters last to determine the extent of their security.[15]
The next day, during a conversation with Tuffdy (arrested for suspicion on being involved in 12th Prince Momoze's death), Hanzo tricks Tuffdy into confessing to the murder by pretending that Benjamin wanted to recruit him for it.[16]
Camilla and Confinement[]
In the afternoon of the second day, Camilla leaves her quarters and slowly approaches Musse, telling him that she is going to kill Benjamin, and asking him to help her or die. [16] Having recorded an earlier conversation between her and her mother 2nd Queen Duazul,[13] Musse places her under arrest for conspiring to assassinate Benjamin. Camilla taunts him and Musse opens fire. She dies and he activates his Secret Window before being immediately killed and consumed by Camilla's Cat's Name and used to revive her. As Camilla makes her way to Room 1001, she encounters Furykov and Wolfe, who receive orders from Benjamin not to stop her. Camilla shoots them anyway, killing Wolfe and injuring Furykov. Furykov follows her as she walks into Room 1001.[8]
Camilla fires at Benjamin
Benjamin seats himself in his living room and has his guards stand by as Camilla enters the room. He commends her nerve but ridicules her impatience. Camilla feigns ignorance and pretends to be chasing Musse. Benjamin calls for her arrest, and Camilla empties her gun at him, also hitting Balsamilco standing near him. Benjamin and Balsamilco defend with Ken, and Furykov arrests Camilla.[8]
Furykov and Balsamilco watch over Camilla in her cell. Furykov suggests having a personal soldier watch her, but Balsamilco tells him there is no need to. While exercising, Benjamin looks at his palm, having received Musse's Secret Window through his Benjamin Baton, which can telepathically transmit everything Camilla says and does to him. Benjamin asks his fallen men to live on through him, promising to carry out their purpose and unify the world under Kakin by his hands.[8]
In the morning of the third day, 9th Prince Halkenburg and his men have a moment of silence for Momoze. Benjamin's soldier Shikaku begins to sweat at the amount of aura produced when Halkenburg and his men unite in action, hoping to do something before Halkenburg's group becomes a threat to Benjamin. Benjamin feels the aura from Room 1001, and when Shikaku radios in to contact Benjamin, he asks Shikaku if the aura is Halkenburg's. Shikaku confirms this and reports Halkenburg's Guardian Spirit Beast to be a symbiotic type. Shikaku reports that he is unable to kill Halkenburg, and requests for two more people to help him verify information. Benjamin smiles faintly, entertained by the the events unfolding.[17]
Later that day, Benjamin and Camilla stand trial before Supreme Magistrate Cleapatro. After listening to both sides present their case, Cleapatro orders both Princes confined to the VVIP area under surveillance until Musse is found. Despite Camilla escaping confinement, Benjamin is unconcerned, since he sees all her actions with Musse's Secret Window.[18]
On the fourth day, Mizaistom suggests advising Benjamin to send 800 soldiers to the lower tiers to deal with the violent crimes on board. To get the Kakin military officials to agree with him, he reminds them that if they don't report the matter to Benjamin, it will still remain in the meeting minutes and they will be the ones in trouble.[19]
That night, Benjamin's soldier Rihan eliminates 8th Prince Salé-salé's Guardian Spirit Beast and reports the matter to his superiors, requesting to change shifts with Yushohi. Having been around when 11th Prince Fugetsu was escorted back to Room 1011 by the Kakin Royal Army, Yushohi gives his own report, that Fugetsu's Nen beast is likely capable of translocation, but alternatively possibly capable of turning Fugetsu invisible or undetectable.[20]
Halkenburg awakens[]
On the morning of Friday, the fifth day, Halkenburg attempts to assassinate Nasubi but fails. He is informed by Nugui, escorted by the Kakin Royal Army, that the scenario had been accounted for as a drill. Benjamin contacts Shikaku and wakes him up. He updates Shikaku on the events and warns him that Halkenburg is awakened and going all-out in the succession battle, telling him to prioritize his elimination and procure his ability. Shikaku prepares to do so with his Culdecept but is unable to stop Halkenburg's attack and is possessed by Sumidori, one of Halkenburg's men. The act sends a second rumbling of aura across Tier 1.[21]
Later that night, Yushohi assassinates Salé-salé and reports the matter to his superiors.[21]
Benjamin is transfixed by Melody's music
During the Sunday banquet on the eighth day, Benjamin is briefly transfixed by the music of Melody's flute performance, played over the speaker system and heard from his confinement in the VVIP area.[22]
The following morning, Balsamilco informs Benjamin that Shikaku had committed suicide. Unbeknownst to him, Halkenburg had Sumidori force Shikaku to commit suicide to explore his ability. Benjamin and Balsamilco agree that Halkenburg has become the most dangerous Prince. [23]
