Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo:
The Conclusion
And we're back for part 2! I honestly don't know how long this story might be, but I'm definitely going full out with it. I'm just enjoying writing this fanfic so much!
Anyway, this chapter will focus on Edmond's betrayal in the past, with present moments as well. We will jump around from different characters, but in a third person way. I will be recreating a lot of the same scenes from the series, but there will be a lot new stuff thrown in as well. I think by the time we reach the battle between Edmond (aka the Count) and Fernand is where I will really deviate from the anime. I guess you could call this a more 'alternate' ending to the series, in a way.
Once again, all credit goes towards Alexandre Dumas, Gonzo, and Funimation. All of this is just for fun.
Please enjoy!
Part 2:
The Betrayal
Fernand:
Fernand watched as the security cameras of the hologram computers showed his ship and the entire fleet entering Earth's airspace, about to enter the atmosphere of the planet and towards Paris. He smiled and laughed to himself, enjoying the moment. He stood in the center of the command center of the ship, with one of his men right by him.
"General," said the man. "I beg your pardon, but are you sure we are doing the right thing?"
Fernand smiled and said, "Don't worry, I know that you're afraid."
The man sighed with grief and confusion.
"You see, there has never actually been such a thing as the truth. The truth is something that you, yourself, create based on your own personal convictions."
"Even if it means setting aside our conscience and turning our weapons against... our own?"
Continuing to smile, Fernand replied, "People, never really look at their conscience. What they see is the truth that is standing there before them." He turned to the man. "I once betrayed my own friend to get to where I am. And I was brave enough to do it. If it means turning against our fellow soldiers on the ground and our fellow leaders, then I am more than willing to do it."
The computer signaled him as they began entering the Earth's atmosphere and approach Paris from above. He gave the order for ships to launch, as he got in one himself and took several of his men to take the National Assembly, where all of the politicians and world leaders were at.
The Count of Monte Cristo:
The Count walked the streets of Paris, knowing fully well that today was the last day he would ever walk them again. Once his revenge was complete, he would leave Earth with all of his servants, and go wherever he wanted to go. He already had plans to make sure Haydee was restored to her rightful place on the throne of Janina, and also release all three of his servants, Bertuccio, Baptistin, and Ali from his control, with some of his wealth to pursue their own desires. As for him, he honestly didn't know what he would do. Or if he even possessed that right anymore. His deal with Gankutsuou was very clear. Get revenge and his body was his. And the spirit that now controlled him was getting impatient. In fact, the spirit had taken control of him sometimes in order to make sure nothing gets in the way of the deal.
The Count's revenge was almost near completion. He already disposed of Villefort, who was now driven insane and beyond hope of saving, all due to poison. And Danglars was trapped in a spaceship, somewhere between Earth and the Jupiter now, with lots of gold to keep him company. But now it was time for the big fish. The one who hurt him the most and betrayed the very friendship that he, himself, thought was unbreakable.
Fernand Mondego!
Standing by the gates of a government building, he looked across the bridge and saw Albert, who was staring right at him. Sighing to himself, he began to walk towards him.
"Alright, Count!" Albert spoke with command. "I'm done with running away! I want the truth! Now!"
The Count lifted his head and nodded, "Then the truth is what you will get then."
The two walked to the middle of the bridge and stared out to the river below.
Fernand:
Once landing at the entrance of the Assembly, Fernand waited as his mean began securing the building. After having confirmation of safe passage, Fernand walked right into the building, entering the large meeting room and took his stand under a hologram of his picture, which appeared before him.
His name was being whispered among those of the Assembly.
"The National Assembly is hereby under the control of forces loyal to the Eastern Fleet!" he announced.
"Have you lost your mind?!" yelled the President. "This is a serious act of high treason!"
"Morcef! We defite you!"
"How dare you do this!"
"I suggest you all hold your tongues!" Fernand said back.
"You traitor!" yelled a man being carried away.
Taking his seat in the President's chair, Fernand made himself comfortable and announced, "The National Assembly is for now on dissolved! I declare a state of martial law in Paris! I am making myself President for life over all of Earth and every military under Earth's control! Anyone who refuses to follow me, will be imprisoned or sentenced to death!"
The Count of Monte Cristo:
There was silence as both Albert and the Count looked out towards the river. Both just listening to the wind and the sound of a church bell in the distance.
After a few moments of silence, Albert began to talk.
"It was the day before he... The day before Franz died. That day, I walked all the way here after you confessed your plans to me. My whole world turned totally upside down. I clearly remember how my tears flowed. They wouldn't stop. No matter how much I tried. They just wouldn't stop. Franz... Franz left some parting word to me in a letter he wrote, before he died. He said never to hate anyone. He said that feelings of love and feelings of hate, both start out as a deep caring for someone."
Just as the birds flew right passed them, the Count couldn't help but remember something similar to what his father once told him. To never die with hatred in his heart. Ironic that message would come back to him. Even after all these years.
