MLIV C5, P2- "Unraveled"

"Unraveled" is the second Part of "Miracula Luxia IV" 's fifth Chapter.
It was released on 24.04.2022.
== Plot ==
After a long and tedious journey, Adam and his allies have managed to reach the gates leading to Erika's Tower mostly unharmed. Having managed to complete the challenge that opens the way to those ancient lands, they steel themselves for what has yet to come.
However, Mordred Darkthrop seems to know about their arrival. He forms a magical projection of himself, threatening the heroes as they travel deeper into this unknown territory and warning them of what would happen if they stand in his way.
Even so, there is still a long way to go. Erika's Tower is only the first stop in our hero's final journey, as well as another chance for him to redeem himself, to the whole world... and himself.
Will he continue to face the forces of Mordred Darkthrop, putting all that he has left at stake?
== Story ==
As Adam and his allies descend into the tower of Erika Redmark, they notice how much the sands of time have changed it since the demise of the legendary archmage.
"Oh my god."- Akira says- "I expected a glorious, outstanding place- home of Avernum's greatest archmage. And yet, what I see here is nothing more than a wreck. What could have possibly gone wrong?"
Indeed, the place looks like nothing more than a ruin from the inside. Many of the rooms leading into the inner chambers of the tower have already been broken into and stripped of whatever valuables Erika's servants might have carelessly left behind.
Balthazar takes a few steps forward and kneels. He picks up a half-broken potion bottle and cautiously sniffs the viscous liquid that is still left inside.
"It's fresh. Unnervingly so."- He says- "Someone's been in here recently. And they aren't just your everyday scavengers and outlaws, set out to loot whatever they want."
Adam nods.
"I can feel it, too."- He says- "Even from here, it is clear Darkthrop's warriors have already gained access to this place long before we did."
Akira looks around, confused.
"But why didn't they get further into the tower?"- She asks- "They had every chance to outrun us. And yet, their trail stops near the door to the west. From the looks of it, they didn't even attempt to break it down!"
Adam sighs.
"Trifling with ancient magic like this is bad news, even for experienced campaigners like themselves."- He responds- "Sure, they managed to get inside... somehow. However, getting past the traps left behind is another question. A question of discipline and determination to succeed."
He shrugs.
"Which, of course, they did not have."
Akira nods.
"This is quite a peculiar predicament."- She says- "Darkthrop's people aren't famed for their strategical thinking. Not by a long shot."
Balthazar sighs.
"I never imagined to get inside Archmage Erika's tower. Not now, at least."- He says- "To think that evil creatures like those would dare to penetrate into this sacred place before we did is... unthinkable."
Adam shakes his head.
"Anything is possible if you are unlucky enough, Balthazar."- He says- "And it seems like those fiends managed to take advantage of our absence. They may be gone now, but that may change anytime soon."
Balthazar nods.
"The avernites were too careless. They let the home of their greatest archmage fall into ruin. They forgot about the one who orchestrated the defeat of the old and wicked Emperor Hawthorne and brought a more peaceful future to their lands."- He says- "Because of their foolishness, they are paying the ultimate price."
Adam sighs.
"No matter what the avernites have done while we were gone, it does not matter. Blaming them for such a minor matter is completely unwise."- He says- "Sure. They left this place unguarded. They thought that there was nothing useful left inside. But they had other matters to take care of, some of them much more dangerous than keeping an old tower standing tall in the face of danger. So, it is left to heroes like us to prevent villains like Darkthrop's people from getting their hands on the treasures within."
Balthazar nods.
"Honestly, I hope the legends of Erika's fascination of necromancery are not true."- He says- "The Necronomicon, whatever it may be, must hold incredible tower within its pages. Were it left behind in a place like this, then it's surely a tempting target for the forces of evil."
Adam looks at Balthazar and raises his eyebrow.
"Why do you keep on talking about this ancient book of evil?"- He asks him- "Are you... interested in the vile magic that reanimates the deceased?"
Balthazar shakes his head nervously.
"Of course not!"- He exclaims- "I would never dare to touch it with my own hands!"
He looks down and clenches his fists.
"However, I once had a friend who was fond of the dark arts."- He adds- "Were he still alive and well, he would have loved to have the book for himself."
Akira raises her eyebrow.
"O-kay. Now, I'm confused."- She says- "You claim to be a good and righteous man, yet you call people like that person your friends?"
Balthazar shakes his head.
"Actually, that person never was my friend. We used to work together, but he was too secluded. Too... manical to be a friend to anyone."- He says- "Like many other villains before him, he wanted to conquer the whole planet for himself. He possessed the power of necromancery and used it to take over some of the world's most important cities. However, he only managed to conquer the kingdoms of Goznor and Canonia. Everywhere else, his forces only incurred the wrath of the humans. Err... his fellow humans. But then, he was defeated by a band of heroes. They stumbled into his palace in the sky and destroyed all of his servants. Brought upon the end of this monster, just like they were destined to."
He clenches his fists again.
"Even though he was a colleague of mine, believe me when I say that I'm glad he's gone."- He adds- "His name tainted the reputation of humankind in the eyes of all non-humans. Other trusted us less because of what he had done. But he's here no longer, and that's the end of the story."
Akira sighs.
"We got it, buddy. You hate him. We hate him. There's no one in this world who doesn't despise this evildoer."- She says- "Can we just get on with our adventure? Please?"
Balthazar nods.
"As you wish, m'lady."- He responds and bows his head- "Stand forward and I give you my word that I shall protect you from all that is evil."
Adam leans close to Akira.
"He is not being very honest with us."
Akira shakes her head.
"I still don't trust him, but we don't have a choice in this matter. Not when we're still deep in enemy lands."- She whispers to him- "Just try to hide your suspicion. If he truly means to hurt us, then his real intentions shall be revealed soon."
Adam nods.
"I am not worried about myself, Aki. I fear that something might happen to you."- He whispers- "Are you sure that you will be alright?"
