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The Two Aces in the Hole (2(ふた)()()()()()()()()()つの()()()()()()()()()()(ふだ)()()()()()()()()(), Futatsu no Kirifuda) is the 18th chapter of the Hunter × Hunter manga, written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi.

Synopsis[]

Chap 18 - Majtani proudly revealing himself

Majtani proudly revealing himself

Leorio celebrates Gon's victory over Sedokan, adding that he and Kurapika will beat the next two prisoners to win the contest. Another prisoner calls Sedokan an idiot for using trick candles and tells him to watch what proper deception looks like as he prepares to face Kurapika. With both on the stone platform, the prisoner's handcuffs fall to the floor as he removes the shroud to reveal a strange-looking face and a well-muscled physique. Leorio is taken aback by his appearance while Kurapika's face doesn't change. The prisoner points to the 19 small hearts tattooed on his chest and explains that it's the number of people he has killed so far, happily adding that he wants to get it to an even number.

As Leorio can't believe that they have to deal with serial killers now, the prisoner continues by saying that he kills violently and enjoys mayhem with blood and guts. Kurapika is unfazed by his words and simply says that he will accept whatever contest he chooses. Disappointed that Kurapika didn't react to his facade, the prisoner proposes a fight to the death, but warns him that even admitting defeat won't necessarily stop his killing intent. After Kurapika removes his tabard and calmly asks if he wants to start, the prisoner is left in disbelief by Kurapika's composure and makes sure to point out that no weapons are allowed. Kurapika tosses aside his bokken and asks again if he wants to start the match.

Chap 18 - Majtani trying to frighten Kurapika

Majtani trying to frighten Kurapika

The prisoner begins to anxiously analyze Kurapika and wonders how strong he really is, guessing that he's either putting on an act or too stupid to be frightened by his appearance. He then tells himself that it doesn't matter since he has his two secret weapons: his right hand and his back. While Leorio worries about the prisoner, Killua tells himself that it's obvious he's a fraud and hasn't killed anyone before. As the match begins, Gon says that they don't need to worry since he isn't sensing any danger from the prisoner, leaving Leorio confused and causing Killua to give a slight smile.The prisoner prepares to use his big bluff and suddenly leaps high into the air, clenching his right fist and punching the ground near Kurapika.

Rubble flies all around the platform, and Leorio can't believe that the prisoner punched the stone floor with his bare fist. Kurapika appears shocked, and it's then shown that the prisoner has a large spider tattoo on his back. Leorio seems to recognize the significance of the 12-legged spider, but Gon is left confused. The prisoner chuckles and says to himself that every aspiring Hunter will recognize the tattoo as the mark of the infamous band of thieves known as the Phantom Troupe. Leorio explains the meaning to Gon and adds that Kurapika told him about some of the more obscure details. The prisoner revels in his two secret weapons—steel knuckles embedded in his right hand and the Troupe tattoo—and adds that they destroy the morale of the toughest fighters.

Chap 18 - Kurapika knocking Majtani unconscious with one punch

Kurapika knocking Majtani unconscious with one punch

The prisoner guesses that Kurapika is frozen with fear and reveals that his name is Majtani, adding that he is one of the four devas of the Troupe. Although Majtani assures him that he can still surrender and live, Kurapika's expression and changed eyes make him nervous, leaving him speechless before he wonders what's wrong with him. Kurapika suddenly disappears right in front of Majtani and then grabs him by the face. Majtani desperately tells him to wait, but before he can finish his explanation, Kurapika punches his face into the ground and leaves the other examinees shocked by his strength. He then tells Majtani to remember three things well: a genuine Troupe tattoo has the member's number on it, Troupe members don't keep track of how many people they have killed, and he will kill him if he ever mentions the Troupe again.

Kurapika puts his tabard back on and calmly leaves the stone platform, with Leorio asking if he's okay. Kurapika replies that he isn't hurt, but Leorio wonders if they should stay away from him. Kurapika assures him that he has nothing to fear as long as he doesn't attempt such a scam, revealing that while he knew the tattoo was fake, his emotions took over and caused him to see all red. He then reveals that he becomes completely irrational and primal when he sees any kind of spider, surprising both Gon and Leorio. Kurapika sits down and chuckles, happily assuring himself that it means the rage inside him still hasn't faded. Gon whispers to Leorio that they need to remember that Kurapika and spiders don't go together. As Majtani lies unconscious on the ground, it's stated that his total sentence is 108 years for fraud and blackmail convictions, with the added note that his face appears scarred because of failed plastic surgeries. The other prisoners can't believe how useless Majtani is, and Bendot reminds them that they have now lost two in a row. The next prisoner is aware of the score and prepares to beat Leorio, who plans to win the contest for the group.

Characters in Order of Appearance[]

Translations around the World[]

Language Name
Brazil Flag Brazilian Portuguese Dois Trunfos

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