Chapter Summaries

Summary of Chapter 121: Kill Your Master, Not You

Key Plot Points and Events

• Archbishop Andrews prepares for battle atop the bell tower, facing the Red Moon.
• Alais Koulibaly, the director of the Secret Investigation Bureau, leaves to confront the Abyssal Cult and the Bone-Eroding Mother Insect.
• The battle at the Laos District results in heavy casualties, with Alais presumed dead.
• Wei En and his team clear Parasites in the Natoli District, encountering a manor with no one inside.
• Wei En is pulled into a game of hide-and-seek by the Clown Doll, facing a minister-class Abyssal Creature, Thorn Demon.

Character Developments

• Archbishop Andrews shows calm and determination in the face of battle.
• Alais Koulibaly demonstrates his bravery and selflessness by leaving to confront the Abyssal Cult.
• Wei En shows his strategic thinking and adaptability in handling the Thorn Demon battle.

Significant Themes

• Sacrifice and selflessness (Alais Koulibaly's decision to confront the Abyssal Cult)
• Power and responsibility (Wei En's struggle against the Thorn Demon)
• Manipulation and hidden agendas (Clown's true intentions behind the hide-and-seek game)

Character Interactions

• Archbishop Andrews and Alais Koulibaly show mutual respect and understanding, with Andrews acknowledging Alais's strength and importance.
• Wei En and Tina (Clown) have a tense interaction, with Tina showing signs of the Clown's influence.
• Wei En and Thorn Demon have a fierce battle, with Wei En using his strategic thinking and adaptability to overcome the Abyssal Creature's power.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En receives a Golden Key from the Demon Clown, allowing him to enter and leave the theater at will.
• The core array of Kaster City-State is found to be damaged, and repairs will take at least four days.
• The Secret Investigation Bureau clears out Parasites in Kaster City-State, but Chief Alais dies in the process.
• Wei En finds a letter written in the Gonzalez Language, revealing a connection between the Ernst Family and the events seventeen years ago.

Character Developments

• Wei En becomes more accustomed to using both guns and spells in battle.
• Chief Alais is revealed to have a connection to the Eternal Life Society and the Ernst Family.
• Tina is shown to be resilient, falling asleep despite the chaos around her.

Significant Themes

• The theme of trust and betrayal is further explored through the letter's revelation about the Ernst Family.
• The theme of power and control is seen in the Demon Clown's gift of the Golden Key to Wei En.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and Tina share a moment of calm amidst the chaos.
• Santiago and the others express their grief and shock over Chief Alais's death.
• Wei En and the Demon Clown have a brief, tense exchange before Wei En leaves the theater.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En receives letters from Claire and Black Jack, revealing connections between various factions and events in Kaster City-State.
• Marco learns about Chief Alais's sacrifice and becomes distraught.
• The Council attempts to appoint a new Chief of the Secret Investigation Bureau, leading to a tense confrontation with the Bureau's higher-ups.

Character Developments

• Wei En becomes more involved in the city-state's political intrigues and begins to piece together the connections between different factions.
• Marco's deep affection for Chief Alais is revealed, indicating a stronger bond between them than previously thought.
• Lydia shares her views on the nobles' misunderstandings with the Secret Investigation Bureau.
• Sir Stanik, the Council's chosen candidate for the new Chief, is introduced, showing ambition and a desire to prove himself.

Significant Themes

• Power struggles and political intrigue within the city-state's governing bodies.
• The complex relationships and misunderstandings between the nobles and the Secret Investigation Bureau.
• The consequences of Chief Alais's death and the struggle for succession within the Bureau.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and Lydia discuss the nobles' views on the Secret Investigation Bureau, with Lydia revealing some of her family's opinions.
• Marco's emotional state deteriorates after learning about Chief Alais's sacrifice, leading to a tense interaction with Lydia and Wei En.
• The Secret Investigation Bureau's higher-ups clash with the Council over the appointment of the new Chief, with Abbott directly confronting Sir Donato and Harrington.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chief Alais is confirmed dead, and Director Nifa takes over as the new director of the Secret Investigation Bureau.
• Wei En demonstrates the power of the Sniper Rifle to Lacy and the others, impressing them with its destructive force.
• The group attends Chief Alais's farewell ceremony in the Detention Zone's Hall of Heroes.
• Wei En learns that there is a Forbidden Object present in the Detention Zone.

