“To Be Hero X” Episode 4, titled “The Commoner,” is a rollercoaster of emotions, plot twists, and character development that leaves viewers breathless. Released on April 27, 2025, this installment marks a significant turning point in the series, challenging the very definition of heroism and leaving fans grappling with a shocking cliffhanger.
From Nice to Lin Ling: Shedding the Façade
The episode picks up directly after the events of Episode 3, with Nice (Lin Ling) facing God Eye, who has taken Moon hostage. God Eye threatens to expose Nice’s secrets, forcing Lin Ling to confront the fabricated nature of his heroic identity. Trapped by the expectations of his fans and the constraints of his “Trust Value,” Lin Ling struggles to act. However, he soon realizes he can no longer live as an impostor.
In a pivotal moment, Lin Ling reveals the truth to the public: he is not the original Nice, who died long ago, but an ordinary citizen named Lin Ling. This confession causes his Trust Value to plummet, stripping him of his powers and perfect appearance. Yet, undeterred, Lin Ling continues to fight to save Moon, fueled by his genuine feelings for her.
The Power of Authenticity: The Rise of The Commoner
Lin Ling’s selfless act of revealing his true identity and fighting without powers resonates with the public. His honesty and unwavering determination inspire them, causing his Trust Value to rise again, this time based on their belief in him as Lin Ling, the ordinary man. This transformation marks the birth of a new hero: The Commoner, embodying the idea that anyone can be a hero, regardless of superpowers.
Despite being battered and bruised, Lin Ling manages to defeat God Eye, showcasing the raw strength and resilience born from genuine conviction. This victory highlights the episode’s central theme: true heroism comes from within, not from manufactured images or public perception.
A Twisted Revelation: The Fake Moon
In a surprising twist, Lin Ling discovers that the Moon he rescued from God Eye was a fake – a mannequin used to bait him into revealing the truth. This revelation exposes God Eye’s primary motivation: not simply to defeat Nice, but to expose what he sees as the fraudulent nature of manufactured heroes.
The episode then reveals the real Moon stranded on a deserted island, having faked her death in Episode 2 to escape the pressures of being a hero. Just as she resigns herself to a solitary existence, Lin Ling arrives with her forgotten teleportation device, offering a glimmer of hope for a future free from the constraints of manufactured heroism.
A Heartbreaking End: The Fall of Moon
However, their emotional reunion is brutally cut short. E-Soul, another of the Top 10 heroes, appears and shoots Moon, leaving Lin Ling shattered and the audience in shock. This tragic cliffhanger raises several questions: Is Moon truly dead? What is E-Soul’s motivation? And how will this event impact Lin Ling’s journey as The Commoner?
Themes and Analysis
Episode 4 delves into several complex themes:
The Nature of Heroism: The episode challenges the traditional notion of heroism, suggesting that it is not about superpowers or public image but about courage, selflessness, and genuine care for others.
The Dangers of Idolization: The episode critiques celebrity culture and the commercialization of heroism, portraying how public figures can become prisoners of their own image and fans’ expectations.
Authenticity vs. Facade: The episode emphasizes the importance of authenticity and self-acceptance, contrasting Lin Ling’s initial struggle to maintain the facade of Nice with his eventual embrace of his true identity as The Commoner.
The Power of Belief: The episode explores how public perception can influence a hero’s power and actions, but also how genuine belief in someone’s character can grant them strength and inspire others.
Production and Impact
“To Be Hero X” Episode 4 is a masterclass in storytelling, animation, and direction. The episode seamlessly blends action, emotional twists, and suspense, creating an unforgettable viewing experience. The high production quality, coupled with the episode’s thought-provoking themes, has solidified the series’ reputation as one of Spring 2025’s standout titles.
The Unanswered Questions
The episode’s shocking ending leaves viewers with many questions:
Is Moon really dead? Some theories suggest that Moon’s death may be another fake-out, similar to the beginning of the first episode. However, the presence of E-Soul suggests that this time, the consequences may be irreversible.
What is E-Soul’s motive? E-Soul’s sudden appearance and violent act remain unexplained, leaving fans speculating about his motivations and potential role in a larger conspiracy.
How will Lin Ling cope with Moon’s death? Moon was Lin Ling’s primary motivation for becoming a hero. Her death could either break him or fuel his determination to fight for justice as The Commoner.
What is the future of The Commoner? With his newfound identity and powers, Lin Ling has the potential to redefine what it means to be a hero in this world. However, the challenges he faces will undoubtedly test his resolve and shape his path forward.
A New Chapter Begins
“To Be Hero X” Episode 4 marks the end of Lin Ling’s journey as Nice and the beginning of his journey as The Commoner. This episode is a testament to the power of authenticity, the dangers of idolization, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. While the tragic ending leaves viewers in shock, it also sets the stage for a new chapter in the series, one filled with uncertainty, intrigue, and the promise of a hero truly worthy of the title.
