Chapter Summaries

After mutants appeared, Xiao He was recruited by China’s Special Incident Response Department despite having a power that only became formidable against enemies named Lin Tiannan. The department paired him with Ye Wanqing, whose ability could rename people, and ordered them to pose as a couple while it supervised them.

• Cui Man questioned Xiao He’s power, and the researcher explained that it multiplied his physical abilities when he fought someone named Lin Tiannan.
• The researcher introduced Ye Wanqing, who could change a person’s real name in public records and people’s perceptions, letting her trigger Xiao He’s power by renaming an enemy.
• Cui Man accepted the pair as a provisional solution after learning their abilities had already been tested together.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing confirmed they had signed contracts with the department.
• Cui Man ordered Xiao He and Ye Wanqing to live together as a couple and said the department would transfer them to the same school for supervision.

Chapter Summary: “Enemies”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He accepts the government’s “pretend couple” contract despite disliking that aspect of the arrangement. The deal offers him a ten-million annual salary, transfer to the prestigious Beichang University of Science and Technology, and a comfortable apartment.
• The government views Xiao He and Ye Wanqing less as active weapons and more as national symbols meant to reassure citizens that China possesses powerful Mutants comparable to those in foreign countries.
• Xiao He believes his superpower is unimpressive and expects to be replaced once China discovers a stronger Mutant. He plans to earn money, obtain a valuable degree, and eventually return to an ordinary life.
• Two days later, military personnel help Xiao He move from his hometown into the apartment he will share with Ye Wanqing. The apartment is conveniently located near the university and local amenities.
• Cui Man explains that cameras will monitor the apartment’s entrance, balcony, and living room. Xiao He and Ye Wanqing must appear to be a cohabiting couple in public and at university, while maintaining separate private lives.
• Cui Man also reveals that the Special Response Department intends to scientifically study Xiao He’s ability, particularly how he can perform extraordinary feats without consuming the enormous amount of energy physics would predict.
• After Cui Man leaves, Xiao He and Ye Wanqing establish rules for living together. Their conversation quickly becomes an argument filled with mutual insults about their appearances, romantic prospects, and personalities.
• They ultimately agree to cooperate, avoid violating the contract, and treat any romantic interests outside the arrangement as irrelevant so long as the public performance remains convincing.
• The apartment has been staged with matching household items and Photoshopped couple photographs to make them appear to have been living together for a long time.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Shows himself to be practical, money-minded, and eager for a normal future rather than a heroic career. He accepts the contract because of the financial and educational benefits, but remains insecure about his ability and defensive about his weight and lack of romantic experience.
• Ye Wanqing: Comes across as confident, blunt, suspicious, and highly protective of her personal boundaries. She immediately establishes rules and warns Xiao He not to misinterpret their living arrangement, though she eventually agrees to a workable partnership.
• Cui Man: Acts as the government supervisor and organizer. She is direct and businesslike, overseeing the couple’s public image, living conditions, and upcoming experiments.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing begin as complete strangers, but their hostile banter establishes an antagonistic dynamic that may gradually develop into cooperation or something more complicated.

Significant Themes

• Public image versus private reality: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing must manufacture the appearance of a loving couple for government publicity while privately treating each other as strangers.
• Superpowers and scientific inquiry: The chapter questions how Mutant abilities function and where their seemingly limitless energy comes from, suggesting that superpowers may become a revolutionary energy source.
• National pride and political symbolism: Mutants are used as symbols of national strength during an era of international competition and “cold war” rivalry.
• Pragmatism and personal ambition: Xiao He views the arrangement primarily as a chance to secure money, education, and future stability rather than as a noble mission.
• Forced proximity and enemies-to-partners tension: The two protagonists are compelled to share a home and cooperate despite immediate mutual irritation and incompatible personalities.

Character Interactions

• Cui Man gives Xiao He and Ye Wanqing practical instructions about cameras, public behavior, and scientific testing.
• Ye Wanqing lectures Xiao He about sleeping arrangements, privacy, and maintaining proper boundaries.
• Xiao He responds with sarcasm, insulting her legs and appearance, which provokes an angry exchange.
• Their argument reveals mutual insecurity and competitiveness, particularly over their physical appearance and lack of relationships.
• They reach a temporary agreement: cooperate for the money, maintain the fake relationship convincingly, and avoid allowing personal romantic interests to interfere with the contract.

Chapter Summary: “First Enemy”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After their initial conflict, Xiao He and Ye Wanqing settle into an uneasy détente, mostly avoiding one another while living together under their contract.
• Their morning begins with an argument over the bathroom. Xiao He is desperate to use it, while Ye Wanqing criticizes his swearing and manners.
• Xiao He notices that Ye Wanqing’s bedroom is extremely messy. His cleanliness obsession makes him want to tidy it, but he refrains because she would likely misunderstand his intentions.
• Cui Man escorts them to Beichang University of Science and Technology for their undercover student assignment. Xiao He is a third-year Economics and Management student, while Ye Wanqing is a second-year Judicial student.
• Cui Man instructs Ye Wanqing to monitor Xiao He’s behavior and reminds both of them that they must protect one another because their partnership is essential to their continued value to the Special Response Department.
• At his department meeting, Xiao He immediately becomes interested in Huang Ling, an attractive and reserved female student.
• He successfully starts a conversation with Huang Ling by discussing Tokyo Ghoul and its themes of cruelty, humanity, and the reversal of the food chain. They discover a shared viewpoint, and Huang Ling adds him to the department’s WeChat group.
• Just as Xiao He is beginning to pursue Huang Ling, Cui Man summons him to an emergency mission at the school gate.
• Cui Man reveals that the mission target is “Typhoon”—not a person or Variant, but Typhoon Sally, the storm expected to strike the region.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Continues to be blunt, easily irritated, and motivated largely by money, but he also shows a strong sense of cleanliness and order. He quickly becomes interested in Huang Ling and demonstrates social cleverness by using her interests to form a connection. His excitement over meeting her is abruptly interrupted by his duty.
• Ye Wanqing: Remains sharp-tongued, proud, and easily annoyed by Xiao He, but she accepts her responsibility to supervise and protect him. Her messy habits contrast strongly with Xiao He’s orderly nature.
• Cui Man: Acts as the practical authority figure, assigning their school roles and emphasizing their mutual dependence. She remains calm and direct even when revealing the unusual nature of the mission.
• Huang Ling: Introduced as quiet, pale, and somewhat withdrawn, but she becomes noticeably warmer when discussing Tokyo Ghoul. Her shared interpretation of the series gives her an unexpected intellectual connection with Xiao He.

Significant Themes

• Forced partnership and mutual dependence: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing dislike one another, yet their contract and abilities make them indispensable to each other.
• Appearance versus reality: They pose as an ordinary couple and students, while secretly working for the Special Response Department.
• Human cruelty and moral perspective: Xiao and Huang Ling’s discussion of Tokyo Ghoul raises the idea that morality depends on one’s position in the food chain. Humanity’s treatment of weaker creatures may resemble how a superior species would treat humans.
• Duty versus personal desire: Xiao He finally gains an opportunity to connect with a girl he likes, but his mission immediately takes priority.
• Domestic incompatibility: The bathroom dispute and the contrast between Xiao He’s cleanliness and Ye Wanqing’s disorder highlight their opposing personalities.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing argue over bathroom use, cleanliness, punctuality, and manners, reinforcing their antagonistic but increasingly familiar relationship.
• Cui Man gives both of them instructions about protecting one another and maintaining their cover at school.
• Xiao He attempts to flirt with Huang Ling by asking about classes, then builds rapport through their shared interest in Tokyo Ghoul.
• Cui Man’s mission summons interrupt Xiao He’s budding connection with Huang Ling and reunites him with Ye Wanqing for an unexpected operation involving the approaching typhoon.