Akira sighs.
"Don't worry about me. Dark magic doesn't tempt me anymore and neither do the words of my former "colleague". "- She whispers- "I made a promise to stay by your side. And, I assure you, nothing will ever stand in my way of helping you fight for a better future."
Adam smiles. Seeing the determination in his sister's eyes is quite invigorating for his noble soul.
"Then we shall proceed through this maze. Together."- He whispers- "Onward!"
The three of them get past the wreckage that used to be the entryway of the tower, avoiding large chunks of rubble left on the ground.
"It seems like some of the magic left in this place has... evaporated."- Adam says- "Without the archmage's influence, everything is becoming unstable."
Akira nods.
"And that's why we should hurry."- She says- "Who knows what kind of horrible things are going to happen once we obtain that book?"
Adam sighs.
"I wish that dad was with us instead of this stranger."- He says to himself- "He may not know much about this place, but he is not a coward."
As Adam and Akira step toward the door leading to the next room, Balthazar stops them.
"Hold on."- He says to them- "This is the same spot where I saw that trap."
Adam raises his eyebrow.
"A trap?"- He asks- "Is this the reason why the ground around us is so uneven?"
Balthazar nods.
"Exactly."- He says- "Had we been a little bit more careless, everything around us would have fallen apart."
He sees a hole in the room ahead and sighs.
"However, some of the tower's visitors were not quite as cautious as us."
Watching the walls on both sides, Balthazar leans closer to the gate. Triggering something that seems to be both active and dangerous, he leaps back just in time as a barrage of arrows flies from the walls.
"And that's why you should be ready for everything."
Proceeding ahead without any fear, the wizard spots a small, square rock that protrudes from the ground below.
"Just as I expected."- He says- "Erika's guardians left a pressure plate, in the hopes that they could incinerate us all before we even get close."
Using a portion of his water magic, he splashes the hidden pressure plate, triggering the trap.
"Here we go, everyone."- Balthazar says- "Stand close to me. We'll survive, I promise."
Having said that, he raises a shield made from water magic as jets of flame attempt to burn them to a crisp.
It takes a few seconds for the wizard to find the source of this wild magic, but when he finally does, he seems to know what to do.
"Brace for impact!"- He yells- "This is going to be a big one, for sure!"
Having said that, he channels an immense amount of energy into his magical shield, forcing the projectiles that are being launched toward them to return to their sources.
In a little more than just a few seconds, the openings from which the flames are emerging explode, shattering the walls nearby into hundreds of pieces and revealing two separate passages for our heroes to cross.
"Do you see this, children?"- Balthazar says and smiles as his shield finally fades away- "You may not trust me, but you can still rest assured that I am on your side."
Adam nods.
"It seems like you have finally proven yourself."- He says- "Well done, Balthazar. Your quick thinking just saved us from a deadly trap."
Balthazar smiles.
"I see. It is an honor to be respected by someone like you."- He responds- "But you had the same mastery in water magic. If people claim that you are one of the most powerful warriors in the world, then why didn't you help?"
Adam smiles.
"Although it is my duty to help those in need, nothing is achieved by simply standing behind someone who can fight back against the darkness."- He says- "Sometimes, I test those whom I deem worthy of being my allies. I judge whether I could trust them to be by my side. And you, my friend, are one of the most exemplary mages I have ever met."
Balthazar smiles.
"Then I'm glad that you have me such a challenge."
The three of them attempt to proceed, but are once again stopped by the magic of this place. Both walls are covered with magical barriers and the gate sparkles as they get close.
"Intruders. You managed to get past Erika Redmark's defenses, but your troubles have only just begun."- A disembodied voice comes from nearby- "Before you proceed further into the tower, we, the defenders of those sacred lands, need to ask you a question. Who are you and what is the reason behind your visit?"
Without thinking twice, Adam steps forward and stares at the gate.
"My name is Adam Kaos, valiant savior of the known lands and sworn protector of the innocent from the forces of evil."- He says- "I have come here to recover an ancient script that would be invaluable to the forces of a wizard of old known as Mordred Darkthrop. It is my duty to save the world from his dark empire and thus, I am trying to find a way to defeat him. So please, if you know what is best for the common world that we live in, grant us entry into this place and I give you my word that we will do whatever we can to keep the memories of the one who gave her own life away to save us all."
Suddenly, our heroes hear a faint click coming from nearby. Moments later, the gate leading into the inner sanctum of the tower opens.
"You hail from the surface world. Erika used to despise your kind due to the crimes which you committed centuries ago. And yet, it is more than clear that the world above has changed a lot since then. Many heroes rose to protect us from those who wish to destroy us, and you're the worthiest of them all."- The voice says- "You may enter. If this is truly your desire, then we shall not stop you. But be warned that the traps further into this tower are old and unstable. Even so, they are still very much active and they're going to kill you, if you are not careful. Enter, but beware. That is all."
And so, the room grows silent once again. Our heroes are free to go further.
"Well, what are we waiting for?"- Adam says and draws his weapon- "We have a chance to make a difference. Do not waste it."
With that, the three of them proceed further.
A few steps through the gate, however, they trigger yet another magical trap. However, it is not meant to harm or hinder them in any way. All that it does is to annoy them.
As they wonder what is going to happen, the whole tower falls black, as if covered by a veil of shadows. Their vision becomes blurry and it seems as if they are in a very dark room.
"Hey!"- Akira exclaims- "Who turned off the lights?!"
Adam sighs.
"It seems like Erika has prepared a dangerous trap for trespassers such as ourselves, even though we are on her side."- He says- "Stand close to me. I fear that the worst has yet to come."
He tries to form a wisp of light to illuminate the way ahead of them, but soon realizes that nothing is happening. He snaps his fingers a few times, but everything is still the same.
"What is this?"- He asks- "Are we in the middle of some sort of... magic-draining field?"
Balthazar sighs.
"That explains the sudden exhaustion that I'm feeling right now."- He says- "Since I am a person who solely relies on magic, the nullity is even more dangerous for me."