Kanjidol is summoned back from Room 1007 to recount the events in Room 1007 right before Shikaku's death. He recounts the people present in Room 1007 right before Shikaku's suicide and their actions. Kanjidol says that the rumbling stopped the moment Shikaku shot himself, and confidently states that an ability from Halkenburg's camp was linked to Shikaku's suicide. He suggests that Shikaku committed suicide to spare Benjamin's life, explaning that the rumble was indicative of an emitter ability strong enough to kill even Nen users with a direct hit. Balsamilco points out three issues he has with the theory—whether Shikaku really thought that formerly pacifistic Halkenburg would really shoot through the rooms of the 11th and 13th Princes to hit Benjamin in the VVIP area, why suicide and not the assassination of another Prince, and whether Princes could even kill each other. The two have Kanjidol return to Room 1007 and send Vict to Halkenburg's quarters.[24]
At 11:30 on the tenth day, they feel a fourth rumbling of aura. Benjamin notices that the interval between them is getting shorter, then contacts Vict to find out what is happening. They hear Vict signal an emergency and manage to make out the sound of fighting, Vict's claim of Halkenburg's invincible guard and bow, and his final defeat, amidst a garbled message. With the new information, Benjamin and Balsamilco conclude that Halkenburg's ability that is impossible to defend against, avoid, or counterattack must be a weapon composed of his whole team, and that Halkenburg is resolved to sacrifice a life with every shot. Through his Benjamin Baton, Benjamin confirms that Vict is still alive. While considering ways to gather more information, he considers transfering Musse's Secret Window onto a guard to investigate, but Balsamilco advises against it because of the threat of Camilla's ability and instead has Halkenburg arrested for suspicion of premeditated murder, separating him from his men at least until the trial.[24]
Elsewhere that same day, Kaiser speaks to Melody while she is held in the Justice Bureau on Tier 2. He lets Melody know that several Princes have requested to visit her to issue pardons and request an encore, including Benjamin. Kaiser shares his speculation that the Princes sought to use her as a tool to assassinate their competitors.[25]
At 11:45 a.m. on the tenth day of the voyage, Kurapika and Bill invite Longhi into Room 1014's master bedroom for her turn at being privately awakened to Nen.[25] Once behind closed doors, Longhi reveals that she can use Nen and asks Kurapika for his help. She reveals her identity as Beyond's child, and shares what she knows of Beyond's preparations for and desire to influence the succession war, including marking over twenty infants to be "curse sacrifices" of varying strengths, many of whom had grown up to be personal guards of Princes. Kurapika is quick to theorize that Beyond desires Benjamin to take the throne; Beyond is in Kakin's innermost circles and could give Benjamin a hint of what he has done to ensure he survives, letting Benjamin save his special martial law as a last resort. Longhi dismisses that theory by suggesting that Beyond's effort were disproportionately high if he simply wanted to maintain his position, and instead suggests that Beyond is the father of one of the 14 Princes, before asking Kurapika for his help in identifying who it is. Longhi contracts the terms of Kurapika's assignment and agreement on top of his truce with Tubeppa using her Moonlight Act.[26]
In the early morning of the eleventh day of the voyage, Fugetsu is escorted around Tier 1 by the Ministry of Justice to hand-deliver letters to several Princes, each written by "Kacho" containing a "bomb" of information that the Ministry of Justice had collected. Fugetsu and her entourage first head to the VVIP area, to pass Benjamin a letter. Kaiser explains to the military guarding the entrance hallway that the recently-deceased Kacho had written a letter for Benjamin to be personally handed to him if she died, and asks for permission for Fugetsu to do so while supervised by the Ministry of Justice. Benjamin's private soldier Butch, standing at the end of the hallway, comes up to Kaiser to hear their request, and offers to take the letter to Benjamin. Kaiser tells him that its contents could contain an official proclamation about the succession, and the letter being in the hands of an intermediary could lead to the disqualification of the letter. Butch contacts Benjamin and gets his approval to let them in. While doing so, he notifies Benjamin about the evil spirits hanging around Fugetsu.[27]
