#gone series fan art

[raygunsunny]

[velaversal]

BuddyBuddy

stream hero

[smallearthboundfindings]

One for the nothing more than mildly interesting category, let's talk about Ness's shoes. Fan art reference, you see.

Some of you may know that Ness (and Paula by extent) had different models in the states, but one of the things that changed was Ness's shoes. Here they are.

[Id: An image of Ness's American model, cropped out to only show his shoes. They are red sneakers with white laces and soles, and have white, orange-rimmed circles on their sides.]

Check out that distinctive circle pattern. Isn't that rather distinctive of Converse shoes, specifically. Here's some for comparison (source):

[Id: An image of a Converse brand shoe. It is a sneaker in a patchwork pattern and mostly blue with red and green patches, and white soles and laces. It too has a white circle on its side, this time with a blue star in the middle.]

It's funny they gave him a specific brand to rep, gives me real Sonic the Hedgehog Soap shoes energy, but there you have it. Another fun fact, though stated once before, this one more solidly canon due to being from the Japanese release, Ness's shoes are canonically a little beat-up according to this line from the lyrics to Smiles and Tears, more on those and how I got them in this post.

"My favorite baseball cap rests on my head

My worn out sneakers, faded white and red."

Beat-up (probably) Converses... Thank you, Ness.

[doodlingwren]

It's again that time of the week where I have to go and report the spam and/or porn bots from the tags I follow because every time I see one of their posts on my dashboard I die inside a little bit

[thexvthmember]

Welcome to my FGO Cain and Abel Fan-Servant Masterpost! I hope you like overly detailed OC profiles, scroll at your own discretion lmao

┊ ┊ ┊ ┊ ┊ ┊

┊ ┊ ┊ ┊ ˚❀ ⋆｡˚❃

┊ ┊ ┊ ✿

┊ ┊ ❁⋆

┊ ๑ ┊

✾ ⋆ ┊. ˚.

˚✽

True Name: Cain and Abel

Servant Class: Avenger

Rarity: ☆☆☆☆☆

Cost: 16

ATK: 1953/12641 HP: 2183/14877

Grail ATK: 13838 Grail HP: 16309

Lvl.120 ATK: 16242 Lvl.120 HP: 19168

Attribute: Star Growth: Linear

Star Gen: 6.00% Star Absorption: 29

NP Charge ATK: 0.47% NP Charge DEF: 5%

Death Rate: 30.0%

Traits: Male, Humanoid, Servant, Weak to Enuma Elish, Divine, Animal Traits Servant, Moon

Quick: 3 hit Arts: 2 hits Buster: 4 hits Extra Attack: 6 hits

Quick Attacks: Cain and Abel rush the enemy, Cain holds the enemy in place as Abel attacks it

Arts Attacks: Cain attacks the enemies from a distance with stones and summoned crows

Buster Attack: Abel rushes the enemy and beats on them savagely while Cain tries to pull him back

Extra Attack: Cain cries out and rushes the enemy, Abel appears from behind him and stabs through both of them with his herding cane

Parameters

Strength: C Endurance: E-EX

Aglity: D Mana: C+

Luck: E- NP: A+

Passive Skills

Divinity C:

Increases own damage by 150.

Madness Enhancement (First Blood) A:

Increases own Buster performance by 10%.

Increases own Extra Card performance by 20% when Guts is activated.

Territory Creation (Wayward Wandering) A:

Increases own Arts performance by 10%.

Heals self by 100 when defeating an enemy.

Blood that Taints the Earth A+:

Increases own Critical Damage by 15% on Forest Battlefield, Hill Battlefield, Wilderness Battlefeld, Rocky Mountain Battlefield, Prairie Battlefield.

Curse of Cain A++:

Decreases own Debuff resistance by 20%, [Demerit]

Grants self Spreading Curse status. [Demerit]

(Increases Curse damage on self by 200%)

Active Skills

The Sins and Boons of Eve A+

Deals 2000 damage to self for 3 turns. HP cannot fall below 1 from this skill. [Treated as buff] (Demerit)

Grants self On-Attack-Activate buff for 3 turns.

(Charges own NP when attacking with Buster Cards)

Grants self On-Attack-Activate buff for 3 turns.

(Increase Defense for 3 turns when attacking with Arts Cards)

Clears all debuffs.

Level: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

NP+:| 1.5% | 5.5% | 6% | 6.5% | 7% | 7.5% | 8% | 8.5% | 9% | 9.5% | 10%

Defense+:| 5% | 5.5% | 6% | 6.5% | 7% | 7.5% | 8% | 8.5% | 9% | 9.5% | 10%

Cooldown: | 8 | 7 | 6

Unlocks after 1st Ascension

Mark of the Pariah EX

Draws attention for all enemies to self by 500% for 1 turn. Grants self Guts for 3 turns.

[Activating Guts status will not end turn.]

Grants self On-Guts-Activated buff for 3 turns.

(When Guts status is activated, inflict [Mark of Cain] status for 5 turns to enemy.)

Increase Attack for 3 times, 3 turns.

Level: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Revive with:| 500 | 550 | 600 | 650 | 700 | 750 | 800 | 850 | 900 | 950 | 1000

Attack+:| 30% | 32%% | 34% | 36% | 38% | 40% | 42% | 44% | 46% | 48% | 50%

Cooldown: | 9 | 8 | 7

Unlocks after 3rd Ascension

Raven Guided Burial A+

Increase own NP gauge.

Reduce all enemies NP gauge by 1.

Grants party Mental Debuff immunity for 1 time, 3 turns.

Increase party’s NP damage for 1 time, 3 turns.

Selects own NP Command Card’s type between Arts or Buster for 3 turns.

Level: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

NP+:| 20% | 21% | 22% | 23% | 24% | 25% | 26% | 27% | 28% | 29% | 30%

NP Damage+:| 10% | 11% | 12% | 13% | 14% | 15% | 16% | 17% | 18% | 19% | 20%

Cooldown: | 8 | 7 | 6

Noble Phantasm

Genesis of Envy

「 Death of the Brother, Origin of Sin」

Rank Classifcation Type Hit Count

A+ Anti-Army Sin Arts 5

Effect:

Remove all enemy’s Defensive Buffs. [Activates first]

Deal significant damage to all enemies. [Lvl.]

<Deals (100%+25%*N) extra damage>

N: Enemy [Mark of Cain]’s stack count, Max; 4 stacks.>

NP Level: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Damage+: 1200% - 1400% - 1600% - 1800% - 2000%

Overcharge Effect:

Chance to Instant Kill all enemies [Takes effect after damage].

Recover Own HP.

Charge: 100% | 200% | 300% | 400% | 500%

Heal+:| 1000 | 1500 | 2000 | 2500 | 3000

Death Chance+| 50% | 60% | 70% | 80% | 90%

Exactment of Envy

「 First Victim of Sin, Slaughtered Lamb」

Rank Classifcation Type Hit Count

[C]A+ Anti-Unit Sin Buster 5

Effect:

Remove one enemy’s Defensive Buffs. [Activates first]

Deal significant damage to one enemy. [Lvl.]

<Deals (100%+25%*N) extra damage>

N: Enemy [Mark of Cain]’s stack count, Max; 4 stacks.>

NP Level: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Damage+: 1200% - 1400% - 1600% - 1800% - 2000%

Overcharge Effect:

Chance to Instant Kill one enemy [Takes effect after damage].

Increase Attack for 3 turns.

Increase Critical Damage for 3 turns.

Charge: | 100% | 200% | 300% | 400% | 500%

Death Chance+: | 50% | 60% | 70% | 80% | 90%

Attack+: | 30% | 35% | 40% | 45% | 50%

Crit Damage+: | 50% | 62.5% | 76% | 87.5% | 100%

Bond 10 Reward:

Second Born Blood

When this card is equipped on Cain and Abel (Avenger),

Gain 20 critical stars and grant party Invincibility for 1 turn when they are defeated.

Description:

”Am I my brother’s keeper?”

In the years I was left to wander the earth, the question I had posed to the Lord continued to plague my mind. The ground onto which I had spilled my brother’s blood never bore fruit again. The curse etched into my soul burned as I beared the brunt of attempts on my life, only to be saved by it and live another day.

”Am I my brother’s keeper?”

For a time, I despised him. I loathed the searing sun and desolate ground, detested the stinging winds and wrathful flames. It must be his fault, the burden I bear. Why had the Lord favored him, when my offering was just as plentiful? If he hadn’t been a braggart, I wouldn’t have struck him dead!

”Am I my brother’s keeper?”

What a fool. He had done nothing but rejoice, yet I was blinded by envy. I had partaken in sin of my own volition, there was no one else to blame. This curse was my just deserts.

If I could turn back time, return to those blissful days before jealousy consumed me..

”Brother, Master is calling. Let’s not keep them waiting.”

Then I shall be my brother’s keeper, for as long as fate allows me.

Character Information:

The tragic brothers from the book of Genesis.

There’s not much to be said about this pair that hasn’t already been said, aside from how cruel it must be to now share a Spirit Origin with your killer.

Oddly, Cain seems to be the mild-mannered and polite brother, while Abel’s presence bears a menacing aura.

Approach them with caution.

Bond 1:

Height/Weight: 175 cm • 76.2 kg/160 cm • 60 kg

Origin: Biblical

Alignment: Chaotic Evil/Chaotic

Neutral

Genders: Male

”Thank you for having us, Master.”

