{"title":"Four Horsemen Studios","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"highwarden-slogg","title":"Highwarden Slogg","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe hulking commander of the prison Hvalkatar, Highwarden Slogg is a brutal tyrant not to be defied.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExposure to a foreign atmosphere at a young age caused Slogg a catastrophic injury. The Squillek born on the moisture rich planet Ax-Ol 39 was then fitted with a custom suit which provides vital moisture to soothe his burnt and damaged skin via canisters of Thryxium. Although this specialized serum provides a reprieve from certain death, Slogg’s every movement is still bristling with agony. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many of the prisoners he so cruelly oversees, the Highwarden’s fate is chained to Hvalkatar. Not only is his life-giving equipment tied directly to the prison’s very structure, but Hvalkatar’s secondary function is the manufacturing of Thryxium, which provides Slogg with an endless supply of the essential serum.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701365043397,"sku":"FHMCLHW1SLG","price":460.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/slogg-front.jpg?v=1746298966"},{"product_id":"olek-thygar-gravering","title":"Olek Thygar (GraveRing)","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn the prison Hvalkatar, the offenses of violent outbursts, open defiance, and attempted escape are all grounds for a cell transfer to the GraveRing. Multiple instances of all three of these offenses have earned Olek Thygar a spot in that dreaded block of cells.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUninitiated and unpracticed, Thygar’s early days in the fighting arena have been clumsy and perilous, but as a quick study with a vengeful instinct, his newfound skill combined with a ceaseless tenacity have placed Thygar as a rising star in the ring. Now accessing abilities he never thought possible, Olek Thygar is on the verge becoming something altogether different and possibly greater than before. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701523771589,"sku":"","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/thygar-front.jpg?v=1746300205"},{"product_id":"olek-thygar-hvalkatar","title":"Olek Thygar (Hvalkatar)","description":"\u003cp\u003eWaking up dazed and distressed in an unfamiliar darkness, Olek Thygar is unknowingly at the threshold of a life forever changed. After being beaten and dragged along a jagged floor by faceless armored soldiers, Thygar finds himself restrained and staring up at the gates of the infamous prison known as Hvalkatar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith his former life stolen from him - as it had been once before, the normally calm and centered Thygar finds himself suppressing a rage that he has fought a lifetime to contain. Succumbing to this rage could lead to his ultimate demise - or be the key to his very survival.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701527146693,"sku":"","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/thygar-dx-front-alt-head.jpg?v=1746300388"},{"product_id":"sphexxian-block-commander","title":"Sphexxian Block Commander","description":"\u003cp\u003eNot much is known about Sphexxian culture, save for the fact that order is maintained through a strict adherence to the hierarchy of the hive. That structure is reflected within the ranks of the Sphexx of Hvalkatar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe prison blocks are broken up into units of one commander per block, along with an accompanying ten guards. This structure is reminiscent of the way foraging squads are deployed from V’zapir. The Block Commanders are responsible for the guards that they supervise, as well as the prisoners of the block. Aside from projecting a physical dominance, it is also rumored that commanders maintain a cognitive oversight of their subordinates.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701549953221,"sku":"","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/sphexx-commander-front.jpg?v=1746302251"},{"product_id":"sphexxian-prison-guard","title":"Sphexxian Prison Guard","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"character-bio\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLong known as a secretive and secluded culture, the Sphexxian hive colonies of V’zapir have been scattering away from their home as of late. With the preservation of Sphexx culture and livelihood as their motivator, the Sphexxian prison guards of Hvalkatar are a brutally efficient and organized force.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRapid population growth is increasingly draining V’zapir’s resources. Sphexxian foragers have been sent out to the far reaches of the five rings of Cosmerrium in search of supplies and sustenance for V’zapir. Others, like the guards of Hvalkatar, take up work as a way of accumulating wealth to be shared with their people.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"character-gallery\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701550346437,"sku":"","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/sphexx-guard-front.jpg?v=1746302403"},{"product_id":"t-u-5-c-c-engineer","title":"T.U.5.C.C. Engineer","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhile T.U.5.C.C. Engineers can often be found seeing to the needs of Hvalkatar’s inner workings, more importantly they are members of the menagerie of individuals attending to Highwarden Slogg. Slogg’s complex system of life-supporting equipment and strict regimen of Thryxium serum require constant observation and maintenance, and the Engineers faithfully serve in this capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditionally, these engineering specialists are proficient in close-quarters combat so they can step in as personal guards should the need ever arise for them to defend the Highwarden of Hvalkatar.  \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701553721541,"sku":"","price":180.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/lb-black-front.jpg?v=1746302541"},{"product_id":"t-u-5-c-c-science-officer","title":"T.U.5.C.C. Science Officer","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe labs hidden deep within the walls of Hvalkatar are home to a number of intriguing, yet often nefarious, projects. Although many successful experiments have been born amongst these sterilized chambers, the most profitable and prolific is the development and manufacturing of Thryxium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTasked with guarding the illusive scientists, doctors, and lab technicians are the T.U.5.C.C. Science Officers. Possessing a fundamental knowledge of science and medicine not only prepares these officers to defend the labs and their inhabitants, but also allows them to assist in the day-to-day work of maintaining the labs and assisting on projects when deemed necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701554180293,"sku":"","price":190.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/tu5cc-front.jpg?v=1746302654"},{"product_id":"t-u-5-c-c-sentry","title":"T.U.5.C.C. Sentry","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe enormous gates of Hvalkatar inspire a sense of foreboding and dread in those who have the misfortune to gaze upon its rusted face. Perched atop its various walls, and hiding within its armored shadows, are the soldiers known as T.U.5.C.C. Sentries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArmed with long range rifles and possessing the lethal close-quarters combat skills necessary to stop any soul unlucky enough to make it through the gunfire, these sentries are not to be crossed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701554409669,"sku":"","price":190.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/tu5cc-grey-front.jpg?v=1746302764"},{"product_id":"vorgga","title":"Vorgga","description":"\u003cp\u003eBlood-soaked and deadly, the lowermost ring of prison cells in Hvalkatar is not-so-affectionately known as the GraveRing. This dreaded block of cells is known for housing the roughest and most disruptive inmates in the prison. This is where you will find Vorgga.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a former Edgehounder (a highly trained special ops division of the policing force known as The Interorbital Perimeter Guard), Vorgga’s skillset and attitude have earned her the reputation as one Hvalkatar’s most dangerous residents. Despite her tough demeanor, her warm personality and unyielding sense of honor prompt others to align with her whenever possible.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701560078533,"sku":"","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/vorgga-front.jpg?v=1746302871"},{"product_id":"zeerian-spyre","title":"Zeerian Spyre","description":"\u003cp\u003eOnce a famous bioengineer on her homeworld of Theerius, Zeeri rejected the unwanted celebrity status that was thrust upon her. Known for her breakthrough discovery of the regenerative formula eventually known as Thryxium, she disappeared from sight when her discovery was forcefully taken away and used for motives that were less-than-benevolent.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZeeri’s disillusionment over the loss or her discovery led her to seek solace among the ranks of the controversial and illusive organization known as The Mortal Thorn. Although her association with The Thorn eventually led to her incarceration, it was that very experience which prepared her for survival within the lethal halls of Hvalkatar.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44701567189189,"sku":"","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/zeeri-front.jpg?v=1746302979"},{"product_id":"the-ghost-of-jacob-marley","title":"The Ghost of Jacob Marley","description":"\u003ch3\u003eStave One: Marley’s Ghost\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCursed and eternally fettered, the specter of Jacob Marley wears the chains he forged in life. Each link is a sin that he committed against his fellow man. A reminder of opportunities lost, of chances to lift up and assist a person in need that he squandered in his blind greed. To many, the Ghost of Jacob Marley is a bit player in the story of A Christmas Carol. After all, he only really appears in one scene where he meets Scrooge in the old miser’s bed chambers. Yet, if we look deeper, we realize that none of the events of this story would have been possible without Jacob Marley.