Well, I am finally on the final segment of my OCs Priscilla and Nathan's arc.
Disclaimer: Octopath Traveler II and its characters were made by Square.
The Crimson Shadow Fades
On the morning following Mugen's defeat, a crowd gathered to witness Hikari's coronation speech. Among them stood Priscilla, Alistair, Sabrina, Akira, Hana, Kazuki, Scarlet, Agnea, Castii, and Osvald. A young woman with brown hair, dressed in a crimson kimono with a golden sash, was also present, watching intently.
On the balcony overlooking the city, Hikari stood before his people, adorned in regal red and gold armor, a flowing cape, and a crown. Rai Mei, Kazan, and Benkai—the former right hand of King Jigo—stood at his side in silent support.
"He almost looks like a different person," Agnea whispered in amazement.
"As would befit the new King of Ku," Alistair agreed.
To the crowd's surprise, before beginning his speech, Hikari removed his crown. A murmur spread through the onlookers.
"What is he doing?" someone asked.
Hikari's voice rang clear and strong. "I stand before you not only as your king but as your equal," he declared. "For too long, Ku has been trapped in a cycle of bloodshed, our history stained crimson. We have built our prosperity upon the suffering of others. But no longer! Never again shall we pay for our future with the blood of the innocent."
He paused, letting the words sink in.
"Today, I declare that the lands and people we have conquered are free. The yoke of Ku's tyranny is broken, once and for all! From this day forward, we will build a nation not on status, wealth, or birthright, but on unity, compassion, and cooperation."
His tone turned solemn. "We must remember those who came before us—the countless lives lost to this cycle of war. And so, as our first step toward atonement, we will mend our relations with Sa and aid in its reconstruction. I also extend my deepest gratitude to our allies from the island nation of Vella." He lifted his gaze, determination burning in his eyes. "Reconciliation will not be easy. But I ask you, my people—stand with me, as we usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for all!"
A wave of cheers erupted from the crowd.
Among them, Akira, Hana, Sabrina, Alistair, and Priscilla exchanged approving smiles before joining in the applause.
Once the speech had concluded, Hikari returned to his chambers to change out of his ceremonial attire. When he emerged, dressed once more in his traveling clothes, he was greeted by Agnea, Castii, Osvald, Akira, Hana, Priscilla, Alistair, Sabrina, and the young woman in the crimson kimono.
"That was a fine speech, Your Majesty," Priscilla said.
Hikari shook his head. "Please, just call me Hikari, as you always have. Though I am king now, you need not treat me differently."
Alistair hesitated before nodding. "If that is truly your wish."
"It won't be easy for the people of Sa to trust Ku after everything that's happened," Akira admitted. "But you took the right step. With my father's death avenged, I'll do what I can to rebuild and repair relations." He smirked. "Hana and I will be heading home soon."
"I will send my people to aid in Sa's reconstruction," Hikari promised. "You have my best wishes, Prince Akira."
Akira grinned. "I'll be King of Sa soon—but thanks."
As Akira and Hana departed, the young woman in the crimson kimono stepped forward, offering a respectful bow.
"It's good to see you again, Hikari," she said softly.
Hikari's expression warmed with recognition. "Mikka… It has been too long." His voice carried a note of sorrow. "I only wish Ritsu were here to witness this."
Mikka nodded, a shadow of grief flickering in her eyes. "If things had been different, I know he would have stood at your side." She took a deep breath. "I want to honor his final wish—if you'll allow it, I would like to help rebuild both Ku and Sa."
Hikari nodded firmly. "You will always have a place here, Mikka. Together, we will forge a new future."
"Thank you." Mikka bowed.
Hikari, Priscilla, Alistair, Sabrina, Scarlet, Osvald, Castii, and Agnea made preparations for their journey to Timberain, where they would regroup with their allies. While the others busied themselves with restocking provisions and securing supplies, Hikari sought out Benkai and Mikka for a private discussion.
"I will be taking an extended leave to accompany Princess Sabrina's party," Hikari informed them. "Our goal is to secure a lasting peace across Solistia. I will not return until I have done all I can to restore stability to the land." His gaze was steady. "In my absence, I entrust the both of you with watching over Ku and aiding in Sa's reconstruction."
