Azanar Vas Elvhenan:
Azanar has very long crimson hair that flows like fire over his pale features. He has heterochromic eyes. His left is gold like his brother's and the other an emerald sheen. He wears armor of golden plate laid upon crimson fabric with a gold embroidered red hooded cloak and was made to resemble the dragon hunter armor from the Dragon age series. He is in plain clothes currently which consists of a white dress shirt, silver overcoat, and pants and shoes.
Uriel:
A beautiful elf with short black hair, olive skin, and green eyes with intricate markings resembling branches starting on her forehead and ending just below her eyes.
Ricca:
A Former paladin turned Guard Captain with fair skin and dirty blonde hair. Has a small goatee and blue eyes. He wears gray iron armor.
Calder:
The paladin captain of Rimun. A young man in a blue caped full set of silver plate armor. He has rainy white medium-length hair and icy-white eyes
Arundeil:
He has tan, sun-kissed skin with blue eyes and shoulder-length auburn hair. A gold hoop earring in his right ear and wears a black tri-cornered pirate's hat with an Eagle feather, a black shirt with puffed sleeves with a deep v showing off his chiseled chest and the scar across it, tan breeches held up by a black leather belt with a gold Buckle which also holds his runed silver cutlass and duel pistols. And lastly black leather boots with gold buckles.
Mayor Ricton Brine:
A bearded middle-aged man dressed in excellent purple noblemen's clothes. Has brown slicked-back hair and hazel eyes.
Calder Brine:
A young man in a blue caped full set of silver plate armor. He has rainy white medium-length hair and icy-white eyes
Aurora Brine:
A young woman with fair skin, long rainy white hair, and icy white eyes. She wears a blue and white dress that flows from top to bottom and has a jewel neckline, which subtly reveals the modest dress worn below it. The satiny, corset-like tied fabric of her dress covers her stomach, where the continuous flow is broken up by a thick cloth belt worn fairly high around her waist.
Ricca:
fair-skinned with dirty blonde hair. Has a small goatee and blue eyes. He wears gray iron armor.
Calder:
A young man in a blue caped full set of silver plate armor. He has rainy white medium-length hair and icy-white eyes
Arden
A young-looking elf who incited a riot and led the mob to kidnap Mayor Ricton. His clothes were ragged, and he had short red hair and dark red eyes.
Duni
A Doppler who is always updating his looks his current form is short and elf-like with dark blue hair, gold eyes, and soft features.
Elven Kingdom Of Lokelondé: Sixth Floor
A full red moon hung in the perpetual twilight of this eerily beautiful landscape. Great black-winged beasts sore through the sky as down below, mists curled and smoked from dark pools. Their fog was rising into the still air.
Far away, deep within its maze-like mountain paths, at the edge of a cliff overlooking a vast fog-bound abyss. Stood a massive tower of jagged black adamant guarding the only way forward. Wall upon wall of fortress looming, like a dark guardian of the pass.
Upon its battlements, black-hooded figures slowly moved about the fortress watching for intruders.
Within its walls, the tortured screams of Lokelonde's enemies echoed through the dark and empty halls. And at the top of the tower in its grandest room sat the Mistress of this land. The Beautiful woman leaned back in a red velvet chair with her eyes closed as she sipped from a goblet filled with deep red wine.
Her long white-gold hair was falling gently upon her blue-white skin, her tight black clothes barely covering any of it. Her light purple silk scarves floated around her body and fitted black and gold breastplates and metal panties that could barely pass for armor.
The powerful elf sighed with pleasure as the echoes of pain reached her ears. As she went for another sip, her ears twitched at the sound of footsteps approaching her chambers. Her eyes opened, revealing silver pupils that glowed eerily.
She then sighed disappointedly as her hair, eyes, and skin then changed. Her hair turned raven black as her skin turned a supple peach color and her eyes turned dark green. She then brought the cup up to her red lips and continued the sip, and leaned further into her chair unbothered.
She then spoke as the sound of steps reached her door.
"Enter..."
The door then opened as two figures entered the room. The first was a tall hooded figure whose robes covered his entire body revealing only its armored hands and feet. The second was Gothren though barely recognizable.
His clothes were tattered, and his usually slicked-back hair was now matted, his sharp green eyes now sunken in from lack of sleep. His body had cuts all over, and his hands looked raw from constant use. He stood silent, trance-like as if waiting for something.
The hooded man then spoke, his voice like an icy wind.
"The human is ready..."
Valindra then leaned forward with an amused smile.
"Oh?.. Do you have something interesting to tell me?.."
Gothren then nodded.
Valindra then spoke.
"Well... Come on, come closer and tell me. Don't keep me waiting."
As Gothren then took a step forward, Valindra raised a hand.
"No, no, no, not like that..."
Gothren then looked down at the ground, which was covered with broken glass and spiked metal.
He then, without hesitation, got on all fours and began crawling up to Valindra's feet, cutting and gouging himself, leaving a trail of blood along the way.
Valindra watched as the wretched creature finally reached her feet. She then took her right foot and placed it under Gothren's chin raising his head to meet her eyes as she smiled sadistically.
"Good... Now tell me..."
Roble Holy Kingdom Capital: Hoburns
Azanar sat at the foot of a bed in a fully furnished room. He then stood up and walked over to the window pulling back the curtains to reveal the capital's grand view. As he looked out on the city, he spoke.
"Xehanort..."
Xehanort then walked out of a pillar of darkness and shadow and stood in the middle of the room. Slow and purposeful, he raised his right hand over his chest and spoke.
"What is it you would ask of me, my lord?"
Azanar answered as he looked out at the city.
"Is everything ready?"
Xehanort then answered.
"Yes, my Lord. Duni played his part to perfection. Everything has been prepared to your specifications."
Azanar then replied.
"Excellent... He was rather convincing..."
Xehanort then continued.
"Furthermore, Marian and her son have been taken to Lokelonde as you requested. They seem quite happy with their new home."
Azanar then spoke, still looking out the window.
"That's a relief. They deserve some peace...How are their memories?"
Xehanort then answered.
"They remember nothing of what happened."
Azanar then replied.
"Good, I will need to take some time to fine-tune the spell. Erase moments instead of days..."
Xehanort felt uncertainty coming from his king.
"Is something the matter, sire? You seem out of sorts..."
