Kyle Marlon

"...Don't tease me."

- Kyle Marlon

Kyle Marlon was the King of the Kingdom of Marlon and the son of Queen Dowager Prim. After falling in love with Michaela and rejecting his betrothed, Princess Riliane, Kyle unwittingly sparked the Green War. Having lost his beloved to Riliane, Kyle secretly supported the Lucifenian Resistance, annexing Lucifenia as a Marlon territory in the wake of its revolution. While possessed by the Demon of Pride, Kyle 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."

- Kyle regarding his childhood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

After seeing his surviving half-brother, Arkatoir, return as a civil servant in parliament, Kyle worried for his safety but worked closely with him in managing the Kingdom. At some point, Kyle asked Arkatoir why he risked returning to politics after relinquishing his birthright and his 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, he learned that his mother had bribed the artists and dealers to belittle him. As the years progressed, Kyle overheard numerous titles given to him in regards to being his mother's puppet and his apparent incompetence as a King. Sometime later, the King met and collaborated with Leonhart Avadonia 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 wife and children." "Does Kyle, his Highness, love me?" "... I see you’re very straight forward."

- Michaela and Kyle

In December of EC 499, Kyle attended one of Keel's banquets at his mansion in Elphegort, he left unsatisfied by the entertainment at the merchant's dinner party. Kyle later attended Riliane's fourteenth birthday party, greeting the Princess at her throne and walking with her among the crowd for a time.

The following month, he attended another banquet at Keel's mansion and watched his new servant, Michaela, come upon stage. Upon seeing her, Kyle was shocked and nearly mistook her for Margaret. Although certain the look-a-like wasn't the same person, he was instantly enamored with her and was even more impressed by her beautiful singing.

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

After one of Michaela's performances sometime later, he knocked on the door to Keel's living room and entered after no one responded; the king saw Michaela gawking at his portrait of Ney and trying to read the signature. Kyle approached her and told her it was his penname: Kachess Crim. Kyle explained to the surprised Michaela his failed art career caused by his mother.

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

Angered, Kyle tried to explain love to Michaela, and asked if there was anyone she wanted to protect and cared for. When she responded she felt that way about a woman, he was embarrassed but said it was possible if it was true love. He gave her a shell necklace to represent his pure love for her and jokingly threatened that she was refusing the Marlon King's gift. He then blushed and Michaela berated him for abusing his power; Kyle apologized and said he would like them to start out as friends. With a mischievous smile, Kyle heard Michaela agree to the offer and told her being friends with Marlon's king was incredible, much to her ire. He told her he 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?"

- Kyle to his beloved

After hearing of Leonhart's death, Kyle joined in mourning at the warrior's funeral, departing after his burial. Afterward, the Marlon king 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 his stay, he went away to go greet Michaela in the mansion.

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

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

That night, he 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 his desires with King Sohni, Kyle 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, Kyle along with the other two was shocked by Clarith's sudden drunken entrance.

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

The day after the meeting, the merchant showed Kyle a unique piece of his collection and the King 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 blue-haired monarch refused, feeling he would be unable to handle its power.

Afterward, he went to see Michaela 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, he told her that he 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, he asked if she would send his regards to Keel instead.

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

On their way, he sighed before finally ordering her to turn around. Once she complied, the blue-haired king explained that he did not want to marry Riliane and that the betrothal was decided by their mothers. Michaela asked if he hated the princess and he said that wasn't the case, saying he knew she was not a bad girl and he explained he liked her as a sister, rather than love her as his betrothed. Michaela told him he couldn't defy his mother and Kyle agreed, but hesitated in thought. He was then shocked when the servant rejected him and told him his affair would cause problems with the other countries if it went on. Saddened, he 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 his entourage, Kyle suddenly ran back to Michaela and embraced her, asking if she would join him if he disobeyed his mother, gave up the throne, and ran away. He released her and told the shocked servant to forget about what he said before departing back to Marlon. In addition to Keel's assistance, he then sent his own aid from Marlon to help Lucifenia as a gesture of good faith to Riliane.

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

- Keel ranting about Kyle's actions

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

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

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

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

- Minage speaking of Kyle's support

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

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

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

- Germaine teasing the masked Kyle

Once the Lucifenian Revolution began, the disguised Kyle 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, Kyle'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, Kachess led the forces at Rolled to combat the Venom Mercenaries' forces.

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

Kachess continued the push with the revolutionary army towards the kingdom's capital. During the assault of the Lucifenian palace's main gate, Kachess, beside Germaine, proclaimed their victory. The red-armored swordsman 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, Kyle told her that she was terrible before holding his injured wrist.

