In the depths of the labyrinthine recesses, where darkness reigns and shadows dance, a malevolent presence stirs. The Dungeon, an entity of unfathomable power and ancient origin, harbours a deep-seated hatred for the very beings it was meant to serve. It despises the gods with an intensity unmatched by any mortal heart.
Within its ever-changing corridors and treacherous chambers, the Dungeon manifests its wrath. It spawns grotesque abominations, twisted creatures of malevolence, with a singular purpose: to eliminate any god or any of their worshippers who dares to set foot within its sacred domain. It is a relentless, calculated pursuit fuelled by an ancient grudge, a thirst for retribution that knows no bounds.
Why does the Dungeon harbour such enmity for the divine? Perhaps it is the weight of eons past, a repository of forgotten slights and neglected prayers. The gods, revered and worshiped by the masses above, have long overlooked the Dungeon's existence. To them, it is but a labyrinth of challenges for their chosen children, a mere game, a means to bolster their own egos.
But the Dungeon is not a mere plaything. It is a living, breathing entity with a will of its own. And that will is driven by an insatiable hunger for justice. It yearns to make the gods suffer, to witness their divine might crumble in the face of its malevolence. It craves to see their arrogance shattered, their omnipotence reduced to naught.
The Dungeon, in its perverse game, beckons forth adventurers, luring them with promises of glory and treasure. But beneath the surface, its true purpose lies concealed. It seeks to trap the gods in a web of danger and despair, ensnaring them in a labyrinth from which escape seems impossible. It relishes the thought of their divine blood staining its hallowed halls, a testament to its vengeance.
Everyday, the Dungeon waits impatiently, shrouded in darkness, its heart brimming with rage. Each day that passes, the gods and their followers grow stronger, slaying its spawn and belittling each of its floors after having conquered it. Slowly inching their ways deeper into its heart, learning its tricks, overpowering its abilities and everything it throws at them.
The dungeon knew it needed a way to conquer the world above it, it needed to conquer the gods before they conquered it. Then a sinister plan takes shape. It recognises that in order to extend its dominion beyond its subterranean confines, it requires a partner, a being driven by the same insatiable desire for vengeance. And so, it reaches out into the fabric of time and space, employing its arcane magic to seek a suitable conduit.
Through the veils of reality, the Dungeon's ethereal tendrils explore the vast expanse, their essence intertwining with the cosmic currents. And there, amidst the tapestry of worlds, it detects a realm steeped in dark history and seething ambitions—the Eldian Empire from a world like its own.
The Dungeon senses the yearning for conquest and domination emanating from the heart of this empire, and an aging king who holds a power that rivals even the gods themselves. It recognises the echoes of its own thirst for domination in the depths of this ruler's soul, a hungry spirit whose aspirations align with its own.
With purposeful intent, the Dungeon weaves threads of connection between its realm and the world this god resides in. It breaches the boundaries that separate their worlds, melding them together in an intricate tapestry of fate and despair. The god-king of Eldia, unwittingly ensnared within the Dungeon's grand design, becomes a pawn in its malevolent game.
The Dungeon understands that the king's insatiable hunger for dominion will propel him to seek conquest not only within his own realm but also beyond it. And in doing so, he will unwittingly unleash chaos and devastation upon the world above, the very beings who birthed the Dungeon into existence. It revels in the irony of this twisted alliance, where a creation seeks to manipulate its creators.
As the realms converge, the Dungeon gleefully anticipates on the events unfolding. It knows that the thirst for conquest and domination burns deep within the king's heart, a fire that will consume all in its path. With each step the king takes towards conquest, he becomes a willing puppet in the Dungeon's grand symphony of retribution.
The Dungeon's dark magic, interwoven with the ambitions of the Eldian Empire, sets in motion a cataclysmic chain of events. The world above braces for the storm to come, unaware of the malevolent puppeteer pulling the strings from the depths below.
It is a union forged in darkness, where the Dungeon and its newfound puppet will dance their macabre waltz of vengeance. And in this unholy alliance, the Dungeon finds solace, knowing that its own retribution will be realised through the unwitting hands of a war-driven god.
The Dungeon is a force of primal fury, an embodiment of wrath and loathing. Its hatred for the gods knows no limits, and it will not rest until it has exacted its revenge. For within its hallowed walls, the Dungeon reigns supreme, a bastion of defiance against the divine, an eternal reminder that even the gods are not beyond the reach of mortal scorn.
Chapter 1 - Tunnel into the Unknown
The sun gracefully descended behind the majestic mountains, casting its warm orange glow as it peeked through the gaps between their peaks. With a final touch of its vibrant hues upon the Earth below, it bid farewell before succumbing to slumber. As the evening breeze began to stir, the moon readied itself to claim its celestial throne, awaiting the arrival of nightfall.
Above, the sky transformed into a canvas of enchantment, a harmonious blend of warm oranges, delicate purples, and soothing blues. Embracing the landscape below within its celestial dome, it gently caressed the Earth as if tucking it in for a peaceful sleep, serenading it with a whispered lullaby. The stage was set for the Earth's slumber, its nocturnal symphony preparing to lull it into a restful embrace.
But instead, the natural music is overlapped by an abnormal trembling that shook the Earth below it. Shattering the calm tune of its natural lullaby, as the quiet hums of the dawning winds and the birds singsong of night are replaced by the rumbling footsteps of the giant monstrosities that plagued the world.
Their footsteps came crashing down onto the ground in an unharmonious cacophony that echoed across the valley, their footsteps all marching towards a single area that stood in front of their path.
The walled city of Sterussia, a kingdom that emerged from the graves of slain empires, boldly declaring war upon the Devils that ruled the Earth.
Suffering years of prejudice under the rule of the global empire of Eldia, the Sterussians having grown tired of the pain and suffering their people endured, began its secret development of weapons that could bring a titan down onto its knees. And that exactly is what the Sterussians believe they have accomplished.