Azanar then replied without taking his eyes off the city.
"On the ride to the capital, I had time to think about my actions since coming here and find that they amount to nothing. And here I stand moments from meeting the Queen of this land, and I know what I must do but not what to say to her."
Xehanort rubbed his gray goatee in thought before speaking.
"You must first ask yourself who you will be meeting her as. Azanar, High King of Lokelonde, or the adventurer?..."
Azanar then replied.
"Hmm, I see you've spoken with Grigori..."
The wizened Elf then replied plainly.
"I have.."
Azanar then continued.
"And you think he was wrong?"
Xehanort chuckled as he shook his head.
"Haha, Quite the opposite. Grigori is many things, but he is rarely wrong. Suppose you wish to experience and observe. This guise you've given yourself works well."
Azanar then chimed in.
"But?.."
Xehanort then continued.
"But.. If its changes on a grander scale you desire. You must abandon the Adventurer and be your true self. The Red Star of Lokelonde, Dragon's bane, High King. Leave the adventuring to your brother."
Azanar looked at his left hand for a moment before speaking.
" I. I thought if I...If I acted as Evunial, it would make his absence more... bearable."
Xehanort then took a step forward and spoke.
"Lord Evunial is our champion. But it is you who has led him and Lokelonde to glory countless times. Evunial will return to us soon, My king. I feel it in my very being. But it is you who we need. You must let go of your worry, your doubt, and return to us."
Azanar took a deep breath as Xehanort's words echoed in his mind.
"(He is right. Fighting and Adventures were always Evunial's things. All I ever wanted was to build and guide the strongest Elven guild in Yggdrasil for all elf players...)."
He then stood up straight and spoke.
"I do not want them to fear me. It's why I have not shown my true power..."
Xehanort then replied.
"You need not make them fear you, My king. But respect you, they must.."
Azanar then spoke.
"Thank you, Xehanort. I know what I must do..."
Just then, Azanar heard a voice in his head.
"(My Lord, I have gained some interesting information from one of my new toys. May I enter?..)."
Azanar then replied.
"( You may.)"
A second pillar of darkness opened up as Valindra walked through into the room.
She then acknowledged the elder elf as she nodded
"Master Xehanort."
Xehanort then replied with a smile.
"Young Valindra."
Valindra then walked up to Azanar with a smile.
"My King, your trust in me has paid off. I have the name of the nobles working with Eight-Fingers."
She then grabbed a piece of parchment from between her breasts and presented it.
"Apparently, they have grown tired of their queen and wish to have her replaced."
"They had been having secret meetings in an old burned-down temple. I found this and all the evidence we could need there."
Azanar took the parchment, trying to ignore where it had been, and began reading.
"Hmm, A written agreement between nobles and eight-fingers to spread black dust and blame the queen."
Valindra then spoke.
"We found some fools trying to burn all the evidence, but I added them to my collection."
Azanar then spoke
"Excellent job Valindra. I am very pleased."
Valindra then leaned in.
"Well, perhaps after your business is done with this Queen. We could discuss my reward...in private..."
Azanar leaned back in retreat as Valindra continued her advance.
"Ahem..."
Xehanort interrupted.
Azanar then placed a hand on top of Valindra's head and softly patted, causing her to stop and enjoy the head pat.
Azanar then spoke.
"You did very well today, Valindra. Thank you."
Valindra then sighed in defeat as she replied.
"Of course, my king. I will take my leave..."
She then turned and went into a pillar of shadow once more.
Xehanort then spoke.
"Though I can't dispute results. Wouldn't it have been more efficient for you to dominate Gothren?"
Azanar then replied as he examined the piece of parchment.
"I can only use that spell once a day. So I would rather use it as a last resort... Besides, she looked so happy. Don't you think?"
Xehanort then smiled as he replied.
"That she did, my king."
A knock then came from the door. Azanar then nodded to Xehanort, prompting him to disappear back into darkness.
Azanar opened the door to a raven-haired Grizzled man dressed in military garb with an eye patch over his scarred right eye.
The man spoke with a low and gravelly voice.
"Lord Azanar, I presume?"
Azanar then replied.
"Yes, and you are?"
The man then replied.
"Captain Ramze Ekhart. I will be escorting you to the throne room."
Azanar then replied.
"Ah well then after you."
Ramze then turned and started walking down the hall as Azanar followed behind.
As they walked, the black-haired man spoke.
"So I hear you killed Father Maxwell."
Azanar then replied.
"I did. Was he a friend of yours?"
Ramze chuckled at the blunt question before answering.
"Haha. No, the man was insufferable as are most priests."
Azanar then spoke.
"Interesting. Most of the people I've met here seem to revere the temple."
Ramze then replied.
"That's because priests like him stoke their fear and make them seek the gods' protection, but the gods are gone. And we must forge our destinies with our bare hands. Regardless of the consequences."
Azanar then spoke.
"Maxwell had a similar philosophy. But he planned for my people to deal with the consequences of his actions..."
Ramze then spoke.
"And yet consequence still found him."
The two men continued through the halls up to a grand ornate door. Two guards were standing at its sides. As they then opened the door, revealing the throne room Ramze spoke.
"This is where we part ways. I wish you luck with the Queen's judgment."
Azanar then replied.
"Thank you. But I don't need luck, as you said. I forge my own destiny."
Ramze then chuckled.
"Haha, well said."
Holy Kingdom Throne Room:
The large white room was beautiful and dignified. A blue and gold rug splits the entire room in half from the doors to the throne, while rectangular banners with embellished margins hang from the walls. Between each banner hung a lantern. All but a few have been lit and, in turn, illuminate the paintings of late rulers below them.
Vast windows were hidden by drapes colored the same royal blue as the banners. The curtains have been adorned with gold embellished borders and gilded linings.
A dignified silver throne sat atop a tall elevated platform and was adjoined by two similar but smaller seats for those aiding the royal highness in all affairs.
Extravagant mahogany balconies meant for the nobility overlooked the entire hall. Leering over the proceedings.
The throne was covered in layered etchings, and fixed on each of the stubby legs is an elegant divine symbol of the royal crest. The fluffy pillows are a dark turquoise, and these two have been adorned with burnished needlework.
