Since I announced my decision to step into speculative fiction, it has been full steam ahead. The foundations are laid: a pen name, a definitive genre, and a blueprint for a world that has been haunting my peripheral vision for years.
The Genesis of Darius
In choosing a pseudonym, I wanted a title that reflected my Persian roots while capturing the sharp, prickly essence of the genres I plan to inhabit. Darius is derived from the Old Persian Dārayavahush, meaning “he who holds firm the good.” You might think I’m suffering from delusions of grandeur—Persian kings were, after all, fond of the name. Here, it represents the curator’s burden: the one who holds onto humanity when everything else is lost.
As for Thorne, it’s s a nod to the figure that defined cinematic evil for me as a child: Damien Thorne of The Omen franchise. Since I’ll be venturing into the darker reaches of sci-fi and horror, the name serves as a warning. Think of me as your guide through ravaged realms, holding firm the good against an onslaught of evil.
Looking through the Apertures of the Void
The debut project from Darius Thorne is an anthology that blends high-concept sci-fi with visceral horror: Apertures of the Void.
These stories are bound by a “frame narrative”—a cinematic wraparound—centred around Natalie, a sole survivor navigating the architecture of isolation. Her journey is a struggle to maintain the will to survive when hope has become a scarce resource. From the blood-stained frontiers of 18th-century America to the sterile, “escape-proof” prison cells of the distant future, these stories are the artefacts she uses to fight her inner demons.
The vault is open. The first draft is breathing.
Join the Archive
The journey is just beginning, and I want you there as the first files are decrypted.
Explore the Vault: For a deeper look at the concept art, character dossiers (like Natalie and Daniel), and the “Director’s Commentary” on the world-building, visit the official Darius Thorne Blog
Visual Transmissions: Follow the visual evolution of the series, including exclusive stills and atmospheric teasers, on Instagram @thedariusthorne
Stay Subscribed: Right here on Substack is where the “Ramon Writes” perspective meets the “Darius Thorne” imagination. Make sure you’re subscribed to get the stories delivered directly to your inbox.
The Void is watching. Are you?
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