Ch. 421Big Brother, I'll Kneel

  • Key events: The masked man orders his men to force Xu Mu to kneel, but Xu Mu has Celebi wake Zeraora. Back at full strength, Zeraora overwhelms the attackers, prompting the masked man and his followers to flee. Xu Mu stops the masked man with Confusion and confronts him about his earlier “Daddy” taunt. The man begs for mercy, then immediately presses a red signal device and threatens Xu Mu with his chairman. Xu Mu restrains him again and summons Greninja, whose eagerness to attack makes the captive panic and plead for a peaceful resolution.
  • Character developments: Xu Mu remains calm and confident, using his Pokémon and psychological pressure rather than fighting personally. He knowingly lets the masked man reveal his treachery, treating the encounter like a chance to play the villain. Zeraora, terrified of Xu Mu, obeys him and avoids facing him even while rampaging through the enemy Pokémon. The masked man shifts from arrogant commander to frightened captive, though he briefly regains his bravado after signaling for help.
  • Character interactions: Xu Mu directs Celebi to awaken Zeraora, then restrains the masked man while Zeraora clears the battlefield. Zeraora’s fearful deference contrasts with his ferocity toward the attackers. The masked man first insults Xu Mu, then begs, threatens him, and finally tries to negotiate when Greninja appears.
  • Themes: The chapter plays with power and intimidation: the masked man’s numerical advantage proves useless against Xu Mu’s Pokémon and control. It also humorously reverses the usual villain-and-hero dynamic, as Xu Mu reflects on whether he has been cast as the villain while his defeated opponent resorts to familiar threats and pleas.

Ch. 422The Hunter Guild Is Here?

Key plot points and events

  • Xu Mu interrogates a captured Hunter Guild member, who nervously rambles about the organization’s strength: twelve chairmen, each with a Legendary Pokémon, and a large hierarchy of commanders and junior leaders.
  • Xu Mu repeatedly redirects him toward the useful questions: the Guild’s purpose, its plans, and the identity of the chairman expected to arrive.
  • The captive finally reveals that Chairman Number One, codenamed Fool Zero, is coming and is his direct superior. Fool Zero’s Legendary Pokémon is Zekrom.
  • Xu Mu recalls Zekrom’s powers, history, and ideals, wondering why it serves someone who seems so unimpressive.
  • Before the captive can say more, lightning strikes and kills him. Xu Mu stays composed and challenges the unseen attacker to reveal himself.

Character developments

  • Xu Mu remains controlled and intimidating, though the captive’s constant chatter tests his patience. He uses the man’s fear of death to extract information and is immediately alert to the sudden attack.
  • The masked Hunter Guild member shifts from evasive bluster to anxious cooperation, deciding that betraying the Guild is preferable to dying. His eagerness to be spared makes him seem more cowardly and talkative than formidable.

Significant themes

  • Self-preservation versus loyalty: The captive chooses his life over protecting the Guild’s secrets.
  • Power and reputation: The Guild’s impressive hierarchy and legendary Pokémon contrast with the captive’s unimpressive behavior.
  • Ideals and contradiction: Zekrom is associated with hope and the pursuit of ideals, raising questions about why it is allied with the Guild’s mysterious chairman.

Character interactions

  • Xu Mu’s blunt questioning clashes with the captive’s fawning, digressive answers, creating dark comedy and highlighting Xu Mu’s growing irritation.
  • The captive seeks reassurance and freedom; Xu Mu offers leniency in exchange for full disclosure.
  • The chapter ends with Xu Mu confronting an unseen figure after the captive is struck down, setting up a new encounter.

Ch. 423I'll Take This Fight—No, I Will

Key plot points

  • After Xu Mu dodges another lightning strike, President No. 0 of the Hunter Guild emerges from hiding and introduces himself as Fool.
  • Fool demands Xu Mu’s name, but Xu Mu mocks him and refuses, expecting Fool to die. Their exchange escalates into a fight.
  • Fool sends out Zekrom and orders it to attack Xu Mu. Arceus shields Xu Mu, while Lugia surprises Zekrom with a Hydro Pump, sending it flying.
  • Xu Mu’s other Pokémon appear, eager to fight. Lugia and Greninja bicker over who gets to face Zekrom; Greninja eventually yields, and the others return to their Poké Balls.
  • Fool demands Xu Mu surrender and hand over his Pokémon, then orders Zekrom to use Fusion Bolt.
  • Xu Mu has Lugia counter with Aeroblast. Zekrom enters Overdrive Mode and fires another powerful electrical attack. Confident in Lugia’s enhanced strength, Xu Mu tells Celebi to heal him immediately if he is injured.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu remains cocky and dismissive toward Fool, but is also attentive to his Pokémon’s safety, arranging for Arceus to protect him and Celebi to watch over Lugia.
  • Fool begins with mocking politeness but grows openly impatient and threatening when Xu Mu refuses to submit.
  • Lugia is eager to prove himself, especially because he feels reduced to serving as Xu Mu’s mount. He insists Zekrom is his opponent.
  • Greninja is also keen to fight but backs down when Lugia appeals to his frustration at not getting to battle.
  • Charizard avoids the fight because he dislikes the risk and inconvenience of being injured, while Dragonite questions his reluctance.
  • Arceus protects Xu Mu, and the other Pokémon show a mix of competitiveness, caution, and concern for one another.

