Ch. 21Reunion on the Beach
Key plot points and events
- Chen Xing defeats and kills Black Crow, the leader of the Evil Soul Masters attacking the Astral Express. When the remaining attackers beg for mercy, he kills them as well.
- Rather than stay to receive the passengers’ thanks, Chen Xing leaves in his mecha and returns to the beach near Aolai City, where the abandoned Astral Express still rests.
- Na’er rushes to greet him and reproaches him for breaking his promise to visit every month. He apologizes for being away for three months, and she forgives him after he promises not to repeat it.
- Tang Wulin tells Chen Xing he has passed the entrance assessment for Eastsea Academy and will soon enroll. He offers Chen Xing a Storage Silver-Sink Ring, remembering that his brother once wanted a storage tool. Chen Xing declines because he already has a better one, and insists Tang Wulin keep it for school.
Character developments and interactions
- Chen Xing shows confidence and ruthlessness in combat, but is uncomfortable with public praise and slips away from the rescued passengers. With Na’er and Tang Wulin, he is warm and protective, acknowledging his neglect of Na’er and encouraging Tang Wulin’s independence.
- Na’er is deeply attached to Chen Xing and openly expresses how hurt she felt waiting for him. Her affection is shown when she says his machine-oil scent is comforting because it is his.
- Tang Wulin is proud of his academy acceptance and demonstrates his thoughtfulness by offering Chen Xing his hard-earned ring. Chen Xing’s refusal reinforces their close, caring brotherly bond.
Significant themes
- Family, loyalty, and affection: The reunion centers on the siblings’ attachment and their instinct to care for one another.
- Responsibility and growing independence: Chen Xing recognizes the effect of his absence, while Tang Wulin prepares to begin school and is encouraged to keep and use what he earned.
- Heroism and recognition: Chen Xing saves the train but avoids acclaim, preferring action over public gratitude.
The chapter ends with Chen Xing reflecting that Tang Wulin may soon awaken his Golden Dragon Bloodline.