The highly anticipated Chinese donghua adaptation of “Lord of the Mysteries” is set to make its global debut in summer 2025. Based on the critically acclaimed web novel by Cuttlefish That Loves Diving, this supernatural mystery series promises to be one of the standout donghua releases of the year. Here’s everything you need to know about the complete release schedule, plot, and where to watch this groundbreaking series.
What is Lord of the Mysteries About?
Lord of the Mysteries is a supernatural suspense donghua that offers a fresh take on the isekai genre. The story follows Zhou Mingrui, who mysteriously wakes up in the body of Klein Moretti in an alternate Victorian-era world. This isn’t your typical steampunk setting – it’s a Lovecraftian-inspired universe filled with machinery, cannons, dreadnoughts, and airships, alongside potions, divination, hexes, and Tarot Cards.
In this mysterious world, people known as Beyonders possess magical abilities through a unique power system based on consuming potions. Klein, now a Beyonder himself, becomes entangled with the orthodox and unorthodox Churches while following the legend of “The Fool” – a tarot card symbolizing unlimited potential. The series tagline perfectly captures its atmosphere: “In the fogs of history and darkness, who was whispering? When the gray fog falls, who is whispering in the ear. The light still shines, the mystery has never been far away.”
The Power System and World-Building
What sets Lord of the Mysteries apart is its sophisticated power system. The 22 pathways available to Beyonders each offer unique traits and abilities, with knowledge being the key to successfully navigating these paths. This emphasis on intelligence over brute strength creates mentally engaging battles and character development.
The series has gained praise for its rich world-building that accurately reflects Victorian-era elements while incorporating supernatural and Lovecraftian horror themes. The author’s meticulous research ensures authenticity in the historical setting while seamlessly blending fantasy elements.
Important News and Updates
Lord of the Mysteries Anime Trailer
Global Release Confirmation
The donghua will be released on June 28, 2025, premiering globally on Crunchyroll, Tencent Video, Muse, WeTV, and other streaming platforms. The first two episodes were released simultaneously on June 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM PDT (June 28) / 10:00 PM EST (June 28) / 3:00 AM BST / 7:30 AM IST.
Episode Count and Format
The first season consists of 13 episodes plus two special episodes, with each episode running approximately 30 minutes excluding intro and outro. The production of all 13 episodes has already been completed.
Author Involvement
The original author, Cuttlefish That Loves Diving, is heavily involved in the project to ensure faithful adaptation of the source material.
Studio and Production
The series is animated by B.CMAY Pictures, known for acclaimed donghua like “The Master of Diabolism” (8.68 rating on MyAnimeList) and “The King’s Avatar.” The director is Ke Xiong, who has experience with mystery and supernatural content.
Complete Episode Release Schedule
Based on the confirmed June 28, 2025 premiere date and assuming weekly releases every Friday, here’s the complete predicted release schedule:
| Episode # | Release Date | Release Times (PDT/EST/BST/IST) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | June 28, 2025 | 7 PM (June 27)/10 PM (June 27)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 2 | June 28, 2025 | 7 PM (June 27)/10 PM (June 27)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 3 | July 5, 2025 | 7 PM (July 4)/10 PM (July 4)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 4 | July 12, 2025 | 7 PM (July 11)/10 PM (July 11)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 5 | July 19, 2025 | 7 PM (July 18)/10 PM (July 18)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 6 | July 26, 2025 | 7 PM (July 25)/10 PM (July 25)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 7 | August 2, 2025 | 7 PM (August 1)/10 PM (August 1)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 8 | August 9, 2025 | 7 PM (August 8)/10 PM (August 8)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 9 | August 16, 2025 | 7 PM (August 15)/10 PM (August 15)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 10 | August 23, 2025 | 7 PM (August 22)/10 PM (August 22)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 11 | August 30, 2025 | 7 PM (August 29)/10 PM (August 29)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 12 | September 6, 2025 | 7 PM (September 5)/10 PM (September 5)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| 13 | September 13, 2025 | 7 PM (September 12)/10 PM (September 12)/3 AM/7:30 AM |
| Special 1 | TBA | TBA |
| Special 2 | TBA | TBA |
Note: Episodes 1 and 2 were released simultaneously on June 28, 2025. Regular episodes follow a weekly schedule every Friday with times shown across multiple time zones for global accessibility.
Production Staff and Cast
Key Staff Members
- Original Work: Cuttlefish That Loves Diving
- Director: Ke Xiong (The Master of Diabolism, The King’s Avatar)
- Animation Studio: B.CMAY Pictures
- Production Company: Tencent
Voice Cast
- Klein Moretti: Shangqing Sui (known for voicing Xiaoshi Cheng in Link Click, Nie Li in Tales of Demons and Gods)
The series will feature multiple language options, with English dubs confirmed for international release.
Where to Watch Lord of the Mysteries
Primary Streaming Platforms
Crunchyroll serves as the main international streaming platform, offering the series with English subtitles and confirmed English dubbing.
Additional Platforms
- Tencent Video (Primary Chinese platform)
- WeTV (International availability)
- Muse (Regional streaming)
Language Options
- Mandarin: Original audio with subtitles
- English: Confirmed dubbed version
- Multiple Subtitles: Available for international audiences
Why Lord of the Mysteries Matters for Donghua
The series represents a significant milestone for Chinese animation’s global expansion. Unlike traditional anime, donghua offers unique storytelling perspectives rooted in Chinese culture while incorporating universal themes. Lord of the Mysteries specifically:
- Breaks Isekai Stereotypes: Offers sophisticated storytelling beyond typical genre tropes
- Features Complex Characters: Klein Moretti is praised as a realistic, sympathetic protagonist
- Demonstrates Production Quality: B.CMAY Pictures’ track record ensures high animation standards
- Bridges Cultural Gaps: Makes Chinese web novel content accessible to international audiences
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The series premieres globally on June 28, 2025, with the first two episodes released simultaneously at 7:00 PM PDT on Crunchyroll and other platforms.
Season 1 consists of 13 regular episodes plus 2 special episodes, totaling 15 episodes. Each episode runs approximately 30 minutes.
Yes, the series will be available with English subtitles from day one, and English dubbing has been confirmed for international release.
Lord of the Mysteries offers a unique Lovecraftian-Victorian setting with a sophisticated power system based on knowledge rather than strength. It emphasizes mystery, supernatural elements, and complex character development over typical action tropes.
No prior knowledge is required. The donghua adaptation is designed to be accessible to newcomers while satisfying existing fans of the 1,394-chapter web novel. The author’s involvement ensures faithful adaptation suitable for both audiences.
Lord of the Mysteries represents the growing influence of Chinese donghua in the global animation market. With its compelling Lovecraftian mystery, sophisticated world-building, and high production values from B.CMAY Pictures, the series is positioned to become a landmark release for Chinese animation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the web novel or new to the medium, this supernatural thriller promises to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience when it premieres this summer.
