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drratiosstudent · 1 day ago

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(Spoilers) Lord of the Mysteries Review

*Posted on Reddit August 2024*

*But I decided to post it here because I plan on collating a list of my reviews for the things I read from 2025 onwards here*

Reddit: Anonttheal

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*Note, I am sleep deprived, dead, overwhelmed, emotional, hollow. I cannot describe the ineffable emotions I feel after reading. So apologies if it doesn’t make sense

General thoughts - how I got started

I mentioned in my post the other day that I was going to binge read the final volume and damn. I did. But oh my Goddess, I needed time to process my emotions and thoughts. Some of you might have seen my journey from the start when I joined this subreddit, from discussing my thoughts about the first few volumes, to posting memes along the way as Lord of the Memes, and venting throughout the journey. It’s been a long 5-6 months (I started in March). I want to start off by saying thank you to everyone who welcomed me kindly when I first started and advised me to avoid spoilers, and those who made me even more excited to continue the journey. I’m slightly upset and happy that I postponed reading LOTM for 1-2 years - happy because that means I can binge the whole of LOTM and head to COI (and hopefully be in time for our great Fool’s awakening), sad because I did not read this earlier and find this happiness haha. A part of me genuinely sometimes fear the ‘what if’ I had never touched it? My reading list is as long as the distance from Earth to the Cosmos at this point. Gotta thank the first LOTM trailer for hooking me, the fan arts, and the LOTM TikTok vids that kept appearing on my page. (It was that one TikTok vid explaining where I could read LOTM that made me read LOTM, I think it was from Mr. Mysteries? And then there’s LOTM Historian, I used to watch him rave about LOTM having no clue what was going on but thinking damn, the characters are cool but idk what’s going on but he’s high key glazing LOTM, I can see the passion in his eyes and I wanna know why). I was genuinely so curious about how excited LOTM readers were at the world building and story, and it made me happy to see people glaze LOTM so much (even though I didn’t understand a thing other than that the MC pretends to be a God and I was so confused - how can a human pretend to be God?). I genuinely pick novels/books/stories based on how much people glaze or analyse it + how many people cry over it. LOTM seems to fit the bill. Soon I was like - I need to know what makes these people so passionate. Now I understand. I am the same. Heh.

Review

I’ve said before to my friends and on here, reading LOTM for me was like peeling an onion. I know the first volume can be divisive but I was hooked BECAUSE of volume 1. I found it great, especially for someone who knew nothing but MC pretends to be God and wants to go home. You have no idea the emotional turmoil and shock I felt as the mysteries got revealed. I had to reread the ending of volume 1 a couple times before reading volume 2. That was how shocked I was. Then as I continued reading, I realised nothing is as it seems, and everything seems to be planned and foreshadowed from the start. The brain games, the strategies, the unique world building, lore, truth reveals, plot twist, Beyonder abilities, the Beyonder law, the way everything fits in together and makes such perfect sense, and how history affects the present was just amazing. There were no plot holes I could think of, and even though I was spoiled a lot (I have a tendency to seek out spoilers, but I still enjoy reading with spoilers in general), I still enjoyed it because there were so many plot twist I doubt scrolling through comments and videos would spoil the book for me. I absolutely loved how yesterday’s enemies might be your allies today, and allies can turn to enemies, and how even neutral parties may get involved. (Especially so in the final Godly battle when Klein was listing out his allies and enemies. I was literally kicking my feet before during and after the fight, and gaped when I realised MTOD might even side with Klein. And poor naive young me who thought Adam was alright would’ve been so shocked at Adam being one of the great antagonist for Klein later. Then there was also the Sasir in the FloG, where even Amon helped Klein, and his goal was revealed only later. Then the whole Amon thing of kidnapping Klein, only to actually turn out to target Pallez.) Everyone had their own agenda, and it was extremely fun, using my brain to deduce alongside Klein the motivations of different organisations, characters, and who we can trust. Klein also comes up with such unique and creative plans, back up plans, back up back up plans, and uses weapons, tools and his abilities in ways I think most of us would not have thought of. Instead of typical magical fights, we have sealed artefacts with side effects, using them for his advantage sometimes, him using the whistle, groselles travel, the genie, the brass book, and LEODERO in such creative and humorous ways. Then we have monocle guy, mushrooms, pregnancies and coincidences. I low key felt so paranoid and anxious whenever I saw them or thought that there were coincidences or ‘reasonable developments’. Klein had his wins, losses and sacrifices, he made mistakes and triumphed over many obstacles. Watching him grow was so fulfilling and satisfying, yet filled with so much grief and loss. I really loved the theme CF portrayed of humanity, loneliness, divinity, morality and love/relationships (in all forms, be it familial, romantic, platonic, those gray areas etc.)