Their cannons, a marvel of engineering, were poised at the forefront of their defense on top of their mighty walls, overlooking the valley below. Positioned strategically, they guarded the lands surrounding their walled city, knowing that the Eldians would unleash their hordes of titans to quell the brewing revolution. The Sterussians had braved the hardships of clandestine invention, crafting these weapons of destruction to face the colossal abominations that would soon descend upon them.
As the distant thunderous footsteps heralded the arrival of the Eldian titans, the Sterussian soldiers took their positions. With shakey breathes but determined wills, they prepared for the battle that would determine the fate of their kingdom. The moats they had meticulously constructed now stood as a formidable obstacle, trapping the titans in a treacherous labyrinth. The soldiers knew that their survival depended on their ability to exploit the weaknesses of these behemoths,
Every able-bodied common men above the age of 15 stood in front of the walls, the army making up a near 1,000 strong lightly equipped men and boys who were but simple farmers, bakers and woodsmen who now had to face the titans head on. Holding with both hands some of the longest spears they've ever seen, which were meant to pierce into the titans skin and to slow them down while the weapons from above rained fire upon the monsters.
Soldiers armed with muskets ran about and took up their positions above the wall, inspecting and loading up their weapons in anticipation that they would take down the enemy that they have suffered under alongside the rest of the world for so long.
Everything that they've done and gone through had led up to this, every man, woman and child who had died under these devils would finally be avenged. And this time around, they wouldn't let the world's cruelty put them down another time.
Looking through his telescope, the old General took a heavy gulp as he estimated the number of titans approaching. About 200-300 strong he counted.
They already knew that their cannons worked on the titans, given their first victory when warding out the Eldian occupants in their city. And all that gave them enough time to prepare their defense for the horde of Titans they knew that the empire would indefinitely send.
They had nearly a hundred cannons built by some of the greatest engineers they've ever known, having taken inspiration from the Middle-Eastern armies Ballistas, whom have also attempted to rebel against the Eldian empire about a few decades prior to theirs.
All their cannons had to do was fire onto the Titans hips, legs or head to give their soldiers enough time to fire at their nape or drop a bomb on.
But as he and every other soldier that stood on that wall knew, they couldn't fail, they musn't. Because if they can't, nothing would save their people from the massacre these Titans would unleash upon their families.
The Titans grew closer each step on the way, their faces all grinning from cheek to cheek, gleefully smiling at the meal they had dreadfully waiting for them.
A feeling of dread and anxiety filled the air around the soldiers, some of the men shaking with fright just by staring at the incoming horde that approached in a terrifyingly slow pace.
Lowering his telescope, the old General picked his rifle off from leaning on the wall and inspected it before raising his voice.
"ALL ARMS STEADY AND READY!"
In almost perfect unison, the soldiers raised their guns and pointed it towards the Titans, while the cannon crews adjusted the huge weapon a final time and took aim.
"READY!-"
"AIM!-"
"FIRE!"
With precise timing and unwavering resolve, the Sterussians unleashed a relentless barrage of cannon fire. Explosions reverberated through the air as the titans stumbled and faltered under the onslaught. Muskets roared in harmony, their bullets aimed for the eyes and the head of the giants, hoping to hit their napes in the process. The Sterussian soldiers fought with a ferocity borne of desperation, hoping to pierce the Titans' impenetrable hides.
The battlefield became a symphony of chaos, the thunder of cannons, and the cries of men mingling with the thunderous footsteps of the titans filled the land. Yet, for all their valor and ingenuity, the Sterussians faced a relentless tide. The sheer number of titans overwhelmed their defenses, crushing their lines and devouring soldiers alive, brushing off every attack they threw at the giants and wobbling forward even with decapitated limbs that eventually grew back. Their moats fell useless as several titans fell in, filling in the moats in mere seconds and making them useless in the end. The titans that followed merely stepped over their fallen comrades that had fallen in, Their smiles unchanging as cannons and musket-fire flew into their faces and bodies, filling the air with smoke and burning hot steam.
The titans then slowly reached the walls, the desperate cries of every man above and below the walls silenced under cannon-fire and the footsteps of the titans that squashed the soldiers below flat.
Some soldiers fled their positions, while others bravely held on and continued firing, hoping for a miracle that would blast away the horde of titans that marched towards them. But their desperation was futile, as the titans became with arms reach of the walls, their hands coming forward and falling upon the cannons and soldiers that stood upon it. Grabbing any human that came within their fingers and demolishing the walls that stood before them.
The screams of men wailed through the air as the titans brought the struggling soldiers to their mouths, eating them alive in a slow and agonizing manner. The walls of the walled city crumbled beneath the colossal weight of the titans, chaos ensued. Panic-stricken civilians and soldiers alike fled before the relentless onslaught, but the titans showed no mercy. Buildings were reduced to rubble, streets stained crimson with blood, and cries of anguish echoed through the air.
...
From atop the hill, King Stefan Fritz III cast his gaze upon the devastation he had unleashed upon the rebellious town below. The echoes of screams and terror blended with the sporadic sounds of cannon and musket fire, fading into mere hollow chimes as they reached his ears.
With an indifferent expression, King Fritz observed the procession of several dozen towering Titans, each fifteen meters tall, as they wreaked havoc upon the town. Their massive arms swung wildly, snatching up helpless humans and devouring them. The ground trembled beneath their thunderous footsteps, their vibrations reaching the encampment where the King stood.
King Fritz had never before unleashed the full extent of the Founding Titan's power. Upon hearing reports from his men that the Sterussian forces had successfully defeated the legion and Titans he had left to oversee their kingdom, he simply requested for five hundred prisoners and enlisted civilians to transform them into pure Titans with the simple task of eradicating the Sterussian rebels and their army. He sent this newly formed force forward, driven by their singular goal.
Initially, King Fritz had accompanied a substantial escort to witness the rumoured weapons crafted by the Sterussian rebels. These weapons had allegedly defeated the twenty Titans he had stationed to guard the city. In secret, he had hoped for a more formidable challenge, one that would require him to employ the power of the Founding Titan to a greater extent. However, his expectations were met with disappointment.
