As an ordinary person unaware of Nen's existence, Sapai struggled to grasp the Phantom Troupe's immense power.
He seemed like an otaku, obsessed with crafting fake antiques and perfecting his technical skills. Because of this, he had no knowledge of the Hunter Exam or the Hunter License—learning about them only through Gon and his friends.
When Sapai witnessed Gon trading a small Hunter License for 100 million Jenny, he was stunned.
Even so, as a loyal friend to Gon and the others, he followed Kurapika's meticulous plans without hesitation.
At precisely 7:00 a.m., when the lobby's power failed, Sapai discreetly left.
As he set up the antenna for his timing broadcast, Machi's cold voice broke the silence:
"They're here." Her eyes glinted as she cast a sharp glance toward the door.
Moments later, Nobunaga, Kortopi, and Pakunoda entered the hotel, their eyes landing on Chrollo and the others.
"Oh? You two again?" Nobunaga's tone was both mocking and excited as he noticed Gon and Killua bound tightly by Machi's threads. "It's all over now. I won't let you escape this time."
His gaze darkened, a dangerous edge creeping into his expression.
"I couldn't let it go last time. Maybe I should cut off your legs this time—just to be sure."
Nobunaga's oppressive aura filled the room as he drew his blade, its edge gleaming ominously. The faint scent of blood still clung to him, making the tension in the air almost unbearable. Gon and Killua shut their eyes, feigning resilience, but beads of sweat betrayed their fear.
On the sofa, Sapai's grip tightened around his newspaper. He was visibly uneasy but tried to blend in with the frightened crowd in the lobby. Fortunately, Nobunaga's display of violence caused a stir among the onlookers. Whispers of fear spread, and the hostesses at the counter clung to one another in panic.
"Stop, Nobunaga," Chrollo commanded, his tone calm yet firm. "We'll act when Feitan and the others arrive. Don't cause unnecessary trouble."
Recognizing Chrollo's authority, Nobunaga reluctantly sheathed his blade.
"Fine. But this time, you're not getting away unscathed." He leaned against a pillar, his sharp gaze never leaving Gon and Killua.
With the tension thick in the air, Pakunoda moved closer to Killua, her piercing eyes scanning him. Chrollo, standing near the counter, called out,
"Paku, find out if they've had contact with the Chain User. Learn their plans… and what they're hiding."
At the same time, Sapai discreetly prepared himself for what was to come. Meanwhile, on the west side of the room, Ronnel's sharp eyes observed everything.
"The darkness at seven," Ronnel murmured to himself, "is not just Kurapika's time to act—it's also mine." He adjusted his position, ready to strike when the moment was right.
As Pakunoda reached for Killua, the boy suddenly spoke up, revealing his knowledge of her Nen ability. Gon chimed in, his taunts aimed at throwing her off guard. Both were promptly silenced by Pakunoda, her hand tightening around them.
Hunter villains rarely explained their abilities outright, unlike those in other worlds. However, Pakunoda's explanation wasn't a slip, it was calculated. She used it to amplify psychological pressure, making her ability to probe memories even more effective.
The tense countdown to seven o'clock began. Ten seconds remained.
Pakunoda's voice was icy as she leaned closer to Killua.
"Tell me… what are you hiding?"
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