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the Ghost of Marley appears to Scrooge, he explains that his old partner has “\u003cem\u003ea chance and hope of escaping\u003c\/em\u003e” his fate. He then goes on to mention that it is a chance and hope that he procured for Ebenezer himself! What deals did old Marley strike in the afterlife to allow his “\u003cem\u003esole friend\u003c\/em\u003e” a chance at redemption? Was this “\u003cem\u003egood man of business\u003c\/em\u003e”, as Ebenezer described him, brokering deals with the spirits even as he dragged around the heavy burden of his own sinful life? Whatever the case may be, Scrooge’s second chance, and all of the events of this holiday tale, were because of the work of Jacob Marley.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Scrooge finally awakens after a night amongst the spirits to realize he has indeed been given time so that he may change his ways, he exclaims “\u003cem\u003eI will live in the Past, Present, and the Future! Oh Jacob Marley, Heaven and the Christmastime be praised for this! I say it on my knees, old Jacob, on my knees!\u003c\/em\u003e”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo this man who was once a “\u003cem\u003etight-fisted hand at the grindstone\u003c\/em\u003e” is saved, and he recognizes who is to thank for that second chance. Scrooge becomes as good a man as the old city knew – all because of the intervention and the dealings of his old partner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharles Dickens’ story does not tell what becomes of the Ghost of Jacob Marley. We do not learn if, perhaps, by saving the soul of Ebenezer Scrooge, he too earns his penance, or if he continues to travel the world dragging his chains behind him. Whatever his fate, it is safe to assume that he now understands that mankind is, and always should have been, his business - that Charity, Mercy, Forbearance, and Benevolence are all our business at this festive time of the year, and at all other times as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharles Dickens first released the short story, “A Christmas Carol. In Prose. Being a Ghost Story of Christmas”, in 1843. This story was not Mr. Dickens first Christmas tale, but it is certainly his most popular. It sold out quickly, and by the end of 1844, thirteen editions of the tale had been printed!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“A Christmas Carol” was written during a time when the traditions of Christmas were being evaluated by the British people, and many historians and scholars have credited this tale, and Mr. Dickens, with helping to usher in a warm sense of favorability for the holiday season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomar2.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomar2.jpg\" class=\"right thirty-pad\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCharles Dickens’ story was widely praised by literary critics and beloved by fans in Europe and the United States. The publication encouraged Dickens to write some additional holiday tales, and also to embark on tours of Europe and the US to read this story. He began public readings of “A Christmas Carol” in 1849. These readings were so successful that he undertook 127 further performances, doing so until 1870, which was the year of his death.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince its initial publication in 1843, “A Christmas Carol” has never been out of print. The beloved story has also gone beyond the confines of the printed page and inspired countless adaptations across various forms of media, some of which we will highlight next.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Many Ghosts of Mr. Marley\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Christmas Carol is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable stories of the holiday season. Due to its popularity, this tale of redemption has been told many different ways over the years. Movies, stage performance, cartoons, books, comics, radio plays, and more have all embraced Dickens’ “Ghost Story of Christmas.” Some of these versions are faithful retellings of the original story, while others have put their own spin on the tale to create something which is both new and familiar. Of course, various versions of the story mean various takes on the Ghost of Marley. Here are a few notable versions\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e(Editor’s note – there are literally hundreds of variations of this story across various forms of media. The text below is not meant to be a definitive listing of versions, but rather some specific ones which we have personally enjoyed and wish to share.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Adaptations_of_A_Christmas_Carol\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eFor a more complete listing of versions of “A Christmas Carol”, see here\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cem\u003e):\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1946, only .5% of US households had a television set, which meant that radio plays were a popular form of entertainment for families, and there is no one more recognized for radio versions of this story than Lionel Barrymore. Beginning in 1934, Lionel Barrymore was part of a Christmas day broadcast of “A Christmas Carol, a tradition he would continue every year on various programs until 1953, skipping the performance only twice during that span - once when his wife died in 1936 and again when he fell ill in 1938. Other notable names who have performed radio versions of this story over the years include Orsen Wells (who filled in for Barrymore in 1938), Alec Guinness, Vincent Price, and Tom Baker of Dr. Who fame. Versions of these radio plays can be found on YouTube today,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/3gJ3jINcTR0?si=vEJivf4eYD6ewvoZ\"\u003eincluding this one from 1939\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomar3.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomar3.jpg\" class=\"left thirty-pad-left\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor many who celebrate the Christmas season, their first experience with Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is most commonly a movie version of the story, oftentimes presented as a “holiday special” during the Christmas season. You can often tell a person’s age by which movie version of this story is their favorite. For some, the 1951 adaptation with Alastair Sim is the movie they remember. For others, the 1984 production with George C. Scott in the role of Scrooge is their preferred version of this tale. Beyond these two popular versions, there are dozens of other movies and television productions of the story, as well as animated versions with everyone from Mr. Magoo to Mickey Mouse to the Flintstones to Jim Carey taking on this tale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to faithful retellings of this story, there have also been a number of movies which drastically changed the tale or the way that it is told, usually for comedic effect. Some of these include Bill Murray’s “Scrooged”, Ryan Renolds and Will Ferrell’s team-up in “Spirited”, or even the Muppets’ take on the story in “A Muppets Christmas Carol” – complete with 2 Marleys played by the cantankerous duo of Waldorf and Statler!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf course, this\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eis\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ea ghost story, and there have also been productions that explore the more chilling aspects of Dickens’ tale rather than looking for the humor and good cheer in the holiday classic. A 2019 mini-series starring Guy Pearce and Andy Serkis, with Stephen Graham as Jacob Marley, would fall firmly into this category of a darker take on this tale. It is also a version which expands Marley’s role, showing more of his and Scrooge’s relationship in life, and making him more of a player in the overall tale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marknocker.gif\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marknocker.gif\" class=\"right thirty-pad\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Christmas Carol has also fueled numerous holiday episodes of TV shows including Betwitched, WKRP in Cincinnati, Family Ties, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Dr. Who, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and The Simpsons. This is just a small sample of the sitcoms and television shows which have used the general story and set-up of “A Christmas Carol” for the basis of a Christmas-themed episode.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Christmas Carol is also popular as a stage performance, and many companies feature yearly productions of the play during the holiday season. One notable group of thespians doing exactly this is\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.trinityrep.com\/\"\u003eTrinity Repertory Company in Providence, Rhode Island\u003c\/a\u003e. This company has performed this story for more than 45 years, changing the production each year. Some years the telling is indeed traditional, while other years it is dramatically reimagined. With race and gender-blind casting, part of the joy of this production each year is seeing what changes will be made and how the ghosts of the story, including Old Marley, will be presented.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBooks are another medium which have told the story of Scrooge’s visit from the spirits in various ways. One notable book which actually focuses on Jacob Marley’s role in the tale is “\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Jacob-T-Marley-William-Bennett\/dp\/1609079159\"\u003eJacob T. Marley” by William Bennet\u003c\/a\u003e. This short volume, which is written in the spirit of the original, places Marley at the center of the story, explaining how he and Scrooge first met and how Marley conditioned Scrooge to the miserly life he would eventually lead. Of course, as we have already mentioned in this article, the second chance at life that Scrooge received was due to Marley’s intervention, and this book tells that entire tale, including the events that happen before, during, and after “A Christmas Carol.” If you’ve ever wanted to know more about that chain-dragging ghost and the role he really played in this holiday drama, this book comes highly recommended!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHaunting Figura Obscura\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter releasing Father Christmas for the 2022 holiday season, we decided to return to the spookier corners of the Yuletide season for 2023 and tackle Dickens’ most famous ghost. This was a project the entire team was excited for, with the iconic look of this spirit and his dragging chains being a perfect fit to join the ranks of the Figura Obscura!