Chapter Summaries

Summary

During an Evil Beast disaster at the arcade, all entrances and exits are sealed, trapping Ran Yanyue and Lu Ming inside. Ran quickly assesses the situation and suggests escaping through a hotel window, but Lu Ming refuses, claiming he is afraid of heights. They hide in a VIP room while the beast searches the building.
Ran’s physical condition begins to deteriorate from the stress and exertion. When she grips Lu Ming’s hand, however, her heartbeat and pain unexpectedly improve, suggesting that Lu Ming possesses a mysterious ability that positively affects her long-standing weakness. Lu Ming remains calm and observant, listening for the beast and trying to reassure her with jokes. He insists on staying with her, claiming he still needs her to teach him English, which reveals his concern for her beneath his unserious behavior.
The Evil Beast eventually finds them and tears through the door. Just before it attacks, Lu Ming punches it with overwhelming strength, crushing its head and killing it instantly. Ran is stunned: Lu Ming’s power is clearly far beyond that of an ordinary person. He then leads her through the arcade, explaining that other beasts may be nearby and that they must move to safety.
As they proceed upstairs, Ran questions Lu Ming about whether he regularly fights Evil Beasts. He gives an absurd story about having a powerful beast sealed inside him, parodying familiar fantasy and anime conventions. Although she recognizes that he is joking, Ran understands that his humor is meant to keep her calm while he remains alert and protective. She concludes that Lu Ming is not a villain, but his true identity and abilities remain a mystery.
On the second floor, they encounter the couple from the punching machine earlier. The pair are cornered by an Evil Beast, with the boyfriend attempting to shield his terrified girlfriend using only chairs. The beast toys with them and prepares to attack, setting up Lu Ming and Ran’s next confrontation.

Character Development

• Ran Yanyue: Demonstrates intelligence, quick thinking, and courage by planning escape routes and offering to lure the beast away so Lu Ming can survive. Her vulnerability becomes more apparent as her health worsens, but her growing trust in Lu Ming allows her to remain composed. She also reflects on their friendship and realizes how meaningful his presence has become.
• Lu Ming: Reveals extraordinary physical strength and possibly a healing or stabilizing power connected to Ran. Despite danger, he stays calm, jokes constantly, and protects Ran without hesitation. His behavior suggests that his apparently carefree personality conceals significant abilities and possibly a secret identity.
• Their relationship: The crisis deepens their bond. Ran becomes more emotionally aware of how important Lu Ming is to her, while Lu Ming repeatedly demonstrates loyalty through his refusal to abandon her.

Significant Themes

• Hidden identities and appearances: Lu Ming appears lazy and unserious at school, yet possesses enough strength to kill an Evil Beast with one punch.
• Trust and companionship: Ran and Lu Ming rely on one another during the crisis, and their friendship becomes more intimate through shared danger.
• Humor as emotional protection: Lu Ming’s absurd jokes help distract Ran from fear while concealing his own seriousness and concern.
• Vulnerability and strength: Ran’s physical frailty contrasts with her mental courage, while Lu Ming’s hidden power challenges assumptions about who is strong or weak.
• Self-sacrifice and protection: Both characters consider risking themselves for the other, though Lu Ming ultimately takes direct responsibility for defending Ran.

Key Character Interactions

• Ran proposes an escape plan, but Lu Ming refuses to leave her.
• Ran gives Lu Ming cola and sarcastically teases him after he claims to be allergic to cherries.
• Lu Ming holds Ran’s hand and reassures her by staying beside her.
• Ran recalls how their friendship began when Lu Ming casually invited her to help him skip class, showing how their unusual relationship developed.
• Lu Ming protects Ran by killing the Evil Beast and then guides her upstairs.
• Ran questions Lu Ming’s mysterious abilities, while he responds with deliberately ridiculous stories rather than revealing the truth.
• They discover the trapped couple, creating the immediate threat that will drive the next scene.

Chapter 62 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• An Evil Beast attacks Boyfriend and his girlfriend, but Lu Ming arrives and destroys it with a single punch, shocking Boyfriend with his overwhelming strength.
• Ran Yanyue helps Boyfriend clean the blood from his injured hand. He mistakenly assumes she and Lu Ming are a couple, irritating her.
• Police arrive to rescue the 153 people trapped inside the arcade. Officer Xu Guoan refuses to wait for the Magical Girls, arguing that adults must also protect civilians rather than relying entirely on children.
• The police prepare a dangerous helicopter assault, but surveillance officer Zhuang Ming recalls seeing Lu Ming at the arcade and suggests he may already have dealt with the Evil Beasts.
• Xu Guoan witnesses Lu Ming defeat another Evil Beast on the rooftop by grabbing its claw and destroying it with a roundhouse kick. The officers are left stunned by his seemingly superhuman abilities.
• After the rescue, Lu Ming declines Xu Guoan’s invitation to join the police after graduation.
• Ran Yanyue’s mother thanks Lu Ming and invites him to dinner. Lu Ming internally pretends he is reluctant while enthusiastically imagining the expensive food.
• At the hospital, doctors discover that Ran Yanyue’s previously unstable health has improved significantly. She suspects Lu Ming’s power may have caused the change.
• The next morning at school, Li Deng and the others jokingly accuse Lu Ming of betraying them during the arcade incident and fear he may use his mysterious “Seven-Star Blade” against them.
• Lu Ming explains that he did not deliberately bring Ran Yanyue to expose them; she simply wanted to visit the arcade. His friends then check that he survived the Evil Beast attack, revealing their concern beneath the jokes.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: His immense combat strength becomes known to the police and several civilians, though he still tries to conceal or downplay his abilities. He remains modest in public but sarcastic and greedy in his inner thoughts. He also shows concern for Ran Yanyue’s well-being.
• Ran Yanyue: She gains a new appreciation for Lu Ming after seeing his strength and protective nature. Her attitude toward him softens, and she begins wondering whether he is responsible for improving her health. She also becomes curious—and somewhat wary—about whether other girls know his secret.
• Boyfriend: He is left deeply shocked and insecure after comparing his own maximum strength with Lu Ming’s casual power. However, Lu Ming’s intervention restores his confidence that Lu Ming is still human.
• Xu Guoan: He is portrayed as a courageous and responsible police officer who believes adults must take responsibility for public safety. His admiration and astonishment toward Lu Ming grow after witnessing the rooftop battle.
• Ran Yanyue’s mother: She warmly expresses gratitude to Lu Ming and treats him as an honored guest.
• Lu Ming’s classmates: Their teasing masks genuine concern. Despite joking about betrayal and magical weapons, they are relieved that Lu Ming survived.

Significant Themes

• Ordinary adults taking responsibility: Xu Guoan rejects the idea that police should simply wait for Magical Girls, emphasizing courage, duty, and adult responsibility.
• The hidden nature of Lu Ming’s power: His abilities are increasingly revealed to outsiders, creating tension over whether his identity can remain secret.
• Changing perceptions: Ran Yanyue, the police, Boyfriend, and others all reassess Lu Ming after witnessing his strength and character.
• Friendship expressed through humor: Lu Ming and his classmates use sarcasm and exaggerated jokes to hide concern and affection.
• Healing and emotional connection: Ran Yanyue’s improving health suggests that Lu Ming’s presence or powers may have a deeper positive effect on her.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Boyfriend: Lu Ming saves Boyfriend and his girlfriend, while Boyfriend reacts with disbelief and envy at Lu Ming’s power.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue: Their relationship grows closer as she sees his heroic side and begins suspecting he helped stabilize her condition.
• Lu Ming and the police: Xu Guoan invites him to join the police, but Lu Ming politely refuses. The officers later witness his extraordinary abilities firsthand.
• Ran Yanyue and her mother: Her mother’s gratitude toward Lu Ming highlights how seriously she values his protection of her daughter.
• Lu Ming and his classmates: Their banter about the arcade incident shows that, despite their ridiculous accusations, they genuinely care about his safety.

Chapter 63 Summary

• Lu Ming’s classmates tease him about Ran Yanyue. After learning that Lu Ming played The King of Fighters with Commissioner Ran late the previous night, Li Deng assumes they may be romantically involved. Lu Ming insists they are only friends, but his classmates jokingly speculate that he is benefiting from Ran’s wealth and status.
• Ran Yanyue is absent because of the previous night’s attack. Lu Ming explains that she went to the hospital for a checkup after being attacked by the Evil Beast at the arcade.
• The morning newspaper reveals Lu Ming’s heroism. An article about the arcade incident includes a photograph of Lu Ming standing with Ran Yanyue and police officers Xu Guoan and Zhuang Ming. Xu, a respected veteran officer, is visibly admiring of Lu Ming. Li Deng and the rest of the class realize that the “mysterious badass” praised on the news is Lu Ming himself.
• Lu Ming downplays his achievement. He modestly claims that he was only photographed by accident, refusing to admit how important his role was in defeating the threat and protecting people.
• Lu Annuan sees the newspaper at her school. Her classmates praise Lu Ming’s bravery and handsome appearance, while also noticing Ran Yanyue in the photograph. Lu Annuan responds modestly but is clearly proud of him. However, she becomes jealous and playfully pokes at Lu Ming’s image, remembering that Ran has also appeared in his dreams and resenting his late-night outing with another girl.
• Tang Zhiqing begins investigating the arcade attack. In the Student Council room, Tang comments on Lu Ming and Ran being attacked together and reveals that her spirit investigated the incident. She connects the Evil Beast magic previously found in almonds on a cake to a manufacturer located only a kilometer from the arcade.
• A wider Evil Beast conspiracy is suggested. Tang suspects the nearby manufacturer may be connected to the plan called “Death Spiral,” implying that Evil Beasts may still be hiding in Haiyang and operating through human facilities or products.
• The investigation is temporarily postponed. Although Lu Ming wants to investigate immediately, Tang reminds him that the weekly test is approaching. She has already sent Little Butterfly to handle the matter for now.