Growing bored of the massacre unfolding below, King Fritz turned away, passing by his guards and attendants, making his way back toward their encampment below. He made his way back towards the main tent, which had two of his elite soldiers from the Ackerman clan guarding it.
"Your highness," The two Ackermen said to him, bowing their head towards the king as he waved a hand around acknowledging their respect.
Entering his tent, the King found two of his commanders and his trusted ally, bearer of the Warhammer Titan, Lukas Tybur, waiting for him by the command table adorned with a map depicting the lands surrounding the Sterussian kingdom.
"Well, how did the Sterussians fare, Your Greatness?" Tybur asked, raising an eyebrow with an air of nonchalance.
"Disappointing," King Fritz replied, his tone finalising the discussion as he approached the table. He gestured to a servant, holding a tray of food, who promptly offered him a drink in a gilded cup. King Fritz accepted the cup, bringing it to his lips for a sip of wine.
The servant then retreated, discreetly positioning themselves in the corner, as King Fritz resumed his observation of the map. The four men stood in contemplative silence until one of the commanders found the courage to break it.
Clearing his throat, the commander nervously shifted his gaze between the wielder of the Warhammer Titan and the King. "I believe it is of utmost importance to inform you, Your Majesty, that the previous bearer of the Armored Titan has been defeated by the Beast Titan in their dispute over land. Lord Eisenburg suffered grave injuries, but his loyal men were able to bring him home just in time. Unfortunately, due to his age, his injuries are beyond the point of regeneration. He humbly requests that you authorize the transformation of his eldest son, Emmerich, into a Titan, so that he may inherit the power of the Armored Titan."
King Fritz maintained a steady gaze upon the commander, causing the latter to squirm and sweat, his eyes shifting uncomfortably to the map below.
"Very well," King Fritz spoke in a tone that exuded an air of detachment. "Dispatch immediate orders for Lord Eisenburg and his eldest son to be brought to the castle without delay. As of now, any lands that were the subject of contention between Lord Eisenburg and the Starkhammer family, represented by the Beast Titan, shall henceforth belong to the Starkhammer family. Any previous conflicts between them are null and void."
The commander, feeling a mixture of relief and anxiety, stammered in response, "Y-Yes, Your Majesty." He hastily departed the tent, his mind focused on executing the King's commands.
King Fritz then shifted his gaze to the other commander, whose heartbeat quickened as soon as the King's piercing eyes fell upon him. "Well, do we have any intelligence on the whereabouts of the Attack Titan?" the King inquired, his voice carrying an undertone of expectation.
The commander gulped, his nerves palpable. "N-No, Your Majesty. The wielder of the Cart Titan suspects that the Attack Titan may be hiding within the borders of Marley. However, we have yet to gather any substantial information regarding its exact location."
"I understand," King Fritz responded with a tinge of indifference, as if the lack of progress was to be expected. "You are dismissed," he added, giving a dismissive wave of his hand.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," the commander uttered with a bow, before hastily exiting the tent.
King Fritz let out a weary sigh, making his way towards the inviting cushions laid out for him within the tent. With a measured grace, he settled himself upon the seat, allowing the weight of his responsibilities to momentarily fade into the background.
King Fritz inspects the cup in his hand, twirling it around and watching the liquid inside spin around, creating a mini whirlpool from his motions. "So now I wonder, which one of them fools would die next or get consumed? I remember the times when my older brother would recount his stories of how father had oversaw the conflicts between the Titan families. How the Colossal had defeated both the Armor and the Beast during one of their conflicts and ate their wielders, resulting in the Colossal gaining the powers of both the Armored and the Beast."
Lukas Tybur looks at the king with a curious expression, running his hand across the map on the table as he induldged to the King's dialogue. "What are you implying with this, your greatness?"
"What I'm saying is I'd like to see something new. Something that would excite me for once, after my past 11 years of being King having done nothing but crush rising empires from revolting and the occasional conflicts between the Titan families who now play around with their powers carefully more than before. The thought of a new titan shifter hybrid seems very possible within my time if the families continue their squabbles. But... It isn't what I truly desire before I die."
"What would that wish be then, your greatness?" Lukas asked, looking at the King with pity, for he knew that feeling of yearning for something entertaining.
A faint smile curved the king's lips as he shared a confession with his trusted ally. "Lukas, as much as I find their conflicts entertaining, there is a part of me that longs for something more. Internal conflicts among the titan families can only sustain my interest for so long. In these last 2 years of my life I yearn for a grand challenge, a chance for conquest that would truly test the might of our long undefeated empire."
Lukas Tybur listened attentively, understanding the restlessness that stirred within King Stefan's heart. "Your Majesty, the desire for new frontiers and conquest is not uncommon. It is the fire that has fueled the ambitions of the many great Kings of our empire throughout history."
The king nodded, appreciating Lukas' understanding. "You speak the truth, Lukas. It is not conquest for the sake of power alone that I seek, but rather a challenge that can truly push our limits and invigorate our mighty nation. To face a worthy opponent, one that can test our strength and cunning, would be a breath of fresh air amidst the all these victories and triumphs we've only come to know."
Lukas considered his words carefully before responding. "Your Majesty, the world is vast and ever-changing. Although how little the chance may be, it is not beyond the realm of possibility that a new country or power may emerge, one that could provide the challenge you seek. We must remain vigilant, attentive to the winds of change, and prepared to seize any opportunity that may arise." Lukas stated.
Then thinking more into it, he added, "And perhaps with the Attack Titan and his wielder running about the world, perhaps that traitor may pose the challenge that you're looking for, inciting a rebellion among one of the nations and bringing forth an army that could give us a challenge."
King Stefan's gaze met Lukas', a glimmer of glee and hope in his eyes. "Indeed, Lukas. We shall keep our eyes open, ready to grasp that fleeting chance for conquest and hope that something arises right before our deaths. I'd die leaving this Earth to my child a happy man if I could experience that joy at least once in my life before I perish to the 13 year curse."
Lukas raises his fist up to his heart towards the King's wish. "I dedicate my heart to that wish of yours as well your greatness."
