Source: https://www.bungie.net/7/en/News/Article/twid-05-16-2024
This week in Destiny, we are a little over two weeks away from the launch of The Final Shape. From The Witness to the Dread to Prismatic to Exotic class items, and more, there are so many things to be excited about. And today, we have even more to share with you, including some system updates and reworks that will also happen at launch. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!
Topics for this week:

• Weapons tuning recap.
  
• Build your arsenal shorts.
  
• Enhanced perk updates.
  
• Memento changes.
  
• Reduced Fragment costs at Ikora in The Final Shape
  
• New boss profile for The Pantheon.
  
• Zero Hour Exotic mission is live.
  
• METORO webcomic feature.
  
• Destiny 2 Content Vault updates.
  

Weapons Tuning Recap

Image Link^imgur
Yesterday, we shared details about our plans for weapons tuning in The Final Shape. This includes a change to some weapon mod specs, weapon balancing, and perk updates. For more details, check out our Dev Insight: Weapons Tuning Preview blog.

Build Your Arsenal

As the excitement for The Final Shape is ramping up, we’re sharing a first look at some of the Exotic weapons and armor you can expect to see. Check them out and start cooking up those builds!

Microcosm Heavy Ammo Trace Rifle
Video Link
Khostov Auto Rifle
Video Link
Mataidoxia Warlock Exotic Chest Armor
Video Link
Gifted Conviction Hunter Exotic Chest Armor
Video Link
Hazardous Propulsion Titan Exotic Chest Armor
Video Link

Enhancement in The Final Shape

During the Lightfall year, players have gotten a taste of weapon enhancement with the raid Adept weapons from Root of Nightmares and Crota's End. In The Final Shape, you'll see that this system has undergone some upgrades, making enhancing your weapons easier and allowing us to comfortably expand this system to include more weapons. Here’s a quick recap on how weapon enhancement will work alongside some of the changes:

• Weapon enhancement allows the weapon to be upgraded to receive enhanced traits, a weapon level, and a memento socket. To upgrade your weapon, players can navigate to the inspection screen and insert the enhancement tier mod for standard currencies (raid Adept weapons will continue to use Spoils of Conquest).

Image Link^imgur

• Enhancement Tier 1:
  
  • Replaces your Masterwork and provides the weapon with an enhanced intrinsic that matches the stat of your old Masterwork.
  • Provides a weapon level, a date when you first enhanced the weapon, and a memento socket.
  • Raid Adepts only: Since these weapons have a base-crafted version, we want the Adept versions to feel like a meaningful upgrade. Therefore, these weapons can visit the Relic on Mars to adjust their first two columns (typically barrels/magazines) in a similar fashion to how crafted weapons can augment these perk columns.
• Enhancement Tier 2 (weapon level 11 requirement):
  
  • Once the player inserts this mod, the left column trait(s) will automatically be upgraded to their enhanced perks. If you have multiple perks, this will update all traits in the column. Players will not need to visit the Relic on Mars to update these traits anymore.
• Enhancement Tier 3 (weapon level 17 requirement):
  
  • Once the player applies this mod, the right column weapon trait perks will automatically be updated to be enhanced. Like the left column, this will upgrade all of the traits present and does not require visiting the Relic.

Image Link^imgur
We've heard the feedback that weapons should have more avenues to acquire enhanced traits. In The Final Shape, all new weapons will either be craftable or have access to weapon enhancement. In addition, weapons that remain active drops in the following activities will be eligible for enhancement:

• Vow of the Disciple raid Adepts
  
• Guardian Games
  
• King's Fall raid Adepts
  
• Gambit
  
• Competitive Crucible (all of them)
  
• Trials of Osiris
  
• Crucible
  
• Iron Banner
  
• Vanguard Ops
  
• Nightfalls
  
• Prophecy Dungeon
  

This will include older instances of these weapons, as long as they have an origin trait. Unfortunately, due to some technical constraints, there are a handful of weapons instances from before Season 17 that have origin traits and are active drops, but they will not be eligible for weapon enhancement. If a weapon is not actively dropping in these activities and playlists or it’s under the legacy focusing options, it will not be enhance-able when The Final Shape releases. If weapons are reissued and become a part of a playlist's active drops once again, we'll update older versions that have origin traits to enter weapon enhancement.

Mementos in The Final Shape

We've received a lot of feedback on weapon mementos, especially as new mementos have released in our seasonal events. In The Final Shape, we have a few changes coming that impact how you store mementos and apply them to your weapons.

• Crafted and enhanced weapons will no longer need to visit the Relic on Mars to apply mementos. Players can apply the memento of their choosing directly in the weapon inspection screen.
  
• Memento stack cap limits will be raised from 1 to 3.
  
• Mementos will no longer be stored alongside the player's consumables. When The Final Shape launches, your mementos under consumables will show as faded. Then, once the faded memento is dismantled, you'll see +1 memento added in the weapon inspection screen as a virtual currency. For players who figured out how to get around the original memento stack size limits, this will allow you to dismantle all those mementos safely, even if you temporarily go over the intended stack limit of three. If you are holding three (or more) of a particular memento, it will not drop again until you spend your mementos to be under the stack size limit of three.
  

Reduced Fragment Costs at Ikora In The Final Shape

Subclass Fragments purchasable from Ikora are expensive, particularly considering how many there are, especially for New Lights. In The Final Shape, we have reduced the cost of Fragments from 25000 Glimmer to 10000 Glimmer. Our goal here is to make these vital build-crafting elements more accessible for new and returning players.

The Pantheon Grows Stronger

Another week, and your task has become more difficult, Guardians. Rhulk, Disciple of the Witness, has joined The Pantheon, and we’ve gathered intel for your mission.
VANGUARD – GUARDIAN DISPATCH – ALL POINTS BULLETIN
DEFENDERS OF THE CITY,
You are tasked with the elimination of the following target:

-RHULK, DISCIPLE OF THE WITNESS-
Image Link^imgur
CLASSIFICATION

• The last-known Lubraean
  
• First Disciple of the Witness
  
• Other names: The Upender, Worm Father
  
• Dread
  
• Resonant
  

HAZARDS

• Darkness mastery
  
• Immeasurable strength and durability
  
• Powerful Lubrae’s Ruin Glaive
  
• Suns of Lubrae attack and debuff
  
• Savage Strike kick
  
• Umbral Suffocation attack
  
• Teleportation
  
• Resonant Spikes area effect
  
• Guardians rated Sigma-3 or lower are advised not to engage
  

INTEL

• Rhulk was born on the planet Lubrae, a world originally blessed by the Traveler that spiraled into an authoritarian regime when the Traveler left. Fueled by rage, Rhulk sought to destroy the regime, but his bloodlust led to being ostracized from his clan. Eventually, afraid of what he’d become, his clan attempted to kill him.
  
• Decrypted records from the Pyramid indicate that the Witness made contact with Rhulk during this time, restored him, and empowered him as the first Disciple. Rhulk took his vengeance on Lubrae, annihilating its parent star and destroying the planet.
  
• Vanguard power assessments place Rhulk far above any previous enemy faced by any Guardian. Battle scholars theorize the bold fireteam that stormed the sunken Pyramid only prevailed due to Rhulk’s humoring a fight to begin with. But prevail they did.
  

OF NOTE

• Hidden cipher-sequences buried in the symbols throughout have been decrypted by a pioneering Cryptarch, thanks to countless fireteams keeping the way clear. The solved sequence is believed to be astronomical coordinates to Lubrae. (Probe dispatched… awaiting arrival.)
  
• The creation of the Hive was majorly influenced by Rhulk. The first Disciple of the Witness subjugated the Worm mother, Xita, and forced her spawn into union with the Krill, which led to the Hive species and the Hive Gods themselves.
  
• Cryptarchs have uncovered communications between Rhulk and Savathûn in which Savathûn derides Rhulk’s simplicity as a tactician. According to the Witch Queen, the first Disciple only values strength, and his downfall will be his brute force approach to every situation.
  

Zero Hour Exotic Mission Is Live

Image Link^imgur
The Zero Hour Exotic mission is now live. If you haven’t jumped in yet, you can find it in the Into the Light node in the Director. Completing the mission in the required timeframe will earn you the Outbreak Perfected Exotic Pulse Rifle.
As we mentioned last week, we’re celebrating the release by asking you to share your favorite moments with TR3-VR. Post your favorite art, screenshots, videos, or memes — anything that shows your love for our favorite overly attached robot. Just use the hashtag #MyFriendTR3VR. We’ll be giving our favorites an Art or Movie of the Week emblem and sharing your creations in a future TWID.

METORO Webcomic Feature

Do you like cute webcomics? Of course you do! Check out these weekly panels from Japanese webcomic artist METORO that detail her first journey into Destiny 2! Remember what it was like the first time you got your hands on the Gjallarhorn? How about your first raid? Piecing together the story behind the Light and Darkness saga? Well, METORO has put her Destiny 2 adventures into art form. You can catch her original work over on TwitteX in Japanese or read it translated into English below:

METORO Discovers Destiny 2

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Challenges Onslaught

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Teaches a History Lesson

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Runs Vault of Glass

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Takes on The Pantheon

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

Player Support Report

"I would die for Archie” did not mean I wanted him to actively be the death of me.
Image Link^imgur
Known Issues List Help Forums Bungie Help Twitter

DESTINY CONTENT VAULT UPDATES

With the start of Year 7 of Destiny 2, on June 4 certain items will be deprecated from player inventories that correspond with vaulted activities and seasonal campaigns. They will then be moved into the Destiny Content Vault.
We have updated the Destiny Content Vault article to reflect these changes and created a new article fully outlining Items Being Deprecated at the Start of Year 7 for players to reference.

PARENTAL CONTROLS

Parents, guardians, and other responsible adults are now able to adjust their child’s Destiny 2 settings.
To set up parental controls, both the child and their adult need a Bungie.net account, and we will need to verify that the person providing consent and setting controls is an adult. We have created a Parental Controls Help article with details explaining how to create an account and instructions on linking it to your child's.
We have also updated our privacy policy. Please visit Bungie.net to create or manage your account and set your preferences today.

KNOWN ISSUES

While we continue investigating various known issues, here is a list of the latest issues that were reported to us in our #Help Forum:

• Capturing a zone in the Collision PvP game mode while having full super energy will slightly reduce Super energy.
  
• Tormentors can push turrets away in Onslaught with their slam or grab attacks.
  
• The Zero Deaths Triumph only unlocks when completing Zero Hour on the Legend difficulty, which should unlock on both Normal and Legend difficulties.
  

For a full list of emergent issues in Destiny 2, players can review our Known Issues article.
If you observe other issues, please report them to our #Help forum.

Who’s The Fairest Of Them All?

Image Link^imgur
This is what happens when someone asks you to draw your favorite Ghost Shell. The classic 77-way first-place tie.
Cheeese Lord on TwitteX
Image Link^imgur

A Titan’s Sacrifice

Image Link^imgur
Why does it always seem to be Titans dying in spectacular fashion? Is it because they are the bravest class, charging into battle to protect others without worrying about their own well-being? Uh... yeah, we can just go with that.
Movie of the Week:
[
Image Link^{imgur](https://twitter.com/famtom98/status/1788074319693992317)}
That’s everything we have for this week. Hopefully you’ve been having fun on the new PvP maps. We know there is a lot to do in these final weeks before The Final Shape, but if you haven’t checked the PvP maps out yet, jump into the New Territory playlist to give them a try. Not only are they beautiful and fun, you can also earn the Slaycation emblem by checking them out.
We’ll be back next week with another TWID and more details to share on The Final Shape. In the meantime, be good to each other, and thanks for hanging out with us.
Destiny 2 Community Team

Source: https://www.bungie.net/7/en/News/Article/twid-05-16-2024
This week in Destiny, we are a little over two weeks away from the launch of The Final Shape. From The Witness to the Dread to Prismatic to Exotic class items, and more, there are so many things to be excited about. And today, we have even more to share with you, including some system updates and reworks that will also happen at launch. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!
Topics for this week:

• Weapons tuning recap.
  
• Build your arsenal shorts.
  
• Enhanced perk updates.
  
• Memento changes.
  
• Reduced Fragment costs at Ikora in The Final Shape
  
• New boss profile for The Pantheon.
  
• Zero Hour Exotic mission is live.
  
• METORO webcomic feature.
  
• Destiny 2 Content Vault updates.
  

Weapons Tuning Recap

Image Link^imgur
Yesterday, we shared details about our plans for weapons tuning in The Final Shape. This includes a change to some weapon mod specs, weapon balancing, and perk updates. For more details, check out our Dev Insight: Weapons Tuning Preview blog.

Build Your Arsenal

As the excitement for The Final Shape is ramping up, we’re sharing a first look at some of the Exotic weapons and armor you can expect to see. Check them out and start cooking up those builds!

Microcosm Heavy Ammo Trace Rifle
Video Link
Khostov Auto Rifle
Video Link
Mataidoxia Warlock Exotic Chest Armor
Video Link
Gifted Conviction Hunter Exotic Chest Armor
Video Link
Hazardous Propulsion Titan Exotic Chest Armor
Video Link

Enhancement in The Final Shape

During the Lightfall year, players have gotten a taste of weapon enhancement with the raid Adept weapons from Root of Nightmares and Crota's End. In The Final Shape, you'll see that this system has undergone some upgrades, making enhancing your weapons easier and allowing us to comfortably expand this system to include more weapons. Here’s a quick recap on how weapon enhancement will work alongside some of the changes:

• Weapon enhancement allows the weapon to be upgraded to receive enhanced traits, a weapon level, and a memento socket. To upgrade your weapon, players can navigate to the inspection screen and insert the enhancement tier mod for standard currencies (raid Adept weapons will continue to use Spoils of Conquest).

Image Link^imgur

• Enhancement Tier 1:
  
  • Replaces your Masterwork and provides the weapon with an enhanced intrinsic that matches the stat of your old Masterwork.
  • Provides a weapon level, a date when you first enhanced the weapon, and a memento socket.
  • Raid Adepts only: Since these weapons have a base-crafted version, we want the Adept versions to feel like a meaningful upgrade. Therefore, these weapons can visit the Relic on Mars to adjust their first two columns (typically barrels/magazines) in a similar fashion to how crafted weapons can augment these perk columns.
• Enhancement Tier 2 (weapon level 11 requirement):
  
  • Once the player inserts this mod, the left column trait(s) will automatically be upgraded to their enhanced perks. If you have multiple perks, this will update all traits in the column. Players will not need to visit the Relic on Mars to update these traits anymore.
• Enhancement Tier 3 (weapon level 17 requirement):
  
  • Once the player applies this mod, the right column weapon trait perks will automatically be updated to be enhanced. Like the left column, this will upgrade all of the traits present and does not require visiting the Relic.

Image Link^imgur
We've heard the feedback that weapons should have more avenues to acquire enhanced traits. In The Final Shape, all new weapons will either be craftable or have access to weapon enhancement. In addition, weapons that remain active drops in the following activities will be eligible for enhancement:

• Vow of the Disciple raid Adepts
  
• Guardian Games
  
• King's Fall raid Adepts
  
• Gambit
  
• Competitive Crucible (all of them)
  
• Trials of Osiris
  
• Crucible
  
• Iron Banner
  
• Vanguard Ops
  
• Nightfalls
  
• Prophecy Dungeon
  

This will include older instances of these weapons, as long as they have an origin trait. Unfortunately, due to some technical constraints, there are a handful of weapons instances from before Season 17 that have origin traits and are active drops, but they will not be eligible for weapon enhancement. If a weapon is not actively dropping in these activities and playlists or it’s under the legacy focusing options, it will not be enhance-able when The Final Shape releases. If weapons are reissued and become a part of a playlist's active drops once again, we'll update older versions that have origin traits to enter weapon enhancement.

Mementos in The Final Shape

We've received a lot of feedback on weapon mementos, especially as new mementos have released in our seasonal events. In The Final Shape, we have a few changes coming that impact how you store mementos and apply them to your weapons.

• Crafted and enhanced weapons will no longer need to visit the Relic on Mars to apply mementos. Players can apply the memento of their choosing directly in the weapon inspection screen.
  
• Memento stack cap limits will be raised from 1 to 3.
  
• Mementos will no longer be stored alongside the player's consumables. When The Final Shape launches, your mementos under consumables will show as faded. Then, once the faded memento is dismantled, you'll see +1 memento added in the weapon inspection screen as a virtual currency. For players who figured out how to get around the original memento stack size limits, this will allow you to dismantle all those mementos safely, even if you temporarily go over the intended stack limit of three. If you are holding three (or more) of a particular memento, it will not drop again until you spend your mementos to be under the stack size limit of three.
  

Reduced Fragment Costs at Ikora In The Final Shape

Subclass Fragments purchasable from Ikora are expensive, particularly considering how many there are, especially for New Lights. In The Final Shape, we have reduced the cost of Fragments from 25000 Glimmer to 10000 Glimmer. Our goal here is to make these vital build-crafting elements more accessible for new and returning players.

The Pantheon Grows Stronger

Another week, and your task has become more difficult, Guardians. Rhulk, Disciple of the Witness, has joined The Pantheon, and we’ve gathered intel for your mission.
VANGUARD – GUARDIAN DISPATCH – ALL POINTS BULLETIN
DEFENDERS OF THE CITY,
You are tasked with the elimination of the following target:

-RHULK, DISCIPLE OF THE WITNESS-
Image Link^imgur
CLASSIFICATION

• The last-known Lubraean
  
• First Disciple of the Witness
  
• Other names: The Upender, Worm Father
  
• Dread
  
• Resonant
  

HAZARDS

• Darkness mastery
  
• Immeasurable strength and durability
  
• Powerful Lubrae’s Ruin Glaive
  
• Suns of Lubrae attack and debuff
  
• Savage Strike kick
  
• Umbral Suffocation attack
  
• Teleportation
  
• Resonant Spikes area effect
  
• Guardians rated Sigma-3 or lower are advised not to engage
  

INTEL

• Rhulk was born on the planet Lubrae, a world originally blessed by the Traveler that spiraled into an authoritarian regime when the Traveler left. Fueled by rage, Rhulk sought to destroy the regime, but his bloodlust led to being ostracized from his clan. Eventually, afraid of what he’d become, his clan attempted to kill him.
  
• Decrypted records from the Pyramid indicate that the Witness made contact with Rhulk during this time, restored him, and empowered him as the first Disciple. Rhulk took his vengeance on Lubrae, annihilating its parent star and destroying the planet.
  
• Vanguard power assessments place Rhulk far above any previous enemy faced by any Guardian. Battle scholars theorize the bold fireteam that stormed the sunken Pyramid only prevailed due to Rhulk’s humoring a fight to begin with. But prevail they did.
  

OF NOTE

• Hidden cipher-sequences buried in the symbols throughout have been decrypted by a pioneering Cryptarch, thanks to countless fireteams keeping the way clear. The solved sequence is believed to be astronomical coordinates to Lubrae. (Probe dispatched… awaiting arrival.)
  
• The creation of the Hive was majorly influenced by Rhulk. The first Disciple of the Witness subjugated the Worm mother, Xita, and forced her spawn into union with the Krill, which led to the Hive species and the Hive Gods themselves.
  
• Cryptarchs have uncovered communications between Rhulk and Savathûn in which Savathûn derides Rhulk’s simplicity as a tactician. According to the Witch Queen, the first Disciple only values strength, and his downfall will be his brute force approach to every situation.
  

Zero Hour Exotic Mission Is Live

Image Link^imgur
The Zero Hour Exotic mission is now live. If you haven’t jumped in yet, you can find it in the Into the Light node in the Director. Completing the mission in the required timeframe will earn you the Outbreak Perfected Exotic Pulse Rifle.
As we mentioned last week, we’re celebrating the release by asking you to share your favorite moments with TR3-VR. Post your favorite art, screenshots, videos, or memes — anything that shows your love for our favorite overly attached robot. Just use the hashtag #MyFriendTR3VR. We’ll be giving our favorites an Art or Movie of the Week emblem and sharing your creations in a future TWID.

METORO Webcomic Feature

Do you like cute webcomics? Of course you do! Check out these weekly panels from Japanese webcomic artist METORO that detail her first journey into Destiny 2! Remember what it was like the first time you got your hands on the Gjallarhorn? How about your first raid? Piecing together the story behind the Light and Darkness saga? Well, METORO has put her Destiny 2 adventures into art form. You can catch her original work over on TwitteX in Japanese or read it translated into English below:

METORO Discovers Destiny 2

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Challenges Onslaught

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Teaches a History Lesson

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Runs Vault of Glass

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

METORO Takes on The Pantheon

Image Link^imgur
Image Link^imgur

Player Support Report

"I would die for Archie” did not mean I wanted him to actively be the death of me.
Image Link^imgur
Known Issues List Help Forums Bungie Help Twitter

DESTINY CONTENT VAULT UPDATES

With the start of Year 7 of Destiny 2, on June 4 certain items will be deprecated from player inventories that correspond with vaulted activities and seasonal campaigns. They will then be moved into the Destiny Content Vault.
We have updated the Destiny Content Vault article to reflect these changes and created a new article fully outlining Items Being Deprecated at the Start of Year 7 for players to reference.

PARENTAL CONTROLS

Parents, guardians, and other responsible adults are now able to adjust their child’s Destiny 2 settings.
To set up parental controls, both the child and their adult need a Bungie.net account, and we will need to verify that the person providing consent and setting controls is an adult. We have created a Parental Controls Help article with details explaining how to create an account and instructions on linking it to your child's.
We have also updated our privacy policy. Please visit Bungie.net to create or manage your account and set your preferences today.

KNOWN ISSUES

While we continue investigating various known issues, here is a list of the latest issues that were reported to us in our #Help Forum:

• Capturing a zone in the Collision PvP game mode while having full super energy will slightly reduce Super energy.
  
• Tormentors can push turrets away in Onslaught with their slam or grab attacks.
  
• The Zero Deaths Triumph only unlocks when completing Zero Hour on the Legend difficulty, which should unlock on both Normal and Legend difficulties.
  

For a full list of emergent issues in Destiny 2, players can review our Known Issues article.
If you observe other issues, please report them to our #Help forum.

Who’s The Fairest Of Them All?

Image Link^imgur
This is what happens when someone asks you to draw your favorite Ghost Shell. The classic 77-way first-place tie.
Cheeese Lord on TwitteX
Image Link^imgur

A Titan’s Sacrifice

Image Link^imgur
Why does it always seem to be Titans dying in spectacular fashion? Is it because they are the bravest class, charging into battle to protect others without worrying about their own well-being? Uh... yeah, we can just go with that.
Movie of the Week:
[
Image Link^{imgur](https://twitter.com/famtom98/status/1788074319693992317)}
That’s everything we have for this week. Hopefully you’ve been having fun on the new PvP maps. We know there is a lot to do in these final weeks before The Final Shape, but if you haven’t checked the PvP maps out yet, jump into the New Territory playlist to give them a try. Not only are they beautiful and fun, you can also earn the Slaycation emblem by checking them out.
We’ll be back next week with another TWID and more details to share on The Final Shape. In the meantime, be good to each other, and thanks for hanging out with us.
Destiny 2 Community Team

Note: Taken from Introducing my first OC
PS: Largely minor changes.
(Let me know if there is any inconsistency.)
Letter R in team REPR(Reaper): Rogert "Roth" Oberon
Sex: Male
Age: 25 during the Fall of Beacon, 26 or 27 during Atlas arc.
Birthday: 18th day of the 10th month
Height: 1,87 meters
Species: Faunus, Bear. Notable markers: Bear snout.
Family: Father and mother, lost a younger sister and brother in a Grimm attack.
Class: Tank. Speciality: Defense, taking and holding ground.
Colours: Cares little for the colour rule yet the colour of the symbol is brown and uses black armour. Varied colours in the rest of the attire intended for camouflage depending on the environment.
Semblance: =Redacted under orders of Headmaster of Beacon= Authorized personnel only as follows:
Animal morphing, Roth Oberon is able to turn into a big bear and is able to remain in full control after years of practice. However, to maintain control of his semblance he needs to change into a bear once every 2 weeks for at least 2 hours to avoid permanently damaging his body. Gained the semblance in his 3rd year as a Huntsman trainee during a hunting mission. Becomes stronger, aura takes more damage and is more animalistic in animal form.
=Classified information ends=
Profession: Huntsman in training at Beacon Academy, team leader. (Former)
Vale defence forces. (Former)
Guardsman of Beacon. (Current)
Appearance: Strong arms with strong legs, broad shoulders, gold brown bear eyes, and brown hair. Bear mouth/snout. Note: Functional muscles instead for show.
Weapons:
Graduate Huntsman in Atlas arc: Two gauntlets with automatic machine guns and a sword blade coming out of them, grappling hooks on both, a spear tip and spear adjusted for his height and physique that can be split into 2 pieces. Carries dust grenades with him with empty dust slots and different dust with him.
Student to graduate Huntsman in Mistral arc: Spear, machine gun gauntlet, sword gauntlet, one-shot reloadable rocket launcher with ammo and a spear tip from a broken spear.
Strengths:

• Roth is very strong and durable allowing him to survive hits that would kill many others.
• Adaptable to changing situations and has strong willpower, keen intelligence, and a sharp mind.
• Versatile combat technique and knows how to use a variety of weapons or forms.
• His ability as a leader and calm attitude has kept his team in tip-top shape and has made them self-reliant on themselves making the team effective alone, in pairs or as a group.
• Bear´s sense of smell.
• Classified ahead: Can gain bear´s abilities because of his semblance when turning fully into a bear or just partially.

Weaknesses:

• Can be slower in a fight than most fighters even in his younger years.
• Workaholic.
• Roth´s darker impulses are closer to the surface when he is in charge.
• Great anger towards Grimm makes him hunt them with abandon or lure them in relatively easily. (Weakness in academy years, in adult years unorthodox trapping and luring method against Grimm. Double-edged sword.)

Inspiration: What I want to be. A person who could beat Hazel Rainart and Brutes from Batman Arkham Knight. Gregor Eisenhorn of Warhammer 40k. Kratos of God of war in his Nordic life.
Skills:

• Knows many melee weapon combat forms and has a lot of fist-fighting experience. After training and fighting in missions in a military unit for 3 years after graduation, he has learned to fight like a commando.
• Edit: Knows how to train dogs.
• Knows how to make new weapons from the ground up with primitive equipment and knows how to maintain them effectively and how to repair them.
• Rogert knows how to survive in the wilderness for potentially years. Building shelter, use of camouflage, hunting for food and foraging, how to lose a hunter, navigating etc. His speciality is tracking a target or missing supplies.
• Advanced stealth skills and ability to disappear enhanced by military education.
• Knows how to make grenades and bombs and how to defuse them. (Trained in the military and by Parish Broc.)
• Knows the basics of using military equipment and weapons after graduation and training in the military.
• Interrogation skills enhanced by his physical presence and knows how to gain information by talking. (And knows how to extract information by inflicting pain and suffering. Trained with some success by Elena Nathara.)
• Knows psychological warfare and guerrilla tactics. Specializes in Grimm.
• Knows criminal psychology, how to establish a crime scene and how to gather evidence. (Trained by his father and Raina Odell.)
• Knows how to administer first aid. (Basic and Huntsman academy training.)

Personality: Rogert is a loner who was given the job of a leader despite not wanting it. He became more comfortable in the role over the years yet deep down never truly believed he should be a leader.
While a humble person, Roth has no illusions of his strengths and how powerful he can be when in battle.
Roth values loyalty and honesty, things he has shown to his team by having no secrets from them and has encouraged his team to do the same with great effect. Because of his values in honesty, Rogert does not forgive attempts to lie to him and tries to limit his words to be as truthful as possible.
Roth has a ruthless attitude when it comes to leadership and dealing with enemies. As a leader, Roth expects nothing but competence and giving 100% in combination with a firm chain of command and on-the-spot obedience.
Roth is a strong believer in learning and improving skills. Because of this, Roth has learned from his teammates the skills he lacked before meeting them and has instructed them to do the same.
Desiring always to have the upper hand, he learned to keep his emotions in check at all times and focused on his studies in his free time and school time. Other people often consider him emotionless, yet no one is willing to say it in his earshot, and he doesn´t mind this thought about him.
Rogert has mastered his emotions, and he can make decisions that would make other people disgusted with themselves be it torture or cruel punishments without flinching as he got older. While his team reminds him about his better nature and while his actions have never been directed against an innocent, Rogert believes he can´t afford to hesitate to act when many lives are at stake.
His team, REPR, has helped him loosen up, and he discovered his liking for playing the saxophone and driving. His team has helped him to become a better man than he thinks he needs to be as the years went by.
Facts about the character:

• Rogert prefers to be called Roth because the name is easier to pronounce, and he prefers a shorter name.
• Rogert put the team to vote during graduation on whether they should stick together as a group. Ultimately, the team was split up, yet REPR occasionally would help each other on big operations. He voted No, yet never said why, even when asked.
• Roth´s closest relationships are with his parents, Elena and Raina, and he thinks highly of Doctor Bartholomew Oobleck due to his teaching and wisdom.
• Originally intended to be a counter for Elm, an Ace Operative during early development phase.

Extra skills:

• Scholar: His lack of social interaction in his school years made Rogert focus more on his studies than on making friends. Due to this, he has gained a lot of knowledge and an interest in researching history and myths. Math skills and history were his best subjects, and he often likes to talk about both when asked.

