Lord of the Mysteries Chapter Summary 181-195

Chapter 181 – Different State

Klein returns to his room, expertly setting up a candle infused with sandalwood and herbs symbolizing good luck and mystery, and begins to recite an incantation in the language of the giants, summoning “The Fool that doesn’t belong to this era.” The flame flickers, and a vortex forms, stabilizing into a palm-sized circle of grayish-white fog. As Klein takes four steps counterclockwise, ripples of light spread from his high-back chair, accentuating the mysterious aura of the Pupil-less Eye symbol.

With his hand extended, Klein wills the door open, and without warning, ripples form in the grayish-white fog, and a heavy, mysterious door appears. The sound of heavy scraping fills the air, and a slit opens, revealing an immensely dark world with transparent figures and lustrous colors. An irresistible attractive force pulls Klein towards the door, and he vanishes into the darkness.

As Klein regains his senses, he finds himself facing a young man who looks uncannily like himself. He surveys his surroundings, noting the familiar bed, bookshelf, and clothes rack. Klein realizes he has summoned his own soul, now in the form of an Astral Projection, and begins to analyze the conditions of both his physical body and soul. He experiments with his newfound abilities, trying to grab objects and sensing the sticky feeling of moving through the air.

Chapter 182 – Wanderer Klein

Klein explores the limits of his Astral Projection abilities, floating above the streets of Tingen and observing the people and carriages below. He realizes that his “vision” is the same as his Spirit Vision, allowing him to sense the existence of everyone’s soul, and contemplates the possibility of bypassing a person’s body to attack their soul directly. As he tests his speed, he notes that it’s similar to that of a car on the highway, but laments that he still can’t move freely between the spirit world and the physical realm.

As Klein flies over Iron Cross Street, he’s struck by the oppressive atmosphere, feeling the weight of despair, pain, and numbness that permeates the area. He recalls his initial experiences as a Seer and wonders how long it took for the emotions to accumulate to this extent. The industrial area of Tingen proves to be just as bleak, with laborers struggling to survive amidst the exhaustion, pain, and pessimism.

When Klein’s spiritual energy begins to wane, he discovers that he can end the summon and return to his physical body by severing the connection between his Spirit Body and the Flaring Sun Charm. As he wills the charm to take him back, he’s pulled through a powerful suction force and reappears in the gray fog. To his delight, he finds that the Flaring Sun Charm has followed him, existing as a tangible object in the spirit world.

Chapter 183 – A Lesson on Mediumship

As Klein relaxes in his living room, engaged in small talk with his siblings and reading the Awwa Evening News, a sense of normalcy settles over the Moretti household. Benson and Melissa focus on their studies, while Bella tends to the kitchen and tidies up. However, this tranquility is soon disrupted when the gas lamps in the room suddenly extinguish, prompting Klein to sense an eerie presence.

As he looks around, he feels an unseen entity touch his arm, and his hair stands on end. Upon investigation, he discovers a thin, pale tongue with sharp teeth and an irregular row of fingers holding a folded piece of paper – a letter from Spirit Guide Daly. Klein swiftly retrieves the letter and conceals it, all while keeping his siblings unaware of the supernatural occurrence.

The letter reveals that mediumship rituals can be used on living beings, but it comes with risks. As Klein reads on, he realizes that the souls of the dead are pure and can be communicated with directly, unlike the living. The chapter ends with Klein pondering the implications of this knowledge, leaving the reader wondering what other secrets lie hidden in the shadows.

Chapter 184 – Behind the Gate

Klein visits Captain Dunn Smith, discussing his encounter with Dr. Daxter Guderian, a member of the Psychology Alchemists. He reveals that Lanevus, the notorious swindler, had visited Hood Eugen multiple times before the latter’s descent into madness. Dunn, intrigued, agrees to support Klein’s plan to perform a mediumship ritual to communicate with Hood Eugen, hoping to uncover the reason behind Lanevus’s visits.

As they discuss the details, Klein showcases his knowledge of the ritual, requesting specific ingredients like Amantha extract and Sedative Agent. Dunn, impressed, approves the request and offers to monitor the asylum during the ritual. They decide to sneak in at dawn to maintain secrecy, as they suspect Psychology Alchemists might be infiltrating the asylum.