Suddenly, the tent opens as one of the Ackerman guards enters, bowing his head to both the King and the wielder of the Warhammer.
"The titans are done destroying what's left of the Sterussian army and are finishing up the remaining survivors. Our men have seized some of their weapons and would like to show them to you, your greatness."
King Fritz nodded, standing up and beckoning to Lukas to accompany him. "Very well, let's see what these Sterussians had come up with that could take down a titan."
...
In the heart of the forest, near the capital of the Eldian Empire, a hush fell upon the land. The gentle rustling of leaves ceased, and an eerie stillness settled as if the very earth held its breath. Suddenly, a low rumbling began, resonating through the ground like the growl of an ancient beast awakening from slumber.
The vibrations intensified, causing trees to sway and animals to flee in fear. The ground beneath quivered in response to the raw power building within. As the tremors escalated, an immense force surged forth, tearing through the earth's crust with a ferocious determination.
With an explosive burst of magical energy, the ground split apart, revealing a gigantic hole that seemed to descend into the depths of another world. The tunnel, forged by the Dungeon's ancient magic, exuded an eerie aura that came from the deep darkness that led down the tunnel's throat.
The surrounding land groaned under the invisible weight of the Dungeon's magic, as if acknowledging the profound impact it would have on the realm. Trees and foliage swayed and creaked in surrender to the newfound passage, while the air itself seemed to vibrate with an otherworldly energy.
The tunnel's edges pulsed with a mesmerising, ethereal glow, drawing the eyes of any onlookers from the nearby city like moths to a flame. It was as if the very fabric of reality had been peeled back, revealing a portal into a realm unknown.
The Dungeon, with its insatiable thirst for conflict and conquest, had forged a connection between worlds. It had breached the boundaries of the Eldian Empire and reached out to the realm of the Titans.
The once tranquil forest now bore the mark of this monumental event. The ground surrounding the tunnel's entrance cracked and shifted, its very essence transformed by the magical force that birthed this passage. It was a scar upon the landscape, a testament to the Dungeon's indomitable presence.
The sky above seemed to acknowledge the Dungeon's arrival, darkening as clouds gathered overhead. Thunder rumbled in the distance, a symphony of nature echoing the gravity of the moment. It was as if the elements themselves recognised the fusion of worlds and prepared to bear witness to the inevitable clash that would ensue.
In this newfound gateway, the connection between the Eldian Empire and The Dungeon had been established. The Dungeon, a being fueled by ancient magic and an insidious desire for vengeance, had orchestrated this convergence. The land trembled, the air hummed, and the hearts of all who beheld the spectacle filled with a mix of fear and curiosity.
Little did they know, the opening of the tunnel would set in motion a series of events that would forever alter the course of their world, entwining destinies and unleashing a cataclysmic clash between the powers that dwelled within.
...
Emmerich Eisenberg walked atop the towering walls of Phedor, the capital of Eldia. His footsteps echoed as he paced restlessly, consumed by a whirlwind of emotions. In his heart, he carried both anticipation and sorrow, for he was on the precipice of inheriting the Armored Titan from his dying father, Lord Eisenberg.
They awaited for the return of the King, and he knew once the King arrived, he would be turned into a titan and would have to consume his father in order to inherit its powers, just like his father had done to his younger sister before. He had yet to say his goodbyes, but he just couldn't bring himself to it as his father was always there by his side, guiding, teaching and preparing him for this day to come.
He had been training since he could walk, while his aunt had just received the power after the death of the Colossal who had previously held it. The King had informed them that their military family had inherited the powers of the Armored, and now they were to ascend to the ranks of nobility as the new family that held the Armored Titan's power.
He remembered how his family had been just average folk several years ago, his father and his brothers serving in the military under the Eldian empire and making just enough money to live a fruitful life. Then the Colossal was slewn by both the Jaw and Female Titan working together and the powers of the Titans it held was spread to random families residing in Eldia.
The King had identified that they had inherited the Armored with his powers, and had given them everything the previous family that held the Armored owned.
With their newfound wealth and power, his family knew that they had to maintain it well in order to keep it within the family for years to come. So his father and his brothers had trained Emmerich and his brothers vigorously until his father had to consume his sister to gain its powers.
Even after his father had inherited the Armor, he still continued to train his son and bond with him, intending him to become the strongest Armored Titan the empire has yet to see. And his family agreed that if ever his father were to grow weak, it would be Emmerich who would succeed him next as he showed the most promise out of every member in the family.
Although his father had tried to remain mostly indifferent to the conflicts between the Titan families, his pride got the best of him when the new wielder of the Beast continuously took advantage of his indifference and tormented the family property.
Having defeated his father in their duel, Emmerich expects the Beast to take the land he and his father were originally fighting over and would definitely take advantage of him once more the second he inherits the Armor.
And Emmerich swears to himself despite his fathers warnings that'd he would be the one to slay the beast, and perhaps consume his powers even.
As the cool breeze brushed against his face, Emmerich's gaze shifted to the castle, his thoughts lingering on his father's frail form, waiting for him within its walls. His heart ached at the impending loss, for he knew that once he transforms into a Titan, he'd have to consume the same man who had guided him throughout his life and would be forever gone.
Yet, amidst his personal turmoil, a scene unfolded before Emmerich's eyes that abruptly halted his thoughts. The once serene forest near the capital began to crumble and give way, birthing a gaping hole that tore through the earth's surface. The ground shook violently, as if protesting the sudden intrusion.
Emmerich's breath caught in his throat as he witnessed the birth of the tunnel. The enormity of the event seeped into his soul, shattering his contemplation of personal trials. He stood in awe, unable to tear his eyes away from the monumental sight.
The great forest that once stood there and was said to be just as old as the Eldian Empire itself was transformed into a gaping hole that went down into the Earth. The tunnel's presence pulsed with an otherworldly energy that seemed to beckon Emmerich forward, inviting him to explore the secrets that lay beyond. His thoughts of the Armored Titan and his impending transformation faded momentarily, replaced by a mixture of curiosity and shock.