Chapter Summary: “Natural Disaster”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Cui Man informs Xiao He that the Level 15 typhoon “Sally” is expected to strike Link Harbor City, threatening the port and an important national dock-handover operation.
• The government’s plan is to evacuate civilians while attempting to weaken or “eliminate” the typhoon before landfall using Xiao He’s ability.
• Ye Wanqing will use her data-manipulation power to rename the typhoon “Lin Tiannan,” allowing Xiao He’s ability to target it.
• Xiao He agrees despite his doubts, partly tempted by the possibility of becoming a national hero and symbol of hope.
• The group travels by helicopter toward the storm. Xiao He receives a reinforced black combat suit and protective mask, though he dislikes their plain, villain-like appearance.
• Cui Man explains that Xiao He will begin intensive physical training after the mission and gives Ye Wanqing a specialized phone, urging her to develop hacking skills and become less dependent on outside technical support.
• Near Link Harbor City, the storm becomes too dangerous for a normal helicopter. Xiao He is transferred to a fighter jet so he can approach the typhoon directly.
• Ye Wanqing successfully changes “Sally” to “Lin Tiannan.” Xiao He then flies over the sea and comes face-to-face with the enormous storm.
• Despite desperately wanting to escape, Xiao He realizes that his ability has activated, leaving the outcome of the mission unresolved.

2. Character Developments

• Xiao He: Begins the chapter skeptical, irritated, and overwhelmed by the absurdity of fighting a natural disaster. He questions whether his ability can affect a typhoon and dislikes the government’s attempts to turn him into a national symbol. Nevertheless, he accepts the mission and displays growing courage when he remains in the storm after his ability activates.
• Ye Wanqing: Demonstrates the importance of her role by successfully renaming the typhoon, enabling Xiao He’s ability to function. She argues with Xiao He but also helps calm him, showing that their partnership works through mutual dependence and conflict. Cui Man also pushes her to become more technically capable.
• Cui Man: Remains cold, practical, and politically motivated. She views the mission both as a disaster-prevention effort and as an opportunity to create a heroic national image for Xiao He. She also takes responsibility for equipping and preparing the pair for future missions.
• The pilot and support team: Show the seriousness of the operation by using specialized aircraft to bring Xiao He close enough to the typhoon for his ability to activate.

3. Significant Themes

• Heroism versus reality: Xiao He imagines a glamorous superhero debut but instead faces a terrifying, uncontrollable natural disaster. The chapter contrasts heroic fantasy with fear, discomfort, and genuine danger.
• Human power against nature: The attempt to weaken a Level 15 typhoon raises questions about the limits of supernatural abilities and humanity’s desire to control forces beyond its power.
• Public image and national morale: Cui Man emphasizes the propaganda value of Xiao defeating the typhoon, showing how heroism is being shaped for political and national purposes.
• Partnership and interdependence: Xiao He’s ability requires Ye Wanqing’s assistance, while Ye Wanqing needs Xiao He’s power. Their argumentative relationship nevertheless forms the foundation of the mission.
• Preparation and identity: The combat suit, mask, future codename, and planned promotion suggest that Xiao He is being transformed from an ordinary person into a public superhero, though his identity and image have not yet been established.

4. Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Cui Man: Their exchanges are tense and sarcastic. Cui Man pressures and manipulates Xiao He with promises of fame, while Xiao He openly mocks the mission and her supposedly “detailed” plan.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing: They bicker constantly about whose role is more difficult, but their argument ultimately steadies Xiao He and reinforces their cooperation.
• Cui Man and Ye Wanqing: Cui Man treats Ye Wanqing as an essential operative but warns her to gain hacking skills and avoid depending entirely on Xiao He.
• Xiao He and the pilot: The pilot gives him practical instructions before ejecting him into the dangerous storm, emphasizing the mission’s military and emergency-operation character.
  The chapter ends on a cliffhanger as Xiao He’s ability activates while he is directly confronting the typhoon.

Chapter Summary: “Transcendence”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He is sent into a powerful typhoon to weaken or stop it using his newly activated ability. He initially has no idea how to apply his power, while Cui Man and Ye Wanqing offer impractical suggestions such as flying against the storm or lifting an island.
• Despite their doubts and insults, Xiao He senses that he can succeed. He is ejected from a fighter jet, discovers that his ability now allows him to fly, and becomes resistant to the typhoon’s rain, debris, and violent winds.
• Xiao He flies toward the storm’s center and then against the direction of the typhoon’s vortex, hoping to expend enough energy to weaken it.
• His movement and rising flight path create a second vortex within the typhoon. This develops into a tornado that connects the sea and sky.
• The technicians realize that the tornado will naturally dissipate and, in doing so, drain energy from the typhoon. The mission is therefore considered successful.
• Xiao He worries that he has made the situation worse, but retreats when Cui Man tells him the mission is complete. After the tornado disappears, the typhoon weakens, and Xiao He loses his ability to fly and falls into the sea.
• He survives and begins swimming toward shore until a helicopter arrives to pick him up.

Character Development

• Xiao He begins frustrated and defensive, especially because the others repeatedly call him useless. However, he gradually gains confidence in his power and acts on his instinct that he can overcome the storm.
• He discovers that his ability is far more versatile and powerful than previously believed: it grants him flight, extreme physical strength, and resistance to environmental danger.
• Xiao He’s power appears to have a potentially enormous upper limit, allowing him to affect phenomena on the scale of a natural disaster. However, its activation and continued use seem dependent on his perception of the “enemy.”
• Cui Man shifts from teasing and dismissive to genuinely impressed by Xiao He’s capabilities. She begins to view his ability as one with extraordinary potential.
• Ye Wanqing remains skeptical and practical, but acknowledges Xiao He’s success and the importance of her own power in enabling it.

Significant Themes

• Hidden potential: A power initially regarded as useless proves capable of influencing a typhoon and possibly much greater threats.
• Human power versus nature: Xiao He’s ability allows a single person to interfere with a massive natural disaster, challenging ordinary assumptions about the limits of human strength.
• Perception and creativity: Success depends less on straightforward force than on understanding how Xiao He’s ability interacts with the environment.
• Teamwork and synergy: Xiao He’s achievement is not entirely individual; the chapter emphasizes that his power becomes especially effective when combined with Ye Wanqing’s ability.
• Uncertain limits: Although the characters speculate that Xiao He might eventually defeat threats as powerful as “Lin Tiannan” or even apocalyptic events, Cui Man cautions that his power is unlikely to be truly limitless.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He argues with Cui Man over her calling him useless and challenges her to solve the problem herself.
• Cui Man and Ye Wanqing brainstorm unconventional methods for countering the typhoon, though Xiao He finds their suggestions absurd.
• Cui Man and the technicians monitor Xiao through drones, analyzing the tornado he unintentionally creates.
• The technicians initially praise Xiao’s overwhelming potential, but quickly credit Ye Wanqing’s ability as an essential part of his success.
• Cui Man orders Xiao to retreat once the mission is deemed complete. Xiao, relieved that he will still be paid, accepts without dwelling on the consequences.
• The chapter ends with Xiao stranded in the sea and awaiting rescue by helicopter.

Chapter Summary: “Hero Codename”

