Fate and Redemption
Background Setting
In a world where technology and mysticism coexist, the financial market, driven by the rise of cryptocurrencies and high-frequency trading, has become highly volatile, full of both opportunities and risks. Astra, born into a declining family of Eastern mystics, inherits a legacy of fortune-telling, feng shui, and astrology. However, her family is haunted by a perpetual "curse of misfortune"—short lifespans, financial loss, and broken relationships.
Determined to break free from this "fate," Astra embarks on a unique journey. After studying computer science and financial engineering, she combines her family's mystical traditions with modern AI technology, creating a tool to predict the future. Her methods quickly earn her recognition in the cryptocurrency market as a "master of prediction." However, her growing wealth and involvement in market manipulation soon draw her into a conflict between conscience and greed.
Main Plotline: Astra’s Journey of Growth and Redemption
Through her blend of mysticism and AI, Astra becomes a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency market, catching the attention of Ivan, a ruthless capitalist. Ivan exploits Astra’s predictive abilities to manipulate the market and amass immense wealth. Their collaboration catapults Astra to the pinnacle of financial success but exposes her to the moral costs of her actions—ordinary investors suffering huge losses, betrayals from friends, and estrangement from her family.
Astra’s innate compassion begins to stir unease within her. She struggles as she witnesses the plight of average people being crushed under the weight of financial scams and market manipulation. One of them is Mary, a mother who lost everything in a cryptocurrency scam. Her story leaves a profound impact on Astra when she confronts her with the harsh truth: “Is the money you’re making worth the tears and blood of people like us?”
Overwhelmed with guilt and confusion, Astra meets Joshua, a former Wall Street analyst turned pastor. Joshua, having abandoned wealth for faith, now dedicates his life to helping ordinary people. Through his guidance, Astra begins to understand that wealth itself is not the problem—the real issue lies in how it is used and whether it glorifies God.
Gradually, Astra recognizes the limitations of mysticism and technology. She realizes that neither can truly control fate, nor can they fill the void in her soul. She starts seeking solace in faith and begins repairing her fractured relationships with family and friends.
Social Line: The Plight of Ordinary People and Astra’s Awakening
The social line runs throughout the novel, serving as a catalyst for Astra’s transformation. Her profession confronts her with the vulnerabilities of ordinary people in the financial market:
Beginning: She uses her skills and media influence to create “money-making opportunities,” luring ordinary investors into schemes that profit her.
Conflict: As she delves deeper into the market, she realizes how many people are manipulated by false promises, leading to devastating losses.
Turning Point: Mary’s tragic story becomes a pivotal moment, forcing Astra to confront her guilt and start using her abilities for good.
Resolution: Astra relinquishes her greed and dedicates herself to educating the public about financial risks and scams, ultimately becoming a protector of ordinary investors.
Romantic Line: Astra and Noah’s Relationship
Noah, a financial journalist, is determined to expose the dark secrets of the cryptocurrency market. Initially, he views Astra as a cold and calculating market manipulator. However, as he learns more about her struggles and inner turmoil, he discovers her hidden compassion and growing conflict. Their shared concern for Mary’s plight brings them closer.