Why I Write Bartholomew Roberts as AroAce: A Historical and Personal Perspective
As an AroAce AO3 writer, Iāve always been drawn to the "Black Bart" of Fate/Grand Order. While the fandom often views characters through the lens of shipping, I found a much more compelling story in his historical roots and his in-game philosophy.
Here is why I believe Bartholomew Roberts is a quintessential AroAce icon:
ā¢ The Historical Void:
History is silent on Bartholomewās romantic life. In an era of "a girl in every port," he was famously abstinent, focused entirely on music, tea, and his strict pirate code. To me, this isn't a "lack" of somethingāitās a presence of a different kind of fulfillment.
ā¢ The "Articles" as Boundary-Setting:
His famous rule forbidding women on ship is often interpreted in various ways, but through an AroAce lens, it reflects a man creating a space where the "noise" of romance and sexual tension is removed to make room for his true loves: order and aesthetic.
ā¢ The Valentineās Perspective:
Look at his Valentineās scenario in FGO. While other Servants might offer romantic gestures, Bart stays true to his "Mekakure" obsession. Even on a day meant for lovers, he prioritizes his specific aesthetic preferences over romantic tropes. To me, this refusal to conform to the "romantic mood" of the season is a quintessential AroAce traitāchoosing personal passion over societal expectations of romance.
My series, "Even Without Romance," is a tribute to this interpretation. Itās not about a man who can't love, but a man who loves differentlyāwho finds "The One" in the crashing waves, the perfect coat, and the loyalty of his crew.
If youāre looking for a story where an Ace character is powerful, stylish, and completely satisfied without a romantic partner, I invite you to join my crew.
No romance? No problem. The sea is wide enough for all of us.
