User blog:Swirly592/Germaine Marlon (Altered EC)

"...Don't tease me."

- Germaine Marlon

Germaine Marlon was the Queen of the Kingdom of Marlon and the daughter of Queen Dowager Prim. After falling in love with Gumi and rejecting her betrothed, Prince Alexiel, Germaine unwittingly sparked the Green War. Having lost her beloved to Alexiel, Germaine secretly supported the Lucifenian Resistance, annexing Lucifenia as a Marlon territory in the wake of its revolution. While possessed by the Demon of Pride, Germaine threatened to expand an imperialist Marlon regime across all of Evillious.

Early Life
"Under the manipulation of my mother, I quit painting. She hired art dealers and critics to demean my morale and make me leave the world of painting. Since then, I have never painted again."

- Germaine regarding her childhood

Germaine was born in EC 474 within the Marlon Royal Family. Although the rightful heir to the Kingdom of Marlon's crown, she was never interested in being Queen. Instead, she wished to be a painter, and used the second floor of the royal palace as her studio. At some point, Germaine encountered her mother Prim's close friend Abyss L.U. and, unnerved by her cruelty, avoided her.

In EC 484, Germaine met Mikina Sfarz at one of the royal banquets and saw her scream and faint at the sight of a cat. Sometime during her youth, Prim began relating stories of Iroha Clockworker to her daughter, including tales of her wartime heroics and mentoring of the Queen. Showing the talent required, the fourteen-year old Germaine moved into the city with his relatives in EC 488 and progressed quickly under the guidance of Zusco, her art teacher.

Struck by Zusco's intelligent demeanor and kindness, Germaine developed a crush on him. That same year, his mother brought a young boy to the palace and Germaine was told he was their relative. Despite his quiet demeanor, Germaine played with the child and eventually had him pose for a new portrait. Sometime after, the boy left without saying goodbye and Germaine was forced to finish half the painting from his imagination.

Once he finished the painting of the blunette boy, it received the most praise from her art tutor. At some point, Germaine promised to marry the dark-haired man when he grew up, though soon after discovering he was already marrying someone else. After Zusco's apparent suicide via poison while imprisoned in EC 489, Germaine grew suspicious of the circumstances; hearing that Keel Freesis would do anything if you paid him, the Princess hired the apprentice to investigate her death.

Soon after, Keel relayed to Germaine how her mother handed the poison off to a guard who gave it to Zusco. Afterwards, the Marlon princess became fully devoted to becoming an artist, willing to even leave the royal family and meet up with Keel to begin her art career. Shortly afterward, multiple art critics and dealers, including the famed Nikolay Tolle, came by and criticized Germaine's work and, over time, demoralized her from her ideal.

Completely broken, the Princess abandoned her dream and burned her collection of paintings in EC 490, save for the portrait her teacher loved so much. Around that time, Germaine received a hand mirror from her mother and kept it because it helped alleviate her confusion. Sometime later, Keel bought the painting, saying the princess could buy it back when she felt better, although the price would be doubled.

In EC 494, Germaine was crowned Queen after her father's death and the political turmoil that followed. In the wake of the event, the new Queen learned of her mother's suspected involvement in the murder of her many other half-siblings, though there wasn't any proof of it. She later became acquainted with her betrothed, Prince Alexiel of the Kingdom of Lucifenia, and the two became very close. Over the course of her many visits to the royal palace there, Germaine gave Alexiel a shell necklace as part of their courtship.

After seeing her surviving half-brother, Arkatoir, return as a civil servant in parliament, Germaine worried for his safety but worked closely with him in managing the Kingdom. At some point, Germaine asked Arkatoir why he risked returning to politics after relinquishing his birthright and her brother answered that it was his fight. He then quickly explained that he wanted to be more than just a farmer, even if it meant risking his life.

At some point, she learned that her mother had bribed the artists and dealers to belittle him. As the years progressed, Germaine overheard numerous titles given to her in regards to being her mother's puppet and her apparent incompetence as a Queen. Sometime later, the Queen met and collaborated with Mariam Futapie in secret.

Green Romance
"...Up til now, I've still had to give up the idea of leaving my position, mixing with the civilians and live a simple life surrounded by my beloved husband and children." "Does Germaine, her Highness, love me?" "... I see you’re very straight forward."

- Gumi and Germaine

In December of EC 499, Germaine attended one of Keel's banquets at his mansion in Elphegort, she left unsatisfied by the entertainment at the merchant's dinner party. Germaine later attended Alexiel's fourteenth birthday party, greeting the Prince at his throne and walking with him among the crowd for a time.

The following month, he attended another banquet at Keel's mansion and watched his new servant, Gumi, come upon stage. Upon seeing 'him', Germaine was shocked at 'his' beauty. She was instantly enamored with 'him' and was even more impressed by 'his' beautiful singing.

Twenty minutes later, the queen congratulated Keel for his success after the performance and praised Gumi's voice. Keel introduced the servant 'boy' to the queen, mentioning she was a playgirl. In reaction to the comment, she nearly cursed but recomposed herself and apologized for her rudeness. Seeing Gumi's nervous demeanor at her position, she told 'him' she intended to remain incognito and that she was fine with 'him' treating her casually like Keel did. Gumi obeyed and Germaine told 'him' they were speaking too casually, prompting 'him' to respond how she truly was a playgirl. The embarrassed Germaine choked up when trying to respond.

After one of Gumi's performances sometime later, she knocked on the door to Keel's living room and entered after no one responded; the queem saw Gumi gawking at her portrait of Kyle and trying to read the signature. Germaine approached 'him' and told 'him' it was her penname: Maylis Beelzenia. Germaine explained to the surprised Gumi her failed art career caused by her mother.

When 'he' asked if she hated being queen, she told 'him' she was proud of the responsibility but that her mother remained unsatisfied, despite following the road she paved for her. Staring at 'him', he spoke of how she still wished she could escape and live among the common folk with a family, provoking the servant to ask if she was in love with 'him'. The queen then confessed how she loved 'him' since their first meeting but 'he' turned him down, saying 'he' didn't know how to love another woman.

Angered and flustered that she thought Gumi to be male, Germaine tried to explain love to Gumi, and asked if there was anyone she wanted to protect and cared for. When she responded she felt that way about her friend, she was embarrassed but said it was possible if it was true love. She gave her a shell necklace to represent her pure love for her and jokingly threatened that she was refusing the Marlon Queen's gift. She then blushed and Gumi berated her for abusing her power; Germaine apologized and said she would like them to start out as friends. With a mischievous smile, Germaine heard Gumi agree to the offer and told her being friends with Marlon's queen was incredible, much to her ire. She told her she was kidding and retired to the dining room.

Passion of Blue
"Michaela, if I said I intended to disobey my mother, give up my throne and run away... would you go with me?"

- Germaine to her beloved

After hearing of Mariam's death, Germaine joined in mourning at the warrior's funeral, departing after her burial. Afterward, the Marlon queen traveled back to Elphegort to meet with Keel and King Sohni Elphen at the merchant's mansion to discuss Elphegort's poor harvest and Lucifenia's problems. During her stay, she went away to go greet Gumi in the mansion.

Seeing the maid Clarith instead, deep in thought, Germaine asked the maid what she was doing and explained that she was here to visit Gumi while on political business. After asking where she was, she listened as Clarith told her she was out buying green onions and that it would be better for her to go on her way. Thinking it over, Germaine noted that she had nothing else to do and said she would be going to the market, where she met Michaela.

Over the next few weeks, Germaine would see Gumi almost daily and they would talk and have fun, with Germaine occasionally buying the servant girl a gift and talking about her exploits as queen. On one occasion, the queen took Gumi shopping in town and crossed over a bridge while chatting with her. She was then startled to see Clarith jump out and land in the water, flailing helplessly. Handing her bag to Gumi, Germaine swiftly stripped of her heavier clothes and jumped in after her; pulling the girl ashore, she asked if she was alright. She and Michaela both attended to Clarith among the impressed bystanders.

That night, she attended a meeting with Keel and King Sohni, asking the two of them to send aid to Lucifenia to solve their food shortage. After affirming her desires with King Sohni, Germaine thanked him for listening and allowed Keel to order some liquor at the end of the meeting. After some time passed and it had still not arrived, Germaine along with the other two was shocked by Clarith's sudden drunken entrance.

When the maid grabbed her by the front of her clothes, Kyle listened to her rant in her face about having kept her engagement a secret; as she rambled on, she tried to tell her she didn't understand, only for the maid to add that she would throw Gumi away once she gets tired of her. Although trying to protest that she wouldn't do something like that, she was quickly ignored as the maid then went on to rant at Keel.

