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The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

Scenario title: "Braided Reconciliation"
A lover's quarrel is healed.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image description, plus additional context and thoughts can be found in the alt.
#TheVipersPerfume
This concludes the Golden Sun inspired collection of images titled "The Viper's Perfume".

Description: Meisa and Chalis are standing back to back, wearing matching green robes. Meisa is smiling while Chalis laughs. They are facing the viewer, as if looking at themselves in a mirror. They have braided their hair together into one long braid with the pink and black colors entwined. Meisa's black hair does extend a bit further down in length.
Context: This scenario was to take place after a conflict between the two. To be clear, at no point am I implying a violation of consent or intentional violence between partners with this situation.
In a moment of intimacy, Chalis would have used too much force, causing an injury to Meisa. Since she is not exactly human (although it's hard to tell) and possesses more strength than what is possible to a typical human being, Chalis does not realize what she has accidentally done until it is done. Meisa may be more used to intimacy with other women and the techniques that accompany, but she is just a regular person with no psynergy or special powers or abilities.
As a spy, this injury could have blown her cover by possibly revealing her hidden powers, although Chalis id able to mend things with Meisa and keep her secret. Once healed, the two resume their relationship with this gentle yet intimate activity.
Additional thoughts: Stephy did a great job with the hair coloring, and the body proportions here. It was interesting to watch one artist handle the same two characters so frequently over time.
While many of the images in The Viper's Perfume are very much adult oriented, this is a series of images exploring these two characters above all else. Intimacy and identity are large aspects of this character study, with sapphic feelings and awakenings being critical to their journey.
For the record, I always have wanted to have my hair braided with another persons, just for fun!
While more interpretation is possible, that is all. Hope you enjoyed the trip. Thank you for joining along.
This has been The Viper's Perfume.

November 30, 2025 at 12:42 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Sessions" (Part 2 of 2)
Chalis and Meisa are more evenly matched.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#TheVipersPerfume

Image 4 Description: Chalis is on her back, with Meisa above on her hands and knees. Chalis is using her hands to hold Meisa and spread her buttocks apart as she licks inside Meisa intensely. Meisa is showing a noticeable reaction, appearing to cry out; for the first time, Meisa is responding to what Chalis is doing similar to how Chalis would react to Meisa's touches.
Image 5 Description: Meisa has turned herself around so that she is still on top of Chalis, but now they face each other and are kissing very passionately. The kiss is obscured by the back of the head and hair of Chalis, although we can see Meisa's eyes are closed. Chalis is stroking Meisa's flank with her right hand.
Image 6 Description: Chalis is still on her back as before, but the perspective has shifted. Chalis is now visible from her knees and up, with Meisa next to her. Meisa is on her side, with her legs apart meaning her left leg is in the air, although her knee is bent so Meisa is keeping her thigh and calf together. While Chalis watches, Meisa uses her left hand to masturbate, letting out a loud cry of pleasure. For the first time, Chalis gets to see Meisa reach her limit. It is as if Meisa is showing off to Chalis her endurance, that her own cravings still are not satisfied.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: You may recall these images known as The Viper's Perfume being their own project, independent from The Golden Sun Pillow Book. These are the "proof of concept" for something more, although that will not come to be, but rest assured that further ideas were rolling about. This includes more scenarios such as these six, which have been titled "Sessions". There were other sessions to take place, further chances for Chalis to learn from the best (or at least, learn from a far more skilled and experienced lover) and then demonstrate her own technique and progress.
This was the first session, although if you have been following along you know that there are plenty of other intimate moments depicted between these two. Meisa always had the consentual yet dominant advantage in those. My hope was to show a gradual opening up of Chalis, coming to better understand her sexuality, but also coming to realize just how deeply she cares about Meisa. The one Viper entry from the Pillow Book takes place later as Chalis is preparing to depart Kaocho, so that moment shows the results of the sessions, where Meisa and Chalis come to be on equal terms. Meisa may still be far superior at bringing her lover to ecstasy, but Chalis obviously learns well.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: This image in particular, the sixth out of the sessions images, is one that Stephy deserves praise for the challenging pose, but is also a moment that I feel needs a bit more explanation.
I have alluded to Meisa being more experienced before. Her backstory that I am working off of is that of a closeted lesbian, someone who raises no eyebrows in the Kaocho palace that anyone can tell, someone who is very private but also fully aware of who they are.
Meisa (my interpretation of her at least) is without any ambiguity a lesbian, and she has no shame about it. She perhaps has had numerous lovers over the years, although being private and hiding a part of herself from the public eye likely wouldn't be good for any relationships long term. But this means that over time, Meisa has picked up tricks and skills, and knows what to do to make another person feel good, in most cases.
While attracted to Chalis, Chalis does make for a perfect lover due to her own secretive life. And while Chalis does project as a very sexual character, this scenario imagines her to be inexperienced when it comes to sex with other women. So Meisa has the advantage here when it comes to skill. And here in this image she is even showing Chalis just what it takes for her to climax, which Meisa can cause for Chalis with ease.
Now, you won't see this since the scenario didn't go any further than planning, but since Chalis is a capable fighter and has powers most humans do not, a scenario was planned where Chalis could lose control, and end up accidentally causing injury to Meisa. Chalis would be remembering how Meisa is on such a higher level than her that she may perhaps be taking things too far. Like I said, that scenario never got commissioned, but a reconciliation afterwards was. And that will be the last image featuring these vipers.
So, check back next time for the conclusion to The Viper's Perfume. And thanks for reading, as always.

November 25, 2025 at 12:59 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Sessions" (Part 1 of 2)
Meisa demonstrates her skills to Chalis.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#TheVipersPerfume