The world system and magic system has so much significance in real life too. The fact that one can only become a strong Beyonder by having money, resources and connection rings true in the real world. Alger and Audrey are key examples of this. Some may dislike how hard and long it took for Alger to grow compared to Audrey, but imo, CF did this on purpose. Alger suffered from discrimination since young, and continues to do so. Audrey has everything he lacks - the money, resources, connection + her identity not as a mixed blood. But this does not mean we should hate Audrey for what she has that she can’t control. I respect Alger for his determination despite all the barriers simply because of his identity, childhood and factors that slows his growth, and I respect Audrey for being open minded and brave enough to grow out of her shelter, realise the cruelty of the world, and use her benefits to help others. Life is unfair, and we can see that here. Same with Old Kohler, Daisy, the Sammers. Every character has their own strength and flaws, they felt so human even if they were not shown too much. Yes, some side characters can be shown in more detail, I know it is a flaw in this story, but no story is perfect, and we don’t expect a perfect story. As long as a story makes a big enough impact on me, I think it’s good enough. But the fact that so many people have side characters as their fav characters (other than Klein) shows just how well CF thought through the side characters + their roles in the story. I can tell CF did a lot of thinking into the roles characters have, and what they portray, and he for sure knows that some characters will be disliked, but the characters are there for a reason, to portray a message, a theme, or that their growth is supposed to send a message to us.

Regarding the world building of magic - The fact that as a Beyonder, you need anchors has relevance in this world too. As one rises up in the hierarchy, or holds a higher position in this world, it is easy to get lost in your own self importance, or to be in your own world, or be so involved in problems in your circle you don’t see the big picture and impact on other people. (We can look at celebrities, or extremely rich people - again, this is not all celebrities and rich people, and it also isn’t entirely their fault. When us ‘normal’ people treat them as powerful beings, when a huge number of employees rely on celebrities to maintain their status for their jobs, we are reinforcing the image to them, and their environment is already closed off to us. There is a barrier between us. They don’t completely understand how we live, nor do we understand their struggles. This again, is not a bad or a good thing, it’s just the complexities of life. Celebrities and rich people have worked hard to get to where they are (ignore old money), but there are flaws in this system). Having anchors, friends and family who ground us, and become a bridge to how the rest of the world is so so important. Loneliness is another core theme that is displayed throughout the novel too - the stronger one gets, the lonelier it gets. Same with the real world. Less and less people understand your struggles, and you will encounter the same sort of people again - those in the upper circle. Moreover, being rich or famous undoubtedly makes you responsible to those who support you, and all the lives you can impact with one small mistake. This can be seen from Klein’s behaviour and choices, as well as other leaders and upper echelons members. All the faceless human beings who suffered the most amidst the fights of the powerful beings symbolises the real world also - most of the impact of the powerful are felt by the weaker ones.

Here comes the last bit before I rant too much - the fact that while Klein is indeed amazing, he relies a LOT on others for help. Which I think many of us need to learn from, as I think as a society, many of us tend to avoid seeking help, admit our vulnerabilities to others. It was refreshing to see an MC who is selfish in his own way, cares about his own life, and will be proactive in protecting both himself and his mental health. It really felt realistic when he took the cowardly way out or went ‘go to the Church for help’. Yet, he is also sacrificial as we can see at the end, and there are things more important to him than life. He is a very practical and priority oriented person. Although he doesn’t lower all his defences at the end, and has some secrets - he does take the initiative to seek out trustworthy individuals to entrust his life and plans to his partners. He has also shown time and time again how grateful he is for the help and how he returns the favour. We have seen his acts of kindness, both big and small along the way, and this would become a dissertation if I should list out all his acts.

But this brings me to the next part - I love Klein’s interaction and relationship with everyone. They’re all unique in their own ways, and support Klein as different pillars. Just like how a house needs different pillars of support, all his companions provide him with different facets of a relationship, support and humanity. I am actually really grateful that CF did not include a love interest for Klein, because it does not suit his personality and mindset. Klein has stated that it is not his priority, and he wants to go home, then later on, it was too dangerous to become too close to others as well. If it was any other character with a different personality, mindset and priorities, romance could be possible. But with a practical and priority oriented Klein, it wouldn’t make sense for him to have a love interest. I’m not saying it’s not possible to focus on the apocalypse, gain strength and fall in love at the same time, but as someone who is somewhat similar to Klein in his thinking and values, I would make the same decisions as him. Heck, if I were transmigrated as well, I’d be pissed and want to go home ASAP. Life is not always great, but I have things I worked hard for here, family and friends. Plus, if I knew the world apocalypse was coming, and all the madness of the world, I’d just be wanting to go home. A demoness could come up to me and I’d just say - can you bring me back home? If not, can you make sure the family and friends I’ve made along the way safe? Then if like Klein, I found out the truth, I’ll just work hard on bettering myself and distancing myself from close companions to not endanger them. Lmao I already self-isolate enough when I’m in trouble lol. Working on it though as reading LOTM made me feel more comfortable and be more proactive in seeking support and help when I need it.