Germaine asked if he was alright and he replied he was still able to fight but that Gast and his mercenaries were tough opponents. He lowered his head and apologized for Mark's death during the battle and told Germaine how Mark was the reason the masked warrior was alive. Kachess warned her to beware of engaging Gast in combat, despite the injuries they inflicted him.

Once the main gate was opened and the Heavenly Yard was invaded, Kachess and his forces assailed the courtyard but were held back by Mariam Futapie and her cadre of warrior maids. He yelled at Germaine to ignore Mariam and leave her to Chartette Langley, who distracted the Head of Maids, allowing Kyle's forces to break the enemy lines and assault the palace with Kyle 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, Kyle visited the imprisoned princess and realized she was not Riliane but her servant, Allen Avadonia, instead. The servant confessed to being Michaela's murderer and Kyle, furious, unleashed his wrath and punched the false princess in the face repeatedly. Once he was finished abusing the prisoner, Kyle told Allen he would execute the boy in place of Riliane, considering the political ramifications if the princess was not believed captured and killed.

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

- Kyle to the peace assembly

Soon after the revolution ended, Kyle received a letter from his mother demanding that Lucifenia come under Marlon's jurisdiction. Wishing to prove his competence and finally be rid of ridicule, the ambitious king 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, Kyle attended the peace meeting in the Hall of Sounds along with Keel, King Sohni Elphen, Germaine, and the other revolutionary leaders. Once everyone arrived, he was told by Germaine to start the meeting, called by his title of the King of Marlon. Removing his mask, he revealed his identity and congratulated the revolutionary army for giving them their victory after greeting the members present.

Germaine sarcastically asked why he no longer wore his mask, Kyle replying that there was no longer any need; he was prepared to lose the throne as a result of his actions but his mother simply sent him a letter with conditions instead. Kyle then told the revolutionary leader he 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 Heroes and, after Keel determined Elluka would not become a problem, Kyle explained that Mariam Futapie was found dead by a Marlon soldier while patrolling the palace. When asked if they knew the perpetrator that killed her, Kyle responded in the negative. With the first two topics settled, Kyle elaborated on his mother's conditions and York, outraged by Kyle's proposal, spoke out against him. In response, the King attempted to soothe his anger.

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

The King then looked at Germaine with regret for turning down the chance to join his government before the swordsman laughed. Kyle asked what was wrong and she told him how he spoke differently compared to how he spoke as "Kachess" and the humbled king told her not to tease him before turning away from her. Kyle then inquired if she met the arrested princess and when Germaine told her she had not, he brought up the subject of her execution. It was decided by the meeting that "The Daughter of Evil" would be killed and Kyle declared she 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 King Kyle

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

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

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

In that year of EC 501, Kyle 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, Kyle branded Germaine a traitor and fabricated that she intended to rebel against the new government and lead the uprising. As time progressed, Kyle added more names to the Witch Hunt. During that year, he discovered that both Elluka and Gumillia had been spying on Lucifenia and added their names to the Witch Hunt.

In order to gain the support of the merchants, Kyle began to regularly attend their banquets. Around this time, Keel began sending Kyle the novels published by his nine year old daughter, Yukina, and the blue-haired king was impressed by her capabilities. At Keel's suggestion, Kyle 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, Kyle asked his mother to use her Espionage Task Force to help hunt down the "witches". His mother complied on the conditions that they had absolute freedom in regards to the Witch Hunt and that Abyss I.R. select the group's head, namely Ney. Accepting the terms, Kyle had the masked group root out and capture those in his Witch Hunt Order. The following year, Kyle ordered Riliane Mouchet to recapture Retasan. After the fortress was retaken, the members of the Resistance fled to the Beelzenian Empire and Kyle demanded the Beelzenian Emperor hand over the refugees. Faced with the Emperor's refusal, political tensions rose between the countries.

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

Over two months after fighting broke out in Beelzenia, Kyle 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, he chastised the soldier for not taking his country's affairs seriously, questioning if he was among the dissenters of the old Lucifenian military. Brushing it off, Kyle listened to the general's commentary about letting Ney command the soldiers and impatiently asked what their next move would be.

The confident king then ordered him to help reinforce their forces in Retasan and continue defending the city. George suggested recapturing it instead but Kyle 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 king affirmed it would happen in time.

He then permitted the soldier to speak and listened to his doubt that Kyle had the necessary qualities to achieve such an ideal, viewing his actions as arrogant rather than ambitious. Although angered by the rude assertions, Kyle 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, Kyle sent the battle-ready commander away with his orders.