Image 1 Description: Chalis and Meisa from Golden Sun Dark Dawn, are laying down together. Meisa is on top of Chalis, stroking her hair while Chalis looks up at Meisa with some nervousness. Meisa's legs are wrapped around Chalis, whose only clothing is her white dress which is barely hanging over her ankles. Meisa's green dress is bunched up around her midsection, revealing much of her body as well.
Image 2 Description: An image of the fully nude Meisa from the abdomen up, and has flipped Chalis over. The only parts of Chalis in frame are her open thighs, navel, and labia, which Meisa is massaging. Meisa has a mild smile, although muted as if she knows exactly what to do and is going about it as if it is routine.
Image 3 Description: Chalis is on her knees and forearms with her hands tightly gripping the blanket she is on top of. Meisa is directly behind Chalis, spooning her body and pressing up against the back of Chalis. Meisa has reached underneath and in between the legs of Chalis and is bringing her to orgasm. Both women are blushing deeply.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: We have officially reached the point where these two are unable to keep their hands off of each other. Throughout their journey, Chalis has received some basics from the much more experienced Meisa. While Meisa still can do whatever she pleases to bring pleasure to her lover, Chalis is a fast learner and we will soon see her give as well as she can receive. This is a two part set of images after all.
It is worth noting that in this concept, this is somewhat nearing the point where the cast from Dark Dawn travels to Kaocho. That would still be a bit away, but once they do, Chalis will be required to depart, leaving Meisa behind. Chalis has a problem as a spy; she has become emotionally attached. Chalis used the realization that Meisa was a lesbian, but not out, in order to work her way into the Kaocho court (while sidestepping the advances of the King) and give her sway and access to information. This relationship has awakened Chalis to her own identity, and soon she will need to abandon the person responsible and possibly condemn her to die in the Grave Eclipse.
For Meisa, she is under the impression that she is getting everything she could possibly want. She has power and respect for her abilities via her position in the court, her country seems to be on the verge of victory, and most fulfilling to her, in spite of living a secret personal life, Meisa believes that she has found love. She may not be wrong on that point, but Meisa has no idea what is coming.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: Maybe this isn't the place for this rundown of names, but the history of this pairing is attributed to someone who goes by Shadow Milotic, who coined the term "Vipershipping". The first piece of art was by an artist who goes by Nyroeon, back in 2011. Another artist, Stache, created a slightly less chaste image around the same time. This isn't a particularly well known or popular ship, but the possibilities of drama and the scenarios that could be involved really grasped hold of my imagination during the GSAI process. I wish more resources were available to really flesh out this story in the brain of Jass, but you never know when some ideas could get used elsewhere...
It is safe to say that between these images of Viper's Perfume and the one Vipershipping entry in the Golden Sun Pillow Book, this is one of if not the largest explorations of this couple, and certainly the largest from a visual standpoint. It couldn't have happened without Stephy, who has handled every image commissioned related to these two.

November 20, 2025 at 2:45 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Swapping"
Things are serious. Meisa has repaid the earring incident by "borrowing" a dress. Chalis plays along for now.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image description, plus additional context and thoughts can be found in the alt.
#TheVipersPerfume

Image Description: A full body image of Meisa and Chalis from Golden Sun Dark Dawn, front facing and standing next to each other. Meisa is wearing the clothing that Chalis normally wears, while Chalis has Meisa's green dress on. Neither dress is a perfect fit for the other's body, most notably the side slit from the green dress reveals a bit more thigh now that Chalis is wearing it. They both have their typical footwear on. Meisa is confident in these new clothes, while Chalis looks a bit apprehensive, although is enjoying this too.
Context: Since you travel the world in Golden Sun, it is always nice to see fan work where characters get to dress up in styles of clothing from the various stops they make during the games. This just takes the premise of these two swapping clothes, since the two come from different countries. Meisa kind of forced this on Chalis after the earring incident, but it can be fun to play along.
Additional thoughts: As you can see, Meisa got her earrings backs as well!

November 15, 2025 at 1:35 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Surprise, You're Sharing!"
A cute moment involving earrings, with a playful Chalis and a slightly confused Meisa.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image description, plus additional context and thoughts can be found in the alt.
#TheVipersPerfume

Image Description: A closeup of Meisa and Chalis from Golden Sun Dark Dawn, standing next to each other and facing the viewer. They are in a pose suggesting they were looking into a mirror. Chalis is still looking forward but Meisa is looking at Chalis with a bit of skepticism; Chalis is wearing Meisa's earrings.
Context: Sometimes a cute moment just pops into your head, and here we are. I doubt Chalis is doing anything more than just playing around, and if asked she would hand them back over immediately. Perhaps this shows a level of comfort in where their relationship is going, that Chalis just up and swaps earrings without permission. She strikes me as the more spontaneous and playful of the two, whereas Meisa would be much more regimented. They're probably good for each other in that regard, but perhaps Meisa will need to have words is this continues. Or maybe she needs to strike back with something similar (stay tuned for that).
Additional thoughts: Intentional or not, Stephy ended up swapping colors on Chalis, with her black fur on white dress switched to white fur on black. I didn't mention anything because I like the idea of having multiple outfits. Happy accidents can be the best.

November 5, 2025 at 1:09 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Boots On"
Chalis wants to explore more with Meisa, who has a request.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the second image.
#TheVipersPerfume

Image 1 Description: Chalis and Meisa from Golden Sun Dark Dawn are preparing for an intimate moment. Chalis is sitting on a bed with a red blanket, and is wearing nothing besides her black fur shoulder covering, and her black boots. Her right leg is lifted into the air, exposing her vulva although the focus of her leg is the foot of her boot being held next to Meisa's face. Meisa is kneeling on the floor next to the bed, and with her right pointer finger she is stroking Chalis on her boot while gazing into the eyes of Chalis. Meisa's dress is becoming undone, with her shoulders exposed and her thighs more visible via the leg slit as the dress begins to slide down, although otherwise she remains covered.
Image 2 Description: The angle is slightly shifted, now being over the shoulder of Meisa, and facing Chalis head on. Chalis has the same clothing on, but Meisa is now naked, although she is only visible from her breasts on up. Meisa is licking Chalis on her vulva, and Chalis is responding with pleasure to what Meisa is doing.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: This scenario was thought up to be set still early on in the discovery phase of this relationship. Chalis would still be trying to process being sexual with another woman, and Meisa would be willing not to rush anything, while also wanting to go further with this new lover. With Chalis being so different from the people of Kaocho, Meisa must be enjoying the new experiences that Chalis offers, even though Chalis would not yet be on an equal level between the two in terms of skill and endurance.
So Meisa guides Chalis along a bit at a time. On this occasion she is still getting Chalis up to speed on the pleasures that she can bring her, but requests that the boots stay on. Chalis is an outlier in Kaocho, and indeed in all of Golden Sun. Outside of some of the redesigned summons, she is the only character who is portrayed remotely as being "sexy" which makes her presence stand out in the very childlike entry that is Dark Dawn.
As for their motives, Meisa is likely feeling more hopeful about finding a true sapphic connection, in addition to a source of fun. Chalis meanwhile is undoubtedly enjoying what Meisa is introducing her to, but her mission of infiltrating and manipulating is still her main goal. As this relationship grows, so too would the conflicts within Chalis.
Additional thoughts: There are some small details worthy of praise here, starting with Meisa's dress, and the way it hangs down almost resembling old romance book covers. I also really love the detailing that Stephy used for Chalis on her horns in the first image.

