#PICK

[lulublack90]

Prompt 1 - Pick

Wolfstar, February 1, word count 610

Previous part First part

CW- Child abuse referenced, Suicide referenced

One year previously 

He’d had to pick his words carefully when he’d been ordered to Grimmauld Place after he’d disappeared with Barty at Regulus’s funeral. One wrong word and Walburga would make him suffer for it. He had the tiniest hint of stubble rash from Barty’s unshaven face, so before he left he quickly rubbed some moisturiser into it, hoping she wouldn’t notice it. He donned the best suit out of the ones he’d been provided and took the car that had been sent for him to Grimmauld Place. 

Upon his arrival, Walburga wasted no time in grasping his chin with her sharp fingers and twisted his head this way and that, before promptly slapping his face. He felt her claw-like nails slice through his skin, they were always painted a bright red, so the blood of her victims didn’t show. He refused to give her the satisfaction of putting his hand to his face. He ground his teeth against the pain until it was gone. 

“I thought it was made profoundly clear that all relations with which you prefer to fraternise were to cease. How exactly is sneaking away from your own brother's funeral to drown yourself in cheap drinks and fraternise with the man who led your brother astray following our implicit orders?” When he didn’t reply she slapped his other cheek, her nails dug in deeper this time, and he let out a gasp of pain, her eyes glimmered with delight. 

“He loved Reggie; he just wanted to say goodbye. Why couldn’t you just let him say goodbye?” Orion stepped in when Walburga’s nostrils flared with anger. 

“That is the last of this nonsense, Sirius. If you do not find yourself a suitable companion, we shall arrange your match ourselves. Any more… Indiscretions and you will be brought back into this house with the addition of a bodyguard to ensure you walk the correct path. Do I make myself clear?” Sirius knew an out when he heard it. He bowed his head respectfully. 

“Yes, Father, I understand,” He said demurely, keeping his head bowed as though in penance. 

“Good, you may go. We shall have your itinerary for the next week sent to you; we expect perfect behaviour,” Orion added. Sirius nodded and left without looking up.

He slid back into the car, and it took him home. The driver, Kreacher, had been with the family since before Sirius was born. He looked at him in the rearview mirror and didn’t even widen his eyes at the blood dripping down Sirius’s face. He was long immune to the horrors Walburga inflicted on her sons. This was mild compared to other punishments he’d endured as a child. He exited the car without a word and unlocked his front door, heading straight to the liquor cabinet before climbing the stairs to his ensuite bathroom to start cleaning the scratches on his face. They’d send someone to cake him in make-up when he was expected at a function. They had an excellent makeup artist. 

As Sirius watched the pink water wash down the drain, he wondered for a moment how long he’d be able to take this before he broke as well. He turned off the tap, grabbed his bottle of whisky and went back to bed, tearing his suit from his body as he went. His face hurt, and so did his heart. He made a decision to keep reaching out to Barty. He’d get a no-contract phone, so his parents wouldn’t know he was still in contact with him and help Regulus keep an eye on him. It was the only rebellion he could think of right now.  

Next part

[whereifindsanity]

[abyss-seer]

Pick a card Read

When will the red threads of fate pull you closer to them?

Hi Seers, 👋🏽 How are you doing? I have been busy for way too many weeks and unfortunately will be for some more. Thank you so much for helping me gain courage and faith in myself. Thank you for being here and interacting with me and my readings. There's so much love I want to pass onto you and your loved ones and everyone who come within or interacts with your beautiful energy. Thank you so much for changing this world bit-by-bit with your beautiful essence. Love you all so much. Here's another read for you guys.

*****Disclaimer******

Take what resonates and leave the rest.These readings are meant to strengthen your intuition (what you already know), give you clarity and insights and to help you grow. None of the guidance in these reads can replace a professional consultation.

INDIVIDUALS SEEKING LEGAL, MEDICAL, OR ANY PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ARE ADVISED TO SEEK PROFESSIONALS OF THESE RELATED AREAS.

Individuals seeking mental, emotional, or psychological attention are advised to seek mental healthcare professionals, or the National Health Care Helplines of their respective countries and consider the opinions, resources, and guidance of these professionals as their first priority and the tarot reader's words as a friendly opinion or as a friendly advice.

