A double dose of characters references that I drew last April, to have something presentable in time for Artfight 2025 (and for their profiles).
My demon retainer and half-angel guard, Sytri and Dantalion \o/ I introduced Dante some time ago, along with their dynamic together here!
Including a little bonus that I spruced up from Sytri's previous reference, and older art of Dante for comparison. In short, Dante's not the only one with a "multiple eyes" gimmick; Sytri did it first.
Updating my tumblr with a new OC drop /o\!! I've had this guy's concept in mind for a little over a year, but after plotting and RPs with friends, I had the drive to give him some visuals.
This is Dantalion, or “Dante” -- a nephilim that can take the appearance of a lympago (a "man-tiger" beast of heraldry, similar to manticores), and has the ability to induce illusions and hallucinations. He’s part of the same Fantasy verse as Sytri and Zephyr, and well acquainted with the former!
I’ll place details about that last comic under the cut, but more can be found in Dante’s profile.
In regards to that last comic with Sytri, which I explained in this bsky thread:
Much of Sytri's backstory I've yet to share online. He's poised & amiable, but his past has heavy elements he prefers not to dwell on. Dante's one of the few who learns this past after they meet, and the two develop into close allies and friends, as well as casual partners/lovers.
They lost contact after time but eventually become vassals to their respective kings (Aris --> @littlescorpio.bsky.social, Vinea --> @whotisthis.bsky.social). After Dante learned /which/ infamous demon lord Sytri was serving (Aris), he wanted to ensure Sytri was safe & wasn't coerced or manipulated.
…Which would be commendable, if Dante didn't intrude on the realm belonging to said demon lord in the process ᕕ( ᐛ )ᕗ Somehow Dante managed to make proper amends after a reprimand from Vinea, and a 'warning shot' from Aris -- the latter who was still lenient thanks to Sytri vouching for his friend.
ANYWAY! The #comics were just this condensed plot coming full circle \o/ I'll flesh out their stories another time, but atm Sytri and Dante can reconnect while they serve as representatives for their realms, with opportunities to work together and rekindle their casual relationship moving forward.