Character Developments

• Lacy is still mourning Chief Alais's death and is unhappy with the new appointment of Director Nifa and the Council's interference.
• Marco is still grieving over Chief Alais's death and is determined to improve his strength.
• Lydia is considering becoming a Cleric through the faith system to gain extraordinary abilities.
• Kali is trying to guide Lydia towards the path of faith in Dawn.
• Director Nifa is introduced as the new director, with a provocative figure and a calm demeanor.

Significant Themes

• The power and danger of Forbidden Objects are further emphasized, with the presence of one in the Detention Zone.
• The impact of Chief Alais's death on the Secret Investigation Bureau is explored, highlighting the emotional toll on its members.
• The theme of contamination and the precautions taken when handling transcendent corpses is reinforced.

Character Interactions

• Lacy and Wei En have a tense moment when she gets too close to him, reminiscent of their encounter in the illusion.
• Marco and Lydia express interest in buying the Sniper Rifle from Wei En, but he explains that it requires Puppet Manipulation to use.
• Kali tries to guide Lydia towards the path of faith in Dawn, while Lydia considers the benefits of becoming a Cleric.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En learns about the "Figurehead of the Homecoming," a Forbidden Object, and suspects it's the target of the Black Pearl.
• The Secret Investigation Bureau holds a memorial for Chief Alais in the Hall of Heroes.
• Lacy announces that the Abyssal Cult's Parasite plan has been resolved, but a greater man-made crisis is expected.
• Wei En and Kali discuss the Church of Dawn while walking home, and Wei En provokes Melbel Osiris's killing intent.

Character Developments

• Wei En continues to grow and gain confidence in his abilities, even provoking a Minister-level transcendent.
• Kali becomes more determined to lead the Crimson Cathedral in making changes to better protect Kaster City-State.
• Marco recovers from his emotional state after Chief Alais's death.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for power and influence among different factions in Kaster City-State.
• The consequences of treating life as expendable, as seen through the Parasites and the reactions of the citizens.
• The potential for change and growth, as exemplified by Kali's determination and Wei En's provocation of Melbel Osiris.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and Kali discuss their views on the Church of Dawn and the role of the Secret Investigation Bureau.
• Wei En and Zombie Miss share a brief, warm moment upon his return home.
• Kali and Yuan express concern for each other's safety.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En enjoys dinner with Shawa and Zero while watching Driver teach Zero.
• Wei En repairs Zero's damaged parts, and Zero attempts to learn Runic Studies from Jerry's Notes.
• Wei En reports recent events to the Specters and receives an intelligence fee of 40 gold pounds.
• Wei En upgrades several of his spell skills and gains a significant increase in strength.
• Wei En decides to make Anti-Aberration Potions and successfully upgrades his proficiency to max level.
• Wei En hears a crash downstairs and finds Claire injured.

Character Developments

• Zero shows interest in learning Runic Studies but struggles with engraving runes.
• Wei En upgrades his spell skills, increasing his overall strength.
• Claire is injured, indicating potential danger or conflict.

Significant Themes

• Wei En's continuous improvement and learning, both in spellcraft and Mechanical Puppet creation.
• The value of intelligence and information in the world of supernaturals.
• The importance of strength and preparation in facing potential threats.

Character Interactions

• Wei En interacts with Zero, teaching him about Mechanical Puppet creation and Runic Studies.
• Wei En reports to the Specters, highlighting the importance of intelligence gathering and sharing.
• Wei En hears Claire's distress call, showing his concern for her well-being and readiness to assist.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Claire is severely injured by an unknown assailant, with a strange power blocking her healing.
• Wei En uses a super potion to dissolve the strange power and saves Claire.
• Claire reveals that the Black Pearl, led by Black Jack, is after a Forbidden Object in Crimson Cathedral.
• Wei En learns that the target is the Left Eye of Rofu, and the Black Pearl's mission involves finding someone in Kaster City-State.

Character Developments

• Claire shows vulnerability and gratitude after Wei En saves her, but quickly returns to her usual assertive self.
• Wei En demonstrates his resourcefulness and quick thinking in saving Claire, as well as his willingness to help despite potential danger.
• Black Jack and the Black Pearl are introduced as formidable adversaries with a specific goal in Kaster City-State.

