The pacing is still an issue but at least some interesting things are happening. The best part of this volume was some of the depth and character development shown.
adventurous fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
dark tense medium-paced

4.5
adventurous lighthearted tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
adventurous dark emotional tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Boring. The battles are taking forever and nothing's actually happening ugh.

====

Story: 3/5
Art: 5/5

The Octopus is focused on a lot in this volume, Pufu escapes, Knuckles gives up everything they've worked for (all of Shoot and Morau's sacrifices) to save Morel's life and release advanced demonic form Yupi from his Nen ability. In turn, Yupi shows honor and stands by his word to not kill Morau. Knuckles is hesitant to fight Yupi because of this, seeing him as more than an animal. Meanwhile, Pufu looks in on Gon and Pitou. Pufu manages to communicate the location of the king to Pitou, and Pitou moves part of himself there through his ability. Gon is still cold and blind with range.

At a deserted place south, Netero and the ant king face-off.

Since this arc had simultaneous battles happening, it allowed the mangaka to switch between climactic scenes and make the dull ones longer. The phrases "the climax!" "final battle!" "final showdown!" have been used plenty of times. This is making everything extremely boring. There was also a lot of spread pages once again. It's great for the art, but it's so annoying for the story.

But I like the king :(