Butch and Kaiser stand around as Fugetsu thanks Benjamin for his audience. While seated in his chair, Benjamin sees the evil spirits clinging to her and feels alarm and pity, guessings that she is on her last legs. Fugetsu holds the letter up and asks Benjamin for permission to approach him. Benjamin tells her that she may certainly do so, and as Fugetsu approaches him, Benjamin's Guardian Spirit Beast, squatting on the back frame of his chair, screeches at the spirits surrounding Fugetsu and dispels them. Benjamin sees this and notes that their fleeing meant that they were low-level spirits that plagued someone in a weakened state and were not Fugetsu's Guardian Spirit Beast or part of a stratagem to target him. Benjamin guesses that she was despondent after Kacho's death, and predicts that she would not live another ten days.[27]
Kaiser witnesses Benjamin reading Kacho's letter
Shortly after starting to read the letter, Benjamin dismisses its contents and quickly changes the topic by asking Kaiser if he had found Musse yet. Kaiser replies that they had not been able to, and elaborates that they had focused their search on Tier 1 with consideration for the timing when Benjamin had closed off the passageway. He offers to invoke the Ministry of Justice's authority to conduct a search of all the Princes' quarters, but trails off to let Benjamin cut him off. Benjamin tells him not to bother, reminding him of the current dispute in court over which had priority, royal privilege, or the military's authority. Benjamin adds that their situation did not qualify as a national threat, which was required for martial law to be declared. Kaiser agrees, thankful that Benjamin seemingly falls for leading questions. Kaiser notes that Benjamin chose to bring up martial law, only used when the survival of Kakin itself was at stake, as they spoke about Musse, and concludes that Benjamin is waiting for an opportunity to implement special martial law and had not noticed his slip of the tongue, probably because he is trying to remain calm over the letter's contents. While they leave, Kaiser decides that it was good to do this while Balsamilco was not around, and Fugetsu and her entourage leave to deliver letters to other Princes.[27]
At roughly 7:50 a.m. on the eleventh day, in his residence in the VVIP area, Benjamin hears over the phone that the trial between Balsamilco and Halkenburg had not started, and that both sides had requested a change to the start time. He asks what the reasons were and begins to worry. Benjamin hears that Balsamilco was unprepared due to equipment issues but the judge had denied his request to change the start time because of this, though the judge had accepted Halkenburg's request to change the start time because Halkenburg himself was feeling ill, and the trial would begin when Halkenburg gets better. Benjamin tries to think things out and wonders if Balsamilco 's "equipment issues" imply that the mission was not executed. He dismisses this because Halkenburg's ability had gone off first, and concludes that the only reasonable explanation is that it was aimed at Balsamilco. He wonders how Halkenburg was able to use the ability without his men, and wonders if they had both attacked each other, but also dismisses this idea because it is too early for symptoms of Balsamilco's attack to show. Benjamin turns his focus to figuring out why Halkenburg fell ill if Balsamilco was the one attacked, and asks for more information on Halkenburg's condition. He hears that Halkenburg had suddenly fallen sick and collapsed on the spot, and was now resting in the sick bay in stable condition with ten or so of his supporters who had come to his aid. Benjamin guesses that Halkenburg can power his ability with supporters of any organization with sufficient loyalty, and hears that Balsamilco wishes to talk with him over the phone.[2]
Benjamin prepares for the call with Balsamilco to be a trap, guessing that Halkenburg's illness is faked and that Balsamilco was attacked and is not talking of his own volition. He deduces that Halkenburg's ability is a coercive manipulation ability and thinks back to Balsamilco's words about manipulation during the incident with Shikaku, but considers that it might not apply against a powerful Nen formed by a unified group working collectively, and wonders what Balsamilco would say to him.[2]
Benjamin tries to guess Balsamilco's intentions
Benjamin hears Balsamilco say that he had not yet executed his mission because of the trial being postponed as a result of trouble on Halkenburg's side, then ask if he had noticed the rumbling earlier. Balsamilco explains that a Nen arrow was fired at him but missed and Halkenburg had lost consciousness on the spot, suggesting that it might have been because Halkenburg used his ability multiple times over a short period, or because he used civilians instead of his personal guards. Benjamin deems the explanation possible, but still believes that Halkenburg is faking his illness to postpone the trial. He mentally prepares to institute special martial law and purge both Balsamilco and Halkenburg if Balsamilco tries to return without executing his mission, an act that Benjamin considers a coup d'état in collusion with Halkenburg. Balsamilco points out that Halkenburg falling ill and the trial being postponed was their chance, and asks for permission to visit Halkenburg, despite the likely presence of his supporters. Benjamin wonders if Balsamilco would use the time to find an opportunity to entrap him, but tells Balsamilco to make the call himself as long has he gets results. Balsamilco acknowledges the suspicious position he is in as a result of Halkenburg using his ability, then promises not to return until he can demonstrate that his mission is completed. He promises to get Benjamin the results he wants within the day.[2]