Significant themes

  • Confidence and rivalry: Xu Mu’s bravado and the Pokémon’s competition over opponents drive the confrontation.
  • Power and transformation: Lugia’s enhancements challenge expectations about Zekrom’s type advantage and strength.
  • Loyalty and protection: Xu Mu’s Pokémon defend him, while Xu Mu takes precautions to keep Lugia safe.
  • Humor amid danger: The Pokémon’s argument over who gets to fight—and Charizard’s reluctance—contrasts with the serious threat posed by Fool and Zekrom.

Ch. 424Fool, Is That All You've Got?

Plot and events

  • Lugia defeats Zekrom with Aeroblast and Wing Attack, then keeps battering him until he is unconscious. Celebi’s healing support leaves Lugia with plenty of stamina.
  • Xu Mu mocks Fool for Zekrom’s defeat and challenges the Hunter Guild’s decision to attack Magic City. Fool boasts about the guild’s power, recalls Zekrom, then tries to flee. Lugia stops him, and Fool dies from the blow.
  • In another world, the Hunter Guild learns of Fool’s death. Magician, High Priestess, and the others decide to travel together to confront whoever defeated one of their twelve leaders.
  • Xu Mu turns his attention to Zeraora, ordering Lugia to keep him from escaping. Zeraora, who had only been watching, panics at being caught up in the confrontation.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu remains confident and taunting, quickly shifting from battle commands to confronting Fool and controlling Zeraora.
  • Lugia proves overwhelmingly stronger than Zekrom, enjoys the fight, and humorously imagines that being Xu Mu’s henchman will help him stay alive.
  • Fool is fiercely devoted to the Hunter Guild’s pride, but his sudden retreat contradicts his threats and ends in his death.
  • Zeraora feels increasingly helpless: after being caught between earlier attackers and Xu Mu, he is now under Lugia’s watch.
  • Magician and High Priestess agree to investigate together; High Priestess’s flirtatious glance suggests a personal closeness that the others take for granted.

Significant themes

  • The chapter contrasts grand boasts with actual courage and strength: Fool praises the Guild but runs when challenged.
  • Xu Mu and Lugia’s victory establishes them as a serious threat, prompting the Hunter Guild to respond collectively.
  • Comedy comes from Lugia’s irreverent thoughts and Zeraora’s growing dismay amid otherwise lethal confrontations.

Ch. 425Taming Zeraora

Key events

  • After watching Zeraora cower under Lugia’s gaze, Xu Mu approaches and invites him to come along, promising to protect him from being bullied.
  • Xu Mu explains Zeraora’s rare abilities: he can draw electricity from the air, store it, generate a magnetic field, and move at tremendous speed. Zeraora is also known for his selflessness and endurance, though he prefers solitude.
  • Zeraora is frightened by Xu Mu and mistakes his friendly approach for a threat. Still, he considers joining him, but demands proof that Xu Mu can offer him a good life.
  • Xu Mu jokingly calls on Lugia to fight Zeraora. Zeraora refuses, intimidated by Lugia’s strength, so Xu Mu summons Greninja instead and describes him as gentle.
  • Zeraora eagerly accepts the supposed easier match, confident he can beat Greninja. Greninja, however, is surprised to be chosen and delighted when Xu Mu confirms a fight is coming.
  • Lugia and Greninja trade insults over their fighting abilities until Xu Mu interrupts them and orders everyone to settle down.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu is fond of Zeraora and tries to recruit him, but his teasing and questionable reassurances only make Zeraora more suspicious. He manipulates Zeraora’s pride into accepting a fight.
  • Zeraora shifts from terrified and defensive to cautiously hopeful, then boastfully confident once Greninja is presented as an opponent he can handle.
  • Greninja moves from confusion about being summoned to eager anticipation of battle.
  • Lugia is offended when Greninja dismisses him as a mere ride and boasts about defeating a powerful dragon. His rivalry with Greninja provides comic tension.
  • Xu Mu’s fondness and Zeraora’s fear create a comic mismatch: what Xu sees as kindness, Zeraora interprets as danger.

Significant themes

  • Trust and intimidation: Xu Mu intends to help, but Zeraora’s fear prevents him from recognizing his good intentions.
  • Pride and courage: Zeraora’s demand for proof—and his choice to fight Greninja—reflect his reluctance to accept help without preserving his dignity.
  • Strength and mistaken confidence: Zeraora underestimates Greninja, while Lugia and Greninja argue over their reputations.
  • Humor through contrast: Xu Mu’s gentle self-image clashes with Zeraora’s perception of him as a demon, and the Pokémon’s banter turns a tense recruitment into comedy.

Ch. 426Stop Hitting Me, I Give Up

Key plot points and events

Greninja eagerly faces Zeraora, who opens with his powerful Plasma Fists. Greninja counters with a Spiral Water Shuriken, knocks Zeraora down, and overwhelms him with a close-range beating. Zeraora begs to surrender, but Greninja keeps attacking until Xu Mu tells him to stop. Zeraora then formally concedes defeat, and Xu Mu gives him the Electric-type Fruit he had been protecting. Zeraora eats it, after which Xu Mu declares that he is now one of his Pokémon and says he won’t tolerate his unhappy attitude.

