Ep 26. President x Interview x Paper Test

In the 26th episode of Hunter X Hunter Season 1 entitled "President x Interview x Paper Test," the characters are put to the test as the story progresses from the Hunter Exam arc and moves towards the next phase of the storyline. The episode starts with Gon, Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika getting on a Limo to meet the Chairman of Hunter Association, Netero. They are informed that there will be a test in which they will have to write an essay on Nen, a mysterious power used by Hunters.

As the episode unfolds, the scene shifts to the Chairman's mansion, where all the successful candidates are gathered for a briefing. It is revealed that the Chairman and his team have been monitoring their every move during the Hunter Exam and have chosen the top 200 candidates for the next phase. However, only 50 candidates are allowed to proceed further into the game. The Chairman declares that there are two more tests that the candidates need to go through. One of the tests is a paper exam on Nen, which holds significant importance, while the other is a more physical-oriented exam.

As the candidates prepare for the exam, they get some unexpected visitors. Tonpa and a few other unsuccessful candidates are there to greet them and congratulate them, but it turns out that they have an ulterior motive. There is a reward offered for anyone who can cause the successful candidates to fail the exam. This triggers Killua's instincts and wakes him up to the reality of the competition he is in. He becomes wary of anyone around him, even Gon, his best friend, and now a possible rival.

The exam begins, and the candidates are given two hours to complete the Nen essay. It is revealed that the essay test is designed to test the candidates' understanding of Nen, which is a crucial skill for a Hunter. As Killua finishes the paper, he realizes that something is off and answers a question in a peculiar way. Later on, it is revealed that his answer was correct as he seems to have a deeper understanding of Nen than most of the other candidates.

As the candidates finish the exam, they're asked to wait for the next phase of the test. However, this phase involves an interview with each of the candidates and a personal assessment by the respective Hunter Association board members. The interview session is an opportunity for the candidates to showcase their personality, skills, and motivations. It is here that they get a glimpse of the competitive world they are now a part of.

The rest of the episode focuses on the interviews; we see glimpses of each character during their applied phase screening. The interviews reveal the candidates' backgrounds, reasons why they want to become hunters, their strengths, and their weaknesses. It also provides a series of challenges for each of the candidates, putting their Hunter skills and knowledge to the test.

The episode has an intense feeling of tension and suspense as the stakes are high. The candidates who do not clear this phase will be eliminated from the game. This makes it all the more difficult as the Hunter Association members are tough critics, and some candidates buckle under the pressure. Those who have not done so well in the exam feel more insecure and worried about their future.

Overall, the "President x Interview x Paper Test" episode is a well-paced one. It sets the pace for the next phase of the Hunter Exam and introduces new characters and challenges. The interview phase encourages character development, and we get a glimpse of each character's motivations, fears, and dreams. The paper test on Nen reveals the complexity and importance of mastering the skill that will prove to be essential in future episodes. The episode is an excellent mix of thrill and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for the series.