As Azanar entered the room, he felt the glares of noblemen from their balcony seats but ignored them. Mayor Ricton, Aurora, Arundeil, and Urial watched from the side as Arden stood with soldiers before the throne awaiting judgment. Azanar moved toward the throne. His every step was watched by a line of Paladins watching over their Queen.
Azanar's eyes first fell on Kelart and Remedios, who stood on the throne's left and right, respectively. He then stopped in his tracks as His eyes then fell on the beauty at the center of the room.
Her golden hair, shone like sunlight, her white and blue robes holding close to her petite but curvy body.
"(Stunning...)"
He thought to himself as the queen sat upon her throne with elegance and grace.
The room seemed to fall away as the elven lord looked into the queen's cyan eyes as she stared back, entranced by Azanar's heterochromic eyes. Remedios then broke Their trance.
"Ahem..."
Azanar and the Queen then quickly regained their composers as Kelart then addressed Calca.
"My Queen. Allow me to introduce Azanar Vas Elvhenan."
Kelart then continued
"Azanar, This is Queen Calca Bessarez, ruler of the Roble Holy Kingdom.
Azanar then spoke with a bow.
"Your Highness. It is an honor to meet you. And may I say the stories of the vast beauty of this city and yourself do neither any justice."
Calca then blushed before addressing Azanar.
"Th..thank you, lord Azanar, Kelart has told me much of you... How you spearheaded an assault on an Eight-Fingers fortress, ridding us of their evil and freeing captured citizens in the process. You then went on to cure Rimun of an insidious poison... The perpetrator of which was a high priest of the Temple of the Four."
This earned some grumbles from the nobles.
The queen then continued.
"I have no words for the anger and sadness I feel for such treachery from a man of our faith... However, The inciting of a riot, the killing of a priest. These are grave crimes. And Although you did not incite the riot. You protected the one that did and asked that you take full responsibility for his actions. Why?"
Azanar then spoke.
"Because I believe he did nothing wrong. He simply wished to cure our people. And after going unheard, force was the only option left to him... Mayor Rickton was not harmed, nor would I have allowed him to be. So I see no reason for Arden to be punished for anything."
The Queen then looked to Arden and inquired.
"And are you alright with this... Someone else taking responsibility for your actions?"
Azanar sweatdropped as Arden looked up at the Queen and replied.
"I am not. I begged him to let me be judged for my actions. But he is stubborn for a noble. But if I were standing where he is, I would tell you that my only regret was judging Mayor Ricton too harshly. He was not to blame for the deaths of my family. But I do not regret the riot. And If not for Azanar, I would have burned Rimun to the ground."
The nobles and priests gasped and murmured at Arden's words.
Remedios then yelled out.
"Silence!"
Calca looked at Arden for a moment before turning to Azanar.
"And what of your actions against Father Maxwell?"
Azanar then answered plainly.
"I have no remorse if that's what you are asking. That man was as much a threat to you as he was to my people. I did you a favor stopping him from spreading his traitorous beliefs to any more of your court..."
Calca then raised an eyebrow.
"Any more? What do you mean?
Azanar then answered.
"Maxwell was not alone in his goal to dethrone you...I have documents that implicate other members of your court."
Remedios then spoke up.
"Why didn't you reveal these documents sooner?"
Azanar then answered.
"I didn't know who I could trust, so I waited till I could give them to your queen directly.
A man then spoke out from among the priests, A brown-haired and blue-eyed portly priest with an angered look on his face.
"This is nonsense! This elf has been disrespecting our laws since he arrived. He killed a respected member of the temple. And now he accuses our court of harboring traitors? As long as I knew him, Father Maxwell was the best of us... He only wanted this kingdom to return to its former glory, the way the four gods intended, Before "our queen" opened the gates to these parasites! One of which was so bold as take our Mayor Ricton here hostage. And yet, Maxwell is branded criminal? For all we know, this confession could have been cooked up by the Grandmaster and High Priestess to get rid of Father Maxwell."
Kelart then spoke out, outraged.
"Father Alkes!"
Remedios then drew her blade.
"One more word and I will send you to the four myself."
Calca then addressed Azanar.
"I apologize for... Lord Azanar?"
The whole room turned their attention to the three powerful elves as a dark aura seemed to hover over Azanar, Arundeil, and Urial.
"Parasites!?..."
Azanar questioned his voice in a menacing whisper.
Urial then stepped forward.
"You would dare call our people forced to run from their homes to escape death or enslavement...Parasites!?"
She yelled, her voice filled with pain and anger.
Arundeil then placed a hand on her shoulder, gently holding her back.
She turned to look at him confused, before he gestured toward their king as his ring of wisdom flickered, struggling to contain his anger as his voice began to distort.
"Priests who hide behind their faith as they lie and scheme! Nobles who hover over their queen like vultures circling prey...would dare call the children of Eru...PARASITES!?"
The room began to shake as magic energy coursed through the room.
"Shields!"
Remedios yelled out, prompting her men to raise their shields in defense of their queen.
Remedios then turned her blade toward the elven lord.
"Lord Azanar?... Stop this..."
The other paladins surrounding Azanar then unsheathed their blades and braced behind their shields as the current of magic power pushed them away from Azanar.
The Priests then tried to conjure magic shields, but the spells were torn apart by the whirlwind of magic.
"What magic is this?!" One priest yelled out.
"I have never seen such raw power!" Another spoke out.
"What manner of monster have you let into our court, Kelart?!" One more yelled.
Kelart then pleaded
"Lord Azanar! Please!"
Azanar then spoke as magic raged around him.
"Lady Kelart, I have not been completely honest with you about my Identity. And for that, I am sorry..."
Kelart spoke, confused as she guarded her face against the wind-like magic.
"What do you mean?!"
Azanar's clothes then glowed blindingly bright as he spoke.
《EQUIP GREATER ITEM: VESTMENTS OF THE HIGH ONE》
Flowing robes of gold and white draped over him, glowing like fire as a chest plate gilded in gold with a tree carved on it appeared upon his chest. And atop his head gleamed a glorious crown. The intricate Mythril headpiece came down to the middle of the elven lord's forehead—three shimmering gems set within it.
All looked on in awe at Azanar's shining visage.
Azanar then replied.
"I am not simply an adventurer from Lokelonde. I am High King of Lokelonde!"
Azanar then raised a hand as magic continued to swirl around him.
"And it is time royalty had a moment to speak."