Character developments

  • Greninja is confident, aggressive, and fiercely loyal to Xu Mu: he ignores Zeraora’s pleas but immediately obeys his Trainer. After the fight, he acts smugly benevolent, praising Zeraora for surrendering.
  • Zeraora goes from proud and ready to fight to battered, intimidated, and resigned. He recognizes that resisting Xu Mu’s group is futile, though he remains privately resentful.
  • Xu Mu treats the fight with amusement, intervenes when he thinks Greninja has gone far enough, and uses the fruit to cement Zeraora’s place on his team.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes the gap between a Pokémon’s fearsome reputation and its vulnerability in battle, as well as the power dynamics between Trainer and Pokémon. Its comedic tone comes from Greninja’s excessive violence, Zeraora’s indignation, and Xu Mu’s cheerful, manipulative approach to winning him over.

Character interactions

Greninja dominates Zeraora in combat, then offers him condescending praise and a pat on the head. Xu Mu acts as the authority between them, stopping the beating when he chooses and presenting Zeraora with the fruit. Zeraora accepts both the fruit and his new situation, though his inward reactions make clear he does not yet trust or respect Xu Mu.

Ch. 427Mission Accomplished

Plot points and events

  • Xu Mu captures Zeraora after the Pokémon apologizes so relentlessly that Greninja gives up on punishing him. Xu Mu reflects that Zeraora is quick to back down and has escaped punishment more easily than his other disobedient Pokémon.
  • The capture completes Xu Mu’s mission, earning him the Seven Injury Fist Manual. He leaves the Secret Realm with Zeraora, carried by Lugia.
  • Xu Lu, who had been anxiously waiting outside after hearing the battle’s shockwaves, is relieved to find Xu Mu unharmed. He calls his aunt Xu Xiaoxiao to report that the mission succeeded and Zeraora is safe.
  • Back in Magic City, Xu Mu arranges for Zeraora to receive a thorough medical checkup. After realizing he does not know where Xu Xiaoxiao is, he gets her location and takes a taxi rather than attempting to Teleport there.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu remains confident and irreverent, joking that his opponents were too weak to make the fight exciting. He also shows practical concern for Zeraora’s health and appreciation for Xu Lu’s worry.
  • Zeraora is introduced as powerful but notably quick to apologize when confronted. His frantic apology forestalls Greninja’s attack and earns him leniency from Xu Mu.
  • Greninja is ready to act on Xu Mu’s behalf, but retreats when Zeraora’s apologies make it impossible to strike; he pointedly leaves Xu Mu to handle the situation next time.
  • Xu Lu waits anxiously, then relaxes once she sees Xu Mu is safe. Xu Xiaoxiao checks on Zeraora and later helps Xu Mu by sending her location.
  • The chapter closes with Xu Mu chatting with the elderly taxi driver, setting up a lighthearted new interaction.

Significant themes

  • Trainer–Pokémon loyalty and discipline: Greninja is prepared to act without being told, while Zeraora’s apology changes the confrontation.
  • Humor and anticlimax: A mission involving a fierce battle ends quickly, and Xu Mu finds the opponents’ defeat more amusing than satisfying.
  • Care beneath bravado: Despite his jokes and confidence, Xu Mu makes sure Zeraora gets properly examined, and his family’s concern for him is clear.

Ch. 428They Couldn't Be Healthier

Plot points and events

  • An elderly driver rambles at Xu Mu during the ride to a Pokémon hospital, leaving Xu Mu exasperated.
  • At the hospital, Xu Mu is directed to his aunt, Dr. Xu Xiaoxiao. She warmly checks that he is unharmed and asks about the injured Zeraora.
  • Xu Mu explains that he caught Zeraora and used Celebi to treat him, then asks his aunt to examine Zeraora and the rest of his Pokémon.
  • Xu Mu brings his Pokémon out in Xiaoxiao’s office. Charizard eagerly requests a checkup despite having had little chance to get injured, while Dragonite mocks his unnecessary worry.
  • Celebi greets Xiaoxiao politely and wins her over with her cuteness. Greninja asks Xiaoxiao to pay special attention to Zeraora, calling him “the one with the yellow fur.”

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu stays self-assured, brushing off questions about danger and taking pride in his family’s influence and his Legendary Pokémon.
  • Xu Xiaoxiao shows her affection and concern for Xu Mu, then happily agrees to examine the Pokémon. Her usually cool manner softens around Celebi.
  • Charizard reveals a comically strong fear of dying young and wants reassurance that he has no hidden injuries; Dragonite ridicules him.
  • Zeraora is still adjusting to the group. Though annoyed at Greninja’s dismissive nickname, he decides not to object after being beaten by him.
  • Greninja teases Zeraora and directs Xiaoxiao’s attention toward him; Celebi behaves graciously and warmly toward the doctor.

Significant themes

  • The chapter mixes family care and Pokémon companionship with humor, especially through Xu Mu’s confidence and the Pokémon’s contrasting personalities.
  • It also emphasizes the responsibility involved in caring for powerful Pokémon: Xu Xiaoxiao’s concern and the requested examinations underline the importance of their health and safety.

