After Sol

​​​​​​​This is a story set centuries after the Sol system crumbled and the old human went extinct. At least, this is what the crew of the Ark Continuum-5 are told. To ensure humanity will continue to exist, the Continuum-5 began a journey across millennia. Although every post is essential, the hierarchy is ruled by meritocracy, yet skill and prowess are predisposed by genetics – you can say the destiny of every crew member has been set before they are even born. This solid and cruel system is essential for the New World. At least, this is what the crew of the Ark Continuum-5 was taught.

Original Publisher

penana

English Publisher

verdant lore

Original Language

chinese

Type

Web Novel

## My Thoughts on After Sol "After Sol" plunges you into a futuristic dystopia, and while the premise is intriguing, my experience with it was a mixed bag. It's a story that flirts with fascinating ideas but stumbles in its execution, leaving me feeling somewhat conflicted. ### First Impressions The initial setup is definitely captivating. The author paints a picture of a hedonistic, utilitarian society in space, a world far removed from our own. I was immediately drawn in by the descriptions of this unfamiliar future and the potential for exploration. The early romance element also piqued my interest, suggesting a character-driven narrative within this larger world. ### What Works Well The world-building is arguably the strongest aspect of "After Sol." The details of this dystopian society are thoughtfully crafted, and I appreciated the author's effort to create a unique and unsettling environment. The core concept of a naive protagonist confronting the harsh realities of this world also holds promise. The narrative is more than a simple power fantasy, and the story has an interesting progression after the initial chapters. ### Areas of Concern However, there's a significant element that detracts from the overall experience. Specifically, the inclusion of netorare (NTR) is problematic. It feels forced and unnecessary, ultimately undermining the potential of the story. It introduces a level of discomfort that overshadows the more compelling aspects of the world-building and character development. I really think the story would benefit from replacing this element with a different challenge for the protagonist, such as stumbling upon forbidden knowledge or breaking a societal rule to help a friend. ### ⚠️ Spoiler Warning (Proceed with caution, as the following contains spoilers regarding a key plot point.) The protagonist's naivete, while initially believable, borders on frustrating, particularly in how it relates to the NTR aspect. His idealized view of a "state-provided prostitute" and the subsequent disillusionment felt jarring and, frankly, unnecessary. While some might argue it serves as a harsh awakening to the cruelty of the society, I found it more exploitative than insightful. ### Final Verdict "After Sol" presents a fascinating dystopian world with an intriguing premise, but it's ultimately weighed down by its problematic elements. The world-building and potential for character development are undeniable, but the inclusion of netorare significantly detracts from the overall experience. While the story has potential, I would hesitate to recommend it without reservations. I give it a 2.5/5.