The day after the meeting, the merchant showed Germaine a unique piece of his collection and the Queen came in contact with the Venom Sword, feeling a twisting yet comforting feeling as he was unknowingly possessed by the Demon of Lust. The merchant asked if his friend was interested in purchasing the weapon but the brown-haired monarch refused, feeling she would be unable to handle its power.

Afterward, she went to see Gumi and, suddenly filled with an intense and uncontrollable lust for her, cheerfully asked if she would rather go outside than do the laundry. Hearing no response, she told her that she was leaving for Marlon soon and came by to say hello and farewell to Keel but that the merchant was busy. Knowing the captain was waiting, she asked if she would send her regards to Keel instead.

Gumi then vehemently told her to ask the butler Bruno instead and the queen realized her anger, interpreting it as loneliness at her departure and believing Gumi had finally fallen for her. She rejected the notion and told her she knew she was engaged. Germaine brushed it off and told her Alexiel was like her brother, not her lover and said she felt happy she seemed jealous. Gumi angrily replied she was angry because she had been deceiving her. She then calmed down and led her to the door.

On their way, she sighed before finally ordering her to turn around. Once she complied, the brown-haired queen explained that she did not want to marry Alexiel and that the betrothal was decided by their mothers. Gumi asked if she hated the prince and she said that wasn't the case, saying she knew he was not a bad guy and she explained she liked him as a brother, rather than love him as her betrothed. Gumi told her she couldn't defy her mother and Germaine agreed, but hesitated in thought. She was then shocked when the servant rejected her and told her the affair would cause problems with the other countries if it went on. Saddened, she understood what she said and agreed to not cause any harm.

The two headed for the door in silence and bid each other farewell as they approached the mansion's main gate. Heading for her entourage, Germaine suddenly ran back to Gumi and embraced her, asking if she would join her if she disobeyed her mother, gave up the throne, and ran away. She released her and told the shocked servant to forget about what she said before departing back to Marlon. In addition to Keel's assistance, she then sent her own aid from Marlon to help Lucifenia as a gesture of good faith to Alexiel.

Green Hunting
"I can’t believe she would do such a thing. She would rebel against his mother for such trivial matters. For her to go against her mother’s will of getting engaged to Lucifenia’s Prince... She is such a spoiled brat! She didn't even consider the consequences of her actions to those around him."

- Keel ranting about Germaine's actions

A few weeks later, Germaine impulsively decided to void her engagement with Alexiel and her mother complied with the gesture. Later on, when Prime Minister Minis of Lucifenia visited the country in response to their aide, Germaine wrote a letter for her betrothed regarding her intentions. Meeting with the Prime Minister, Germaine and her mother were impressed by the honoraria he presented them, offering a baby ziz tiama to their court mage, Iroha, in turn. Germaine then offered Lucifenia to give the letter to Alexiel, revealing its contents to the minister.

With her mother expressing respect for Germaine's decision, the royals sent off the minister. Germaine then prepared to leave for Elphegort but was imprisoned by Prim and kept under house arrest. She was freed about a week later and received a letter from Keel explaining the situation. Knowing Gumi's location in the Millennium Tree Forest, Germaine sent a letter back saying she'd be able to smuggle Gumi away from the conflict in no more than a week. Hoping to save her, Germaine departed from Bariti and voyaged to Elphegort.

A few days later, she arrived at Keel's specified location and found Gumi's corpse inside the well. She hugged her corpse and cried when Iroha and her apprentice, Michaela, arrived. In her frustration, she kicked and punched violently as the duo extracted Gumi's corpse and soon after departed with the shell necklace she gave her in hand. Donning a mask, Germaine went to the headquarters of the Lucifenian Resistance within the Forest of Bewilderment and told them she could help. She joined the resistance led by Ney Futapie, daughter of Mariam.

Preparation for Insurrection
"We built-up a large amount of people; Not just from Lucifenia but also from Elphegort. And... soldiers from the masked woman."

- Minage speaking of Germaine's support

Germaine assisted the resistance and supplied them with her soldiers to bolster their army. During their last meeting in the Resistance's base in the forest, the disguised queen's loyalty was questioned by York, a resistance leader. In response to being mistrusted for her mask and the elite weaponry of her soldiers, Germaine responded that there should be no issue since they shared the same goal of overthrowing Alexiels's regime. York did not believe her and the masked queen insulted him in turn before another resistance leader, Sekka, quieted both of them.

Ney approached Germaine and touched her mask, noting how poorly it fit upon her face. Astonished, Germaine asked if she had discovered her identity and she responded probably before explaining that her reasons were irrelevant so long as she helped them. When asked what her name was, the disguised queen told them to call him "Maylis" and they continued the meeting. When the blacksmith arrived with supplies for the revolutionaries, Maylis sighed and watched as Ney received her mother's reprocessed armor.

Lucifenian Revolution
"We were lucky Marlon did not send any reinforcements." "... You guys are really bad."

- Ney teasing the masked Germaine

Once the Lucifenian Revolution began, the disguised Germaine and his masked soldiers assisted the Resistance and Elphegort armies and helped score successive victories against the Lucifenian army. On the second week of the Revolution, Germaine's forces staged a night raid on the recalled forces from Retasan Fortress and the Babul Desert region during their return trip, decimating them. Afterward, Maylis led the forces at Rolled to combat the Venom Mercenaries' forces.

With her own soldiers led by Mark, another revolutionary leader, Maylis combated the mercenaries. The battle continued into the following week and the masked swordswoman engaged their commander, Sarah Venom, in battle. Maylis was wounded during the fight in her left wrist and was about to be finished off by the "Demon of Asmodean" when Mark intervened and blocked Sarah's killing blow. Shortly afterward, Mark was slain but the duel injured Sarah and forced her and her mercenaries to flee.

Maylis continued the push with the revolutionary army towards the kingdom's capital. During the assault of the Lucifenian palace's main gate, Maylis, beside Ney, proclaimed their victory. The grey-armored swordswoman agreed but mentioned they needed to hurry before the palace's reinforcements returned from Elphegort and noted their serendipity with Marlon not sending any reinforcements to defend Lucifenia. Hearing her deliberate tone, Germaine told her that she was terrible before holding her injured wrist.

Ney asked if she was alright and she replied she was still able to fight but that Sarah and her mercenaries were tough opponents. She lowered her head and apologized for Mark's death during the battle and told Ney how Mark was the reason the masked warrior was alive. Maylis warned her to beware of engaging Sarah in combat, despite the injuries they inflicted her.

Once the main gate was opened and the Heavenly Yard was invaded, Maylis and her forces assailed the courtyard but were held back by Leonhart Avadonia and his cadre of warrior servants. She yelled at Ney to ignore Leonhart and leave him to Riliane Mouchet, who distracted the Head of Servants, allowing Germaine's forces to break the enemy lines and assault the palace with Germaine leading the assault.

Kachess and Germaine then divided their forces with Kyle's half finding Prime Minister Minis as he attempted to escape. Kyle tried to arrest the absconding minister but Minis resisted and was killed as a result. He sent a messenger to report his actions to Germaine and the palace was searched before Princess Riliane was found and captured, finishing the revolution.

Sometime later, Germaine visited the imprisoned prince and realized he was not Alexiel but his servant, Rin Futapie, instead. The servant confessed to being Gumi's murderer and Germaine, furious, unleashed her wrath and punched the false prince in the face repeatedly. Once she was finished abusing the prisoner, Germiane told Rin she would execute the boy in place of Alexiel, considering the political ramifications if the prince was not believed captured and killed.

Marlon Reforms
"The Kingdom of Lucifenia will now be under Marlon's rule."

- Germiane to the peace assembly

Soon after the revolution ended, Germaine received a letter from her mother demanding that Lucifenia come under Marlon's jurisdiction. Wishing to prove his competence and finally be rid of ridicule, the ambitious queen planned to take full control over Lucifenia and eventually conquer all of Evillious under Marlon's banner, making it the largest and strongest nation in history.

A few days after the Lucifenian Revolution ended, Germaine attended the peace meeting in the Hall of Sounds along with Keel, King Sohni Elphen, Ney, and the other revolutionary leaders. Once everyone arrived, she was told by Ney to start the meeting, called by her title of the Queen of Marlon. Removing her mask, she revealed her identity and congratulated the revolutionary army for giving them their victory after greeting the members present.

Ney sarcastically asked why she no longer wore her mask, Germaine replying that there was no longer any need; she was prepared to lose the throne as a result of her actions but her mother simply sent him a letter with conditions instead. Germaine then told the revolutionary leader she would explain the letter later and brought up the topic of the surviving Lucifenian army and discussed the issue with the members of the meeting.