Adam nods.
"We must get out of here before it kills us."
As they proceed further, they hear growls coming from nearby.
"I think that something's stalking us!"- Akira exclaims- "We're not alone in here!"
Adam keeps his weapon close.
"I am not afraid of any enemies, be they human or not."- He says- "They may have the advantage in this place, but that does not change the fact that they are not invulnerable. Just keep on striking them and they shall fall apart."
Balthazar pulls out a small wand.
"Easy for you to say."- He says- "You have the power of light on your side and we... we're just here to help you. We can't fight, not in this condition!"
Akira glares at him.
"Are you claiming that you're afraid of some petty monsters?"- She asks- "My brother's right. They're just as confused as we are. And if we still have the chance to fight back, then we-- "
Suddenly, a large wolf-like beast jumps out of the darkness and trips her. As it leans closer, it snaps its jaws in a threatening way, as if taunting her for trespassing.
"Back, you foul beast!"- She yells- "You may have the darkness on your side, but we have the light!"
That said, she draws her sword and pierces the large beast in the neck.
As the mighty creature falls to the ground, she feels as if a great weight was lifted off her shoulders. And yet, it soon feels as if nothing has changed at all.
"Good work, Aki."- Adam says to his sister- "Now, we know what we are dealing with."
However, fate soon plays with Adam's sanity as another fiend emerges from the shadows.
Our hero is being attacked by a goblin. However, the creature seems to be rather twisted and mishappen. Its skin is dark grey and it has a wild, mischievous look in its blood red eyes. And, from the looks of it, it seems to be very, very angry about something.
The creature lunges forward and claws at Adam's chest, forcing him to leap back and fire a few arrows in its direction. However, the beast bends down and starts running on both its hands and legs, resembling a mighty wolf in the wilderness. With a few nimble leaps from side to side, it avoids Adam's arrows and jumps in the air, nearly landing on Adam's head.
"This creature is like a close relative to Beowulf- the creature of evil that I defeated earlier. It is almost as if they were trained in the same way as him, as if they were injected with the same dark energy."- Adam says to himself- "Does this mean that Beowulf himself also had humanoid origins when he was still alive?"
However, he is left no time to wonder as three more of the mysterious goblins emerge from the dark and attack him.
"Adam!"- Akira yells- "Are you alright?"
Adam nods.
"Try to hold them back!"- He yells- "I will try to find a way to stop them!"
As Akira and Balthazar stand in the goblins' way, Adam takes a few steps back and focuses his attention on his surroundings.
"Those creatures are very powerful. Engaging them in close combat would be a huge, perhaps fatal, mistake for us."- He says to himself- "However, there seems to be no other way to take them down. Not without magic, at the very least."
As he takes a few more steps back, his elbow hits a secret button.
"Wait."- Adam says as he hears the click coming from it- "What is happening?"
Suddenly, the light returns once again. 
"Nice work, Adam!"- Akira says- "Now, we can find the way out of this wreck and proceed further into the t-- "
Suddenly, a loud roar pierces the night as flames erupt to the right of them.
"Oh no! You trigged a quickfire trap!"- Balthazar yells- "Come on! We've got to get out of here before it burns us down!"
Adam raises his eyebrow.
"Quickfire?"- He asks- "You mean... one of the most intense forms of magic known to man?"
Balthazar nods.
"Exactly!"- He says- "Now, do you want to live or not?!"
Adam sighs.
"Yes, yes."- He says- "Come on. Let us get moving."
As the flames roar behind them, the goblin-like creatures start to yell in terror. It seems like Adam and his allies found their weakness without even knowing it before.
"It seems like I was right!"- Adam exclaims- "Humanoids are often scared of fire. If present in a room with a high amount of it, then this means that they are often going to cease whatever they are doing, just to save themselves!"
Akira raises her eyebrow.
"But isn't everyone else scared of fire, too?"- She asks- "What makes them different from those who want to live?"
Adam nods.
"It is no secret that many despise fire. It is the main cause behind many monuments valuable to mankind."- He says- "However, the creatures that we are speaking of are humanoids. Many of them are susceptible to fire and thus, it is considered lethal for them in many occasions. I know a lot about this, because dad used it during the humanoid raids that happened decades ago, when our hometown- the city of Paris- was almost destroyed by them. Back then, the creatures were very organized and powerful, but the use of fire was the key to defeating them."
He turns to the gate and sighs.
"However, even though the goblins are terrified, we still have to find a way to open our way out."- He adds- "The nullity field is still affecting us, so magic is not the option."
Balthazar nods.
"How about we knock it down?"- He suggests- "It's a sturdy one, but I'm sure that we can succeed!"
Adam smiles sadly.
"Good suggestion, Balthazar."- He says to him- "However, the quickfire is going to incinerate us before we can even make a dent into it... if it is even possible to do so."
Akira looks back at the flames, concerned.
"Then what can we possibly do?!"- She asks- "We're too young to die in such a humiliating way!"
Adam shakes his head.
"Do not lose your focus, sister."- He says- "If there was a way to get in here, then there is surely a way to get out, as well."
As Adam wonders what they could do, the quickfire starts heading in their direction.
"Umm, Adam!"- Balthazar says- "I hate to distract you, but we're going to die!" 
Adam nods.
"I understand."- He says calmly- "Just prepare yourselves. Run back at my command."
The flames get even closer.
"Okay. I admit that I was a little scared back then. But now, I'm terrified!"- Akira says- "If there's a plan you've got in mind, you better execute it now!"
Adam does not say anything. He simply watches the quickfire through the reflection of the steel gates.
"Come on, wild magic of the tower."- He mutters- "Just a little bit closer... "
Balthazar takes a step back.
"This is not good!"- He exclaims- "Not good at all!"
Adam nods.
"A little bit more."- He mutters- "And... "
Just as the flames get close to Akira's feet, Adam raises his hand.
