Kurapika Kurta ((NSFW/HUSBAND))

Kurapika has medium blond hair with brown eyes; blue in the 1999 anime adaptation (grey/dark grey in the 2011 anime adaptation). 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 anime adaptation) 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 Chinese-style winkle-picker flats. From the Election arc he wears a blue or black suit with dress shoes, and in some subsequent appearances, he also wears a necktie. From the Succession Contest arc, as a royal bodyguard, he wears a uniform consisting of a blue suit and tie with a gold capital H on the left breast of the blazer. 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. Kurapika is a cool and 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. However, Kurapika can be kind and affectionate, smiling when those friends are happy. 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 at times, but his friends are the only ones able to slightly settle his seething enough for him to think rationally. He slowly transitioned from considering his friendships to be a weakness hindering him from succeeding in his aims to appreciating their value, and he was willing to put his revenge on the Phantom Troupe on hold for his friends' well-being. He even questioned the legitimacy of his quest after experiencing the deep ties that bind the Spiders together, particularly Pakunoda's loyalty, although it ultimately did not deter him.

Although he made himself unavailable for a period, the people dear to him became part of his drives, leading him to search for more power in order not to lose anyone else. Upon nearly completing his goal of retrieving the eyes of his brethren, he began to feel a deep sense of loss, believing to have no one and nowhere to return to.

As a child, his personality was more akin to Gon's where he sought out adventure and had an impulsive nature. Kurapika was still protective of his friends, however, going as far as to beat a man for his derogatory comments against one. Kurapika was born to the Kurta Clan in a secluded forest in the Lukso Province. As a child, he almost fell from a cliff but was saved by his best friend, Pairo. While he was unharmed, his friend Pairo had harmed both his legs and eyes, their condition worsening every day. Kurapika felt responsible for the incident and resolved to leave the forest and search the outside world for a doctor who could cure Pairo. Kurapika thus approached the Kurta Clan's elder several times to request to go to the outside world, but he was constantly refused. This sparked a long-lasting debate between the two, with Kurapika perceiving the Kurta Clan's fear of the outside world as unreasonable and backward. After one such argument, he talked to Pairo and discovered that people outside of the Kurta Clan do not have Scarlet Eyes, which caused their clan to be persecuted.[5]

Kurapika & Pairo Movie1 IMG Kurapika and Pairo reading Dino Hunter At some point, Kurapika and Pairo saved a female outsider called Sheila. As thanks, she gave them a book about the adventures of the D Hunter in the outside world which they read together, strengthening their desire to visit the outside world. After Sheila left, Kurapika realized that the Kurta Clan's elder had stolen the book 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. The elder had them put drops in their eyes which would cause their eyes to remain red for days if they change color during the test. During the journey, Kurapika vowed to himself to find a way to cure Pairo so that they would be able to explore the outside world together.[5]

Kurapika & Pairo Movie1 IMG 2 Kurapika passes the final test While buying groceries, Kurapika and Pairo were bullied and nearly swindled by three thugs. Kurapika managed to maintain his calm only thanks to his friend. The other people at the supermarket took their side and chased the thugs away. After the boys completed their shopping, they were approached by the trio again. This time they mocked Pairo's condition, making Kurapika furious. His eyes turned scarlet and he single-handedly beat them up. The thugs revealed that the elder had paid them to rile him up. Pairo had them report that they failed. Having recognized them as Kurta, the people who had previously defended them turned violent and frightened. On the way back, Kurapika noticed that his eyes had gone back to their normal color, with Pairo disclosing that the previous day he had heard that the elder planned to cheat, and so had swapped the drops for his eye medicine.[6]

Kurta Clan Massacre The Kurta Clan massacre Having passed the test, Kurapika was granted unrestricted permission to go to the outside world. Before leaving, Kurapika promised Pairo that he would return with a doctor and that they would one day go to the outside world together. Pairo had him also promise to have fun and enjoy himself while outside, having adventures just like the Hunter they read about from Sheila's book. Six weeks later, while Kurapika was away, the Kurta Clan was approached by the Phantom Troupe and massacred, their eyes sold on the black market. 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.[6] As the last surviving member of his clan, Kurapika vowed to gain back all the stolen eyes of his people and to arrest all of the members of the Troupe.[7]

Plot Hunter Exam arc

Preliminary Phase

HxH2011 EP1 Kurapika Gon Leorio Introductions Kurapika, Gon, and Leorio standing before the Captain Kurapika makes his first appearance onboard 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. When the Captain announces an even fiercer one is approaching, the three are the only candidates not to leave the boat. He initially refuses to answer the Captain's question about his motives, but when he reveals that he is an examiner Kurapika replies that he is the last of the Kurta and wants to capture the Phantom Troupe. When Leorio objects he does not need to become a Hunter to do so, Kurapika condescendingly explains a license facilitates the acquisition of information. When Leorio answers the Captain that he is attracted by the material possessions provided by being a Hunter, Kurapika remarks that money cannot buy class. 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. Leorio immediately rushes to help him, followed shortly by Kurapika, but they fail to catch him. Gon jumps overboard and grabs him, while the two catch him by his legs. They both reprimand Gon for his recklessness, then apologize to and makeup with each other. Seeing that, the captain laughs and decides to take the trio to the port nearest the exam hall, Zaban City's.[8]

