“To Be Hero X” continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of superhero action and deeply human stories. Episode 8, titled “The Cyan Girl,” marks the beginning of the “Lucky Cyan” arc, diving into the origins of the heroine currently ranked number 7. This episode explores Cyan’s troubled childhood and her transformation from an ordinary girl into a figure of worship, setting the stage for a poignant exploration of luck, exploitation, and the desire for a normal life.
A Miraculous Beginning
The episode opens with news of a devastating plane crash, described as unprecedented since the founding of the HAC (Hero Association Committee). Amidst the wreckage, a miracle occurs: a young girl named Cyan survives. Liu Zhen, a journalist convinced of a conspiracy behind the crash, rescues Cyan and places her in a children’s welfare facility run by a friend. This act sets in motion a series of events that will define Cyan’s life.
The Burden of Good Fortune
Cyan’s life at the orphanage is far from ordinary. The sisters and other children quickly discover her unbelievable luck. From winning ultra-rare SSR cards in gacha games to seemingly blessing everyday objects, Cyan’s touch brings good fortune to those around her. However, her miraculous luck makes her an object of envy and awe, transforming her into a sacred maiden within the orphanage.
As Cyan’s “Trust Value” rises, she begins to feel imprisoned. Forced to sing hymns and bless items for the growing number of followers, she yearns for a normal life. She wants to play with her friends, wear the clothes she likes, and simply be happy. The dean of the orphanage, initially appearing benevolent, becomes increasingly obsessed with exploiting Cyan’s luck to help more people and elevate the orphanage’s status.
A Glimmer of Hope: Enter Luo
One day, Cyan meets Luo, a young boy recently sheltered at the orphanage. Luo, known as the “Calamity,” is Cyan’s polar opposite, bringing misfortune wherever he goes. Despite their contrasting fortunes, Luo sees Cyan for who she is, a lonely child longing for normalcy.
Luo tunes into a radio broadcast featuring Queen, another hero, whose story will be explored later. This scene also reveals that Liu Zhen, who saved Cyan, is Queen’s father. He expresses pride in his daughter’s ambition to become the top-ranked hero, “X.”
Luo and Cyan form a deep bond, finding solace in each other’s company. Cyan confesses her desire to live a normal life, free from the expectations and exploitation that come with her luck. She reveals that she doesn’t want to be a hero, but rather a normal human being who can make mistakes. Luo, understanding her true desires, decides to help her break free from her gilded cage.
Rebellion and Resistance
Six years later, Cyan, now a young woman, is preparing to perform a new song. Instead of the expected hymn, she surprises everyone by singing a pop song, with Luo accompanying her on guitar. This act of rebellion infuriates the dean, who sees Cyan as his means to achieve his heroic aspirations.
As Cyan and Luo attempt to escape, the dean confronts them, wielding wind powers to prevent their departure. He declares that Cyan cannot leave him, highlighting his possessive and controlling nature. The episode concludes with Cyan and Luo’s escape thwarted, leaving their future uncertain.
Themes and Analysis
Episode 8 of “To Be Hero X” delves into several compelling themes:
Exploitation of Talent: Cyan’s story mirrors the experiences of many child prodigies who are exploited for their talents, losing their childhood in the process. The adults around her, including the dean, fail to recognize her humanity, instead treating her as a commodity to be used for their own gain.
The Burden of Expectations: Cyan struggles under the weight of expectations placed upon her. She is expected to be a symbol of hope and good fortune, sacrificing her own desires for the sake of others. This burden prevents her from experiencing the simple joys of childhood and adolescence.
The Corrupting Influence of Power: The dean’s transformation from a seemingly benevolent caregiver to a controlling figure highlights the corrupting influence of power. His desire to help others becomes twisted into a selfish obsession, leading him to exploit Cyan and suppress her individuality.
The Search for Identity: Cyan’s journey is a search for identity. She grapples with the conflict between her assigned role as a lucky charm and her desire to be a normal person. Luo’s presence provides her with the support and encouragement she needs to embrace her true self.
The Nature of Luck: The episode juxtaposes Cyan’s extreme good luck with Luo’s extreme bad luck, raising questions about the true nature of luck. Is it a blessing or a curse? Can it be controlled or manipulated? The contrasting experiences of Cyan and Luo suggest that luck is not always what it seems.
Animation and Style
Episode 8 marks a significant shift in the animation style of “To Be Hero X.” The episode transitions from the series’ signature blend of 2D and 3D animation to a predominantly 2D style. This change is reportedly due to the start of Cyan’s arc, with the director confirming that subsequent hero arcs will also be animated in 2D. The 2D animation allows for more expressive character designs and emotional depth, enhancing the storytelling.
Foreshadowing and Future Developments
Episode 8 lays the groundwork for future developments in the “Lucky Cyan” arc. The ending suggests that Cyan and Luo will eventually escape the orphanage and embark on a journey to find their place in the world. The introduction of Queen’s father and the hints of a larger conspiracy surrounding the plane crash suggest that Cyan’s story will intersect with the overarching narrative of “To Be Hero X.”
However, some sources suggest a potentially tragic fate for Luo, hinting that the series may snatch away Cyan’s newfound happiness. This foreshadowing aligns with the series’ tendency to inflict emotional hardship on its characters, adding a layer of suspense to Cyan’s journey.
A Promising Start to a New Arc
“To Be Hero X” Episode 8 is a compelling and thought-provoking start to the “Lucky Cyan” arc. The episode explores complex themes with sensitivity and nuance, showcasing the series’ ability to blend superhero action with deeply human stories. The shift to 2D animation enhances the emotional impact of the episode, while the foreshadowing hints at a dramatic and potentially heartbreaking future for Cyan and Luo. With its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and striking animation, “To Be Hero X” continues to solidify its position as one of the most innovative and engaging anime series of the year. The episode leaves viewers eager to see how Cyan’s story unfolds and how she will ultimately overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
