“To Be Hero X” episode 11, titled “Road to the Crown,” marks a significant turning point in the series, diving deep into the rise of Liu Yuwen, also known as Queen, and her shocking defeat at the hands of the enigmatic Hero X. Premiered on June 15, 2025, the episode kicks off the highly anticipated Queen Arc, offering a visually stunning and narratively rich installment that significantly deepens the overarching story.
A Prodigy’s Ascent
The episode opens in Year 26 after the Commission, showcasing a young Liu Yuwen taking her university entrance exam. Astonishingly, she completes it with full marks in just 30 minutes, demonstrating her exceptional intellect and determination. Yuwen aims to graduate in two years, a goal she achieves, becoming the youngest valedictorian in the university’s history.
The Valedictorian’s Vision
In her valedictorian speech, Yuwen declares her ambition to become the top hero, X, and reform the Hero System by dismantling the Trust Value system. Although some mock her aspirations, her words resonate with many women, signaling a potential shift in the hero landscape. Micky, recognizing her potential, recruits her into his agency, DOS.
Queen’s Reign Begins
As Queen’s influence grows, the media dubs her the “Hero Queen,” and her actions spark a cultural shift. Her speech inspires many female heroes, including Bowa, who rises through the ranks at DOS. Queen’s rise benefits not just herself but transforms the landscape for female heroes generally, with DOS strategically using this momentum to overtake their competitor MG as the top hero management company.
The Hero Ranking Tournament
The episode centers on the 16th Hero Ranking Tournament. Bowa challenges Extro, the reigning Hero X, and claims victory, becoming the second woman in history to hold the title. Elsewhere, Queen saves a child from a monster villain, rising to rank 10.
Tensions Rise
Tension brews between Bowa and Queen. Bowa suspects Micky intends to pass her title to Queen, but Queen remains unfazed, determined to earn it through her own efforts. Their confrontation is interrupted by the arrival of the 15th-ranked hero, the Johnnys. Queen immediately becomes attached to Big Johnny for his cuteness, showcasing a lighter side to her serious demeanor.
The Mysterious Hero X
Expectations for a Queen vs. Bowa rematch at the 18th Ranking Tournament are upended when a mysterious, unnamed hero, known to viewers as Hero X, emerges and defeats Queen in an instant. He quickly claims the X title without revealing his identity or abilities, and his whereabouts remain a mystery.
A Crushing Defeat
Queen’s defeat is a shocking moment in the episode. The fight doesn’t even last a second, as Queen wakes up to discover that she has lost. The media remarks that no one has any information on the new X, such as his whereabouts or powers. It’s incredible how he could possess the strength to defeat X when he has no “followers.”
Processing Failure
The episode’s final scenes show Queen processing her devastating loss, saying solemnly, “So this is failure.” She contacts her manager, Mickey, who investigates and finds no trace of this person in any information systems, as though he doesn’t exist.
Key Characters and Factions
- Queen (Liu Yuwen): A prodigious young hero candidate aiming to reform the Hero System.
- Hero X: A mysterious, unnamed hero who defeats Queen and claims the X title.
- Bowa: A female hero from DOS who becomes the second woman to hold the X title.
- Micky: The CEO of DOS, a Fear-researching agency that represents Queen, Bowa, and the Johnnies.
- DOS: One of the four major superhero agencies, known for its strategic use of female heroes.
Themes and Analysis
- The Price of Ambition: Queen’s unwavering ambition is tested as she faces her first major defeat.
- The Enigma of Hero X: The mysterious Hero X challenges the established rules of the hero world.
- The Rise of Female Heroes: Queen’s influence leads to a boom in superheroine popularity and a shift in gender dynamics.
- Corporate Manipulation: The episode hints at corporate conspiracies and the manipulation of heroes for strategic gain.
Episode Highlights
- The introduction of Liu Yuwen and her impressive academic achievements.
- Queen’s powerful graduation speech, declaring her ambition to become X and reform the Hero System.
- Bowa’s victory in the Hero Ranking Tournament, becoming the second woman to hold the X title.
- The shocking debut of Hero X and his effortless defeat of Queen.
- The exploration of tensions and rivalries between Queen, Bowa, and other heroes.
Final Thoughts
“To Be Hero X” episode 11 is a pivotal installment that sets the stage for future conflicts and revelations. The episode’s skillful direction, thoughtful script, and stunning animation make it a crucial and engaging entry that elevates the series’ momentum. With its blend of character development, world-building, and unexpected twists, episode 11 reaffirms “To Be Hero X” as a standout of the season.
