Hunter x Hunter chapter 409 continues the tense negotiation between Morena Prudo and Borkson, in which every decision brings unforeseen risks.

Morena’s enigmatic goals and unsettling revelations have created an atmosphere of unease, and the game is growing increasingly complex.

Kyojuro Rengoku from Demon Slayer, Spirited Away, and Mitsuha Miyamizu and Taki Tachibana from Your Name in ONE Esports featured image for article "The top 10 highest-grossing anime movies of all time"
Credit: ONE Esports
The top 10 highest-grossing anime movies of all time

The declaration of martial law aboard the Black Whale disrupts the already precarious situation, raising questions about how the unfolding events will impact the negotiation.

The stakes remain high as the game edges closer to a critical turning point.

Hunter x Hunter chapter 408 recap

Hunter x Hunter shot showing main characters Gon Freecss, Killua Zoldyck, Kurapika, and Leorio Paradinight from the 2011 anime
Credit: Shueisha, Madhouse, Yoshihiro Togashi

In chapter 408, Morena Prudo and Borkson began a negotiation game. Morena instructed Borkson to select a card, and he chose the “Purpose” card. This prompted Morena to reveal her ultimate goal: destroying the Kingdom of Kakin and, eventually, humanity.

Morena explained that achieving this required allies with unique abilities, including Borkson. Shocked by her blunt declaration, Borkson listened as Morena elaborated on her past and ties to Kakin’s oppressive traditions.

One Piece characters in ONE Esports featured image on the meaning of canon in anime
Credit: Toei Animation, ONE Esports
What does canon mean in anime? Important term explained

Morena described the “Carnival,” a royal festival where the Kakin monarchy randomly visited villages. During these visits, villagers were divided into two groups: those who served and victims. Blasphemy laws enforced strict obedience, with even minor disrespect toward royalty, such as eye contact, punishable by death.

The event resulted in her mother’s death while unknowingly pregnant. Born into this grim reality, Morena was classified as “meat” in a human trafficking ring connected to a criminal organization.

After enduring years of suffering, she eventually rose to lead the Ei Group, using her position to pursue her destructive ambitions.

Hunter x Hunter Hunter Exam arc in ONE Esports featured image for article "Why now is the best time to start watching Hunter x Hunter?
Credit: Madhouse, Yoshihiro Togashi, ONE Esports
Why now is the best time to start watching Hunter x Hunter

Morena then explained her unique Nen ability. She described it as a system where she could grant powers to allies who shared her goals. These allies, her “children,” could gain points and eventually create their own “children,” forming a pyramid-like hierarchy.

Her ability blended all five Nen categories, showcasing its complexity and versatility. Morena emphasized that Borkson’s latent potential as a Specialist made him invaluable.

She noted that specialists are rare and versatile, capable of mastering abilities across Nen categories and creating unique techniques.

Hunter x Hunter fighting game's initial characters Gon Freecss, Killua Zoldyck, Kurapika, Leorio, Hisoka, and Netero in Nen Impact
Credit: Bushiroad Games, Eighting, Yoshihiro Togashi, ONE Esports
Hunter x Hunter fighting game characters and our Nen Impact wishlist

Borkson questioned how Morena identified his potential despite his lack of training. She revealed that one of her allies, an Enhancer with an advanced sense of smell, could detect aura signatures, including those of unawakened Specialists.

According to her estimates, dozens of Specialists could be aboard the Black Whale ship. Still, she warned that delaying his decision increased the likelihood of others being recruited in his place.

The stakes of the negotiation became clear as Morena detailed the consequences tied to the game’s cards. A “No” card would signify outright rejection, severing ties between Borkson and Morena but also making him her enemy.

Reebok Hunter x Hunter collaboration featuring sneakers inspired by Gon Freecss in the ONE Esports article, "Hunter x Hunter Reebok collab: Release date, price"
Credit: Madhouse, Yoshihiro Togashi, ONE Esports
Unleash your inner hunter with the Hunter x Hunter Reebok collaboration — Hisoka included

On the other hand, the “X” card would invalidate the game entirely, erasing their interaction as if it had never occurred.

Morena made it clear that rejecting her offer would have dire consequences, not just for Borkson but also for those around him. Her group would leverage any information gathered during the negotiation against his allies if necessary.

The best anime openings of all time featuring Code Geass, One Piece, Naruto, and Pokemon ONE Esports
Credit: Sunrise, The Pokemon Company, Studio Pierrot, Toei Animation, ONE Esports
The 17 best anime openings of all time

As the game progressed, only two cards remained: “No” and “Death.” Before a decision could be made, a shipwide announcement interrupted their exchange.

The Black Whale’s loudspeaker declared martial law, adding tension to the precarious situation. The chapter concluded with the outcome of the negotiation unresolved.

Hunter x Hunter chapter 409 release date

Shotaro Kaneda from Akira anime and rapper Doja Cat in ONE Esports featured image for article "10 anime references in rap music that only true otakus will understand"
Credit: ONE Esports
10 anime references in rap music that only true otakus will understand

According to Shueisha’s official Manga Plus app, the next chapter of the manga releases on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 7 a.m. Pacific Standard Time (PT).

HUNTER X HUNTER CHAPTER 409 RELEASE DATE TIME ZONESUNDAY, DECEMBER 1/TIME
JST11 p.m.
GMT+810 p.m.
ET (Eastern Time)10 a.m.
CT (Central Time)9 a.m.
GMT (Western European Time)2 p.m.
CET (Central European Time)4 p.m.
IST (Indian Standard Time)7:30 p.m.

Manga Plus’ post also mentioned that the schedule for the next chapter is subject to change. The release times and schedule for international viewers vary based on their time zone.

Where to read Hunter x Hunter

You can head to the official VIZ Media website to read the Hunter x Hunter manga. You must create a VIZ Media account and pay a monthly US$2 subscription to read all the chapters.

Hunter x Hunter can also be found on Manga Plus, an online platform and smartphone app by Shueisha. The first three chapters are freely available without any account requirement when accessing the series.

To continue reading subsequent chapters, you must create an account on the Manga Plus app.

Chapters 4 and onwards, including the most recent releases, are accessible for free, but please note that each chapter can only be viewed once on Manga Plus.

Goku, Satoru Gojo, and All Might featured in 13 best fighting anime to get your blood pumping before your next ranked game ONE Esports article
Credit: ONE Esports, Toei Animation, Toho Animation
13 best fighting anime to get your blood pumping before your next ranked game

Manga Plus has two subscription plans: Standard and Deluxe.

The Standard Plan includes access to all chapters of currently serializing titles, with over 6,000 chapters available and no ads. It costs US$1.99 per month, with the first month free. This plan covers ongoing works only, and access to the completed series is limited after a certain period.

The Deluxe Plan, priced at US$4.99 per month, offers access to all chapters of serializing and completed titles. Over 15,000 chapters are available, and there are no ads.

READ MORE: The 5 best anime on Netflix for gamers