THE REBORN WORLD OF THE CHRONICLES

"We're almost at the Shinra Kingdom," Marco called out from the front of the chariot. "Your new life begins here, boys. And I promise—once your brother passes his trial, you'll see him again."

Elijah and Marcus sat quietly in the back, eyes distant with thoughts of their brother.

"You're joining them, right?" Marco asked, glancing at Rebekah. She didn't answer. Her silence said everything. She can't leave the boy who saved her life huh.

"We're here," Marco said as they pulled up to a small house tucked behind the academy grounds. "Ma'am, this is your home now. It's best we don't return to the old one I bought this place some years ago when I visited this kingdom. That area is now tainted. Alfie's Renshi outburst will attract more darkside spirits—too dangerous to stay."

Margaret didn't speak. She simply walked up to the door, opened it, and paused. "You've helped me and my children more than you know. You're not just keeping a promise to Falco—you're helping me raise them. So assist me in every way you can Mister Shinra. I'm counting on you."

"You have my word," Marco replied, giving her a slight bow before riding off without Rebekah. I finally gained her trust… that's one of the greatest steps. Now it's your turn, Alfie.

Back at the isolated smith site, Alfie stood alone, staring at the empty yard.

"They really left…" he muttered, guilt heavy in his voice. "I guess I messed things up… this time ."

But there was no time to dwell on regret. He turned and entered his father's workshop. His eyes widened in awe.

Rows of swords, shields, axes, hammers, and bows lined the walls, shining even in the dim light. "So cool… Papa really was a great smith. Was huh… I hate that word."

A sudden wave of sorrow struck him. "My papa was killed by those damn darkside spirits... It's unforgivable!"

His veins darkened—black tendrils pulsing under his skin. His eyes flared crimson. The hatred inside him surged uncontrollably.

"I'll kill them all!"

The dark Renshi erupted from his body, twisting the air. His scream echoed through the land, a call that drew predators from the shadows.

Then—like a calm breeze in a storm—he heard a voice.

"Stay still, my son. Don't fall to the evil in you."

Alfie froze, heart pounding.

"If you truly wish to eliminate the darkside spirits… do it for justice, not hatred. Don't become the next abomination. Darkness will consume you if you let it. You must fight for mankind, not revenge."

It was his father's voice. Not heard with ears—but felt deep in his soul.

The corruption faded. His veins returned to normal, his eyes glowing white before dimming. He fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face.

"I'm sorry, Papa. I almost failed you…"

He wept. "Mama… Eli… Marcus… I pushed you away. Will you ever forgive me?"

A warning echoed in his mind. "This is no time to cry. They're coming."

Alfie looked up.

The wall exploded.

Seven beta darkside spirits burst through, shrieking as they charged forward.

Without hesitation, Alfie grabbed a massive sword—nearly his own height.

"I won't die here—not after everything!"

He leapt forward, slicing the first darkside spirit's neck clean through.

More howled and advanced.

"I guess you freaks can't talk like the one from before," he muttered, diving forward again.

But before his blade struck, a heavy punch slammed into his back. He hit the ground hard, face-first.

Gritting his teeth, he rolled and stood. Blood trickled from his mouth.

"I'm not done yet…"

But there were too many.

And this… was just the beginning.