《GREATER MAGIC IMMUNITY》
A glowing circle then appeared under Queen Calca.
Remedios tried to yell out to warn her, but before she could, Azanar spoke again.
《TIME STOP》
The next moment the room was silent. Queen Calca looked around only to find that all in the room aside from Azanar and herself were frozen in place, Nobles attempting to flee, their faces contorted in fear. Priests were weaving spells locked in place. She looked down and saw Remedios's perpetual attempt to warn her and Kelart still pleading.
She then looked down toward the proclaimed Elven king.
She stepped down from her throne and placed a hand on Kelart's face before speaking.
"Still warm..."
Azanar then spoke.
"It's not ice magic if that's what you're thinking."
Calca then removed her hand and looked at Azanar in his gold and green heterochromic eyes.
"(What is he?...)." She thought to herself.
She then took a quick breath, refusing to give in to fear while maintaining her air of Royalty.
"Then what did you do to them?"
She then had a terrifying thought before continuing.
"Is...is this some kind of time magic?"
Azanar chuckled slightly.
"Good eye. But don't worry, I've only stopped the flow of time within this room."
He then pointed at one of the windows, showing a still Thriving city outside.
The Queen then stood unflinching as she spoke.
"So, what now? Am I to surrender my kingdom in exchange for their lives? They mean everything to me, but I will not insult them or my forefathers by groveling..."
Azanar then replied.
"No, my Lady...never that. I do not wish you or your people harm. I wish you to join mine."
Calca gave a confused look as Azanar continued.
"Lady Kelart and Mayor Ricton spoke of their Queen with such reverence and admiration that I could only believe it some kind of fantasy. But from the moment I laid eyes upon you, I knew it was all true... You are a pure soul who loves her people above all else. Worthy of the title Queen. And yet, the south has all but seceded, your nobility undermines your every move, corruption seeps into your temples, and your people suffer... But this does not have to be... With my help, we can unite your people and purge your home of corruption."
Calca then replied.
"Though, indeed, some of my court and I do not always see eye to eye. Do not think of me as some mad queen who would drag her subjects out into the street simply because they do not agree with my every decision. My people have a right to their opinions..."
Azanar then replied as he reached into his robes and pulled out a folded piece of paper.
"It is not their opinions that worry me. It's their actions."
He then handed the paper to Calca. Who began reading it. After a moment, her eyes widened at the shock of the contents.
"This...this is an order for more shipments of black dust with signatures of the buyers... All nobles from the south... and..."
She then looked up at the frozen nobles and priests connecting names to faces before her eyes fell on Father Alkes
"North..."
Azanar then spoke.
"Yes... And far too much for personal use..."
The queen then spoke as she continued to read.
"They were going to poison more demi-humans!"
Azanar then nodded.
"Yes, across your kingdom. And blame it on your kindness to outsiders... Your kingdom is tearing at the seams. It's only a matter of time before these traitors take action."
The queen then sighed with sadness and disappointment before looking Azanar in the eyes.
"Ok, assuming this is all true and you wish to help me bring these men to justice. What do you get out of such altruism surely with power such as yours, you could take this kingdom in seconds and punish these men yourself."
Azanar then nodded as he took a step towards the large windows and looked out onto the city.
"I could..yes. But I do not wish the subjugation or destruction of your people. I only wish for justice for my people. Humans have potential, and I want the best of Elves and humans to usher in a new era of prosperity, glory, and beauty the likes of which this world has never seen."
The queen was mesmerized by his passionate words.
"And you wish to bring the Roble holy kingdom into this new era with you? Why? Why us?"
Azanar then answered.
"At first, it was simply because out of the human kingdoms in this land. Yours was the least...inhumane to my people. I figured I would try, but I did not expect much... Then I met Mayor Ricton and Lady Kelart, who showed me your people's capacity for good, and through them, I learned about you."
Calca then inquired.
"Oh? And what did they say?"
Azanar then continued.
"They called you the jewel of the kingdom. Holding back the tides of evil as best she can... I learned that you had held fast against the lure of power and corruption since the day you laid that crown upon your head, and not once did you falter. And when the elves and demi-humans of this land had nowhere to go and were in need. You threw open the gates despite the nobles' disapproval. You are a shining example of what humans are capable of, and I am in awe of you..."
Calca took a step back and blushed profusely before Azanar then extended a hand out to her.
"Join me... Help me usher in this new era and watch our kingdoms become legend... Let me show you..."
Calca looked at the elf's hand as thoughts raced through her mind.
"(I've only just met him. How...how can I trust a word he says? The wise choice would be to say no..right? And yet...every fiber of my being is screaming at me.)."
"(TAKE HIS HAND!)"
Calca then took hold of Azanar's hand, and at that moment, the duo disappeared.
The Elven City of Lokelonde.
Azanar and Calca appeared above a cliff, looking over the ocean.
"By the gods!"
Calca gasped at the sudden change as she grasped Azanar for fear of falling but found that she felt weightless in the Elven king's arms. Azanar smiled as he spoke.
"No need to worry, I have you."
《FLY》
A dim light shined around Calca before Azanar gently took her hand and helped her steady herself in the air.
After getting her bearings, the Queen looked out at the beautiful yet unassuming view.
"It's stunning.."
Calca said as she looked at the great expanse of sea, which seemed to go on forever, crystal blue waves crashing up against vast emerald plains covered in a thick forest
Azanar then spoke plainly.
"This is nothing... The true beauty is hidden in plain sight.
He then waved a hand over the Queen's eyes and spoke.
《SHOW TRUTH》
Then like a fog lifting, the forest faded away as Calca's eyes began to see the hidden kingdom. First Farmland, then buildings of incredible architecture, and then as if it had always been there, the glorious city of Lokelonde stood before her.
The buildings and walkways gleamed like fresh snow as Elves traveled to and fro amongst the splendor. Waterfalls roar past and underneath them into the sea. Flawless marble statues of lions and dragons scattered the city. Along the inside of the most outer wall, green farmland stretched out.
She then looked to the center of the vast cityscape and saw the Elven castle gleaming like pearl adorned with emerald and sapphire, its two crystalline towers reaching up into the sky.
Azanar then spoke.
"This is my home. The Grand City Of Lokelonde."
Calca then replied.
"It's the most beautiful place I've ever seen."
