Epic Slifer the Sky Dragon Model Kit + Collectibles


Epic Slifer the Sky Dragon Model Kit + Collectibles

This collectible represents a tangible, scaled-down model of the enduring Egyptian God Card from the Yu-Gi-Oh! buying and selling card recreation and animated sequence. It permits lovers to own a three-dimensional illustration of the highly effective serpentine creature, usually constructed from pre-colored plastic components that snap or glue collectively.

The attraction of establishing a scaled reproduction of this character stems from the cardboard recreation’s widespread recognition and the character’s outstanding position inside its narrative. Constructing and displaying this merchandise supplies a way of possession and accomplishment, serving as a visible testomony to a person’s curiosity within the franchise. Furthermore, the merchandise’s creation usually entails components of mannequin constructing, enhancing cognitive expertise and guide dexterity. The historic context lies throughout the evolution of collectible merchandise related to buying and selling card video games, reflecting a need to increase engagement past the core recreation itself.

This exploration will delve into the meeting course of, detailing the precise methods and concerns required for profitable building. Moreover, it can look at the potential for personalization and show, offering insights into how lovers can personalize and showcase their accomplished figures. Lastly, comparisons with different comparable merchandise will provide context relating to the market panorama and obtainable choices.

1. Meeting Complexity

The extent of complexity inherent within the meeting course of instantly impacts the target market and the general expertise related to the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. A extra intricate design, involving a higher variety of components and requiring precision becoming, will attraction primarily to skilled mannequin builders. These people possess the required expertise and persistence to handle the problem and recognize the detailed consequence. Conversely, a less complicated design with fewer elements and snap-fit building is extra accessible to novice builders, kids, and people looking for a faster and fewer demanding undertaking. The meeting complexity, subsequently, successfully determines the breadth of the product’s market attraction.

Think about two hypothetical variations of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin. One model could possibly be an easy, pre-painted mannequin with ten or fewer components that simply snap collectively, requiring minimal instruments or adhesive. Any such package prioritizes ease of meeting and is right for youthful followers or these new to mannequin constructing. A contrasting model might contain over 100 separate components, unpainted, necessitating using specialised instruments, glue, and portray methods. The latter supplies a big problem and the next degree of element however calls for appreciable ability and time dedication. The distinction in meeting complexity considerably alters the perceived worth and delight for various demographics.

In conclusion, the diploma of issue in establishing the mannequin serves as a important think about figuring out the product’s suitability for particular audiences. A balanced strategy, probably providing a number of variations with various complexity ranges, might maximize market attain. Understanding the connection between the meeting course of and the top consumer’s expertise is paramount to profitable product design and advertising and marketing inside this area of interest.

2. Materials High quality

Materials high quality represents a elementary facet governing the general aesthetic attraction, structural integrity, and longevity of a mannequin package replicating the serpentine creature. Collection of acceptable supplies instantly influences the product’s perceived worth and consumer satisfaction. This side encompasses a number of important components that contribute to the ultimate product’s success or failure.

  • Kind of Plastic

    The kind of plastic utilized in molding the person elements is paramount. Polystyrene, ABS, and PVC are widespread decisions, every exhibiting distinct properties. Polystyrene gives ease of shaping and portray, whereas ABS supplies elevated impression resistance. PVC, although much less widespread, could also be used for versatile components. The chosen plastic have to be sturdy sufficient to resist dealing with throughout meeting and show, resisting deformation and cracking beneath stress. Insufficient plastic high quality may end up in fragile elements liable to breakage, considerably diminishing the consumer expertise.

  • Colorfastness and UV Resistance

    The flexibility of the plastic to retain its colour and resist degradation from ultraviolet gentle is crucial for sustaining the mannequin’s visible attraction over time. Publicity to daylight could cause fading, discoloration, and even embrittlement of the plastic. Components and pigments included into the plastic formulation ought to possess inherent colorfastness and UV resistance to mitigate these results. A scarcity of those properties ends in a mannequin that rapidly deteriorates in look, diminishing its collectible worth.