HxH2011 EP2 Kurapika blocks Leorio's attack Kurapika stops Leorio from attacking Once they dock, the Captain tells Gon to head for a lone tree up a hill, and Gon decides to follow his advice instead of taking the bus to Zaban City. Kurapika decides to follow him, interested in what he may do. Leorio later rejoins them after learning the bus doesn't head to Zaban City. In what seems an abandoned town, Kurapika and Gon hear people around them. An old lady, also an examiner, told them they have to answer a riddle that they have only 5 seconds time limit. While Kurapika and Leorio scuffle over the prospect of one causing the other to fail, another applicant takes the test in their place. Upon hearing the riddle, a deeply stunned Kurapika thinks of it's subjectivity, making it absolutely impossible to give a correct answer. While Leorio protests the impossibility of the riddle, Kurapika hears the applicant the lay let pass scream and understands how to pass the test, but the screener silences him and, after Kurapika agrees to it, poses them her question. 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. Kurapika and Leorio laugh at Gon when he states he cannot find an answer to the question, but become pensive when he suggests they might one day be faced with a similar choice. The three then take the path opened by the screener.[9]

HxH2011 EP2 Kurapika strikes the Kiriko disguised as Leorio Kurapika strikes the Kiriko disguised as Leorio Four hours later, 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 Kurapika is impressed by Gon's vision in the darkness, and shocked by his ignorance about Magical Beasts. Gon clubs the creature and forces 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 hits him in the face with his wooden sword. It turns out this Leorio is a Kiriko in disguise, but Kurapika claims he did not know, and that he hit him because he thought he left an injured. After the monster runs away, he asks the wife who she really is, ready for combat. After Gon is able to tell the two nearly identical Kiriko apart, they reveal to be the Navigators and that the couple they "saved" are their two children. The daughter states that Kurapika passed the test thanks to his vast knowledge and deduction skills, which allowed him to recognize the chastity symbols on her body and understand that she could not have a husband. 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 on ancient symbols, Leorio for his good medical skill and confidence, and Gon for his extraordinary movement and observation. The Kiriko fly all three of them to the exam hall.[10]

HxH2011 EP3 Kurapika pours out Tonpa's drink Kurapika pours out Tonpa's laxative drink When they arrive in Zaban City one of the Kiriko takes them to the secret entrance of the exam hall. Kurapika and Leorio start a debate over why one would become a Hunter, with Kurapika stressing the nobility of securing order, and they both ask Gon what being a Hunter means to him. Before he can reply, they reach the site of the first test, a large tunnel, Kurapika, Leorio, and Gon to 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.[11]

First Phase

Kurapika2011 EP4 IMG Kurapika runs alongside Leorio 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.[12] 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 Milsy Wetlands, also known as the Swindler's Swamp.[7]

Kurapika2011 EP5 IMG Kurapika waits for the perfect time to run 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.[13] 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.[14] While running together to the site of the Second Phase, the Visca Forest Preserve, Gon tells him about what happened to him and Leorio.[15]

Second Phase

HxH2011 EP6 Kurapika Gon Leorio during the Second Phase The Second Phase of the exam 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.[15]

Main Four2011 EP6 IMG Kurapika and the others wait for Gon's signal 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.[16] 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 Third Phase in the Chairman's airship.[17]

Third Phase

HxH2011 EP9 Kurapika knocks out Majtani Kurapika knocks out Majtani 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.[18] Kurapika, Leorio, Killua, and Gon are forced to form a team of 5 with Tonpa to pass through the 1st door.[19] 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.[20] Gon's match is the second, and thanks to his quick thinking he manages a win to level the score at 1 - 1.[21] 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,[22] however, the match is still going on because he refuses to kill his opponent, who seems to be unconscious.[23]

HxH2011 EP12 Passing the Third Phase Passing the 3rd Phase of the Hunter Exam 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.[24] 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.[25] 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.[26]

Fourth Phase

Kurapika kicks Tonpa Kurapika kicking Tonpa's face 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.[27] 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.[28] They take the badges #16 and #118 from Tonpa and Sommy.[29]

Even though Kurapika already has six points from his own and Tonpa's badges, he still helps Leorio find his target Ponzu, examinee #246.[29] 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.[30]

HxH2011 EP18 Kurapika explains anaphylaxis Kurapika explains anaphylaxis At the end of the sixth 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[31] 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.[32]

Final Phase

HxH2011 EP20 Kurapika vs Hisoka IMG4 Kurapika vs. Hisoka The Final 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 chances, depending on their placement in the bracket.[33] 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.[34] When Illumi Zoldyck wants to go murder Gon, Kurapika, Leorio, Hanzo, and some examiners block his way.[35] Later, he also requests that the Hunter Association examine the nature of Killua's act of murder against another contestant, Bodoro, during the Final 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.[36] He then decides to go with Gon and Leorio to Kukuroo Mountain to rescue Killua from the control of his family.[37]

The Zoldyck Family

HxH2011 EP23 Kurapika doesn't interfere Kurapika watches as Gon is beaten by Canary 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.[38] The trio then accepts Zebro's invitation to stay in his house to train, using his heavy equipment.[39] 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.[40] Shortly after she and Kalluto leave, Canary regains consciousness and says she is going to lead them to the attendants' room.[41]