"Count," Albert turned to look at him. "I need to know the truth. I'm tired of all of the lies and refusing to believe in the truth. I know most of it, but I can tell that there are some pieces missing."
The Count lowered his head, turned to look at Albert and then back towards the river.
"Count, please," Albert begged. "I need to know the truth."
Sighing to himself, the Count then began his story.
"Twenty-five years ago, I was a young man named Edmond Dantes and I was very naïve-"
Twenty-Five Years Ago
Edmond Dantes entered the large house just on the outskirts of Marseille, wearing a white tuxedo. He was greeted by a large crowd of people, who patted him on the back and congratulated him on becoming captain and his marriage to Mercedes. He couldn't help but notice his father having a good time as well, who was sitting in a wheelchair by the fireplace. He was about to walk towards him until someone had grabbed ahold of him.
"Give it up, everyone, for Edmond Dantes, as he makes a vow of love towards the bride!" yelled the man.
Edmond's face lit up red and became embarrassed.
"Wait! What?"
"Edmond, what is going on?" came Mercedes's voice as she was led by her fellow bridesmaids towards him, laughing.
Turning to see her, he became dazzled by her wedding dress and smiled. He ran forward and picked her up by the hips, spinning her around.
"Oh, my God, what are you doing Edmond?!" she laughed and smiled.
No matter what, that same smile always lit up his heart. Just seeing her happy made him happy.
"Just enjoying the view."
She got his joke and laughed.
After putting her down, he got to one knee and said, "I, Edmond Dantes, swear to make you happy for the rest of your days and love you forever. And, also, to always come back to you. No matter what."
Tears rolled down Mercedes's cheeks as she pulled him up and kissed him in front of everyone, who cheered them on.
"A toast to Edmond's last night of bachelorhood!" yelled someone, as people raised their glasses of wine as a toast to them. "Cheers!"
Music began to play as everyone started dancing. Taking Mercedes's hand, he started dancing with her, despite that he wasn't that good at it.
"Are you going to miss being a bachelor, Edmond?" Mercedes teased. "There is time to call off the wedding."
Edmond winked and said, "No. I'm proud to lose it in order to marry you. Spending forever with you is worth more than all of the girls in the universe."
More tears came flowing from Mercedes's eyes.
"I love you, Edmond."
"I love you, too, Mercedes."
Suddenly, there was a loud ponding at the door.
"We're looking for Edmond Dantes!" a soldier yelled as he entered with a dozen guards.
Everyone, including Edmond and Mercedes turned to see them approaching. The men then grabbed Edmond and put cuffs on him.
"Edmond Dantes!" said the same soldier as before, holding a warrant for his arrest. "You are under arrest as a prime suspect in the assassination of the Prince!"
Everyone gasped in horror and began whispering to each other.
"Wait, did he say assassination against the Prince?"
"When has there been a threat made? I never heard of any assassination."
"Me neither."
"As of a few hours ago, there has been some evidence discovered that the Prince may be in danger of assassination, suspected to be part of a strike from the Imperium!" yelled the officer. "Edmond Dantes is hereby taken into custody as a prime suspect!"
The guard began leading Edmond away.
"Edmond!" Mercedes cried, trying to get free of Fernand's arms, who held her back. "Oh, Edmond! Please bring him back! Edmond!"
"Mercedes!" Edmond yelled back. "This is all some sort of mistake! Don't worry about me! Morrell will help!"
"Edmond! Please let him go! Edmond!"
Even Edmond's father tried to move towards the officers, but was being held back by the crowd.
"My son has committed no crime!" the old man stated. "The only thing that can be held against him is being too honest!"
The doors closed as Edmond was led and thrown into the back of a police car. After a while, they returned to the city of Marseille and took him inside the court building, where a prosecutor was waiting for him.
Suddenly, a car pulled into the park way and a man appeared, not even bothering to shut off the engine.
Edmond recognized him immediately.
"Hold on! That's my captain you got there!" yelled a furious Morrell. "He has done no crime! Whatever evidence you may have is false!"
"Sir, please let us handle this," an officer said to him. "The prosecutor will see you after he has reviewed the suspect first."
Morrell went as far as he could before the officer had to force him back.
"Don't worry, Edmond! I'm not resting until you are free! I promise you!"
His voice disappeared behind the doors as Edmond was brought down a hallway and into a room. The officers sat him down in a seat.
"You may leave," came a man's voice from the table right in front of him.
The officers nodded and exited the room, closing the doors.
Looking up, the Prosecutor Villefort studied Edmond and got up from his chair.
"Mr. Dantes," he began. "You have been accused of a serious crime."
"But I haven't done anything," Edmond defended himself.
"It was an anonymous tip," Villefort sat back down. "According to the accusation, you have in your possession a letter that contains the facts to assassinate the Prince."
"What in the world are you talking about?"
"Before your captain passed away, I believe he entrusted you with a letter."
