"Whether in beauty or in strength, mastering danger or commanding respect, the key to triumph is confidence. And mine is absolute."

A gorgeous YCH sketch from the talented  Poisoned Reptile !

While he certainly toes the line of arrogance, and at times takes a leap over it, Tabari's confidence is nevertheless well-founded. He was taught from a very young age that the only one he can truly rely on is himself, and he not only took the lesson to heart but rose to the challenge. Left to the streets as a child, he didn't just survive, but thrived. He didn't accept charity, but made alliances on his own terms. When he grew older and was claimed by his master for training as an agent of House Devereaux, it was made clear how much expectation was placed upon him. He was the apex of his species, the culmination of a generations-long effort to create the perfect hand to enforce the family's will. Nothing less than perfection was acceptable, but his path to achieving it would be shorter than most.
While he still treads that path today, knowing that true perfection is a goal at the end of a journey rather than his current state, his confidence is as high as it could ever be because he's already closer than most mortals could dream of. His skill will see him prevail in the end, for failure is only a temporary circumstance, a lesson designed to push growth, and success is ultimately assured.
And so we see him here today, fearless as he handles one of the serpents of his homeland. Perhaps this is a test of bravery and resolve, perhaps he's just showing off. Either way, his kinship with these beautiful vipers, his skill, and his complete confidence ensure that he not only survives, but turns this danger completely to his will.

What can I say here except that he looks absolutely gorgeous? That beautiful, lithe body and handsome, smug face are totally captivating. The linework is downright incredible, it has such a dramatic style to it! The bold and delicate lines, the careful curves and striking details, it all comes together so well. This style absolutely fits his Aesthetic. <3
What's really amazing to me though is that this is his first color drawing! The artist was very gracious in being willing to use a few pictures of real cobras for his color reference, and absolutely nailed his look! These light, sandy tones and exotic patterns look so natural and amazing, and I'm absolutely in love with how he came out!
And then there's the danger noodle he's holding, what a deadly beauty it is. Same species, different colors, and just as pretty as he is. Tabari with cobras is just a look I'm really into now~

Tabari belongs to me,  DraconisMagnum
Art by  Poisoned Reptile