ANTHONY'S TV TROPES

Tropes applying to Norrington's Desire's Anthony du Cronos

''In the wake of the Emperor's conquest, no survivors could tell their tale.
Their heads were claimed by the Emperor and sent straight to Hell.
Their dying screams still echo in the place where they fell,
As they breathed their last breath, torn apart and unwell.
They paid tribute to the Emperor, the Crimson Emperor.''


Light is Not Good: In contrast to Medea's dark and brooding nature and Laurel's calm and reserved demeanour, Anthony is associated with nothing but vibrant and striking light colours, particularly shining gold and crimson red. With her flamboyant appearance and show-stopping demeanour, she effortlessly commands attention. However, despite her dazzling appearance, Anthony is the Big Bad of ND: Under Siege.

Papa Wolf: Anthony is known to have fathered four children. His relationship with his twin sons, Ma'at and Neith, has been rocky and fraught with banishment from the family. However, she has been a supportive parent to Freki, her firstborn son with Akane. Freki holds a special place in Anthony's heart and is regarded as her favourite son. He has been groomed from a young age to succeed Anthony as the Head of the powerful du Cronos Dynasty. Freki's excellence in all aspects of his life is a testament to the careful upbringing and guidance provided by his doting father.

Villain Respect: Anthony and Medea are two opposing forces, as the main priestess of the Eye of Laurel, Medea's mission is to find the sun god's whereabouts and keep the Siege from happening. Even though Anthony can be quite condescending, she can't help but be impressed by the incredible accomplishments of the current High Priestess of Laurel. Her triumphs include disbanding the notorious Norrington Clan, getting rid of some crime syndicates in Italy, providing the House of Laurel with the level of dread they have nowadays, and ascending to become Seraphim, making her capable of delivering Anthony the beating of a lifetime. Hell, this is the way Anthony reacts when Freki informed her that he had sent Ma'at to hunt her:

Anthony: ''When you sent Ma'at after Medea, it wasn't about sending a hunter on the prowl was it? It was about sending a doomed prisoner walking straight into his own execution. Medea isn't his target, she isn't his prey, she's the one you designated as his Reaper.''

The Power of the Sun: Take a wild guess.

God of Light: Though rarely associated with light itself later until the Atlantic War, once she ''Awakens''.

Straight Edge Evil: Despite her reputation as a fearsome and unpredictable dragon, Anthony's personal vices are surprisingly tame. She abstains from smoking, drinking, and other common indulgences, opting instead for the simple pleasures of Coca-Cola and casual sex. This contrast between her public image and private habits only adds to the enigma that surrounds her character, leaving those who seek to understand her motivations and desires with more questions than answers.

Animal Motifs: Despite his dragon form not looking like an actual snake, Anthony has some traits traditionally associated with it, being cunning, aggressive, and stealthy. Her ability to turn people's sanity upside down is a reference to the side effects of snake venom. Furthermore, after speaking one-on-one with The Eye of Laurel, Anthony remarks that a mere butterfly is nothing in comparison to a Snake.

Foil: Of Medea Norrington of all people. Medea is a creepy Jerk with a Heart of Gold Messianic Archetype associated with cold darkness but undoubtedly is a hero. Anthony is an Affably Evil Satanic Archetype associated with a warm light. But in this case, let us make this a bigger list:

  • During In the Lair of the Crimson Emperor, her own spin-off, Anthony's complete upbringing and background are revealed, while Medea's is mostly obscured and only hinted at through flashbacks.
  • Due to her Hair-Trigger Temper, she can go from 0 to 100 real quick with rapid bursts of rage. On the other hand, when Medea's blood starts boiling, she simply grins and bides her time, waiting patiently for the perfect moment to strike. 
  • Anthony's outfits are black with red and/or gold while Medea's are white with purple/pink.
  • While Anthony is incredibly charming and compelling, Medea has almost no social skills, coming out as exceedingly rude and harsh around the edges in conversations.

Extreme Omnisexual: Her list of bedmates includes dragons, wolves, elves, a kitsune, and so on.

Anti-Villain: In the beginning, Anthony can be seen as a sinister yet still tragic figure that only wants the du Cronos Dynasty, by whom he is a beloved God-Emperorto never be wronged and will do anything to give it more power and influence. Also, during their conversation amidst the truce, Anthony expresses her belief to Medea that the concept of heroes and villains is ultimately meaningless. To her, it all boils down to one's personal desires and how she'll achieve them. Whether she targets someone perceived as evil, good, or neutral, it's inconsequential to Anthony. The determining factor is her personal liking for them. If she finds someone a little too bothersome, she won't hesitate to return the favor and become a thorn in their side.

Anthony: ''So, you're wondering if I'm a hero or a villain, huh? Well, let me put it this way: back when I was covering up the southern realm in flames and leaving nothing but destruction in my wake, I gotta admit, I didn't exactly see myself as the poster child for goodness. So now, trying to figure out if I'm a good guy or a bad guy... it's like asking me to trust my own judgment when I've got a knack for fiery chaos.'' 
    Affably Evil/Faux Affably Evil: Anthony's evilness is subjective and depends on individual perceptions of her actions and beliefs. Yet, despite her courteous, charming, and magnetic persona, she's a deceptively unassuming figure who can easily deceive those around her. Her courtesy towards individuals like Laurel and Freki, as well as her entire dynasty, is genuine, but she does not extend the same treatment to those she does not care about. In fact, her attitude toward them can be a mere facade.


    Contrasting Sequel Antagonist:

    Agent Peacock: The flamboyant, bombastic, borderline goofy and over the top demeanor does little to conceal the fact that she's a dragon deity capable of boiling you from the inside out with his incredibly dangerous snake-like venom.

    Night and Day Duo: With Laurel Nasuka.

    Fragile Speedster: Although she is not as physically endowed in terms of raw power, she has blazing speed when the circumstances call for it. She can travel short to medium distances in an instant. Paired with her Knife Nut skills, her speed makes him a surprisingly competent opponent.

    Then Let Me Be Evil: After one too many disrespects from Medea, from Laurel, from Warren, and from Oceanus, Anthony gets so fed up with all the bullshit everyone throws at her and her Dynasty that she snaps:

    Anthony: ''You dare cast me as the bad bitch in this feud? Very well then, let it be my magnum opus, my masterful symphony. If I must be cast as the villain, then let me leave a legacy that will echo throughout history. You see, there are legends that are forgotten, reduced to mere dust in the winds of time, and quite a few are moulded to gold. But my name, my deeds, will be immortalized in the annals of history, etched into the very fabric of history for centuries to come. You may try to forget me, but I will make my mark on this world, and you will never be able to erase it. I will be remembered for centuries!''

    Rapunzel Hair: In her female shape, her hair always reaches down to her thighs.

    The Corrupter: The more you dig into Under Siege, the more it hits you that Anthony's fingerprints are all over the du Cronos Dynasty's messed-up actions. It's kind of wild to believe she's seen as the 'lesser evil' when you compare her to her old man.

    • In ND10, Anthony can often be seen encouraging her granddaughter Juni to give in to her draconic instincts and act upon her murderous impulses. However, Anthony seems to have a moral compass and only suggests attacking those who "deserve it," in an attempt to appeal to Juni's conscience. Whether this means that Anthony is not a proponent of senseless killing or is just something he tells Juni to make her dance to his tune is anyone's guess.

    Know When to Fold 'Em: Anthony's course of action may seem like simple cowardice at times... and sometimes it is, but don't be fooled. As the great strategist Sun Tzu once said, "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles." Anthony understands the importance of strategic retreat, making her a formidable and effective villain in the world of Norrington's Desire. After all, why take unnecessary risks when you can live to fight another day?

    Evil Mentor: Despite Anthony's plain villainy, she drops some seriously insightful life and relationship gems on Medea, which she carries with her long after her death.

    Running on All Fours: He can do this for a speed boost because of the long arms of his real form and his low profile, but he also exhibits bear-like temporal bipedality.