Perhaps accidentally, the party managed to wrap up a couple of major quests on floor 2 this session. In addition to a very cute dog in attendance irl, we had:
-Freyja, Half Elf Paladin of Mielekee, a gothic woman seeking vengeance on her’s father’s killer.
-Nazar, Goliath Paladin of Tyr, an upright man in exceptional armour, seeking a holy relic.
-Felicity, Aaracockra Bard, a cunning and curious birdfolk with dark musical tastes.
-Archimedes, Gnome Artificer in his owl themed armor, seeking to make magical items.
-Goba, Dwarf-Duergar Fighter-Barbarian, a noble bounty hunter on someone’s trail.
They also have Nanaz, Goba’s manservant, and the vengeful revenant Halleth, as companions.
MIDNA’S SHADOWS
The session began with battle against Halleth’s final murderer, Midna, Cleric of Shar. Her plush chamber was plunged into darkness that especially obscured things to Nazar- except, oddly, the Shrine of Shar which remained unnaturally visible in the black.
Ten shades were conjured alongside two shadow mastiffs to bog down the party, while Midna shot their one light source- a little clockwork flash-walker Archimedes had made. Nazar held the line, barely buffeted by the shades, while Freyja and Archimedes stabbed and zapped her black hounds. Halleth used his new ability, with a cry of “onwards, for Vengeance!” to let him and Goba rush forwards without opportunity attacks to corner her.
Quickly, the shades and hounds fell, and Nazar, able to see only one thing, threw a rock at the shrine of Shar and charged over. This immediately elevated him as Midna’s main target, and she tried to hack at him with a cursed sickle, only for Goba to run her through. Midna died surprisingly peacefully, muttering that it didn’t matter.
In the aftermath, as the light returned, Nazar pulled out his warhammer and set about demolishing the statue of the dark goddess. He felt a brief call, an offer that he could gain the power to see through the darkness like his allies, but he turned it down and smashed the shrine apart. Earning a Curse of Shar.
Curse of Shar- Plagued by the dark goddesses wrath, you are weakened as your memories fade. While cursed you have disadvantage on Saving Throws against Magic, and lose proficiency in one random skill. Each long rest, make a DC 18 Wisdom Saving Throw. On a failure, you lose proficiency in another random skill.
Nazar lost memories of conversations had around campfires, losing a portion of his charm and the Persuasion skill first.
CALL OF VENGEANCE
While others were looted the room for gold, suspecting the feast of poison, and finding nice clothes, Halleth remained animated, stabbing Midna again and again. When Archimedes intervened and removed her holy symbols- offering the undead cleric the symbol of Waukeen, he looked at it with barely any emotion on his bleeding face.
“She never opened her gates to me. Why would that change now?” Halleth growled, “There are more debts to collect. More wrongs to right. So much evil to punish. Can’t you hear the call of vengeance?”
They couldn’t but Halleth grumbled that something- an angel- had reached out to him when he last lay dead, promising to slay the evils of undermountain. And somehow, with this being’s power, the revenant doesn’t die yet. Instead, the party watched uncertainly as he tried to leave, collapsed as his body fell apart, and his soul seemed to sink down into the stonework.
They have completed his quest for vengeance, but something calls him to linger on in the dungeon. Archimedes pocketed the two holy symbols of Waukeen and Shar, and after desecrating the rest of this room, they left.
SPIDER EYES WATCHPOST
Or more like Snake Eyes Watchpost.
With the party still in good shape, they decided to go tick off another notch of a quest, and returned to the northernmost Xanathar Watchpost to take it down. This was a tricky fight, against a dozen bugbears, a handful of human mobsters, a mutant drow, and a corridor full of traps.
Well, it was tricky in theory.
Only Goba and Nazar actually had to face the trapped pressure plates littering the corridor, and their toughness and armour turned aside every dart. Felicity flew over them, Archimedes spider-climbed to run along the ceiling, and Freyja pulled out her bow and sniped from the corridor’s end.
Against terrifying blades and thunderous magic, most of the bugbear runts fell like bowling pins. Shun, the spider-faced drow, commanded his men to try and shoot down the “turkey”, littering Felicity with far more feathers than she was meant to have, and tried to bring down Goba and Nazar with poisoned bolts. He failed. He panicked, and he retreated behind a screen of mobsters and bugbears.
Said goons immediately almost died to Archimedes’ shatter, then were put to Sleep by Felicity, allowing the frontliners to run over them and hack the cowardly drow apart. The rest died quickly in the aftermath, with only a brief tussle where a brawler yanked Felicity out of the air, slammed her onto a pressure plate, and got his mate shot and killed by the dart trap.
Another Outpost clear! Two outta three!
In the chambers beyond, they found a mountainous larder of rations, enough to sustain the party for a hundred days if only they could carry it all. Which they can, using the portable hole. Rex’s body was discarded.
The outpost had a rough map of the floor, some other chests for which they found keys. In one, a crimson eyeball abruptly lurched out, floating into the air with a sinuous tentacle hanging it from it like a malevolent ocular jellyfish.
“SHUN, WHAT’S THE STATU- OH, WHO THE HELL ARE YOU, BOY?”
It’s telepathic voice blared into their skulls, taking in the scene before demanding the Xanathar password- how many eyes does the Xanathar have?
Apparently nine was not the correct answer, and so the eye blasted Nazar with a burst laser blast. Felicity was quick to flit into the air and stab it with a psychic blade, hearing one final thought blare into her mind as it died.
“BRING IT ON, FOOL, I KNOW YOUR FACES, AND MY EYES ARE ALWAYS OPEN.”
Xanathar has seen them.

This post contains spoilers from character anecdotes and main story!!!
From the past 2 myths, it has been shown that there are clues in the game of what they could have been. For Xavier, in one of his anecdotes, there's the child who spends the summer with him because Xavier was suppose to be a strong huntesuperhero. The child expects to find Xavier in a superhero type outfit and is disappointed when he doesn't. Later in the story, we find out about Lumiere, who, for the event, is a superhero/movie star. These 2 instances don't connect right away, but since Xavier's new myth came out, it makes more sense.
With Rafayel, everything he has done has been connected with the sea and or water. The paintings, the fact that other Lemurians exist in the current world, before he moved to Linkon City-- Other than finding the MC, he was on a mission to return to Lemuria and save his people. We also find out that there's a darker side to him. Even if you didn't know much about Rafayel before then, you learn more about him from getting the memory "Whalefall Lament", where you go into the sea with him to look for a missing whale (which is how I found out more about him since I started this game a little over 2 weeks ago).
Xavier's roles based on myths and currently (not in chronological order) are Lightseeker > Deepspace Hunter > Lumiere. For Rafayel, it's Abysswalker > Painter > God of the Tides. For Zayne, Foreseer > Doctor > ?
Outside of standard interactions with MC, we haven't gotten too much when it comes to Zayne. The one that stands out the most is the Surprise Encounter memory. In Surprise Encounter, we find Zayne at a museum and we discover that he's drawing a heart on a piece of papyrus. He tells us a story about a doctor who prayed with priests everyday to try to save his wife's failing heart. MC eventually says that "This doctor was way ahead of his time" (just like Zayne is as a doctor atm). It also mentions Osiris and how the heart of the deceased has to be judged by him. If you download the Surprise Encounter image and turn it horizontal, you'll see a pyramid paper weight on Zayne's desk. If it goes this route, there's a popular speculation on TikTok that Zayne's new myth is Egyptian-related (where I got this information).
I started thinking about another possible option that also connects to the above information. In the official artwork below, there are a lot of broken Roman related items-- the pillars, headless statues, and shortswords/daggers surrounding Zayne. In history, the Romans defeated Egypt, but in the photo, it makes it seem like it's vice versa? Other than the obvious symbolism of the items, the thrones (depicted in 2 artworks), the pyramids, and the Roman pillars symbolize having power, being a ruler, and or having political power. The Staff of Hermes symbolizes peace, but was also worn as a badge where you had to show respect to ambassadors and heralds.
We also know that Zayne has combat skills and has fought on the battlefield before, however, unlike the other 2, we don't know how he learned the art of combat. He doesn't really fight anyone as a Foreseer, he fought in the mountains when he started his career in the current timeline, and in Dawnbreaker's timeline too. The only other times he fights (that I can recall), is in the Neon Night memory and in one of the story chapters.
In Neon Night, we learn after the fight with the Wanderers that Zayne believes in leaving no man behind, which was an unspoken rule when he went on the mission in the mountains early in his career (he states that in there). Also, this is where MC buys him a brooch as a gift that he chose, thinking it was for another man. This brooch ends up breaking in half after the fight, but Zayne wears it regardless. One thing a brooch symbolizes is class status.
In an attempt to put this all together, could it be possible that his new myth may be related to being some kind of war general or king? I had a conversation with the owner of the TikTok of the Egyptian theory and they brought up the Pharaoh, who would fit based on these speculations. I don't think they would make him a doctomedical-themed again based on the Myths we got for Xavier and Rafayel, whose Myths were somewhat similar but different enough to be their own thing. According to Google, Pharaohs were connected to the divine in such a way that he was god himself (similar to Foreseer) while a king is recognized by mortal men and rules over a territory.
The main reason I'm thinking war general/king is due to Zayne's personality. He's strict at times, but a nice person. He's good at keeping his emotions in check and always worries about others before himself (also leaving no man behind). When I learned more about the Pharaoh route, it seemed that it could be a route that makes sense. What do you think?

Trapping everyone in a dream is certainly framed badly in the quest but is it really that bad? Well the arguments are:

• Sunday is forcing everyone asleep and they won’t be able to wake up and make their own choices :(
• the dreamscape is just escapism :(

Alright well for the first point it’s not really as bad as it sounds. First of all people came to Penacony for the dreamscape of their own free will and from the conversations with Robin right before the meeting with the dream master we know they have no intention of leaving the dreamscape. This isn’t just those three people either because it’s stated that Ena’s dream is maintained by the collective will of everyone on Penacony. So if everyone except the main cast chose to come to Penacony to live in the dreamscape and everyone already has no intention of waking up, it’s not really doing anything bad to make everyone live in a dream that they were already living in.
Then comes the argument that living in the dreamscape is escapism because you’ll run out of money to pay rent eventually and be forced to wake up. Under normal circumstances this would be true but of course Sunday’s plan makes it so that the dream is indistinguishable from reality and people will never wake up. This essentially means that the people who are in Ena’s dream aren’t escaping reality anymore because the dream became their new reality which would be a dream come true for them (haha). This isn’t some fleeting, fake happiness either as Robin says she senses genuine happiness from the 2nd dreamchaser.
In fact the only person aside from the main cast of heroes who stands to lose anything from this is Sunday who has to stay in eternal wakening.
So basically, it is already the dreamchasers desire to live in the dreamscape forever, and Sunday is making their dreams come true. It’s only by Acheron destroying the dreamscape that causes people to want to wake up out of desperation to escape the chaos, chaos that otherwise wouldn’t exist without the main casts interference. It’s like if someone wanted to stay in their house but you force them outside by burning their house down.
If anything, for all the talk of people making their own decisions without external force, the main cast is disrespecting the entirety of Penacony’s choice by destroying the dreamscape that they wanted and chose to live in. And really that just proves Sunday even more correct in his ideology because it was the strong main cast who decided the future for all of Penacony even though they didn’t want that future and just wanted to live their lives in the dreamscape.
And for some reason the main cast is being portrayed as weak and similar to everyone else in Penacony? Like why is Himeko yelling “the will of the weak” when they aren’t weak? It’s already established by Sunday that the nameless have to be strong to go on a dangerous interstellar journey; and for Firefly, well sure she likes the dreamscape but unlike everyone else on Penacony she didn’t come to the dreamscape to live in it she came to the dreamscape to fulfill the script. And let’s be honest Elio isn’t recruiting any weak people any time soon. The only reason Sunday thinks she’s weak is because he doesn’t know she’s a stellaron hunter which only applies to 5 people in the universe. Boothill is a galaxy ranger and Acheron is an emanator both of which are strong groups of people. Black Swan is a memetic entity so she’s more ambiguous. So basically all of the main cast, unlike the rest of Penacony, has a reason to want to wake from the dream be it a journey, a script, or their own self interest. And let me remind you that none of the main cast except Robin was even supposed to be on Penacony in the first place so the only people minus Robin who wanted to wake from the dream weren’t even supposed to be in the dream.
The only person who is an exception to this is Robin. She doesn’t exactly want to live in the dream like the rest of Penacony, but she does get the harmony she always wanted in Ena’s dream and chooses to wake up anyway befitting her character as a symbol of harmony, hope, and inspiration. That being said Robin wakes up as a universal superstar not a hopeless peasant or war paraplegic.
I hope the effect on average citizens is explored in the next quest as I’m sure they would be mad over having their haven destroyed by outside forces, but I doubt that will happen given the negative framing in the quest. Especially that old man from the war who had every reason to live in the dreamscape like he’s on deaths door he doesn’t have time to go to rehab at the intelligencia guild lol
So TL;DR was Sunday really wrong giving the dreamchasers what they wanted? Was the main cast really right in forcing everyone to wake up despite Penacony’s wishes? They could have just left the dreams area of effect and let them live in the dream forever.
Edit: typo
Edit: if you’re curious what people are saying most of them say this - the dreamers will starve
I thought it was meant to be assumed that wouldn’t happen because there’s no way Sunday wouldn’t have thought of that or if he didn’t the astral express wouldn’t have pointed that out during their argument. It’s probably different from a regular sleep otherwise it’s just this gaping plot hole - Sunday didn’t get permission
Despite bringing this up in the post this is what most people said and they completely ignored the thing about “the will of the entire planet” which is what I was most interested in discussing ;( There was one guy who pointed out the people opposing the family in dreamflux reef wouldn’t want to go in the dream and he would be right, so there are some deviants who don’t want to sleep forever however they appear to be a minority. The will of the entire planet doesn’t come from a few people after all
The same guy brought up the stellaron and I thought the stellaron was only making the people sleep forever but apparently it was confirmed by Gallagher that it was eroding their minds too. This is the flaw that makes Sunday’s schemes come to an end

1. The Tarot's Predecessor? Forget playing cards, tarot may have humble roots in a 13th-century Chinese game called "Leaf Game." This game used numbered cards and allegorical figures, eerily similar to the Minor Arcana. Could it be tarot's long-lost ancestor?
2. Tarot and the Plague: In the grim days of the Black Death, tarot cards weren't just for fun. They were used as moral lessons, depicting scenes of suffering and reminding people of their mortality. The Emperor card, for instance, might show a decaying monarch, a stark reminder of even the highest falling prey to the plague.
3. Tarot's Aristocratic Origins: Early tarot decks were luxury items, commissioned by wealthy families like the Viscontis of Milan. These hand-painted masterpieces weren't just for games; they were status symbols, showcasing the owner's wealth and cultural refinement.
4. The Banned Deck: In 1757, the French government banned a tarot deck called "Jeu des Fées" (Game of Fairies). Why? It featured satirical portraits of the royal court, disguised as fairies, and didn't sit well with the authorities. Talk about a deck with a bite!
5. Tarot and the French Revolution: The Marseilles Tarot, with its revolutionary symbolism, became a popular tool for revolutionaries in France. The Tower card, symbolizing upheaval and change, became a rallying cry for those seeking to overthrow the monarchy.
6. Tarot's Hidden Ciphers: Some scholars believe the Marseille Tarot holds hidden messages in its numbering and imagery. These "ciphers" might point to historical events, religious figures, or even secret societies. Could these cards be more than just pretty pictures?
7. Tarot and the American Frontier: Believe it or not, tarot decks were found among the belongings of prospectors during the California Gold Rush! It seems even fortune hunters sought guidance from the cards in their quest for wealth.
8. Tarot's Censored Past: In Victorian England, tarot was associated with the occult and deemed immoral. Many decks were destroyed or hidden away, contributing to the mystique surrounding the cards.
9. Tarot and World War I: During the First World War, soldiers used tarot cards for entertainment and comfort. Some decks were even specially designed for troops, with patriotic themes and morale-boosting imagery.
10. The Lost Tarot of Napoleon: Legend has it that Napoleon commissioned a special tarot deck to predict his future. This deck, if it ever existed, has vanished, leaving historians and tarot enthusiasts to wonder what secrets it might hold.
These are just a few historical tidbits to whet your appetite. Remember, the past whispers through the symbols on these cards, waiting to be unearthed by curious minds. Keep exploring, and who knows what forgotten stories you might uncover!

