This story was done in collaboration between me and Jriddle41 (Sodormatchmaker on DeviantART), and we both own the OCs that are used in the story. Credit to author AaronCottrell97 for a few ideas and character suggestions (especially the duel layout for the story, along with the flashback to Driote's backstory). Everything else belongs to their respective owners:
Thomas and Friends (c) Hit Entertainment and Mattel
The Railway Series (c) Rev Wilbert Awdry
Yu-Gi-Oh! (c) Konami
WARNING: Once more, this story is rated entirely M for bloody violence, depictions of gore, sexual content (including a moment of language being used in context to sex), and some nudity. Reader discretion is strongly advised.
Opening up in the hospital room, Thomas and Emily were both still resting in separate beds, and the rest of their classmates were all gathered to listen to the story Thomas has to tell regarding Anakin and Driote's meeting.
"Alright, so how does it begin?" asked James.
"Well... It was clearly a long, long time ago." began Thomas, trying to recall everything. "It was five months before the fateful night where Prince Randolph, that selfish prince, attempted to rape Princess Anastasia, and Anakin began a forbidden relationship with her."
"Rape..." whispered Emily, remembering the whole event quite well. "Forbidden relationship..."
"Anyway, this is how it all went..."
And everyone in the room listened carefully to what Thomas had to say about Anakin and Driote's first meeting.
(elsewhere...)
Inside the plane heading for Knapford City, Frankie was shown lying in the makeshift bed, still in her coma. Of course, that didn't mean we couldn't see what was going on inside the blue/green-haired girl's mind...
DREAM SEQUENCE
Inside the throne room of one of the neighboring kingdoms, there were dead, bloodied bodies of civilians that Driote and her army had killed in their conquest. Driote, pleased with the victory, approached the empty throne and started stroking it.
"You're all mine." she whispered. "You'll be perfect for my next piece of art."
In only a short period of time, Driote, ever since claiming the throne of the kingdom of Chelyumn, had conquered numerous kingdoms in the Duel Monsters spirit world, in addition to using the dead, mangled bodies of people, animals, and Duel Spirits whom she killed to create various 'sculptures', with each artwork as horrifying, gruesome and inhumane as the next, allowing the 'Artist of Insanity's' vision to grow...in the most painful, most insane way. The peaceful kingdom of Chelyumn was originally a peaceful, tranquil kingdom - one of the friendliest kingdoms in the land. That all changed when Driote arrived and defeated Light Bringer Lucifer in a duel before proceeding to murder her on the spot. Taking over command of the whole kingdom, Driote turned the whole peaceful kingdom into a slave industry, turning all the innocent civilians, the very people who objected to Driote's artistic vision and had her arrested, as well as captured citizens of the kingdoms she's conquered, into slaves for the people and creatures of darkness who pledged their loyalty to Driote and helped her achieve the throne. To the poor people of the kingdom subjected to such horror, it was the ultimate Hell. For Driote on the other hand, it was the perfect Heaven.
But there was one person in Driote's fold who had recently gotten into some rough ground with her, and that was one of the soldiers, a human male by the name of Alain Kumar. Alain was 42-years old, had brown hair and a goatee, and was a man who had willingly aided Driote in taking over her old home. At some point, however, he become enraged with her for not giving him the proper compensation and recognition he deserved. Inside the throne room of Chelyumn Castle one day, Alain, currently shirtless, had been forcefully summoned by Driote.
"UGH!" Alain cried out, being pushed forth by one of the Vorse Raiders. "Driote! Why was I summoned here? What are you intending to do to me?"
"Hehehehe... That's 'Queen' Driote to you." giggled Driote, stepping out of the nearby shadows. She then started walking towards the human male. "You didn't think that I was stupid enough to not see you try to rise up against me, did you?" Her smiling face was replaced by anger as she slapped her minion across the face. "Bastard! You're nothing more than an underling to me!"
"AUGH!" Alain cried out, getting knocked to the floor. "W-Why you...!"
All of a sudden, Driote regained a more calm, composed posture.
"You know? I didn't know how fortunate I am to have a servant who feels it is appropriate to lecture me." she purred, before a Electro-Whip appeared in her right hand. "However, I don't like being lectured. As a result, you need to be punished for it!"
Alain's eyes widened. "N-No! You mustn't!" he begged. "You can't!"
As soon as those words were said, Driote started striking the brown-haired man with the Electro-Whip, electrocuting him from each strike of the weapon. Alain screamed from not only the strikes hitting him, but also from the electric shocks going through his whole body. Those screams of agony were what Driote loved the most, and they gave her complete satisfaction over her actions. When she finished torturing Alain, the man collapsed to his hands and knees in extreme exhaustion, with his torso littered with severe burns and scars from the Electro-Whip.
"I sincerely hope that lesson of pain was 'wonderful' for you." taunted Driote, while making her Electro-Whip fade away. "Now, if you are to demand anything more from me, then I will definitely give you the fame and recognition you have been desiring...by using you as the materials for my next artwork."
Then, with a wave of her hand, the Vorse Raiders picked up the near dead body of Alain and carried it out of the throne room.
(elsewhere...)
Outside in the hallway, the two Vorse Raiders left the greatly weakened body of Alain to rot, figuring he would be dead shortly. Once their duty was done, the two Vorse Raiders walked away to resume patrolling. Alain, meanwhile, managing to regain some feeling in his body, started to move a limb and show he was alive. Eventually, the brown-haired man started to slowly get back to his feet.
"No more." Alain was saying. "No more pleasure... No more chances!" As soon as he was standing, he weakly fell to a knee. "This kingdom... It no longer is for me."
While limping through the hallway, Alain, wondering where he would go after escaping, got an idea on how to give Driote, metaphorically speaking, the middle finger.
(elsewhere...)
Somewhere in the city, Alain left the nearby bar carrying a large flask of vodka. No, he wasn't going to drink it. Instead, there was another use for it. Alain eventually found the kingdom's biggest 'sculpture' in the center square. Taking out a match he had on him, Alain lit it and dropped it into the flask of vodka. Since most alcoholic drinks were flammable, the lit match ended up setting the beverage on fire!
"And now, my parting gift to you, Driote!" sneered Alain, before tossing the flaming flask at the large sculpture.
The whole flask broke on contact and set the whole thing on fire, soon to be completely destroyed. With nothing left to do, Alain turn and made a run for it. Unfortunately, a Winged Minion was on patrol through the skies and spotted the vandalism left behind by Alain. Hastily, he turned and flew towards the castle to let the 'Queen' know of it.
(later...)
Wasting no time in racing towards the central square once the news was given, Driote could only stop and stare on in horror as one of her beautiful works of 'art' continued to burn. Knowing that it couldn't be saved, Driote cast a furious glance towards the Ryu-Kishin Powereds, Archfiend Soldiers, and Doomcaliber Knights gathered around to watch the great 'sculpture' made by their Queen burn to ashes.
"Find him!" Driote shouted, giving her minions their orders. "Find that traitor Alain and bring him back to me! I'm going to enjoy splitting his friggin' head open and using his brain for my latest piece!"