Collective

idk why I channeled this but if you are in fashion industry or the word fashion industry makes sense. Here's a channeled song. These lyrics 👉🏽

You know I'm down for whatever tonight

I don't need the finer things in life

No matter where I go, it's a good time, yeah

And I, I don't need to sit in VIP

Middle of the floor, that's where I'll be

Don't got a lot, but that's enough for me, yeah

The Read 👇🏽

Pile Selection

Pile 1

Pile 2

Pile 3

Personal Readings Available. (You can dm me on instagram)

Instagram link below 👇🏽

[todayontumblr]

spoilt for choice

[janasojka]

Pick roses at night

[toacody]

Shadow Toa

Another face turns heel.

Source

Creator: DerpSpawn

[divinationsanctuary19]

🎴 "Pick Your Fate" Halloween Card Game 🎴

1 2 3

4 5 6

Pick a card, any card… then scroll down to uncover the mystery of your Halloween fate. Are you ready to see what awaits you in the shadows?

Don't forget to check my services🎃

Card 1: The Black Cat 🐈‍⬛

“A shadow crosses your path as the moon rises… The Black Cat brings luck, but beware: not all who offer kindness come with pure intentions.”

Your Fate: A surge of good fortune is headed your way, but there's a catch — someone close to you may be hiding their true intentions. Be vigilant and trust your intuition; not everyone is who they seem. If you play your cards right, you’ll gain a powerful ally�� or perhaps a mysterious admirer.

Card 2: The Haunted House 🏚️

“Old, creaking doors and windows covered in cobwebs… The Haunted House has secrets buried within its walls, and you are about to uncover one.”

Your Fate: Prepare to learn something unexpected. Whether it’s a forgotten memory or a hidden truth, something from the past is resurfacing. This revelation could help you understand something important about yourself or someone close. Embrace the eerie feeling — the unknown holds wisdom for those brave enough to seek it.

🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧹🧙‍♀️🧹🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧙‍♀️🧹🧹🧹

Card 3: The Witch’s Brew 🧪

“In the dim light of midnight, the cauldron bubbles and brews… The Witch’s Brew promises magic, but remember: every spell comes at a price.”

Your Fate: A bit of magic is stirring in your life. Look for signs — strange coincidences, repeated numbers, or dreams that feel too real. This magic might guide you to something (or someone) special, but stay grounded; not every wish should come true exactly as you hope.

Card 4: The Skull 💀

“Death is not the end, but a doorway to transformation. The Skull heralds change — whether you’re ready or not.”

Your Fate: Something significant in your life is about to change. It could be a relationship, a belief, or even a personal habit that you’ve held for too long. Embrace this transformation; although it may feel unsettling at first, it’s ultimately freeing. Think of it as shedding old skin so something new can emerge.

🕸🕷🕷🕸🕷🕷🕷🕷🕸🕸🕸🕷🕷🕷🕸🕸

Card 5: The Spider’s Web 🕸️

“The Spider spins its web with precision, waiting for the right moment. The past and future are connected, and a familiar face may return…”

Your Fate: Something or someone from your past is making their way back into your life. Whether it’s an old friend, a former flame, or even an opportunity you missed, this encounter will offer closure or spark something new. Trust in the web of fate — sometimes the past holds the key to the future.

Card 6: The Pumpkin Lantern 🎃

“The light within the pumpkin guides the way… a beacon in the darkness, illuminating hidden desires.”

Your Fate: A wish or goal you’ve been working toward is about to manifest. Keep your intentions clear, and make sure this is truly what you desire. The Pumpkin Lantern’s light will guide you to your goal, but only if you’re willing to walk bravely through the shadows. This Halloween, the universe might just grant you a treat.

----------‐--------------------------------------------------

Happy Halloween everyone!

[illustratus]

[rainystressed247]

Prev

You can hardly catch a break between these visitors, can you? Be it Wilbur's intention to spice things up, or the OP's sixth sense of them being extra busy this week, you are presented with two choices.

One button will blow up the whole place while the other will defuse the bomb, and who knows, it might be wired to speeddial a certain anarchist, though I have to agree that getting blown up has a nice ring to it.

This is your final choice.

[knebulanight]

More Hoodlum & Pick doodles

Medieval Hoodlum (probably her original form) & what it looks like if she uses a mask, pants, and shoes to appear more human

Other girls in the "Under 3' Tall Club" (Talis & Abbalone)

Pick becomes a very different person when she's drunk

[quinsixtridrupled-k]

w o a g

r i s e & s h i n e

h a p p y c a m p e r s

[thepersonalwords]

I am sure that God has given all his time in making you, the remaining human race has been created in haste.