Part 14.3

Heracles VS Lernaean Hydra

Author Note: I was thinking about it and I really wish that GT9 used more draconic symbolism throughout the story when (or if) I revisit Team Crowley VS Rosencreutz I'll have symbolism of Aleister (TheBeast666), Aiwass (Codename: DRAGON) and Coronzon (The Dragon of the Abyss) all have symbology of them being Dragons preying on a God/Hero like CRC and the reversed conflict of Chaos VS Order you see in mythology, I also wanted to achieve something similar with Kakine Teitoku as he can represent the Fallen Angel and the Seraphim but for now I'll try adding draconian symbolism into Gunha VS CRC.
True Expert Christian Rosencreutz, with his golden rosy cross sword, clashed relentlessly against the indomitable force of the Strongest Gemstone, Sogiita Gunha. With each clash of their powers, the air crackled and compressed, and the pavement trembled beneath.
CRC, observed Sogiita with a mixture of intrigue and disdain. "You fight like the legendary Heracles," he remarked, his voice carrying over the din of battle. "But know this, I am the Lernaean Hydra, and no matter how many heads you sever, I shall always rise again!" Rosencreutz roared to slice the #7’s midsection.
Sogiita, his entire body wreathed in unknowable energy, met CRC's blade unyielding. "Bring it on, old man!" he retorted, his voice brimming with confidence. "I'll knock you down as many times as it takes! I won't stop till you come to your senses and remember your roots, like the roses you love so much, Rosencreutz!!"
Their clash intensified, that old man’s higher dimensional sword colliding with the raw power of that boy’s fists and kicks as they pushed each other to their limits with each sword swing, punch, kick and flash.
Sogiita unleashed a barrage of punches, each strike carrying the force of a meteor, while that silver young man countered: he wielded his sword in his right hand and released impacts followed by white light that was enough to previously take down all of The Bridge Builders Cabal.
As the battle raged on, the very fabric of reality seemed to warp and shift around them, bearing witness to the titanic struggle between two unparalleled forces.
The founder of Rosicrucianism who intimidated reality itself to obey his will and that Gemstone with an unstable personal reality that could change on a whim.
The atmosphere crackled with electrifying distortion.
Sogiita's fists tore through the air with the ferocity of meteors, their velocity enhanced by his ability to adapt and accelerate, surpassing even CRC's speed. As each blow was released, the friction with the surrounding air molecules ignited a scorching heat, intensifying the impact.
The rapid movement of molecules generated an escalating thermal energy, causing the air to seethe with increasing temperature. It was akin to a tempest of incandescent projectiles hurtling towards CRC, their speed surpassing the limits of human perception.
It was like a storm of brilliant fiery arrows was fired at Rosencreutz.
These blazing arrows of force were reminiscent of the elusive strikes employed by the Rose & Cross Leader, ignoring distance with deceptive agility.
With each thunderous punch, that bandana boy sought to overpower his adversary through sheer kinetic force, his unwavering resolve palpable in every motion.
But that wasn't enough for this superhuman.
CRC, wielding his cross sword with precision and skill, deflected each and every one Sogiita's flaming arrows with calculated strikes of his own. Each impact unleashed a burst of blinding white light, sending shockwaves rippling through the chaotic city.
"You think brute strength alone will defeat me?" the silver man taunted, his voice cutting through the chaos of battle. "You may be strong, but strength without strategy is nothing but raw power wasted."
Sogiita grinned, his confidence unshaken. "My strategy is just to knock you out, old man and get you some help old man!" he retorted, his voice ringing with defiance. "I'll K.O. you with my fists and guts alone!!!!"
Rosencreutz's eyes narrowed as he parried another of Sogiita's punches. "Your arrogance will be your downfall," he warned, his tone tinged with certainty. "I may not match your overall speed, but I have something you lack: intellect and precision.”
Christian Rosencreutz then plunged his cross sword into the ground.
"This is what harmed Kamijou Touma," he declared, grinning and unleashing a torrent of lethal invisible attacks from his outstretched palms.
However, the #7 countered with a relentless barrage of flaming arrows from the thermal aftershock of his punches.
Each strike akin to a particle accelerator in its intensity and speed. That Gemstone was the particles being fired on the right and that True Expert was the particles fired on the left.
As the attacks clashed, the battlefield became a spectacle of raw power and precision.
“Roar!” CRC held his open palm to his mouth and blew gently on the tip of the middle finger.
That was all it took for a blaze easily outdoing a flamethrower to rush out. And this was not just any fire. It fed on the power of a ley line and stole vitality from space itself. This overwhelming mass of light and heat was wielded for no other purpose than to take lives. Anyone who tried to survive it using simple composite armor or special fibers would dry up and burn away in less than a second.
But that wouldn't kill another superhuman would it?
Of course not.
“Aaaaarghhhh!!!!” screamed the #7.
Some assaults bypassed the fray entirely, slipping through the chaos like elusive particles in a collider.
A smokescreen.
Those brilliant fireworks from hell weren't meant to take Sogiita’s life. They were meant to disrupt the Gemstone's senses and sight so he couldn't counter all of that old man’s deadly attacks.
Invisible strikes found their mark on that Gemstone, and the searing arrows of the arrows scorched Rosencreutz.
CRC was wounded but he rejected to make any whimpers. Instead with a sudden burst of velocity, the young silver man picked up his cross sword from the ground and launched a flurry of strikes, cutting at the #7’s body with pinpoint accuracy.
His arms, his head, his face, his stomach, his legs, his midsection, his back.
Each blow landed with devastating force, causing Sogiita to stagger back under the onslaught.
If that bandana boy hadn't had his defenses and general stats raised by the #5 he’d be cut to pieces.
The #7 fell on his back.
"There's a fire," Sogiita declared, his voice ringing out amidst the chaos of battle.
With each attempt to break his spirit, Sogiita's resolve only grew stronger, fueling the flames of his determination. "Every time someone tries to make me give up, it's like wind feeding my flames, making them burn even brighter just like my punches," he explained, his words carrying the weight of his unwavering determination.
He refused to stay down.
With a roar of defiance, Sogiita surged forward once more, his movements blurring with speed as he disappeared from view. In the blink of an eye, he reappeared behind Christian Rosencreutz, catching the magician off guard.
"Hey, old man," Sogiita taunted, his voice filled with confidence as he seized Rosencreutz from behind.
Christian Rosencreutz's eyes widened in surprise as he realized he had been outmaneuvered.
As Sogiita Gunha faced off against Christian Rosencreutz in their airborne duel, he felt the flames of determination burning within him, driving him forward with unstoppable force.
Before he could react, the boy lifted him effortlessly and slammed him onto the pavement below with a resounding thud.
"I'm not just a kick-boxer!!" Sogiita sang.
As the impact reverberated through the air, the young silver man let out a pained cry. The force of the collision compressed the surrounding air, heating it up until it crackled with energy. Christian Rosencreutz's head struck the ground with a velocity equivalent to mach 20, igniting his body in flames upon impact.
This move is called a suplex.
Struggling to regain his bearings, Rosencreutz muttered in a daze, "The House of the Holy Spirit...the seven walls..."
"You said it yourself, didn't you?" the gutsy boy retorted, cocky. "My power and my guts can break through your impenetrable walls. And I can spread those same guts to the world around me."
With a grimace, Christian Rosencreutz acknowledged the truth of the boy's words. "Your uncontrolled AIM field grants you the ability to imbue non-organic objects with the properties of your virus," he observed, his voice tinged with begrudging admiration. "Allowing them to bypass even the defenses of the seven-walled tomb.”
"A virus? Don't be so gutless, CRC," the #7 retorted, his voice filled with defiance. "This battleground ruled by wills is a two-way road between you and me."
Christian Rosencreutz raised an eyebrow at the boy's words. "Hey Gemstone, you could've killed me if I weren't a superhuman with an idealized body that accomplished The Great Work and crossed the Ungrund, what then short-stack?" he questioned while fitting an insult against his height.
Even without the seven-walled tomb or sheets of diamonds Rosencreutz was cartoonishly durable.
"Sorry, old man," Sogiita retorted, a hint of irritation lacing his words at the jab about his height. "I may have let my enthusiasm get the better of me, but rest assured, I understand the magnitude of this battle. Just like the Hydra, no matter how many heads you regrow, I'll persevere until I've completed my labors.”
"Mhm, so you do know your mythology," CRC remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice. "The Lernaean Hydra, or simply Hydra, is a serpentine lake monster in Greek and Roman mythology. Its lair was the lake of Lerna in the Argolid, known as an entrance to the Underworld. In the canonical myth, the monster is slain by Heracles as part of his Twelve Labors."
"Yeah, I know," Sogiita replied confidently. "I studied the tales of great gutsy heroes in school.”
"So, short-stack," Christian Rosencreutz began, his voice carrying a hint of scholarly interest. “Have you ever considered the parallels between our battle and ancient Near Eastern religions?”
Sogiita listened intently. "Are you saying you see yourself as a god of war or a hunter?" he inquired.
CRC chuckled softly. "In a sense, indeed. We are both assuming roles in this grand theater, are we not? I, the Hydra, and you, Heracles."
He continued, "Consider the Second Labor of Heracles. Eurystheus, the king of Tiryns, sent Heracles to slay the Hydra, which Hera had raised specifically to defeat him. Heracles approached the swamp near Lake Lerna, where the Hydra dwelled. To protect himself from the poisonous fumes, he covered his mouth and nose with a cloth and shot flaming arrows into the Hydra's lair, causing it to emerge and terrorize the surrounding villages."
CRC paused, drawing a comparison. “In our own clash, the flaming arrows that Heracles hurled at the Hydra find their echo in your lightning-fast fists, generating shockwaves that ignite the air with their speed and force. It's as though each strike of yours is akin to shooting a flaming arrow, much like Heracles did.”
“Huh? Are you suggesting we're caught in a time loop? That some enigmatic group, like the Bridge Builders Cabal, manipulated events to resurrect you, pitting us against each other in a timeless struggle? I've never met them, and I'm certainly no child of Zeus. Are you implying that our battle will be distorted into a Greek legend by a meddling time traveler?!” frantically asked the boy.
“No, no, you simpleton. This world contains synchronicities. In Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian mythology, the war and hunting god Ninurta was celebrated for his deeds. The Angim credited him with slaying eleven monsters during an expedition to the mountains, including a seven-headed serpent, possibly identical to the Mushmahhu, and Bashmu, whose constellation was later associated with the Hydra by the Greeks. In Babylonian contexts, the Hydra's constellation is also linked to Marduk's dragon, the Mushhushshu.”
“Uhhh….” That shounen boy was dumbfounded.
"Hhm, I suppose calling it a time loop isn't technically wrong," Christian Rosencreutz began, his tone measured. "I'll break it down from history class and reconstruct it through the lens of the occult. Historic recurrence, young Gemstone, is the phenomenon of events echoing throughout time. Whether it's the rise and fall of empires or the repetitive cycles within a single society, it's all part of this grand plan that was decided when Adam ate the forbidden fruit."
The #7 with his guard up but curious listened: "So, history just keeps repeating itself? Just a series of coincidences?"
Christian Rosencreutz shook his head sagely. "There is no such thing as coincidences. Take, for instance, the Doctrine of Eternal Recurrence, pondered upon by thinkers like Heinrich Heine and Friedrich Nietzsche. While it's said that 'history repeats itself,' it's not quite that simple. Rather, these recurrences stem from identifiable circumstances and chains of causality."
He continued, his voice carrying the weight of centuries of philosophical debate. "Consider the phenomenon of multiple independent discoveries in science or the reproducible findings in natural and social sciences. These recurrences, whether in the form of rigorous experimentation or comparative research, are vital to our understanding of the world."
Christian Rosencreutz paused, allowing the weight of his words to sink in. "G.W. Trompf, in his seminal work, The Idea of Historical Recurrence in Western Thought, illustrates the recurring patterns of political thought and behavior since ancient times. Through these patterns, history offers us invaluable lessons, often leading to a sense of resonance or déjà vu."
Their words reverberated like a challenge to destiny itself, a testament to their unyielding determination in the face of adversity.
That Gemstone didn't surrender his characteristic fervor. "History echoing through time, huh? It's like the universe itself is stuck on repeat, and we're just caught in the cycle. But you know what? If history's gonna keep looping, then let's break the pattern! Let's smash through those chains of causality and forge our own path. Who cares about déjà vu? We'll create something entirely new, something that'll shake the very foundations of this world and we’ll do it with guts!!!" He defied that silver monster.
But Rosencreutz wasn't finished. He pulled out his Crystal World Map.
The supposedly old man listened intently to that boy's impassioned response, his expression inscrutable behind his clairvoyant card. After a moment of contemplation, he spoke.
“Gemstone, you speak of breaking free from the chains of repetition, of forging a new destiny against the backdrop of eternal return. It is a noble aspiration, indeed. However, consider this: eternal return is not merely a philosophical concept or a whimsical notion of fate. It is the very fabric of existence, woven into the nature of time itself.” He pressed his finger on the Miniature Garden and a 3D holographic projection flew out—
“In ancient times, the Stoics grappled with the idea, seeing in it both a sense of cosmic order and a challenge to individual agency. Augustine and others recoiled from its implications, fearing it as a negation of free will and salvation. And yet, Nietzsche, in his brilliance, dared to confront the concept anew, exploring its depths in the crucible of human consciousness.”
Didn't Aleister Crowley say that he had to shatter every single phase in order to eliminate the concept of fate?
“I will shatter every last phase and put an end to all mysticism. It can be helped and we need not restrain our tears and bite our lip when faced with tragedy. I will bring back the pure world in which everyone can feel anger like normal and question it all like normal!!”
And didn't Coronzon appear to break down all the phases including the Pure World?
Partial destruction would be meaningless. If anything remains and an eternal distortion is born from that, then it will all happen again. I will eliminate the ten spheres, the twenty-two pathways, and the hidden eleventh symbol. Collisions between phases? Sparks and spray? You cannot save anyone if you only treat those symptoms. All of the fundamental clogs must be removed. All so we can pass the baton to whoever comes next.”
“Sparks and Sprays…” Rosencreutz muttered.
“Eh?” The #7 didn't quite hear him.
"Beside time stands fate, cruelty's steadfast herald. In the silent chambers of the soul, whispers the most profound wisdom. Humanity, in its folly, neglected to exalt life's splendor, its radiance, its grandeur. Truly, it is a rare gift to comprehend the forces that shape our existence.” That magician spoke in despair.
“From the moment man ate the fruit of knowledge, he guaranteed your species’ failure... Entrusting his future to the whims of fate, man clutches to a flickering hope. Yet, within the Miniature Garden lies the key to all revelation. Beyond the well-trodden path lies the ultimate terminus. It matters not who you are; Death is the sole certainty awaiting all.” he finished with scorn.
Shokuhou Misaki was currently linked to Sogiita Gunha so she was overhearing the entire conversation.
“Are you okay, Leader?” asked Kamijou back at the hospital.
“Yeah…” she responded.
*“Really?” Mikoto breathed a white sigh. “It wasn’t the shock of seeing their school destroyed. Nor was it the fear of having those rioters attack. …They’re afraid of their own power. And after learning how exactly to use that power to survive, they’re not sure they can just switch it off and return to their normal lives. So their gears have ground to a halt.”
Tokiwadai Middle School was a prestigious esper development school.*
The young ladies registered there were Level 3 at the lowest and Level 5 at the highest.
Almost all of the students had a power that surpassed that of a blade or handgun if used properly, but something had become twisted.
Yes.
“A lot of them weren’t really sure why they were training their powers.”
Shokuhou breathed a white breath, wrapped her own arms around herself, and rubbed her thighs together.
Why are you studying?
How many people could give a proper answer to that question? Because my parents told me to, because my teachers taught me to, because that’s how the world works. Those would be most people’s answers. Even the students with a clear vision of their future would only have something vague like “for the entrance exams” or “for my future”.
Only a small handful would have specific puzzle pieces in mind, such as “I need to learn how to use this equation so I can build a rocket”.
The young ladies of Tokiwadai Middle School were the same.
What if the very gears that humans have…their actions, reactions, inactions were all the result of some transcendental entity hovering above.
Like God or The Devil watching over humanity’s reality sphere and ordering around his system like everyone was a pre-programmed NPC that had specific events occur to them to get them to develop in the way that they did and determined their genetic bloodline that composed their psyche?
Is there truly a free will?
It was said that in order for you to break out of the system of society that the working class was stuck in you had to climb to the top where the corrupt elites resided.
Imagine Breaker negated sparks, Aleister Crowley could see through the veil thanks to Holy Guardian Angel Aiwass, Great Demon Coronzon could always see the cogs.
Christian Rosencreutz could view the entire world through his Miniature Garden.
The rest of humanity was at the mercy of their own destinies.
A Guardian Angel wouldn't arrive to save a parent’s child from fate every single time.
"Okay, nice poetry, can we get back to fighting already?" asked the #7 impatiently.
"Seems I got carried away," the old man conceded with a nod. "The synchronicities of this world, akin to the astral configurations in astrology, serve as an example of synchronicity, according to Jung. It describes circumstances that appear meaningfully related yet lack a causal connection, much like the parallel relationship between celestial and terrestrial phenomena. Synchronicity experiences entail subjective encounters where coincidences between events in one's mind and the external world may lack a clear causal link but still harbor an unknown connection.”
"Ah," Sogiita chimed in, recalling his philosophy class discussions. "We talked about synchronicity back then. Jung thought it was a good thing for the mind, but said it could get dicey in psychosis. He cooked up this theory as a kind of mental link between those meaningful coincidences, calling it a noncausal principle. This term came about in the late 1920s, and then he teamed up with physicist Wolfgang Pauli to dive deeper. Their work, The Interpretation of Nature and the Psyche, dropped in 1952. They were big on this idea that these connections, even the ones that don't seem to have a cause, could still teach us a lot about how our minds and the world work."
“Mhm, you know more than you lead on, Gemstone.” pondered CRC.
“Oh this? My teachers say I'm not good at remembering speeches hahaha…” The #7 looked slightly nervous. “You know, analytical psychologists really push for folks to get what these experiences mean to boost their awareness instead of just feeding into superstitions. But funny thing is, when clients spill about their synchronicity experiences, they often feel like no one's really hearing them out, or getting where they're coming from. And hey, having a bunch of these meaningful coincidences flying around can sometimes ring the schizo bell. Delusions aren't healthy.”
Where was this conversation going?
"Delusion! Hah! That's a good one coming from you," CRC fired back.
"The real delusion is thinking humanity isn't worth a darn," Sogiita shot back, pulling out some info from Johansen and Osman. "Some scientists think coincidences are just random flukes, but counselors and psychoanalysts reckon there's more to it, like some deep-down stuff needing to come out. Unconscious material to be expressed."
Rosencreutz interjected, his expression reflecting a mix of confusion and concern. "Aleister Crowley's actions have left a lasting scar on this world and this city," he began, his voice weighted with solemnity. “The vacuum-like dichotomy between magic and science created by the use of that colossal psychotronic weapon, has damaged this world's memory almost irreparably.”
Psychotronic weapon?
The Archetype Controller?
He paused, his gaze piercing as he continued, "Jung's exploration of synchronicity as evidence of the paranormal paved the way for further inquiry, notably by Koestler and the subsequent embrace of these ideas by the New Age movement.”
Sogiita shrugged, "Some folks say synchronicity is impossible to test or prove, so it gets labeled as pseudoscience. Jung even acknowledged that these synchronicity events are basically just coincidences, statistically speaking. But hey, who's to say what's really going on without some solid scientific studies, right?"
"Dubious as his experiments may have been," CRC interrupted, "Jung believed in a connection between synchronicity and the paranormal, drawing parallels to the uncertainty principle and works by parapsychologist Joseph B. Rhine.” CRC posed a thought-provoking question, "How are we to recognize acausal combinations of events, since it is obviously impossible to examine all chance happenings for their causality? The answer lies in the fact that acausal events are most readily expected where a causal connection appears inconceivable upon closer reflection. It's impossible, with our current resources, to explain ESP or meaningful coincidences as mere phenomena of energy. This challenges the very notion of cause and effect, as these events occur simultaneously rather than in a linear cause-and-effect manner. Hence, I have coined the term 'synchronicity' to describe this phenomenon, placing it on equal footing with causality as a principle of explanation."
Getting closer to that Gemstone, CRC emphasized, "Esper abilities cannot be fully understood with science alone. They defy traditional cause-and-effect explanations, instead representing a convergence of factors that create a quantum phenomenon affecting both the micro and macro. Why were there the naturally gifted and the naturally ungifted?”
Why did some students get praised for their abilities while others needed to work harder?
Others among them would have worked every hour of their free time and not progressed anywhere in this city’s leveling curriculum.
Why did this city present such an unfair and unpredictable status quo of potential?
Why did hard work barely matter in a city of empirical evidence to record any possible progress?
Sogiita Gunha wasn't a normal Level 5 but he wasn't always this powerful. He went through the curriculum same as everyone but if the outside conditions for his Gemstone ability to manifest didn't form in the exact way that it did, in such an acausal form then would he even be here to challenge Christian Rosencreutz right now?
Everything just happened to fall right into place.
All those puzzle pieces that would lead to this moment here and now.
Was it all just talent? God picking a fool as his champion?
The #7 leaned back, absorbing CRC's words with a thoughtful expression. "So, what you're saying is, there's this whole other layer to reality that we can't quite wrap our heads around," he summarized, nodding slowly. "I mean, it's like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands—slippery and elusive."
He chuckled, shaking his head slightly. "Historic recurrence, synchronicities, all these things—they're like pieces of a puzzle scattered across this substantial reality. And sometimes, they just... click into place, right? It's like the universe has its own plan, and we're just along for the ride."
That bandana wearing boy's gaze drifted, lost in thought. "You know, CRC, it's funny," he remarked, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Here we are, with all our powers and potential, but at the end of the day, we're still grappling with the same questions as everyone else. Talent, destiny, divine intervention—maybe they're all just different sides of the same coin."
He shrugged, the weight of the philosophical musings settling over the broken city. "Who knows? Maybe God does have a sense of humor, after all.” that boy chuckled.
There was a deep silence between them.
Rosencreutz’ response was swift and resolute, his tone filled with certainty. "All this ‘universe has a plan’ banter is just a distraction from the inevitable," he declared, his eyes narrowing. "We can debate the nature of us being all-powerful yet struggling with mortal issues until the sun burns out, but it won't change the fact that our fate was sealed upon the knowledge Adam learned."
“To think so many trivialities have developed while this old man wasn’t watching. Heh heh. Then I should assume the thread of fate has again begun to weave its strange connections between myself and some unknown human.”
He rose forward, his movements purposeful. "It's time to put an end to this dance of platitudes," CRC continued, his voice cold and unwavering. "We'll settle this the only way that somewhat matters—through objective action in this grand play."
“Silence, preserved doll. Illusionists are meant to remain silent. That is all we magicians are: wielders of substanceless illusions. Opening your mouth serves only to break the illusion.”
With a flicker of resolve in his eyes, he locked gazes with the #7. "I am Hydra, Gemstone," he said, his voice carrying a hint of challenge. "Our battle ends now.” CRC opened both his palms and began shooting at their surroundings, the buildings, the pavement, the apartments, the rubble.
It probably wasn't random as it seemed to create a pattern.
“Huh are you getting senile old man?” asked the young Gemstone.
“What fun. I never imagined someone would bother diligently polishing their skills this far while knowing it is all essentially an illusion. Didn’t you ever feel silly going to the effort?”
Rosencreutz dropped to all fours, his rosy cross sword gripped tightly in his right hand.
He moved—
“Arrgh!” Sogiita yelled amidst the relentless and precise and precise strikes from that golden cross. “Old man?” he asked.
That magician didn't say anything.
That silver man’s movements became more beastly.
Faster.
Stronger.
Fiercer.
Something new was beginning to manifest.
With each strike of his higher dimensional blade that old man’s blows seemed infused with an otherworldly energy.
The wounds inflicted by his weapon burned with a venomous intensity, sending searing pain coursing through Sogiita's body.
That boy grimaced as the poison from that silver man’s strikes surged through his being, each wound feeling like it was ablaze with venomous fire.
"Damn... That burns…like a killer hornet’s sting," he muttered through clenched teeth, his voice strained with effort. Gritting, he fought to maintain his focus, despite the agony threatening to overwhelm him.
Was this another application of The Four Stages? Citrinitas? No, there was nothing yellow here, it was more like a dirty purple.
But it wasn't just the physical damage that posed a threat.
As the Rosy Cross leader leaped on all fours his movements took on an almost erratic quality, he was bouncing from one building to another with an animalistic agility.
With each jump, a shockwave rippled through the air, carrying with it a palpable sense of dread.
Something was spreading.
The air around them seemed to thicken with a toxic miasma. The #7 struggled to breathe, the noxious fumes clouding his senses.
Like a chaotic monster’s venomous poison breath.
The once-clear air now felt thick and suffocating.
Gasping for breath, the bandana boy struggled to maintain his focus amidst the swirling chaos.
His vision blurred, his movements sluggish as he fought against the oppressive atmosphere.
Blinded that heroic boy could only fire a flame arrow without his sight.
His fists striking out with all the strength he could muster. Igniting in that poisonous compressed air.
It seemed to be flammable like a dragon’s breath.
???
At the hospital, Shokuhou's voice carried a mix of surprise and relief. “He caused real damage.” she exclaimed.
Kamijou turned his attention to her, intrigued. “What happened?”
“It's hard to see clearly, but it looks like the #7 managed to blast off CRC's left arm,” she explained. “Though, I'd say it was more of a lucky shot. I can read he acted on pure instinct.”
Kamijou nodded, a hint of melancholy in his tone. “Yeah... the psychic link and all.”
Had the #7 Level 5 given up on the old man?
Back on the battlefield, Sogiita cursed under his breath. “Dammit... Sorry, old man,” he muttered. “I was aiming to hit your whole body to maximize the surface area, maybe break a few bones as a casualty. We can probably get your arm reattached at the hospital. Heaven Canceller has enough guts to even fix me.”
It was clear—he hadn't given up.
It was an accidental strike of his arm.
“As each ghastly head was severed from its serpentine form, dreadfully, two more writhed forth from the abyss.” a cryptic voice amidst the chaos spoke.
Wasn't it said that the Hydra’s lair was the lake of Lerna in the Argolid.
Lerna was reputed to be an entrance to the Underworld.
The abyss.
The Ungrund.
There is no limit to the depth of the Alcyonian Lake, and I know of nobody who by any contrivance has been able to reach the bottom of it since not even Nero, who had ropes made several stades long and fastened them together, tying lead to them, and omitting nothing that might help his experiment, was able to discover any limit to its depth. This, too, I heard. The water of the lake is, to all appearance, calm and quiet but, although it is such to look at, every swimmer who ventures to cross it is dragged down, sucked into the depths, and swept away.
The keeper of the gate to the Underworld that lay in the waters of Lerna was the Hydra.
The serpentine Lake Monster.
“Rosencreutz……?” The #7 muttered.
That magician chuckled ominously. "No, young Heracles, Hydra." he intoned, his voice echoing with a bizarre resonance. “The Lernaean Hydra's curse is upon you now.” as he said that he cut off a bit of his arm that was cuterarised with his golden blade and it began bleeding.
Anna Sprengel’s blood was said to create unknown miracles when spilled.
Christian Rosencreutz’ blood was so virulent that even its scent was deadly.
As Sogiita Gunha glanced at his severed arm lying on the ground, a creeping sense of horror enveloped him. "All of fate is a curse and that curse," he murmured, his words barely audible over the din of battle, "extends even to my severed limb.”
Christian Rosencreutz’ left arm grew back.
No.
Two new arms grew in its place.
The fate of chaoskampf? The hero battling the dragon?
The arm was fully functioning with no defects.
Although one of the arms appeared somewhat scaly and lanky like a serpent.
It had human anatomy but something was abnormal here.
He almost looked like a spider as he emerged from the poisonous fog as he remained on all fours.
“So short-stack. Are you ready to complete your final labor: Crossing the abyss!!!” He challenged that boy with his cross sword facing him.
"Boss, what's up? You look kinda stuck," Kamijou asked, his tone concerned.
Two students were sitting together in the waiting room at a hospital.
"—abyss, Hydra, curse, synchronicities, Historic recurrence." she replied, her words carrying a weight of unease.
"Huh? What? Can you give me the lowdown?" Kamijou prodded, his urgency evident.
"Can't quite wrap my head around it. But what I can tell you is that after CRC started talking about these esoteric concepts, he leveled up his power ability, managed to seriously hurt the #7 despite me cranking up all his stats for the win condition," the honey-blonde girl explained, frustration creeping into her voice.
"Can you beam all that stuff into my head, like a memory download? You're a psychological esper, right? My right hand won't mess with it, and we've done the telepathy thing before," Kamijou suggested.
"Memory download's not quite it, but I can send you a recording," she clarified.
"Got it," Kamijou muttered as he absorbed the info.
"You got any ideas to help the #7’s situation ability, Kamijou-san? We're kinda desperate here," she asked.
"I wish Index was still here, dammit.” he lamented, “But you know about magic, right?" he queried.
"Yeah, people converting their delusions into reality right?," she admitted.
"Well, magic's not just about delusions; it can be tied up to the whole world. Not sure if it's relevant, but based on Idol Theory, Rosencreutz might be pulling in 'energy’ from the Greek 'phase’ of Heracles for an edge," Kamijou theorized.
"Like a chessboard flip?" Shokuhou Misaki inquired, her brow furrowed with concern.
"No, more like... imagine you're playing checkers with a buddy, and you're totally crushing it because you're a checkers pro. Then suddenly, your buddy switches it up and challenges you to an arm wrestling match, and you lose because, well, arm wrestling isn't your forte," Kamijou Touma explained, trying to paint a vivid picture.
"So, by taking on the role of the Hydra from Greek myth, he's essentially forcing the #7 into the role of Heracles? But didn't Heracles defeat the Hydra?" Shokuhou sought clarification.
"Yeah, but..." Kamijou recalled the tale from the movies he'd seen. "Lichas gave Heracles a shirt soaked in the Hydra's poisonous blood from his arrows, which ends up killing him by tearing his flesh down to the bone," he elaborated.
"It was actually Nessus seeking vengeance and tricking Deianira into giving it to Heracles as a gift, delivered by Lichas without disclosing the tunic's lethal bloodstained secret from the Lernaean Hydra, but you're right," Shokuhou corrected gently. "So, Rosencreutz is harnessing the power of that legend to slowly poison the #7?"
"Not literal. I mean the poison is real but his slashes do significant harm now so it's more like shifting the paradigm in his favor…shifting his position.” The spiky-haired boy wasn't in the mood to explain Phases, “Earlier, he mentioned Sogiita spreading his 'virus' throughout the world. A virus isn't a poison in the traditional sense, but the Rosicrucians originally sought to create a universal cure for all illnesses. Now, CRC is spreading a literal poison, positioning himself as the ultimate predator and his opponents as prey rather than his savior role, the paradigm has been shifted." Kamijou concluded, his voice tinged with gravity.
“So he’s changed the environment to get the win condition? The #7’s durability doesn't matter in the face of the world being forced to go about a certain way because of Rosencreutz stage play?” The girl asked.
“Yeah…if things keep going this way…Sogiita will….goddamnit….” The spiky haired boy swore. “I can't let someone else die after all that's happened but I feel like if I go out there I really will kill him…” he muttered that last bit while clenching his right fist that began shaking uncontrollably.
The girl’s eyes seemed confused.
“What did you say?” The honey blonde middle schooler asked.
“Nothing, just mumbling to myself.” he spat out.
That boy and girl could never come to the right conclusion on their own without the aid of former Magic God Othinus by their side.
“Did you think I had challenged you with no hope of succeeding, you cesspool? The magic born on earth is bound by the directions based on the earth’s magnetic field and by the density and composition of the air which is determined by air pressure which is in turn influenced by gravity. That is inevitable when you are focused on the cardinal directions of north, south, east, and west or on the basic elements of fire, water, wind, and earth. But what you will find upon leaving the atmosphere is an unknown. Coronzon, are you sure there will be no malfunction in the magic giving you control of Avatar Lola? And before, my power was bound by the puny speck named earth which failed to become a black hole or even a sun, but once we enter outer space, just how far do you think that power will be released? I do not mind at all that I will lose the support of Academy City.”
Well the boy was half right.
“Let us test it out, you cuspidor. On one side, we have you using the planet and bound to an avatar. On the other, we have me exposed and freed from the planet. Now, who will be the star of this show?”
Christian Rosencreutz did not shoot at his surroundings for no reason.
The battlefield transformed into Rosencreutz's canvas, resembling the legendary battleground of Lerna where Heracles once clashed with the Hydra.
Yes.
He didn't unleash his powers randomly; every action was deliberate.
In the magical side of Idol Theory, mimicking an object, event, or person allowed one to tap into a fraction of its power.
And that even applied to locations that essentially worked as stage plays.
Idol Theory was so absolute that even the basic cross held a portion of the son of God’s power.
As Above, So Below.
As Below, So Above.
Macro to micro.
Micro to macro.
And the macrocosm and the microcosm are always linked.

Avrobio - Deep Value Arbitrage Potential on Reverse Merger With Tectonic Therapeutic $AVRO
After a very lengthy strategic review process beginning in July 2023, Avrobio announced in January 2024 that they would pursue a reverse merger with Tectonic Therapeutic.
The shareholder vote for the proposed merger is on June 11th, 2024, and the merger is expected to close shortly after (before the end of June).
The deal is priced with Avrobio bringing $65 million cash at closing, and in turn current shareholders will own approximately 22.3% of the new company listing under the ticker symbol TECX. If Avrobio closes with cash greater than $65.5 million, the ownership percentage will increase, and Avrobio estimates they will bring $65 to $75 million at closing.
Tectonic has raised or entered agreements for a $130.7 million private placement, and these investors will own 37.9% of the new company, with current Tectonic shareholders owning 39.8%.
Avrobio shareholders will receive CVR’s for all existing IP, should the new company be able to find interested parties.The full merger prospectus can be viewed here
Value, Arbitrage, & Upcoming Catalysts
Avrobio had a closing price of $1.23 on May 10th, 2024. The new syndicate of investors bringing $130.7 million are effectively buying into the company at a 39.3% premium to what Avro is trading at today.
There is a high likelihood based on Avrobio’s Q1 2024 financials that they will bring closer to $75 million cash at closing, swelling the premium that the new institutional investors are paying. Avrobio had over $90 million cash at the end of Q1, with a burn rate of ~ $7m in the quarter.
I expect this discount to narrow or close entirely should the deal close successfully, with the possibility that Avro trades at a slight premium to the private placement due to shareholders receiving CVRs on existing IP.
Tectonic Therapeutic is planning to release confirmatory Phase 1A data mid 2024 for their lead asset TX45, and I would expect this data to be released very shortly before or after the completed merger and listing of the new company.
Eli Lily, also working on a competing biologic of Relaxin, is releasing P2 data sometime in Q3 of 2024. Tectonic’s Relaxin has early indications of being best in class, so should Lily’s data be promising, this could be a major external catalyst for Tectonic.
CVRs
Avrobio shareholders at the time of closing will receive CVRs for all existing assets, and there is always the potential that there could be an unexpected pay day in the future should Tectonic’s management find a buyer.
In June 2023, Avrobio sold their Cystinosis Gene Therapy program to Novartis for $87.5 million along with a 12 month license to their PLATO platform.
The Gaucher gene therapy program was at a similar stage of development prior to Avro announcing that they were seeking strategic alternatives, so should any of their remaining gene therapy programs have value, it would likely be Gaucher.
They also have earlier stage gene therapy programs for Hunter syndrome, Pompe, and Fabry.
There isn’t a lot of evidence to support the idea that these programs will find a buyer, but the potential is always there.
The Plato platform may actually deliver some value however, as Novartis’s license to use it expires in June 2024, so there is a chance that they either purchase it or re-license it to continue with their Cystinosis program.
I don’t personally assign a lot of value to the CVR’s, but there is a non-zero chance that they may deliver significant value in the future to Avrobio shareholders.
About Tectonic Therapeutic
Tectonic’s management is composed of top talent with a strong history of success both in drug approvals and exits.Tectonic is a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of therapeutic proteins and antibodies that modulate the activity of GPCRs. The discovery of biologics that can modulate GPCRs has historically been quite challenging. Tectonic has developed a proprietary technology platform called GEODe™, with the aim of addressing these challenges to enable the discovery and development of GPCR targeted biologic medicines that can modify the course of disease. Tectonic focuses on areas of significant unmet medical need, often where therapeutic options are poor or nonexistent, as these are areas where new medicines have the potential to improve patient quality of life.Tectonic’s lead asset, TX000045 (“TX45”) is an Fc-relaxin fusion molecule that activates the RXFP1 receptor, the GPCR target of the hormone, relaxin. Relaxin is an endogenous protein, expressed at low levels in both men and women. In normal human physiology, relaxin is upregulated during pregnancy where it exerts vasodilative effects, reduces systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance and increases cardiac output to accommodate the increased demand for oxygen and nutrients from the developing fetus. Relaxin also exerts anti-fibrotic effects on pelvic ligaments to facilitate delivery of the baby. It has long been hypothesized that these unique dual aspects of relaxin biology may offer therapeutic potential in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, the development of a viable therapeutic has been challenging, primarily because of relaxin’s very short half-life. Tectonic believes TX45’s pharmacological profile, the direct result of applying Tectonic’s protein engineering capabilities, has the potential to overcome the limitations that have impeded previous attempts to develop relaxin as a therapeutic protein. To interrogate the therapeutic potential of relaxin, Tectonic has identified Group 2 Pulmonary Hypertension (“PH”) in the setting of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (“HFpEF”) referred to as Group 2 PH / HFpEF hereafter, as the initial disease setting. Tectonic hypothesizes that in this setting, treatment with relaxin could improve hemodynamics through effects on vasodilation and potential remodeling in both the pulmonary vessels and the heart which could translate into a clinically meaningful improvement in exercise capacity in these patients. Clinical trials are planned to confirm this hypothesis. Despite this belief, Tectonic’s business carries substantial risks, including Tectonic’s limited experience in therapeutic discovery and development, and the risk that that the platform may never result in the regulatory approval of a product candidate.
Conclusion
Purchasing Avrobio at current pricing offers a very significant discount to the valuation private placement investors are assigning to the new company Tectonic.
With a high probability of the deal closing, the risk/reward on Avro is quite attractive both from an arbitrage and catalyst vantage point.
Should the deal fail to close, Avro investors would still likely profit in the event of liquidation, though the process would be time consuming and the potential upside is significantly less than what the merger offers.
Disclosure
Author owns a long position in Avrobio shares

Out there - Patreon (for all those curious or wanting to support :))
At the Beginning
Adventure Arc - Arc 2
Wilderness Arc - Arc 3
Academy Arc - Arc 4
Nobility Arc - Arc 5
Previously on Leveling up the World...
Reality shifted, transforming into an endless forest of purple glowing vines among green and yellow trees. Minuscule creatures of all shapes and sizes flew about. To the untrained eye they seemed charming, even beautiful, yet they were all parasites taking advantage of the richness of magic threads for sustenance. They weren’t the problem, though. Other entities were also present in force—aether golems.
Summoning a clay cylinder, Dallion unleashed a ray of destruction, shattering hundreds of the crimson-purple constructs like glass. The spell was followed by a spark infused spiral attack directly below.
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Realm section damaged!
Overall completion 78%
​
Large chunks of land erupted at the impact, transforming into clouds of dirt high up in the air. Thankfully, there didn’t seem to be any more golems hidden in the soil.
“Seventy-eight,” Dallion said as he gently floated to the ground. “Mages really don’t maintain anything, do they?”
The life of academia is filled with its own challenges, dear boy, Adzorg protested, practically admitting the statement. That’s a domain ruler’s job.
“I suppose it is.”
Dallion looked at his feet. They were there, along with his shoes and the lower part of his trousers. Nothing seemed to be wrong with them, yet this was only a fake projection. In the real world, they no longer existed.
There’s no reason to be alarmed. With your magic and body levels, you should be able to have them restored in a matter of months. Until then, you’ll just have to use aether stand-ins, or even a good illusion, if you prefer.
Dallion considered it. If there was someone who’d know, that would be Adzorg. The mage had his hands severed not too long ago. Looking at him now, no one would be able to guess that they had been gradually restored over the course of months.
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REALM INVASION
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Red rectangles filled the sky.
“Seems like they’ve taken me seriously.” Dallion stood up. His real-life troubles would have to wait.
Knowing Alien, he probably only modified the golems to treat you as an intruder. The area guardian must have stepped in.
“Doesn’t the emperor control this? Or an overseer?”
The Academy has always been sort of different, dear boy, Adzorg explained. While we serve the emperor, we’re technically autonomous.
“Like the Order.”
To a certain degree. Think of this realm as isolated. That’s why moving it around isn’t as easy as moving everything else. Due to the magic concentration and frequent experiments, the area has become… more susceptible to other worlds. That’s why I did my experiments here—it’s far easier to break through the protective barrier here than elsewhere. Well, except the fallen south, possibly. The old mage added with a brief laugh. To prevent anything spilling out into the rest of Tamin’s domain, the Academy is isolated from everything else.
“That shouldn’t stop him from coming here in case he wants to,” Dallion said.
Not in the least. That doesn’t make it desirable, though.
That was a strange statement. There were too many benefits for the emperor not to get involved. Even if he were afraid that someone might do what he had done to the archbishop. Either way, the faster Dallion could take control of the domain, the better. He knew he couldn’t keep it, but that wouldn’t prevent him from transporting a few pieces to his own territory. As for what was left, he’d make sure that no one could take advantage of it in the future.
Aqui, he said within his personal realm.
The orange-scaled dragon emerged within seconds. Ten times larger than in the real world, she was doing her best to present herself larger than she actually was. Even so, her present level was clearly visible should anyone look at her white rectangle.
“Grasped the concept of eating?” Dallion looked at her.
The large dragon snarled.
“Can you do it from within the realm?”
The anger changed into bewilderment.
“No one can consume magic from within a realm,” she said defensively. Dallion knew for a fact that wasn’t the case. He himself had done so many times and he wasn’t the only one.
“What about outside? How fast can you drain the area of magic?”
“Why?” She lowered her head, bringing it to Dallion’s level.
“I’m going to do something and when I do, we’ll have to get out of here quickly.”
The dragon snorted right at Dallion.
“It would be nice if you can reach level ten at least.”
Pride filled the dragon’s body, as blue blobs the size of houses emerged within her. There was no way that she would only level up to such a low level. Of course, Dallion’s subtle use of music skills had also helped in the making of the decision.
Before anyone could say anything more, a cluster of aether cones flew straight at him. Free of the confines of reality, the armadil shield teleported between him and the projectiles, growing three times its size.
Unable to counter the force, Gem was pushed back dozens of feet to the point it reached Dallion himself. Extending one hand, the otherworlder easily countered the attack.
Aquilequia, on her part, had used her natural speed to move away before the cones even got close.
“Best leave.” He said, glancing at her new location. “After I’m done, I’ll need you to be at least as strong as this.”
The dragon didn’t respond, yet didn’t leave the realm, either. Curious as every low-level companion, she moved a safe distance away, eager to see exactly what was referred to. Meanwhile, Dallion sprang into action. With speed surpassing that of Aquilequia, he dashed around the shield, heading straight for the source of the aether cones. To little surprise, they were being released from five spell circles, at huge intensity. More curious was the entity that had cast them.
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LEARNING HALL GUARDIAN
Species: COPYETTE
Class: SHADOW
Health: 78%
Traits:
- BODY 45
- MIND 60
- REACTION 55
- PERCEPTION 50
- MAGIC 100
Skills:
- ATTACK
- GUARD
- ACROBATICS
- SCHOLAR
- CARVING
- MUSIC
- SPELLCRAFT
Weakness: NONE
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“Never thought you’d be a copyette,” Dallion said as he performed a series of slashes targeting vital points on the guardian.
Each of them hit, yet instead of red rectangles, the form transformed into cyan sludge that splashed onto the ground.
“Lucky coincidence?” Dallion split into instances, using his music skills to add doubt and weight into his words. “Or were you working for the Order all this time?”
“Nice to see you too, apprentice.” A new figure formed. It was very different from the first, taking on the form of Alien. Spells circles formed in different spots hundreds of feet from Dallion, each releasing anything from lightning to aether shards.
Despite the overwhelming amount, not a single one of Dallion’s instances got harmed. Performing a three-sixty line attack with his harpsisword, he sliced through the new appearance of the guardian, breaking the spell circles in the process.
Don’t be overconfident, Giaccia said. Experience trumps level every time.
There was no way Dallion could disagree. There was a time when he, too, had defeated opponents many levels above him. While it was said that a ten-level difference was insurmountable, the guardian was a copyette with a very high magic trait.
“You can always surrender,” Dallion said, looking in all directions with his instances.
“It’s just like you to offer.” Two forms of the guardian appeared in different locations, now taking on the forms of children in Dallion’s class. “And no, I’m not working for Simon, even if he put me here.”
Dallion dashed, appearing next to one of his former classmates, slicing it to bits using a multi attack.
“Wrong one.” The other form laughed.
Dallion was fully aware that both of them were wrong. His real goal was to try and figure out where the rest of the guardian was hiding. As a copyette, he could create dozens of copies, all an insignificant part of his overall body. Destroying each individual one wouldn’t do anything; harming the one considered the main one might.
He’s stalling for time, Giaccia said.
“Your music attacks are rather good.” Two more copyette forms emerged. “Sadly, it doesn’t depend on me. You’ll have to deal with the main guardian for that. I’m just here to obtain information. Being a hunter, you should know that.”
“It’s been a while since I was a hunter,” Dallion replied. “I’m not an apprentice, either.”
“That’s true. You made full mage, didn’t you? Also, I heard that you were an archduke shortly before rebelling. Quite the achievement.”
“Yeah, yeah. I’m just like my grandfather.” Dallion let it slip.
“Your grandfather?” Confusion emanated from the copyette. “I was about to say that you’re like Jeremy. A lot more straightforward, to be sure, but the drive is there along with the skill.”
Going by large areas, there had to be roughly ten guardians responsible for the realm. Defeating them would effectively make Dallion the new owner. A faster and more challenging way, though, was taking on the main guardian.
No time to hesitate, the harpsisword Guardian reminded Dallion.
It would be a lie to say that Dallion wasn’t. Even with all the copyette’s tricks, he had enough raw power to defeat the guardian, destroying a large part of the realm in the process. It was no accident that of all the key guardians, this one had been sent to reveal his skills. Dallion had spent a significant part of his life in the Learning Hall. While not particularly long in terms of time, it had marked a significant change in Dallion’s life. Before that he was little more than a skill game piece—barely defeating the Star, he was on the run from Countess Priscord, and in debt to the void. His life at the learning hall of the Academy had elevated him to the point that the emperor, the Order, and even the Moons themselves had taken notice.
“Yes.” Dallion sighed. “There’s no time for hesitation.”
Summoning his aura sword, he slashed the air, casting a flight spell that propelled him up like a rocket. Half a mile above the ground, he stopped.
“Sorry, Learning Hall,” he said, slashing the air in what appeared to be a multi attack. Magic symbols and connections were drawn, yet instead of casting multiple five-circle spells, Dallion cast one complex spell chain.
A vortex of spell circles emerged beneath him, shooting bolts of magic draining lightning.
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Realm section damaged!
Overall completion 77%
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Realm section damaged!
Overall completion 76%
​
Red rectangles popped up as the ground became covered in craters. Aether projectiles shot up to him in response, most of them blocked by the aether shield before reaching Dallion himself.
“Thanks, but no need,” Dallion unsummoned the shield, unwilling to have it be accidentally affected by his magic draining spell.
​
CRITICAL STRIKE
Dealt damage is increased by 200%
​
A few purple rectangles appeared among the mass of red. At the current rate, the Learning Hall guardian would be defeated in a matter of seconds. Hopefully, there would be enough left for Dallion to restore afterwards. Were this to be the Hall’s realm, there would be no concern on the matter—defeating a guardian merely improved it. In this case, the realm was the Academy, though, not the Learning Hall itself.
Suddenly, a sun gold colossus emerged less than a few hundred feet away. A massive hand reached out and grabbed the vortex from beneath Dallion. Sparks of lightning enveloped the fingers, yet had no effect whatsoever.
A second hand reached for Dallion himself, but he had already darted further back, safely avoiding the attack.
So, that’s the Academy? Dallion looked at the glittering mountain of gold. When it came to the colossus, he shared many of the same characteristics. The one major difference was the colossus’ “attire.” Not the usual Roman-Greek design that Dallion had seen before, the design followed twenty century Earth norms.
“It’s been ages since a domain ruling mage has ventured in this realm,” the colossus said in a booming voice. “You’re the second so far.”
“What happened to the first?” Dallion concentrated. Not a single domain marker appeared anywhere along the guardian’s body.
“He created this area and made sure that no other mage will be able to take it.”
Next