The evil Duel Spirits wasted no time in beginning the search.
(elsewhere...)
Unfortunately for Driote, Alain, riding a boat he stole from the harbor, was already far away from the kingdom.
"Good riddance." The brown-haired man muttered, before looking to the future. "Now, to find a new place to live and possibly gain loyalists."
Where would the vast ocean take him? That, I'm afraid, is unknown at the moment. Or is it?
Title: Genesis of Hatred, Part 1
Meanwhile, inside the throne room of Castle Rondeval a week since the event in Chelyumn, Anakin, aged 18, was summoned before both King Reginald and Queen Imelda.
"Your Majesties." Anakin acknowledged, lowering himself to a knee.
"Anakin, we require your ruthless fighting skills once more." began King Reginald. "The kingdom of Chelyumn has a new Queen."
"What?" quizzed Anakin.
"But this isn't any ordinary Queen." continued King Reginald. "Her title is the 'Artist of Insanity'. This isn't any ordinary Queen; she has conquered numerous other kingdoms in this world faster than any kingdom I have ever conquered."
"This Queen conquered those kingdoms in no less than six weeks." put in Queen Imelda. "It took my husband years to achieve such a feat." She then became scared. "Since she has taken the throne, the kingdom has become a slave labor industry."
"A slave labor industry?" gasped Anakin, while a few nearby Blade Knights also gasped.
"Yes, a slave labor industry. I'm so scared... What if this new Queen decides to attack our kingdom? I couldn't bear to think what might happen if-"
"Don't worry yourself into a mess, dearest." King Reginald reassured. "My army is the mightest in this world; we will not allow the so-called 'Artist of Insanity' to overrun our home." He then turned and gave Anakin an evil-looking eye. "Isn't that right, Anakin?"
Anakin flinched when he saw the look from his King, realizing that it was a warning to not let the enemy win if they were to attack.
"Y-Yes, Sire..." he obeyed.
"Now, listen to me carefully." continued King Reginald. "Since this enemy is no ordinary one, we will have to plan a new strategy if we want to attack and take Chelyumn. This Queen is not one to be trifled with, and I don't need to remind you that I don't like humiliating losses or retreats."
Anakin listened to King Reginald carefully. Despite harboring a deep, secret hatred for him (King Reginald) because of the years of verbal abuse and being seen as nothing but a tool for winning battles and conquering kingdoms, he (Anakin), alas, had no other choice but to obey without any question.
(elsewhere...)
Later on, Anakin was off from his duties and was able to spend some time in the city's shopping district with his best friend Princess Anastasia, also at the age of 18. They were really happy, because Prince Randolph was not at the castle at the moment (he was visiting his home for the month).
"Good morning, princess!" One woman greeted, as her three children (one boy and two girls) waved happily.
"You're looking as beautiful as ever!" A young woman put in.
"You're lucky that princes from all across this world are constantly dying to meet you!" A young man added in positively.
Anastasia cheerfully waved to the people gathered around to greet her; she never looked down upon her subjects, and cared for them greatly. Anakin, meanwhile, continued to maintain a sharp eye on the princess, because it was his duty as her bodyguard to make sure she was safe and sound.
"You know, there's always trouble brewing on the streets." The black-haired young man warned.
"Oh, Ani, this kingdom is completely safe." giggled Anastasia. "Since you and the other soldiers guard it so well, there hasn't been any signs of trouble in a long time."
"I'm your bodyguard after all, it's my duty to protect you."
As the two friends walked down one street of the shopping district, they could hear some girlish giggles. As expected, a number of young women and teenage girls were giggling and swooning in admirement over Anakin.
"Oh, that Anakin is so dreamy." One teenage girl sighed heavenly.
"He's honorable and treats girls with the greatest of respect!" Another teenage girl agreed.
"I would love for him to be my bodyguard." One young woman wished. "Princess Anastasia is so lucky to have him as a bodyguard."
"Anakin's also hot!" Another young woman squealed. "One day, I'd like to see him stripped of his clothing, because I would love to see him... EEEEEE!"
The teenage girls and young women started squealing in delight at the thought of wanting to see Anakin nude. Anakin smiled sheepishly at the attention he was getting from the women of the kingdom of Rondeval, but then began to realize something. He turned and saw Anastasia not looking very pleased.
"Anastasia?" The black-haired young man peeped. "Are you okay?"
Anastasia sighed and shook her head. She never enjoyed seeing other women taking interest in Anakin, and even Anakin could tell that the brunette-haired young woman was secretly jealous, despite how much she denied it and her secretly overwhelming lust for him, because, again, she was arranged to marry Prince Randolph, and entering a relationship with Anakin was forbidden.
"Princess, I would never take pride or interest in how many women are attracted to me." Anakin kindly reassured. "The only woman I ever wanted to give my full attention to, is you."
"I...don't know what you're talking about." denied Anastasia, folding his arms and putting on a pouty-looking face.
Anakin suddenly grinned with amusement. He turned to the giggling, squealing teenage girls and young women and flashed them a wink and the peace sign. The action caused the group of teenage girls and young women to shriek with admiration before collapsing. Needless to say, Anastasia was not amused by the ecstatic reaction from the group, but again manages to hide her jealousy.
"Ugh! Do you really enjoy their reactions, Anakin?" she questioned irritably.
"They mean nothing to me." chuckled Anakin. "I just enjoy seeing you get riled up like that."
Anastasia fumed a bit, but then, with a giggle, punched Anakin's shoulder playfully before running off, causing Anakin to laugh and give chase. As the two friends raced on through the shopping district, they were about to run into a wee bit of danger... On the nearby rooftop of a tall building, a cloaked figure, armed with a crossbow, was taking aim at someone below.
"Just about right..." The figure (male) mumbled. "Just about...right!"
Aiming the weapon, he was aiming for someone in the streets below, and that someone looked to be...Anakin and/or Anastasia! The two friends were initially unaware of what was coming for them.
"So, shall we head back to the castle?" asked Anastasia.
Before Anakin could answer, his instincts kicked in.
"WATCH OUT!" he shouted, pushing Anastasia out of the way.
A crossbow bolt was coming straight towards them! Thankfully, Anastasia was pushed out of the way in time, while Anakin managed to jump to the side and avoid it. On the nearby roof, the cloaked figure cursed in response to his failed assassination attempt before tunring to run. Back below, Anakin lying on the ground, was managed to get up and see someone getting away.
"HEY! Get back here!" The black-haired young man hollered, before making a run after the man. "Damn it!"
"Anakin!" called Anastasia, getting back onto her feet. "What's going on?! Where are you going?"
The princess's words and pleading were ignored, as her friend was running after the man who tried to kill them both. Using his acrobatic skills, Anakin quickly jump up onto the rooftop of a nearby building and continue to give chase.
"Get back here!" shouted Anakin.
"Never!" The cloaked figure refused.
The chase came to an end when Anakin, fed up, managed to get close enough to tackle the figure off the room. Both of them fell, but one of the market awnings managed to cushion the fall and prevent either death or serious injuries. Once they were back on solid ground, the two warriors were rolling around and fighting.
