#artsofmetamoor reply

[artsofmetamoor]

Hey! I want you to know never doubt it, your art is FAN-TASTIC 👀 and it deserves all the praise it can get! 💖✨️❤️

How do you come up with your designs for the characters? Diego in particular; how did you come up with the design or the color scheme and the like! Seems a complicated process of thought!

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words, it means a lot!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Oh gosh, there's a bit to unpack here, but I'll try not to drag it! Diego is an interesting choice, not many people ask me about him, you are very attentive stranger! It's kind of funny because when I first created him he had a simple antagonistic role, mainly because I didn’t have much experience with character design or storytelling at the time. Both him and my skills are still growing.

When designing a character, I start by exploring their personality, background, and role in the story. So now I aimed to capture Diego's inner qualities and flaws, as well as how his environment and relationships influence him. From his pose, to the way he carries himself, his expressions, the silhouette of his body e.t.c. all of that must hint to the viewer who is is as a person.

For instance Diego has mostly the role of an archer in the rebellion, so he should have well-developed upper arms and shoulders. However, given his stealthy and cunning nature, I imagined him to be toned and athletic rather than overly muscular despite being a warrior. Additionally, Diego has a subtle 'posh' vibe to him even when he's being erratic, which I try to show through small details like elegant movements or the gestures of his hands.

After deciding his body structure I move over to all the other details that add to his character. For example I also wanted his clothes to balance his personality with his role in a rebellion, so they are a bit more elegant for a rebel, reflecting his slightly vain nature, but I also tried to portray them as practical. Everything he wears has a purpose, whether it’s for mobility, stealth, or durability in battle. The elegance in his attire is subtle, maybe in the cut of his tunic or the way his boots are laced, but it’s there, showing that he’s someone who cares about how he presents himself. Now that I think about it Diego is pretty much like an elf ranger 😆

As far as his colors go, one of the first things I knew I wanted for Diego was red hair. Even though it’s a bit cliché, I felt it symbolized the fiery aggression he carries inside. As his character developed, the red hair came to represent not just aggression, but also his passion, determination, and his intense need to prove himself (feelings he often keeps hidden). The color also reflects how he loves fiercely, sometimes to the point of self-destruction. I focused on keeping his hair red and built the color scheme around it because having that one fixed detail made the rest of the design process easier for me.

After that I used complementary and softer colors such as greens and earthly browns to highlight his outfit, eyes e.t.c.

It can definitely seem daunting to create something from scratch, I always try to go back to basics so things don't turn into a rumble in my head. For example, when I'm choosing color schemes for either characters or environments I tend to just look back at color theory, and I know that might seem dull, but it’s incredibly important and useful for understanding how colors interact and complement each other (just like it is important to understand anatomy for drawing figures).

I won’t dive into the technical details since there are plenty of online tutorials, but one reference I highly recommend is James Gurney’s book Color and Light. It’s been a game-changer for me and it's a tool I frequently return to when I feel stuck in my coloring process:

Palette generators are also useful resources:

https://color.adobe.com/create/color-wheel

Even stuff like character creator and dress-up games can be surprisingly effective for inspiration and kick starting a base for character designs and color schemes if you are feeling stuck. Some of our most beloved original characters started from this, combined with the techniques I mentioned above. For example, Dilla was initially created by @katerinaaqu using one of these games (left). I then drew her and fleshed out her body structure and tailored her appearance to better fit her personality and physical descriptions, as we both envisioned her (right) :

With this I also must point out that the development of Diego and the entirety of Chronicles of Metamoor was a team effort. My friend @katerinaaqu, an awesome writer who collaborates with me on this project, played a big role in shaping these characters. Her detailed descriptions, stories, and insights were very important to bring them all to life ���️

I think this is all for now. I apologize if this explanation was a bit general, but if you (or anyone else) have more questions about Diego’s design or any of our other characters, or even just any general question feel free to ask! Your support and interest in my art and our story mean a lot to me, thank you so much! ❤️🌹

[katerinaaqu]

Honorable Antilochus

Yes I guess I couldn't help myself and I just HAD to draw Antilochus too! Thanks to some AMAZING reblogs and comments such as @loco-bird and @deadbaguette to my two one-shots involving him

The Lament of a Life

What makes the Heart Beat

And I just HAD to draw him! And trace my favorite artwork of his! More specifically the vase art that once again is mentioned to my ask reply to @lightningthunderstorm

Of course it is obvious that I had to use the one and only vase I know that includes him as a base and then I of course added details! For starters dunno I wanted him to have his long hair down (because again yay for "long-haired argives") and his long strands of wavy hair in his artwork as well as the obviously puffy hair under the helmet gave me the impression of a person with very long hair so yeah! Had to try!

(His hair was also inspired by my dear friend @artsofmetamoor !!)

I was particularly intrigued by the shape of his bangs! I thought they were very cute and gave him even more the aura of youth so I had to add that detail to the sketch

Of course I also included mycenaean-inspired clothes and I thought about adding a small bead necklace as well! For some reason I imagined him wearing a carnelian and turqoise necklace! It does give me some air of both strength and calmness!

For colors again I was adding some average coloring for Greeks; olive complexion, brown eyes and hair (somehow also was inspired by my other sketch of Patroclus, somehow adding them in some sort of a side-by-side comparison

(Patroclus has slightly more tannish sheen to his skin and wooly curly hair, Antilochus has some more creamy olive skin and wavy silky hair instead)

Antilochus was also described like Achilles being "fast in feet" and he had an amazing killing count in the Iliad. Somehow that made me imagine someone relying on speed and stealth rather than arm strength so I gave him a slightly leaner bodytype to partially match Achilles too.

My other Homeric Character sketches:

Diomedes

Odysseus

Calypso

Patroclus

[artsofmetamoor]

Hello, I need you to know I would die for Dilla. I love her so much 😍

Bonus Avatar AU

[artsofmetamoor]

How would growing up in Dilla and Caleb’s care change Spider? Many theorise that he wears dreads bc he wants to be more like Jake, but in difference from him, his locs are matted and dirty, which solidified his neglect. Would Dilla braid them into intricate styles? Would Spider be proud of his curls?

Oh for real, it also did seem to me, among other things, that Spider's locs being so unkept and uncared for were a clear sign of neglect, especially when compared to Jake's.