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are certain elements of Marley’s Ghost which are generally consistent across portrayals of the character, such as the multitude of chains and the cloth tied around his head to keep his lower jaw in place. Those were elements that Eric Treadaway knew he wanted to include in this figure, with the chains being connected to various ledgers, cashboxes, and keys which are supported on the figure’s body by a harness that he wears.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSimilar to the Monkey King, which was an earlier 2023 Figura Obscura release, The Ghost of Jacob Marley would be a mix of existing parts from the Legions library along with lots of new parts created for this release. While the upper arms and legs of the figure make use of the “fabric” limbs we already had in our library, brand new pieces were sculpted for the figure’s boots and a whole new jacket, with cuffs that replaced the “gauntlets” typically found on a Legion’s figure, was developed. A new chest plate and skirt piece were also sculpted along with those aforementioned cash boxes, ledgers, locks, keys, and even a full safe that this cursed spirit drags around!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn1.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn1.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn2.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn2.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn3.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn3.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn4.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn4.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn5.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn5.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn6.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/marturn6.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne fun note on these new parts – the boots sculpted for Marley ended up being used on the Kurnn Ray figure from Cosmic Legions. So the first time that people got to see these boots, which is a part that Mythic Legions collectors have requested for some time, was actually on a Cosmic figure, yet they were actually developed thanks to Figura Obscura! This is a perfect example of how these three lines from Four Horsemen Studios can help feed each other and our ever-expanding library of parts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf course, in addition to all these new parts, the Ghost of Jacob Marley also needed some new heads, and this figure includes a pair of portraits that can be used to change up the character’s look. One of the heads shows Marley with a stern, humorless expression, his jaw held in place by that cloth that is tied around his head. The other head removes this cloth, and Marley’s jaw hangs low with a chillingly mournful expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are a number of other fun things included with this figure, like the doorknockers featuring Marley’s face, or the key that he drags around that looks quite familiar. Oh, and what is that in his safe? You’ll have to crack it open to see for yourself!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colors on the Ghost of Jacob Marley were chosen to represent how he would appear to Scrooge as he first begins to manifest. The lower part of the Ghost is barely there, and the upper body’s colors are muted and washed away, showing that the color and the life has drained out of this man who is doomed to walk the Earth to atone for his sins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Art of Jacob Marley\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with all Figura Obscura releases, brand new artwork was created by Nate Baertsch for this new character. That artwork is featured on the package for The Ghost of Jacob Marley, as well as in a mini-comic that is included with each of these figures. We introduced the idea of a Figura Obscura mini-comic with the “Masque of the Red Death” release, and we liked doing that one so much (and it was so well received) that we decided to create one for Marley as well! This particular comic is the first chapter of the story, or “Stave 1” according to the book. This chapter is the one that begins the story and introduces Marley’s Ghost as he visits Scrooge while also setting the stage for the rest of the ghostly visits in the story and his old partner’s eventual redemption. That chapter is presented in full in the included mini-comic alongside Nate’s artwork. You can see an example of one of the pages below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart4.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley artwork\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart4.jpg\" class=\"fit\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley artwork\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA few more notes about the artwork chosen for this package – as the project began, we decided to only feature scenes from the book's first chapter on the box, rather than show images from the story as a whole. After all, if we showed all the scenes and characters from \"A Christmas Carol\" here, we wouldn’t have anything left should we decide to revisit this story for future Figura Obscura releases!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening Stave of “A Christmas Carol” is fairly bleak, and the resulting package artwork reflects that. The front of the box includes the iconic image of Marley’s face as a doorknocker, while the inside panel shows Scrooge in his bedchamber, a horrified reaction upon his face as he is visited by the spirit of his old partner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart2.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley packaging\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart2.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley packaging\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart1.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley packaging\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart1.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley packaging\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart3.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley packaging\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart3.jpg\" alt=\"Figure Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley packaging\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the coolest and most fun aspects of this new box art are the other spirits which haunt the sides of the main package. These spirits were meant to recreate the scene where Marley’s Ghost beckons Scrooge to a window so that he may show him other cursed spectres who walk the Earth as he does. When planning out the look of these spirits, Nate and Jeremy came up with the idea to use the faces of some fellow members of the studio as those ghosts! Only Eric Treadaway was given a heads up that this was being done, so when the final art was delivered and Chris and George saw their faces as ghosts, you can imagine their surprise and delight! You can see these “ghosts of the studio” below on another one of the mini-comic pages. Can you identify the other team members who appear as Earthbound spirits set in the world of Charles Dickens?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart5.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley artwork\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarart5.jpg\" class=\"fit\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley artwork\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn addition to the packaging itself and the included mini-comic, the new art created for this release was also used on pins, mugs, holiday cards, and t-shirts. Examples of these items can be seen in the image below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarextras.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley swag\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomarextras.jpg\" class=\"fit\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley swag\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eHaunted Blue\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2024, a new version of the Ghost of Jacob Marley was announced as part of our \"2024 Retailer Appreciation Wave.\" This wave, which would only be offered by Four Horsemen Studios' retailer partners, included a \"Haunted Blue\" version of Dickens' most famous ghost. The decision to repaint this figure in a more cartoonish color scheme reminiscent of the happy haunts seen at Disney's Haunted Mansion attraction seemed like a fun choice. After all, the many representations of old Marley over the years had certainly helped to inspire some of the spirits of the Haunted Mansion, so it was approproate to allow those spirits to in turn inspire this new version of Jacob Marley. This approach also follows what we did for our Headless Horseman figure, with the first version being more of a literary take on the character, and the retailer version the more cartoonish version.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe retailer version of the Ghost of Jacob Marley comes with all the pieces from the first release, including the surprises \"iron mask\" head that was hidden in Marley's safe. You can see a photo of the \"Haunted Blue\" version of Marley below:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/jm2-1.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/jm2-1.jpg\" class=\"fit\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003ePast, Present, Future\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFigura Obscura has become an important and exciting part of Four Horsemen Studios’ release calendar each year. The Ghost of Jacob Marley is the third Figura Obscura released for 2023 and the sixth character overall, but he is certainly not the last character we will see make their way to the halls of the Figura Obscura. Who waits next in the shadows, ready to be beckoned forth by the Four Horsemen? That is a tale for the future, and one which must wait for another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomar4.jpg\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\" data-lightbox=\"Custom\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/fomar4.jpg\" class=\"fit\" alt=\"Figura Obscura The Ghost of Jacob Marley\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44748925272261,"sku":"","price":380.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/marturn1.jpg?v=1748121836"},{"product_id":"the-masque-of-the-red-death","title":"The Masque Of The Red Death","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe short story, “\u003cem\u003eThe Masque of the Red Death\u003c\/em\u003e”, focuses on a terrible plague with gruesome symptoms. Victims of this disease are described as experiencing “\u003cem\u003esharp pains\u003c\/em\u003e”, “\u003cem\u003esudden dizziness\u003c\/em\u003e”, and “\u003cem\u003eprofuse bleeding at the pores.