    Obviously Evil: Dude, even for the du Cronos Dynasty, he's no joke. Word is he's, at best, shady as fuck, and pretty much everyone who's heard of him is scared stiff.

    The Unfettered: Anthony's defining characteristic is his desire to be free of all constraints. There will be no action, no matter how terrible or nightmarish, if it is required to further her goals. Like Medea, she's got some personal growth to do and learn to tone down that part of her... But then, in Under Siege, after a heart-to-heart conversation with her dead wife, she just throws it all out the window. She decides to ditch any chance of being a goody-two-shoes and fully embraces the role everyone expects her and her Dynasty to play, basically saying, "Fine, if they want evil, then I'll give them evil."

    ''We've located your mother's soul in the frozen depths of Hell, Freki. We'll spare no effort to bring her back to our fold. Assemble our legions, we are poised to use the ways of the ancestors.''

    Femme Fatale: From time to time, Anthony usually flirts with genuine intentions to connect, but it's not unusual for him to have a hidden goal in mind with someone. In ''The Lair of the Crimson Emperor'', when he saw Akane's incredible skills for the first time, he wasted no time in making a move on her. He smoothly caressed her cheeks and arms, moving around her body like a serpentine demon, tempting her with promises of fulfilling her every desire if she protected him. While Akane initially turned down his advances, seeing right through those seductive maneuvers (plus, she was already taken), they somehow struck a balance and made their relationship work. Eventually, they both developed genuine feelings for each other, replacing any hidden agenda.

    • There's also a special mention to the Egyptian witch she seduced to get her spell on gender-changing.

    Beneath the Mask: Beneath the persona of confidence and charm that Anthony presents to the world lies a deeply troubled young woman still grieving the loss of her beloved wife. Despite her seemingly carefree attitude, she is plagued by the constant pressure of being looked down upon by some of her peers and the looming shadow of being labeled a coward. Her feud with the House of Laurel is a never-ending cycle of conflict, which she refuses to let go of. To cope with her pain, Anthony turns to the numbing comfort of Coca-Cola, perpetuating the rivalry with the House of Laurel, and engaging in casual sexual encounters.

    Always a Bigger Fish: Though Anthony's jovial demeanor may fool anyone, he proves to be a genuine threat when his life is on the line, as evidenced when he squared off against Miyuuki in "Under Siege," nearly stabbing her heart and forcing the Famine Horseman to beat a hasty retreat. However, his luck takes a nosedive during the Atlantic War when Medea turns into Seraphim and leaves him licking his wounds after wiping the floor with him.

    Card-Carrying Villain: Towards the conclusion of ''Under Siege,'' Anthony wholeheartedly and unapologetically embraces the reality that, regardless of her actions or any well-intentioned motives he may have had initially, she will forever be perceived as the villain. Faced with this understanding, she resolves that if she and her Dynasty are destined to play the role of bad guys in the everlasting conflict, they will do so with such malevolence and notoriety that their legacy will endure for centuries.

    Wartime Wedding: Unbeknownst to the world, Anthony and Akane clandestinely tie the knot just before the du Cronos Siege Party embarks on their initial move in the Siege against the Southern Realm. The secret marriage only comes to light when Anthony orchestrates his deceptive rise to the position of Emperor.

    Redemption Rejection: His reaction to Laurel offering genuine forgiveness for the first time, a chance to finally end the decades-long feud between the du Cronos Dynasty and the House of Laurel, was... less than positive:

    Forgiveness? Forgiveness?! You really don't seem to understand, do you? Forgiveness implies a power dynamic where the forgiver holds authority over the forgiven. To forgive, you must assert your dominance over the one seeking forgiveness. And to seek forgiveness, you must be beneath someone. And I am beneath no one!

    Bigotry Exception: Early on, we got an easy glimpse of Anthony's feelings toward humans – not the biggest fan. He shows no outright hostility and they don't seem to be on his regular diet (odd for a dragon), but he's definitely not singing their praises. She quips that humans are likely the only species she has never had a fling with and has no interest in breaking that streak. Furthermore, Anthony strongly suggested to her wife that if she were to come back as a human in her next life, she would still love her without any hesitation. Her love for Akane outweighs her general dislike for humans.

    Ironic Echo: In the early stages of their journey, Anthony, while still focused and motivated enough to hunt down Geist, still had enough self-awareness to know that they were not going to face a mere band of thugs; they were basically a group of four declaring war on a whole realm through a Siege. Anthony was the first one who once asked Akane if she'd prefer to ditch the journey and run away together, implying that as domestic life but vague enough for Akane not to think she was proposing to her, Anthony actually ended the proposal saying that they both deserve way more than what they had. Fast forward to when they were hours away from actually infiltrating the Southern Realm and Akane made a similar proposal to Anthony, and also making a huge emphasis on the fact that she feels they both deserve more than what they had.

    Anthony: "How can you be so damn certain about all of this? Some mornings, I wake up gripped with fear, not knowing where the hell we're even headed. The only thing that eases my mind is knowing you're leading the way, and as long as we stick by your side, we'll be alright. But... [pause] Akane, come back with me. I... I need to be real with you. There are times when I feel like we're on a one-way trip to nowhere, and that's not what I want for me... for us. I don't know exactly where, but I believe we could have something good, just the two of us. We could find a hunting gig, settle down in some cozy mountain town... I truly believe we both deserve more than what we've got right now."

    Cannot Spit it Out: Even as far as early LOTCE, it's heavily suggested that Anthony's attraction to Akane runs deeper than mere physical desire. Ironically, for someone who can't seem to stop running his mouth, he struggles to convey this explicitly, and he eventually gives up trying altogether after Akane informs him that there's no deeper connection between them. This realization likely dawns on him as he sees how his inability to communicate effectively has soured Akane's view of their relationship.

    • Surprisingly, when Akane grants him an opportunity to showcase his feelings for her, Anthony doesn't utter a word. Without warning, she puts his character to the test, and he, without verbalizing anything, succeeds in proving himself, showcasing his affection through actions rather than words, which Akane values above all else.

    Cowardly Lion: Even though Anthony possesses the incredible power of an average dragon, she grapples with doubts and struggles to fully put her abilities to use in "The Lair of the Crimson Emperor." She finds herself hesitating and faltering, unsure of how to jump into action with confidence. However, despite her fear and uncertainty, she musters up the courage to make repeated attempts to contribute and lend a hand to the du Cronos Siege Party during the initial acts of the story. It's not until the Siege arc itself that we see the other side of her coin—a calculated move to play the role of a "coward." Anthony is aware that she may not seem as imposing as her brother and sister, and she cleverly uses this to her advantage. By deliberately appearing less threatening, she seeks to lead Geist to underestimate her ensuring a smoother execution of her plan to secure the Emperor Title.

    Family Values Villain: When life hits hard and Akane bites the dust, Anthony becomes a single dad to their kiddo, taking charge as much as his widowed grieving heart can. He takes the role seriously, becoming a loving and devoted father who takes great pride in watching his son grow and learn. Using his own life experience as a powerful tool, Anthony imparts his twisted sense of wisdom and values upon his child through the story of his daring siege on the Southern Realm, teaching him the virtues of honesty, honor, and taking responsibility for one's actions, hoping to shape Freki into the type of wolf Akane would've been proud of.

    Crusading Widower: The Siege arc was triggered when the du Cronos Dynasty, under the leadership of Anthony and his son Freki, initiated the said Siege against the forces of the Underworld in Anthony's relentless quest to bring his wife back from the dead, by any means necessary.

    Freudian Trio: Of the three main villains, Anthony is the Superego to Warren's Ego and Mia's Id.

    I Love You Because I Can't Control You: A Downplayed version. One of the main reasons Anthony becomes so enamoured with Akane during their journey together is because she doesn't put her on a pedestal as others do, treating her like an infallible, larger-than-life super-dragon (just like people treat Kawren as if he's the saviour of the universe). Akane sees Anthony for who she truly is—an individual with a burning passion, chasing her dreams with focus and dedication. The fact that she can hold her own against her, almost knocking her out with a single blow, is the icing on the cake for Anthony to seriously consider putting a ring on it.