The next topic was related to the Three Heroes1 and, after Keel determined Iroha would not become a problem, Germaine explained that Leonhart Avadonia was found dead by a Marlon soldier while patrolling the palace. When asked if they knew the perpetrator that killed him, Germaine responded in the negative. With the first two topics settled, Germaine elaborated on her mother's conditions and York, outraged by Germaine's proposal, spoke out against her. In response, the Queen attempted to soothe his anger.

Once York was pacified by Ney, Germaine finished explaining that if the revolutionary army led the country, they would lack political experience, unlike her; Germaine also added that he was willing to incorporate the revolutionary leaders into the new government in Lucifenia. The conference unanimously agreed to Germaine's proposal and York and Minage were given positions in her new regime while Ney turned down the offer. Germaine humbly told those present she would work hard for Lucifenia to know the true meaning of freedom in the future.

The Queen then looked at Ney with regret for turning down the chance to join her government before the swordsman laughed. Germaine asked what was wrong and she told her how she spoke differently compared to how she spoke as "Maylis" and the humbled queen told her not to tease her before turning away from her. Germaine then inquired if she met the arrested prince and when Ney told her she had not, she brought up the subject of her execution. It was decided by the meeting that "The Son of Evil" would be killed and Germaine declared he would be given a public execution in Milanais Square at three o'clock.

Marlon Occupation
"Do you intend to unify the whole of Evillious?" "We will come to that sooner or later."

- General George Ausdin and Queen Germaine

After "The Sone of Evil" was beheaded and the Kingdom of Lucifenia was occupied, the Demon of Lust was secretly extracted from her. Shortly after, she was unknowingly possessed by the Demon of Pride from the gift hand mirror she carried. Once Germaine settled in Lucifenia and handed over administration of Marlon to her mother; during that time, she began relaxing in the palace's Heavenly Yard each evening.

Sometime after, Kyle Avadonia told Germaine that Ney was Gumi's actual murderer. Determined to attain vengeance against her, she sent out a letter to Keel among others concerning her "Witch Hunt". Later on, in the Hall of Sounds, the Marlon queen considered her role in the events that led up to Gumi's death and recognized her fault for much of the bloodshed. However, after removing the handle from her mother's gift hand mirror, Germaine reconsidered her views and determined that her actions were right and were the best for both Marlon and Lucifenia.

A soldier then arrived and frantically reported that Ney and York escaped the palace and headed southeast from the lake. Germaine realized her hidden intentions were discovered and told the soldier to stop them when they reached Retasan Fortress. The queen asked about the Witch Hunt and was told there were notifications in Lucifenia and Marlon but that the sources were dubious. Germaine understood her blunder for letting the "murderer" run away and ordered the soldier to find and arrest Ney.

In that year of EC 501, Germaine merged Lucifenia as part of Marlon's territory and attempted to eradicate the members of the Resistance. Faced with an uprising from the former revolutionaries, Germaine branded Ney a traitor and fabricated that she intended to rebel against the new government and lead the uprising. As time progressed, Germaine added more names to the Witch Hunt. During that year, she discovered both Iroha and Michaela attempting to steal her hand mirror in the night; during her pursuit, she managed to take possession of the Venom Sword before the two escaped. She later added their names to the Witch Hunt.

In order to gain the support of the merchants, Germaine began to regularly attend their banquets. Around this time, Keel began sending Germaine the novels published by his nine year old son, Shaw, and the brown-haired queen was impressed by his capabilities. At Keel's suggestion, Germaine banned trade with Elphegort, though still permitting business transactions within Marlon, to promote the nation's economy and disassociate the nation from the Green Country's royal family.

In EC 502 Germaine asked her mother to use her Espionage Task Force to help hunt down the "witches". Her mother complied on the conditions that they had absolute freedom in regards to the Witch Hunt and that Abyss L.U. select the group's head, namely Kyle. Accepting the terms, Germaine had the masked group root out and capture those in her Witch Hunt Order. The following year, Germaine ordered Chartette Langley to recapture Retasan. After the fortress was retaken, the members of the Resistance fled to the Beelzenian Empire and Germaine demanded the Beelzenian Emperor hand over the refugees. Faced with the Emperor's refusal, political tensions rose between the countries.

In EC 505, Germaine decided to begin her planned invasion of Asmodean and Beelzenia. Knowing that Michaela was in the Beelzenian Empire, she sent Kyle and the Espionage Task Force to Retasan to find and capture the sorceress. Kyle insisted on being made the fortress' commander and, despite opposition, Germaine gave the azure-haired assassin the position, expecting Kyle's usage of the Glass of Margarita to reanimate the dead would bolster their offensive.

Over two months after fighting broke out in Beelzenia, Germaine reminisced at Nikolay Tolle's paintings in the Hall of Mirrors when General George Ausdin reported that Retasan fortress seemed to have fallen. Noting the general's apathetic wording, she chastised the soldier for not taking her country's affairs seriously, questioning if she was among the dissenters of the old Lucifenian military. Brushing it off, Germaine listened to the general's commentary about letting Kyle command the soldiers and impatiently asked what their next move would be.

The confident queen then ordered him to help reinforce their forces in Retasan and continue defending the city. George suggested recapturing it instead but Germaine explained that was inevitable, planning to reorganize their forces and mount a full invasion on all of Beelzenia. When the surprise general asked if he planned to unite all Evillious, the Marlon queen affirmed it would happen in time.

She then permitted the soldier to speak and listened to his doubt that Germaine had the necessary qualities to achieve such an ideal, viewing her actions as arrogant rather than ambitious. Although angered by the rude assertions, Germaine stated he would have to accept the opinion and refused George's suggestion to be sent to the guillotine as punishment. Giving him twenty thousand troops, Germaine sent the battle-ready commander away with his orders.

Afterward, Clive entered to announce that Kyle arrived to give a report. The queen commanded he be sent to the Hall of Sounds. Looking back to see him leave, Germaine recalled the revolution and how Ney was celebrated as a hero. As she began to question her actions, the anxious queen took the hand mirror to soothe her confusion and regain her confidence.

Entering the Hall of Sounds, Germaine sat on the throne when Kyle's arrival was announced. As he and his task force knelt before her, she expressed her disappointment in Kyle's failure at Retasan. Kyle indifferently responded that the mission was more difficult than he had expected and he stated that General George would take care of the situation eventually. Curious why he came back with his mission incomplete, she noted that she had yet to receive a report of Michaela's capture.

Kyle answered that both he and Ney were also identified in the nation and that both had left the Empire. Surprised, she asked when they would be able to capture her and Kyle stated the undead soldiers had been useless. Germaine stared, speechless, and Kyle told him to give his complaints to Abyss L.U., not him. The Marlon queen retorted that the Espionage Task Force should have been better and asked if he planned to hunt down the newly-found targets. Kyle denied it and said he would return to Marlon and ask Abyss L.U. if he was misusing the Glass.

When Germaine voiced her opposition, Kyle declared it was necessary to know the vessel's full potential for the Witch Hunt. Unable to object the reasoning because of her mother's conditions, Germaine said he was allowed but demanded the rest of the Task Force stay, saying they were needed as reinforcements and that they were unnecessary for Kyle's return home. Kyle complied and mischievously told to her not have too much fun with them. Confused by his words, Germaine looked over to the male soldiers and realized he was calling her a pervert and angrily banged her arm on the arm of her throne.

Visitors to the Palace
"It's a rare opportunity. Why not look around the palace? You might find some interesting material for your novels."

- Germaine's offer to Shaw

Two weeks later, Germaine attended a dinner party held at the merchant Corpa's mansion, escorted by Clive. While drinking, the Marlon Queen watched Corpa introduce a beautiful singer to the stage and listened to her song. Recognizing the tune, she was reminded of Gumi and became upset. Although tempted to criticize her, Germaine remained silent and eventually left, feeling drunk, and head out to the mansion's courtyard. As Germaine reflected on the last five years and how soon her revenge would be complete, she was startled by the sound of a voice saying it was boring. Unable to find its source, the ringing voice gave her a headache and the Queen mentally lashed out that she wasn't boring.

At that time, a boy approached her, offering her black tea and a rest. Gladly accepting it, she drank it and realized it was of Marlon make. Germaine thanked him and inspected his clothes but couldn't recognize him. She inquired who he was and, as the boy continued chatting with her, she remembered he was Keel's son, Shaw. After noting how much he had grown, Germaine mentioned how popular his novels had become and the boy downplayed his skills. Germaine then reiterated that he was talented.

As she was about to ask him why he was there, Shaw stated he would be visiting the palace the next day and wanted to notify the queen in advance. Although saying the night was still young, she agreed and Shaw left immediately afterward. After the brown-haired king mused how the troublesome child became a virtuous man, Germaine greeted Corpa then headed for Clive, telling him to ready the carriage. During her ride back to the palace, Germaine looked out at the night sky.