"Why were you trying to kill me and Anastasia?!" Anakin demanded, but was pushed off the body of the cloaked figure. "What are your goals for doing that?"
"I'm not one to tell." The figure dismissed, removing his hood and revealing himself to be...Alain. He then drew his sword out. "Defeat me, and maybe I'll tell you."
Anakin drew his sword out. The two men began to swordfight, and they were evenly matched. Anakin, despite being hailed as the best fighter in the kingdom, was surprised that his opponent was a complete match for him. Regardless, he wasn't going to give up like that! After the two soldiers locked blades with one another, the voice of Anastasia called out...
"Anakin!" she echoed. "I've come with the Royal Guard!"
"Huh?!" Alain gasped, seeing several Blade Knights rushing into the area.
Unfortunately for him, he lost concentration from hearing the word 'guards'. With that distraction, Anakin began to beat Alain into submission. Once Alain was finally down, Anastasia stepped forth and spoke in an authorial-like way...
"Guards! Take him away!" The brunette-haired young woman commanded.
Two Blade Knights picked up the beaten Alain.
"Come on, you!" The first Blade Knight hissed.
"Our King wishes to meet with you." added the second Blade Knight.
Once the Royal Guard took the brown-haired man towards the castle, Anastasia approached Anakin, hoping he was okay.
"Are you alright, Ani?" she asked, worried for his health.
"Y-Yeah." grimaced Anakin, clutched his shoulder. "That fall did smart, but I'm glad we had something to break the fall."
"That's good." nodded Anastasia, before taking her friend by the hand. "Now, come on. I'll tend to your injuries before we go and see my Father and Mother about the intruder."
And the princess started leading her friend back to the castle.
(elsewhere...)
Inside the throne room, two Blade Knights were leading Alain to a part of the room. Sitting on their respective thrones, both King Reginald and Queen Imelda were waiting to speak. Once Alain was positioned, King Reginald was the first to speak...
"Hmm... The armor you wear." he mused, taking an interest in it.
"What do you mean?" grunted Alain, still injured from his earlier battle with Anakin.
"It bears the symbol of the Chelyumn kingdom!"
"Chelyumnian armor?" gasped Anastasia, as she and Anakin arrived in the throne room.
"That's the kingdom taken over by the 'Artist of Insanity'." added Anakin, remembering what his King had told him. "This guy must work for her."
Angry that the kingdom of Chelyumn sent a spy to his own kingdom, King Reginald stood up and approached the captured Alain, demanding some answers on why he was here.
"You! Why did you come here?" questioned King Reginald. "Why are you here in Rondeval? Did the Queen of Chelyumm order you to come here to gather information?"
"Me? Come here on orders of my Queen?" scoffed Alain. "Heh! As if."
"What?" gasped King Reginald, surprised.
Queen Imelda, joined by both her daughter and Anakin, was equally surprised (as were both Anastasia and Anakin).
"My so-called 'Queen' wanted me dead." continued Alain. "She treats me as nothing more than a slave." As he spoke on, images of him destroying one of Driote's 'sculptures' were shown around him. "So, I abandoned the wench and burned one of her statues to the ground. As of now, I'm my own leader, and I'm searching for people to serve me as either soldiers or slaves."
"Why did you come to our home?" demanded Queen Imelda. "Why did you try to assassinate my daughter and adopted son?"
"If you ask me, your daughter was far too beautiful to kill." retorted Alain, before turning and casting a very evil-looking glance at Anastasia. "I was hoping to capture her and make her my sex slave after assassinating that bodyguard of hers. Unfortunately, he was-"
He never made it that far, as he then got tackled by a pissed off Anakin. While everyone in the throne room was horrified, angry, and disgusted by the fact a 40+-year old man wanted to make an 17~18-year old girl/young woman into his sex slave, none were as furious as Anakin was (since he was in-love with Anastasia).
"HOW FRIGGIN' DARE YOU?!" he screamed in fury. "HOW DARE YOU ATTEMPT TO HURT ANASTASIA IN FRONT OF ME!"
"Heh! Why? Are you in-love with her?" sneered Alain, before making the mistake of further provoking the black-haired young man. "Once you were dead, she was going to scrub my floors for the day, and in the night...she would-"
Again, the brown-haired man didn't get very far. Anakin grabbed and slammed Alain's head onto the ground before standing up and starting to crush it under his foot.
"Give me one good excuse why I shouldn't kill you!" Anakin howled furiously. "Actually, don't bother answering, because I'm going to kill you now!"
"Enough!" thundered King Reginald, pulling Anakin off. "I don't want this fool dead... Not 'yet', anyway." He then picked up the wounded Alain by the neck. "Your crime against my daughter will not go unpunished, but before your punishment, you WILL tell me everything what I want to know about the kingdom of Chelyumn's new Queen."
Alain snorted in response, but knew he had no other choice on the matter. And thus, he agreed to spill all of what he knew of Driote. As a result, the brown-haired man was lead away to the dungeons by the Blade Knights in order to be questioned.
(elsewhere...)
Inside Anakin's room, Anakin was seated by the fireplace when a knock on the door came.
"Anakin?" The voice of Esther echoed. "It's me, Esther. Anastasia wanted me to bring you some dinner."
"Go away, I'm not hungry." refused Anakin, still thinking about what Alain said earlier on.
"Please, Anakin, you must-"
"I SAID LEAVE ME ALONE!" The black-haired young man snapped.
Near the door to the room, the voice of Esther sighed as the young woman walked away sadly. Anakin, again, couldn't stop thinking about what Alain said he would do to Anastasia if he (Anakin) was killed. Anakin would never forgive himself if anything were to happen to Anastasia.
(elsewhere...)
Inside the dungeons, King Reginald had finished gathering all he wanted to know from Alain about Driote. Alain, naked and hanging from his wrists, was barely conscious. Nearby, the brown-haired man's clothes and armor laid on the cold, hard floor.
"You are no longer of any use to me." said King Reginald coldly. "You can stay here to rot for all I care."
With a snap of the fingers, two Blade Knights picked up the discarded clothes and armor, and they and King Reginald left the dungeons with the gear. Was this truly the end of Alain? Judging from how badly beaten he was, along with his own scars from the torture at the hands of Driote, I don't think we'll be hearing from this guy again.
(elsewhere...)
Later that night, Anakin was speaking to his King inside his room after being summoned by him.
"Anakin, I have the information we need." King Reginald was saying. "The plans for the conquest of Chelyumn are completed. To begin, we need to infiltrate the kingdom."
"Infiltrate?" wondered Anakin.
Suddenly, with a snap of King Reginald's fingers, the same two Blade Knights approached while carrying Alain's discarded armor.
"Wait, why are you giving me Alain's armor?" Anakin questioned. "What are you wanting me to do?"
"You will put on this armor and sneak into the kingdom of Chelyumn." instructed King Reginald. "You will go undercover as a man named Danom Lars. Once you meet the kingdom's Queen, you will keep her occupied. Treat her to dinner, or even bed her for all I care. Just do it long enough for my troops and I to launch a surprise attack and take the kingdom by force." He narrowed his eyes. "When it's over, you will subdue the Queen."
