Chapter Text
Once Upon A Time, there existed a Mighty Kingdom, lined with extravagance and filled with prosperity. A Purple Rose is displayed on its flag, a sign of its splendor and its brilliance. But everything that stands, will crumble to dust in time. As conflict arose and tensions between the people grew, the grand kingdom fractured into 3.
The fractured central Kingdom of the Purple Rose warred amongst itself, conflict of interests emerging and tension growing more and more. Many Barons and Lords sought as much power that they could grab. Alongside that, a new power was emerging, an inexplicable magic ability seemingly only being controlled by weapons.
Many scholars and other magic attuned studied it intently trying to glean whatever secrets they could. In this time a wild and wondrous change, a new ruler stepped up, one Lord Sumeragi. He brought order to the central kingdom and with the information gleaned from this mysterious power, the kingdom would enter a new Golden Age.
Meanwhile the 2 remaining pieces of the Purple Rose would grow into their own kingdoms with time, the Kingdom of the Azure Dragon, and the Kingdom of the White Tiger. Each was ruled by the former nobility of the Purple Rose, the De Faeries for the Azure Dragon and the Kamizonos for the White Tiger. Despite the separation, the relations between the kingdoms would remain mostly stable. Until one fateful day, the sky would crack open and a knight with a dangerous power would emerge. The power of the Azure Striker.
Prologue Part 1: The Knight Who Commanded the Storms~
Within the kingdom of the Purple Rose, a nefarious plot was unfolding. Within a holding cell, many kids were awaiting with grim expressions on their faces. They were all discovered to be adepts, those in tune with the power of septimas, however so far, none of them realized what their powers were.
Within one of the cells, a blonde boy with blue eyes was staring at the floor. It wouldn’t be long before it was his turn, as he was dreading the moment he would be called. The place was dark, the bars lined with black iron and lanterns provided a dim glow. Outside he could hear the sound of thunder, a booming echoing through the building halls.
Eventually after was felt like hours, a man in imposing black armor with a rose insignia on his chat entered the room and stared the young boy directly in the eyes before unlocking the cell.
Researcher Guard: Alright boy, get up. It’s your turn.
Quivering the boy complied and followed the researcher into a rather open room. Many weapons were placed along the walls and a few dummies stood still having been scarred by presumably other septimal powers. It felt like the storm was getting stronger as Gunvolt faced a man with white hair and fierce red eyes.
White-Haired Man: Poppy you are dismissed, I can take it from here.
Poppy: Understood, Noble Kamizono. I’ll leave the runt to you.
After the guard bowed and went back, the researcher sighed.
Kamizono: So many of you runts, to deal with. I’d imagine you will not be any different from the other “adepts” I’ve had to deal with. Alright, see that plastic sword? Pick it up and stand by that dummy towards the far end of the room.
The boy followed orders without complaint. The man despite being rather thin was imposing. He was tall, wore box rimmed glasses, and wore a pure white coat. He had an aura of one not to be messed with. And a look of disdain seemed to be constantly on his face.
Kamizono: Alright, start swinging. Don’t swing too hard now, I want there to still be a dummy to use for the future.
As the boy complied it seemed like nothing was happening. His swings were clumsy and he often missed the still target in front of him. As Kamizono began to write down notes, the storm outside grew ever louder.
Kamizono: *ugh* This weather, if I didn’t have any sense, I’d think an adept would be behind this ruckus. They’d do anything in their power to get in my way.
Young Boy: Am…Am I doing a good job?
Kamizono: Not even remotely. Seems like your powers aren’t manifesting at all. Not the first instance I’ve seen of this. Perhaps you are one of the worthless ones.
The boy wasn’t sure if he should feel relieved or disappointed. Then Kamizono began muttering under his breath, too quiet for the boy to hear.
Kamizono: Oh who am I kidding, if this kid wasn’t worthless, he’d be a threat. I don’t even know why we are even trying to control these freaks. I’d submitted so many documents showing how adepts on the whole are a problem, and the nobility still refuse to listen. Lost causes, the lot of them. Well, I guess we’ll try a little more with this blue eyed dolt and see if maybe there’s something here.