Ch. 429What? Everyone's Coming?

Key plot points and events

  • Xu Xiaoxiao recognizes the two quiet Mewtwo as the Pokémon who fought on the battlefield. Xu Mu confirms they rarely speak, while Xiaoxiao jokes that they can communicate with their fists.
  • Because Xu Mu has brought so many Pokémon to the hospital, Xiaoxiao calls for assistants to help examine them. The checkups leave Xu Mu exhausted, despite the Pokémon emerging full of energy.
  • Xu Mu returns home with Arceus and is immediately cheered by seeing Cynthia. He gives her ice cream, cooks dinner, and checks that she has looked after herself.
  • During dinner, Xu Hong calls to say that she and the other aunts will visit Magic City the next day—and that Xu Mu’s parents are coming too. Both Xu Hong and his mother mention having “good news,” but refuse to explain it over the phone, leaving Xu Mu confused and curious.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Xiaoxiao is capable and affectionate toward Xu Mu, but quickly realizes she needs help managing his large group of Pokémon. Her playful comment about the Mewtwo contrasts with their reserved nature.
  • Xu Mu remains comically self-congratulatory, imagining that his Pokémon follow him out of devotion, though the narration notes that Zeraora submitted out of necessity. He also sees himself as an attentive husband, making sure Cynthia has food and care.
  • Cynthia is delighted to see Xu Mu and enjoys the meal he prepares. She insists she can care for herself, while Xu Mu doubts she would have eaten properly without him.
  • Xu Mu’s relatives create a cliffhanger by arranging a family visit and hinting at important news without revealing it.

Significant themes

  • Comedy through dramatic irony: Xu Mu’s inflated self-image contrasts with the narration’s reminder that some Pokémon had little choice but to follow him.
  • Affection and domestic care: Xu Mu’s exhaustion gives way to comfort when he reunites with Cynthia, and he expresses love through cooking and concern.
  • Anticipation: The family’s unexplained “good news” sets up the next chapter’s reveal.

Ch. 430What Was the Good News, Anyway?

Plot points and events

  • Xu Mu sets aside his worries to spend time with Cynthia. He tells her that his family—and his aunts—will visit the next day with “good news.” Cynthia is startled at the prospect of meeting his mother, but Xu Mu reassures her. They go to bed and simply sleep.
  • The next morning, Xu Mu lets Cynthia rest and greets his parents, Xiao Yue and Xu Feng. Xiao Yue teases him for sleeping in; Xu Feng adds a jab of his own.
  • Xiao Yue asks after Cynthia and warmly welcomes her when she comes downstairs, promising to defend her if Xu Mu mistreats her.
  • Kale arrives and makes the same offer to protect Cynthia. Xu Feng takes this as a challenge and pulls Kale outside to “catch up.”
  • Xu Feng returns looking pleased, while Kale has a bruised, swollen face. Kale claims he tripped over a rock. Xu Mu recognizes what likely happened but plays along and advises Kale to watch his step.
  • Xu Mu asks his mother what the promised good news is, but she keeps it a surprise.

Character developments

  • Xu Mu is eager to be with Cynthia and shows consideration by letting her sleep. He is also more confident around his father now that he has become a Demigod, though he still holds back rather than openly confronting him.
  • Cynthia is nervous about meeting Xu Mu’s family, but Xiao Yue’s warm welcome helps put her at ease.
  • Xiao Yue is affectionate toward Xu Mu and immediately protective of Cynthia.
  • Xu Feng remains teasing and combative, especially toward Kale. He appears to enjoy asserting his strength and stepping in when he thinks someone is challenging his place as Xu Mu’s father.
  • Kale tries to appear friendly and protective of Cynthia, but becomes wary when he realizes Xu Feng is present and ends up the target of Xu Feng’s rough “reunion.”

Significant themes

  • Family closeness and reconciliation: Xu Mu reflects on his complicated feelings about his absent father, while the family gathers at his home.
  • Welcoming a partner into the family: Xiao Yue’s warmth toward Cynthia signals acceptance and support.
  • Power and changing confidence: Xu Mu’s new strength has altered how he sees his father, even as their relationship remains tense and teasing.
  • Comedy through bravado and misunderstanding: The characters’ protective gestures, innuendo, and Kale’s implausible excuse drive the chapter’s humor.

Character interactions

  • Xu Mu reassures Cynthia about meeting his family and lets her sleep in.
  • Xiao Yue and Xu Feng tease Xu Mu about staying in bed, while Xu Mu silently pushes back against their assumptions.
  • Xiao Yue offers Cynthia support if Xu Mu mistreats her; Kale echoes the offer, provoking Xu Feng.
  • Xu Feng takes Kale outside for a “chat,” and Xu Mu later jokes with Kale about his bruises.
  • Xiao Yue keeps the family’s promised good news secret, leaving Xu Mu curious.