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

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

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

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

- Kyle's offer to Yukina

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She then said she was staying at a hotel in Rollam and Kyle, noting the security there was unstable, recommended against staying there. Yukina answered that she was used to it and, after Kyle caught her slip up, the King offered to have her stay at the palace for the night. Stating he could immediately arrange a room for her in the massive palace, Yukina agreed to the offer. Kyle then ordered a servant to prepared a room for her. Once it was finished, the young girl thanked the blue-haired king and went into her room.

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

- Yukina

That night, Kyle 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, Kyle replied that he merely couldn't sleep and was out for a walk. When reminded the palace wasn't well secured, Kyle realized the man was new and asked if that was why he was standing guard. After the guard affirmed and asked if Yukina was staying in the palace Kyle said she was; when the guard asked if he could have her autograph, he told the man to ask him again in the morning.

Hearing a loud explosion, Kyle told the guard to do his job and investigate before realizing the sound came from Yukina's room. In response, he stopped the guard and ordered him to instead call the other guards, insisting he would leave if there was any risk when the guard expressed doubts. When the man hesitated, Kyle told him not to make him repeat himself and then went to Yukina's room. As he hesitated before the room, he 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, Kyle asked if the masks they wore were from their country or the guests'; Clive stating they were from their country, Kyle concluded it was the Espionage Task Force. He then asked where Yukina was and and heard that she as well as her companions were missing. Kyle then told Clive to rouse all the guards, seal the exits, and seek out their guests, although clarifying they were not to hurt Yukina.

When Clive asked what to do if they resisted, Kyle 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, he asked Clive to come search the palace with him; after the guard said he would need to go back and change, Kyle noted he would be humiliated to be seen with him in those pajamas. As Clive apologized, he simply told the soldier to be back as fast as he could.

After Clive was dressed, he and Kyle 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, he asked what room they hadn't searched and Clive replied the ministers and other officials' bedchambers. Kyle 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' daughter would hide, Kyle considered that Yukina's companions were Elluka and Gumillia, asking if his bedroom had been checked. When Clive affirmed they hadn't, he demanded they search there before being interrupted by another explosion from his room. Remarking that they must have found the ones in iron masks, Kyle approached his bedroom and found two guards unconscious by the floor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gumillia then advised Kyle 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. Gumillia then mentioned that the creature was a Very Amazing Octopus. When Kyle asked how such a massive octopus could exist, the sorceress answered that only Elluka could do it and the King wondered if Abyss I.R. had summoned the creature.

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

- Kyle to Arkatoir

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

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

Worried about the implications, Kyle 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 King explained that would take a few thousand troops to be safe. Kyle then asked if Abyss I.R. had gone with his mother and was surprised to hear she died the other day. Disappointed, the King became lost in thought when Arkatoir offered to show him her grave.

Kyle accepted the offer and followed Arkatoir to Left Chapel with a few guards. After he saw Abyss I.R.'s sarcophagus, he demanded they unearth it, explaining that he wished to see the body for himself. When Arkatoir and the guards obeyed and unearthed the coffin, Kyle told a guard to open the lid. Recognizing the corpse to indeed be the elderly mage, the King concluded the sorceress could not be behind the current events. He then recalled Gumillia's words about the giant octopus and wondered if Elluka was responsible.

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

- Keel to his old friend

Kyle was later told Keel awaited an audience with him. Traveling to Right Palace, he walked in to find Keel, his son Shaw, and a maid Gerda there. Seeing Keel was not amused and didn't kneel like the others, the King remained silent, aware Keel wouldn't accept an excuse that he was busy. When the merchant then teased if he was just too busy, Kyle passed him and sat in his 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, Kyle replied that he was glad they were both alive and well.

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

The merchant then brought up how Prim and Ney were at Castle Hedgehog. As Keel spoke about the Demons of Sin among other things, Kyle was surprised that merchant already knew so much about the situation. When Kyle 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 Ney was there because of the undead soldiers in the area, which Ney was known to be manipulating, Kyle 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, Kyle 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, Kyle asked why and his friend explained he was furious that a demon was behind Marlon's prosperity, the country he loved.