October 30, 2025 at 12:16 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Cool Down"
After getting steamy with a new lover, a hot bath is the perfect way to cool down. And perhaps grow the bond?
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image descriptions, plus additional context and thoughts can be found in the alt.
#TheVipersPerfume

Description: Two women, Chalis on the left and Meisa on the right from the game Golden Sun Dark Dawn, taking a hot bath. Their skin is blushing from the heat, and the water vapor mist lingers around them and the wooden wall behind their bath. The water is high enough that their bodies are covered while in their sitting positions, although their knees poke up out of the water. Chalis looks exhausted, with her head leaning back and her eyes closed; some of her long hair has fallen into the water and is floating around. Meisa looks amused by Chalis and her reaction, or at least admiring how Chalis looks.
Context: Originally planned as just a single image to place somewhere in this proof of concept storyboard, this bath would make a good aftermath to the first intimate moment between the Vipers. Meisa has just introduced Chalis to sapphic intimacy, and while Meisa may be well experienced, seeing Chalis respond like this is almost cute more than anything.
Yet this also makes for a good moment for these two to have their first chance at open conversation, away from the theatricality of the Kaocho court and formality. A chance for them to let their hair and their guard down, and speak about anything and everything. Part of me wonders if what Chalis would find most attractive about Meisa is, yes; Meisa finds Chalis sexy, but unlike some in the past, she sees Chalis as a whole person.
However, it must be asked how to keep a bath like this a secret? Perhaps there is a sauna somewhere in Kaocho with private rooms. You know what? All the water dungeons in Golden Sun look so cold and freezing. There should be more baths and saunas in Golden Sun!
Additional thoughts: I think Stephy (StephyDrawsArt who is not on Bluesky but would be worth seeking out if you would like to commission artwork, SFW or NSFW alike) has a knack for little details that make a pose really land when you see it. In this case, the expression that Chalis makes and the legs poking out were all from Stephy.

October 25, 2025 at 3:08 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
Scenario title: "Instruction"
Their affair begins.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other images (highly recommended you read those).
#TheVipersPerfume

Image 1 Description: Meisa and Chalis, from Golden Sun Dark Dawn, are standing during their first moment of intimacy. Meisa is and remains fully dressed as she appears in the game, but Chalis has no clothing on at all. Meisa's right hand is clutching Chalis by the breast as she applies her mouth to the clavicle area. Chalis has her left arm reaching up and holding on to her own horn; she is reacting as if she is in a state of sensory overload; she is enjoying herself but this experience seems so new she is unable to process it all.
Image 2 Description: From the same angle as before, Chalis is now sitting on the floor with her legs open; her left arm is helping prop herself up, as if her right leg, although that leg is obscured by Meisa, who is laying down and licking Chalis between her legs. Meisa is also using her right hand to steady and rub the inside of the left thigh of Chalis. Chalis has her right hand covering her mouth as if she is trying not to let out any loud noises.
Image 3 Description: Chalis has moved up into a wooden chair, which Meisa is standing directly behind. Chalis sits with her right leg up on the chair alongside her, and she is quivering. Meisa has reached behind the chair with her left arm to cup the left breast of Chalis, who is herself reaching up with her right hand to hold Meisa by her right shoulder. Meisa's right arm has also reached down to massage Chalis between her legs, causing a puddle to form on the chair. They are passionately kissing, with Chalis needing to lean her head back to do so; her tongue is visible.

Context: This would take place relatively early in the relationship between these two. I suppose it would be best to explain where I'm coming from on why this pairing works so well in my mind. With Chalis as a spy she is in the position to weasel her way into the Kaocho court however possible. Meisa being the court secretary is in a position of power, but likely an overlooked and occasionally disrespected person at the palace. I actually imagine Chalis feeling hostility from Meisa at first, and upon confronting her learns that it is a sexual attraction which Meisa is suppressing.
Golden Sun doesn't have any queer representation in the games themselves; I picture a spectrum of tolerance is possible, although for this particular situation Meisa is instinctively closeted and passing herself off as "normal" in the eyes of everyone else in Kaocho.
Chalis on the other hand has the looks of the classic seductress stereotype, but this situation where another woman is confessing attraction to her would be one she hasn't experienced before. There is the opportunity to gain an ally within the court if Chalis does this, but something within her is intrigued by this new possibility.
Bringing us here. Chalis meets in secret with Meisa and tells her that she has never been intimate with another woman before and requests of the experienced Meisa, "Teach me." Hence the title of this scenario, and why Meisa remains dressed. This is about Chalis experiencing something new, and she has a very capable instructor.
While her motivations are to infiltrate the court, Chalis finds her head swimming in pleasurable sensations at this first experience. It's safe to say that this has opened a new world for her. And for Meisa as well, although her character will be elaborated upon in the alt for the next image, since this is running out of space.
By the way, just to state the obvious, all images posted here were run through Glaze, and for a reason. Support human artists, SFW and NSFW alike.

October 20, 2025 at 1:42 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Viper's Perfume.
An incomplete/discontinued proof of concept side project, featuring Meisa and Chalis from Golden Sun Dark Dawn. This is the "cover page" if you will.
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt
Image description and additional context and thoughts are in the alt.
#TheVipersPerfume

Description: Two women, Chalis on the left and Meisa on the right from the game Golden Sun Dark Dawn, posing in front of an abstract dark purple background. They are facing inward towards each other, but looking away. Around their bare bodies is wrapped an unnaturally long snake, which has become an ouroboros with its head rising up from behind Chalis and consuming the tail which rises up from behind Meisa to meet in the middle.
Context: Welcome to The Viper's Perfume, which will not be a Golden Sun Art Initiative project per se, but rather an exploration of these two characters. While not a specific scenario itself, this image as an intended cover is much more metaphorical than usual. This is inspired by the painting "Lilith" by John Collier.
Additional thoughts: When the GSAI team was brainstorming ideas, the more adult scenarios were never my initial passion, but over time this pairing became something I learned to appreciate. For an underdeveloped villain and a one scene npc, these two made for intriguing dramatic possibilities as lovers. The conflict between genuine feelings Chalis could develop while ultimately being a spy. Meisa living a closeted secret life in Kaocho and thinking she had found a partner with whom she could be open with. A budding sense of queer identity in an unexpected place, free of stereotypes. Scenarios of love, lust, laughter, betrayal. That this cover image involved an ouroboros made for a nod to the culture of Kaocho (or an least the ancient culture that the Kaocho imperialist colony was built on) and the way love can consume. There is going to be a big range of emotions portrayed here, with some cute and playful scenarios in addition to some images very much intended for mature audiences. This won't be for everyone, but I hope you can come to appreciate the more fleshed out characterizations I have tried to create.
All Viper images were commissioned to and created by Stephy, so if you enjoyed her past work you are in for a treat.

October 15, 2025 at 12:19 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 12: Good Night
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt (Stephy)
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook
This concludes the Golden Sun Pillow Book.