Ch. 431Everyone Arrives

Key plot points

  • The family heads to the Xu ancestral home, where Xu Feng leads the way; Xu Mu has to admit he doesn’t know where it is.
  • The old house stirs painful memories for Xu Feng. He recalls happier days under his father’s protection, then the Xu family’s decline after his father died and its enemies attacked.
  • Xu Hong and the seven Xu sisters arrive and credit Xu Feng’s reputation and sacrifice with keeping the family alive.
  • The family reveals its “good news”: Xu Feng intends to make Xu Mu the next family head, seeing him as the family’s hope for revival.
  • Xu Mu resists, preferring to finish school and travel the world with Cynthia. He argues that, unlike his father, he is already strong enough to face the world’s hostility.
  • An elderly newcomer—the Chief of the Eastern Continent—interrupts to challenge Xu Mu’s view.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Feng shifts from his earlier swagger to a grieving, reflective mood at the ancestral home. He explains that his youthful carelessness left the family vulnerable, and that he went to the Borderlands to gain the strength to protect his wife and son.
  • Xu Mu is surprised by the succession plan and refuses to accept it immediately. He respects his father’s past choices but insists that his own priorities and circumstances are different.
  • Xu Hong and the Xu sisters reunite emotionally with Xu Feng and affirm the importance of his role in preserving the family.
  • Xiao Yue brings the group to the ancestral home, while Cynthia represents the future Xu Mu hopes to pursue beyond family duties.
  • The Chief’s entrance sets up a new confrontation over Xu Mu’s beliefs and responsibilities.

Significant themes

  • Family duty versus personal freedom: Xu Mu wants adventure and a life with Cynthia, while his family sees leadership as necessary.
  • Power and protection: Xu Feng’s memories suggest that strength is vital when a family faces powerful enemies.
  • Legacy and succession: Xu Mu’s rise offers the Xu family hope, but accepting leadership would mean inheriting its burdens.
  • Different generations, different choices: Xu Feng’s regret shapes the advice he gives his son, while Xu Mu believes his own strength lets him choose another path.

Ch. 432The Xu Family Rose to Power

Plot points and events

  • Chiefs Xiao Yuyang and Kale visit the Xu family’s ancestral home and encourage Xu Mu to become more than a popular leader: they want him recognized as emperor by both the people and Heaven.
  • Xiao explains that the Chiefs intend to use their influence to support Xu Mu’s rise, even though they know his path will not be easy.
  • Xu Mu initially has little interest in power. He wants a peaceful life with Cynthia, but recognizes that millions of people are depending on him and resolves to accept responsibility.
  • He agrees to become head of the Xu family, then asks his father, Xu Feng, to keep managing the family’s affairs.
  • Xu Feng refuses, hoping instead to retire from the Borderlands and travel with Xu Mu’s mother. Xu Mu realizes his father intends to leave him with the work.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu shifts from preferring a private, peaceful life to accepting a wider duty toward the people. His determination strengthens when he sees his father’s pride and his aunts’ approval.
  • Xiao Yuyang acts as a political mentor, urging Xu Mu to accept the burdens of leadership and explaining the ambition behind the Chiefs’ visit.
  • Xu Feng is proud of Xu Mu but wary of him, jokingly fearing that a confrontation could end with Xu Mu’s powerful Pokémon beating him. He then reveals that he wants to hand over his responsibilities and enjoy retirement.
  • The father-son exchange turns from solemn succession planning to comic conflict: Xu Mu accepts the title but expects Xu Feng to do the work, while Xu Feng wants to pass both title and duties to his son.

Significant themes

  • Leadership and responsibility: Recognition alone is not enough; leadership is portrayed as a burden that requires commitment.
  • Personal wishes versus collective needs: Xu Mu’s desire for peace gives way to his sense of responsibility for millions.
  • Family duty and generational transfer: The succession is complicated by Xu Feng’s eagerness to retire.
  • Humor amid serious stakes: Xu Mu’s rise to power is undercut by playful anxiety and the family’s squabble over who will handle the work.

Ch. 433Say Something I Can Understand

Plot points and events

  • Xu Feng tries to avoid continuing his duties after stepping down as Xu family head. Xu Mu refuses to let him off the hook, threatening to leave the position vacant if Xu Feng will not keep working.
  • Xu Feng redirects his frustration toward Kale, who was laughing at their argument. Kale placates him and appeals to Xiao Yue for help.
  • Xiao Yue ends the quarrel and urges them to complete the succession ceremony first. Xu Mu agrees, intending to deal with his father’s responsibilities later.
  • In the Ancestral Hall, Xu Feng formally recounts his twenty years as family head and announces that he is handing the position to his eighteen-year-old son, whom he praises as more capable than himself.
  • No one objects. A powerful spiritual force appears, and an ancestral Token descends, signaling the ancestors’ acceptance of Xu Mu as the new family head. Xu Feng tells him to take it.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu is frustrated by his father’s laziness and evasiveness, but agrees to proceed out of respect for his mother. He remains confident he can make Xu Feng handle the work later.
  • Xu Feng is eager to escape the burdens of leadership, though he fears being made to keep working. He is proud and relieved when the succession ceremony proceeds.
  • Xiao Yue acts as mediator, stopping the argument and keeping the family focused on the ceremony.
  • Kale begins as an amused observer, then becomes an unwilling target of Xu Feng’s irritation. He avoids trouble by flattering Xu Feng and appealing to Xiao Yue.