In future drawings I'm planning to show exactly that, how his appearance and self worth will change now that he is in the care of a loving family who don't ostracize or blame him for his birth father's crimes or for being human.

Dilla and Caleb without a doubt take care of his hair and everything else with all the love in the world, and especially Dilla indeed stylizes it in various ways, she also loves to snuggle against his loose fluffy hair when they embrace ❤️🥰 he definitely wears his long curls, either stylized or loose, much more proudly ❤️

[artsofmetamoor]

I just wanna say how BEAUTIFUL your artwork is like the coloring? The poses? The uniqueness in each and every character? FAWK, I'd gobble your artwork if I could, i just wanted to tell you it is STUNNINNGGGGG! Keep doing what you do, I love to see it! <3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3<3 So many hearts for you

Aaaaah thank you so much for your kind words!! This made me smile so much, I'm happy you enjoy my art and these characters! that really means a lot!

So many hearts right back at you ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[artsofmetamoor]

Omg baby Spider adopted by them is so cute 😭😭😭😭😭😭

The baby must be happy with a family!! I'm making so many drawings for them 😭😭😭💙

[artsofmetamoor]

OI

just stumbled across the comic strip where Dilla meets Mikes Jr- is she blind?? I'm an idiot and she has the eyes of opal :3

Hi! Sorry I took so long to reply!

Aww Opal eyes!! I love that ❤️❤️

Yes Dilla is blind, she and her twin brother Ballard were born blind and had to train hard to sharpen their other senses so they could survive and thrive as part of the Omatikaya clan.

Her eyes are also something we have chosen to keep from her original design to this Avatar AU. In our original story she's a Tribal Galhot, a fantasy race of people who are all blind but with very developed hearing and other senses:

[artsofmetamoor]

I just recently discovered your page and I’m loving every second of it! But I must ask how did Dilla and Caleb meet each other?😋😋

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️ how they meet in the original Story or in the Avatar AU?

In the original story Caleb was leading some of his rebel men through the forests of Meridian while trying to escape the troops of prince Phobos. The rebels then stumbled into the territory of the Tribal Galhots, and are confronted by a hunting party of warriors (among them is Dilla). After deciding Caleb and his rebels are not a threat to them the hunting party escorts them to their village and offers them shelter, and it was during this time that Caleb and Dilla get close. First Caleb is impressed by Dilla's combat skills while watching her spar with a co-villager, so he asks her to train him and she agrees. During the time that follows they develop a strong bond and fall in love. Touched and inspired by their cause Dilla also requests to join the rebellion, and follows Caleb and the other rebels when they depart from the village.

In the Avatar AU Caleb along with Cornelia are marines in charge of protecting the scientists of the Avatar program. During one of the outings in the forest right before the airship was about to return to the base, Caleb and Cornelia decided to scan the surrounding area after hearing strange noises, to make sure no flying creatures would attempt to take the airship down. However they end up lost with their navigation devices going crazy in the middle of the Pandoran jungle. They freak out when they run face to face with a mighty and huge Omatikaya Na'vi warrior, however this Na'vi introduces herself as Dilla, and helps them find their way back to their camp and airship, Caleb is grateful and touched by Dilla's act of kindness, and they never leave each other's minds until fatefully meeting once more when Caleb goes on his first mission with his Avatar body.

Note: You can read the fanfic of our Avatar AU, written by @katerinaaqu HERE ^^

[artsofmetamoor]

The fact this is a W.I.T.C.H account makes me so happy this is a show and book series I love as a kid a still love. I watched it so many times even found the entire show on YouTube. The guardians, the heart of candracar, ahhh now I have to Binge watch. Love the avatar sprinkles in there too. 💖👏🏾🥺

Sorry it took me so long to reply 😭

Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️ even if we do stray quite a bit from the W.I.T.C.H. lore and themes (we focus more on the medieval fantasy aspect of it) but I'm so glad you enjoy our stuff and the Avatar AU as well 💙✨

[katerinaaqu]

Whoa whoa whoa! Check this out guys! 😍😍😍😍😍 some amazing hairstyles for our beautiful OC! Muscular giantess with the heart of gold and that motherly smile! I fall in love with her every time yet alone Caleb!

I so love the several different hairstyles here and I think apart from the classic one and her hair loose one of my favorites is the one under the pigtails! It so brings her beauty up! Although I can see how the headband seems to be connecting her with her mama who was in habit of wearing a headband which ironically was taken over by Ballard as his general style instead! So beautiful and gold is such amazing contrast with her bronze complexion!

Gosh Dilla deserves a full grown merchandise at this point I swear! Man!

And what an amazing explanation 👏 👌 it is so on spot how indeed the Tribes do not have some sort of ritual or anything for their hair and how pragmatists they are in their culture and yet some of them might use it for their personal symbolism or personal goal etc. So on spot dear you are the best!

Hello, I love your art so much. They're amazing. If you have a time and a wish could you draw Dilla with different hairstyles?) Two braids,ponytail,hair down and so on.+I have a question. Can Galhots shave temples because their hair is too thick?

Thank you so much!! That means a lot ❤️

This was a really fun idea, so here is Dilla with some different hairstyles🥰 With her original one on top for comparison.

Tribal Galhots usually shave part of their hair both for cultural reasons and for practicality, and indeed because their hair is very full and thick, so they also braid and stylize it in such a way so that it won't bother them while they do their daily tasks or hunt.

It's also for general grooming and hygiene reasons, for example if by any chance something like louse got in their hair they could easily detect the parasites and get rid of them.

And besides that it can be a very intimate and affectionate moment between family members, friends and loved ones to braid and groom each other’s hair.

Also Tribal Galhots for the most part have a more pragmatic culture ( they do believe in an afterlife, and worship the concept of the heavens and stars, since it's the only aspect of the natural world they know to exists, but cannot experience it with their senses since they don't have sight, so they regard it with great wonder and reverence. But they do not worship any deities, and instead give much more importance to the physical world around that provides for all their needs) so their hair does not really have any spiritualistic meaning in regards to religious beliefs, but it still does have great importance and symbolism to each individual.