"Jump back!"- He yells- "Now!"
Suddenly, the three of them leap away as the quickfire gets closer to the gate. Soon, it reaches the gate and sets it on fire.
Although it seems like nothing is happening, at first, the flames soon melt down the steel, bringing down the only obstacle in the way of our heroes with ease. Then, as the last of its energy is expended, it finally dies down.
"Wow."- Akira says- "That was... intense."
Adam nods.
"It is best not to underestimate the power of fire, especially one that is of magical origin."
Our heroes let out three loud sighs of relief and look back at the area behind them. They notice the corpses of the goblin-like creatures, incinerated by the quickfire that almost killed them.
"It seems like they weren't as lucky as us."- Akira says- "I'd say that it was well-deserved, but nobody deserves to die like this."
Adam sighs.
"Well. No matter how we feel about them now, they are gone. We cannot change the past, no matter how hard we try."- He says and takes a step forward- "We have passed yet another challenge. We survived the onslaught of both the guardians and the magic of this place. And yet, I feel like this is only the beginning. If we are to reach the highest point of this place, we must stay focused."
He looks back at his allies.
"So, let us proceed."- He says- "From now on, the guardians of Erika's Tower are only going to get stronger. But I know that we can emerge victorious."
Having said that, he walks into the next room, joined by Akira and Balthazar.
Adam notices that the walls around them are tingling. He cautiously gets closer and touches them with the palm of his hand, receiving a mild shock soon after.
"Just as I expected."- He says- "The magic within its tower is at its strongest here."
Akira nods.
"So, this means that we're getting closer?"
Adam nods.
"This is one of the signs that we are on the right path."- He says- "And yet, something seems to be rather... odd. Is someone trying to play mind tricks on us?"
Balthazar looks around.
"Or maybe it's just the magic of this place?"
Adam shakes his head.
"I have studied magic for a long time and I know that, powerful as it may be, it is still inanimate and not capable of committing such actions."- He says- "Someone is directing it against us. Are the ones responsible part of a group that has been sent to kill us? Or are they just the ones who protect the tower from intruders? We will never know for sure, until he come face to face with them."
As they proceed, they notice that there is some sort of malevolent energy coming from nearby. It is as if someone has mixed it into the pile, forming an aura of confusion.
"Stay calm, everyone."- Adam says- "And watch out for... this!"
The three of them leap back just in time as a shade appears in front of them.
"Is this another guardian of the tower?"- Akira wonders aloud.
Adam nods.
"It could be a guardian. There is a high possibility of that."- He says- "However, I have a bad feeling that it is something much worse."
Balthazar raises his eyebrow.
"Like what?"
Adam glares at the shade as it continues to take shape.
"A messenger."
As the shade finally turns into its humanoid form, both Adam and Akira instantly recognize him.
"Oh no."- Akira mutters- "He found us. He knows we're here."
She draws her weapon.
"I will destroy you for what you did to my brother!"- She yells- "Do you hear me?!"
As she proceeds to attack, Adam stops her.
"Aki, stop."- He says to her- "This is not him."
Akira looks closer and realizes that it is not the spirit of a person.
"A magical projection?"- She asks- "Is this how he's going to haunt us?"
Adam sighs.
"I guess so."
As Darkthrop watches them, he realizes that he is in the right place. Moments later, he smiles.
"Welcome, heirs of the Kaos family. My sworn enemies."- He says- "Did you really think that your visit would remain unnoticed for much longer?"
Adam nods.
"And you think that you can stop us in your current form?"
Darkthrop chuckles.
"I'd love to, but that would just spoil all the fun I've got left for all of you."- He responds- "No, Adam Kaos. I'm not here to fight you, at least not yet. I'm just here to give you a warning. And tell you a bit about myself."
Adam raises his eyebrow.
"You want to talk to us?"- He asks- "What kind of trick is this, Darkthrop?"
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"I'm not doing this for you, kid."- He says- "There's a person who's travelling alongside you. Back in Underfall, you stole her away from me. And now, I want her back."
Akira shakes her head.
"We may have been friends once, but our ties were severed long ago."- She says- "You chose your path and I chose mine. So, step back and leave my brother alone!"
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"I'm sorry Akira, but I can't let you go just like this."- He says- "You belong to me. You gave a promise to work for the servants of darkness. Disobeying me in such a foolish way is only going to condemn you to a life of pain and suffering."
Akira clenches her fists.
"I'd rather go through the abyss itself, bare-footed and stepping through the hottest flames, than have to deal with you again."- She says- "I don't belong to the darkness anymore, Darkthrop. You made a mistake by choosing me as your ally. And now, you're slowly paying for it."
Darkthrop chuckles.
"You claim to be a part of the light, but you're just like us. You, Akira, are an outcast. A witch whom everyone wants to burn to a crisp, no matter how much they show it or not."- He says- "Soon, you shall see the truth again. But this time, I may not be so forgiving."
Adam steps in front of his sister.
"That is enough!"- He yells- "Say whatever you have to say and get out of here!"
Darkthrop nods.
"As you wish, hero."
He looks around.
"Two centuries ago, I used to live in a place like this. It was one of the safest places in the known lands. Nobody dared to challenge my absolute rule. I was the most feared mage."- He says- "Back when I was a known man in this world, Erika Redmark wasn't even born. And neither were any members of The Five- the mighty group of mages that everyone in Avernum has been talking about."
Adam nods.
"And what made you so famous?"
Darkthrop grins.
"My desire for world domination, of course!"- He exclaims- "Many villains have attempted to become the terrors of the known lands. They wrecked havoc upon everything that they saw, burning down innocent villages and slaughtering innocent civilians. But they were all defeated by heroes, sooner or later. Me? I was the worst thing the world has ever known. Many young heroes whose hometowns I destroyed with my own hands, have faced me in battle. They thought that they had the power of taking me down. And yet, their skulls now lie on poles near my tower. They all failed. They all let own both their people... and themselves. And now, they suffer because of the mistakes that they made."