Character Development and Interactions

• Lu Ming gains public recognition as a courageous protector but remains humble and evasive about his accomplishments. His interactions with Li Deng show his discomfort with romantic gossip, while his response to Tang demonstrates his eagerness to confront the Evil Beast threat.
• Li Deng and the classmates shift from teasing Lu Ming about his relationships to admiring and envying his hidden bravery after discovering his identity in the newspaper.
• Lu Annuan is proud of Lu Ming but also reveals a possessive, jealous side when she notices Ran Yanyue beside him. Her playful reaction reinforces her romantic feelings.
• Ran Yanyue does not appear directly, but her absence, popularity, wealth, and closeness to Lu Ming fuel the classmates’ gossip and Lu Annuan’s jealousy.
• Tang Zhiqing acts as a capable and strategic leader. She balances supernatural investigations with ordinary student responsibilities and takes the possible connection to Death Spiral seriously.
• Lu Ming and Tang Zhiqing interact as trusted partners: he wants immediate action, while she provides evidence and imposes a practical delay.

Significant Themes

• Hidden heroism and public perception: Lu Ming’s classmates previously viewed him as ordinary, but the newspaper reveals his courage and changes their opinion.
• Romantic rivalry and jealousy: The photograph intensifies speculation about Lu Ming and Ran while exposing Lu Annuan’s insecurity and affection.
• Duty versus everyday life: Even with a dangerous supernatural conspiracy developing, Lu Ming and the others must still attend classes and prepare for exams.
• Growing supernatural conspiracy: The Evil Beast attack appears connected to a larger plan involving contaminated food products, hidden enemies, and Death Spiral.
• Humility versus recognition: Lu Ming refuses to boast about his actions despite receiving praise from both the public and the police.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• During a hot school event, Lu Ming and Tang Zhiqing help arrange chairs and distribute ice cream. Feeling guilty that Tang worked hard without getting any, Lu Ming offers to share his ice cream.
• Since the ice cream cannot be split, Lu Ming bites off the top portion and gives the rest to Tang Zhiqing. Her slight blush and apparent enjoyment attract the attention of nearby Student Council members, who suspect the two may be romantically involved.
• Ran Yanyue arrives and asks whether she can have some ice cream, but Tang and Lu Ming explain that it is already gone. Lu then learns that Ran’s medical examination was fine and accepts an invitation to dinner at her home as thanks for previously saving her.
• A magical butterfly invisible to ordinary students delivers a warning to Tang Zhiqing: faint Evil Beast magic has been detected beneath the almond factory owned by Ran Yanyue’s family.
• Tang explains that Ran herself is not dangerous; the concern is her father and the possibility that the factory is connected to Evil Beast activity. Because investigating the factory would require complicated procedures, Lu Ming agrees to ask Ran’s father about it during dinner.
• Afterward, Tang and Lu interview a student who wants to join the Student Council. Lu jokes by giving him an absurd question, then sends him to be assessed by Ran.
• The chapter ends after the work is completed, with Tang making an impressive leap from the stage. Lu pretends he was watching because he saw a bug, while actually staring at her.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Shows consideration toward Tang by sharing his ice cream, though he covers his awkwardness with jokes and exaggerated reasoning. He remains food-motivated and readily accepts Ran’s dinner invitation, but also agrees to investigate the suspicious activity at her family’s factory.
• Tang Zhiqing: Becomes visibly more comfortable and affectionate around Lu Ming, blushing while sharing the ice cream and smiling especially warmly at him. She continues to act as a capable Student Council president and magical-girl leader, calmly handling the Evil Beast warning and student recruitment.
• Ran Yanyue: Appears healthy after her examination and reveals a softer, more grateful side by inviting Lu Ming to dinner. Although she remains cold and sharp-tongued, she is not herself connected to the suspected evil activity.
• The first-year student: Nervously approaches the Student Council because of his admiration for Tang. His impression that Tang and Lu Ming have an unusually close relationship reinforces the school’s romantic rumors.

3. Significant Themes

• Romantic ambiguity and jealousy: Sharing an ice cream becomes a conspicuous sign of intimacy, causing the Student Council members and younger students to speculate about Lu Ming’s relationship with Tang and Ran.
• Hidden magical danger beneath ordinary life: A normal school event and family dinner are connected to the larger conflict involving Evil Beasts and magical energy.
• Humor and misunderstanding: Lu’s absurd theories about Ran being a villain, his food-centered priorities, and the exaggerated reactions to the ice cream provide comic relief.
• Public image versus reality: Students interpret Lu’s interactions with the girls as romantic, while the actual situation involves friendship, gratitude, magical investigation, and unresolved feelings.
• Responsibility beneath comedy: Despite his casual attitude, Lu agrees to use the dinner invitation to investigate a potentially dangerous situation.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu and Tang share ice cream, creating a quietly intimate moment marked by Tang’s blush and the observers’ jealousy.
• Ran interrupts them and asks for ice cream, then invites Lu to dinner after confirming her health. Tang later teases Lu about using the dinner to question Ran’s father.
• Tang and Lu work together to interpret the butterfly’s warning and plan their next step.
• Lu and Tang conduct a playful Student Council interview, while Tang’s special smiles toward Lu lead the younger students to assume they are dating.
• At the end, Tang displays her martial-arts ability by jumping from the stage, and Lu’s admiring gaze is disguised as concern about a nonexistent bug.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming chats with his sister, Lu Annuan, about the positive news surrounding his recent actions. She teases him about being invited to Ran Yanyue’s house, especially because of Yanyue’s beauty, while Lu Ming claims he is also investigating information connected to Tang Zhiqing.
• Lu Annuan becomes subtly jealous that Lu Ming is dining at another girl’s home, though she hides it behind playful conversation.
• Lu Ming’s friends, Li Deng and Cao Guang, plan to invite him to dinner, only to see him leave school with Ran Yanyue in her family’s Bentley. They jokingly conclude that he is going to meet her parents.
• At Ran Yanyue’s wealthy villa, Lu Ming jokes about maids and suggests a maid café for the school anniversary. Yanyue responds with her usual dry, sharp humor, showing that she is increasingly comfortable talking with him.
• Ran Yanyue’s mother welcomes Lu Ming warmly and treats him to an elaborate meal to thank him for helping her daughter. During dinner, she keeps the conversation lively and makes Lu Ming feel at ease.
• Ran Yanyue’s father, Ran Sibo, arrives briefly. Lu Ming senses powerful Evil Beast magic around him, suggesting that Ran Sibo may be connected to the supernatural threat or otherwise conceal an important secret.
• Ran Sibo barely acknowledges Lu Ming before retreating to his study. He judges Lu Ming as unsuitable for Yanyue because of his ordinary background and merely average academic performance.
• In his study, Ran Sibo deals with business matters involving a factory basement he wants cleared for expensive medical equipment. He plans to have visiting overseas doctors examine Yanyue’s health problems, revealing that his apparent indifference may be connected to his concern for her condition.
• Despite her husband’s cold behavior, Ran Yanyue’s mother continues treating Lu Ming and Yanyue warmly, preserving a pleasant atmosphere at the table.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Remains humorous and perceptive, but he is also actively investigating supernatural information related to Ran Yanyue’s family. He notices both Yanyue’s loneliness and the suspicious magical presence surrounding her father.
• Ran Yanyue: Shows a more relaxed and talkative side around Lu Ming. Her conversation and jokes indicate growing trust and comfort, while her subdued reaction to her father’s arrival exposes how deeply his neglect has hurt her.
• Ran Yanyue’s mother: Emerges as warm, gracious, and emotionally attentive. She sincerely appreciates Lu Ming and tries to compensate for the tension and emotional distance within the family.
• Ran Sibo: Is introduced as cold, calculating, and intensely focused on efficiency and work. Although he neglects Yanyue emotionally, his plans to gather elite doctors and medical equipment suggest he is trying, in his own way, to address her health problems.
• Lu Annuan: Displays playful jealousy toward Ran Yanyue, implying that her feelings toward Lu Ming may be stronger than she openly admits.
• The butler: Notices Yanyue’s unusual friendliness and recognizes Lu Ming’s positive influence on her, causing him to view Lu Ming favorably.

