In a world where heroism is quantified by public faith, the lines between genuine conviction and manufactured image are constantly blurred. “To Be Hero X,” the critically acclaimed Chinese original donghua series, plunges viewers into this complex reality, and its 22nd episode, titled “The Last Smile,” delivers a pivotal installment that unravels critical character arcs and showcases the series’ unique blend of action and psychological drama. Released on August 31, 2025, “The Last Smile” marked the culmination of the intense “Dragon Boy arc,” profoundly impacting the perception of key figures like Nice and the enigmatic Hero X.
The Last Smile: A Deep Dive into Episode 22’s Plot
Episode 22 of “To Be Hero X” throws viewers into the chaotic aftermath of an escalating conflict, primarily centering on the hero Nice, the formidable Dragon Boy, and the mysterious top-ranked hero, X. The episode explores Nice’s internal struggle as he grapples with his identity as a “puppet-hero,” acting under the influence of Mr. Shand and public expectations. His desire to be a “perfect” hero clashes with his growing disillusionment, leaving him questioning his true purpose.
The narrative unfolds with intense action sequences, particularly the fierce combat between Dragon Boy and a “Fear-infected Hero Smile.” Dragon Boy, whose power allows him to return any damage inflicted upon him twofold, unleashes his wrath, decimating the corrupted Hero Smile. However, the episode takes a dramatic turn as Nice, torn by his internal conflict, injects a vial’s contents into Dragon Boy’s body, causing him agony as the “Fear” substance seeps in.
Nice’s Internal Battle and the Puppet-Hero Persona
Nice’s character receives significant development in “The Last Smile,” as the episode delves deep into his psyche. He imagines himself as a puppet, constantly manipulated by Mr. Shand and the demanding expectations of the public. This internal monologue highlights his struggle against a manufactured heroic image, revealing a character burdened by the need to maintain an outward facade while his inner world crumbles. The episode provides crucial nuance to Nice, portraying him not just as an arrogant or fake figure, but as a man deeply entangled in a system he once admired but now finds himself a tool within. His actions, including his willingness to aid in civilian harm to boost his reputation, are scrutinized, eliciting strong reactions from other characters like Queen. This internal conflict reaches a breaking point, setting the stage for his eventual downfall, possibly stemming from the events of this episode.
Dragon Boy’s Unveiled Powers and Reckoning
Dragon Boy’s role in “The Last Smile” is crucial, showcasing his unique and devastating abilities. As he sustains multiple hits in his battle, he begins to lose consciousness, triggering a flashback to a childhood memory of drowning in ice waters. Despite being injected with the “Fear” substance by Nice, Dragon Boy’s power to return damage twofold allows him to vomit the substance back onto Hero Smile, transforming him into a menacing, animosity-filled figure. This revelation of Dragon Boy’s resilience and formidable combat prowess makes him a central force in the episode’s explosive confrontations. The episode concludes his arc, though his presence serves as a catalyst for Nice’s deeper character exploration.
The Enigmatic X: Reality-Fabricating Intervention
As the battle between Dragon Boy and Hero Smile intensifies, and Nice finds himself in a dire situation, the top-ranked hero, X, makes a dramatic entrance. X demonstrates his profound and enigmatic powers by “fabricating reality at his will,” stepping in to save Nice from what appears to be certain death. His intervention is both powerful and casual, showcasing an almost god-like ability to control situations with a mere “click of a finger.” This display of overwhelming power not only shifts the tide of the battle but also reinforces X’s mysterious and seemingly omnipotent status within the “To Be Hero X” universe. His arrival and swift resolution of the immediate threat leave viewers with a stronger sense of his capabilities and the extent of his influence on the world.
Thematic Resonance and Future Implications
“The Last Smile” is a significant episode for “To Be Hero X” not just for its action, but for its thematic depth. The series, set in a world where “faith” grants superpowers and heroes are ranked by public trust, continually explores the nature of true heroism versus manufactured celebrity. Episode 22 highlights how this system can corrupt individuals like Nice, turning them into tools rather than genuine protectors. The episode’s focus on Nice’s inner turmoil, compounded by the actions of figures like Mr. Shand, underscores the psychological toll of living in a society obsessed with quantifiable trust. With the Dragon Boy arc concluding and X’s incredible powers further revealed, “The Last Smile” sets the stage for even deeper explorations into the series’ overarching mysteries, particularly regarding the true motivations of “X” and the future of the hero system. “To Be Hero X” is expected to run for 24 episodes, promising further revelations and developments following this impactful installment.