Yorknew 1st september Next meeting: September 1st, in Yorknew City 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.[42] 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.[43]

Heavens Arena arc

HxH2011 EP30 Agent tells Kurapika his exam is not over Kurapika is denied employment through the agency 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.[44]

During Gon and Killua's training in the Heavens Arena, it is revealed by Wing that Kurapika learned Nen after the Hunter Exam.[45]

Yorknew City arc

At The Flesh Collector's Mansion

Kurapika2011 EP40 IMG Kurapika prepares to fight the assailants Kurapika learns Nen in six 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 a 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.[46] 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.[47]

Kurapika2011 EP40 IMG2 Kurapika uses his Dowsing Chain 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 three 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.[47]

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.[48]

In Yorknew City

HxH2011 EP41 Nostrade Bodyguards Neon's bodyguards Kurapika and the company's first task is to guard their boss on a journey to Yorknew City, where they will be participating in the Mafia Community's Underground Auction. The boss turns out to be Neon Nostrade,[48] 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.[49] They arrive in Yorknew City on September 1st[50] 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.[51] 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.[52]

HxH2011 EP44 Kurapika Chain Jail while driving Kurapika captures Uvogin with his Chain Jail Believing that the Phantom Troupe has 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.[53] Even though they manage to injure and paralyze Uvogin, they are ultimately killed by him. Seeing the spider tattoo on Uvogin's back, Kurapika flies into a rage.[54] 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.[55]

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 afterward, 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,[56] 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.[57]

HxH2011 EP46 Kurapika on the phone with Light Nostrade Kurapika promoted as the leader 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.[57] After agreeing to go to a place far from the city where they can fight freely,[58] Uvogin and Kurapika face off in a Nen battle.[59] He manages to capture Uvogin and deprive him of his Nen.[60] After questioning him fruitlessly, he is forced to kill Uvogin.[61] Kurapika's defeat of Uvogin makes him the main target of the Phantom Troupe, who begin to actively search for him.[62] On September 3rd, they catch Gon and Killua.[63] One of them, Pakunoda, has the ability of mind-reading through touching. Since neither Gon nor Killua knows the "chain guy" is Kurapika, Pakunoda assumes that they have nothing to do with him. Shortly afterward, Killua realizes that Kurapika is the one the Troupe are searching for,[64] but luckily he and Gon manage to escape at night, before being questioned by her again.[65]

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.[62] After meeting up with the assassins in the auction building on 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.[66] The auction building is once again attacked by the Troupe[67] in revenge for Uvogin,[68] and most of the hired assassins and 2,000 Mafia gangsters protecting it are killed quickly.[69] 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.[70] Then, using the ability of a member, Kortopi, the Phantom Troupe fake their own deaths,[71] create copies of all the items and continue the auction using the fakes.[70] Kurapika arrives just in time to see the fake corpses, he watches with hatred and sadness to the bodies of Chrollo, Machi, Feitan, Shizuku, Shalnark, and Franklin. He then wins the last item: a pair of fake Scarlet Eyes.[71]

Kurapika and gon Gon and Kurapika sees the Troupe at the train station The next day, September 4th, Kurapika meets up with Gon, Killua,[72] 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 learned of his abilities, they realize the threat Pakunoda poses.[73] He then receives a message from Hisoka saying that the bodies are fakes.[74] Kurapika decides to keep chasing after the Phantom Troupe alone, but Leorio, Killua, and Gon want to help him.[75]

HxH2011 EP57 Chrollo provokes Kurapika Though Kurapika holds Chrollo's life within his hands, he cannot intimidate the Phantom Troupe leader While following the Phantom Troupe, Kurapika prepares to fight with Chrollo, Machi, and Shizuku, but Gon intervenes, causing his and Killua's capture.[76] Pakunoda questions them again and finds out who Kurapika is.[77] With the help of Leorio and Melody; Kurapika manages to capture Chrollo Lucilfer before Pakunoda could reveal what she has found out,[78] Kurapika then contacts the Spiders, speaking with Pakunoda, Nobunaga and briefly Phinks about the terms of their exchange.[79] 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.[80] After the exchange,[81] Kurapika collapses from exhaustion due to his continual use of his Scarlet Eyes.[82] Once he recovers, he leaves Yorknew City to continue his search for the Scarlet Eyes.[83]

Greed Island arc

After Killua returns to 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's 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.[84]

13th Hunter Chairman Election arc

148 - Kurapika and Scarlet Eyes Kurapika making a funeral for his murdered clan members 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.[85] 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.[86] 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.[87]