Significant Themes

• Emotional neglect versus material care: Ran Sibo provides wealth and medical resources but fails to offer Yanyue companionship or affection, raising questions about whether practical support can replace emotional presence.
• Loneliness and belonging: Yanyue envies the warmth of Lu Ming’s family and imagines joining their lively household, emphasizing her isolation.
• Growing friendship and intimacy: Yanyue and Lu Ming’s easy banter shows their relationship deepening, while Lu Annuan’s jealousy introduces possible romantic tension.
• Hidden supernatural danger: The Evil Beast magic sensed near Ran Sibo hints that Yanyue’s family and medical problems may be tied to the larger magical conflict.
• Appearances versus reality: Ran Sibo appears indifferent, yet his medical preparations suggest concern; conversely, his wealth and status do not make him emotionally present as a father.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan: Exchange teasing messages about his dinner invitation, Ran Yanyue, and their plans, revealing their close sibling relationship and Annuan’s jealousy.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue: Trade jokes at the villa and share a comfortable, increasingly familiar dynamic.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue’s mother: She warmly thanks him and makes a strong effort to include him in the family meal.
• Lu Ming and Ran Sibo: Their brief meeting is tense and distant; Ran Sibo silently judges him while Lu Ming becomes suspicious of the magic surrounding him.
• Ran Yanyue and Ran Sibo: Their interaction is minimal but emotionally significant. His absence from her childhood and cold treatment leave her visibly hurt.
• The butler and Lu Ming: The butler observes that Lu Ming brings out a lively, sociable side of Yanyue that he has rarely seen before.

Chapter 66 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming suddenly senses an imminent danger and warns Mrs. Ran and Ran Yanyue that an “earthquake” is about to occur. In reality, he detects the approach of an Evil Beast.
• Ran Yanyue believes him immediately and persuades her mother, who orders the butler to prepare the car. They then rush to warn Ran Sibo.
• Ran Sibo initially refuses to trust Lu Ming’s warning, demanding a convincing explanation. Before they can argue further, an Evil Beast attacks through the window.
• Lu Ming effortlessly defeats the creature with a kick, revealing his extraordinary physical strength to Ran Sibo.
• Lu Ming discovers more than a dozen Evil Beasts surrounding the villa. Since escaping would expose the family to danger, he advises everyone to remain inside and wait for the police or Magical Girls.
• Ran Sibo and the others return to the study. Lu Ming barricades the broken window by lifting and positioning an extremely heavy desk, further shocking the family.
• Ran Sibo realizes the Evil Beasts are probably targeting him because of the recent factory-related incident. He thanks Lu Ming for protecting him and his family.
• While the family rests, Lu Ming explains that he could defeat the Evil Beasts, but leaving the study would expose the Ran family to attack. The beasts eventually break into the villa from the window, ceiling, and doorway.
• Lu Ming protects the family with the help of Ran Yanyue’s magical shield, destroys multiple attackers, and finally moves the fight downstairs so he can unleash his full strength without endangering them. The chapter ends as the full assault begins.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates remarkable awareness, strength, speed, and combat ability. He confidently protects the Ran family while maintaining his usual joking, self-deprecating attitude. He also continues to conceal or downplay the full extent of his powers.
• Ran Yanyue: Shows complete trust in Lu Ming and becomes visibly frantic when her father refuses to listen. Her concern reveals how deeply she cares for her family, while her increasingly relaxed conversations with Lu Ming suggest growing closeness.
• Ran Sibo: Initially distrustful of Lu Ming, he changes his opinion after witnessing Lu Ming defeat an Evil Beast and protect everyone. He recognizes that he had misjudged the boy and begins treating him as someone capable and dependable.
• Mrs. Ran: Quickly accepts Lu Ming and Yanyue’s warning, remains calm despite the danger, and notices the affectionate, comfortable dynamic between the two teenagers.
• Ran Sibo and Ran Yanyue: Their relationship gains emotional depth when Yanyue acknowledges that her father protected her. Though both struggle to express affection, she realizes that he does care about her.

Significant Themes

• Trust and proof: Ran Yanyue trusts Lu Ming instinctively, while Ran Sibo demands evidence. Lu Ming’s actions ultimately prove his reliability and overturn Sibo’s earlier judgment.
• Family affection and unspoken love: Yanyue’s fear for her father and Sibo’s instinct to protect her reveal feelings that neither easily verbalizes.
• Hidden abilities and mistaken identity: Ran Sibo is astonished that an ordinary-looking student can destroy Evil Beasts with physical strength, highlighting Lu Ming’s concealed extraordinary nature.
• Protection and responsibility: Lu Ming chooses to remain with the vulnerable family rather than pursue the enemies alone, prioritizing their safety over an easier victory.
• Humor amid danger: Lu Ming’s jokes and the family’s comedic reactions relieve the tension, especially as Mrs. Ran observes his interactions with Yanyue like a romance show.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Yanyue work together to warn and protect her parents, with Yanyue openly relying on his judgment.
• Yanyue confronts Ran Sibo when he refuses to trust her, exposing her emotional attachment and fear of losing him.
• Ran Sibo asks Lu Ming for help, marking a major shift from suspicion to respect.
• Mrs. Ran teases and observes Lu Ming and Yanyue’s easy, affectionate conversation, suggesting she approves of their closeness.
• Lu Ming and Yanyue exchange playful banter while discussing his ability to defeat the Evil Beasts, reinforcing their growing familiarity even during the crisis.

Chapter 67 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Manager Song Zhiyong returns to the ruined villa, believing he has secured control of the factory after pressing a device from an intelligent Evil Beast onto Ran Sibo’s shoulder.
• Lu Ming ambushes Song by throwing rubble at him, knocking him unconscious before he can discover the Evil Beast’s whereabouts.
• Police arrive, and Officer Zhuang Ming once again finds Lu Ming at the scene. She jokingly worries that his constant presence might make the station suspect him of being an Evil Beast spy.
• Ran Sibo publicly vouches for Lu Ming, claiming that Lu Ming’s quick thinking protected his family and praising him as an upright, heroic student. He compares Lu Ming favorably to his daughter, Ran Yanyue, whose embarrassed reaction shows their usual family dynamic.
• At a factory basement near the arcade, Lu Ming, Zhuang Ming, and an assistant manager discover a gigantic, glowing magic circle fifty meters wide, saturated with Evil Beast energy.
• Lu Ming photographs the circle and consults the Magical Girl Home forum. The Magical Girls admit that they have never seen anything quite like it, though they recognize it as extremely dangerous.
• Song Zhiyong confesses that a black-clad, talking Evil Beast made a deal with him: in exchange for the factory, it wanted to use the basement for six months. However, Song knows nothing about the Evil Beast’s larger plan.
• Empress privately explains that the circle is a high-level conversion formation. Rather than merely absorbing magical power, it destroys living beings inside it and converts their lives into immense magical energy.
• The circle is unusually large—roughly three times the normal size used by Code-named Evil Beasts—suggesting that something significant and dangerous is being prepared in Haiyang.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming continues to demonstrate quick reflexes, resourcefulness, and unusual familiarity with dangerous situations. He also maintains his playful, irreverent personality, joking even during tense investigations.
• Ran Sibo shows strong trust in Lu Ming and uses his authority to protect Lu Ming from suspicion, publicly endorsing his character.
• Ran Yanyue appears embarrassed by her father’s exaggerated praise of her, but her smile reveals growing warmth toward Lu Ming.
• Zhuang Ming remains professional but easily flustered by Lu Ming’s teasing. Her concern about Lu Ming’s repeated appearances at Evil Beast incidents highlights the unusual nature of his life.
• Song Zhiyong is revealed to be greedy, cowardly, and dominated by fear of his wife. His desire for wealth and status makes him vulnerable to manipulation by the Evil Beast.
• Empress displays unexpected helpfulness by privately identifying the magic circle’s function. Despite her aloofness, she is attentive to the developing crisis.

Significant Themes

• Human greed and exploitation: Song Zhiyong’s ambition allows the Evil Beast to use him and the factory for its hidden purpose.
• The widening scale of the threat: The enormous magic circle implies that the Evil Beasts’ plans are becoming more organized and dangerous.
• Trust and reputation: Ran Sibo’s public defense of Lu Ming contrasts with the suspicion surrounding him and reinforces the importance of personal character.
• Magical-girl solidarity: Although the forum members cannot identify the circle, they express concern for Haiyang and offer support while respecting their own responsibilities.
• Humor amid danger: Lu Ming’s jokes, Zhuang Ming’s awkwardness, and the forum’s confusion over the “six-inch” magic circle relieve tension without diminishing the threat.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Song Zhiyong: Lu Ming silently identifies Song as the culprit and incapacitates him before questioning him.
• Lu Ming and Zhuang Ming: Their banter continues, with Zhuang Ming teasingly suspecting Lu Ming while Lu Ming mocks her policing methods and maintains a playful rapport.
• Ran Sibo and Lu Ming: Ran Sibo openly defends Lu Ming and compares him to Ran Yanyue, causing an embarrassed but pleased reaction from Yanyue.
• Lu Ming and the Magical Girls: Lu Ming asks the forum for help, amusingly misinterpreting Sky Fania’s reference to a six-inch magic circle as a pizza.
• Lu Ming and Empress: Empress gives Lu Ming the first concrete explanation of the formation. Lu Ming attempts friendly conversation afterward, but she reads his message without replying, preserving her distant persona.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhuang Ming discusses Tang Zhiqing, explaining that the strongest Magical Girl in the capital is notoriously independent and difficult to communicate with, though her overwhelming strength keeps the capital safe from Evil Beasts.
• Zhuang Ming tells Lu Ming to leave the dangerous factory and assures him that she and her colleagues will decide whether to destroy or preserve the supernatural threat there. She encourages him to enjoy a normal student life and invites him to call her “Sister Zhuang.”
• Outside the factory, Lu Ming meets Lu Annuan, who came after Zhuang Ming contacted her. After confirming that Lu Ming is unharmed, Annuan promises that she will protect him for the rest of his life if he wants her to.
• While walking home, Lu Ming and Annuan stop at a shooting stall in a public square. Annuan notices that one of the prizes is a lottery ticket or voucher that could reduce their household expenses and possibly fund a trip.
• Lu Ming discovers that the stall’s air rifle has been deliberately tampered with, causing his first shots to miss. Once he adjusts, he demonstrates remarkable accuracy, repeatedly knocking down the difficult target holding the prize tickets.
• Annuan stops him from winning excessively, noting that the stall owner also needs to make a living. They decide to use their two successful attempts to draw prizes, with Annuan particularly interested in the couple bracelets.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Continues balancing supernatural danger with ordinary teenage life. He remains confident and humorous, but becomes increasingly aware of his improved concentration and shooting ability. He is also visibly affected by Annuan’s sincere promise to protect him.
• Lu Annuan: Shows emotional healing after avenging her mother’s death. She can now speak of her mother more naturally and expresses optimism about the future. Her affectionate declaration that she will protect Lu Ming reveals the depth of her feelings, while her concern for household finances shows her practical, responsible nature.
• Zhuang Ming: Acts as a protective adult figure. She wants Lu Ming and the other students to remain uninvolved in dangerous matters and demonstrates trust in her colleagues’ willingness to shoulder the burden.
• Tang Zhiqing: Though absent from the events, she is characterized as an exceptionally powerful but socially difficult Magical Girl, and Lu Ming remains an admirer of her abilities.