Dilla for example considers the long section of hair that she usually keeps in a long single braid to be a symbol of all the battles she has won throughout her life (both battles in arms, and emotional battles of mental will and strength), and it's also something that always connects her to her people even when she might be far from them, such as when she followed Caleb and the rebels during the war. Therefore it would be a great distress to her if she had to cut her longer section of hair, or if someone else cut it off, and it would hurt her deeply.

[katerinaaqu]

Ismarus! Ismarus! (P2)

The second part Of my story! Continuation from Part 1 and kinda a late birthday gift for @h0bg0blin-meat Sorry I was late! As always the inspiration came from discussing complicated stories with my dear friend @artsofmetamoor

There wasn’t much to disrupt the silence of Ismarus and maybe that was why the tension was thick enough to be cut with a knife. It had been several hours since the moment they had refused to assist the Greeks out and now they seemed rather nervous. True they seemed like sailors and tired from a long trip but they were always veterans from Troy, a city that wasn’t taken before since Heracles and the look on that short man seemed alarming. It was as if he was much more than what met the eye. Something about him had been disturbing to the embassy. It seemed that his eyes had caused more than just a mere slaughter of a large city. The guards at the walls were always on the edge of their wits waiting.

“There is no sign of them anywhere” one of them said to the other in their dialect, “Maybe they got the message and left”

“Perhaps…”

The sound of leaves hustling was enough to make them jump. They didn’t know what was about to happen but they could feel it down their spines; all the way to the hairs in their napes that were now standing up in their worry. They were generally peaceful people. Their skills in battle were enough to keep invaders away from their area. And yet now that small person from another kingdom arrived there with a threat roaming over their heads like Apollo’s judgment.

“Did you hear that?”

“What?”

“There!” The guard pointed at some bushes, “The sound came from there!”

As his partner gazed over the walls to see at the spring leaves of the thick bushes and failing to see anything suspicious; maybe except the fact that the bushes were a bit closer than what he remembered! Where his eyes playing tricks on him or…?

“Go back and report!” he urged, “There is a high chance they-…”

His voice was cut of when the whistle of an arrow and the terrifying sound of metal cutting through flesh chocked the words down his chest and a shaft went through his tender neck. He collapsed chocking in his own blood.

“WE’RE UNDER ATTACK!” The other man yelled, “SOUND THE ALARM!”

No sooner had the words escaped his own lips and another arrow hit him to the shoulder, making him lose his footing and falling out of the walls inside the city’s perimeter. And then a storm of arrows fell from the skies. The Greeks jumped from behind the bushes and dozens of cords were pulled at the same time, singing like deadly birds.

“FIRE!” Odysseus ordered, voice roaring above them all

Flintstones cracked almost at the same time, sparks coming out of the friction and lighting arrowheads covered with cloth, sending a flaming rain upon the walls where the confused guards didn’t have the time even to gear up before hay next to them set aflame or their own clothes and hair setting on fire. Odysseus watched as flames and smoke rose.

“Give me that!” he ordered his squire grabbing the bow and the flaming arrow

Like a hunter who skillfully aims for the moving deer across the forest, Odysseus of Ithaca aimed and shot and the arrow pierced right through the wooden gate. He grasped upon a sling and span it, before throwing the material at the door. The small perfume bottle at the end of it which was now filled with a mixture of wine and oil, broke against the gate, sending wild flames to dance like Kaveiroi; Hephestus’s demonic helpers by the heath of his workshop. A smirk played at the corner of his lips as he watched the flames spark and consume the wood of the gate. His mind traveled back to their plans once more.

“How are we going to hit them?” Eurylochus asked, “They will throw stuff on us from the wall!”

“We shan’t get anywhere near the walls, Eurylochus” Odysseus replied in confidence

He took a branch and drew some circles at about shooting range of the city.

“We shall use vegetation as our cover. We will release the arrows like a storm before they have the time to shoot us. I believe we have plenty of hunting bows and arrows”

“Yeah” Eurylochus agreed, “At least a hundred bows and respective arrows”

“Good! We can use oil and wine as our assistance”

“Assistance for what?” Polites now asked

Odysseus eyed him. His eyes already sharp like the obsidian glass that is being forged under the merciless flames coming straight from the core of the earth.

“Fire, of course, Polites! We shall burn them down before they have the chance to aim! They will be waiting. They will be tensed! But if the plan works, we shall lose no men today!”

The defendants finally released some counter-attack, sending their own rain of arrows at them.

“DEFEEEENCE!” Odysseus roared

The shields rose over their heads, taking in dozens of arrows. One or two that got through and nicked a shoulder or a foot, caused some pained yelps. Odysseus didn’t have the luxury to look back. He prayed, though with all his heart that they would be fit to fight later.  So far so good, the Much Cunning man thought. He raised his arm in the air closing his fist. Eurylochus saw the signal and blew a hunting horn. It was a long, monotone note but it pierced the air even above the screaming of the men at the lines of shooting. And it only took a couple of seconds before some more fire smoke emerged, this time from the other way of the city. The heads turned towards that direction. Odysseus this time almost grinned. Yes, according to plan!

“The spies reported a tunnel for the waterfront at the back, here!” Odysseus said pointing his stick at the other part of the square that represented the city on the sand

“What are you planning to do with it? Send people inside?”

“I could, but it is risky. The path is small and it can fit one man at a time without armor and I shall not send unarmored men in enemy territory. No, my plan is quite simple, really”

He placed his stick to the part of the front gate again.

“I and the main team shall launch the attack here. If the plan works they will be too distracted. While they are occupied with us, a small team shall run as fast as the wind can carry them to the passage…and on the signal they shall start a fire”

The men at the back passage were already lighting more intense flames at the hay and dry grass they had hastily gathered. As the team of watchmen arrived at the spot before they could launch a counter-attack they were taken down by the last small team of archers, lurking behind the main task force that started the arson.

Odysseus made a move with his fingers, cross-way, opening his fingers in opposite directions with suggestive meaning.

“Distraction, division…Disorientation!” he said self-complacently, triumphantly

His eyes scanned his generals as they seemed to be literally hanging from his every word.

“Derange!” the king of the Cephallinians added

Back at the present, Odysseus placed the helm better on top of his head. The red and blue plume adorning the top of his boar-tusk helmet, waved gracefully at the breeze. His hand clasped the leather stripes tighter.