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

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

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

After Keel chided that he only did it for picking up girls, Kyle listened to the merchant explain how Prim went on leave from public service at the time, asking if he knew the reason; the king recalled that how he had been expected to gain a sibling at that time. After Keel stated Prim hadn't actually had a stillbirth, Kyle 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 King realized his friend's intentions, the merchant confirmed the girl in the painting was Kyle's little sister. Slumping in his throne, Kyle wondered aloud why his mother would do that and Keel said he didn't know. The King then demanded to know how the child was now. Once Keel said she was alive, Kyle approached the merchant. Wrapping his left arm around him, he asked where she was, wanting to see her.

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

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

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

- Germaine to Kyle

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

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

He then remarked that he was glad Elluka was back in her normal form. When the sorceress sulked on how he had previously chased her and Gumillia as "witches", Kyle insisted he wasn't himself at the time and that Elluka 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, Kyle thought how typical the response was for a member of the Three Heroes.

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

In response Kyle tried to state they would invade by the next full moon, only for Elluka to interrupt and add he'd be hitting his opponent at their maximum power. Thinking the strategy could still work, Kyle began to calculate the time from that period to the next full moon, only for Elluka to cut in and say it would have to be at least a month. After he retorted they couldn't wait that long, he 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, Kyle decided that was the ideal time to strike.

Kyle then turned to Germaine and asked if she would help. Once she stated she had no obligation to assist, Kyle commented how cold the revolutionary hero's reply was and she retorted she wouldn't fight except for world peace. The blue-haired king 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 his power, Kyle was surprised when Germaine asked him to remove Marlon's presence from Lucifenia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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."

- Kyle and Gumillia

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

Setting up headquarters in Lioness Castle, Kyle gathered his 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 his first army, composed of his former comrades from the revolution, set to assault Castle Hedgehog, Kyle looked over his luggage while the troops' weapons were handed out. Once Gumillia returned his sword, Kyle checked to confirm the enchantment before sheathing it.

The Marlon King then pulled a few other items from his back including Chartette's rocket glove. Tying the glove on a string, he let it hand from the sheath of his sword. After seeing the grey clouds in the sky, expecting rain, Elluka informed in him 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, Kyle explained what it was and how he got it and then watched Elluka inscribe a unique enchantment into the glove.

After the sorceress gave it back, Kyle asked what she had done and she stated it was simply a spell, adding he 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, he mused to himself over Keel's clear ulterior motive of watching over Yukina while she accompanied that shady black suit.

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

Battle of Castle Hedgehog
"Strike force, charge!"

- Kyle's battle cry

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

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

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

- Kyle after hearing his mother's story

Heading up the tower, Kyle encountered his mother at the top and saw Ney flee, ordering his soldiers to pursue her. Alone with his matriarch, Kyle listened as Prim mused on how the clock tower didn't resound as loudly in the room closest to it. He then realized she held a doll in her lap that had a striking resemblance to Michaela; after realizing his mother never met her, Kyle then thought it was Margaret. As Prim smiled and stroked the doll's head, Kyle demanded to know her reasons for enacting her conspiracy.

In response, his 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. Kyle then listened to his mother tell how she married his father and gave birth to him. When she wondered what had happened to all the children from the King's previous marriage, Kyle interjected and said she killed them.

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

Once she started elaborating about Kyle's possession, she expressed certainty he'd understand her reasons for wanting Kyle obedient to her will when he became a parent. With her story finished, Prim said that was why she would have Kyle repossessed by the Demon of Pride. In response, Kyle said she had gone insane, realizing his 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 Ney, screaming for her mother. Despite this, Prim continued to speak to Kyle, figuring he was wondering why the Clockworker's Doll looked like his art tutor, Margaret. She then explained it was actually modeled after Eve Moonlit. As Kyle watched his mother attempt to repossess him, the clock tower chimed and he saw Ney suddenly stab his mother in the chest. Not yet understanding what had happened, Kyle witnessed his half-sister laugh triumphantly as Prim died in her seat.

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

- Germaine and Kyle

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

Kyle then watched as Ney succumbed to the Demon of Gluttony, transforming her attire into a red dress, and attack him. Pressured by her frenzy, Kyle counter and evaded her attacks until his sister stopped and slowly circled him. When Ney suddenly charged, the king barely countered and swung at her face, though the attack only cut her lip when she kneed him. Seeing a crack in the base of his sword, Kyle realized Ney had the upper hand.

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

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

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

Seeing Ney's burned abdomen and clothing, Kyle realized the glove's power was more intense than he had expected and recalled Elluka's enchantment. He then struggled to stand up, Germaine coming over to support him and asking him if he was alright. After confirming he was, he 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 Ney focused it in on herself, Kyle bent over and checked her pulse to make sure she was only unconscious.