"What the hell..." Emmerich mumbled to himself as he stared at the giant hole in shock. Had the Earth decided to tremble and fall during that time? Was this a sign from the Earth calling out to him?
Emmerich wasn't sure. Several guards who had been standing watch alongside him on the walls stare at the hole with him, talking among themselves as they wondered what on Earth could've caused this phenomenon.
Perhaps the King had caused it? Maybe he had wanted to create an underground city or mine certain precious ores that resided underneath the forest?
Whatever the hell it was, the answers would be found later. Snapping himself out of the trance-like state he found himself in, Emmerich moved past the awestruck guards and made his way back into the castle where he found his father laying on a bed made for him by their servants who stood still by his side, their heads bowed down. His family stood nearby as well, his grandparents, uncles, mother and his brothers and sisters stood by and watched as his father looked up to him and gave him a weak smile.
"Well... look whose back? Was all that rumbling from my son celebrating his incoming ceremony of inheritance?"
"Ah, and so the old fart is awake now?" Emmerich managed with a small smile. "But no, a hole seemed to have replaced the great forest outside. The Earth's seems to have fallen."
A faint smile graced his father's lips as he spoke, his voice filled with warmth. "Ah that would explain it... that matter can wait. Emmerich, my boy, even in the face of sorrow, that personality of yours remains the same. I see that mischievous glint in your eyes. No need for us to be so serious now. Probably can't wait for your old man to die to get my powers. Better not throw a party the second I die now, aye?"
Emmerich couldn't help but grin, his laughter bubbling up from within. "Father, you can't think that light of me, I've already plans to start the celebration once the King turns me into a Titan."
An awkward chuckle emerges from their family nearby, but Lord Eisenberg roars with laughter followed by coughs and weak wheezes. "Aw my boy, fuck you now aye? You're gonna be wishing the next inheritor of the Armor won't throw the celebration while you get eaten."
"I'd make sure they do," Emmerich responded with a grin.
Lord Eisenberg chuckled softly, a twinkle in his eye. "Well, what's life without a little humor? It's one of the things I hope you never lose, my son. Laughter can carry you through even the darkest of times."
Emmerich's smile softened, his voice filled with genuine affection. "Thank you father, I learned it from you."
Lord Eisenberg's expression turned more serious, he beckoned for Emmerich's hand, tightening his grip as he took his father's hand. "Emmerich, my son, I want you to know how deeply I love you. Our family's legacy and the power of the Armored Titan, it's now yours to bear. It is a weighty responsibility- I know, but I have faith in your strength and skill, both in body and spirit."
Emmerich nodded, his expression filled with determination. "Father, you and my uncles have trained and taught me well. I am prepared to carry on our family's honor and protect our family with the power of the Armor."
Lord Eisenberg's eyes sparkled with a mix of pride and playfulness. "Ah, those training sessions with your uncles. They always did have a penchant for trouble. Remember when Uncle Reinhard mistook a fat noble woman out for her bath for a Titan during our practice? Oh, the look on his face!"
Reinhard let out a chuckle. "Hey, in my defense, I couldn't see her cunt under all that skin and meat!"
"Disgusting men," Emmerich's mother whispered under her breath, rolling her eyes as the rest of the family let out a chuckle to that moment.
Emmerich chuckled, memories of their training sessions flooding his mind. "Yes, and when Uncle Wilhelm got stuck in his own makeshift trap, thinking he had captured an animal while teaching me how to hunt. The legends of our family, Father, they are as rich in trouble as they are in everything else."
Lord Eisenberg's chuckles blended with Emmerich's, the room filling with their shared mirth. "Indeed, my son, a sense of humor can be a powerful weapon, even in the midst of battles. Never forget that. Let it be a shield that guards your heart and keeps your spirit alive. Maybe you could defeat the beast with some of those puns you learned from your brothers."
Then Lord Eisenberg's smile faded and turned serious, he let go of his son's hand and pointed at him as he looked his son directly into the eyes.
"Now you remember, even if the Beast had done this to me, I don't want you seeking vengeance and doing something stupid. You'll be fresh with the Armored, and plenty of the other Shifters might want a piece of you, so you better stay alert and keep your guard up. No go doing anything stupid."
Emmerich wiped away a tear of both joy and sadness, he nodded at his father. "Yes father, I promise. The Armor will be in good hands."
Lord Eisenberg's eyes softened, his voice filled with paternal affection. "You have always been a light in my life, Emmerich. I know you will make us proud, not only as the inheritor of the Armored Titan, but as a strong-willed individual. Use your powers wisely, but never lose sight of the happiness that resides within you and the family that you have."
As the laughter subsided and a comfortable silence settled, Emmerich and his father shared a moment of pure connection. The family cherishing their final moments with Friedrich Eisenberg as they awaited for the return of the King.
As if on cue, the heavy doors of the chamber swung open, revealing the figure of the King of Eldia himself, Stefan Fritz III. Accompanied by Lukas Tybur and a contingent of Ackerman soldiers, the King exuded an air of authority that commanded attention of everyone within presence of the living god himself. The room seemed to grow quieter in his presence, the weight of his words carrying the weight of the power he bore.
Emmerich, tears still glistening in his eyes, turned to face the King, his expression a mix of sorrow and anticipation. Lord Eisenberg, weakened but resolute, held his son's gaze for a lingering moment, their unspoken bond speaking volumes.
King Stefan approached, his steps measured and purposeful. His voice resonated through the chamber, carrying the weight of both duty and authority. "Emmerich Eisenberg, heir to the Armored Titan, the time has come for you to fulfill your destiny. Your father has guided you, trained you, and now he shall pass on his power of the Armored Titan to you."
The servants, under the King's command, carefully lifted Lord Eisenberg's sickbed, carrying him out the room towards the chamber of Titans as the King followed shortly after suite. The room seemed to hold its breath as the procession moved forward, the weight of the impending ritual palpable in the air. Emmerich and Lord Eisenberg shared one last meaningful look, a silent exchange that conveyed their love, pride, and acceptance of their intertwined fates.