“Wait! Wait for them to open the gates!”

His nerves were at the peak; his senses seemed to be heightened. Like an experienced hound seeing the stag drinking water from the waterfront and already feeling to its teeth the taste of warm blood and flesh; legs and paws ready for the deadly sprint, Odysseus was feeling every tiny muscle in his arms pulsating in anticipation. He knew he had but one chance. He couldn’t afford striking before the exact proper time!

“I still fail to see how you will get is in the city, Odysseus” Eurylochus pointed out, “You say we bombard the walls but how shall we get in?”

Odysseus took a gulp of wine, his lips almost curling in a cat-like expression.

“They will let us in, Eurylochus!”

“They will?!”

“They will have no choice. They have fire to their front, fire to their back and they know they have better chances to face us at the open field. They shall open the gates for us and when they do, we shall be ready!”

He placed his cup at the side and played a bit with a small piece of skin coming out of the base of his fingernail. He thought for a second before looking at his second in command.

“Do you think my chariot can be used?”

“It is damaged” Eurylochus admitted, “But I suppose we can fix it for a battle real quick”

“Good” Odysseus said biting that piece of skin apprehensively, “Because it is an important part of my plan. I shall need it and two of my strongest horses. I shall lead the attack inside”

“Odysseus, no!” one of the generals protested, “You must not take reckless decisions!”

“If I don’t, no one will” Odysseus retorted, “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine. I will have you for cover. Send the order to fix my chariot!”

“Yes, sire!”

“The rest of you shall take position as agreed. If it works we shall charge through their defenses before their cavalry charges”

Horses were already plowing the sand with their hooves, as if their master’s nervousness and eagerness was being transferred to them. And Odysseus endured this bloodlust of battle that was making him restless, until he saw the gates opening slowly and he knew he had his chance!

“CHAAAAAAAAAARGE!” he ordered

His squire stirred the horses the exact moment the door opened and his chariot sped forward. The horses neighed and the sand rose in clouds as the squire forced the animals to drive the vehicle through the gates just on time for a couple of horses with their riders to come out. Odysseus raised his sword and cut one man right across the shoulder; blade cutting flesh and connections through the bones, blood oozing out of the wound as the rider fell to the ground. The second had no better luck for his hand was cut off from the base of his wrist and his horse’s legs crushed against the wheels of the war chariot. The animal screeched pitifully and fell onto the sand, taking the already wounded rider with him to the next world. The king of Ithaca drove the chariot triumphantly into the city, forcing his squire to turn the horses, facing the opponents arriving at the same time; one hand holding the leather stripes of the side and one holding a sword or a bronze spear. The army of his men coming behind him sprinting like ants attacking an enemy colony. The screams of the residents who didn’t have the time to evacuate sounded like a hellish music to their ears. The clanging of metal against metal and pained screams of the wounded was deafening. Blood splattered in every direction as the Cicones of Ismarus realized too late they had fallen into the trap of the Greek soldiers; soldiers molded, baked and hardened at war; men who now felt all the same battle lust and thirst for blood as they had when they invaded the city of Ilium, the holy ground of Troy, once more under the command and because of the plan of this very same man! This man that was now on top of his chariot, clearing the path for them, looking almost like god Ares himself who leads the troops of gods through the battle; his bronze and leather armor shining under the sun, the boar tusks in his helmet stained with blood and dust and yet showing the wild nature of war right there before their eyes; naked sword and spear at hand, bow and arrows waiting; Odysseus seemed at home. This familiarity of slaughter and war was the only thing they knew for almost a decade. For Odysseus too; the calmness of his childhood, the hunting parties in the forest, the quiet life among the quiet herding of the sheep and the goats in the plain; the change of season and the harvest of crops…all seemed forgotten. It was insignificant before this thrill of battle and conquest!

“Yes! Burn it down! Show the punishment of Zeus upon those who refuse his law!”

His eyes looked around. His men running around the city carrying torches and bronze. Fires were being set hither thither, screams were heard as helpless women and children were running out of their burning houses, coughing the sulphous smoke, some of them had covered their children with blankets, some were leading elders outside. They didn’t get to go far for many of them were grabbed by the hair by the bloodthirsty and now completely lost in battle soldiers and dragged out towards some other spot, crying or screaming, trying to hold onto whatever precious they had in hand; property or children.

“EURYLOCHUS!” Odysseus called his second in command closer, “Take the reins! Take over!”

He jumped out of his chariot rushing to assist some soldiers on foot.

“FIND THE KING! SIEZE THE CASTLE!” continued his orders on the way

His obsidian eyes scanned the massacre; men falling in the already bloody sand, women and children crying and running helplessly. One or two dragged behind corners. He had no idea what would happen beyond his optical field.

“No! No women and children! I said you shall not harm women and children!”

He slashed once more, feeling the blood splattering his already blood, painted face.

“MURDERER!”

And he slashed again…

“MONSTER!”

And again…everything almost seemed slowed down around him… It was as if his own breath was maximized to his ears…the neighing of horses and cries of the wounded… Some bloody lock of hair had escaped his helm and was resting against his brow, making the hairs almost touch his eye. It was bothering him…

“MONSTER! MONSTER! MONSTER!”

His breath hissing at the back of his throat; sweat running down his face, burning his eyes and salting his lips, transferring the metallic scent of blood alongside dust. His eyes seemed to be changing the scenery; it was night again; the streets were cobbled and not just covered in golden sand and dust; women and children were not tattooed or have their locks free running about but wore good veils and long skirts; women and children crying on top of their husbands or screaming at corners as soldiers would have their way with them in their lust for battle and thrill. He blinked repeatedly to bring the current image to his head instead. No, he wouldn’t think about Troy! Not now! However, was that image so different, really? He mechanically closed his eyes and breathed in the scent of dust and blood and fire. Suddenly all sounds were blocked; only the whistling in his ears was echoing and some distant cries coming straight out of the haunting past.

“NOOOO!”

“WE’RE UNDER ATTACK!”

“ODYSSEUS! YOU SPAWN OF THIEVES AND RAGGED SCHEMER!”

“ODYSSEUS! Odysseus…”

“ODYSSEUS!”