• After the typhoon mission, Xiao He complains that he faced danger on the front lines while Ye Wanqing worked safely from a distance for the same pay. Cui Man reminds him that without Ye Wanqing’s support, he would have died repeatedly, emphasizing that neither partner is effective without the other.
• Cui Man praises Xiao He for his performance. Xiao impulsively compliments her appearance and flirts with her, but she sternly tells him to call her “Sister Man” rather than “Officer Cui.” She says he may flirt with her once he becomes mature, steady, and responsible. Xiao enthusiastically promises to do so, though Cui Man corrects his sloppy military salute.
• On the journey home, Cui Man plans to publicize footage of Xiao He fighting the typhoon as evidence of China’s powerful Mutants. She orders the team to avoid revealing their identities or the exact nature of their powers, instead presenting them as a national symbol of strength.
• Xiao proposes the superhero codename “Life Player,” while Ye Wanqing jokingly suggests “Heaven-and-Earth Hero.” The two trade insults about one another’s possible names and personalities. Cui Man teases that their constant arguing suggests they may be compatible, but both Xiao and Ye firmly deny any romantic interest.
• The government assigns them official Chinese-style codenames: Xiao becomes “Yinglong,” an ancient divine dragon associated with clouds, rain, rivers, and flood control; Ye becomes “White Marsh,” an auspicious beast said to understand all forms of life. The names suit their recent mission while concealing their actual abilities. Xiao dislikes losing his preferred name but admits Yinglong is useful for misleading foreign observers.
• Cui Man confirms that a press conference will be arranged, but neither hero will receive personal interviews or have their identities exposed. She again praises Xiao, noting that although luck helped weaken the typhoon, he showed unexpected courage and determination. Xiao claims he acted to make her smile, prompting Ye Wanqing to accuse him of flirting with another woman—even if their relationship is only pretend.
• Returning to Beichang City at night, Xiao is exhausted and hungry after spending the day traveling and fighting the disaster. He orders takeout, while Ye Wanqing unexpectedly cooks zhajiangmian. Although Xiao is secretly tempted by the homemade noodles, his pride leads him to reject them and eat takeout in his room. He finds the meal tasteless while thinking about Ye’s food.
• Xiao then investigates their compatibility and discovers that nearly everything about them conflicts: their elemental alignments are water and fire, their zodiac signs differ, neither matches the other’s preferred type, and their lifestyles clash because Xiao is neat and orderly while Ye is messy and careless.
• The chapter ends with Xiao realizing that they seem like natural enemies, yet their Superpowers are perfectly complementary: each is ineffective alone but overwhelmingly powerful when combined. This contradiction becomes a central mystery in their relationship.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Xiao He gains confidence after successfully helping stop the typhoon and begins embracing his emerging heroic identity, though he remains vain, childish, competitive, and openly flirtatious with Cui Man.
• Ye Wanqing continues to clash with Xiao verbally, but her decision to cook for him reveals a more considerate side beneath her rough exterior. Her powers and cooperation are shown to be essential to Xiao’s success.
• Cui Man acts as Xiao and Ye’s commander, public-relations strategist, and stern older-sister figure. Her rare praise and teasing create a warmer dynamic with Xiao, while she also recognizes the pair’s mutual dependence.
• The trio’s interactions mix military professionalism, playful insults, romantic teasing, and growing personal familiarity.

Significant Themes

• Interdependence: Xiao and Ye’s opposing abilities become extraordinarily powerful together, suggesting that cooperation matters more than individual strength.
• Public identity versus private truth: Their carefully chosen codenames and concealed powers establish their superhero personas while protecting their real identities.
• Opposites and compatibility: Despite clashing personalities, habits, and supposed destinies, Xiao and Ye work together with perfect precision, hinting at an unlikely bond.
• Heroism and personal growth: Xiao’s success forces him to confront his own courage and potential, even as he remains immature and self-centered.
• National pride and propaganda: Cui Man’s publicity plans frame the heroes as symbols of China’s strength in an international superhuman competition.

Chapter 7: “Debut” — Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After the typhoon mission, Xiao He’s identity and ability remain concealed. Typhoon Sally’s weakened energy means it will dissipate before reaching land, sparing Beichang City from severe rain and allowing the department to plan an autumn trip.
• Xiao He intends to add Huang Ling on WeChat and use the trip to build a closer relationship with her.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing are scheduled to make their public debut as China’s first officially acknowledged mutants. Their preparation is complicated by their awkward shared living arrangement, especially their daily arguments over the bathroom.
• At the press conference, footage of Xiao He’s battle with the typhoon is shown. The public sees him flying at tremendous speed and generating a tornado over the sea.
• China officially identifies Xiao He as the mutant “Yinglong,” named after an ancient Chinese divine beast. The government refuses to reveal his exact abilities or power level but uses the footage to signal China’s strength to foreign powers.
• Ye Wanqing is introduced as “White Marsh,” Yinglong’s partner. Although her own abilities are not disclosed, the association makes the public assume that she is also highly powerful.
• The announcement causes “Yinglong” and “White Marsh” to trend throughout China, with netizens comparing Yinglong favorably to foreign mutants such as M Country’s Iron Man and O Continent’s Bomb Man.
• The news also alarms foreign governments. In M Country, Secretary of Defense Schofield becomes furious after learning that Yinglong may fly at two or three times the speed of sound and create tornadoes.
• Schofield dismisses M Country’s existing mutants as inadequate and orders officials to search poorer nations for stronger mutants. He also instructs the CIA to investigate Yinglong’s identity and attempt to recruit him using money, women, and citizenship.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Becomes increasingly aware of the consequences of his public identity. He is impressed—and somewhat startled—by seeing his own power from an outside perspective. He also remains interested in strengthening his relationship with Huang Ling while struggling with his constant friction with Ye Wanqing.
• Ye Wanqing: Shows practical caution about remaining less exposed publicly because she is not a combat-oriented mutant. Despite her frequent arguments with Xiao He, she accepts the role of White Marsh and becomes part of China’s symbolic mutant partnership.
• Cui Man: Demonstrates political and media savvy by arranging for the battle footage to appear as material supposedly captured by “netizens,” creating a believable excuse for Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s public debut.
• Schofield: Is revealed as aggressive, nationalistic, and deeply concerned about M Country’s global dominance. Yinglong’s strength provokes both fear and rage, pushing him toward international recruitment and covert efforts to control or win over Xiao He.

Significant Themes

• Public image versus reality: Xiao He’s genuine actions are repackaged into a carefully managed national narrative, while his real identity and abilities remain hidden.
• Nationalism and international rivalry: China uses Yinglong and White Marsh to project strength, while foreign powers view mutants as strategic weapons in a global competition.
• Power and deterrence: Yinglong’s ability to neutralize a typhoon makes him far more formidable than the heavily publicized foreign mutants, shifting the perceived balance of power.
• The burden of fame and exposure: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing must live with public expectations and political consequences despite having little control over how they are portrayed.
• Comedy amid danger: Their mundane bathroom disputes and incompatible personalities contrast with the enormous geopolitical importance of their public debut.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing bicker over the bathroom and criticize each other’s habits, revealing their lack of romantic compatibility despite being presented publicly as partners.
• Xiao He plans to contact Huang Ling, hoping to develop their relationship during the upcoming autumn trip.
• At the press conference, the government spokesperson carefully answers reporters while withholding sensitive information about the two mutants.
• Schofield berates M Country’s Iron Man, Speedster, and other mutants for being ineffective in real combat, while his staff warn him that Yinglong may be nearly impossible to stop.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The emergence of Yinglong and White Marsh alarms foreign governments and triggers a new international arms race over powerful Mutants. M Country’s self-serving policies and the unequal strength of Mutants among the countries of O Continent create political tension and shifting alliances.
• Foreign nations begin using economic aid, trade deals, diplomatic pressure, and intelligence operations to recruit or control rare Mutants. Meanwhile, Xiao He and Ye Wanqing remain unaware that their actions are destabilizing global politics as they argue over household matters.
• Xiao He is pleased that Yinglong’s debut receives widespread praise in China. Yinglong’s overwhelming performance boosts national pride and humiliates foreign politicians who had mocked China for lacking strong Mutants.
• Those same politicians respond with accusations that China is exploiting Mutants as weapons, despite having used their own Mutants for military propaganda.
• Cui Man analyzes Xiao He’s power and hypothesizes that it strengthens him in proportion to the strength of his opponent—particularly when Ye Wanqing’s “Lin Tiannan” ability is involved. Xiao He may have reached LV6 or higher during the battle against Typhoon.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing begin mandatory combat, physical fitness, self-defense, and—in Ye Wanqing’s case—hacking training. Cui Man warns that foreign countries will soon attempt to locate or target them.
• After an exhausting day of training, the pair return home and complain about how difficult their supposedly lucrative jobs have become.
• Huang Ling contacts Xiao He and invites him to a department camping trip at Beifang Mountain. Xiao He eagerly accepts, partly because he likes her and partly because he views the trip as a celebration of his success against Typhoon.
• Xiao He briefly imagines developing a relationship with Huang Ling despite his partnership—and apparent “girlfriend” arrangement—with Ye Wanqing.
• The chapter ends humorously when Xiao He begins showering and discovers that Ye Wanqing has used up all the hot water.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Gains confidence and pride from Yinglong’s successful debut, realizing that his seemingly useless ability can greatly benefit his country when combined with Ye Wanqing’s power. However, he resists the demanding training and continues to prioritize comfort, money, and romance. His interest in Huang Ling grows, creating potential complications with Ye Wanqing.
• Ye Wanqing: Shares in the arduous training and proves to be more than a passive partner, though she dislikes the physical demands. Her special ability is central to Xiao He’s power, and foreign enemies may eventually target her specifically.
• Cui Man: Demonstrates strategic insight by developing a theory about Xiao He’s ability and taking responsibility for preparing both protagonists for future threats. She is strict but motivated by their safety.
• Huang Ling: Takes the initiative to contact Xiao He and invites him to a social event, suggesting a growing personal interest or at least a desire to include him in the group.
• Foreign governments and intelligence agencies: Shift from dismissing China’s Mutant capabilities to actively monitoring, recruiting, and potentially targeting Mutants connected to Yinglong and White Marsh.

