Re: Turning
Darkness Rises's

Dum! An explosion echoed in the twilight sky. It shakes the air and destroys the earth.

A long black haired girl stood still at the end of a ravine. The wind was waving her hair, her face was adorned with a sad expression. The surrounding area looks like hell. Fallen trees, upside down land, the corpses of countless monsters and animals scattered about.

Mikazuki Yonaka lowered his bow. Almost out of energy.

It had been almost a full day since he left the palace. Trying to calm down, or to her, escape. Escape from the reality that continues to creep into the veil of his broken heart.

Shinnichi is dead.

Yonaka could not accept that reality. Not want to accept it.

But, no matter how hard he refused. No matter how hard he wishes Shinnichi was still alive. Wishing the young man appeared before her, saying "I'm fine, '" with a small smile.

As hard as it is, his hope will not be realized. Shinnichi is gone. That is Yonaka's greatest regret. Yonaka condemned his weakness.

"Shinnichi-kun, I'm sorry.." whispered Yonaka. "We... We can't get back together...."

Just like the others, Yonaka just wants to save this world and get back with his friends. But reality hurts. The world here was much harder than the world it came from.

Yonaka tightened his grip on his bow. "The demons.... They're... They are! ARGHH!" Yonaka pulling strings. Release an arrow.

THE DUAR! A huge explosion was created when Yonaka's arrow touched the side of the abyss. The ground above him shifted. Thousands of tons of earth materials fell into the abyss. Creates giant dust plumes and small earthquakes. The 35-meter-wide gap grew to 45 meters wide.

Yonaka. Finally running out of energy. Before it touches the ground. Someone caught.

"Goddessa...." A red-haired young man, Akihiro Izumi looked at the worried Yonaka.

Since Shinnichi's death, Yonaka has changed. Her cheerful and kind attitude is now rarely seen. The death of his friend must have hit him hard.

Izumi was also hit. He is not even aware when Shinnichi finally meets. Just like Yonaka, Izumi also regretted that. He would have exchanged his life if it meant saving him.

Izumi is "The Strongest Hero." He can change the surface of the earth with his feet. Defeat monsters with one hit. Holding back the sword slashes of dozens of people. But, for what? Izumi couldn't even save her friend. He was unable to raise his head in front of Shinnichi's grave. He was ashamed of himself.

"Damn it...." Izumi. "I'm a fool."

Izumi sit. Put Yonaka's head on her lap. With night, the silence returned. He looked at Yonaka.

What will Shinnichi do now? Considering him, he must be concerned for others. Really good people.

"I'm sorry, Shinnichi," Izumi muttered. Look at the night sky. "We'll be back. For your sake."

✾✾✾✾

Shinnichi opened his eyes. The orange flowers still smoldering quietly. Sometimes crackling while eating wood.

Shinnichi wakes. I don't know how many hours he slept. But, if the fire was still alive, it would definitely not be long. Despite the fatigue, the insomnia still did not go away.

He tried to sleep again, but in vain. He could not even lie down quietly. Shinnichi took off the blanket he was wearing. At least his clothes were dry.

Dressed in his clothes, Shinnichi investigates the room. The bookcase was the first thing that caught his attention. Although it was left for dead, its nature could not simply disappear.

Checking the existing book, Shinnichi could not read it. All of the books in the room used language that [Language Comprehension], for some reason, could not recognize. Although he himself can already speak or at least know at least seven languages of this world.

"Such an ancient language? Or protected by magic?" shinnichi murmured wondering. He looked towards the table. A book sits there alone.

Shinnichi took the book and opened the first page. He was a little surprised. He can read it.

"Owns of Emphiria." Shinnichi read the title of the book. A travel journal or something.

I left my sister a long time ago. I'm curious about the news. Brother is often in trouble, so I hope he's okay.

I bought this book in the Elf Kingdom. They are adept at making magic equipment and other interesting objects. I think I'll write my trip. I'm not good at writing, so maybe not every day, but interesting things that happen I'll take notes.

Shinnichi didn't read the whole book. It went through a few pages. Occasionally find strange images and scribbles of the owner of this book.

Right now, I am in a land called Kumoni. Lots of interesting things here. The building is beautiful, the people are good! It seems like they rarely come to visitors, so they accepted me well!

I also met someone interesting. He likes to say funny and strange things. I'm interested in him.

I hope he wants to be friends with me.

Shinnichi shook his head. He should stop reading it. It is the same as violating someone's privacy.

Shinnichi examined the room he was in. Other than its unusual location, this room is not too strange. If one does not count the pile of bones in the corner of the room. Curious, Shinnichi approaches him.

A giant animal skeleton. It looks like a horned lizard. But, for some reason, he could feel a different aura from her.

"Dragon?" confused muttering. Shinnichi recalled the animals he had read about as well as his portrayal in the books.