  • Floor End and Texture

    The floor end and texture of the plastic elements affect the perceived high quality and realism of the mannequin. A easy, uniform floor supplies a greater canvas for paint utility and detailing. The presence of extreme mildew traces, flash, or floor imperfections detracts from the general aesthetic. Texture, the place acceptable, can improve realism, simulating scales or different floor options of the serpentine creature. Consideration to element within the floor end elevates the perceived worth of the product.

  • Dimensional Stability

    Dimensional stability refers back to the plastic’s skill to keep up its form and measurement beneath various temperature and humidity situations. Warping or distortion of elements can hinder meeting and compromise the structural integrity of the finished mannequin. Plastics with excessive dimensional stability are much less susceptible to those points, making certain a exact match between components and a extra strong remaining product. Use of inferior supplies inclined to dimensional adjustments can result in frustration throughout meeting and a structurally unsound mannequin.

In conclusion, materials choice considerably impacts the tangible and intangible qualities related to the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. Prioritizing high-quality plastics with fascinating properties interprets on to a extra sturdy, aesthetically pleasing, and in the end extra priceless collectible. Compromising on materials high quality undermines the potential of the product, resulting in dissatisfaction amongst shoppers and diminishing its long-term attraction.

3. Scale Accuracy

Scale accuracy represents a important determinant of realism and aesthetic satisfaction within the context of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. Deviation from correct scaling can diminish the perceived worth and collectibility of the merchandise, failing to seize the essence of the character as depicted in its supply materials.

  • Proportional Illustration of Options

    Guaranteeing that the mannequin’s numerous options, corresponding to the top, physique, wings, and horns, are proportionally correct relative to at least one one other is paramount. Discrepancies in these proportions can create a distorted or unnatural look, detracting from the character’s iconic design. For instance, if the top is considerably bigger or smaller than it must be in relation to the physique, the mannequin will lack visible constancy. Correct proportional illustration is prime to attaining a trustworthy recreation.

  • Consistency with Established Dimensions

    Throughout the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe, whereas not explicitly outlined, the character displays a sure diploma of visible consistency throughout numerous depictions (buying and selling playing cards, animation, and so on.). The mannequin’s scale ought to ideally align with these established, albeit implied, dimensions. If the mannequin is considerably bigger or smaller than anticipated based mostly on these depictions, it could seem incongruous with the general aesthetic of the franchise. Sustaining a level of dimensional consistency enhances the mannequin’s believability.

  • Comparative Sizing to Different Collectibles

    For collectors who show the mannequin alongside different Yu-Gi-Oh! figures or mannequin kits, relative sizing turns into vital. If the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin is drastically out of scale in comparison with different gadgets within the assortment, it can disrupt the visible concord of the show. Correct scaling relative to established business requirements or different well-liked collectibles throughout the identical franchise enhances the mannequin’s compatibility and integration inside a bigger assortment.

  • Impression on Perceived Energy and Presence

    The dimensions of the mannequin can affect the perceived energy and presence of the serpentine creature. A mannequin that’s too small could fail to seize the imposing nature of the character, whereas a mannequin that’s excessively giant could seem unwieldy or impractical for show. Placing a stability that precisely conveys the character’s formidable nature whereas remaining inside cheap measurement constraints is crucial for maximizing its impression. Cautious consideration of scale can improve the mannequin’s general visible impression and guarantee it successfully conveys the character’s supposed presence.

In conclusion, correct scaling considerably contributes to the success of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. By meticulously replicating the character’s proportions, adhering to established dimensions, making certain compatibility with different collectibles, and conveying its supposed energy, the mannequin can obtain a excessive degree of realism and aesthetic attraction, thereby enhancing its collectibility and worth throughout the Yu-Gi-Oh! group.

4. Articulation Factors

Articulation factors, throughout the context of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package, seek advice from the movable joints included into the design of the determine. These joints permit for a spread of poses and dynamic show choices, considerably enhancing the mannequin’s visible attraction and interactivity. The presence and high quality of articulation factors instantly have an effect on the diploma to which the mannequin can replicate numerous stances and actions depicted within the Yu-Gi-Oh! anime or buying and selling card artwork. A restricted variety of articulation factors restricts posing choices, leading to a static and fewer partaking show. Conversely, a well-designed articulation system permits higher flexibility and creativity in presenting the mannequin, growing its perceived worth. For example, articulation within the neck, physique, and limbs would permit the mannequin to coil, strike, or assume a menacing posture. The absence of such articulation would render the mannequin a inflexible, much less expressive illustration of the serpentine dragon.