⚠️ WARNING: Maasverse Spoilers—Proceed with Caution ⚠️

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Part 1: Characters and Courts - YOU ARE HERE
Part 2: World Map, Items, Terms & Other
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Well, here we go. A master list of all things ACOTAR + the "real" world.

Now, do I believe every single name and location on this list was chosen by SJM with a specific real-world allusion in mind? Of course not. But when you look at the similarities, you'd be hard pressed to deny some of their very probable relations.
As far as this list goes, I've provided what was within my ability to find—coupling each with that which made the most sense relationally—though several definitions would appear to have zero connection to the story at large.
I can't promise perfection. Heck, I can't even promise 100% accuracy (though I did cross-reference the more obscure sources). And I will gladly welcome any missing pieces and/or additional insight you may have.
\Note: If a character or place/item is minor enough, I've included a reminder of their book roles.*

So come on, friends. Let's dive on in.

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UK + IRELAND

PRYTHIAN

A combination of Prydain, the old Welsh name for Britain, and Brython, which translates to “Ancient Britons” from Welsh.

HYBERN

A riff of Hibernia, the Classical Latin name for Ireland.

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Artist of Prythian map: P-dulcis on redbubble

*A continuing list of world map related locations is provided in Part 2 of this post (see link above)

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MAIN CHARACTERS

RHYSAND

Rhys (also Rhŷs) is Welsh in origin and means "ardent, enthusiasm." It has deep roots in Welsh culture and is the name of several famous Welsh kings and noblemen, including Rhys ap Thomas, a solider who rose to prominence during the Wars of the Roses.

FEYRE ARCHERON

Feyre is a variant of Feyre and is Old English in origin. It means "fair, beautiful." A similar name in Old Norse is Freyja (also spelled Freya), meaning "Lady," denotes a woman of nobility. In Norse mythology, Freyja is a goddess associated with love, beauty, fertility, sex, and war.
In Greek mythology, the Archeron is one of the five rivers of the Underworld and is often the principal river through which the ferryman Charon transports the dead. It said to be the River of Woe or the River of Misery.

CASSIAN

Cassian is Latin in origin, means "son of Cassius," and denotes one of the oldest families in Rome. Arguably the most well known Cassius was one of the leading instigators of Julius Caesar's assassination plot.

AZRIEL

Azriel is Hebrew in origin meaning "God is my help." In some religions, Azrael is the benevolent angel of death who carries souls of the deceased to the afterlife.

MORRIGAN

The Morrígan is a Celtic goddess associated with war and fate and is seen as a guardian of the earth and its people. Her name means "great queen" or "phantom queen."

AMREN

Amram is of Hebrew origin and means "exalted people." It is the Biblical name of Moses' father.
Note: This tracks with Amren being able to interpret The Book of Breathings which is a play on the very real The Books of Breathing, a collection of ancient Egyptian funerary texts.

NESTA

Nesta is the Welsh version of Agnes meaning "pure, holy." May also have potential connections to Nestor, a legendary Greek king who was known as a great warrior and for the sage advice he offered younger soldiers.

ELAIN

Elain is Welsh in origin and means "fawn." Elaine is associated with the Greek name Helen meaning "light, bright one."
Fun fact: Elain is an anagram of Aelin.

NYX

Nyx is the Greek mythological goddess and personification of the Night. She is the mother of Day (Hemera) and Darkness (Erebus). She often appears alongside other celestial deities such as Selene, Helios, and Eos.

ILLYRIANS

EMERIE

Emerie has Old German origins and means "home strength, brave, powerful."

ENALIUS

In Greek mythology Enyalius is a son of Ares but is also a byname for the god of war. He is often seen as the god of soldiers and warriors from the Ares cult.

DEVLON

Devlon is Gaelic in origin and related to the name Devlin meaning "fierce courage."

BALTHAZAR

Balthazar is Akkadian in origin meaning "God protects the King." It is a name commonly attributed to the wise man who gifted myrrh to the Christ child (the myrrh symbolizing the future death of a king). It is an alternate form of King Belshazzar who played a pivotal role in a coup d'état that overthrew a Neo-Babylonian king.
ACOTAR role: Balthazar helped Nesta during the Blood Rite.

PROTEUS

Proteus is a prophetic sea god in Greek mythology and means "versatile, mutable, capable of assuming many forms."
ACOTAR role: Proteus is Emerie's father and was killed in the war with Hybern.

BELLIUS

May refer to Belus, the Babylonian god of war.
ACOTAR role: Bellius is Emerie's cousin and was slain by Cassian during the Blood Rite.

KALLON

No clear references found, but kalon in Ancient Greek translates to "ideal perfect beauty."
ACOTAR role: Kallon incited the Illyrians against the Night Court leaders and was ultimately slain during the Blood Rite.

HEWN CITY

KEIR

Keir is Gaelic, meaning "dark," and is related to the Irish name Ciarán. In Greek mythology, the Keres (singular being Ker) were female death spirits who personified violent death. There is a suggested connection between the Keres and the Valkyries of Norse mythology, each representing opposite ideals; the Valkyries being benevolent deities in death, versus the Keres representing feasting destruction.

THANATOS

In Greek mythology, Thanatos is the personification of death. He is a minor figure, often referred to but rarely appearing in person (I see what you did there, SJM).
ACOTAR role: Thanatos is mentioned briefly by Keir during the alliance meeting with Eris.

THE LIBRARY

CLOTHO

In ancient Greek mythology, Clotho is the youngest goddess of the Three Fates and spins the thread of human life. Her name means "spinner."

MERRILL

Merrill is of British origin meaning "sparkling sea, sea-bright."

GWYNETH BERDARA

Gwyneth is Welsh in origin and means "blessed, happiness." In Irish mythology, the Lady Gwyn is a headless woman (cough, Catrin, cough) who chases wanderers at night. In Arthurian mythology, Guinevere has an evil half-sister—"False" Guinevere—who bewitches Arthur.

ANANKE

Ananke means "necessity, fate personified." In Greek mythology she is one of the primordial deities and is the personification of necessity and inevitability.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

DEIRDRE

Deirdre is Gaelic in origin and means "broken-hearted, wanderer." The name is associated with a tragic heroine in Irish mythology.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

ILANA

Illana is Hebrew in origin nd means "tree, bright light." It stems from the name Elena and is potentially related to the name Ileana, a beautiful young female fairy in various myths.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

LORELEI

Lorelei in German in origin and means "alluring, temptress." In German folklore, she is a siren-like seductress.
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

ROSLIN

Roslin is Scottish in origin and means "rose, red-haired."
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who joins in the training to become a Valkyrie.

RIVEN

Riven derives from Old Norse meaning "to split, tear asunder."
ACOTAR role: A Priestess who avoids contact with strangers and whose background is unknown.

SIDE CHARACTERS

MADJA

Madja is Slavic in origin and may mean "splendid, noble one." In Arabic it means "the women with glory." It is related to the name Madeleine meaning "from Magdala."

NUALA

Nuala is Irish in origin and means "fair shouldered one." In modern Irish storytelling it means "born of the sea." It is considered a diminutive form of the name Fionnuala, a mythological figure who was the daughter of a sea god.

CERRIDWEN

Cerridwen is an enchantress in Welsh mythology. She is said to possess the cauldron of poetic inspiration and is regarded by many as the Celtic goddess of rebirth, transformation, and inspiration.

RITA

Rita stems from the name Margarita and comes from the Greek word meaning "pearl." The Greeks promoted pearls as a symbol of honesty and integrity.
ACOTAR role: Rita owns the "how does the IC not know the clientele is gay" bar.

SEVENDA

No clear connection found, though venda in Latin means "sell" while sev means "strew, spread" and enda means "end." Could also potentially be related to the number seven.
ACOTAR role: Owns a restaurant the IC frequents.

NEVE

Neve is of Latin origin and means "snow."
ACOTAR role: The jeweler from whom Rhys buys jewelry for Amren in ACOFAS.

POLINA

Polina has Latin origins and derives from Apollo, though it could also be seen as a variant of Paulina/Paul meaning "little, the younger."
ACOTAR role: The faerie who owned Feyre's art studio before her untimely death.

RESSINA

Resina means "resin of the pine." Plants secret resin as a protective response, guarding them from insects and pathogens.
ACOTAR role: Ressina opens the art studio with Feyre. She has green skin and stood outside her shop in response to Hybern's attack on Velaris, protecting the terrified faeries inside.

ARANEA

Aranea is Greek in origin and denotes a genus of orb-weaving spiders.
ACOTAR role: Aranea is the weaver who created the Void cloth.

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MAIN CHARACTERS

TAMLIN

From the "Ballad of Tam Lin," a legendary ballad from the borderlands of Scotland. Reminiscent of the fairytale Beauty & the Beast where a mortal woman plucks a rose and encounters a man in the forest, later learning he is captive to faeries. She must hold onto him as he is transformed into various beasts and upon his rescue, the faerie Queen muses that she should have taken out his eyes (Lucien, anyone?) or capture his heart (Tamlin's stone heart) to prevent his escape.

LUCIEN

Lucien is French in origin and means "light." Lucian was also the name of a Hellenized Syrian satirist who was known for his tongue-in-cheek style is said to be the inventor of comic dialogue.

ALIS

Alis is a variant of Alice and translates to "noble, exalted."

SIDE CHARACTERS

IANTHE

Ianthe is Greek in origin and means "she who delights." In Greek mythology she is a water-nymph daughter of Oceanus and a companion to Persephone when she was abducted by Hades.

ANDRAS

Andras has Welsh origins and means "manly, brave."

BRON

Bron is Old English and means "brown."

HART

Hart has Irish origins and means "hero, brave, firm." A hart is also the term for a male deer and in Celtic mythology, the white hart is said to appear when one is transgressing a taboo (Tamlin's whipping of his other sentry comes to mind).

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MAIN CHARACTERS

BERON VANSERRA

Beron is French in origin and is a pet form of the name Bero meaning "bear."
Vanserra is a combination of the prefix van meaning "from, of" and serra meaning "saw, view from a high place" or "mountain range." Vanserra can be said to mean "of the mountains."

ERIS

In ancient Greek mythology, Eris is the Greek goddess of strife and discord. Her Roman equivalent, Discord, is the goddess of chaos. She is associated with the war goddess Enyo who is frequently associated with the war god Ares.

SIDE CHARACTERS

JESMINDA

Jesminder is Indian in origin meaning "flower queen."

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MAIN CHARACTERS

TARQUIN

Tarquin is of Latin origin and means "ruler, strong soldier." Two of the seven kings of Rome bore the name.

VARIAN

Varian is of Latin origin and means "variable."

CRESSEIDA

Cressida derives from Chryseis and means "golden." She is a character associated with the Trojan War and is the archetype of a faithless lover.

SIDE CHARACTERS

NOSTRUS

Nostrum comes from the Latin noster meaning "our, ours." Nostos is an Ancient Greek literary theme concerning an epic hero returning home, often by sea. It is deemed a high level of heroism or greatness and focuses on the hero retaining or elevating their identity while often resisting temptation.
ACOTAR role: The High Lord prior to Tarquin who was slain by Amarantha after participating in a rebellion Under the Mountain.

BRUTIUS

May refer to the Latin name Brutus meaning "heavy, dull."
ACOTAR role: Mercifully slain by Rhys Under the Mountain after his attempted escape.

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MAIN CHARACTERS

HELION

Helios is the Ancient Greek god personifying the sun. He is often depicted with a solar crown and drives a horse-drawn chariot through the sky. He played a significant role in ancient magic and spells and is the son of the Titan Theia and brother to Selene.

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MAIN CHARACTERS

KALLIAS

Callias is Greek in origin and means "beauty, beautiful voice." He is a diplomatic and wealthy figure in Ancient Greece.

VIVIANNE

From the Latin word vivianus meaning "alive." Commonly associated with the Irish name Bébinn meaning "beautiful, fair one" and is the name of an underworld goddess in both Irish and Welsh mythology.

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THESAN

Thesan is the Etruscan goddess of the dawn. Greeks identified her with Eos, the goddess and personification of the dawn. She is sometimes depicted with wings.

NUAN

Nuan is Mandarin and means "warm, genial."

THE PEREGRYN

The peregrine is a falcon renowned for its speed.
Fun fact: The peregrine is the fastest member of the animal kingdom and can reach speeds of over 200mph.

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AMARANTHA

Amaranths is Greek in origin and means "unfading." The amaranthus flower, often deep red in color, is said to symbolize immortality as it blooms for so long.

BRANNAGH

Brannagh is of Irish origin and denotes a "beautiful female with hair dark as a raven."

DAGDAN

In Irish mythology, the Dagda is considered the chief god of the Tuatha Dé Danaan. His name means "the good god, the great god."

CLYTHIA

In Greek mythology, Clytia is a water nymph who loved the sun god Helios. Helios left her for another woman after coming under the influence of Aphrodite. Clytia exposed the affair to the other woman's father, but eventually lost herself in mourning for Helios's love. Her name means "glorious, renowned."
ACOTAR role: Amarantha's sister.

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HISTORICAL FIGURES

THEIA

Theia is a Titan and is the Ancient Greek goddess of sight and vision. She is the parent of Helios, Selene, and Eos. She is most known not for her own role, but for that of her childrens'. Her name means "goddess, godly."

SILENE

Selene is the Ancient Greek goddess and personification of the moon. She is the daughter of Hyperion and Theia and sister to Helios and Eos.

HELENA

Comes from the Green name Helen meaning "shining light." There are various Helens in Greek mythology: Helen of Troy, Helen a friend to Aphrodite, and Helene the Amazonian who fought Achilles.

FIONN

Fionn is of Irish origin and means "fair-haired." In Irish folklore, Fionn Mac Cumhaill was a leader of a band of young hunter-warriors.

PELIAS

Pelias is Greek in origin and means "rock pigeon." Pelias was the king of Ioclus while Peleus was the king of Phthia. Peleus was husband to Thetis, father to Achilles, and left several (men and women) dead in his wake, both through means of accident and betrayal, fleeing more than once to escape punishment.

OLEANNA

Oleanna derives from the Greek name Helene meaning "sun ray, shining light."
ACOTAR role: The High Priestess who dipped Gwydion in the Cauldron.

REPORTED DECEASED

CATRIN BERDARA

Catrin is Greek in origin and means "clear, pure." It's commonly used in Wales and is connected with the ancient goddess Hecate, who is the goddess of witchcraft, sorcery, and necromancy.

MINOR CHARACTERS

TANWYN

Tanwan is of Welsh origin and means "white fire."
ACOTAR role: Tanwyn was a Valkyrie and Cassian's former lover.

OSIAN

Osian is Welsh meaning "young deer" and derives from the Irish legendary poet and warrior Oisín, who was regarded as the greatest poet of Ireland and a warrior of the Fianna (small warrior-hunter bands). He was a demigod son of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and Sadhbh.
ACOTAR role: The author of A Brief History of the Great Sieges

RABATH

Rabath is an anagram of Bharat, one of the names of India. Derived from the Sanskrit word bharata, meaning "to bear, be maintained" it can also mean "one who is engaged in search of knowledge."
ACOTAR role: Lord of the Western Wind and ancestor to Merrill.

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https://preview.redd.it/7um6ifo4me0d1.png?width=848&format=png&auto=webp&s=c4d3829695878258de311ec34d4043500d3bbd1a
JURIAN

Jurian is Greek in origin and means "farmer, earthworker."

GRAYSEN

Graysen is of English origin and translates to "son of the steward/gray-haired man."

NOLAN

Nolan is Irish in origin and denotes a "child of nobility, champion."
ACOTAR role: Nolan is Graysen's father.

ISAAC HALE

Isaac is Hebrew in origin and means "one who laughs or rejoices." Hale is Old English in origin and means "nook, recess" and denoted someone who lived in a nook or hollow.

TOMAS MANDRAY

Thomas is Hebrew in origin and means "twin." No clear reference to Mandray, though Mandrew is Greek and means "man, warrior."
ACOTAR role: Tomas was Nesta's former betrothed.

CLARE BEDDOR

Clare is French in origin and means "bright, clear." No reference found for Beddor.

AUNT RIPLEIGH

Ripleigh is Old English and means "shouting man's meadow." It is connected to the name Ripley meaning "strip of clearing in the woods."
ACOTAR role: Aunt Ripleigh is the feigned aunt Feyre takes care of.

Ms. Laurent

Laurent is French in origin and means "from Laurentum" and "bay laurel."
ACOTAR role: Ms. Laurent is the mortal caretaker of the Archeron estate.

BRIAR

Briar is of British origin and means "thorny bush of wild roses, brambles."
ACOTAR role: Briar is the mortal woman rescued by Feyre and Azriel.

​
https://preview.redd.it/h47d07ssne0d1.png?width=832&format=png&auto=webp&s=3b686d7736a763fed07d5ce248f0603a46081e0e

HUMAN QUEENS

VASSA

Vasilissa is Greek in origin and means "queen, empress." It is also the name of a Christian child martyr who was left unharmed during her capture, but after her release was slain in a field as she prayed.

BRIALLYN

Briallen is a Welsh name meaning "primrose." Primrose comes from the Latin word meaning "first" and the primrose flower often represents youth and renewal (SJM, you dog—this may be my favorite tongue-in-cheek naming thing you did).
ACOTAR role: Briallyn is the first queen who enters the Cauldron and is rewarded with immortality as a withered old hag.

DEMETRA

Demeter was the mother of Persephone, an Ancient Greek goddess of the harvest and an emblem of growth.
ACOTAR role: Demetra was the golden queen who provided the mortal half of The Book of Breathings to the Night Court and was subsequently slain by the Attor.

ANDROMACHE

Andromache means "fighter of men." In Greek mythology, she was representative of the suffering of Trojan women during the war and was famous for her virtue and fidelity. Andromache was also the name of a famous Greek Amazonian who fell at Troy.
ACOTAR role: Andromache was the former mortal lover of Mor.

FAE CHARACTERS

DRAKON

Drakon is of Greek origin and means "dragon."

NEPHELLE

In Greek mythology Nephele, meaning "cloud," is a cloud nymph who is considered the goddess of loyalty, generosity, peace, and shyness.

THE SERAPHIM

A seraph is a celestial being regarded as belonging to the highest order of angels in Christian angelology.

HUMAN CHARACTERS

MIRYAM

Miriam of of Hebrew origin and means "sea of sorrow." She is the Biblical daughter of Amram and Jochebed and sister to Aaron and Moses.

URSTIN

No plausible connections found. Potentially an anagram for Rustin, an English name meaning "Rust's estate" or Surtin, a Middle English name meaning "reliable, trustworthy."
ACOTAR role: Urstin is a cousin of the Archerons via their mother.

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https://preview.redd.it/7d6podf5pe0d1.png?width=836&format=png&auto=webp&s=8e99a04d45c3b0f1f46232c7ebef16aeef659c8e

MAIN CHARACTERS

THE SURIEL

Suriel is a Hebrew name meaning "God's prince, divine authority." May also reference Sariel, an angel from Judais tradition, one of the seven holy angels. He is considered to be a primordial power invoked for his protective powers.

ATTOR

Possibly an altered form of the German tatter meaning "goblin, puppet." Likely inspired by the Ahool, a bat or primate-like winged cryptid said to live in the jungles of Indonesia.

DEATH GODS

THE BONE CARVER

Self-explanatory.

STRYGA AKA THE WEAVER

Stryzga is a female demon in Slavic mythology similar to a vampire. Stryzga stems from the mythological Strix of Ancient Greece, referring to birds of ill omen (and also witches) who fed on human flesh and blood.

KOSCHEI

Koschei is a common villain in East Slavic tales. He is often given the epithet of "the Immortal, the Deathless" and is said to hide his death inside nested objects for protection. He often takes the role of a malevolent rival figure who competes or entraps a male hero's love interest.
Fun note: The love interest trapping tidbit has interesting connotations for both Lucien (regarding Vassa) and Azriel (regarding Eris). For a breakdown of the Azriel x Koschei scene in ACOSF, see HERE.

PRISON INMATES

BRYAXIS

Bryaxis was a famous Ancient Greek sculptor. His name may mean "delight, lust."

LANTHYS

No information or connections found (and it is KILLING me).

LUBIA

In Albanian mythology, the lubia is a multi-headed, serpentine-like, female watestorm demon-dragon. Her irresistible taste of flesh leans toward that of young girls.
ACOTAR role: Also called Seven-Headed Lubia, imprisoned for preying on girls on the western coast of Prythian.

ANNIS

The Black Annis is a bogeyman in English folklore, depicted as a blue-faced witch with iron claws who has a taste for human flesh, especially that of children.
ACOTAR role: Also called Blue Annis, imprisoned for her craving of female flesh.

VESPERUS

In Greek mythology, Hesperus is the Evening Star. Her Roman equivalent is named Vesper.
ACOTAR role: Vesperus is the Asteri found beneath the Prison.

MINOR CHARACTERS

MIDDENGARD WYRM

Midgard is the realm of human beings in Norse mythology, ie Earth. Wrym is an Old Norse word and refers to a wingless and limbless dragon.

THE BOGGE

Bogge is a Middle English word meaning "frightening specter" from which the term bogeyman originated. Bogeyman have no specific appearance and conceptions vary drastically by culture.
Fun fact: A boggart is a supernatural being from English folklore and also derives from the term bogge (Harry Potter facts, yo).

NAGA

Throughout various Asian religious traditions, Angus are a divine or semi-divine race of half-human, half-serpent beings residing in the netherworld.
Fun fact: A female naga is called a Nagi or a Nagini (more HP facts, yo).

MARTAX

A manticore is a Persian mythological creature similar to the Egyptian sphinx. The martax describe in ACOTAR has a head like a lion's and three rows of teeth. A manticore has the body of a lion and eats its victims whole with its three rows of teeth. The term manticore stems from Latin and Ancient Greek.

PUCA

Púca is Irish for "spirit, ghost" while puca is Old English for "goblin." They were said to be shape-changers.

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https://preview.redd.it/kjbnychpse0d1.png?width=840&format=png&auto=webp&s=0cbc744820cea4c2fa5e16ec64c127001ba0de10
MEALLAN

Meallán is Irish in origin meaning "small pleasant one."
ACOTAR role: Helion's pegasus.

ELLIA

Ellia is of various origins and can translate to "beautiful fairy maiden" with hints to the "Otherworld."
ACOTAR role: Mor's horse.

-----------------
For Part 2: World Map, Items, Terms & Other, click HERE

DISCLAIMER: This theory uses text from the leaked 2.3 relics, Firefly's signature light cone, the current Glamoth planar relics, and relevant lines from dialogue in the story. I'll do my best to cite my sources for everything!
Let's get down to business! Who, or what, is Titania exactly?
According to both planar relics, she's the "Empress". That's about the only thing they agree on though, because the sphere describes her as a benevolent ruler who brought civilization to Glamoth's outer colonies, while the rope actually tells us that she's got no power (but I think they mean political power, since it also claims she telepathically commanded the Iron Cavalry and that seems kinda powerful), and that the ruling council created her in response to the Swarm's attack. Here's a longer excerpt from the rope's description:

"In the dreams that these warriors are woven into, the sole meaning of their existence is to guard Titania and her 'empire'. In their short lives, they studied, fought, received the Empress' commands, faced the enemy fearlessly, and died with honor."

It's pretty damning evidence that "empire" is written in quotation marks like this in most of these relics, and I've got theories about what kind of state Glamoth was (cough cough. Interstellar colonizers, cough), but that's another discussion. What matters here is that Titania definitely isn't a real Empress. Maybe she's a puppet ruler, or a symbol but not a person, or even some kind of war tactic AI skynet situation to direct troops, or whatever floats your boat.
I don't think she's Firefly, though. IMO it'd be a little tacky to get another identity reveal after Sam, but I wouldn't be making this post if I didn't have a stronger argument than that. Before 2.2, there were a lot of theories about her identity as Sam, the Stellaron Hunter... specifically theories that wanted to separate that identity from "Firefly", either by claiming Sam might be an AI or a second personality, or by claiming that Firefly is an ordinary girl (or Titania) who found the armor and decided to wear it. Lemme go over my counterarguments for both these points, and then I'll get to my own theory.
After her first "death" to the meme, Black Swan helps us investigate what Firefly was doing in the hotel, and a certain line of dialogue raised many questions. To quote:

Firefly: "Let's get going..."

(Here Black Swan proposes that she's with another person)

Firefly: "Why did you...!? This isn't what we agreed on..."

(Here Black Swan proposes that somebody betrayed her)

Firefly: "Mecha...!? Why..."