The doctor then ordered the kid to swing harder with his sword and eventually he noticed something. Something horrifying. Blue sparks were leaping from his sword with some of his swings. They had just founded another one of “them”.
As Kamizono dropped the pen he was writing with the boy, now exhausted turned to the researcher with hope in his eyes.
Young Boy: Am I doing a good job now?
Countless thoughts were swirling in Kamizono’s eyes. The last time an Azure Striker adept was founded, an accident occurred and destroyed most of the facility they were in. Kamizono was lucky to escape when he did. But now, another one was fighting before his very eyes. And as if on cue, the building shook as if lightning itself had hit it.
Kamizono: There’s another one…why is there another one? What God has brought this misfortune upon me?
The Young Boy was confused. Another one? What could be possibly talking about? Then a loud crash happened and he could start hearing screams. He was in danger and instantly ran toward the back of the room, hiding behind one of the dummy. The researcher quickly ran out of the room, and the boy would never see him again as he vanished in a massive white flash. He began clutching the dummy for dear life as he saw someone make his way toward him. And then his eyes went dark.
An older teenager had walked into the room, his attack causing the walls to char. As he spotted the now passed out young boy, he saw an opportunity.
Mere moments before he was alerted to the facility where one Lord Kamizono was waiting. The same monster who had tormented him many years ago. When his power awoke suddenly and fiercely, he had thought the royal perished there and then. Now he was aware that justice had yet to be served. He would not allow another youth to be scarred by that foul monster.
Unclapsing the shackles that bound his power he had stormed in, destroying every single researcher and guard he came across. His attacks burned so harshly that a fire started and began causing the research center to destabilize. Eventually he came face to face with the researcher who had caused him so much pain.
Kamizono: Y-You!
Blue haired Teen: I see your memory is intact…but your morals are still as corrupt as ever.
Kamizono: So you seek to haunt me, demon? So be it.
The researcher unsheathed his sword and the teenager could only laugh.
Blue Haired Teenager: This will be over before you can blink, say your prayers Kamizono, and hope that your “God” will answer them!
The teenager unsheathed his own sword and within mere moments, Kamizono was felled, his body reduced to nothing more than a charred corpse.
Blue haired Teenager: Good riddance.
Before he could leave however, he heard a boy whimpering. Without hesitation he ran over to where he heard the noise and soon found a now passed out blonde kid. He looked only nine and sparks were leaping from his body. He knew immediately the kid wielded the same power he did. Perhaps this could be a benefit. If he could train him to be sufficient in swordplay much like himself, he could have a dangerous weapon and so the choice was made. He picked up the boy and vanished into the night, leaving behind a burning, collapsing facility to smolder until day broke.
The teenager returned to his home kingdom, The Kingdom of the Azure Dragon. Rushing into his homestead where he would let the boy down to rest. He’d wait until news of his attack died down to reveal what had happened. For now, once the boy awoke, he’d get filled in on what was going to happen. His plan was now in motion, and he, Baron Asimov, shall be the one to free all adepts from their chains.
The Day after in the Purple Rose Kingdom, there was panic. The attack on the Research Institute had left no survivors and the perpetrator was unknown. Within the Sumeragi Citadel there was chaos.
Duke 1: What are we going to do? If we don’t find whoever is responsible, our citizens will be in paranoia!
Duke 2: We lost so much money in that institute too! How are we supposed to deal with that?
Duke 3: Not to mention, one of the victims was Lord Kamizono, our relations with the White Tiger could be in jeopardy!
Then a loud silence was roared, as the man on the throne looked daggers as everyone in the main hall.
Sumeragi: I’ll admit this scenario is a pressing one, but we will have order! Now I have intentions to mask this scenario as a rogue fire started without warning however, seeing as this situation was perpetrated by an adept, it seemed we may have to enforce tighter chains around them.
As the conversation drew on, older gentleman walked into the room and cleared his throat
King’s Advisor: Well, as it is, I do have a suggestion, your majesty. Albeit it’s quite a daring one.