Significant Themes

• The power of Forbidden Objects and the lengths people will go to obtain them.
• The potential danger and sacrifice that the Church of Dawn is willing to make to protect their interests.
• The complex relationships and alliances between different factions, such as the Black Pearl and the Vasquez Clan.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and Claire's relationship evolves as they work together, with Claire showing trust in Wei En's abilities and Wei En demonstrating his willingness to help her.
• Black Jack and Hector's interaction hints at a history between them and a shared goal, but also potential conflict.
• The dynamic between Padilla and Hector showcases their partnership and shared objectives, as well as their mutual mistrust and suspicion.

Summary of Chapter

Key Plot Points and Events

• Red Rose (Shadow of Ghost, Red Rose) visits Dark Dragon (Shadow of Ghost, Dark Dragon) at night, revealing that Abyssal Cult members have arrived in Kaster and a deep-sea monster has appeared.
• Wei En makes Anti-Aberration Potions, Enlightenment Potions, and Healing Potions, and trades them with Franta for Gold Pounds.
• Tina (Clown Doll, Leonard) visits Wei En, revealing that he can move freely without borrowing Tina's body and inviting Wei En to an interesting place in Kaster.

Character Developments

• Red Rose and Dark Dragon are shown to be working together, sharing information about the Abyssal Cult's activities in Kaster.
• Wei En continues to improve his potion-making skills and earns more Gold Pounds, bringing his total to 370 Gold Pounds.
• Tina (Clown Doll) reveals that he is searching for Lilith and offers to help Wei En, suggesting a more cooperative relationship between them.

Significant Themes

• The theme of power and its rapid acquisition is further explored through Wei En's continued growth and the Clown Doll's acknowledgment of his progress.
• The theme of trust and cooperation is highlighted as Red Rose and Dark Dragon work together and Tina (Clown Doll) offers to help Wei En.

Character Interactions

• Red Rose and Dark Dragon share information and work together to uncover the Abyssal Cult's activities in Kaster.
• Wei En and Franta continue their trade relationship, with Franta acting as a middleman for other wizards interested in purchasing Anti-Aberration Potions.
• Wei En and Tina (Clown Doll) have a more open and cooperative conversation, with Tina revealing more about himself and inviting Wei En to an interesting place in Kaster.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En witnesses a Sacrificial Ritual of the Abyssal Cult, where believers cut out their hearts and offer them to an Abyssal Demon.
• The Abyssal Demon grants permission to sacrifice a city-state, and dozens of Abyssal Hounds are sent to prepare for its descent.
• Wei En returns to the real world and finds a letter from Claire, stating that she has left for two days.

Character Developments

• Wei En struggles to maintain his composure after witnessing the horrors of the Abyssal Cult's ritual.
• Claire leaves the residence without explanation, causing Wei En to worry about her safety.

Significant Themes

• The cruelty and fanaticism of the Abyssal Cult.
• The power dynamics and manipulation within religious organizations.
• The consequences of losing control over one's abilities, as demonstrated by the Clown Doll.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and the Clown Doll discuss the latter's loss of control and the method to undo it.
• Wei En and Claire's relationship remains strained, with Claire leaving without informing him.
• Wei En and Shawa continue their training routine, with Shawa teaching Zero basic fighting moves.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En discovers that the City-State Array is going to be shut down, and major changes are about to happen in Kaster City-State.
• The Secret Investigation Bureau issues a notice stating they will not participate in the struggle among the city-state's upper ranks and will enter standby status to respond to emergencies.
• The nobles gather at the Council, and tensions rise between Lacy and Marco regarding the situation.
• Old Jack (Black Jack) returns to the Secret Investigation Bureau, revealing that the situation is critical and that the seals will likely be unsealed.