Significant Themes

• Mutants as political and military assets: Mutant abilities affect international power balances and become tools of national prestige, propaganda, and coercion.
• Hypocrisy in international politics: Foreign governments condemn China for weaponizing Mutants while ignoring their own similar practices.
• Hidden identities and unintended influence: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s private lives contrast sharply with their enormous impact on global politics.
• Responsibility versus personal desires: Xiao He must balance national obligations, dangerous training, and his desire for an ordinary romantic life.
• The cost of success: Although Xiao He initially expects an easy, highly paid job, his role brings physical hardship, danger, and growing scrutiny.

Important Character Interactions

• Cui Man challenges Xiao He’s belief that his ability is worthless and explains her theory that it scales against powerful opponents.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing discuss the consequences of his ability and complain together about their punishing training.
• Cui Man warns both of them that they must become capable of defending themselves independently.
• Huang Ling’s friendly messages and invitation excite Xiao He and fuel his romantic hopes.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s final argument over the hot water reinforces their casual, bickering household dynamic.

Chapter Summary: “A Favor”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He struggles to live with Ye Wanqing, whose messy habits clash sharply with his own preference for cleanliness. After repeated arguments over shared facilities and the state of her bedroom, he decides to move his clothes into the second bedroom.
• Despite their conflict, Xiao He is excited about the upcoming department outing because it may give him a chance to grow closer to Huang Ling, a girl he likes.
• Xiao He attends class to become acquainted with the department. He notices that Huang Ling sits alone and approaches her.
• Huang Ling explains that she moved out of the dorms because her roommates were too messy and their lifestyles were incompatible—something Xiao He strongly relates to.
• Xiao He discovers that Huang Ling shares many of his interests and qualities, especially cleanliness and an appreciation for anime. He begins imagining a future with her and plans to confess once his arrangement with Ye Wanqing ends.
• On the way to class, Huang Ling and Ye Wanqing encounter one another. Xiao He introduces Ye Wanqing only as his roommate, concealing their contractual living arrangement.
• Ye Wanqing appears ready to expose Xiao’s lie but chooses not to, allowing him to maintain his image in front of Huang Ling. Huang Ling then invites Xiao He to sit with her in class, bringing them closer.
• When Xiao He returns home, Ye Wanqing reminds him that he owes her a favor for keeping his secret. She asks him to let her keep a silver-shaded cat that she has taken in.
• Xiao He agrees, provided he does not have to pay for food or clean the litter. The cat immediately reveals a fierce personality, escaping Ye Wanqing and biting her hand.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Becomes increasingly hopeful about his relationship with Huang Ling and begins planning a romantic future with her. He remains judgmental and easily irritated by Ye Wanqing, but he also recognizes that he depends on her cooperation to protect his secret.
• Ye Wanqing: Though she constantly argues with Xiao He, she shows loyalty by not exposing his living arrangement. She also demonstrates compassion by taking in an abandoned or unwanted cat. Her playful, opportunistic side appears when she uses Xiao’s debt to negotiate a favor.
• Huang Ling: Is established as Xiao He’s idealized romantic interest: neat, attractive, friendly, and compatible with his hobbies. Her social isolation stems from her preference for cleanliness and her gradual estrangement from her roommates and classmates.
• The Cat: Is introduced as affectionate toward Ye Wanqing but aggressive and difficult with others, foreshadowing another source of conflict in the apartment.

Significant Themes

• Incompatibility and cohabitation: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s opposing habits create constant domestic tension, emphasizing how difficult shared living can be.
• Appearance versus reality: Xiao He hides the true nature of his relationship with Ye Wanqing, while Huang Ling mistakes their arrangement for an ordinary roommate situation.
• Idealization in romance: Xiao He quickly imagines Huang Ling as his perfect partner based on limited similarities, contrasting her idealized image with the messy reality of living with Ye Wanqing.
• Obligation and favors: Ye Wanqing’s decision not to reveal Xiao’s secret creates a debt that she immediately calls in, turning their strained relationship into one based partly on mutual leverage.
• Loneliness and belonging: Both Xiao He and Huang Ling feel socially isolated in class, but their shared interests allow them to form a connection.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing argue repeatedly over cleanliness, shared resources, and household habits, revealing their antagonistic but increasingly interdependent relationship.
• Xiao He and Huang Ling bond over their dislike of messy roommates and their shared interest in anime and similar media. Huang Ling’s invitation to sit together signals growing trust.
• Ye Wanqing and Huang Ling meet briefly, with Ye Wanqing subtly teasing Xiao He by withholding the truth about their arrangement.
• Ye Wanqing and the cat display an affectionate but chaotic relationship, while the cat immediately treats Xiao He as a threat and bites Ye Wanqing after she attempts to demonstrate its harmlessness.

Chapter Summary: “White Light”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Wanqing introduces Xiao He to her silver-shaded cat, Tuantuan. She demonstrates that the cat stops biting when she pretends to cry, while Xiao He makes it clear that he dislikes pets.
• During an afternoon break, Ye Wanqing watches the anime Banana Fish. Xiao He overhears the music, becomes interested, and secretly watches the series himself.
• Xiao He is embarrassed to discover that the anime is a subtle boys’ love story rather than a conventional action or drama series. Although uncomfortable with the romantic implications, he finishes it—mostly by skipping scenes—because he enjoys the music.
• Ye Wanqing invites Xiao He to eat leftover fried-sauce noodles with her. They share a casual meal, though Xiao He cannot finish the oversized portion, irritating Ye Wanqing because she dislikes wasting food.
• Xiao He reflects on his unexplained energy consumption. Despite using a great deal of energy through his mutant ability, he does not need to eat enough food to replace it, suggesting that the mysterious White Light may provide or enable access to another form of energy.
• On the way to military training, Xiao He asks Cui Man about the White Light. She explains that its origin remains unknown and may be artificial, natural, extraterrestrial, or connected to the difficult-to-explore Arctic.
• Cui Man presents two major scientific theories: the White Light may have altered human bodies so mutants can access an existing hidden energy, or the White Light itself may be a form of energy usable only by people with particular genetic or hereditary traits.
• She emphasizes that understanding this energy could produce a massive technological and civilizational breakthrough while potentially reducing environmental destruction.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Remains sarcastic, skeptical, and somewhat lazy, but becomes increasingly curious about the source and mechanics of mutant powers. His unusual energy consumption prompts him to consider the biological and scientific implications of the White Light.
• Ye Wanqing: Shows a playful and slightly provocative side by recommending Banana Fish and teasing Xiao He. She also displays domestic competence through cooking and a strong dislike of waste. Her enthusiasm for attractive male characters reveals her preferences in entertainment.
• Cui Man: Acts as an informed military and scientific authority. She provides Xiao He and Ye Wanqing with a clearer understanding of current research into mutants and the White Light.

Significant Themes

• The unknown origins of power: The chapter focuses on humanity’s uncertainty regarding the White Light and whether mutant abilities arise from bodily changes, genetics, or an external energy source.
• Science and human progress: Research into mutants is presented as a potential turning point that could transform civilization and help solve environmental problems.
• Everyday life amid extraordinary circumstances: Despite world-changing mysteries, the characters spend much of the chapter arguing about pets, watching anime, eating noodles, and teasing one another.
• Skepticism versus curiosity: Xiao He mocks romance conventions and avoids ambition, yet his questions about mutant energy show that he is becoming more intellectually engaged with his own condition.
• Domestic relationships and teasing: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s interactions become increasingly familiar, characterized by playful conflict, shared meals, and casual concern beneath their complaints.