Described as a smart and powerful monster. However, dragons are rare creatures. Only three individuals have ever been documented in Panzia. One of them was when a dragon ravaged Panzia about 2 centuries ago. Besides being described as the bearer of destruction, they are the ruler of the heavens.

That's why Shinnichi was confused. The dragon is the ruler of the sky. Why is there a dragon skull in the underground cave?

Shinnichi touched the skull. The size of its head is the same as a car. Shinnichi felt that if this dragon opened its mouth, it could stand upright inside.

Investigating it further, Shinnichi realizes that the skeleton is incomplete. He found that his neck was crushed, his tail could not be found in the room, one of his wings was also absent, and some bone fragments here and there.

Shinnichi. What monster can kill a dragon?

He recalled the figure he had caught a glimpse of when he fell. The monster was big enough to defeat this dragon. Shinnichi wishes he hadn't seen her before or after she got out of here.

"uh? Magic stone?"

Shinnichi noticed a small purple stone in his chest cavity. It lay on the ground like it was thrown in. Shinnichi could feel the Mana flowing out of him. It was not an ordinary stone, but it was indeed a magic stone.

The stone also lit up with a faint purple light. It was like being aware of the young man's presence.

Carefully, Shinnichi grabbed the stone. Although it was only slightly larger in size than a marble, the stone was heavier than its appearance.

He went back to wondering. Why is this magic stone there? The monsters in Zelfria did not have magic stone cores. They were formed from the Arcana or Dark Mana that was issued by the dungeon. Monsters born outside of dungeons could even be eaten. But, there had not been any cases of monsters possessing magic stone cores.

While thinking that, Shinnichi noticed a pattern on top of the magic stone. Some kind of magic circle? Shinnichi brought the stone closer to investigate.

"Mine."

"What-what!?"

The rock suddenly jumped. Sticking on Shinnichi's chest. Surprised, Shinnichi fell backwards. Feeling the weight of the stone hit his chest.

"Deliver! Off!" Shinnichi tried to pull the stone. Can't do. The stone continued to stick. Even digging up his skin. He could feel every painful detail it caused.

"ARGHH!"

Shinnichi clutched his chest. Prevent the stone from going deeper. He did not want anything like that to enter his body.

Shinnichi was unable to stand up. Breathing is difficult too. Something stabbed his heart. He can feel it. The stone implanted itself in his heart.

"Emphiria, I'll pick you up."

Shinnichi hears a "something" voice in his head. Not his voice. But, he sure heard another voice.

The deg! Shinnichi's heart stopped. Shinnichi widened his eyes. Tight chest. He can't breathe. Shinnichi raised his hand upwards. Trying to achieve something, anything.

"Fi-Tiny...."

Using the rest of his breath, he called out the name of his beloved Princess.

✾✾✾✾

Inside his study, the King stared out the window. Look at his kingdom.

The crowded districts. A street full of people. Economic transactions continue. The usual view for the capital of Victoria.

From the top of the castle, Albert could see everything. Like a god looking down at the world. He was the supreme ruler of Victoria.

A smile appeared on his face. Soft smile. Like a father to his son.

Door opens. From the outside, a thin-faced man appeared. Estoc Prime Minister Grant Xevery confronts the King.

Estoc lowered her head. "Everything has been fixed, Your Majesty," he replied smoothly. "With this, your plan can go smoothly."

"Good, good." Albert was pleased. "With the boy's death, we have no more obstacles."

"That's how it is, Your Majesty."

The room was quiet again. Albert finally looked back. In his hand was a glass of red wine. He poked it slowly.

"The Elf-made Dryach is second to none." Albert praised the drink in his hand. "Isn't that right, Estoc?"

"In my personal opinion, Burstac Dwarves are more satisfying, Your Majesty." Estoc answered. Relax but remain formal.

"Ahahaha, you've always liked the more hitting ones." Albert took his drink back. "Ah, right too. What about Fiona? Has he been 'fixed'?"

Estoc nodded. "I thought you'd ask me that." He approached the King. "I'd like to ask your permission. I want this to not happen again. I want to 'bind' the Princess."

"Binding?" The King captures the intent of the Estoc. Quiet for a moment. "You mean using controlling magic?"

Controlling magic is one of the black magic. The use of black magic is strictly prohibited in Zelfria. In addition to the great risk of failure, death and curses also overshadow anyone who practices it. Despite that, black magic power is often a powerful seductress.

Albert put his glass on the table. Squeezing beard.

"Not to apologize, Estoc," he said after a while. Giving consent. "If this is the only way to control it, so be it."

Albert turned his body. "Now go."

"As your request, Your Majesty." Estoc bowed respectfully. He came out of his study.

❂❂❂❂❂❂

Under the basement, the sound of Estoc's footsteps echoed. The torches on the walls illuminated the faint hallways. He arrived at an underground altar. Dozens of robed people surrounded them. Singing an unrecognizable ancient song. A gripping atmosphere can be felt throughout the room.