”Master, may I strike Brother?”

”Oh Abel...”

Bond 2:

There were once a pair of brothers, the elder named Cain and younger named Abel.

Cain was a tiller, working the land, while Abel was a herdsman, tending to livestock. One day, they were commanded to make an offering to God.

Cain burnt the plentiful yield of his crops, and Abel the finest young of his flock. However, God only looked upon Abel’s offering with favor. God told the older brother it was for his own good, for his improvement

Envy, pride and wrath raged within Cain, that he had been rejected so callously. And when the brothers were next alone in his fields, the younger was struck dead.

And so God banished Cain, marked as sinner.

But that’s a story we all know, isn’t it?

Bond 3:

For in truth, what had it meant to strike someone dead, when death meant nothing to man yet? Cain knew not what he was doing when he attacked, simply acting on his basest urge to hurt out of being hurt. And from Abel’s death was born the sin of murder.

Perhaps the true curse he was inflicted with wasn’t the mark God gave him, but the overwhelming guilt that plagued him for the rest of his wandering days.

All he could think about was the life he had snuffed; the kind and caring soul surrounded by his herds. As he grew old, how would his brother have appeared if they still stood side-by-side? As his child was born, would he have been there to congratulate him? As he laid beneath the toppled bricks of his rooftop, was Abel there in the winds, rightfully laughing at the irony of his death by stone?

Oh, remorse was a heavy burden to bear indeed.

Bond 4:

○The Sins and Boons of Eve A+

Some interpretations say that while the brothers shared Eve as their mother, their fathers may have been different. Cain is sometimes believed to have been conceived through an affair, partners ranging from the snake that tempted Eve, to a fallen angel, to the devil himself. And it is this possible inhuman blood that leads to one answer as to why the older brother was capable of such sin.

○Mark of the Pariah EX

The curse placed upon Cain was one meant to make him suffer. The earth he once nurtured would never again offer its prize for his labor, and those who saw the mark upon his skin would know his nature. And perhaps it was mercy, or a twisted sense of justice, that God also made the mark one of protection; Cain would not die before his allotted time, unlike the life he so cruelly ended.

○Corvid Guided Burial A+

When Abel was struck down, Cain was at a loss. The death of man was a mystery to him, let alone one by another’s hand. It was then a Corvid landed on the ground. The bird sang a strange, sorrowful song as it scratched the ground, calling for the murderer to follow it. And follow he did, digging a deep hole to bury his brother in.

Though, Cain couldn’t understand why there were tears running down his face as he did.

Bond 5:

Genesis of Envy

「 Death of the Brother, Origin of Sin」

Rank: A+

Type: Anti-Army Sin

Range: 0~?

Target: N/A

While on the surface Cain appears to be calm and levelheaded, his sin follows him wherever he goes. There’s an urge that scratches underneath his skin; to kill his brother again, and again, and again. As long as Abel lives, Cain must forever hold back the instinct to strike him down. So instead, he takes out that pent up desire on the enemies he faces, tearing them down without regret or mercy. They will be his sacrificial lambs; anything to keep Abel safe.

Exactment of Envy

「 First Victim of Sin, Slaughtered Lamb」

Rank: A+

Type: Anti-Unit Sin

Range: 1~3

Target: 1 Person

The brothers are inextricably linked through their shared tragedy, each too weak to be summoned separately. It is Abel that causes their shared Spirit Origin to manifest as Avenger, but had they not been summoned together, Exactment of Envy would not be nearly as powerful without him being directly linked to the source of his vengeance. Even as murderer and victim, these brothers rely on one another, in a twisted way.

Unlock After Interlude:

Ahhh, he deserves to die. How dare he, how dare he, how dare he!

What had I ever done to deserve this?! Had I not been good? Had I not been dutiful? Had I not been kind? I only did what was asked of me! I only wanted to do right by the Lord, my God!

In the field that day...

Why, why, WHY!?

Why... Big brother...?

No.

You’re not my brother, are you? You’re nothing but a filthy animal in disguise, pretending to be an innocent lamb. Murderer, murderer, murderer, that must be all you are...

Then I suppose that means both us brothers died that day! Hah, hahahaAHAHAHAHA!

And yet... why am I still not satisfied?

Voice Lines

Possible VAs:

Cain- Yoshimasa Hosoya (for tone - Nezumi from No.6)

Abel- Akira Ishida (for tone - Zeref from Fairy Tail)

Summoned:

Cain: Good tidings Master, we are Avenger, our names are-

Abel: Murderer.

Cain: ...

Cain: ... Cain, my name is Cain.

Abel: Abel. Don’t expect much from us Master. We’re just dead weight after all.

Cain: Please don’t say that Abel, that’s not true.

Abel: Silence, you don’t deserve to speak.

Cain: ... *sigh*

Leveling

Level Up 1:

Cain: Look Abel, we’ve gotten stronger!

Abel: Am I strong enough to kill you yet?

Level Up 2:

Abel: Heh... Hehehehe...

Cain: As long as you’re happy.

Level Up 3:

Abel: Brot- Nevermind.

Cain: It’s okay Abel.

1st Ascension:

Cain: Huh? Th-these marks? Oh, they’re my... my...

Abel: Go on. Confess, monster.

Cain: ... From when I killed Abel, the proof of my sin. I pray they’re not too unsightly, Master.

Abel: Hmph...

2nd Ascension:

Abel: Ahhhh, agghhhh...

Cain: What’s wrong Abel?! Are you hurt?

Abel: Don’t touch me! I don’t need help from the likes of you!

Cain; Ah, right, Please disregard me then.

3rd Ascension:

Abel: Ahh, ahahahal Ohhh, I can feel it! Maybe I can finally kill you now, filthy sinner!

Cain: Use me however you see fit Abel, but please remember not to go overboard, I don’t want you to die with me.

Abel: As if you care! Murderer!

Cain: Exactly. Please don’t succumb and become a monster like me.

Abel: ...

4th Ascension:

Cain: Shhhh... Abel’s finally resting. Heh, it’s been so long since I’ve seen him so relaxed.

Cain: ....

Cain: When he’s asleep, I... I can’t help but pretend everything is how it used to be. Before I ruined it all. That maybe he’ll wake up and be the kind man I remember, and destroyed.

Cain: But it’s all wishful thinking in the end, isn’t it Master?

Abel: ...Bro... ther...

Cain: Shhhh, it’s alright, brother is here... I’ll make sure nothing ever happens to you ever again.

Battle

Battle Start 1:

Abel: If I die, I’m taking you with me.

Cain: Of course.

Battle Start 2:

Abel: Die, die, die, die...

Cain: Let’s kill them then.

Battle Start 3:

Cain: Keep your hands off my brother.

Abel: Shut up.

Skill 1:

Cain: Guh-!

Abel: It’s the least you deserve.

Cain: I-I know.

Skill 2:

Cain: Never again, never again, never again...

Skill 3 (Arts NP Selected):

Both: Aaaaagh!

Cain: I’m sorry, I’m sorry!

Skill 4 (Buster NP Selected):

Both: Aaaaagh!

Abel: It hurts, it hurts Brother!

Attack Selected 1:

Cain: Like this right?

Attack Selected 2:

Abel: Hmph.

Attack Selected 3:

Abel: Unsightly.

Attack Selected 4:

Cain: Leave it to me.

Noble Phantasm Selected 1 (Arts):

Cain: Feel the wrath of my cursed existence.

Noble Phantasm Selected 2 (Arts):

Cain: Hah- Hahaha! Watch me Abel, I’ll protect you this time!

Noble Phantasm Selected 3 (Buster):

Abel: Filthy sinners, all of you! Just like him!

Noble Phantasm Selected 4 (Buster):

Abel: DIE DIE DIE, LET’S SEE HOW YOU LIKE IT! HAHAHA!

Attack 1:

Cain: Grah!

Abel: Hah, hah!

Attack 2:

Cain: Together!

Abel: As if.

Attack 3:

Cain: I’m sorry, you must die.

Attack 4:

Cain: Take this!

Abel: How predictable.

Attack 5:

Abel: HRRAAAAGGHH!

Cain: Abel, that’s enough!

Attack 6:

Abel: You’re the one who deserves to die!

Cain: Abel, please...

Extra Attack:

Cain: Aaaargh, Why don’t you die!

Abel: You’d know all about that huh!

Cain: Guh-! I- I deserve it! I’m sorry!

Noble Phantasm 1 (Arts):

Cain: No no! I can’t kill him again, I won’t!

Cain: Forgive me, I swear! Nothing will lay a hand on you ever again! I’ll prove it, I’ll prove it!

Cain: I’ll kill them all as long as you forgive me!

Cain: Please, please, don’t leave me again...

Noble Phantasm 2 (Arts):

Cain: This curse is a double edged sword...

Cain: I can’t hold it back any longer! My body wants to kill him, but I won’t let it happen! So you… You’ll die with me, won’t you?

Cain: 「Genesis of Envy!」

Cain: No, this is mine to bear alone...

Noble Phantasm 3 (Buster):

Abel: Hah- hahaha- HAHAHA!

Abel: You’re really trying to lay a hand on me? Me?!

Abel: Die, die, die, die, die! A SINNER LIKE YOU SHOULD DIE!

Abel: Hah, hahaha, oh good riddance!

Noble Phantasm 4 (Buster):

Abel: A victim? Me?