Succession Contest arc

The New Rat Zodiac

343 - Kurapika Scarlet Eyes Kurapika warns Mizaistom to choose his next words wisely After Leorio agrees to fill one of the two empty spots in the Zodiacs, he nominates Kurapika for the remaining spot. Mizaistom approaches Kurapika to request that he join the Zodiacs and accompany them to the Dark Continent. Initially, Kurapika's underlings within the Nostrade Family receive Mizaistom instead of Kurapika, but after Mizaistom restrains them, an annoyed Kurapika steps out to meet him. Mizaistom introduces himself and explains why he came, but is refused by Kurapika. Mizaistom decides to take a different approach and asks Kurapika about his progress retrieving the Scarlet Eyes. Kurapika's eyes turn red and he warns Mizaistom to speak wisely. Mizaistom reveals that while doing a background check for a VIP for the Dark Continent trip, he coincidentally identified the owner of a large number of Scarlet Eyes seen in a video uploaded to a darknet site six months ago, and offers to identify them for Kurapika if he joins the Zodiacs and accompany them to the Dark Continent, though he would have to spend about two months on a ship. Kurapika asks if the person would be on board, but Mizaistom remains silent as Kurapika still had not agreed to join him. After a moment of contemplation, Kurapika remembers that his priority is to recover his brethren's stolen eyes by any means necessary, and agrees to Mizaistom's requests. After hearing Kurapika's agreement, Mizaistom holds out a picture and identifies the owner as Tserriednich Hui Guo Rou, 4th Prince of the Kakin Empire.[88]

344 - Kurapika staring at a picture of Tserriednich Kurapika first lays his eyes on the "last monster" Kurapika takes a moment while holding Tserriednich's picture and sits in front of a monument, where he keeps the Scarlet Eyes he had managed to recover. He reminisces about his journey so far and thinks of the backgrounds of the people he had threatened, coaxed, and paid off to recover the Eyes. He thinks of Pairo, his now-deceased childhood friend, about the prospect of his journey finally beginning, after he reclaims the last of the Eyes, and wondering what to do after, without home to return to or anyone to welcome him home.[89]

Kurapika then takes a car with Mizaistom to the Hunter Association's headquarters and calls Leorio to update him on the matter. Leorio repeatedly demands to know his e-mail address, but Kurapika declines each time and changes the topic to ask about Gon. Leorio reassures him that Gon is fine and asks him to come over and help him through the awkwardness of not knowing anyone. Kurapika hangs up while thinking that Leorio doesn't actually have a problem, since he's not bashful. Mizaistom tells Kurapika that Leorio seems to have a lot of faith in him, but Kurapika expresses his uncertainty at his ability being useful in the endeavor, before thanking Mizaistom for letting him know about Tserriednich. Kurapika says he will help as much as he can and prepares to remind Mizaistom about his priorities, but is cut off by Mizaistom who had guessed his thoughts and preemptively told Kurapika that he could prioritize Tserriednich while on board. Mizaistom warns him that dark rumors surround Tserriednich and that he should be careful and aim for an amicable solution. Kurapika smiles faintly and tells Mizaistom that he is better at handling monsters in human skin than the unknown.[89]

As they ride, Mizaistom asks Kurapika what he will do with Tserriednich after recovering the Eyes. Kurapika explains that he will yield to most demands and just wants his brethren back. Mizaistom then asks what he would do if Tserriednich resists, and Kurapika sinisterly shares his experience with two others who had said they would rather die than surrender the Eyes, but changed their minds without dying, and shares his expectation that the same would happen with Tserriednich. Mizaistom hopes that that would be the case.[90]

Preparations for the Voyage

346 - Kurapika with the Zodiacs Kurapika in the Zodiacs meeting room as the new "Rat" Leorio meets Kurapika as he arrives and quietly shares that the mission sounded tougher than expected, before asking Kurapika for his opinion. Kurapika says that he had not heard much but did not believe it to be a problem. Cheadle interrupts them and leads them to a meeting room, where the rest of the Zodiacs wait. Cheadle introduces them to the other Zodiacs and begins her briefing about The V5 and the results of their past failures at exploring the Dark Continent, at the hands of creatures individually a greater threat than the Chimera Ants. She also mentions that they would need to discuss about how they would deal with the currently-detained Beyond, and asks if they have any questions. Kurapika raises a hand and asks how many allies Beyond has within the Association, surprising the other zodiacs with his directness. Kanzai asks how knows of this, and Kurapika snidely explains that it could be inferred from Netero's will hinting at Beyond making preparations for the journey until his father's death, and Beyond turning himself as a sign of his confidence in controlling a project of that scale even under confinement, requiring the existence of a trustworthy and competent right-hand man. Cheadle explains the events of the election to Kurapika, who has new questions and is asked by Mizaistom to speak privately with him outside.[1]

Chap 346 - Kurapika Intelligence Kurapika being assigned to the Information Team 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 the Zodiacs have a spy among them; and since no one has direct connections to Beyond, all Zodiacs are considered suspects. Mizaistom elaborates that Netero had appointed Pariston as the Vice-Chairman for fun despite objections, though adds that Pariston might be a red herring and not the real spy. He admits to Kurapika that part of the reason he was invited to the Zodiacs was that he is an outsider, and therefore likely unrelated. Kurapika agrees to Mizaistom's request to keep their suspicion of a mole within the Zodiacs a secret, and they return. 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.[1]

One month later, as the 289th Hunter Exam comes to an end, Pariston informs Ging that his replacement seems to be quite competent, having failed all of Beyond's assassins. Muherr mentions that everyone who could have 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 dismisses the possibility since they did not yet have an escape plan.[1]