Sumeragi: Well then speak up Romeo!
Romeo: There is a septima that can restrain how adepts use their ability. If we put that into play we may have a better chance of preventing scenarios like that from happening again.
Sumeragi: Alright, I’m listening…
Romeo: Well the Muse septima is well known within studies, to pacify or bolster the strength of septimas. The problem is that it’s rare and so far, we don’t know of many who have it. My plan is that we can designate a portion of our resources into finding a Muse, of course after this situation is cleaned up.
The dukes and nobility began to mutter amongst themselves wondering if Romeo’s suggest plot would actually work. After some time of discussing the king ordered another silence, with less force this time.
Sumeragi: Alright, consider this plan approved. I suggest you get to work, Romeo.
Romeo: Why of course my liege!
As Romeo walked out of the room, the king reclined in his chair. As well as taking care of this kingdom he was also training his son, Nova to follow his footsteps. It wouldn’t be long before Nova would begin to take over his duties. But for now, he had to clean up a mess, and thus he began to give out orders on how he would cover up this research center disaster.
Then a few days passed, and Asimov was waiting within the Azure Dragon’s throne room. Queen Le Faerie had seemingly fallen ill and thus her primary retainer Moniqa was handling her affairs for the time being. Eventually after some time Moniqa returned
Moniqa: Apologies for the delay. The Queen sees nothing wrong with permitting you to train the young boy.
Asimov: I understand. Is she any close to getting better?
Moniqa: Unfortunately her majesty’s condition has worsened. We have the best doctors in the kingdom trying to help her get better but, right now, it’s looking grim.
Asimov: I see. Well let her know that Asimov is wishing for her safe recovery.
Moniqa: Understood.
As Asimov left the room, he was wondering what would happen. Her majesty’s daughter Joule is way too young to take the throne right now. He could only hope that Zeno is teaching her well and that her highness gets better soon. As he returned home, he was greeted by the young kid looking at a picture frame.
Young Kid: So who are those people?
Asimov: That’s me, her majesty, Queen De Faerie and her daughter Joule De Faerie. Much like you, Joule has a special power too. A dangerous one. Maybe once I get your training underway I can have you meet her.
Young Kid: Oh…ok.
Asimov: By the way, kid, I never got your name.
Young Kid: It’s V-volt Sir.
Asimov: Volt huh? Well that’s certainly a fitting name if anything. Now come downstairs with me, I think it’s time we begin.
For the next many months, Volt fell into a routine. He would wake up, eat, start training, have a break, learn about the kingdom affairs, continue training, eat again, and then rest. His progress was slow at first but soon he started to come into his own. His foster father Asimov was a strict but kind trainer and soon the two developed a bond. Soon 4 years passed, and GV was now at a squire ranking. Asimov finally decided it was time for the boy to meet Joule.
Both Volt and Asimov had put on their fancy attires as they headed to Castle Butterfly, the crown jewel of the kingdom.
Asimov: Are you nervous at all Volt?
Volt: A-a little.
Asimov: I guess it’s to be expected you are about to meet royalty after all. Be on your best behavior ok?
Eventually they got to the gates and after a brief conversation with the guards they were let in. And Volt immediately picked up on a song he was hearing. The song was causing electricity to start running down his body, harmless.
Volt: Is that the Muse?
Asimov: Seems like it. It was only recently when it was discovered that Joule was an adept. And well her powers are quite something. In fact that’s why we are here now. The Queen specifically requested our presence.
Volt gained a look of confusion however before he could question that, a retainer was waiting at the door, one with brown hair and orange eyes.
Male Retainer: As so this is the boy that Asimov keeps talking about. Gotta say, you are a lot less stiff than I’d imagined.
Volt: Less stiff?
Male Retainer: I mean with a father like Asimov, I’d figure that kind of trait would carry over, hehe.
Asimov: Zeno
Zeno: Oh right, please come in! You got a special someone expecting you.
