“Now is the time for you to realize your full potential, Kuroishi.” Vlakrados’ voice commanded from the darkness. Roba stood immersed in that all consuming darkness yet again, the Stone of the Fallen grasped tightly in his right palm. “I have given you unimaginable power, but it is time for you to ascend to your full power. You must return the Stone of the Fallen to the Temple of Mondain. Vlakrados commanded. This order completely confused Roba. Why had he been sent to the Master’s ancient home to obtain this artifact only to return it to the Temple?

The answer to his question soon emanated from the darkness. “Continue your work with the Temple; put all of your efforts forth to help them realize their goals. My ascension from darkness and your very life are tied by the bonds of fate to the Temple. Rise in the ranks of the Temple; never let your loyalty to them falter. Soon the prophet will issue forth a request, for you to become a Vardagul, and to go through the proper ritual of transformation. It is imperative that during this ceremony you must have the Stone of the Fallen in your grasp. During this transformation, the souls trapped within the Stone of the Fallen will be released.. The fighting prowess and power of countless warriors will be given to you then. The souls themselves will be sent to me, and they will become my army.. Your army to command, Kuroishi.” Vlakrados’ voice could not hide the utter joy at the near completion of his plans.

Roba could only allow a devious grin to cross his lips as he clasped the Stone of the Fallen tighter in his gloved palm. “So, Demon, I get unimaginable power, a new army, and untold fighting prowess. What role does the Temple have in all of this, and what if I was to never return to the darkness?” Roba said defiantly. Suddenly, the mark upon Roba’s body began to glow a bright crimson hue, the light from the mark shot through the darkness, much like the immense pain that coursed through Roba’s body. “You will spend an eternity in mind-numbing pain if you ever betray me. As for the Temple, they have many artifacts to discover yet, most of which will lead to my ascension from darkness. Not to mention.. I promised Mondain himself ages ago that one day the Kuroishi himself would assist his Temple.” Vlakrados’ voice shook with immense power. Once the words ceased to emanate from the darkness the pain that consumed Roba’s body quickly dissipated. Upon gathering his composure once more, Roba glared defiantly outward, into the darkness before muttering, “Very well, Demon, I will do what you ask of me.” The voice of Vlakrados rose from the darkness once more to utter the words, “Very good, go on and do not disappoint me Kuroishi.”

Roba opened his eyes once more and there he stood, in front of his Master’s ancient home. “The time has come..” Roba muttered under his breath as he marched toward the Temple.