Benkai bowed his head. "I understand, my king. Will you require additional support?"
Hikari shook his head. "That won't be necessary. The people here need you more." His expression softened as he turned to Mikka. "I know how much Ritsu's death weighs on you. It weighs on me as well. But you are not alone in your grief. When I return, let us honor his memory together."
Mikka's fingers curled slightly around the fabric of her crimson kimono, but she met Hikari's gaze with quiet resolve. "Thank you, Hikari. I will do my best to aid in the reconstruction."
With their farewells said, Hikari made his way to the city gates, where the others were waiting.
"Shall we head for Timberain, then?" he asked.
"Yes," Priscilla replied, her voice tinged with concern. "Hopefully, things haven't gotten too far out of hand."
They departed Ku and made their way through the Leaflands, the familiar green landscapes now shrouded in an uneasy twilight. The days had grown shorter, and a creeping sense of unease lingered in the air. Each night, strange, shadowy creatures emerged from the darkness, forcing Alistair, Hikari, and Scarlet to take turns keeping watch as the party made camp.
"You don't suppose the threat of Vide and the Endless Night is already upon us?" Sabrina asked one evening as they rested near a dying campfire.
"It seems that way," Osvald muttered, flipping through the pages of his tome.
Priscilla crossed her arms, thoughtful. "Where exactly are the Sacred Flames?"
"There is one in the Tranquil Grotto, and another somewhere on Toto'haha," Hikari recalled. "The Fellsun Ruins are also of interest. And I wouldn't be surprised if Flamechurch houses one as well."
"If they've been extinguished… is there any way to restore them?" Priscilla asked.
Osvald adjusted his glasses. "I presume so. But we'll need to investigate further before we can be certain."
Castii exhaled, watching the flickering embers. "I just hope the others are faring well."
"They'll manage," Hikari said, though his brow furrowed slightly in thought.
By the time they neared Timberain, the sky was painted in deep hues of dusk, the castle looming ahead. The path was eerily quiet, but then—
The sharp clang of steel rang out in the distance.
"That sounds like a battle!" Scarlet said, drawing her weapon.
The group hurried forward, soon spotting Timberain soldiers locked in combat with spectral, crimson-hued creatures. At the center of the skirmish stood Nathan and Throné, fending off the monstrous foes.
"Nathan!" Priscilla rushed forward, summoning fire to her fingertips. She released a barrage of flames, incinerating one of the creatures before it could lunge at her brother.
Nathan glanced back with a smirk. "Right on time, Sis." He parried a shadowy foe before driving his sword through its form.
The rest of the party joined the battle, striking down the creatures alongside the soldiers. When the last specter dissolved into nothingness, Priscilla turned to Nathan.
"How did it go with the king?" she asked.
Nathan wiped his blade clean before sheathing it. "We only just arrived yesterday, but things have been… complicated. The nights are getting shorter, and these monsters started appearing out of nowhere, slowing us down." He glanced toward the castle. "Temenos went ahead to speak with King Uldin about Lord Walden's treachery."
Sabrina frowned. "Do you think those creatures were drawn to the dark stone Mindt gave him?"
"It's possible," Hikari said, his voice grave. "Either way, we should proceed with caution."
Nathan gestured toward the town. "Everyone else is resting at the tavern. Let's regroup with them."
With a nod, the party followed him into Timberain, bracing themselves for what lay ahead. They entered the tavern, where Ochette and Partitio were relaxing. Hikari stepped forward"How is the situation in town?"
"Can't say it's all dandy," Partitio replied, his face grim. "On top of preparing for the rest of the Crimson Sun, we're in some seriously deep jelly. Monsters started showing up as the nights grew shorter, and folks are mostly staying indoors after dark."
"Can't blame 'em. It's getting pretty hairy out there," Nathan commented, crossing his arms.
"And what of Lord Walden's rebellion?" Priscilla asked, her tone steady. "Has he made his move yet?"