\u003c\/em\u003e” The victims die within 30 minutes after experiencing symptoms, making the “Red Death”, as the plague becomes known, a particularly bloody and lethal sentence for those who contract it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIgnoring the plight of the less fortunate souls suffering around them, Prince Prospero and 1000 fellow nobles retreat to the Prince’s abbey in order to wait out the plague amidst the luxury that their lofty stations afford them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese nobles have the doors of the abbey welded shut, and the revelers believe they are safe from the horrors taking place outside their walls. They are so sure of their safety that Prince Prospero eventually decides to hold a masquerade ball in 7 rooms of his abbey. Each of these rooms is decorated in a specific color - blue, purple, green, orange, white, and violet. The panes of glass in each of these rooms are the same color as the room itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final room where this lavish party is being held is black, but unlike the other six rooms, this final room’s panes of glass are a different color than the décor. In this room, the glass is a deep red, illuminating the space with a scarlet light that casts a blood-like glow about the room. Few revelers choose to venture into the ominous air of this final room, which also features a large ebony clock that chimes at the top of each hour. As soon as the clock begins to sound, all music and conversation at the party ceases, only to resume once the chimes are silent once again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the black clock tolls midnight during the masquerade, a mysterious red-robed figure enters the ball. He is dressed like the Red Death, and a crimson-hued skull mask adorns his face. The horrid countenance of this red-robed interloper is a chilling reminder of the bloody plague that the party-goes have sought to hide from.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnraged by the impudence of this guest, Prince Prospero demands to know his identity, but no one knows who this mysterious figure may be, and he is allowed to pass unmolested through each of the first six rooms of the ball. Entering the final room, the Prince’s patience reaches an end. He draws a dagger and approaches his unwanted guest. The skull-faced interloper turns and Prince Prospero falls dead with a scream. Their host’s death spurs the other nobles to act and they rush the strange guest, removing his robes and tearing off his mask. Only then do they discover, much to their horror, that there is nothing there.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne by one, the nobles fall dead, the dreaded disease having somehow made its way into the walls of the abbey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt should be noted that the “Red Death” is a fictional disease. Many have suggested that it was perhaps inspired by tuberculosis, which Poe’s wife Virginia was suffering from at the time of this story’s creation and publication. Others have suggested that the disease was inspired by cholera or the bubonic plague, but no clear evidence exists as to exactly where Poe drew inspiration from for the horrible disease referenced in the title of this short story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most obvious theme of this story is that of man’s futile attempts to cheat death, but Poe never explicitly states that this story was meant to carry any lessons, leaving readers to take from it what they will and draw their own conclusions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Author\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBorn in Boston, Massachusetts in 1809, Edgar Allan Poe is best known for his short stories and poems, many of them exploring elements of the mysterious and the macabre. While often considered a “horror writer”, Poe’s literary contributions go well beyond this genre. He is one of the first American writers to embrace the short story format, and he may well be the creator of the detective fiction genre! His short story, “\u003cem\u003eMurders in the Rue Morgue\u003c\/em\u003e”, is often regarded as the very first detective story in the English-speaking world. That story was published in 1841. By contrast, the first Sherlock Holmes story, “\u003cem\u003eA Study in Scarlet\u003c\/em\u003e”, was not published until 1887, almost 50 years after Poe’s fictional detective, Auguste Dupin, was introduced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/poe.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Edgar Allan Poe\" class=\"right\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/poe.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEdgar Allan Poe enlisted in the United States Army under an assumed name in 1827. This was the same year he published his first collection –\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eTamerlane and Other Poems\u003c\/em\u003e. It is believed that only 12 copies of this collection still exist, and the price of one of these rare editions is now worth more than Edgar Allan Poe made in his entire lifetime as a writer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter a failed military career, Poe spent a number of years working for journals and periodicals as a literary critic. During this time he moved about extensively, living in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City. He was the first well-known American to make his living through writing alone, although his well-publicized vices, including a love of alcohol and gambling, resulted in a very difficult life for the writer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost commonly known for his short stories and poems, these were first available in a variety of publications, including Burton Gentlemen’s Magazine (“\u003cem\u003eThe Fall of the House of Usher\u003c\/em\u003e” in 1839), the Saturday Evening Post (“\u003cem\u003eThe Black Cat\u003c\/em\u003e” in 1843), the Pioneer (“\u003cem\u003eThe Tell Tale Heart\u003c\/em\u003e” in 1843), Godey’s Lady’s Book ( “\u003cem\u003eThe Cask of Amontillado\u003c\/em\u003e” in 1846), and Graham’s Magazine (the aforementioned “\u003cem\u003eThe Murders in the Rue Morgue\u003c\/em\u003e” in 1841 and the poem “\u003cem\u003eThe Conqueror Worm\u003c\/em\u003e” in 1843).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn January, 1845, Edgar Allan Poe published what is arguably his most popular and recognizable piece even today – the poem, “\u003cem\u003eThe Raven\u003c\/em\u003e.” This poem brought Poe instant recognition, but very little financial success. He was paid only $9 for its initial publication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“\u003cem\u003eThe Masque of the Red Death\u003c\/em\u003e” was published in 1842 in Graham’s Magazine, which, as we have outlined, also published a number of Poe’s other works. Originally released under the title, “\u003cem\u003eThe Mask of the Red Death\u003c\/em\u003e”, this publication earned the author $12. It would later be reprinted with the title that is used today, and which we used for our latest Figura Obscura figure – “\u003cem\u003eThe Masque of the Red Death\u003c\/em\u003e.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEdgar Allan Poe’s life was filled with excesses and lost loves. He married his 13-year old cousin in 1836, and buried her in 1847 when she died of tuberculosis. Poe followed his wife to the grave in 1849 at the age of 40. He was taken to Washington Medical Center in Baltimore, MD on October 3\u003csup\u003erd\u003c\/sup\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein dire health. He was wearing clothing that was not his own and was never coherent enough to tell doctors what had landed him in such a horrid state. Rumor has it that he repeatedly called out the name “\u003cem\u003eReynolds\u003c\/em\u003e” on the night before his death on October 7\u003csup\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e, and Poe’s attending physician claimed that the author’s final words were “\u003cem\u003eLord help my poor soul\u003c\/em\u003e”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll of the medical records from Poe’s death have been lost, including his death certificate, and the cause of Poe’s death remains a mystery. While substance abuse and suicide are often given as likely reasons for his demise, no clear evidence exists on this matter, adding to the unusual life of one of America’s most well-known, and yet also one of its most mysterious, authors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-e4.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-e4.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eThe Red Death in Figura Obscura\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe “Red Death” is the second Figura Obscura figure to be released around Halloween (following 2022’s Headless Horseman). Interestingly, the Red Death was not even on a short list of possible characters we were initially considering for this Halloween release. The idea for this character came to Eric Treadaway one evening after he was struggling to decide which character he wanted to explore next for Figura Obscura. He began work on the new figure the next day, the idea flowing freely once he finally decided to tackle this somewhat obscure literary character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the challenges, as well as one of the opportunities, for the Red Death figure was the fact that there is very little description of the character in the short story. Additionally, unlike previous Figura Obscura characters, there really are no previously presented versions in popular media that are considered to be the definitive looks for this macabre character. Interestingly, one of the most well-known interpretations of the Red Death comes from another horror classic – Gaston Leroux’s “The Phantom of the Opera.” The 1925 film, as well as the ultra-popular stage play based on this story, both show Erik the Phantom attending a masquerade ball dressed as the Red Death. For our Figura Obscura release, we did not want to make this version, which is presented in a somewhat elegant looking masquerade-style costume. We wanted something that was creepier and more in line with the description from the original text, which reads:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe figure was tall and gaunt, and shrouded from head to foot in the habiliments of the grave. The mask which concealed the visage was made so nearly to resemble the countenance of a stiffened corpse that the closest scrutiny must have had difficulty in detecting the cheat.