Significant Themes

• Protection and responsibility: Zhuang Ming protects the students by taking responsibility for the factory, while Annuan offers Lu Ming deeply personal protection in return.
• Healing and moving forward: Annuan’s ability to discuss her mother and imagine a future with Lu Ming suggests that she is gradually releasing her grief and trauma.
• Ordinary life amid supernatural danger: The chapter contrasts hidden threats and powerful Magical Girls with mundane activities such as walking home, managing household expenses, traveling, and playing carnival games.
• Romance and domestic intimacy: Annuan’s promise to stay with Lu Ming for life, their shared concern about finances, and her interest in couple bracelets subtly advance their romantic relationship.
• Deception and fairness: The shooting stall owner rigs the rifle to prevent customers from winning, but Lu Ming’s skill exposes the trick. Annuan’s decision not to exploit him excessively introduces a balance between cleverness and compassion.

Character Interactions

• Zhuang Ming and Lu Ming share a warm, teasing relationship, with Zhuang Ming treating him like a younger family member while still emphasizing adult responsibility.
• Lu Ming and Annuan walk home together in a tender, emotionally charged exchange. Her promise to protect him leaves Lu Ming surprised and moved.
• At the shooting stall, Lu Ming’s growing skill clashes humorously with the owner’s attempts to cheat customers. Annuan supports Lu Ming but ultimately restrains him from taking too much advantage of the situation.
• Their interest in the couple bracelets suggests that Annuan is comfortable expressing romantic closeness, while Lu Ming is still processing the seriousness of her feelings.

Chapter 69 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• At a shooting-game stall, Lu Ming wins a supermarket voucher with ease, leaving the exhausted stall owner overwhelmed by his skill.
• Lu Annuan secretly draws a “couple’s bracelet” prize but pretends she only received a “Thanks for participating” slip because the stall offers only one bracelet. She appears reluctant to claim a prize that would require them to share a matching pair.
• Lu Ming uses time stop to discover the truth. He returns to the stall and obtains two genuine, expensive matching bracelets.
• He gives one bracelet to Lu Annuan at the bus stop, explaining that he probably will not play at the stall again and therefore might as well take the prize. Lu Annuan is surprised, embarrassed, and pleased, and suggests that they each wear one.
• They travel home together during a sudden downpour and arrive completely soaked.
• Back home, Lu Annuan selflessly suggests that Lu Ming shower first so he will not catch cold. Lu Ming pretends he simply enjoys playing with water, while privately enjoying the possibility of seeing her after her shower.
• Lu Annuan showers at their shared home rather than returning to her own, reinforcing their increasingly intimate domestic routine.
• Lu Ming messages Ran Yanyue, who reports that she and her father have finished giving statements to the police and are pursuing life imprisonment for the abusive manager involved in their earlier incident.
• In a group chat, Lu Ming asks his friends for advice about a girl who insists on showering at a male friend’s home. His friends immediately conclude that she is secretly in love with him, though Lu Ming denies that the situation concerns him.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Becomes more considerate and proactive toward Lu Annuan, going out of his way to obtain the second bracelet so she can keep the matching pair. Although he denies romantic intentions, his thoughts reveal growing attraction and enjoyment of their closeness. He also shows his usual humor, confidence, and obliviousness regarding romantic signals.
• Lu Annuan: Displays clear romantic interest while trying to conceal it through teasing, lies, and indirect behavior. She gives up the bracelet rather than openly ask for a matching pair, but happily accepts when Lu Ming brings back two. Her concern for his health and preference for sharing their home’s bathroom suggest that she wants greater intimacy and mutual dependence.
• Ran Yanyue: Continues pursuing strong legal action against the manager, showing determination and support from her family. Her brief, ambiguous response to Lu Ming mentioning Lu Annuan may hint at jealousy or emotional concern.
• Lu Ming’s friends: Provide blunt, accurate commentary on the romantic situation, recognizing Lu Annuan’s feelings more clearly than Lu Ming does.

Significant Themes

• Unspoken romantic feelings: Both Lu Ming and Lu Annuan avoid directly acknowledging their attraction, instead expressing it through gifts, teasing, and practical concern.
• Domestic intimacy: Sharing transportation, shelter, showers, and household space creates a relationship resembling a couple’s life even though neither openly defines it that way.
• Mutual consideration: Lu Annuan’s concern for Lu Ming’s health and Lu Ming’s effort to retrieve the matching bracelet show their growing care for one another.
• Obliviousness and denial: Lu Ming notices Lu Annuan’s unusual behavior but rationalizes it, while Lu Annuan hides her feelings behind jokes and false claims.
• Humor and exaggeration: The chapter uses Lu Ming’s comedic internal narration, pop-culture references, and playful misunderstandings to balance the increasingly romantic atmosphere.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan flirt indirectly through the bracelet exchange, teasing, and their shared walk home.
• Their conversation about who should shower first reveals their mutual concern and comfortable familiarity.
• Ran Yanyue’s messages establish an ongoing connection with Lu Ming and subtly suggest tension when he mentions spending time with Lu Annuan.
• Lu Ming’s group-chat exchange highlights how obvious Lu Annuan’s behavior appears to outsiders, even though he continues insisting that the “girl and male friend” are not him.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming admiates the matching couple’s bracelet he shares with Lu Annuan. Meanwhile, Lu Annuan happily wears hers while pretending that she only likes its appearance and jokingly considers claiming to be Lu Ming’s girlfriend.
• After the rain stops, Lu Ming and Lu Annuan visit a supermarket and use vouchers to stock up on supplies ahead of typhoon season. Their living arrangement causes passersby to mistakenly assume they are a young couple.
• At school, Lu Ming finds Li Deng studying physics under Ran Yanyue’s strict supervision. Li Deng jokingly complains that Ran has effectively enslaved him with homework.
• Ran tells Lu Ming that her investigation into the strange formation found in the factory basement has produced new information. She asks him to meet in the Student Council room.
• In the Student Council room, Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue confront Lu Ming indirectly. Tang apologizes for being difficult to work with and seeks reassurance about his opinion of her. Lu Ming carefully praises her, successfully restoring her good mood.
• Ran and Tang reveal that they have discussed the supernatural threat with each other. Ran’s father examined the formation photographs and discovered that numerous locations in Haiyang City had undergone sudden repairs during the previous six months, likely as preparations for Evil Beast formations.
• Tang admits that the formations may already be complete and that Haiyang City is in the final stage of the enemy’s plan. A Death Spiral officer’s warning that the city has only one month left to survive may be connected to this operation.
• Investigating every possible formation site could take at least half a month, especially because certain people—including the factory manager—may be cooperating with the Evil Beasts and obstructing the investigation.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming remains cautious and socially adept, using flattery and quick thinking to avoid conflict with both Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue. He is increasingly involved in the investigation into Haiyang City’s danger.
• Lu Annuan shows clear romantic affection for Lu Ming despite denying it. Her delight over the bracelet and desire to tease him about being her boyfriend reveal her growing emotional attachment.
• Ran Yanyue continues to act as a strict, responsible investigator and study supervisor. She is fair-minded, highly competent, and visibly jealous of Lu Ming’s closeness with Tang.
• Tang Zhiqing demonstrates both emotional sensitivity and political skill. Though she presents herself as apologetic and vulnerable, she remains highly perceptive and manipulative when necessary. She also accepts responsibility for failing to detect the Evil Beasts’ preparations.
• Li Deng remains Lu Ming’s humorous friend, reluctantly studying under Ran’s authority.