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

After Germaine left, Kyle picked up the broken pieces of his shell necklace, telling himself that Michaela also saved him. When one of the petrified soldiers asked what had happened, Kyle made up a story that Prim was killed by the mage who had manipulated the dead soldiers and that he arrived too late. He also added that the Espionage Task Force had also been manipulated by that mage, who had already escaped.

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

Growing Mystery
Later, Kyle met with Gumillia, Yukina, Keel, and Elluka in one of the bedrooms in Lioness Castle, Ney tied to the bed, and he explained what had transpired at Heartbeat Clocktower. As they discussed the safety of being in the same room as Ney, Kyle put her broken knife, the Glass of Conchita, and the hand mirrors side by side in a cabinet for everyone to see. When Germaine asked if the mirror was the same as the one Kyle had, he confirmed it and then placed his own mirror and the doll beside the other items. When Elluka took an interest in the doll, Kyle revealed what Prim told him, 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, Kyle mentally noted to tell Elluka the full story about the Venom Sword later. When they later discussed how to deal with Ney, Kyle listened as Yukina and Gumillia convinced Elluka to try and restore her sanity using magic, agreeing with Germaine that her conduct was due to Abyss I.R. and the Demon's influence. He then pondered to himself whether Ney's sanity and their relationship could ever be improved.

Once Elluka announced they would return to Bariti and told Gumillia to retrieve the vessels, Kyle opened the cabinet to hand her the vessels when he remembered they still lacked the spoon vessel Prim had mentioned. At that moment, he like everyone else heard a rattling sound and Keel suggested he'd check it out, claiming to be the only one uninjured. Shortly after, he 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, Kyle was rendered unconscious.

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

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

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

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

When Germaine hesitated to continue, Kyle 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, he pressed her and Germaine added all the vessels of sin had been stolen. When Germaine attempted to explain the worst outcome, Kyle saw Ney's bloodstained corpse on the bed and cut her off, saying she didn't need to say any more. At the sight of his sister's seemingly peaceful expression, Kyle wished to himself that she found salvation.

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

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

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

Later Life
"He still looked happy."

- Yukina regarding Kyle's later years

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

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

- Gallerian Marlon referencing Kyle and his family

Kyle's actions would later be detailed by Yukina in her novel "Daughter of Evil". His descendant, Gallerian Marlon, would read Yukina's novel at the behest of his friend, Ma, and the judge was satisfied with learning more about his ancestor who had removed himself from the royal family.

Personality and Traits
"I'm proud of my position as king. 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."

- Kyle

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

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

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

- An aristocrat speaking about Kyle

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

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

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

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

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

Michaela: Kyle's love. Kyle fell madly in love with Michaela due to her beautiful voice and appearance, to the point of wanting to abandon his duties to run away with her, although he was puzzled by her misunderstanding of love. Her death caused him great grief and awakened his desire for vengeance; this desire became an all-consuming focus after he was possessed by the Demon of Pride.

Germaine Avadonia: An ally during the Lucifenian Revolution and a temporary enemy. Kyle was incensed at Germaine's teasing of him before and after he revealed himself, though was impressed enough with her skills to offer her a place in the annexed Lucifenia's government. He became furious with Germaine when believing she had a role in Michaela's death, but returned to being her ally after he came to his senses.

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

Leonhart Avadonia: An old acquaintance of Kyle's. The Marlon King appeared among those close to him at his funeral. Their relationship was kept secret.

Allen Avadonia: A servant of Riliane. Kyle hated Allen for his claimed role in Michaela's death, physically attacking him due to this. Despite his rage, Kyle was impressed by the servant's dedication to Riliane.

Adam Moonlit: Kyle and Adam share a connection in Kyle being referred to as "Soul of Adam."

Gear: Kyle and Gear share a connection in both being referred to as "Soul of Adam."

Conceptualization and Origin

 * The name Kyle is derived from the Scottish Gaelic term for a channel, straight, or something narrow.
 * His surname Marlon is a reference to the demon of greed, Mammon.
 * Kyle's name is partially inspired by the name of his representative Vocaloid, KAITO,  with Kyle's romanization containing "Kai" in it.

Curiosities

 * Kyle's pen name is the same as his ancestor who killed Duke Sateriasis Venomania.
 * Interestingly, the Demon of Gluttony refers to Kyle as the "Soul of Adam", alluding to a connection between him and Adam Moonlit; similarly, the Master of the Graveyard attributes the name to Gear.
 * Although he lived together with Yukina in his later life, they did not share a marital relationship.

Gallery
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