The design and implementation of articulation factors pose particular challenges. Joints have to be strong sufficient to resist repeated posing with out weakening or breaking, requiring cautious materials choice and engineering. Articulation factors must also be aesthetically built-in into the general design, minimizing their visible intrusion and sustaining the character’s streamlined look. Uncovered or poorly hid joints can detract from the mannequin’s realism and visible attraction. Moreover, the vary of movement at every articulation level have to be fastidiously thought-about to make sure that the mannequin can obtain a various vary of poses with out showing unnatural or contorted. Balancing sturdiness, aesthetics, and performance is paramount in creating an efficient articulation system. Examples of profitable articulation techniques in comparable mannequin kits, corresponding to these present in posable motion figures and articulated mannequin robots, display the potential for dynamic and expressive posing. These fashions usually make the most of ball joints, hinge joints, and swivel joints to attain a variety of movement whereas sustaining structural integrity.

In conclusion, articulation factors characterize a vital design aspect that instantly influences the playability, show choices, and general attraction of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. Efficient articulation enhances the mannequin’s skill to seize the dynamic nature of the character, permitting for a extra partaking and visually stimulating show. Nevertheless, poorly designed or carried out articulation can detract from the mannequin’s aesthetics and performance. A complete understanding of the ideas of joint design, materials choice, and aesthetic integration is crucial for making a Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package that efficiently leverages articulation to its full potential, offering lovers with a collectible that’s each visually spectacular and dynamically partaking.

5. Paint Utility

Paint utility is a important issue figuring out the visible constancy and perceived high quality of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. The precision and approach employed in making use of paint instantly affect the accuracy with which the mannequin represents the character as depicted in its supply materials.

  • Colour Accuracy and Matching

    Correct replication of the serpentine dragon’s signature purple hue and any accompanying accent colours is paramount. Mismatched or inconsistent colours detract from the mannequin’s authenticity. Moreover, the paints should precisely characterize the colour palette used within the Yu-Gi-Oh! anime and buying and selling playing cards to resonate with followers. Colour-matching methods, using established colour requirements, are essential for attaining this accuracy. Failure to match colours exactly ends in a mannequin that seems visually discordant and missing in authenticity.

  • Protection and Opacity

    Paint protection refers back to the skill of the paint to uniformly coat the plastic floor, obscuring the underlying colour and texture. Insufficient protection ends in a patchy or translucent end, revealing the plastic beneath and diminishing the mannequin’s visible attraction. Opacity, the diploma to which the paint prevents gentle from passing by means of it, instantly influences protection. A number of skinny coats of opaque paint typically present superior outcomes in comparison with a single thick coat, which may result in runs and uneven drying. Correct protection and opacity are important for attaining a easy, constant, {and professional} end.

  • Utility Method and Detailing

    The strategy of paint utility considerably impacts the ultimate end result. Spray portray, brush portray, and airbrushing are widespread methods, every providing distinct benefits and downsides. Spray portray supplies a uniform end over giant areas, whereas brush portray permits for finer detailing and touch-ups. Airbrushing gives a stability between these two, permitting for exact utility and easy gradients. Whatever the approach employed, cautious consideration to element is essential. Masking methods can be utilized to create clear traces and separate distinct colour areas. Exact utility of paint to intricate particulars, corresponding to facial options and scale patterns, elevates the mannequin’s realism and visible complexity.

  • Sturdiness and End

    The longevity and resistance to put on and tear of the paint end are essential concerns. Paints must be proof against scratching, chipping, and fading. A sturdy end ensures that the mannequin retains its visible attraction over time, even with dealing with and show. Clear coats, utilized after the bottom colours, can present a further layer of safety and improve the general end. Matte, gloss, or satin finishes can be utilized to attain totally different visible results, additional enhancing the mannequin’s realism and aesthetic attraction. The collection of acceptable paints and clear coats, mixed with correct utility methods, contributes considerably to the long-term sturdiness and visible attraction of the completed mannequin.

