I read it until the end and it was quite the engaging story from start to finish. Every major detail was important to the grand finale, and the novel felt planned and deliberate as the greater mystery of the world unfolded. The last line of the novel really tug at my heart strings, and I don't even think the story needs an afterwards after it.

The protagonists were also very wonderful. The female lead is headstrong and determined, not letting others sway her. She's also not completely "upright" and I would... more>> say she's somewhat of a "grey" protagonist, but she always adheres to her own principles and doesn't involve innocent lives. She's ruthless to her enemies but she'll never use people to her own gains. She wasn't always like that, and it's great to see her grow to be more comfortable with her own self. As for the male protagonist, I'd say he's quite unique; he's a kind person, he acts tough on the outside but has helped many people with his strength and knowledge. They're good together, and the slow romance between them is beautiful.

The companions they meet along the way are also very interesting complex characters, they're not stagnant people who remain unchanged throughout the story, they're this story's backbone. They build the story up and expand the setting of the world. I don't even think I can describe their progress or character without spoiling the story; nearly all of these characters are important. <<less