Yes, I do have my own personal ships which I will not name, as that’s not the purpose of this reddit and I don’t want to start a ship war - but even I would find it iffy if CF wrote it in. Unless it was a reasonable development I suppose (I’m not Adam I swear to Mr. Fool). But I can’t imagine it really. But, good news: no canon ships mean all ships are free (for the love of Mr. Fool, as long as the ship is APPROPRIATE, please don’t spread corruption.). Each ship brings its own unique tropes, humour or angst and I absolutely love it. (Honorary mention for Klein x Money and Klein x Bathroom ship)

Oh wait, before I end, I know some people are divided on liking/disliking certain characters, and I understand some side characters, esp TC members could be expanded on more. I share the same views, but I also think CF, as an experienced writer himself, expects people to see this flaw and knows himself that certain things can be better - he has mentioned before he has a few things he could work on. But what’s done is down, what’s written is written down. I do have some thoughts on the flaws of LOTM, but I’m in the high/low/overhwlemed of finishing the book, and I cannot think comprehensively and objectively about LOTM. But I can say CF gave us what he promised from the first volume, and fulfilled many of our wishes in watching Klein grow, and in learning about the world. He has done a phenomenal job in doing a research and writing down a story with perhaps the best world building, mysteries and plot twist I have read I full heartedly embrace the horrors of coincidences, pregnancies and mushrooms - Thank you, Cuttlefish, for writing something so great, for giving me something to look forward to everyday, for giving me a story with strong themes I could write a dissertation about and a good storyline. I’m glad I picked up this book, and I’m glad people glaze it.

Quick mentions of other things I like bc this is getting long:

The FIGHT SCENES. In my reading experience, LOTM has the best fights I’ve ever read. The most creative, mind boggling and plot twisting fights that involves unique abilities, creative ways of using tools and abilities, 5D brain chess game that makes my brain twist in enjoyment, solving the puzzles of what the goals of each character is.

Klein’s personas. I love them all.

Sealed artefacts, just the concept and those with living characters are hilarious, esp when they ‘play’ with Klein above the gray fog or when Klein puts two sealed artefacts tgt.

In general, the character arc for the diff characters and side characters (Danitz, Anderson, Prissy, Shermane, Old Kohler, Daisy’s family, Sammers, Dunn and Daly etc.). (I do think they can be expanded more and be more fleshed out but that’s for another time if I ever review what could be improved. But I like where the TC members ended up.) Each side character has their own stories too and they pull at my heart.

Teamwork. This is vital in every single one of Klein’s plan.

Benson and Melissa… I could rant.

This fandom. The cult like ness, the memes etc. Most people are quite nice in general though, at least, when I scroll through reddit and in my comments. I've been avoiding a few things out of spoilers though.

There were also so many beautiful and impactful quotes, I want to create a document with them when I reread LOTM. But I’ll end with this:

“I can feel your joy, your exhaustion, your faith in life, and the heavy responsibility that you have borne from your letters. I can roughly guess why you ultimately made that choice. If it were me, I might not even be able to make such a decision.”

“From the beginning, you’ve been a guardian. You mimicked others until you were mimicked by others.”

Klein has truly been an inspiration for me. I started reading this during a low period of time, and honestly, seeing Klein fight so hard for his loved ones and for himself, gave me the energy to find some motivation to work hard and take care of myself. Watching Klein rest, find his humanity, enjoy his food and life in between made me realise the importance of resting and not burning out in real life as well. What is life, what is humanity, if not for the pause in between the madness and cruelty of this world? There is beauty in life that is worth protecting and worth looking forward to. Perhaps it is the chaos that makes the beauty shine brighter, and it is only when we are at our weakest that we are the strongest. After all, it is easy to be strong when one is in a good state, but not so much when you are at your weakest. Watching Klein struggle against CW towards the end, when the thoughts of giving up was so prominent - after all of his achievements, this was perhaps Klein’s greatest feat. Just purely not giving up when it was so, so easy to. Especially when it was all his anchors that helped him keep him sane. I hope everyone here has some anchors, people they care about, to help keep them grounded amidst any hardships you may face.

Anyways, thanks for reading this long rant and for witnessing my journey. May the Fool bless you all. Have a great day/afternoon/night!

Time for me to read the side stories and COI.

Ugh, I really want to rant more but my brain is not braining with me after a lack of sleep from binging then heading straight to work. I swear I had like, a really good outline in my head. I was prepared to write a dissertation.

Oh one thing, I love how the things we fear are things you don’t expect - it’s not monsters or strong abilities, but small things like coincidences, forgetting/rememebring something (I recall the horror of reading Roselle saying he forgot something and realising he was corrupted) or things like Mr. Door is actually saying Don’t save me, or how there are so many diff ways you can suffer and die like reading, thinking, looking, hearing at the wrong things/things you shouldn’t hear or look at etc. The whole concept of corruption and cosmos is just so intriguing and how knowledge can make you suffer.

Note: Ngl, I also cringed alongside Klein when he got a church, and read the holy bible. Proud of him but also lmao.

Mini character review in comments below bc this is long: (Please note I am sleep deprived from all the reading and working, it might not make sense, I love all TC members. I miss them alr.)

