Episode 148 (2011)

Past × And × Future (カコ×ト×ミライ, Kako × To × Mirai) is the 148^th and final episode of the Hunter × Hunter 2011 series. It first aired on September 24^th, 2014.

Overview[]

Gon climbs to the top of the World Tree, where Ging expects him, and the two finally talk heart-to-heart. Throughout this conversation, Ging reveals his intentions to explore the world beyond the current boundaries known to mankind, and Gon tells him about all his adventures. Meanwhile, his friends keep following their separate ways, each one of them with their own dreams and goals to pursue. During their talk, Gon remembers to give the Double-Star Hunter License that Kite gave him back to Ging, the original owner.

Synopsis[]

As Gon embarks on his ascent of the World Tree, he reflects on the purpose that drove him to become a Hunter and the many hardships he has overcome. Before setting off, he signs a waiver acknowledging the dangers ahead. A guard at the base warns him not to rely on the handholds and footholds left by other climbers. Gon begins the climb, captivated by the breathtaking scenery unfolding around him. When his fingers graze the bark, he senses the tree’s vibrant life force pulsing through every fiber. Along the way, he encounters a man who had collapsed from exhaustion and instinctively offers his help. Before long, the summit of the towering tree comes into view.

Gon finally reaches the pinnacle of the tree, where Ging soon joins him. As they both soak in the breathtaking view, Gon suddenly asks if he can pose a question. Ging agrees, albeit with the caveat that he may choose not to answer. Gon probes into Ging's aspirations and the motivations that propelled him to embark on his journey. Ging replies that, at that moment, he was searching for something he couldn’t see right before him.

He shares that he longed to reach a hidden burial ground associated with a royal family, accessible only to those affiliated with a trusted organization. To gain entry, one must remain discreet about its existence and possess the substantial financial means required for access. Ging elaborates that exploring this site is nearly impossible, as few are willing to expend valuable resources on a venture that promises no reward. However, he asserts that becoming a Hunter presents a viable solution, fulfilling all the necessary conditions for entry.

At the age of fifteen, Ging established a nonprofit organization, dedicating himself to pursuing knowledge. After obtaining his Hunter License, he spends the next two years conducting extensive research on the tomb. He assembles a team of individuals driven not by the allure of wealth or fame but by a genuine desire for truth, carefully selecting those he trusts to keep their findings confidential. Ging consistently prioritizes his personal needs, having long since forsaken any concern for the ultimate goal that lies ahead.

Gon, unable to grasp Ging's story, prompts him to elaborate on his experiences for better understanding. As Ging continues his narrative, he reveals that the individuals he recruited are older than he is, comprising regular office workers, graduate students, and others. After articulating his vision, they rally behind him, assisting with various tasks essential for establishing the nonprofit organization and contributing whatever modest funds they can spare as donations.

Upon reaching their goal and finally entering the tomb, they uncover all the concealed secrets they have sought for so long. Ging shares with Gon that uncovering the truth is not the most rewarding aspect of the experience. Rather, he derives immense satisfaction from witnessing the expressions of joy on his colleagues' faces and the camaraderie of their handshakes. The bonds he forges with his friends lead him to recognize that the most meaningful moments occur before he achieves his goals. Once Ging finishes his tale, Gon reflects on his own journey alongside Leorio, Kurapika, and Killua, his closest companions.

As their conversation unfolds, Ging reveals that the World Tree beneath them is merely a sapling that has stagnated due to insufficient nourishment. To Gon's surprise, he learns that a fully matured World Tree would absorb magma, embed its roots deep within the mountains, and continue to flourish even after transcending the atmosphere. Ging further elaborates on the external world from which the Chimera Ants originate, asserting that the world they know is merely a small fraction of a far grander reality. He also references historical accounts of individuals who have successfully ventured into this vast outside world.

Ging outlines the prerequisites for entering the outside world, encompassing authorization, resources, qualifications, and contracts. However, he is not in a rush to do so; instead, he savors the journey. He encourages Gon to adopt a similar perspective, advising him to “enjoy the little detours to the fullest, because that’s where he will discover things more important than the end goal.” Following their conversation, Gon returns Ging's Hunter License, and the two engage in a rich exchange, sharing tales of their respective journeys.

As events unfold, Gon sends a letter to Mito back on Whale Island. Meanwhile, Knov and Morel engage in a discussion about the bet they placed regarding which group would be the first to enter the NGL. Later, they are seen in the office of the former Hunter Association Chairman, Netero, raising a toast in his honor. In the hospital, Knuckle, Shoot, Palm, Ikalgo, and Meleoron are shown recuperating from their injuries.

Killua spends quality time with Alluka aboard an airship, while Leorio diligently continues his studies in medicine. In a dimly lit building located in a dark alley, Kurapika holds his phone, revealing several of the Kurta Clan's scarlet eyes before him. Back at the Zoldyck Family's home, Canary and Amane grieve at Gotoh’s gravesite. Moments later, to Amane’s astonishment, a living Gotoh appears, only to be revealed as a magical beast named Kiriko, whom Gon, Kurapika, and Leorio encountered during the Hunter Exam. It is suggested that Kiriko will help conceal Gotoh's death from Killua and Alluka.

Meanwhile, within the Royal Palace of East Gorteau, the lifeless bodies of Meruem and Komugi are depicted holding each other’s hands in an eternal embrace. Finally, Gon is seen savoring a breathtaking view of Small-billed Swans alongside Kite and his friends.

Characters in Order of Appearance[]

Trivia[]

• Migi, a character from Parasyte series series, who's Togashi is a fan of, made a cameo appearance in this episode.

Navigation[]

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