He gasped as the familiar voice of Polites reached his ears and just on time for his senses to heighten once again and blocking just on time a Ciconian sword a few inches away from his face. His counter attack was as quick as the man had his throat gushed from side to side, revealing the tendons and vocal chords. He choked on his own blood and fell. Odysseus needed a second to calm his heart.

“Thanks” he said to Polites half-heartedly

His eyes looked up at the top of the walls to see a man running accompanied by two others. He had seen that man before! He was with the embassy that met them. So this man was their king after all! His lips formed a smirk. He spat the bitter taste of blood and sand off his mouth.

“Cover me, Polites!” he ordered running up the stairs

His feet were getting almost sinking in the bloody sand as he ran upstairs. The arrows that whistled by his side were music to his ears as one of the king’s guards fell. The other bravely charged towards Odysseus but his sword was deflected. Odysseus pulled the man by the arm and threw him down the stairs. As he approached the top, breathing heavily, the man eyed him with his brown eyes and pulled his own sword. Odysseus moved his head a bit as if he was approving the man’s persistence. And then he charged. The two swords clang with each other. He was strong, Odysseus noticed, and fierce in his attacks. He gathered the sword and attacked again and then again, to be met with a counter attack. His opponent nicked his arm. He hissed.

“Shit!”

The attack came again but this time he was ready. Like two lions ready to tear each other apart over the best part of a carcass, the two kings were fighting for the price of the city and its treasures. Odysseus span once more, hitting the man’s stomach with his elbow. The stunned king turned back and chocked as he tried to counter his next attack. He also earned himself a gush to his arm.

“Surrender!” Odysseus demanded

The man spat something in his dialect, eyeing Odysseus with this kind of look that if it were lightning, Odysseus would have been stricken dead by now.

“I suppose this means ‘never’!” he smirked

He attacked again and again. The man was exhausted even if he was at least five years younger. Odysseus knew he wouldn’t go forever. His own muscles suffering from a day’s battle and from the light scratches he took upon during the battle.

“No! I shall not die here! This is not my destiny! My home is waiting! Not here! Not like this!”

He kicked the sand under his feet; some went to his opponent’s face. In that moment he stroke with his sword, piercing the flesh of his opponent’s stomach. Unfortunately for him it wasn’t deep enough. The man stepped back, holding his wounded stomach. He looked around, the destruction of his city that seemed to be already falling even if the day was not even over yet. He looked again at his opponent who so simply had managed to take his Ismarus with just a handful of men. He knew he was dying. He had realized his city was lost now.

“Who…are…you…?” he gasped

Odysseus rushed forward, like a wolf towards the wounded doe that was now making her last stand. His sword met the last weak resistance from his opponent. Fast like a cat he removed the small knife he kept in his armband and with one swift move he sank it to the side of his opponent’s neck. The king of the Cicones chocked as his own blood filled his mouth and lungs. He twitched and tried desperately to breathe. Odysseus leaned to his ear.

“I am Odysseus of Ithaca, son of Laërtes, the conqueror of the holy city of Troy!”

The man’s eyes widened in horror and realization as the shadow of death was already giving them a glassy appearance.

“The…S-Sacker…of…Cities…” he finally rasped out

And then the shadow of death passed over his face as he collapsed and never moved again. Odysseus sighed towards the heavens. The day was coming to an end; the sun was getting lost towards the horizon. He heard cries of triumph coming from down below. He looked down and saw that the city was taken over. The few men that were left alive, they were forced to throw their weapons; women and children were being led out towards the central square.

“Yet another city…fell in less than one night… Gods, it is so easy…feels so natural… Gods…war is inside me! The cries of all I destroyed are crying inside my head! The Sacker of Cities… Athena…patroness of war and wisdom, Pallas Athena… Why was this seed planted inside me…? Why me…?”

He ran his hand over his face, smearing some of the blood still on it. He looked down as the cries of triumph had increased now. He could hear them now form a rhythm once more…

“ALL HEIL FOR ODYSSEUS!”

“HOORAY!”

“SACKER OF CITIES!”

“SACKER OF CITIES!”

Odysseus closed his eyes and leaned back up towards the heavens. His sword fell from his hand and the knife that had taken the life of his opponent was long forgotten.

Sacker of Cities! Sacker of Cities! Sacker of Cities! Sacker of Cities! Sacker of Cities!

*

He inspected the area. The fires were still burning around but they were under control. At least no one seemed to be seriously hurt apart from some minor injuries and cuts that were taken care of very soon. His own minor cuts were barely of need of bandage. He felt exhausted and he wasn’t sure the battle was at fault. However he tried his best not to let anything show. Him feeling sorry for himself wouldn’t change a thing and in the end of the day they had chosen this. In a way they felt like they had to although he knew it was more the call for war inside them rather than the hunger in their bellies, which was a reason enough and yet…

“Odysseus! Look!”

The tired king followed the sound of Eurylochus’s voice as he led him to the granary. It was forcefully opened with axes and swords and revealed the treasure inside; grain, wine, dried meats and many, many more they could use for their trip just like as they had predicted. There were also cattle that were led to the square to be included to their sacrifices or offerings or prices and quite a few sheep and goats too.

“Look at all this food! We’re saved! By gods you did it!”

“Yeah…” Odysseus said absentmindedly

“And so many riches! Look!” Polites added, showing him some pieces of metal, weapons and jewelry, “This city was loaded with goods!”

Odysseus forced a small smile to his lips.

“Bring them all out” he ordered, “They shall be placed in the lottery to be shared with everyone. Foods and drinks shall be loaded to the ships”

“Do you want to choose, first?”

Odysseus stopped. He felt like he was re-living the conversation back at Troy when he was asked to take the pick of the spoils. Strange how often he was getting that question!

“No, Polites” he said, “We shall all take our share fair and square. That is the will of Zeus’s justice…”

Back at the square the few remaining men were tied up with secure ropes and brought kneeling before their conquerors. Odysseus walked over them, counting.

“Are they all that are left?” he asked

“We believe so”

“You…believe so?” Odysseus echoed, suddenly eyes darkening, “You mean you are not certain?”

“There was a huge battle, Odysseus! You cannot expect us to know for sure if anyone escaped or not…”

He had to admit that his general was right. But this scenario was possibly what he feared all along.