"I-I can't!" objected Anakin. "Look, Sire, I really don't think this is a good idea!"
"You dare to defy me?!" growled King Reginald. "You will do as I say, or else I'll have you hanged for treason! Do you get me?!"
With no other choice but to obey, Anakin bowed reluctantly, finally agreeing to the plan.
(elsewhere...)
Outside the chambers, Anastasia and Queen Imelda both overheard the conversation, growing increasingly shocked at what King Reginald planned to do.
"Mother, I really don't like this." whispered Anastasia.
"I don't either, honey." agreed Queen Imelda. "This is too dangerous of a plan, and if the 'Artist of Insanity' gets wise to it, she will kill Anakin."
"Ani..." Anastasia thought to herself.
(elsewhere...)
Even later into the night, all was quiet outside Rondeval Castle—well, voices could be heard in one of the towers.
"Anakin, I object to the whole plan!" The voice of Anastasia was saying.
(elsewhere...)
Inside Anastasia's room, Anastasia was sitting on the bed, watching as Anakin was pacing about trying to think of a plan to keep Driote distracted without having to do anything drastic. Currently, both Joan and Esther were in the room, watching the pacing from Anakin, and protesting from Anastasia.
"I don't want you posing as a callous killer and don the armor of a slaver." continued Anastasia. "I mean, how in the world do you plan to keep that Queen 'occupied'?"
Joan and Esther, having overheard the word 'occupied' (figuring it might be slang for seducing, sex, or something else), both blushed uncomfortably in response.
"I'll do it with my 'magnetic charm', of course." replied Anakin, half joking half serious.
"Are you even being serious about this whole thing?!" demanded Anastasia, growing a bit angry.
"It works on you." teased Anakin, as he stopped pacing to look at the brunette-haired young woman. "It gets you all jealous whenever other women are drooling over me."
Now it was Anastasia's turn to blush. "I... err... No! I am NOT jealous!" she insisted, fuming, before plonking down on the bed in a huff. "I'm telling you, I'm not even 'close' to being jealous. You know I have a fiance in Prince Randolph!"
Sensing the distress in Anastasia, Anakin stopped the teasing and approached the bed, sitting down beside the brunette-haired young woman to try and reassure her.
"Look, in all seriousness, I'm just as against this entire plan as you, your Mother, and friends are." The black-haired young man acknowledged, referring both Joan and Esther as 'friends'. "I know that it will be the hardest thing I've ever done."
"You got that right." Joan mumbled to Esther, who shrugged in response.
"I... I guess there's no way to convince you to not go through with this, is there?" sighed Anastasia, defeated. She then sat up, grabbed Anakin's face, pulled it close to her own and looked straight into his eyes. "Just promise me one thing... Promise that you'll come home to all of us, safe and sound."
Anakin, staring into his best friend's eyes, remained silent on the matter. Sensing that the duo should be left alone, Esther and Joan both decided to leave the room and head to their own rooms to get some sleep.
(elsewhere...)
Inside the throne room of Chelyumn Castle, Driote, seated on her throne, was speaking to her two 'right-hand women'. Both were Duel Spirits and Fiend-Type monsters with the names Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice.
"Anything on Alain's whereabouts?" asked Driote.
"I'm afraid not, M'Lady." answered Lady of Lament and Malith. "Many assume that he died after his escape."
"Others, however, are saying he escaped to another kingdom for safe haven." added Malith, Maiden of Malice.
Driote was annoyed. "Tch! How annoying." she grumbled. "Sooner or later, Alain will be dead by my hands. Just you wait and see!"
(elsewhere...)
Inside Anastasia's room, dawn was breaking. In the bed, Anakin was asleep, but his eyes soon started to flicker open.
"It's...morning." The black-haired young man mumbled, before seeing a sight that made him smile. "Anastasia..."
Currently snuggled up to Anakin was the sleeping princess, Anastasia. Ever since they were teenagers and Anakin was assigned by King Reginald to be Anastasia's bodyguard, the two friends had been sleeping in the same bed (although while never naked). The presence of Anastasia was very good for Anakin's damaged psyche over the years of engaging in wars and abuse from King Reginald and the other soldiers. Due to increasing hormones as a result of puberty, Anakin always enjoyed the feeling of Anastasia's well-developed body pressed against his own, with her large, desirable breasts pressing against his arm and chest, despite wearing a nightgown to bed. While not a pervert like Prince Randolph was, Anakin secretly always wanted to get a feel of the princess's body with his own eyes and hands...
Suddenly, Anakin snapped out of his thoughts about Anastasia. Anakin realized that today was the big day, and he needed to be ready for when it was time to leave. With that new thought, Anakin broke out of Anastasia's snuggle to try and get out of bed, but taking care to not wake her up. Once he was out of bed, Anakin stripped his clothing off and got dressed in the clothing and armor that King Reginald ordered him to wear on the mission. The Chelyumnian armor covered the torso of its user, and included a helmet adapted to their particular head morphology. The armor was made of a brown, leather-like, flexible matter, offering good protection against non-physical attacks such as magic blasts, absorbing part of the hits. Alain's helmet did not provide cover for the face, meaning that people would likely be able to recognize him, but Anakin didn't have to worry about that since he had never been to Chelyumn before, and so nobody would be able to recognize him there.
"Wish me luck." Anakin said to himself, looking at the helmet.
Before he could put on the helmet, Anastasia, in her sleep, realized that Anakin wasn't next to her and woke up in a panic, only to see him still in the room, dressed in the armor.
"Anakin!" The princess gasped, before becoming relieved. "Oh, thank goodness... You haven't left yet."
Although relieved that Anakin was still there, Anastasia was conflicted about seeing him wearing the armor - the very same armor worn by the slaver who only yesterday attempted to assassinate Anakin and make her (Anastasia) his personal sex slave, and now he (Anakin) had to pose as a ruthless warrior and killer to distract an insane and ruthless queen in that same armor. Despite being conflicted, and the fact she could never be in a relationship with him, Anastasia couldn't help but admire Anakin in the armor. Anastasia didn't want to admit it to herself, and she was ashamed of herself for it, but Anakin looked incredibly handsome in the slaver's armor. Sure, while Anakin was always incredibly handsome, but there was something disturbingly and darkly attractive about him in that armor.
"Ani..." Anastasia thought to herself. "I never realized how handsome you-"
"Anastasia?" interrupted Anakin. "Are you alright?"
"Huh?" blushed Anastasia, snapping out of her thoughts. "Oh, sorry, Anakin." She then grew distressed. "Do you really have to go?"
Anakin sighed. "I have no other choice." he reminded. "I don't like the plan, but I have to obey your Father's command."
Anastasia looked very upset. Upset himself, Anakin approached the bed and took her hands into his own.
"Princess, I promise I will survive and return to you - to everyone."
The two best friends shared a long, emotional hug, knowing that Anakin was about to be put into more danger than he had ever been in before, and that this might be the last time they ever see each other.
"No matter what, I will return after the 'Artist of Insanity' has been dealt with." continued Anakin. "I've never let the kingdom down before, and I don't plan on starting now."
