Chapter 1 Introduction (Volume 1)

OUR FIRST downfall was something I realized that fate had already written. It was unexpected; it nearly drove me over the edge of sanity. I lost them all and the clan's honor had fallen. The Knights were left defeated and torn by their failure.

But the light of hope never left me. It shines within me in its ever bright form. With that, I chose to continue the legacy. For I can't let it all fall and be buried forever.

Armed with a passionate heart that burns like the fire, together with an efficient mind that flows like the water, followed by a guiding will that blows like the wind, while nurturing the strength that thrives like the earth... All of us embarked on a long-overdue quest that leads to another danger.

It was a bloody journey dangerous enough to test us. But our willpower never swayed for the sake of our chosen paths.

However, I chose a path that destroyed my true existence. I decided to lead at the cost of my identity. One would think it was a pathetic choice. Others would hesitate to do the same for me. But my faith in them as their leader remains. In return, their loyalty to me stands firm. And now my decision would surely lead me to a new era.

But one unsuspected reunion changed everything.

Now the era I chose to create has slowly become a distant dream. And with the dark sky as my witness, I knew the battle would become more dangerous than ever.

But I won't stop, for I already made a choice. I would stand firm to it until I regained our lost honor. I vowed to become stronger and resolute to finish the journey. No deadly ancient prophecy or skilled enemies would ever stand in my way. I would fight whatever it takes... whatever happens.

For I am protected by the 12 Knights of the Sky.

I am Shinomiya Kourin, the princess of the Shinomiya clan.

I am the Shrouded Flowers' last hope.

I am... the Last Sky of the Earth...