He shakes his head.
"But that is of no concern now, for I reigned supreme for many decades. The people of Hamburg were afraid of me. They brought me many gifts, in exchange for sparing their humble homes from the flames of vengeance."- He says- "I was the king of this world. The emperor of this universe. Nobody dared to stop me, because they knew how foolish it was."
Adam nods.
"And yet, you were still defeated."
He clenches his fist.
"I will never forgive him for what he did."- He says- "He may be gone now, but he shall still pay for his crimes against our family."
Akira leans closer to her brother.
"Or his absolute heroism, in the face of evil within his own family."- She whispers to him.
Adam is confused, but decides to ask about more details later.
"Earlier, you mentioned something about the "flames of vengeance". "- He says- "Does this mean that you are an evil man because someone harmed you?"
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"Not exactly."- He says- "You see, I'm not a tyrant because I felt like it. Because someone hurt my feelings or broke my nose. No, I did it because they took away the dearest thing to me. The only person whom I ever loved."
Adam raises his eyebrow.
"You did all of those heinous crimes out of... love?"
Darkthrop nods.
"When I was a young man, I married the most beautiful woman in the world. She blessed me with a child and we were happy together."- He says- "However, she was obsessed with dark magic- just like me. And when the world found out about us, they did not treat her well. At all."
Adam nods.
"And so, this means that all people in the world are evil in your eyes?"
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"Normally, I'd look twice before destroying an innocent village."- He says- "But that is of no concern to me. The people of this world thought that my wife was a witch, trained by the servants of darkness to kill them all, one after the other. They tied her to a stake and burned her to death, right in front of my eyes. They're all a bunch of heartless monsters and they must pay for their crimes, whatever they may be."
Adam shakes his head.
"I sympathize with what happened to you back then, but this is no reason to burn down everything in sight."- He says- "Your people have been killing innocent civilians, completely unrelated to your vengeance. Many more have lost their homes, just because you are feeling ashamed that you were unable to protect your beloved."
He clenches his fists.
"Just like you, I lost someone very important. Someone who meant a lot to me."- He says- "When he became a part of our family, he had suffered a lot. His father was killed while trying to protect a town from the forces of the vile fiend who was known as Lucifer Griffin. His birth mother died while trying to protect him from the same people. And what did your people do? They took him away from me, like my people took away your beloved from you. However, unlike you, I never dared to destroy everything that those people are fighting for, just because I wanted to avenge him. No, I never abandoned my beliefs, because I know that he is still there for me, even though we are miles apart from each other. And my faith in the people of this world only grew stronger."
He glares at him.
"So tell me, Darkthrop!"- He yells- "Do you see what kind of a monster you are now?!"
Darkthrop looks down.
"No. It's too late for me."- He says- "I've already gone too far."
Adam raises his eyebrow.
"What do you mean?"
Darkthrop looks up.
"Too much pain."- He tries to elaborate- "Those people made me suffer. So, I must make them suffer as well."
Adam sighs and shakes his head.
"It is just as Miss Emela had told me years ago."- He says- "When a villain claims that others are monsters and tries to act like he is the hero, he always fails to see the truth. He never realizes that he is the true monster."
He looks at Darkthrop.
"However, there is one more thing that I need to know."
Darkthrop smiles.
"Ask away."- He says- "I love answering the questions of heroes like you before getting rid of them. It's much more interesting when they know the truth."
Adam nods.
"Earlier, you mentioned someone who harmed your family. Someone whom you do not want to forgive."- He says- "Who could have done such a thing?"
Darkthrop sighs.
"You'll never understand what it feels like to be betrayed."
Adam shakes his head.
"Trust me, I already do."- He says- "When Linus attacked me near Duskwood, I felt like everything was falling apart. I never expected a friend of mine to turn against me."
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"It's true. Linus was loyal to our cause... until you convinced him to join you again."- He says- "However, you were only betrayed by a friend. But I. I was betrayed by someone who was very close to me. Someone who was going to inherit everything that I called my empire."
Adam finally realizes what Darkthrop means.
"So, the man who betrayed you was... your child?"
Darkthrop nods.
"After the death of his mother, he blamed me for all of the misfortunes that we had to face. People knew that he was my son and they disdained him. They hated him. They feared him, just like they feared me."- He says- "At first, I dismissed his complaints. I told him that everything would go better for us and that he'll soon see what it means to be a king. And yet, he was never satisfied."
He clenches his fists.
"But the greatest pain was caused on that fateful day when I lost my own life. My son and his wife had been conspiring against me for months, but that was unexpected, even for me."- He says- "That's right! Tunsten- my very own son- attacked me! On top of my castle! In my own lands! He voiced his full betrayal against me, just as I finally got my hands on the ultimate orb, the tool of unlimited power and the key to world domination! I was so close!"
Akira raises her eyebrow.
"Well."- She says- "It sounds like someone's very angry that his son didn't like him."
Darkthrop glares at her.
"Quiet, Akira!"- He yells- "Has someone ever loved you before?!"
Adam glares back at him.
"My sister has always meant everything to me!"
Darkthrop smirks.
"Someone besides Adam?!"
Akira looks down.
"Of course I have!"- She exclaims- "But they... have never looked at me the same way, ever since I betrayed the whole world."
Darkthrop nods.
"See?"- He says- "This is how I felt when the one I called my son turned against me. We're both monsters- in our own, twisted ways."
He looks at the top of the tower.
"The memories of that day, they're so vivid."- He says- "It almost feels like they happened one day ago."
He remembers how he once stood at the rooftop of his keep, how he was holding onto an empty glass orb and was preparing to turn it into the Orb of Chaos- the most powerful of all orbs that would grant him the power to conquer the world.
"Awake, my pet!"- He yells enthusiastically- "Awake!"
At the same time, Tunsten and his wife- Rayina- went on the top of the tower, in an attempt to stop the evil wizard.