Amit Kalantri, I Love You Too

[abyss-seer]

Soul Soothing Messages

Pick any one of the 6 piles

****Viewer Discretion is Advised****

Tarot Readings are meant for entertainment purposes only, take them as a second opinion only. The purpose of these readings is to bring insights into a person's life, hence only take the guidance with your own free will. Tarot Reader is/will not be held responsible for the viewer's actions. Viewer Discretion is strictly advised and to be adhered to while watching tarot readings for themselves.

USE YOUR DISCERNMENT. DO NOT FOLLOW ANYTHING BLINDLY. THESE READINGS ARE MEANT FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY

*******INDIVIDUALS SEEKING LEGAL, MEDICAL, OR ANY PROFESSIONAL ADVICE ARE ADVISED TO SEEK PROFESSIONALS OF THESE RELATED AREAS. ********

Individuals seeking mental, emotional, or psychological attention are advised to seek mental healthcare professionals, or the National Health Care Helplines of their respective countries and consider the opinions, resources, and guidance of these professionals as their first priority and the tarot reader's words as a friendly opinion or as a friendly advice

Pile 1

Confirmations: Golden hour - JVKE, Magic Shop - BTS, Moon - Jin,Bts

Seaweed grass, neck problems, back problems

Dear Pile 1,

My loves, you are amazing, radiant, and beautiful exactly as you are. There’s nothing you need to change about yourself to win the love of someone special. You’ve never had to become someone else or mold yourself into a fictional ideal to be worthy of love. True love comes when you are unapologetically yourself.

Pile 1, take care of yourself—especially your neck and back! Don’t strain them by staring down at your phone all the time, and maybe turn down the blasting music in your ears. There’s a whole world around you waiting to be explored.

Why let the fear of judgment hold you back? Break free from the imaginary cages you’ve built and step into the light. The internet might feel limitless, but it’s still another cage if you use it to hide from the real world. Are you constantly doubting your looks or imagining what kind of person you think others want you to be? Stop overthinking!

The world will love you for who you are. There are people out there who won’t judge your views—some will even find them inspiring and find you incredibly attractive. You have unique perspectives, and people can learn from them. So, ask your questions openly, share your thoughts freely, and embrace this world as a classroom where we are all students, each learning at our own pace.

Take a moment to reflect on what you want in a soulmate and the kind of people you wish to surround yourself with. Let this be a reminder that your authentic self is enough. There are people who will love and accept you wholeheartedly for who you are, who you’ve been, and who you will become.

No matter what happens, someone out there will always cherish you just as you are.

With love,

Your Friend

Abyss Seer

Pile 2

Confirmations: very mindful very demure trend, very subtle, slow and steady, stand offish, emblem, victorious, knowledgeable, September, Virgo Season, Virginia

Dear Pile 2,

Contemplative, introspective, patient, victorious, revolutionary—how many more labels do you need to define yourself? Do you really have to carry the weight of this "serious identity" of being a leader? Do you think anyone—or anything—could truly define who you are?

Why look at yourself through a stranger’s lens? Does that perspective truly capture your essence? Who are you at your core? Is the person within you the one calling the shots, or have you let someone else take the reins? Even Girish (Lord Shiva) himself couldn’t define you—only you can. (Some of you could love mountain strolls, ‘Girish’ means one who resides in mountains. Maybe some of you worship a mountain deity like a Shinto deity)

This isn’t something a tarot reader can tell you because deep down, you already know it. So, what’s holding you back? Are you unaware of your own potential? Haven’t you seen the hurdles you’ve overcome to reach this point in your life?

Why feel embarrassed about being in a better position now? Why isolate yourself when you’ve already earned your victories? Do you really need to shrink yourself to fit into the mold of others, or should those trying to limit you rise to meet your level? Which path sounds more empowering and true to growth?

Pile 2, stop accommodating people who judge others based on superficial flaws. Instead, move at your own pace, staying true to your ethics, standards, and values. Ask yourself: what do you really love to do? What would you pursue if judgment didn’t exist?

Because here’s the truth: it’s possible to live that life. And not just live it—leave a legacy that others will remember. Your soul’s unique signature is meant to inspire, to create waves in the world.