The next day, Shaw visited Germaine and she with him in the Hall of Mirrors. The Marlon Queen, stating his travels must have been difficult, demanded he skip the pleasantries and raise his head to him. Looking at his face, she noted he looked more like his father and, at his behest, remarked the peculiar attire of his two masked bodyguards behind her. The child explained that they were Asmodean mercenaries he met on her journey when Clive stepped forward and demanded they removed their masks in Germaine's presence.

Although bothered, they refused, Germaine told her aide to stand down, trusting in Shaw's judgment of them and stating she felt safe with all the palace guards. Curious why he came, the brown-haired queen listened to Shaw claim he was acting on behalf of his father. At the mention of the Elphegort embargo, Germaine clarified they were still able to conduct business in Marlon and pointed out Keel being the one who proposed the ban. Seeing Shaw flustered, she questioned why the businessman would send him instead of his successor, Yukina.

Assuming he was unaware she knew he had run away and was searching for a home to take him in, Germaine brushed off the child's stuttering explanations and said she'd consult his father later. She then changed the subject, asking if it was his first time at the palace and encouraged him to look around for potential new novel ideas. After reminding him that weapons were prohibited and that she'd notify the guards of his visit, Germaine watched the excited child leave.

The Queen then told Clive to notify the guards and to send a messenger to Keel regarding Shaw's location. When the guard questioned her judgment, Germaine affirmed that, despite wishing to please him, Keel would die of loneliness if he worried too much. As the servant went to fulfill her commands, Germaine mused how Keel was probably already aware anyhow. Throughout the rest of the day, Germaine spotted Shaw exploring the palace and jotting down ideas in his notebook during her daily duties.

Later that evening, while relaxing in the Heavenly Yard, Germaine noticed Shaw should have said his goodbyes and left by then when she heard him scream about courtyard's large fountain. As zhe approached the novelist, she agreed with his sentiments and reminded him to refer to her as Germaine when in private. Hearing him giddy about his adventures in the palace, Germaine pointed to the notebook and asked whether he always wrote his inspirations in it. Once the boy explained it was an important treasure from his mother, Germaine was reminded of her gift and stated she too had a few treasures.

When Shaw chided she'd probably never let him see them, Germaine insisted she would and took out the hand mirror she carried. Showing it to him, the novelist noted it didn't look very expensive and the Queen laughed, pointing out she could identity any object's value like his father. She then admitted it was a cheap trinket and explained how it was also an important gift from her mother. Asked if she always kept it with her, Germaine admitted she even kept it while she slept.

Afterwards, Shaw asked if she kept other treasures and the Queen responded she did keep another, more important treasure but didn't bring it with her. As Shaw began to pry, Germaine told him she couldn't let him see it and he began pouting, evoking her sympathy. Seeing the sun was already setting, Germaine asked if the novelist was staying at Corpa's mansion.

He then said he was staying at a hotel in Rollam and Germaine, noting the security there was unstable, recommended against staying there. Shaw answered that he was used to it and, after Germaine caught his slip up, the Queen offered to have him stay at the palace for the night. Stating she could immediately arrange a room for him in the massive palace, Shaw agreed to the offer. Germaine then ordered a servant to prepared a room for him. Once it was finished, the young boy thanked the brown-haired queen and went into his room.

Demon on a Moonlit Night
"Queen Germaine... I'm also not sure whether demons exist or not, but for the past five years... you've changed quite a bit."

- Shaw

That night, Germaine walked the corridor between the Hall of Sounds and Hall of Mirrors, admiring Nikolay Tolle's paintings before being approached by a guard. Asked if everything was alright, Germaine replied that she merely couldn't sleep and was out for a walk. When reminded the palace wasn't well secured, Germaine realized the man was new and asked if that was why he was standing guard. After the guard affirmed and asked if Shaw was staying in the palace Germaine said he was; when the guard asked if he could have his autograph, she told the man to ask her again in the morning.

Hearing a loud explosion, Germaine told the guard to do his job and investigate before realizing the sound came from Shaw's room. In response, she stopped the guard and ordered him to instead call the other guards, insisting she would leave if there was any risk when the guard expressed doubts. When the man hesitated, Germaine told him not to make her repeat herself and then went to Shaw's room. As she hesitated before the room, she was approached by Clive in his pajamas and, hearing a riot outside, asked what was happening.

When the soldier reported it was a group of masked people, Germaine asked if the masks they wore were from their country or the guests'; Clive stating they were from their country, Germaine concluded it was the Espionage Task Force. She then asked where Shaw was and and heard that he as well as his companions were missing. Germaine then told Clive to rouse all the guards, seal the exits, and seek out their guests, although clarifying they were not to hurt Shaw.

When Clive asked what to do if they resisted, Germaine ordered him to show no mercy and kill the masked fugitives, adding to leave the ones in the iron masks be when the soldier asked. With the guards setting out, she asked Clive to come search the palace with her; after the guard said he would need to go back and change, Germaine noted she would be humiliated to be seen with him in those pajamas. As Clive apologized, she simply told the soldier to be back as fast as he could.

After Clive was dressed, he and Germaine searched the Hall of Mirrors, Hall of Sounds, kitchen, Heavenly Yard, and the maids' quarters, before returning to the corridor. Hearing the other guards had failed, she asked what room they hadn't searched and Clive replied the ministers and other officials' bedchambers. Germaine then suggested they were in the rooms of someone still sleeping and Clive noted they shouldn't be hiding the culprits.

As Clive wondered where Keel Freesis' son would hide, Germaine considered that Shaw's companions were Iroha and Michaela, asking if her bedroom had been checked. When Clive affirmed they hadn't, she demanded they search there before being interrupted by another explosion from her room. Remarking that they must have found the ones in iron masks, Germaine approached her bedroom and found two guards unconscious by the floor.

Entering, he discovered one of Shaw's companions surrounded by the Espionage Task Force; recognizing her armor, she demanded Clive and the others withdraw, clarifying she wished to speak with the thief and telling them to not interfere. As the thief spoke, Germaine asked the thief to take off her mask; as she did so, she greeted Ney Futapie and remarked that she didn't expect her to come to her.

When Ney claimed she was tired of running, Germaine quipped it was noble of her to confess her crimes and be executed. When Ney smiled and asked when she committed a crime, Germaine silenced her and accused her of murdering Gumi. She went on to claim she hatched her plan to gain more support, knowing Gumi was beloved by her and connected to Keel, killing her with the help of Iroha and Michaela.

As Ney wondered if she'd listen to her refute those points, she continued that she and Iroha fanned the flames of war and that someone had witnessed them meeting together, adding that Iroha and Michaela had arrived so quickly after he found Gumi's body because they were involved. Ney noted it would be difficult to reason with her when her statements were speculation, asking Germaine if she remembered Rin's statement.

In response, Germaine stated Rin did not kill Gumi and cited Keel's testimony for Rin's actions following her death. She finished that the girl had lied to cover up Ney as the real perpetrator. When Ney repeated her words in wonder, Germaine asked if she had touched a nerve, only for the former Resistance leader to thank her for lifting some of her burden. When Germaine asked what she meant, she stated that she hadn't killed Gumi, to which Michaela quipped if she was asking her to believe in her.

When Ney remarked that they had once fought side by side, the queen stated it didn't prove she didn't kill Gumi, placing her hand to the hilt of her sword. After Ney insisted she didn't have proof she did kill Gumi, Germaine pulled out her sword and pointed it at Ney, declaring that she could make her excuses to the Master of the Hellish Yard.

Ney then asked if Germaine had another reason not to believe her; asking her what she meant, the leader remarked that if she wasn't a proven criminal the queen would be in trouble. As Ney continued to speak, Germaine heard the voice in her head calling her boring and began to feel increasing self-doubt; while she stood in silence, Clive and Ney began to argue and the queen mumbled for her hand mirror. Hearing a voice asking to leave her feelings to it, Germaine commanded Clive to kill Ney with the Espionage Task Force and to not let them take the Venom Sword.

As Ney sprang forward, Germaine exchanged positions with Clive and watched as the former Resistance leader escaped through the window. Then following voices to Alexiel's room, Germaine checked the room and found a secret passage in the fireplace, following it to the palace stables. After finding Shaw and his other companion at the stables, she noticed the boy holding her hand mirror and took it from him, hearing the voice again tell her to leave her feelings to it.

As her peace of mind returned, she heard Shaw's companion note that her heart had become dependent on a demon and recognized her as Michaela. Confronting her, she asked if the demon was what this was all about and, when she declared her hopeless for not knowing its existence, countered that demons did not exist. As Michaela insisted the demon existed and was misleading her, Germaine continued to state it wasn't so.