Image 1 Description: From left to right, Mia and Isaac from Golden Sun are kissing deeply with their eyes closed. They are still covered but partially undressed; Mia's cloak is off and she is removing Isaac's yellow scarf. Isaac only has a shirt on his torso, and it is partially open. Neither has their gloves on.
Image 2 Description: They are now making love very actively on a bed with a red blanket, with Mia on top of Isaac and crying out in pleasure. A bit of drool is trickling out of the side of Mia's mouth. Isaac looks up at Mia while sucking on her left breast. Their faces are bright red. Both are nude, with Mia wearing nothing (not even her head ornament) and Isaac's only clothing being his pants, which have been pulled down but are still on his legs from the knee down.
Image 3 Description: The image is a little darker, as if it is getting late. Isaac is now positioned behind Mia; both are laying on their left sides, with Isaac thrusting into her, although that is obscured by Mia's legs, which are held together. Isaac is holding onto her flank with his right hand, and her left arm with his left hand. Mia's left hand has reached back to touch Isaac's wrist, while her right arm has extended back and would be holding Isaac's hamstring from behind his right leg. Mia is struggling to hold on, while Isaac is kissing her from behind.
Image 4 Description: Isaac is now on top of Mia, who has her legs apart; her left leg is wrapped around Isaac's body, including his right arm, which he is using to balance himself. Her left hand is pulling Isaac down by the shoulder, as they kiss once again.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: This was envisioned as being set the night before the confrontation at Jupiter Lighthouse, and the subsequent reunification. These two have been traveling the world for possibly as long as two years to reach this point, and have been involved for a lengthy period of time. Isaac and Mia have gotten very proficient at making each other feel good, but something lingers.
If we imagine this pairing taking place in some form or another, Dark Dawn confirms that this relationship will not last. You can chalk it up to a relationship of convenience, or a first love of adulthood that you outgrow. For my money, I can see an unspoken tension between the two, with neither wanting to discuss it, but knowing deep down that if and when they meet up with the other group, something will change.
Thus this image, as a final moment together before joining with the others and taking a back seat. If this is the end, they are not even thinking about it.
That's the context for these images, but In the context of the Pillow Book, this is the final piece. The 12 entries and 40 images making up the Pillow Book are connected in terms of content and subject; love, lust, sex, excitement, envy, duty, regret, doubt, confusion, humor. These are all present in the Pillow Book, with Golden Sun characters acting out a variety of scenarios to portray the complexities of love.
It also makes for a nice bookend, with Isaac and Mia opening the Pillow Book with the beginning of their relationship, and closing with their love nearing its end. You may also have noticed a gradual progression of emotions, as well as the stakes within the entries, with many of the later entries set in or around dramatic events. Also, the later entries taking place at night while the early entries began at morning is also a part of this.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: Stephy drew these images, as well as the Vipershipping images for Entry 5, plus a pair of pictures for the single image stories zine. Those will be posted on the main account in due time.
Stephy also contributed a variety of images devoted to the Viper pairing. As mentioned when that entry was posted, this account will be posting those additional images which were commissioned separate from GSAI and the zines. Some of those will be fun little scenarios, while some will be very NSFW, but they all have a place in fleshing out the Chalis/Meisa relationship known as Vipershipping. No hard date on when those posts begin, but if you like the style of these images, you will enjoy those.
But now on he subject of the characters depicted here; if you will indulge a rant, when the Golden Sun games first came out, the fan community was a very active place, especially when it came to arguing about which character would be paired with whom. It was both ugly at times, and comical. Personally, this was a pairing which seemed plausible, and it still does. The canonical reality is that Isaac and Jenna had a child, although their status is vague; all we know is that they live apart. Mia also had children with an unknown person. The pairing of these two does seem better suited for their adventuring days, as opposed to their later lives. So perhaps Isaac and Mia could be very much in love, and good for each other, but only when a quest or a crisis was going on. Outside of that, the quiet everyday life may not be the best dynamic for these two, which is sometimes the case for people.
Also on a different note, part of my initial pairing of these two was because if they weren't together, the next most common male partner for Mia within the fandom was Garet. No offense Garet, but I flat out do not see that. When establishing GSAI, I put down a hard line that I wouldn't be involved if any such pieces were planned.
Forgive me?

See the first image for descriptions.
It's been a ride, but this is it. Be sure to check back for when The Viper's Perfume images are shared, plus on the main account for the single image zine pieces. As always, thank you for checking out Golden Sun Art Initiative and keeping love for Golden Sun alive.
And with that, The Golden Sun Pillow Book is closed.

August 10, 2025 at 1:18 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 11: Their Last Night Together
Artist commissioned: Lou @soulastah.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: A successor to an earlier entry, we revisit Karis and Amiti in another intensely intimate moment set the final night before leaving Tonfon to end The Grave Eclipse. By this point, their relationship has developed into something more regular than a fling, although it would still be hard to define. It is enjoyable first and foremost, although some division is evident.
With Karis being a very outspoken yet also a rather isolated person when she was growing up, she is the classic small town girl who now is involved with a prince now that her first major romantic involvement as an adult. The two have freedom to explore while away from their respective homes, but in this situation it is likely that doubt is palpable.
For Karis, there would be the doubt that she could have a future with someone in royalty, and she may be trying to not get too attached to protect herself for if and when this relationship ends, likely with the end of their adventure. Amiti's doubts are more visible here, with him kept awake at night wondering if he has a future with Karis. Can they belong together outside of this specific situation, or will it all end once the world is saved? And perhaps even more cynical, the thought creeps in that perhaps Karis is just playing around with a prince for a bit of fun before they go their own ways.
Where their relationship goes from here is unknown. As we see from the game, Amiti simply returns home, to take the throne with his uncle likely dying. Of the party members who depart Belinsk at the end, he is the only one to leave alone.

$See the first image for descriptions. Additional thoughts: Lou turned in some great work with these pieces, and they almost looked very different in structure. Due to a communication mistake, at least one of the poses submitted was radically different. Thankfully Lou rolled with the changes once the mistake was caught. Lou is also the artist who created the logos for Golden Sun Art Initiative, and contributed some really exciting pieces to the SFW images, so be on the lookout there. This was a set of images which I had some involvement in the early planning, although another writer was tasked with the text. Since no text is being shared for any of the GSAI pieces in this posting format, I suppose it's alright that the text never came to fruition by the time the team broke up. Perhaps it is best to let these images tell the story of this deep, yet fractured relationship, and leave it at that. For all of the possible characters to pair Karis with, Sveta is a contender based upon in game activity, although Sveta's connection to Matthew is also very notable. Outside of Sveta, Amiti did seem like the best matchup for Karis. If this ship (called Stormshipping back in its day) has any possibility of developing further, a fourth Golden Sun game would be helpful... I really enjoyed how this set of images also has an irony; the closer the view becomes to the two characters, the further apart they seem to be. Both are very much enjoying themselves in the wide shot, and while they are still feeling pleasure in the medium shot there does appear to be a disconnect. The final image, the closeup, should be when the two are also closest to each other emotionally, although this is where doubts have crept in. Storytelling in reverse! This wasn't planned; the images, poses, order, all of that was planned, but the symbolic irony was only pointed out later. A happy accident indeed. Which is all the more reason to support human artists and creativity!$

