There is no friendship between mantras and monsters
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- Jul 31
Synopsis
This prequel focuses on Natsume's early experiences before his adoption by the Fujiwara couple. It follows his growth alongside Huzi and Yi Gu as they encounter various monsters and curses in a world where the supernatural is a constant presence. The narrative blends elements of youth and fantasy, reading like a cozy, multi-franchise crossover similar to urban fantasy coming-of-age tropes. It is primarily for readers who enjoy character-focused narratives and the found family dynamic, while those looking for a tight, standalone plot or heavy central romance should skip it, as the author explicitly notes the lack of a main couple. The pacing is gentle, prioritizing the development of platonic bonds and the whimsical nature of its supernatural encounters. Its standout quality is the lighthearted chemistry between the main trio, which balances the eerie nature of the spirits they face.
📚 Chapters (122 total)
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Editorial Review
As a completed work of 122 chapters, this novel provides a tidy, self-contained experience. The strongest aspect is its commitment to the theme of platonic friendship and emotional growth, offering a refreshing take on the BL genre by focusing on familial bonds rather than traditional romance. The interaction between Natsume and Huzi provides a consistent source of charm. However, the comprehensive crossover approach is a double-edged sword. While it expands the world, the integration of multiple external franchises can feel disjointed and may alienate readers who are not already familiar with the specific source materials mentioned. This reliance on external lore prevents the story from establishing a fully independent identity. Overall, it is a competent character study that succeeds in its narrow goal of exploring a prequel timeline, though it lacks the narrative cohesion found in original standalone fantasies.