"A preliminary force tried to infiltrate Timberain from the east a short while ago," Throne smirked. "But Nathan and I intercepted them before they could get inside the city. It'll probably be a bit longer before they send another wave."
"Which means we still have time to prepare to finish off the Crimson Sun," Priscilla nodded. "Nathan, since we're short on time, do you want to visit your father now?"
"That can wait until things calm down a bit," Nathan replied.
Just then, Temenos entered the tavern, his usual cheerful demeanor replaced by an uncharacteristically serious expression. "Priscilla, how did things go on your end?" he asked, his eyes scanning the group.
"Fairly well, for the most part. And what of you?" The Prosecutor gestured to Temenos.
"The king and I shared information on Lord Walden," the Inquisitor said, his voice heavy with concern. "While Lord Walden was once a talented defense lawyer and Timberain's Justice Minister, it was all I could do to show King Uldin the evidence we've gathered. But now, Timberain is facing not only Lord Walden's rebellion, but also monsters born from the Endless Night."
"Has his highness taken action?" Alistair asked, his brow furrowed in thought.
"Yes," Temenos nodded. "He's splitting all available forces between two tasks: one to set up defenses against the monsters, and the other to apprehend Lord Walden at Verandel."
"Scarlet told me a bit about him," Nathan added, his voice darkening. "Apparently, he's descended from a line of powerful sorcerers. A cunning tactician and black mage, but he tends to get overconfident."
"And as we've already seen, his overconfidence will be his downfall," Priscilla said, nodding. "And he's from a line of mages, you say?"
"Correct," Scarlet confirmed. "It's part of the history of both the Timberain Kingdom and the village of Verandel."
Priscilla paused for a moment, her mind racing. "Well, I'm all for joining the forces marching to Verandel."
"Then we best hurry," Temenos urged, his voice steely. "Nathan, Scarlet, Alistair, Sabrina, Throne—will you join us?"
"Of course," Throne nodded, resolve setting in.
"I shall do my part," Alistair agreed.
Sabrina's expression hardened with determination. "We'll finish off the Crimson Sun Syndicate once and for all."
While the rest of the group stayed behind, Priscilla, Nathan, Temenos, and their companions went to join the Timberain soldiers heading to Verandel. Commander Griff greeted them as they arrived. "Ah, Sir Alistair," he said, giving a nod. "How is everything on your end?"
"Fairly well, mostly," Alistair replied. "My companions and I are here to assist with Lord Walden's defeat. I assume Temenos was able to provide conclusive evidence to the king?"
"Indeed," Griff confirmed. "You're welcome to join us. Let's move out."
The group, accompanied by the Timberain soldiers, set off toward Verandel, staying vigilant as they marched through the hostile landscape. As Walden's estate came into view, they were met with a wave of Crimson Sun soldiers and spectral monsters standing in their way.
"This is worse than we thought," Sabrina frowned, noting the sinister aura emanating from the rebels.
Alistair and Nathan drew their blades as the first wave of Crimson Sun soldiers charged forward. Three Timberain soldiers intercepted three of the fighters, cutting two down. One specter struck a blow on a soldier, only to be swiftly dealt with by Nathan.
"We need to get inside Walden's manor," Priscilla grunted, her fireballs blasting more specters into oblivion. "Who knows how many of these monsters will keep popping up?"
"Need some help?" came a voice from behind. Priscilla turned to see Captain Cairn and several Verandel militiamen arriving, joined by Captain Clair and her professional guards.
"Captain Cairn! Captain Clair!" Priscilla exclaimed in surprise.
"We'll buy you some time while you deal with Walden," Captain Clair said, her voice grave. "I don't know if he's even the same man we knew from childhood anymore. But now, even if it means dissolving the Crimson Sun, Lord Walden must be stopped."
"It could be that darkstone causing the disturbance," Temenos commented wryly.
Priscilla nodded. "We'll do our best, Clair."
"We are in your debt," Cairn said, signaling his men to assist the Timberain soldiers.
Taking advantage of the distraction, Priscilla, Temenos, Alistair, Sabrina, Nathan, Throne, and Scarlet fought through the remaining Crimson Specters as they made their way deeper into Walden's manor.