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Alger - Love his glazing, experience and guidance of everyone. He inspires me and I think represents all the groups of people who are held back by society and life. He is a very complex character with his own motivations, strength and flaws. I think he was written to glaze The Fool and to show us what most people thought of strong evil Gods, but also to make us readers excited about TC meetings and how others view the Fool. I do wish we could’ve seen more of his life and his actions, but it warms my heart to see his sceptical nature and cold heart turn warm, and his relationship with Derrick. He gained a lot more warmth in his life, and I’m happy for that. He didn’t have a great childhood but watching him help those younger than him, and him being proactive in helping others was great. I love seeing him subtly become more grounded and closer with everyone. (I’d write more but I’m running out of space to give way for some important discussion on some characters that I’ve noticed). Imo, He plays an important role in describing many of us who submit to authority and fear, but also has an ambitious side to him. He knows how to play his strength, and he is a ‘guide’ to the readers and TC members that allows the story to move forward.

Audrey - Love her growth, warm heart and bravery to mature from a 17 year old naive girl to a woman who is proactive and tries her best to help others while dealing with her darker thoughts. (I understand she is a very divisive character, some love her, some hate her - I see both points of views. But liking characters are subjective. When reading about disliking Audrey, I was mostly focused on the analysis of CF’s writing instead, as I know me liking or disliking Audrey’s personality is just a matter of personal preference. I was concerned for her character at first but I think CF did realise the problem and slowly grew her arc. I do think CF has planned her arc from the very beginning, but it was slow at first. I won’t comment how much I like her character or how CF wrote her but, in general, I do like her like all the TC members, and I do wish more people of her status in the real world were like her.)

Derrick - Proud of his growth and determination + his innocence and kind heart. His loyalty and bravery as a child is worth commending. It is not easy to live in the FloG and to kill his parents, and to find the way out. Now he is someone important in the Church and for his people. The responsibilities on him has grown and I can’t wait to see how he has become in the future. (Sorry had to rant on this little sun. I think it is easy to overlook him as a character sometimes but imagine living in his environment. I would suffer.) I would rant more but sorry my eyes are hurting rn, ben staring at the screen too long.

Fors - Honestly at first glance, she seems lazy, but I think we all forget she worked in a hospital before (I think? Idk if she was a doctor or surgeon). Can you imagine how hard she must’ve worked for that? The patients she must’ve seen, the bad cases, the people crying, the patience, empathy and steadfastness she must have? There’s a reason the Abraham wife took her in. Then she became a bestselling author. She’s the epitome of success at whatever she wants to do. No doubt she worked hard in those field. Yes, she has her own advantages with regards to her growth as a Beyonder, she did have it relatively easy - but don’t forget, The Fool, TC members and Abraham family can only give her support and guide her. She was the one who had to take the steps herself. They can hold her hand, but she must walk with her own two feet, and as a Beyonder, that is not easy as well. She worked hard to digest her potions and help the people she care about. She can be lazy, but when it comes to her values like protecting the Abraham family, Xio and ppl she cares for, she will work hard. But to hate a character for having things easier than others feels a little sad. It reminds me in real life of people who hate people who were born with good luck or good family and benefits, things they cannot control. Same with some people who hate Audrey for having it easy. I’m happy for people who are lucky, sad for those who are not - In my mind, it is more important to focus on the important issues such as how we can decrease the inequality between people and growth in life + career. As long as those with benefits use their advantages to help others, I think that’s the best they can do already. Sorry long rant about Fors and Audrey. But also, it would be al little monotonous if all TC members struggled to grow. I think CF did this to show some disparity in how diff people grow as a Beyonder. Having different roles in life allows one to increase their sequence in different ways - be it fast or slow, and some things are out of their control.

Emlyn - Our messiah - our saviour - our lord of dolls and the pride of Sanguine. While I find his character hilarious, I do like his growth in understanding that being the ‘messiah’ comes with its own responsibilities. He brings some lightheartedness and allows us to compare his inexperience to other TC members’ experience. These characters are required for us to understand Alger and other experienced characters’ wisdom, and for us to witness The Moon’s growth at the end.

Cattleya - Her character is very complex, and that’s what I like about her character. Parts of her personality reminds me of me as well, which made it a bit hard for me to read. Especially when Audrey analysed her it felt like viewing me as well. It’s not about Cattleya’s complex relationship with Bernadette/motherlike figure, but her personality of being cautious and how she tries to hold herself up well in front of others and works hard to become a powerful figure. Then we only realise how she feels like a child and seeks consolation and protection from others later from Audrey’s analysis and Klein who saw her in her dream. I do think she could be developed more, but I do liked the scenes we have of her where she showcases her wisdom, experience and abilities. She’s like the female version of Alger. I have to admit I was a bit pissed at Cattleya and lost my trust in her but I slowly regained it back. People make mistakes, learn from it, and hopefully don’t make it twice. She deserves a chance to learn.