Abel: No, no no no no, not anymore. Never again.

Abel: But you? You’re just filth, aren’t you? Good, be my scapegoat. Die in my place.

Abel : 「Exactment of Envy!」

Damage from Noble Phantasm:

Cain: Abel!!

Regular Damage:

Cain: Get behind me!

Defeated 1:

Cain: No... no no no no! I promised, I promised!

Abel: Stop...

Defeated 2:

Abel: Hehehehe, at least I... Get to see you go...

Cain: If it... Makes you happy...

Defeated 3:

Abel: Hurts! It... it hurts! Brother...

Cain: I’m sorry, I’m so sorry....

Battle Finish 1:

Cain: We’ve survived another day!

Abel: How unfortunate.

Battle Finish 2:

Abel: ... They’re gone.

Cain: We did it together.

Abel: So we did. How annoying.

My Room

Bond Lvl. 1:

Cain: Master, if I may be so bold, could I request we be placed on the backlines?

Abel: Coward.

Cain: It’s for your own good Abel!

Abel: As if you care what happens to me. Or did you decide to conveniently forget your sins?

Cain: Abel, I...

Abel: Shut up, I don’t want to hear anymore.

Bond Lvl. 2:

Cain: You know, we used to be very close once.

Abel: I don’t think they care to hear. Nor do I.

Cain: Abel was the cutest little thing as a babe! He’d go trotting around trying to get the sheep to play with him. And he’d always ask me to pick him up and give him tosses when father was too busy. It was adorable!

Abel: Do you want to die?

Cain: Does it bring back any memories?

Abel: ....

Bond Lvl. 3:

Abel: You’re far too comfortable having us around, Master.

Cain: Why must you be so blunt about everything...? And why do you say that?

Abel: Because Master seems like a good lamb. They shouldn’t have to make due with filth like you.

Cain: I suppose that’s true. But they’ve made contracts with many other... Unusual types of Servants. Perhaps our presence doesn’t bother them much?

Abel: I don’t like them either. They should stay away too.

Cain: Oh...

Bond Lvl. 4:

Abel: Master, are you free? My fool of a brother hurt himself again. Heal him.

Cain: It- It’s nothing! Anything to protect you both, after all...

Abel: If you die, I die with you, so let them heal you... Tch, this shared Spirit Origin is such a pain...

Cain: Ehehe... I’m happy to see that you even somewhat care for me.

Abel: Didn’t you hear what I just said? Maybe I really should kill you myself.

Cain: That’s the only way I want to die. Would that free you from this vengeance?

Abel: ... I don’t know...

Bond Lvl. 5:

Abel: The truth is... I don’t remember much about being human. Alive. Nowadays, there are feelings, or glimpses, but never anything solid. My memory begins and ends with my death, and that Brother killed me.

Cain: Abel...

Abel: So, you shouldn’t trust that Sinner to protect you, Master, or any of his ilk. They’ll try anything to corrupt a nice lamb like you.

Cain: But Abel, it’s our job as Servants to-

Abel: I can protect them on my own just fine. I don’t need your help.

Cain: ... Aha, haha, I see.

Abel: What? What are you laughing at!? Shut up!

Cain: No, I understand! So there really is a little of the old you in there... I see I shouldn’t be too worried then, since Abel is so resolved.

Cain: Rest assured Master, we’ll both do our very best to help you on your journey, any way we can. We swear. Right Abel?

Abel: I...

Cain: ....

Abel: .... We swear...

Dialogue 1:

Cain: What are you thinking about Abel?

Abel: Aside from killing you?

Cain: Yes, aside from that.

Abel: ... I want to lay down. On something cozy.

Cain: Huh?

Dialogue 2:

Cain: Master, is there anything we can do for you?

Abel: Something you need killed?

Dialogue 3:

Cain: You know Master, Abel used to be very silly!

Abel: Stop.

Cain: He’d follow the lambs around and make baa-ing sounds at them! Oh, and-!

Abel: You seem to want to die right now.

Cain: … Ahaha.

Dialogue 4 (After reaching Bond 5):

Abel: Go away.

Cain: Abel, don’t be rude!

Abel: I meant you, not Master. I want to play with Master for a bit.

Cain: .... Then far be it from me to stop you.

Abel: Stop smiling like that. It’s disgusting.

Dialogue 5 (After reaching Bond 5):

Cain: Abel, you know I love you right?

Abel: No you don’t.

Cain: Of course I do.

Abel: Shut up.

Cain: I love-

Abel: QUIET!

Dialogue 6 (Paris / Attila the San(ta)):

Abel: ...

Cain: Hm? Is something wrong?

Abel: ... Looks soft...

Cain: Soft? ... Oh, that sheep?

Abel: Mhm...

Cain: Should I go ask if you can pet it?

Abel: I can ask for myself!

Dialogue 7 (Avenger Class Servants):

Abel: Huh? That’s...

Cain: Ah, I suppose they’re another like us. Hm, something wrong Abel?

Abel: ... N-nothing, I... don’t like it.

Cain: There is a despairing aura to them... Perhaps I’m just used to it.

Dialogue 8 (Dioscuri / Trung Sisters):

Cain: Ah, look Abel, it’s those siblings I heard about!

Abel: Siblings... And you share a Spirit Origin as well?

Cain: I’m sure you must have a wonderful bond, to manifest together like this. Frankly, I’m a little jealous.

Abel: ... I don’t see why, it’s awful being stuck with you.

Cain: Oh Abel, you really know how to break my heart...

Abel: ... What heart...

Dialogue 9 (Kiara Sessyoin / Kama / Koyanskaya of Light / Koyanskaya of Darkness / Larva Tiamat / Sodom’s Beast/Draco)

Abel: Grrrrr!

Cain: Woah! Abel, calm down!

Abel: Let me go! I can feel them! Another one is here; Sinner, Sinner! SCUM LIKE THAT SHOULD DIE!

Cain: Master, I’m sorry, I’ll make sure to hold him back- Abel, gnaw on my arm if that will help placate you.

Abel: Grrr....

Dialogue 10 (Karna / Santa Karna / Arjuna / Arjuna Alter):

Cain: Ah, I see we’re not the only brothers here with a... Complicated relationship.

Abel: What’s complicated about it? You killed me in cold blood. We’re murderer and victim before we’re brothers.

Cain: Always to the heart of the matter huh...

Abel: ... That said, I think I can understand them. Just a little.

Cain: Is that a good thing?

Abel: ... I don’t know.

Likes:

Cain: I used to love growing crops but ever since my curse... Well, you know. But, I did learn all sorts of things during my wandering, I’d say I’m quite partial to whittling in particular. What about you Abel?

Abel: I... think I liked... Soft things.

Dislikes:

Abel: I’ll kill him one day. I despise him.

Cain: ... I can’t say that I don’t agree. I deserve it, after all.

About the Holy Grail:

Cain: A wish huh... Sounds too good to be true.

Abel: To kill brother.

Cain: How decisive. Well, considering my wish would be “Abel’s happiness”, then I suppose our wish is one in the same.

Abel: ...

During an Event:

Abel: It’s noisy over there, how annoying.

Cain: Now now, don’t say that! Let’s at least see what’s happening.

Birthday:

Cain: Today is the day you received the gift of life! ... I must apologize, but I feel that it would be best for you to stay away from us for the day, Master.

Abel: For once, I agree with him. We’re nothing but a bad omen on a day like this. But... Um...

Cain: Abel?

Abel: H- Happy birthday to youuuu... ♪

Cain: Ahh, hehe... Yes, please accept our well wishes, at the very least.

Valentine’s CE:

Olive Branch Brothers

Description:

A Valentine’s return gift from Cain and Abel.

When Abel expressed that he wished to return your kind Valentine’s gesture, Cain immediately set forth the idea of creating carvings. It took the brothers’ some deliberation (and fighting) to come to the conclusion that the most meaningful gift they could provide you was their united cooperation. The two figures are not just a physical olive branch, but a metaphorical one as well, each brother carving the likeness of the other.

Cain’s carving of Abel is smooth and practiced, nary a blemish in sight. It’s shine and lacquered finish bring out the natural beauty of the wood grain, and it’s clear to see his experience.

Abel’s carving of Cain is... Crude, to say the least. Painfully sharp edges, a rough texture, and smears of blood where he’d clearly nicked himself on the carving tool are all present. And yet, you can’t help but find the earnestness heartwarming.

Of course, as you proudly display them on your shelf, you try to ignore the obvious self-vandalism Abel committed on Figure-Cain’s head and heart.

These brothers still have a long way to go.

[waltzofthewifi]

Made it to the C’s!

Traced off one of the older covers.

ID start: digital art of a teenager from the chest up. He has pale skin, brown eyes, and wind blowing his black hair. He is wearing formal clothes tinted green. End ID

[adammonter]

Girl Help!! I can't stop falling through the worlds!

[starfireproductions]

James T. Kirk (Where No Man Has Gone Before)

Finishing off a project I started last year for my first grey scale work of 2023 with Captain Kirk himself. Always liked the uniforms in the original pilots and it was a shame that this episode was the only time we got to see the phaser rifle.

Full details can be found on my DA page here: https://www.deviantart.com/starfire-productions

[h0wlthew0lf]

erm..what the scallop!!

hi hi hello!!! uh so I'm finally posting my world Shattered Fate on tumblr!! so uh to sum it up, its a world of mine ive been working on for years now that has almost all of my ocs in it including my sona Howl!! Please ask me about it if you would like, and ill probably ramble about it alot here so yeah!!