    Anthony: ''She's... a woman filled with so much passion, it's almost overwhelming. Our paths seem to clash at every turn. And you know what? It's driving me crazy, but, it's what makes me so drawn to her even more. Some things in life, my sister, they're beautiful because they're out of reach. She's my forbidden fruit. And that's what makes it all the more special. I don't want to be the one choosing. No, I want her to make that choice, to see the depth of my feelings and... [voice starts cracking] willingly choose to be by my side. It's in that moment, when she picks me, that our connection becomes something truly extraordinary.''

    Really Gets Around: Anthony is the father of at least 4 known children and has a reputation for sleeping around. It's safe to say that the majority of one-night stands are just that: short. Despite his numerous casual encounters, there is a void within him that remains unfulfilled since the loss of his beloved wife, Akane. Deep down, Anthony longs for genuine affection and a lasting connection, seeking solace in his pursuit of love.

    Disappointed by the Motive: Although a large portion of the dragons in the Dynasty are satisfied that Anthony has taken the lead in the war against the House of Laurel, a number of them are disappointed that his primary motivation was to bring his wife back from the dead.

    Big Ego, Hidden Depths: For most of Under Siege and Under World, we see Anthony's playful, flirty and seductive side, a side that Medea finds eerily disturbing, as she herself starts understanding why someone would be drawn to her. However, it is in the serene resting fields of the Underworld where Anthony's true colours shine. Reunited with Akane, a side of Anthony emerges that has remained hidden until now—the tender, romantic, and utterly smitten side. In the presence of her beloved wife, Anthony lets down all barriers, allowing her love and affection to flow freely. Her whispered words carry a profound depth of emotion, revealing the depth of his love and devotion:

    Anthony: ''Ever since you left, I've been feeling so empty and disoriented. I'm constantly searching for something to hold onto, something to give me direction, but everything seems to be slipping through my fingers. Every night, I dream of you and your beautiful face. It's as if you've become a part of me that I can't shake off, no matter how hard I don't try. I look around and see other people, but none of them can ever compare to what we had. My cold body aches for the warmth of your embrace, the comfort that only you can provide. Sometimes, the pain gets too much and I find myself crying out your name, hoping that somehow you could hear me and come back to me.''

    Kick The Dog: In the midst of their heated battle, Anthony purposefully restrains Nicoletta with his massive paw, seemingly aiming to provoke a furious response from Medea and awaken the dormant power of Seraphim within her. The force exerted was not intended to cause fatal harm or inflict incapacitating injuries, yet it carried an air of needless pettiness, serving only to fuel the flames of conflict.

    Death Seeker: Whenever Anthony's inner thoughts are shown, it becomes clear that, at a deep level, she genuinely wants to die. This is not solely driven by a longing to reunite with Akane, but also by a deeper aspiration to break free from what she perceives as a now-mundane and purposeless existence. Her animosity towards Laurel largely stems from the fact that she did not end his life either alongside Akane or shortly after her passing. Instead, she condemned him to a life of perpetual and futile indulgence, which he has known since then to be nothing more than an attempt to fill the void left by Akane.

    Aliens Love Human Food: Anthony, despite being a dragon and therefore carnivorous by default, demonstrates an unexpected taste for non-meat human dishes like pasta and lasagna. He attributes this ability to the adaptability of high-blooded dragons' stomachs, allowing them to experiment with an omnivorous diet. But, hey, don't get it twisted—they're still meat lovers at heart.

    Übermensch: Anthony is a commanding trickster dragon god, recognized as the deity of the living world and adhering solely to her own authority. Her strength of will is striking, as evidenced by her resistance against Okeanus (whose power commands every dragon to submit to him) at point-blank range, even when his capabilities had surged to the scale of an entire planet. Her most notable flaw stems from her all-consuming drive to establish her superiority over Laurel Nasuka, much like Lex Luthor's relentless pursuit to outdo Superman; however, Laurel remains uninterested in engaging in any such power struggle.

    ''Here's the gospel truth: The moment they think they've cracked the code, I twist their whole system.''

    Blue-and-Orange Morality: Anthony has a unique perspective on what's right and wrong. To her, protecting one's own "people" and "territory" is the only moral code that matters. She considers weakness, incompetence, irresponsibility, and disloyalty as unforgivable wrongdoings, even more heinous than outright malevolence. Anthony firmly believes that in their perilous world, one must be strong and fiercely devoted to their kin, no matter how tough and morally ambiguous the choices may be. She's of the opinion that survival demands making tough and often morally questinable choices. She firmly believes that genuine leaders gotta shoulder the burden of their decisions, no matter how tough or unpopular they might be.

    Cult of Personality: Anthony shows proficiency in emotional manipulation and the ability to anticipate people's actions. The majority of his followers, constituting the general populace of the du Cronos Dynasty—excluding those who are directly related to him—are attracted to him primarily due to his exceptional charisma and a manifestation of what can be described as a form of Stockholm syndrome.

    Evil Redhead: The tone set by different artists may vary, but it's worth noting that in most depictions of Anthony, she is portrayed with fiery red hair, which is fitting given her morally ambiguous character. Right from the beginning of ''The Lair of the Crimson Emperor", her questionable ethics are on full display. By the time she is revealed as the ultimate villain in "Under Siege", it's clear that she fully embraces her role as the Big Bad.

    Secret Test of Character: Doubling as a Wacky Marriage ProposalIn ''The Lair of the Crimson Emperor'', Akane confronts Anthony in a rather forceful manner, questioning his loyalty and challenging him to betray her by stabbing her in the back. She presents him with an opportunity, fully aware that, with his dragon strength, his claws would not have many issues piercing her skin. Displaying the test, she turns her back to him, waiting for his response. However, Anthony surprises her by choosing her instead, throwing the knife to the ground. He openly expresses his admiration for Akane, referring to her as an Empress Among Queens, and confesses his desire to witness her reign reach its zenith. In that unexpected moment, Akane pauses, turns around, and sincerely apologizes for her initial doubts... before surprising Anthony with a passionate kiss. And that, my children, was their peculiar way of proposing, sealing their bond in a unique and unconventional manner.

    Villain with Good Publicity: Despite being a morally ambiguous character who has committed numerous despicable acts during his reign, he remains incredibly popular among the Southern realm's population due to his noteworthy speaking abilities. The fact that she is the first Emperor in the history of not just the du Cronos Dynasty, but the realm itself, to become a dragon god may have benefited her reputation as well.

    Classic Villain: Anthony embodies the very essence of a classic villain. Her insatiable thirst for Power, Pride, Envy, Lust, Wrath, Sloth, and Greed are second to none, and the only thing that appears to be absent from her arsenal of vices is Gluttony, unless you count her insatiable hunger for sexual pleasure.

    Common Law Marriage: Technically, he and Akane never had an official wedding. But they still call each other "spouse," and Akane always wears the royal arm bracelet, which is the dragon version of a wedding ring. They lived together, had a cub, the whole deal. However, the dragons and wolves never really gave their stamp of approval; they just kind of let it slide (probably out of fear of being banished or worse) or just pretended not to notice. But hey, good luck trying to correct Anthony or Akane when they call each other "husband," "spouse'' or "wife." I dare you. I double-dare you motherfucker.

    Uptight Loves Wild: Inverted. The irony is in the air when Anthony, a dragon who is seen as an unstable force without self-control, prone to deception and backstabbing, and who will do anything to exercise her twisted sense of free will, genuinely falls in love with Akane, a wolf who represents an allegory to authority, conquest, and control.

    Believing their Own Lies: Anthony's got this peculiar thing going on where she can't seem to admit when she's messed up, and it's like she genuinely believes she's the one who's been wronged... despite the fact that there's a mountain of proof that she's basically a walking disaster zone with a chronic habit of betrayal.