In conclusion, meticulous paint utility is paramount to realizing the complete potential of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. Correct colours, full protection, expert methods, and a sturdy end collectively contribute to a visually beautiful and extremely collectible illustration of the enduring serpentine dragon. Neglecting any of those components compromises the mannequin’s general high quality and diminishes its attraction to discerning collectors and followers.

6. Show Base

The show base serves as an integral part for presenting the assembled Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package, offering each structural help and aesthetic enhancement. Its design and performance instantly impression the general visible impression and presentation of the collectible determine.

  • Stability and Help

    The first operate of the show base is to supply a steady and safe platform for the mannequin. Given the potential measurement and weight of the assembled determine, a well-designed base prevents tipping or unintended harm. This help construction usually entails a broad, flat floor space and a safe attachment mechanism, making certain the mannequin stays upright and steady throughout show. The effectiveness of the help is instantly proportional to the bottom’s floor space and the energy of the attachment factors. Failure to supply sufficient help can result in instability, growing the danger of injury to the mannequin.

  • Aesthetic Integration

    Past its structural operate, the show base contributes considerably to the general aesthetic attraction of the presentation. The bottom’s colour, texture, and design ought to complement the mannequin itself, making a cohesive and visually pleasing show. The bottom can incorporate components from the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe, corresponding to thematic symbols or textures, to reinforce the connection to the supply materials. Conversely, a poorly designed or generic base can detract from the mannequin’s visible impression. A well-integrated base enhances the general presentation, remodeling the mannequin from a mere object right into a visually compelling collectible.

  • Attachment Mechanism

    The strategy by which the mannequin attaches to the show base is important for each stability and ease of use. Safe attachment mechanisms could embody pegs, slots, or adhesive surfaces. The mechanism must be strong sufficient to resist the load of the mannequin with out compromising its aesthetic attraction. Moreover, the attachment course of must be comparatively simple, permitting for straightforward meeting and elimination of the mannequin from the bottom. A poorly designed attachment mechanism can result in instability, harm to the mannequin, or frustration throughout meeting.

  • Environmental Contextualization

    A sophisticated show base would possibly incorporate options that additional contextualize the mannequin throughout the Yu-Gi-Oh! universe. This might embody components that evoke the character’s origin or energy, corresponding to miniature terrain options, translucent results simulating power, and even built-in lighting. Such options elevate the show past easy presentation, making a diorama-like impact that enhances the mannequin’s storytelling potential. These added contextual components considerably improve the general visible impression and collectibility.

The design and implementation of the show base instantly affect the visible presentation and long-term preservation of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. A well-designed base supplies stability, enhances aesthetic attraction, and contributes to the general worth and collectibility of the mannequin. Conversely, a poorly designed base detracts from the mannequin’s impression and will increase the danger of injury. Subsequently, cautious consideration of the show base is crucial for creating an entire and compelling collectible expertise.

7. Collectibility Issue

The Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package’s attraction extends past its building and show; its potential for collectibility considerably influences its market worth and fanatic curiosity. The Collectibility Issue is instantly correlated with a number of intrinsic and extrinsic qualities of the mannequin, together with restricted manufacturing runs, unique releases, and character recognition throughout the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise. Shortage, usually created by means of restricted version releases or regional exclusives, invariably drives up demand and will increase the merchandise’s perceived worth amongst collectors. Think about, for instance, the Bandai Spirits Grasp Grade (MG) mannequin kits, which ceaselessly launch restricted version variants with distinctive colour schemes or equipment. The restricted availability of those kits usually ends in considerably larger resale values in comparison with commonplace releases. Equally, unique releases tied to particular occasions, corresponding to conventions or anniversaries, contribute to elevated collectibility on account of their restricted distribution.