Character Interactions

• Ye Wanqing playfully tries to make Xiao He accept Tuantuan, while Xiao He complains about the cat.
• Their shared anime and meal create a more relaxed domestic bond, though Xiao He privately criticizes Ye Wanqing’s tastes and she scolds him for wasting food.
• During the car ride, Xiao He questions Cui Man, while Ye Wanqing contributes her knowledge about the Arctic.
• Cui Man’s explanation encourages Xiao He to think more seriously about the White Light and the larger scientific significance of his abilities.

Chapter Summary: “Justice”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing begin formal training at the military base. Blood samples are taken to determine whether their abilities have caused physical or genetic mutations, or whether White Light is simply an energy source that certain people can wield.
• They start with physical conditioning, jogging together under a fitness instructor’s supervision. Xiao He is comically distracted by Ye Wanqing’s exaggerated physical features while she runs, though he remains critical of her personality and appearance.
• Cui Man informs them that they must pretend to be a romantic couple whenever they are outside. Since Xiao He has already appeared publicly as Yinglong, the authorities want to create a believable cover story and prevent outsiders from investigating their real identities.
• Their upcoming fall outing provides an immediate opportunity for them to present themselves as a couple. Ye Wanqing accepts the arrangement without protest, while Xiao He privately mourns the loss of any chance at a normal university romance.
• After Ye Wanqing becomes exhausted from running, Xiao He begins combat training with Xia Rui, a skilled military combat instructor.
• Xia Rui easily defeats Xiao He’s first reckless punch, teaching him that obvious attacks are easy to counter. He introduces boxing fundamentals, including jabs, straight punches, hooks, combinations, and probing for openings.
• Xiao He finds the instruction highly effective and feels encouraged by his rapid improvement, despite the physical exhaustion.
• On the way home, Cui Man reminds them again that they must act like a couple in public. Ye Wanqing is too tired to say much.
• At home, Xiao He orders dinner for both of them. Ye Wanqing requests malatang without chili, which leaves him confused because the dish’s name traditionally implies spicy and numbing flavors.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Begins adapting to disciplined military training and realizes that raw superhuman strength is not enough without technique. His eagerness to learn combat skills shows his desire to become more capable. He remains sarcastic and easily distracted, especially around Ye Wanqing, but also demonstrates consideration by ordering her dinner.
• Ye Wanqing: Participates in the training despite struggling with physical conditioning. She accepts the fake-couple arrangement readily and shows more practicality than Xiao He about their new cover identities. By the end, she is visibly exhausted but still communicates her food preference.
• Cui Man: Acts as both supervisor and handler, enforcing orders while explaining the strategic reasoning behind the fake relationship. Her teasing attitude toward Xiao He adds humor to the situation.
• Xia Rui: Is introduced as Xiao He’s combat instructor. Despite his unusual combination of a refined face and heavily muscular body, he is a highly competent and direct teacher who quickly identifies Xiao He’s weaknesses.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s relationship: Their partnership becomes more complicated as they must publicly pose as lovers. Xiao He is reluctant and embarrassed, while Ye Wanqing appears comparatively accepting, setting up future comedic tension.

Significant Themes

• Power versus skill: Xiao He learns that possessing superhuman abilities does not guarantee victory; technique, timing, and combat experience are equally important.
• Identity and secrecy: The fake relationship demonstrates how public personas and cover stories are necessary in a world where superhuman abilities attract suspicion and scrutiny.
• Obedience versus personal freedom: Xiao He dislikes the military’s orders but recognizes that, as a soldier and powered individual, he must follow them.
• Training and self-improvement: The chapter emphasizes gradual progress through disciplined practice rather than relying solely on innate talent.
• Comedy amid serious responsibilities: Physical training, secret identities, and military assignments are repeatedly undercut by Xiao He’s internal jokes and awkward reactions.

Important Character Interactions

• Cui Man and Xiao He/Ye Wanqing: Cui Man gives them the order to act as a couple and explains the need to protect Xiao He’s identity as Yinglong.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing: They train side by side, discuss the fall outing, and begin adjusting to the uncomfortable idea of posing as romantic partners.
• Xiao He and Xia Rui: Xia Rui exposes Xiao He’s lack of combat technique and begins teaching him practical boxing methods.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing at home: Xiao He attempts to repay Ye Wanqing for a previous meal by ordering dinner, ending the chapter with confusion over her unusual “malatang without chili” request.

Chapter Summary: “Social Death Scene”

Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He becomes frustrated when Ye Wanqing orders “spicy” hotpot without chili, leading restaurant owners to scold him for making an unusual request. Ye Wanqing explains that she cannot eat spicy food but still enjoys the variety and flavor of hotpot.
• At home, Ye Wanqing tries to interact with Tuantuan, but the cat remains suspicious and swipes at her. She responds playfully, treating the encounter like a mock martial-arts match, while Xiao He dismisses her as a goofball.
• Xiao He initially looks forward to the department’s autumn outing because he hopes to grow closer to Huang Ling. However, since he must bring Ye Wanqing and pretend she is his girlfriend, he worries that his chances with Huang Ling—and his broader college social life—are ruined.
• Before leaving, Ye Wanqing reminds him to wear a mask because of a newly emerging flu virus. She also insists that they hold hands to make their fake relationship believable.
• At the gathering point, Ye Wanqing publicly introduces herself as Xiao He’s girlfriend. The mostly male group immediately reacts with jealousy and suspicion.
• The boys privately criticize Xiao He, believing he has a beautiful, curvaceous girlfriend while still pursuing the department beauty. Their crude assumptions devastate Xiao He’s reputation and leave him feeling socially destroyed.
• Huang Ling is the only person who does not react negatively. She appears curious and helps redirect everyone toward boarding the bus.

Character Development

• Xiao He: His irritation and reluctance reveal how trapped he feels by the fake relationship. He continues to think about Huang Ling and resents the loss of his romantic opportunities, but Ye Wanqing’s appearance and behavior begin to make him question whether he may actually have feelings for her. He also shows enhanced physical abilities, such as unusually sharp hearing.
• Ye Wanqing: She is practical, outspoken, and playful. Although she complains about Xiao He’s attitude, she takes the fake relationship seriously and actively performs the role in public. Her teasing interactions with Tuantuan and her concern about illness show a more lighthearted and caring side.
• Huang Ling: She remains observant and considerate. Rather than joining the others’ hostility, she intervenes to ease the awkward situation, suggesting continued interest or at least goodwill toward Xiao He.
• Tuantuan: The cat remains wary of Ye Wanqing, creating a humorous contrast with her willingness to keep trying to play with it.

Significant Themes

• Social reputation and embarrassment: Xiao He experiences “social death” when his classmates misinterpret his relationship and condemn him based on jealousy and gossip.
• The burden of appearances: The fake relationship requires Xiao He and Ye Wanqing to act convincingly, demonstrating how public performance can shape others’ assumptions.
• Romantic uncertainty: Xiao He insists he feels nothing for Ye Wanqing, yet his growing awareness of her appearance and personality suggests that his feelings may be changing.
• Male jealousy and superficial judgment: The boys focus almost entirely on Ye Wanqing’s body and Xiao He’s perceived romantic advantage, exposing their shallow assumptions.
• Humor amid awkwardness: Food arguments, Tuantuan’s hostility, forced hand-holding, and the boys’ exaggerated reactions provide comic relief while advancing the relationship dynamics.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing bicker over food, hygiene, illness prevention, and how convincingly they must portray their relationship.
• Ye Wanqing playfully challenges Tuantuan, while the cat rejects her attempts at affection.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing hold hands and pose as a couple, causing their classmates to react with envy and resentment.
• The male students gossip crudely about Ye Wanqing and condemn Xiao He, while Huang Ling steps in to calm the situation and move the group onto the bus.