    At Least I Admit It: When they met for the last time, he acknowledged to Laurel that he had indeed cheated, stolen, lied, fucked, and manipulated his way into power... but he owns up to it. The expression on Laurel's face suggested there might be more to her backstory and her journey to becoming a goddess that she wants Medea and the audience to let on.

    Evil Debt Collector: Crossing Anthony financially is never a good idea; he always collects what's owed. Mia requested a custom armor forged from Anthony's scales, incorporating pricey draconian steel and other rare alloys. In exchange, she was appointed to serve as Freki's enforcer for the next twenty years.

    Single-Target Sexuality: Downplayed. Anthony's very open to affection, but there's only one being who's ever truly captured her heart—her late wife, Akane. That doesn't mean she's been cold to her other lovers and flings—far from it! She's been kind, caring, and respectful to all of them, but it's just not the same as the all-consuming, "till-death-do-us-part" love she had for Akane. It's like the difference between enjoying a tasty snack and savoring a delectable feast—both are good, but one is just out of this world. And with Anthony, that's what Akane was—a love that will never be forgotten, no matter how much time passes. Let's just say Anthony is bisexual Akane-romantic.

    Winged Humanoid: Given that Anthony spends most of his time in his human form, this is a given. The majority of the story is spent with two graceful, feathered, yet noticeably damaged and burned-looking wings. This turned out to be an indication that Anthony hadn't fulfilled her full potential as a god, for during the Atlantic War, Laurel helped him acknowledge his true self and pushed him to unleash his true divine essence, sprouting four additional wings.

    Knife Nut: Under those wrestling pants, he has a vast collection of blades, and he is a terrifyingly proficient user of them. At least more proficient than what Medea was informed.

    Good Wings, Evil Wings: Zigzagged comparing them with Anthony’s dragon deity counterpart, Laurel. 

    • Anthony's wings evoke a sense of awe and grandeur akin to that of the denizens of the Heavenly Host. Yet, there's an undeniable ominous quality to them. The feathers bear a striking resemblance to those of a mighty eagle, but they are shrouded in the deepest shade of black, as though consumed by the very fires of Hell itself. 
    • On the other hand, Laurel's wings are bat-like dragon wings, fitting, she's a dragon, but these wings might be misleading people into thinking she's a demon. However, Laurel's wings are pure white, and they're perfect.
    • Later, she does this to herself. Since his regular dragon wings when he became a dragon god were only two, but they looked slightly injured and burnt-like, in contrast, when he ''Awakened'' during the Atlantic War, Anthony's six wings now look angelic and majestic, enforcing the notion that he has ascended to complete godhood once and for all.

    Love Hungry: It's somewhat implied that all he wants is for someone to love him and put him first, and she is constantly frustrated by the fact that, while a number of characters care about her, they always care about someone or something else more. He believes that no one has ever truly loved him since Akane died.

    Hot-Blooded: He is du Cronos. Tons of screaming and aggressive forcefulness are to be expected from him.

    Power Dynamics Kink: Even though he has a narcissistic personality, he prefers it when his lover is the dominant one, as was the case in his marriage to Akane.

    Unproblematic Prostitution: Pretty much Invoked. The du Cronos Dynasty's territory has a few brothels and even sanctuaries that practice sacred prostitution. These places are full of dragons, wolves, and any kind of creature who worships Anthony, as they're all welcome there to offer service and/or request it. That being said, the places are portrayed with the sex workers being happy or at least comfortable with their lives, with no complaints about their work or environment. The reason is that sex workers enjoy the god's protection, and there have been instances where they call Anthony's name, and in a blink of an eye, the god is there to protect them from a dangerous ''client''. Anthony herself is very fond of visiting the brothels in disguise, so she can check up on the staff to make sure no one is being forced to or is unhappy with the lifestyle. The du Cronos Dynasty is indeed a safe environment for sex workers, and Anthony is continuously making sure of it.

    Fallen Angel: The first one, as Owen was cast after him and Amy was never casted out. Anthony was cast out from the southern realm to the human world for the sin of... being born. Although in this case, this was a decision made to help him survive, unfortunately, he never saw it that way.

    Cain and Abel: In a brutal and shocking display of jealousy and resentment, Anthony assumes the role of Cain to Owen's Abel, taking out her frustrations and anger on her innocent victim with cold, calculated precision. Her actions are so brutal and merciless that they not only bring about Owen's untimely death but also leave his body in such a state that the usual funeral customs are pretty much off the table.

    Chronic Backstabbing Disorder: It's almost a running theme that whenever Anthony teams up with someone, it usually ends with her kneeing them in the face or ditching them. You'd think people would learn not to partner with her. And that's precisely why Akane was hesitant to let herself fall in love with Anthony. Akane knew all too well about Anthony's track record of betraying people once they no longer served her purpose. But luckily, Anthony was head over heels in love with Akane, and that kept her from ever considering such a betrayal. Love can be a powerful thing, even for someone like Anthony.

    Beyond Redemption: Anthony sees herself as someone who can't be saved, redeemed, or fixed, and Medea initially agrees with this view. But over time, Medea comes to realize that it's not up to her to decide if Anthony can be redeemed or not; that's something only Laurel can determine. Ultimately, Anthony embraces her blinding light and declares her commitment, fully accepting the power and hatred that come with it.

    Anthony: "If this is the part I must act out, let it be my magnum opus, like a masterful symphony."

    Heel-Face Revolving Door: Anthony is a magnificent bitch, willing to do whatever it takes to ensure the supremacy of her dynasty and the fulfillment of her own goals. She has no qualms about playing both sides of the field, forming alliances, and then betraying them when it suits her needs. His alliance with the House of Laurel during the Atlantic War is a slight exception, as she knows that she cannot defeat the mighty Oceanus alone.

    ''Trying to decipher Anthony's intentions is like trying to navigate a minefield blindfolded — calculated danger at every turn, yet impossible to anticipate.''

    Casual Kink: That Power Dynamics Kink mentioned above is mostly focused on Akane, but overall, Anthony has another kink that she seems to enjoy exploring with different lovers and partners. Breeding. Anthony is really into the idea of getting his lovers pregnant. That being said, she seems more interested in the act itself rather than actually becoming a parent. Having three kids doesn't seem all that strange now, does it? Who knows? Maybe Freki, Ma'at, and Neith aren't the only kiddos Anthony's got running around.

    Ambassador: In ''The Lair of the Crimson Emperor'', Anthony takes on the role of a mouthpiece for the du Cronos Siege Party, using her sharp tongue to defuse potentially explosive situations. Her priority is always to seek resolutions to conflicts that go in her team's favour, but when all else fails and the Siege Party is threatened, she just lets the rest of the team kill everyone in sight.

    Beware the Silly Ones: Anthony has the flamboyant appearance, the booming voice, and the show-stopping demeanour (and sometimes even the outfit) of a circus ringmaster. But don't let the theatrics fool you. Not only is Anthony the god of the Upper World, but she's also the patron deity of one of the two top military forces in the story, and only the House of Laurel can give them a run for their money.

    No-Sell: Anthony is immune to venom-type poisons, as evidenced by the fact that her blood is significantly more effective than any human-made poison or dragon venom.

    Absolute Cleavage: Anthony's royal outfit has a plunging neckline that nearly reaches her waist. 

    Leitmotif: For most of the story, Anthony's theme is La Tristesse du Diable. Upon ''awakening'' during the Atlantic War, his theme switches to Hail to the King.

    Combat Pragmatist: When it comes to hand-to-hand combat, Anthony may not be the strongest or most skilled fighter, but what she lacks in brawn, she makes up for in brains. With her cunning and unwavering determination, she's not afraid to resort to dirty tactics to come out on top. In a fight against a more formidable opponent, she'll use every trick in the book to secure her victory.

    • Case in point: In her initial assault on Nicoletta and Medea, she sought to behead them with her venomous dragon claws while they weren't looking, alone in a darkened room.