Character Developments

• Wei En becomes increasingly suspicious of Yuan and the Vasquez Clan's involvement with the Black Pearl.
• Lacy and Marco argue about the Secret Investigation Bureau's role in the crisis, with Lacy maintaining that they should not interfere, and Marco wanting to stop the nobles.
• Old Jack (Black Jack) is revealed to be a retired member of the Secret Investigation Bureau, summoned to help deal with the crisis.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for power among the city-state's upper ranks and the potential consequences for Kaster City-State.
• The role of the Secret Investigation Bureau in maintaining order and responding to crises.
• The tension between Lacy and Marco, reflecting the differing views on how to handle the situation.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and Kali discuss the City-State Array and the potential crisis with Lacy.
• Lacy and Marco argue about the Secret Investigation Bureau's role in the crisis.
• Old Jack (Black Jack) arrives and reveals that the situation is critical, causing Lacy to become more concerned.
• Wei En realizes that Old Jack is the same person as Black Jack, the sender of the letter he found on Collins.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Secret Investigation Bureau reveals that the Ernst Family is behind the recent chaos, aiming to replace Archon Samir.
• The Ceres Family and the Black Pearl are framed as scapegoats.
• The Church of Dawn's warning bells toll for a Level Four Calamity.
• Kali leaves with Guardian Knight Melbel to help at the cathedral.
• Director Nifa summons everyone to the Detention Zone.

Character Developments

• Marco realizes the truth about his family and the nobles' schemes.
• Kali accepts her duty as a Saintess Candidate and leaves the Bureau.
• Old Jack (Black Jack) is revealed to be watching Wei En and Tina closely.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and manipulation: The Ernst Family's schemes highlight the lengths people will go to achieve their goals.
• Betrayal and trust: Marco feels betrayed by his family and Lydia, while Kali trusts the Church of Dawn.
• The consequences of secrets: The truth about the Ernst Family's involvement has severe repercussions.

Character Interactions

• Lacy, Marco, and Kali work together to uncover the truth.
• Wei En and Old Jack (Black Jack) have a tense interaction, with Black Jack locking onto Wei En's killing intent.
• Kali says her goodbyes to the others before leaving with Melbel.
• Olivia and Shawa have a brief confrontation at Wei En's residence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The city-state of Kaster is under threat, with urgent alarm bells ringing.
• Polson and another Shadow Killer prepare to attack from the northeast.
• A fleet of pirate ships sails towards Kaster City-State.
• To the south, a group led by an old bishop awaits.
• Kali decides to stay at Crimson Cathedral with Melbel.
• The Secret Investigation Bureau prepares for defense, with Director Nifa revealing that a Shadow Killer is attacking.

Character Developments

• Kali shows determination and resolve to stay at the cathedral.
• Wei En remains vigilant against Black Jack, unaware of the Shadow Killer threat.
• Director Nifa demonstrates leadership and concern for her subordinates.

Significant Themes

• Crisis and Unity: The city-state and the Secret Investigation Bureau face an unprecedented crisis, fostering unity and resolve among the characters.
• Power and Responsibility: Characters like Kali and Wei En grapple with their roles and responsibilities in the face of danger.
• Trust and Betrayal: The actions of the Shadow Killers and Black Jack highlight themes of betrayal and mistrust.

Character Interactions

• Kali and Bishop Andrews share a poignant moment before he receives his "call."
• Wei En and Tina rely on each other for support and protection.
• Lacy and Old Jack work together to defend against the Shadow Killer attacks.
• Director Nifa communicates the gravity of the situation to her subordinates, fostering unity and determination.

Key Plot Points and Events

1. The Secret Investigation Bureau is attacked by Shadow Killers under the control of Aiko Golden, a transformed extraordinary being.
2. Director Nifa activates a Forbidden Object, "Figurehead of the Homecoming," to defeat Aiko Golden, but it is unstable and will go out of control in 20 seconds.
3. Wei En and Tina are targeted by Black Jack, who seems wary of Tina. They plan to escape using the Golden Key.
4. In the Council Hall, Old Count Ernst declares victory over Archon Samir, who surrenders. Shadow Killers execute those who oppose the nobles.
5. The Red Moon descends, signaling the start of the nobles' plan.

Character Developments

1. Wei En: Shows his ability to create Phantom Clones and uses the Revolver to kill Shadow Killers. He also discovers that the killed Shadow Killers can respawn.
2. Tina: Shows fearlessness and defiance toward Black Jack, who seems concerned about her.
3. Director Nifa: Activates a powerful but unstable Forbidden Object to defeat Aiko Golden.
4. Archon Samir: Surrenders to Old Count Ernst after the death of his son, Sir Stanik, and the execution of those who oppose the nobles.
5. Old Count Ernst: Declares victory over Archon Samir and prepares for the final step of his plan.