Summary: “Seeing Through the Ruse”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing ride the bus to their class’s two-day, one-night mountain camping trip while pretending to be a couple.
• Xiao He feels miserable about the effect the fake relationship may have on his college life and reputation, though he accepts that the contract will earn him money.
• Ye Wanqing struggles with the idea of spending the night outdoors, especially the lack of comfortable bathrooms, showers, and protection from mosquitoes.
• At the campsite, the students receive tents and learn how to set them up. Ye Wanqing complains repeatedly about the heat, mosquitoes, and having to prepare their own food.
• Xiao He eventually tells her to stop complaining and cooperate. He then goes to get mosquito coils for her.
• Huang Ling intercepts Xiao He and reveals that she has realized he and Ye Wanqing are only pretending to date. She deduces this from their unnatural interactions and Xiao He’s earlier claim that Ye Wanqing was merely his roommate.
• Xiao He admits the truth but refuses to explain the purpose because of his contract. Huang Ling correctly guesses that money is involved and agrees to keep quiet in exchange for a meal after the trip.
• Xiao He returns with mosquito coils and quickly assembles Ye Wanqing’s tent when she cannot manage it herself.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Begins the trip dejected and worried about the social consequences of his fake relationship, but remains committed to fulfilling the contract. He shows patience with Ye Wanqing’s complaints, practical competence by setting up the tent, and caution when discussing the contract.
• Ye Wanqing: Reveals strong discomfort with outdoor activities and a tendency to complain, but also plays along with the fake-couple arrangement. Her awkward use of affectionate language shows how unnatural the act feels to both her and Xiao He.
• Huang Ling: Demonstrates sharp observational skills by seeing through the deception almost immediately. She is playful and perceptive, using her knowledge to negotiate a friendly favor rather than expose Xiao He.
• Cai Ling and the campsite staff: Organize the outing, distribute the tents, and instruct the students in camping procedures.

Significant Themes

• Deception and appearances: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing must maintain the appearance of a romantic relationship, but their awkward behavior makes the ruse difficult to sustain.
• Perception and intelligence: Huang Ling’s ability to notice subtle inconsistencies allows her to uncover the truth despite the pair’s efforts.
• Contracts and obligation: Xiao He’s behavior is shaped by the terms of his agreement; he cannot openly explain the arrangement, even when questioned.
• Practical cooperation: Despite their irritation with each other, Xiao He and Ye Wanqing must work together to manage the trip.
• Romantic ambiguity: Huang Ling’s willingness to keep interacting with Xiao He suggests possible interest, while Xiao He interprets her request for a meal as a sign that she is not rejecting him because of the fake relationship.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing exchange sarcastic, reluctant “couple” dialogue, including calling each other “baby,” which makes both uncomfortable.
• Ye Wanqing complains while Xiao He initially tolerates her, then gently reprimands her and takes responsibility for getting supplies.
• Huang Ling confronts Xiao He privately, exposes the fake relationship, and bargains for a meal in exchange for silence.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing continue functioning as a team when he obtains mosquito coils and sets up her tent.

Chapter Summary: “Millennium Problem”

Key Plot Points and Events

• During summer camp, Xiao He and Ye Wanqing participate in supervised “survival” activities, including gathering vegetables, catching fish, fetching water, chopping wood, preparing food, and making beds from pine needles. Xiao He realizes the food is probably artificially planted or raised but accepts the arrangement.
• Xiao He enjoys the primitive camp lifestyle, while Ye Wanqing complains about the fishy food, spicy curry, insects, and general discomfort.
• Xiao He’s physical strength attracts Huang Ling’s attention when he effortlessly carries a large bucket of water. Ye Wanqing quickly explains that he works out regularly and jokingly implies that he is muscular beneath his clothes.
• Ye Wanqing secretly contacts Cui Man, who arrives in a black SUV and removes Xiao He and Ye Wanqing from camp. Cui Man explains that their relationship is about to be exposed and, more importantly, their identities as mutants may be discovered.
• Cui Man argues that the pair should minimize contact with outsiders until they improve their acting skills. She instead takes them to a military base to investigate a new research assignment.
• During the drive, Cui Man criticizes Xiao He and Ye Wanqing for constantly arguing despite pretending to be a couple. The driver jokes that Cui Man has gone on numerous unsuccessful blind dates, provoking her anger.
• At the military base, Cui Man presents Xiao He with the equation “NP=P?” and identifies it as the “Lin Tiannan Problem.” She challenges him to solve it as a test of his abilities.
• Xiao He is initially confused but suddenly understands the significance of the problem. He begins writing rapidly, fills the page, and continues on additional paper as the researchers watch.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Shows practical competence and physical strength at camp, though he remains easily irritated by Ye Wanqing’s complaints and behavior. His sudden, intense response to the mathematical problem reveals extraordinary intellectual ability and suggests that his mutant powers may extend beyond physical enhancement.
• Ye Wanqing: Remains picky, sarcastic, and uncomfortable with camp life. Worried that their false relationship will be exposed, she takes action by contacting Cui Man, even though Xiao He suspects she mainly wants to escape the camp.
• Cui Man: Acts as both supervisor and caretaker. She is concerned about protecting Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s mutant identities, while also becoming frustrated with their inability to convincingly act like a couple. Her unsuccessful dating history becomes a source of teasing.
• Huang Ling: Notices Xiao He’s unusual strength and continues to observe him, increasing the danger that the pair’s fabricated relationship—or Xiao He’s true identity—may be uncovered.
• The driver: Provides comic relief by teasing Cui Man about her failed blind dates, revealing a casual familiarity with her temper.
• The researchers: Treat Xiao He’s response to the problem as a serious experiment, immediately supplying more paper when he begins solving it.

Significant Themes

• Concealment and exposure: The characters must hide their mutant identities while maintaining a convincing public relationship, but their unnatural abilities and poor acting make secrecy increasingly difficult.
• Incompatible partnership: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing are forced to cooperate despite constant irritation and mutual dislike. Their arguments contrast with the romantic image they are supposed to project.
• Extraordinary ability: Xiao He’s strength and instantaneous engagement with a difficult mathematical problem hint at the widening scope of his powers.
• Artificiality versus reality: The staged camp activities and fake relationship both appear natural on the surface but are carefully constructed underneath.
• Humor amid danger: Complaints about food, teasing about attraction, and jokes about blind dates lighten the tension surrounding the characters’ identities and the government’s experiments.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He tries to accommodate Ye Wanqing’s food preferences, but her complaints only increase his annoyance.
• Huang Ling questions Xiao He about his strength, prompting Ye Wanqing to cover for him with playful explanations.
• Xiao He accuses Ye Wanqing of using the exposure risk as an excuse to leave camp; she insists she contacted Cui Man for practical reasons.
• Cui Man reprimands both of them for disliking each other and failing to act like a believable couple.
• The driver mocks Cui Man’s dating record, leading to an angry but humorous exchange.
• Cui Man shifts the focus from their relationship problems to Xiao He’s abilities by presenting him with the “Lin Tiannan Problem,” which triggers his remarkable mathematical reaction.

Chapter Summary: “Upper Limit”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He’s altered mental state lasts over an hour while he writes a complex mathematical solution. When it ends, he collapses from extreme exhaustion and neurological strain.
• Cui Man calls for medical assistance. Xiao He quickly recovers after resting and drinking cola, though he is confused about what he has done.
• The researchers reveal that Xiao He was working on the “NP = P?” problem, a famous Millennium Prize mathematical problem concerning whether difficult solutions can be found as efficiently as they can be verified.
• Xiao He’s manuscript appears to contain an extraordinary breakthrough. Although the latter half is too advanced for anyone present to understand, the opening section alone could greatly improve existing computer algorithms.
• A young researcher explains the possible implications: such technology could undermine modern encryption, penetrate secure databases, control financial systems, and potentially interfere with nuclear weapons.
• Cui Man confiscates the papers and decides that she must consult her superiors before determining how the discovery should be handled.
• She then evaluates Xiao He’s ability, concluding that it has an extremely high upper limit but is not limitless. The test proves that his talent can be used for intellectual and scientific tasks as well as combat.
• Xiao He realizes with dismay that his ability may force him into increasingly demanding work, threatening his hope of earning money without much effort.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Demonstrates a staggering intellectual capacity, apparently solving or partially solving one of the world’s hardest mathematical problems despite having little mathematical knowledge himself. However, the experience pushes him to his physical and mental limit, showing that his ability carries serious costs.
• Cui Man: Acts protectively and pragmatically, caring for Xiao He after his collapse while also recognizing the military and strategic importance of his ability. She begins treating him as a resource whose capabilities must be carefully controlled.
• Ye Wanqing: Remains close to Xiao He during his recovery and asks questions that help clarify the significance of the mathematical discovery.
• The Researchers: Shift from skepticism and analysis to intense excitement, viewing Xiao He’s manuscript as a potentially world-changing scientific treasure.