As they finally, and reluctantly, let go, Anastasia kissed Anakin on the cheek for good luck. From there, Anakin finally donned the helmet, the final piece of the armor, meaning he was now known as Damon Lars. Once again, Anastasia, seeing how dark and intimidating Anakin looked, found her friend to look darkly handsome in the armor, the helmet in particular made his already handsome face look even more defined. Just then, there was a gentle knock on the door.
"Enter." acknowledged Anastasia.
The door opened, and revealed Joan.
"Your Highness, your Father requires the assistance of Sir Anakin." The dirty blonde-haired woman requested, before turning to leave.
Yup, it was time. Anakin then turned and kissed Anastasia's forehead. Anastasia, as her eyes became wet with tears, watched sadly as Anakin left the room to go with Joan. Once she was all alone, the poor princess began to cry.
(elsewhere...)
Outside the castle and city, Anakin, entering the courtyard, approached the nearby harbor. Outside the gateway leading inside the harbor, he found King Reginald and a domesticated Seiyaryu waiting for him.
"Listen up, boy." he warned. "This entire operation rides on you succeeding. So you had better not fail this mission."
With that said, Anakin mounted Seiyaryu. Once mounted, the Seiyaryu roared and started to take off into the sky. Soon, Anakin was soaring over the ocean in the direction of the kingdom of Chelyumn. Before moving forth, Anakin looked over at the nearby castle one last time, only to see Anastasia looking out from the balcony of her tower. Smiling, Anakin gave his friend one last wave, which she returned, before finally setting off.
"Godspeed, Anakin." Anastasia thought to herself, giving all her thoughts and prayers to Anakin. "I truly hope you will be mentally and emotionally prepared for what's to come." She ended her sentence with a... "I love you."
Yes, this was going to be Anakin's most undertaking mission to date. Can he succeed in doing it? Let's find out, shall we?
(elsewhere...)
After three days, Anakin finally arrived in the land of Chelyumn. Still flying in the sky on the back of Seiyaryu, Anakin could see countless flying monsters (mainly Flying Minions) flying towards the castle, and several ships in the waters below sailing towards the big harbor.
"Whatever was happening in Chelyumn-" Anakin thought to himself. "-it certainly is attracting a lot of high class scum."
(elsewhere...)
On the balcony of her tower, Driote, smiling somewhat peacefully, was busy looking out at the vast ocean beyond. Despite being wicked, cruel, and insane, even she could enjoy the sights and smells of salt water. However, the blue/green-haired young woman saw something very small flying towards her castle.
"Huh?" she wondered. "What is that?"
Just then, Lilith, Lady of Lament arrived with some news.
"M'Lady, we have an unidentifying object heading for the castle." The female Fiend-Type monster reported. "Do you want it taken care of?"
"Hold on." cut in Driote, getting a closer look at what was coming. "That appears to be a Seiyaryu."
"They are not native to Chelyumn." said Lilith, Lady of Lament. "Who ever is riding it, must be a visitor from another kingdom."
As the Seiyaryu got closer and closer, Driote suddenly gasped at something she felt.
"My Queen! Are you alright?" cried Lilith, Lady of Lament, gripping onto her Queen's shoulders. "What's happening to you?"
"I... I sense something." grimaced Driote, clutching the sides of her head. "Something I've never felt before. I sense a great presence unlike anything I have felt before coming from that mysterious visitor. Great, raw, hidden darkness and strength."
"Really?" Lilith, Lady of Lament wondered, looking at the flying Seiyaryu.
Driote then recovered. "It is truly intriguing." she said, before giving an order to the first of her 'right-hand women'. "I want you to observe this person's movements, and then bring him to me unharmed."
"Yes, Ma'am."
(elsewhere...)
Outside the gates leading into the city, the Seiyaryu landed and allowed Anakin to dismount. Upon getting a look at the gatehouse, Anakin saw some gruesome and horrifying sculptures decorating the walls and gate.
"What kind of person would decorate their walls with such...designs?" Anakin pondered. He then remembered something important… "I have to focus; King Reginald and his troops will soon be on their way. I have to keep my mind on the mission."
Just then...
"Hey! Who the hell are you?!" The voice of a monster named Newdoria demanded. The Fiend-Type monster was in command of the gatehouse. "What are you doing in the land ruled by Queen Driote?!"
Anakin resumed his facade. "My name is Damon Lars." he answered. "I'm here to visit with Her Majesty, Queen Driote."
"Is that so?" frowned the Newdoria, before easing up with a shrug. "I guess there isn't any harm in that." He then started cranking the wheel. "Very well, you may enter."
The gate opened up, allowing Anakin to walk inside. Upon entering, Anakin gasped at what he was seeing. The whole kingdom was a complete Hell for the people still living, being forced to work twenty-four hours a day, and being treated as nothing more than punching bags. Anakin wanted nothing more than to put a stop to this abuse. But he knew that if he intervened, he would be endangering the mission. So, he reluctantly carried on towards the castle. Upon entering the marketplace, the black-haired young man witnessed in disgust more of the ruthless people and monsters, ruthless scum, abusing and harassing their helpless and exhausted slaves, knowing that it made them feel wealthy and powerful at the expense of others,
"It's all thanks to this 'Queen'." Anakin said to himself. "No matter, I have to carry on."
Soon, he saw a slave falls from exhaustion in front of him. Anakin wanted to help him, but knew that now was not the time to do that.
"H-Help me." The poor man begged.
Anakin started to say something, but not interrupted by some footsteps. Just then, Malith, Maiden of Malice appeared, looking angry with the delay.
"Get back to your feet, slave!" she demanded.
"I... I can't!" The poor man sobbed. "I'm so hungry and tired... We can't keep this up any longer! Please show us some mercy!"
"Playing hard to get, are we?" With that said, Malith, Maiden of Malice summoned an Electro-Whip. "Perhaps this will teach you some obedience!"
From there, the pure evil Duel Spirit began to assault the slave with her Electro-Whip, whipping and electrocuting the helpless slave. Anakin, watching the whole scene, was fighting every nerve and instinct in his body to aid the defenseless slave and focus entirely on the mission. Once Malith, Maiden of Malice was finished torturing and/or killing the slave, she noticed the black-haired young man wearing the Chelyumnian armor.
"You there!" Malith, Maiden of Malice exclaimed. "You're not one of our soldiers. Who are you?"
"I am Damon Lars." Anakin introduced, with his voice and tone being smooth, scarily smooth and calm. "I've come for an audience with Queen Driote."
"You have an invitation with our Queen?" quizzed Malith, Maiden of Malice. "We can't just let 'anyone' in to speak with Her Majesty."
"I don't have an invitation, but I do bring news." continued Anakin. "News that the Queen will be eager to hear."
"I doubt that. You are nothing more than a brigand."
"I wouldn't say that." The black-haired young man, as calm as ever, insisted, before slyly adding... "Especially when your Queen learns that you've prevented her from hearing the news about Alain Kumar."