Significant themes

  • Duty versus freedom: Xu Mu and Xu Feng clash over who will bear the work and responsibility of leadership.
  • Family loyalty and authority: Xiao Yue’s intervention settles the dispute, while the formal succession depends on both family consent and ancestral recognition.
  • Humor amid tension: The family’s serious succession ceremony is framed by petty bickering, evasions, and Kale’s comic outsider perspective.

Ch. 434Fortune and Destiny

Key events

  • Xu Feng completes the family-head succession with little ceremony, handing Xu Mu a strange token after an intense surge of mysterious, Pokémon-like mental energy. Xu Feng is delighted to be free of his duties.
  • Kale, Chief of the Western Continent, is baffled that the ceremony ends so quickly, especially after the trouble he endured to attend.
  • Xiao Yuyang privately explains why the family wants Xu Mu to become Human Emperor: the world is divided and vulnerable, and a shared leader could unite its people and help them respond to future crises.
  • Xiao Yuyang says “fortune” is real and believes Xu Mu’s immense fortune marks him as the heaven-chosen candidate. Xu Mu begins to consider that leading would require a team rather than relying on his own strength alone.
  • Kale joins them and insists that becoming Human Emperor is Xu Mu’s mission and that he cannot refuse. Xu Mu bristles at Kale’s commanding tone.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu remains reluctant to take on leadership, preferring a free life with Cynthia, but starts to understand the practical need for allies and organization. He is curious about the token and the mysterious energy.
  • Xu Feng happily relinquishes his position and looks forward to retirement and traveling with Xiao Yue.
  • Xiao Yuyang acts as a patient mentor, explaining the political and spiritual case for Xu Mu’s leadership.
  • Kale shifts from exasperation at the anticlimactic ceremony to forcefully urging Xu Mu to accept his role. Xu Mu’s irritation reflects their tense, combative rapport.

Significant themes

  • Destiny versus personal choice: Xu Mu is presented as a heaven-chosen leader, yet resists having his future dictated.
  • Unity and responsibility: The world’s divisions make collective leadership seem necessary.
  • The limits of individual strength: Even a powerful person needs a wider group to meet large-scale challenges.
  • Hidden legacies: The unusual token and unexplained mental energy hint at secrets within the Xu family.

Ch. 435The Mysterious Slowking

Key plot points and events

  • Xu Mu bluntly challenges Kale, who privately fumes but decides that arguing or fighting back would only make things worse. Kale leaves, while Xu Mu assumes his scolding has cheered him up.
  • Xiao Yuyang is impressed that Xu Mu can speak so boldly to Kale without consequences. He believes Xu Mu is powerful enough to lead the world toward a better future.
  • Xu Mu returns to the Ancestral Hall, still focused on the exceptionally strong Psychic Power he sensed there. He questions his father, Xu Feng, but quickly realizes Xu Feng is pretending to know more than he does.
  • Xu Mu asks Arceus to search the area. Arceus detects a Pokémon hiding behind the Spirit Tablets, radiating powerful Psychic energy but also goodwill.
  • A Slowking appears. Xu Mu recognizes it as a rare Pokémon, while Slowking is surprised by Xu Mu’s exceptional abilities and Psychic Power.

Character developments

  • Xu Mu remains confident and sharp-tongued, but his curiosity about the mysterious Psychic Power drives the chapter’s main discovery.
  • Kale backs down from confrontation, revealing that he now regards Xu Mu as too formidable to challenge directly.
  • Xiao Yuyang becomes more convinced that Xu Mu has the strength and potential to shape the world’s future.
  • Xu Feng is elated by the family’s apparent success, but his attempt to bluff about the Psychic Power exposes his ignorance.
  • Slowking is introduced as a powerful, hidden presence connected to the Xu family’s ancestral site; its awareness of Xu Mu suggests a significant connection may follow.

Significant themes

  • Power and deference: Xu Mu’s strength changes how people—especially Kale—interact with him.
  • Family secrets and discovery: The unexplained Psychic Power and Slowking’s appearance suggest the Xu family’s history contains mysteries its records have overlooked.
  • Comic arrogance and bluffing: Xu Mu’s teasing inner monologue and Xu Feng’s pretense provide humor amid the supernatural discovery.

Character interactions

  • Xu Mu verbally spars with Kale, who ultimately withdraws rather than escalate.
  • Xiao Yuyang observes Xu Mu’s dominance over Kale and praises his promise.
  • Xu Mu questions Xu Feng about the Psychic Power; Xu Feng bluffs, and Xu Mu sees through him.
  • Xu Mu directs Arceus to investigate, leading to the first encounter between Xu Mu and Slowking.

Ch. 436Another Old-Timer?