August 5, 2025 at 11:49 AM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 10: Remember Her (Part 2 of 2)
Artist commissioned: CupcakesFF (Vai) @vaicupcakes.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the second image.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Image 4 Description: Karst is laying on her back now, and Felix is on top of her. Karst's legs are wrapped around Felix; they passionately kiss as he thrusts into her. Felix's hands are steadying himself on the bed, while Karst's right hand is holding on to Felix's arm. Her left hand is tugging his ponytail.
Image 5 Description: The view is now closer, with Karst only visible from the waist up. She is likely mounted on the sitting Felix once again, and she gazes lovingly at him as her right hand cradles his head to her breast, with Felix eagerly using his mouth. Karst's left hand is on Felix's shoulder; Karst may not realize it, but she is scratching Felix's back while this is happening, drawing blood in a couple of spots.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: Although set on their final night together, this set of images was meant to be in flashback from the perspective of Felix. Is it possible then that this memory of his is unreliable? He could be remembering things as overly romantic when in reality he and Karst were not really this loving together. With her death, it would be impossible to know, and that has to be eating at Felix for a long time as well.
Additional thoughts: As previously mentioned, the idea of weakness as a source of attraction for Karst may have been at the origins of this coupling. She doesn't come off as particularly likable from what little we see of her in The Lost Age, so that she has a lover at all may be surprising to some. That look that Karst is giving in the final image is one of contentment; she has come to accept this strange relationship she has with the weakling who has been a captive among her people and yet is working to save them.
Similar to the other images in the Golden Sun Pillow Book with these two, there is a bit of roughness. Karst pulling on Felix's hair, the biting and scratching, the cuts and bruises from making love; that they keep going must be impressive, and a sign Felix is getting stronger. You have to wonder if Felix would regret how powerful he became by the end of the game since it ends in tragedy for Karst, and therefore for Felix too, if they had been lovers. Another source of his being unable to move on beyond remembering moments like these.

July 31, 2025 at 12:13 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 10: Remember Her (Part 1 of 2)
Artist commissioned: CupcakesFF (Vai) @vaicupcakes.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: These images are set on the final night before Felix departs Prox. This would be the last time Felix and Karst would be together for perhaps a year or more, depending upon how long the travel from Prox to Vale would be at the start of Golden Sun, up until the meeting in The Lost Age. The text was planned to be not in the moment, but as a memory; almost related to the previous Pillow Book entry, Felix is doing more than remembering his time as lover to Karst; he is unable to move on.
Assuming Felix and Karst became involved during his captivity, a certain power dynamic would have been at play. In addition to being among her own people and in her home environment, Karst would have had the advantages of being much stronger than Felix. Perhaps his guile or tenacity attracted her to Felix, although in discussions the GSAI team had wondered about weakness as a source of attraction.
As the younger sister, Karst does seem to idolize Menardi, even using the same weapon (and, according to her battle sprite in The Lost Age, using a scythe wrong, especially compared to her battle hardened sister). Karst may well have been in training under Saturos and Menardi at the same time as Felix, and it's possible that training with the much weaker Felix awakened some fascination within her. Karst could be viewing it as having a plaything all to herself.
This is, of course, not a healthy dynamic. When one considers that this probably taboo relationship was a likely source of stability and motivation for Felix, it becomes even more of a red flag. But if this unhealthy relationship was a cherished memory to Felix, the previous Pillow Book entry of his disastrous reunion with Kay perhaps makes more sense.
No one gets out unscathed in this situation.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: Vai struck a very nice balance with these images, capturing Karst as someone who is playing with Felix more than accepting him as an equal. If she did see him as an equal, it would be reducing herself among her people as they do seem to have a fixation on superiority. However, Karst isn't cruel in all of this; she is still playful and loving, just in a very rough way.
At a glance, Proxian skin seems very rough with scales and spikes, so a non-Proxian in a coupling would probably end up bloody, even with precautions taken. It appears to be worth it to these two. They both seem to accept the risks of being together, both the physical and the ramifications among the Proxians and the Vale hostages. This does raise the question; what would have happened if Karst had lived?
Something tells me that the people of Prox would not have handled this relationship very well. If anyone knew during the time Felix was captive, it may have been hushed up. But we can only wonder...
This has been a popular pairing since the early days of Golden Sun fandom, when it was known as Duskshipping. It's easy to understand why with its dramatic elements and enemies to lovers to enemies components. With Felix absent from Dark Dawn, his character following the Golden Sun event remains a mystery, with nothing to confirm this pairing as a possibility, nor the long term effects. Nothing to deny it either!

July 31, 2025 at 11:45 AM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 9: Apologies
Artist commissioned: BEBERT (use Bebert instead of their former name) @velkia.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the second image.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Image 1 Description: Felix from Golden Sun is sitting on a bed, alongside Kay, Garet's older sister. Felix wears undergarments but has no shirt on, making several scars visible on his arms and body, and his hair is untied. His expression is one of sadness. Kay has no clothes on, and her hair is also down. She is covering herself up with a bed sheet, and has a look of embarrassment or shame, as if she is wondering if she has done something wrong.
Image 2 Description: A reverse angle of the previous image shows the bed, as well as the doorway to the room. Kay is now wearing a white slip undergarment, and she is sitting with her body facing away from the doorway. Her face is buried in her knees; either she is crying or she is very close to crying. Meanwhile, Felix is fully dressed, although his hair is still down and he has not attached his cloak, which he is holding over his right shoulder as he walks out the doorway without looking at Kay.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: Set after the events of The Lost Age, this scenario envisions Felix and Kay trying to rekindle something they had before Felix was lost to the storm and held in Prox. It may have only been puppy love, or perhaps something deeper, but so much had changed during his time away. For Kay, she thought he was dead, only to learn Felix was alive, and seemingly a traitor. During the time Isaac and Felix were on their quests, Kay would be able to process this, while also worrying about her brother Garet.
Things would have been much different with Felix, with several rough years in Prox, followed by a long journey. And during all of this time, let's also assume Felix having a very intimate relationship with Karst, ending in tragedy. So if these pieces feels more sad than sexy; yep.
Felix is still mourning Karst, and simply doesn't feel anything for Kay anymore. Kay would be feeling humiliation, that she is in this position. Her feelings remained true, but to her this is like being cast aside.
I handled the text for this piece, and am somewhat glad the text is being withheld from posts since this one was brutal. For the first image, Kay was apologizing, almost like a litany; sorry for their situation, beating herself up for not being able to be what Karst was to Felix, angry, and so on. Her final apology was her regret that she and Felix couldn't be what they once were as a couple.
The only text for the second image came from Felix. His single apology wasn't an apology at all; Felix was sorry that they bothered to try. He is not in a good place. After the events of his life, can you blame Felix? Both of these characters have my sympathy in this situation.
Sometimes love can tear you apart too.
Additional thoughts: Bebert really went all out with the lighting and the poses here, with harsh angles and expressions that bring out the emotions. It's beautiful, but so hard to look at. Thankfully Bebert's not done; SFW awaits too!

July 25, 2025 at 12:19 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 8: Creating Takeru (Part 2 of 2)
Artist commissioned: Kuroe Prime @kuroeprime.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: As previously mentioned, this was to have featured the perspective of Kushinada. As she settles into the role of wife to Susa, it comes with the loss of autonomy. Whereas Lady Uzume was unmarried and guided their people alone, these two are effectively the new royal family, meaning she is the one responsible for breeding an heir above all.
While depicted as enthusiastic to have a son in her brief moment of time in The Lost Age, Kushinada may come to feel restricted. Looking ahead, this is where she makes her promise to honor the memory of Uzume; to raise a daughter capable of doing great things and be defined by more than just marriage and family.
Given how poorly developed the character of Himi was in Dark Dawn, to provide something that gives additional motivation around her would be welcome, I hope. Some sense of backstory which establishes her a bit more than how she comes across, as "the extra kid after the one her parents really wanted".