The characters below are all from Shattered Fate btw!

[im-merobiba]

in honour of drawfee turning ten (!!!) here are ten reasons why you should watch drawfee

the art is incredible. i feel like that goes without saying for an art-based channel, but i am consistently impressed with how talented the hosts are.

these people are hilarious. pretty much every episode has at least one moment that makes me laugh out loud, which is no small feat. the jokes are just silly enough to be funny without being too much. or they are too much, which is just as entertaining.

all four hosts have great personalities that really shine. i like to say that each has their own flavour of chaos, which can really stand out both on its own and in combination with the others.

the four of them a really great dynamic. you can tell that they don't just spend time together because they have to. they have a genuine connection that one can only hope to find with a friend group.

the show has some great guests. from longtime friends of the show like willie and caldwell to newer folks like ralph and onsta. they've even had fans on the show before, such as deepblueink and nathan longs.

drawtectives. just drawtectives. the gang--especially julia--puts so much effort into making it an enjoyable series, and it's such a good time. it's definitely a commitment, with over twenty hours worth of episodes, but it is so worth it.

the fandom is probably the best i've ever been a part of. i've never seen much controversy in this fanbase, only positivity and a great sense of humour. the drawfee crew seems to like us, too. i hope they do, anyway.

speaking of the fandom, some of the best fan work in general i've ever seen have come from drawfee fans. from fanart to animations to edits to music, this fandom has some incredible creativity.

i talked about the humour, but i feel like i need to mention the recurring bits. i find myself laughing at everyday things like crabs and eggs because they remind me of some ridiculous drawfee bit.

this channel has been around for ten whole years now, and has continued to be incredible over all this time. i'm admittedly a newer fan, having discovered the show in early 2022, but i can recognise how much love and work has gone into this show. it's been a source of comfort for me and so many others, and i think that's a true accomplishment.

congratulations on ten years, drawfee crew. here's to many more.

[currymanganese]

GUYS, I CAN'T ACTUALLY BELIEVE I'M SAYING THIS, BUT WHAT IF THEY ACTUALLY HAD A GOOD REASON FOR JOHN CENA BEING CAST AS SAMMY FAK?

please bear with me (pun intended) and let me know what you think of my speculation under the cut~

In a mind-boggling case of a seemingly big-lipped alligator moment in season 3 - John Cena appears in a bizarrely over the top (even by the tonal comedic standards set previously by The Bear e.g. Ecto Cooler punch at a kid's birthday party getting spiked with Xanax in Season One) and jarring scene that stretches on and on as he obnoxiously squabbles, blathers and exchanges nonsensical rapid-fire quips with his brothers Neil and Ted Fak as they buff polish The Bear's dining area before a food photographer from The Chicago Tribune arrives to take a photo for a review of The Bear.

In this scene, he also intimidates and threatens to 'haunt' (in a Fak family tradition ( that even the Faks find annoying) - that involves pranking and being an unrestrained nuisance to their loved ones especially when they least expect it) his brother Ted for, "stealing his SD cards"......

This scene and the increased screen presence of the seemingly plot-irrelevant Faks this season is currently being eviscerated by plenty of fans and critics alike.

Edit:

I now strongly suspect that John Cena's role was always in the works ever since S1

..................................

But what if there's a (debatable, but) really good reason for this scene and the increased involvement in Seasons 2 and 3 of the massive numbered siblings family of Carmy's pseudo cousins, the Faks?

See Exhibit A:

In season 2, episode 3, Sundae - after Carmy has already asked Sydney out to Kasama, a husband and wife owned restaurant run by Tim Flores, and Genie Kwon*, ostensibly just to brainstorm and gain inspiration for planning for the new menu, and after Sydney has already gone home and freshened up and changed her clothes, then arrived to Kasama early, despite the meeting only being scheduled for an hour after she last spoke to Carmy at his apartment, Claire calls and interrupts the whole hypothetical shebang with Syd and Carmy at Kasama (the Tagalog WORD FOR TOGETHER) with the words,

"Did you mean to give me a fake number? You do know that I know your entire family [translation: she must know Donna too and Claire assumes that Carmy's folks approve of her - and she's proven to be technically right throughout Seasons 2 and 3 ], right? And I know ALL the Faks! [translation: tee hee! they're bigger than you - to quote Neil and Ted with their Uncle, "We Faks do have a particular shape, don't we?😇" - and they outnumber you, you scrawny punk, slay!😉✨]"

Claire then proceeds to playfully threaten to have said "massive numbered siblings" Faks, which includes Sammy Fak, played by John Cena (a professional wrestler, from an industry that is mixes both bawdy over the top theatre, a performance art that values Kayfabe (legerdemain/slight of hand anyone?) and comedy, and an athletic discipline) that is TALL. BUILT. HENCH. AND BUFF AF.....Claire 'playfully' threatens to have THESE FAKS, beat up Carmy, who is short in stature and cannot fight well from all the previous physical confrontations we've seen him be involved in, despite supposedly being a former high-school wrestler, and who has already been seriously physically abused thrice in the series run thus far (not counting him play fighting or trying to fight with Richie) after being JUMPED by a GROUP of assailants, not once, but TWICE in season one, by the Ballbreaker nerds in the pilot, and the Bachelor Party attendees in the season finale (the first season started and ended with Carmy being beaten tf up, Holy Shit! 🤯); AND AFTER BEING SLAPPED IN THE FACE IN SEASON 2 BY HIS OWN MOTHER, DONNA.

Notice the way Carmy goes from being lost in his thoughts but being completely relaxed after his menu planning session with Sydney, and in anticipation of seeing her on their would be inspiration seeking meet-up (definitely not a date, no Sir! 👀) at Kasama, to being tense and jittery and apprehensive when Claire calls him (after going behind his back and getting his number from Fak).

Notice the way Carmy's voice shakes when he asks Claire if she really knows all of the Faks.....

Notice Carmy's defeated and annoyed reaction after he hangs up the phone.

No wonder Carmy is being so avoidant and conflict averse in his handling of Claire in both Season Two and Three, he has absolutely no faith in himself or his loved ones at present to defend himself should he assert the type of boundaries he may have been desiring to have with them for these past two seasons, after all - who can he count on to fully have his back even to the point of physically intervening for him if he gets into a scrape or is genuinely attacked, by the Faks on account of Claire taking offense at or misrepresenting his words and actions to them, e.g. Claire apparently twisting Carmy's self loathing stream of consciousness confession (that she eavesdropped on) and telling Tiff that they broke up because Carmy said that "Claire will ruin everything good for him?" while he was trapped in the fridge?

What if Carmy knows he has to rip the band-aid and call Claire and apologize for his part in the superficiality and disintegration of their dalliance, but is afraid to do so because he knows in so doing, if he is being fully honest with himself and with Claire, he never truly wanted to be with her in the first place?

And who knows how Claire will take that revelation - it probably won't be pretty will it?

And.....

to quote Neil Fak,

"Claire's the best."

"We love Claire."

"I did that." [setting Carmy and Claire up in Pop)

And.....

Claire. knows. all. the. Faks.....

TL;DR

They cast John Cena as Sammy Fak, and the Faks had a lot of screen-time this season because they are the physical manifestation of being haunted in their family's sense of the word:

and a satirical visualization of Carmy's desire for Syd being cock-blocked ; plus Claire is a Love-able Alpha Bitch, and Carmy is ambivalent towards her, and even a little scared to face her, because her henchmen are the Faks!

If you enjoyed this post, then thank you for reading and I'd recommend that you check out the following meta on the way Christopher Storer and Company have seemingly (and controversially) committed to sticking to the bit of lying to the audience and breaking the fourth wall throughout this entire season:

Richie and the viewer - by @whenmemorydies with my add-on in the reblogs about Richie, not Carmy, potentially being Christopher Storer's author avatar in this series (from a post originally written before season 3 premiered.

Fourth Wall being broken - by @brokenwinebox and @thoughtfulchaos773

Claire being a possible representation of addiction, being a habit that is hard to kick - by @thoughtfulchaos773 and my and @devisrina 's add-on speculating that Claire may also be meant to be interpreted or revealed as a bit of a mean girl, to reference TVTropes, she (and by extension Season 3) may be a deconstruction/ mashup /send-up / subversion of the: Girl Next Door, the Cute Bookworm, Nerds Are Sexy, MPDG, Yandere, Alpha Bitch, Loveable Apha Bitch, Childhood Friend Romance, High-School Sweethearts, Sickeningly Sweethearts, Getting Crap Past The Radar, Freeze Frame Bonus, Parental Bonus, Viewers Are Geniuses, Give Geeks A Chance, Even Nerds Have Standards, Beauty Equals Goodness, Face-Heel Turn, Cerebus Syndrome tropes etc.....and a subtler mirror version of Donna Berzatto.

