Lord of the Mysteries Chapter Summary 16-30

Chapter 16 – Rat-baiting With Dogs

Klein returns to his apartment, where he finds Melissa waiting for him, curious about his whereabouts. He lies about going for a run, and Melissa, sensing his stress, offers words of encouragement and shows him her handmade “tortoise” puppet, which brings her comfort when she’s irritated. As they converse, Melissa’s enigmatic reply about the puppet sparks an awkward moment, and she hastily retreats to her room, leaving Klein to ponder Dunn’s invitation.

Klein weighs the pros and cons of joining the Nighthawks, considering the risks of being under the Church’s scrutiny, the loss of freedom, and the potential benefits of gaining experience and resources. He reflects on his limitations as a transmigrator, the importance of finding materials for the luck enhancement ritual, and the need for a buffer and exit strategy.

As the morning sun rises, Klein makes up his mind to join the Nighthawks, and after a good nap, he prepares to meet with Dunn, donning his formal attire and tidying up his appearance. With his decision, Klein takes a step forward in his journey, leaving readers curious about what lies ahead in his path as a Nighthawk civilian staff member.

Chapter 17 – Special Operations Department

Klein arrives at the Blackthorn Security Company, a front for the Nighthawks, and is greeted by a brown-haired girl named Rozanne. He’s surprised by the unprofessional atmosphere, but Rozanne’s friendly demeanor puts him at ease. As they make their way through the office, Klein notices a familiar face – the young officer who investigated his apartment, now typing away on a mechanical typewriter.

Rozanne leads Klein down a grayish-white stone staircase, lit by gas lamps, to meet with Dunn Smith, the Captain. Along the way, she shares stories about her time with the Nighthawks, including a hilarious anecdote about a fellow member, Leonard, who failed to master his powers on his first day as a “Sleepless”. Klein is intrigued by the mysterious atmosphere and the symbol of the Evernight Goddess, the Dark Sacred Emblem, adorning the walls.

As they reach the end of the stairs, Klein is left wondering what lies ahead in his journey as a Nighthawk civilian staff member, and what secrets the organization holds.

Chapter 18 – Origin and Cause

Dunn Smith, the Captain of the Nighthawks, gazes out the window, lost in thought, as he begins to share the creation myth of the world with Klein. He explains how the Creator awakened from Chaos, shattered the darkness, and created the first ray of light, going on to form the universe and all its wonders. Klein recites the myth, intrigued by the similarities to his own world’s creation stories, but also finds it fascinatingly detailed, with each prominent race corresponding to a particular body part of the Creator.

As Klein finishes the myth, he can’t help but wonder why the Eternal Blazing Sun, Lord of Storms, and God of Knowledge and Wisdom were born directly from the Creator’s spirit, while the Evernight Goddess was not. Dunn cleverly diverts the question by asking Klein to recite the Goddess’s full title, which Klein manages to recall with ease, thanks to his mother’s devotions.

With a guiding tone, Dunn proceeds to ask Klein about the symbolism behind the Lady of Crimson, which Klein correctly answers as the red moon, leading to a revelation about the Evernight Goddess’s origins and significance, placing her on par with the other gods. This exchange leaves Klein with a deeper understanding of the world’s mythology and his place within it.

Chapter 19 – Sealed Artifacts

Klein’s understanding of Beyonders is shattered as Dunn shares the harsh realities of their existence, revealing that they’re not as powerful as imagined and are constantly fighting against dangers and madness. Dunn warns Klein that becoming a Beyonder comes with a price, emphasizing the importance of rational consideration before making a decision. Despite the risks, Klein remains intrigued, weighing the pros and cons of acquiring power to defend himself against the unknown threats.

As their conversation unfolds, Dunn explains the concept of Sequence and the nuances of being a low-Sequence Beyonder, highlighting their limitations against firearms. He also introduces Klein to the civilian jobs within the Nighthawk team, including accountants, supply managers, and carriage drivers, before revealing Klein’s own task: to retrace his steps from Welch’s place to his own home, searching for residual memories that might lead them to the Antigonus family diary.

