I just finished Onyx Storm and I can’t stop thinking about how a dark force gradually takes control in the Empyrean series. From the initial subtle hints to the final reveal, the rise of darkness in this world is really well-constructed and engaging.
From an analytical perspective, I see this process happening through several important stages:
1. The hollowing out from within
A dark force rarely appears suddenly, but often creeps through the cracks in the system. Empyrean shows this clearly when power is manipulated not only by those with great ambitions, but also by individuals who seem to be allies but actually have their own secrets.
The powerful figures in this world do not always reveal their true nature from the beginning. They may start with promises and seemingly reasonable decisions, but over time, little by little, their true nature is revealed.
2. Control through fear
One of the most powerful tools of the dark is fear. When the dark forces begin to consolidate power, they do not need to suppress everyone immediately - they just need to make people afraid. As fear creeps into every corner, ordinary people gradually accept the unacceptable, simply because they believe there is no other way.
In Empyrean, we see clearly how those in power create a system where control is maintained by invisible pressure. Those who resist are ruthlessly eliminated, and those who obey are protected - at least until they become victims too.
3. Villain - A Symbol of Darkness
The darkness in Empyrean is not just a force, but is personified through a main antagonist. Interestingly, this character does not appear as a pure evil from the beginning. They have ideals, goals, and may even have been a person who stood on the side of justice. But their obsession with power, past pain, or the belief that "they are the only one who can change the world" has led them down a path of no return.
This reminds me of Voldemort in Harry Potter or Darth Vader in Star Wars - villains who are not only powerful but also have a past that makes us think.
4. Those who fight the darkness - A chance to turn the tables
No matter how strong the dark forces are, there will always be those who are willing to stand up against them. In Empyrean, the protagonist and his comrades are not simply nameless heroes, but they represent resistance, hope that darkness cannot win forever. But will they actually succeed? That is another story.
---
After reading, I couldn't help but wonder: Did every dark force start from an individual with good ideals but gradually became corrupted? Or are some people born into darkness?
Can the dark force in Empyrean be completely overthrown, or is it just a cycle that will continue for generations?