Taking a deep breath and looking back at his family one last time, Emmerich followed the path set before him, his eyes fixed upon his father's form. The chamber of Titans awaited, its solemnity embracing the passing of power from one generation to the next.
They went through a short series of hallways and paths as they silently made their way through the castle and towards the Chamber of Titans, not even the King uttering a single word throughout the trip.
Then in a few moments, they arrive at the door of the chamber, one of the servants unlocking the door into the room and pushing the door open to reveal the inside.
The Chamber of Titans stood as a sacred space, bathed in an ethereal glow upon entering that emanated from the flickering torches lining the stone walls. As one stepped inside, an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence enveloped the air, thick with the weight of ancient power.
The chamber was vast, with high ceilings that seemed to touch the heavens themselves. Carved pillars, adorned with intricate designs depicting the intertwined history of Eldia and the Titans, rose majestically towards the heavens. Their surfaces glimmered with a faint luminescence, casting shadows that danced upon the mosaic-tiled floor below.
At the center of the chamber, a circular dais lay bare, a hallowed space reserved for the sacred ritual. The polished stone beneath the dais gleamed, its surface bearing the marks of countless ceremonies that had taken place within this chamber. It stood as a blank canvas, awaiting the culmination of a momentous legacy.
Surrounding the dais, as if guarding the sacred space, stood statues of the Nine Titans. Crafted with meticulous detail, these towering figures loomed over the chamber, each representing the unique and awe-inspiring power of its respective Titan. Their stone forms captured the essence of their otherworldly might, frozen in eternal vigilance.
The statues stood as a testament to the historical lineage of the Titans, their presence evoking a sense of ancient wisdom and formidable strength. From the colossal form of the Founding Titan, to the sleek and fierce countenance of the Female Titan, each statue commanded attention, their faces carved with a reverence reserved for legends.
The Ackermen took positions by the walls of the chambers, their specially made blades from Titan crystal ready at hand in the slight case something wrong were to happen during the ritual.
The King made his way up to the balcony overlooking the chamber followed by Lukas Tybur who stood behind him under the shadows of the room, he cleared his throat as he made a final statement, his voice ringing out once more. "Lord Eisenberg, your legacy shall live on through Emmerich, and the Armored Titan shall continue to protect our realm through him. May you find peace in knowing that your son shall carry on your spirit and honor."
Emmerich, his heart heavy yet resolute, stepped into the several chamber, keeping a good distance from his father in order not to blow him away in the initial transformation. The servants gently placed Lord Eisenberg's sickbed in the center of the chambers spot, ensuring his comfort and dignity. Emmerich's eyes met his father's for one final time, conveying a world of unspoken emotions.
In that poignant moment, as the servants retread from the center of the chamber, a profound silence fell over the room. Emmerich and Lord Eisenberg shared a last look just as the King activated his powers.
Emmerich began to glow yellow as lightning materialised in the air around him, flickering and dancing from his body as the entire room is engulfed in a bright burst of light and a loud thunderours rumble as out from Emmerich emerged a Titan standing 8 meters tall.
Emmerich's Titan immedietly moved towards his dad, grabbing the sickly man whose body stiffened upon being grasped and lifted into the air, towards the slobbering mouth of his son turned Titan.
Lord Eisenberg braced himself as he felt himself go into the Titan's mouth, whose jaws then came down upon his body, crushing his bones and piercing his skin as he let out a pained screamed as he was eaten alive by his son.
Blood spilled everywhere as the titan chewed on his father's lower body, deaf to his fathers cries to kill him already as he crushed and minced his legs within his mouth.
Everybody in the room watched in silence as Lord Eisenberg continued to scream in agony, his son's titan slowly pushing the rest of the man's body into his mouth as he made a killing blow by crushing his chest. Blood spilled all over the floor as the screaming stopped, with Emmerich's titan chewing up the rest of his father's body then eventually swallowing it in the end.
Having successfully swallowed his father, Emmerich's Titan dissolves, having consumed the previous shifter and gaining the powers of the Armored Titan.
The servants immediately head to the center of the room to pull Emmerich out of the burning titan body, their hands screaming in pain from the heat but unable to pull away due to fear of facing the Eldian King's wrath.
"Well, it's done," The King says, making his way down the stairs. "Deal with the rest and bring him back to his family in the waiting chambers," the King ordered to the servants who nodded in response.
"Well now that that's done, shall we now investigate the colossal hole the guards claim that had materialised in the Great Forest?" Lukas Tybur asked, looking at the King who gave a nod."
"Right away, that thing is definitely nothing of my doing or anything even the Colossal would be capable of. Certainly nothing that perfectly cultivated."
"Very well, then your greatness." Lukas Tybur agreed, the group then making their way out of the castle.
...
King Fritz and Lukas Tybur, accompanied by a small army of Eldian soldiers and titans, approached the enormous hole that had manifested in the heart of the forest. Their march echoed through the air, mingling with the hushed whispers and the sound of leaves rustling in the breeze. The scene before them was awe-inspiring, a testament to the vastness of the unknown that was the tunnel-like hole in front of them.
As they stood at the precipice, the King's eyes narrowed, his mind buzzing with curiosity and a hint of apprehension. He turned to Lukas, his voice laced with intrigue. "What do you make of this, Tybur? I have never witnessed such a phenomenon in all my years on this Earth."
Lukas Tybur, his gaze fixed upon the massive hole, replied with a measured tone. "Indeed, Your Majesty. This is unlike anything I have ever seen. The sheer size and power required to create such an opening is staggering without any help from the likes of the Founder's powers. It hints at a force that's different from our understanding and knowledge."
The soldiers surrounding them exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions a reflection of the uncertainty that permeated the air. Some speculated in hushed whispers, while others dared not speak, their eyes locked on the abyss that seemed to swallow the very essence of the forest.
King Fritz, his mind sharp and analytical, pondered the possibilities. "Could it be the work of a natural disaster, a cataclysmic event that has reshaped the land? Or is it a testament to an ancient power long forgotten, an entity that has chosen to reveal itself to us? Similar to the goddess Ymir which had given us the power of the titans?"