With this new information, Klein sets aside his initial fears, focusing on the mystery of the diary and his potential role in uncovering its whereabouts. As he prepares to embark on this new assignment, Klein is left wondering what hidden dangers and surprises lie ahead, further entangling him in the world of Beyonders and mysticism.

Chapter 20 – The Forgetful Dunn

Klein’s mind wanders as he prepares to leave Dunn’s office, his thoughts consumed by the enigmatic Sealed Artifact 0-08 and its mysterious uses. However, Dunn suddenly interrupts, reminding Klein to collect an advance payment of twelve pounds from Mrs. Orianna, the accountant, and advising him to purchase a new suit, cane, and other necessities. Klein is taken aback by the captain’s thoughtfulness, but also embarrassed by his own cheap attire.

As they discuss the details, Klein realizes he’ll need to visit Old Neil’s place and the underground shooting range to acquire demon hunting bullets and receive a badge. Dunn scribbles a note, but then awkwardly corrects himself, revealing his forgetful nature. Rozanne, the brown-haired girl, is tasked with escorting Klein to Mrs. Orianna’s office, and along the way, she disparagingly comments on Dunn’s forgetfulness.

With his tasks clear, Klein sets out to tackle his new assignments, driven by his desire to uncover the secrets of the Antigonus family diary and protect himself against the unknown dangers that lurk in the shadows.

Chapter 21 – An Old Friend In A Different World

Klein’s eyes widen as he reads through the pages of Emperor Roselle’s diary, written in Simplified Chinese, a language that doesn’t exist in this world. The entries reveal glimpses of the emperor’s personality, his discovery of a mysterious figure trapped in darkness, and his musings on potions and their digestion. Klein is thrilled to learn a crucial secret about potions, which he believes will be a beacon for his future path as a Beyonder.

As Klein finishes reading, Old Neil asks him what’s wrong, and Klein quickly covers, pretending to decipher the text. Old Neil laughs, sharing that he too once thought he was special. When Klein asks about the scarcity of the diary pages, Old Neil explains that extraordinary species are becoming extinct, leading to fewer potions and Beyonders. This sparks an amusing exchange between them, with Klein joking about establishing a Dragons and Giants Protection Association, which Old Neil modifies to Fantastic Organisms Protection Association.

As their conversation continues, Old Neil agrees to help Klein acquire demon hunting bullets and reminds him to get an armpit holster to complete his gentlemanly attire. Klein leaves the underground shooting range, his mind buzzing with questions about Emperor Roselle’s diary and the secrets it holds, eager to uncover more about the mysterious figure and the Forsaken Land of the Gods.

Chapter 22 – Starting Sequence

Klein learns he can start his Nighthawk training on Monday, but decides to visit Tingen University to formally decline the interview opportunity. He plans to “wander around” and take a public carriage to the university, feeling grateful for the humane treatment by the Nighthawks’ management. As he prepares to leave, Klein asks Rozanne about the starting point of the Church’s complete Sequence, revealing his desire to become a Beyonder.

Rozanne is taken aback, warning Klein about the dangers of being a Beyonder, sharing her own experiences and fears. She explains that even with extraordinary powers, Beyonders face terrifying risks and often lose control or sacrifice themselves. Despite her agitation, Rozanne reveals that the starting Sequence of the Church is Sleepless: Sequence 9, which allows individuals to see through darkness and gain strength at night.

Rozanne continues to share information about the Sequence, mentioning Sequence 8’s Midnight Poet and Sequence 7’s Nightmare. Klein’s eyes widen as he recalls Dunn Smith guiding his dreams, making a connection to the Nightmare Sequence.

Chapter 23 – Side Arm

Klein strolls down Zouteland, enjoying the warm breeze, only to realize he’s short on change for a public carriage ride to Tingen University. With twelve pounds in his pocket, he rejects the idea of walking due to safety concerns and high processing fees for getting change. Instead, he enters a nearby clothing shop, Wilker Clothing and Hats, to buy something affordable and get the desired change.