    Chivalrous Pervert: It's a rare moment where Anthony will not make a pass or perverted comment at an attractive female or male in his presence, both allies AND (especially) opponents, and No Sense of Personal Space is fully at work if she takes interest in someone. Nonetheless, sexual abusers and people who make moves toward her female companions will have their heads turned upside down before they do anything, and all of his partners are reciprocating/consenting to bed her.

    Big Bad: Although her intentions may be understandable, Anthony is, ultimately, the main antagonist of Under Siege. A good chunk of the bad things in Norrington's Desire were, at least indirectly, because of him and his dynasty. He's the bigwig, or sometimes even the direct parent, of most of the nastiest dragons that the V7D has to deal with and was essentially designed to be the Satan in this universe. In the third book, she finally comes to terms with the fact that she has no desire for forgiveness and has no interest in ending the long-standing feud between the du Cronos Dynasty and the House of Laurel. In fact, she fully embraces the supposed villainous role that her family plays in the rivalry, cementing her status as the story's major obstacle.

    Poisonous Person: A very rare trait for a du Cronos, Anthony has the ability to channel poison through her claws. The poison is just Anthony's blood, though. 

    Vile Villain, Laughable Lackey: Pretty much inverted. He's a Laughably Evil Psychopathic Manchild compared to his Evil Matriarch lover Akane, a cold No-Nonsense Nemesis and Straight Woman.

    Shipper on Deck: Picture this: Freki and his ladies, Mary and Megan, were about to get to a passionate session of ups and downs, when all of a sudden, Anthony is seen in the corner of the room! But she wasn't there to tell them off, she gives the girls the green light and even encourages them to not only get freaky with her son but to have a cosmic explosion of pleasure with him. Mary and Megan were left scratching their heads, but it was crystal clear to the du Cronos that this was Anthony's bizarre way of showing his approval. Ah, family dynamics...they always keep things interesting!

    Berserk Button: Anthony absolutely does not stand anyone looking down on him, considering him weak, or even worthy of pity. This in particular has led to the death of Geist and Owen du Cronos.

    • Medea also discovered the hard way that calling Anthony a coward is not a wise move. The moment that insult leaves your lips, the flamboyant dragon drops her playful antics and transforms into a serious and menacing snake-like presence. In fact, the only thing that prevented Anthony from incinerating the Eye of Laurel on the spot was a mutual truce that had been established. However, she was fuming with wrath and seething with anger at being labelled a coward.
    • It seems he really can't stand being ignored or treated as unimportant, visibly flinching and shooting a glare at Laurel when she casually dismisses any curiosity about why he became so interested in Medea.

    Inferiority Superiority Complex: Anthony has a tendency to oscillate between self-aggrandizement and self-loathing. She can be full of bravado, flaunting her power and accomplishments, yet at the same time, she struggles with the feeling that she's a monster undeserving of love and kindness, despite her desperate longing for it.

    Pragmatic Villainy: Like father, like son, after all: Anthony might come off as a real nasty piece of work and control freak, but she's got brains to spare. One of her sneakiest tricks is her ability to make people think she's A-OK. She's charming, manipulative, and can be pretty reasonable when you meet her face-to-face. She only starts plotting against others when she's not in any immediate danger. And even then, she usually waits until she's got the upper hand or lets someone else do the dirty work.

    Villain Takes an Interest: Anthony is a dragon of whims and ever-changing interests. There exist a handful of individuals whom she deems worthy adversaries, and her conduct toward them can vary from assisting to obstructing, driven by motives known only to her. When Annie crosses paths with you, brace yourself for a wild ride, whether you seek it or not.

    Above the Influence: The specific reason Anthony is a Chivalrous Pervert and not a dangerous sleaze. He's utterly shameless in ogling people, gushing about breasts and buttocks, has little regard for other's personal space and repeatedly states his desire to bed someone, but he'd never force himself on someone or take advantage of moments of weakness.

    Awesome McCoolname: Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking - Anthony du Cronos might not be the most intimidating name for a dragon, or a god for that matter. I mean, it's like calling a lion "Scratch" or a shark "Bubbles". But don't worry, folks, because Anthony's just a pseudonym, her real name's way more befitting: Anima du Cronos! Now THAT is a name that commands respect. It means "Soul of Kronos", which is like the ultimate power move.

    Cute Little Fangs: Very pronounced canine teeth, much like other dragons, as befitting of a trickster like Anthony.

    A Sinister Clue: The main villain of Under Siege as well as the villain protagonist of The Lair of the Crimson Emperor. With Anthony, we find out that du Cronos Dragons (as in, those who have the du Cronos blood running through their veins) are naturally left handed. While some, like Freki, exhibit ambidextrous capabilities, these are usually developed through intentional practice rather than being naturally endowed..

    O.O.C is Serious Business: Anthony's deep-seated trauma and disgust towards her despicable father are reminded to us as she encounters Geist in Hell. Without a word, she grabs Geist by the throat and utters a cold one-liner before he is completely disintegrated by a powerful burst of light. There are no outbursts of screaming or yelling, no trash-talking, no self-aggrandizing boasts—only an intense glare that conveys the depth of her anger towards the dragon who had caused her so much pain.

    Anthony: ''Good riddance''...

    Ethical Slut: She clearly cares about respecting her partners' boundaries, ensuring their mental well-being, and engaging in risk-free sex with them. Anthony boasts about how there's no need for somebody to feel anxious about exploring their physical desires, emphasizing the importance of embracing sexual intimacy to the fullest. According to Anthony, indulging in pleasure and prioritizing personal desires is the ultimate path to living a fulfilling life.

    Immune to Fate: According to Anthony, mortals lack the power to change their destiny—but he can. He insists that his seemingly more erratic actions are actually meant to improve their fates or guiding them in the right direction. Yet, with Anthony being who he is, it's uncertain how accurate these assertions are, if at all.

    Power Gives You Wings:  Or rather, power gives you more wings— four more, to be precise.

    Strong Family Resemblance: Anthony's male form looks nothing like either of his dragon parents except for his mother's eyes. This is because his male form was stolen from a Canadian young man and is not his true male form. However, his female form is a spitting image of his mother, but younger and more athletic.

    Even Evil has Standards: Even though Anthony has a reputation of being totally unhinged and having a chronic backstabbing disorder, she really can't stand the likes of Valentino, Warren, and especially Oceanus. She refers to them as heartless monsters, and let's be honest, they kinda are. Sure, she's not an angel herself, but hey, at least she's never harmed children and is not out there trying to mess with people's free will, he loves free will.

    Mr. Vice Guy: The vice in question is lust. However, she's what you'd call an Ethical Slutsomeone who embraces their sexuality but always prioritizes consent and respects others' boundaries.

    Protagonist Journey to Villain: ''In The Lair of the Crimson Emperor'' centers on Anthony, starting off not exactly as a paragon of heroic virtue but her motives, while merely personal, start pretty understandable, as she's just trying to get to the Southern Realm where she was banished as a cub, along with her younger brother, to find her twin sister and usurp the throne from their father in retaliation for abusing and killing their mother. Everything goes downhill slowly but surely as Anthony becomes more selfish and vain, and while initially ok with either of the three siblings becoming Emperor, eventually decides she deserves that spot. Along with Akane, they start plotting and scheming, which eventually leads to the downfall of the Southern Realm, the death of Geist du Cronos, the betrayal towards her brother Owen and cementing the status of Anthony as the dragon who will eventually become the Big Bad of Norrington's Desire: Under Siege.

    Spin-Offspring: Her grandchild Juni Stivron fills her place in the new generation as the co-protagonist along with Gerard Way and Donatello.

    Troll: The more serious and uptight a character, the more likely Anthony is to mock them or do things that irritate them.

    Physical God: She became a dragon god shortly before the events of Norrington's DesireHe possesses the ability to switch between a human and dragon shape and has the capacity to sire demigod offspring, either as a father in his male form or as a bearer in her female form. His "divine" shape is his dragon form; however, given its entirely physical nature, he lacks control over the appearance of his age. Despite having a lifespan of 2000 years, he can undergo the aging process and may eventually experience senility..