Significant Themes

• Romantic ambiguity and jealousy: The bracelet, Lu Annuan’s teasing, and Ran’s irritation over Lu Ming’s relationship with Tang suggest multiple romantic tensions surrounding Lu Ming.
• Trust and manipulation: Lu Ming is wary of Tang’s seemingly sincere words, while Tang uses carefully controlled expressions and compliments to influence the situation.
• Hidden supernatural danger: The Evil Beasts’ activities are extensive, organized, and concealed beneath ordinary urban repairs, emphasizing the threat’s scale and secrecy.
• Responsibility and cooperation: Tang, Ran, and Lu Ming begin sharing information rather than working separately, recognizing that secrecy could worsen the crisis.
• Time pressure: With Haiyang City potentially having only one month remaining, the characters must investigate many sites quickly while facing enemy interference.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan share playful domestic intimacy while avoiding openly acknowledging their romantic implications.
• Lu Ming teases Li Deng about his studying, while Li Deng complains about Ran’s strictness.
• Tang and Ran exchange a tense, competitive glance after Tang mentions her private time with Lu Ming, revealing mutual jealousy and rivalry.
• Ran and Tang cooperate professionally despite their personal tension, combining their information about the formations.
• Lu Ming mediates between the two girls, reassuring Tang, calming Ran, and trying to keep their rivalry from disrupting the investigation.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue realize that the magical formations scattered throughout Haiyang may be connected. Rather than being used to convert isolated victims into magical power, the network could potentially affect the entire city.
• They fear the enemy is planning to “wipe out” all of Haiyang. Ran Yanyue decides to contact her father and ask him to organize an investigation, while Lu Ming suggests involving the police and other concerned citizens.
• Tang Zhiqing acknowledges the seriousness of the threat but insists that the students still have immediate responsibilities, particularly the upcoming Joint Sports Meet.
• Lu Ming observes Tang Zhiqing carefully researching International Middle School’s students and competitors, demonstrating her dedication to her role as Student Council president.
• Ran Yanyue explains that she will serve as one of the sports meet leaders and urges Lu Ming to qualify for the roster. She emphasizes that fear of losing guarantees defeat.
• During PE class, the school begins selecting athletes. Lu Ming discovers Li Deng secretly using a phone and chatting with someone. Li claims it is a distant cousin coming to Haiyang for high school, but Lu Ming suspects he is lying.
• Lu Ming then consults Cao Guang about “the matter” involving Li Deng, implying that Li’s secret communications may be connected to something suspicious.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Shows strong analytical ability by deducing the possible purpose of the oversized formations. He balances concern over the magical threat with his usual humor and becomes suspicious of Li Deng’s secretive behavior.
• Ran Yanyue: Reveals both her loyalty to Haiyang and her intensely competitive nature. She wants to protect her home rather than flee and is determined to win the sports meet.
• Tang Zhiqing: Her commitment to student leadership becomes clearer. She personally studies the opposing school’s athletes and sees the sports meet as part of her responsibility as president, even amid a supernatural crisis.
• Li Deng: Acts suspiciously while secretly messaging someone on his phone. His explanation seems unconvincing, and his unusually calm, pleased demeanor makes Lu Ming more doubtful.
• Cao Guang: Appears to know about Li Deng’s situation and becomes Lu Ming’s source of information.
• Ran Yanyue and Tang Zhiqing: Both want the school to succeed, but for different reasons—Tang from a sense of responsibility and Ran from a powerful desire to win.

Significant Themes

• Hidden danger and escalation: The linked formations suggest that the enemy’s plan is much larger and more catastrophic than initially believed.
• Duty amid crisis: Even with the possibility of a city-wide disaster, ordinary obligations such as schoolwork and sports competitions continue.
• Love of home and community: Ran Yanyue’s refusal to abandon Haiyang reflects local loyalty and collective responsibility.
• Competition and confidence: Ran believes that fear of defeat leads directly to failure, highlighting the importance of resolve.
• Public duty versus private identity: Tang treats student leadership as her life, while being a Magical Girl is merely her “work,” showing how seriously she values ordinary school responsibilities.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue cooperate in analyzing the formations, though Lu Ming’s joking attitude contrasts with her practical seriousness.
• Lu Ming teases Tang Zhiqing about marrying a local, causing her to show unexpected interest before redirecting the conversation to school business.
• Ran challenges Lu Ming to participate in the sports meet, while Lu Ming jokes about getting favorable treatment when she grades his English work.
• Lu Ming confronts Li Deng over his suspicious phone use. Their exchange is playful on the surface but establishes Lu Ming’s growing suspicion.
• Lu Ming privately questions Cao Guang about Li Deng, using exaggerated Warhammer references to lighten what may be a serious investigation.

Chapter 72 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming learns from Cao Guang that Li Deng may have developed feelings for a girl from International Middle School. The girl first caught his attention while watching him play The King of Fighters during an Evil Beast attack at the arcade.
• Li Deng and the girl later played together and apparently exchanged contact information. Lu Ming realizes that the girl may be connected to International Middle School and decides he may have to visit the school himself.
• During the school fitness test, Lu Ming performs an astonishing standing long jump, leaving a mark high on the basketball backboard. The younger students are amazed, while Ran Yanyue quietly takes pride in him.
• After school, Lu Ming returns home and meets Lu Annuan, who has also participated in her school’s sports-meet selections. Because her coach is worried about her getting injured, she is not allowed to compete and is assigned to cheerleading instead.
• Lu Annuan playfully offers to cheer exclusively for Lu Ming if he attends the sports meet. Lu Ming dismisses the idea and leads her inside to eat, while she privately suspects he may be jealous.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming remains observant and teasing, but he is also considerate. He treats Li Deng’s romantic feelings seriously and promises not to expose anything embarrassing. His athletic ability continues to appear far beyond that of an ordinary student.
• Li Deng is revealed to be entering a more emotionally vulnerable stage, developing a youthful crush on the International Middle School girl.
• Cao Guang demonstrates his trust in Lu Ming, believing that Lu Ming will not exploit Li Deng’s private feelings. His friendship with Lu Ming is presented as sincere and dependable.
• Ran Yanyue continues to act calm, disciplined, and authoritative, but her positive reaction to Lu Ming’s performance hints at her affection and admiration for him.
• Lu Annuan shows a playful, slightly possessive side. Her offer to cheer only for Lu Ming suggests that she enjoys teasing him while also caring about his attention.

Significant Themes

• 青春 and first love: Li Deng’s crush and Lu Annuan’s teasing reflect the excitement, embarrassment, and emotional uncertainty of adolescence.
• Friendship and trust: Cao Guang’s confidence in Lu Ming highlights the importance of protecting friends’ vulnerabilities.
• Youthful school life: Sports tests, school competitions, cheering, and playful banter contrast with the characters’ dangerous responsibilities as Magical Girls and their allies.
• Hidden affection and jealousy: Several relationships are conveyed indirectly through teasing, admiration, and subtle emotional reactions rather than open declarations.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Cao Guang discuss Li Deng’s crush, with Lu Ming reacting protectively and humorously.
• Ran Yanyue supervises the fitness test and watches Lu Ming’s remarkable performance with visible satisfaction.
• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan tease each other about the sports meet. Her offer to support him personally reveals a warmer, more possessive affection beneath their casual sibling-like exchanges.
  Note: The supplied passage also includes an extended section labeled Chapter 68, covering the investigation into Death Spiral’s magic arrays and Lu Ming’s interactions with Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue. That material appears separate from the Chapter 72 events above.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tang Zhiqing asks Lu Ming to represent Haiyang No. 2 Middle School at the upcoming sports meet against their rival, International Middle School. She argues that a male representative is necessary to avoid the school being mocked for relying entirely on female representatives.
• Lu Ming reluctantly agrees, insisting that he does not seek attention or credit.
• During a relaxed conversation in a café, Lu Ming’s downloaded Japanese dramas become a topic of discussion. He explains that he downloaded Your Name for entertainment and Hanzawa Naoki to learn from its protagonist’s determination.
• Lu Ming jokingly claims he wants to help Tang Zhiqing become principal and has no interest in succeeding her as Student Council president. Ran Yanyue immediately recognizes the lie.
• A loud group of International Middle School students enters the café. Their basketball-playing leader tries to impress Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue by offering to pay for them, mentioning his uncle’s connection to the café.
• Lu Ming rejects the offer while subtly showing that he has a large amount of money. Ran Yanyue then reveals that her own family is the café’s major shareholder, making her the most powerful person involved. She offers to handle similar situations in the future.
• On the day of the sports meet, Haiyang No. 2 Middle School travels by bus to International Middle School. Tang Zhiqing gives a formal motivational speech while holding onto Lu Ming for balance during a turn.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue chat during the journey. Their conversation becomes a playful question-and-answer exchange covering romance, personal preferences, philosophy, the universe, and hypothetical disasters.
• Lu Ming notices that Tang Zhiqing has been silently staring at him while he talks with Ran Yanyue, suggesting that her mood may have changed.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Continues to present himself as lazy and uninterested in status, though he is willing to represent the school and support Tang Zhiqing’s ambitions. He remains witty and socially perceptive, but his teasing and closeness with both girls may unintentionally provoke jealousy.
• Tang Zhiqing: Demonstrates leadership and political awareness by insisting that Lu Ming represent the school. She appears confident and authoritative, yet becomes unusually silent and displeased when Lu Ming focuses on Ran Yanyue during the bus ride.
• Ran Yanyue: Displays extreme confidence, sharp wit, and a sophisticated family background. She is revealed to be connected to the café’s major ownership and treats social confrontations calmly. Her answers show her admiration for law, discipline, intellectual ideals, and decisive competition.
• International Middle School students: Their loud behavior and attempts to show off reinforce the rivalry between the two schools. The basketball player is attracted to the girls but underestimates their wealth and status.