Leonard + Pallez - OUR DEAR POET!!! I really thought he was going to be our antagonist, and I was influenced by Klein. Although I chuckled at his antics and his ‘protagonist of times’ personality, I was also quite fearful and paranoid of his every actions at the beginning. But after Volume 1, my heart just broke for him. Imagine losing your captain of a few years, and a colleague whom you learnt to trust. I honestly think he has lost many people throughout his time as a Beyonder up to his final status as a high ranking deacon. It has already been mentioned that it is common to have to fight against your colleagues. I’ve no doubt he lost many. He is perhaps one of my fav characters ngl, watching him go for revenge, get stronger, and finally dig that grave and try his best to help his friend. His relationship with Pallez is hilarious as well. He has his own strength, and I do wish we saw more of that + sleepless pathway abilities in midsequence. We have Arianna for high sequence and Tingen’s Leonard low sequence. Proud of his growth though. He is perhaps one of the fastest official Beyonder to rise up the ranks. Yes, he had Pallez’s guidance, but look at Pallez - do you think he would help Leonard like that? Pallez seems more like someone who helps during life or death situation, gives some useful information, and guides his students to his own conclusions rather than giving the answers straight up - unless concise answers are required. At least, that’s my assumptions based on his convos with Pallez. Besides, Leonard had to do the acting himself, Pallez can’t act for him. I’m sure he did solve many cases in the Church and acted hard. He was almost on par with Klein, just like a month or two behind, at least until Seq 5, when Klein massively shot up the ranks due to his circumstances. Praise Pallez though, yes he was hiding all the time, but to hide from THE AMON for this long? Honestly he did quite well and did help Klein and Leonard massively with his own wisdom.

Xio - Looking as a character as a whole, I do like her personality and mindset. She’s an inspiration. She works hard, has integrity, holds strong to her values. But we don’t see much of her. I’m sure she’s a great MI9 Colonel, and people respect her, but I honestly for the first time, can’t write that much about her. I like her concept, and I hope she gets more time in COI. Looking at her background, she must have a lot of experience and wisdom from being a bounty hunter until now as an MI9 member.

Amon - I am THIS close to making the monocle emoji into my flair. I use it all the time in my texts now and it is one of my most frequently used emoji. He is one of my fav antagonist with such unique ways of making us feel terrified and horrified and his deception skills are maxed out. Especially his final battle with Klein. He is cunning, mysterious and a joy. A joy to read. Not to experience. I literally love Pallez’s quote about Amon.

Adam - Our Visionary, our author, the one who made us all terrified of coincidences. I thought he’d be leaning on Klein’s side due to his help in Klein’s Seq 4 arrangements but oh was I wrong. I love being wrong. I love how complex the brothers are, and how even saying his name omg. The scene where he was next to Anderson and Danitz, and how he could be beside you and you wouldn’t know, and how he can make things happen - he is wow.

Evernight Goddess - PRAISE THE GODDESS! Our initial investor, our saviour, our lovely transmigrator!!! I love her so much, she has helped Klein a lot and honestly is on par with Amon and Adam, perhaps higher. She is the hidden manipulator and schemer behind it all alongside Adam, and I love it, how everything slowly revealed towards Amanisis and when Klein finally met her. Then her and Lilith’s betrayal, then her killing Klein omg I was like why then I realised why and was like wow. I would rant more but my brain is not working anymore. I am also considering choosing the sleepless pathway as my flair. Ofc not just bc of her but honestly with my lifestyle and personality it’d be pretty easy to act it out.

I wanted to add Azik but I'm actually really tired but I love his relationship with Klein, his personality, his wisdom - literally made him my profile icon lol. I think, I would be grateful if I had a teacher like him. I love the letters he and Klein sent to each other, watching their relationship grow, their trust with one another. He is and always will be Klein's eternal teacher, mentor and friend.

On a final, final, final note - thank you Cuttlefish and Klein, for bringing me this miraculous world and characters, and for giving me some sort of warmth, hope and positivity in this messy thing called life. :)

#lord of the mysteries #lotm #klein moretti #review #webnovel #web novel review #leonard mitchell #Audrey hall #alger wilson #fors #xio #cattleya #emlyn #WinterLEReviews

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drratiosstudent · 1 day ago

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(Spoiler) Circle of Inevitability Vol 2 Review

*Initially posted on Reddit Dec 2024 but posting it here so I can have a collection of Reviews here*

*Not posting my Vol 1 review here as it was a yap*

*Feb 2025 COI status: I'm currently still in Vol 3 as I'm taking it slow right now (juggling multiple books and life at once) so please, no spoilers. :)*

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Hello, my dear Beyonders, heretics and cabbages! Here’s another raving from a Heretic Beyonder who wishes to win against the true creator in the ultimate rap battle. It is time for my review of COI Vol 2…

I actually finished it a couple days ago and am in Ch276 now but I felt like I needed to process what just happened… and continue my regular reviews as I read. I’ve been doing it since LOTM and I can’t stop now!