Significant Themes

• The limits and costs of extraordinary ability: Xiao He’s power appears nearly limitless intellectually, but his exhaustion proves that his body and mind still impose boundaries.
• Scientific advancement versus danger: The discovery could revolutionize computing, yet it could also destroy cybersecurity and upset global military and political power.
• Control of dangerous knowledge: Cui Man’s decision to report the manuscript to higher authorities highlights the need to regulate discoveries that could threaten humanity.
• Identity and unintended responsibility: Xiao He does not understand the mathematics he produces, yet he is suddenly responsible for knowledge with enormous consequences.
• Loss of personal freedom: Xiao He’s hope of living easily and profitably is threatened as others recognize the broader uses of his ability.

Character Interactions

• Cui Man comforts and supports Xiao He after his collapse, even allowing him to rest with his head on her lap.
• She explains the importance of his work and questions the researchers about whether the manuscript is genuine.
• The young researcher enthusiastically describes the potential power of the NP = P? breakthrough, while Xiao He and Ye Wanqing react with confusion and concern.
• Ye Wanqing challenges the researcher’s excitement by pointing out that the technology could enable catastrophic actions.
• Cui Man ends the discussion by taking control of the manuscript and redirecting attention toward assessing Xiao He’s condition and future limits.

Chapter Summary: “Superheroes”

• Plot and events: After finishing research on the “NP=P?” problem, Cui Man gives Xiao He and Ye Wanqing the day off. Xiao He suffers severe exhaustion and dizziness from overusing his ability, leaving him unable to do much besides watch television. At home, he and Ye Wanqing jokingly discuss solving all seven Millennium Problems for millions of dollars, but Ye Wanqing refuses to treat the work casually because the research could have dangerous consequences—particularly by making global encryption useless.
• Their domestic routine continues with playful bickering over shower schedules, hot water, and chores. Xiao He enjoys a peaceful hot shower for the first time, while Ye Wanqing takes care of their cat, Tuantuan. The cat is hostile toward Ye Wanqing but affectionate and obedient with Xiao He, prompting discussion of Xiao He’s childhood around his grandmother’s cats.
• Xiao He complains that their missions lack dramatic supervillains, consisting instead of stopping Typhoon and solving mathematical problems. Ye Wanqing explains that China’s superheroes should focus on improving ordinary people’s lives rather than merely defeating villains. She points out that stopping Typhoon protected the economy and solving “NP=P?” could advance technology and improve society, making these practical missions more genuinely heroic.
• At the end, Ye Wanqing approaches Xiao He to pet Tuantuan and notices his pleasant scent. Embarrassed by her attraction, she mistakes his mosquito repellent for perfume and insults him, only to learn it is Liushen floral water. Ashamed, she retreats to her room.
• Character development: Xiao He remains immature, money-minded, and eager for exciting battles, but Ye Wanqing’s explanation makes him reconsider what heroism means. He begins to admire her judgment and understanding, though her embarrassed insult quickly damages that favorable impression. His exhaustion also emphasizes the physical cost of his extraordinary ability. Ye Wanqing shows greater moral awareness and concern for the consequences of their work, while her flustered reaction to Xiao He’s scent reveals growing romantic interest.
• Themes: The chapter contrasts flashy, fictional superhero battles with meaningful social service. It suggests that true heroism lies in preventing suffering and improving people’s lives, not simply defeating villains. Other themes include the dangers and responsibilities of advanced knowledge, the ordinary intimacy of shared domestic life, and the gradual emergence of romantic feelings beneath constant teasing.
• Character interactions: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing repeatedly argue playfully over money, chores, bathing, cats, and the purpose of their missions. Their banter reveals increasing familiarity and comfort. Ye Wanqing’s serious defense of their work briefly deepens Xiao He’s respect for her, while her awkward reaction to his scent introduces a more openly romantic tension between them.

Chapter Summary: “War Declaration”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Xiao He tells Ye Wanqing where to find the floral water, she becomes flustered because its scent reminds her of him. She tries to dismiss her reaction as embarrassment over something trivial but privately struggles with her growing feelings.
• Xiao He chats with Huang Ling, who is still attending the department bonfire gathering. He explains that he and Ye Wanqing left early because of their contractual responsibilities—namely, solving a difficult mathematical problem.
• Xiao He invites Huang Ling to dinner and jokes that Ye Wanqing must accompany him because of their fake-couple contract. Huang Ling readily accepts.
• The Special Response Department rewards Xiao He and Ye Wanqing with two million yuan total: one million for dealing with the Typhoon and one million for solving the Millennium Problem.
• Xiao He is excited to become wealthy but realizes the money will not make him truly financially secure in Beichang City. He plans to indulge in long-desired purchases and enjoy better food.
• Ye Wanqing reveals that she intends to spend nearly all her money on her parents—buying her mother clothes and desserts, paying for her father’s dental treatment, and purchasing a car so her parents can travel.
• Inspired and slightly ashamed of his self-centered plans, Xiao He decides to buy something for his own parents as well. He also resolves to treat Ye Wanqing to an expensive meal.
• The next day, Xiao He takes Ye Wanqing and Huang Ling to the Western restaurant Red Elegance Pavilion. During the meal, Huang Ling exposes the fact that Xiao He and Ye Wanqing are only pretending to be a couple.
• Huang Ling then provocatively clarifies that she may interact with Xiao He freely as long as she does not actually date him. Ye Wanqing reacts defensively, revealing her concern over their relationship and the contract.
• The chapter ends with Ye Wanqing realizing that Huang Ling deliberately attended the dinner to challenge her romantic position—a “declaration of war.”

Character Developments

• Ye Wanqing: Becomes increasingly aware of her attraction to Xiao He, though she denies or rationalizes her feelings. Her jealousy and possessiveness become obvious when Huang Ling discusses pursuing Xiao He.
• Xiao He: Remains largely oblivious to the romantic tension, focusing on money, food, and practical matters. However, Ye Wanqing’s generosity toward her parents prompts him to become more considerate and plan something for his own family.
• Huang Ling: Shifts from friendly classmate to active romantic rival. She recognizes that Xiao He and Ye Wanqing’s relationship is fake and intentionally tests Ye Wanqing’s boundaries with playful but pointed remarks.

Significant Themes

• Romantic tension and denial: Ye Wanqing’s embarrassment, jealousy, and defensiveness suggest that her feelings for Xiao He are becoming genuine despite the contractual nature of their relationship.
• Appearance versus reality: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing publicly act as a couple, but their lack of natural affection exposes the difference between their performance and their true relationship.
• Money and responsibility: The reward brings freedom and comfort, but the characters’ different spending priorities reveal their values. Xiao He initially thinks of personal pleasures, while Ye Wanqing prioritizes her struggling parents.
• Rivalry and emotional awakening: Huang Ling’s challenge forces Ye Wanqing to confront feelings she has been avoiding.

Character Interactions

• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing: Their teasing and arguments remain central, but their interactions now carry clear romantic undertones. Xiao He unknowingly comforts and embarrasses Ye Wanqing, while she reacts with increasing jealousy.
• Xiao He and Huang Ling: They maintain a friendly, relaxed relationship, arranging dinner and joking about the fake-girlfriend contract.
• Ye Wanqing and Huang Ling: Their dinner conversation becomes a subtle confrontation. Huang Ling openly tests whether Ye Wanqing truly considers Xiao He “hers,” while Ye Wanqing struggles to justify her possessiveness without admitting romantic feelings.