(Here Black Swan points out it's weird of her to say 'mecha')
Thing is, Black Swan's memory magic never shows us this second person, so we can only assume she's talking to the armor, right? Except... we've never seen her and Sam in the same place together. I know that sounds cheesy, but it's actually pretty big proof here. When she transforms into Sam, or back out of Firefly, the armor just appears and disappears in a bunch of flames. Of course it's probably that her transforming device is the reason why, but even without it there's a line in Genshin that could explain this too. In one of the Traveler's profile voicelines, Paimon confirms that weapons and personal items simply appearing out of nowhere is a regular thing that happens in-universe, and it's likely HSR uses this same rule. I don't think there's any hard evidence to suggest the armor even exists physically until she uses her transforming device, so we can rule out this mystery person being Sam.
IMO, it was probably more like an upset reaction to somebody else who brought up the 'mecha' thing first. Maybe something like this:

???: "Sorry Firefly, you can't go off-script. You have to activate your mecha."
Firefly: "Mecha...!? Why..."

It could've been Silver Wolf on the phone, or maybe even Elio, but it doesn't really matter.
Another thing I've seen people argue is that her personality when we first meet Firefly in Golden Hour just doesn't match up with Sam. Voicelines from the Stellaron Hunters, dialogue from SW visiting the Express, and one of Blade's story chapters all describe him as the ruthless and cold-blooded muscle of the group, which is very different from the sweetheart tour guide we met. I think people can't understand how these two versions of her coexist, but they're not mutually exclusive at all. What if Sam's efficiency is because she dislikes being a weapon, and wants to get her jobs over with quickly? What if her mission in Penacony is Firefly's first chance to actually explore herself as "Firefly", without her scripts asking her to cause destruction? It's not like she's living a double life, more like she's still in the process of growing into her actual self. Maybe texting us stickers from Blade's phone was a baby step for her to experiment, since TB hadn't met Sam yet and she could be less serious, or maybe her armor's fingers have trouble typing, who even knows?? I think the "inconsistencies" in her behavior can be explained pretty easily once you realize she's still figuring herself out, y'know?
There's also tons of dialogue before and after her reveal that implies she's pretty familiar with combat, too. Her accurate description of Sampo is the obvious one (that man is NOT 5'9 though), but she also mentions that a baseball bat isn't an efficient weapon, and later in the story if you picked the Hanu trial for the auditions thing, she complains about not having her armor, brings up that it'll be hard for her to let go of the bazooka, and compares Hanu's rocket launcher to something called the "Soaring Locust II" (some kind of weapon attachment for her armor maybe?), so it's pretty clear that she's not a stranger to fighting. I don't think she's just some ordinary girl who picked up the mecha.
Finally, there's an inconsistency between her and Sam when talking about dreams. On the balcony, Firefly describes her dream about the scorched earth and the sapling, while Sam outright says he was "born without the ability to 'dream'." Thanks to her upcoming light cone, we've got an answer to this problem:

"Dreams remained too distant for her, as she gazed into the infinite darkness. Even as she sensed her consciousness slipping away, her mind replayed the same lingering memories over and over again..."

I think the simplest solution is that Firefly's 'dream' was a metaphor to explain her wish to the Trailblazer, like a visualization to help her and others understand those feelings. The light cone kinda implies she doesn't dream at all, instead she relives her memories from being in the Glamoth military. The rest of that paragraph goes on to describe a Swarm attack and her fellow Cavalryman dying around her without anybody to honor their sacrifice, which is a memory she'd only have if she fought alongside them.
So dreaming isn't an issue anymore, and her two personalities aren't mutually exclusive, and she wasn't talking to her armor in the hotel. But I hear you, none of that really proves she isn't Titania, right? Because at least the Empress has the same origin as the Iron Cavalry pilots... And that's a good point, but I've got evidence against it too.
According to Firefly's drip marketing, she was "Born as a weapon", and is "afflicted with the agony of Entropy Loss Syndrome due to genetic modification.", both of which line up perfectly with our understanding of the Cavalry pilots so far. One leaked relic says "Identical-looking warriors were birthed from the incubators", the rope says "the ruling council threw down the gauntlet and resolved to alter the essence of humanity", and even Firefly herself says "[Sam] is the cradle of my vitality, and the meaning of my birth." when asked about it in Dreamflux Reef. These statements only make sense if Firefly is one of these lab-grown humans, and literally born to pilot her armor.
If you're still not convinced, that line about Entropy Loss gives us another clue: since it's due to genetic modification, that means her "altered essence" is what causes it, so how exactly is she different from a regular human? Another leaked relic says "The armor deeply synchronized its sensory organs with that of the pilot", which is very weird phrasing until you remember that Welt told us Sam has superhuman perception after we got SW's message. That ability kinda contradicts everything Firefly said about her condition, so what if her genetic modifications are meant for that "synchronization"? Maybe it's supposed to increase combat effectiveness with some kind of symbiotic relationship between her and the armor? It definitely plays into more mecha anime tropes (NGE comes to mind), which she's already got a crazy amount of, and might even explain why she's naked while wearing her armor.
When she calls Sam the "cradle of [her] vitality", she means it's literally the only way she can guarantee her Entropy Loss won't flare up and cause her to dissociate. The armor keeps her grounded and conscious, even though it might be extremely painful to use it, given how Adin Rudd in the English dub almost seems to grunt out his lines, and how her kit and the boss' kit both include HP-draining mechanics. This is also why she appreciates the Dreamscape so much, as she told us in her secret balcony spot that she's able to "listen, and see, and touch, and think, and understand whatever I want with my body", as opposed to doing these things with Sam instead. Her cutscene with Blade suggests that it's not impossible for her to exit the armor, but I'm guessing she can't do this for long stretches of time, or that it comes with a risk of having her Entropy Loss worsen. The "icy medical cabin" she mentioned turned out to be Sam, after all.
This one's a bit more subjective, but I'll die on this hill so I might as well include it as a final argument. I honestly think her narrative themes benefit more if she's a regular Iron Cavalryman than if she's Titania. Her story is about an experimental soldier born to be a weapon, living only to kill bugs by the orders of a fake Empress she swore loyalty to, and never having a chance to experience life as a regular young girl. It's about recovering from war trauma, overcoming a medical condition and physical disability, and finally discovering an identity for herself instead of being defined by her use to other people. I'm so in love with this character concept, and while I plan to bankrupt myself over this girl no matter what direction Hoyo picks, I've got my fingers crossed that I'm right about her because it would be so amazing to see that story come to life about a character who stole my heart like this. ^w^
In conclusion? Firefly ≠ Titania, and I believe it's a more cohesive, impactful, and beautiful story if she's a soldier instead of an Empress.
Thank you for reading!
P.S. I'd love to hear anybody's thoughts in the comments, whether they agree with some of my points, or if they've got arguments of their own! Just remember to be civil, because at the end of the day we're all Firefly enjoyers and everybody's ideas are valid until we get more official information about her! :D

I've compiled a list of parallels that fans have drawn between Elden Ring and Dark Souls 2, along with brief commentaries and illustrations on the patterns they may have observed.
https://preview.redd.it/9mu9ob1ee90d1.png?width=1600&format=png&auto=webp&s=057574020575dd9701d7df7a5cdc86bee8401f8f
"The game is called the Elden Ring and it's a sequel to a video game that came out a few years ago called Dark Souls, My work on it was actually done years ago. These games, they're like movies, they take a long time to develop." - George R.R. Martin
He [George Martin] actually knew about the Dark Souls games. He was aware of them and what they were about, so that made me happy. That sort of gave me a little bit of a boost. I knew immediately from talking to him, it just became apparent his skill and his passion for the fantasy genre, and for games as well. - Hidetaka Miyazaki
“I can't deny the fact that, maybe down the line, I want to go back to the [Dark Souls] series and make one more game before I retire. I don't want to be branded a liar if that happens.” - Hidetaka Miyazaki
Dark Souls 2 probably bears the Souls series’ closest resemblance to Elden Ring. Design wise, both Dark Souls 2 and Elden Ring stressed open-ended gameplay and ditched linear progression.
Miyazaki agrees and in fact goes a step further. “In regards to Dark Souls 2, I actually personally think this was a really great project for us, and I think without it, we wouldn’t have had a lot of the connections and a lot of the ideas that went forward and carried the rest of the series. We were able to have that different impetus and have those different ideas and make those different connections that we otherwise might not have had.” He goes so far as to say that “there’s really no way of telling how or if the series would have continued the way it did without Dark Souls 2.” Hidetaka Miyazaki
https://preview.redd.it/ptcn01tce90d1.png?width=1000&format=png&auto=webp&s=ccb38969a89fcc77c0f2784a3c934a9764530fa5
Elden Ring was co-directed by Yui Tanimura who is the director of Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin.
Name-Engraved ring
"There are countless vestiges of long-lost gods in the ruins of Drangleic. Or perhaps they are the very same gods as ours, only known by different names."
I’ve seen people make comparison with the deities mentioned on the Name-engraved Ring list. (although the one they made about Ranni didn’t make sense to me and seem to be more relevant to the Gloam-Eyed Queen if anything).
https://preview.redd.it/serj2lx6e90d1.png?width=1640&format=png&auto=webp&s=51d71268bca135848931a26c5b02e958c296cb09
St. Trina and Miquella from Elden Ring share striking similarities with Quella, the deity of dreams dreams from Dark Souls 2, and Nehma, the goddess of love. Like the latter, Miquella has the power to "compel affection" through the Bewitching Branch. St. Trina and Quella are associated with sleep, trees, and dreams. Miquella shares similarities with Quella, as both are associated with ethereal, dream-like entities like the Nascent Butterfly and White Ring,
Quella’s icon also depicts a boy with wings, which something similar we see Miquella have during Elden Ring’s intro cut scene.
https://preview.redd.it/icccb0b5e90d1.png?width=900&format=png&auto=webp&s=5332b149b3d0e09eacd1c5559644d553d7a2058a
Hanleth is the goddess of bliss. After the war of the erdtree, Marika's reign ushered in an age of plenty when It is said that drops of blessing once dripped boughs forever which gradually restored HP.
In Marika's own words. Hark, brave warriors. Hark, my lord Godfrey. We commend your deeds. Guidance has delivered ye through ordeal to the place ye stand. Put the giants to the sword and confine the flame atop the mount. Let a new epoch begin. An epoch glistening with life. Brandish the Elden Ring, for the Age of the Erdtree! - Melina
Kremmel, god of Struggle.
Lord Radagon was a great champion... He came to these lands at the head of a great golden host, when he met Lady Rennala in battle. He soon repented his territorial aggressions though, and became husband to the Carian Queen. However, when Godfrey, first Elden Lord, was hounded from the Lands Between, Radagon left Rennala to return to the Erdtree Capital. - Miriel, Pastor of Vows
“Solemn duty weighs upon the one beholden; not unlike a gnawing curse from which there is no deliverance” descriptions from both Marika's & Radagon's Soreseals
Queen Marika has high hopes for us. That we continue to struggle. Unto eternity. - Gideon Ofnir
https://preview.redd.it/h4hm67u2e90d1.png?width=2528&format=png&auto=webp&s=76e2dc5e153f9381ae11bc63fa6a58bccaa57216
Radagon’s thorns
Prevented by the mantle of barbs. The thorns are impenetrable. A husk of the Erdtree's being; that spurns all that exists without. The only way to stand before the Elden Ring...and become the Elden Lord...is to pass the thorns. My purpose serves to aid in that very act. So I'd like you to undertake a new journey, with me. To the flame of ruin, far above the clouds, upon the snow mountaintops of the giants. Then I can set the Erdtree aflame. And guide you. Down the path to becoming Elden Lord. - Melina
“Ring granted protection by Kremmel, god of Struggle. The ring's spikes drive into the wearer's skin, so that each blow fuels spite toward the perpetrator. When damage is taken the ring retaliates and inflicts damage upon enemy.” - Ring of Thorns
https://preview.redd.it/9e66m7y1e90d1.png?width=1700&format=png&auto=webp&s=36d60bbcaab169e7315dc34c8567cb932ff2be25
Assuming the theories that Mesmer are true, his association with the snake (which is viewed as a traitor to the Erdtree), consumption of dragon hearts, and seeking ultimate power suggest the pursuit for supremacy for his own gain. This aligns with the Covetous Gold Serpent Ring), which depicts the snake, a manifestation of the god of desire, Zinder. The serpent is an imperfect dragon and symbol of the undead. Mesmer's ambition and willingness to embrace forbidden power mirrors the ring's representation of insatiable desire and the undying nature of the serpent.
Rykard from Elden Ring and Zandroe from Dark Souls share a striking similarity - they are both associated with serpents and the concept of greed. Zandroe is described as the "god of greed" whose manifestation and servant is the snake, while Rykard fed himself into a massive "god-devouring serpent" in his pursuit of immortality through devouring others, an act of ultimate greed.
​
https://preview.redd.it/tio0c9lzd90d1.png?width=2250&format=png&auto=webp&s=6b1d131769bade56ee609c74a7d0323187414995
Nahr Alma, the god of blood and a god of war, where Mohg is a demigod and the lord of blood.
Both Mohg and Nahr Alma are divinely associated with blood and have followers who use blood-themed weapons like the Scythe of Nahr Alma. Mohg and Nahr Alma's followers have rejected the world and vow to travel a bloody path. Mohg is the Lord of Blood and seeks to inaugurate a new dynasty, similar to Nahr Alma's influence
https://preview.redd.it/i6zqjp8xd90d1.png?width=1600&format=png&auto=webp&s=35e4a823f259b6f9d4f5e46cb8dcde9b34abd4ea
Morgott, the "Fell Omen" 忌み鬼 (Imi Oni) meaning "Abominable Demon#cite_ref-14)." , and highly-ranked clerics of Lindelt from Dark Souls 2 share similarities as holy knights who wield "demonic powers" to castigate those who harbor ambitions for power. Both are feared by their enemies for their ruthless tactics in battle, with Morgott slaughtering countless champions during the Shattering and these clerics of Lindelt use the miracle "Unveil" to reveal the location of traitors.
“Wilful traitors, all. Thy kind are all of a piece. Pillagers. Emboldened by the flame of ambition. Have it writ upon thy meagre grave: Felled by King Morgott! Last of all kings.” Morgott, the Grace-Given.
https://preview.redd.it/h54dbl6ud90d1.png?width=900&format=png&auto=webp&s=da570701ce72a9b5f18e60dc076a33fdaeed1f3d
Godwyn the Golden from Elden Ring and the God of Sun from Dark Souls 2 were revered for their mastery of lightning and their incantations, such as Lightning Spear, Dragonbolt Blessing, and Sacred Oath. Additionally, Godwyn's victory of the ancient dragon Fortissax and his subsequent friendship with the fallen foe gave rise to the ancient dragon cult in the capital, much like the God of Sun's connection with the Blinding Bolt that was forbidden so to protect the world from hatred, or sorrow, and the ancient clan) whose leader was revered as the deity.
https://preview.redd.it/r3aqmuusd90d1.png?width=1148&format=png&auto=webp&s=0f1c703c23b38b1468e0192576d598bf2ce325c0
The demigod general Radahn and Faraam like Nahr Alma, is a god of war from Dark Souls 2 are both associated with lions, a symbol of strength and ferocity in battle, representing their prowess as mighty warriors. Known for their skill in combat, with Radahn being captivated by the Lord of the Battlefield from a young age, now wields a greatsword in each hand, and the Faraam Knights being feared for their nimble two-handed swordplay.
https://preview.redd.it/97iizhtrd90d1.png?width=1720&format=png&auto=webp&s=b690f8449c0251323da274582be650db88d390b8
Galib (I’ve seen it spelled “Calib”) from Dark Souls 2 and Malenia (who released her bloom in Caelid) both have a thematic connection to disease and affliction. Malenia and Miquella, both children of a single god, were afflicted with rot and eternal childhood respectively. Leydia apostles manipulated both the onset and curing of disease but were denied peaceful deaths, while Malenia's rot was an incurable sickness (as her army are undergoing their gradual, putrefaction of their flesh) that Miquella tried to ward off with unalloyed gold needles and her great rune provides healing after receiving damage.
Coincidentally Malenia can grow wings as well.
https://preview.redd.it/hubw0m1rd90d1.png?width=1200&format=png&auto=webp&s=cc90c140c199edac02ef010f0b284f3ac9a1e490
Caffrey, deity of Fortune, and Godfrey the first Elden lord. The name “Frey” might be derived from Nordic mythology. Frey is primarily associated with fertility, prosperity, and abundance.
Caffrey's icon mirrors the currency and EXP icon from Dark Souls 2, representing experience points gained by defeating enemies. In a similar vein, Godfrey is portrayed as the lord of the battlefield, who bravely battled Giants, confronted the Storm Lord and had countless victories, ushering in the Age of the Erdtree which was forged through the use of valuables like Smithing Stones [8], becoming the embodiment of Order. This left a long legacy of loyal warriors honored him by wielding axes like himself.
​
https://preview.redd.it/81ze5i0qd90d1.png?width=1200&format=png&auto=webp&s=80a838c57b4b826d959f8bda05c32dbda4a12214
The hunting Goddess Evlana was no goddess at all, but rather a brave and highly skilled bow huntress. Long after her demise, the passing of lore transformed her into a deity.”
The Hunter's Hat
Spirit of a handsome archer who dressed in the style of a man. Called the Silent Hunter by some, she fires St. Trina's arrows from her shortbow.
Dolores the Sleeping Arrow Puppet
:P

All my Doom posts so far, with descriptions. Lots of HQ content you may have missed. Some posts of the most value to me have their descriptions highlighted in bold.
Seek for high-resolution art by keyword "HQ" and image resolutions in square brackets "[]". Enjoy!
​
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/1cfpmfl/running_doom_using_only_spinda_patterns/ — Running DOOM Using Only Spinda Patterns
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/1c4ghk5/doomhtop_running_doom_using_htop_console_utility/ — doom-htop — running Doom using 'htop' console utility.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/18exqwy/doom_at_30_the_best_doom_mods_to_celebrate_three/ — DOOM at 30: the best DOOM mods to celebrate three decades of destruction Stuff
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/13gccc5/this_is_for_my_cake_day_doom_3_box_inside_cove — This is for my cake day — Doom 3 box inside cover art, retouched by me [4096x2939]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/126gqeo/d3themed_uac_pda_locked_amoledsized_1920x3420/ — D3-themed 'UAC PDA LOCKED' AMOLED-sized (1920x3420) wallpaper by me. In case you've been looking for something like this.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/11krwgu/discussing_the_new_gog_release_and_redux_21_news/ — Discussing the new GOG release and Redux 2.1 news
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/11gxz17/early_doom_4_trailer_from_2012/ — Early Doom 4 trailer from 2012
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/zo0addoom_christmas_bauble/ — Doom Christmas Bauble
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/xwvjxd3themed_uac_pda_amoledsized_1920x3420_wallpape — D3-themed 'UAC PDA' AMOLED-sized (1920x3420) wallpaper that I made based on another web-found image
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/xu6t76/eating_doom_3_imp_fanart/ — Eating (Doom 3 Imp fanart)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/xtscj3/infinity_machine_the_most_advanced_cheating/ — Infinity Machine (the most advanced cheating utility ever) in PC Gamer 1995-05
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/wlp2do/doom_is_infinite_a_page_of_an_article_in_pc_game — Doom is... Infinite! A page of an article in PC Gamer (USA), 1995-05
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/wfdbce/doom_3_has_turned_18_big_boy_now/ — Doom 3 has turned 18! Big boy now!
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/wa1b49/doom_2022_a_movie_made_of_cardboard/ — DOOM (2022) — A movie made of cardboard
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/w515k0/found_it_doom_3_roe_box_inside_cover_art/ — Found it! Doom 3 RoE box inside cover art, retouched by me [6192x4494]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/vy7gfl/only_the_n64_could/ — Only the N64 could...
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/vvi1we/doom_64_ad_in_nintendo_official_magazine_63/ — Doom 64 ad in Nintendo Official Magazine #63 (1997-12) [5090x3507]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/vsk37e/another_original_official_d3_screen_in_hq/ — Another original official D3 screen in HQ [4000x3000]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/voynii/doom_fanart_by_trycon_3840x2160/ — Doom fanart by Trycon [3840x2160]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/vo5yvg/doom_64_reloaded_for_the_doom_64_remaster_steam/ — Doom 64 Reloaded for the Doom 64 Remaster (Steam, GOG, Bethesda.net, Game Pass)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/vir5adat_bitch_5120x2880/ — Dat bitch! [5120x2880]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/vi1e28/d3modded_pc_case_presumably_all_of_these_pictures/ — D3-modded PC case. Presumably, all of these pictures were taken in 2007 at the Maker Faire in California.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v7hthf/hq_original_d3_screenshot_used_for_wallpapers_and/ — HQ original D3 screenshot used for wallpapers and arts [4000x3000]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v6596t/just_an_art_3256x2035/ — Just an art [3256x2035]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v4gymw/d64_fanart_by_cynder_024/ — D64 fanart by Cynder_024
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v35vh5/how_bout_doom_64s_mother_demon_reboot_based_on/ — How' bout Doom 64's Mother Demon reboot based on this art by Markus Neidel?
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v2cfyo/does_anyone_have_this_art_in_hires_maybe_original/ — Does anyone have this art in hi-res? Maybe original D3 RoE box to scan from and share? [Found: https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/w515k0/found_it_doom_3_roe_box_inside_cover_art/]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v2afqk/tsundere_demon_gf/ — Tsundere Demon GF
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/v0w9bd/doom_poster_by_ambientflush/ — Doom poster by AmbientFlush
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/uusyjs/my_take_on_the_doom_3_icon_of_sin_3068x1536/ — My take on the Doom 3 Icon of Sin [3068x1536]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/utnxrk/hell_demon_skull_art_by_kenneth_scott_retouched/ — Hell demon skull art by Kenneth Scott, retouched and with brightness equalized by me in order to make it look the closest to the release version while keeping the maximum detail.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/uqm64h/doom64_icon_of_sin_from_the_d64ifier_mod/ — Doom64 Icon of Sin from the D64ifier mod
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/upesmd/jpeg_version_of_my_earlier_post_pcgamer_127/ — JPEG version of my earlier post — PCGamer #127 09-2004 inside cover retouched by me [4532x3160]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/up8twa/d3_imp_author_unknown_1255x1673/ — D3 Imp, author unknown [1255x1673]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/uomzsthis_is_for_my_reddit_cake_day_pcgamer_127_092004/ — This is for my Reddit cake day — PCGamer #127 09-2004 inside cover retouched by me [4532x3160]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ul3c14/doom64_poster_from_nintendo_power_95_of_april/ — Doom64 poster from Nintendo Power #95 of April 1997, my restoration attempt [1783x3867]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ujgxi9/doom_the_movie_2005_behind_the_scenes/ — Doom The Movie (2005) Behind The Scenes
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/u94wj5/d64_mancubus_poster_gamepro_096_september_1996/ — D64 mancubus poster, GamePro #096, September 1996 [3000x3600]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/u8hhxj/cacodemonomania/ — Cacodemonomania
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/u7qkja/doom_bloodfall_dlc_art_3058x4000/ — Doom Bloodfall DLC art [3058x4000]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/u5ferq/the_ultimate_3d_virtual_reality_game/ — The Ultimate 3-D Virtual Reality Game
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/u0heb6/doom_3_hellsign_upscaled_3480x3480/ — Doom 3 Hellsign upscaled [3480x3480]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/tng2ds/pda_1260/ — PDA 1260
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/sdzof6/ai_textures_version_10_addon/ — AI textures - version 1.0 addon
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/rtmi78/happy_new_year_from_russian_videogames_magazine/ — Happy New Year from Russian videogames magazine GameLand!
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/rnjz1k/dial_in_make_new_friends_and_kill_them/ — Dial in, make new friends… and kill them.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/r7rt3w/birdman_for_doom3_addon/ — Birdman for Doom3 addon
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qs5l3a/the_ultimate_master_wad_guide/ — The ULTIMATE Master WAD Guide
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qqz516/dum_by_rhomita_fan_doom_remake_demo_using_unreal/ — DUM by Rhomita (Fan Doom remake demo using Unreal engine)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qqsuvs/doom_3_fan_art_homage_remaste — DOOM 3 Fan Art / Homage / Remaster
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qj00ai/ultimate_retro_pc_gamer_collection_free_ebook/ — Ultimate Retro PC Gamer Collection free ebook (Doom, Quake II, Half-Life, System Shock, Deux Ex, etc.)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qgm5mdoom_poster_by_johanborg/ — Doom poster by johanborg
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qfg5km/hq_scans_of_the_book_of_id_download_link_in/ — HQ scans of the Book of id (download link in comment)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qerb4b/doom_ii_manual_erro — Doom II Manual Error
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qemgo3/just_a_black_doom_slayer_mark_wallpaper_adapted/ — Just a black Doom Slayer mark wallpaper adapted to 4K (original art by Michael Rhodes, link in comments)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qd9znm/doom_key_art_1878x2531/ — Doom key art [1878x2531]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/qcv0ko/building_the_foundation_for_the_future/ — Building the Foundation for the Future!
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q9sz9c/doom_3_tribute_by_tse10/ — Doom 3 tribute by Tse-10
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q95w06/ultra_hq_doom_eternal_logo_6823x5055/ — Ultra HQ Doom Eternal logo [6823x5055]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q8mtol/alien_doom_print_ad/ — Alien Doom print ad
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q6dmh5/art_by_petur_arnorsson_3500x3500_to_mods_this_is/ — Art by Petur Arnorsson [3500x3500]. To mods: this is not a repost. None of the 40+ iterations of this image here on Reddit are of a comparable size and quality.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q5d96e/prepare_yourself_for_the_second_coming/ — Prepare yourself for the Second Coming.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q5d7lu/dooms_day/ — Doom's Day
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q3xsaf/da_big_boi_art_by_petur_arnorsson_3500x3500/ — Da big boi (art by Petur Arnorsson) [3500x3500]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q2iqfk/4k_doom_slayers_collection_backgroundwallpape — 4K Doom Slayers Collection background/wallpaper from PS store
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/q0bre1/to_hell_with_you/ — To Hell With You.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pz2opt/doom_slayer_statue_series_by_prime_1_studio_these/ — Doom Slayer Statue Series by Prime 1 Studio. These are incredible! (Link in comment)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pxpure/the_doom_slayer_symbol_official_transparent_png/ — The Doom Slayer symbol — official transparent PNG from bethesda.net
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pxcj1k/mark_of_the_doom_slayer_wallpaper_4k_png_an/ — Mark of the Doom Slayer wallpaper, 4K, PNG — an artistic interpretation. Just because why not.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/px8u9v/clean_mark_of_the_doom_slayer_wallpaper_4k_png/ — Clean Mark of the Doom Slayer wallpaper, 4K, PNG.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pue8zl/doom_3_pinky_model_by_terressa_cook_based_on/ — Doom 3 pinky model by Terressa Cook (based on concept by Kenneth Scott)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ps0lpyes/ — Yes!
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/prr8jf/fanart_and_concepts_by_brandon_chen_link_in/ — Fanart and concepts by Brandon Chen (link in comment)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pped9t/a_take_on_doom_3_spider_mastermind_by_martin/ — A take on Doom 3 Spider Mastermind by Martin Holmberg (original concept by Kenneth Scott)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pmqxd0/a_take_on_classic_cyberdemon_by_evgeniy_pyrch/ — A take on classic Cyberdemon by Evgeniy Pyrch
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pie0ep/doom_3_remastered_in_unity_5_tribute_by_raihan/ — DOOM 3 Remastered in Unity 5 (Tribute by Raihan Erviansyah).
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pgyrze/art_by_billie_cake/ — Art by Billie Cake
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pejllj/missing/ — Missing
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/peja80/kenneth_scott_is_remaking_birdie/ — Kenneth Scott is remaking "Birdie".
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/peebb0/snapshot_form_doom_3_legacy_reel_at_0459_what_are/ — Snapshot form Doom 3 Legacy reel at 04:59. What are those? Look pretty much like xenomorph eggs.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pdxlbw/the_ultimate_doom_european_poster_4136x6201/ — The Ultimate Doom european poster [4136x6201]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pdnhnb/a_scan_of_a_one_page_article_titled_the_doom_boom/ — A scan of a one page article titled "The Doom Boom" that appeared in the July 1994 issue of Wired magazine. [5305x6406]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pd8z7k/and_they_told_you_windows_95_would_make_your_life/ — And they told you Windows 95 would make your life easier.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pb6gvm/just_a_random_doom_pic/ — Just a random Doom pic.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/pa5p94/who_wants_some_huh/ — Who wants some, huh?
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p9v2wg/worthy_doom_3_content_is_so_hard_to_find_nowadays/ — Worthy Doom 3 content is so hard to find nowadays (Doom 3 appreciation post).
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p9r5cx/czech_video_games_magazine_cover_level_iss_116/ — Czech video games magazine cover (Level, iss. 116, August 2004)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p96xgk/hi_there_guys_some_worthy_content_to_temper_the/ — "Hi there guys!" Some worthy content to temper the memes hell. Spanish Official Xbox Magazine, 2005.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p6ustd/hunters_moon_monsters_adapted_for_doom_remake_4/ — Hunter's Moon monsters adapted for Doom Remake 4 (Link in comment)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p57qjv/join_forces_against_the_horrors_of_hell_doom_3/ — Join Forces Against the Horrors of Hell! [Doom 3 for Xbox ad, 2308x3136]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p4nhwl/ok_here_is_our_redhead_boy/ — OK, here is our Redhead boy!
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p4nc53/the_fight_continues/ — The fight continues.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p469l3/custom_textures_for_notakeg_type_barrels_in_d3/ — Custom textures for not-a-keg type barrels in D3 RoE. I also improved their normals for higher-res look.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/p3isc6/doom_eternal_poster_by_nekomanhd_from_deviantart/ — Doom Eternal poster by nekomanhd from DeviantArt [2480x3508]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ozql6g/doom_3_pinky_redesign_concept_by_vincenzo_de/ — Doom 3 pinky redesign concept by Vincenzo De Cesaris
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/oxmoco/happy_17th_birthday_doom_3/ — Happy 17th birthday Doom 3!
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/owxq6e/yet_another_classic_doom_texture_i_made_compute1/ — Yet another Classic Doom texture I made [compute1]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ovrdsq/whatever_happened_to_peace_love_understanding/ — Whatever happened to Peace, Love & Understanding?
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ov7714/doom_3_roe_quick_reference_card_2826x1420/ — Doom 3 RoE Quick Reference Card [2826x1420]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ougliw/my_custom_texture_pack_addon_for_classic_doom/ — My custom texture pack add-on for Classic Doom based on DHTP Alterations [details in comments]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/otop1q/you_guys_might_like_this_4000x6000_author_unknown/ — You guys might like this [4000x6000]. Author unknown.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/os25ee/you_know_nothing_about_dying_yet/ — You Know Nothing About Dying. Yet.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/or914k/custom_doom_3_poster_from_russian_pc_games/ — Custom Doom 3 poster from Russian PC Games magazine
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/oomz1f/japanese_tv_doom64_commercial/ — Japanese TV Doom64 commercial
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/omp1bn/doom_3_pistol_highpoly_rende — Doom 3 Pistol High-Poly Render
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ojaayi/a_masterpiece_of_the_art_form_4600x3155/ — "A Masterpiece Of The Art Form" [4600x3155]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ogzbg7/doomguy_dressup_doll_from_a_russian_gaming/ — Doomguy dress-up doll from a Russian gaming magazine
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/o9k3r8/nvidia_geforce_bfg_10000_graphics_cards_art_by/ — Nvidia GeForce BFG 10000 graphics cards (art by Andrew Collins)
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/o6z4u7/doom_3_shows_us_damnations_lookin_damn_good_from/ — "Doom 3 shows us damnations lookin' damn good" (from CGW 01/2004, restored by me) [3083x2085]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/o39jxt/nice_huh_found_in_the_depths_of_the_internet/ — Nice, huh? Found in the depths of the Internet Archive
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/o20pqc/general_hayden_from_doom_3/ — General Hayden from Doom 3
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nypg71/doom_3_concept_art_showcase_from_xbox_360/ — Doom 3 Concept Art Showcase from Xbox 360 Collectors Edition
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nvrtyx/team_up_by_ardat/ — Team up! by Ardat
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nsx8gt/doom_comic_by_tcannoncomics/ — Doom comic by TCannonComics
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nplly0/want_to_have_an_exciting_summer_try_going_to_hell/ — Want to have an exciting summer? Try going to Hell.
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/noy02o/doom_ii_review_title_page_in_pc_zone_mag_from_1995/ — Doom II review title page in PC Zone mag from 1995
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nm2ygg/the_ancient_gods_part_ii_doom_eternal/ — The Ancient Gods Part II DOOM Eternal FraminPoster by THEGALATF on DeviantArt
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nj8eyu/original_doom_3_demon_skull_hell_sign_2003/ — Original Doom 3 demon skull (Hell sign) 2003 concept by Kenneth Scott
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nimqnd/doom_4_cancelled_concept_art_by_matthew_burke/ — Doom 4 (cancelled) concept art by Matthew Burke
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nhy0xm/union_aerospace_progress_takes_sacrifice_poste — Union Aerospace "Progress Takes Sacrifice" Poster Scan [7016x9922]
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/ndgrad/all_the_doom_3_highres_texture_packs_combined/ — All the Doom 3 high-res texture packs combined together
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/nb8b7g/so_you_want_to_paly_some_fckng_doom/ — So you want to paly some fckng DOOM?
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/n88gr0/doom_2_screensave — Doom 2 screensaver
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/n5cn1w/doom_3_print_ad_in_gamestar_germany/ — Doom 3 print ad in GameStar Germany
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/n3r8kk/rare_doom_3_print_ad/ — Rare Doom 3 print ad
https://www.reddit.com/Doom/comments/j4v4ql/great_custom_doom_series_posters_and_album_covers/ — Great custom Doom series posters and album covers

