Shadow Garden Markers

Lore & Background

These magical signatures allow Petelgeuse to sense the location and emotional state of his targets from vast distances. During the Sanctuary Arc, it becomes evident that Subaru Natsuki carries a connection strong enough to be tracked by this faction's magic. The markers are subtle, often imperceptible to normal mages, but they signal to the Homunculi servants who should be protected or eliminated. They represent the invasive reach of the Cult into the lives of ordinary people.

In Their Own Story

The air grew cold in the abandoned chapel, not from wind, but from a sudden drop in pressure. Subaru felt a prickle on his neck, like eyes watching through closed eyelids. He knew that feeling now—the weight of something ancient and hungry pressing against his soul. It wasn't a physical wound, yet it bled magic. Somewhere in the dark, Petelgeuse smiled, knowing the marker held firm. The shadows lengthened, reaching out to claim what was destined for them.

Reader's Guide

The mechanics behind these markers rely heavily on Greed Magic's ability to perceive and manipulate connections between souls. They do not require physical contact to be established initially but often need a catalyst event, such as the target interacting with Witch Factor remnants. Limitations include range and interference; strong magical barriers or the presence of other Archbishops can disrupt the signal. Only those with high affinity for Greed Magic, specifically Petelgeuse and his direct Homunculi servants, can read or place these signatures effectively. Lore dictates that once a marker is set, it cannot be easily removed by conventional means. It binds to the target's spiritual existence rather than their flesh. This makes them dangerous tools for tracking, as they persist even if the target attempts to flee into hiding.

Did You Know?

• Shadow Garden Markers are not physical objects but enchantments left upon potential vessels or assassination targets.
• They serve as a beacon for the Archbishop of Greed, Petelgeuse Romanee-Conti.
• During the Sanctuary Arc, Subaru Natsuki carries a connection strong enough to be tracked by this faction's magic.
• The markers signal to the Homunculi servants who should be protected or eliminated.
• Only those with high affinity for Greed Magic, specifically Petelgeuse and his direct Homunculi servants, can read or place these signatures effectively.