    Driven to Madness: Once Anthony ascends to godhood, she takes pleasure in toying with her victims' minds by warping their perception of reality as her preferred method of punishment. Her sadistic tendencies make her a formidable foe for those who cross her. Nevertheless, Medea, acting as Laurel's top enforcer, appears to be immune to Anthony's mental machinations, or at the very least, exceptionally resilient to their effects.

    Sex for Solace: It's all but stated that, following an unsuccessful attempt to negotiate with Laurel for the return of his deceased wife's soul, Anthony sought solace in casual sex as a coping mechanism for his grief. This coping strategy eventually transformed into a habitual practice.

    Parental Favoritism: Laurel mentions that Freki is Anthony's ''pride and joy'' and their interactions... serve as unequivocal proof of the accuracy of this statement.

    Evil Is Petty: Anthony, for all her grandiose aspirations and relatively understandable motives, has a tendency to partake in cruel and petty actions, be it in retaliation to criticism or merely due to her own whims.

    • Anthony doesn't even try to hide the fact that the main reason for her betrayal and subsequent killing of her brother, Owen, was due to his perfect and well-liked persona that got on her nerves.
    • With sheer force, she restrains Nicoletta beneath her massive dragon paw, enough to immobilize but not to inflict severe injury. Her only purpose was to push Medea's buttons, an act of needless cruelty. 

    Visionary Villain: Annie envisions a future in which the Du Cronos Dynasty launches a global insurrection of du Cronos dragons to become the only superpower in control of the dragons. She does admit, though, that Freki's plan to control the dragon realms through underground influences is less bombastic yet more practical.

    Technician Versus Performer: Anthony takes on the role of the performer while her son plays the technician. She's all about the theatrics, putting on a grand show and being flashy. She's no dumbass though, she's actually really smart, but she enjoys chaos and letting things unfold in wild and unpredictable ways rather than sticking to a detailed master plan.

    Enfant Terrible: During his time as a dragon cub, Anthony earned a reputation for his volatile and aggressive demeanor, particularly when measured against human standards. His actions extended to attempting to murder his adoptive parents, creating a tumultuous relationship with the well-intentioned couple. Upon reaching 20, Anthony successfully executed his murderous tendencies. When bigger threats came along, Anthony flipped the script from "power is everything" to a sneakier strategy of winning through deception.

    Author Appeal: I'm not even gonna try to hide my thing for dominant, strong-willed and commanding women. Anthony shows herself with a confident and outgoing demeanour, yet it is only a small facet of her complex personality. In private, she unveils her submissive sexual nature, particularly towards dominant women who embody a commanding and even violent disposition. Her romantic inclinations gravitate towards assertive and aggressive partners who display unwavering strength, a trait that may stem from her own desire for freedom from all forms of constraint. Any wonder why Akane is considered by virtually anyone her One True Love?

    Even Evil Can be Loved: It was repeatedly stated throughout Norrington's Desire that Anthony and Akane were madly in love, and it's heavily implied she was the first being she genuinely, selflessly, and purely loved. No wonder why Freki is worldwide considered his favourite child. 

    Ambiguous Disorder: She constantly craves attention and is overly flirty, showing signs of histrionic personality disorder.

    Non-Human Non-Binary: Anthony is a dragon who can shift between genders, with a male form that exudes the aura of a dashing and suave brunette man, and a female form that emanates the energy of a fierce and fiery redhead, both appearing to be in their prime years of youthful vitality.

    Camp Gay: Anthony is a real charmer, with a larger-than-life personality that's as androgynous as it is flirtatious. And with the ability to turn heads and make hearts flutter, it's no wonder that Anthony is known as the du Cronos Prince - and with her love for all genders, she's got plenty of hearts to choose from!

    You've Outlived your Usefulness: Once she secured the throne for herself and was sure Geist wouldn't stand up again, Anthony seemingly was ready to finish him off along with her brother and sister... only to brutally Pele Kicking a concussion into Owen's head, and knock Amy out with her trademark knee to the face to make sure she wouldn't intervene in the attack

    • However, after destroying the realm, we learn that Amy's attack was faked and that she and Anthony had been plotting Owen's demise all along.

    Defiant to the End: During the Atlantic War when Seraphim  forced him to fight her. Down, out, and all but defeated, he clawed his way up at the feet of what's probably the most dominant force in Norrington's Desire's lore. Knowing he was going to lose, but (as is definitely his nature) remaining defiant, Anthony mimicked Medea's "Deliverance" gesture. Seraphim didn't respond, staring at him with visible confusion... so Anthony slapped her across the face. You could feel the exact moment that Seraphim went from slightly merciful to PISSED OFF. Cue Super Atomic Big Boot of Death.

    Desperately Craves Affection: One of Anthony's major flaws is that she can't let go of the people she holds dear. It's like she's incapable of watching them get hurt or taken away from her. She's constantly seeking the love and approval of others. And when things take a turn for the worse, she'll do whatever it takes to protect her wife or, when that fails, bring her back from the Underworld. And it doesn't help that when she was a cub, she got separated from her mom and then found out that her dad was the one who took her out, leaving her in the hands of a couple of humans who favored her younger sibling more.

    Dying Curse: Just as Anthony was about to strike the final blow, Geist's body convulsed, blood spewing from his mouth. With a fiery glare fixed upon his child, he unleashed his wrath, his jaws parting to reveal sharp fangs, and uttered his ominous proclamation:

    Geist du Cronos: "I hope that your life is long enough to witness the day when your entire world ignites in flames! And as you take your final breath, my visage will be the last image burned into your mind! At that moment, you will comprehend that every torment and calamity henceforth is a consequence of your own doing!"

    Amazon Chaser: Anthony has always been drawn to power and authority, both as a dragon and as a deity. However, despite having various lovers, commitment and marriage were never on her mind until she met Akane, the acting commanding officer of a pack of wolves and future guide for the du Cronos Siege Party. Anthony was immediately taken by Akane's strength, no-nonsense attitude, and ability to put her in her place.

    Good Parents: Anthony may have her flaws as a dragon, as a god, or even as a... anything, but when it comes to being a parent to Freki, she takes the role surprisingly seriosuly. She is always seen showing pride in her son's abilities and being fiercely protective of him. Anthony is also dedicated and supportive of Freki's pursuits, and she doesn't shy away from bragging about her son's might. He even goes as far as to say that facing off against Freki is akin to signing one's own death warrant, rather than simply engaging in a fight. That being said...

    Parental Neglect: Anthony's lack of emotional support towards the twins has left them yearning for her attention and love. Anthony often shows favoritism towards their brother Freki, hoping to motivate the twins to work harder to prove their worth. This approach eventually backfires, as it leads to a clash for the position of Tribal Chief in the du Cronos Dynasty, where Freki emerges victorious. However, when the twins refuse to acknowledge Freki as the victor and tribal chief, Anthony disowns them and banishes them from the family, cutting all ties with them and no longer considering them as her sons, which leads to...

    Abusive Parents: Damn, did we just come full cycle? Yeah, when Anthony mentioned he no longer considers the twins his sons, he meant it. You could see it by how nonchalant he was when Freki told him Nick had passed away. It's fair to assume that Anthony never cared about any of his children not named Freki. Anthony's lack of concern for any child other than Freki was painfully clear.

    Anthony: Be still, you troublesome and disappointing excuse of a dragon. The Emperor is speaking. It appears that all you care about is the destruction and annihilation of the life my son and I have painstakingly built. I find you most bothersome among all the dragons in my Dynasty. I only allow your presence because I wish to remain in your mother's good favor. But be assured, had you been fathered by any other dragon, banishment would have been the least of your concerns.

    Fiery Redhead + Icy Blue Eyes: Female Anthony is easily distinguishable from her male counterpart by her vibrant red hair and electric blue eyes, a striking contrast to the brunette hair and tan complexion of her male form.

    Hates Their Parent: After discovering that Geist had raped and killed his mother and that he had eaten her wings as a newborn cub, he determined that he had to put Geist down in the most humiliating way possible.