"I'm sorry, Rayina. I must stop him now."- Tunsten says- "If he completes the orb, all is lost."
Rayina raises her eyebrow.
"Are you sure about this?"- She asks him- "If he catches you... "
Tunsten sighs.
"He will kill me. Yes, I know, but I must try."- He responds sadly- "I cannot let this madman destroy everything that we love. I must go"
Rayina nods.
"May the goddess protect you, husband."
Tunsten hugs his wife one last time and watches as she leaves him alone in the tower. Then, he looks up and sees Mordred Darkthrop- in all of his chaotic glory.
"Father."- He mutters- "It's just you and me now."
Without another word, he walks toward the top of the tower and stands next to Mordred Darkthrop.
"You must stop this madness."
Darkthrop looks up and raises his eyebrow.
"Tunsten? What are you doing up here?"- He asks him- "Go back inside."
Tunsten shakes his head.
"I'm sorry, father."- He apologizes- "Your tyranny, it must end here."
Darkthrop smirks.
"You think you can stop me?"- He says- "With what magic? You have none!"
Tunsten takes a few deep breaths. He closes his eyes and prepares himself for the inevitable.
"Goodbye, father."
Then, much to Darkthrop's surprise, he casts a powerful wind spell. Suddenly, a small gust of wind throws the evil wizard off the top, landing on the area below.
As Tunsten approaches his wounded father, the man looks up and stares at him, shocked by what he just saw.
"But... how?"
Tunsten nods.
"It appears that I have an affinity for magic after all, father."
He sighs.
"You never dared to teach me, because you wanted all the power for yourself."- He continues- "But I watched... and I learned."
Darkthrop, now mortally wounded, sighs and shakes his head, staring at his own son in disbelief as the last of his energy is pouring out of his body.
"I could have ruled the world."- He mutters- "And you? Are you taking it for yourself?"
Tunsten clenches his fists.
"I don't want to rule the world, father."- He says confidently- "Your reign of tyranny ends now."
Darkthrop chuckles.
"You cannot stop the prophecy, son. A Darkthrop will rule the world."- He responds- "If not me, then it shall be you or your children."
Tunsten shakes his head.
"No, father. I am the last of our line."- He says, knowing that he is going to save the world by performing such a noble deed- "Our legacy is a curse to the world, not a prophecy. And it ends tonight."
However, just as he is about to finish his father off, he notices that someone is approaching him. Turning around, he realizes that it is his wife.
"Rayina?"
Rayina takes a few steps closer to him.
"Tunsten?"- She says- "Is everything okay?"
He looks at her.
"You must go to the village."- He says to her, his empty, drained stare betraying his intentions long before he reveals them- "Tell them that the Darkthrop lineage has been destroyed."
Rayina raises her eyebrow.
"Husband, what are you saying?"- She asks him, confused.
Tunsten looks down.
"Tonight, I break the curse on my family and our kingdom."
Rayina shakes her head.
"Tunsten!"- She yells- "I will not let you die!"
Tunsten shakes his head.
"Do not argue with me, Rayina. You know that it must be done."- He responds- "As long as a Darkthrop lives, mankind is in danger."
Rayina gasps.
"But... "- She mutters- "What if... "
Tunsten raises his eyebrow.
"Yes?"- He asks- "What is it?"
Rayina turns away, feeling guilty as if she just committed a heinous crime.
"What if you weren't the last of your line?"
Tunsten shakes his head.
"But I am."- He says- "We have got no children, dear."
Rayina continues to stare at the ground, but does not say anything.
"Tonight, the Darkthrop line ends."- Tunsten continues- "The world will be safer once it is gone."
He sighs.
"You must leave now."
Rayina contemplates whether to tell her husband the truth or not. However, she soon realizes that knowing it will only crush him and make him feel desperate. Thus, she decides to follow his orders, like the good wife that she has always been.
She sighs.
"As you wish."- She responds- "I shall go to the village."
As she turns to leave, she looks back at her beloved.
"I love you, Tunsten Darkthrop."- She says- "You are a better person than me."
As Rayina finally leaves the Darkthrop family's keep for good, Tunsten looks back at his father.
"Do you even realize how I felt when mother perished because of you?"- He asks him- "I watched her die! In my hands!"
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"Does it matter?"- He asks him- "The world is in our hands, son. And you're wasting it all, just because you want to avenge her."
Tunsten clenches his fists.
"I've had enough of your tricks!"
He raises his hand in the air. A single orb of light appears into it. 
At first, it seems small and fragile. However, as time passes, it grows bigger and bigger, its potential to destroy the entire keep becoming much higher.
"You have neglected the well-being of others, just to have the world for yourself. And now, you shall suffer the consequences."- He says, triumphantly pointing the palm of his hand at Darkthrop- "It's all over, father. Tonight, the light has won again."
Darkthrop smirks.
"But what if there are others like us out there, Tunsten?"- He asks him- "We can't be the only ones who want to conquer the world!"
Tunsten nods.
"Perhaps you're right. Maybe there are ones who are foolish enough to resort to villainy."- He says- "But just like there are villains in this world, there shall also be heroes. And even as they fall, one of them will be destined to save the world, just like I was destined to save it from you."
Darkthrop chuckles.
"As you wish."- He says- "But remember this, my son. Some of the people of this world, they worship me. Even if I die here and now, I shall be revived by those who have the same intentions that I do now, no matter if I have to wait for years, decades or even centuries. And then, will you be there to save the world again?"
Tunsten glares at him.
"I may be gone when you come back to this world, but rest assured that my spirit will always be here."- He says- "And then, I shall find the one who is brave enough to face you in battle. I shall assist them in taking you down from your throne. And when the deed is done, I will stand there as your soul is sealed away forever!"
Darkthrop chuckles.
"Now that shall be interesting!"
Tunsten points the orb of light at the ground below his feet.
"Farewell, father."
Then, without thinking twice, he launches the spell, shattering the tower into pieces in a matter of mere seconds and ending the lives of both himself and his father.
