Partially an experiment in using faded colors along with an exercise in displaying everything that I had learned this year, I bring you the holidays from Raziel's castle. He might not be too happy about bringing some festive life to his stygian abode, yet he'll have to endure none the less with both Flash and Kai feeling the holiday spirit. Why must he suffer all this humbug? They better be willing to pack it back up once it's over.

While painting this, I found that what started as something simple, just felt a little empty. So as I went on, I found myself adding more and more to a world that I hadn't given much thought. While Raziel frequently visits his estate within the shadows, it has been more of a convenient escape than a stage for a small holiday celebration. I enjoyed playing with the light sources and reminding myself of old techniques I haven't used in a long while in addition to reusing some new ones I've picked up this year. Over all, I'm very happy with how this one turned out and have high hopes for next year. This will mark my final piece of 2013 and my most productive year yet. So I hope you enjoy and I'll see you in 2014!