The training grounds were quiet as Elder Ralnor stood before Shin, Miko, and Kuro, his expression thoughtful. After a moment of silence, he spoke with a commanding tone.
"I've decided that your training requires more than just my guidance. I've invited the six Elders of the Spirit Realm, each a master of their respective elements, to teach you. This will push your limits and help you master your powers."
The trio exchanged curious glances before nodding in unison. "We're ready," Shin said confidently.
Ralnor smiled. "Good. First, let me introduce the Elder of Darkness."
---
The Arrival of Elder Morvyn
From the shadows of a nearby grove, a figure emerged. He was tall and slender, his presence both regal and ominous. Long white hair cascaded down his back, contrasting sharply with his dark, flowing robe and cloak. Purple lines etched intricate patterns across his attire, glowing faintly as if pulsing with dark energy. His sharp ears and piercing black eyes gave him an otherworldly appearance.
The figure stopped a few paces from the group and bowed slightly. "I am Morvyn Dark," he introduced himself, his voice smooth yet commanding. "Master of dark manipulation and the Elder of Darkness. I will guide you in the art of the shadows."
The trio nodded in respect, their eyes filled with curiosity and a hint of unease.
---
Lessons in Darkness
Morvyn began his teachings by explaining the fundamentals of Dark Spirit Arts—how to manipulate shadows, harness negative energy, and use the surrounding darkness to one's advantage. He demonstrated by creating tendrils of shadow that slithered like living creatures, weaving through the air with precision and grace.
"Darkness is not just absence of light," Morvyn explained. "It is a force, a presence, a tool. Learn to control it, and it will obey your will."
The trio eagerly practiced the techniques, their determination evident. Miko, with his natural aptitude for absorbing knowledge, quickly excelled. Within hours, he had mastered several dark techniques, earning Morvyn's approval.
"You've earned the Dark Blessing," Morvyn announced, placing a hand on Miko's shoulder. A faint black aura enveloped Miko, solidifying his connection to the element.
---
Shin's Unique Affinity
As Miko continued to refine his skills, Morvyn turned his attention to Shin, who seemed to be progressing slower—at least on the surface. However, something about Shin caught Morvyn's eye. He narrowed his gaze and observed the faint, swirling aura around Shin.
"Interesting…" Morvyn murmured, a smirk tugging at his lips. "You have an unusual affinity for the dark spirits. They're drawn to you, circling you like moths to a flame."
Shin grinned, closing his eyes and clapping his hands together. "That sounds great," he said with a cheerful tone, though his smile carried a hint of something deeper.
Morvyn's smirk faded, replaced by wide-eyed shock. "Wait… You can see the dark spirits?"
Shin opened his eyes, his expression calm but knowing. "Yes," he replied simply.
Morvyn stepped closer, his tone growing serious. "Only those with a cunning mind, a ruthless heart, or an insatiable greed for power can perceive them. Such individuals often walk the path of a villain. Tell me, Shin… What do you see?"
---
Shin's Scythe Awakens
Shin smiled faintly but said nothing. Instead, he stepped back, his movements deliberate and slow. When no one was watching closely, he summoned his scythe into his hand. The weapon's massive blade gleamed, its demonic red eye snapping open with a menacing glare. Chains and locks that had bound the scythe for so long began to rattle, glowing faintly as they unraveled.
As the locks fell away, the scythe's mouth opened wide, revealing sharp, gleaming teeth. The weapon pulsed with dark energy, its presence suffocating and terrifying.
In his mind, Shin marveled at the weapon's potential. Not only can it absorb souls, but it also consumes magic, mana, energy, and even life forms… including spirits themselves.
Without hesitation, Shin swung the scythe lightly, and the dark spirits surrounding him were drawn to the weapon like a vortex. They screamed silently as they were consumed, their energy fueling the scythe's power.
The entire process was over in moments. Shin quickly dismissed the scythe, sending it back into his dimensional storage as if nothing had happened. When he turned back to the group, his smile was as innocent as ever.
"Shall we start now?" he asked cheerfully.
---
Morvyn's Confusion
Morvyn froze, his senses on high alert. He scanned the area, his brows furrowing deeply. "The dark spirits…" he muttered. "Where did they go? I can't sense them anymore."
Shin tilted his head, feigning confusion. "Really? That's strange. Maybe they just decided to leave?"
Morvyn studied Shin carefully, his instincts warning him that something wasn't right. Yet, he couldn't detect any evidence of what had occurred. Finally, he shook his head and sighed.
"Very well," Morvyn said. "Let us continue. But mark my words, Shin Asakura… You are full of surprises."
Shin chuckled, his grin widening. "I'll take that as a compliment."