They went up to the second floor into Lord Walden's study, where the Lord of Verandel himself stood with a seemingly calm expression, in his hand was the darkstone that Mindt had given him.
"Welcome back." Lord Walden said in an eerily calm voice, a shadowy aura engulfing his body. "Priscilla, Nathan, Scarlet, Temenos, Alistair, Sabrina, you have all done quite well for yourselves and your generous contribution to my ambition. No doubt, the Blacksnakes and the Sacred Guard are no more." He chuckled darkly. "I take it, Nathan, you decided you'd reconcile with your sister?"
"Don't misunderstand." Nathan shook his head. "I'm still a little upset at my father's incarceration, but Priscilla and I made a deal. And it just so happens that you are now on the losing side."
"Don't be so sure." Lord Walden smiled wryly. "With the power of the darkstone and the timely start of the Endless Night, I now have the power to dominate Timberain, I can dominate the world, and I shall lay waste to the Moonshade Order and the very god they worship. Darkness is not a curse—it is a necessity. A force that will cleanse the world of those who would twist justice to their advantage."
Priscilla stepped closer, her expression calm and resolute as she delivered her rebuttal. "The Prosecution would like to object to that outrageous statement. Your intent to wipe out all crime and criminals from Solistia speaks volumes about your lofty ambitions. But in my eyes, you are hardly any different from those 'criminals' you seek to eliminate."
"And you really shouldn't have tried to get blackmail on me, nothing cheeses me off more than a cowardly traitor." Scarlet added angrily.
"Lord Walden." Sabrina looked at him with a sympathetic gaze. "No one is more passionate about justice than you, myself, Priscilla, and Nathan. But surely there was no need to form a band of unlawful vigilantes like the Crimson Sun in the first place. The law and the courts can still be trusted. Priscilla has made an effort to show the people of Solistia that."
"I cast aside my faith in the courts long ago." Lord Walden said grimly. "Kings, Queens, and Nobles are untouchable by the law. Sometimes force is necessary to remove villains who hold such high positions."
"That may be true." Sabrina conceded. "But surely, such things are possible while still remaining within the boundaries of the law. As Justice Minister of Timberain, surely you must remember this."
"What of it?" Lord Walden snorted, his expression growing unhinged. "Lord Percival and later Professor Osvald were unjustly imprisoned due to a combination of jealous madmen and corrupt court officials. I will do whatever it takes to see such injustices never happen again."
"Are you saying that Priscilla's claim that my father had my uncle locked up unjustly and raped my mother was true?" Nathan asked, growing steadily angry. "I don't believe you. I am going to talk to my father myself to get the whole story. As Justice Minister, you had the authority to grant me permission to do that, and you let me just stew in my anger toward Priscilla!?"
"It would have been a shame to risk losing such a valuable pawn. I knew you would be easy to convince while you still held on to your lingering resentment toward that genius sister of yours. And poor Rick and Shane." Walden shook his head condescendingly. "You had to get them locked up, didn't you?"
"Only because they assaulted me because Nathan was lashing out because I didn't prove to him that his father had been a lustful rapist. Thanks to Temenos and Scarlet, I can see that now." Priscilla hissed in defense of her brother. "And while I can understand the need to stop the Moonshade Order, what makes you think Vide can be destroyed?"
"I only need to contain his vile power through this stone and the powers granted unto me by the shadow." Lord Walden clarified. "It is true that the vile God of Destruction cannot truly be destroyed, but I could surpass him. Once I have established a new world order on Solistia, all shall know the true meaning of justice."
"Such pretty words from a madman." Priscilla shook her head. "I, too, had grown disdainful of the injustices in the world, but through my mother, and through Prince Hikari, Temenos, Osvald, Ochette, Castii, Agnea, Throne, Partitio, and even Scarlet and Nathan, I never lost my faith in true justice, unlike you, Lord Walden. I almost feel sorry for you."
"Lord Arden Walden, in the name of the King of Timberain and in the name of Vella, prepare to face judgment." Sabrina stated firmly.