Chapter 348- Kurapika uses dowsing chain for Hunter Exam Using Dowsing Chain to test Hunter Exam applicants In a flashback, Kurapika watches the candidates attempt the final test of the 289th Hunter Exam, a recording of their answers to a set of questions about the voyage's announcement, using his Dowsing Chain to identify those hiding information. 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 states his surprise at the number of spies having passed the the psychological test in the first round, and clearing the thermography and lie detector. Next to him, Mizaistom states how impressed he is with Kurapika's ability. Kurapika suggests not overestimating it since the ability's mechanism is still unclear to him. and 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 that 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.[91]

After some reflection, Mizaistom concludes it impossible, saying that there should not be anyone in the Zodiacs with the ability in question, before explaining why he cannot be completely sure. The Zodiacs used to be aligned by their political orientation, often working with members of the same faction for their missions, discounting Cheadle, Botobai, and Ginta from Mizaistom's suspicions. Furthermore, the Zodiacs agreed to share information on their abilities to promote cooperation between them in light of their new specialized groupings for the Dark Continent voyage. Kurapika asks if he will have to do the same and hears Mizaistom reassure him of the opposite, that he would not press for any details or divulge whatever he hears regarding his ability, but in return would not be able to share the others' abilities with him. Kurapika is relieved and shares that he had been thinking how much of a help Leorio had been as a go-between. Mizaistom concurs.[91]

Chap 348 - Saiyu the Traitor The informant is Saiyu Mizaistom resumes his speculation and summarizes 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, since a mole of that caliber within the Association would have taken measures to ensure certain people would not have failed. Mizaistom acknowledges the possibility of some being used as decoys to distract from more powerful spies, but shares that his greatest worry 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.[91]

Chapter 349- Kurapika with Mizaistrom after watching Beyond video With Mizaistom after watching the video containing Beyond Afterward, 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.[92]

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 contradicts 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.[92]

349 - Kurapika's Plan Kurapika explains his plan to arrest Saiyu right before landing on the New Continent 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.[92]

The Surprising Job

Chap 350 - Recruited Hunters Kurapika hires 5 Hunters so that each can infiltrate a prince’s security detail 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, who 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 most likely the latter as it signifies his strong self-esteem and self-control.[93]

Belerainte helping Kurapika 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.[111]

Chap 386 - Kurapika introducing the Water Divination test Kurapika introducing the Water Divination test Over the next few days, the lectures continue without the user of Silent Majority making another move. On Friday, he feels an incredibly powerful aura, but he resolves to keep his calm so as not to weaken his own Nen.[112] The morning after the banquet, during one of the lectures, Kurapika and Bill feel the rumbling aura surge again. They conclude it comes from an odd-numbered room. Kurapika assures Sakata that its signature is different from the one of Prince Zhang Lei's Guardian Spirit Beast and that therefore it is unlikely that it belongs to him. From the way it swells before disappearing abruptly, Kurapika estimates that it is an Emission ability, which might be able to go through walls. Sakata then says that Kurapika's students are starting to have doubts about the training due to repeating the same exercise over and over. Kurapika replies that he will start the next stage the following day and performs the Water Divination test as a Specialist in front of them.[113]

Chap 388 - Yuri with Stealth Dolphin Yuri using Bill's ability through Stealth Dolphin After explaining its purpose, he points Ladiolus as his most advanced disciple to provoke some of the other bodyguards into being competitive. He states that one's Nen category should never be revealed and that the screenings will be conducted in a separate room and witnessed only by Bill and him. When Maor, Satobi, and Danjin object, Kurapika justifies his decision with the requirements of the training, the risk he took by showing his own Nen type, and his camp's wish for a stalemate, which means that he has no intention of gathering intelligence to hurt the higher-ranked princes. Once again, he adds that if they cannot accept his conditions, they can drop off the training.[113] One by one, Kurapika invites Ladiolus, Maor, Yuri, and Satobi into the main bedroom. There, contrary to what he told them, he does not have them perform Water Divination, but, after receiving their consent, he forces their Aura Nodes open with Stealth Dolphin and briefly gives them Bill's Erigeron ability. He then enforces a gag order preventing anyone from disclosing what transpired until every one of his students has, supposedly, taken the test, lest the training be canceled.[114]

When the lesson ends, he thanks Bill for revealing his ability and, when the latter calls himself a coward for choosing Room 1014 to guard because he believed he could avoid major fights and for resolving to stay out of shame, Kurapika points out that cowards do not steel themselves as he did. Hashito approaches him, demanding to be taught Nen right away in return for allowing Tenftory to be awakened last. Kurapika accepts, but warns Hashito that, since he has not taken the training, he will be too exhausted to even move for a while afterward.[114]

At 11:30 of the tenth day the rumbling aura can be felt again. Kurapika observes that the intervals between one surge and the next are becoming shorter.[114]

During their conversation after observing 11th Prince Fugetsu's rapidly deteriorating state, Melody pleads with Kaiser to be released on bail to find out what happened to Fugetsu. Kaiser is forced to refuse her, citing an inability to refuse any orders to perform they wish to avoid. Melody asks him to instead visit Kurapika in Room 1014 and tell him everything, since Kurapika is the only one she trusts. Kaiser wonders if she really means everything, and Melody stresses that they can't waste any time, asking him to hurry.[115]

