Another look at my Antagonist

Here's a bit of clarification/elaboration on the previous preview to the antagonist. Again, this was originally just meant for me (and my friend I used as a sounding board) so it might not all make perfect sense. As always, feedback is welcome.


Just to clarify a few things (I tend to think it all out in my head, and then only tell you part, so it doesn't make sense to you). When I said "feline" I meant tiger/lion type feline, not tame housecat. Definitely not feminine-type feline, but the dangerous hunter-cat type. Malacant really, truly does want the reunification of Amria. I haven't thought out his entire back-story, but his family was almost definitely affected by the anarchy-ridden chaos left after Galdred's death. He has good intentions, it's just that he also wants to be put on the throne once he's unified the country. I think he could start out as a basically good guy, trying to help his country - a patriot. But after he has talked it up a bit, gotten some people to think like him, something makes him see the personal gain he could get out of this - perhaps someone tells him that with the ideas and the following he has he could be the next king, or something similar to that. And that sets him off with the selfishness. Which, of course, he justifies because he truly does want Amira to be unified and life to be better. in the beginning, he wouldn't harm anyone, just convince them or leave them be. But after a while, when he becomes more power-hungry, whenever he is rejected/opposed he becomes violent. Perhaps resulting in scenes like Idhrin's destruction??

As for Atrianna becoming like Joan of Arc... I really don't want to bring religion/gods/divine missions into this. Also, at least at first, she doesn't want to draw attention to the fact that she has the Star. It would only bring more attempts to kill her in order to get the Star. But once she has a significant following, then she would reveal it. Perhaps ... hmm. Maybe Atrianna could see a vision of Malacant destroying a city when they reject him, before he has actually gotten to that point - a premonition. Then she could start trying to convince people that he will become power-hungry. They would scoff. She would eventually move on to another person/town/city, trying to spread her warning. Only for people to not believe until it was too late. She might have a few believers along the way, but few. Then after Malacant snaps, people would believe what she had been saying all along, and begin rallying behind her!! She would not want to lead anyone, but it would start slowly, then she would wonder how she got herself into the situation where she's been voted as the leader.