“And this was no battle…it was a slaughter! Just like Troy…”

Although he had to admit at least the Cicones were given the chance to fight back. It wasn’t like they attacked at night while everyone slept, right? Right? He eyed at the men who glared daggers at him.

“Kill them” he ordered calmly

The voice he made was so calm he was surprised. He hardly batted an eye when his men slashed the throats of the surviving warriors and watched the light of life escaping from their eyes; their last breath drawn out of their lips.

“How easily do men die! How easy it seems to plunder cities and yet…plunder and steal lives is even easier… Cursed war! Cursed Troy! You made a monster out of us all! This was not supposed to be our fate! We didn’t deserve this!”

The sound of begging came to his ears. And he heard the common Greek. That drew his attention as his men were dragging a man dressed in luxurious robes. There was no doubt on his identity. His face turned pale.

“UNHAND THIS MAN!” he roared the order, “This man is a priest! He shall not be touched!”

His men got alarmed by his voice and let the man go. The man seemed frightened. His beard splattered with blood and dust. His robes seemed tattered and half-torn. He was obviously dragged out of the temple violently. Odysseus felt his blood boil! He hoped his battle lust men hadn’t done so when the man sought sanctuary. That would be the end of them! He ran to help the priest stand. His hair was a rare copper sheen. His long curly beard was of even brighter color still. His eyes had the sheen of hazel. He seemed no over than 40 years of age. Maybe younger.

“Are you alright?” Odysseus asked

“Thank you…” the priest mumbled, standing back to his feet, “I am fine”

“You speak our language”

“Yes” the priest spoke, “I had the honor of being taught by my teachers when I was an acolyte to the grace of the Silver Shafted!”

“Rest assured, your safety is guaranteed. No one shall touch you while I am in command! Who are you? What is your name? What is your line?”

“I am called Maron, my lord. Euanthes is the name of the man who claims my heritage. I have the honor of claiming both the Greek and the Thracian blood and language inside me”

“Maron of noble birth” Odysseus said officially, “You have my word that you shall be guaranteed your life. Flee Ismarus while you can. Forgive me for the destruction we caused. Trust me though your lords and masters had it coming. We arrived at their doors seeking hospitality and they refused. This blood shall fall on them”

He was lying to himself and he knew it. Perhaps part of him believed what he said. However not all of it. The lust for blood he felt before was no coincidence.

“I beg of you, my lord, can my family also go through? I have a wife, sons and daughters! Please be merciful and allow them also flee! In the name of Apollo I beseech you!”

Odysseus smiled reassuringly.

“You have my word” he promised, “Rest assured. Take all your kin and everything you can carry and go. No one shall harm you. No one shall take a single hair of your heads while you do so”

Maron, son of Euanthes bowed before the king of Ithaca and grabbed his blood-painted hand. He brought it to his lips and kissed it. Odysseus shivered. Such gratefulness coming from a man who had the chance to save his life and his family!

“He kisses the hand of the man who killed his masters! Just like king Priam kissed the hand of the man who killed his son! Is there hope then? For our souls in Hades? Or maybe we are doomed like Achilles who fell by the arrow of the weakest man in Troy?”

“Blessed you be, my lord!” Maron whispered, “May Apollo guide you with his light! May he grand you health and wisdom!”

Odysseus drew his hand back. Part of him wanted to scream for this man to realize whom he had before him; the butcher of Troy! The man who chose to fight by trickery and chose to take the holy city in one night.

“Enough, my friend…enough…” he whispered, “Just go…you are free”

“Please…let me give you a gift for your mercy, my lord…”

He dragged the astounded king by the arm, like a child taking his father to see his achievement. Maron led him to the temple that still smoked. His family was gathering everything they could. Maron took him to the cellar and presented him with a large sealed vase.

“Please accept this godly wine from me, my lord” Maron said, “It is a blessed, black-red sweet beverage for you and your kin. But be careful, for it is very special. One cup of this, needs to be watered at least 20 times before it is drinkable. Never forget it!”

Odysseus smiled once more. Such a valuable gift! Maron was being extremely generous with them. Somehow this kindness and response to mercy reminded him the small peace of mind he got when Menelaus gave him some praise despite the fact that the city of Troy was cussing his name to the grave. He caressed the large ceramic and then turned to the priest.

“I am beyond grateful for your gesture” he said, “I shall accept your godly gift and I shall heed your words to my heart, I promise”

Maron nodded. He then took his veil, covered his face and then took his family, placed them all to their cart and slowly left the city. Odysseus had made sure no one would be getting in their way. He watched the priest go. He knew he would never see him again. And yet his heart felt a bit lighter. At least some part of him was still human…

***

A very VERY special thanks to my commenters from my previous part @cjbolan @dionysism @freetyphoonfire @tumblingghosts @theyugiohfanartistwritersblog

So this is the actual attack of Ismarus! Hahaha! Sorry if my descriptions are all over the place here! You see I wasn't sure what kind of tecnique Odysseus might use since he doesn't claim he gets any sort of loss during the charge. So yup! Here's me trying to imagine how an "Odysseus style plunder" might look like! Hahaha!

The inserting flashbacks was a thing inspired heavily from movies such as "The A Team"

The part of where you read "Odysseus you spawn of theives..." etc was of course a wink to my fanfiction Guilt Part 2 The part where Odysseus speaks about his heart feeling lighter and remembering Menelaus was also a wink to my fanfiction's third part Guilt Part 3

The cries of "Murderer" and "monster" were actually a wink to a fic I haven't read yet and to give you a light spoiler is again a hint to the cries of Hecuba mourning for the loss of her children, Polyxena in particular.

The knife in his armband was a wink to my tiny story Philoctetes Inspirations 2

Once more inspired by music by Kostas Kapnisis this time the one called "Μάχη" ("Battle")

as well as the main theme of the movie aka the titles sequence music:

I loved the heroic theme being inserted by tragic music and some violent drums. Seems so fitting for this!

Originally I wanted to finish this second part with Odysseus warning his men on leaving immediately and sharing the spoils but I thought it would be more impactful to finish it at the mercy shown upon Maron and his family instead.

I will certainly write a 3rd part for this and I am not sure if I will need a Part 4 too! Hahaha! I will need to see how big part 3 will become.

As before I wanna thank a few accounts that honored me before with insights comments reblogs and ideas (again terribly sorry if I forget anyone!)