Now Malith, Maiden of Malice was even more skeptical with this newcomer. He must be lying about what he's saying; Driote would never be that stupid to send an invite to an outsider! Growing furious, the female Fiend-Type monster readied her Electro-Whip once more, this time to turn it onto this...Damon Lars.
"You have no right to see Queen Driote!" she shouted. "For lying to me, you will be punished!"
Before an attack could be unleashed...
"Wait!" The voice of Lilith, Lady of Lament called out, causing Malith, Maiden of Malice to stop. On cue, the other female Fiend-Type monster flew in and landed nearby. "This man is to be escorted to the palace, by order of the Queen."
"What?!" argued Malith, Maiden of Malice. She calmed down, turned, and glared at Damon Lars (Anakin). "A-Alright. Come on, you... We'll take you to see Queen Driote, but be on your best behavior. Because one false move..." The female Fiend-Type monster made a throat cutting gesture. "...you'll regret it."
With that said, both Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice started leading their visitor towards the castle...and Driote.
(elsewhere...)
Inside the throne room of the castle, Driote was resting on the throne when one of the Winged Minions outside flew inside and landed itself on her shoulder.
"Anything to report?" The 'Artist of Insanity' asked.
"The mysterious man is being escorted to you." The Winged Minion answered. "He also claims to be affiliated with Alain Kumar; the man you want brought back."
This sparked Driote's interest even more.
(elsewhere...)
In a hallway, Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice both continued to lead Anakin towards the throne room. As they walked through, Anakin couldn't help but feel a bit sick when he saw numerous horrific artworks, but manages to hide his discomfort when one of the Duel Spirits spoke to him.
"So, what's your name?" quizzed Lilith, Lady of Lament.
Anakin shrugged off the sight. "My name is Damon Lars." The black-haired young man answered. In his mind... "Once I meet this Queen, I have to rely on my 'magnetic charm' to flirt with her long enough for King Reginald and the other troops to arrive." He then shuddered slightly. "Flirting with an 'Artist of Insanity' sounds a helluva lot easier in its already messed up concept than in practice. I might as well be flirting with the devil. In any case, the only thing I can do is just wing it."
(elsewhere...)
Soon, Lilith, Lady of Lament, Malith, Maiden of Malice, and Anakin each arrived in the throne room. Driote was speaking to her personal slave; a female monster with aqua blue-colored hair and is decked out in a skimpy outfit consisting of a cleavage/stomach-baring dark blue bikini. The monster's name was Water Girl.
"Make certain that all preparations are complete for this evening." commanded Driote, before noticing the arrivals. "You're all here!"
The blue/green-haired young woman's eyes soon locked onto Anakin, while Anakin's eyes locked upon Driote. Once Anakin looked at Driote, giving her a good look at his face through the helmet, she found herself entranced by him. Shaking her head, Driote looked back to Water Girl to finish giving her requests.
"Did you get all that?" she asked.
"I have." nodded Water Girl, before turning to leave. "I'll bring some refreshments for you and your guest."
Once Water Girl was gone, Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice both spoke up...
"Queen Driote! We have brought you who you've requested!" began Lilith, Lady of Lament.
"We present... Damon Lars!" announced Malith, Maiden of Malice.
Anakin bowed. "Your Majesty."
"So, you are acquainted with Alain Kumar?" questioned Driote.
"Yes, Ma'am, I am." confirmed Anakin, before taking his helmet off and revealing his face. "Although I must apologize for not saying this earlier, but you really are a beautiful-looking woman."
Of course, Anakin didn't mean it at all, he didn't think Driote was beautiful at all (since she looked dirty, rough, and all of those unpleasant terms), it could be because he has been spoiled by Anastasia's beauty, which can never be beaten by any woman in the Duel Monsters spirit world, but Driote didn't even come off as attractive to him, but he had to play it up for the act.
"Oh ho ho ho! How sweet of you to say." giggled Driote, shaking her head. Suddenly, her pleasant tone became one of anger. "Did Alain happen to speak of my intense hatred of him, or did that escape from his memory as well?"
As Driote spoke that last bit, Malith, Maiden of Malice aimed a crossbow at Anakin. It was a sign that he had better not try anything funny. Was Anakin worried? Not even close. In fact, he couldn't help but feel amused by the threat. With the black-haired boy's confident smirk growing wider, he raised his left arm to the crossbow, and, as calm as you'd like, used his finger to push the weapon away.
"Ah, but there is no need for him to speak." continued Anakin. His tone then becomes darker as he spoke on... "In fact, Alain Kumar will not BE speaking. Ever again."
"What are you implying by that?" frowned Driote. "Why won't he be speaking again?"
"Because he has been killed. He died by my hands. The very armor I'm wearing is that of Alain's, taking it as my prize for defeating him and as proof of my superiority over him."
Driote, raising an eyebrow, stood up from her throne, which also signalled for Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice to both kneel and bow in respect towards their Queen. Driote then began walking towards Anakin, growing more and more interested in him.
"You know, I'm not easily impressed." she was saying. "But you actually beat Alain Kumar in combat? Well, you must be quite the warrior. For as much as I despised Alain, his skill in combat was certainly worth noting."
"With due respect-" continued Anakin. "-he did put up a good fight. Other than that, he was nothing but a fool. Powerless men often turn to anger for strength. They lash out blindly with their rage. But powerful beings can harness their rage. Use it to strike. For we either strike...or we fall, just as Alain did before me."
"Such marvelous words." admired Driote, growing more and more impressed by the second. "That's the mentality I like to see from a man like you."
"I'm honored to be praised by such a wise and magnificent ruler as you, Your Highness." continued Anakin, mentally flinching when he said that. "Your beauty simply cannot be compared to any other woman's."
Now THAT is the biggest lie Anakin's ever made in his life, but he managed to keep on reminding himself that it's for the good of the mission.
"You flatter me, Damon." gushed Driote, walking closer to the black-haired young man.
When the 'Artist of Insanity' got close enough, Anakin whispered something into her ear. Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice, both of whom were watching the whole scene, were glaring suspiciously at Anakin, wondering what he was saying to their Queen. From there, Driote started giggling with delight.
"Oh, stop that!" she laughed, biting her lower lip as a small hint of a blush appear on her cheeks.
"I've never seen our Queen act like this before." whispered Malith, Maiden of Malice. "Something's not right with this guy."
Anakin, knowing he had Driote locked in, smirked. "Your reputation precedes you."
"Yes, I know." acknowledged Driote, now all giddy. "Now come, let us enjoy the sunshine on the balcony. We can continue our conversation outside."
And Driote, grabbing Anakin by the hand, started pulling him away. Lilith, Lady of Lament and Malith, Maiden of Malice were both left behind to wonder what was going on.
"What the hell?" blinked Lilith, Lady of Lament. "What did he say to her?"
"It must have been really suggestive." answered Malith, Maiden of Malice. "Nothing else can make our Queen happy except when she's killing people or creating new artworks."
(elsewhere...)
Outside on the balcony, Driote and Anakin were both seated at the table talking, when Water Girl arrived with a tray full of drinks and other goodies.
"Y-Your refreshments, my Queen." she announced.
"That's a good slave girl." grinned Driote, taking her glass of wine. "Wine, Damon?"