So, go after what excites you. Reignite that spark. Make life worth remembering.

With love,

Your Friend

Abyss Seer

Pile 3

Dear Pile 3,

Alright, Pile 3, who’s the person that’s stolen your heart? Do you feel sad about not being noticed or seen by them? Does this person inspire you in some way? Do they leave you at a loss for words?

Aww, my sweet little angels, don’t be sad! Your heart doesn’t deserve to carry this kind of ache. Let me tell you something: you’ll never know what could happen unless you express your feelings.

This lesson applies to more than just love—it’s the same with your career. Some of you might have experienced hardship, maybe even violence or exclusion, possibly because of poverty or feeling left out. These moments can make you question your path in life. When it comes to love, you’ve been hesitant to take risks. And in your career, you still feel uncertain.

The real issue, Pile 3, is that you’re not standing up for yourself. You fear judgment and hesitate to take bold steps. Your Manipura Chakra (solar plexus) and Visuddha Chakra (throat) are calling out to you. They’re urging you to be honest, make a strategic move, and take charge of your life.

Remember your Shakti! You are not here to be preyed upon or diminished. You’re here to walk this Earth like a tigress—strong, proud, and full of grace. You have the power to reclaim your rightful space and radiate light onto others.

Now is the time to cleanse yourself of negativity, self-doubt, and unrequited energy. Clear your mind, space, and body of anything holding you back. Take a moment to stretch, breathe deeply, and let happiness fill your soul. Go for a walk, feel the freedom, and let yourself reconnect with your purpose.

I promise you, success is within your reach—whether it’s in love, your career, or life itself. Take a step back, relax, and trust that Devi Durga is with you, guiding you toward your light. Embrace who you are, do what excites you, and show courage when it’s needed. Take risks, stand up for yourself, and trust that you’re on the right path.

You’ve got this, Pile 3! Shine bright, take the leap, and know the way will reveal itself.

Good day, my loves. Bubbye!

Your Friend

Abyss Seer

Pile 4

Confirmations:

Film based, happy hare,638,368,63,36,93, multiples of 3,21, sea monsters, percy Jackson, someone’s nickname could be or mean ‘monkey’, mooncake, mid-autumn festival,707,909,yoy,LOL,

This pile reminds me a lot of PJ series and all the sea goddess, Beren and Luthien, Lord of Rings and Hobbit, 3 letter palindrome with letter ‘o’ in the middle could be significant, Having Strict teachers and parents growing up,Sailor Moon, religious leaders like pandits or priests forcing culture on you, Character of Father Nelson from Hilda Furracao, Guru Dronacharya disabling someone's growth to enable someone else.

Dear Pile 4,

Are you constantly changing yourself to be loved by others? Are you holding on to the idea of a “dream partner” from childhood, wishing for someone as idealistic as the fantasy? Do you find yourself torn between loving the real person in front of you and the ideal person in your mind? My loves, isn’t it exhausting to hold people to the impossible standards of your favorite anime or fictional character?

It’s time to stop wasting your energy trying to change people or resenting them for not meeting those expectations. Real love doesn’t come from forcing others to fit your mold. Why do you feel the need to change others? Is it because you struggle to accept them—or maybe even yourself?

Are you in connections where you pretend to be someone you’re not? Does the idea of looking beyond the “mist” of a perfect life seem unbearable? Pile 4, take a deep look within. Where is this mist coming from? Is it the people around you or fears rooted in past trauma? Whatever the source, clarity begins with you.

For some of you, this mist may stem from childhood expectations. Perhaps a mother figure or other authority figures imposed strict control, criticized every small mistake, and denied you the space to fail and learn. Maybe decisions were made for you, leaving you fearful and indecisive despite knowing what you needed to do.

I sense echoes of Eklavya from Indian mythology but in a negative context —someone who was subservient and maladaptive because they weren’t given the freedom to adapt or grow cause their thumb was cut off to stop their growth. You might have faced harsh punishments, controlling parents, or strict teachers, which instilled meekness and fear of failure. For some, even religious or cultural traditions may have felt stifling, leaving little room for individuality.