First a follow up on my Vol 1 review

My first Vol 1 review was a little messy because I did write it after finishing Vol 1 feeling all those emotions and thoughts, and did not read CF’s author’s notes yet, or contemplate more on the significance of the title and quote. But after reading CF’s author’s note, and having read V2, I have a newfound appreciation and respect for CF for delving into the symbolisms and foreshadowings in Lumian’s ‘nightmare’, creating a bunch of questions for us readers, hooking us in, and building the foundation for the rest of the volumes to come. It was indeed a nightmare. I also have to raise a glass to CF for writing the story he wants and doing all his own research, pushing forth to create the story he wants when he knows there will definitely be backlash, especially with LOTM, and comparing Lumian with Klein etc.

Vol 2 review

Overall review

ASLDKJFHASLDKFJHASLKDFJHASLKDFHSALDKJFHLKDSAHFJ x1000000.

Ok. That was the rant for all the emotional upheavals I went through because of CF. I already ranted enough in my previous posts so I won’t go on about how sad I am of all the deaths that occurred and tragic fates of the people.

On Volume 2 and Lumian

Personally, I really liked this volume as well. We get a chance to further delve into Lumian’s character, his mindset, and his interactions with other people. Through that, we also get to see how deeply Aurore has influenced Lumian, and I thought CF did a pretty good job at helping us understand Aurore through her impact on Lumian. It helps us stay connected to both Lumian and Aurore, and understand Lumian’s motives. It’s easy to forget a character once they ‘die’ in a book, but this helps us remain connected to the characters, and how Lumian’s character was shaped, and we get to see how he’ll continue to grow without Aurore by his side. But I just love how Aurore is present in Lumian in all his actions choices, and values. It’s very realistic as after all, we are a mosaic of the people around us, the environment and experiences we have, and our own individual characteristic. Aurore played a big part in shaping Lumian’s life, especially in helping Lumian find some light and hope in the midst of all the sufferings he had in the past.

Lumian’s compassion for the world and its people is not gentle. It is sharp, rough and coarse, moulded by his own experiences from life, alongside Aurore’s warmth. But it is this kind of compassion that the people around him need. It’s also a reminder of what Lumian said to the guards?/The people? when they went to the catacombs to lay Flemeng, Ruhr and Michel to rest - he is a human too. He has a heart, albeit colder and sharper than others due to his circumstances, but through his actions, we get to see that Lumian stays true to his values despite his seemingly more rough words and persona. He isn’t completely selfless, and prioritises his own goals and safety, but he does show his warmth to the playwright, Charlie, Jenna, Franca, and even in Vol 1 with his ‘friends’. But it is in Vol2 when he seeks psychiatric treatment, that we see him slowly open up to others and actually develop a deeper connection, seek help, and help others in return. He is a complex character, and I love we catch glimpses of how he is seen from different eyes, and from his own actions and words.

“I’m a nobody, with no time to notice the brightness of the sun” - Volume 1

Lumian may think of himself as a ‘nobody’ under the cold gaze of fate and those in power. This is more prominent as this volume went on, and how he has also implied how he knows he is weak and small amidst the high ranking people and high sequence beyonders. He is a ‘nobody’ who strives to reach his goals of saving Aurore, seeking revenge, and finding the truth. But in the midst of his busy journey since Vol 1 with no time to notice the ‘brightness of the sun’, the steps he takes is one that leads towards the light he seeks. Like many humans, he too, is a ‘light seeker’, despite the many setbacks he faced. However, like the quote above says, since Vol 1 he is always on the go, he is unable to truly cherish the present in his chase for the past and in writing his own fate. But in this Volume, we can see the subtle growth he has psychologically, as he develops new relationships, seeks solace and warmth in the people around him, from his convos and actions with Charlie, Jenna, Franca, and the tenants etc. He is slowly able to feel the little warmth around him when he uncovers the truth of Aurore being a follower of inevitability, and the challenges he faces. I also remember a quote about how he likes the environment at the basement of Auberge? Compared to the upper class fancy self indulgent people at Salle de something I think? Idk the names folks, I don’t keep up with names lol.

Anyways, I love seeing his sessions with Susie and (We finally see Madam Justice!!!) and we get a deeper insight into taking care of yourself mentally, and in the impact of trauma and losing those you love. It makes the character feel real and reinforces how his past and mental state affects his choices and perspective on the world and people around him.

I just like seeing how Lumian finally embraces the the little brightness, hope and warmth in his new companions, Charlie, Jenna, Franca, etc. It’s very subtle, but you can see it through his interactions and what lies between the texts. CF did mention it in his author’s notes how he doesn’t need to make everything loud, and how things are subtle between texts and silence can speak loudly.

Inevitability of fate

Regarding the theme of fate and the inevitability of fate, I thought CF expanded on this pretty well. When I read the Vol1-2, it seemed like a good symbolism of both free will and determinism, and how fate lies in the hands of those in power, or in life’s chaotic luck and randomness. I won’t delve in too much about free will and determinism here lol, that’s for a philosophical discussion.