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur Figura Obscura: The Masque of the Red Death figure features a gaunt, zombie-like body. Fans will recognize some of these “zombie-limbs” from the Poxxus figure in the Mythic Legions wave of the same name, as well as in our Undead Builder Pack from the Necronominus wave. This particular figure uses those previously shown limbs, but also includes body parts never seen before now - namely the lower arms and lower legs, torso, as well as a new waist piece and loin attachment, which can be seen in one of the images below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t1.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t2.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t4.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t4.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t6.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t6.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t5.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t5.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t7.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-t7.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe head on the Red Death is also brand new, and one of the most striking aspects of the figure is the skull-like mask that he wears. That mask is featured across various other items that are available as part of this special release, including pins, mugs, and t-shirts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death extras\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-extras.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death extras\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-extras.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother important aspect of this new Figura Obscura release is the red robes he wears. Once again, we turned to our partners at CJESIM to help us create these fully wired, soft goods robes. Eric designed the look of these garments during the creation of this figure, presenting the CJESIM team with images to get them started. They took those renders and absolutely nailed the “\u003cem\u003ehabiliments of the grave\u003c\/em\u003e” look that we needed for this latest release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA notable aspect of this latest Figura Obscura is the limited number of accessories he comes with. Our goal with all these releases is to include pieces that are relevant to the story. For some characters, like the Monkey King or Father Christmas, this translates into a large number of included accessories. For the Red Death, however, there really were very few items referenced in the story’s text that made sense to include with the toy. The Red Death does come with the dagger that Prince Prospero would’ve approached him with, as well as some extra sets of hands. The main accessory included with this figure is the large ebony clock that sits in the Prince’s abbey where this story takes place. Along with the clock, a pool of blood is also included as a base, likely from the doomed nobles who have fallen dead to the gruesome plague which they have all failed to escape. The Red Death figure may only include a few accessories, but the large diorama-like pieces it does include really add to the overall display of this figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbove you can see images of the “turns” for this new Figura Obscura release. Thank you again to Trevor “One-Six Shooter” Williams for all the amazing figure photography seen throughout this article.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-e3.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-e3.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eThe Art of the Masque of the Red Death\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA Figura Obscura release just would not be the same without the stunning packaging artwork of Nate Baertsch. Once again this Figura Obscura packaging is covered with brand new artwork created specifically for this figure. The front panel features the Red Death himself as he reaches out to touch the onlooker with his blood-red hand. You can see that packaging below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-box.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-box.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe inside of the magnetic front panel on Figura Obscura releases is the single largest and unobstructed area of each package. We have started to use this panel to provide an environment-like backdrop for these figures, or as we did in the case of the Red Death, an important scene. This large panel shows the nobles at the masquerade ball, and the 7 windows behind them reflect the rooms referenced in the story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne interesting note on the artwork of this masquerade scene that you may not realize upon first seeing it is that Nate used the seven characters shown on this panel, and the masks that they wear, to reflect the seven deadly sins. Can you pick each of them out in the artwork below?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-box2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-box2.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBehind the character on the inside of the package are the red-paned windows of the final room in the Prince’s suite, while scenes of the countryside and the horrible conditions of the plague make up the rest of the box’s panels. The entire presentation, with its heavy reliance on reds and blacks, creates a gothic-inspired packaging scene unlike any we have done to date, and one which is perfect for this new release.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to the figure’s packaging, the artwork that Nate created was also used in a “The Masque of the Red Death” mini-comic that accompanies this release. Since this figure was based on a short story that some of our fans may have not read, we decided to include the full text of this story alongside Nate’s artwork to create a nice addition to this Figura Obscura character. Below you can see one of the page layouts from that mini-comic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-box3.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-box3.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eFade to Black\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2024, a new version of The Red Death was announced as a \"retailer-only\" exclusive edition. This version swapped the red robes on the original for black soft goods, and the body colors were inverted (what was black became red and vice versa). Additionally, the large ebony clock had additional paint applications added to it, further highlighting some of the fine details in that larger diorama-style item. The \"Black Robes\" Masque of the Red Death is part of the \"2024 4H Retailer Appreciation Wave\" which is offered exclusively by the studio's\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/retailers\"\u003eworldwide network of retailer partners\u003c\/a\u003e. You can see this new version below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/rd2-1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/rd2-1.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eThe Party Has Just Begun\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Masque of the Red Death is the fifth character to join the ranks of the Figura Obscura (that's why the teaser image had the hand of the clock on the number 5) - but this party is just getting started. We can already hear more characters from the worlds of legends and lore, literature and more clamoring to be called forth. Who will answer the call next? You will have to wait and see…\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-e2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - the Masque of the Red Death\" class=\"sixty\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/red-e2.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44748941263045,"sku":"","price":380.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/red-t7.jpg?v=1748122138"},{"product_id":"sun-wukong-the-monkey-king","title":"Sun Wukong, the Monkey King","description":"\u003ch3\u003eA Hero’s Journey\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany would argue, including Monkey himself, that Sun Wukong the Monkey King is\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003ethe\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecentral character in the 16th-century Chinese novel, “Journey to the West.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis novel was first published during the Ming dynasty and its authorship is most often attributed to a Chinese novelist, poet, and politician named Wu Cheng’en. Some scholars dispute this attribution, but no evidence exists that proves definitively who wrote this novel. One thing that is indisputable is the story’s popularity and importance in East Asia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the popularity of “Journey to the West” in China, it is not as well known outside of that region as legends and folktales from other parts of the world are. There have, however, been numerous English translations of the text, the most commonly recognized of these being an abridged version of the tale by Arthur Waley named “Monkey\". \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Journey to the West” is a lengthy tale of a Buddhist monk, Xuanzang, who travels to obtain sacred Buddhist texts and return them to China. Referred to in the novel as Tang Sanzang, the monk is accompanied on his journey by a number of companions, including Zhu Bajie the pig demon (commonly called “Pigsy”), Sha Wujing the sand ogre (commonly called “Sandy”), and a dragon prince named Bai Long Ma who acts as Tang Sanzang’s “White Dragon Horse”. Joining these companions is the most powerful of them all, Sun Wukong the Monkey King. Together, these pilgrims encounter 81 tribulations on their journey to retrieve the sacred scrolls and achieve enlightenment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-scene.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-scene.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eThe Rebellious Monkey King\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"Journey to the West” is broken up into 4 distinct sections which span a total of 100 chapters. The first 7 chapters of the story tell what is essentially the origin story of Sun Wukong. While not meant to be a complete and comprehensive retelling of the Monkey King’s story, the following passage summarizes this part of the book and endeavors to present the key narrative pieces of Sun Wukong’s tale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs mentioned at the start of this article, the simian who would be known as the Monkey King was born from a magical stone atop the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit. This stone is caught between the positive powers of Heaven and the negative pull of Earth. These contrasting powers eventually cause the stone to burst open, revealing a stone egg. It is from this egg that a “stone monkey”, who is able to crawl around and move about, rises. As the monkey opens his eyes, a pair of brilliant beams of light pour forth. This light makes its way to Heaven, startling the Jade Emperor who rules over that celestial place. This is the first time, but certainly not the last, that Monkey will come to the notice of Heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMonkey eventually finds a place amongst the other residents of the Mountain, and after finding his fellow simians a new home behind a rushing waterfall, they name him their leader and dub him the Monkey King.