Summary

  • Slowking reveals himself at the Xu family’s Ancestral Hall. He explains that he has lived there since it was built and that he used psychic power to make the family-head token float to Xu Mu. Though Xu Feng is stunned—having never known Slowking existed—Xu Mu accepts that such a long-established family would have hidden secrets.
  • Slowking explains the family’s origins. Xu Feng recounts that Xu Mu’s great-great-grandfather built the family’s influence after Pokémon first appeared, but wonders why the ancestor later vanished. Slowking says the ancestor left publicly because the family had become too dependent on him. He wanted its members to become capable in their own right, and continued protecting them secretly when threats arose.
  • The explanation resolves a century-old mystery for Xu Feng and the Xu family’s Seven Sisters. Xu Mu recognizes the lesson: a family that loses its drive and sense of danger risks decline.
  • The family-head token holds another secret: Slowking reveals that it contains a storage space. After Xu Mu places a drop of blood on it, it will link to his mind and can take whatever form he chooses. The revelation leaves everyone astonished.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu shows curiosity and composure, readily trusting Slowking’s long connection to the family and asking about both its history and the token. Slowking sees in him a bearing reminiscent of the ancestor.
  • Xu Feng shifts from shock and wounded pride—resenting Slowking for revealing himself only after Xu Feng surrendered the family-head position—to serious interest in the ancestor’s disappearance. He ultimately gains a clearer understanding of the family’s history.
  • Slowking emerges as a long-hidden strategist and guardian rather than a public combatant. He explains the ancestor’s motives and recognizes Xu Mu’s promise.
  • The family’s reaction to Slowking’s appearance helps establish that his presence is accepted, while the group’s shock at the token’s power emphasizes how much of the Xu family’s legacy remains undiscovered.

Significant themes

  • Independence and resilience: The ancestor wanted the Xu family to thrive through its own strength, not rely on one powerful leader.
  • Protection balanced with growth: He guarded the family from the shadows while allowing its members to face challenges and develop.
  • Inheritance and hidden legacy: Xu Mu’s new role brings access to secrets about both the family’s past and its mysterious token.

Ch. 437The Legendary Storage Ring

Key plot points and events

  • Xu Feng learns that the Patriarch Token he neglected for years is actually a Storage Ring. He regrets never discovering its hidden function and resents being left out of its benefits.
  • Kale laughs at Xu Feng’s misfortune, provoking Xu Feng to take him outside for a “discussion”—an unmistakable threat of another beating.
  • Xu Mu activates the token by letting his blood touch it. It transforms into a Sumeru Ring, which he binds to himself and discovers can hold a vast amount of space.
  • The System congratulates Xu Mu without offering a reward, irritating him and spoiling his excitement.
  • Xu Mu tells his aunt that the ring holds a hundred square meters and claims this is only “barely enough.” Xu Feng overhears and feels even more envious.
  • Xu Feng drags Kale out again. Kale protests and calls for Xiao Yue’s help, but she deliberately stays out of it. Kale resigns himself to the punishment and vows to train so he can one day get revenge.

Character developments

  • Xu Feng shifts from regret over the ring to jealousy at Xu Mu’s much larger storage space, repeatedly venting his frustration on Kale.
  • Kale tries to preserve his dignity, but his fear and helplessness around Xu Feng are played for comedy. He resolves to train and retaliate someday.
  • Xu Mu gains control of the Sumeru Ring, but his triumph is undercut by the System’s useless interruption. His irritation turns into thoughts of taking it out on his father and uncle.
  • Xiao Yue understands Xu Feng’s need to vent and quietly chooses not to intervene.
  • Xu Hong shows curiosity about the ring’s capacity, prompting Xu Mu’s boastful explanation.

Significant themes

  • Regret and missed opportunity: Xu Feng’s failure to investigate the token leaves him watching others enjoy what might have been his.
  • Power and humiliation: Kale’s position and pride mean little when Xu Feng can overpower him.
  • Comic frustration: Envy, petty retaliation, and the System’s pointless message repeatedly disrupt moments of satisfaction.
  • Revenge and patience: Kale’s determination to train reflects the recurring promise that today’s victim may become tomorrow’s victor.

Character interactions

  • Xu Feng’s anger at Kale’s laughter leads to another forced departure from the hall.
  • Xu Mu’s casual boast about the ring’s capacity unintentionally deepens Xu Feng’s envy.
  • Kale appeals to Xiao Yue for help, but she lets Xu Feng handle his frustration.
  • Xu Mu silently considers taking his annoyance out on his father and Kale, though both are absent.

Ch. 438I Want to Be Chief Too

Key plot points and events

  • After Xu Mu becomes the Xu family’s Family Head, he appoints his father, Xu Feng, as Acting Family Head, officially leaving him responsible for the family’s affairs.
  • Xu Feng protests, hoping to retire and travel with Xiao Yue, but Xu Mu refuses to reverse his order. Xu Mu enjoys getting even with his father, while the family laughs at Xu Feng’s disappointment.
  • The family decides to celebrate Xu Mu’s appointment. Xu Feng is the only unhappy family member, and Kale is also miserable after being beaten twice during the ceremony.
  • The next day, news of Xu Mu’s succession spreads across the world.
  • In Kyoto, Chief Xiao Yuyang reveals that he plans to step down and appoint Xu Mu as his successor. A powerful contender objects, arguing that Xu Mu is too young and should gain experience before becoming Chief.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xu Mu embraces his authority as Family Head, using it to burden Xu Feng rather than letting his father retire. Their exchange is playful but pointed: Xu Mu’s appointment is partly payback for Xu Feng trying to pass family responsibilities to him.
  • Xu Feng goes from imagining a carefree future with Xiao Yue to being saddled with leadership duties. He can’t force Xu Mu to change the decision, so he reluctantly accepts it.
  • Xiao Yuyang intends to surprise Xu Mu by offering him the position of Chief, but faces immediate resistance.
  • The unnamed contender reveals his ambition and resentment: he supports Xiao Yuyang’s retirement only if he himself can take over.
  • Kale remains a comic victim, having been beaten twice and laughing loudly at Xu Feng’s predicament.