But still, this volume touches a lot on how much power do we have over writing our own fate? How much influence does nature and our environment have on us and in influencing the choices we make? To what extent are we moulded by our experiences, nature, and interactions with others?

Even when faced with the inevitability of fate and the consequences of certain actions, many humans will still seek the light, seek hope, and try their best to change their fate.

Perhaps the answer lies not in ‘if we can truly change our fate’, but in trying our best, regardless of the answer. It lies in us finding purpose and meaning in our journey, having hope that we can change our fate, because we’ll probably never know the answer if fate is truly in our hands, or in the hands of those above us. Fate is a complex thing manipulated by many people and by life, and the only thing we can do is burn bright until the end.

But anyways, I think all that happened is a pretty good symbolism of how those not in power will have to face the inevitability of fate from those in power. Many victims, like in LOTM, will suffer due to the corruption of power from those higher ups, as these ‘higher beings’ play with the strings of fate. The only way to write your own fate is to be like Lumian and grow stronger.

Thoughts on the themes

Title: Lightseeker

Quote: For you are dust, and to dust you shall return.

Just like in LOTM, there’s a big theme of humans finding light and hope amidst despair, despite the inevitability of fate pushed onto them by those in power.

Even though, we know we’ll return to dust, that doesn’t stop us from frolicking around, finding joy and purpose while we are in the air, embracing whatever light that comes our way, and seeking light as long as we are dancing.

I think CF explained his theme rly well in the author’s note so I won’t write more. I agree wholeheartedly with his sentiments, and thought he did a great job at portraying other characters and the life of the people around Lumian.

The city Lumian lived in and its people served really well as a microcosm of the larger societal issues we face, and how powerful figures play with the fates of the others as we all dance beneath the shadows in hopes of getting a glimpse of light before drowning in darkness.

Hunter

CF was amazing in changing his writing style to suit the Hunter pathway and a character like Lumian. I have no complaints in this department. I can tell CF put a lot of effort into the principles and philosophies behind the pathway, and how he must weave them into his own writing.

Lumian is very well suited for the Hunter pathway, so I won’t repeat the reasons why as I’m sure many people agree. But I think this volume does pry a little deeper subtly into how, perhaps the hardest prey a Hunter will have to catch and understand is themselves, and the biggest predator they’ll have to avoid falling prey to, is themselves. We see Lumian struggle in dealing with his mental health, his own understanding of himself, and his changing view of the world and life after the incident in Cordu. Admittedly, he hasn’t lived a beautiful life, and has seen the darkest parts of human nature/life. But he is still young, inexperienced and growing - He knows that. Hence, we see him proactively figure out how to grow, adapt and become more skilled in navigating the vicissitudes of life and the madness of the Beyonder world. He is trying to understand his forgotten memories, his own flaws, his own strength. He is learning how to build a team, work with others, strategise, utilise resources and connections for his own needs etc.

Pyromaniac

I haven’t delved deep into this as he just advanced, but based on his actions and story, I think CF was trying to show how fire is but a fuel and a tool. Whether it will fuel your heart or burn your soul, that is up to you. Will you use the rage and ambition within you as a tool, or fail to master it and let it burn you into ashes?

Utilise your emotions as a good tool or fuel, but don’t let it overwhelm or burn you in your hunt for what you want.

On CF’s author’s notes from Vol 1-2

"Never satisfied, always challenging."

I hope he will always find fulfilment in writing, despite the backlash he may face throughout writing COI. I’m sure like many experienced author’s, he can tell the difference between insults and good critical feedback, and will be able to write the story he wants, and learn from this experience.

Had to also chuckle when CF had to go ‘did you even read’? Lmao.

It is very clear CF out a lot of thought into the plot, characters, symbolism, messages and emotions he wanted to express and evoke.

He knows there will be people who won’t like it, and people who will.

After all, like the saying goes, you may be the sweetest peach by some people don’t like peach.

Anyways, after Vol 1, we have many questions. After Vol2, we have more questions. I’m looking forward to finding the answers out as I read on, and I really like where this is going. :) Yes, I do miss LOTM and Klein, but, I also really do like COI so far and where it’s going. :) I really do hope to catch up with COI soon at least by the end of the year and experience the thrilling life of waiting daily for chapters :’) I will suffer, but it will be a suffering filled with much excitement and fulfilment. Thank you once again to everyone who has encouraged me to read LOTM many months back in March :’) I wonder if I can catch up within this year hehe.

Character review (oncology order)

Charlie

What can I say? He’s very loyal and innocent and naive, and I really like his character. I was really happy to see nothing terrible happen to him. *cough* I mean like, he didn’t die, I wouldn’t want to wish his Susanna incident on anyone *cough*. I’m glad to see he’s now part of the Beyonder world, and hope he remains protected and grows well.