Klein exits the office, noticing Dunn’s interest in a magazine article about hair growth and can’t help but think of Old Neil, a former acquaintance. He then submits his application and heads to Chanis Gate, a mysterious location he’s never been to before. After gaining approval, he approaches the gate, sensing an eerie emptiness before it creaks open, awaiting his entry.

Chapter 185 – Spiritual World

Klein’s attempt to communicate with Hood Eugen through a mediumship ritual takes an unexpected turn when the mental patient suddenly becomes agitated, accusing Klein of stealing his cake. Despite the attack, Klein reacts quickly, utilizing his agility to dodge Hood Eugen’s advances and eventually gaining the upper hand. Just as he’s about to restrain Hood, Captain Dunn Smith intervenes, dragging Hood into a dream state.

With Hood Eugen momentarily subdued, Klein sets up a simple altar and uses a ritual dagger to create a spiritual barrier, sealing the ward. He then ignites three candles, each representing a different entity, and uses Amantha extract to calm Hood Eugen’s erratic behavior. As Hood’s nervousness dissipates, Klein takes the opportunity to break down his last line of defense, using a set of silver-lined tarot cards to distract him.

As Hood Eugen becomes entranced by the cards, Klein readies the Eye of the Spirit medication, waiting for the perfect moment to induce a turbid state in Hood’s soul. The tarot card reading continues, with Hood drawing the Hanged Man, and Klein seizes the opportunity to administer the medication, slowly pulling Hood into a state of intoxication.

Chapter 186 – The Handsome Captain

Klein’s mediumship ritual with Hood Eugen takes a dark turn as he becomes engulfed by a black shadow, witnessing the latter’s spiritual world disintegrate and his soul strengthening in the process. As Hood’s transformation accelerates, Captain Dunn Smith intervenes, firing five bullets to prevent Hood from losing control completely. The aftermath reveals Hood’s corpse has transformed into a pile of bloody flesh, with a crystalline heart and black scales that can be used as controllable items.

Dunn explains the black scales are ingredients contaminated with Beyonder power, suitable for creating items with long-lasting effects. Klein, still reeling from the ordeal, describes his encounter with Hood’s spirit, where he saw a figure similar to the True Creator, differing from the mainstream images. This revelation leaves Dunn’s expression solemn, hinting at a deeper conspiracy.

As the chaos settles, Klein can’t help but think that those who lose control will become monsters, and the mysterious power they wield is both fascinating and terrifying.

Chapter 187 – Aziks Warning

Klein’s thoughts are still reeling from the dark turn of events with Hood Eugen, but a new surprise awaits him – a mysterious messenger from Mr. Azik, a powerful Beyonder who has seemingly sent a warning about dealing with Beyonders. As Klein processes this unexpected development, he can’t help but feel envious of Azik’s abilities, especially after witnessing the messenger’s unusual powers. He pockets the letter, containing a cryptic message about Azik’s search for his past and encounters with former teachers and students, which seems to hint at a deeper connection between them.

Back in his room, Klein finally unfolds the letter, revealing Azik’s apologetic tone and cryptic messages about his past lives. Azik mentions encountering Beyonder powers, including Rear Admiral Hurricane Qilangos, a notorious figure wanted by multiple kingdoms. Klein’s eyes widen as he realizes the implications of this information, and his mind starts racing with possibilities. Azik’s familiarity with the Shepherd’s abilities sparks an idea in Klein, who sees an opportunity to manipulate Azik into helping him.

As Klein continues reading, he becomes increasingly convinced that Azik is a High-Sequence Beyonder with a deep understanding of various mystical powers. The warning about sacrificial rituals and evil gods resonates deeply with Klein, who is now more determined than ever to navigate this treacherous world of Beyonders. With this new information, Klein is left wondering what secrets Azik holds and what consequences this new connection might bring.

Chapter 188 – Ball

Rear Admiral Hurricane Qilangos, a notorious Beyonder, assumes the identity of a bankrupt baron, complete with aristocratic mannerisms and a luxurious lifestyle. As he attends a high-society ball hosted by Duke Negan, he’s confident in his disguise, having broken the neck of the original baron and hidden his body in a wardrobe. Meanwhile, Xio Derecha and Fors Wall, two Beyonders who’ve been tracking Qilangos, are frustrated by their lack of progress, realizing that Qilangos’s cunning and ability to change appearances make him a formidable foe.