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter a friend of his dies, Monkey decides that he must gain Immortality. Seeking out Grand Master Puti, Monkey eventually convinces the Taoist master to take him on as a pupil. The Grand Master teaches Monkey, whom he renames Sun WuKong, many things. These lessons include a series of transformations and the secrets of Immortality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-attack.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"left thirty-pad-left\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-attack.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReturning to his mountain home, Sun WuKong finds his fellow monkeys enslaved by the Demon King of Confusion. He rescues the monkeys and arms them with weapons so that they will not be captured again, but he cannot find a weapon which he feels is suitable for himself. This sets the Monkey King on a search for a weapon befitting his kingly status. This quest leads him to the ocean palace of Ao Guang, dragon king of the East Sea. After initially refusing his demanding guest, Ao Guang grants the Monkey King an audience and presents him with an arsenal of magical weapons, none of which meet with Sun Wukong’s approval. Eventually the Monkey King selects a golden-banded staff, which is in truth the stabilizer of the Four Seas. Only the Monkey King can lift the staff, which can magically change in size, fly, and attack opponents according to the will of its wielder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHappy with his new weapon, the Monkey King now realizes that he is in need of new clothes as well. With none of his own to offer, Ao Guang calls upon his fellow dragon kings and asks them to outfit Sun WuKong so that they can be rid of their demanding guest. The dragon kings give Monkey a golden mail shirt, a phoenix-feather cap, and a pair of cloud walking boots. Happy with the gifts he has received, the Monkey King leaves the dragon kings, but he had angered them with his demands, and they find a way to have a death sentence placed upon him. The Monkey King is captured and brought to Hell, but things do not go as planned for his captors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHaving previously gained Immortality, the Monkey King complains that he should not be in the land of the dead. The Kings of Hell apologize for the confusion, stating that there must have been a mix-up with Sun WuKong’s name, which is a common one after all. The Monkey King demands to see the Book of Life and Death so that he can cross out his name. In the process, he crosses out the names of all the monkeys known to him, thereby removing them from the jurisdiction of Hell as well. Crossing his name out of the book makes Sun Wukong Immortal for a second time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis latest stunt causes both the Kings of Hell and the dragon kings of the seas to complain to the Jade Emperor about Sun Wukong. An army from Heaven attacks the Monkey King in order to bring him to justice, but despite their efforts, none can best Sun Wukong in battle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRealizing that a new approach is needed in dealing with the rebellious Monkey King, the Jade Emperor invites him to heaven and adds him to the godly ranks. Monkey is dubbed “the Protector of Horses”, which is in truth just a fancy title for a celestial stable-boy. When Monkey discovers that he has been given the lowest title in Heaven, he rebels and instead proclaims that his true title is “The Great Sage Equal to Heaven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-jump.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"right thirty-pad\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-jump.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccepting the futility of fighting with the impetuous Monkey King, the Jade Emperor eventually agrees to recognize his self-proclaimed title, still hoping that they can keep Sun Wukong under control by keeping him close. He is assigned a more important role as “Guardian of the Heavenly Peach Garden.” The peaches of this garden bestow Immortality upon any who eat them. After feeling like he has been disrespected once again, this time by not being invited to a Heavenly banquet, Monkey eats all the peaches of the garden and drinks Heavenly wine (which also grants Immortality, making him Immortal four times over at this point) before leaving Heaven and returning to his home on the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAngered by Sun Wukong’s continued antics, the Jade Emperor sends all of Heaven’s forces to defeat him, yet none can best the Monkey King. In fact, Sun Wukong finds the entire experience quite enjoyable and entertaining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnable to defeat or contain the Monkey King, the Jade Emperor appeals to the Buddha to intervene. Arriving from the West, the Buddha confronts Sun Wukong and offers him a challenge. He asks the Monkey King to see if he can escape from Buddha’s palm. Sun Wukong readily accepts this challenge, launching himself from Buddha’s hand into the sky. The Monkey King flies all the way to the Edge of the Universe. There he sees 5 giant white pillars. To prove he has made this journey, Monkey writes his name on one of the pillars. He then pees on it for good measure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReturning to Earth, the Monkey King declares himself the victor of the challenge, but Buddha shows Sun Wukong his hand, including a small inscription of Monkey’s name on one of his fingers. Monkey never left Buddha’s palm. The pillars were Buddha’s fingers, and the inscription, as well as the faint scent of urine, proves this point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDefeated and humiliated, the Monkey King tries to escape, but Buddha drops a mountain upon him in order to keep him trapped. A golden seal of protection is placed upon the mountain and the Monkey King remains there for the next 500 years. Buddha hopes that Monkey will learn patience and humility during his time under the mountain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-rain.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"left thirty-pad-left\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-rain.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe story related above summarizes what is featured in those first seven chapters of “A Journey to the West.” In chapters 8-12, the monk, Tang Sanzang is introduced. Monkey is eventually found by the monk, who explains that he is on a pilgrimage to return the Buddhist sutras to China. He frees Monkey in exchange for his promise that Sun Wukong will accompany him on his quest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnowing that Sun Wukong can be tricky and dangerous, the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin, presents the monk with a golden circlet that is placed on Monkey’s head. This circlet cannot be removed, and when a certain sutra is chanted, the band tightens and causes Sun Wukong great pain. In this way, the Monkey King is kept under control as a loyal companion to Tang Sanzang.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChapters 13-22 of “Journey to the West” introduce the rest of Tang Sanzang’s traveling companions. It is in these chapters where the monk actually meets Sun Wukong, as well as Pigsy, Sandy, and the White Dragon Horse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remainder of the novel, chapters 23-100, is presented in somewhat of an episodic way, almost like the “monster of the week” format that would later become popular on many television shows from Scooby Doo, to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, to Supernatural and many others. During this journey, the companions encounter and defeat many demons, monsters, and other supernatural beings. Eventually they return to China with the sacred sutras. Upon the completion of their journey, the companions each receive a reward. Both Tang Sanzang and the Monkey King achieve Buddhahood and enlightenment. Sun Wukong becomes known as the \"Victorious Fighting Buddha\", adding one more chapter to the legend of the Monkey King.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVersions of the Monkey King\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-face1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"right thirty-pad\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-face1.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the character of Sun Wukong may not be as well known outside of China as some other legendary heroes, the stories of the Monkey King have indeed inspired many other characters and stories. One of the most notable of these characters is Son Goku from the popular Dragon Ball series. In fact, “Son Goku” is simply the Japanese reading of the name Sun Wukong!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther characters inspired by the Monkey King have appeared in Force Five, Kung-fu Panda, and both Marvel Comics and DC Comics. Sun Wukong has appeared in numerous video games (Heroes of the Storm, League of Legends, and Pokemon, to name a few) and there have been a number of film adaptations of the legends, including a new animated version coming to Netflix in 2023.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Monkey King in Figura Obscura\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreating an action figure of Sun Wukong has been high on Eric Treadaway’s “to do” list for many years, and the introduction of the Figura Obscura line gave him the perfect vehicle in order to make this project a reality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWork on the Figura Obscura Monkey King figure actually began in early 2022. Behind the scenes, we had Sun Wukong fully sculpted and painted before we released the second and third Figura Obsura figures (the Headless Horseman and Father Christmas), so he had been hanging around in our studio for almost a year before finally being revealed and released!