Jenna

Honestly, it was a little hard to get connected with Jenna, since at first, she gets pretty irritated and annoyed with Lumian (tbf, mostly anyone would). It’s not that I didn’t like her, I just didn’t get to see much of her character. This changed once she accompanied Lumian in the rain, and followed him when his state was bad. I started to rly like Jenna then, and later began to understand her character. Especially when we get introduced to her family Elodie and Julien, how she cares for them, and her own motivations. I’m rooting for her, and I really like her as a character. She’s a good contrast with Lumian, and I think she’ll provide some good warmth and company for him in this tulmutuous period. She’s provided a lot of good humour and laughter too haha. I also love her advice for Lumian about acting loyal. She’s smart in her own ways, naive and new to the Beyonder world, but we can see her grow from her experiences.

My heart absolutely shattered after Elodie’s death - which some of y’all might recall my post about.

“But isn't it said that the night will pass and light will emerge? Why? Why is it always so dark? Why can't I see any light…”

Perhaps, aside from a fortunate few, darkness was the dominant theme in life. Light was but an occasional adornment.

Why, why is darkness always so overpowering, devoid of light?When will the sun rise again?

These quotes still make me sad. I still feel sad over the incidents. But I think CF did pretty well in showing the children's reaction, and the quotes reminded me of how I felt during some of my darkest times too :( But I really do like that Jenna has Lumian and Franca's support, it gives me hope for their family and for Jenna :') I feel like CF really did his research into grief, trauma, loss and mental health since LOTM, and it really shows in his works. It’s not over the top nor shallow, but quite realistic and leans more to the objective side in terms of story telling, as if we’re seeing it from an outsider’s POV, which, we are lol, but it suits the style.

Assassination principles

While I do like Jenna’s understanding of the assassination acting principles, I feel like a deeper meaning would be the assassination of the self in order to grow and achieve your desires. It is impossible to achieve what you want, especially in this field, without killing off a part of your past identity, values and moral principles. Sacrifices are necessary. You have to be willing to let go of the naive and innocent you, take risks, and accept the new change in you, while holding on to the core values and principles you have. Assassinate who you have to assassinate, kill off what doesn’t work for you and the parts of you that needs to be shed, but do not simply assassinate everything along the way, or else you’ll be left with nobody and nothing left of yourself. The demoness pathway is filled with sacrifices and despair in the reach for their desires and hopes. It’s a hard path to walk for someone like Jenna / well anyone tbh, but, it’ll be interesting to see how she and Franca advances along the way as we discover more principles.

Franca

She was the first character I grew to really love. One of my fav characters until I got to know Jenna more. Lumian, Franca and Jenna are now tied :’) Personality wise I’d run way from Lumian but, I do love them all equally character wise :’)

Franca has such a reliable aura, and I love her protectiveness and care for Lumian, and her loyalty towards those she cares about. She gives great advice, good information, and takes care of those she cares about really well.

You can imagine my shock, happiness and excitement when I saw her pull out the two of cups and summon Madam judgement!!! I literally reread the scene a couple times. I was so, so excited. I’m so happy Xio got her screen time too and see her skills! I felt really proud of the OG Tarot Club and see how far they’ve come, and seeing their lofty figures from Franca/Lumians’ POV.

I’m excited to see Lumian trust Franca more now with this reveal, and see them work together!

I do feel a little sad for Franca, as I know what questions she’ll ask Mr. Fool *cough* transmigration, but hopefully by then, she’ll have developed good relationships and support system over here, and have support in dealing with the truth of the world…

Ok I’d write more but, uh, I really do want to continue reading COI now hhehehehehehflkjhfaslkdfhjasdlkfjhasdlkjfhsadlfkjhasdlkfjhasdlkfjhsad

I AM STILL NOT OVER THE DEATHS WTF CUTTLE. CAN I JUST… THROW YOU INTO THE COSMOS AND BACK FOR A BIT?

Final note:

To all you lovely readers who have read this long essay *cough* ravings *cough* or perhaps followed me since my journey in LOTM here - I hope that you may be able to appreciate and notice the small rays of light the brush past your face in your journey, and not have to wait until you’ve reached your destination to embrace the warmth of the sun. The life and impact you make as a mere human being may feel like being a speck of dust floating in the vast cosmos, but I wish that you may still find meaning in the life you live, and in the things you seek. Perhaps you may realise what you seek is not what you need and change along the way, and perhaps, I suspect Lumian may have to let go of reviving Aurore at the end and change his goals, but, may you be embraced with the warmth of the sun from your companions and from the random blessings life throws at you. I hope you may be able to hold on to your own purpose and values in this life, and tread on with fire in your heart, without letting it consume you whole. Ambition and desire is great, but too much of it can burn you. Push yourself, but not so much that you break apart. Be like Lumian! Seek help when you need, and take things in stride.

As for flaws in CF’s writing and in COI - I’ll leave that in the end, if I ever do write about it. I’m just enjoying the journey now haha.

Anyways, take care everyone, and thanks again for listening to my ravings………

PRAISE THE MTOD AND MGOD!!!

*cough*

PRAISE THE FOOL!

PRAISE CUTTLEFISH!

#coi #circle of inevitability #lotm #lord of the mysteries #lumian lee #jenna #franca #WinterLEReviews #webnovel

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