I'd planned to write a summary after the Sword Heart arc, but somehow kept putting it off until it stretched across an entire volume.
First and foremost, I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to every reader.
I'm a complete newcomer, and honestly, with no existing readership to speak of, the book's performance has already exceeded my own expectations—and even my editor's. None of that would have been possible without every reader's support.
As it happens, it wasn't until near the end of the first volume that I realized I'd chosen a narrative style that was practically hell mode.
The book is mainly told through self-contained arcs, but unlike most infinite-flow stories, its deeper worldbuilding connections, continuity between stories, and carefully arranged plot developments mean that one small change can affect everything. That has objectively made it harder to write.
But while feeling that pain, I also realized that although this approach is difficult, it makes the story more enjoyable.
Enjoyment is always at the heart of a story, so in the end I decided it was worth it.
Volume One: Thugs. Volume Two: Demigods.
The second volume has now officially concluded, and I can confidently say that the worldbuilding is unfolding steadily and the overall structure is entirely under control. There's no need to worry.
Now that I've finished patting myself on the back, I want to offer everyone my sincere apologies: this book's update schedule has been absolutely terrible!
The updates have been too few and too irregular, making for a very poor reading experience, especially for those following along as it updates.
There are a couple of reasons. For one, I really am not a fast typist.
For another, my commute and work take well over twelve hours a day, leaving very little time for quiet reflection