Chapter Summary: “Shura Field”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xiao He, Huang Ling, and Ye Wanqing have dinner together, creating an awkward love-triangle atmosphere. Huang Ling openly suggests that she and Xiao He could develop a romantic relationship because his relationship with Ye Wanqing is only contractual.
• Ye Wanqing reluctantly gives them permission to “do whatever they want,” though she is clearly upset and jealous.
• During the meal, Huang Ling and Xiao He bond over food, restaurant quality, and future dining plans. Their easy conversation makes Ye Wanqing increasingly frustrated.
• Huang Ling insists on splitting the bill in the future, which improves Xiao He’s opinion of her. She then leaves separately, telling Xiao He to return home with his “girlfriend.”
• On the way home, Ye Wanqing angrily confronts Xiao He for pursuing Huang Ling before their contract ends. Xiao He argues that Huang Ling may be someone he cannot afford to miss and that the Special Response Department may need their abilities.
• Upset, Ye Wanqing walks too quickly, trips, and badly scrapes her knee. Her physical pain and emotional frustration overwhelm her, and she begins crying.
• Xiao He tries to comfort her and offers to carry her home.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Becomes increasingly interested in Huang Ling because of their shared personality, easy conversation, and compatibility. He also begins taking their possible relationship seriously, believing she may be uniquely suited to him. Despite this, he remains concerned for Ye Wanqing and immediately helps her after her injury.
• Ye Wanqing: Her jealousy becomes unmistakable, even though she insists she has no logical right to object. She feels inferior to Huang Ling as a woman and grows resentful of Xiao He’s emotional closeness with her. Her anger eventually breaks down into hurt and tears.
• Huang Ling: Grows more direct and confident in pursuing Xiao He. She openly acknowledges the possibility of a relationship, enjoys their shared interests, and maintains a practical, self-sufficient attitude by insisting on paying her share and returning home alone.

Significant Themes

• Jealousy versus reason: Ye Wanqing knows the contractual relationship gives her no formal claim over Xiao He, but her emotions conflict with that logic.
• Emotional awakening: The characters begin recognizing feelings that their arrangement was supposed to prevent, especially Xiao He’s attraction to Huang Ling and Ye Wanqing’s possessiveness.
• Romantic competition: The dinner functions as a “shura field,” highlighting the tension between a formal relationship and a potentially genuine one.
• Responsibility and risk: Xiao He’s desire to pursue Huang Ling is tied to his belief that his abilities are valuable to the Special Response Department, raising concerns about the consequences of acting before the contract ends.
• Vulnerability beneath conflict: Ye Wanqing’s anger ultimately reveals insecurity and emotional pain rather than simple hostility.

Character Interactions

• Huang Ling teases Xiao He and confidently claims the possibility of a future relationship, while Xiao He responds enthusiastically.
• Ye Wanqing silently observes their rapport, growing increasingly jealous but unable to openly challenge them.
• Xiao He and Ye Wanqing argue about the contract and his interest in Huang Ling. Xiao He speaks sincerely about fearing he may never meet someone more compatible.
• After Ye Wanqing falls, their antagonistic dynamic softens temporarily as Xiao He tends to her injury and offers to carry her home.

Chapter Summary: “Improvement”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Wanqing injures her knee after storming away, leaving her unable to walk normally.
• Xiao He first offers to carry her, and despite her embarrassment about being seen, he carries her in a princess carry to make their fake relationship appear convincing.
• After two blocks, Ye Wanqing becomes uncomfortable with the attention and asks to be carried on his back instead.
• While carrying her home, Xiao He and Ye Wanqing argue playfully about physical attraction, men’s behavior, and the difficulties caused by her unusually large bust.
• Ye Wanqing worries that Xiao He’s growing closeness with Huang Ling may jeopardize their contract and their public pretense of being a couple. She specifically warns him not to become involved with Huang Ling in a way that could lead to scandal or financial penalties.
• Xiao He reassures her that he has enough self-control to avoid compromising their agreement.
• Xiao He stops at a convenience store, buys Ye Wanqing ice cream, and uses cold bottled water to treat her bleeding knee.
• During the break, Xiao He sincerely tells Ye Wanqing that, despite their frequent disagreements, he recognizes her kindness and concern for animals and family.
• He proposes that they become genuine friends while continuing to cooperate as a fake couple. Ye Wanqing agrees to try, provided he does not create a paparazzi scandal.
• They briefly discuss their uncertain future as mutants and whether the organization might replace them. Their differing attitudes toward planning highlight their contrasting personalities.
• By the end, both recognize that their relationship has improved.

Character Developments

• Xiao He: Shows increasing consideration and emotional maturity. He helps Ye Wanqing without complaint, treats her injury, reassures her about the contract, and openly acknowledges her good qualities. Though still crude and teasing, he begins treating her as a real friend rather than merely a difficult partner.
• Ye Wanqing: Gradually lowers her defenses around Xiao He. She remains embarrassed, suspicious, and quick-tempered, but accepts his physical help, shares personal insecurities about her body and past experiences, and agrees to build a genuine friendship with him.
• Relationship: Their antagonistic partnership shifts toward mutual trust and affection. Their banter remains combative, but it is increasingly mixed with comfort, concern, and familiarity.

Significant Themes

• Growing trust and friendship: The chapter centers on the transition from a contractual fake relationship to a more sincere bond.
• Public image versus private feelings: Xiao He and Ye Wanqing must pretend to be romantically involved while managing their actual relationships and emotions.
• Gender expectations and objectification: Ye Wanqing describes the unwanted attention and discomfort caused by men focusing on her body, revealing the emotional and physical burdens behind what Xiao He initially treats as a joke.
• Emotional vulnerability: Ye Wanqing’s complaints about her body and Xiao He’s honest praise allow both characters to become more open with one another.
• Different approaches to life: Xiao He prefers dealing with problems as they arise, while Ye Wanqing emphasizes preparation and long-term planning.

Character Interactions

• Their flirtatious arguments about carrying methods and Ye Wanqing’s body reveal both embarrassment and growing comfort.
• Ye Wanqing repeatedly scolds Xiao He for his supposedly lecherous thoughts, while Xiao He responds with humor rather than offense.
• Xiao He’s practical care—carrying her, buying ice cream, and treating her wound—softens Ye Wanqing’s anger.
• Their final exchange, in which they acknowledge their differences with amused resignation, confirms that their relationship has become warmer and more cooperative.

Chapter Summary: “Unconvinced”

Key Plot Points and Events

• After treating Ye Wanqing’s injured knee, Xiao He carries her home because walking could reopen the wound.
• Ye Wanqing continues complaining about another female senior’s legs, while Xiao He explains his preference for attractive leg proportions. Her defensive reactions suggest she may be jealous.
• Their teasing becomes increasingly personal when Xiao He estimates Ye Wanqing’s weight and mentions her chest, causing her to angrily pound his back.
• At home, their cat Tuantuan cautiously inspects Ye Wanqing before accepting her.
• Xiao He disinfects Ye Wanqing’s wound again and advises her to skip class until it heals. She refuses, insisting that she needs genuine knowledge and skills despite the Special Response Department being able to secure graduation certificates.
• While Xiao He tends to her injury, Ye Wanqing realizes that his physical care makes her feel safe rather than uncomfortable. His actions remind her of her father caring for her as a child.
• The two argue lightly about trash collection, but Xiao He recognizes Ye Wanqing’s kindness when he learns she saves bottles for an elderly recycler.
• Ye Wanqing plans to shower and attend class the next day despite the injury, while Xiao He remains concerned and offers to disinfect the wound afterward.

Character Development

• Ye Wanqing: Her irritation over Xiao He’s praise of another woman reveals possible jealousy and growing romantic awareness. She remains stubborn about attending class, showing her seriousness, independence, and commitment to education. She also displays compassion through her recycling efforts. Her increasing comfort with Xiao He marks a significant emotional shift.
• Xiao He: He continues to be blunt, teasing, and somewhat insensitive, especially regarding women’s bodies, but he is also attentive and protective. He carefully carries Ye Wanqing, treats her wound, worries about her recovery, and begins to recognize her good nature more clearly.
• Tuantuan: The cat acts suspiciously toward Ye Wanqing, checking whether she has been in contact with other cats, adding a small domestic and humorous moment.

Significant Themes

• Growing intimacy: Physical care and domestic routines bring Xiao He and Ye Wanqing closer, even as they continue to bicker.
• Jealousy and romantic tension: Ye Wanqing’s repeated criticism of the senior suggests feelings she has not openly acknowledged.
• Independence versus concern: Ye Wanqing refuses to let her injury interfere with her studies, while Xiao He prioritizes her health.
• Kindness beneath conflict: Their arguments conceal mutual consideration, and Xiao He comes to appreciate Ye Wanqing’s generosity.
• Emotional safety: Ye Wanqing begins to associate Xiao He’s touch and presence with comfort, trust, and familial care rather than impropriety.