Anathema

== Personality ==
On the surface, Anathema mirrors Annalyse Christina Elsher's appearance and demeanor, exuding a calm and friendly presence. Her charm and wit make her easy to get along with, and she appears to be a compassionate individual. This resemblance to Annalyse can be unsettling, especially for Annalyse herself, but they maintain a cordial relationship, even swapping outfits to amuse themselves and confuse others.
However, Anathema’s outward friendliness masks a far darker personality. When surrounded by foes or on a mission set by Baron von Schneider, her true nature surfaces. She becomes a master manipulator, thriving on deceit and psychological warfare. She enjoys keeping her victims alive to maximize their suffering, and her sharp, spiky teeth serve as a menacing symbol of her love for torment.
Anathema is exceptionally skilled at playing mind games, often leaving her enemies confused and off-balance. She exploits their emotions to her advantage, weaving complex webs of lies and half-truths to achieve her goals. Her manipulation is not just a tactic but a form of art, reflecting her deep-seated enjoyment of psychological torment.
Despite her manipulative tendencies, Anathema is capable of forming genuine bonds with those she trusts. Her closest ally which she sees as her sister is Lyra, another clone created by Baron, based on Lucy Elsher, Annalyse’s older sister. Anathema often takes on a protective role, curbing Lyra's darker impulses, such as her obsession with wanting to consume Lucy's flesh.
In battle, Anathema becomes a formidable opponent, blending charisma with calculated strategy. She is highly intelligent, with an impressive memory that ensures she never forgets a slight or betrayal. When provoked, her ruthless side emerges, showing no mercy to those who cross her.
Anathema’s dual nature—charming and friendly on the surface, but sinister and manipulative underneath—makes her a complex and dangerous individual. She is not one to be taken lightly, and her ability to blend in with those around her only adds to her menacing potential.
== Story ==
=== "The Spark of Creation and the Orb's whisper" ===
Baron von Schneider, immersed in the eerie ambiance of Nycterium, contemplated the expansion of his shadowy dominion. The ICNH Clan had grown, and with it, the need for powerful allies. His mind wandered to Annalyse and Lucy, members of the clan whose strength and experiences had left an indelible mark on him. A thought struck him—what if he could create entities that not only mirrored their abilities but also surpassed their limitations?
The black orb, the source of his powers and the key to Nycterium, began to pulsate with an intense, dark energy as if sensing his thoughts. Shadows twisted and coiled around the orb, forming intricate patterns that seemed to dance to an unheard melody. Baron approached the orb, his eyes reflecting the ominous glow emanating from its depths.
As Baron reached out to the orb, it began to communicate, not with words, but with vivid images and emotions that flooded his mind. The orb presented visions of Annalyse’s past, her suffering, and her strength. It conveyed a plan, a process of creation that defied conventional methods.
"In the heart of shadows, new life shall arise. Echoes of the past, molded by the night, shall serve your will. Focus on her essence, her pain, and her resilience. Give shape to the nightmare within."
Baron nodded, understanding the task at hand. He needed to harness the very essence of Annalyse’s experiences, combining them with the power of Nycterium to create a being both formidable and loyal.
Baron extended his hands, and the shadows around him responded, swirling and converging into a dense, inky mass. He focused on the image of Annalyse, recalling her every detail—her personality, her quirks, her scars, and her shadow powers. The orb amplified these memories, projecting them into the shadows, which began to take shape.
==== "The Sculpting of Anathema" ====
The shadows solidified, forming a silhouette that closely resembled Annalyse but with subtle differences. Baron infused the creation with his own will, guiding the process with precision and care. He envisioned a more matured, composed version of Annalyse, someone who could embody her strengths without her vulnerabilities.
As the figure became more defined, Baron infused it with elements that would allow it to transform into a nightmare mode—a drastic alteration designed to instill fear in enemies. He imagined a terrifying grin, insanely sharp teeth capable of a monstrous bite, and scars that would glow ominously in the darkness.
The figure began to move, the shadows receding to reveal Anathema in her complete form. Her eyes opened, revealing a fierce intelligence and an understanding of her purpose. She was both Annalyse and something more—an entity born from shadows, designed to serve and protect with unwavering loyalty.
Anathema stood before Baron, her presence radiating a mix of serenity and latent power. She was ready to serve, her very existence a testament to Baron's mastery over Nycterium and his creative genius.
In her normal state, Anathema appeared as a matured, cute version of Annalyse, her demeanor calm and composed. However, when triggered, her nightmare mode would emerge. Her face would contort into a terrifying grin, her teeth becoming razor-sharp. The scars on her arms and body would glow with an eerie light, echoing the abuse Annalyse had endured but transformed into a source of power.