A contract from Beyond's child

At 11:45 a.m. during lessons on the tenth day of the voyage, Kurapika and Bill invite Longhi into Room 1014's master bedroom in order to privately initiate her with Nen, as they did with her unawakened classmates.[115] Kurapika lets Longhi enter first and joins her and Bill at a table after shutting the door, facing Longhi with Oito and Woble behind him.[116]

Before Kurapika and Bill can begin, Longhi declines the divination and volunteers that she can already use Nen. Kurapika and Bill are surprised and begin to react to her statement. Longhi activates her Moonlight Act to establish a Nen-based contract, simultaneously proving she was not the killer of Barrigen and Myuhan. Longhi explains that Moonlight Act allows her to loan her ability or to restrict the actions of those that voluntarily sign a limited-term contract of hers, and asks Kurapika to hold off on agreeing or disagreeing to an alliance with Tubeppa in the contract before she finishes explaining her terms.[116]

Longhi reveals that Tubeppa is unaware of her ability, and unaware of her ability to use Nen in general. She explains that her contract is insurance to guarantee that her true plan goes smoothly. Kurapika activates his Dowsing Chain and aims a gun at her, preparing to shoot her if she lies. Longhi asks why he bothers, pointing out that a Nen user cannot be killed with a .22 caliber handgun, but Kurapika does not respond. Longhi continues by sharing that her ability requires her to explain the whole truth first, and that telling Kurapika the details of a contract between him and Tubeppa would suffice if that were her only goal, but reveals that for her true plan, she wants to grant Kurapika additional power with her ability and has to explain everything about the true plan in order to do so.[116]

Longhi reveals that she is Beyond Netero's daughter, and pauses to let the weight of her words sink in. After a short pause, Kurapika asks her to contine. Longhi reveals that she, like many others, were raised to parents in a marriage arranged by Beyond, and put in the Royal Military Academy. She explains that she had thought her purpose was to be someone that Beyond placed in important positions close to the next king of Kakin. Longhi confirms Kurapika's understanding that what she had just explained was what she originally believed was her true plan. Kurapika watches intently as Longhi continues to explain what she earlier believed was Beyond's plan.[116]

Longhi mentions that she could use Nen as an infant as a side effect of Beyond's Nen attack, and that newborns with Nen instinctively learnt Ten and Zetsu to prevent fatigue. Kurapika asks her to elaborate what she means by attack, and Longhi reveals a mark below her tongue for Kurapika to see using Gyo, the mark of a curse that many of her half-siblings had, varying in strength between the half-siblings, which she believed was meant to curse a prince upon her death. Bill reminds Kurapika that taking too long would draw the suspicion of others, but Kurapika insists on hearing all of the story so that they can form a contract with Tubeppa. Kurapika confirms with Longhi that she is sure that her target is a Prince, despite not knowing who it is. After she confirms it, Kurapika agrees with Bill's speculation that Beyond left it to fate to increase its power using Nen limitations. Kurapika adds on that Beyond is in Kakin's innermost circles and so likely just wants Benjamin to take the throne. He points out that sacrificing a life is necessary for a powerful curse and that if Beyond gave Benjamin such a hint to ensure his survival, Benjamin could use his special martial law as a last resort.[116]

Longhi disagrees with Kurapika's reasoning, surprising him. Longhi expresses her belief that Beyond would not expend the effort he did for someone unrelated to him. Kurapika catches on to what she says. Longhi sees him understand, and explicitly states her belief that Beyond had fathered one of Kakin's 14 Princes. Kurapika asks Oito what the requirements for a Prince's participation in the contest are, and Oito replies that there was no mention of paternal lineage in the requirements.[116]

A knock comes on the door, and Sakata asks Kurapika if anything was wrong. Kurapika deactivates his Dowsing Chain, puts his gun away, and steps out to reassure the participants that they were fine, and gives the (half-truth) explanation that negotiations were taking a while because they could not agree on the terms of the truce. Kurapika promises to explain it fully afterwards to clear up any doubt the participants have, and asks them for their patience. Furykov observes Kurapika when he steps out, and wonders what they were talking about, believing that they had noticed that Longhi was responsible for Barrigen and Myuhan's deaths but noting no change in Kurapika's aura.[116]

Kurapika returns to the master bedroom. He closes the door, then reactivates Dowsing Chain and redraws his gun. Longhi begins to explain the details of the contract she wants to have Kurapika agree to. She begins by explaining the contract with Tubeppa and its details:[116]

To avoid unnecessary suspicion, since the letters to the higher-ranked Princes exposed their scandals and crimes, who might accelerate the conflict if they get nervous that the lower-ranked Princes hold their secrets[119] In the hopes that making 10th Prince Kacho's wishes known will put a damper on the succession battle[119] In order to incentivize the higher-ranked Princes to contact them, and they could use postponing or canceling the letter reveal as a bargaining chip.[119] In Room 1003 at roughly the same time, Zhang Lei gathers his guards and try to figure out the functionality of the coins his Guardian Spirit Beast had produced. They see that most coins have a '1' on it although one coin had a '10' on it, but get nowhere meaningful. Zhang Lei decides that he needs Kurapika to get through identifying information on Nen that could affect the battle for the throne, as well as his Guardian Spirit Beast's ability and effects, and asks for Room 1014 to be contacted.[119]