The inherent recognition of Slifer the Sky Dragon throughout the Yu-Gi-Oh! narrative additional amplifies its collectibility. As one of many three Egyptian God Playing cards, the character holds a outstanding place within the franchise’s lore, making it a extremely fascinating topic for merchandise. The mannequin package’s faithfulness to the character’s design, as depicted within the anime and buying and selling playing cards, instantly impacts its attraction to collectors. Excessive-quality detailing, correct proportions, and a visually putting illustration of the serpentine dragon improve its desirability. Moreover, the mannequin package’s situation considerably impacts its collectibility. Gadgets maintained in pristine, unopened situation command larger costs within the secondary market, reflecting the worth positioned on preserving the merchandise’s unique state. The collectibility is additional influenced by the packaging, situation, whether or not or not the merchandise is graded, and if it has been professionally graded.

In conclusion, the Collectibility Issue is a multifaceted aspect integral to the success and worth of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. Understanding the drivers of collectibilityscarcity, character recognition, design high quality, and conditionis important for each producers looking for to maximise product attraction and collectors aiming to amass priceless items. The interaction of those components creates a dynamic market the place perceived worth can fluctuate based mostly on evolving tendencies and collector preferences. Navigating this market requires an consciousness of the underlying ideas that govern collectibility and a eager eye for figuring out potential funding alternatives throughout the Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise.

8. Model Fame

Model repute exerts a big affect available on the market reception and perceived worth of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. A producer’s established credibility, constructed on constant high quality and buyer satisfaction, instantly correlates with shopper belief and willingness to put money into their merchandise. A optimistic model repute serves as a sign of anticipated high quality, influencing buying selections and shaping perceptions of worth. Conversely, a unfavourable repute, arising from inconsistent high quality, poor customer support, or moral considerations, can severely diminish demand and hinder market success. Firms like Bandai, with an extended historical past of manufacturing high-quality mannequin kits beneath manufacturers corresponding to Gunpla, profit from established goodwill, which interprets into shopper confidence in new releases. This pre-existing belief reduces the perceived threat for shoppers and encourages adoption of latest merchandise.

The impact of name repute extends past preliminary gross sales. A good model is extra more likely to foster buyer loyalty, resulting in repeat purchases and optimistic word-of-mouth referrals. These natural endorsements contribute to sustained development and model recognition throughout the fanatic group. Conversely, unfavourable experiences related to a model can unfold quickly by means of on-line boards and social media, damaging its repute and eroding shopper confidence. For instance, stories of poor plastic high quality, inaccurate molding, or insufficient buyer help can rapidly dissuade potential patrons from buying the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package, no matter its inherent design deserves. The producer’s response to such points, together with addressing high quality considerations and offering responsive customer support, performs a vital position in mitigating reputational harm and sustaining shopper belief.

In abstract, model repute is a important determinant of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package’s market efficiency. A optimistic repute, constructed on constant high quality, buyer satisfaction, and moral practices, fosters shopper belief and drives gross sales. Conversely, a unfavourable repute can severely harm demand and hinder market success. Sustaining a powerful model repute requires ongoing dedication to high quality management, responsive customer support, and moral enterprise practices. The success or failure of the mannequin package, subsequently, is inextricably linked to the repute of the producer and its skill to ship on shopper expectations.

Often Requested Questions

This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package, offering detailed info to help potential purchasers and lovers.

Query 1: What’s the typical meeting time required for the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package?

The meeting time varies relying on the package’s complexity and the builder’s expertise degree. Less complicated, snap-fit kits could take roughly 2-4 hours to finish. Extra intricate kits with quite a few components and requiring portray can necessitate 10 or extra hours.

Query 2: What instruments and supplies are important for establishing the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package?

Important instruments could embody a interest knife or sprue cutter for eradicating components from the runners, plastic cement or glue for bonding elements, and sandpaper or information for smoothing surfaces. Relying on the package, paint, brushes, masking tape, and a portray station may be required.

Query 3: What’s the really helpful age vary for builders of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package?

The really helpful age vary varies based mostly on the package’s complexity. Less complicated kits are typically appropriate for ages 10 and up, whereas extra complicated kits are higher fitted to skilled mannequin builders aged 15 and older. Grownup supervision is suggested for youthful builders.

