The Blackthorne Fortress stands firm on a rocky hill, staring arrogantly at the capital city of Eldoria. Built from obsidian stone and black silver, this fortress has witnessed battles for centuries. It is not just a defensive stronghold but a symbol of the Crowhaven family's power, a lineage known as the "Guardians of Darkness" since ancient times.
However, tonight, the fortress will become a grave for its last ruler.
Eldoria - The City Beneath the Shadow of the Crown
Eldoria is the capital of the Ashford Kingdom, the center of governance, trade, and religion. The city is divided into three main parts:
1. Ashford Royal Palace – Built in the heart of the city, this palace stands majestic with golden towers and white marble pillars. From here, King Alden Ashford IV rules with an iron fist, although many whisper that his power is increasingly influenced by the Church of Lumina.
2. Church of Lumina – The largest religious institution in the kingdom, controlling the people's beliefs and possessing its own military power, known as the Knights of the Radiant Sun. The Church of Lumina worships Luxian, the God of Light, and condemns any form of magic not derived from their teachings as "forbidden knowledge."
3. Lower District & Black Market – The dark side of Eldoria, where thieves, slave traders, and shadow mages operate beyond the kingdom's control. This is where Vincent first discovered the dark magic that turned him into a hunted man.
In this city, laws are written with golden ink but enforced with blood. And tonight, Vincent will become one of its victims.
Church of Lumina - The Burning Light
Founded over 500 years ago, the Church of Lumina was initially a small sect spreading Luxian's teachings. However, over time, they transformed into a political force that even kings fear to oppose.
The Church claims to be the only source of truth in this world. Magic they do not recognize as "divine gifts" is deemed heretical and worthy of extermination.
Hierarchy of the Church of Lumina:
Pope Lucien XII – The highest leader, known as "The Embodiment of Light in the World."
Cardinals of Radiance – The council of elders that decides the church's laws.
High Inquisitors – The holy executioners who hunt and destroy users of forbidden magic.
Knights of the Radiant Sun – The holy forces, led by Edmund Valerius.
Vincent was once part of them—not as a knight but as a noble who supported the Church. Until he discovered something that led to his banishment.
Vincent's Magic - The Forbidden Legacy of Crowhaven
Vincent is not just an ordinary noble. He is the last heir of the Crowhaven family, known for its connection to ancient magic called "Ars Tenebris" or the Arts of Darkness.
In this world, magic is divided into two main types:
1. Divine Magic – The source of power for the priests and knights of the Church of Lumina. It uses energy from Luxian to heal, protect, and attack with holy light.
2. Elemental & Ancient Magic – The powers that arise from the world itself, such as fire, water, air, and earth.
However, there is a third type of magic considered taboo:
3. Forbidden Magic (Forbidden Arts) – Magic condemned by the Church of Lumina. One example is Ars Tenebris, the art inherited by Vincent from his family.
Vincent's mastery of Ars Tenebris includes:
Ravensoul – Vincent's black sword is not just a weapon but an extension of his soul. He can absorb energy from those he defeats, making him stronger.
Shadow Veil – It allows him to move through shadows, almost like teleportation.
Blood Pact – A technique that enables him to enhance his body with his own blood, increasing his strength and speed, but at great risk.
When Vincent began to explore these powers, the Church of Lumina quickly marked him as a threat.