Pile 4, I’m so sorry if you endured any of this. Do you settle for what you’re given because you were taught that’s all you deserved? Have past experiences, like being bullied for your accent or identity, left you afraid to ask for more or show your true self? (I am specifically getting Kim Kardashian's NYC accent, its as if someone was bullied for their accent which ended up in them never asking questions again out of embarrassment, aww pile 4, iam so sorry for what you went through. This should have never happened, I hope you know that and beleive me when I say so. It should have never happened you, alright? Love you so much 🩷)

Listen to me: you don’t have to be the person others forced you to become. Let your soul breathe. Release yourself from expectations and labels that don’t align with who you truly are. Life is full of gifts if you choose to see them. Heal from your fear of delays and failure. Let go of hyper-independence and control.

You weren’t meant to carry the weight of the world alone. Let others help you. Don’t let past bullying or harshness keep you from caring for yourself or connecting with others. Recognize these patterns, ask yourself the right questions, and start your healing journey.

There is help out there—mental health hotlines, domestic abuse support, and professionals ready to assist you. Please know you never deserved to be treated poorly. You are unique and worthy of expressing your true self. Don’t suppress your light; don’t let these experiences turn into controlling tendencies or victimization.

Pile 4, you are bigger and better than the labels and burdens placed upon you. Let go of the harshness of the world and embrace the beautiful soul you were born to be. Celebrate yourself and find joy in the things that resonate with your spirit.

You might enjoy songs like “Just Right” by GOT7, “Nunu Nana” by Jessie, or “Born to Be” by Nano. Let them remind you of your worth and strength.

With love,

Your Friend

Abyss Seer

Pile 5

Confirmations:

child,baby,chidren,111, zen meditation, earth sign, mother mature, river goddess, mother gaia, a very beautiful meditative spot, a very good ecosystem, jeji,jiji,gg,gigi, shaktivism, devi energy coming through,

Jeju island in korea, best childhood memory relating to cellphone ringtone, come hard at me, hard carry got 7, alternating current, bird sound ringtone, nokia cellphone, 1980s to 1990s, remembering taking a phone call of a beloved family member, message of concern, coffin, news related to someone’s death, one question that doesn’t change in your mind,Rishab or bishop, motherly nature, very organized.

Pile3 and pile 1 could be significant for you

Dear Pile 5,

It seems you might be in a very vulnerable place right now. I’m sensing deep emotional struggles, and for some, even thoughts of self-harm. My dear Pile 5, if this resonates with you, please seek help immediately. If you’ve experienced abuse, emotional suppression, or even substance struggles, know that you are not alone. There are people who care, support systems available, and resources like suicide helplines to turn to.

If you feel lost, start small—reach out to a trusted friend, a past colleague, or someone you feel safe with. Don’t let the doubts planted in your mind stop you from seeking the help you deserve. You are worthy of healing and support.

For those of you who have endured this pain, justice will come—but don’t focus on revenge or the past. Instead, focus on you. Build yourself up, prioritize your mental health, and reclaim your strength. Therapy, support groups, and professional help can be lifesaving. There is no shame in seeking help—it is an act of courage.

You may feel like your dreams, energy, and hope have faded, but that’s just an illusion. You still have strength within you to start over. Listen to “N’y Pense Plus” by Tayc or “Daisy” by Stereo Dive Foundation—they might bring some solace. Remember, no matter how exhausted or defeated you feel, this heaviness is temporary, not your reality.

If your mind replays past memories or clings to moments of comfort during abuse, that’s your trauma talking. Be patient with yourself. Trauma takes time to heal, but healing is possible. If there’s someone you trust—someone whose words could lift you up—reach out to them now.

If you’re in an abusive relationship or situation, get out of it right away. Your intuition already knows who to turn to for safety and support. Listen to that voice inside you. You deserve love, care, and peace. Don’t carry this burden alone—talk to someone, even if it’s online. Vent, share, cry, but don’t keep it bottled up.

Pile 5, I love you, and I want you to take care of yourself. Healing starts when you reach out and let it all out. You are stronger than you think, and your life is worth fighting for.

Take care, my dear. I’ll leave you with this: you can and will rise again. You are not alone.