As he browses the store, Klein is drawn to canes, remembering Rozanne’s warning about the dangers of being a Beyonder. He deliberately chooses a heavier and harder cane, initially opting for an expensive Ironheart wood cane with a gold inlay. However, after trying out several options, he settles for a more affordable ebony wood cane with a silver inlay, priced at seven soli six pence.

As Klein pays for the cane, he attempts to negotiate a discount, but the salesperson politely declines. After receiving his change, Klein tests the cane, satisfied with its weight and hardness. However, he’s startled to see the salesperson and cashier suddenly retreat, with the latter reaching for a double-barreled shotgun, leaving Klein bewildered and on high alert.

Chapter 24 – Penny-pincher

Klein attempts to convince Melissa to agree to move to a new apartment, citing the need for a better living environment and privacy for their future plans. However, Melissa remains practical and cautious, urging Klein to consider the financial implications and potential emergencies. As they banter back and forth, Klein’s mimicry of Benson’s tone and his sarcastic remarks about Mr. Franky bring a smile to Melissa’s face.

Their conversation turns to Selena, Melissa’s classmate, whose brother Chris is a lawyer earning a similar salary to Klein. Melissa uses Chris’s example to emphasize the importance of saving money and preparing for the future. Klein, however, reassures her that his job security is stable and he’ll have increments every year.

As they settle on a compromise, Klein offers to treat Melissa to a celebratory meal at Silver Crown Restaurant, but Melissa prefers to cook a simple meal at home using leftover ingredients and buys from hawkers on Iron Cross Street. Klein playfully teases her and adds a surprise touch, giving her some copper pennies to treat herself to a lemon cake from Mrs. Smyrin’s.

Chapter 25 – Cathedral

Klein visits Azik and Quentin Cohen at the Khoy University History Department Office, seeking information about Welch and Naya’s case. Azik shares the newspaper with Klein, who’s disappointed by the lack of progress in the investigation. Cohen suggests Klein should move to a better environment, echoing Melissa’s concerns. As Klein exits the office, he reads the newspaper, learning that the police have captured the main culprit, but he senses an unseen observer watching him.

Klein’s instincts scream for attention, and he recalls a similar experience from his past on Earth. He tries to appear nonchalant, surveying his surroundings without giving away his unease. Convinced that someone is indeed watching him, he takes a public carriage to Champagne Street, afraid to lead the observer to his apartment or alert the Nighthawks. As the carriage doors close, the feeling of being watched disappears, leaving Klein to ponder his next move.

With his heart still racing, Klein racks his brain for a solution, unsure of the observer’s intentions. He’s trapped in a web of uncertainty, and every step he takes might lead him further into danger.

Chapter 26 – Practice

Klein follows the priest through a secret passageway beneath the cathedral, eventually leading him to a stairwell that takes him to Chanis Gate. Instead of heading towards the gate, Klein deviates from the path and makes his way back to Blackthorn Security Company, searching for Captain Dunn Smith. He encounters Rozanne, the receptionist, and after exchanging some banter, Klein learns that Captain Smith is in his office.

Klein meets with Captain Smith, revealing that he’s being followed, and the captain suggests that it might be due to Welch’s father hiring a private investigator from Wind City or someone seeking the Antigonus family’s notebook. Without directly addressing the issue, Captain Smith tells Klein to return to his usual routine, warning him not to scare off the pursuer or break the law. Klein departs, returning to the cathedral, and as he exits, he’s once again beset by the feeling of being watched.

With his senses on high alert, Klein blends into the crowd, attempting to lose his pursuer. However, the feeling of being observed persists, leaving him trapped in a state of unease.

Chapter 27 – Siblings Dinner

Klein and Benson engage in a witty exchange, teasing each other with humor and sarcasm as they discuss their landlord, Mr. Franky, and the terms of their rental contract. Benson reveals that Klein has forgotten the one-year lease, which would make it difficult for them to move to a new place. However, Benson reassures Klein that he can handle the situation with Mr. Franky.