Significant Themes

1. Power and Control: The nobles' use of Shadow Killers and extraordinary beings to maintain control and suppress opposition.
2. Fate and Free Will: The instability of the Forbidden Object and the inevitability of the Red Moon's descent, contrasting with the characters' attempts to defy fate.
3. Loyalty and Betrayal: The loyalty of the City Guards and the betrayal of the Secret Investigation Bureau, as well as the nobles' manipulation of those around them.

Character Interactions

1. Wei En and Tina: Wei En protects Tina and tries to escape with her using the Golden Key. Tina shows fearlessness and defiance toward Black Jack.
2. Director Nifa and Aiko Golden: Nifa remains calm and composed throughout the battle, while Aiko Golden grows increasingly frustrated and desperate.
3. Archon Samir and Old Count Ernst: Samir surrenders to Ernst, who declares victory and prepares for the final step of his plan.
4. Black Jack and Wei En/Tina: Black Jack targets Wei En but seems concerned about Tina, leading to a tense standoff.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Polson, an Envoy of the Abyssal Cult, prepares for a Sacrificial Ritual outside Kaster City-State under the cover of night and the Red Moon.
• Pirates led by Captain Walid invade Kaster City-State, causing chaos, plunder, and mutation among its inhabitants.
• The central district remains relatively calm, with the council, Secret Investigation Bureau, and Crimson Cathedral taking no action.
• Black Jack arrives at the Secret Investigation Bureau, revealing his true intentions to Wei En and warning him not to interfere.
• A high-level Calamity, likely the Great Lord of the Deep Abyss, begins to manifest in response to the Abyssal Cult's Sacrificial Ritual.

Character Developments

• Polson transforms into a demon, revealing his deep commitment to the Abyssal Cult.
• Captain Walid's reckless actions cause Black Jack concern.
• Black Jack shows his true colors to Wei En, warning him of potential danger.
• Tina remains quiet and uninvolved in the growing conflict.

Significant Themes

• The corrupting influence of the Red Moon and the Abyssal Cult's Sacrificial Ritual.
• The chaos and disorder caused by the pirates' invasion.
• The contrast between the calm central district and the chaos elsewhere in the city-state.
• The growing tension and impending conflict between Black Jack and Wei En.

Character Interactions

• Polson and the green-robed figure discuss the Sacrificial Ritual and the summoning of their commander.
• Black Jack warns Wei En not to stand in his way.
• Lacy and Marco argue about the state of the city-state and the inaction of the Secret Investigation Bureau.
• Director Nifa alerts the others to the approaching high-level Calamity.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Bishop Naike of the Storm Church is preparing to take back Kaster City-State, aiming to convert its inhabitants to the Church's faith.
• Old Count Ernst's plan to seize control of Kaster City-State is disrupted by the unexpected appearance of the Abyssal Cult, who are conducting a Sacrificial Ritual.
• The Secret Investigation Bureau is under siege by the Vasquez People, who seek to reclaim a Forbidden Object believed to belong to their family.
• The battle between the Secret Investigation Bureau and the Vasquez People begins, with both sides employing various supernatural powers and weapons.

Character Developments

• Bishop Naike demonstrates his determination and ambition in reclaiming Kaster City-State for the Storm Church.
• Old Count Ernst's plans are thrown into disarray by the Abyssal Cult's reemergence, leading him to seek help from the Church of Dawn.
• Nicole Vasquez, the heir of the Vasquez Family, leads her people in an attempt to reclaim their family's heritage, showing resolve and determination.
• Wei En's mental power increases as he uses his Sniper Rifle to kill Vasquez People with Corrosive Blood, bringing him closer to advancing to an official Wizard.

Significant Themes

• Faith and Belief: Bishop Naike's actions highlight the Storm Church's desire to spread its faith, while Nicole Vasquez's determination to reclaim her family's heritage showcases her loyalty to her lineage.
• Power and Control: Old Count Ernst's struggle to maintain control over the situation in Kaster City-State underscores the theme of power dynamics and the consequences of losing control.
• Consequences of Actions: The Abyssal Cult's reemergence and the battle between the Secret Investigation Bureau and the Vasquez People serve as reminders of the consequences of past actions and the unintended consequences that can arise from them.