The call ends and Benjamin wonders if Balsamilco was telling the truth. He decides to suspect Balsamilco until he confirms that the mission is completed, wary of a trap to bait him into inaction. Benjamin summons Butch and notifies him that the rumbling was an attack on Balsamilco, and that they are on red alert until the truth is discovered. He instructs Butch to let Tiers 2 and 3 know that he will declare martial law if Balsamilco leaves the Justice Bureau without notifying them as another guard comes to notify him that an official from the Ministry of Justice and Fugetsu have something to personally give him. After considering that it would not hurt to foster a good relationship with the senior officials in the Ministry of Justice he would need to work with during his reign as king, Benjamin asks them to be let through.[2]
After receiving the letter, Benjamin asks Kaiser if he should open it now. Kaiser tells him that he would act as a witness to any contents pertaining to the succession written in it if Benjamin opened it then. Benjamin opens it and reads it.[27] Kacho's letter states that Benjamin's mother, Unma, is Halkenburg's real mother. She explains that no one mentions it out of fear of being disrespectful, but being dead, she can say anything. Kacho writes that the prevailing theory on international websites was that Unma had asked a secret favor of 2nd Queen Duazul to protect Halkenburg from assassination plots from his older siblings by changing the order in line to the throne. Kacho alludes to a big problem if the rumors were true despite the order having little meaning now that the succession battle has begun, that Unma might be using her power to pull the strings for Halkenburg. Kacho ends off by hinting at more letters through saying that there are still things she can say and do because she is dead, and asks Benjamin to look after Fugetsu. Benjamin dismisses the letter, saying it is ordinary and contains nothing political or worth showing Kaiser.[2]
As they leave, Benjamin guesses that even though Kacho was smart and surely schemed for her sister, the letter is a bluff because it relies on speculation. He believes that even if there are further letters or evidence, they could not contain anything that he did not know, since "a mere girl" could not have the political power to obtain more information than he does.[2]
Benjamin spends some time that day waiting around in his residence with Furykov, looking at a tablet as he waits for Balsamilco to report.[28] Later that day, Benjamin receives a call from Balsamilco, notifying him that the mission has been completed and that results would be delivered that night as planned. Unbeknownst to him, Halkenburg's soul possesses Balsamilco.[2]
At Zhang Lei's request, Kurapika visits Room 1003 to help Zhang Lei identify the ability of his Guardian Spirit Beast's coins. Through experimentation, Kurapika makes a guess about its abilities, but hesitates to share it due to the presence of Coventoba within earshot. Zhang Lei encourages Kurapika to share his guess nonetheless, emphasizing its inability to threaten Benjamin as a way of hinting to Kurapika to share his guess while not revealing any way it could be a threat. As they wrap up their conversation, Kurapika considers finding shelter for Woble in Room 1003, but considers the possibility that Benjamin kills her or Zhang Lei as a way to trigger a mafia war to give him an excuse to enact martial law, which would allow him to place the Princes under house arrest and give him free reign to act as he wishes.[28]
The condition of Halkenburg's body deteriorates and a team rushes him to the Tier 3 general hospital. Halkenburg in Balsamilco's body watches this and reports in a call to Benjamin that Halkenburg has vomited and was taken to the hospital, then adds that his mission would be complete in about 12 hours. Benjamin compliments his work and lets him know that he will send the royal and military medical teams there, and instructs "Balsamilco" to monitor progress.[28]
