Well I think the biggest thing we learned this chapter was the method by which Kurapika was unlocking Nen for everyone.

By using the dolphin, the possibility of someone not using the injected power is introduced, which in itself could be used as a threat or to kill Kurapika.

Another setup chapter, which admittedly slows down the pace, but I still think it's interesting.

Definitely not the worst chapter this arc, but a step down from the recent string of hits this 10-chapter run.

This was an excellent chapter. The pacing and flow of the banquet, and the build-up to the end had me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to see where we go from here.

Togashi has a penchant for characterization and tension - and this arc continues to showcase that in spades.

I'm really curious what will happen regarding Kacho's nen beast and how her presence will affect the relevant characters (Melody, Seiko, and Fugetsu). Kacho's death definitely hit hard, as they're the most sympathetic princes after Kurapika's plight with Woble and Oito.

I assume that the nen beast is taking physical form through a conjuration ability, and everyone will be able to see her. It'll be interesting to see who, how, and when characters figure out the ruse. Even if Melody learns, I argue she wouldn't have the heart to tell Fugetsu off the bat - it would take some sort of breaking point to get her to admit the situation to the 11th prince.

I'm also glad for the flashback panels in this chapter illustrating the conversation between Keeny and Melody in 381. At the time I was confused about it, but we weren't supposed to know what was being said.

I want to bring attention to the flashback panel on the bottom right of chapter 383 page 13 (page 79 in the Viz SJ). I was initially confused about it and the phrase "pick up the numbers" so I did some research. I went to the HxH Reddit where I learned that Mizaistom's message to Melody in chapter 381 (page 3-4, or Viz page 9-10) had a hidden meaning.

The Hunter talking to Melody said the time in an odd way which Melody noticed. The time was 1:44 or 13:44 military time.

The first clause of the first statement in Japanese was "Princes Kacho and Fugetsu".

The third clause in the second statement in Japanese was "to escape".

The fourth clause in the third statement in Japanese was "it is a key part of your duty".

The fourth clause of the fourth statement in Japanese was "assisting".

Mizaistom was sending a hidden message to Melody "It is a key part of your duty assisting princes Kacho and Fugetsu to escape". He couldn't say so over official channels, but Mizaistom wants to prevent bloodshed as well. He can't get the Association directly involved, otherwise, it might start an additional conflict.

I just reread this arc for the first time since it started releasing four years ago. I caught many details like the example above on this reread that I missed reading it weekly.

The biggest issues with this arc are the density of information/new characters, compounded with the publication schedule and hiatuses. It makes it difficult - even for a big fan like me - to keep up with everything (without rereading the whole arc before every chapter run).

However, Togashi is definitely putting forth effort and planning into the plot, characterization, and art in this arc.

TL;DR: Chapter was great, curious where it'll go next week, Togashi is putting in work regarding the plotting and characterization of this arc.

Is there a chart somewhere that tracks the Weekly Jump rankings for the entire year?

One of the biggest things I look for when starting new series is unique art. I love it when I can tell without doubt that a certain author drew something. On the other hand I think it's not good for a series at all when the art feels like generic anime style art.

Some noteworthy styles as well as specific design choices:

JoJo without a doubt has one of the most signature styles out there. The art really helps sell what that series tries to do.

Berserk is also one of my favorite styles due to it's overall excellence in quality and imaginative designs and fight scenes.

Vinland Saga has an excellent style as well, and the eyes in that series are very unique. They're almost Disney like and it's something zombie grown fond of. The way he conveys weight and motion is also my favorite.

Other favorite's of mine include Inoue, Obata, and Urasawa. I'll likely return to expand on this topic later.

@mario:

man i feel like one piece is the only manga that sell very well these days

Hunter x Hunter still sells 1 million+.

Texas Smash was excellent. Can't wait for more top quality adaptation from Bones.

Just caught up with the series!

Really good battle scenes and likable characters. The art is solid and easy to understand, along with having excellent backgrounds. It started off a little basic but it has potential. Recent developments and ideas have expanded the possibilities well. Captain Yami is pretty cool.

A simple reason but I always like in a battle Shonen when they don't announce their plans to the enemy.

It'll be interesting to learn from the two hostages next chapter.

@HeartOfDarkness:

Which are the tonal inconsistencies that TLC is pointing out. Character's morality isn't consistent and both the very first arc and Greed Island are huge examples of inconsistent morality for Gon's character.

TLC talked about theme changes and chaotic story ideas.

My comment is directed at the morality you talked of which isn't necessarily relevant to that.

What evidence do you have for your argument that morality is inconsistent, and your original argument the human empathy is "non-existent"?

I agree with Ben. Morals are certainly present in the series with Gon and Killua among others.

Examples: Gon and Killua willingly go with Pakunoda when they could escape so that Kurapika wouldn't have to kill anyone. The less hatred Kurapika felt the better in their opinion. Kurapika throughout that arc realizes that some of the spiders do have morals as well, in Pakunoda's willingness to make a trade. Kurapika himself battles between the desire for revenge and his friends.

In Greed Island Biscuit, Killua and Gon decide to use Breath of Archangel on the Bombers after the fight. They didn't want to hurt anyone over the game, just to enjoy it and win properly.

Killua as a character wants to distance himself from his family business precisely because he doesn't want to kill anymore. He wanted to find a better reason to live (which he did in Alluka). Now he wants to protect him/her.

I could go on, but the point is that people certainly display normal human emotions. Even Chrollo, when asked why he does what he does, pondered introspectively about who he really was.

I'll make a story prediction and say some (or all) of the spiders will be hired as bodyguards, or in some other way get on that boat. Last we saw they wanted vengeance on Kurapika when the opportunity presented itself. The expedition (along with Kurapika's Zodiac position) are known to the public.

Chrollo is confirmed as having his Nen exorcised since Hisoka was chasing him around the world.