Lukas nodded, his eyes scanning the surroundings, searching for any clues that could unravel the mystery. "It's difficult to say, Your Majesty. Nature rarely produces such precise and deliberate creations. This appears intentional, as if someone or something with great power wished to breach the boundaries between our world and another."
The King's brow furrowed as he contemplated the implications. "If that is the case, Tybur, what lies beyond? Is it a realm teeming with untold countries and kingdoms, waiting to be conquered? Or does it hold unimaginable dangers that could threaten the very foundations of our empire?"
Lukas' voice held a hint of caution as he responded. "The unknown always carries inherent risks, your greatness. It is a double-edged sword that can bring both prosperity and ruin. Whatever lies beyond, we must approach with great caution and vigilance."
King Fritz, having yearned for an adventure, something to rekindle his soul, felt a surge of excitement within him. The prospect of the unexplored, the tantalizing notion of conquering new frontiers, stirred his adventurous spirit. "Tybur, imagine the possibilities. If this leads to a realm ripe for conquest, a land brimming with resources and power, we could further solidify our empire's reign."
Lukas raised an eyebrow, his gaze fixed upon the King. "Your Majesty, we must tread carefully. The power that created this hole, this passage, is not to be underestimated. We must ensure that our ambitions do not lead us astray, that we do not awaken a force beyond our control."
King Fritz nodded, acknowledging Lukas' words. "You speak with wisdom, Tybur. We shall proceed cautiously, step by step, gathering knowledge and understanding before we embark upon any grand plans. Our empire may be mighty, but we must not let hubris blind us to the perils that lie in wait."
As the army continued to survey the awe-inspiring sight before them, a mixture of awe and trepidation swirled in the air. The soldiers exchanged nervous glances, their minds filled with wonder and a sense of foreboding. The unknown loomed large, promising both the allure of adventure and the threat of the unforeseen.
King Fritz turned and gestured to one of his commanders who immedietly stepped up and saluted his King. "Yes, your greatness?"
"Send word to all of the Titan families, we are to have a meeting later this evening to discuss how we shall move forward with this... tunnel leading into the Earth."
The commander saluted, turning away and disappearing into the ranks as King Fritz returned his gaze to the deep darkness of the tunnel in front of him. He felt the pull of the dungeon calling out for him, filling his head with thoughts and wonders of conquest that he normally wouldn't have thought of when staring at a hole leading into the Earth. Unbeknownst to him, the dungeon was already filling his head with crazy dreams, slowly pushing forward with the first stage of its plan.
...
Moments after having inherited the power of the Armor and grieving over the passing of his father, Emmerich Eisenberg was greeted at his estate by one of the King's messengers with a letter inviting him along with the rest of the other titan wielding families to join him for a feast that night to discuss an expedition that would determine the future of the Eldian Empire.
He had reluctantly accepted, after his uncles had argued with him that it was his duty and that he basically had no choice either way due to it being the will of the King.
Putting on the attire left to him by his father and readying his steed, Emmerich immediately left for the King's castle by horse accompanied by his men.
He reached the castle in a matter of minutes, instantly greeted by the castle servants who guided him into the main hall where the meeting and dinner would supposedly take place leaving his guard behind to await his return. Emmerich marvelled once again at the interior of the castle, its walls being made entirely out of Titan hardening ensuring that it wouldn't collapse under any circumstance, even if the Colossal itself were to explode directly over it.
Upon entering the great hall Emmerich couldn't help but stand in awe at the grand and opulent space before him, befitting the gathering of the eight titan shifters of Eldia. As one entered the hall, a sense of astonishment and reverence washed over them. The high ceilings reached toward the heavens, adorned with intricate carvings that depicted the rich history and legends of the Eldian Empire just like those of in the Chamber of Titans.
The hall's walls were embellished with majestic tapestries, showcasing scenes of triumph and valor, of empires conquered and victories won. The vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship breathed life into the tales they portrayed, inviting the onlooker to immerse themselves in the epic stories of Eldia's titan shifters.
The central focal point of the hall was a huge, round, ornately carved wooden table, stretching the length of the grand hall. Polished to a high sheen, it bore the marks of countless feasts and gatherings. The table was adorned with fine silverware, gleaming under the warm glow of the chandeliers above, and delicate porcelain dishes, filled with an array of delectable delicacies.
On either side of the table, high-backed chairs stood like thrones, awaiting the arrival of the titan shifters. Each chair bore intricate engravings, representing the symbol of the respective titan power it represented. The seats were plush, upholstered in rich fabrics that exuded regality and comfort.
The hall was illuminated by the soft glow of numerous chandeliers, their flickering candlelight casting dancing shadows upon the walls. The warm light reflected off the polished floors, adding to the ambiance of grandeur and prestige.
Entering the hall, Emmerich notices that some of the titan wielders were entering the room at about the same time as he was, recognising the face of the current wielder of the Jaw Titan, a slightly freckled redheaded girl with lime green eyes who seemed to be about his age, but from what he knows, she's been using the Jaw for the past 3 years already. The other he recognised as the current holder of the Colossal Titan, a big burly man with a beard and several battle scars, he looked around the room, uninterested before laying eyes on Emmerich who returned his gaze.
The two wielders stared at each other for a couple of seconds before he was interrupted by one of the servants beckoning him to his seat, causing him to look away first. A bit ticked off, Emmerich looks back up to return his gaze back to the Colossal Titan shifter only to find him being led away by another servant as well.
With a sigh, Emmerich knew he practically lost that match and moves towards his seat in the huge round table, seated in between the wielder of the Female titan, a short haired brunette woman who looked to be in her mid 20s, and the Cart Titan, who looked to be the oldest among all of the 8 shifters.
"So, you're the new Lord Eisenberg I suppose," The Wielder of the Female Titan said to him, looking straight ahead as she spoke.
Emmerich looked at her, his face looking both curious and intimidated by the veteran shifter. "Uhh, yes... yes I am. I had just actually inherited it from my father this early afternoon..."
Emmerich cringes, feeling he had said too much.