Azanar smiled with pride.
"Would you like a closer look?"
Calca then quickly nodded.
"Yes, I would very much like that."
Azanar then took the golden-haired woman's hand, and the two descended.
As they approached the city, Calca saw wonder after wonder.
Buildings floated in place with no foundation, orbs of light that flew throughout the city pulsating with power, and gold and white Clockwork Golem that marched through the city among the people and stood watch on the walls alongside elven soldiers.
"This level of magic is extraordinary..."
She whispered in awe before speaking up.
"Your home is Amazing, Lord Azanar!"
She said as she took in all the wonder as they flew through the city
Azanar then replied as they approached the center courtyard of the castle.
"I thank you. It is my dream to bring this beauty to all those worthy of it."
The two stopped in the air as Calca pulled on Azanar.
Calca then spoke.
"You would truly share all this splendor with people you've barely met?"
Azanar thought for a moment.
"(Hmm. She's right. She won't trust it if there is no price... And the price must be high.)."
Azanar then looked around at his kingdom and then back at Calca. His aura grew cold as he spoke plainly.
"There are conditions... You may rule your kingdom as you wish, but it will become an extension of Lokelonde. My soldiers will be stationed in and around your kingdom and will be treated with respect at all times. In return, we will retrain and reinforce your army and rid you of any threats in the Albion hills. I will also give you and Kelart access to my library of magic tomes, where you can learn the magic you see around us and so much more. Any others who wish to learn will have to be approved by me."
Calca then replied.
"And what if I refuse these conditions?.."
Azanar then answered.
"Then my people and I will leave your lands in peace... For a time..."
Calca then raised an eyebrow as she enquired.
"For a time?.."
Azanar then answered.
"I plan to spread Lokelonde's influence across all of this Land and its Kingdoms. As an elf, time is a luxury I can afford. I could wait till your rule comes to its natural conclusion before returning. But the world as you know it is changing, and your people are divided, And in its current state, I will most likely return to a kingdom broken by civil war."
Calca then placed a finger on her chin as she thought for a moment before answering.
"And you would have me join you to avoid such a fate? You seem rather sure of your prediction."
Azanar then spoke.
"I have seen it a thousand times. A ruler of noble heart and good intentions undermined by greedy and shortsighted fools... But join me, and your home will reach heights you couldn't imagine."
Calca bit her lip as she struggled with the choice for a moment before speaking.
"And you will treat my people as your own?"
Azanar then answered.
"Every last one."
Calca then spoke.
"Then I have a condition of my own. If I am to agree to yours."
Azanar nodded, prompting Calca to continue.
"Marry me."
Azanar was taken aback by the request but held his composure as the Queen went on.
"I will not be relegated to the viceroy of my own people. If I am to join you, I will have a say in how my people are ruled. I will remain Queen to my people in every sense of the word. If this is acceptable, then I will agree to your terms."
Azanar then thought before answering.
"(Hmm.. Beautiful and cunning. She aims to secure her position and maintain her power and dignity through a political marriage. Hmmm? Merry, a stunning queen? How could I refuse?)."
"I accept your terms. But we will start preparations for the wedding after we have secured the holy kingdom."
Calca then replied.
"I have no problem with that."
Azanar then held out his hand toward calca once more and spoke.
"Well then, Shall we return, my Queen?"
Calca then playfully bowed before taking Azanar's hand.
"After you, my King."
The two rulers then appeared back in the queen's throne room as time resumed.
"Look out, your highness!!"
Remedios yelled out as the magic winds came to a halt and the nobles and priests fell over themselves.
"Your highness??"
Remedios asked as she found the throne vacant. Her eyes then darted around frantically, looking for her queen.
"Kelart! She is gone! Where?.."
She began before Kelart interrupted.
"Reme..."
The Paladin commander then turned around to find her Queen grasping Azanar's hand.
Calca then spoke out as she released Azanar's hand.
"Be at ease, Remedios. I was in no danger. King Azanar and I have come to an understanding."
"Oh?.." Remedios said as she reluctantly sheathed her holy blade.
"And what understanding did you come to in mere seconds? Hmm?"
Calca then walked over to Remedios and leaned in close so as not to be heard as she replied.
"I will explain everything in detail soon. But first..."
She then handed over the piece of paper to the Paladin Grand Master. Remedios looked over the contents for a moment before speaking.
"These signatures..."
The paladin's grip tightened on the parchment as her anger rose.
Calca then nodded as Kelart walked up and looked at the paper as well. Kelart then covered her mouth, shocked by the contents.
Calca then loudly addressed her soldiers.
"Cover the exits, men. No one leaves this room."
The nobles then spoke out, confused.
"What's the meaning of this, your highness?"
A young woman said.
"What the hell is going on!?"
An older man yelled out.
Calca ignored the questions, and once her men had covered all the exits, she began reciting names.
"Eusèbe, Nazaire, Damase, LaCroix, and Alkes. Please stand."
The men in question reluctantly stood up.
"What's the meaning of this?
One of them asked, confused.
Remedios then addressed her men.
"Arrest them!"
Soldiers then grabbed the five men and brought them before the Queen.
"Unhand me this instant!" LaCroix demanded.
"The hell are you doing?!" Damase yelled.
"What do you think you are?..."
Father Alkes started before Calca held the paper in front of his face.
All the men's faces went white as they looked at the incriminating piece of paper in disbelief.
"How did you?... I...I have no idea what that is."
Father Alkes said, trying to regain his composure.
"Your face says otherwise..."
Remedios commented before Calca spoke, addressing all in the room as she held up the paper piece.
"This is a letter written by Father Maxwell confirming the purchase of black dust and plans of blaming its appearance in the Holy Kingdom on me. On it are the signatures of these men and other members of our court. To determine guilt or innocence, their estates will be searched. And to safeguard innocent members of the nobility, the rest of you will be escorted to quarters within the Castle and remain until the investigation is over. Do not worry. You will be given anything you need in the meantime."
Azanar then thought to himself.
"(She is trying to control the flow of information so that any other criminals won't go into hiding... Smart...)."
As soldiers led the rest of the nobles out of the room, Calca looked at the five men in front of her before addressing Remedios.
"Have your men take them to the dungeon for now and then search their homes. Notify me of any pertinent information."
Remedios then replied.