Character Interactions

• Bishop Naike interacts with a Storm Church Cleric, discussing the conversion of the city's inhabitants to the Church's faith.
• Old Count Ernst interacts with his son, Laner, and his Shadow Killers, Masin and Mitra, as they discuss their response to the Abyssal Cult's reemergence.
• Nicole Vasquez interacts with Nifa, the Director of the Secret Investigation Bureau, as they discuss the Vasquez Family's claim to the Forbidden Object.
• Wei En interacts with Tina and Black Jack, as they work together to defend the Secret Investigation Bureau against the Vasquez People's attack.

The chapter begins with the Demon Clown, Arno Lilith Leonard, losing control and freezing everyone within a five-kilometer radius, including Wei En, Marco, and Tina. The clown begins a performance, killing a Vasquez warrior and demanding applause from the audience. Director Nifa, the only one still able to move, tries to give instructions to the frozen crowd. Meanwhile, Black Jack, disguised as Old Jack, attempts to take Tina away but is eventually overpowered by her. Wain, an Investigator, is chosen by the clown for a performance, but Nifa intervenes to save him. Tina's calamity distortion begins, and Wei En receives notifications about her increasing strength and the danger it poses to him. The chapter ends with Wei En realizing he needs to find a way to increase his strength to withstand Tina's distortion.

Key Plot Points and Events

1. The Demon Clown loses control and freezes everyone within a five-kilometer radius.
2. The clown begins a performance, killing a Vasquez warrior and demanding applause from the audience.
3. Director Nifa tries to give instructions to the frozen crowd.
4. Black Jack attempts to take Tina away but is overpowered by her calamity distortion.
5. Wain is chosen by the clown for a performance, but Nifa intervenes to save him.
6. Tina's calamity distortion begins, and Wei En receives notifications about the danger it poses to him.
7. Wei En realizes he needs to find a way to increase his strength to withstand Tina's distortion.

Character Developments

1. Wei En: Realizes the danger posed by Tina's calamity distortion and needs to find a way to increase his strength.
2. Tina: Undergoes calamity distortion, overpowers Black Jack, and poses a threat to Wei En.
3. Director Nifa: Tries to give instructions to the frozen crowd and saves Wain from the clown's performance.
4. Black Jack: Attempts to take Tina away but is overpowered by her calamity distortion.
5. Wain: Is chosen by the clown for a performance but is saved by Nifa.

Significant Themes

1. The power and danger of Forbidden Objects losing control.
2. The struggle against the Demon Clown and the need to find a way to increase strength to withstand Tina's distortion.
3. The importance of unity and cooperation in the face of adversity, as seen in Director Nifa's attempts to give instructions to the frozen crowd.

Character Interactions

1. Wei En and Tina: Wei En is concerned about Tina's calamity distortion and the danger it poses to him.
2. Director Nifa and the frozen crowd: Nifa tries to give instructions to the frozen crowd but has limited success.
3. Black Jack and Tina: Black Jack attempts to take Tina away but is overpowered by her calamity distortion.
4. Wain and the Demon Clown: Wain is chosen by the clown for a performance but is saved by Nifa.
5. Director Nifa and the Demon Clown: Nifa intervenes to save Wain from the clown's performance.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tina, a Level 2 Calamity Species, walks through Kaster City-State, causing destruction and chaos.
• Wain, under the influence of Tina's mutation, struggles with the urge to kill to increase his strength.
• Wei En breaks free from the Demon Clown's control and uses his newfound power to protect the Investigators from the Vasquez People's attack.
• Wain kills hundreds of Vasquez People using Corpse Explosion, causing panic and fear among the survivors.

Character Developments

• Tina's power grows to Level 2 Calamity Species, causing destruction and fear wherever she goes.
• Wain struggles with his desire to kill to increase his strength and survive.
• Wei En breaks free from the Demon Clown's control and uses his power to protect the Investigators.
• Director Nifa is desperate to protect the Investigators but feels helpless against the Vasquez People's attacks.
• Nicole Vasquez is terrified as she watches her people being killed by Wain's spells.

Significant Themes

• The struggle for survival and the consequences of using power to achieve it.
• The fear and destruction caused by Calamity Species.
• The desperation and helplessness of those caught in the middle of conflicts.

