Name (
Synopsis[]
A terrified Knov arriving to help Morel
Morel, despite his mortal injury, refuses to accept help from Knuckle and exhorts him to resume the extermination mission against Youpi and the King. Knuckle admits that he cannot continue as is, because he has begun to see the Ants as fellow people who have acknowledged and respected him, insisting that he has no reason to defeat them now. However, Knov arrives suddenly, and looking worse than ever, asserts that the soldier Ants' humanity doesn't matter when the King can order them howsoever he pleases. Knov then also reveals that Netero has succeeded in sequestering the King; no matter what the Royal Guards do, they will be too late. He takes away a still-resentful Morel and mentions that Shoot is safe as well, and asks in passing about Palm. Before he leaves for the final time, he also asks Knuckle whether he wants to go with him or stay and fight. Knuckle, refusing to acknowledge that he is redundant, declares that Youpi is not the only Royal Guard he can pursue.
Meanwhile, Youpi and Pouf run into one another and catch up with the events that have happened since the invasion began—each guard noting the development that has occurred in the other. Pouf tests Youpi's new mindset, and obliquely they both agree that despite Youpi's new maturity and Pouf's deepening madness, what matters most is the King's well-being.
Meruem recovering from Netero's initial strike
On their chosen battlefield, the King has just taken a direct hit from Netero. He nevertheless continues to insist on the debate over the battle. Netero muses that he cannot back down, and strikes with his Third Hand, only to be brushed off by the King's power. The King tells Netero that the only thing that he can hope to exchange with him is words. Netero believes that if such a small thing were enough, he wouldn't be forced to do this, and curses the King's naivete. However, he suddenly realizes a word that might gain the upper hand.
Netero asks the King if he would like to know his own name. The question unsettles the King, and Netero grins malevolently as he sees his bait is taken. He explains the circumstances of the Queen's death and insinuates that he may be the only one left who knows the King's name. Netero challenges the King to force him to admit defeat and the King's name with it—impossible if he is dead, of course. The King compares this challenge to playing with a handicap in a game of chess and declares his intent to checkmate Netero.
Characters in Order of Appearance[]
- Morel Mackernasey
- Meleoron
- Knuckle Bine
- Knov
- Shoot McMahon (Mentioned)
- Palm Siberia (Mentioned)
- Shaiapouf
- Menthuthuyoupi
- Neferpitou (Mentioned)
- Isaac Netero
- Meruem
- Chimera Ant Queen (Mentioned)
[]
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