"That's right. The captain's last request was that I deliver the letter he gave me to the intended reception upon our return to Paris. He told me that the name of the person would find me within the next few days."
Taking out the letter, he handed it over to Villefort, who then opened it and read the letter to himself. His eyes widened as he saw a name that made his heart sink. 'Noirtier de Villefort'! His father! A name that would mean the destruction of his career and reputation.
Getting himself together, he smiled at Edmond and said, "I see, you were just simply carrying out your duties faithfully. Well, then, Dantes, why don't you let me take care of this letter and sort things out for you. I expect they will be releasing you soon enough."
Edmond's eyes lit up with joy and relief.
"Thank you, for all of your help, Mr. Villefort! How can I ever repay you? My fiancée must be anxiously waiting for me to return from this ordeal."
"Oh, by the way," Villefort took a lighter out of his drawer and began lighting the letter, watching the pages burn. "Have you spoken of this letter to anyone else?"
"No, sir. I fully obeyed the captain's last request and kept it a secret from everyone, including my father. No else knows of this letter, except you."
Villefort smiled as the rest of the letter burnt away, disappearing into ash.
"I see," he replied. "Guards!"
The same officers from before came in.
"Château d'If," he ordered them.
The officers nodded and approached Edmond, who was confused by what Villefort meant. Before he even noticed, the butt of a rifle made connection with his head, knocking him out cold.
Edmond awoke with a splitting headache. Took a while for his eyes to adjust. Once he was able to see, he found himself looking out a window towards space. His eyes widened as he tried to move, but found his hands, arms, and legs restrained in a pod.
"Help! What is going on?! Please! I don't understand what crime they think I've committed!" Edmond cried out. "I never done anything wrong! I haven't broken any laws!"
"I'm... I'M INNOCENT!"
The spaceship of which he was in approached a very tall fortress in the middle of the galaxy. In fact, the whole ship was nothing but just machines. It was designed to carry him to this place and imprison him there. Even the fortress itself looked like it was all just machines. It was a place that was made to hold all types of criminals, monsters, aliens, and even humans. A place where no mistakes were made.
It was the Château d'If!
Edmond's pod was taken out of the spaceship once it docked and was placed at number 34 on the facility, where he was plugged into the system of the pod he was in. He could feel his body going into a deep dream state, so that he couldn't make any plans to escape. In a way, he was in a coma. And there were system checks to make sure he doesn't dream within his coma. His month was given a tub, which was to feed liquids into his body, in order to keep him alive. His clothes were stripped and left naked.
For a while, Edmond fought to stay awake and not let the system put him in a coma state. But after a few hours, he fell victim.
This wasn't just any prison. It was literally Hell itself. In everyway possible and form.
And for nearly fifteen years, Edmond tried to find a way to wake up. He knew he was in a coma, but his body was being kept under. His coma had turned into a prison cell. The days of how long he was in there were driving him insane. There were moments when he would dream inside his coma and see Mercedes. He would try to reach out to her and even kiss her if he could. But the system checks made him snap out of it every time. Though he may be naked in the real world, in his mind, he imagined himself in the old tuxedo he last wore. But just like in reality, the clothes began to age and wore out.
Edmond had tried to kill himself multiple times over and over again. But he was in a coma, within his own brain. He couldn't do anything. He wasn't even allowed death to end his suffering. Being alone should have driven him insane within the first few years. But he managed to keep himself from the edge. It wasn't easy, but he managed.
Because of the time he had, Edmond began putting together the pieces of his betrayal. It took almost a decade, but he figured it out. He knew that Danglars had reason to frame him because of the discovery of him embezzling money from the Phanaon, and also his jealousy of him becoming captain. He quickly discovered that Villefort's part was because of the name on the letter. He didn't realize that Noirtier de Villefort was actually the prosecutor's father and was actually the one trying to prevent the assassination against the prince from his own son. And that imprisoning him was a way of silencing any way of the secret being discovered. But Fernand was a hard one for Edmond to accept. He always believed that he and Fernand were friends. But later during his years, in that never ending hellhole, did he see that Fernand wanted Mercedes for himself and was willing to sacrifice him in order to get her. All the pieces came together and it was right there that Edmond swore vengeance and that somehow he would escape his false imprisonment to avenge what they did. But even the thought of escaping the Château d'If made him lose hope.
That was until one day... he met someone.
Okay, I just had to drop that cliffhanger on ya. Thought maybe I would do a 'part 2' to this past story-arc, help keep the excitement going.
I changed a lot of things, I know, but I figured that we could use some change from this. Besides, we don't want the exact same thing all over again. That would make it boring, especially for me. But I did want to throw in some of the same dialogue and stuff going on, just to keep the atmosphere of the anime the same.
I hope you enjoyed reading this and please keep reading onto part 3. I promise I will try to answer a few questions there. And I apologize for any grammar errors and/or mistakes. I'm really trying to work on that.
See you guys later!