Character Interactions

• Wain and Tina's Partner Contract causes Wain's body to mutate along with Tina's.
• Wei En protects the Investigators from the Vasquez People's attack, causing Director Nifa to weep with joy.
• Wain kills the Vasquez People, causing panic and fear among the survivors.
• Director Nifa and Nicole Vasquez both try to protect their people but feel helpless against the other's attacks.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei En, after saving the Investigators, uses his newfound power to wipe out the Vasquez People, causing the death of thousands.
• Black Jack and Walid escape with Nicole, while the surviving Vasquez People are left behind.
• Wei En, struggling with his newfound power and the evil thoughts it brings, decides to advance to a formal Wizard to gain control.
• Director Nifa splits the remaining Investigators into three teams to deal with the crises in different districts of Kaster City-State.

Character Developments

• Wei En's power grows significantly, but he struggles with the evil thoughts it brings, ultimately deciding to advance to a formal Wizard.
• Nicole, the leader of the Vasquez People, is saved by Black Jack and Walid but is devastated by the loss of her people.
• Director Nifa takes charge, dividing the Investigators to handle the crises in the city-state, while she stays behind to confirm something related to the Demon Clown and Tina's battle.
• Marco and Lacy decide to stick together, supporting each other through the chaos and loss.

Significant Themes

• The consequences of power and the struggle to control it.
• The loss and devastation caused by the battle between the Demon Clown and Tina.
• The responsibility of leaders and their decisions in times of crisis.

Character Interactions

• Wei En and Lacy have a tense moment as he struggles with his power and she tries to support him.
• Black Jack and Walid save Nicole but must leave the surviving Vasquez People behind.
• Director Nifa divides the Investigators, showing her leadership and understanding of the situation.
• Marco and Lacy support each other, showing their bond and commitment to staying together.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Old Count Ernst and Laner discover that the Abyssal Cult's Sacrificial Ritual and the Forbidden Object Clown going out of control are connected.
• Old Count Ernst decides to leave Kaster after realizing they were used by an unknown force.
• Alais Koulibaly, presumed dead, reappears and reveals his true intentions to Bishop Andrews.
• Alais confesses that he manipulated events to expose Forbidden Object 0-34, Resurrection Coffin, hidden within Crimson Cathedral.

Character Developments

• Old Count Ernst shows his cunning and self-preservation, willing to abandon everything to save himself.
• Laner is manipulated by Mitra and the Desire Cult, leading to his death.
• Bishop Andrews reveals his true nature and the extent of his manipulations.
• Alais Koulibaly is revealed to be alive and driven by a desire for Eternal Life, orchestrating events to find the Resurrection Coffin.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and betrayal: Characters use and manipulate each other for their own gain.
• Power and ambition: Characters seek power and influence, often at the expense of others.
• The consequences of one's actions: Characters face the repercussions of their past decisions.

Character Interactions

• Old Count Ernst and Laner: Their relationship is strained as they prioritize their own survival over each other's.
• Bishop Andrews and Alais Koulibaly: Their past friendship is tainted by betrayal and differing ideologies.
• Mitra and Old Count Ernst: Mitra manipulates and ultimately kills Old Count Ernst on behalf of the unknown force behind the events.

Summary of Chapter 17: "Authority Is Also"

Key Plot Points and Events

• Andrews confronts Alais, who reveals his plans to use the Resurrection Coffin to gain eternal life and his alliances with various cults.
• Andrews attempts to awaken the Lord of Dawn but is killed by Alais.
• Tina, under the influence of the mature woman phantom, unleashes a powerful attack on the Church of Dawn clerics.
• Kali realizes the true nature of authority and draws her black longsword.

Character Developments

• Andrews sacrifices himself to try and stop Alais, demonstrating his commitment to his faith and the Church of Dawn.
• Alais shows no remorse for his actions, revealing his cold and calculating nature.
• Tina's actions suggest that she is being controlled by the mature woman phantom.
• Kali gains a new understanding of authority and draws her black longsword, indicating a shift in her perspective.

Significant Themes

• The struggle between good and evil, represented by Andrews and Alais.
• The corrupting influence of power, as seen through Alais's desire for eternal life.
• The theme of control and manipulation, evident in Tina's actions and Kali's new understanding of authority.

Character Interactions

• Andrews and Alais's confrontation highlights the stark contrast between their beliefs and goals.
• Tina's interaction with the mature woman phantom reveals her vulnerability and lack of control.
• Kali's conversation with Melbel showcases her growing understanding of authority and her determination to face the malicious forces.