In the wee hours of the twelfth day, Halkenburg's body dies, and "Balsamilco" calls Benjamin to report this. Benjamin hears "Balsamilco" report that Halkenburg's last wishes were a ship-wide announcement, a send-off by his supporters, and his personal guards to be his pallbearers and transport his coffin, which would be transferred at noon that day from Tier 3 to Tier 2 via the central staircase then to the morgue in Tier 1. Benjamin instructs "Balsamilco" to do as Halkenburg wished as it would show they honored his wishes, even if they don't outright say they were his wishes. He tells Balsamilco that everything should be done solemnly and with dignity so that his supporters' sorrow does not turn into anger, and instructs him to notify "Judge Clea" that they would drop all charges so that his guards can join him at once. "Balsamilco" acknowledges his orders and tells Benjamin that he will discuss funeral plans and the autopsy once Halkenburg's body and the medical team arrive and monitor the process. He lets Benajmin know that he would return at the same time as Halkenburg's body. Benjamin reminds him to make sure the matter is handled respectfully, and congratulates him on a job well done. "Balsamilco" thanks Benjamin.[28]
Special Martial Law[]
Sometime after Halkenburg's casket leaves Tier 3, special martial law is declared. Announcements are made throughout the ship giving each tier different instructions on how to act.[29][30] The soldiers on Tier 3 come across Room 3101 and classify it as a 'Case S' situation, a supernatural incident. The captain on site recalls that Tier 3 is the Heil-Ly's territory and gives orders to let Tier 1 know of it.[4]
Benjamin learns of the matter and gives orders for Squad 3 to deal with the Heil-Ly, and for the team he is with to prioritize securing the Princes. He lets them know that Zhang Lei and 7th Prince Luzurus are currently unaccounted for, and orders for them to be found and to leave the lower-ranked Princes for later. A soldier reports that Zhang Lei went to Tier 2 right before the declaration, via the cross-bridge from inside Xi-Yu boss Onior Longbao's residence. The soldier lets Benjamin know that the route is currently being confirmed and his trail followed, and a follow-up report is coming in 15 minutes. Benjamin suggests that Zhang Lei sought refuge at the Justice Department and had possibly gone farther down to meet up with the mafia.[4]
Benjamin gives orders for Squad 2's reconnaissance team and the scouts to focus on Zhang Lei, and turns his thoughts to his deadline. From the fact that death comes two hours after a coma, which comes ten hours after the onset of an infection, Benjamin estimates that he has nine and a half more hours, and reaffirms his need to eliminate the Princes by then. As he approaches the Justice Bureau on Tier 2, he keeps in mind that as long as he is officially anointed as successor, he can hand the throne over to his child even if he dies, the situation allowing Emergency Law Article 1, "Sustaining the Monarchy in a Crisis", to apply. He reviews the tasks he must accomplish, needing to get Nasubi's declaration of succession and its documentation, and with consideration for the time required for the legal proceedings of having his illegitimate child named as his official successor, decides that he does not have any time to lose. He turns his thoughts to the Princes, and keeps in mind that he has four Princes left to deal with.[4]
Benjamin's presence in the Justice Bureau is announced. Benjamin and his men step into the Justice Bureau and are met by Mizaistom, Botobai, and Kaiser, with their hands up in accordance with the instructions for passengers on Tier 2. Benjamin introduces himself and cuts straight to his point. He tells the three men that they will be his witnesses to his plans for consolidating all three branches of government by military force at the central court, and his plans for taking over over the Justice Bureau as his joint force's command center. Mizaistom asks for Benjamin's basis for declaring special martial law, and the letter of authorization by Nasubi. Benjamin states that his basis is because Tserriednich and Halkenburg had orchestrated terrorism with a biological weapon, together with a collaborator in his military who brought a sample under development on board. Benjamin says that there are multiple co-conspirators, several of which were arrested and being questioned, but that some of the suspects were accompanying the Princes' security teams as they were taken to secure locations, and he wishes to complete the administrative steps without delay.[4]
As he continues explaining the situation, Mizaistom reasons that Benjamin's plan is to leverage the Princes in Tier 1 as hostages to secure the three branches, guessing that a lot of what Benjamin says is just conveniently-twisted half-truths, and sees that Benjamin is as his profile indicated, an impulsive dictator who prefers shortcuts. Benjamin continues explaining that he cannot release those suspected of infection from their isolations until the sample is completely analyzed, and that he cannot permit their transfer to a hospital while unsure of Mizaistom's "situation", unless the three powers were integrated. Benjamin tells Mizaistom that Nasubi's letter of authorization is being written as they speak, and that they would be contacted once it had been signed and sealed, and could be retrieved then.[4]
After Benjamin finishes speaking, Botobai steps forward and respectfully but firmly asks Benjamin if he is fine, saying that he looks pale. With a grave look on his face, Benjamin says that there is no problem at all. Kaiser considers that Benjamin might be pushing hard because he himself had been infected, and, extrapolating from Halkenburg's case, estimates that Benjamin has 24 hours left at most.[4]