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular Figura Obscura release was an important one for us as it allowed the line to break away from the “holiday” format that had been a key element in previous releases. Since the beginning we said that Figura Obscura was not a “\u003cem\u003eholiday line\u003c\/em\u003e”, but then we proceeded to release 3 holiday-themed figures in a row! With Sun Wukong, we were able to add a mid-year surprise release for Figura Obscura and show another aspect of this exciting “\u003cem\u003eyou never know what to expect next\u003c\/em\u003e” series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn terms of the figure itself, the Monkey King features more new tooling than any of our previous Figura Obscura releases. The new parts on this figure include the lower arms and lower legs, as well as the multiple hands and feet he comes with. His armor is also brand new, including his chest plate, shoulder pauldrons, and his multi-piece waist armor. Of course, Monkey’s bendable tail and his heads are also brand new! The head is designed in a way that it is made up of a base head plus a face plate that plugs into the front. The figure comes with 2 base heads (one with his phoenix-feather cap and one with the golden circlet that forces him to behave) and 4 face plates (normal and yelling, both with make-up and without). These heads and face plates allow you to create a wide range of different options by combining them in the way you most prefer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBesides the new figure parts, Sun Wukong also comes with some brand-new accessories. These new pieces include his golden-banded staff, some scrolls, a gourd, his necklace, and one of the Peaches of Immortality. The Monkey King figure also includes soft goods prototyped by our partners at CJESIM, including a fully wired belt sash that fits through the new waist armor and a kerchief that goes around his neck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDue to the secret-drop nature of Figura Obscura, we kept quiet on the Monkey King’s existence until a teaser was sent to fans the day before the figure would be released. That release happened on Saturday, May 13th, 2023. Along with the new figure, other goodies were offered for sale with this same theme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk1.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk2.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk4.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk4.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk6.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk6.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk7.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk7.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"collList\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk8.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figure Obscura Sun Wukong the Monkey King\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk8.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eThe Art of the Monkey King\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe packaging artwork for Figura Obscura has become as important a piece of the release as the toy contained inside, and once again studio illustrator Nate Baertsch did an incredible job for this release! Nate took inspiration for these paintings from traditional Chinese line art and watercolors, blending elements of those art styles with his own to create the package illustrations for Sun Wukong.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis new package features the magnetic “cover” that depicts the Monkey King on the front – including gold foil lettering for Sun Wukong’s name and the outline of characters on the box (we think the Monkey King would greatly approve of this extravagance). Some of the demons he battles during his journey make up the rest of the panels of this cover, while the other side of the removable panel shows the Monkey King’s home on the Mountain of Flowers and Fruit. The back of this panel contains a summary of Sun Wukong’s epic adventures, especially helpful for those who may not be familiar with the exploits of the Great Sage Equal to Heaven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRemoving the front panel, the box shows off the Monkey King figure while his traveling companions make up the rest of the main box’s artwork. Behind the figure itself is another scene, this time showing a tree in the Heavenly Peach Garden. That tree is still covered with fruit, which means Monkey has yet to devour them!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-box.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk-box.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Golden Sage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2024, a new \"Golden Sage\" version of Sun Wukong was annouced as part of a \"retailer-only Appreciation Wave\". This version of the Monkey King will include all the pieces from the original release, presented in a new color scheme of golden fur and armor. Interestingly, many 4H fans' have dubbed this the \"Super Saiyan\" version of Monkey King as a fun nod to the character's influence on Dragon Ball, as mentioned earlier in this article. You can see this second version of Monkey, and all of the gear he comes with, below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"centered\"\u003e\u003ca data-lightbox=\"Custom\" data-title=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk2-1.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Figura Obscura - Sun Wukong, the Monkey King\" class=\"fit\" src=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/images\/figura-obscura\/mk2-1.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003eThe Journey Continues\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith the release of this latest figure, the ranks of the Figura Obscura continue to grow. Characters from legends and literature, myths and mysteries and more stand waiting for their turn to be called. Who will receive an invitation to join the Figura Obscura next? More surprises await…\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44784831529157,"sku":"","price":380.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/mk2-1.jpg?v=1748864484"},{"product_id":"aius-cyppiteon","title":"Aius Cyppiteon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCelebrated across the system for their telepathic skills, the Grayborn are well suited for sensitive roles in the higher echelons of Cosmerrium’s intellectual circles. A common misconception is that the Grayborn are named for the appearance of their skin, when in actuality, this name is due to their minds’ ability to access a transcendental state referred to as “The Midway” or “The Gray.” These abilities and access have granted the Grayborn a unique opportunity to create an information network spanning the rings that is known as The M.A.Z.E. (The Meshed Assemblage of Zonal Enlightenment) \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794697449669,"sku":"CLGRAAAIC","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/aius-cyppiteon-front.jpg?v=1749131573"},{"product_id":"kannox-vull","title":"Kannox Vull","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocated deep within the fifth circle, The Red Spiral is a community of laborers and traders trying to endure the rigors of living at the far edge of the system. These conditions result in a community of rugged and resilient citizens whose work ethic is as solid as their unity. It is for these reasons, along with enhanced strength, resilience and survival instincts, that members of The Red Spiral are coveted by fight ring promoters across the system. Every time he steps into The Grave, Kanoxx Vull’s fighting style and jagged, intimidating visage exemplify the traits of his kin. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794701414597,"sku":"CLGRAKAV","price":270.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/kanoxx-vull-front-v2.jpg?v=1749131720"},{"product_id":"mbyra-jmgyra","title":"Mbyra Jmgyra","description":"\u003cp\u003eBorn and raised in the treacherous and punishing tropical environment of Ozarra, Mbyra Jmgyra was forced to be resilient from an early age. The planet’s blazing temperatures and the ever-present threat of danger tend to breed unmistakably aggressive “Ozarrian” tendencies into the personalities of its citizens. Vicious and perverse, Mbyra is no exception. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter years of animosity due to a botched assignment, Mbyra and Noveunn Leen have mended their relationship and have formed a partnership within The Bleeders Guild - an organization that trades in the extraction and brokering of information. Her poisonous barbed anatomy is a truly terrifying threat. Equipped with a prehensile tail topped with a venomous stinger built for paralyzing and grabbing prey, it has now become a symbol of terror for those she pursues. Dripping with malice and bloodlust, Mbyra Jmgyra takes an immense amount of pleasure in the fear she instills.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794710327493,"sku":"CLGRAMJM","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/mbyrn-jegyrm-front.jpg?v=1749131925"},{"product_id":"noveunn-leen","title":"Noveunn Leen","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne of the most feared organizations in the known worlds, The Bleeder’s Guild is a barbarous collection of sadist thugs that are specially trained to extract information. The tropical planet Ozarra’s hostile environment offers a fertile training ground and home base for this despised organization. Infamous even among his corrupt associates is the ruthless Carzynian called Noveunn Leen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794772848837,"sku":"CLGRANLE","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/novgunn-leen-front_d9f913f0-79de-4347-a631-b0d70ab18b47.jpg?v=1749135843"},{"product_id":"slygor-ryz-t-u-5-c-c-block-5-attendants","title":"Slygor Ryz \/ T.U.5.C.C. Block 5 Attendants","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlthough much of a prisoner’s sentence at Hvalkatar is spent steering clear of the throngs of Sphexxian prison guards patrolling every corner, it is the guards of Block 5 that need to be avoided at all costs. These T.U.5.C.C. Block 5 Attendants (commonly referred to as Gravekeepers) are tasked with watching over and disciplining the inmates unlucky enough to find themselves in the dreaded lower ring of Hvalkatar’s prison. They are led by the brutal commander Slygor Ryz.