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You Think You Stand A Chance!?

As decreed by Enigma, the New Oplentian Empire has one law that trumps all others: The right to rule goes to the strongest, and their word is law. And with the construction of the arena, anyone is welcome to challenge the Emperor, and try to secure their claim to the throne for themselves.

But be warned, a contest against the Emperor is more than just a battle of strength and endurance. Even were one to match the power of a titan, they would need to shield their mind from his mental influence, lest they end up as another in the long line of challengers that now work as commanders for his army.

“You are bold, little man. But weak. Do not fret, for when we are done here, I will mold you into a soldier worthy of the empire.”

As another would-be conqueror steps up to the plate, the Emperor can’t help but use his intimidating physique to break their spirit before he breaks their body.

Another YCH, this time from Marsel-Defender in July of 2023, that perfectly suited the evil Emperor Enigma. I took some inspiration from a common thread I see in right-wing and fascist leadership throughout history. Often, these regimes institute rules that seem “fair” on first read, but when you analyze the circumstances surrounding them you realize that they serve to prop up a pre-existing imbalance.

Perhaps there are cultures where it would make sense for the ruler to be some combination of the strongest and smartest. However, not only is Enigma artificially strong due to the effects of the titan serum, but he’s also one of the foremost authorities on magic in all of Crossroads, and a planeswalker to boot. Most warriors and mages would be fighting an uphill battle against him for the outset, all but assuring that his reign would continue as long as the system is kept in place. Doubly so since once a person loses, they’d be brainwashed and conscripted into his army.

And visually, this was also a chance to experiment with putting a ponytail on the Enigma in his titan form, since it adds a little flair to his otherwise non-existent costuming in waist-up shots. It also sells the warrior persona by both allowing him to grow out his hair while tying it back to show that he doesn’t let it get in the way of function.