The Two Aces in the Hole (2つの切り札, Futatsu no Kirifuda) is the 18th chapter of the Hunter × Hunter manga, written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi.
Synopsis
Gon wins his match against Sedokan. Now it is Kurapika's turn to fight against Majtani. Majtani claims to have killed nineteen people. He keeps bragging, in order to put fear into Kurapika, but it proves to be ineffective. Majtani proposes a fight to the death. He is surprised to see Kurapika not being intimidated by his appearance and forfeit the match. He adds that weapons are not allowed in this fight.
The battle starts. Leorio and Gon are worried about Kurapika, but Killua thinks to himself that Majtani is only an impostor, and will not dare kill or hit his opponent. Majtani charges at Kurapika who easily dodges it, but Majtani's fist makes a big hole in the floor. Kurapika suddenly notices Majtani's numberless spider tattoo on his back, resembling one of the Phantom Troupe's. Leorio explains the significance of this to Gon, as Gon is confused. Majtani claims to be a member of the Troupe while Kurapika's Scarlet Eyes quickly react to his anger, showing a bright red color. He grabs Majtani by the chin, who tries to surrender, and punches Majtani so hard that his face is crushed into the ground. Kurapika tells Majtani to remember 3 things:
- A genuine Phantom Troupe tattoo has the member's number inscribed on the spider tattoo's back.
- They have murdered so many people that it would be impossible to count.
- Do not ever mention the Phantom Troupe again to Kurapika again or he will kill Majtani.
Kurapika walks toward his group, who are still wary of him, due to his rage. He assures them that he is alright, although Leorio is not really convinced. Kurapika tells them whenever he sees even a normal spider, he becomes angry. Then, Leorio volunteers for the next match.
Characters in Order of Appearance
- Sedokan
- Gon Freecss
- Leorio Paradinight
- Kurapika
- Killua Zoldyck
- Tonpa
- Majtani
- Phantom Troupe (Mentioned)
- Leroute (Unrevealed)
- Johness (Unrevealed)
- Bendot
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