    Large Ham: She speaks with the bombastic accent and flamboyant demeanour of an actual circus ringmaster.

    Forced Transformation: Anthony was forced to transform into a wolf on a hunting trip with Akane by a black mage sent by Laurel as punishment for their prohibited interbreeding. Anthony was stuck in the shape of a black wolf for the entire year.

    • It's also all but stated that Anthony and Akane made good use of that temporary wolf form to conceive Freki.

    The Devil: He fits this role in Norrington's Desire by being the main antagonist to the House of Laurel. His male shape, female shape and the androgynous teenager shape known as The Drifter represent the Unholy Trinity to Laurel Nasuka, Medea Norrington and Nicoletta da Firenze's Holy Trinity.

    Divinely Appearing Demons: Anthony du Cronos is described as having a ''stunning yet tragic beauty'', even as a handsome brunette long-haired pretty boy, a gorgeous redhead with Hartman Hips or an androgynous teenager, the Devil always looks beautiful. 

    Manipulative Bastard: He's perfectly capable of tugging anyone's strings and convincing them to believe what he wants them to believe (the only exceptions being probably his son and his late wife), and he devises a variety of simple and complex plans that nearly always work in his favour. 

    • Exploited her younger brother's love and dedication, manipulating him into fighting their father to weaken him, enabling her to join the battle when they were both worn out, securing a simple victory and claiming rulership... and thanking him by pele kicking his brains out. 
    • This even extends to his own son, Ma'at. Who, desperate to be accepted back into the family, accepted Anthony's task to ''hunt down'' Medea. Aware that Ma'at stood no chance against Medea, Anthony exploited his son's longing for paternal acceptance as a means to test Medea's might.

    Combo Platter Powers:  Anthony's got this bunch of totally unrelated superpowers that have nothing to do with the Sun: She can transform into different people (except her eye color's a dead giveaway), she's got an uncanny hold over snakes and slippery reptiles, can teleport like a ghost, is able to imbue life even to inorganic objects, and her deadliest trick is making your deepest fears come to life if you even think about harming her.

    Asleep for Days: At the beginning of Under Siege, Anthony wakes up to the realization that she's been out cold for a whopping seven years prior to the book's events. Like a smooth panther rousing from its deep sleep, she stretches and flexes her plotting muscles, all set to unleash her masterful schemes. And where better to begin her wicked plans than with a little visit to her precious son?

    What You Are in the Dark: Just before the Siege, Anthony finds herself in the Underworld, completely isolated and left with only her own thoughts (and Laurel's aura, naturally). In this rare moment of solitude, she contemplates the series of mistakes that led her to this point, and even considers making amends and ending the bitter feud between the House of Laurel and the du Cronos Dynasty. However, after some reflection, she decides that the chaos and drama that the feud brings is simply too enjoyable to let go of, and ultimately decides to embrace it with open wings.

    Power is Sexy: Anthony's romantic preferences lean heavily towards those who possess power and authority, as evidenced by her admission that all her past partners have been able to ''conquer'' her. Her attraction to dominant partners is so strong that she has even said, "I'll love you if you can tame and dominate me" to Akane. Given her inclination towards domination, it is perhaps unsurprising that her children are often feared and have a reputation for being intimidating.

    ''Unrestrained madness leads to chaos, but channeling insanity? That's how you unlock the purest form of creativity.''

    Story-Breaker Power: Anthony's main defensive ability is the control of people's fears. Anthony has the power to orchestrate psychological battles against her victim, forcing them to confront their fears. Usually, this is done by turning whatever the target comes in contact with into an abomination that closely resembles their worst fear and is hell-bent on doing significant damage to them.

    • Even though this is a strong ability on its own, the fact that it is triggered by the mere idea of attempting to attack Anthony serves as an excellent example of this trope. There are only two ways to get around this: either the target shifts their focus to something they see as being far more important, or the target is delivered by someone who has no intent to hurt Anthony. Even then, Anthony's ability to mindscrew someone's fears will trigger again the moment the target does something autonomously with the intention of attacking the dragon.

    Knight Templar: He is a fierce guardian of The du Cronos Dynasty and its members, with an unwavering determination to ensure their safety and prosperity, regardless of the sacrifices required to achieve these goals.

    Start My Own: In the aftermath of being denied the position of Emperor in the Southern Realm, Anthony's thirst for power and revenge reached a boiling point. Fueled by an intense desire to reclaim what she saw as rightfully hers, she chose to ignite a blaze that consumed half the realm, aiming to forge a new beginning alongside her wife and steadfast supporters.

    Satanic Archetype: In contrast to Medea Norrington as a Messianic ArchetypeAnthony, the offspring of a formidable Emperor both reviled and revered, was once stripped of her angelic wings, her very identity erased and remade under many aliases. She rose against her own kin in a rebellion, relies on madness, her once glorious wings scorched beyond recognition, now serving as a symbol of her fall from grace. Her charisma is as lethal as her venom, with a disarming charm that lures others into her grasp. Still, she doesn't shy away from being manipulative and self-serving, frequently showing contemptuous disregard for those she deems beneath her. Her affinity for serpents and their venomous ways further cements her reputation as the Morning Star.
    • Anthony is indeed a Satanic Archetype. But embodies the archetypal image of a deceitful fallen angel, akin to the likes of Milton's Satan, rather than the stereotypical portrayal of a morally simple, blatantly malevolent ruler of Hell. Her character is imbued with moral ambiguity, as she stands at the crossroads of good and evil, driven by a powerful inner turmoil that blurs the line between right and wrong. Her actions are often driven by conflicting motives.
    • Considering all symbolism, Medea is Jesus, Laurel is God and Anthony is, well, Satan.

    Child by Rape: Anthony's mother was repeatedly raped by Emperor Geist du Cronos, and he ultimately got her pregnant.

    Arrogant Kung-Fu Guy: The antagonist in the story who embodies pride and hubris the greatest. And that's saying something given that Warren is one of the other bad guys.

    Even Evil has Loved Ones: She constantly shows her love, support, and pride in Freki, and basically the entire reason for the siege is to get Akane back to his side.

    Rape is a Special Kind of Evil: Anthony is disgusted by rape overall, which is the most offensive form of crime in the Southern Dragon Realm as long as he was emperor and (current) patron god. 

    Interspecies Romance: Anthony is a dragon, although Akane is a she-wolf, and he's had flings with an elf, a giant fae, and a dwarf. The only species Anthony explicitly mentions she wouldn't sleep with... are humans.

    Devil Complex: Averted. She most definitely is Norrington's Desire's version of Satan.

    Inherently Attractive Profession: Anthony's got a thing for belly dancers, and we ain't just talking about the moves! The outfit is apparently a crucial part of the deal, and rumour has it that even Akane used to dress up like one to please her in the bedroom.

    Dull Surprise: When Nicoletta becomes the first one of the V7D to sneak up within a hair's breadth of her, Anthony doesn't react with pure surprise. It's more like she's intrigued by the fact that it wasn't Medea the first one that could be able get that close to her. She's super adamant that no one can lay a finger on her without confronting their deepest fears. And she's got this fascination with the idea that Nicoletta either bypassed her fears to get straight to her or straight-up conquered them.

    One True Love: Her reputation as a Chivalrous Pervert and a father of four may raise a few eyebrows, but it is no secret that Akane held the most special place in her heart. Akane's death hit Anthony like a wrecking ball, igniting a fire within her that led her to ascend as a dragon god, driven by the singular goal of orchestrating a Siege to the Underworld to reunite with her beloved.

    Polar Opposite Twins: With her twin Amy.

    • Anthony prefers to cheat or trick her way to victory, in contrast to her proud warrior sister. 
    • Anthony seems to be an Ethical Slut, while Amy is a Romantic Asexual who is only engaged to war effort.
    • Anthony's wings are feathered and fully black, and Amy's are more dragon-like, with black/orange scales.
    • Amy's almost incapable of lying, while Anthony is a well-known manipulator.