Benjamin's Employees[]
Royalty • Personal Guards • Hunters • Provisional Hunters • Spies • Allies • Servants
| Royal Family | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Prince | 1st Queen | |||
| Prince Benjamin's Employees | ||||
| Captain | →2P | →3P | →5P | |
| →6P | →7P | →8P→11P→5P | →9P | →10P |
| →11P→8P | →12P→9P | →13P | →14P | →14P |
| Queen Unma's Royal Guards (Replacements) | ||||
| 2P→ | 3P?→ | 5P*→ | 6P?→ | 7P?→ |
| 8P→ | 9P→ | 10P→ | 11P→ | 12 or 13P*→ |
| 13P→ | ||||
| Legend of Symbols | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Symbol | Meaning | Example | Meaning |
| P | prince | 1P | The 1st Prince. |
| Q | queen | 5Q | The 5th Queen. |
| ...→ | sent by | 1Q→ | X is sent by the 1st Queen. |
| →... | sent to | →14P | X is sent to the 14th Prince. |
| ...→... | reassigned to | 2Q→14P | X is reassigned by the 2nd Queen to the 14th Prince. |
| →...→... | was assigned to one or more princes | →8P→11P | X was assigned to the 8th and 11th Princes. |
| ♰ | in charge of a prince's curse | 4P♰ | The guard is in charge of the 4th Prince's curse. |
| ♰ | formerly in charge of a prince's curse | 12P♰ | The guard is formerly in charge of the 12th Prince's curse. |
| * | Information found in Togashi's notes from "Jump Ryu! Vol. 21" interview | 1Q*→ | The guard's affiliation is revealed in the notes. |
| Servant* | The employee's position is revealed in the notes. | ||
| ? | Placeholder (might hold another position) |
Captain? | The employee might not be the captain or a personal guard. |
| ? | The employee might not be a personal guard. | ||
| 2Q?→ | The employee might have been sent by another queen. | ||
| ⇄ | Placeholder (might have initially belonged to either Prince Momoze or Prince Marayam) |
This particular issue arose when their mother Queen Sevanti sent all of Momoze's Hunters and servants to Marayam. Since we only got to see 4/5 of Momoze's Hunters and 2/3 of her servants by that time, we can't say for certain which prince the marked characters initially belonged to. | |
Benjamin's personal army[]
1st Prince Benjamin is known to have a personal army. The exact strength of his personal army is unknown, but fourteen elite soldiers from his personal army, together with Balsamilco Might acting as their captain, make up Benjamin's fifteen allotted employees during the time on the Black Whale 1.[3] It has not been stated whether Balsamilco himself is a member of Benjamin's personal army or not.
Balsamilco Might himself is a Master Sergeant in the Kakin Military, and his personal militia are all soldiers in the Royal Army, qualifying them to be Royal Guards to members of Kakin's royal family.[3]
During their time on board the Black Whale 1, Benjamin's soldiers all wear a puffer-like light-colored combat jacket, similarly colored combat pants, and dark combat boots,[6] and are known to each wear an earpiece for communication in their left ear.[11] Balsamilco dresses in the same unique attire that Benjamin's soldiers do,[6] with the exception of the earpiece.[2]
They are all believed to be proficient Nen users, though Balsamilco believes that they do not have as much experience with it as Hunters do.[3] When in combat, they click their teeth to communicate through their communication devices that they are in combat;[21] two clicks indicate an emergency.[31]
Abilities & Powers[]
Benjamin's status as one of the senior Princes of Kakin grants him significant political influences and assets that give him benefits to win the throne.[32] Being the Supreme Vice Counselor of the nation's military, he holds immense military power, which allowed him to override the decision made by other princes in regards to their own bodyguards. His rank suggests he received military training. He is also endowed with a squad of personal bodyguards, all of whom are Nen users.[3] His brother Tserriednich belittles his intellect, although this might be due to his own extraordinary intelligence,[5] and in fact, Balsamilco regards him as a good leader and tactician once he's provided with enough information.[3] He has tremendous charisma, inspiring undivided loyalty and even affection from his subordinates, to the point some even view him as their father figure.[8]
Enhanced Strength: Benjamin has superhuman levels of brawn. He has proven himself capable of restraining an adult male lion while casually speaking on the phone, and then tear off his head with no effort.[5] He can lift a dumbbell weighing at least a hundred kilos with only one hand and no apparent effort.[8]
Nen[]
Benjamin is capable of using Nen. His skin might be strengthened with Enhancement, due to the fact that it was apparently left intact despite a lion desperately attempting to scratch him.[5] He further proved his proficiency in this Nen type when his Ken allowed him to remain completely unscathed after being shot at several times, whereas a single bullet from the same gun drew blood from Furykov. Aside from Ken and, consequently, Ten and Ren, he is also capable of using Hatsu.[8]