Noticing Shaw once more, Germaine rushed to him and fell, scraping her elbows. Claiming it was rude of her, the queen apologized and the boy noted her face was becoming pale while her skin turned black. Germaine insisted she was alright, only for Shaw to comment that regardless of the demon, she had changed a lot over the last five years. Germaine replied she was the same as before, only for Shaw to counter that in the past she would never have waged war on other countries for no reason.

When the boy asked if the new Marlon policies were really her will, Germaine's urge to touch the hand mirror grew and she heard the voice ask her to leave her feelings to it for a third time; the arrogant queen then began to transform, becoming completely possessed by the Demon of Pride. She noticed Shaw shaking and crying out in terror, as well as Michaela attempting to cast a spell; waving her right hand and then left hands, she sent Michaela up and down like a rag doll, and then beat her wing to send her flying to the wall. The queen then took off into the night sky, flying higher until she disappeared completely.

Battle in the Forest
Over the course of two weeks, Germaine's transformation increased as she hunted aimlessly for the three. Finding them in the Millennium Tree Forest, the bestial Germaine attacked Ney wildly. Fended by the swordswoman, Germaine began shifting her attacks toward Shaw. In Ney's attempt to protect the boy, Germaine broke her sword.

Despite Michaela's attempt to exorcise her, Germaine remained unaffected and continued her onslaught. However, Gumi intervened, singing a spell song that amplified the spell's effect and successfully freed Germaine of the demon's control, rendering her unconscious.

After Germaine returned to normal and regained consciousness, she explained that her memories of the past five years were vague and that she had no recollection of the past two weeks. Learning of her possession, Germaine decided to confront her mother directly on the matters.

Thanking them for their help, the brown-haired king gave Michaela, Ney, and Shaw safe passage to Marlon to help her uncover the truth. She later departed from Lucifenia with his newfound friends on his flagship, Royal Victoricia, setting their course to the Marlon island. Shortly before leaving, Riliane Mouchet handed Germaine an improved version of her father's rocket glove, telling the queen it was a message from her to Kyle.

Voyage to Marlon
While at sea, the ship was attacked by pirates. Germaine battled the thieves alongside Ney, who identified them as members of the Venom Mercenary Group to the queen. After successfully driving them off, a giant octopus suddenly sunk the escaping pirates' ship.

Michaela then advised Germaine to fire the ship's cannons at the creature's brow, and heeding her advice, the group evaded the octopus and resumed their course for Marlon. Michaela then mentioned that the creature was a Very Amazing Octopus. When Germaine asked how such a massive octopus could exist, the sorceress answered that only Iroha could do it and the Queen wondered if Abyss L.U. had summoned the creature.

The King Returns
"I want to confirm the coffin's corpse. Whether it really is Abyss L.U."

- Germaine to Arkatoir

Arriving in Jamet, Germaine and the others said goodbye to the sailors while they headed off to party; the group then took three carriages prepared for them, Germaine joined by an attendant. After they entered Bariti to confront her mother, Germaine parted course with the other carriages for Marlon Castle. Once she arrived at the palace, the Queen headed to Middle Tower. As she ascended the staircase, the brown-haired monarch wondered why she felt so uneasy being home.

Germaine then came across Arkatoir and was surprised to see him. Noting he seemed to manage things well while she was away, the Queen thanked her half-brother. When Arkatoir shyly brushed off the gratitude to Prim instead, Germaine asked where she was. Arkatoir then explained that Prim had set off to Castle Hedgehog to recover from their hard work recently. Germaine then asked when it happened and the government official stated it occurred right after they got word she was returning, clarifying that she seemed upset.

Worried about the implications, Germaine inquires how many soldiers were could be made immediately available at the castle. Once Arkatoir confirmed they could garrison five hundred soldiers and asked why, the Queen explained that would take a few thousand troops to be safe. Germaine then asked if Abyss L.U. had gone with her mother and was surprised to hear she died the other day. Disappointed, the Queen became lost in thought when Arkatoir offered to show her the grave.

Germaine accepted the offer and followed Arkatoir to Left Chapel with a few guards. After she saw Abyss L.U.'s sarcophagus, she demanded they unearth it, explaining that she wished to see the body for herself. When Arkatoir and the guards obeyed and unearthed the coffin, Germaine told a guard to open the lid. Recognizing the corpse to indeed be the elderly mage, the Queen concluded the sorceress could not be behind the current events. He then recalled Michaela's words about the giant octopus and wondered if Iroha was responsible.

Unraveling the Conspiracy
"It's been a while, Germaine."

- Keel to his old friend

Germaine was later told Keel awaited an audience with her. Traveling to Right Palace, she walked in to find Keel, his daughter Yukina, and a maid Gerda there. Seeing Keel was not amused and didn't kneel like the others, the Queen remained silent, aware Keel wouldn't accept an excuse that she was busy. When the merchant then teased if she was just too busy, Germaine passed him and sat in her throne, chiding him for the question and reminding him he was in a difficult position. After the merchant brushed the topic aside and gave him a warm greeting, Germaine replied that she was glad they were both alive and well.

When Keel proposed they talk in private, Germaine complied and, noting Yukina hadn't been to the palace before, ordered Arkatoir to give her a tour. After witnessing Keel send off the embarrassed Gerda with also blushing Arkatoir, Germaine asked what their exact relationship was. Keel only added it was what they saw and Germaine suggested they were parent and child. Keel shot down the answer, though admitting there was quite an age gap between them, and Germaine settled to leave the topic alone.

The merchant then brought up how Prim and Kyle were at Castle Hedgehog. As Keel spoke about the Demons of Sin among other things, Germaine was surprised that merchant already knew so much about the situation. When Germaine wondered why they would stay at the royal villa, Keel explained it was supposedly to nurse Prim's condition, although they had stayed for a very long time. After Keel elaborated on his conclusion that Kyle was there because of the undead soldiers in the area, which Kyle was known to be manipulating, Germaine expressed worry about their presence.

The merchant then reassured him that the undead hadn't yet spread outside the Blood Pool Region and therefore weren't something to worry about. When Keel claimed Prim was the mastermind, Germaine demanded to know of what. The merchant then elaborated on his belief that Prim used demonic possession to make the countries of Lucifenia and Elphegort collide and advance Marlon's power, though he lacked any conclusive evidence of it. Seeing that Keel was furious, Germaine asked why and her friend explained he was furious that a demon was behind Marlon's prosperity, the country he loved.

Germaine then thought over his words; although acknowledging that the mirror Prim gave her was likely the cause of her possession, Germaine wonders if her mother could have been tricked by Abyss L.U. After he remembered that the sorceress was dead, she speculated that Iroha could be confining her mother in the castle, while Kyle could even be targeting Prim with the undead soldiers and not be involved with her at all. She also considered that Arkatoir's story could have been simply to elicit pity.

Telling Keel she wished to ask Prim for herself, Germaine brushed off the merchant's concern about the undead, saying they could fight them with Marlon soldiers and get advice on combating them from Ney, Michaela, and Shaw. She then reminded Keel that there was no real evidence of why Kyle and Prim were at the castle or what their objectives were.

Keel then recalled Gerda's package she left behind and asked Germaine if she remembered her last surviving painting. The Queen confirmed her memory of it and asked why he brought it. After the merchant said he had a story to share about it, Germaine thought about the boy who modeled for it and how she never learned or had forgotten his name. As Keel began his story of twenty-three years ago, Germaine mused how she was four years old at the time. When Keel corrected her and said she was eight, asking why she always lied about his age, the Queen apologized and said it was always a habit.

After Keel chided that she only did it for picking up boys, Germaine listened to the merchant explain how Prim went on leave from public service at the time, asking if she knew the reason; the queen recalled that how she had been expected to gain a sibling at that time. After Keel stated Prim hadn't actually had a stillbirth, Germaine was shocked and exclaimed if the child was alive. Keel then explained that the child was hidden by the public, though he didn't know why.

As the Queen realized her friend's intentions, the merchant confirmed the boy in the painting was Germaine's little brother. Slumping in her throne, Germaine wondered aloud why her mother would do that and Keel said he didn't know. The Queen then demanded to know how the child was now. Once Keel said she was alive, Germaine approached the merchant. Wrapping her left arm around him, she asked where he was, wanting to see him.

While removing the Queen's arm, Keel said he was at Castle Hedgehog, reminding her he had already told him that. As Germaine began to make a retort, she realized the merchant referred to Kyle and, shocked, collapsed to her knees. While Keel left, certain she understood his meaning, the disturbed Marlon Queen considered thinking over the realization that the despicable Kyle was her little brother.