Damon shook his head. "No thanks." he politely refused. "I don't drink."
"I see. Now then, as I was saying, slavery is a natural order of things. The weak deserve nothing more than to kneel before the strong, bound to their service. I will need men with your kinds of talents to spread our ways across the world."
As the blue/green-haired young woman spoke on, and Anakin listened, Water Girl suddenly produced a knife from the empty tray she used to carry the refreshments. Anakin took one look at Water Girl when his eyes widened. The aqua blue-haired female monster, with a cry of frightened anger, attempted to stab Driote, only for Anakin to quickly grab her by the hand before she could deal the killing blow.
"Stop! What are you doing?!" demanded Anakin.
"Let me go! Let me go!" begged Water Girl, struggling against Anakin's superior strength. "Driote! She... She has to be killed for all of the chaos she's put us through!"
Reluctantly, Anakin roughly let go, causing Water Girl to fall down the very small set of steps. Driote, realizing the treachery from her personal slave, angrily stood up and glared.
"So, you thought you could get away with trying to murder me?" The blue/green-haired young woman hissed, before recovering and smiling evilly. "Well, it looks like I'll have to teach you a little lesson."
"No! I won't let you!" screamed Water Girl, terrified.
To Anakin's surprise, the aqua blue-haired female monster started back away towards the edge of the balcony. Almost immediately, he realized what she was going to do.
"No! Don't do it!" Anakin begged.
Unfortunately, the black-haired young man's words were ignored. Very shortly, Water Girl fell backwards and off the balcony to her death below. Anakin approaching the railing to look for a sign of a body. There was nothing below the tower but particles of light fading away.
"Stopping Water Girl's assassination attempt was me being triggered by an unconscious reflex." Anakin thought to himself, saddened by the pointless sacrifice. "But I can understand why Water Girl tried to do it. It was her desperation to be freed from Driote's control that caused her to attempt to murder her, and when that failed, she realized there was only one other way to escape...by suicide."
Deep down, Anakin was absolutely devastated his actions were responsible for the suicide of an innocent Duel Spirit, but he couldn't show his pain, because he still had to maintain his cover and act like a callous killer. Driote, meanwhile, sat back down and shrugged off the death of her slave.
"We win some, we lose some." she said, uncaring.
"You're not sad by the loss?" gasped Anakin, before remembering his cover. "I-I mean..."
"Water Girl was such a waste, anyway." insisted Droite. "Perhaps she was more trouble than she was worth. And her treachery has only further proven my point."
"What?" wondered Anakin, curiously.
"You see, slavery is a mirror to my artistic ideals. If people feel nothing when encountering something you have created, then you have created nothing. Pain and fear are the purest of all emotions, because they are the first we feel - at the moment of birth. They are a reduction, a reversion to our most fundamental, animal selves. Before anything, we can be hurt. We can be afraid. The work should bring its viewers to this place. A successful piece makes anyone who sees it an animal. Not everyone enjoys being made to feel this way. That's fine. They can lie to themselves about what they are." As Driote spoke on, she looked down at the rest of the kingdom below, watching the helpless slaves being abused by their masters. "Each of those pathetic weaklings object to my artworks, not realizing that that's exactly what I want, to bring out their true animal selves, for all animals are meant to be slaves to the higher beings. That is why I have endorsed slavery in this kingdom, those who objected my vision and had me locked away for committing to my principles prove that were were nothing but powerless, filthy animals for me to control."
Hearing this ideology, Anakin silently began to sympathize with Water Girl and the other slaves all the more, especially once he considered how much he has been abused by Reginald. Slowly, but surely, Anakin began to hate Driote, as well.
"But you... You have proven to be quite resourceful." continued Driote. "And it seems that I will require your talents after all."
"Your word is my command, my Queen." said Anakin, speaking with his dark charm.
To further gain Droite's trust, he even kissed her hand, much to the 'Artist of Insanity's' delight.
"You are a man of many talents." gushed Driote, before standing up. "It pleases me. I would like you to be a personal guest at the slave auction, and I would also like you to sit by my side."
She held her right hand out, which, after some hesitation, Anakin accepted.
(elsewhere...)
Inside the Royal Auction House, hundreds of guests from other kingdoms have gathered for the auction, as Driote, Anakin, and Lilith, Lady of Lament each watched from the viewing balcony as down below on the grounds, Vanity's Fiend commenced the auction...
"Good evening! Welcome to our fifth annual slave auction! With our high Queen, Driote, and our special guest Damon Lars! Please give them a warm welcome, everyone!"
The audience turned and clapped and cheered for both Driote and Anakin.
"And now, our auction begins with slaves of unmatched quality and impossible quantity." continued Vanity's Fiend. "Trust me, you will all love it!"
On the balcony...
"This is inhuman." Anakin thought to himself. "Look at how many people have gathered to watch helpless slaves suffer and be humiliated." He then remembered something important. "And another thing; what's taking His Majesty so long to arrive? They should have arrived and begun to attack the kingdom at this point."
Just then, his thoughts were cut off when Malith, Maiden of Malice suddenly arrived on the balcony with urgent news for Driote.
"Our latest offers have been captured as requested." she stated to Droite, before whispering into her ear.
"Oh..." giggled Driote, once the second of her 'right-hand women' finished whispering. "I quite like this one." She then rose to her feet. "People of Chelyumn, I would like some silence as I make an announcement."
The whole area became silent as commanded.
"We will begin this auction with a very special guest." continued Driote. "This one will be a major surprise to you all. Please give a warm welcome to..." She dropped a heck of a bombshell. "...King Reginald of the kingdom of Rondeval!"
Anakin gasped in shock upon hearing that name. Down below, the crowd resumed cheering as King Reginald, as well as some of his troops, wounded, beaten and chained, are forced into the arena, some of Driote's servants were jabbing them with spears, as the bidders in the stands were loudly mocking them for their weakness.
"Do not fear, my friends!" continued Driote. "The Rondeval army are no different from others we have forced into submission. Their ruler may have conquered many kingdoms, but now he has proven how fragile his empire is, and I will now break it!"
As the crowd broke out into thunderous applause, Anakin, still on the balcony, could only look down at his comrades in complete shock, just before Driote turned and seemed to present him with an Electro-Whip.
"Driote?" questioned Anakin, surprised.
"Go ahead; do the honors." Driote offered sadistically. "Put that pathetic King in his place. You know you want to."
Anakin stared at the weapon, his mind wrestling with the thought of torturing King Reginald, the King the black-haired young man despised with every fiber of his being, thinking of all the abuse he had been forced to endure from him, how he had been treated as nothing more than a slave by him for most of his life, how desperately he wanted to KILL him. This was his only chance to finally make that King pay for all he has done to him. The darkest parts of his mind and heart convince him to take the weapon, and so, smirking at Driote, he willingly and silently obeyed her command.
"Good boy." purred Driote, very pleased. She then pointed to a nearby exit. "Now, the way down to the arena is that way."
