The Fate of Roland Crane: Unraveling His Journey in Ni no Kuni II
The question of what happened to Roland Crane at the end of Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom is a poignant one, often leaving players wondering about his ultimate destiny. After the final battle with the Horned One, Roland, who was transported from his own world, returns to Evermore for a celebration, yet remains withdrawn within the castle. It is during this period that Evan meets him, and together, they both come to the realization that it’s time for Roland to return to his own dimension. In an emotional farewell, the two friends shake hands, and Roland fades away, leaving the world of Ni no Kuni behind. Roland’s presence in Ni no Kuni is ultimately explained by the fact that the Horned One, in a bid to preserve his own chances, rescued Roland. This was to prevent his link with Doloran from being severed and thwarting the Horned One’s plans. Roland’s mission is clear: return to his world, repair the damage there, and fulfill his destiny, thus bringing a sense of closure to his arc.
Roland’s Departure: A Bittersweet Ending
Roland’s journey in Ni no Kuni II is marked by a deep sense of duty and friendship. He is not just a character thrust into a fantastical world; he’s a leader, a strategist, and a loyal companion to Evan Pettiwhisker Tildrum. His departure is not sudden or unexpected; it is a culmination of his time spent in Ni no Kuni. The realization that he has to return to his own dimension is born out of a mutual understanding between him and Evan. It’s an acknowledgment that while their time together was crucial, their destinies lie in separate worlds.
The handshake between Roland and Evan is a symbolic moment, encapsulating their bond and the impact they have had on each other. It’s a farewell between two friends who have not only fought alongside one another but have also helped each other grow. The act of Roland fading away signifies his return to his original dimension, bringing an end to his narrative in Ni no Kuni. This poignant end underscores the idea of sacrifice and the acceptance of fate, themes which resonate deeply within the narrative of Ni no Kuni II.
The Purpose Behind Roland’s Transmigration
Roland’s arrival in Ni no Kuni was no accident. The game reveals that the Horned One brought Roland there, not to be an ally, but as a measure to prevent the connection with Doloran from being severed, ensuring the Horned One’s ultimate plans would not be jeopardized. This connection also highlights the fact that any damage inflicted on one, would affect the other due to their linked existence. This revelation is crucial to understanding Roland’s role and why he was pulled into this magical world. His presence wasn’t merely to help Evan but also a byproduct of the Horned One’s machinations.
Once his purpose was served, Roland was able to return to his world, equipped with the knowledge and experience gained during his time in Ni no Kuni. His journey back isn’t just about returning home; it’s about taking on his destiny in his own world, applying the lessons learned, and rectifying any issues that might have arisen in his absence. His arc concludes with him making things right in his reality, bringing a sense of resolution and completion to his character’s storyline.
Roland’s Legacy
While Roland’s physical presence may have left Ni no Kuni, his legacy remains. His influence on Evan is indelible, shaping the young king into a capable and compassionate leader. Roland’s journey serves as a testament to the power of friendship, sacrifice, and the importance of facing one’s destiny. His actions and decisions during his time in Ni no Kuni leave a lasting impact, shaping the kingdom of Evermore and its people.
His return to his world is not seen as a tragic end, but rather as a necessary step in his personal journey. It shows the complexities of fate and the need for individuals to fulfill their responsibilities in their respective realms. Roland’s character is a cornerstone of Ni no Kuni II , and while his story ends in his departure, his presence remains felt throughout the game’s narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Roland
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Roland Crane, providing further insights into his role and fate in Ni no Kuni II:
1. Is Roland the main character in Ni no Kuni 2?
While Evan is the primary protagonist and the central character around whom the story revolves, Roland is equally important as a co-protagonist. His role as a mentor and loyal companion is vital to Evan’s development and the unfolding narrative.
2. Why did Roland pretend to betray Evan?
Roland’s “betrayal” was a strategic move designed to retrieve the Mark of Kings from Mausinger. His deception, though causing temporary worry, was a calculated risk to ensure the success of their mission. He didn’t tell Evan his plan, likely to maintain the facade and ensure no one would suspect his true intentions, keeping the mission a secret.
3. Is Roland actually a traitor in Ni no Kuni 2?
No, Roland is not a traitor. His actions were always aimed at helping Evan and his kingdom. He did everything within his capabilities to assist Evan.
4. What is the connection between Roland and Doloran?
It is revealed that Roland shares a dimensional link with Doloran. Any damage inflicted on one affects the other. This link was established by the Horned One, to maintain the link between Doloran and the Horned One.
5. Why was Roland brought to Ni no Kuni?
Roland was brought to Ni no Kuni by the Horned One to prevent the connection with Doloran from being severed. This ensured the Horned One’s plan to maintain his power could succeed.
6. Does Roland ever return to his world?
Yes, at the end of the game, Roland returns to his own dimension, leaving the world of Ni no Kuni behind.
7. How does Roland leave Ni no Kuni?
Roland fades away after a final handshake with Evan, signifying his departure from the world of Ni no Kuni and his return to his own.
8. What role does Roland play in Evan’s development?
Roland serves as a mentor and a loyal companion to Evan, guiding him and offering strategic advice, playing a significant part in his development into a capable leader.
9. How does the Horned One use Roland?
The Horned One uses Roland’s dimensional connection with Doloran to prevent his own plans from being disrupted. Roland was essentially a pawn in the Horned One’s schemes.
10. Does Roland have a romantic relationship in Ni no Kuni 2?
Roland does not have a romantic relationship in Ni no Kuni 2. His focus is on his friendship with Evan and his responsibilities.
11. What is Roland’s ultimate destiny?
Roland’s ultimate destiny is to return to his own world, fix the damage that was done in his absence, and fulfill his responsibilities there.
12. Why doesn’t Roland stay in Ni no Kuni?
Roland’s destiny and responsibilities lie in his own dimension. He recognizes that his time in Ni no Kuni was temporary and that he must return home.
13. What is Roland’s background before Ni no Kuni?
Roland was a president from an unnamed nation on Earth before he was transmigrated to Ni no Kuni.
14. How does Roland’s departure affect Evan?
Evan is saddened by Roland’s departure, but understands that it is necessary for both of them. However, Roland’s mentorship helped shaped Evan to be a better and more capable leader.
15. Does Roland’s story have a complete closure?
Yes, Roland’s story has a complete closure. He returns to his own world and fulfils his destiny and purpose in the game, providing a sense of resolution to his narrative arc.