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: Out of curiosity, is anyone actually reading these extra thoughts here in the image alts? I feel like these are critical components, but they may be getting overlooked. If you can read this, let me know! Or don't, it doesn't really matter! But thank you for engaging with this work of fan love related to Golden Sun.

July 20, 2025 at 12:30 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 8: Creating Takeru (Part 1 of 2)
Artist commissioned: Kuroe Prime @kuroeprime.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Image 1 Description: Kushinada from Golden Sun: The Lost Age is undressing. Her clothes are falling down by her waist as she stands with her back to the viewer, although at an angle so that her left breast is visible. Kushinada looks somewhat reluctant, but also eager.
Image 2 Description: Kushinada is laying back, with her clothes in a pile to her left. Susa is to her right, also undressed, and his right arm is reaching across her body. The two are kissing, with Kushinada's right hand touching Susa's face.
Image 3 Description: Changing perspectives to behind Susa, Kushinada is now fully laying down. Her legs are spread, and Susa has entered her. Kushinada's eyes are closed, and she seems nervous.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: This set of images is timed to be after the events of The Lost Age, where Izumo has been destroyed and the people evacuated. Their leader had been the earth adept Lady Uzume, although her death after the evacuation means that her brother Susa and his new wife Kushinada, also adepts, become the new leaders of this now displaced people.
Uzume had guided them to the area that would become Yamata City, but rebuilding would have been a difficult responsibility for this young couple. Susa's reputation as a wild young man aside, the city we see in Dark Dawn shows what a success it was, thanks to Uzume's planning.
There is another component of this couple, and that is Kushinada's idealistic forecast of the future; a male heir named Takeru who would be a powerful warrior. Kushinada's place is to be the mother of this heir, while Susa effectively becomes the leader of Yamata. This culturally expected duty is probably beneath Kushinada, but she does her duty nonetheless.
The plan was to tell this story from the perspective of Kushinada, to highlight a damsel character in The Lost Age who then gets even less to do in Dark Dawn. This take on the character shows some of her reluctance, but also her love for her husband and her people. Kushinada's sense of duty is why she is creating Takeru with Susa, and her performance of her duty is a way for her to honor the memory of Uzume.
And the conclusion of this piece was to have been another way to honor Uzume; the promise that she will also have a daughter, one who will be as powerful as Uzume was, and who will also accomplish great things. As we see in Dark Dawn, this is more true than anything.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: You can probably tell, but these drawings are not fully rendered. Kuroe's style would have worked either way, but keeping them as flats meant a somewhat dreamlike quality to these. When the memory of Lady Uzume gets depicted, it becomes a sweet moment.
This was one of our better ideas for the Pillow Book in my opinion. Not only does it highlight smaller characters, but it uses lovemaking to tell a story. Kushinada's story is fleshed out here, and this is an instance where the point of the scene is not to be sexy, even though the subject is what it is. There is more going on here, and my hope was that showing a scene like this would demonstrate that the Pillow Book is just as much about stories as the SFW images are. Stories about and featuring love, but stories above all else.
One of my regrets was that this set of images totaled six. It probably should have been reduced, but this outcome is by no means a bad thing. That's just more of a storytelling efficiency thought.

July 20, 2025 at 12:03 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 7: Watching
Artist commissioned: Max Kennedy ‪(Max) @maxkennedy24.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the second image.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Image 1 Description: Jenna from Golden Sun is standing in water up to her thighs, bathing in a stream. Her back is to the viewer, although it appears she is glancing over her shoulder without obviously turning her head. It is a sunny day. Jenna has no clothes on, and only has a large white piece of cloth that she uses while bathing; while brushing her left arm with the cloth, it obscures a full view of Jenna's breast. There is a heavy tree canopy along the shore.
Image 2 Description: The view has switched to be in front of Jenna. She is still nude and dripping with water, and with the cloth draped over her shoulders she works on tying her hair back. Behind her, Alex sits on a tree branch with a frustrated expression on his face. From the leaves it is obvious that Alex was not particularly well hidden; he is warping away, with blue energy flickering around his body to begin the teleportation. Jenna's expression is neutral, as if she is pretending to not have noticed Alex being there.

$See the first image for descriptions. Context: This piece would take place sometime following the Mercury Lighthouse encounter, but before the Venus Lighthouse fracturing of Saturos and Menardi's group. Jenna knows that her friends are alive, and in pursuit. The captivity must have been unbearable early on, with her brother being a source of support but also betrayal. She isn't anywhere near being powerful enough to fight back, and escaping isn't likely with Alex able to teleport. But knowing that Isaac and Garet are out there brings hope, and Jenna's fiery spirit returns in full. This has likely become a routine; Jenna seeks some level of privacy to bathe or just be alone, but she cannot as a hostage. Alex would likely have been sent to keep track of her. Jenna may have noticed him one day, or he may have been the one to stop pretending. Either way, it fits with Alex's characterization; uncertainty about his true motivations, and a bit too playful in his conversations with Jenna. They both are going through the motions by now. But Jenna won't be bothered by this. She is powerless to stop Alex, but he cannot break her spirit. Additional thoughts: There were some discussions about featuring Jenna more in the Pillow Book, but I like that this is her only appearance. The planned text for this piece was rather poetic, coming from Jenna's point of view and repeating the phrase, "I refuse." No matter what happens, Jenna will not hide in the bushes or duck for cover in embarrassment. She may be a prisoner, but no one can make Jenna feel like she doesn't have the freedom to take a bath. Alex is of course, difficult to figure out. I wonder if his way of speaking to Jenna is more motivated out of a source of entertainment; he will toy with her, but is not really interested in her beyond that amusement. Seeing Jenna naked doesn't even excite him, he just likes this power dynamic. If that's the case, Alex is a far darker person based on his interactions with other humans.$

July 15, 2025 at 11:27 AM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 6: Love Bites
Artist commissioned: Jurokskie
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: This has been a popular pairing since The Lost Age was released, with many different angles taken; enemies to lovers to enemies, opposites attract, secret lovers, tragic ending, and so on. One common detail is that this relationship is not meant to last, and outside of some fanfictions that have Karst surviving the game, it cannot.
With conflict between the two as a central component, there does seem to be space for the gentler and more lovey dovey aspects of their young love, but also a type of love that often resembles something more like combat. Perhaps aggressive physicality is more common among the people of Prox, but even if it isn't, an outsider most likely isn't walking away without some injuries.
The dragon-like scales and spikes of the Proxian skin is probably causing some pain, and then there is the bite. Perhaps this is what Karst does when she loses control. In pleasure of course. Over time, Felix may even come to accept this from her, as a signal he is doing a good job. This could have some negative consequences down the road for him, but that is for a later entry.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: The format when this piece was pitched was something more like a comic, with 4 quick images that could all fit on the same page. Of the entries in the Pillow Book, I had felt this one was not needed, although its more unique structure would be enough to differentiate it from other pieces, with this being a more visual entry compared to what would have been some of the more text heavy entries.
It ended up taking much longer than anticipated with many delays in the process, but my policy to artists was that they prioritize themselves and their needs over any commissions. This does create a bit of inconsistency, although that can have its own beauty I suppose.