Significant Themes

• School rivalry and reputation: The sports meet represents a broader struggle for prestige between Haiyang No. 2 Middle School and International Middle School.
• Youth and competition: Adults tell the students to enjoy their youth, while the students are nevertheless drawn into institutional rivalry and the pressure to represent their school.
• Status and hidden power: Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue each casually reveal financial advantages, turning an attempted display of International Middle School superiority into a contest of concealed influence.
• Confidence and self-image: Ran Yanyue’s narcissistic confidence is played for humor, but it also reflects her strong sense of identity and superiority.
• Friendship, teasing, and romantic tension: The characters’ relaxed banter reveals their closeness, while Tang Zhiqing’s silent reaction hints at possible jealousy or possessiveness.

Character Interactions

• Tang Zhiqing and Lu Ming discuss the sports meet as president and secretary, with Tang relying on him as a representative.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue exchange sarcastic jokes, with Ran Yanyue frequently exposing his hidden intentions.
• Lu Ming rejects the International student’s offer of hospitality, while Ran Yanyue ultimately outclasses him by revealing her family’s greater connection to the café.
• On the bus, Lu Ming holds Tang Zhiqing’s wrist to steady her, leading other students to tease him.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue’s playful conversation grows increasingly personal. Their easy rapport contrasts with Tang Zhiqing’s growing silence, ending the chapter on the suggestion that she may be upset by their interaction.

Chapter 70 Summary

• Sports meet preparations: Haiyang No. 2 Middle School travels to International Middle School for the athletic meet. The students are pessimistic because International has historically performed better, so Lu Ming gives an impassioned speech about Haiyang No. 2’s proud history, successfully rousing their spirits—though his dramatic confidence makes the school leaders worry that he may be preparing everyone for defeat.
• Arrival and setup: Tang Zhiqing organizes the Student Council members as they set up their canopy. International Middle School students are immediately captivated by Tang and Ran Yanyue’s beauty, comparing them favorably with their own Student Council president. Several International students use the heavy canopy as an excuse to approach Tang and show off their strength.
• Lu Ming impresses the crowd: Lu Ming effortlessly carries the canopy with one hand, embarrassing the International students and earning admiration from both schools. Tang rewards him verbally, promising that he can ask for anything. Lu Ming’s thoughts become increasingly lewd, though he quickly tries to deny them.
• The girls leave to change: Ran Yanyue takes the girls to change into sportswear while Tang tells Lu Ming to guard their team’s area. Lu Ming jokes theatrically about defending their “territory,” reinforcing his playful, overdramatic personality.
• Recovering Li Deng’s phone: Cao Guang asks Lu Ming to retrieve Li Deng’s phone, which teachers confiscated and stored in Room 203. Li Deng is worried that his private conversation with an International Middle School girl will be exposed and ruin his chances with his girlfriend. Lu Ming agrees after Li Deng promises to help him regain his gaming rank.
• The changing-room misunderstanding: Lu Ming finds the phone in Room 203, but hides inside a cabinet when he hears Tang and Ran approaching. He discovers that Room 203 is also being used as the girls’ changing room. Tang, Ran, and the other girls begin changing nearby, leaving Lu Ming trapped in hiding and facing an embarrassing temptation.

Character Development and Interactions

• Lu Ming demonstrates physical strength, quick thinking, humor, and loyalty to his friends. His attraction to Tang Zhiqing and growing preoccupation with Lu Annuan are shown through his inner monologue.
• Tang Zhiqing remains a confident and capable leader, directing the preparations and teasingly offering Lu Ming any reward he wants.
• Ran Yanyue acts as a strict, practical organizer, warning the boys not to follow the girls to change.
• Cao Guang and Li Deng rely on Lu Ming’s connections and resourcefulness, adding a comic subplot involving Li Deng’s phone and romantic worries.
• International students are portrayed as initially confident and flirtatious but are quickly humbled by Lu Ming’s strength.

Significant Themes

• School pride and motivation: Lu Ming uses history and bravado to counter his classmates’ inferiority complex.
• Competitive rivalry: The sports meet establishes tension between the two schools while also allowing humorous interactions and mutual admiration.
• Romantic attraction and embarrassment: Lu Ming’s feelings and imagination regarding Tang and the other girls drive the chapter’s fan-service-oriented comedy.
• Friendship and favors: Lu Ming helps Li Deng despite potential trouble, but humorously expects compensation in return.

Ending Position

The chapter ends with Lu Ming hiding in the cabinet while Tang begins removing her clothes nearby, setting up an awkward and potentially compromising encounter.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming secretly hides inside a locker in the girls’ changing room after retrieving Li Deng’s phone, narrowly avoiding being caught while Tang Zhiqing, Ran Yanyue, and other students change clothes.
• While trapped, he overhears Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue discussing him. Both acknowledge that, despite his unreliable and meddlesome personality, he has helped them significantly.
• Tang Zhiqing recalls how Lu Ming supported her when she first became Student Council president by introducing her to the students and helping her gain their acceptance.
• Ran Yanyue admits that Lu Ming has helped her as well, although she finds it difficult to thank him directly because she fears he will tease her.
• Tang Zhiqing hears a noise from the locker and investigates. She offers the hidden person a chance to come out without punishment, but Lu Ming distrusts her apparent gentleness. When she opens the locker, it is empty because Lu Ming uses Time Stop to escape.
• Lu Ming returns Li Deng’s phone to him, earning Li Deng’s exaggerated gratitude. He lies to Cao Guang about where he has been, concealing that he was near the girls’ changing room.
• Before the opening ceremony, Lu Ming receives a message and photograph from Lu Annuan, who has secretly photographed him from the International Middle School’s teaching building. He heads there to find her.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Although embarrassed and terrified of being exposed, he remains observant and self-aware. He is secretly touched by Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue’s recognition of his kindness and support. His actions reveal that he values his closest friends deeply, even while maintaining a joking, irreverent exterior.
• Tang Zhiqing: She is shown to be perceptive, powerful, and respected, but also uncomfortable with attention. Her discussion of Lu Ming reveals genuine gratitude and affection for his role in helping her settle into the school.
• Ran Yanyue: She continues to tease Lu Ming and criticize his personality, but admits that he has helped her considerably. Her reluctance to thank him openly suggests embarrassment and growing emotional closeness.
• Lu Annuan: She demonstrates a playful, mischievous side by secretly taking a high-quality photograph of Lu Ming and challenging him to guess her location.
• Li Deng: His comic loyalty toward Lu Ming is reinforced when he dramatically kneels and calls him “godfather” after getting his phone back.

Significant Themes

• Hidden gratitude and friendship: The chapter emphasizes that Lu Ming’s friends appreciate his support even when they mock or misunderstand his behavior.
• Appearance versus reality: Lu Ming appears irresponsible and lecherous on the surface, but his internal thoughts and past actions reveal loyalty and genuine concern for others.
• Embarrassment and social reputation: Much of the humor comes from Lu Ming’s fear of being exposed and socially ruined, highlighting the importance of appearances among the students.
• Trust and skepticism: Tang Zhiqing offers to forgive the hidden intruder, but Lu Ming distrusts her because he knows her stern personality too well.
• Romantic gossip and emotional tension: The girls speculate about Tang Zhiqing and Lu Ming’s relationship, while the chapter hints at deeper bonds beneath their teasing exchanges.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Tang Zhiqing: Their relationship is based on mutual reliance, familiarity, and teasing. She values his assistance, while he respects her but remains wary of her temper.
• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue: Their banter is indirect, with Yanyue criticizing him while also acknowledging his kindness. Lu Ming secretly appreciates her admission.
• Tang Zhiqing and Ran Yanyue: They share a candid conversation while changing, revealing their mutual awareness of Lu Ming’s importance to them.
• Lu Ming, Li Deng, and Cao Guang: Lu Ming returns Li Deng’s phone and deceives Cao Guang about his whereabouts, creating a comic contrast between his secret actions and his public explanation.
• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan: Her message initiates the chapter’s next movement, as Lu Ming goes to confront or inspect her after discovering she has been secretly photographing him.

Chapter 71: “Struggling at the Heart of Enemy Territory” — Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming calculates the height of the International Middle School’s teaching building from a photograph and determines that Lu Annuan is on the fifth floor.
• Wearing his Haiyang No. 2 Middle School uniform, he enters the rival school during the sports meet and attracts considerable attention from the students, especially the girls.
• Lu Ming searches for Lu Annuan, briefly suspects he calculated incorrectly, and prepares to scold her for misleading him.
• Lu Annuan surprises him from behind and reveals that the message was a prank. She is wearing a white dress rather than her school uniform, intending to change later before appearing as a student representative.
• Lu Ming is visibly affected by her appearance but tries to hide his feelings behind awkward comments and criticism.
• Lu Annuan explains that she and Lu Ming will both represent their schools during the opening ceremony. She also privately jokes about the incompetence of her school’s student council secretary.
• A male student witnesses their closeness and becomes heartbroken, realizing that Lu Annuan may already be interested in Lu Ming.
• Lu Annuan brings Lu Ming to her classroom to meet Meng Xuan, who has been preparing students for the competition.
• Meng Xuan is cutting another girl’s bangs and jokingly offers Lu Ming a haircut. Their conversation becomes suggestive and comedic, though Meng Xuan assures him she will not pursue either him or Lu Annuan.
• Lu Annuan changes clothes while Lu Ming reflects on his growing physical attraction to her, then immediately feels embarrassed and tries to suppress those thoughts.
• The chapter ends when the student council secretary, overwhelmed by his speech script, abandons his preparation and escapes from the classroom.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates confidence in mathematics and pride in his school, but his composure weakens around Lu Annuan. He is increasingly aware of his romantic and physical attraction to her, though he remains in denial and disguises his feelings with sarcasm.
• Lu Annuan: Shows a playful, mischievous side by tricking Lu Ming and dressing specifically to get a reaction from him. She is also comfortable teasing him and appears pleased when she realizes that his restrained response likely hides genuine admiration.
• Meng Xuan: Continues to serve as a lively, flirtatious comic presence. She is practical and helpful, cutting a classmate’s hair, while also deliberately provoking Lu Ming with suggestive jokes.
• The International Middle School students: Their reactions emphasize Lu Ming’s attractiveness and the rivalry between the two schools. Several boys view him as a threat to their admiration of Lu Annuan.