With a swift motion, Anathema's form shifted. Her serene expression twisted into a horrifying smile, her teeth elongating into monstrous fangs. The glowing scars illuminated the darkness around her, creating a ghastly spectacle. She stood as a nightmare incarnate, ready to strike fear into the hearts of those who opposed her and the ICNH Clan.
==== "Awakening" ====
Anathema's first moments after her creation were a blend of curiosity, confusion, and silent observation. As the shadows receded, revealing her form, she blinked, her eyes adjusting to the dim light of Nycterium. The realm's gothic structures and dark landscapes were both alien and familiar to her. She felt an innate connection to the shadows that twisted and flowed around her, sensing their whispers and movements as if they were an extension of herself.
Baron von Schneider watched her closely, his eyes reflecting a mix of pride and anticipation. He knew that Anathema was unlike any of his previous creations. She was a blend of Annalyse's essence and the dark power of Nycterium, a being crafted with precision and purpose. As she took her first steps, her movements were fluid and graceful, a testament to her shadowy origins.
Anathema's senses were heightened in this realm. She could hear the faint rustling of shadows, the distant echoes of Nycterium's ever-shifting landscape, and the steady rhythm of her own breath. She extended her hand, and a tendril of shadow responded, wrapping around her fingers like a living entity. It was then that she truly understood the depth of her connection to this realm.
Baron approached her, his presence commanding yet reassuring. "Anathema," he said, his voice echoing through the chamber. "Welcome to Nycterium, your home and your domain."
She turned to face him, her eyes reflecting a mixture of awe and loyalty. "Creator," she replied, her voice soft but firm. "I am ready to serve."
In her normal side, Anathema's powers were subtle yet potent. She could manipulate shadows with ease, bending them to her will. She demonstrated this by forming a shadowy barrier around herself, the darkness swirling and solidifying into an impenetrable shield. She could also create shadowy constructs, simple shapes and figures that moved and acted under her command. These abilities made her a formidable ally, capable of both offense and defense. And Anathema was shown to be a trickster too just like the Original Annalyse.
However, her nightmare mode was where her true power lay. When triggered, her transformation was swift and dramatic. Her serene expression twisted into a horrifying grin, her teeth elongating into razor-sharp fangs. The scars on her arms and body began to glow with an eerie light, casting an otherworldly glow around her. In this form, her abilities were amplified. Her speed and strength were also enhanced, making her a fearsome opponent in battle.
Anathema's initial interactions with Baron were marked by a deep sense of gratitude and loyalty. She viewed him not only as her creator but also as her protector and guide. Baron, in turn, saw Anathema as a valuable asset and a testament to his own power. He took a personal interest in her training, teaching her to harness her abilities and understand the intricacies of Nycterium.
Additionally, Anathema's connection to Nycterium meant that she was vulnerable to certain forms of light-based attacks. Intense light could weaken her, disrupting her control over the shadows and diminishing her powers. She would need to find ways to counteract this vulnerability, either through training or by acquiring protective artifacts.
Despite these challenges, Anathema was determined to prove herself. Her initial interactions with Baron von Schneider were filled with a sense of loyalty and respect. She saw him as both her creator and her mentor, someone who had given her a purpose and a place in the world. Baron, in turn, viewed Anathema as a valuable asset, a creation that embodied the potential of Nycterium and the ICNH Clan.
"Anathema," Baron said one day as they stood on the edge of a shadowy precipice, overlooking the expanse of Nycterium. "You have great potential, but you must learn to control your powers. There will be challenges, both from within and from external forces. Are you ready to face them?"
Anathema nodded, determination in her eyes. "Yes, Creator. I will not fail you."
Baron placed a hand on her shoulder, his gaze intense. "Good. Remember, you are not alone. The ICNH Clan is your family now. We will support you, but you must also be strong on your own."
As Anathema continued to train and hone her abilities, she began to develop a deeper understanding of her own identity. She was more than just a clone of Annalyse; she was her own person, with her own thoughts and emotions. This realization gave her a sense of purpose and determination, driving her to become stronger and more skilled.
Her relationship with Baron von Schneider deepened over time. While she saw him as her creator and mentor, she also began to view him as a father figure. His guidance and support were crucial in her development, and she felt a deep sense of loyalty and gratitude towards him. Baron, in turn, was pleased with her progress and proud of her achievements.
Anathema's powers continued to evolve as she faced various challenges and adversaries. In one instance, she was tasked with infiltrating an enemy stronghold to retrieve valuable information. Using her abilities, she moved silently through the fortress, creating trickery illusions to distract the guards and slipping past them unnoticed. When she encountered resistance, she summoned her weapon and swiftly dispatched her opponents, her movements fluid and precise.
In another situation, Anathema found herself facing a powerful light-based enemy who sought to exploit her vulnerability. The intense light weakened her, making it difficult for her to control the shadows. However, she remembered Baron's teachings and focused her mind, using her agility and speed to outmaneuver her opponent. She managed to create a temporary shield of darkness, blocking the light and giving her the opportunity to strike back with her nightmarish powers.
