Dear Readers and Members of the Cross The Ages Community, During this holiday season, the entire Cross The Ages and Artellium Post team would like to express their warmest wishes to you!!! This time of year is conducive to family moments. Joy, sharing and gratitude are in order and we are immensely
grateful for the support and enthusiasm you have shown us throughout 2023. This morning when you woke up, you must have discovered your Erika & Tiger Robot Special Rare card. This magnificent SR card skillfully mixes fantasy and technology.
THE MAP - Tiger Robot, an imposing feline dressed all in steel, recalls with its unique design the greatest predators of the animal world. Its metallic armor is decorated with luminous lines that underline its robotic nature.
Its glowing red eyes would discourage the most daring rivals. It embodies an extraordinary fusion of advanced technology and impressive animal strength. Its armor is not only a defensive weapon but seems to be equipped with sensors and attack systems, indicating that it could be designed for reconnaissance as well as combat missions.
The fineness of its engravings and the complexity of its design suggest that Mantris possesses highly advanced technology and places great importance on aesthetics, even in war.
Erika, a figure of grace and authority, sits next to the colossus. A humanoid whose appearance combines tribal elements, such as her headdress decorated with feathers and set with metal embellishments. Her earrings and her tiara in the old style, or the modern circuit making up her face. We can imagine from her posture worthy of a warrior or a leader, that she is serene and confident, ready for combat.
Her clothing attributes, her facial paintings and her jewelry, contrast with the modernity of her armor.
This could indicate that she is a sort of mediator, halfway between the ancient traditions of her people and the new ways that technology offers. In many cultures, headdresses such as hers are usually reserved for leaders or high-ranking warriors. This could indicate that she could be a respectable figure of power within her faction. She represents the perfect mix of man and machine. Similarly, based on the expression on her face, she may be plagued by doubts…
Maybe she understands or even feels that fighting and violence are not, nor have ever been, constructive. Nothing good ever comes of it!! The forest in the background and the light filtering through the trees create a mysterious atmosphere, which also sows doubt about the whereabouts of our characters…
Where are they?! On the heights of the city? Conquering other lands? Are they about to undertake a simple stroll? Or to invade an enemy territory!? Perhaps to defend their own against intruders?! Or are they simply granting themselves a truce? A respite? A moment of pause?
The association of these two powerful creatures also suggests that they could be the guardians or protectors of a sacred place of Mantris. The way Erika places her hand on Tiger-Robot is very similar to the action of a master on his disciple. Perhaps a bond of friendship…
This indicates a connection or control, suggesting that they both have consciousness. Mantris is often depicted as being devoid of any humanity or moral sense. Does technological perfection necessarily have to be a burden to man?
Embedded in the flesh of these characters, couldn't it embellish it? The combination of such brute force and delicacy, all brought together in one illustration… This work of art invites us to further explore the history and myths surrounding these characters.
THE ARTIST - Mansik Yang, its designer needs no introduction, known for having designed Sarash, Brinhold & Amrok, Veliva unique, Division 0, Judith, Hilde, Sir Vine, Onyx, Caesar, B380 and Seifer and possibly many more to come. He is also the author of the SR gReek and Chaka and the multiple combo.
Leaving you with this reflection... We hope that this end of the year brings you joy, health and prosperity. We wish you a magical Christmas and a New Year full of rich moments.
Merry Christmas and see you next year!