"Right away, my queen."
As the men were being taken away, they yelled.
"You have no idea what you are doing!" One yelled
"The south will hear of this!" Another said.
"Fool of a queen!"
The last one yelled before the door was shut behind them.
Kelart then spoke.
"Pay them no mind, my lady. Just the ravings of traitors."
Calca then nodded sadness in her eyes.
"I know... The look on their faces was all the proof I needed. But any evidence found in their residences will help us take action against their conspirators in the south."
Azanar then spoke.
"I assume once found guilty; they will be put to death?"
Calca then replied.
"That is the sentence for treason...Why? Do You disapprove?"
Azanar then shook his head.
"Oh, no, I merely have a suggestion for the method."
Sometime later.
Soldiers led by Calder brought ten men into the throne room and made them stand before the Queen in Irons as Remedios stood beside them, holding a small stack of letters. The Nobles and priests watched intently from their balconies
Calca then spoke.
"Five more?"
Remedios replied.
"We found letters hidden in Alkes's home implicating them all in the plot..."
Calca then addressed one of the men with sadness in her voice.
"Ramze... Even you? You served under my father's rule and tutored me in strategy. You hold a seat on my war council! How could you be a part of this?"
"You left us no choice, my queen."
The man began.
"You are so set on the affairs of strangers that you are blind to what's happening right in front of you. The south laughs and mocks us as your inaction brings us to ruin. You've ignored my warnings about the increase in activity in the Albion hills not seen since before the Long Rain. We should have been culling their numbers for months."
Calca then spoke.
"I will not be responsible for the slaughter of innocents because of a preconceived threat!"
"And at what point do monsters stop being innocent? When they are feasting on our children?! You are so afraid of dirtying your hands that you leave us open to attack when we could stop it before it happens... If only you were more concerned with loving your people than being loved..."
Kelart then walked up and slapped Ramsey. The sound echoed through the room.
She then spoke, her voice filled with rage.
"How dare you... What does a traitor know of love? You would betray your homeland and sacrifice innocent people to frame a Queen who has devoted her life to this Kingdom."
Ramze then leaned in close, looking the High Priestess in the eyes, and spoke.
"My duty is and always has been to protect this beautiful land from all threats, even its Queen..."
"Enough!"
The Queen spoke out as she fought back the tears, refusing to show her pain.
"You are traitors to the crown. Your lives are now forfeit. But since your treachery required the deaths of innocent elves, I've decided it was fitting to leave your fate up to King Azanar."
Father Alkes then fell to his knees, crying before the court to the disgust of Ramze.
"Please! My countrymen! Surely you can see I was taken in by this madman."
He yelled, pointing at Ramze, who spoke out.
"Oh, will you shut it and die with some dignity, you coward."
Alkes ignored the advice and continued his pleas.
"He lured us in with honeyed words of justice and protecting this land. Any of you could have fallen, victim."
He looked over the darkened faces of the men and women looking down on him and felt only contempt.
Then one voice spoke out from amongst the nobles.
"Do not lump us in with you, traitor. We stand with our Queen."
The rest of the court nodded in agreement.
Alkes turned his attention to his executioner in a last-ditch effort of escaping his fate.
He crawled toward Azanar and begged.
"Mercy! Please, lord, Azanar! I am sorry for the things I've said and done. It was all for my kingdom and gods. I only wish my people to prosper! I will do anything to make amends, I beg of you. Show me mercy!"
Azanar looked down at the man unaffected by his pleas and thoughts.
"(What!? This man whose solution to everything is "kill it." Wants mercy? After calling the elves and refugees parasites. I didn't think I could despise him any more than I already did, but...")
Azanar then spoke.
"Mercy? You... Who demanded a boy's death over moldy potions. Who just today wished the death penalty upon a man who lost his family to your scheme?"
Alkes then continued his plea.
"I was wrong. I see that now, and I will do anything to make it right."
Azanar then rubbed his chin.
"Anything..you say?"
Alkes then perked up as he saw a gleam of hope.
"Yes! Anything, my lord, just name it."
Azanar then spoke.
"Bring them all back..."
Alkes then replied, confused.
"Back? Bring who..."
Azanar then cut him off.
"The people who died because of your selfishness and hate. Every son, every daughter, every wife and husband. Your people and mine. Everyone that died because of this scheme. Bring them all back, and I will show you mercy."
Alkes then stammered as he replied.
"But.. I...I don't have the power for such a..."
Azanar then cut him off again.
"So you won't do anything..."
Alkes then replied.
"But it's not.."
Ramze then spoke out.
"Damn it, Alkes! Get up and have some gods damn self-respect."
Azanar then knelt, leaning forward, and whispered to the former priest.
"You will have no mercy. Yours will be a thousand deaths. You will suffer Horror after horror, the likes of which you couldn't imagine. And no matter how much you wish for an end to it, for death. It will not come.."
Azanar then stood up and waved his hand.
《GATE》
A gold portal in the shape of an Eluvian then opened in the middle of the room, shocking everyone except for the elves and Kelart as elven soldiers began to come through.
Remedios then spoke.
"With power like this, he could have invaded us at any time..."
Kelart then replied.
"It's like I said he is not our enemy."
Remedios then spoke sharply.
"Yet.."
Azanar then addressed the Elven soldiers.
"Tul- foh i Golisi." (Bring forth the golem.)
Five hooded Elven soldiers then emerged from the portal, holding chains pulsed with energy attached to a gold and white clockwork golem following behind.
The Nobles and the priests looked on in awe as the lumbering beast entered the room. Its heavy, slow steps echoed through the room.
The golem had the shape of a man but towered over the elves around it. Easily doubling their height. Its white armor was covered in gold inlay and its runes were massive and broad. Its helmet had a cross opening, but only shadow could be seen within, unnerving all the humans in the room.
Azanar then spoke as his soldiers brought the golem in front of the men.
"My people are not fond of the wasting of life. Even those as traitorous as yours can be put to use."
The men were then brought forward and forced to their knees.
Alkes then spoke.
"What does that mean?"
Azanar then raised a hand and spoke.
《SOUL CONVERSION》
A magical circle formed around them as their bodies began to glow.
A moment later, the men began to scream as magical energy ripped out of them and into the golem.
"My queen, please don't let them do this to us!"
One yelled.
"Please, I beg of you!"