Significant Themes

• Romantic tension and concealed feelings: Lu Ming and Lu Annuan clearly care for each other, but Lu Ming especially struggles to acknowledge his emotions.
• Playfulness and teasing: Their relationship is built on pranks, flirtation, and indirect compliments rather than open confession.
• School rivalry: The sports meet frames the interaction as a conflict between Haiyang No. 2 Middle School and International Middle School, though personal relationships blur the boundary between “enemy” schools.
• Appearance and attraction: Lu Annuan’s dress and Lu Ming’s handsome appearance provoke strong reactions, highlighting their growing awareness of one another’s physical appeal.
• Comedy through inner monologue: Much of the humor comes from Lu Ming’s exaggerated thoughts, self-censorship, and inability to reconcile his romantic feelings with his supposedly rational self-image.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan: Their reunion is affectionate and flirtatious. Lu Annuan deliberately tries to impress him, while Lu Ming reacts with hidden admiration and awkward restraint.
• Lu Ming and Meng Xuan: Meng Xuan teases him about his appearance, Lu Annuan’s popularity, and romantic competition, making him uncomfortable with her bold remarks.
• Lu Ming and the International students: His presence creates admiration among the girls and resentment among the boys, reinforcing the rivalry between the schools.
• Meng Xuan and the student council secretary: Her classroom preparation contrasts with the secretary’s inability to memorize his speech, setting up the chapter’s closing joke.

Chapter 77 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming discovers that Dongming International Middle School’s sports-meet representative has escaped again because he refuses to memorize his speech. Meng Xuan explains that the Student Council has resorted to tying him up, though even their “humane” rope restraints failed.
• Meng Xuan criticizes Haiyang No. 2 Middle School’s debate team, recalling how Tang Zhiqing defeated their president and Ran Yanyue psychologically crushed their vice president. She then points out that Lu Ming was also responsible for humiliating them by casually eating instant noodles after the debate.
• With the opening ceremony approaching and International Middle School’s representative missing, Meng Xuan improvises by dressing Lu Ming in International Middle School’s jacket and pairing him with Lu Annuan as their representative.
• Tang Zhiqing waits for Lu Ming at the ceremony and is forced to begin without him. When she sees him standing beside Lu Annuan in the opposing school’s uniform, both schools are confused and suspect that Lu Ming’s school affiliation is questionable.
• Lu Ming participates in the oath as a representative of both schools, nearly confusing his titles. Lu Annuan laughs at his mistake, while Tang Zhiqing reacts with irritation.
• Afterward, Lu Ming returns to Haiyang No. 2 Middle School’s tent and jokingly claims that he has “infiltrated the enemy.” Tang Zhiqing sarcastically tells him to infiltrate Haiyang No. 2 Middle School instead.
• The chapter continues the sports-meet atmosphere established previously: the two schools compete side by side, with Lu Ming caught between them.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Remains shameless, quick-witted, and adept at deflecting blame. Although he is technically representing two schools, he continues to insist that his loyalty lies with Haiyang No. 2 Middle School. His willingness to improvise saves the opening ceremony but also makes him appear suspiciously disloyal.
• Tang Zhiqing: Shows strong authority and school loyalty. She is embarrassed and annoyed by Lu Ming’s disappearance and his appearance in International Middle School’s jacket, though she trusts him enough to let him participate in the ceremony.
• Meng Xuan: Demonstrates resourcefulness and a mischievous sense of humor. She treats Lu Ming as the convenient solution to International Middle School’s crisis and openly compares the strengths and weaknesses of both schools.
• Lu Annuan: Cooperates with Lu Ming during the ceremony and enjoys his awkwardness, laughing when he nearly misidentifies his representative title.
• Ran Yanyue: Though less central in this chapter, she remains an intimidating and disciplined figure. Her earlier actions during the sports meet show her defending Haiyang No. 2 Middle School students from International Middle School’s class-based judgment.

Character Interactions

• Meng Xuan and Lu Ming exchange sarcastic remarks about school policies, debate-team defeats, and Lu Ming’s habit of shifting blame.
• Meng Xuan deliberately pushes Lu Ming and Lu Annuan together, teasingly calling them a “perfect match.”
• Tang Zhiqing confronts Lu Ming at the flag platform, clearly displeased by his unexplained absence and apparent cooperation with the opposing school.
• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan share a lighthearted moment when he nearly says the wrong school title and she laughs at him.
• The reactions of both schools emphasize Lu Ming’s unusual position: Haiyang No. 2 Middle School sees him as a traitor or “mixed-race” representative, while International Middle School accepts his temporary participation.

Significant Themes

• School rivalry and divided loyalty: Lu Ming’s dual representation blurs the boundary between the two schools and turns him into a comic symbol of their rivalry.
• Appearance versus allegiance: Wearing the wrong jacket makes Lu Ming look like an opponent, even though he repeatedly declares loyalty to Haiyang No. 2 Middle School.
• Authority and discipline: The chapter humorously contrasts strict school organization with the students’ constant resistance, especially the runaway representative and Lu Ming’s irresponsibility.
• Social class and prejudice: Continuing the previous chapter’s conflict, the sports meet highlights the difference between International Middle School’s wealthier students and Haiyang No. 2 Middle School’s more ordinary students. Ran Yanyue’s defense of affordable shoes challenges the assumption that expensive possessions determine worth.
• Comedy through embarrassment: Much of the chapter’s humor comes from Lu Ming’s awkward public role, Tang Zhiqing’s irritation, and the absurdity of one student representing both rival schools.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue patrol the sports grounds during the school sports meet. Ran’s severe, perfectionist personality makes her seem like a “discipline-correcting weapon,” and her presence causes students to behave properly.
• They encounter Li Deng sitting beneath a tree with a delicate girl from International Middle School. Li Deng, normally extremely shy, is unusually composed because he appears interested in her.
• Lu Ming worries that Ran Yanyue will notice the budding romance and interfere, so he persuades her to return to the shade by expressing concern about her health in the heat. His sincere-sounding concern unexpectedly embarrasses and flusters her.
• After Ran leaves, Lu Ming secretly photographs Li Deng and the girl, intending to use the pictures as future blackmail.
• Lu Ming joins the basketball team as a substitute. Before the game, he senses a faint Evil Beast aura coming from Yan Qisheng, International Middle School’s towering basketball captain. The aura is weak but seems real.
• Haiyang No. 2 Middle School’s players are intimidated by Yan Qisheng, who previously helped International Middle School defeat them badly. Cao Guang nevertheless insists that they must fight seriously regardless of the result.
• Tang Zhiqing jokes about manipulating the referee, then reveals that she actually instructed him to call the game fairly. Lu Ming approves, emphasizing that a victory gained through cheating would be meaningless.
• The basketball game begins with Yan Qisheng immediately overpowering Haiyang No. 2 Middle School and scoring a layup. International Middle School celebrates enthusiastically, while Lu Annuan remains oddly passive despite holding cheerleading pom-poms.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates his protective and meddlesome sides. He secretly supports Li Deng’s romance, shows genuine concern for Ran Yanyue, and remains alert to supernatural danger even during an ordinary school event.
• Ran Yanyue: Maintains her arrogant, hyper-rational personality but is visibly affected by Lu Ming’s concern. His words cause her to blush and reconsider her harsh, impersonal demeanor, suggesting she may be developing feelings or at least becoming emotionally vulnerable around him.
• Li Deng: Displays unusual confidence while talking to the International Middle School girl, revealing how strongly he is affected by romantic interest.
• Cao Guang: Although terrified by International Middle School’s star player, he shows determination and sportsmanship, refusing to surrender before the match begins.
• Tang Zhiqing: Reveals both her intimidating authority and her commitment to fairness. Her teasing interaction with Lu Ming also shows growing familiarity and mutual respect.
• Yan Qisheng: Establishes himself as a dominant athlete and possible supernatural threat through his overwhelming physical ability and faint Evil Beast aura.
• Lu Annuan: Her lack of enthusiasm for cheering, despite possessing pom-poms and being surrounded by supporters, hints that she may have another motive or be distracted by something important.