See the first image for descriptions.

One more note: Ouch...

July 10, 2025 at 12:53 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 5: Viper (Part 2 of 2)
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt (Stephy)
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the fourth image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook
#TheVipersPerfume

Continuing from the previous post.
Image 4 Description: Meisa lifts herself up with her right arm, and strokes Chalis' face with her left hand. Chalis is doing the same to Meisa's face with her left hand. Their lips are close.
Image 5 Description: A very deep kiss between the two, with Meisa's hand still placed on Chalis almost as if to hold her in place while kissing.
Image 6 Description: Meisa is laying down with Chalis resting on top of her. Meisa's eyes are closed but she is not asleep, and has a satisfied look on her face. Chalis is now playing with Meisa's hair, but has a concerned look on her face as she is deep in thought.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: Here is where this pairing becomes dramatic. The conflict within Chalis is apparent within that final image, with a look on her face that screams, "I will miss this."
But she cannot break character. Part of her mission means the destruction of Kaocho, but here she has gone getting attached to Meisa, and with no way to warn or save her new unexpected lover without compromising the mission.
This doesn't make Chalis sympathetic, although it certainly does for Meisa to imagine her reaction to Chalis departing suddenly, and then an apocalyptic event destroying her home. Meisa will undoubtedly miss moments like this as well.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: Stephy contributed many pieces to GSAI, so I will sing her praises on another occasion.
This is as good a time as any to mention where this is going. I had begun to develop a solo project based upon these two, which included some proof of concept images to accompany the story, mostly taking place prior to the adepts arrival in Kaocho in Dark Dawn. These images were always planned in the Golden Sun Pillow Book, but there are several more which I will be posting once the Pillow Book has been uploaded to Bluesky. They range from more NSFW to some playful moments between the two.
The brain-rot hit hard, and while I will not be sharing anything other than the images, it will be enjoyable for what few fans of Dark Dawn who are out there and enjoy this specific pairing of a major antagonist and a barely seen NPC.
Look for the name "The Viper's Perfume" which I have dubbed pieces related to these two. And wish Meisa all the happiness; she deserves it.

July 5, 2025 at 1:31 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 5: Viper (Part 1 of 2)
Artist commissioned: StephyDrawsArt (Stephy)
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook
#TheVipersPerfume

Image 1 Description: Meisa from Golden Sun: Dark Dawn is naked and on her back, experiencing an orgasm while her right hand grabs hold of the sheet from the bed she is laying on.
Image 2 Description: From a new angle, the moment has passed and Meisa now has a relaxed look on her face. The sheet covers up below Meisa's waist, concealing her partner, but a hand with blue nail polish has come up to Meisa's belly.
Image 3 Description: Chalis, from Golden Sun: Dark Dawn, who is also nude, has emerged from between Meisa's legs and from underneath the sheet. She holds herself up over Meisa's body, causing her braids to dangle down. The two stare lovingly at each other.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: These are the first three of a set of six images, depicting a moment of intimacy near the end of the time Chalis spends in Kaocho. Having seduced the secretary to the court and made her presence there, and with the Adepts being sent to the Ouroboros, the time has come for Chalis to move to the next phase of her plan.
This means parting from Meisa. To me, Chalis as the femme fatale is somewhat boring; she is capable of seducing and manipulating with her looks, but wouldn't it be much more interesting to have her end up in a relationship not with the King, but a woman from his court? This is probably a new experience for Chalis as well, and could indicate some character growth in her, with Meisa causing her to realize things about herself.
And when the parting does take place, both would be devastated.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: Golden Sun is not the best series when it comes to queer representation. One idea I had was that Eoleo was captured because he was out to sea, trying to visit his secret boyfriend Takeru, who we haven't even met in the games yet. So, no queer canon characters.
That could change (with a fourth game: hint, hint) but through three games, there is not a single character who can be identified as being anything but cis/het. The closest you can find is a blink and you miss it moment between these two women during one of Dark Dawn's many overly long talking scenes.
Meisa only has that one scene in the game, but she leaves an impression as the only competent member of the Kaocho court. The city of Kaocho is an interesting place as well, and given the devastating consequences of the Grave Eclipse, it would be one of the communities I hope to see reappear in a hypothetical fourth game. I do hope Meisa is shown as a survivor.
Meisa is an outlier in the court, as the only woman prior to Chalis arriving, and much more competent than the men she works for. She is too qualified for her job, and possibly unappreciated. This could make her vulnerable to the advances of Chalis, especially if we imagine a closeted Meisa in a repressed society.
King Wo of Kaocho is said to be entranced by Chalis, although Meisa makes a rather playful comment, calling Chalis a "viper". Hence the name "Vipershipping" and the origin of this pairing. It is a very effective ship from a story standpoint; Chalis works her way into the court not by seducing the King at first, but the court secretary.
There is also an extra layer, because Chalis would be playing a deceptive role with Meisa, and yet a further deception for the King, keeping their affair a secret. Yet with as mysterious as her people are, Chalis knowing that she will betray Kaocho would go through conflict if her relationship and feelings for Meisa developed into genuine affection.

July 5, 2025 at 1:03 PM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 4: Keeping Warm
Artist commissioned: FKDemetri (Deme)
Image description and additional context and thoughts are in the alt.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Description: A night scene inside of a yurt, during a snowstorm. Amiti and Karis from Golden Sun: Dark Dawn are underneath a blanket that is barely covering anything. Neither has clothes on, as they are very actively engaged in recreational sex, with Karis laying on her stomach while Amiti holds her hips and thrusts from on top of her. Amiti is kissing the back of her neck, while Karis is looking downwards, with some of her hair having fallen over her face. In the background, the door flap is slightly open allowing some snow to blow in. The two do not appear to notice.
Context: Many of the Dark Dawn cast were hard to get a read on, although there was one incredibly standout moment featuring these two; before Amiti joins, Karis comments on his clothing and very deliberately scans his shirtless body. It's a funny moment in isolation, but it's also a good leaping off point for imagining these two progressing beyond a quick moment of realizing your attraction towards someone else.
Amiti is likely capable of being free from having to be the prince around his people at all hours of the day, while Karis perhaps never felt fully herself in the presence of her father, given his mind reading powers which she lacks. As someone who does not come from royalty, to be in bed with a prince must feel like something out of an old story.
So both are able to explore who they are at the same time. A later entry in the Pillow Book revisits these two at a different stage of their fling. Or relationship. Even they probably couldn't define what this is, except one way to stay warm in the mountains.
Additional thoughts: When a SFW zine for multi-image stories was still planned, the Karis looking over Amiti's body was among the proposals (and her blushing would have been very prominent). It is after all, a true in game moment.
The first three entries to the Pillow Book featured moments following a coupling. This is the first one featuring it happening in the moment. More to come later.