[[FIRST][[NEXT>]]()

Season 10 “Days of Fury” - Episode 1 “Reaction”

Slowly, consciousness begins to drunkenly crawl its way into his mind. The first thing he notices is the softness of the sheets, then it is the pillow that is just soft enough he can feel his own arm through it, and then the gentle warmth of a sunbeam hitting his body.
It was a comfortable, comforting, sunbeam. But at this point he had learned not to tarry, his body might have learned when to wake up but if he were to answer the call of comfort he was going to be late and he would rather not be. And so Santos steps out of his bed with a yawn and grabs his holopad, tapping the alarm off before it screams at him.
Though the process of doing so draws his attention to something in the device: A multitude of unread messages from the same news site. He had grown to find Prime News a reasonably reliable source of information, particularly on their coverage of the war.
He had not opened a single message ever since he subscribed to the war news.
Setting it down he continues with his morning routine, he knows he has time. First washing up, making sure he was both clean and presentable, then getting dressed. It isn’t until he was halfway through the door that he stops and turns around to look at his apartment. Gently running his tongue through his teeth he considers for a moment.
Huhn… It’s been getting easier
Before turning around and continuing to head out. He stops in front of Keya’s door for just one second, remembering she had left before him, then makes his way down to the streets and towards the precinct. It takes just a minute for a strange sensation to settle on him… There was something wrong and he could not tell what just yet. At this point he had learned to trust his instincts in some manner, and he knew that his pattern-matching sense was warning him of something, but what?
He was halfway to work when it all clicks in place; Blackriver is silent, silent of people. Traffic was usually non-existent but the little hints of people activity were gone. Though a quick scan had shown him some part of the reason as to why, he could see people through the windows, but none outside.
His internal alarms sounded when he crossed the threshold of the precinct. The front was empty, and the only noise happening was that of a distant television. He follows it to the inevitable direction of the breakroom wherein he finds the entire office sitting, either with their focus on the television or their own pads. Even Kessa’s brother was here, and he kept an opposite shift to Marik as the only two armorers. “Clearly something very serious is going on, what happened?”
Everyone turns their ears at him, the ones that were looking down raising the centerline of their view, except for Lunek. The first response comes from the obvious, their boss, and from the contents of her sigh she’s got her full faculties today “You haven’t seen the news?”
The human shrugs “Sorry. I’ve been… Avoiding knowing about the state of the war… For my own sake.” He looks at the television, whatever had happened he had just missed it as he can barely see the governor’s tail vanish from sight and the transmission end “Tell me it’s not something like another fleet”
“Past tense” Marik answers, returning to his holopad
Keya rubs the bridge of her snout “And not for you… Apparently this mess is… Deeper than we ever thought” she presses a few buttons on her own holopad and offers it to Santos.
He takes it, looking at the video. It appears to be an official address, the one he had just missed. The specific words are not important, but the content is still terrifying. It speaks of an assault on a hidden facility, one meant to keep forbidden history. It speaks of a people who fought tooth and nail against their conquerors, and were broken in culture and body. The address is short, far too short for this much weight “I…”
Fuck… This could have been us… It wouldn’t have ended just with bombs… It didn’t for them.
Soon as the video was over, there was a simple link. Following it, there was a page- It was a simple directory of information, linking to articles and videos. Hundreds upon hundreds upon hundreds… Recordings of the past, both in video, audio and text. He picks a category and looks at the file names until something familiar appears. “Ilfran’s Landing Revolt” he mutters the name as he calls up the video.
Ilfran’s Landing was a familiar name. The oldest spaceport in the region and named after the captain of the first ship to land there, originally a cargo port as far as he knew; it was a historical multi-centennial building dating all the way to venlil first contact… In the background of the video the triple launch gantries for cargo freighters were recognizable. He had seen them before for a reason: Their Regional lies in Ilfran’s Landing, and he had to go there once for paperwork when he was first assigned here.
It is strangely familiar to see the start of the video, it seems like an overhead camera looking at a riot that could have been full of humans, if not for the blending mass of grays that the venlil become when in a large group. Except this is not a normal riot, riots and protests would have signs or some other means of conveying a message, here they had only weapons. And the side opposite to them were the silver suits, strangely similar silver suits- A monospecies unit, though he can’t ascertain what one.
The video was bloody carnage, though the exterminators fought with bullet, plasma and flame the venlil had little more than sharpened iron and claw. Some scenes would remain with him, the first that’d stick with him was a closeup of a venlil, their legs lacked the inwards bow, their snout was slightly more square not to mention the nostrils- But what stuck the most was his motions. He growled and huffed and lowered himself to threaten like an angry goat.
The second scene was of an attack. It was the familiarity that struck with him, a venlil took a single step and lept through the flames, landing on the chest of an exterminator, bringing their short claws to bear. Almost every single step of the Black Claw, with one difference. This was striking to kill, even in the cacophony of battle it was sickening to see them violently snap their victim’s neck to the side before jumping off the falling body.
The last scene to stick to him was a shorter venlil running towards the exterminators, striking one at about the waist with their head and continuing, dragging them with their motion backwards until they crash through a door. A quite familiar door, this was the Regional, the same building serving the same purpose centuries ago.
Handing back the holopad to his boss, Santos was about to say something when a loud noise calls his attention, in fact the attention of everyone. A holopad had clattered to the ground, Lunek was breathing heavily as if he could not get enough air in his lungs, his arm still stretched out from having tossed the tool. Santos walks over calmly to the holopad, the crack across the surface distorting the hologram projected in the surface but not enough that he can’t see what is in it. It’s an index page for ‘Newborn Issues’.
He picks it up, and slowly walks over to the man who had thrown it. Lunek simply falls back on the couch, crying “Code blue…” he mutters when Santos sits beside him.
“Code blue?” the human furrows his brows, trying to remember some procedure he most certainly did not pay attention to.
“S-sister was a code blue… Tiss was too…” Lunek mutters “Seven… Seven minutes… Eighteen seconds…” his tail is lashing behind him with energy “That… That I didn’t know if she’d start breathing on her own…” his breathing becomes faster, stronger.
“I…” he suddenly turns around, grabbing Santos by the arms “I could have saved her!” he grasps his arms with strength “If I could have taken TWO. FUCKING. STEPS!” he shouts as he shakes “If those stupid broken legs could move, I would have saved her!” he cries out “If- If they hadn’t made us COWARDS I- I-”
Lunek’s voice starts at a low wheeze, building up in intensity into a powerful hiss “I hate them- I hate them… I hate them, I hate them! All of them, we have to-”
“Stop!” Santos finally interferes “Lunek, here” he puts a hand on the man’s shoulder “Will you listen to me? Listen to the end?” he stares directly at the enraged venlil “It will hurt, but will you listen?”
The father reciprocates the stare for a few moments. His breathing slows down gradually, and he finally flicks a positive with his right ear.
“Whatever ‘they’ tried to do to you, they failed.” Santos brings his hand closer to himself, sticking out his index finger “Because do you know the most important part of you? The one that I have seen being exactly what ‘they’ had feared so badly?” he gently taps his finger on Lunek’s head “It’s here, the spirit that is housed here”
“Do you know why I know they failed? Because, first of all, you are a wonderful father. You’d do anything for your family, you would sell your soul if you had to, and you did. You’d do anything, and more, to protect them”
“Do you know why they failed? They’ve been telling you for a hundred years that you’re cowardly and weak, and I saw you take your body to and past your limit all for the sake of saving one life. I saw you move like a storm when the time came to save someone from despair.”
“And I saw you have so much kindness in your heart, as to be able to forgive a wounded beast that nearly killed you”
“You are not weak. We’re all people in here. What the body can’t do, we find a way around as long as we have the will for it, and you’ve proven to have it” Santos takes a deep breath “But this is the part that will hurt you. Because I haven’t been where you are, but I’ve been in that neighborhood. I have to warn you away from one danger, before you step into it.”
He sits down beside the distraught officer “Answer me…” it almost seems like he’s feeling pain as Santos inhales “Would your sister hate you, for what your father did?”
Lunek’s paws twitch- And stop. For a moment he seems to stop breathing, stalled in time as if he had ceased to exist. But Santos continues undaunted “I did not know her, but if she was anything like you… I think she wouldn’t”
The human gently puts his hands on the only piece of uniform Lunek is wearing, the empty holster harness “And yet, here you are” he puts a hand on the badge pinned to it “Wearing the same badge he did”
Lunek seems to return to the flow of time, breathing faster, and looks down “But you are not him. You are a real protector, I have seen your actions since you have come here, and right or wrong your choices have always been guided by what would help people.”
“You are not guilty of your father’s sins” Santos lets go “And that holds true for everyone, you hear?”
Lunek raises his head back again, eyes distant… He takes a few more deep breaths “I… I think I get it…”
Santos raises his right arm up, index and pinky finger raised as he makes a motion with the index, mimicking the positive ear sign “And look. As a species, you’ve been like this for centuries. As a man, you’ve been like this your entire life. One more day will change nothing.” he puts as much emphasis as his tone can put “Just take time to think, alright?”
The father takes a few more calming breaths “Y-yeah… Yeah, you’re right… Yeah…” he repeats himself a few more times “D-don’t do anything rashly- Think- Think it over…”
“Okay” Keya’s voice calls everyone’s attention “But I think that right now, this isn’t the company you should be in” she takes a step back to clear way “There’s others that need you right now, Lunek. Go on, you shouldn’t be here”
He stands up, flicks ‘yes’ just once and begins running right out of the door, his destination obvious. A collective sigh echoes in the room “You do have a gift, it seems” Nila is the first one to speak “I could tell he was struggling”
Santos shakes his head “No, he did the whole job himself. Just needed to get unstuck.” the human rests his head back on the couch “He’s a good guy, deep down and on the surface, he just needs to be reminded of that”
“And how are you doing, Kessa?” Santos turns to face the source of the voice. Kessa’s brother was a bit of an elusive sight in the precinct, being the only other one with armory credentials Vess’ focus on the bureaucratic end of things had earned him permission to work from home when it wasn’t his shift in the armory.
Kessa sighs, looking back at the holopad in her paws “I could ask the same for you” she flicks her ear at Vess.
“Honestly? Angry, confused, overwhelmed… Too much at once” he sighs “But whatever I am feeling like, you look worse, so right now? I only care about how you are feeling, I can feel something later”
Kessa gently brings up her tail to wrap around her brother’s “You were also the better of us…” she sighs “I… I don’t know what possessed me… Looking at the videos, the articles- About schools”
Unlike her coworker, she doesn’t violently discards her holopad, but nonetheless just lets it limp off her paws “I don’t know… I was… Curious. Curious to know if- Ugh” she sighs, bending over to pick up the holopad “‘Associating undesirable behavior with antisocial tendencies, allowing their natural inclination for group cohesion to self-police’... That’s how they described it” she looks at the object’s screen, before setting it on her lap “You know I had… I had hoped that maybe we were just like that in some way, you know?”
Kessa shakes her head left and right with force “But no!” she looks up “Just another tool of control. Make us police ourselves from a young age! Murderous hypocrites. Making us behave like the ‘predators’ they so feared!”
With a swallow she continues “But I’m not putting fault on them like this, no. No… I could have made different choices, been better-” then she slaps her tail on the back of the couch, Vess reaching over to hold her “Tsk…”
“I just wonder…” Nila says, looking up, ears trained on her partner “Why did they do things this way?”
“This way?” Santos prods on
“There are… There’s so many ways to navigate people. There’s so many ways to-” she sighs “If they thought we were too violent then… Why do something so… Extreme?” she brings her tail up in front of her, holding the tip with both paws, staring at it “These kinds of processes don’t really work, they don’t change how people think… There’s no way they couldn’t have known it wouldn’t work out in the end, all that you wind up is… Traumatized people”
“You’re too kind, Nila” the human in the room offers “But you’re coming at this through the wrong angle” he offers a hand motion “They didn’t want to change how you thought. They just wanted to control how you behaved. Obedient and traumatized was good enough.”
“He’s right” Keya interposes “All ythe wanted was obedience, anything else… They didn’t care if it caused problems… And did it cause so many problems” their boss rests against the wall “Now that I think about it… If the way they handled ‘predator disease’ was so… Based on keeping people in line by force…”
“This is all so… Frustrating” Nila hisses “All of this and for what? Just because they were too impatient?!” she takes a deep breath “Or maybe because they’re just plain wrong” she shakes her head “It… Wasn’t just us that they were like this, was it? They were like this in some way with everyone… Void, they’re still like this now, with the facilities, the screenings… It’s all the same thing they’ve done to us then, repeated forever” then, Nila closes her eyes for a second “Boss I-”
“You’re going to have it” Keya interrupts, suddenly “A chance to help fix this mess. But you’re just one woman, even if you’re a miracle-worker. I managed to finagle a position in the next available course but it’s still a herd of paws away.”
“Thank you, boss” Nila flicks her right ear forward, crossing her arms “Is it weird that… I’m more worried about this than… Than what they actually did to us?”
“We all have different priorities, Nila” the next one to speak up is the venlil with the burned arm “Brahk, at least you have good priorities… I’m… I’m so angry and it’s at absolutely nothing, myself” Aren says, sounding irritated
“Even the smallest and strangest thing matters, Aren” she gives back “... Hah, I should listen to my own advice. But, yeah, what’s important is different for everyone, right? So what is it?”
Aren, who is resting himself against a table, looks down at his arms. “Ever since I met Lucas I’d been… Jealous” he turns aside, pulling a piece of paper from the nearby trashcan “He could do something I never could, something I never will, something I am very jealous of…” then, he pulls out a silver square object from a pocket. It’s a lighter, emblazoned with the symbol of the exterminators, a kind of memorabilia that they all have, a symbol not just of the strength of the flame but also its excess.
He flicks open the lighter, and brings the piece of paper over it. With a single motion, for a moment, a greenish jet of plasma appears igniting the paper. “Where there is fire…” he points the paper at Santos “There is smoke. The first sign of flame” he flicks the paper to extinguish it, and taps the top of his snout with the ashen edge “Is here”
“I, of course, always felt a little bit of jealousy of people who could just… Smell it. The smoke. That last bit of the flame that I am missing.” he closes the lighter with a powerful snap “I’d ask Lucas to describe to me the smell of various things burning… It… It was… Nice to have someone that understood it. And I was… Resigned, to the fact nature had made me this way, you know? Bad luck and all”
Slowly, he puts the lighter back on the pocket “And now this. I figure out that… No, that wasn’t nature giving me a bad draw” he brings his paws up to rub his eyes “‘Removed their sense of smell to increase their fear’, no speh. The first sign of fire is the smell of burning…” then, he flaps his ears like batting away some thought “Really? Just because I won’t ever really know if aramek and pine really do smell the same when burned? Is that why I’m feeling this angry? Not even because of what was done just… Just because I was reminded that I can’t…” and finally he sighs “I should be angrier at other parts of this”
Nila emits a light whistle of mirth “No, that’s fine. If anything, I know how important it is to you, Aren.” she offers him a ‘go ahead’ motion with her tail “I say this is just the thing to feel hard about, because it’s about what is important to you. As a person.”
The one who hadn’t been talking up to now finally pipes up “If you want to talk about having weird feelings… What’s it say that I am feeling a little relieved?” Marik says without looking away from his holopad
“Relieved?” Keya answers, ears splayed out horizontally in worry
The dark-furred venlil flicks in affirmative “Always knew there was… Something going on. Turns out that…” he chuckles “We’ve just always been like this”
Marik raises his holopad “I’ve gone and read some of the oldest data. Did you know there was an organization called ‘Rangers’? Their entire task was handling dangerous wildlife, they kept them away from cities and the roads safe” though nobody could really see what sort of video was playing in it, it had to be relevant “Makes sense, doesn’t it? That they’d try to fold them into the exterminators?”
“These records here? Show they tried, and oh… The Rangers made them regret that choice” he sets down his holopad “Because they were protectors of the herd, real hunters… And the exterminators… They were never about that, were they? Their real prey was always inwards.” he sighs “So… So it gives me some relief because… We’ve always been like this. There’s nothing out of the normal here, this is just… What we are”
Marik turns to Santos, looking at him head on “You were right. We are, and have always been, the greatest hunters of this world. And in some way, we hadn’t forgotten that, did we?”
“You sure didn’t” the human chuckles “I guess I can understand, if the translation is working right, why the exterminators might think rangers fit in with them only to regret it. A ranger’s job is as a caretaker of nature, no matter how dangerous it is”
Marik closes his eyes for a moment, slowly a hissing sound builds up- But then it starts to break into tiny whistles, increasing in intensity until he’s reached full blown laughter “Ah, of course! That’s right, isn’t it?” he puts a paw in his face “Father has always been right…” after a few moments he stops suddenly, then sighs “I… I need to make a call.” he simply walks out of the room.
Santos looks as the angry venlil walks out, then turns back to his boss. He stares at her for a moment “Everyone seems to be… Handling it decently, if not well.” he sighs “I know what it’s like to live through the end of the world, but finding i’ve been living this much of an illusion… I don’t know if I can even imagine what you’re going through”
Keya makes a dismissive motion with her tail “I can’t either… Honestly, this is… Just too much to care”
At that, he furrows his eyebrows, focusing his stare directly on her. But he says nothing.
“Look at the scale of this… Look at how long ago all this happened…” with a dismissive wave of her tail she continues “I think I know more than anyone here what it’s like to be stuck with the past. I got enough in mine that I don’t have space for this. We have a lot ahead of us to worry about, that’s what is important”
“What matters is the future, then?”
“Yeah… Me, I can’t bring myself to care. We still have a job to do, a job that needs done…” she then turns her gaze upwards “Of course… I might be doing that again but… I hope I’m not. Just like with the first reveal, things will get hectic. We can’t afford to be stuck in the past when the future is this uncertain.”
Then, she lets out a tiny whistle “Though, knowing all of this sure would have made solving the Black Claw a lot easier.”
Santos can’t help but follow along “Sure would. A lack of fight instinct was always too suspicious” he laughs a little bit, until he stops suddenly, staring off in the distance. The sudden shift in demeanor causes Keya to tilt an ear in his direction “Though… It does bring one thing to mind”
“What?”
“Entire species ousted as perpetrators, this entire organization historically used as colonial enforcers, an entire people who’ve been taught their entire lives that they’re meek harmless things only to learn that the fury they’ve always suppressed is normal.” Santos stands up, and stretches.
“People are going to be angry…” Keya continues
“And they’re going to make their anger known…” Santos looks at her “I think we’re about to learn what a stampede looks like, when it’s not fear driving it. But fury.”
[[FIRST][[NEXT>]]()
And here we are with one more season! "Day of Fury". Starting a little slower- As the crew receives the dreaded news from the Archives. They all have their thoughts on it, what parts of it matters to them, personally, as a people.
Though two are left with less worries about the past... And more about the future.
Not going to say i'm going to be as regular as i've been, those last few weeks have been... Something... But nothing that matters.

