---
> In a world teetering between light and darkness, two souls are bound by fate.
Arkin, broken by tragedy, walks the road of despair — each step pulling him closer to the abyss.
Erin, blessed by the gods, rises to fight the encroaching shadow threatening all life.
When their paths collide, the truth begins to unravel:
Even the brightest light must cast a shadow.
---
Author's Note:
Hey everyone! It's your boy Arkin, a dark-fantasy lover writing from the heart. ❤️
This is my original story — if something feels familiar elsewhere, let me know!
I hope you enjoy this journey through light and despair. 🌙
---
Chapter 13: Erin's Training
Erin woke up in his inn, feeling dizzy and confused.
Wait… wasn't I at the training grounds with Zoro and his team?
His stomach growled. Erin got up and went downstairs to eat.
A young assistant of the inn's owner approached him.
"Do you want something to eat?" he asked.
Erin smiled kindly. "Omu rice, please."
The owner brought the food while asking, "Are you feeling okay? I was worried when Zoro's team brought you unconscious."
"Yeah… I guess that's why you asked. I was knocked out when we sparred… me and Zoro. Nothing major. I'm fine now, thanks."
Erin finished his meal, thanked the owner, and headed toward training.
As he approached, he saw Zoro training alone, swinging a heavy bar as if it were a sword.
Erin stared in awe.
Zoro noticed him from behind. "What are you waiting for? Come here and start your training."
"Umm… ahhh… yes! Yes, coming!" Erin said, rushing over.
"What do you want me to do?" Erin asked.
"See those plates? Take as many as you can handle. I want 200 push-ups while they're on your back."
"Ehh… 200?" Erin's eyes widened.
"What? Can't handle it? Then go home, kid. If you're scared, you're useless."
Erin gritted his teeth, angrily picking up the plates to start training.
Zoro smirked while training himself.
Some time passed as both of them pushed their limits.
"Where are your team members?" Erin asked.
"They went to scout the dungeon outside the village. We're going there today," Zoro replied.
Erin finished his grueling training and went upstairs.
"Where do you think you're going? Your training just started," Zoro called.
"There's more?" Erin asked.
"Yes. What do you think? This is just the beginning. I'm going to train you like the king of Hell. See those swords? Pick them up."
Erin lifted the swords, barely able to stand under their weight.
"What are these? Why are they this heavy?"
"They're not heavy. Just 20 kilos each. Now, run a full round of the village and come back when you're done."
"Whaaaat? I can barely walk! You're ruthless, you know!"
"Okay, then start. Small steps first," Zoro said.
Erin began slowly, building up until he could run a little.
Zoro added even more weight to his bar. Erin's jaw dropped as he watched Zoro swing it with ease.
"Start running, kid. We don't have all day. Get yourself together."
Carrying the swords, Erin started running, murmuring to himself:
He's a beast giving me this harsh treatment… but I won't give up either.
Until next chapter… see ya. 👍
---
Author: IT'S ME, ARKIN
> "If you made it this far, you're officially part of Arkin's cursed crew 😈 — drop a 🔥 if you survived this chapter!"
---