Shortly after, Arkatoir came back from the tour and Germaine returned to her seat, though still troubled by Keel's words. Seeing she looked unwell, Arkatoir suggested she rest and Germaine conceded to the request. Once she stood from her throne, the Queen looked at her timid and sickly father's portrait. She then mentally mused that they both were Prim's puppets, though concluding her father had been unaware of that fact. Germaine then slammed her fists on the portrait and raged at her and her father's foolishness.

Tides of Battle
"As usual, you're an active Queen. Since you have so many people, I wish you'd leave it to them."

- Ney to Germaine

Afterwards, Germaine began rallying the available troops for her planned assault on Castle Hedgehog, including the soldiers that fought alongside her during the revolution. Around this time, she visited the Freesis Mansion to seek Michaela and Ney's counsel. After she arrived, Germaine encountered Ney. As she noted what an active queen she was and said she should leave some matters to the people in her command, the Queen detected her disgust and responded that she wanted to come make their acquaintance directly.

Asking if they'd hear her out quickly, Ney agreed and guided her to Michaela's room, though saying she shouldn't meet her at the moment. When she entered the room, Germaine instead saw Iroha drinking black tea with her apprentice. After the sorceress introduced herself and waved him over, the surprised Germaine listened to her explain how her body had been hijacked by Abyss L.U. and that she had recently regained control, leaving only Abyss's cat behind. Roughly grasping the situation, Germaine drank a cup of the black tea and found the strong, milky taste enjoyable.

He then remarked that he was glad Iroha was back in her normal form. When the sorceress sulked on how she had previously chased her and Michaela as "witches", Germaine insisted she wasn't herself at the time and that Iroha shouldn't have snuck into the Lucifenian Royal Palace to begin with. When the sorceress shot back that the place was her home and she had a right to be in it, Germaine thought how typical the response was for a member of the Three Heroes.

As the Queen insisted the past was behind them, Iroha chided that Michaela was in need of the apology; moving on to discuss the situation in northern Marlon, Germaine explained what Keel had told her and informed them on her planned march on the Blood Pool Region. Once she asked if she could receive their cooperation in defeating the soldiers, Iroha quickly gave her refusal. She then clarified that their magic was weak from their battle with Abyss L.U. and that she and Michaela wouldn't be able to use much magic until the next full moon.

In response Germaine tried to state they would invade by the next full moon, only for Iroha to interrupt and add she'd be hitting her opponent at their maximum power. Thinking the strategy could still work, Germaine began to calculate the time from that period to the next full moon, only for Iroha to cut in and say it would have to be at least a month. After she retorted they couldn't wait that long, she considered the damage and asked about the current situation. The mage acknowledged a new moon was coming soon, when magic was at it's weakest, Germaine decided that was the ideal time to strike.

Germaine then turned to Ney and asked if she would help. Once she stated she had no obligation to assist, Germaine commented how cold the revolutionary hero's reply was and she retorted she wouldn't fight except for world peace. The brown-haired queen attempted to offer a reward for her services, only for the swordswoman to refuse to take money. After asking what it was she wanted, promising anything within her power, Kyle was surprised when Ney asked him to remove Marlon's presence from Lucifenia.

As the Queen tried to explain the decision wasn't something she could just decide that, Ney countered that she had merged Lucifenia at his discretion previously. While she thought over the political difficulty she'd face from the nobles and merchants for an immediate withdrawal, Ney agreed to compromise if he'd just start moving towards it. Afterwards, Ney left through the window and, having finished her tea, Germaine placed the cup on the table and thanked Iroha for the advice, telling them to get some rest.

As she prepared to leave the room, Michaela spoke to her and asked when she planned to leave for Castle Hedgehog. Answering she planned to depart in two to three days, Michaela then demanded she bring all the soldiers' weapons to her, offering to lend aid. Overjoyed, the Marlon Queen rushed to grab the mage's hands, thanking her and then apologizing for everything she had done. Iroha then pulled the two apart, interjecting that the conversation shouldn't go on without Michaela's teacher.

After the two mages debated helping him to acquire the vessels of sin Prim and Kyle had, Iroha finally agreed to cooperate. Germaine then bowed her head in gratitude to the both of them before hearing a cry. With Shaw suddenly burying himself in her chest, begging she take him with her to Castle Hedgehog, the brown-haired queen put her hands on the boy's shoulders; afterward, she told him he had to stay behind, not wanting to put him in any more danger.

Although he continued to insist, Germaine argued that their opponents weren't normal humans and that he couldn't help. Shaw retorted that he had already seen them in Beelzenia, but the queen insisted it was no use. Germaine then expressed admiration for his curiosity before Shaw interjected that it wasn't that but his inability to do anything but tremble while everyone around him suffered. Watching the trembling Shaw burst into tears, Germaine gently explained that the boy had to stay behind in order to convey everything that had happened in his novel.

Once Shaw calmed down, he agreed to stay behind but told the Queen she had to come back safely to tell him what happened at Castle Hedgehog. After Germaine promised him that, she cringed at the sound of Keel's voice behind her, noting that her promise may be difficult to fulfill. As Germaine gingerly looked back while Keel stated it was because she would die immediately, she saw the merchant's furious face and quickly released Shaw. Keel then demanded to know what she was doing to his son and the Queen was promptly beaten up and thrown out of the mansion. She then complained aloud that the merchant went too far.

She then thought how Keel's over-protectiveness would be a problem when Shaw finally got married. Smiling wryly at the thought, Germaine saw Mikina playing with a red cat by the front door. As the woman smiled at himer, Kyle thought back on their first meeting when she noticed the cat looked familiar. Remembering it was Abyss L.U.'s cat, she remembered Iroha's mention it that it became a stray. Shrugging it off, Germaine exchanged greetings with Mikina and then headed for her attendant at the main gate. Once she met with her escort, she recalled Mikina's encounter with a cat during their first meeting and realized how uncharacteristic it was for her to keep one.

Gathering at Lioness
"I want to leave Bariti in two to three days." "By then, collect the soldiers' weapons and bring them to me. It'll be uncomfortable, but I'll lend them my power."

- Germaine and Michaela

Over the next few days, Germaine received an unexpected shipment of weapons and supplies from Keel, learning the merchant earned a lord and black suit's support with Shaw's company as part of the deal. Giving all the weapons to Iroha and Michaela, the Queen let the two engrave their weapons with magical enchantments to combat their supernatural foes. At some point, Germaine convinced Ney to become one of her commanders. Afterwards, the Queen and her armies departed for Lioness with Keel, Shaw, and the two mages.

Setting up headquarters in Lioness Castle, Germaine gathered her thousands of Marlon troops and split them into five divisions, stationing the fifth army to defend Lioness while the second through fourth army handled the dead soldier threat throughout the Blood Pool Region. With her first army, composed of her former comrades from the revolution, set to assault Castle Hedgehog, Germaine looked over her luggage while the troops' weapons were handed out. Once Michaela returned his sword, Germaine checked to confirm the enchantment before sheathing it.

The Marlon Queen then pulled a few other items from her back including Lily's rocket glove. Tying the glove on a string, she let it hang from the sheath of her sword. After seeing the grey clouds in the sky, expecting rain, Iroha informed in her of her intention to flee once the town became a battlefield, admitting she was powerless without her magic. When the mage took an interest in the rocket glove, Germaine explained what it was and how she got it and then watched Iroha inscribe a unique enchantment into the glove.

After the sorceress gave it back, Germaine asked what she had done and she stated it was simply a spell, adding she would see it later when using the glove. Later on, when the monarch heard Keel state he hoped to enjoy himself while in the rich countryside, she mused to herself over Keel's clear ulterior motive of watching over Shaw while he accompanied that shady black suit.

That night, Germaine gathered her troops in the castle's rose gardens to introduce them to Ney. Signaling for her to come forward, Germaine declared that there should be no one who didn't know her. After Ney greeted the soldiers and was quickly accepted as their commander, Germaine prodded the men to not have too much to drink in the ensuing banquet. The queen then left the gardens and entered the castle.

Battle of Castle Hedgehog
"Strike force, charge!"

- Germaine's battle cry

The next day, Germaine departed with the first army towards Castle Hedgehog. Meeting with the dead soldiers, Germaine commanded the strike-force to charge as she led her army towards the north-western fortress. At some point during the battle it began to rain. After breaching Castle Hedgehog with a squad of her men and Ney, Germaine and her soldiers entered into a battle with more of the dead soldiers in the main hall. Germaine then spotted Kyle in the midst of the fighting and saw him flee into the depths of the castle.