When the two actually stepped inside Castle Butterfly, GV couldn’t help admiring how beautiful it was. The walls were planted a glossy pink and heart and butterfly symbols were everywhere. Each major area of the castle was separated by brown arc doors with a dragon insignia on them.
Eventually they came to the throne room and waiting for him there was a young girl accompanied by a young lady. The young girl was an elf with purple hair and shining red eyes and currently adorned with a small tiara. Currently she was singing and sparks began to fly off Volt in feather-like form. The young lady was a brunette with green eyes and a maid apparel.
Moniqa: My princess, if you will kindly stop singing. Volt and Asimov are here.
Joule’s eyes met GV’s and their eyes began to immediately lock. Joule saw the feathers that were being shed from GV and began to giggle a bit.
Joule: You are Volt correct?
Volt: I-indeed.
Joule: My my, are you an angel by chance?
Volt completely froze and Asimov began to giggle a bit.
Asimov: Not quite your highness, although I guess can’t blame you for that assumption. Where’s your mom?
Joule: She’s still sick…it’s just going to be me and Ms Moniqa here.
Moniqa: So, how’s the boy’s training?
Asimov: Very good, after a slow start he began to pick up things in no time at all.
Moniqa: Good, because well, Joule might need the protection soon.
Volt finally snapped back to reality.
Volt: Protection?
Moniqa: Joule’s power is one that would be sought after by many people. And while we currently have many knights willingly to put their lives on the line to protect her, none of them are adepts. Most are too afraid of her power.
Volt: So you want m-me to s-start then? I’m s-still a s-squire!
Joule: Not anymore you aren’t. I can take it from here, Moniqa.
Moniqa: Understood, your highness. Now Asimov, would you like a cup of tea perchance?
Asimov: That would be lovely, Moniqa.
Moniqa: Alright let’s head to the dining table then. We’ll see the both of you soon.
As both Moniqa and Asimov left the room, Joule got up and walked over to GV.
Joule: Hehe, you don’t have to look so nervous. Moniqa tells me all the time how great a teacher Asimov is.
Volt: This is still a large ask, y-your highness!
Joule: I’m well aware but, I truly think you are truly capable. Now come hither.
As the two walked to the throne, Joule sat back down and motioned Volt to bend a leg. Upon doing so, she began smiling and issuing her decree.
Joule: From here on, my little angel, you will be known as Sir Volt. You shall be my blade and my guard. Will you serve dutifully by my side forevermore?
Volt: O-of course, y-your highness!
As Volt stood up, Joule began to giggle again.
Joule: I spent literal weeks trying to nail that down, anyhow we can cut the formalities there.
As Volt stood back up, Joule wrapped him in a hug. So many thoughts were swirling with Volt’s mind, all of them slowly giving away once Joule started singing softly in his ear. His resolve was clear. He would train even harder to become a knight strong enough to defend Joule with everything he had. Then another individual came into the room, an armored fellow carrying a longsword on his back.
Older Knight: Royal Guard Crane, reporting in!
Joule: You’re a bit late…
Crane: Apologies, your highness, I got stalled by Purple Rose’s militia. Seems their search has intensified.
Joule: So it’s getting worse, even more reason to keep you around huh? Oh Sir Crane, this is Sir Volt, the newest knight I want you to train. Don’t worry Volt, he’s very capable.
Volt nodded and looked toward the older fellow. Both of his eyes were yellow with a scar of one of them. He carries the general vibe of being a trained veteran.
Crane: So, are you ready to train? I’ll warn you ahead of time. This will be arduous, you have to be ready to put your life on the line for her majesty’s sake.
Volt: I understand, and I’m ready.
Crane nodded in approval and began to gesture to Volt to follow him.
Crane: We won’t start right away, I want you to get used to the castle first. When the Sun Rises tomorrow then, we shall begin.
As Volt was led along a tour of the castle, he thought about his new resolve. Joule’s face returned to his mind, then her voice. Joule had begun to spark emotions within him he couldn’t place. Maybe he would figure them out in time, but for now, a new journey for him had begun. The journey to become the Azure Blade.