Ch. 101Never Giving Up—That’s My Courage!
Here is a concise summary of the chapter:
Key Plot Points
- The story jumps between Chen Xiaoxia’s past memories and her current battle against Robert.
- Flashbacks: Xiaoxia recalls how she first met the frail Xiao Qiu and promised to protect her; then, during their third-year finals, she tutored Xiao Qiu so they could attend the same high school.
- Magical Girl Origin: When Xiao Qiu (now a Magical Girl) saved Xiaoxia from a Demon, Xiaoxia immediately contracted with Nino without hesitation to become a Magical Girl too, so she could keep protecting her friend.
- The Dream Trap: Earlier, Xiaoxia had been caught in a dream where all her wishes (protecting Xiao Qiu, becoming the leader, defeating Xiao Bai) came true. Now, waking to reality, she is losing to Robert.
- Triumph of Courage: Just as she is about to be defeated, a mental projection of Xiao Bai taunts her (“Is this all the courage you have?”). This reignites Xiaoxia’s fighting spirit. Her transformation BGM plays, and she powers up, signaling her comeback.
Character Developments
- Chen Xiaoxia: She grapples with feelings of inadequacy and envy as Xiao Qiu surpasses her in power (via Shining Form). She fears becoming unworthy of standing beside her friend. However, she ultimately reaffirms her core trait: unbending courage, especially her refusal to lose to Xiao Bai. This redefines her determination.
- Xiao Qiu (Yu Muqiu): Shown in memories as growing from a bullied, weak girl into a dazzling Magical Girl. She is kind, supportive, and unaware of Xiaoxia’s insecurities.
- Xiao Bai: Appears only as a taunting mental vision, serving as the catalyst to provoke Xiaoxia’s comeback.
Significant Themes
- Protection and reversal of roles: Xiaoxia has always protected Xiao Qiu, but now Xiao Qiu protects her—forcing Xiaoxia to reassess her own identity.
- Envy vs. admiration: Xiaoxia’s jealousy of Xiao Qiu’s power is mixed with genuine happiness for her friend, creating internal conflict.
- Perseverance and self-worth: The core message is that true courage comes from not giving up, even when overshadowed by others’ brilliance.
Character Interactions
- Xiaoxia & Xiao Qiu (past): Xiaoxia bullies away Xiao Qiu’s bullies, tutors her for exams, and drags her along in their friendship. Their bond is one of mutual loyalty, though Xiaoxia is clearly the caretaker.
- Xiaoxia & Nino: Xiaoxia is so eager to become a Magical Girl that she shakes Nino into a dazed contract—a comedic yet revealing moment.
- Xiaoxia & (imagined) Xiao Bai: A mental confrontation that stings her pride and reignites her fighting spirit, proving her character growth.