In the middle of the altar, there was an azure-haired girl. Tied up like a wild animal. The chain that was holding him was covered in a layer of ice.

"Puteri Fiona." The estoc called the girl's name.

Fiona raised her head. His calm expression had disappeared. Replaced by anger. Like it could explode at any time.

"I'll give you a chance. Fragmentary"

"Fuck you all." Fiona hissing.

Estoc was silent for a moment. "Puteri, we're just doing what's necessary."

"required? Necessary!?" Fiona pulled the chain. Thrashed, trying to let go of himself. "You killed an innocent man! The devil would not do such a thing! You savages!"

"Take care of your mouth, Princess." Estoc narrowed her eyes. I don't like that comparison. "That boy betrayed us."

"Braying!? You're crazy! Kurobane-sama did nothing!" Fiona exclaims. Staring hatefully at Estoc before lowering his head. "Although so... Killed him.... You kill.... The only person I love...."

A single tear fell to the ground. Freeze before it reaches the ground. Break into microscopic pieces.

Fiona gritted her teeth. Clenched his hands until his pale skin turned red.

You guys are gonna pay for this. You'll all regret it... I will repay you! DON'T EXPECT YOU GUYS TO— URGH! UGH!"

Preventing her from going free, the hooded witches around her strengthened the chains and tied her mouth. Estoc speechless. The princess is out of his control. He turned his body, giving his approval.

Seooang the old man advanced forward. The same man who first guided the heroes. The supreme witch of the kingdom, Ryan von Stiltch. Holding an old book.

The book with the skull cover contains a full of crime that is concentrated and clear. A faint white streak reading "Eibon," became its title.

Ryan opened the page of the book carefully. It's as if you don't want to wake someone or "something". The book page has turned yellow. It is consumed by the sand of time. Forgotten by the world.

Even so, the power it contained was extremely strong. Black magic capable of leveling an empire in an instant. Killing thousands with one breath. The estoc didn't let his concentration slip.

It stopped at a page. Terrible illustrations are there. A human being possessed by a black fog. This is one of those black magic; controlling magic.

"Ehye'ah goff'n 'bthnk ng orr'eagl! Fm'latgthah chlrigh ng mnahn' uhe! Uaaahs! [S'uhn Illoig]!" Chanting the cursed ancient language, Ryan activated controlling magic.

A dark black fog emerged from the small cracks on the ground. Darker than the night sky. The fog crept into Fiona. He circled his body before entering his body.

"Ughh! Uhuk! Uhuk!"

Fiona's chest tight. Like breathing smoke. Coughing, Fiona could feel the air in her lungs thinning.

He felt the control over his body slowly disappear. A stiff feeling began to envelop his body. Something started controlling his body.

"Ku-kurobane-sama...."

Looks dark. Fiona fell unconscious. Calling the name of the person he loves.

✾✾✾✾

Do you know hate?

Do you know despair?

Do you know the darkness?

The feeling when the person you love is forcibly taken from you. When the light of your life is dashed before your eyes. When your life loses all meaning.

I experienced all of that. You do too, don't you? You and I are shaped by the same mold.

We condemn this unjust world. We curse the man who took them. We condemn our own weaknesses.

You thirst for power. Thirsty of the ability to protect your precious people and annihilate your enemies.

I hold the fountain of strength. Pinta and you will get it.

Accept myself. Then you'll get it.

Be me. Then you'll get it.

Surrender humanity. Then you'll get it.

You want power? Ask me.

Remember my name. The wanderer of hatred and vengeance. The Dark Lord.

My name is....

✾✾✾✾

Still unconscious, Shinnichi twitched several times. Sweat kept flowing from his body. The magic stone was no ordinary magic stone.

Once upon a time, there lived a dragon, not an ordinary dragon. He was the strongest dragon to ever set foot in Zelfria. The dark dragon emperor was his nickname.

It was the same dragon that ravaged Panzia two hundred years ago. Destroying the four largest empires at that time. Causing immeasurable damage and death.

After two years of destruction, the Dragon disappeared. Just like his arrival, he disappeared suddenly. Never seen anyone again.

And now, his magic stone had already instilled itself in his body. Slowly, the dark dragon emperor's powers begin to fill Shinnichi's body. Purple aura started to come out from his body. Like smoke floating above the fire.

Change is starting to happen.

Muscles ripped. Build new and stronger muscles. Adjusting to match the power of the Dragon. The sound of bone cracks could be heard horribly. Every tissue in his body screamed in pain. Pushing his metabolism to its threshold.

His body was growing at an unnatural speed. Thanks to that rapid growth, the wounds all over his body disappeared. Healed by force by his power.

Shinnichi's body adapts to the dragon's power. The evolution, no, the revolution that would change his life had begun. There's no turning back now.

Change has happened.

He is no longer human. On that day, a human named Kurobane Shinnichi died. On that day, the strongest creature named Kurobane Shinnichi was born.