Calling upon Ney and a handful of her troops, she followed the assassin until losing sight of him in the castle's courtyard. While the group discussed splitting up into two groups, they were ambushed by the Espionage Task Force. As Ney attempted to hold their assailants off, Germaine ordered the soldiers Karna, Matsui, and Rim to pursue the Lieutenant of the squad and then took two of her soldiers, Walpole and Seton, to scale the clocktower.

Confronting the Dowager Queen
"Mother... You're insane."

- Germaine after hearing her mother's story

Heading up the tower, Germaine encountered her mother at the top and saw Kyle flee, ordering her soldiers to pursue him. Alone with her matriarch, Germaine listened as Prim mused on how the clock tower didn't resound as loudly in the room closest to it. She then realized she held a doll in her lap that had a striking resemblance to Michaela. As Prim smiled and stroked the doll's head, Germaine demanded to know her reasons for enacting her conspiracy.

In response, her mother revealed her past with King Arth and Queen Anne and how they apparently "suspected" her of poisoning Arth after Anne "unfairly" stole him from her. Though admitting she may have dropped something in the King's wine glass, Prim brushed it off as an unimportant detail and reiterated how Anne's unfair accusations drove her to swear vengeance. Germaine then listened to her mother tell how she married her father and gave birth to her. When she wondered what had happened to all the children from the King's previous marriage, Germaine interjected and said she killed them.

Insulted, Prim chastised her daughter for thinking she'd do such a thing before returning to the story. Once she described her encounter with Abyss L.U. and the Venom Sword, Prim pointed out she should have seen it at the Freesis Mansion, and then elaborated on the nature of Kyle and Arkatoir's birth, her collaboration with the mage to acquire the Glass, Spoon, and Mirror vessels, and her planned assassinations. Germaine then listened to her mother question Abyss L.U.'s intentions, musing how it was impossible to know since she had died.

Once she started elaborating about Germaine's possession, she expressed certainty she'd understand her reasons for wanting Germaine obedient to her will when she became a parent. With her story finished, Prim said that was why she would have Germaine repossessed by the Demon of Pride. In response, Germaine said she had gone insane, realizing her mother was completely delusional. Prim then revealed the Mirror of Lucifenia in her possession, and explained her ability to manipulate the Demons of Sin.

They were then interrupted by Kyle, screaming for his mother. Despite this, Prim continued to speak to Germaine. As Germaine watched her mother attempt to repossess her, the clock tower chimed and she saw Kyle suddenly stab her mother in the chest. Not yet understanding what had happened, Germaine witnessed her half-brother laugh triumphantly as Prim died in her seat.

Facing Demons
"What're going to do?" "End this here and stab her."

- Ney and Germaine

After seeing Kyle freak out that their mother was dead and, assuming Germaine killed her, furiously rant he'd kill her, the Queen concluded that Abyss L.U.'s experimentation and the Glass of Blankenheim's influence had caused Kyle's psyche to crack. Seeing the hatred in his eyes, Germaine realized her insane mother's use of the boy as only a pawn drove him insane as well and she never noticed his need. Raising her sword, the Marlon Queen resolved to take responsibility for her broken family and save her brother.

Germaine then watched as Kyle succumbed to the Demon of Gluttony, transforming his attire into a blue suit, and attack her. Pressured by his frenzy, Germaine countered and evaded his attacks until her brother stopped and slowly circled her. When Kyle suddenly charged, the queen barely countered and swung at his face, though the attack only cut his lip when he kneed her. Seeing a crack in the base of her sword, Germaine realized Kyle had the upper hand.

At that moment, she heard a voice asking her to leave everything to it and recognized it as similar to the voice she heard during her previous possession. As the voice teased if she had forgotten it, Germaine determined it came from the mirror on the ground and remembered that it was the Demon of Lust. As the Demon repeated that Germaine leave everything to it, giving her the power to defeat Kyle, the Queen clutched her shell necklace and telepathically refused. Calling her boring as always, the demon left.

Returning to the battle, Germaine noticing Kyle was smiling when he complained about being hungry; as he continued his onslaught, Germaine repeatedly dodged while hearing Kyle continue his child-like complaining. With his attacks becoming increasingly intense, Germaine attempted to counter with her blade. Instead, the sword broke and Kyle rammed her onto the floor. Straddled by Kyle, the assassin stabbed at Germaine's chest and she anticipated the ensuing burst of blood.

Realizing that the sword had shattered her shell necklace instead, Germaine saw Ney arrive and distract Kyle as he prepared to finish her off. While his attention was diverted, Germaine reached for the sheath of her sword as Kyle told her resistance was futile. With the sword merely being a decoy, Germaine instead picked up the rocket glove. Saying it was a message from his former colleague, Germaine fired off the glove at the shocked Kyle, causing him to fly into the ceiling before crashing back down.

Seeing Kyle's burned abdomen and clothing, Germaine realized the glove's power was more intense than she had expected and recalled Iroha's enchantment. She then struggled to stand up, Ney coming over to support her and asking her if she was alright. After confirming she was, she asked what happened with her and commented she was also safe, before she explained how the undead soldiers returned to being corpses. Determining that the Gluttony magic was interrupted when Kyle focused it in on himself, Germaine bent over and checked his pulse to make sure he was only unconscious.

She then asked Ney for her sword, saying she'd stab the assassin and end it. When Ney refused, Germaine reiterated that it was an order, proclaiming she had to settle the mismanagement of her family with her own hands. After Ney pointed out she would be scrutinized for killing an non-resisting person, Germaine watched as she released her and picked up Kyle instead, saying she would take the boy home. The two were interrupted by the arriving guards, glad to see the Queen was safe.

After Ney left, Germaine picked up the broken pieces of her shell necklace, telling herself that Gumi also saved her. When one of the petrified soldiers asked what had happened, Germaine made up a story that Prim was killed by the mage who had manipulated the dead soldiers and that she arrived too late. She also added that the Espionage Task Force had also been manipulated by that mage, who had already escaped.

Germaine then offered to carry her mother's corpse to Marlon Castle as well, then offering to carry her "important relics". She picked up hers mother's corpse, the two mirrors, and the Clockworker's Doll and walked down the stairs. As she descended the tower, Germaine looked out the barred window and saw daylight breaking through the clouds, the rain gone.

Growing Mystery
Later, Germaine met with Michaela, Shaw, Keel, and Iroha in one of the bedrooms in Lioness Castle, Kyle tied to the bed, and she explained what had transpired at Heartbeat Clocktower. As they discussed the safety of being in the same room as Kyle, Germaine put his broken knife, the Glass of Blankenheim, and the hand mirrors side by side in a cabinet for everyone to see. When Ney asked if the mirror was the same as the one Germaine had, she confirmed it and then placed her own mirror and the doll beside the other items. When Iroha took an interest in the doll, Germaine revealed what Prim told her, concluding that it was likely one of the vessels of sin.

As the sorceress began discussing the vessels with her apprentice and Prim's connection to them, Germaine mentally noted to tell Iroha the full story about the Venom Sword later. When they later discussed how to deal with Kyle, Germaine listened as Shaw and Michaela convinced Iroha to try and restore his sanity using magic, agreeing with Ney that his conduct was due to Abyss L.U. and the Demon's influence. She then pondered to herself whether Kyle's sanity and their relationship could ever be improved.

Once Iroha announced they would return to Bariti and told Michaela to retrieve the vessels, Germaine opened the cabinet to hand her the vessels when she remembered they still lacked the spoon vessel Prim had mentioned. At that moment, she like everyone else heard a rattling sound and Keel suggested he'd check it out, claiming to be the only one uninjured. Shortly after, she heard Keel speaking casually, although confused, to the intruder until he was silenced by a dull thud. After the door opened and the room was enveloped by a blue flash, Germaine was rendered unconscious.

Germaine soon awoke in what appeared to be a very large black box. Although initially thinking she was alone, she then saw two other people in the distance. Rushing towards them, she saw a woman and a child walking hand-in-hand. When Germaine called out to the woman, she looked back and she noticed she resembled Michaela, though wearing a lavish blue dress and a parasol instead. Asking who she was, the woman grinned, laughed, and told Germaine she was the one people called the Demon of Gluttony.

Looking at the child, Germaine realized he was the Kyle she met when she was fourteen. The demon then clarified that it was not Kyle, but Hänsel, claiming he should have been born as Alexiel, but was born with a different appearance and life because of fate being distorted. As Germaine struggled to comprehend her words, Kyle smiled at her and apologized to his sister for all the bad things he had done, hoping to be reborn so that he, Germaine, Rin, and Alexiel could all play together someday.