As Rayina runs outside, avoiding the wreckage, she stares in disbelief as her husband's lifeless body falls just behind her.
"Tunsten... "
However, she has no time left to react. Pieces of the keep are falling from above and, if she does not run away soon, it will only be a matter of time before she meets the same fate as the Darkthrop family.
"Forgive me, husband."- She mutters as she narrowly escapes from the crumbling ruin- "I failed you... "
Then, she runs into the forest, escaping with her life.
Adam and Akira stand back, dazed by what they just saw.
"Was this the life of Mordred Darkthrop before he came here?"- Akira wonders aloud- "Did those events really happen in the past?"
Adam nods.
"It seems like it."- He says- "And if his own son was brave enough to end his tyranny, then it is clear that a smalll part of his soul was infused into us from birth."
Darkthrop laughs.
"Well. children, you're not wrong."- He says- "Whether you're indirectly related to the family or have a family member who is a part of it, you hold our blood. Thus, you're all a bunch of monsters- just like me."
Balthazar gasps.
"You're... related to Darkthrop?"- He asks- "What in the world is he talking about?!"
Adam and Akira look down.
"It is true. Our aunt Uma, she is a direct descendant of the Darkthrop family."- Adam says- "Thus, we hold a small piece of evil. A small amount of tainted knowledge that beckons us to rule the world."
Adam clenches his fist.
"However, I learned to resist this vile temptation. I always meditated on my good side, remembering the good things that I had done for the people of this world. Hope and faith run deep in my veins and my hatred for the world was never there to begin with."- He continues- "Sadly, my sister was not so lucky. By the time when the forces of Darkthrop began to rebuild their dark empire, she had already lost someone important to her. She was vulnerable to the darkness. And then, when she least expected it, they struck. They tainted her mind with promises of glory and a better, safer world, free of all who would dare to change it. And she accepted. She acted against her own people, foolishly sending the forces of darkness against them and watched coldly as they were being slaughtered without remorse. It was only thanks to me and my father that Aki did not become a monster like Darkthrop himself."
Darkthrop chuckles.
"We're all the same, Adam."- He says- "Some are too scared to admit it, but the truth is always out there."
Adam starts to grow very angry. He wants to lash out at Darkthrop, but knows well that there is no point of doing so. Thus, he decides to simply swallow his hatred, in the hopes of making him slip away some valuable information.
"So, we heard your story. We saw what happened on that frabjous day."- He says- "But what did you want to tell us? Why did you want to involve us in what happened more than two centuries ago?"
Darkthrop smirks.
"I heard that you like Tunsten. That you once visited the place where he was buried."- He says- "Tell me. Did you ever realize that he could be related to you? Or did you just see him as your hero?"
Adam shakes his head.
"Mr. Tunsten is indeed my hero. He is my idol. The person who taught me that evil can originate from anything and anywhere."- He says- "He once did what he could to save the world. And that is why he will always be seen as a savior, unlike you."
Darkthrop sighs.
"I can tell that you don't want me to stay here any longer. I shall go soon."- He says- "But first, I want to give you a fair warning. Perhaps you'll be wise enough to listen to it."
Adam sighs.
"Why am I not surprised?"
Darkthrop nods.
"Adam Kaos, you have gone too far. Destroyed my servants. Crushed my empire into pieces. And yet, I feel like you still deserve a second chance, despite all that you have done."- He says- "Leave this place at once. Hide like the coward that you've always been. If you're lucky enough, you may even survive my wrath. However, if you still insist on trying to defeat me, I shall destroy you until there is nothing left of you."
Adam takes a step back.
"Yikes. That is not the right way to treat a hero."- He says- "I am sorry Darkthrop, but the entire world is in danger. Your threats are only convincing others of how cruel you are. And if you think that you can convince people like me to withdraw, you shall soon be disappointed."
Darkthrop smirks.
"I thought as much."- He says- "In that case, I thought that I might issue you a little... challenge. See if you're worthy of facing me in battle. If you manage to survive, then maybe you will even have a chance."
Adam draws his weapon, expecting an attack. However, he is soon surprised when the spirit of a young knight appears alongside him.
"Father, I have returned!"- It yells- "Did you miss me?!"
Darkthrop takes a step back, horrified.
"Tunsten?"- He says- "How could this be?"
Tunsten shakes his head.
"Just like people respect and worship you, they have always been doing the same for me."- He says- "Thus, I came back the moment when I heard that you had returned as well, seeking vengeance for your crimes."
He points his ghostly blade at his father.
"I am ready to disperse justice yet again, father!"- He yells- "Do you really want to meet the same fate that you once did in life?"
Darkthrop takes a step forward.
"Out of my way, traitor!"- He yells, infuriated- "This is none of your business!"
Tunsten stands in his way.
"Oh, it is my business!"- He yells- "What you're trying to do here is going to endanger our world for good!"
Adam raises his eyebrow.
"Endanger?"- He asks- "What do you mean, Mr. Tunsten?"
Tunsten shakes his head.
"I'll explain later."- He says- "For now, you need to stay alive. My father will try to kill you."
He sighs.
"I hope that you're ready... "
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"I am not going anywhere, son!"- He yells- "And if you think that you're going to stop me again, then you'll die- just like everyone else!"
Tunsten shakes his head.
"I do not fear you, father. Not anymore."- He says- "You're just like a black star- cold and uncaring. And yet, even stars have a beginning and an ending. Yours has not come yet, but rest assured that it is not very far away."
Darkthrop smirks.
"Quiet, you imbecile!"- He yells- "I am eternal! I cannot die!"
Tunsten draws his weapon.
"We shall see about that."
Tunsten charges at his father, swinging his ghostly blade at him numerous times and wounding him.
"Agh!"- Darkthrop exclaims as his insubstantial form wavers- "You're as strong as you were back then."
Tunsten nods.
"When one learns of how to fight, this knowledge remains in their mind, even as they leave this world behind."- He says- "I also remembered my purpose. And that is why I shall stop you here and now!"