These experiences helped Anathema grow stronger and more confident in her abilities. She began to develop new techniques, such as creating shadowy constructs to aid her in battle or using her nightmare mode to intimidate and disorient her enemies. Her loyalty to Baron and the ICNH Clan remained unwavering, and she became a trusted and respected member of the clan.
Despite her progress, Anathema still faced moments of doubt and uncertainty. She often wondered about her own identity and purpose, struggling with the duality of being both a clone and her own person. These inner conflicts would sometimes manifest in her nightmare mode, where her fears and insecurities would take physical form. However, with Baron's guidance and the support of her clanmates, she learned to confront these fears and use them as a source of strength.
== Appearance ==
Anathema has the same dark, wavy hair as Annalyse, cut to a similar length that falls just above her shoulders. However, while Annalyse’s hair is often styled neatly, Anathema's hair has a slightly messier, more carefree appearance. Both have the same striking red eyes, but Anathema’s eyes have a faint glow, hinting at her otherworldly origin.
Anathema is seen wearing a white dress with red accents, including a large red bow at her waist and smaller bows decorating her sleeves and collar. The dress is frilly and elegant, adding to her cute yet mature look. She carries a red parasol, which complements her outfit and adds a touch of whimsy to her appearance. In contrast, Annalyse wears a red dress with white ruffles and black accents, which gives her a more sophisticated and historic look. The belt around Annalyse's waist, adorned with a pouch, further distinguishes her style.
A significant difference between Anathema and Annalyse is Anathema’s ability to transform into her nightmare mode. In this state, Anathema’s appearance changes drastically. Her gentle smile transforms into a huge, terrifying grin, revealing insanely sharp teeth capable of inflicting serious damage. The scars on her arms and body, reminiscent of the abuse Annalyse suffered, begin to show and glow, adding to her horrifying and eerie presence. This nightmare mode is a stark contrast to Annalyse’s normal appearance, highlighting the darker aspects of Anathema's existence. Anathema is the least distorted and nightmarish of the Baron Clones
== Trivia ==
* Anathema enjoys collecting and arranging shadowy artifacts from Nycterium, a hobby she shares with Baron von Schneider.
* She has a habit of twirling a strand of hair around her finger when deep in thought.
* Anathema is fascinated by human history and often spends time reading about different civilizations and their myths.
* Anathema loves autumn, as the longer nights and cooler weather remind her of Nycterium.
* Anathema’s favorite book is a gothic romance novel that Baron found for her, which she reads repeatedly.
* Despite her initial creation with a set of knowledge, Anathema is a fast learner and often surpasses expectations in acquiring new skills.
* Anathema enjoys painting scenes from Nycterium, her art capturing the dark beauty of the shadow realm.
* Anathema occasionally experiences vivid dreams of a life she never lived, often wondering if they are residual memories from Annalyse.
* Anathema has a deep-seated fear of complete isolation, a remnant of her creation process in the shadowy confines of Nycterium.
* Anathema sees Franz as an older brother figure, despite not being biologically related, and often seeks his advice and support.
* Anathema is fiercely protective of Annalyse, seeing her as both a sister and a part of herself.
* According to Lia, Anathema's favorite color is deep purple, as it reminds her of the ethereal hues of Nycterium.
* Anathema enjoys cooking and often prepares elaborate meals for Baron and Lyra, using ingredients from Nycterium.
* She keeps a journal where she documents her thoughts, dreams, and experiences, often using it as a means of reflection.
== Quotes ==
“Oh, Creator, you should have seen the look on their faces when I made them question their own sanity! It's almost too easy sometimes.”
"Creator! I’ve prepared a feast for tonight. The roast is seasoned to perfection, and for Lyra, I’ve made sure the meat is just how she likes it." -- "BUT I WANT LUCY'S FRESH FLESH!!!!" [Lyra], “Lyra, you’re acting like a child. Grow up and accept that some desires are not meant to be fulfilled.”
"The Romans, the Greeks, the Egyptians... their histories are so rich and full of intrigue. I could spend eternity learning about them."
"Autumn is here, Creator. The longer nights and crisp air feel like a piece of Nycterium on Earth."
"This gothic romance novel you found for me... I can’t get enough of it. Every time I read it, I find something new to love."
"Lia, I had another one of those dreams last night... a life that isn’t mine. Do you think they’re Annalyse’s memories seeping through?"
"The thought of being completely alone... it terrifies me. I think it’s a leftover fear from when I was created in Nycterium."
"Franz feels like the older brother I never had. His guidance is invaluable to me."
"Annalyse, you’re not just my sister; you’re a part of me. I’ll protect you no matter what."
== Gallery ==