| Benjamin's Nen Abilities | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type: Unknown | Benjamin Baton (星を継ぐもの Those Who Inherit The Stars) | |
  | ||
| | When a Nen user who has sworn fealty to Benjamin dies, the First Prince receives their Nen ability. For him to inherit the ability, the Nen user must have graduated from Kakin's Royal Military Academy and be part of Benjamin's private army.[11] The ability manifests on the palm of his right hand as four stars, located under his index, middle, ring and small fingers.[24] Should the original user die while their ability is active, it will pass under Benjamin's control without it being rescinded. He can inherit an ability even if the original user lost control of it,[8] for example due to it being stolen.[11] It is unclear if Benjamin could come in possession of the Nen abilities of all the members in his army, or if he is limited to the number of stars on his hand.[8] The Nen type of this ability is unconfirmed, but it shares similarities with some Specialization techniques. | |
Inherited Abilities[]
| Type: Unknown | Air Blow (虚空拳 Empty Air Fist) | |
|---|---|---|
  | ||
| | An ability Benjamin inherited from Vincent;[8] little is known about it. The original user attempted to activate it through his left palm in order to break the guard of a Nen user who was capable of stopping bullets with his aura. It does not seem to require direct contact with the target to work.[11] | |
| Type: Unknown | Secret Window (裏窓の鳥 Rear Window Bird) | |
  | ||
| | This ability allows the user to create three owl-shaped constructs referred to as "birds" (念獣, tori; base kanji lit. "Nen beasts") to gather intelligence.[8] One of them can eavesdrop on conversations despite physical barriers, such as doors, and distance, while perched on Musse's shoulder.[13] Another can be applied directly to the target through physical contact: through telepathy, it transmits the target's actions and words to the user, who is the only person capable of seeing it. The first owl-shaped construct appears to be made out of pure aura, possibly implying the ability makes use of Emission.[8] Only one bird, either at all or of each type, can exist at any time.[24] Following Musse's death, this ability was inherited by Prince Benjamin.[8] | |
| Type: Unknown | Culdcept (遊戯王 King of Games) | |
 | ||
| | Culdcept allows the user to "procure" another Nen user's ability. Shikaku initiates it by joining his hands in front of himself, generating a flash of light, then he forms a rectangle with his thumbs and index fingers. As he spreads them out diagonally, a rectangle of aura is created between his fingers, becoming darker and darker in color. After the second change in shade, the preparations appear to be complete for him to turn the target's ability into a "card". The only time it was seen in action, Culdcept was activated while Halkenburg Hui Guo Rou was readying his own ability. Contrary to Shikaku's expectations, contact of the arrow with his aura screen did not result in him taking the Prince's ability due to its power to pierce all defenses.[21] Following Shikaku's death, this ability was inherited by Prince Benjamin.[24] | |
Guardian Spirit Beast[]
Benjamin's Guardian Spirit Beast
Like the rest of his siblings, Benjamin received an egg from which a Nen beast hatched to protect him.[1] Since it is a parasitic-type ability, he has no control over it, and despite being a Nen user, he is unable to see his Guardian Spirit Beast or anyone else's, while his bodyguards are able to. Balsamilco suspects this is due to a condition of the Guardian Spirit Beast themselves rather than Benjamin's lack of skill.[3] The Nen beast is subjected to two rule-like instincts: it is unable to fight other Guardian Spirit Beasts as well as to directly attack the host of one.[9] Its abilities are currently unknown. Balsamilco affirms it is worthy of the next king of Kakin.[3]
Manga Appearances[]
| 340. Special Mission | Absent |
| 341. Threats | Absent |
| 342. Challenge | Absent |
| 343. Invitation | Absent |
| 344. Author | Absent |
| 345. Signature | Absent |
| 346. Options | Absent |
| 347. Inauguration | Absent |
| 348. Resolve | Debut |
| 349. Worm Toxin | Appears |
| 350. Prince | Pictured |
| 351. Battle to the Death | Absent |
| 352. Troublesome | Absent |
| 353. Cold-Blooded | Absent |
| 354. Heat | Absent |
| 355. Detonation | Absent |
| 356. Unfortunate: Part 1 | Absent |
| 357. Unfortunate: Part 2 | Absent |
| 358. Eve | Appears |
| 359. Departure | Appears |
| 360. Parasite | Absent |
| 361. Withdraw | Absent |
| 362. Resolve | Appears |
| 363. Nen Beast | Appears |
| 364. Speculation | Appears |
| 365. Choice | Appears |
| 366. To Each His Own | Appears |
| 367. Synchronization | Absent |
| 368. Foul Play | Mentioned |
| 369. Limits | Mentioned |
| 370. Observation | Mentioned |
| 371. Mission | Mentioned |
| 372. Disappearance | Mentioned |
