Ch. 21Has He Found Out My Gender?
Chapter Summary: “Has He Found Out My Gender?”
Key plot points and events
- After bandaging Luo Ye’s wound, Feitan hurried away, embarrassed by the brief glimpse of Luo Ye’s unusually pale skin. He repeatedly convinces himself that he did nothing improper, though his visibly reddening ears suggest otherwise.
- Luo Ye recovers most of his injuries using Healing Kido and wonders whether Feitan discovered his true gender while treating him. He concludes that Feitan probably has not realized the truth and likely assumes Luo Ye is simply flat-chested.
- In the main hall, Luo Ye finds the rest of the group, including Illumi, who has not yet left. Feitan stopped Illumi from departing because Illumi still owes them Nen training after they fulfilled their agreement by killing Rasa.
- Luo Ye proposes that they first raid Rasa’s residence and collect valuable spoils before news of Rasa’s death spreads. Machi agrees, and the group heads to the house.
- Although they expect guards or resistance, Rasa’s residence appears completely deserted. When Illumi opens the door, however, a hidden mechanism activates: a vortex forms and launches a barrage of sharp arrows at him, revealing that Rasa had prepared defensive traps.
Character developments
- Feitan shows embarrassment and possible growing concern for Luo Ye. His desire to become stronger is reinforced by the recent battle, especially because he wants to be capable of protecting Luo Ye.
- Luo Ye remains cautious about concealing his gender but does not dwell on it for long. He also demonstrates practical leadership by prioritizing the recovery of loot and urging the group to act quickly.
- Illumi appears resentful at being prevented from leaving, while still being bound by the agreement to teach the group Nen.
- Machi continues to influence group decisions through her reliable instincts.
- Feitan takes a more controlling role, ensuring Illumi fulfills his promise.
Significant themes
- Embarrassment and secrecy: Feitan’s reaction and Luo Ye’s concerns about his gender create tension based on hidden identities and unspoken feelings.
- Strength and protection: Feitan recognizes his limitations and becomes motivated to grow stronger for Luo Ye’s sake.
- Trust and obligation: The group enforces its agreement with Illumi, showing that bargains and mutual responsibilities matter even among dangerous allies.
- Caution and preparedness: The seemingly abandoned house demonstrates that apparent safety may conceal deadly defenses.
Character interactions
- Feitan and Luo Ye’s relationship gains subtle emotional tension through Feitan’s awkward treatment of Luo Ye’s injury and Luo Ye’s speculation about what Feitan discovered.
- Feitan and Illumi clash over Illumi’s attempt to leave before teaching Nen.
- Luo Ye acts as a mediator and strategist, suggesting the raid rather than allowing the group to focus immediately on Nen training.
- Machi supports Luo Ye’s plan, helping finalize the group’s decision.
- Illumi’s attempt to enter the house triggers Rasa’s trap, abruptly turning the planned looting into a potentially dangerous confrontation.