Edit: See my reblog add on to @espumado 's thread on the recurrent 'haunting' theme this season and the possibility of the Claire x Carmy x Sydney love triangle being a Lilith x Adam x Eve allegory, and my webweaving about Syd x Carmy's Adam and Eve parallels. sidenote: Lilith is Adam's first wife apocryphally and in Jewish mysticism that left him, and became a she-demon / mother of demons after being impregnated by the archangel Samael - wait is 'Sammy' Fak a Samael allegory?!!

and another reblog add-on of mine to the thread linked above - on The Faks as the living embodiment of all that is fake in Carmy's life, C Storer's handy dandy tools for slight of hand,

you can't spell fake without FAK.

and please see

Clairecarmy as Ann Veal x GOB from Arrested Development

and with Richie's frustrated refrain of, "Who cares?!" whenever Claire and Claire and Carmy's breakup is brought up in 3 -

see the running gag of George Michael Bluth's (from Arrested Development) family's disdain for Ann and his relationship with her.

5. The parallels between The Bear and Burnt by @ambeauty - a post Season 2 post which was proven to be prescient and insightful given the Easter Egg inclusion of Bradley Cooper's character from Burnt on the photo wall of chefs at Ever in the Funeral dinner in the finale.

6. The parallels between The Bear and Boiling Point - a gritty film and mini-series set in a restaurant which features several plot elements and characters reminiscent of certain character archetypes and subplots present in The Bear - seriously think of this IP as The Bear's cynical, dramatic, older British cousin.

Decision to leave by @anderwater

This anon that recommended Boiling Point to me and wrote about its connections to The Bear.

The difference between The Bear and Boiling Point by @theblvckvenus

The similarities between The Bear and Boiling Point in this reblog add-on to @happylikeasadsong et. al's thread.

7. Claire/Carmy and the Walk In - my old post on the parallels between Strange Days (1995), Can't Hardly Wait (1998, and The Bear.

and @ambeauty 's meta on Claire as a representation of the fridge

8. My post on the possible connection between The Bear Season 3 and Andrei Tarkovsky's experimental, semi-autobiographical, psychological Oedipal drama film The Mirror (1975) - a film which was incredibly divisive upon its initial release, but has since gained wide acclaim and re-evaluation as a masterpiece, and that has had a legacy of subsequently inspiring multiple renowned filmmakers.

9. The Bear series' lead actress, and the director of Napkins, one of the only episodes of The Bear Season 3 to receive almost universal acclaim - Ayo Edebiri's trollish sense of humour and assertion that lying is the pinnacle of comedy.

10. And last but certainly not least with the inclusion of a Genie Kwon*'s, of Kasama fame, cameo in the season finale and the prominence of Kasama being key to Syd and Carmy's stymied relationship progression, courtesy Claire, see

The Kasama of it all by @gingerylangylang1979

@mod-doodles @lunasink @vacationship @chansoooo1-blog

@bioloyg @msmoiraine @nerdyblerd @ripley-stark @uncriticalbunny @prowitchazel @msmoiraine @mswyrr @anxietycroissant @turbulenthandholding @tvfantic87 @laryssamedeirss @tejidaepoque @angelica4equity @inalltheirgorgeouscolors @houseofevangelista @glitterslag

@uncriticalbunny @imliterallyjustablackgirl

@bioloyg and @ambeauty please don't say I told you so or welcome back, I'm flabbergasted that I wrote this, but I want to believe! 😭

P.S. If you're still reading this, do yourself a favour and read @brokenwinebox 's post

New Paradigm

and this follow up

Mocktail is a dirty word

and check out her #the magic trick tag!

and also check out these Sydcarmy and Rosalind x Orlando from Shakespeare's As You Like It parallels:

The Bear as a pastoral comedy

First Meetings

Fumbling with your crush

Separation, keepsakes and lovesickness

and also C Storer really did tell us in the music that this season would inspire

Mixed Emotions 🥴

[toxicanonymity]

Left in Lincoln - Master List (ongoing)

softdark dads' best friend!Joel x virgin f!Reader

mood board by gracieispunk

series masterlist here, a reblog won't stay updated.

official playlist 🍑 bonus playlist by readers PREMISE: After you were orphaned by the outbreak, Bill and Frank raised you, sheltered in their closed community. Now 21+, you're still inexperienced. They leave to get treatment for Frank and ask Joel to look in on you while they're gone. The town begins to creep you out, but Joel is glad to provide comfort, protection, and education. WARNINGS: I8+ Big, girthy age gap. Joel is very dark and toxic but acts sweet with reader. Angst. Loss of virginity. Manipulation. Slow-burn horror: no gore, no violence toward reader, but this story has given people nightmares. NO USE OF Y/N.

Floorplan

PLEASE STOP PUTTING THIS FIC INTO AI. It's been made into chat bots at least 3x since August and they all sucked. It hurts my writing and gives me a mental block. Do not copy, translate, re-upload, use AI on, or make bots of any of my work.

Part 1 - This Protector (3k) - He lowered his voice and said, "Feelin' this against you, knowin' it's there." His hips lifted gently, and it swelled harder against you. "It's s'posed to feel good. Nothin' to be ashamed of"

Part 2 - The Dirty Ground (5k) - “Ever had an orgasm, darlin'?” He slowed his hips to talk. . . . “Only in my sleep," you said.” Good, that’s your body takin’ care of you. It’s good for you. . .Gonna take this belt off, k?”

Part 3 - The Cold, Cold Night (7k) - He looked from your eyes to your mouth and back then murmured, "Nap really all ya want?" "Just wanna be with you," you answered quietly.  His deep voice became nearly a whisper. "Love hearin' that, baby."

Part 4 - Apple Blossom (7.5k) - “Gonna take time ‘fore you’re ready for this,” he said with a roll of his hips. . . You asked, “You want it too, don’t you?” “Course I do, baby,” he panted. “Gotta feel good for both of us, though. Gotta do it right.”

Part 5 - Black Math (8.6k) - “God, if you only knew . . .” There wasn't even a hint of shame in his voice. “We’re almost there, I promise.” He tucked in his shirt and adjusted himself while he was at it. “God damn,” he exhaled.  “Turns me on, thinkin’ about it.” 

Part 6 - As Ugly as He Seems (8.4k) - You would've given anything for Joel to wake up and ravage you. “s’what I mean, baby,” he murmured sleepily into your hair. "Can't trust myself." He groaned softly as his palm brought you tighter against him.  You began to reach behind you, but he intercepted your hand. . .

Part 7 - Forever for her (10k) - [loss of virginity] You looked at his clothes and didn't say anything, but he replied to your silent question with a smile and hushed voice. "no, I don't have to be so dressed..."

I would love to write a part 8 but I've been through a lot in this fandom that people don't see because I don't address it publicly. I don't have an ETA or guarantee, so please don't ask.

-----

Art, etc.

HOT fan art by @bonezone44

Ch 1 mood board by @neverwheremoonchild

Ch 1-6 mood board by gracieispunk

Collage by @not-a-unique-snowflake-blog

Chapter-specific posters

Hot ominous edit by swagxgarfunkle tiktok

Haunting edit by @iamasaddie

If yours is missing PLEASE let me know I probably tagged improperly & couldn't find.

[aminotvxq]

I'm working on a re-interpretation fan art series of some Yugioh DM episodes, starting from this piece :D

#1. Episode 128 - Atem gets devastated by Joey's "death"

Although the fatal condition (probably cardiac arrest) was temporary, this incident was arguably among the most heart-rending experience Atem has ever had. The face he makes at the sight of the inconceivable tragedy is simply unforgettable.

What drives me even crazier about this scene is that the sky is so fucking bright blue after the dark fogs are all gone; the shadow game has already ended. The dark fog has taken Joey's life force with it. This creates a striking and poignant contrast with what's actually unfolding atop the tower.

[ohgreat-moretapes]

Happy 15th Anniversary, Marble Hornets fandom!!!

To commemorate such an amazing series and community, I've decided to do something extra special:

I'm opening an ask blog!!

I've been thinking about doing this for a while, and what better time than such a significant day? Ask blogs were honestly the thing that brought me into this fandom in the first place, and I've noticed a few of the OGs like AskSkully have been deactivated. I got a lot of comfort from those blogs, and I'm sure a lot of y'all did too, so I thought, why not make my own? I know it isn't a replacement for the originals that are gone, but hey, come with me and maybe we can enjoy something new together <3

The ask blog is going to be mainly casual/for fun, with a light ongoing plot, and it will have several non-canon aspects (such as a Jay-centric Skully, TTA Seth, and other fan-theory/head-canon community favourites). Honestly, consider it an AU because of its canon divergence ;P

In short: it's going to follow Tim, and eventually the entire Marble Hornets crew through an AU where the dead cast members remain in Rosswood like cryptids and Tim finds them there lol

I hope you guys enjoy it! I'm looking forward to making art for you!!!

[allthegothihopgirls]

boy wonder #2. thoughts? (and prayers)

...i'm enjoying this series SO much, juni ba is seriously incredible.

i really love when we get a series that branches out from the usual art styles, like how they've also done with batgirls, and harley quinn. especially the colour palettes (which the boy wonder's one is BRILLIANT) like, that's what makes me really remember a comic series.

i also just LOVE juni ba's design for jason... i want to hold him in my hand and scrunch him up like a fresh piece of A4 paper.. he made him weird and gross and i LIVE FOR IT. other dc artists need to take notes. make him strange and fucked up more often!!

damian's KILLING ME.. going on about how much he relates to jason + sees his own story in his, i've been SAYING this!!!! i love seeing my own thoughts reaffirmed in the comics.

also the little details in jason's apartment, the grime and filth, the little "breathe slow" etched into the door, the cockroaches, the room with his 'past life', the implication that he has no life but his past life, and that he's nothing without what he was etc etc. SCREAMING

no matter how many times i see the same retellings of jason's story in different comic books... i devour it every time. i do love how he's being portrayed as still having somewhat severed connections to the family though, obviously refusing financial aid from bruce, living on his own, resisting the 'no guns' rule, and trying to repress everything he once was with them. not a fan of dc pushing the 'happy family' thing with jason just for the sake of the plot.

also the lazarus pit depiction, holy SHIT. giving full frankenstein, rotting corpse, decomposition, MUMMIFICATION. lab experiment gone WRONG. "like the torture started all over again" ARRRGGFFF

also the cigarettes and empty bottles on the floor, the scratching, the joker trauma + panic response to damian getting shot.. the people's jason honestly (i'm the people).. this comic's done more for his character in one issue than what dc has been able to manage in YEARS.

