Ch. 401A crucial piece in the plan against the Phantom Troupe
Chapter Summary: “An Important Piece in Targeting the Phantom Troupe”
Key Plot Points and Events
- Netero reflects on his experiences on the Dark Continent and the enormous risks posed by its Calamities. Because of these dangers, he considers exploration of the continent taboo and has previously prevented his son Beyond from attempting another expedition.
- Concerned that Ging—and possibly Moyu—might develop the same ambition, Netero ultimately decides not to speak with Moyu about the subject.
- Moyu continues recovering from the severe injuries he suffered during his match with Netero. Ging stays briefly after discovering the details of Moyu’s “Ko: Bone Plating” technique, then leaves without making any effort to meet Gon.
- Killua is taken back to the Zoldyck estate, apparently by Silva. Moyu is surprised but not overly concerned, believing the restraint he showed toward the Zoldyck Family will prevent the conflict from escalating.
- Netero visits Moyu in the hospital to honor the wager from their match. Moyu requests permission to use his Shapeshifter’s Mask on Netero.
- Moyu explains that the mask must cover a target’s face for eight seconds while the target is in Zetsu. It then copies the target’s appearance and Nen ability, though the copied ability can only be used perfectly by someone of the appropriate Nen type.
- Netero agrees, demonstrating his trust in Moyu. Moyu successfully imprints Netero and obtains a flawless mask capable of allowing him to assume Netero’s appearance and use his ability.
- Moyu reveals that the mask is intended to help him eliminate the Phantom Troupe. Netero jokes that Moyu could simply ask him for assistance, but Moyu refuses because he wants to accomplish the mission himself and preserve the potential rewards from his Perception ability.
- After twenty days of recovery, Moyu leaves the hospital and accepts a Hunter Association assignment to teach Nen to a newcomer. He uses the opportunity to request Kurapika as his student instead of Hanzo, whom the Association originally intended him to teach.
- Following news of Moyu’s promotion to Two-Star Hunter, a fifth Green Bead forms within his Path of Legends monument and becomes a Counterpoint Keystone. Its ability can cultivate a technique designed to counter a particular “phenomenon,” prompting Moyu to consider using it against the phenomenon he has been planning to confront.
Character Developments
- Moyu becomes more calculating and determined. He refuses to rely on Netero or other powerful allies, choosing instead to take risks personally so that he can earn greater rewards through his own actions.
- He also demonstrates increased strategic maturity by preserving his relationship with the Zoldyck Family, using Illumi’s survival and his connection to Netero as safeguards against retaliation.
- Netero shows growing trust in Moyu. Although he remains playful and teasing, he recognizes Moyu’s exceptional potential and may view him as a future pillar of the Hunter Association.
- Killua is returned to his family despite the absence of Illumi’s direct interference, suggesting that the Zoldycks remain determined to control his development.
- Ging remains indifferent to his responsibilities as Gon’s father, leaving after studying Moyu’s technique without attempting to meet Gon.
- Menchi and Shizuku show concern and loyalty toward Moyu, reacting with hostility toward Netero because of the injuries he inflicted on him. Menchi’s attentive care further highlights her closeness to Moyu.
Significant Themes
- The danger of pursuing the unknown: The Dark Continent represents humanity’s attraction to discovery clashing with the responsibility to prevent catastrophic consequences.
- Trust and vulnerability: Netero’s willingness to enter Zetsu and allow Moyu to copy him demonstrates an unusually deep level of trust, especially given the political consequences of harming the Hunter Association chairman.
- Self-reliance and earned power: Moyu deliberately avoids using his extensive network of powerful allies. He believes meaningful rewards require personal risk and that overwhelming outside assistance would undermine his growth.
- Strategic preparation: The Netero mask is not merely a disguise but a carefully preserved trump card in Moyu’s larger plan against the Phantom Troupe.
- Mentorship and succession: Moyu’s appointment as a Nen teacher, particularly his choice to teach Kurapika, positions him as a rising mentor and potential successor figure within the Hunter world.
- The cost and power of Nen restrictions: The Shapeshifter’s Mask and Moyu’s broader abilities gain strength through strict conditions, illustrating how vows, risks, and limitations produce extraordinary power.
Important Character Interactions
- Moyu and Netero: Their relationship shifts from rivalry to mutual trust. Netero honors their wager, listens to Moyu’s explanation, teases him about needing help, and ultimately permits Moyu to copy his appearance and Nen ability.
- Moyu and Menchi: Menchi cares for Moyu during his recovery, peeling grapes and preparing food. Their exchange reflects familiarity and affection.
- Moyu and Shizuku: Shizuku quietly supports Moyu in the hospital and respects his request for privacy when Netero arrives.
- Moyu and Killua: Although they do not interact directly in this chapter, Moyu worries about Killua’s forced return home and about forming a lasting bond with him.
- Moyu and the Hunter Association: Moyu accepts the teaching assignment but negotiates its terms, replacing Hanzo with Kurapika as his intended student.
- Moyu and Ging: Ging’s brief stay centers on analyzing Moyu’s technique, emphasizing Ging’s curiosity and self-interest rather than his relationship with Gon.