| 373. Inheritance | Appears |
| 374. Ability | Pictured |
| 375. Persuasion | Appears |
| 376. Determination | Appears |
| 377. Scheme | Absent |
| 378. Balance | Absent |
| 379. Collaboration | Absent |
| 380. Alarm | Mentioned |
| 381. Predation | Mentioned |
| 382. Awakening | Appears |
| 383. Escape | Appears |
| 384. War | Absent |
| 385. Warning | Absent |
| 386. Hypothesis | Appears |
| 387. Recreation | Absent |
| 388. Reflection | Mentioned |
| 389. Curse | Appears |
| 390. Clash: Part 1 | Absent |
| 391. Clash: Part 2 | Absent |
| 392. Information | Absent |
| 393. Plea | Absent |
| 394. Hypothesis | Mentioned |
| 395. Founding: Part 1 | Absent |
| 396. Founding: Part 2 | Absent |
| 397. Founding: Part 3 | Absent |
| 398. Search | Absent |
| 399. Expulsion | Absent |
| 400. Secrecy | Mentioned |
| 401. Moonlight | Mentioned |
| 402. Letter | Appears |
| 403. Results | Appears |
| 404. Speculation | Appears |
| 405. Performance | Absent |
| 406. Regalia | Absent |
| 407. Negotiation | Absent |
| 408. Negotiation: Part 2 | Absent |
| 409. Negotiation: Part 3 | Absent |
| 410. Negotiation: Part 4 | Appears |
Battles[]
| Battles |
|---|
|
Quotes[]
- "It's an act of folly to reach past me, the First Prince, for the crown! They must be put to death!!! If you end up killed by another prince... consider yourselves lucky!!"[7]
- (To Camilla) "If you believe you will be king, there's no need to bother with how others define things!!"[3]
- (To Camilla) "What conceit...!! Giving you the throne is like having a rabid dog for a babysitter!!"[3]
- "I'll kill them!!!!! I'll kill them right now!!! I'll kill them all!!!! I can't wait until we disembark!!!!"[3]
- (To Coventoba) "Bring Fourth Prince Tserriednich to me!! I don't care how!! But I want him alive!! I will kill him myself!! Tell him that!!"[3]
- "Vincent. Musse. Live on through me...! I will carry out your purpose...!! I swear to unify the world under Kakin rule by my hands!!"[8]
Trivia[]
- The katakana in the name of Benjamin's Nen ability can be romanized as either "Benjamin Baton" or "Benjamin Button", forming an obvious reference to the film The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
- In the Japanese original, the second name of the Nen ability is also the title of the first book in James P. Hogan's Giants series.
Intertextuality and References[]
- Benjamin makes a cameo appearance as Roboco's elbow in chapter 10 of the Me & Roboco manga.
Translations around the World[]
| Language | Name | |
|---|---|---|
 Arabic
|
بنيامين هوي گو رو | |
 Chinese
|
班哲明·回可羅 | |
 French
|
Benjamin Hoicoro | |
 Korean
|
벤자민 호이코오로 (Benjamin Hoikolo) | |
References[]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 33, Chapter 349
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 403
- ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 363
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 410
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 33, Chapter 348
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 34, Chapter 358
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 34, Chapter 359
- ↑ 8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 8.12 8.13 8.14 8.15 8.16 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 36, Chapter 373
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 362
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 34, Chapter 360
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 364
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 365
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 13.2 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 366
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 368
- ↑ 15.0 15.1 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 35, Chapter 369
- ↑ 16.0 16.1 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 36, Chapter 372
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 36, Chapter 375
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 36, Chapter 376
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 36, Chapter 380
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 37, Chapter 381
- ↑ 21.0 21.1 21.2 21.3 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 37, Chapter 382
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 37, Chapter 383
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 37, Chapter 386
- ↑ 24.0 24.1 24.2 24.3 24.4 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 37, Chapter 389
- ↑ 25.0 25.1 Hunter × Hunter - Volume 38, Chapter 400
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 401
- ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 27.3 Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 402
- ↑ 28.0 28.1 28.2 28.3 Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 404
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 408
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter, Chapter 409
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 37, Chapter 388
- ↑ Hunter × Hunter - Volume 33, Chapter 350
[]
| ||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||