@loco-bird @smokey07 @adrift-in-thyme @superkooku @marieisnothere12 @dilutedh2so4 @ditoob @tunguszka20 @ilov3b00kss0much @fangirlofallthefanthings @cr4zy-cycl0n3 @shafeeyaart @hermesmoly @insomniphic @blueflipflops @venomspecs @styberusartz @freetyphoonglitter @simugeuge

[katerinaaqu]

List five (5) things that make you happy, then put this in the ask box of the last ten (10) people who reblogged something from you! (don't have to do it; i just followed the instructions 🤣)

I am so sorry for being late hehe I cannot do much on spreading this but this is very sweet so I shall reply

Traveling

Listening to music or singing

Writing or analyzing on ancient text

Reading and studying ancient texts

Working on my projects with my friend @artsofmetamoor on our world building projects

Whoever wants to do this please do 😊

[katerinaaqu]

Okay, if someone asked me to put greek music that fits Odysseus especially the final parts of his arduous trip (in a way the things that occur before and during Ogygia, as also memorized in my fic "Survivor's Guilt and Survivor's Duty") I think I am among two!

It's Raining Fire on my way (or "Bitter wave")

It's raining fire on my way Fire that has burnt me For my poor youth No one shall cry

[Ref] The life, the life ends here My lamp is burning out And the soul, and the soul like a swallow Flees from my lips

Bitter wave against my bow And the sails (are) torn Not even a brother, my boy Has ever cared about you

[Ref] The life, the life ends here My lamp is burning out And the soul, and the soul like a swallow Flees from my lips

I keep asking (or "The Bitter Path")

I took the bitter path, I took the bitter path That leads nowhere Pain binds my lips, pain binds my lips My heart is dripping blood, my heart is dripping blood

[Ref] And I keep asking, and I keep asking And I seek for my love But no reply arrives And my hope is sinking, and my hope is sinking Road after road and I got lost, road after road and I got lost The nightbird is crying I took the bitter path, I took the bitter path That leads nowhere, that leads nowhere

[Ref] But as I keep asking, but as I keep asking For the love that I am seeking for A smile breaks through Somewhere afar the dawn is breaking, somewhere afar the dawn is breaking

***

Hehehehe sorry a bit of nostalgia for some of these passionate old songs! In a way I would love to see some sort of Odyssey created by greeks like these golden movies of the 1950s-1960s with such music in! Haha! Anyways probably mates like @margaretkart will understand! Hehehe sorry for the random post! I just had to! Because these songs are pure poetry of pain!

I also wanna give a wink to my amazing friend @artsofmetamoor with her recent inspiration for greek mythology inspired AU for our meridian/metamoor charcters from W.I.T.C.H and her latest amazing sketches that deserve so much more love!

Jaoral and Akule (Apollo and Artemis)

Cornelia and Jaoral and Akule (Persephone/Leto, Apollo and Artemis)

And of course you imagine a certain cheesy dude that is going to play the part of this poor tormented boy that is called Odysseus! Hahaha! Keep your eyes open for that! Hahahaha!

[artsofmetamoor]

Hello. I'm always interested, we know that Galhots like wearing jewellery especially in ears, they have a lot earrings in different place.

1)How they pierce their ears symmetrical?(They are blind))

2)How they choose ,what they want?(helix, industrial,lobe and so on)

3)Why do they do that? Is there meaning?(exemple:You can wearing helix if you kill big cat)

I know it's a lot but i relly want to know)

Hi! Thank you so much for your interest, it always means a lot ^^

With their other developed senses Tribal Galhots can accurately measure distances between objects and their symmetry, both by using reflecting sounds in a sort of echolocation technique, or simply by touch. They assist each other with piercings, and in the case of equal earrings they touch the lobe and place the first one as best as they can, then they measure the spot of the second piercing while touching the first one for reference.

The where and why a piercing is made, as well as for the shape, it's all for the most part a purely personal choice. There is not a general symbolic meaning for them, tho they can have their own individual and sentimental value to each person. Many Tribal Galhots are crafters and smiths and like to display their work with gold and iron in their jewelry (their craftsmanship technique is also unique to Metamoor and can be a connection to their people) other times in the case of a special hunt (such as a rite of passage into adulthood) they might choose to turn the hunted animal's claws, teeth or bones into earrings or other jewelry to display their victory and pride. Sometimes when there is a funeral, after the pyre burns for the deceased, one might chose to collect a small fragment of bone and turn it into a piece of jewelry to remember a lost loved one. And other times it could be simply a tribute for someone or something, or simply a special gift e.t.c. Also since children do not get piercings, it's a sign of someone's coming of age.

[artsofmetamoor]

Good evening) You and katerinaaqu very talented. I love your arts and galhots biography. Thank you so much) I have a question. We know that in the past Dilla protected Cornelia from Assara and won. Does Dilla stronger than Assara or they are equal? And if you have a time and opportunity could you draw Dilla and Assara tohether.(Sorry for mistakes. Not my first language)

Hello! Here are the ladies 👀

Thank you so much! That's kind, we're very happy you enjoy this collab ^^ It really makes my day when people remember our original characters and concepts! ❤️

Assara surpasses Dilla in brute strength and size, however Dilla accompanied Caleb and the rebels for years during the revolution against Phobos, and has gained real life experience in harsh warfare.

They are both highly skilled warriors and huntresses, however Assara can get carried away in her overconfidence and uncontrolled emotions.

So short answer, physically Assara is much stronger, but in general having in mind skill and experience, they can be considered to be at a similar level.

[katerinaaqu]

Girl! As always thanks for the mention 😊 ✨️🪷✨️🤗 and for this amazing insight of your character creation! 👍

Yup makes sense since we always need an antagonist for every story that involves this thematic so makes sense how certain characters were not thought through beyond that point of their role initially but that is the great thing with characters that are created; they grow like babies grow! You start with an idea and the rest of them accumulate together to create a character more complete! And Diego deserves sooooooo much more attention than what he gets!

Makes sense that this is indeed a really valid starting point for a character whether that is writing or designing and all for elements like these tell a story and absolutely all that makes sense! He is more subtle of personality so his body and style also respond to that plus the way he slips through the cracks almost literally is also his own nature as a spy or actor as he needs to fill many roles. Even if one calls him Chameleon it still works given how agile the animal can be.

