This story has indeed been quite the rollercoaster ride. On the whole, it's been an exceptional experience. There are, of course, some imperfections, but they don't overshadow the captivating elements. The unlimited flow narrative with Danmei elements, combined with the intense enemies-to-lovers dynamic, keeps things thrilling. While the main character, ML, is portrayed as a villain, he's not a conventional hero; he's a menacing figure with a touch of sadism, which adds to the story's appeal. The slow-burning development of their relationship is highly satisfying, even if the romantic aspect could have been more fleshed out at times.
The protagonist, Zong Jiu, is a complex character that wins readers over with his likability. Despite his antisocial behavior and cold demeanor, his sense of responsibility sets him apart. Even someone like me, who often loses interest in stories, found myself deeply engaged, thanks to the well-developed arcs and supporting characters. The emotional impact, including moments of sadness for character fates, was genuine.
The first kiss scene between ML and MC had me emotionally invested, and overall, the story is fantastic. I would rate it 4.7/4.6, only slightly downgrading due to a perceived dip in quality after the school arc, and my tendency to be critical. But in my heart, it's a 5-star read, and I'm sure many others would agree. I wholeheartedly love Zong Jiu, and "S Magician" has earned its place in my favorites list.
The characters, despite occasional flaws, carried the story through. Even though the romance felt rushed and the quality wavered after a certain point, the final arcs, particularly the one with the baby devil, were still enjoyable. I would definitely recommend "Thriller Trainee" - it was good enough to motivate me to create an account. Take my recommendation with a pinch of salt, but it's a story worth giving a chance.