Ch. 401Thought Projection?! Ten Wizard Saints?!
Key Plot Points and Events
- Jellal is severely injured by Erza, but he reveals that he's possessed by Zeref's spirit and is a puppet for Zeref's revival.
- Rhode and Mira arrive, and Rhode decides to incapacitate Jellal to prevent further danger.
- Zikrain, a Council member, appears and is revealed to be Jellal's Thought Projection. Rhode attacks Jellal, severely injuring him and absorbing Zikrain.
- Urtear, another Council member, stalls her colleagues by claiming Zikrain has gone to verify crucial intelligence about civilians in the tower.
Character Developments
- Jellal: Confesses to being possessed by Zeref, showing a hint of his past self but ultimately remains a threat.
- Erza: Struggles to accept Jellal's actions, trying to find a way to save him despite his betrayal.
- Rhode: Shows decisive action, prioritizing safety over understanding the situation fully.
- Zikrain: Revealed to be Jellal's Thought Projection, showing his cunning and power.
Significant Themes
- Betrayal and redemption (Jellal's actions and Erza's struggle to accept them).
- Power and its consequences (Zikrain's Thought Projection and the Council's decision to launch the Magic Power).
- Decisiveness versus caution (Rhode's immediate action versus Erza's hesitation).
Character Interactions
- Jellal and Erza: Their interaction highlights Erza's struggle with Jellal's betrayal and her desire to save him.
- Rhode and Erza: Their interaction shows Rhode's decisiveness and Erza's hesitation, leading to a clash in their approaches.
- Zikrain and Jellal: Their interaction reveals Zikrain's true nature and his connection to Jellal.