Xio and Fors are in hiding, avoiding the authorities who would love to capture them, and are relying on the Mandated Punishers, Nighthawks, and Machinery Hivemind to keep the heat on Qilangos. Fors tries to reassure Xio that Qilangos will eventually make a mistake, but Xio’s concerns about advancing her Sequence and reclaiming her family’s lost items are weighing heavily on her mind.

As the ball continues, Qilangos remains a mystery, even to the authorities. He’s been careful to leave no clues behind, and Xio and Fors can only wait patiently for him to slip up. The tension is palpable, and the stakes are high in this game of cat and mouse between Qilangos and his pursuers.

Chapter 189 – Prayers and Replies

Klein, still maintaining his cover as a detective, discusses the latest play with his friends Benson and Melissa, inviting them to watch it at the theater. Meanwhile, he receives a prayer from Miss Justice, a Spectator, who has infiltrated a ball hosted by Duke Negan and suspects that Qilangos, a notorious Beyonder, is disguising himself as Baron Gramir. Miss Justice recounts her encounter with Qilangos, detailing his differing mannerisms and recalling the appearance-altering powers of his mystical item, Creeping Hunger.

As Klein listens intently, he realizes that Qilangos has indeed infiltrated the ball and is unaware that Miss Justice has exposed him. Klein ponders what Qilangos wants and what he should do, considering his own ongoing experiments with the sacrificial ritual. He begins to respond to Miss Justice’s prayer, aware that she wouldn’t have access to spirituality-infused materials at the ball.

In the prayer room, Audrey, aka Miss Justice, finishes her prayer and returns to the ball, where she’s surprised to see Klein’s mysterious presence manifest, responding to her prayer. The fog clears, and Audrey is left with a vivid image of the ball’s opulence, her encounter with Klein leaving her in awe.

Chapter 190 – The Assortment of Abilities

Qilangos, disguised as Baron Gramir, stands out among the aristocrats at Duke Negan’s ball, his eyes fixed on his target. He muses about his mission to assassinate the influential Duke, who is a key supporter of the Conservative Party and a devotee of the Lord of Storms. Qilangos’s thoughts are filled with excitement and calculation, weighing the risks and rewards of his task.

As he surveys the opulent ballroom, Qilangos’s gaze lingers on the Duke and his potential protector, a Beyonder from the Church of the Lord of Storms. He mentally eliminates potential obstacles, his Wind-blessed powers at the ready. With a subtle nod, he sets his plan in motion, unleashing a gust of wind that extinguishes the chandelier’s candles and creates chaos.

In the ensuing darkness, Qilangos seizes the opportunity to strike, his glove transforming into a golden surface as he fixes his gaze on the Duke’s protector. His eyes flash like lightning, and the air is electric with tension as he prepares to make his move.

Chapter 191 – Unclear Motives

Qilangos, disguised as Baron Gramir, has escaped the ball and crossed a man-made lake, intending to create an illusion that he entered a ditch to escape into the Tussock River before heading to the financial center of Backlund, the Hillston Borough. However, his field of vision suddenly blurs, and he’s ambushed by a giant humanoid skeleton with pitch black flames in its eye sockets.

As Qilangos unleashes his Beyonder powers of the Priest of Light, he’s surrounded by over a hundred identical skeletal monsters, their black flames fixed on him. He’s forced to confront the Cardinal—Ace Snake, who instructs his minions to spread out and pursue Qilangos. Meanwhile, Alger Wilson, who’s been searching for Qilangos, encounters the Cardinal and is left puzzled by his enigmatic message to stop the pursuit.

In a shocking turn of events, Alger stumbles upon Qilangos, only to witness his rapid decay and death, his face rotting away, leaving only a skull and vacant eyeballs. The scene etches itself into Alger’s mind, leaving him questioning what’s happening and if he’s trapped in a terrifying nightmare.