Another yelled.
Ramze was the only one who refused to beg as he gritted his teeth and accepted his fate.
Calca then leaned forward on her throne, refusing to avert her eyes from the traitor's fate, however gruesome as tears welled up in her eyes.
The Nobles and Priests looked on in horror as the men's very essence was pulled from them and sucked into the Golem.
The room then fell silent with no trace of the men who had just filled it with screams.
Azanar then turned his attention to the clockwork golem and spoke.
"(Activate)"
The metal beast then sprung to life, steam billowing from its back as it stood up straight. A single blue light then shined from within its helmet. The eye then darted around for a moment taking appraisal of all around it before settling on the Elven lord before it.
It then spoke. Its voice was heavy and deep.
"Are you to be my master?"
Azanar then replied plainly.
"No."
The Golem then inquired.
"Then who?"
Azanar then turned toward the throne and spoke as he approached the queen.
"The queen of this land will be your master.."
Azanar then held his hand out to Calca, who stepped down from her throne and took his hand. Azanar then guided her right in front of the Golem and reached into his robes, and pulled out a runed silver bracelet which he then placed on the Queen's right wrist.
The bracelet and the Golem's eye began to glow brightly for a moment before the golem dropped to one knee before the Queen.
"I am yours to command."
Calca looked the golem over for a moment before removing the bracelet from her wrist and handing it back to Azanar.
"I thank you, but I cannot accept this. Those men were traitors, but I've known some of them since I was a child. To command a creature powered by their... It wouldn't feel right..."
Azanar then took hold of the bracelet as he thought.
"(I didn't think of that. Of course she would feel weird.)."
Azanar then replied.
"I completely understand. I will bring the Golem to my estate in Rimun that Kelart so kindly provided. If you change your mind, the offer stands."
Calca then nodded.
"Thank you, Lord Azanar."
"Of course, Lady Calca."
Azanar said before taking a small breath and continuing.
"In any case, justice has been served, and I wish to return to my quarters... If her majesty has no more need of me, of course?"
Calca then answered.
"No, Lord Azanar, you are free to go. But I do hope you will stay in the capital a little while longer. We have much to discuss."
"Of course, my lady."
Calca smiled gently and nodded her head.
Azanar then turned to the sisters and nodded before leaving the room.
"(That went well, all things considered. I should speak with Xehanort and the others about the marriage and see what they think.")
Azanar thought to himself before turning and leading his soldiers out of the room.
Kelart noticed Calca watching Azanar leaving and smiled knowingly.
Calca then took a deep breath before addressing the room.
"Our kingdom will not fall to lies and hate.
"You may all return home."
As the priests and nobility left, Calca called one of her guards to her and spoke.
"Have the guards maintain watch over them for the next few days. There could still be traitors amongst them."
"Of course, my queen. We will see it done."
The soldiers said with a bow before leading the other men out of the room.
Once the men were gone, Calca then addressed her Paladin Commander.
"Remedios, please send word to your paladins and the Nine Colors to return to the capital with haste."
Remedios then replied.
"Of course, my lady. Do you want them prepared for treachery from the elves?"
Calca then answered.
"No Remedios. I want them here in preparation for an event that will change the future of our kingdom.
Remedios then spoke, surprised.
"The future of our kingdom? What do you mean?"
Calca then spoke with a slight blush.
"I will be announcing a wedding."
Kelart then perked up with a smile.
"So you've agreed then?"
Calca then smiled at Kelart and replied.
"I have..."
Remedios then spoke up, frustrated and confused.
"Agreed to what!?"
Calca then answered.
"I have agreed to marry King Azanar."
Remedios's mouth fell open in shock.
"You can't be serious.
Calca then answered.
"I find him to be a worthy and impressive man. But more than that. He is far too powerful to make an enemy. As his Queen, I can ensure that the holy kingdom is ruled justly."
Remedios then replied.
"But my Queen the south will not abide an outsider becoming King, let alone an Elf."
Calca then spoke.
"Let me deal with the Nobles. Just send word to your men, and I will handle the rest."
Remedios tried to argue.
"But my Queen.."
Calca then cut her off.
"I have made my decision Remedios! Please do what I ask.."
Remedios then agreed through clenched teeth.
"As you wish, my Queen.."
The commander then turned to storm out of the room but was stopped by Kelart, who placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Sister, please understand this is a good thing. Azanar is a good man."
Kelart said, trying to reassure the Paladin commander.
Remedios seemed to think for a moment before she pulled away from Kelart.
"The Queen can do whatever she wants. I have no say in the matter... I need a drink."
Remedios said bitterly before counting her exit.
Kelart began to reach out again but was stopped by Calca.
"Let her go... She will come around. She just needs time."
The Queen said with confidence.
Later, in Azanar's room...
"A wedding! What a joyous occasion!"
Mithrein said with a bright smile as her image appeared on one of three small Eluvians on a table.
Azanar blushed at the elven beauty's enthusiasm.
Xehanort then spoke excitedly as his image appeared on the second Eluvian.
"Yet again, your cunning is without equal, my King!"
"Thank you, Xehanort."
Azanar said as he sat at the table.
The third Eluvian held an image of Sylvas, who spoke.
"It's a sound strategy to take power with less bloodshed, My lord. But the dissenters will not stand idle this will embolden them."
Xehanort then spoke, still excited.
"But don't you see Sylvas! That's the point! Our lord king plans on letting the Queen's enemies reveal themselves..."
Azanar then spoke.
"Exactly, we need only prepare. Once the wedding is announced, our enemies will not be able to resist attacking the Queen or me and put an end to it. Once that happens, we crush them and absorb the Holy Kingdom into Loklonde."
Azanar then addressed the third Eluvian, which held an image of Mithrein.
"What is the progress on the villa, Mithrein?"
The silver beauty then answered.
"Mostly complete, my lord, except for a magically sealed room under the original structure. And as per your orders to leave any magics, we find for you. We built around it."
Azanar then spoke.
"Excellent work Mithrein. I will be returning soon, but first I must..."
Azanar's ears twitched as he heard the sound of heavy plate approaching.
He then spoke.
"It seems I will be entertaining a guest. We will continue in a moment."
"Of course, my lord."
The three elves said in unison before their images faded away.
Azanar then spoke.
"Take no action unless I say so."
