Zarkon

Zarkon remembers the day he first held the Black Lion Key of Voltron. In that moment, he felt a sense of responsibility to protect the universe alongside his fellow Paladins. However, as the power of the Quintessence consumed him, that sense of duty was replaced by an insatiable hunger for control. He bitterly recalls the moment he chose to betray his friends, convinced that only he was worthy of holding the ultimate power of Voltron.

Zarkon remembers the day his son, Lotor, was born. He stood beside Honerva, who seemed more distant, absorbed in the mysteries of Quintessence. Though it should have been a joyous moment, Zarkon felt only the growing pressure of his empire and the demands of power. Lotor, to him, was an heir to expand the Galra domain, another piece in his plan of conquest. He cared little for his son's childhood or future, so long as he followed the path of strength and control that Zarkon valued so much.

Zarkon remembers the days when the Alteans were allies of the Galra Empire. He had respect for Alfor, the Altean king, and they worked together to maintain peace in the universe. However, as time passed and his obsession with Quintessence grew, Zarkon came to view the Alteans as weak and unnecessary. His respect turned to contempt, especially after Alfor tried to thwart his plans. The destruction of Altea was not just a military achievement, but the end of an alliance he once valued. Today, he only remembers the Alteans as victims of their own weakness and futile resistance to absolute power.

Zarkon, the Galra Emperor of Voltron: Legendary Defender, was married to Honerva, a brilliant scientist. Initially, they were both benevolent and sought to advance the empire. However, their pursuit of power and manipulation of Quintessence corrupted them, transforming Honerva into the villain Haggar. Together, they became the main antagonists of the series.