Hi there! I want to share with all you a DMC fan-fiction story I'm working on. It's called Nebula Crisis. I only wrote two chapters for now. It takes five years after the events of DMC5. Let me know if you like it or any change you would make to it. Thanks all and I really hope you enjoy it :) Sorry if you find errors or strange expressions, English is not my mother language and I try to write the best I can.
CHAPTER 1 THE BOY
Night falls, the bar was about to close and an imposing commotion could not stop being heard outside blurring the surrounding streets.
I'm saying no! Damn it...what don't you understand? - the bartender shouted on the other side of the bar.
We all know the deals you have with that demon hunter, Roger! We are tired of the fact that because of him we suffer almost every day from the attack of one of those demons, the leader of the brawl said effusively waving his hands.
I don't have any dealings with the demon hunter, he only appears here when he wants - he responded. Also, don't you think it's too late night to make this scandal?
The conversation was interrupted when the door to the bar suddenly opened. A man armed with his cigar and his elegance made his presence being well known in the room, making everyone present remain silent. The man arrived with a boy, no more than 19 years old, with his clothes in tatters and a completely lost glare. Completely ignoring the previous conversations, he sat at one of the tables with the boy next to him and made a gesture to call the bartender to come over.
Morrison... How many times do I have to tell you that you always show up at the most unwanted moment? - Roger answered, making a gesture of relief as if the inopportunity had given him the opportunity to calm the bad mood in his temple.
Roger, getting into trouble again? Surely we owe this revelry to Dante - he said with a certain sarcastic tone.
As you understand, you cannot appear here as things are. That jester, Dante, has the neighbors worried. They are beginning to relate the recients demon attacks to their presence. I have a business to run and as you understand... - Roger continued while being interrupted by Morrison.
Roger, I want to introduce you to someone. This is Mike. I want you to help me giving the boy a job. He is quite responsible, attentive, quiet and also... - Morrison explained as if what Roger told him was not with him, just to be interrupted again.
Are you listening to me Morrison? You are sleepwalking again. You are a lost case. Are you bringing this boy here with things the way they are? Also...work? What kind of work? - Roger asked interested.
Well, I'm sure you'll come up with something Roger. You can make him as a waiter, at the bar making drinks, to help you with the van... - he started offering ideas while looking with a carefree face and no interest in what was happening at that moment.
Roger knew perfectly well that Morrison's favors were well paid, but at the same time they are not as easy as they seem. The last time it cost him a week's salary when he forgave Dante's pending bills, even with the demon hunter's protection to rid him of the pests that occasionally entered his bar and wreaked all things up.
This is not the time for favors Morrison. The neighbors are jumping on me and now you show up to complicate things for me. What is it going to cost me this time to do you a "favor"? - he asked as he sat down in front of Morrison and slammed the table.
I'll tell you Roger... - Morrison began to relate while the stunned neighbors couldn't believe the scene.
After a long conversation with Roger, he began to make all kinds of faces, as if it were a vignette in fast motion, his expressions changed with each of Morrison's words, as if his own facial muscles did not know what position take.
What?! Are you crazy Morrison?! Yes, you are, you don't need to say it - Roger finished, getting up from the chair and with the thought of a man who is being completely fooled.
Think about this. The boy will be able to help you with the business. I'm offering you an extraordinary employee. You can't say no, can you? - Morrison continued without paying attention to Roger's anger.
Hey, you! What the hell are you arguing about? - The man from the brawl interrupted, tired of feeling ignored.
Well, we are thinking of a way to rid you of those demons you speak of. It only depends on Roger whether he gives the boy a job or not. It will be only for a few weeks and I will be more than willing of bringing a few demon hunters to get rid of those pests - Morrison answered smiling.
Old man, what are you saying? Are you going to do something? - the man responded to Roger.
Damn Morrison, you've screwed me up again. Alright. Damn... This is going to cause me more problems, as always. I hope you know what you're doing. If, as you say, the boy was attacked by demons that were after him, how does it benefit me and the neighbors? Do you understand that I can't let a boy with such abilities walk around here like it's nothing? - he said with great concern while the neighbors agreed with the bartender's words.
Suddenly the boy got up from the chair and with a grim expression he went to the exit door seeing that his presence was a problem for them. Suddenly a figure interrupted the boy's walk when he bumped into him. A red trench coat, a threatening demeanor and a burning look like the fire of hell itself. The Legendary Demon Hunter Dante made an appearance.
The room fell silent again. This time the silence was different. Fear could be felt in the atmosphere but at the same time a calming feeling of security and protection. Everyone knew Dante, they knew about his past, his life and his relationship with demons, and since they knew him so well, they knew that although his presence comes with bad omens, it also brought hope and salvation. The boy looked in surprise as the figure stood in front of him. They had told him a lot about Dante, the legendary demon hunter, in fact, he already knew his story, how he defeated the Emperor of the Underworld, challenged the Order of the Sword and managed to defeat his twin brother two times who tried to obtain absolute power. Thousands of storys and myths were told about him, but having him now before him gave him a strange feeling. Hope and hate mixed in a peculiar way in his eyes.
Morrison, I've told you hundreds of times to not let this little psychopath brat, Patty, touch my stuff. She almost finished me up and the car. Hey! - Dante is interrupted by Patty who suddenly enters the scene.
Morrison, don't listen to Dante, he's getting more grumpy every day. Why didn't you tell me that you were with Lady? I wanted to ask her if we were going shopping next week - Patty begins to speak while the neighbors and Roger witness how the tense fight has turned into a surreal situation.
Patty, Dante, you have arrived at a good time. Especially your Dante. Anything to add? How can you be such a disaster? I told you to not stick your nose in here after the last time, Morrison adds as he puts his hands to his forehead.
It is difficult for me to think of a place where they can serve strawberry ice cream like the one I have tried here. Don't expect me to leave! This time bills are settled, if you ask. But if you manage to rid off this demon off my back, maybe I'll think about not coming back here - Dante answered while shaking Patty's head.
Dante, how can you be so childish? - Patty responded.
As Dante and Patty glared and grumbled, a thunderous scream rang out in the room.
Shut up damn it! We have come to discuss what we are going to do about the attacks and you have turned this into a circus and a child playground! Roger, this Dante has only brought problems and misfortunes to the neighbors, his presence will never be welcome here. If you don't stop interfering in the affairs of these people, we will be forced to take action on the matter - the leader of the neighbors broke out with an angry and loudy voice.
Patty suddenly abandoned her little disagreement with Dante to look at the neighbor and with an imposing and terrifying walk, she went towards him. Suddenly, all the neighbors were stunned again. Patty landed a punch in the stomach of the leader of the neighbors that even left Morrison with an eyebrow raised in surprise.
You brat! How dare you?! - the leader responded angrily as he raised his hand to hit Patty.
Suddenly he is interrupted by the silent boy grabbing his arm and with a frozen glaze he extinguish the anger contained in the neighbor's hand.
The neighbor moved away and lowered his hand.
Roger... we're tired of you and your dirty business. I won't come back here to warn you - the neighbor concluded as everyone begins to leave the place with him.
An awkward silence fell in the air. Morrison interrupted this silence after a moment when things seemed to calmed down a little more. It had gotten quite late and he was still waiting for a response from his old friend Roger.
Dante, Paty... I almost forgot. Meet Mike. He's the boy that Lady told you about. He's going to stay here for a while. He may be able to help us with certain things when he's not working with Roger. Also... I want to talk to you about something. I'm meeting with Nero tomorrow at 12:00 and I wanted to discuss something. As for you, Dante, especially, I would like to know something. What happened to Vergil after your return?
Who cares what that asshole is doing? We all know how small his brain is, but I'm not particularly worried this time - Dante responded as he sat at the bar ready to taste his strawberry ice cream again.
True, but there's something important that maybe your knucklehead brother doesn't know, or maybe we can learn something else from him. Trish recently saw a demon with human appearance and a blue trench coat in a confrontation with another demon also with human appearance, a woman in red. The blue demon seemed to be wielding a weapon similar to Yamato, Morrison added, trying to arouse Dante's curiosity, who seemed unmoved by his love for the desired dessert.
While Morrison and Dante were talking, the boy's face changed completely and his eyes widened, illuminating the expression on his face. An expression of surprise, fear and anger. The moment Morrison described the two demons, the expression couldn't be wiped off his face. Knowing old Morrison, who didn't miss any details, he paid attention to Mike's response as he was saying. After finishing talking to Dante when he began to fill his mouth with the ice cream, he addressed the boy.
I imagine from how you reacted a moment ago, Mike, that you know those two demons I'm telling Dante about. And the two of them knows also about you, am I wrong? - Morrison told him, waiting for an answer from his lips.
I... - Mike's lips began to articulate until Patty interrupted again.
Come on Morrison, leave the boy alone. He's tired for sure of how inquisitive you become sometimes. Why don't we rest for a while before visiting Nero tomorrow? I'm looking forward to see Lady, Trish and Nico. Plus I need to rest from the last trip with Dante. It's not always going to be work, right Morrison?
Morrison for a moment couldn't believe how mature and older Patty became. From that scared girl to a responsible woman who was trying to get into the demonic murder section of the Police. A new unit formed after the incident at Redgrave. Sometimes the girl was right, it was better to let the boy rest. After all, he had been attacked by demons several times and spent a few nights unable to sleep.
Night fell completely on the streets of the city. The bar entered into absolute calm after the storm and when the silhouettes of Morrison and his companions faded into the streets, the bar put down its blinds. An uneasy calm, everyone knew perfectly well that the underworld never rested, that people were always going to need protection and something was straining the atmosphere that same night. The neon signs, street lamps and city lights emitted a certain cry that was imperceptible to the majority, oblivious to where the streets were still in a fight against the creatures of hell.
CHAPTER 2 THE DISEASE
In a dark place like any other, a dead end, an unexpected encounter, the victims of demons can be any of us. Many times they disguise themselves as what their victims yearn for, other times they appear as their worst nightmares, but it is inevitable. Even with the gates of the underworld closed, some remain hidden in the shadows of the city, like a silent disease that spreads through the host, attacks emerges every day. The demon hunters and the USU (Underworld Section Unit) fight to try to keep all these attacks at bay.
One of the most recognized businesses is Devil May Cry, founded by the demon hunter Dante and now in the hands of Nero, his nephew and son of his brother, the Legendary Dark Slayer, Vergil. Devil May Cry receives new cases every day around the world, even of humans trying to gain demonic power to perpetuate all kinds of misdeeds. Morrison as the main informant in the business, works side by side with Nero in the search for new clues for if some higher-ranking demons are trying to open the gates to hell once again. Although it had been more than five years since any incident had brought him to the door of the business.
12:00 in the morning at Devil May Cry. Morrison had met with Nero, Trish and Lady to analize the information acquired about the two new demons that had appeared battling several times in the streets of the city.
The blue demon and the red demon, made Morrison think about it. Almost as a similarity between the well-known rivalry of Dante and Vergil. Who were those two demons and why did one of them carry Yamato, Dante's brother's sword inherited from Sparda? What relationship did they have with Vergil? And more importantly, the mysterious boy that Morrison and Lady found seemed to have a certain relationship with the two of them, but he was not a demon, he was more than sure that he was human, although with strange abilities.
Morrison spent the nights in his office, watching the boy as he recovered from his wounds. The boy lacked regenerative abilities typical of demons, nor did he seem half human-demon like Nero, Dante and Vergil are. He was a completely normal boy, even so, he had the ability to predict the attack of demons and the presence of the blue and red demon. Quite an X-file and for which he would undoubtedly need the help of the demon hunters if he wanted to discover more about the case. None of the three may pose an imminent threat, but he couldn't take the risk.
While he was sitting with Mike at the Devil May Cry, the boy couldn't stop looking around the place with some curiosity. On the wall hung like hunting trophies, the heads of imponent demons, embraced by a vintage decoration that was a little tacky for the general taste. Since Nero runs Devil May Cry he hasn't touched anything Dante left behind. Dante's last message made it very clear. Take care of the business but not touch his things.
The more he observed, the more strange everything seemed to him. But his gaze fell on a sword on the wall at the back of the room. A sword that emitted a powerful aura that he could feel as if it were its own entity. One of Dante's demonic weapons. The aura attracted anyone who dared to approach it, like a call or a song that takes weak hearts into its power to consume all into madness.
Suddenly the door to Devil May Cry opened. Nero, Lady and Trish had arrived. The boy suddenly turned around and looked at the man's figure. A man similar in appearance to Dante, with short hair and a trimmed beard. Also the imposing beauty and strength of the two women who accompanied him did not go unnoticed at all in his eyes. They didn't seem like dangerous people but they did exude authority, power and bravery, especially Nero.
You are finally here, I was waiting for you. We haven't seen each other in 5 years. You are a full grown man. Who would have thought that you would handle Devil May Cry better than Dante, well, forget it, why I would think that someone would be able to handle it worse than him - Morrison said while smiling when he saw Nero.
Morrison... Kind of a surprise I guess? Whenever there are big problems you make an appearance into the spotlight, so I imagine why you are here - said Nero as he dropped Red Queen on the shelf and settled down.
Believe me, when he hits the dance floor, we know things gets interesting - continues Lady.
Well Morrison, tell us your best, I've already had the opportunity to join this dance ahead of you - adds Trish.
Come on, what an awful image you have of me... What would you do without me and the information? Anyway, we all like emotional reunions but I also know that you like me to cut to the chase, so I'll shoot first. Mike! Come closer boy.
Mike, responding to Morrison's voice, approaches the meeting with the three demon hunters and sits next to him.
Who is the cute boy? Another of your assistants or young informants Morrison? In the end we are going to think that you like to surround yourself with handsome young men - Lady drops in a certain mocking tone.
Make all the mockery you want Lady. Trish, Nero, this is Mike. He's a boy that Lady and I rescued two weeks ago from a demon attack near the neighborhood where Dante was working with Patty. The boy seems to be related to one of the demons that Trish faced, the woman in red, as well as the demon in blue that is facing her and carries Yamato - explains Morrison.
Yamato?! - Nero said surprised.
Indeed. Yamato sword has fallen into the hands of a blue demon, we do not know if it has any kind of relationship with your father. That's something Dante is trying to figure out right now as we talk. As you understand, we can't let a demon go around playing with one of Sparda's swords and ignore him completely - Morrison responds.
That idiot again. I'm sure it has something to do with all of this. This time I'm not going to allow him to play his stupid things. Maybe he wasn't satisfied with having his ass kicked once, Nero continues.
You will see. I have my hunches. I know Vergil isn't exactly someone totally trustworthy, but this time, something tells me he could be... - Trish explains until she is interrupted by Mike.
Those two demons you are talking about... I know the story of the Sparda brothers. But they are not involved in this. I can't remember anything, only blurry moments since I escaped from that place. I don't know this Vergil guy or Dante as well as you all, but I certain know that these demons don't have reasons for allying themselves with them - Mike says with some concern.
What do you really know about those two demons? - asks Morrison.
I only know that I have some kind of relationship with them. A relationship that I can't remember well. As I remember and link new memories, I'm starting to feel weaker, as if something is killing me. Maybe those two have something to do with all this... - Mike answers as he weakens and is grabbed by Nero before falling to the ground.
Morrison. I need you to go with Kyrie and the boy. Take him there until we can figure something out. Something tells me it's important to keep him out of this until Dante finds out what happened to Yamato. I'll have to go to the last place where Trish found the woman in red and look for any clue that could help solve this whole clusterfuck. I don't know why that sword Yamato is involved in all this, but something smells bad to me and it's not Lady's perfume - Nero explains as he places the passed out Mike on the couch and picks up Red Queen again.
As Nero worriedly leaves the Devil May Cry leaving Trish, Lady, Morrison and Mike, walking towards the scene of the last incident, he can't help but remember. The way the boy didn't seem to remember, in his gaze, look and in his weakening, reminded him of the time he spent with V. Old memories and the relationship with Yamato and his father. Nero was convinced that his father is involved once again, but at the same time, something told him that this time it would be completely different. Something was wrong in the equation.
Elsewhere, Dante was walking towards the Lowell mansion. He needed help from an old Patty's relative to return to the underworld and search for answers. When he got closer, he had a bad feeling, something was wrong. Racing against the clock, he reached the Lowell mansion, completely in flames. The image was certainly familiar to his eyes. Dante's relaxed expression suddenly changed and he quickly entered the burning halls.
Patty! Drag your annoying ass here. Come on little demon... - Dante said as he moved through the flames of the mansion.
Something caught Dante's attention. A blue figure moved through the upper room. Going up the stairs he finds Patty unconscious on the floor and Mrs. Lowell as well as Patty's mother. The figure materializes at the end of the room. A bike helmet covers his face. On his back he carries Yamato, there was no doubt. He was the one Morrison was talking about.
So you are one of those guys who likes to feel like a man attacking a girl and two old ladies. I'm going to teach you how to deal with a couple of ladies more of your taste, let me introduce you - Dante responds to the figure while pointing Ebony & Ivory at him.
Dante. Son of the Legendary Dark Knight Sparda. Hahahaha... your reputation precedes you. You are just as I imagined. Predictable. This is not the first time that you and I have crossed swords - the blue figure continues.
What the hell are you talking about, pyro-psycho? Do you want fireworks? Give a try - Dante interrupts the dialogue by shooting the figure without giving him respite.
Weak and predictable Dante. Just like your brother, Vergil. His pride, his downfall - answers the figure's voice as he disappears from sight.
Dante begins to look around the room until the figure suddenly appears in front of him. They both cross swords, moving the fire in the room in an intense clash that causes all the glass in the room to fly. The figure remains with the helmet exchanging glances with Dante, who smiles and turns the situation around by once again dropping a flurry of bullets on his enemy.
You don't understand anything. You, me, Vergil and that man, Nero. We all come from the same place, banished. I am not willingly to sit and wait by, I am not going to live in the shadow of humans or demons. There is a disease, Dante. Something greater than us that will take control sooner or later. And where your precious humans lie, it will only be dyed with it's color - he adds while the figure's voice starts to bounce around the room.
The only disease here is you. Didn't your dad explain to you that you don't have to play with fire and women? - Dante answers while he does not stop observing his surroundings.
Suddenly Dante falls to the ground, confused, looking at his chest impaled by Yamato. His strength fails him and he drops Ebony & Ivory. Everything becomes blurry as he hears the voice over and over again.
I told you. You are predictable. That mockery attitude. Your overconfidence is your weakness as pride is for your brother. I will recover everything that was taken from me, including my father's power, now that I was finally free of my weaknesses. As long as weakness takes hold of you, you will be its prey, even the demons. You will be Nebula - explains the figure.
While Dante falls to the ground unconscious, Patty's mother manages to stop the blue intruder who tries to finish off the badly injured demon hunter by standing on top of him. Suddenly she feels the cold steel of the sword in his body.
Human. Your weakness has also put you in this situation. The Spardas will never protect you forever. What is to come goes far beyond demons and humans. The disease that spreads from the deeps of the underworld will take over everything you know, it will take advantage of your weakness and you will become part of it. I have chosen the right path, a path I must walk on if I want to survive. And I will not make a distinction between human or demon if they try to stand in my way - the figure answers while removing the sword from his stomach.
Mum no! Mum! Mum! - Patty's screams are heard as the figure continues its way to kill Dante.
Suddenly the roof of the mansion falls down completely, leaving a trail of debris and extinguishing part of the fire in the room. A red figure stands in the gap left by the avalanche. The figure summons strange orbs with symbols and they emit an almost hypnotic glow. At that moment Patty loses consciousness.
You again. You waste your time helping the Spardas. Time is running out - says the blue figure to the red one.
Blude... I'm not surprised. What are you trying to run away from? Fear takes over you. You alone will not be able to stop all this and until you understand it, you will not see that we must ally ourselves with the Sparda and the humans. Time is running out but for you - responds the woman in red.
The blue figure removes his helmet and reveals his face with a slight smile. His appearance of black and white hair along with a cold and dark blue stare like the deep ocean clashes in contrast with the red and fiery one like the flames of the sun of the woman in red dress.
I no longer belong to your world. I do not belong to the human world or the underworld. My only goal is to get Yamato, Rebellion and Sparda. Only then can I be complete once again - Blude explains with a melancholic expression.
You stopped being complete that day. Now you are just an incomplete piece trying to deny what was - continues the woman in red. I simply can't let you kill that man - the woman finishes.
Then you know what you should do, says Blude as he draws Yamato and tries to quickly cut the woman.
Both figures begin a battle in the sky. The orbs begin to surround Blude as he makes his way with Yamato in a shower of cuts and dances that leave a northern trail in the orange sky of flames. Further down the battle canvas, another figure appears, a man with a black jacket and a symbol similar to a phoenix. Sneaking through the rubble and going unnoticed, he manages to get Patty and Dante off the battlefield.

NOTE FROM AUTHOR: Hello Hello! I am a first-time writer embarking on my first dumpster fire; input is most welcome. I'm not the best self-editor, so get your hiking boots on. It's rough out there. Whenever I read it, I find or create more errors (:
OPTIONAL READS: For the Retro Computer or Programming Enthusiast OR if you are open to other formats of story telling. I tried to combine my love for programming as an UNDERSTANDABLE way to tell a story through a Visual Experience in the Command Line Interface;
A Stand-Alone VISUAL ASCII 'Programming Terminal' Story Prologue. Follow through(Screen Shots of my Command Line Interface) the UNE-EYE Observational Satellite Terminal as Kable extracts Classified Data about his Beloved Military Unit, THE HUMMINGBIRDS, a flying exoskeleton unit. This includes the origin story of a Technology Tree in Book 1.

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INDEX

1. DEADCOAST - THE HUMMINGBIRDS PROLOGUE -> HERE <-
   
2. DEADCOAST - COMPLETE ILLUSTRATED INTRO -> HERE <-
   
3. HEAT & GRIZZLY REDS - CHAPTER 1 ILLUSTRATED -> HERE <-
   

"Deadcoast Book 1: Heat and the Grizzly Reds" transports readers to a 2063 Earth, a world on the brink, where the scarcity of fresh water has led to previously unseen geopolitical tensions. Amidst this backdrop, the nation-backed militant group DAGGR has emerged as a formidable force, leveraging advanced technology to assert control over Canada’s abundant water resources. At the heart of their arsenal is 'slugTech,' a technology pioneered by James Broadshaw, intended for ecological restoration but repurposed for militaristic dominance.
The story unfolds with the chilling invasion of Vancouver, marking a turning point as DAGGR makes its ambitions clear, culminating in the assassination of the Canadian Prime Minister. This act of aggression leaves the country reeling, exposing vulnerabilities and igniting a global reaction.
The UNE-EYE satellite is central to the international response, a significant narrative element representing the world's most advanced orbital tracking system. Once decommissioned in favour of privacy, the Dutch reactivated the satellite as a strategic move to monitor DAGGR's movements and coordinate a unified international effort against the aggressors. This revival of UNE-EYE symbolizes a crucial turning point, highlighting the global stakes and the interconnectedness of nations in the face of a common enemy.
As Canada grapples with its plight, the DAMU (Deserted American Military Units) rise in solidarity, breaching borders to fight alongside their Canadian counterparts. This act of defiance is mirrored by international forces, including the Netherlands and Ukraine, each bringing their unique strengths to the coalition, underscored by the strategic oversight provided by the UNE-EYE satellite.
Amidst the geopolitical chaos, a man who had all but given up, a boxer on the ropes, emerges from Vancouver's Gastown. Known as HEAT, this leader of the Grizzly Reds becomes a symbol of resistance and hope. HEAT's story, and that of the Grizzly Reds, is one of resilience, rallying not only Canadians but also global citizens to stand against DAGGR's tyranny.
" Deadcoast Book 1: Heat and the Grizzly Reds" is a compelling narrative of survival, alliance, and resistance. It deftly weaves together elements of advanced technology, international politics, and the indomitable human spirit. The inclusion of the UNE-EYE satellite serves as a testament to the complexities of modern warfare and the critical role of global surveillance and coordination in maintaining security and freedom. But something else stirs amongst it. The UNE still shrouds its use, albeit assuring it is for record-keeping purposes- there is no way to be sure. Join HEAT and the Grizzly Reds as they navigate the challenges of Time, War, Science and liberating their fellow man in Vancouver. THE GRIZZLIES NEED YOU, in this action-packed, emotional saga, speaks to the resilience and camaraderie inherent in the human condition.
CHAPTER 1 - The Blood Spattered Maples
ILLUSTRATED VERSION -> HERE <-
The early morning sun cast a serene glow over Vancouver, its golden rays gently coaxing the city from its slumber. The harbour lay still, bathed in a tranquil blend of crimson and amber, defiantly calm as if aware of the day's latent potential for tumult. The awakening streets, pulsating with the vibrant beat of daily enterprise, transformed into bustling arteries of life.
Amidst this urban renaissance, Ryan stood by his apartment window, one eye still tinged a fading shade of deep lavender from last night's ordeals. He absorbed the duality of the world outside – a peaceful façade masking an undercurrent of chaos, much like his own existence. The apartment, a silent guardian of his life's chapters, was awash with tangible memories; some stood proudly like trophies, and others lingered like indelible scars.
"Eugh, need to sort out this money mess," Ryan muttered, his voice a gravelly mix of resolve and weariness. He gingerly touched the bruise beneath his eye, a stark reminder of the previous night's fight. He wasn't just a boxer but a living, breathing paradox. His undefeated record of 12-0 was more than a tally of victories; it was a map of a life spent dancing in and out of shadows. At 17, he was a beacon of hope for Canadian Olympic Futures. Now, at 33, he was a spotlight in his subconscious, illuminating the relentless passage of time and a road riddled with 'what ifs.' Eleven of those wins were echoes from a past steeped in the sweat and blood of the ring before life's currents swept him into the city's gritty underbelly. There, he became an enforcer, not out of choice but a necessity, bound by ties, not of blood but of unbreakable bonds forged in adversity. Stepping back into the ring at 33, Ryan wasn't chasing glory; he was hunting redemption, a chance to rewrite a narrative that had veered off course.
Today's boxing was far from what he once knew; it had transformed into a digital spectacle, a charade he refused to partake in. The sport now paraded fighters adorned with loud chains and face tattoos, pretending to live a life of crime they don't. Vile symbols of fame he doesn't wish for. Ryan had always skirted the fringes of the spotlight, respecting the sport but despising what it had become - a glorified masquerade that he believed led the youth astray. He stared out at the awakening city, contemplating his place in this ever-changing world, just as the first notes of a familiar yet unwelcome voice crackled from the vintage radio on his shelf.
"Ah, jimmy2piece," he scoffed, the name leaving a bitter taste. The vintage radio crackled on, announcing the dazzling exploits of the heavyweight boxing champion, an embodiment of everything Ryan detested about the sport's current state. Ryan's hand lingered over the old radio, a relic amidst the bountiful thrift and trinket that abundantly filled his apartment. The announcer's voice, overly flamboyant in its praise of 'jimmy2piece,' clashed with the morning's tranquillity, grating against Ryan's every nerve. With a flick brimming with contempt, he silenced the intrusive chatter. The ensuing silence was a stark reminder of his path's divergence from the once-noble art of boxing to a life mired in moral ambiguity.
"Enough of this nonsense," he muttered, the disdain in his voice mirroring the snarl on his lips as he spun the dial back to silence.
*Click*
Ryan was a man of contemplation; opening his balcony door, he let the morning breeze mingle with the memories that haunted him daily. These reflections were a tormenting ritual, no matter the joys and love surrounding him. His only respite was constant movement – hobbies, work, art – anything to fend off the sharp claws of the past that threatened to shred the remnants of his self-respect. He had lost ten years to choices and actions that replayed in his mind relentlessly every single day.
"This 'jimmy2shoes' or whatever...pal throws pillows, a poser pretending he's about that gang life; I can see it in his eyes, he's not a killer," he grumbled, gazing out at the awakening city. This day promised a respite from his underground fights – at least for a while. His recent backstreet brawls, a far cry from the glory of the boxing ring, were what paid the bills now. "At least I've bought myself three more months..."
Leaning on the railing of his miniature balcony, Ryan cradled a cup of steaming coffee, his gaze drifting over the streets below. At this moment, the chaos of his life seemed distant, replaced by a transient calm. Despite his bruised, rough presentation, a certain peace enveloped him, a rare stillness that belied the storm of his existence. His thoughts meandered through the serene hum of the city and the gentle brush of the ocean breeze. The skyscape, with clouds dancing to the ocean's rhythm, offered a brief escape from his turbulent past.
Memories of Robin, his mentor and friend, floated into his consciousness. Robin's untimely death in Dubai was a wound that never healed. The sacrifices he had made to keep Robin safe, only to be absent on the fateful trip that claimed his friend's life, weighed heavily on him. "Why did it have to be you, Robin?" he whispered to the horizon, the question, a haunting torment upon his daily routines.
Ryan was a thinker; as he slid over his ashtray from the stool, he sparked up A morning 'dart' (cigarette), as he called them. His past began to creep into his head, as it did every morning. With each inhalation of addiction-soothing nicotine, his blazing thoughts followed as his brain began to become fully active from his sleep. It was a raven on his shoulder tormenting him, pecking at him ever haunting his consciousness. No matter the love he may have found or the happiness, friends, or family surrounding him. The time to reflect was always grim and consistently unbearable. If he stood still, the Ravel's claws sunk more profoundly; the only reprieve was constant distractions. It's why he kept so busy, creative, and active. Ryan constantly kept moving with hobbies, work, or art. Pushing off the switchblade thoughts ready to cut into his subconscious and bleed out whatever self-respect he had left that day. He threw away ten years of his life, and he relives them every. Single. Day.
"Damn man, what's the point of it all?" Ryan's voice was barely a whisper, lost in the morning breeze. His gaze lingered on the horizon, eyes clouded with confusion and pain. "Robin's gone, and here I am, a ship adrift; up shits creek without a paddle. What good can I do? What purpose do I serve? My skillset? My knowledge? Ive wasted my life, nothing is applicable." The questions hung in the air, unanswered. Ryan's life had indeed been a storm of violence and turmoil, from the gritty days working alongside Robin, watching his back to his hard-fought victories in the boxing ring. He had dreamt of leaving the world of fights behind, yet fate seemed to have woven a different path for him, one that he couldn't escape...
The distant sound of boat horns broke his train of thought. These weren't the usual rhythmic calls that echoed along Vancouver's shores; they carried a sense of urgency, growing louder and more frantic by the second. Ryan leaned forward, squinting into the morning light. The sight that greeted him was anything but ordinary. Dark, ominous and foreboding shapes were cutting through the waters toward the Seawall – military-grade ships that seemed like phantoms against the sun's bright backdrop.
"What the...?" Ryan murmured, a wry smile touching his lips as he recalled a line from a 1930s radio show. "Ah yes, the 'Anti-Frackers' upping their game, bravo!" He often found solace in humour, a shield against the world's harsh realities. Ryan was an unbreakable anvil to the world, always struck to sharpen others' steel. But what about his iron resolve? He bore the burdens so others didn't have to, a silent guardian shouldering the world's weight in stoic silence. Yet beneath that armour of stoicism beat the heart of a man grappling with his vulnerabilities, a man with a core as soft as it was intense.
Just like that- The world as we knew it, changed forever.
The morning's peace shattered abruptly as sirens wailed into life, slicing through the air with a sense of impending doom. The tranquil dawn was now a backdrop to a nightmare unfolding in real time. Ryan's eyes, mirroring the turbulent hues of a stormy sea, narrowed in primal alertness. These were not friendly vessels coming to grace the city's harbour; they were harbingers of chaos, their arrival a silent scream in the gardens of Vancouver's tranquility. As the city around him carried on, blissfully unaware of the looming threat, Ryan's mind shifted into high gear, honed by years of confrontation, conflict and reading other peoples intentions. He understood the unspoken language of death, the subtle shift in the air that preluded catastrophe. The serene calm that had greeted the day now seemed like the deceptive stillness before a devastating storm.
PFFFFT~~
Ryan's coffee ejected out his mouth, a clean mist dispersed, dancing in the ocean winds.
His eyes widened in shock. "That... No, that's not right. That honeycomb structure on the bow – that's rumoured military tech, not something you'd find on a civilian vessel. That's definitely not one of our decommissioned ships; Canada has always had a modest military budget- It's not the U.S. either; they've moved on to those massive city carriers," he muttered, recalling the recent unveiling of the U.S.'s latest naval behemoth designed to be a self-sustaining war ecosystem.
"These are destroyers...carriers...and what in the world are those landing crafts?" His voice trailed off as a wave of realization washed over him. A heavy breath escaped his lips, his heartbeat thundering in unison with a growing sense of dread. This kind of military might, sleek and menacing, was straight out of the pages of a dystopian novel. Ryan's pulse quickened, adrenaline coursing through his veins, mingling with an unsettling fear. Vancouver, with its serene beauty and peaceful reputation, was the last place one would expect a military invasion. Yet, as he stood there, the city around him persevered in blissful ignorance. Laughter and the sounds of daily life echoed up to his balcony, starkly juxtaposed against the darkening horizon of his thoughts.
Something sinister was unfolding, and he felt an urgent need to act. "Ah, damn it!" he exclaimed, frustration boiling over as he hurled his mug to the ground, where it shattered into razer sharp ceramic shards—a glimpse of futures past.
The walls of Ryan's apartment, once a gallery of memories from a life half-lived, now felt like they were closing in on him. The space that had been his refuge, adorned with mementos of a tumultuous past, suddenly felt like a prison. He felt trapped, not by physical barriers, but by the weight of the unfolding crisis. Who could he call? Who would believe him about an impending military assault? Was there even time?
Each option seemed as hopeless as the next, leaving him feeling powerless. His fists, which had once brought him victory in the ring, now seemed futile in the face of this immense and unknown threat.
BOOM
A thunderous crash tore through the city's fabric, piercing the veil of laughter and routine. Giggles changed to Shrieks, the buzzing of cars in the city turned screeching of panicked tires. It was a boom resonating with such force that it seemed to shake the very resolve of the most robust steel, a sound that demands attention and captivates a person, a sound of death; it rattles you to the bone. This explosion marked a pivotal moment that would forever alter the course of Vancouver's history and, indeed, the world's.
The resounding echo of the first explosion heralded a declaration of war on all that was ordinary. In Ryan, the shockwave ignited a transformation. Despair morphed into an unyielding determination, a fire kindled deep within. His skin prickled, each hair standing on end as if his nerves were braille, spelling out the moment's urgency.
"Are they firing at us?" Ryan's voice was a mix of disbelief and rising panic. The thought seemed almost too surreal to entertain. He hesitated momentarily, grappling with the reality of the situation. The explosion's roar, so fierce it shook the foundations of his apartment, jolted him back to the present. Racing back to his balcony, what he saw confirmed his darkest fears.
The ships in the harbour were no longer silent, ominous spectators; they had unleashed their fury, sending plumes of smoke and debris skyward. Vancouver's skyline, once a proud testament to peace and progress, now served as a harrowing backdrop to an unfolding apocalypse. Below, the streets descended into chaos. People scattered in a frantic attempt to escape, their screams piercing the air, a chorus of dawning terror.
Ryan's heart pounded against his chest, each beat a call to action. He was no hero, never the 'good guy' in his story, but he did value life above all. Standing there, witnessing his city being torn apart, he knew he couldn't remain a passive observer. Indecision and shock gave way to resolve.
"MOTHA FU-" he cursed, his words lost in the burst of an explosion, spotted at the last second.
The world around him had erupted into a maelstrom of fire and fury.
An air burst shell detonated with ferocious intensity a mere 50 meters from Ryan's sanctuary. The explosion ripped through the building, an unforgiving hatred that jolted reality itself. The blast wave, a monstrous force of destruction, assaulted his apartment, shattering the windows with an ease that mocked Vancouver's fragility. Glass shards, transformed into lethal projectiles, hurtled through the air with a hunter's precision, each piece seeking its target. Instinctively, Ryan lunged for cover, his only protection a vintage oak promotional board, a relic of a bygone era. This wooden guardian, decorated with the iconic image of Stan Lee, stood as a stoic defender, a symbol of comic heroism now repurposed to shield flesh and blood from the brutal onslaught.
A low hum erupts from the depths of his being as the fireball swirled around him. "Breathe... I can't... don't fall asleep... don't...sleep..." he whispered, fighting the encroaching darkness. His cobalt eyes, glazing over open, fighting to the last light, flickered between consciousness and oblivion. The distant, muffled voices of mentors past echoed in his mind, a fading chorus in the theatre of his memories. Ryan looked to his left, cast one last lingering look at the Vancouver sky, a canvas of blue that seemed so distant now. As his vision began to narrow, a tunnel drawing him away from the light, Ryan felt the grip of darkness pulling him under heavy, yet weightless. Once so vivid and alive, the world around him was fading into shadows.
Amid shrapnel-induced unconsciousness, Ryan's mind catapulted him back to a pivotal moment from his youth – the Ontario Canadian Olympic Trials.
The stadium's noise swirled around him, but it was an entirely different world within the ring. There, it was just Ryan and his opponent, every move a testament to the sacrifices he and Robin(Ryan's longtime mentor both inside, and outside the ring) had made together.
Ryan's style in the ring was unique, a blend of calculated ferocity in speed and agility. He adopted the elusive, angular movements that Robin had honed while serving alongside the hardened Ukrainians on the frontlines of Kyiv. This style was compelling and unpredictable, frustrating his opponents with swift and efficient strikes. Ryan's ability to slip away from counters, almost serpentine in its execution, left them grasping at straws.
Point fighting for the Olympics was a system that worked well with Ryan's style but not necessarily with his mindset. Ryan was a fighter at heart, and sometimes, when pushed, the disciplined techniques would give way to a rawer form of combat. Robin, who always believed in Ryan's potential, saw this as his greatest fault and biggest asset to "push past." In his gruff but encouraging voice, Robin would often spew "The stink in that mind, You've got a head on you that'd make an onion cry," highlighting Ryan's occasionally impulsive nature, and inability to control his emotions when it mattered. This characteristic made Ryan fearless in the ring but also sloppy, open, and vulnerable. It often led him into trouble outside of the solace in prizefighting.
In these trials, Ryan's physical attributes – his slender frame, broad shoulders, wide back and a peculiarly long wingspan that gave him an imposing presence in his weight class – it made him stand out. His frame synchronized with his style, creating a truly unique spectacle of genetic gifts, hard work, and skill.
These memories blended nostalgia and pain as they flickered through Ryan's mind. They were reminders of a path once trodden, a journey shaped by the influence of a mentor and the determination of a fighter's spirit.
As the Olympic Trials set to begin, Robin looked to Ryan to instill confidence for his upcoming bouts, but Ryan was in his element. It was fight day, the fun day, the day to show off all of the hard work. Ryan had confidence, and his style in the ring displayed it in full. He moved with an angular rhythm that was both art and battle – slipping, landing a quick stiff counter cross, then gracefully stepping out of reach inches from returning fire. He made it look fun and easy, as if playing with his prey before fangs clench throat, delivering the killing bite. Looking closer, you can only see fire and determination in his bright eyes. He found purpose in the beautiful science of boxing. His strategy was that of a technical boxer, The Counterpuncher; 1. To bait his opponent into committing, then counter, fight long, fight smart. 2. Beat em' up, Frustrate em', then start slinging the heat in the uppercuts and lead hooks.
The bell rang and the fight was officially underway. Ryan controlled the ring with his long frame. Each exchange was rapid yet controlled, a dance of precise strikes and evasive maneuvers. The world's complexities faded in these moments, leaving only Ryan and the pure essence of the sport he loved. He felt invincible, a force of nature within the confines of the ring. To Ryan, the fight was more than a competition; it was a performance, an exhilarating escape from the mundane. It was true Purpose.
The intensity of the round reached a frustrating outburst by his opponent, who grabbed Ryan by the back of his head– 'SPLIT' called by the referee, his hand placed between them. A judge calls for a correction, catching the referee's attention only for a split second. In this second, Ryan's Opponent saw an opportunity. Lifting his head to move away, Ryan locks eyes with his Opponent, sporting a grin and delivering a sly headbutt as a parting gift. It's against the rules, but part of the game's harsh reality if gone unnoticed. Expelling energy and detesting it was a waste of fuel. It was a jolting reminder of "at all times"(protect yourself), a stark contrast to the discipline and respect Ryan upheld, starting his boxing journey in Thailand under "Muay Thai" rules, ideology of the worrior spirit and discipline. There was a sense of Honor in Lumpinee Stadium.
The outcome of these unsavoury tactics here is an advantage for the opponent. Ryan's inner pools erupt, his mind swirled with raging white waters, crashing and colliding against each other, two oceans with opposite currents meeting in his consciousness. His once technical thoughts, muscle memory mixed with fight iq burst with flames, erupting and incinerating all strategy in his path. His eyes widened, open like he'd found his primal genetic ancestry hidden deep within. The slaughter and the war of history. The bloodshed of 1000 lifetimes. He felt it all. Manic in thought. Ryan wanted to take his glove off and rip his cheeks open from the inside out--
BREAK - Ryan snaps back into it, erupting in stoic, silent, primal rage.