The elven soldiers at his door complied as they vanished into shadows.
The door then swung open, revealing a visually drunk and angered Remedios.
Azanar then spoke as he fained surprise at her arrival.
"Ah, lady Remedios. To what do I owe this visit?"
Remedios then spoke plainly as she entered the room.
"Release the spell..."
Azanar then raised an eyebrow and replied, confused.
"Release what spell? I don't..."
Before he could finish, Remedios cut him off.
"Do not take me as a fool! Release whatever charm or enchantment you've placed upon my queen to cloud her judgment. There is no way she would agree to this marriage otherwise."
Azanar then spoke as he realized the cause of this outburst.
"Ah. So Lady Calca has told you our plans then."
Remedios then replied.
"Of course she did! And I will not stand for it! You may have my sister fooled, but I will not be fooled! I will stop you..."
Azanar looked the woman over quietly for a moment as Remedios's sword hand began to shake.
"(Damn.. She is serious. And the ale I smell on her breath isn't helping. I can't let this get out of hand. I need to talk her down)."
He thought to himself before speaking.
"If this is about what happened in Rimun. I am sorry If I scared you."
Remedios's hand continued to shake as she rebuked the idea.
"No! I fear nothing! Especially not you!"
Azanar then pointed at her shaking hands.
Remedios then looked Azanar in the eyes and spoke grimly.
"Fine... The truth is you terrify me. And what's worse, my body knows without trying that I have no chance against you."
Azanar then spoke plainly
"Why are you here then?"
Remedios then Answered.
"To prove to myself that my love for my queen outweighs my fear. I don't know what my sister sees in you. But I will not rest until I free my queen and home from your clutches. No matter what it takes."
Azanar then replied.
"Listen. You've got the wrong..."
Remedios then cut him off.
"No! Your words may work on Kelart, but I will not be fooled. I will uncover whatever sinister plans you have for the holy kingdom, and I will stop you..."
Remedios then turned to leave as she spoke.
"You will never be my king..."
Azanar's mind rushed as he thought.
"(Dammit! What is with this woman! I don't have time to convince her right now. Given enough time, I am sure she will come around.)."
Just then, the door burst open, revealing Arden; his arms spread wide.
"Lord Azanar, that was a magnificent performance! I believe Arden is my best creation yet!"
He ran his hands through his hair as the red bled away, and his hair turned a dark blue. And his eyes turned dark gold.
Remedios looked on in shock as Arden finished his change. Now a short blue-haired elf with delicate features.
"Performance?... creation... You...this was all planned! You orchestrated everything!"
"(Dammit Duni!)"
Azanar thought to himself as he spoke.
"No. Remedios, you're wrong. Just give me a moment to explain."
Remedios then looked at Azanar.
"No! Your lies end here, the Queen will know of this!"
She then turned for the door, but Azanar appeared in front of her and placed a hand gently on her face.
"I am truly sorry, Remedios, but I can't let you do that."
Before Remedios could protest, Azanar spoke.
《COMMAND RING: DOMINATION》
The ring's light then filled the room. Remedios gasped as the power of Azanar's ring took hold of her mind. Azanar could feel the knowledge and experiences of The paladin grandmaster flow into him.
Every battle, campaign, triumph, and failure. He could feel the intense love for her queen, her people, and her home. The flawed sense of justice that marked her every choice. But to his surprise, he felt no hate from her. Just bitter self-doubt and fear of her inability to protect what she loved.
Azanar then released Remedios and spoke.
"Remedios Custodio. Who now do you serve?"
Remedios then answered
"You and only you, my Lord. Until I am dust and beyond."
Azanar then spoke sharply.
"No! You will serve and love your Queen and the holy kingdom like you've always had. But you will trust me and heed my counsel from this day forward. Lokelonde is your ally do you understand?"
Remedios then answered.
"Yes, Lord Azanar."
Azanar then sighed before speaking.
"Good... Now you will not remember why you came to my room, nor what you learned here."
Remedios nodded her head in understanding.
Azanar then snapped his fingers, releasing Remedios from her trance.
She looked around confused before looking at Azanar and speaking.
"I am sorry, lord Azanar, but I... I don't remember why I came to your room.
Azanar then smiled and replied.
" Oh... Don't worry about it. If you remember, feel free to come back."
Remedios then spoke.
"Of course, lord Azanar..."
She then turned to leave but stopped just before. She then spoke with a soft smile.
"If there anything I can do to make your stay more comfortable. Don't hesitate to ask."
Azanar nodded as Remedios let the door close behind her.
His eyes then fell on Duni, who shivered at his gaze.
"I am so sorry, my lord. I was careless! It will never happen again."
Azanar took a breath before speaking.
"What's done is done..."
Duni stood looking very disappointed in himself as Azanar then addressed the Eluvian.
"Sylvas."
The elven Advisor then answered.
"Yes, my king?"
Azanar then spoke.
"Send a squad to the southern Holy Kingdom. I want to know if there is anything worth sparing."
Sylvas then replied.
"I will see it done, my lord."
Azanar then addressed his remaining advisers.
"Mithrein, since we now have control over the Holy Kingdom's armies, use some of our forces to secure its borders. I want no uninvited guests."
Mithrein nodded.
"Right away, My King."
Azanar then looked to Xehanort.
"And as for you, Xehanort. Continue your search for my brother. If I am to be married, I am going to need my best man."
Xehanort then replied.
"Of course, Lord Azanar, I feel your reunion draws near."
Azanar then smiled and replied.
"I hope you are right, Master Xehanort."
The three Eluvians then went blank, leaving Azanar and Duni alone in the room.
Azanar looked at Duni, who had a sad look on his face.
Azanar then walked up to the Doppler, causing Duni to look up at him and speak.
"I am prepared to face any punishment you deem fit, my lord."
Duni then closed his eyes tight as he prepared for the worst.
He then felt Azanar place his hand on his shoulder before speaking.
"All is forgiven."
Azanar said with a kind smile.
Duni opened his eyes in shock.
"But my lord. I..."
Azanar then cut Duni off.
"Everyone makes mistakes... Just don't let it happen again. I won't be so lenient next time."
Duni then replied with a bright smile.
"Thank you, my lord. Your kindness is without equal!"
Azanar then went for the door.
"Come on, Duni, let's take a look at our new city."