Query 4: Are there variations in scale or design obtainable for the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package?

Variations could exist relying on the producer and launch. Completely different scales, corresponding to 1/144 or non-scale, are potential. Design variations would possibly embody alternate colour schemes, equipment, or particular version releases.

Query 5: What’s the anticipated sturdiness of the assembled Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package?

Sturdiness relies on the standard of the supplies used and the care taken throughout meeting. Correctly glued and painted fashions can face up to light dealing with. Nevertheless, dropping the mannequin or exposing it to excessive temperatures could cause harm.

Query 6: The place can one buy the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package?

The mannequin package could be bought from numerous sources, together with on-line retailers specializing in mannequin kits, interest retailers, and probably bigger retailers with a devoted mannequin part. Availability could fluctuate relying on the precise package and area.

This FAQ part supplies important steering for these occupied with buying and assembling the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package. Understanding these components ensures a extra knowledgeable and satisfying constructing expertise.

The following part will delve into customization choices and potential show methods.

Development and Show Refinement

This part gives steering for optimizing the development and presentation of the finished serpentine dragon mannequin.

Tip 1: Prioritize Elements Preparation. Previous to meeting, fastidiously take away all elements from their respective runners. Make use of sharp interest knives or specialised sprue cutters to attenuate stress marks and guarantee clear detachment. File or sand down any remaining imperfections or nub marks to attain a easy floor for portray and meeting.

Tip 2: Adhere to Meeting Order. Strictly adhere to the producer’s directions relating to the meeting sequence. Deviations from the prescribed order could result in issue in becoming elements and potential structural instability. Dry-fit components earlier than making use of adhesive to confirm correct alignment and fitment.

Tip 3: Make use of Acceptable Adhesives. Choose adhesives acceptable for the plastic sort used within the mannequin package. Plastic cement chemically bonds plastic elements, whereas cyanoacrylate (tremendous glue) supplies fast adhesion. Think about the drying time and energy necessities of every adhesive when deciding on the optimum possibility for particular joints or connections.

Tip 4: Apply Skinny Coats of Paint. When portray the mannequin, apply a number of skinny coats moderately than a single thick coat. Skinny coats permit for even protection, reduce the danger of runs or drips, and facilitate higher management over colour depth. Enable every coat to dry utterly earlier than making use of the following layer.

Tip 5: Masks Intricate Particulars. Use masking tape or liquid masking options to guard adjoining areas when portray complicated or multi-colored patterns. Exactly masking off particulars ensures clear traces and prevents overspray, leading to a extra skilled and visually interesting end.

Tip 6: Make the most of a Devoted Show Case. Defend the completed mannequin from mud, UV publicity, and unintended harm by displaying it inside a devoted show case. Choose a case that’s appropriately sized for the mannequin and constructed from UV-resistant supplies to protect its colours and stop fading over time.

Tip 7: Make use of Strategic Lighting. Improve the mannequin’s visible impression by incorporating strategic lighting throughout the show case. LED spotlights or strip lights can illuminate the mannequin’s particulars and create dramatic shadows, drawing consideration to its options and enhancing its general presence.

These suggestions purpose to raise the development and presentation of the mannequin, making certain a visually putting and long-lasting show.

This refinement serves as a fruits of ideas, main into the ultimate remarks.

Concluding Remarks

This examination has explored numerous sides of the Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package, encompassing its meeting, materials composition, scale accuracy, articulation, paint utility, show base design, collectibility, and the affect of name repute. Understanding these components is essential for each shoppers looking for to amass this collectible and producers aiming to supply high-quality, fascinating merchandise. From the intricacies of components preparation to the strategic implementation of articulation factors and the importance of colour constancy in paint utility, every facet contributes to the general worth and attraction of the completed mannequin.

The potential for partaking with this subject material extends past mere meeting and show. It encourages the event of expertise expertise, an appreciation for element, and an understanding of the broader Yu-Gi-Oh! universe. As such, partaking with a Slifer the Sky Dragon mannequin package presents a possibility for artistic expression, collectible appreciation, and a continued funding within the nuances of the model-building interest itself.