As Germaine realized Kyle wanted to be with his family, she heard the demon mock his wish and declared she would take the boy's soul for her own. Germaine attempted to attack the demon but was stopped by an invisible barrier. Calling her the era's "Soul of Meta", the demon bid her farewell. Germaine watched as she began to take the seemingly ignorant Kyle away into a sea that appeared before them. The Queen panicked and desperately tried to keep Kyle from leaving her.

Germaine then suddenly awoke, seemingly seeing the Demon of Gluttony shaking her body. After moaning that it was the demon, Ney corrected her for her rude remark and the Queen then noticed she was wearing grey armor, not a blue dress. Shaking her head, Germaine asked where everyone else. Ney then explained that the others were safe and were being checked up on in a separate room after reawakening from the flash.

When Ney hesitated to continue, Germaine demanded to know what was wrong and the warrior explained how Keel had been injured, although a doctor had said it wasn't life-threatening. Seeing her hesitate again, she pressed her and Ney added all the vessels of sin had been stolen. When Ney attempted to explain the worst outcome, Kyle saw Kyle's bloodstained corpse on the bed and cut her off, saying she didn't need to say any more. At the sight of her brother's seemingly peaceful expression, Germaine wished to herself that he found salvation.

Returning Storm
Over the course of two weeks, Germaine launched an investigation into their unknown assailant while handling the aftermath of their battle. Around that time, Germaine had Kyle and Prim buried in Left Chapel. While gazing at their graves with Arkatoir, Germaine admitted to her attendant that she no longer knew what was "evil" or "justice". As she complained, her half-brother cut her off, reassuring her that everything she'd done was believed to be well-founded by everyone. Laughing, Germaine admitted that could be the case.

She then thought over her current inability to fulfill his promise to Ney, though determining to set things right as soon as possible. As she lingered on this thought, Germaine heard Yukina calling for her and running into the crypt. As she chastised the child for not going through the proper procedure for an audience, Yukina interrupted that she had an urgent task that she needed to fulfill. Growing concerned, Germaine asked if Keel's condition worsened and Yukina reassured her that the merchant's condition was stable. Putting a hand on the girl's shoulder, Germainee stated that if anything went wrong the child would become Keel's successor.

Once she said the child's burden would be shared with her mother, Yukina interjected that Mikina was missing since two weeks ago. Surprised, Germaine listened to her explain that Mikina had been regularly disappearing before coming back as if nothing happened. As Germaine noticed the correlation with Keel's injury, Yukina added that her brother also left. Again shocked by the news, Germaine was given Shaw's letter to her from Yukina and read his plans to search for his mother abroad, having been certain he saw someone the day of the blue flash. She then noticed grey clouds return overhead and it began to rain.

Later Life
"He still looked happy."

- Shaw regarding Germaine's later years

Germaine later abdicated the throne to Arkatoir in EC 510. She then traveled the world as a painter for some time, living her childhood dream, before reuniting with Shaw. Afterward, the two started cohabiting in Lucifenia, and the former queen lived a happy life with her.

Legacy
"Oh well. It’s a very interesting book. I got to learn about my ancient ancestors."

- Sateriasis Marlon referencing Germaine and her family

Germaine's actions would later be detailed by Shaw in his novel "Son of Evil". Her descendant, Sateriasis Marlon, would read Shaw's novel at the behest of his friend, Ma, and the judge was satisfied with learning more about his ancestor who had removed herself from the royal family.

Personality and Traits
"I'm proud of my position as queen. One word from my mouth can either save my country or plunge it into Hell. It’s a heavy responsibility. Although I walk the path paved by my mother, in the end, she is still unsatisfied."

- Germaine

Germaine was an honest and caring individual trapped by the will of others. She lacked the desire to be Queen, wanting to become a painter. However, her mother's machinations diminished her confidence and forced her to accept the role as monarch after her father's death. Germaine despised Prim for her cruelty and was constantly frustrated by her inability to control her methods. As a result, she held the lingering notion of escaping the royal family and living like a commoner with a family. Despite this, she was proud of the responsibility she had as Marlon's queen and took it very seriously.

She disliked being teased and was easily embarrassed by comments made about her. Germaine's pride, when influenced by the Mirror of Lucifenia her mother gifted her, turned into hubris and fueled her arrogance and conviction that she could do no wrong. The mirror acted as an escape to diffuse Germaine's confusion and dispel her mediocrity complex that plagued her. Germaine held a pessimistic view on politics, choosing to back the Lucifenian Revolution and reject Alexiel's marriage proposal rather than believing in others to understand her actions.

Skills and Abilities
"And in the Kingdom of Marlon as well, although officially the ruler is the young Queen Germaine, the real power is in the hands of Queen Dowager Prim, her mother."

- An aristocrat speaking about Germaine

Germaine was a skilled duelist, showing her capability with a sword during the Lucifenian Revolution and while battling Ney five years later. She was also an adequate painter with her painting of Kyle catching the attention of the business savvy Keel Freesis. Shee was also an experienced politician and took it upon herself to help govern the rebuilding Lucifenia.

Character Connections
Prim Marlon: Germaine's mother. Germaine hated her mother for her cruel and manipulative ways of keeping her Marlon's Queen, unable to forgive her for ruining her dreams but unable to break free of her influence. Despite this, after learning the full extent of her treachery, Germaine was unable to believe it and began clinging to other possibilities. After she revealed her plot for herself, she realized her mother was insane and resolved to take responsibility for her deeds.

Kyle Avadonia: Germaine's half-brother, as well as perceived ally. Germaine and Kyle were amiable acquaintances in childhood, though she was often incensed by his whimsical behavior when he was hired as her Head of Espionage; Germaine would later be greatly shaken to learn the truth of their relationship. Though willing to fight him as an agent of Prim, Germaine was saddened to see Kyle taken away from her, recognizing his past innocence, and quickly came to care for his as her brother.

Alexiel Lucifen d'Autriche: Germaine's betrothed. Due to their friendship, Germaine was more forgiving of Alexiel's tyrannical behavior than others, although she herself had no wish to marry him. Though initially caring for him as a brother, this friendship turned to hate after he demanded the death of Gumi, sparking a desire for vengeance in her. After Rin's death, Germaine became apathetic towards Alexiel and wished nothing more to do with him.

Keel Freesis: A good friend of Germaine's. Germaine saw Keel as a trusted friend, dating from childhood, seeing the Freesis home as a safe haven from her duties as queen. Knowing the merchant on an intimate level, she often attended Keel's banquets or asked him for favors using his connections. As an extension, Germaine treated Keel's family with hospitality whenever they came to visit.

Gumi: Germaine's love. Germaine fell madly in love with Gumi due to her beautiful voice and appearance, despite seeing her a male originally, to the point of wanting to abandon her duties to run away with her, although she was puzzled by her misunderstanding of love. Her death caused her great grief and awakened her desire for vengeance; this desire became an all-consuming focus after she was possessed by the Demon of Pride.

Ney Futapie: An ally during the Lucifenian Revolution and a temporary enemy. Germaine was incensed at Ney's teasing of her before and after she revealed herself, though was impressed enough with her skills to offer her a place in the annexed Lucifenia's government. She became furious with Ney when believing she had a role in Gumi's death, but returned to being her ally after she came to her senses.

Shaw Freesis: A friend of Germaine's. Germaine became friends with Shaw as a member of Keel's family, showing him warm hospitality when the latter came to visit. Although initially furious at Shaw's perceived deception of her, after she came to her senses she was grateful to him for his aid. Germaine showed concern for Shaw's well-being and enjoyed spending time with him, choosing to live with him after living out her dream as a painter.

Mariam Futapie: An old acquaintance of Germaine's. The Marlon Queen appeared among those close to her at her funeral. Their relationship was kept secret.

Rin Futapie: A servant of Alexiel. Germaine hated Rin for her claimed role in Gumi's death, physically attacking her due to this. Despite her rage, Germaine was impressed by the servant's dedication to Alexiel.

Meta Noël: Germaine and Meta share a connection in Germaine being referred to as "Soul of Meta."

Conceptualization and Origin

 * Germaine's name is a female French derivative of the male name "Germain"; it is derived from the Latin word germānus meaning "brother" and its female equivalent can be interpreted as "sibling" or "sister".
 * Her surname Marlon is a reference to the demon of greed, Mammon.
 * Germaine's name is partially inspired by the name of her representative Vocaloid, MEIKO, with Germaine's romanization containing "mei" in it.

Curiosities
Meta Noël.
 * Germaine's pen name is the same as his ancestor who was seduced by Duke Gallerian Venomania.
 * Interestingly, the Demon of Gluttony refers to Germaine as the "Soul of Meta", alluding to a connection between her and
 * Although she lived together with Shaw in her later life, they did not share a marital relationship.

Gallery
Concept Arts=