    Did you Just Punch Out Cthulhu?: On the receiving end of this. Although despite overwhelming the sun god, the V7D didn't secure a complete victory; he merely retreated upon realizing that Laurel extended protection not just to Medea but to the entire V7D..

    Fatal Flaw: She has Six out of the Seven Deadly Sins:

    • Greed: Laurel captures it perfectly: "She won't rest. She won't cease. She'll continue her relentless rampage, leaving a trail of destruction in her wake. She takes and takes, consumed by a sense of entitlement, believing she deserves it all. And she won't halt until Akane is by her side again. But here's the thing, there's no assurance that when they're reunited, they won't be unstoppable together, bringing an end to it all. The cycle of taking may just intensify, as their unity becomes an unyielding force."
    • Envy: It's almost tragic how, throughout The Lair of the Crimson Emperor, Anthony's motivations go from ''I must avenge the death of my mother and the abuse me and my siblings endured'' to ''The title of Emperor must be mine and mine alone, my siblings don't deserve it''.
    • Lust: Anthony's second to biggest flaw. Her list of bedmates will attest to that, it's hard to say how many bacchanalian reunions he has hosted, it's simpler to say that Anthony lives for his self-indulgement. Makes you wonder if he's a stand-in for both Lucifer and Asmodeus. He's also confirmed to have a total amount of seven children, each of them representing a Deadly Sin.
    • Pride: Arguably, Anthony's biggest flaw. After securing the Emperor chair for herself, she made a huge boast about it and kissed her girlfriend on the spot, to drive the point home. She also is incredibly dramatic and loves to make as much as the situation about herself. It's worth noting that she had the opportunity to settle the score between his Dynasty and Laurel's Temple by simply accepting Laurel's sincere forgiveness, but Anthony's hubris stopped him. He thought forgiveness implied superiority.
    • Wrath: Anthony is very easily provoked and will find a way to retaliate as soon as possible towards any perceived insult, even if it's not an insult. Geist and Kawren died horribly, undignified deaths simply because they had pity on Anthony.
    • Sloth: Spent a good chunk of the (or, to be honest, the whole) Under Pressure asleep, and in Under Siege, she keeps waiting for Medea to meet her rather than taking any proactive approach until the eponymous Underworld Siege takes place. In Under World, she's basically forced to act since, you know, Oceanus is around threatening to send everyone to oblivion!


    Psychopathic WoManchild: He has his moments...

    Abdicate the Throne: After becoming a dragon deity, Anthony named Freki du Cronos as the new Tribal Chief of the du Cronos Dynasty. 

    Smug Snake: The epitome of arrogance, cunning, and haughtiness... And completely confused and taken aback whenever things don't go her way. It's funny that the snake is revered as one of her sacred animals.


    WARNING: NORRINGTONs DESIRE SPOILERS AHEAD

    The Drifter's Tropes

    Nice Hat: The Drifter wears a simple and practical outfit befitting their moniker, with a wide-brimmed hat that completes the look. This is in stark contrast to Anthony's flamboyant and flashy fashion sense.

    Creepy Child: The Drifter persona brings out a side of Anthony that is both eerie and peaceful, with a disquieting sense of calm that is reminiscent of the enigmatic Urizen. Despite the chaos and turmoil that often surround her, she remains remarkably composed and undisturbed, as though she exists in a realm beyond the reach of mortal emotion.

    Face of an Angel, Mind of a Demon: Played straight regarding the role of The Drifter claiming to be sent by Laurel to guide Medea, turns out they were Anthony's dream avatar.

    Guardian Angel: Throughout the first book, The Drifter appears to counsel and "assist" Medea, until it is discovered that The Drifter is Anthony's avatar.

    Bunny-Ears Lawyer: The Drifter loves playing with toys just as much as Anthony loves Coke.

    Devil in Disguise: Played straight, The Drifter is Anthony's avatar while she's asleep.

    Dual Age Modes: From 15-year-old to 35-year-old looking Anthony.

    Evil Counterpart: To Urizen. They're both unnerving, serene, quiet, and soft-spoken minions of Medea and Anthony, but The Drifter is a manifestation of The Villain's dreams, whilst Urizen is a manifestation of The Hero's memories.

    Creepy Monotone: They speak in a rather monotonous voice pitch.

    The Unfought: The Drifter is never fought by Medea or any other member of The V7D; justified, as they were assigned to gather information on Medea, not to make her upset.

    Dissonant Serenity: With their Kubrick Stare, their robotic, stone-cold personality... it's hard to tell how ''good'' The Drifter really is. It's also quite surprising that they're a reflection of Anthony's Large Ham self.

    The Drifter: The character presents themselves and dresses like one. However, they're far from a heroic example.

    Supernatural Gold Eyes:The Drifter's eyes hold an eerie mystery, with irises shifting ominously from fiery orange to brilliant gold as one gazes from the outer edge to the sinister pupil.

    Ambiguous Gender: The gender of The Drifter is never disclosed, and The V7D even bet on what gender The Drifter truly has... thus far no response has been offered, therefore it's possible that they're just a sexless individual.

    Bishōnen: In stark contrast to the mature and draconic presence of Anthony, The Drifter's appearance is that of a stunningly beautiful and androgynous youngster, with age and gender that are difficult to discern. Their otherworldly allure is both mesmerizing and unsettling, leaving those who encounter them questioning the very nature of their reality. Despite their youthful demeanor, The Drifter commands authority and respect, evoking a sense of awe.

    Limited Wardrobe: Not that someone with the moniker "Drifter" would have enough money to buy something else.

    Maybe Magic, Maybe Mundane: Either The Drifter has no dragon powers at all, or they never utilize them to conceal their real loyalty.

    Blue-and-Orange Morality: The Drifter claims they follow this, quoting Mark Twain as they claim ''I can do no evil, for I do not know what it is''. Whether this is true or just Anthony lying through them, it's left ambiguous.

    Villainous Rescue: Many times, The Drifter seems to counsel Medea or aid The V7D in overcoming adversity. Special attention should be made to helping Medea escape the citadel of the du Cronos Dynasty.

    Masculine, Feminine, Androgyne Trio: The Drifter is the androgynous/genderless shape of Anthony, along with their female and male shapes.

    Curtains Match the Window: As The Drifter, Anthony's blue eyes turn brilliant orange/yellow, just like their hair.

    Anti-Villain: If they weren't Anthony's avatar, the Drifter would probably be a very decent youngster.

    Good Hair, Evil Hair: In contrast to Urizen's combed, cared-for, and nearly royal-looking hair, the Drifter sports a messed-up mullet.

    Expository Hairstyle Change: The Drifter is born without Anthony's signature red or brown hair and instead has bright orange hair styled in a mullet.

    '80s Hair: The Drifter's choice of hairstyle, a mullet, may seem outdated as the setting of Norrington's Desire is somewhere between 2010 and current times, but it is perhaps a nod to the fact that they have been around for quite some time. It is possible that they simply picked up the hairstyle during its peak popularity in the 1980s, given that Anthony has been around since 1919.

    Cold Ham: Despite their reserved and silent nature, The Drifter exudes an air of flamboyance that is at odds with their Drifter persona. While Anthony's selfishness is front and center, The Drifter's is more covert, veiled by their impassive demeanor. It's a quieter, more subdued form of selfishness compared to Anthony's brazen displays..

    Wicked Cultured: The Drifter has enough literary knowledge to quote Mark Twain:

    ''I can do no evil, for I do not know what that is''

    Badass Longcoat: A black long coat.

    Whole Costume Reference: Their outfit is entirely based on the classic gear of The Undertaker.

    Ambiguously Evil: They don't have any moments where they completely Jumps Off The Slippery Slope, and their motivation is solely to guide Medea to the inevitable encounter between her and Anthony.

    In-Series Nickname: The Drifter's true identity (or, at the very least, the real name of the person pulling the puppet's strings) would be a major spoiler. (Whether or not they realize Anthony is one and the same with them is left unsaid.