Anakin exited the balcony and made his way down to the arena. As Anakin walked down the hallway, his hatred for King Reginald was clouding his mind, determined to make him suffer for he had done to him and for forcing Anastasia's engagement to Prince Randolph. If Reginald died, the engagement could be called off, and Anastasia would be free to marry who 'she' wanted. But the moment he thought about Anastasia, Anakin suddenly realized what might happen 'if' he allowed King Reginald to be killed here. With Anastasia's Father dead, Driote would be free to launch a full scale attack on the kingdom of Rondeval, and with hardly any forces they wouldn't be able to fight back, meaning that Queen Imelda, Leonardo, Joan, Esther, and Anastasia would all be in danger of being captured and turned into slaves, or even worse, they could be killed. Anakin would never be able to forgive himself if that were to happen, especially if it happened to Anastasia.
At that moment, the doors to the arena opened, Anakin had been so preoccupied with his thoughts that he didn't even realize he had made it there. As he walked out, the crowd started chanting for him to whip the King. Anakin could see all his fellow knights (Blade Knights, etc.), all terrified and powerless, who all silently looked at him as though he was a traitor for following the 'Artist of Insanity's' order. Anakin never had good relations with any of them. They were all mostly jealous of his superior strength and skill, all the recognition he received from the royal family, especially from Anastasia, and the fact that he was considered to be the greatest warrior in the history of the Rondeval army. But now, Anakin knew he had to put their differences aside, because at the end of the day, they are his men and he is their only hope. As the black-haired young man approached King Reginald, the man saw him climbing onto the stage, only for one of the guards to force him to his knees and keep him quiet. Of course, King Reginald was furious with his adopted son for the betrayal.
"You... you filthy traitor!" he snarled. "I had a sneaking feeling you would fall in-love with this Queen and decide to betray our whole kingdom..."
"Shut up!" Driote shouted from the balcony, before directing her attention to Anakin. "Now, Damon. Fulfill your destiny, and kill this pathetic worm! Either that, or you can die alongside that fallen man."
Anakin kept his face lowered, hiding it in shadows. If he killed King Reginald, his Kingdom would be in danger. But if he 'didn't' kill him, then they'd 'both' die. There had to be a way to free his men without facing Driote's wrath.
"Those are some lousy options." Anakin muttered to himself,
Seeing King Reginald at his mercy really made Anakin want to make him suffer, but the risk of Anastasia and the rest of Rondeval in danger was more important to him. He 'had' to stop it from happening; he 'had' to get King Reginald and his troops out of there. He looked up to Driote and prepares his Electro-Whip.
"Then...it looks like I have no other choice." The black-haired young man acknowledged, speaking to Driote. "I will carry out the execution of King Reginald."
Driote was very pleased. Even still, if Anakin managed to free them, there were still countless Chelyumnian soldiers to get through, but Anakin was so conflicted and had so many doubts that his mind couldn't fully think things clearly. Eventually, after thinking about what Anastasia would do, an idea clicked in his head. At last, Anakin raised the whip and swung it like he was about to kill King Reginald, causing him to shut his eyes and ait for death. But to the King's surprise, the blow never seem to come. When King Reginald opened his eyes, Anakin was looking towards him before winking secretly, then struck one of the guards instead, electrocuting him to death!
"What?!" cried Droite in angered shock.
Anakin then drew his sword and slashed through the chains holding King Reginald, freeing him, before swinging his whip at the other guard, shocking him and allowing King Reginald to strike and kill him with his own sword.
"Nice try, Driote, but I was 'never' going to kill my King!" declared Anakin. "You thought I was going to serve a sick freak like you? Fat chance!"
"A spy?!" Droite seethed, before giving commands to her minions below. "Kill them! Kill them all!"
At that point, Anakin began freeing the remaining troops by slashing through their chains, who then start doing the same until they were all free and able to fight back against Driote's troops. The resulting fight angered and scared off the bidders. Anakin, Reginald, and their troops fought valiantly and killed a majority of the guards, with Anakin killing the most easily.
"HA! KAH! HYAH!" Anakin hollered, killing many different Winged Minions with ease.
As Driote watched Anakin battle, despite hating him for tricking her like that, she was actually amazed by the black-haired young man's sheer power and strength. Back below, more guards arrived and start attacking with Electro-Whips, knocking out each of the Rondeval troops one-by-one until only King Reginald and Anakin were left standing.
"Surrender!" demanded a Vorse Raider.
"I have never lost a war!" bellowed King Reginald, refusing to stand down. "And I'm not planning to start now!"
Unfortunately, King Reginald was soon struck and knocked out by the whips, leaving only Anakin. He managed to dodge some of the strikes and kill some of the guards, but one of the Electro-Whips soon hit and wrapped itself around the black-haird young man's right hand, electrocuting him and making him drop his sword. Not about to give Anakin a chance to reclaim his weapon, the remaining guards lashed at him with their own whips, pinning both of his legs, but it's still not enough to put him down. As Anakin fought the constant shocks coursing through his body, he tried reaching for his sword again with his free hand, only for Lilith, Lady of Lament to fly down while armed with her own Electro-Whip.
"Not so fast!" The female Fiend-Type monster cackled, cracking her whip.
The whip managed to catch Anakin's left hand, shocking the black-haired young man even more. Although all four of his limbs were being tied down, it was STILL not enough to make him fall. As Anakin roared in agony from the stinging, sizzling pain rushing through his body, his anger began rising rapidly. Back on the balcony...
"Huh?!" The 'Artist of Insanity' gasped. "This power... I feel something coming from Anakin... A powerful rage... A powerful...darkness!"
Down below, as Anakin continued screaming in rage and agony, his eyes began turning crimson red. What was more frightening than that? Oh, a powerful dark aura also beginning to surround his whole body. This all happened as poor Anakin's cries of pain became feral-like growls.
"What the hell is this guy?!" demanded one Vorse Raider, surprised with what was happening to Anakin.
"Never mind that!" interrupted an Archfiend Soldier. "He's trying to break loose! Don't let him do that!"
To the guards surprise, Anakin, despite being constricted and shocked by the Electro-Whips, began slowly moving forward towards his sword once again, causing the guards to try and hold him in place, but he was too strong to hold. On the balcony, it was Malith, Maiden of Malice's turn to jump into action...
"You idiots!" The female Fiend-Type monster growled, jumping off the balcony while armed with her own Electro-Whip. "I have to do everything myself!"
Cracking the whip, it wrapped around a screaming Anakin's neck, stopping him once again as all five whips keep zapping him, but Anakin STILL will not fall. On the balcony, Driote was even more spellbound by Anakin's sheer determination and darkness in his struggle to survive, and found herself falling for him even further. Back below, Anakin kept trying to fight, but at last the shocks were finally too much for him to take. In Anakin's POV, his vision became wobbly and blurry, before, at last, his eyes closed and there was a loud *THUMP!* sound.
To be Continued!
This, my friends, is the 300th chapter of the whole Yu-Gi-Oh! The Sodor Chronicles series! To think this all started back in 2016 and carried on to this point in life. Well, Sodormatchmaker and I would like to thank fellow author AaronCottrell97 for helping us. Sodormatchmaker and I would probably never have gotten this far if it weren't for him.