Dark themes for stories can include 'The Abyss of Despair'. This is when characters are in a very low point in their lives, feeling lost in the dark of their own emotions. 'The Dark Forest' is a common one too. It implies an unknown and dangerous place filled with threats, like in the 'Hunger Games' where the arena's forest has many hidden perils. 'The Blackout of Truth' is also a theme, where the truth is somehow hidden or distorted in the darkness.
One great dark theme for stories could be 'The Struggle Against Darkness'. It often involves a hero or a group of characters fighting against an oppressive and shadowy force, like in 'The Lord of the Rings' where the Fellowship battles Sauron's dark army. Another is 'The Mystery in the Shadows', which creates an atmosphere of suspense as characters try to solve a mystery that is shrouded in darkness, both literally and metaphorically. And 'The Dark Redemption' is also a good one, where a character who has been in the dark side tries to find redemption and change their ways.
One of the best is 'The Killing Joke'. It delves deep into the relationship between Batman and the Joker. It shows the Joker's attempt to prove that anyone can go mad like him with one bad day. The art and the psychological exploration make it a classic.
Definitely 'The Dark Knight Returns'. This story is set in the future when Batman has retired but comes back to clean up Gotham once again. It shows an older, more grizzled Batman dealing with a new generation of threats, including a more violent and unhinged Joker. It's a great exploration of Batman's character, his ideals, and how he's still relevant even as the world has changed around him.
One of the best dark stories is 'The Tell - Tale Heart' by Edgar Allan Poe. It's about a narrator who is driven mad by the old man's 'vulture - like' eye and eventually murders him. He then hears the heart still beating under the floorboards, which drives him to confess.
One of the best Dark Reign stories is the one that focuses on Norman Osborn's rise to power. It shows how he manages to take over S.H.I.E.L.D. and form his own regime. His character development from a villain trying to prove himself to a dictator - like figure is really interesting.
There could be a 2019 story where dark Hermione gets involved in a power struggle within Hogwarts. Maybe she discovers some ancient magic that gives her an edge, but at the cost of her relationships. She starts to manipulate situations and people around her to maintain her new - found power, which is a departure from her usually kind - hearted character in the original books.
One of the best Dark Reign stories is the rise of Norman Osborn to power. He took advantage of the chaos in the superhero community and managed to get himself in a position of great authority. It was fascinating to see how he manipulated events and people around him.
Common dark themes in stories include death, loss, betrayal, and the struggle with inner demons. For example, in many gothic novels, death is a prevalent theme, often creating an atmosphere of mystery and gloom. Betrayal can add a sense of drama and emotional turmoil, like in Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' where Macbeth betrays his king. Inner demons can be seen in stories where characters battle with their own vices or psychological issues, making the story complex and thought - provoking.
The story of 'Bloody Mary' is also great. Legend has it that if you stand in a dark bathroom, in front of a mirror, and say 'Bloody Mary' three times, a ghostly figure will appear. It often scares people because of its spooky atmosphere and the mystery surrounding it. The idea of something coming out of the mirror in the dark is truly terrifying.
One of the best stories might be those that explore Batman's early days as a vigilante. They show his struggle to establish himself in Gotham and deal with the city's underworld.
One of the great dark side stories in SWTOR is that of the Sith Inquisitor. Their journey from a lowly acolyte to a powerful Sith Lord is filled with dark and devious plots. They have to constantly outwit their rivals, use dark side powers to gain an edge, and are often involved in back - stabbing and power - hungry schemes. Another good one is the story of the Bounty Hunter who might side with the dark side for more credits and power, getting involved in some morally gray or straight - up evil contracts.