Chapter 192 – Attention

Audrey analyzes the events of the previous night, piecing together the clues to conclude that Mr. Fool’s adorer, a powerful High-Sequence Beyonder, was responsible for Qilangos’s death. She realizes that her discovery of Qilangos’s true identity as Baron Gramir led to his demise, making her feel both thrilled and uneasy. Count Hall, noticing his daughter’s excitement, warns her to keep her distance from the mysterious world of Beyonders, emphasizing the dangers involved.

As Audrey converses with her father, she learns that she will receive a substantial reward of ten thousand pounds for her role in foiling Qilangos’s assassination attempt, as well as a holiday estate at Desi Bay with a rubber tree plantation. However, Audrey is aware that she must maintain her anonymity as Justice, a member of the Tarot Club, and cleverly convinces her father to keep her involvement a secret and have someone else claim the bounty on her behalf.

Audrey’s father praises her for her cleverness, comparing her to himself at her age, and Audrey feels an immense sense of satisfaction and accomplishment, knowing that she has successfully navigated the complex world of Beyonders and mysticism. The promise of a Rainbow Salamander’s pituitary gland from Mr. Hanged Man only adds to her excitement, solidifying her determination to continue exploring the mysteries of the Tarot Club.

Chapter 193 – Coming To A Close

As the news of Rear Admiral Hurricane Qilangos’s death spreads like wildfire, Klein can’t help but feel relieved that Mr. Azik is likely uninjured. With the morning papers already reporting the incident, Klein turns his attention to the public carriage, where passengers are discussing the details. They speculate about Qilangos’s presence in Backlund and the involvement of Duke Negan’s bodyguards, with some even expressing interest in claiming the 10,000-pound bounty.

Klein is shocked by the massive reward, realizing it would take him twenty years to save up that amount. Meanwhile, Fors Wall and Xio Derecha stroll through Cherwood Borough, discussing their financial struggles and the popularity of Fors’s book, Stormwind Mountain Villa. Xio worries about the investigation’s impact on Fors’s author status, but Fors reassures her that she’s safe, having merely accompanied Xio throughout the ordeal.

As they walk, they hear a paperboy shouting about Qilangos’s death, leaving them both confused and bewildered. With the incident slowly coming to a close, Klein looks forward to receiving the promised Rainbow Salamander’s pituitary gland and tackling new mysteries in the world of Beyonders.

Chapter 194 – Infiltration

Klein attends a meeting at the Blackthorn Security Company with Dunn, where they encounter Mrs. Maynard and her companion, a scrawny lady seeking their services. The scrawny lady, revealed to be Maynard’s sister, accuses Baron Khoy’s widow, Madam Sharon, of being a criminal responsible for her brother’s death. Despite the influential socialite’s alleged wrongdoings, Dunn and Klein must tread carefully, aware of her connections and potential repercussions.

The scrawny lady offers a substantial reward of fifty pounds for a two-week surveillance mission, with an additional two hundred pounds if they uncover evidence of Madam Sharon’s crimes. Dunn accepts the mission, much to Klein’s surprise, and assigns him to lead the operation, citing it as an opportunity for him to learn tailing techniques and monitoring skills.

As Klein begins to prepare for the mission, he reflects on the case and its connections, including the tobacco merchant Vickroy, who introduced them to the clients, and the Antigonus family’s notebook, which he discovered during a previous kidnapping case. With the contract signed and the deposit paid, Klein sets out to uncover the truth about Madam Sharon, navigating the complex web of Tingen’s high society.

Chapter 195 – “Lockpicking Expert” Klein

Klein begins his surveillance mission on Madam Sharon by sneaking into her lavish bedroom, where he’s immediately drawn to an unfinished oil painting of her. He suspects she might be the artist, and his curiosity gets the better of him. As he searches the room, he finds no incriminating evidence, but his attention is piqued by a sturdy safe that seems impenetrable.

Klein attempts to open the safe using his Seer abilities, but fails. Instead, he resorts to using his ritualistic tools and spirit to bypass the lock. He sets up an altar, summons himself, and enters the world above the gray fog, where he can divine for clues. With his powers boosted, Klein considers what questions to ask, weighing the definition of a crime and Madam Sharon’s potential involvement.

As Klein navigates the mystical realm, he ponders the complexities of the case, reflecting on the clients who hired him, the influential people involved, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Will he uncover any secrets, or will Madam Sharon’s charm and beauty continue to veil her true nature?