With love,

Your Friend

Abyss Seer

Pile 6

Confirmations:

Nature sound, bird watching, chirping of birds, nightangle, happy hare song, I need u by bts, run by bts, something about doing drggs in bathtub, Suffered by a bunch of goons, heart shapes, dwarf, someone breaking up on phone due to the other cheating, Taste – Sabrina Carpenter, Someone saying they have been known to share their (cookies) or (peonies) everywhere, hiring a Private Investigator to uncover that the person was lying about their misery to get money out of you 🫠🤷🏽‍♀️, Seven by Jungkook, you could want the cookie or peony seven days a weeks, 24x7, 365 days, s*x addicted, Dimple - BTS but all of it feels heavy illegal so it increases the taboo, Serenity by Jimin. I channeled "Kpop Singers, Kpop Band and Kpop Man" in my head, wanting to commit some sort of treason or illegal deed (or idk make them cheat ) for a lover, 100 ways by Jackson Wang, Pretty Please - Jackson Wang, Pretty Please by Dua Lipa, Someone's beggin someone to bite the forbidden apple, What the heck! Pile 6 you are interesting af, seems like you are hanging on the line between good and bad.

Dear Pile 6,

You’re not just a chess player—you’re the grandmaster of strategy! Your message carries the wisdom of ancestors, and you radiate a fiery resilience that reminds me of Daenerys from Game of Thrones. Like her, you’ve endured pain, abuse, and underestimation but transformed it all into wisdom. You waited, learned, and now stand ready to claim your crown. You’re the underestimated force no one saw coming—what a powerful energy!

Pile 6, I see you. You’ve worked hard, earned your success, and now indulge in the fruits of your labor. Luxury suits you. Seven by Jungkook? That’s your vibe, along with 365 days. But beneath it all, loneliness lingers. You may wonder if you’ll ever find true love or family again. Some of you may even feel orphaned in spirit, longing for connection.

You’re being asked to let things flow. Don’t overthink or take shortcuts to cope with disappointment. If a dream or relationship didn’t work out, stop replaying it in your mind. Release it. Change your perspective and focus on your growth. Your work likely involves communication or intellectual skills, so channel your energy there.

For those who feel a deep sadness from broken relationships or missed opportunities, let go of trying to rationalize what went wrong. The answers won’t soothe you. Focus instead on your aspirations. Someone here might resonate with country music, rural living, or have a love for animals like horses. Express your desires boldly—don’t shy away, even if you’re on the closeted side. Someone here could be from the year of horse or Ashwini, Shatabhisha, moola and Ardra (I was getting dog yoni) Nakshatra or a Sagittarius or can have a pet shop or stable full of horses.

If conflicts around family property, betrayal, or unresolved commitments are weighing on you, it’s time to release the baggage. Feeling cheated or betrayed, especially by family or a past lover, can be overwhelming. But holding onto anger only prolongs your pain. Stop revisiting old wounds or seeking validation from those who wronged you. If a cheater or manipulative ex resurfaces, don’t let their sob stories reel you back in. Protect your peace and move forward.

You’ve been blessed with a fresh start—don’t waste it looking backward. The attachments you hold to past people or situations may feel familiar, but they are chains. Trust me, better people and opportunities are waiting for you. If anyone from your past tries to return, proceed cautiously, and never let them exploit you again. Friends and lovers who only take from you aren’t worth your time.

Pile 6, you’re a star, and you deserve relationships that uplift you, not drag you down. Let go of anyone who dims your light. Cut the snakes from your garden and welcome those who genuinely care for you.

Stay radiant, stay strong, and have a fabulous day!

Bye-bye 😊

Your Friend

Abyss Seer

[quotelr]

If you love two people, pick the second, because if you truly loved the first, you wouldn't have fallen for the second.

Johnny Depp

[galleryofart]

The Prospector

Artist: Julian Ashton (Australian, 1851-1942)

Date: 1889

Medium: Oil on canvas on hardboard

Collection: Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia

Description

The discovery of gold in Australia the 1850s enticed thousands of fortune hunters from here and across the globe into a frenzy of digging, scouring and fossicking for riches.

In 1889 when Julian Ashton painted 'The prospector', the height of the gold rush was over and many of the eclectic bunch of itinerant prospectors had abandoned the goldfields. As such, Ashton’s painting, a nostalgic conception of the prospector, was posed and painted in his studio. A pick and shovel have been carefully arranged at the prospector’s feet while he intently examines the contents of his panning dish for that elusive glimmer. Ashton portrays the prospector as a hard-working, strong and self-reliant character – virtues which at the time were central to the notion of Australian character and emerging identity. Ashton’s vision of the heroic prospector feeds into mythologies of the gold rush being dominated by British and Irish men when, in fact, the goldfields were populated by diggers from many countries including China, Germany, Italy and Poland.