"You really think you can stop me?" Lord Walden held up the darkstone, drawing more power from it. "By the might of D'arqest, and through the power of the Great Sage Astaroth, it is I who shall dispense judgment. I shall end you all."
Priscilla and Nathan felt a warm surge of light within them, their very souls resonating with power. As they activated their abilities, their bodies were engulfed in a brilliant glow. Nathan's sword radiated the same divine energy, and as he charged forward, he cut through Walden's barrier with ease.
Walden sneered. "The power of the ancient Lumina Clan, Descendants of the Flamebringer himself... Hah. Perhaps darkness alone is not enough, but I will not surrender!" He cast powerful waves of shadow, countered blow for blow by Priscilla, Nathan, and Scarlet.
As their battle reached its climax, Throne darted forward, striking the darkstone, shattering it into pieces. Walden staggered back, his power waning as the surge of light magic overpowered him. He fell to the ground, drained and defeated.
Commander Griff entered with Timberain soldiers. "Lord Walden, by order of his majesty, you are hereby stripped of your rank and title as Justice Minister, and you shall stand trial for your crimes."
Walden sighed deeply, a flicker of realization in his eyes. "So, the truth is... I have been deceived by Mindt and manipulated." He turned his gaze to Priscilla and Nathan. "Even so, I do not regret my fight. Darkness is necessary, whether you accept it or not. I only sought to purge corruption, to bring true justice... But I see now, I lost sight of that goal somewhere along the way. Priscilla, Nathan... It is up to you to finish what I started, to take down the Moonshade Order and put an end to the Endless Night."
"So, we shall." Priscilla nodded solemnly.
Cairn and Clair joined the group as they all headed back to Timberain's castle town. They arrived at the castle and were escorted to King Uldin. The king greeted the group. "I see you managed to quell Lord Walden's rebellion. Very well done."
"Thank you, your majesty," Priscilla nodded. "While I understand that the crisis revolving around the Endless Night must be dealt with, might you be willing to grant me and Nathan a favor?"
"Given your involvement in saving Timberain, I could certainly grant it." King Uldin nodded thoughtfully, then ordered his guards to take Walden away to await his trial. "What is your desire?"
"We would like to visit the Hightower Prison to speak with my father, Sylas," Nathan stated. "I am his son, and Priscilla is my half-sister. We've had some personal issues that we needed to take care of. I need to talk to my father and ask him something."
"I see." The king nodded. "Very well, you have my permission."
As Priscilla headed for Hightower Prison, Scarlet, Cairn, and Clair stayed behind.
"Your majesty, if possible, I request to become the next governor of Verandel. Scarlet, Clair, and I are willing to give testimony in regards to the Crimson Sun's actions and Lord Walden's shortcomings." Cairn requested with a serious tone.
King Uldin frowned as he gave it some thought. "Hm. Given your affiliation with Lord Walden, I am afraid that is a delicate matter. You will be watched for a while so I can ascertain your sincerity. The same goes for Captain Clair. If you prove yourselves sufficiently, I will grant Walden's former territory to you. We also will need a new Justice Minister, but we're taking things one step at a time."
"I understand, Sire." Cairn bowed.
Scarlet added, "As for myself, I am taking full responsibility for my mercenaries' recent activities. However, I plan to accompany Nathan and Priscilla just a while longer to put an end to the Endless Night, and then serve my time in the slammer."
"That can be arranged. I am sure King Lorian of Vella will agree to it." King Uldin said.
"Thank you." Scarlet said, then followed Priscilla.
Priscilla, Nathan, Sabrina, Alistair, Throne, and Temenos were on their way to the Hightower Prison, accompanied by a Timberain soldier who had agreed to show them the way. Scarlet caught up with them. "Priscilla. I have spoken with King Uldin. He agreed to let me testify against Walden, and I shall accompany you and Nathan until the Endless Night crisis is over, if it's permissible. I shall turn myself over to the authorities in Vella afterward."
"Sounds acceptable to me." Priscilla nodded. "Is this all right, Sabrina?"
"That will be fine." Sabrina replied.
The group continued toward the Hightower Prison and entered. Once there, the guard took them to a cell where a reddish-orange-haired man with a haggard appearance sat, reflecting on his past.