Hahaha elf ranger indeed 🤣 😂 😆 but I so see that on your sketches dear! Yes his clothing are still so practical (as opposed to others like Phobos who wears extravagant robes that normally wouldn't be used in battle with sleeves and details that have no real practical use apart from concealing the body and have a dramatic effect). Diego wears his tights tunics or boots clearly for practicality and function. Even his capes robes or mantles can have a practical purpose as proector against the rain or to hide one's features when walking about the city but generally speaking they can also be a bit more extravagant in subtle details than other characters than Caleb who apart from the fact that wears clothing that are flattering his figure and bring out some of his good characteristics he doesn't seem to wear decorations to his clothing.

Some cliché exist for a reason dear. Color red was always linked to something powerful or passionate so of course if someone appears in red is obviously to stand out and bring up this explosion of color in a room. That alone has a passionate assertion to the situation. If anything there is something instinctual regarding intense colors like red or yellow and nature for instance many creatures or plants that have intense red color are associated with poison and danger. Which makes sense why red hair or red clothes are generally associated with intense personas (and let's face it if someone sees red is not the first instict to feel calm as opposing to blue or light green)

Oh he definitely loves fiercely and that is the reason of his downfall. The intensity of emotions was mostly his worst enemy. His own personal exaggeration in his heart. It is so great that his color scheme was built basically from the red of his hair! 😍❤️🔥

And yes it makes sense how often we must focus on colors that compliment each other so the eye will not get tired. Of course there are designs that use the same color scheme through and through (like some white haired anime characters for instance also dressed in white giving them an "all white" essence one character that comes to mind is Shizuka Hio from Vampire Knight or characters from Deadman Wonderland) but i see why it is preferable in your head to keep balance. Would I find interesting to see Diego in intense colored clothing? Perhaps but yes earthly browns are definitely complicating him. Likewise blues or greens would do that same job. As opposing to black colors that would give him a more pallid nature. Surely it would bring up the red in his hair but somehow Diego wearing all black would give him a much more intense "villain vibe" than it should be averting the point of his complicated personality

Awwww Dilla is mentioned yay 👏 🪷✨️🪷✨️🪷✨️🪷👏 you definitely made that idea soar girl!

Oh shush girl you always flatter me so much!

You are so sweet! Best team effort ever! 👌

Hey! I want you to know never doubt it, your art is FAN-TASTIC 👀 and it deserves all the praise it can get! 💖✨️❤️

How do you come up with your designs for the characters? Diego in particular; how did you come up with the design or the color scheme and the like! Seems a complicated process of thought!

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words, it means a lot!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Oh gosh, there's a bit to unpack here, but I'll try not to drag it! Diego is an interesting choice, not many people ask me about him, you are very attentive stranger! It's kind of funny because when I first created him he had a simple antagonistic role, mainly because I didn’t have much experience with character design or storytelling at the time. Both him and my skills are still growing.

When designing a character, I start by exploring their personality, background, and role in the story. So now I aimed to capture Diego's inner qualities and flaws, as well as how his environment and relationships influence him. From his pose, to the way he carries himself, his expressions, the silhouette of his body e.t.c. all of that must hint to the viewer who is is as a person.

For instance Diego has mostly the role of an archer in the rebellion, so he should have well-developed upper arms and shoulders. However, given his stealthy and cunning nature, I imagined him to be toned and athletic rather than overly muscular despite being a warrior. Additionally, Diego has a subtle 'posh' vibe to him even when he's being erratic, which I try to show through small details like elegant movements or the gestures of his hands.

After deciding his body structure I move over to all the other details that add to his character. For example I also wanted his clothes to balance his personality with his role in a rebellion, so they are a bit more elegant for a rebel, reflecting his slightly vain nature, but I also tried to portray them as practical. Everything he wears has a purpose, whether it’s for mobility, stealth, or durability in battle. The elegance in his attire is subtle, maybe in the cut of his tunic or the way his boots are laced, but it’s there, showing that he’s someone who cares about how he presents himself. Now that I think about it Diego is pretty much like an elf ranger 😆

As far as his colors go, one of the first things I knew I wanted for Diego was red hair. Even though it’s a bit cliché, I felt it symbolized the fiery aggression he carries inside. As his character developed, the red hair came to represent not just aggression, but also his passion, determination, and his intense need to prove himself (feelings he often keeps hidden). The color also reflects how he loves fiercely, sometimes to the point of self-destruction. I focused on keeping his hair red and built the color scheme around it because having that one fixed detail made the rest of the design process easier for me.

After that I used complementary and softer colors such as greens and earthly browns to highlight his outfit, eyes e.t.c.

It can definitely seem daunting to create something from scratch, I always try to go back to basics so things don't turn into a rumble in my head. For example, when I'm choosing color schemes for either characters or environments I tend to just look back at color theory, and I know that might seem dull, but it’s incredibly important and useful for understanding how colors interact and complement each other (just like it is important to understand anatomy for drawing figures).

I won’t dive into the technical details since there are plenty of online tutorials, but one reference I highly recommend is James Gurney’s book Color and Light. It’s been a game-changer for me and it's a tool I frequently return to when I feel stuck in my coloring process:

Palette generators are also useful resources:

https://color.adobe.com/create/color-wheel

Even stuff like character creator and dress-up games can be surprisingly effective for inspiration and kick starting a base for character designs and color schemes if you are feeling stuck. Some of our most beloved original characters started from this, combined with the techniques I mentioned above. For example, Dilla was initially created by @katerinaaqu using one of these games (left). I then drew her and fleshed out her body structure and tailored her appearance to better fit her personality and physical descriptions, as we both envisioned her (right) :

With this I also must point out that the development of Diego and the entirety of Chronicles of Metamoor was a team effort. My friend @katerinaaqu, an awesome writer who collaborates with me on this project, played a big role in shaping these characters. Her detailed descriptions, stories, and insights were very important to bring them all to life ❤️

I think this is all for now. I apologize if this explanation was a bit general, but if you (or anyone else) have more questions about Diego’s design or any of our other characters, or even just any general question feel free to ask! Your support and interest in my art and our story mean a lot to me, thank you so much! ❤️🌹