Sometime after 1:00 p.m.,[120] Kurapika makes his way to Room 1003, together with Oito and Woble.[119] There, he tells Zhang Lei that he had pretty much confirmed his guess that the coins change after ten days. Kurapika says that there should be an upper limit to how many coins can be produced in order to maintain their physical forms, though in Zhang Lei's case the costs are shared by distributing them to others which makes mass production possible.[120]

Kurapika points out that the point of currency is to change hands and suggests verifying what changes occur in that case. He starts by asking if there are any differences in design between the ones he has and the ones given to others. Tenftory notices that his coin has a different design and brings it to them to for them to see. They notice that though the front is the same, the back designs are different—Tenftory's coin has an image of Zhang Lei inscribed, but Zhang Lei's coin has an image of his Guardian Spirit Beast inscribed.[120]

In order to see what happens when coins are exchanged, Kurapika asks Zhang Lei to give one of his coins to Tenftory, but Zhang Lei instead decides to give Kurapika the '10' coin. Kurapika is surprised and worried but does so in case he loses Zhang Lei's trust by refusing the coin. Kurapika reassures himself by thinking that even if accepting the coin was the condition for activating a semi-coercive manipulation ability, the Nen stored in a coin over ten days is not enough to force powerful commands like murder to be followed. Since only one coin was produced a day and they take ten days to change, Kurapika sees that it is a long-term outlook, an ability that will only demonstrate its true value after Zhang Lei becomes king which reflects his personality to plan ahead, from which Kurapika concludes that accepting the coin is safe enough for now.[120]

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 several "unripe fruit" with vast potential during the Hunter Exam.[30] Although at the beginning Kurapika was weaker than Killua, during the Yorknew City arc he had become stronger than him due to his Nen abilities. Indeed, Kurapika 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 at that.[61] Kurapika's 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.[60] 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.

HxH2011 EP57 Kurapika Scarlet Eyes Kurapika's Scarlet Eyes 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.[22] 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.[82] His current limit is about 3 hours, after which the pain and fatigue become too intense and he passes out[104] 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.[105] At some point during his Nen training, Kurapika learned to turn his eyes scarlet at will and acquired the ability to control his emotions.[121]

Advanced Hearing: Kurapika has a keener sense of hearing than average humans, which enables him to perceive revelatory sounds[9] and overhear conversations others would miss.[21]

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.[122]

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.[4] 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.[61]

Kurapika using his chanis Kurapika deflecting bullets Immense 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.[60] He can catch bullets with one of his chains[47] and restrain a target with another in 0.5 seconds from a fair distance,[123] and in approximately 0.2 or 0.3 from only a few meters.[78]

Enhanced Agility: Kurapika can jump several meters in the air and hit his opponents from various angles with acrobatic moves without losing his balance.[60] This is first proven when he leaps on top of a chandelier during the exam to be hired by Light Nostrade[47] and later in the confrontation against Uvogin.[60]

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.[60]

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.[57] 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.[1] 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.[93]

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. On the Black Whale he exhibited greater composure than before and has performed his greatest strategic feat yet, becoming the lynchpin of a stalemate, or at least an impediment, of the succession contest with an endless series of ad hoc tactics, mixing truth and lies, secrets and deliberately disclosed information.[114] His disclosure of the existence of Nen and his classes constituted the biggest game-changer of the succession contest, forcing an impasse and increasing the odds of lower-ranked princes to survive.[111][113][114]

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.[60]

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.[60] The chains are suited for both offensive and defensive purposes (usually the Dowsing Chain),[47] as well as immobilizing the opponent (Chain Jail).[55]

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.[5]