Darkthrop chuckles.
"You are too late, my child."- He says- "Just as you were talking, I casted a spell on the top of this tower. Soon, this place shall fall apart, and none of you will live to tell the tale!"
As Adam and his allies wonder what he is talking about, the ceiling above them starts to shake violently, as if proving his mad theory.
"This is not good."- Tunsten says and turns to Adam- "You need to run. Now."
Adam shakes his head.
"I am not going anywhere."- He says- "I will help you defeat Darkthrop again. And then, we shall escape together."
Tunsten shakes his head.
"It's a question of survival, child."- He says- "The choice is yours, but remember this- if you die here, who will be valiant enough to face Darkthrop?"
Adam sighs.
"I am sure that there are many who would gladly do the same."
Tunsten nods.
"True, but you're the one who is the most special."- He responds- "So, what shall it be?"
As Adam wonders what to do, Akira approaches him.
"Come on, Adam!"- She yells- "Do you want to live or not?"
Adam sighs and takes a step forward.
"Forgive me, Sir Tunsten."- He says- "Your wife once made the same mistake and I am only repeating history. But maybe there is a grain of truth in what you are saying, so I shall try to live on in your name."
Tunsten nods.
"Farewell, my boy."- He says- "Thank you for dedicating your life to stopping evil and working so hard to achieve success."
Adam smiles sadly.
"It is an honor to fight for the world, sir."
With that, the three of them leave as Tunsten continues to fight his father.
"You were never meant to be, Tunsten."- Darkthrop says- "I should have never brought you to this world."
Tunsten nods.
"Then the feeling is mutual."- He responds- "I also wish that you had not existed."
Darkthrop shakes his head.
"It's too late, son!"- He yells- "You cannot stop the inevitable!"
Then, before Tunsten could respond, he launches a single fireball at the ceiling and watches as it quickly falls apart.
"This is the end of the line!"- He yells- "Accept your fate with whatever dignity you have got left!"
As large chunks of rubble fall from above, Tunsten notices that one of them is going to fall on Adam. Without thinking twice, he rushes forward, intending to save the boy that is soon going to save the world.
"Adam!"- He yells- "Be careful!"
As Adam wonders what is going on, Tunsten pushes him out of the way and the two of them remain unharmed as a large chunk falls just behind them.
"Well, that was a close one."- Adam says- "I thank you for your help, sir."
Tunsten smiles.
"Of course, Adam."- He responds- "It is my pleasure."
Darkthrop chuckles.
"Fools."- He says as he finally fades away from existence.
As Adam and Tunsten wonder what to do next, Akira and Balthazar prepare to join them. However, just as they get closer to them, the rest of the ceiling falls apart. Large chunks of rubble start to fall around them.
"Aki! Balthazar!"- Adam yells and rushes to their aid- "No!"
He tries to help his sister out, but she pushes him away.
"No, Adam. You must proceed alone."- She says- "Don't worry about us. We'll make it out of here... somehow."
Adam shakes his head.
"I cannot leave you here."- He says- "Not here, not now."
Akira shakes her head.
"Mr. Tunsten said it before."- She says- "It's a matter of survival. And in order to survive, you must discover and destroy that book before it's too late."
Adam tries to say something else, but Akira pushes him away.
"Go!"- She yells at him- "Stop wasting your valuable time with pleasantries!"
Adam looks back at Balthazar. He shakes his head.
"Akira is right, child."- He says- "Just go. We shall join you soon... we hope."
Adam looks back at the path that leads further into the tower and sighs.
"I am sorry."- He says- "I will be back. I promise."
Akira smiles.
"I know that you will, little brother."
Then, as Adam finally runs away from the scene, a large pile of rubble falls down and traps him inside.
"Are you alright, boy?"- Tunsten asks him- "Are you injured?"
Adam shakes his head.
"I am, but not physically."
Tunsten sighs.
"I see."- He says- "I know what it feels like to be separated from somebody you care about."
Adam nods.
"So."- He says- "What can we do now?"
Tunsten looks at the road ahead and sighs.
"I fear that we have no other choice."- He says- "This is the path that you chose and now, you must face it. With your own eyes... and your own heart."
Adam nods.
"And I would not want it any other way."- He says- "However, I wish I had not been so... lonely."
Tunsten sighs.
"This is the risk that we heroes must take, my boy."- He says to him- "Now, let's proceed. Those who still live in those ruins are awaiting our arrival. We must defeat them to obtain the book."
Adam nods.
"Of course."
As the young hero proceeds toward the tower's second floor, he hears something coming from nearby, It is as if someone just opened a door.
"Hello?"- A familiar voice can be heard- "Is anyone in here?"
Then, he hears someone shushing at them.
"Be quiet, Donnie!"- A female voice silences him- "What's the matter with you? Do you want to bring the whole tower down onto us?"
The male voice sighs.
"I'm sorry, Amelia."
Then, as Adam rounds the corner, he comes face to face with a good friend.
"Donnie!"
Donovan looks closer, barely believing what he is seeing.
"Adam?"- He asks- "Is that you?"
Then, he grins and nods.
"It is you!"
He leans forward and hugs his friend.
"Oh, thank goodness!"- He exclaims- "We thought that we had lost you forever!"
Adam smiles.
"I am glad to see you too, my friend."
As Adam and Donovan talk about how they came to be here, another person stalks them from the shadows.
Upon closer inspection, the mysterious man is revealed to be Declan- the outlaw who attacked Adam and Akira outside Erika's Tower.
"Soon, Adam Kaos. Soon, I shall finish what my master started."- He says- "And you won't escape this time. I assure you."
== Trivia ==
* This is the first Part in the "Miracula Luxia" universe overall that features a flashback which originates from another type of media ("Avadon: Lord Of Twilight").
** However, the flashback is not introduced in its original form. Some parts of it were changed, while others that did not exist in the game were included as well.