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Hunter x Hunter’s Hidden Depths: The Surprising Secret Behind Gon’s Journey

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The manga “Hunter x Hunter,” penned by Yoshihiro Togashi, first started publication in “Weekly Shōnen Jump” back in 1998. Since then, it has significantly transformed the anime world as we know it. At first glance, “Hunter x Hunter” might seem like a typical Shonen anime, with its jovial protagonist and ensemble of supporting characters. However, upon closer examination, the series reveals depths that are seldom found in this genre, particularly when it comes to the character of Gon Freecss.

To this very moment, the climactic showdown in the Chimera Ant arc continues to astound fans globally, as the ever-jovial and compassionate Gon transforms into an unrelenting force – a twist that leaves even Killua, my longtime companion, in awe. Beyond its links to Kite, a Hunter from Gon’s past, this life-altering confrontation with Neferpitou also echoes the foxbear species, creatures once native to the land where Gon embarked on his journey before us.

The Foxbears’ Appearance at Start of Hunter x Hunter Sets Up Kite ASAP & is Thematically Very Important

The Hunter Kite Saves Gon After He Accidentally Angers a Foxbear

In the initial scenes of “Hunter x Hunter”, Gon has successfully caught the Master of the Swamp, a massive fish living in Whale Island’s wetlands. This was a challenge given to him by Mito, who promised her nephew he could take the Hunter Exam if he managed this feat. Despite her reluctance, Mito consents to let Gon depart from Whale Island. Before he goes, Gon takes time to say goodbye to Kon, a remarkable creature known as a foxbear – one of many extraordinary animal types found in the world of “Hunter x Hunter”.

Years ago, I chanced upon an encounter in the Whale Island woods that wasn’t the least bit pleasant, particularly for Kon. Unbeknownst to him, a female foxbear and her cub had claimed a section of the forest as their own. Intruding on their territory, Gon unwittingly provoked the protective mother foxbear. As the enraged animal prepared to attack, a mysterious Hunter intervened, swiftly slaying the foxbear. The Hunter was infuriated with Gon for overlooking the claw marks on a tree nearby, signs that the foxbear had been marking her territory to safeguard her cub.

In this scenario, Kite found himself in a position where he had to eliminate a wild creature he was trying to safeguard. Additionally, he was preparing to terminate a foxbear cub, as the Hunter presumed it would be aggressive towards humans due to its mother’s demise. However, unexpectedly, Gon declared his intention to look after the orphaned foxbear cub, despite receiving injuries from it. This act left the Hunter astonished, and Kite soon recognized that this child was none other than the son of Ging – a mentor of his own. In that moment, Kite introduced himself to Gon and disclosed that his father was still alive, thus setting the narrative for the anime series. Notably, the 2011 anime adaptation omits Kite from the initial episode, making it simple to overlook his future significance.

The Foxbear Indirectly Led to Gon’s Path of Vengeance

A significant time had passed since Gon initially met Kite and departed from Whale Island. Later on, an unfortunate and momentous encounter between the two would transpire, leading to a tragic outcome. During this period, Gon, Kite, and Killua came across formidable creatures called Chimera Ants. When confronted by these powerful beings, Kite bravely stood his ground to shield Gon and Killua. The Chimera Ants were capable of absorbing other strong creatures, thereby enhancing their own power and adopting their traits. Among them were human-like specimens; in such cases, they could potentially inherit memories from their former lives.

Among King Meruem’s powerful allies, Neferpitou stands out, being particularly loyal to Komugi, a human whom the king grew fond of. After Gon and Killua manage to evade Neferpitou’s grasp, Kite disappears without a trace. Moved by his desire to protect the individual who not only rescued him but also ignited his quest to become a Hunter, Gon embarks on a search for Kite. However, what Gon and Killua eventually stumble upon alters everything in the end, marking the start of an incredibly surprising character development. In this dire condition, Kite is discovered, but it turns out that Neferpitou has been instructed to save Komugi, who has sustained severe injuries.

Previously, Gon was typically portrayed as a sympathetic character, but in this particular scene, any semblance of kindness seemed to disappear. Instead of displaying any hint of empathy towards Komugi, who had no involvement in Kite’s assault, Gon instead menaces her, along with Neferpitou, with the intent to kill. It was only due to Killua’s surprise at his friend’s harsh words that Neferpitou was given the opportunity to treat Komugi’s injuries. However, when Gon encounters Neferpitou again, he is confronted with two stark realities. One, Neferpitou aims to eliminate Gon. Two, Kite’s body has been altered into a decaying, puppet-like figure, a tool that only knows how to fight. Overwhelmed by sadness, Gon remains devoid of emotion for some time, even permitting the corpse to attack him.

Adult Gon Wouldn’t Be Possible Without Kite & The Foxbears’ Important Connection

To my astonishment, an ominous energy started pulsating from the young Hunter, permeating the space around him, a force that swiftly dominated the entire room. Gon remained steadfast amidst Neferpitou’s growing apprehension, his presence stirring a wind that sent items on nearby tables toppling over. As the energy intensified, the light in Gon’s eyes faded, leaving no trace of the jovial character we had initially known. In this instance, Gon was forging a Nen contract, one that would bestow upon him all the power he could ever wield in a fleeting second.

In a stunning turn of events, Gon acquired newfound strength, which led to him maturing into an adult on the spot. This transformation saw him ruthlessly annihilate Neferpitou and the remnants of the Chimera Ant. This pivotal moment in the story is often referred to by fans as a chilling massacre, rather than a battle. Gon’s transformation represented the unleashing of all his future abilities, but instead of a heroic display, it became a brutal bloodbath that would forever alter his character development. Although he was sometimes a hero, this instance was far from it, even if it was carried out for the sake of someone dear to him. However, Gon’s actions almost cost him his life, and even after recovering, the consequences lingered on…

Gon’s descent into trouble was largely influenced by Kite, who served as both an unofficial mentor and father figure to him. Interestingly, there’s a link between Gon and the foxbear species too. If not for Gon’s chance encounter with a mother foxbear, it’s possible that Kite would have never crossed paths with him or stepped in to help him when he needed it most. Additionally, if Kon had not been present, as Gon said he would protect him fiercely, Kite might not have recognized Gon as Ging’s son and never disclosed the truth about being a legendary Hunter to his estranged child. In turn, this could have prevented Gon from ever becoming a Hunter himself. The intricate details in Hunter x Hunter, including this one, are part of what makes the story so endearing and timeless.

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2025-06-03 18:08

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