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.[51] When trying to identify a mole within the Zodiacs, he could tell it was Saiyu just by observing his body language. Kurapika's Nen Type: Conjuration Type: Conjuration Dowsing Chain (導く薬指の鎖ダウジングチェーン The Guiding Ring Finger Chain)[note 3] HxH2011 EP40 Kurapika Dowsing Chain A chain ending with a small, ball-shaped weight that Kurapika frequently uses in combat, for offensive and defensive purposes.[47] Its main utility is as a medium for pendulum dowsing, with the ball moving in accordance with Kurapika's "dowsing" objective at a given time. Hence useful for investigation, the chain can be used to determine the location of missing individuals (by moving in their direction)[66] and identify if someone is lying (by swinging back and forth).[47] If the chain's ability is used in a group, it works better if the persons questioned reply one at a time.[96] Under ordinary conditions, Kurapika must be directly in front of the target for the lie detection to be effective; however, when Emperor Time is active, he can also use that ability through video recordings, provided he has met the subject before. Kurapika himself is unaware of how this side of his power works, his guess being that, through the conveyance of the chain and extreme focus, he can unconsciously detect subtle indications that someone is lying.[91] Type: Conjuration Chain Jail (束縛する中指の鎖チェーンジェイル The Restraining Middle Finger Chain)[note 3] HxH2011 EP44 Uvogin in Chain Jail An extremely durable chain with a hook for an end piece, whose sole purpose is to capture Spiders and strip them of their freedom.[55] It forces captives into a state of Zetsu, shutting off their aura and preventing the use of Nen abilities; consequently, it is only possible to escape from Chain Jail using brute force, although not even Uvogin, the physically strongest Spider, could break free from it.[61] The chain's conjuration speed is such that Kurapika can fully restrain a distant target in half a second.[123] To create Chain Jail, Kurapika imposed the Limitation that it may only be used on members of the Phantom Troupe, with the added stipulation that violating this rule will result in his death.[55] Type: Specialization Emperor Time (絶対時間エンペラータイム Absolute Time)[note 4] EmperorTime When Kurapika's eyes shift into scarlet, he changes from a Conjurer to a Specialist. This ability allows him to utilize all the types of Nen to 100% efficiency (for a Conjurer).[4] Kurapika explains this using the terms "Level", "Force", and "Accuracy": his "Levels" in the various Nen categories remain the same during Emperor Time, but his "Force" and "Accuracy" for every category are raised to 100%. Thus, if Kurapika's "Level" in Conjuration was 10, his "Level" in Emission (the polar opposite aura type) would remain 4 at the most, but his "Force" and "Accuracy" in any Emission ability would increase from 40% to 100%, making him evenly matched against a Level 4 Emitter.[121] However, the price to pay is considerable, as every second spent in this mode shortens Kurapika's lifespan by one hour.[100] Type: Conjuration, Enhancement Holy Chain (癒す親指の鎖ホーリーチェーン The Healing Thumb Chain)[note 3] HolyChain Via its cross pendant, this chain cures wounds by drawing from Enhancement-type Nen. When Kurapika is in his Specialist state, the chain can heal serious injuries, such as a fractured arm, within seconds.[61] Type: Conjuration Judgment Chain (律する小指の鎖ジャッジメントチェーン The Arbiter Little Finger Chain)[note 3] JudgmentChain Via the blade on its end—the so-called Stake of Retribution (戒いましめの楔くさび Imashime no Kusabi)—this chain enters a victim's body and wraps around their heart. Kurapika then declares a binding rule that, if violated by the victim, results in the Stake of Retribution piercing their heart and killing them.[61] Kurapika himself has a blade around his heart, which he used to set the Limitations for the use of Chain Jail ability.[55] He is capable of issuing at least two commands per Stake of Retribution,[80] can dispel the chain at will,[121] and is confident that he would be alerted if a Spider removed it.[84] Due to Kurapika's low affinity for and mastery over Emission and Manipulation, Judgment Chain can only be used in conjunction with Emperor Time.[121] Type: Conjuration Steal Chain (奪う人差し指の鎖スチールチェーン The Thieving Index Finger Chain)[note 3] Steal Chain With an end piece shaped like a syringe, this chain, upon piercing a target's body, drains their aura and steals one of their Nen abilities. While their aura is being drained (a process that seems painful), the target is forced into a state similar to Zetsu. Subsequently, the target is unable to use the stolen ability until it is returned to them. There are no conditions attached to stealing an ability aside from piercing the target with the syringe: thus far, Kurapika has stolen two abilities, one after the owner's Nen type had been revealed and the general mechanics of the ability explained,[97] and another that was about to be used without any prior knowledge. The original owner's death does not result in Kurapika losing possession of a stolen ability.[100] Type: Specialization Stealth Dolphin (人差し指の絶対時間ステルスドルフィン The Index Finger's Emperor Time) Steal Chain2 Chap 364 - Oito and Nen Dolphin By activating Emperor Time, Kurapika can summon a dolphin-like Nen Beast with a syringe on each pectoral fin that is visible and audible only to himself. This construct can "equip" and analyze the stolen ability, informing Kurapika of its name, functions, and conditions. Kurapika can then use the stolen ability for himself[97] or loan it to another person, including non-users, by using the syringe from Steal Chain to inject it into them. If the ability is loaned, a listening device is conjured in the recipient's ear that enables them to see the dolphin and communicate with it via telepathy. The dolphin can counsel the recipient on how to use the ability,[100] and will utilize it itself when given the order by the recipient of the loaned ability.[103] When Kurapika or someone he has loaned an ability to activates it, it is fueled with the aura that Steal Chain took from its owner, ensuring that it is used with its original power.[114]

A side-effect of Stealth Dolphin is that when it is used on a non-user it will allow them to see aura[101] and, after the loaned ability is activated, semi-force all of their Aura Nodes open, essentially making them Nen users, although training is still necessary to control one's own aura flow and prevent its leakage.[114]

Suppose Kurapika equips the dolphin with a stolen ability and transfers it to someone else. In that case, he can use Steal Chain again and steal another ability. Transferring it does not allow him to exit Emperor Time until he can dismiss the dolphin, which can only be done if Stealth Dolphin does not hold an ability. Kurapika does not need to load Stealth Dolphin with an ability, but if he does, he is unable to dismiss it until the ability is used at least once, even if the loading is only done for purposes of analyzing the ability.[100] Regardless of who controls it, a stolen ability can be used only once, after which it is returned to the original user. As a downside, as long as all stolen abilities are not returned, Emperor Time will remain active. The dolphin will regularly notify Kurapika of how long Emperor Time has been active for unless it is put on standby, in which case it can be made to disappear.[97] Should Kurapika faint while someone else is using an ability loaned to them by him, that person will pass out as well.[105] Former Stolen Abilities