Significant Themes

• Discipline versus personal emotion: Ran Yanyue enforces rules without sentiment, while Lu Ming’s concern for her exposes emotions she normally suppresses.
• Romance and matchmaking: Lu Ming acts like an overprotective parent toward Li Deng, trying to preserve Li Deng’s potential relationship while avoiding Ran’s interference.
• Fair competition: Cao Guang and Lu Ming value effort and honest victory over guaranteed success or manipulated results.
• Hidden supernatural danger: The apparently ordinary basketball game may conceal a threat, as Lu Ming detects an Evil Beast aura in Yan Qisheng.
• Appearance versus reality: Li Deng pretends to be calm, Ran appears emotionless but blushes, and the supposedly normal sporting event may be connected to supernatural events.

Character Interactions

• Lu Ming and Ran Yanyue exchange sarcastic remarks about her perfectionism and discipline patrol. His concern for her health briefly breaks through her emotional defenses.
• Lu Ming observes and protects Li Deng’s developing connection with the International Middle School girl, even photographing them for later teasing.
• Lu Ming and Cao Guang joke about the upcoming game, easing Cao Guang’s nervousness before Cao reaffirms his determination.
• Lu Ming and Tang Zhiqing banter over cheating and refereeing. Their exchange highlights their shared standards while also revealing playful mutual tension.
• Yan Qisheng immediately dominates the opening play, setting up a conflict between International Middle School’s athletic superiority and Haiyang No. 2 Middle School’s resolve.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• During the basketball game between Haiyang No. 2 Middle School and International Middle School, Haiyang falls far behind, with the halftime score at 18–35.
• Lu Annuan refuses to cheer for International Middle School’s players because she feels uncomfortable cheering for other boys while Lu Ming is present. She claims her arms and throat are sore, though her real reason is loyalty to Lu Ming.
• Tang Zhiqing successfully rallies Haiyang’s students, briefly helping their team recover some points.
• Yuan De is injured after being knocked down by Yan Qisheng, whose aggressive and rough playing style is criticized by the Haiyang team.
• Seeing his teammates discouraged and outmatched, Lu Ming decides to substitute into the game. Cao Guang worries that Lu Ming may be embarrassed because the team is already losing badly, but Lu Ming confidently joins the match.
• Lu Ming immediately demonstrates overwhelming skill. On his first major play, he steals the ball from Yan Qisheng and makes a long-distance shot from half-court, stunning both teams and the spectators.
• Lu Annuan cheers for Lu Ming, though her vague shout is mistaken by others as support for Yan Qisheng’s team.
• Lu Ming is secretly delighted by Annuan’s encouragement, even while pretending that it does not matter to him.
• At the end of the chapter, the aura of the Evil Beast intensifies once again, and Tang Zhiqing senses it as well, signaling a possible supernatural development.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Moves from passive observer to active participant, revealing that he has been deliberately holding back his basketball ability. His confidence and concern for his teammates motivate him to enter the game. His reaction to Annuan’s cheering also reveals growing romantic feelings, despite his attempts to deny them.
• Lu Annuan: Displays strong loyalty and affection toward Lu Ming by refusing to cheer for other boys. Once Lu Ming enters the game, she openly supports him with a bright smile, showing how emotionally invested she is in him.
• Meng Xuan: Recognizes Annuan’s devotion to Lu Ming and playfully teases her about him being her “husband.” She also acts as a protective friend by discouraging the cheerleaders from showing interest in Lu Ming.
• Cao Guang and Yuan De: Cao Guang becomes discouraged by the team’s impending defeat, while Yuan De suffers an injury but continues joking with his teammates. Their interactions highlight the team’s camaraderie.
• Yan Qisheng: Initially dominates the game and expects to show off in front of Lu Ming and the student council president. His confidence is immediately shaken when Lu Ming effortlessly steals the ball and scores.
• Tang Zhiqing: Demonstrates leadership by keeping Haiyang’s students motivated and later notices the Evil Beast’s growing presence.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and romantic devotion: Lu Annuan’s refusal to cheer for other boys reflects her deep, almost instinctive attachment to Lu Ming, even before their relationship is formally established.
• Hidden ability and self-restraint: Lu Ming has deliberately concealed his full basketball talent. His sudden performance reveals that his apparent laziness or mediocrity may hide extraordinary abilities.
• Team spirit and morale: The players’ efforts improve when their classmates cheer for them, showing the importance of unity and emotional support even when victory seems unlikely.
• Rivalry and humiliation: Yan Qisheng expects to dominate the game and impress others, but Lu Ming’s entrance reverses the power dynamic and threatens his confidence.
• Supernatural danger beneath ordinary events: The basketball match is interrupted by the renewed presence of the Evil Beast, connecting the seemingly normal school competition to the larger magical conflict.

Character Interactions

• Lu Annuan and Meng Xuan discuss Annuan’s reluctance to cheer, with Meng Xuan realizing that Annuan is already extremely faithful to Lu Ming.
• Lu Ming comforts Yuan De after his injury and jokes with him and Cao Guang, reinforcing their friendship.
• Cao Guang initially worries that Lu Ming will be humiliated by entering a losing game but ultimately supports his decision.
• Meng Xuan teases Annuan about Lu Ming and tries to prevent the cheerleaders from expressing interest in him.
• Yan Qisheng confronts Lu Ming before the second half, expecting a chance to outshine him, only to be instantly outplayed.
• Lu Ming and Lu Annuan exchange a meaningful glance and wave after his shot, revealing their mutual affection.
• Tang Zhiqing’s awareness of the Evil Beast’s aura suggests that she and Lu Ming may soon have to shift their attention from the basketball game to the supernatural threat.

Chapter 80 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Annuan openly cheers for Haiyang No. 2 Middle School during the Joint Sports Meet, confusing the International Middle School cheerleaders and revealing her favoritism toward Lu Ming’s team. Meng Xuan finds the situation amusing.
• Lu Ming dramatically shifts the basketball game by stealing the ball from Yan Qisheng and making an impressive shot. His calm, effortless performance shocks both players and spectators.
• Lu Ming signals to Tang Zhiqing that Yan Qisheng may be connected to the Evil Beasts. Tang indicates that she is prepared to act if necessary.
• Yan Qisheng becomes increasingly frustrated after Lu Ming repeatedly blocks his attacks and scores against him. The score narrows to 28–37, forcing International Middle School to call a timeout.
• Determined to impress visiting scouts and preserve his basketball ambitions, Yan Qisheng changes tactics. He asks the coach to put in a huge center to double-team Lu Ming.
• Yan Qisheng attempts to provoke Lu Ming by insulting Cao Guang, but Lu Ming responds calmly, making Yan Qisheng appear even more immature and malicious.
• The substitute center aggressively charges into opponents, exploiting the rules without technically committing fouls. When he tries to ram Lu Ming, Lu Ming effortlessly knocks him down, earning admiration from the crowd and even causing the opposing cheerleaders to begin supporting him.
• Humiliated and desperate, Yan Qisheng steals the ball from Lu Ming and deliberately swings his elbow toward Lu Ming’s face. The chapter ends as Lu Ming realizes the attack is intentional rather than accidental.

Character Developments

• Lu Ming: Demonstrates overwhelming athletic ability while deliberately refraining from using Time Stop to keep the match fair. He remains composed despite provocation and treats the game almost casually, even walking around to increase his WeChat step count. His suspicion that Yan Qisheng is linked to the Evil Beasts grows stronger.
• Lu Annuan: Shows obvious support for Lu Ming, cheering for his side despite being part of the opposing school’s cheer squad. She remains modest and shy when Meng Xuan praises Lu Ming.
• Tang Zhiqing: Understands Lu Ming’s warning about Yan Qisheng and signals that she is ready to intervene, suggesting she is taking the possible Evil Beast threat seriously.
• Yan Qisheng: His confidence collapses as Lu Ming dominates him. His frustration exposes his arrogance, insecurity, poor sportsmanship, and desperation to impress scouts. He resorts to insults, dirty tactics, and finally a deliberate elbow strike.
• Cao Guang and the Haiyang team: Gain renewed confidence from Lu Ming’s performance, though they recognize that his presence is carrying most of the game.
• Meng Xuan: Continues to tease Lu Annuan and enjoys watching the situation unfold.

Significant Themes

• Humility versus arrogance: Lu Ming’s calm confidence contrasts sharply with Yan Qisheng’s boastfulness and increasingly desperate behavior.
• Fair competition versus exploitation: Lu Ming limits himself to avoid overwhelming the opposing team, while Yan Qisheng and his center use physical intimidation and borderline tactics.
• Hidden supernatural conflict: The basketball match serves as a cover for the deeper concern that Yan Qisheng may possess or be associated with Evil Beast energy.
• Public reputation and pressure: Yan Qisheng’s desire to impress scouts causes him to sacrifice sportsmanship and self-control.
• Comedic contrast: Lu Ming’s absurd superiority, Annuan’s obvious favoritism, and the cheerleaders switching sides provide humor amid the growing tension.

Character Interactions

• The cheerleaders question Lu Annuan’s loyalty, while Meng Xuan laughs at her obvious bias.
• Cao Guang enthusiastically praises Lu Ming’s spectacular play and asks how he trained.
• Lu Ming and Tang Zhiqing communicate through subtle gestures about Yan Qisheng’s suspicious behavior.
• Yan Qisheng insults Cao Guang to distract and unsettle Lu Ming, but Lu Ming’s restrained response only makes Yan Qisheng look worse.
• Lu Annuan worries when the opposing center charges at Lu Ming, while the crowd is shocked when Lu Ming easily defeats the much larger player.
• Yan Qisheng’s humiliation culminates in a direct, intentional elbow attack against Lu Ming, setting up the chapter’s cliffhanger.