June 30, 2025 at 11:49 AM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 3: Prediction
Artist commissioned: BEBERT (use Bebert instead of their former name) @velkia.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Image 1 Description: Master Hamma from Golden Sun is laying in a bed next to Garet. A blanket is across their bodies up to their midsection, but they have no clothes on, implying that they have recently concluded an intimate moment. Hamma is relaxed and smiles as she teases his chest, while Garet is in a state of shock and embarrassment; his face is blushing and his eyes are open wide as he stares up at the ceiling (directly at the viewer of this image based on how it was drawn).
Image 2 Description: Hamma and Garet are seen from the shoulder up; the perspective has changed as they are now sitting up in bed, and Hamma guides Garet towards her with her hand for a kiss. Both have their eyes closed.
Image 3 Description: Identical to the previous image, with once exception; both Hamma and Garet have opened their eyes and have a look of panic. They both have a thought that has just come to them: "What do we tell Ivan?"

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: The artist who was trusted with these three images is Bebert, who has created many other Golden Sun fan art pieces in the past. It was very lucky that contact was made, and that these pieces (both for the Pillow Book and the single image series) could be trusted to such an experienced and respected artist. Incidentally, Bebert is best known for Genshin pieces these days, and also took on a new name within the past couple of years. You may have known them by their former name, but please be respectful and refer to this artist as Bebert. Thank you.
Another note on why this coupling was chosen to be represented. This is just me speaking, but I outwardly do not care for the pairing of Garet and Mia. The big moment of falling at Jupiter Lighthouse doesn't come across as a romantic gesture to me, and if that is the sole reason for the two to be together, it seems like an insulting "reward" trope for doing a brave deed. The combo just doesn't make sense to me from my reading of the two characters, and that was a quick veto on my part in the early days of GSAI, when some of these thoughts were being brainstormed.
I could see Garet as having unrequited feelings for Jenna, but also getting over it. Garet is often a comedic figure, and I feel this pairing is true to his character, but not in a disrespectful way. And he seems to me like a particularly open and loyal guy who wouldn't be ashamed about being in this relationship; just a bit surprised at first that it happened.
The text that was planned for these images was a fun combination of panicked frenzy and mellow satisfaction. And then back to panic. Sometimes that is what love feels like. Thankfully, not always!

June 25, 2025 at 11:44 AM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 2: Wake Up
Artist commissioned: Evangellium (Eva) evangellium.carrd.co
Image description and additional context and thoughts are in the alt.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Description: The sunlight pours into a room where in the foreground, Felix from Golden Sun is laying on his belly, asleep. He has no shirt on, and a blanket covers him from the waist down, implying there is nothing underneath either. Behind him is the Proxian character Karst, who is pulling on some of the long brown hair that has come undone from Felix's ponytail. Karst is only visible from the belly up, and she also has no clothing on; both of her breasts are exposed, although she has a look of serenity on her face, as if nothing in the world could bother her in this moment.
Context: Set prior to Felix departing to return to Vale at the start of Golden Sun, these two have found their way into a complicated relationship. Felix is obviously an outsider in Prox, but also a traitor to the people of Vale. He may have needed to take on aspects of Proxian culture, just enough to be seen as desirable to a peer such as Karst. The two may never have become a couple with a definition; Karst may see this relationship as temporary, or look at Felix like a plaything, or perhaps she has deeper feelings that even she does not realize. Felix would without a doubt be lonely living in Prox. Reaching adulthood as an outsider to everyone could not be easy. Finding a lover in these circumstances must have been a great comfort. Yet as we know, this would not end well.
Additional thoughts: One of the first images to be completed in the early days of GSAI, Evangellium found a very interesting sketchy style to use which imitated the original character portraits by Shin Yamanouchi, with the occasional stray line or slight imperfection visible, but still charming. Eva also decided to draw Karst with much longer hair; if this was a creative choice or a misinterpretation of her cape from her character design, it doesn't really matter. The look still works, almost like Karst is trying to copy her older sister Menardi's appearance. Nothing wrong with a unique interpretation if it's done well.

June 20, 2025 at 11:09 AM

The Golden Sun Art Initiative Pillow Book

@gsai-pillowbook.bsky.social

The Golden Sun Pillow Book
Entry 1: Morning Glow
Artist commissioned: Nekoru (Kurumi Igarashi) @kyir999.bsky.social
Image descriptions can be found in the alt for the first image. Additional context and thoughts are in the alt for the other two images.
#GoldenSunPillowBook

Image 1 Description: Isaac from Golden Sun is sitting on a bed. He is wearing no clothes; a sheet is laying across his lap. He is smiling at something to his right which is outside of frame. The sunlight is streaming in through a window.
Image 2 Description: Mia from Golden Sun is laying on the bed, still asleep but possibly waking up from the sunlight. She is what Isaac was looking at. Her hair is spread out around her, and the bed sheet is mostly covering her body; one breast is exposed.
Image 3 Description: Mia has rolled onto her right side and placed her head on a pillow. Her face looks very satisfied. Isaac has moved behind her gently so as not to wake her. He has placed one arm around Mia's body, and his using his other hand to hold up his head while he watches Mia sleeping. Isaac has a loving look on his face.

See the first image for descriptions.
Context: This takes place the morning after Isaac and Mia first become involved. In this scenario which is pre-reunion, neither one had intentionally sought out a relationship and especially not while they were on their quest. It just happened one night. They had been traveling for a long time together, and found each other. Perhaps a few glances here and there on their journey snowballed into this moment. Both come from small isolated towns, and now they are adults, having come of age while exploring the world and having a sense of freedom for the first time.
Although this relationship does not last, it perhaps has a special place for these two. A "first love" situation, at least when it comes to being this physical. Isaac in particular may fixate on this relationship, or at least the memories and the idea of it.
Mia likely enjoys being treated like a complete person; someone who can fight, heal, laugh, cry, and even be sexual. Being the healer of her town perhaps created a mythical status among the people that prevents them from seeing Mia as who she really is. Similar to Sheba being a "child of the gods" in Lalivero, the people of Imil call Mia an "angel" when deep down, she just wants to be called Mia. That Isaac doesn't look up at her with reverence must have been very appealing; he looker her in the eye as an equal.
You can see the look on Isaac's face; he doesn't know where this will lead, but for now he has no regrets. As they cuddle up in the glow of the morning sunlight, Isaac is excited to see what will happen next.

See the first image for descriptions.
Additional thoughts: The artist who was trusted with these three images is Nekoru (who you should be following if you are not currently). Nekoru became a trusted go-to artist who took on several pieces, including one very challenging idea which several others declined.
Nekoru, if you are reading this, thank you for everything. Communicating and seeing your work has been a pleasure, and it is so poetic that your work is how the sharing of all of these images begins.

June 15, 2025 at 5:21 PM

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