[satorulovebot]

CURSED SEAS CHAPTER ONE | the rouge captain.

↳ satoru gojou x reader

genre. heavy angst, pirate au, 18+ 

tags/warnings. alcohol, religious themes, death, themes of depression, and criminal activity, it's a pretty tame chapter tbh.

notes. 6.2k wc. yeah we’re back baby with another series because i can’t sit still. i saw fan art (image 1) and (image 2) of pirate gojo and said yk what i’m gonna do a pirates of the caribbean inspired series. idk enjoy some brain rot. also know just like my introductory paragraphs my first chapters are ass and fast-paced.

next. HELP WANTED!

general masterlist -> series masterlist

Captain Satoru Gojou.

You had heard whispers of the infamous Captain Gojou for years. His name was spoken with fear in every port town along the coast. Some say he is invincible, that his ship, the Infinity, is the fastest to ever sail the seas. Others claimed he was dangerous, ruthless, and cunning—a man who showed no mercy to those he deemed too weak to survive in his world.

A few years back, a body washed up on the shore of Saltstone Port. The man, who was no older than twenty-five, had his eyes gouged out of his skull, and the number six was carved into the pale skin of his back. 

The discovery shocked the quiet little town, but it would not be the last time a mutilated body washed up on the shores of Saltstone Port.

You don’t miss the stagnant air at Saltstone Port. The salty breeze, tinged with the scent of rotting fish and seaweed, clung to everything it touched. It was a place where tales of Captain Gojou’s cruelty were whispered in darkened alleys and over dimly lit tavern tables, the memory of that unfortunate soul with the number six forever haunting the minds of those who dared to speak of it.

As you stood at the edge of the small dock in Elysport, you stared out at the vast ocean. You had always wondered if there was something more beyond the horizon at Saltsone and Elysport. You had only moved to Elysport in the last few years; your father claimed that it was God’s will for you to move after the death of your beloved mother.

You were just ten years old when your mother vanished without a trace, disappearing one night after her shift at the tavern. It was as if the earth had swallowed her whole, leaving no sign of where she had gone or what might have happened. The days that followed were a blur of confusion and fear, the house feeling emptier than ever without her warm presence.

Your father was a broken man during the weeks your mother was missing. Each night, he would fall to his knees, clasping his hands in desperate prayer. His voice, once strong and filled with faith, now trembled as he pleaded with whatever higher power might be listening to bring his beloved wife back to him and his young daughter. He prayed until his voice was hoarse, until tears stained his cheeks until the candles had burned down to their wicks. He sought solace in his faith, but with each passing day, the weight of uncertainty grew heavier, casting a shadow over your home.

He searched tirelessly for answers, combing the streets and questioning anyone who might have seen her. But no matter how hard he looked or how many prayers he whispered, the silence was deafening. Your mother, the heart of your small family, had simply vanished, leaving behind only questions and a growing sense of dread.

Nine agonizing weeks later, your mother’s body was discovered in a small, rotting, long-abandoned boat that had been stranded on the beach for years. You only caught a brief, heart-wrenching glimpse of her before the smallfolk, who had loved her dearly, carried her away. The once beautiful features of her face had decayed beyond recognition, maggots crawling across what little flesh remained.

Your father was utterly broken by the loss. He couldn’t understand why God would allow such cruelty to befall his family. The woman he had vowed to cherish and grow old with was gone, leaving him consumed by grief and bitterness. He became distant, his once-steady faith shaken to its core. He could not understand who would do this to his wife—a kind-hearted tavern worker known for offering a warm meal to anyone in need. The only conclusion that made sense to him was that pirates were to blame. In his mind, they were the only people capable of such barbarism, convinced that only they would commit such a gruesome act against the mother of his child.

Your father has always been a devout Christian. He was a pastor at the local church when you lived in Saltstone Port. His sermons were filled with messages of mercy and compassion. He always insisted that no one was beyond salvation, preaching that even pirates can be redeemed in the eyes of God.

But after your mother’s death, everything changed. His grief and anger warped his perspective, changing his view of life and love. The man who once preached forgiveness now called for the public execution of pirates, believing their crimes deserved the worst punishment hell could offer. An obsession now consumed him—a kind man who once spoke of compassion whose life was forever darkened by the loss of the woman he loved.

You now found yourself in Elysport, a bustling coastal city where the line between law and lawlessness begins to blur. The city's horizon is filled with the estates of wealthy merchants and the Governor’s home, a stark contrast to the docks below. The docks are always crowded, constantly filled with ships from all around the world, their sails billowing in the wind as they unload goods from distant lands. The scent of exotic spices and the sounds of vibrant marketplaces fill the air, mingling with the salty tang of the nearby sea.

In Elysport, you worked as a clerk for a small merchant. Your days were spent tallying registries, managing shipments, and handling mundane trade details. But your nights were different. They were filled with dreams of adventure, of sailing beyond the horizon where the sea meets the sky. Stories of legendary pirates and hidden treasures had always fascinated you, sparking a curiosity you kept hidden behind your daily life. Yet, you never imagined that those stories might come crashing into your own life one day.

One evening, as you were closing up shop, an old man stumbled into the store. His appearance was startling, to say the least—his clothes were tattered, his face weathered, and his hair a tangled mess. 

“Hello? Can I help you?” you called out from behind the counter, your voice slightly muffled by the shelves that obstructed you from view.

The man didn’t answer your question. Instead, his gaze darted around the shop, as if he was searching for anything suspicious that could get him in trouble. 

“You there!” he rasped, his voice rough. “I need a place to hide this.”

Your curiosity piqued at his words, you stepped out from behind the counter and faced the strange man who had entered just before closing. You assumed he was another last-minute customer, probably looking to buy something or bargain for a better price, knowing how tired workers down by the docks could be at this hour. 

You were curious but hesitant as you took the box from him. To your surprise, It was heavy for its size. The surface was adorned with intricate carvings, worn in places over time.

“What is this?” you asked, turning the box over to examine it more closely. The craftsmanship was remarkable, but there was something about it—something almost sinister.

The man watched you closely, his eyes never leaving your face. "It’s a map.” he said, "But not just any map. This map leads to something... powerful. Something that has been lost for centuries, tales of it told through generations of pirates, hidden away from those who would abuse its power."

You looked up at him, eyes wide and filled with curiosity. Why are you giving this to me?" you asked again, your voice trembling.

The man’s expression softened, a look of something almost like pity crossing his face. "Because you’re the one meant to find it," he said simply. "You’re the one who has been chosen."

"Chosen?" you whispered. "Chosen by whom? For what?"

The man smiled faintly, but there was a sadness in his eyes that made you uneasy. "You’ll understand in time," he said. "But know this: you must keep the map safe. Others would do anything to get their hands on it—dangerous people who won’t hesitate to kill for it."

Your breath caught in your throat at his words. You had always dreamed of sailing the seas looking for adeventure, but this... this… this was something else entirely. This was real, and it was dangerous.

You stared at him blankly, your mind racing as you tried to process the words the strange man had been saying. This was no ordinary treasure map. This was something that was hidden away for a reason.

"Why me?" you asked, your voice trembling. "Why would you trust me with something like this?"

The man’s eyes softened again, and he reached out to place a hand on your shoulder. "Because you’re different," he said quietly. "You have a strength in you that others don’t. You have a heart that won’t be easily swayed by greed or power. And most importantly... you have a destiny to fulfill."

His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning that you couldn’t fully grasp. You wanted to ask the strange man more, to demand answers to the questions swirling in your mind, but something in the man’s eyes told you that he had already said all he could.

"Keep the map safe," he repeated, his voice firm. "And trust your instincts."

Before you could say anything else, the man turned and walked out the door, disappearing into the darkness of the night. You stood there for a pregnant moment, the map clutched in your hands, your mind reeling from everything that had just happened.

You looked down at the map again, the tips of your fingers trace the markings, as if trying to unlock the secrets they hold. This was it. This was what you had always dreamed of, but it was also something far more dangerous, something that could get you killed.

You knew you couldn’t do this alone. You needed help, and there was only one place you could think of where you might find it.

The merchant’s ball.

It was an event you had never been invited to before—a grand affair where the city’s most powerful and influential figures gathered. But now, with the map, you knew you had to find a way in. You needed to find someone who could help you decipher it, someone who had the knowledge and connections to help you.

As the night of the ball approached, you found yourself growing more and more restless with each passing day. The very idea of the map’s existence gnawed at the back of your mind, its mysteries out of reach. The old man’s warning lingered in your mind, too—a treasure beyond your wildest dreams, but cursed. It was a puzzle you couldn’t solve on your own, and it only fueled your determination to get an invitation to the Merchant’s Ball.