"You have visitors." The guard told the man.
The man looked at the group with surprise. "Priscilla, Nathan, it's good to see you."
"Cut the chat, Sylas. Nathan has something he needs to ask you." Priscilla said tersely.
"What is it?" Sylas asked, not too surprised at his niece's attitude.
Nathan looked at his father with a mix of happiness and uncertainty. "Father... While it's nice to see you again and all, there is something that has been on my mind." He then reluctantly added, "Is it true that you framed Priscilla's father for rape and forced our mother into marriage? When Priscilla told me that, I couldn't believe it. It didn't sound at all like you."
Sylas' expression was pained and remorseful as he replied, "You had quite the misunderstanding because of me, didn't you? Yes, it's true that I did. Even before Vanessa married my brother, I was smitten with her. But that longing turned to lust and uncontrollable jealousy. Even after Percival had married her, I still yearned for her affection. I gave in, framed my brother for sexual assault, and all but forced your mother into becoming my wife."
Nathan's eyes widened with shock. "So, then... It was all true?" He shook his head in disbelief. "But you loved my and Priscilla's mother, didn't you? I was even under the impression that she loved you."
"It was a one-sided relationship. The idea that she loved me was just a sweet, pleasant lie to ease my conscience." Sylas replied grimly. "You were conceived without your mother's consent. I was overjoyed to see you born, but your mother had mixed feelings. She loved you, but against my better judgment, I forced her to pay more attention to you than to Priscilla."
Temenos, Throne, Alistair, and Sabrina were disgusted to hear this.
"How foolish. There must have been other ways for you to cope with your jealousy and lust without causing Priscilla such needless trauma." Temenos said after a moment's pause.
"What would you have suggested, Inquisitor? It was inevitable." Sylas retorted. "But after my arrest and during my time at Frigit Island, I had time to truly reflect on my actions." He sighed as he gazed out the barred window of his cell. "My brother's death was unfortunate. No doubt the deplorable conditions of Frigit Island took its toll on him. And it has taken its toll on me, too. On top of that, I've had to watch Emerald and Osvald go on their fool's errand to escape the island—two more deaths I wish I could have prevented."
"Osvald is alive. He managed to reach the mainland. I don't know this Emerald, but it sounds like he perished in the attempt." Alistair informed him.
"Really?" Sylas was surprised to hear this. "It was supposed to be impossible to escape that prison alive. I am relieved to hear that he survived, but was he not responsible for the deaths of his own family?"
"No, that was Professor Harvey's doing." Priscilla said, barely containing her hatred. "Osvald had been framed. Rita was murdered for her blood, but Elena was rescued. She and her mother had merely been kidnapped."
"I see." Sylas took the information in quietly. "Well, sooner or later, I will be gone. The island prison had already taken its toll on me before the Prison Inspectors shut it down because of Warden Davids' corruption and the terrible conditions. I am very weak."
"Father..." Nathan looked at him with pity.
"I don't deserve your pity, son." Sylas looked at him seriously. "My life was great while it lasted." He then looked at Priscilla. "I do not expect you to forgive this old man's foolishness, but I want you to know that I am truly sorry for what happened."
Priscilla's hands trembled as emotions surged within her. With a furious cry, she unleashed a thunderbolt, slamming Sylas into the wall. "You say you are sorry!? I don't believe that!" She prepared another spell.
"Stay your spells." Sabrina told her firmly.
"He's been through enough." Nathan added softly.
Priscilla clenched her fists but canceled her magic. "One apology doesn't undo the damage you've caused, Sylas. I refuse to acknowledge you as family."
Sylas nodded solemnly. "I understand. But I would like to see Vanessa one last time."
"I'll arrange it, but she will have guards." Priscilla replied tersely.
Nathan sighed as they left. "So... our in-fighting was for nothing."
Priscilla looked at him. "We move forward. No more past mistakes."
With that, the group departed, ready to face their next challenge.
Finally got the next chapter ready, can't say how much longer it will take me to finish the fic, so I can't make any promises on when the next chapter will be posted.