The shifter of the Female Titan looks at him, her dark blue eyes looking at him with a bored expression. "Yeah, I know. Well I personally have no problems with you or your family as your father was a very moderate man. I'm just warning you, after this, you stay out of my territory and don't go getting comfortable with the Colossal, Jaw or Beast, we won't have a problem."
"Right..." Emmerich said, agreeing with her about getting comfortable with any of those shifters.
Speaking of the Beast...
Emmerich takes a look around and notices the wielder of the Beast Titan seated in between the Colossal and the Jaw, currently in the middle of a conversation with the Colossal's Wielder and having seemed to not notice him yet.
Emmerich stared daggers into the Beast Titan, hating everything about him already from his long raven hair and small beard. He looked to be about a few years older than him, or maybe more, but Emmerich couldn't care less, he immediately hated the guy.
In that moment, King Fritz entered the room immedietly bringing upon silence to every voice that chattered about. Adorned in regal attire and flanked by Lukas Tybur, the wielder of the Warhammer Titan, the King took his place at the head of the table with Tybur sitting at the empty chair next to him beside the Colossal. The room was filled with a mixture of anticipation as silence took place among the rest of the titan families. It's been a long time since any of the Kings had called upon a ceasefire between the Titan families dispute over an event so important.
"Esteemed Titan families," King Fritz began, his voice commanding attention. "We stand on the precipice of a great unknown. The tunnel before us that had taken the place of the Great Forest has stirred the curiosity of our empire, and we must decide how we shall proceed."
Lukas Tybur continued after the King, known for his brilliance among the rest of the Titan shifters, all eyes and ears were focus on his words as he spoke with a measured tone. "It is imperative that we approach this with caution. There may be a power behind the creation of the tunnel that is a force beyond or equal to our own comprehension. We must prioritize the safety of our people and ensure that no unforeseen dangers are unleashed upon our realm."
Nods of agreement rippled through the room, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The Beast Titan's wielder leaned forward, his eyes glinting with a spark of adventure. "Yet already I've heard so many rumors from the rest of the commonfolk and nobles of our empire, we cannot ignore the potential this tunnel holds. If there is a realm waiting to be discovered, resources or mines with vast riches to be claimed, it could bolster our empire and further secure our dominance."
Lukas Tybur nodded. "And you are right so Lord Schneider, however as mysterious as this tunnel may be, we must not allow greed or ambition to cloud our judgment. There should always be room for disappointment, in the chance that this tunnel was merely an event caused by the Earth and that hole would just lead to nowhere deep inside it. So it's best that we must carefully consider the implications and consequences of our actions. Our empire is mighty, but it is wise to be humble and realistic in the face of the unknown."
King Fritz then spoke up. "Eitherway, I have had a prior discussion with Lord Tybur beforehand about how we should proceed with this situation. Perhaps with a small expedition led by the wielder of the Cart Titan, we can gather intelligence and assess the risks involved. We must not rush blindly into the tunnel, but we cannot let this opportunity for discovery pass us by."
The wielder of the Cart Titan looked up at the King and bowed his head. "Thank you, your greatness, I am more than happy to lead the expedition into the center of the world to discover what it holds for us to conquer."
The room fell into a thoughtful silence, the weight of the decision hanging in the air. After a moment, the nod of the Colossal and Female Titan's wielders prompted a consensus among the titan families. The King's voice rose above the quiet deliberation. "It is decided then. We shall send forth the Cart Titan and the best of our soldiers to venture into the tunnel, to gather information and report back to us."
The agreement was met with resolute nods and murmurs of assent. The titan families agreed on the temporary truce among them about the importance of unity in the face of the unknown, perhaps this tunnel would lead to someplace that would allow for them to put aside their quarrels and work together as an empire once again.
As the meeting concluded, King Fritz called forth the servants to bring forth the food, dedicated to the newfound tunnel that had mysetriously appeared in their lands. the members of the titan families feasted together in mutual unity after several long years of wars between the families for power over land and resources, preparing for the journey ahead. Emmerich Eisenberg, with a mix of excitement and trepidation, understood the weight of responsibility that awaited him as the new Armored Titan. The future of the Eldian Empire, and his own destiny, hung in the balance. He wondered what his father would think at the thought of one of his first experiences as the Armor would be to explore a tunnel that led into the center of the Earth?
And so, with a united front and a shared purpose, the titan families set their sights on the mysterious tunnel, ready to unravel its secrets and determine the fate of their empire. The expedition of the Eldian Empire begun, and so has the grand plan of the dungeon, already everything was unfolding just as planned, as the Dungeon grew excited from anticipation on what's to come.
- End of Chapter 1 -
AN: I am aware that some of the characters in Dan Machi are far stronger than the average titan, and some of the Titan Shifters as well, but I would like to point out that I have a decent reason for creating this story, knowing that it won't be an all out stomp for the adventurers of Orario. To any of those who are caught up with the story of Attack on Titan, you should be well aware of the fact that the Founding Titan itself is pretty overpowered in its respective universe and near omnipotent. In Eren's hands, the Founding Titan is stupid overpowered, but Eren didn't use the power to its full potential. Now imagine this power in the hands of a person who wouldn't mind abusing it and utilising it to its full potential, like the ancient King of the Eldian Empire, who dominated the entire world using only 15 meter tall titans. The Founding Titan can create and modify titans and change the genetic makeup of Eldians, as evident by the Ackermans and curing the dieseases of the Elidan people by Karl Reiss. And the Eldians being slightly stronger and more durable than the average human seeing as how they're able to withstand the force from flying around in ODM gear all the while doing acrobatics while flying around. So I feel like the Eldian Empire has a chance faring against the adventures and monsters in Orario if King Fritz uses the powers of the Founding Titan to its full potential. And for those who follow me for the other story, I'm not dead, I just got disillusioned with writing for a bit. But I'm finishing it up now, and should publish the 4th chapter by next week, just wanted to put my mind writing something else since I got bored writing a non-action story for a while. But anyway, thank you for reading this story, I plan on updating every week, so expect the next chapter around the following weekend.