But getting an invitation was easier said than done. The ball was exclusive, and the guest list was closely guarded. You knew you couldn’t simply walk in off the street, no matter how determined you were. You needed connections, and though you had some, they were weak connections at best. Your mind raced as you considered your options, running through the names of merchants and traders you had helped over the years. Some owed you favors, but whether those favors were enough to get you into the ball was another matter entirely.

You decided to start with a merchant you knew well—a grizzly man named Marcus, who had been in Elysport for decades. You had helped him with his inventory more than once, making sure that certain shipments went unnoticed by the authorities, and he had always been grateful for your help. You found him in his usual place, a small tavern near the docks.

“Marcus!” you greeted him with a smile as you approached his table.

He looked up, his weathered face breaking into a grin. “Ah, it’s you. Come to save me from my spending again?”

“Not this time,” you replied, taking a seat across from him. “I need a favor.”

His smile faded slightly, and he set down his flagon of ale. “A favor, eh? What kind of favor?”

You hesitated, choosing your words carefully. “I need an invitation to the Merchant’s Ball.”

Marcus leaned back in his chair, his eyebrows raised. “The ball? That’s a big favor, lass. Those invitations are hard to come by.”

“I know,” you admitted. “But I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t important.”

He studied you for a moment, his eyes searching your face. “What’s this about? You’re not one for fancy parties.”

You looked around the tavern, ensuring no one was listening, then leaned in closer. “I’ve come across something… valuable. But I need help deciphering it. The ball is my best chance to find someone who can.”

Marcus’s expression turned serious. “Something valuable, you say? What kind of valuable?”

“I can’t say too much,” you said, lowering your voice. “But it’s big, Marcus. If I can figure it out, it could change everything.”

He was silent for a moment, considering your words. Finally, he nodded. “All right. I can get you in. But you’ll owe me for this, understand?”

You nodded, a smile present on your face. “Thank you, Marcus. I won’t forget it.”

True to his word, Marcus got you an invitation, and the day of the ball soon arrived. You spent hours preparing, trying to calm the nervous flutter in your stomach. The dress you chose was simple yet elegant, a deep blue silk that flowed like water as you moved. You had never worn anything so fine before, and as you looked at yourself in the mirror, you barely recognized the woman staring back at you. But tonight wasn’t about appearances—it was about seizing an opportunity, about finding answers to the questions that had been plaguing your mind since that fateful night in the shop.

When the carriage finally arrived to take you to the Governor’s Palace, you felt a mixture of excitement and fear. The city seemed more alive than usual as you made your way through the cobblestone streets, the sounds of laughter and music drifting on the night air. As the palace came into view, its tall columns were bathed in the warm glow of hundreds of lanterns. The grandeur of it all was overwhelming and it was a far cry from the rough and weathered streets of Elysport that you were used to.

You clutched your invitation tight as you approached the entrance, the doorman barely glancing at it before stepping aside to let you pass. The moment you stepped inside, you were encompassed in a world of luxury, unlike anything you had ever seen. The foyer was vast with marble floors gleaming under the light of large crystal chandeliers. Ornate tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes of grand battles and lavish feasts. Servants moved about with precision, carrying trays of champagne and delicate hors d'oeuvres, while the guests—dressed in their finest silks and satins—murmuring amongst themselves, their laughter filling the air.

You followed the flow of people into the main ballroom, your heart pounding as you took in the sight before you. The room was massive, with tall, arched windows that offered a view of the moonlit gardens outside. The walls were painted in rich, warm tones, and the floor was a mosaic of polished marble that reflected the golden light of the chandeliers. Musicians played soft melodies in one corner, their music blending in seamlessly with the murmur of conversation.

For a moment, you hesitated, feeling out of place. You had never been in a setting like this, surrounded by wealth and power. But you squared your shoulders, reminding yourself of the reason you were here. You weren’t just a simple clerk from the docks anymore; tonight, you were a woman with a purpose, a secret map, and a mission.

The ballroom was extravagant, to say the least. It made you feel sick that only a select few could enjoy things like this without worrying when their next meal would be or if they would be able to afford basic necessities. But were you any better than these people? After all the only reason you’re here is because you have good connections, just like the people in this room.

As you look to your left, you notice the couples dancing around the floor, their conversations blending in with the soft music. It was all very odd, like a dream you didn't want to wake up from.

“Enjoying the festivities?” A smooth and confident voice interrupted your thoughts. You turned to see a tall figure standing just a few feet away, his face obscured by a mask similar to yours.

You felt a shiver run down your spine, though you couldn’t quite figure out why. There was something about him, something unsettling in the way he carried himself, in the way he seemed to command the space around him. His mask was pale, almost ghostly, with intricate blue patterns that drew your gaze.

“I suppose,” you replied, keeping your voice light, though the unease you felt was seeping into your words. “These sorts of events are always a bit... overwhelming.”

He chuckled softly, the sound rich and smooth, “Yes, they can be,” he agreed, taking a step closer, his eyes—bright and unnervingly blue—locked onto yours through the slits in his mask. “But they can also be... enlightening if you know where to look.”

You felt your heart skip a beat, your mind racing as you tried to understand his words. Was he just making conversation, or was there something more to his statement? You couldn’t tell, and that made you more on edge.

“Is that so?” you asked, forcing a smile as you took another sip of your champagne, trying to calm your nerves.

He nodded, his gaze never wavering. “Indeed. You’d be surprised what you can learn at a gathering like this, especially if you keep your eyes and ears open.”

There was something in the tone of his voice, something that made you think he wasn’t just talking about useless gossip or civil conversation, at something deeper, something more dangerous, and it set you on edge.

The two of you sat in silence for a brief moment.

“Do you come to these kinds of events often?” you asked, trying to change the topic of conversation, though you couldn’t shake the feeling that this man was anything but safe.

“From time to time,” he said with a shrug. “But tonight is special. Tonight, I’m here for something—someone—quite specific.”

Your breath caught in your throat and you felt a chill run down your spine. It was the way he said it, the way his eyes seemed to pierce through you like daggers, it was as if he knew exactly who you were and what you were here for.

But, that was impossible, you thought to yourself. You were just a clerk, a regular person caught up in something far beyond your understanding. There was no way he could know about the map, about the treasure. No one knew. No one except—

“Do I know you?” you asked, the question slipping out of your mouth before you could stop yourself.

His smile widened, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Perhaps,” he said vaguely, his voice a low murmur that sent another shiver down your spine. “Or perhaps you’ll get to know me soon enough.”

Before you could respond, before you could even process his words, the doors to the ballroom burst open with a deafening boom. The music stopped abruptly, the room falling into shocked silence as everyone turned to see what happened.

A group of masked men stormed into the room, their swords drawn as they advanced on the crowd. Panic erupted, the guests screaming and scrambling to get away as the intruders began tearing through the ballroom, overturning tables, smashing glass, and sending the wealthy world of the Elysport elite into chaos.

You barely had time to react before you felt the man’s hand on your arm, pulling you toward the nearest exit. His grip was firm, his expression unreadable beneath the mask as he guided you through the panicked crowd, dodging the chaos that surrounded you.

“Stay close,” he ordered, his voice calm despite the madness. “We’re not done yet.”

And with that, you were swept away into the night, the sound of the destruction behind you fading as the mysterious man led you away from the scene, leaving you to wonder who he really was—and what he wanted with you.

The cool night air hit your face as you were pulled out of the grand ballroom and into the dimly lit streets of Elysport. The contrast between the noise and chaos of the ball and the quiet moonlit streets was jarring. You were still reeling from the events that had unfolded, your heart pounding in your chest, and your mind racing with questions.

The man holding your hand was strong, his grip firm but not painful, leading you through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways that twisted and turned through the dark city like a maze. The commotion of the party faded into the background, replaced by the distant sounds of the sea and the occasional creak of a ship down at the docks. The city was alive with the whispers of its nightlife, but you felt completely alone, alone with this stranger who seemed to know everything about you.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he slowed his pace and came to a stop in a small and secluded courtyard. The stone walls of the surrounding buildings loom above you and the walls cast deep shadows that obscured your surroundings. The man released your hand, leaving you standing in the center of the courtyard.

As you took a moment to catch your breath, thoughts reeled through your mind. Who was this man? What did he want with you? And why had he chosen to rescue you from the ball? You looked around, trying to get a sense of where you were, but the courtyard was unfamiliar, and the darkness made it almost impossible to see anything.

Before you could gather your thoughts, the man stepped forward again, more calculated and more predatory. His movements were fluid as if he were completely at ease in the darkness. He reached up, and with a swift motion, removed the mask that had concealed his face.

You gasped, taking a step back as the light of the moon revealed his features. The man standing before you was impossibly handsome, his striking blue eyes piercing through the shadows with an intensity that made your heart skip a beat. His white hair, which had been partially hidden beneath the mask, now fell loosely around his face, giving him an almost ethereal appearance. But it was the look in his eyes that truly unsettled you—as if he could see right through you.

"You're a difficult person to track down," he said, his voice smooth and confident, with a hint of amusement.

You took another step back, your mind racing. "Who are you?" you demanded, trying to keep your voice steady.

He tilted his head slightly, a small, almost playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Who I am isn't important," he replied his tone light, almost amused. "What matters is what I know."

A chill ran down your spine at his words. You felt like a cornered animal, trapped with no way out. "W-what do you want from me?" you stuttered, trying to keep the fear out of your voice.