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The fight escalated, Ryan's disciplined technique unravelled under the seething tide of his rage. The finesse and agility that once defined his footwork gave way to a heavier, more aggressive stance. His feet, usually light and swift under his commanding frame, now felt anchored to the floor, each step driven more by fury than finesse. This transformation in style played perilously into his opponent's advantage. Ryan, usually a master of stick-and-move tactics, found himself engaging in close-quarter brawls, trading his advantage for a risky gamble. His in-and-out maneuvers, once a blur of grace, turned into brutish, in-the-pocket exchanges. This was a terrain where his more muscular and compact opponent had the upper hand. A raw, primal contest of power replaced the tactical dance that Ryan excelled at. Ryan's precise strikes became wild swings, his movements predictable to his seasoned adversary. Seizing the moment, the opponent unleashed a devastating barrage of inside hooks with their compact frame. A vicious right hook, lands clean in the exchange, thrown with the grace of a milkbag, the power hooks brute force, cut through Ryan's defences. The blow landed with a bone-jarring impact, sending a shockwave through Ryan's frame. His world spun as he stumbled, his once dominant presence in the ring now faltering under the weight of his unchecked emotions.
The ground rushed up to meet him as he crashed onto the canvas, the taste of iron and the sting of defeat mingling in his mouth. The crowd's roar faded into a distant echo, a stark reminder of how quickly the tides of battle could turn. Robin's voice sliced through the ringing from the corner, resonating with a force that commanded attention.
"Get your shit together, JUMPIN JESUS RYAN! HEART OF GOLD AND HEAD OF STONE – GET UP, YOU LITTLE COWARD! YOU'RE LETTING IT WIN, AGAIN! STOP THIS ONION HEAD NONSENSE AND DANCE, BOX THIS FELLA – YOU'RE BETTER THAN THIS, ACT LIKE IT, BELIEVE IN IT!"
His words were more than just a call to action; they were a lifeline thrown into the stormy seas of Ryan's mind. Each syllable was drenched in the raw, unfiltered wisdom that only a life spent in the cauldron of combat could forge. Robin's tone was a volatile cocktail of fury and concern, the urgency palpable in his voice. His palms crashed against the ring mat; each hit thunderous punctuation to his fiery sermon.
"You've got the talent, kid, but it's as good as ash if you keep burning it to the ground. I'M HERE FOR YOU, IM RIGHT HERE. SNAP OUT OF IT AND BOX THIS PLASTIC PATTY! MOVE GOD DAMNIT, GET UP!"
On the canvas, Ryan lay dazed, the echo of Robin's voice ringing in his ears. It was more than a mere pep talk; it was a wake-up call that struck a chord deep within him. Amidst the haze of the crowd murmurs and the pulsating pain that coursed through his body, clarity began to emerge. Lying there, Ryan grasped the essence of Robin's message –
"coward? letting it win? Playing my ego are ya Robin...hes right though. Im throwing this shit away."
This moment, sprawled on the canvas under the glaring lights and the crowd's gaze, became a crucible of transformation. The raw emotion and the hard-hitting truth in Robin's words ignited a spark in Ryan. It was time to rise, shake off the shadows of rage, and embrace a fighter's true spirit like he had learned in Thailand – not just with fists but with heart and mind in unison.
Staggered yet stirred by the dual impact of the physical hit and Robin's piercing words, A padded fist crushed into the rings canvas, followed by a kneee and the eruption of the crowd. Ryan was back, and he began to pull himself up from the canvas. His resolve, momentarily dimmed, now reignited with a fierce, clear, calculated intensity. Memories of the gruelling hours spent in the gym flooded back to him – the relentless sparring sessions, the time spent in Thailand, the sweat and toil, and the invaluable lessons etched into his being under Robin's stern tutelage.
With a renewed spirit, Ryan stepped back into the battle, his movements now embodying controlled power and a fluidity to his step. He recalled his time fighting beside the backdrop of the "Sarama" a traditional Thai music played when in combat. The times of learning to move, fight with the music, to flow, to be fluid, to be concise. Ryan finally put it all together in the heat of battle. He had merged his inherent ferocity with the disciplined technique that Robin relentlessly drilled into him, and the mindfull practises of the years he spent under Burklerk Pinsinchai in the jungles of Chiang Mai. His style was now fully displayed, raw and visceral yet refined by countless hours of practice in mind, body and spirit.
The final rounds bell clang to a start in a clinic of skill and sheer willpower. Ryan, driven by a blend of desperation and unwavering determination, unleashed a barrage of calculated and explosive strikes. Each punch and maneuver was a nod to the efficient, no-nonsense Ukrainian style that Robin had imparted to him. Ryan moved rhythmically across the mat, steps measured and precise, executing short, angular movements and deft outside counterpunches. He had returned to his element – the dance of combat, where he felt most alive, a symphony of movement where every step and punch was a testament to his life's journey and experiences as a human being first, and as a fighter second.
In this wake-up call, Ryan reinvigorated and reminded himself of his love for the sport, the exhilarating blend of art and athleticism. He was not just fighting to win; he was celebrating boxing, combat, honouring the path he had walked with Robin, and reclaiming what it meant to be a true fighter through Burklurk Pinsinchai's Teachings.
The round pressed on, and Ryan executed his maneuvers with a surgeon's precision. First;
-- The counterpuncher; a display in timing and accuracy, delivered with the full force of training and innate skill. --

1. He deftly slipped his opponent's cross, a move as fluid as it was swift.
   
2. He angled off, creating a space wide enough for his next move.
   
3. With an almost predatory precision, Ryan unleashed a powerful right cross, targeting his opponent's cheek from the angle he had just created. But Ryan wasn't done yet.
   
4. He slipped out again, evading any potential counter from his disoriented opponent. The rhythm, he danced in and out with his precise timing, perfected down to inches and angles.
   
5. In a final, decisive movement of the exchange, Ryan slipped in. He timed his step with a long cross that came off-beat, catching his opponent utterly off-guard. The punch landed with a satisfying impact, culminating in a perfectly executed combination. As he watched his opponent stagger, Ryan couldn't help but think, 'cya sleepy boi,' a silent acknowledgment of his dominance in this singular exchange.
   

This sequence was a statement. Ryan was not only back in the fight but also commanding it.
ONE!…TWO!…THREE!…FOUR!…FIVE!…SIX!...SEVEN!..EIGHT!
Ryan's opponent stands, admirable, but futile, driven by sheer will but hampered by sluggish movements, the man rose to his feet, it was clear the fight was reaching its zenith.
The opponent, gathering his remaining strength for a final stand, launched a jab, a last-ditch effort relying more on brute force than finesse. But this was a fatal mistake in Ryan's world – playing right into what Ryan was best at. Counters.
Ryan read the move with the clarity of a seasoned fighter. As the jab came, he effortlessly slipped to the right, evading the punch with a short angular step that spoke of his ring intelligence. Instantly, he countered with the same sharp cross from his right hand, followed by a devastating hook that cut through the air with lethal intent in his left. Grasping at straws, reeling from the counter, Ryans opponent threw a desperate, looping last stand punch, Ryan dipped down and left, rolling the punch with an elegance that made it seem almost effortless. He was Hunting for the Kill Shot. Seizing the moment, Ryan unleashed a ferocious left uppercut, the force of the blow lifting his opponent's chin skyward. He followed up with a right overhand, but just before impact, he halted the punch. There was no need for it; his opponent was already collapsing, the "Lights were on, but no one was Home". The fight was effectively over, Ryan's last combination is the final note, a crescendo that echoed through the ring.
As his opponent hit the canvas, the crowd erupted. Ryan stood in the center of the ring, his chest heaving, every fibre of his being alight with the thrill of victory. This wasn't just a win; it was a performance, a display of skill, heart, and the indomitable spirit of a fighter who had walked through fire and flames to the otherside and emerge victorious.
The final bell Rings with not a single chair in the arena warm; a thunderous clap erupts from the crowd. It was more than just applause; it was an acknowledgment of a battle fiercely fought by both men. In that moment ringside, in a triumphant victory, Ryan and Robin shared a look that spoke volumes, a connection far beyond the usual bounds of mentor and protégé. Their bond, tempered in the crucible of hardship and struggle, was now sealed in the glory of this defining triumph.
Standing amidst the cheers and the adrenaline-fueled euphoria, Ryan found himself momentarily lost in the tide of memories. It was a poignant reminder of the journey that had brought him here, a path marked by triumphs and losses. Robin's teachings transcended the confines of boxing; they were life lessons imprinted deep onto him. Ryan began to slowly step out of the ring; the weight of these reflections settled upon him. The victory was sweet, but it carried the weight of all sacrificed to achieve it. Robin's presence was felt strongly, a guiding force that continued to shape his path, illuminating the way forward even in the most challenging times.

Never made one of these before, so I'm not quite sure how to start things off.
I guess an introduction is a good enough place to start as any.
My name's Barry, and I've been hunting monsters for as long as I can remember. While I take a small amount of pride in being good at what I do, I didn't choose this life, and would happily trade it for another if given the chance.
See, when I was younger, young enough that I hadn't even figured out the whole 'walking' thing yet, my parents signed my future away to some otherworldly kingpin of the criminal underworld. This creature calls himself the 'Boogeyman.'
I was brought to this Boogeyman, where a contract was made, and signed in blood. I would receive abilities of sorts, to aid me in my monster hunting endeavors. And, In exchange, I was bound to a lifetime of service, eliminating those who would break the rules, so to speak.
To summarize, any time a paranormal entity goes around willy-nilly killing people for whatever reason, or really just doing anything that threatens the secrecy of the paranormal underworld, I get sent to, well, deal with them.
In this aspect though, I'm not unique. There are many of us monster hunters out there, all agreeing to similar contracts. Though I doubt most of them had a family as... fanatical for the cause as mine are, or, were...
So what happens if I decide I don't want to partake in this contractual obligation anymore? What happens if I just decide not to do my job?
Well, I get given a nice, shiny collar and turned into a lap-dog for the rest of eternity, bound by powers beyond my understanding, to execute any command given to me. Fun, I know.
I had the displeasure of witnessing this process first hand to someone I used to work with.
We were on a job- A young man, suffering form Lycanthropy had lost control of his condition while he was having a drink at one of the local bars and, well, when we arrived... He was the only one left. There he sat, in the midst of all the carnage, sobbing profusely into his knees.
I felt sorry for him, I truly did. But rules are rules. On the bright side, this would be over quickly.
As I raised my weapon and prepared to take my shot, my partner, Jonah spoke.
"Wait..."
I hesitated. And before I could say anything, that stupid bastard just started walking up to him, weapon holstered, and with no intent to finish the job.
He sat down next to the sobbing mess and put an arm around his shoulder.
Without looking up from his knees, the man sputtered through his tears:
"I'm... So sorry... I-I didn't-"
Jonah cut him off
"It's alright... It's alright."
"Jonah..." I muttered impatiently as I lowered my weapon.
We had worked together long enough that I didn't need to say anything else. He knew what awaited us if we failed this mission. He knew that I just wanted to get this over with and drown any regrets I had in booze.
But Jonah just sat there, comforting the man. He sat there for the next few minutes before pulling out his wallet and forcing a fist full of cash into the mans hand.
"Get out of here. Go and get yourself a bus ticket, and get out of here, as far away as you can."
The man looked up at us for the first time since we arrived. Then he looked down at the fist full of crumpled bills he now held.
"Why... Are you helping me?..."
Jonah smiled weakly and shrugged.
"No reason."
I just shook my head as Jonah helped him to his feet.
"Get out of here." He repeated and gave the man a firm pat on the back.
He stumbled forward, then paused briefly to glance at both of us, before making a hasty exit and disappearing into the night.
"We are so royally fucked." I said, more to myself than anyone else.
"Maybe he won't find out?" Jonah chuckled quietly.
"He already knows, man..."
"Yeah, I know..." He sighed. "Should we go see him?"
"Better we find him than he finds us." I reply.
So there we stood, staring up at the towering mass of... Whatever he's made out of, known as the Boogeyman.
His mouth was filled with numerous sharp, narrow teeth, stretched into an unnatural grin, and his eyes... God his eyes... When he looked at you, it was enough to trigger a legitimate fight-or-flight response. Generally the latter.
"A... Pleasure... to see you two boys again..." The Boogeyman rasped.
"I trust... Your most recent... expedition was a... success?"
He had a way of emphasizing syllables that just made my skin crawl, and I hated the way he would dramatically pause throughout his sentences.
I looked over at Jonah who didn't exactly seem happy to be here, before replying.
"Yes...?"
His grin somehow stretched even wider and his eyes appeared to bulge out of his head at us as he leaned across his desk.
"Is that so?" he bellowed, before throwing his head back and descending into a roaring fit of laughter.
"Is that so!" he shouted again, even louder.
Both Jonah and I exchanged worried glances.
"Then please... Do explain how I came across the fine gentleman you were supposed to eliminate... About to skip town?..." He said, waving a small slip of paper which seemed to be partially stained red, back and forth.
The laughter had completely stopped now, leaving an unnerving silence in the air, and his grin had turned to a scowl.
"Making me do your work for you..." He leaned back in his chair.
"That's a... Punishable offense, you know?"
At this point, Jonah's concern had visibly shifted to horror as the realisation dawned on him.
"No..." He whimpered
"Oh, yes!" The Boogeyman's grin returned once more
"Not only has your laughable attempt at mercy been for absolutely nothing... But as a... Result of your actions, you've brought upon this... Poor man... Needless suffering."
"What do you-"
Jonah was cut off as the Boogeyman snapped his fingers, causing a speaker somewhere in the room to crackle to life. It was silent for a moment, save for a bit of static, until the screaming started.
Both Jonah and I were stuck frozen in place, horrified at the ungodly sounds coming through the speaker. The guttural screams of agony, the whirring and grinding, and the sound of something falling to the ground with a wet slap.
"People pay handsomely... For live subjects..."
I was left completely speechless. I didn't know what to say, I didn't know what to do but just, stand there. Jonah, however, did not suffer from the same speechlessness as I did.
"Fuck... You." He hissed, reaching for his weapon.
All I could bring myself to do was silently mouth "Don't do it."
Alas, he either did not see me, or did not care. He drew his weapon and unloaded. I knew it wouldn't do anything. He probably knew it too, but he went and did it anyway. Each bullet landed on target. Punching holes in various parts of our employer, Holes which immediately began to fill back up, spitting bullet fragments back out in the process, and leaving holes only in the suit he wore.
The Boogeyman adjusted his tie before standing up, making his already towering figure seem that much larger.
"And this was my favourite suit... Such a shame."
Without prompt, Jonah also began screaming.
I looked back over to him, to see flames burst from his back, incinerating most of his shirt in the process. Strange, glowing markings and symbols began etching themself into his skin.
As Jonah crumpled to his hands and knees, his howls of pain only growing in intensity, our boss slowly began to walk around his desk, trailing his fingers along it's surface as he went.
"My dear boy, Jonah... You have broken the terms of our contract, and thus... You forfeit your free will... To me..."
The markings now covered most of Jonah's back, and the fire that moments ago, nearly reached the ceiling, had almost completely died out.
The Boogeyman approached Jonah.
"Another, for my personal... Collection."
As he spoke those words, the ground beneath Jonah began to deform and warp, and he began to sink.
I quietly took one step back, then another.
"And... Where, might I inquire... Do you think you're going?"
Safe to say I was shitting my pants by now. I couldn't speak, and now it felt like my feet were glued to the ground, unwilling to move no matter how hard I commanded them to.
"Fear not, my boy... For it is not your time, yet... It was not you who spared this... Pest..."
He snapped his fingers again, cutting the screams being broadcast through the speaker short, and once again plunging the room into a daunting silence. Then he turned his gaze to me.
"Though... If I were you... I would be taking a very valuable lesson away from this..."
His stare was nauseating, it made me feel sick to my core.
"But I'm not you... And I would very much like to add you to my collection as well... Don't slip up, now."
He wagged his finger at me as he said this, before going back to his chair and sitting down.
I turned back to where Jonah had been just moments ago, to see absolutely nothing. Not a single thing to ever suggest that he had been there. Not so much as a burnt scrap of clothing.
"I'll be watching you, Barry... You were always among the more... Capable, of your kind."
I took that as my queue to leave. I left that building feeling pretty shell-shocked about everything that had just transpired.
When I got back to my dinky little apartment, I locked the door behind me, and cracked open an expensive bottle of whisky that I had intended to share with Jonah on a special occasion. More for me I guess. I polished it off in just a few minutes, before passing out on my couch.
That was 8 years ago, to the day. I haven't seen him since. He was the closest thing to a friend that I've ever had, and probably will ever have.
I learnt two lessons that day. Don't get emotionally invested in people, and just follow the fucking rules. It's easier that way.
I've plenty more tales to tell, but it's getting late, and I'm getting drunk. So I'll save that for another night.
Tonight, I drink to you, Jonah. Wherever you might be.

The god Horus was the son of the first king and queen, Osiris and Isis. Thus, in human form, he is often worshipped as a child. But Horus was strongly associated with the falcon and, as a sky god, with the sun. Images of Horus as a child are often found in falcon mummy cemeteries mixed together with falcon-shaped mummy coffins, as if they have similar votive functions.
This text refers to these objects: 05.394; 37.416Ea-b
MEDIUM Bronze, gold
Place Made: Egypt
DATES 664–30 B.C.E.
DYNASTY Dynasty 26, or later
PERIOD Late Period to Ptolemaic Period
DIMENSIONS 11 3/4 x 2 3/4 x 11 1/2 in. (29.8 x 7 x 29.2 cm) (show scale)
Brooklyn Museum
ACCESSION NUMBER 05.394
Horus the falcon god was Egypt’s first national god worshiped by all of Egypt. One of the most important gods of ancient Egypt, the worship of Horus spanned over 5,000 years. With mention in records from the late pre-dynastic period through Roman times, Horus became the catch-all name for many different gods associated with falcons. Egyptian mythology features many different versions of his name, family and importance.
Horus was also known as:

• Sun God
• War God
• Hunter's God
• God of Kingship
• God of the Dawn
• Keeper of Secret Wisdom
• Son of Truth
• Horus the Avenger
• Horus Lord of the Two Lands

Because of the many different names and forms of Horus, Egyptologists find it impossible to identify the one true falcon god. Despite the many different variations, Horus is always seen as the ruler of the gods represented by a falcon. He was also known as the patron saint of the existing pharaoh, who was often referred to as the 'Living Horus'.
In the earliest forms Horus is known as Horus the Elder. First seen in pre-dynastic Upper Egypt, neighboring tribes most likely brought stories of Horus into Egypt. Egyptians quickly adopted him into Egyptian mythology as the son of Ra and one of the creator gods. Horus took the form of a falcon and flew up at the beginning of time as part of the creation. Also known as Horus of Two Eyes, his left eye represented the sun and his right eye represented the moon. With the power of the sun and the healing of the moon, Horus ruled both the day and the night. In the earliest forms, Egyptians viewed him as the brother of Osiris and Seth.
Over time, Egyptians began to combine the idea of Horus and Ra into one god, Ra-Harakhte. Often pictured with a solar disk behind his head, the Ra-Harakhte version of Horus was the sun god, responsible for the sun’s path across the sky.

In approximately 2350 BCE, Egyptians began to view Horus as the son of Osiris and Isis. One of the most popular Egyptian myths focuses on the birth of this form of Horus. Known as Harsiesis, or Horus the Younger, this version of Horus was born the son of Osiris and Isis.

Egyptians viewed Osiris as a god of peace and prosperity. His younger brother, Seth, became jealous and destroyed Osiris by trapping him, drowning him and distributing the pieces of his body all over the world.
Osiris’s wife and sister, Isis, gathered all the pieces of Osiris together. With the help of Anubis, the two performed the first Egyptian embalming to prepare Osiris for the afterlife. With magic, they were able to bring Osiris back to life for a short period of time. Isis became pregnant during this time, later giving birth to Horus. Isis and Hathor protected the young Horus until he was old enough to rule. As a child, he is often seen located next to Isis on a lotus leaf.
During the first dynasty (c. 2925-2775 BCE) Egyptians viewed Horus and Seth as bitter enemies in a fight to rule the world. With Horus situated as a favorite among the gods, Seth’s hatred grew. Egyptian mythology tells many stories recounting battles between Horus and Seth. The battle between Horus and Seth reached Egyptians as a story of hope. In a time of frequent rebellions and invading occupiers, the defeat of Seth became a powerful symbol. Many Egyptian temple reliefs show Horus’s triumph over Seth in a variety of tales.
One story as an example of this features Horus and Seth turning into hippopotamuses to battle in the waters of the Nile. For many years, Pharaohs would arm themselves with a spear to kill a hippopotamus in a reenactment of the battle. This served as a message to their people that they were all powerful over those threatening their rule.
Horus the Egyptian falcon god is often associated with the "Eye of Horus'; a symbol that is prominent throughout Egypt even until modern times. This symbol was found on the mummy of King Tut.
In one epic Egyptian myth, Seth damaged Horus’s left eye. The damage to what was known as the “moon eye” set in motion the phases of the moon. The god Thoth was able to restore Horus’s damaged eye. The eye of Horus, represented as the wedjat eye, was born as one of the most powerful and popular symbols of Egypt. It was seen as the watchful eye. The eye saw everything and protected the world from the always threatening chaos.
It was also believed to ward off evil. Ancient Egyptian sailors painted the eye on the bow of boats for safe travel. The most famous usage of the eye was on the mummy of the young King Tutankhamen.
Egyptians viewed Horus as the protector of the Pharaoh. As a god known in all of Egypt, he was an important unifying tool used to tie the people together under their leader. Great efforts were taken by rulers to show themselves as Horus in human form. When associated with a pharaoh, Horus was represented as a hawk resting on the shoulder of the pharaoh with his wings spread around the pharaoh’s head. Pharaohs would take on a Horus name to tie themselves to the god in both their reign and their afterlife.
In believing that Horus ruled the Earth under the authority of the gods, it was important for Pharaoh to become Horus in a living form. When the Pharaoh died, this association would unite the ruler with Osiris in the underworld. Horus would then move into the form of the next pharaoh.
As early as the late pre-dynastic times, cults began associating with Horus. Although cults were common for Egyptian gods, many cults focused on specific local gods. Horus was a well-known god with popularity throughout all of Egypt. Examples of his importance are found throughout all of Egypt in temple remains, monuments and coffin texts.
The most significant tribute to Horus stands as the Temple of Edfu. Located 60 kilometers north of Aswan, the structure is considered one of the best preserved temples in Egypt. Cult worship of Horus began in the Delta, spreading south throughout the reign of Ptolemy III. Construction of the temple began around 237 BCE. Over the course of the 180 years of construction, Horus was worshiped at Edfu for constantly battling Seth and protecting the world from darkness.
https://www.ancient-egypt-online.com/horus.html

Hi! so, some of you may know youtuber Ashikai, she makes lore and theory videos and has gotten many things right, so I keep up with her videos and research, and in her latest video she talks about Ley lines and what they really are. I got pretty invested in it and looked up some things myself and I found this (it's very surface level):
"Ley hunters often combined their search for ley lines with other esoteric practices like dowsing and numerology and with a belief in a forthcoming Age of Aquarius that would transform human society."
"Gnostic philosopher Samael Aun Weor declared February 4, 1962 to be the beginning of the "Age of Aquarius", heralded by the alignment of the first six planets, the Sun, the Moon and the constellation Aquarius."
So what is it about?
"...that announced the coming of an Age of Aquarius in which ancient wisdom would be restored."
We know wisdom and knowledge are huge topics in Genshin since Sumeru, and gnosticism is a core part of the game.
"Psychanalyst Carl Jung mentions the "Age of Aquarius" in his book Aion, believing that the "Age of Aquarius" will "constellate the problem of the union of the opposites". In accordance with other prominent astrologers, Jung believes the "Age of Aquarius" will be a dark and spiritually deficient time for humanity, mentioning that "it will no longer be possible to write off evil as the mere privation of good; it's real existence will have to be recognized in the Age of Aquarius". According to Jung's interpretation of astrology, the "Age of Pisces" began with the birth and death of Christ, associating the Ichthys (colloquially known as the "Jesus fish") with the symbol of Pisces; following the "Age of Pisces" would be the "Age of Aquarius", the spiritually deficient age before the arrival of the Antichrist."
This just made me wonder... could the Alberich clan be the Antichrist? the Abyss? Khaenriah? Celestia? from what we've seen in past traveler-focused quests, they were in a place that looked VERY apocalyptic (running in that red and black area surrounded by cubes of the same color, much like the ones we see at the very beginning of the game). And if there's sinners, a big Sinner too, is there a possible Antichrist?
What is the Age of Aquarius in Genshin? I think it could be Celestia going down when we/the traveler reach our max potential (refer to a painting of The Age of Aquarius and Ashikai's video, it's all about achieving Godhood, and in real life, about your Chi).
"Michell repeated his beliefs in his 1969 book The View Over Atlantis. Hutton described it as "almost the founding document of the modern earth mysteries movement". Here he interpreted ley lines by reference to the Chinese concept of geomantic energy lines which he transliterated as "lung mei", i.e., "dragon veins" (龙脉; 龍脈; lóngmài; lung2-mai4) [better source needed] He proposed that an advanced ancient society that had once covered much of the world had established ley lines across the landscape to harness this lung mei energy. Translating the term "lung mei" as "dragon paths", he reinterpreted tales from English mythology and folklore in which heroes killed dragons so that the dragon-slayers became the villains."
We know dragons were once the only beings in Teyvat, there was the Sovereign too. Zhongli himself? and Watatsumi island has remnants of "dragon people/society". I think Kokomi could be more relevant in the future. If Celestia ordered to kill dragons prior to the game's events that'd make them the villains no? (I know they already are, but I'm wondering about it around this theory) I think mostly Liyue and Inazuma could come back if this were to happen nearing the end. I expect a battle similar to the one we first had against Osial if this is the case, uniting both nations and their protectors. I don't think there'll be a MCD, or so I hope.
This is mostly me rambling since I found this info, if anyone else knows something about the topic or can disprove it I'm all ears!