As Klein goes about his day, he continues to feel like he’s being watched, but there’s no physical interaction. He goes to the market, buys ingredients, and cooks a meal with Benson, enjoying the simple pleasures of food and company. Later, Klein tries to exercise, but his lack of memory about military boxing and radio exercises hinders him, so he settles for weight-lifting with books.

In the evening, the brothers enjoy a hearty meal together, savoring the flavors and aromas of their dishes. They celebrate Klein’s new job, and Benson raises a toast, clinking his cup with Klein and Melissa’s lemon pudding, exclaiming “Praise the Lady!” As they enjoy their meal, the sense of unease and being watched persists, leaving Klein on high alert and wondering what’s to come.

Chapter 28 – Secret Order

Klein’s heart races as he’s startled awake, sensing an intruder lurking in the shadows. He swiftly reaches for his revolver, aiming it at the trespasser’s head, determined to deter any potential threat. The man, dressed in a black tight suit, freezes, and Klein demands he raise his hands and turn around, trying to appear calm and intimidating.

As the intruder slowly turns, Klein takes in his sharp features and intense blue eyes, which seem to gleam with a ferocious intensity. Klein keeps his cool, ordering the man to exit the room, insisting on “basic courtesy for a gentleman.” The thin man complies, but just as he’s about to leave, he suddenly rolls forward, and the door slams shut.

A soothing melody wafts in from outside, accompanied by a deep, comforting voice reciting a poem that seems to lull even Klein himself into a peaceful state. Benson and Melissa, stirred by the commotion, fall back asleep, unaware of the danger that just passed. Klein, though, remains vigilant, still grasping his revolver, his mind racing with questions about the mysterious intruder and his intentions.

Chapter 29 – Jobs and Rentals Are Serious Business

Klein’s mind is racing as he grapples with the dilemma of choosing between becoming a Mystery Pryer or a Seer. Dunn Smith’s explanation of a Seer’s abilities, though intriguing, reveals a significant drawback: the lack of direct combat capabilities. Klein’s thoughts are further complicated by the unknown Sequences, risk of losing control, and the ominous murmurs that could drive people mad. As he weighs his options, he can’t help but think of his past on Earth, cherishing memories of his family, friends, and failed confession.

As the night wears on, Klein’s emotions settle, and he recalls his past, from exercising to playing sports, and his loved ones. The calm of the morning brings a sense of clarity, and he makes his decision. After a refreshing morning routine, Klein shares a newspaper advert with Benson and Melissa, discussing their future housing goals. Melissa reveals that Mrs. Rochelle suggested the Tingen Housing Improvement Association for the Working Class, which sparks a conversation about their socioeconomic status and saving up.

With his mind made up, Klein prepares to set off, leaving the reader wondering what his choice will be and how it will impact his journey as a Beyonders.

Chapter 30 – Brand New Beginning

Klein, Benson, and Melissa visit the Tingen City Housing Improvement Company to view a potential new residence at 2 Daffodil Street. They’re greeted by Scarter, who showcases the multifaceted hipped-roofed terrace house, highlighting its open-style concept living room, dining area, kitchen, and bedroom layout. The siblings are impressed, but Klein’s attention is drawn to the possibility of buying the property, only to learn it’s not an option and that the prices are steep – 850 pounds for a complete purchase or 300 pounds for a limited-period land deed.

As they weigh their options, Benson skillfully negotiates the rent and furniture fees with Scarter, securing a deal of 12 soli and 3 pence per week. With the contract signed and deposit paid, the siblings stand before their new home, holding copper keys and filled with emotion. Klein, ever pragmatic, prioritizes changing the locks and reminds them of their upcoming visit to Mr. Franky to settle their outstanding rent.

The chapter concludes with the siblings paying a visit to their current landlord, Mr. Franky, who sternly reminds them of his rules: no one is allowed to be behind their rent. As they continue their journey, Klein’s decision regarding his Beyonders’ path still lingers, leaving readers wondering how it will impact his future.