His smile widened slightly, but his eyes remained cold and calculating. "You know what I want," he said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. "You have something that belongs to me."

Your heart skipped a beat, and your thoughts immediately jumped to the map. How did he know about that? The old man had warned you that it was cursed, that it would bring you nothing but trouble, but you didn't think it would be anything like this.

The man's smile faded, and his expression grew more serious. He took a step closer, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied you. "Don't play games with me," he warned, his voice low and dangerous. "I know you have the map. And I know you've been looking into it."

"I don't have it," you insisted. "I got rid of it."

The man raised an eyebrow, clearly not believing you. "Is that so?" he took a step forward, "Because from what I've heard, you've been asking around about certain landmarks. Places that just so happen to match the ones on the map."

Your heart sank. He knew too much. There was no point in lying anymore. But you couldn't just hand the map over to him—not without knowing who he was and what he planned to do with it.

"Why do you want it?" you asked, trying to buy yourself some time. "What's so important about this treasure?"

The man studied you for a moment, his expression unreadable. "That's none of your concern," he said finally, his tone dismissive. "All you need to know is that it's mine. And I intend to get it back."

"And if I don't give it to you?" you challenged.

He smiled again, but this time there was no warmth in it. "Then I'll take it from you," he said as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

You stared at him, trying to gauge his intentions. There was something about him—something dangerous and unpredictable—that made you believe he wasn't bluffing. But at the same time, you couldn't just give up the map. Not without knowing what it was all about, and what it could lead to.

"I need more time," you said finally, hoping to stall him. "Let me think about it."

The man studied you for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, to your surprise, he nodded. "Very well," he said. "But don't take too long. I'm not a patient man."

He turned to leave, but then paused mid-way, glancing back at you over his shoulder. "Oh, and one more thing," he added, his voice dropping to a low murmur. "Don't try to run. I'll find you. No matter where you go."

With that, he disappeared into the shadows, leaving you alone in the courtyard. You stood there for a moment, your heart pounding in your chest, trying to make sense of what had just happened. Who was this man? How did he know so much about you? And what was he planning to do with the map?

You knew you had to be careful. Whatever this treasure was, it was clearly important enough for someone like him to go to great lengths to get it. But at the same time, you couldn't just hand it over without knowing more. You had to find out what this was about—before it was too late.

You quickly made your way back to your small house, your mind racing with thoughts of what to do next. You weren't going to let anyone intimidate you—not even someone as dangerous as him.

As you reached your door, you paused, glancing around nervously. The man's warning echoed in your mind—he would find you, no matter where you went. But you couldn't let that stop you. You had to find out the truth, no matter the cost.

With a deep breath, you unlocked the door and stepped inside. The map was hidden in a small, secret compartment in the floorboards—a place you thought no one would think to look. You retrieved it, carefully unfolding the worn parchment and studying the markings on it.

You had to figure out what this map was leading to, and why it was so important. As you stared at the map, a new plan began to form in your mind. You would find someone new who could help you decipher it—someone who knew the legends of the sea better than anyone else. And then, you would find the treasure before anyone else could.

But even as you made your plans, you couldn't shake the feeling that you were being watched. The man's piercing blue eyes seemed to haunt your every thought, his warning lingering in the back of your mind.

You knew you were playing a dangerous game. But you had no choice.

And so, with the map clutched tightly in your hands, you made your decision. You would find the treasure—no matter what it took.

The city was bustling when you stepped out onto the streets, the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the cobblestone road. You knew where you needed to go—there was a tavern on the edge of the city, where sailors and pirates would gather to share stories. It was a risky move, venturing into such a place, but you were running out of options.

As you made your way through the streets, you kept an eye out for any sign of the man from the night before. You couldn’t afford to be caught off guard again.

Finally, you reached the tavern, it was a weathered building with a creaky old sign hanging above the door. The scent of salt and ale greeted you as you stepped inside, the dimly lit interior filled with the low hum of conversation. You spotted a few rough-looking sailors at the bar, their eyes looking toward you with curiosity as you made your way to a secluded corner.

You ordered a drink as you tried to blend in, waiting for the right moment. You needed to be careful about who you approached—trust was a rare occurrence in a place like this.

As the minutes ticked by, you watched the patrons of the tavern by studying their movements and listening to parts of their conversations. You were looking for someone who seemed knowledgeable, someone who might have heard of the map or the treasure it led to.

Finally, your patience was rewarded. An old sailor whose face had been weathered by years at sea, sat down at the table next to yours. He wore a tattered grey coat and a wide-brimmed hat. He seemed like the kind of man who had seen his fair share of the world, the kind of man who might know more than he let on.

You took a deep breath, gathering your courage, and leaned toward him. "Excuse me," you said quietly, your voice steady. "I was wondering if you might be able to help me with something."

The sailor turned to look at you, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied you. "Depends on what you’re asking.”

You hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much to reveal to the man before you. But you had to take a chance. "I’m looking for information about a map," choosing your words with care. "A map that leads to a treasure. But I don’t know where to start."

The sailor’s eyes flickered with a hint of interest, a faint smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "A treasure map, you say?" he repeated, leaning back in his chair. "Well, now, that’s a dangerous thing to be looking for, especially in a place like this."

You nodded, your heart pounding in your chest. "I know it’s risky," you admitted. "But I need to find out what this map leads to. And I was hoping you might know something about it."

The sailor stroked his chin thoughtfully, his eyes never leaving yours. "There’s a lot of talk about treasures and maps in these parts," he said slowly. "Most of it’s just nonsense, stories made up to entertain drunk sailors. But every now and then, you hear about something real—something worth risking your life for."

He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "If you’ve got a map, and it’s real, you’d better be careful who you share it with. There are people out there who would do anything to get their hands on a treasure like that."

You swallowed hard with the weight of his words sinking in. "I understand," you said quietly. "That’s why I’m being careful. But I need to know more about what I’m dealing with."

The sailor nodded slowly, his gaze thoughtful. "Alright," he said finally. "I’ll tell you what I know. But it won’t come cheap."

You reached into your pocket, pulling out a small pouch of coins. It wasn’t much, but it was all you had. "Will this be enough?" you asked, hoping it would suffice.

The sailor took the pouch, weighing it in his hand before nodding in approval. "It’ll do," he said, tucking the pouch into his coat. "Now, let me see that map of yours."

You hesitated for a moment before reaching into your bag and pulling out the map. You unfolded it carefully, laying it out on the table between you. The sailor leaned over, his eyes scanning the markings and symbols.

After a few moments, he let out a low whistle. "Well, I’ll be damned," he muttered, more to himself than to you. "This is the real deal."

You leaned forward eagerly, your heart racing. "What does it say?"

The sailor glanced up at you, his expression serious. "This map," he said slowly, "leads to a place that’s been whispered about for generations. A place where a great pirate captain supposedly buried his most valuable treasures. But it’s not just gold and jewels we’re talking about. There are stories of powerful artifacts."

"But it’s not going to be easy," the sailor continued. "The path to that treasure is full of danger. There are traps, curses, and worse things that guard it. And if you’re not careful, you’ll end up just like the others who’ve tried and failed to find it."

You felt a chill run down your spine at his words. "What do you mean, 'the others'?" your voice barely above a whisper.

The sailor’s expression darkened. "There have been others before you," he said quietly. "People who thought they could outsmart the dangers and claim the treasure for themselves. But none of them ever made it back. Their ships were found wrecked, their crews dead or missing. And those who survived were driven mad by what they found."

You swallowed hard, the gravity of the situation sinking in. "So, what do I do?" you asked, your voice trembling slightly.

The sailor looked at you for a long moment before speaking. "If you’re serious about this, you’ll need to prepare yourself," he said. "Find a crew you can trust, people who know how to handle themselves in a fight. And most importantly, keep that map close. There are others who would kill to get their hands on it."

You nodded, "I’ll do whatever it takes."

The sailor nodded, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "You’ve got spirit, I’ll give you that," he said. "Just be careful. This world is full of dangers, and not all of them are as obvious as a pirate’s blade."

With that, he stood up, tipping his hat to you before turning to leave. "Good luck, lass," he said over his shoulder. "You’re going to need it."

You watched him go, your mind racing with everything he had told you. The treasure was real, and it was more dangerous than you could have ever imagined. But you were determined to find it, no matter what it took.

You took the map and carefully folded it and tucked it back into your bag. With a deep breath, you stood up and left the tavern, your heart pounding in your chest. You had a lot of work to do, and there was no time to waste.

As you walked back through the city streets, the weight of the map seemed heavier than ever. You knew you were about to embark on a journey that would change your life forever, one that would test your courage, your resolve, and your very soul.

But despite the fear that lingered in the back of your mind, there was also a sense of excitement—a thrill at the thought of uncovering something that had been hidden away for centuries that not even the best pirates could find.

You had the map and you had the determination, now all you needed was the right people. And once you had that, there would be nothing stopping you from finding the treasure and claiming it for yourself.

The night was still young as you made your way back to your small home. You were ready to face whatever challenges came your way, to risk everything for the chance to uncover the secrets of the map.

And as you reached your door, the words of the mysterious man from the ball echoed in your mind: "I’ll find you, no matter where you go."

You knew he was out there, watching, waiting for the right moment to strike. But you weren’t afraid. You were ready for whatever came next.

series masterlist -> chapter 2