Significant themes

  • Power and responsibility: Xu Mu’s new authority brings obligations, both for himself and those he appoints.
  • Ambition and succession: The proposed transfer of the Chief position sparks a contest between merit, experience, and personal desire for power.
  • Family teasing and role reversal: Xu Mu uses his position to turn the tables on his father, creating humor from their strained but familiar rivalry.

Ch. 439I Have All the Evidence Against You

Plot points and events

  • Xiao Yuyang faces a man who objects to Xu Mu receiving a Chief’s position. Xiao sees the protest as a foolish attempt to seize power and removes the man from consideration.
  • Xiao reveals that he has evidence of the man’s misconduct and orders him to turn himself in. A guard arrests him for illegal fundraising, embezzlement, and other offenses.
  • The remaining officials quietly accept that they have little choice but to support Xu Mu, whom they acknowledge as capable and deserving.
  • Xiao calls Kale and explains the plan: Xiao will hand over his position to Xu Mu, the two Chiefs will build support for him, and Kale will act afterward.
  • Kale worries that Xu Mu will retaliate. Xiao dismisses the concern, reasoning that Xu Mu would not challenge his grandfather or father-in-law. The narration undercuts this confidence: Xu Mu has held grudges against both, and even his father, Xu Feng, has not been spared.

Character developments and interactions

  • Xiao Yuyang shows political authority and strategic resolve, using the dissenter’s own misconduct to end the challenge and clear the way for Xu Mu. He is also overconfident about how much family ties will restrain his grandson.
  • The dissenter mistakes defiance for leverage, then panics when Xiao exposes his corruption and a guard takes him away.
  • The other officials shift from wary silence to reluctant acceptance, recognizing Xu Mu’s qualifications and Xiao’s power.
  • Kale agrees to the succession plan but is privately terrified of provoking Xu Mu. His fear stems from being beaten by Xu Feng and from Xu Mu’s longstanding hostility toward him.
  • Xiao and Kale discuss their plan while misunderstanding each other: Xiao assumes their family relationships protect them, whereas Kale knows Xu Mu can be openly hostile even to relatives.

Significant themes

  • Power and accountability: Political opposition collapses when the dissenter’s own corruption is exposed.
  • Merit versus ambition: Xu Mu’s service and ability make him a credible leader, while the challenger’s personal ambition undermines him.
  • Family ties do not guarantee loyalty or safety: Xiao treats kinship as protection, but the chapter’s humor suggests Xu Mu’s grudges may override it.
  • Overconfidence and dramatic irony: Xiao believes Xu Mu will not retaliate; Kale—and the reader—has reason to doubt him.

Ch. 440The Blade Was Still Sharp, the Sword Glinted with Frost

Key plot points and events

  • Xiao Yuyang tells Kale that his side is ready and challenges him to handle any opposition. Kale vows that anyone who objects will face his blade.
  • Kale calls an emergency meeting of Western Continent officials, alarming his secretary and the senior officials.
  • The officials remember how Kale once killed his way through the administration after the designated successor threatened his family. He took over governing only because the continent had been left in chaos.
  • While the officials fear Kale may be preparing another purge, he is actually thinking about Xu Mu and anticipating that Xu Mu will somehow implicate him.
  • Kale reflects on Xu Feng’s unhappy position: despite giving up the family-head title, he still does the work and is bossed around by his son.
  • Thinking of his own daughter, Cynthia, reassures Kale and improves his mood. He smiles, prompting the officials to conclude that their colleague’s attempt to comfort him has worked.

Character developments and interactions

  • Kale shifts from forceful confidence on the phone to private, comic resentment toward Xu Mu and sympathy for Xu Feng. His violent past still shapes how others interpret even a routine meeting.
  • Xiao Yuyang encourages Kale to proceed and leaves him to manage any resistance.
  • The senior officials remain deeply loyal to Kale because they survived his earlier takeover; they fear opposing him far more than they care about the meeting’s purpose.
  • Kale’s secretary notices his unusually threatening language and promptly summons the officials.
  • One official nervously tries to comfort Kale. When Kale smiles for unrelated reasons, the official mistakenly takes credit, earning the others’ admiration.

Significant themes

  • Power and fear: Kale’s past violence makes his authority absolute in the officials’ eyes.
  • Family and loyalty: Kale’s fury was originally triggered by threats to his family, while thoughts of Cynthia now comfort him.
  • Irony and comic misunderstanding: The officials mistake Kale’s private thoughts—and his coincidental smile—for signs of an impending purge and then a successful attempt to cheer him up.
  • The burden of leadership: Kale became the leader he once resisted after the administration’s collapse left him responsible for restoring order.
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