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794775142597,"sku":"CLGRASLY","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/t.u.5.5.c-front-alt-6-head2.jpg?v=1749136120"},{"product_id":"gravenight-weapons-pack","title":"Gravenight Weapons Pack","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis weapons pack includes the following:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- 1 helmet dome (green)\u003cbr\u003e- 1 shield with green attachments\u003cbr\u003e- 1 belt\u003cbr\u003e- 2 wrist mounted blades\u003cbr\u003e- 2 wrist mounted blasters\u003cbr\u003e- Staff\u003cbr\u003e- Mace topper (fits on staff)\u003cbr\u003e- 2 additional stun staff toppers (electrified and normal)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794778845381,"sku":"CLGRAWPA","price":150.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/grave-weapons-set.jpg?v=1749136392"},{"product_id":"altarr-cyllovius","title":"Altarr Cyllovius","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Grayborn’s ability to access a transcendental state known as “The Gray” has granted them considerable power, as well as a measure of celebrity, in Cosmerrium.  The M.A.Z.E. (Meshed Assemblage of Zonal Enlightenment) is recognized system-wide as a source of information, and those who wield that information help shape the opinions of the populace. Yet, despite this power and influence, there are those among the Grayborn who believe that the M.A.Z.E. is being used improperly, and they long for a return to the ways of old.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAltarr Cyllovius is a Grayborn Traditionalist, one of a growing number of this race who have begun to argue for a return to the days before The M.A.Z.E. and their association with official government bodies.  A belief that information should be shared freely and without dilution or added interpretation of the facts is what Altarr and the traditionalists have argued. It is a stance which has brought them to the attention of many in Cosmerrium, including some who agree with what they preach and others who wish to see these sermons, and those who speak them, silenced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/updates\/blog\/the-stories-of-outpost-zaxxius-the-traditionalists-tale\"\u003eRead more about Altarr Cyllovius in \"The Traditionalist's Tale\"\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794786480325,"sku":"CLZAXALT","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/altarr-cyllovius-front.jpg?v=1749137318"},{"product_id":"kalian-shunn","title":"Kalian Shunn","description":"\u003cp\u003eA bodyguard employed by the AEXOR3 company, Kalian Shunn’s job is to make sure that her fellow crew members, and the cargo they are carrying, arrive safely at their destination and that all agreed upon payments are made upon delivery. This position keeps her constantly busy and always on the move, a situation which suits someone trying to escape their past.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKalie never talks about where she came from, including where she learned the combat skills she has become known for or where she acquired the unusual armor she wears on parts of her body. Only the captain of the ship she flies upon knows that she was once a member of the Ipperian Column, the elite bodyguards of the Phaerrox empire. Dismissed from the ranks of the Ipperian for questioning a direct order from her commanders, Kalian immediately decided to leave Z’tratos. She changed her name and her appearance and took work that would utilize her skills, but which would take her far away from what her gut told her was danger posed by the very institution she had once sworn to defend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/updates\/blog\/the-stores-of-outpost-zaxxius-the-bodyguards-tale\"\u003eRead more about Kalian Shunn in \"The Bodyguard's Tale\"\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794790281413,"sku":"CLZAXKAL","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/kalian-shunn-front-unhelmeted_dc002388-ab35-47ca-a950-facc66b5d5b3.jpg?v=1749137800"},{"product_id":"opor-a-tiv83","title":"Opor-A-Tiv83","description":"\u003cp\u003eSomething of a mystery even among other members of the Bleeder’s Guild, Opor-A-Tiv83 uses advanced illusion technology to alter his appearance, voice, and mannerisms. This technology allows him to infiltrate even the most secure locations in his efforts to gather intelligence for the Bleeder’s Guild.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpor-A-Tiv83’s most recent mission brought him to an undisclosed T.U.5.C.C. facility. Donning a suit of T.U.5.C.C. armor, he was able to uncover startling secrets that the organization had been keeping hidden. As he was leaving the complex, Opor-A-Tiv83’s presence was detected and an alert was put out for his capture and immediate return to the facility. This spy now finds himself on the run, armed with a secret that will either lead to his destruction or a hefty payday from his employers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/updates\/blog\/the-stories-of-outpost-zaxxius-the-spys-tale\"\u003eRead more about Opor-A-Tiv83 in \"The Spy's Tale\"\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLike all figures in the \"Power-con Debut\" subset of Legions, this figure is not officially part of the story’s canon.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794793722053,"sku":"CLZAXO83","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/opor-a-tiv83-front.jpg?v=1749138006"},{"product_id":"sphexxian-mine-worker","title":"Sphexxian Mine Worker","description":"\u003cp\u003eA subterranean variant of the Sphexxian race, Cavern Sphexx are immediately recognizable due to their almost colorless bodies, a product of the very limited exposure to light that they see in the underground tunnels they call home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA life spent in near complete darkness has given the Cavern Sphexx abilities that are expertly suited for work in the deep mining colonies spread across Cosmerrium. These subterranean Sphexx come in two varieties, the six-armed “Tunnelers” which conduct drilling and excavation operations, and the rarer winged “Fliers”, which are tasked with running messages and supplies from the surface of the mines to the deep, dark tunnels below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/updates\/blog\/the-stories-of-outpost-zaxxius-the-mine-workers-tale\"\u003eLearn more about these characters in \"The Mine Workers' Tale\"\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794796966085,"sku":"CLZAXSMW","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/sphexxian-miner-front.jpg?v=1749138345"},{"product_id":"sskurge","title":"Sskur'ge","description":"\u003cp\u003eSskur’ge is a brutish thug whose only marketable skills are his incredible strength and nearly impenetrable scaley hide. This Duoderm tracker has made a career out of hunting down fugitives and returning them bruised and battered to those who have placed a price on their heads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough not a full-time employee of the Traders Union of the Five Circles of Cosmerrium, Sskur’ge gets most of his work from that organization. This includes a recent bounty on a Bleeder’s Guild spy who uncovered something he shouldn’t have. Chasing the spy to a nearby transportation Outpost, Sskur’ge waits for his quarry to exit the safety of that facility. One swipe of his massive tail and the chase will be over, and he will be on his way to collect his fee for another capture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/updates\/blog\/the-stories-of-outpost-zaxxius-the-thugs-tale\"\u003eLearn more about Sskur'ge in \"The Thug's Tale\"\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLike all figures in the \"Power-con Debut\" subset of Legions, this figure is not officially part of the story’s canon.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794800341189,"sku":"CLZAXSSK","price":340.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/sskurge-front.jpg?v=1749138608"},{"product_id":"t-u-5-c-c-pilot","title":"T.U.5.C.C. Pilot","description":"\u003cp\u003eT.U.5.C.C. Pilots are near the top of the hierarchy of soldiers employed by the Traders Union of the Five Circles of Cosmerrium. This level of recognition tends to foster arrogance amidst the ranks of these pilots, yet their sense of self-importance is well deserved given the skill and dedication required to climb to this lofty rank within the organization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor all the privileges and status that T.U.5.C.C. Pilots are afforded, their position is also a perilous one. There is no margin of error for T.U.5.C.C. Pilots, for even the smallest mistake can mean a one-way ticket from the cockpit of a starship to the fighting rings of a penal institution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sourcehorsemen.com\/updates\/blog\/the-stories-of-outpost-zaxxius-the-pilots-tale\"\u003eRead more about the T.U.5.C.C. Pilot in our short story, \"The Pilot's Tale\".\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794806304965,"sku":"CLZAXPIL","price":219.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/t.u.5.c.c.-pilot-front.jpg?v=1749138980"},{"product_id":"t-u-5-c-c-hands-pack","title":"T.U.5.C.C. Hands Pack","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eT.U.5.C.C. Hand Pack contains full hand sets for T.U.5.C.C. Engineer, Science Officer, and Sentry.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794813382853,"sku":"CLCOSHTU","price":150.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/lb-white-hands.jpg?v=1749139642"},{"product_id":"hero-hands-pack","title":"Heroes Hands Pack","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis pack includes sets of hands for the Vorgga and Zeeri characters. These hands can also be used with any compatible Legions figures.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794814955717,"sku":"","price":130.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/zeeri-vorgga-hands-set.jpg?v=1749139956"},{"product_id":"weapons-pack-1-hvalkatar","title":"Weapons Pack 1 - Hvalkatar","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis weapons pack includes the following:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- 1 Sphexx blaster\u003cbr\u003e- 1 Sphexx Electrostaff\u003cbr\u003e- 1 sniper rifle\u003cbr\u003e- 1 heavy blaster\u003cbr\u003e- 2 blaster pistols\u003cbr\u003e- 2 wrist blasters\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Deep Shelves Bookshop","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44794817020101,"sku":"CLCOSWPA","price":130.0,"currency_code":"AED","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/7661\/2805\/files\/weapons-set-accessories.jpg?v=1749140123"}],"url":"https:\/\/deepshelves.com\/collections\/four-horsemen-studios.oembed","provider":"مكتبة الرفوف العميقة                                                                                                          Deep Shelves Bookshop ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}