siamesefightingpiano

[siamesefightingpiano]

Sometimes I get sad about the lack of information on Ayizu because I believe both he and Guthred are very important people to Capitano and serve as polar opposites in a spectrum.

Guthred is the realistic person, more prone to be blunt about his opinions. He serves as a contrast to Capitano, not afraid to call him out whenever he goes too far into his righteous ways. His honesty is something Capitano appreciates, even though they might not always agree. In fact, their differing opinions binds them together even further, as they complete each other - as acknowledged during the Archon Quest. What is also interesting about Guthred, however, is that he is bound by duty and honor as well - his undying loyalty, the fact that he tested medicine on himself to the point of getting himself sick. He's the first person to call out Capitano for his selflessness, but shares his own part as well - something Capitano can acknowledge and admire. He is also a close partner, the person that reminds Capitano of the home he lost. He's the person that ties Capitano to Khaenri'ah, reminding him of where he came from.

Ayizu is more of an ideal, sort of. The kind of person that Capitano admires, not only out of gratitude (Ayizu did help him and his soldiers in a critical moment) but because he is an example to be followed. The wrinkles in his face indicate that he was older than Capitano by the time they met, and with age comes experience and wisdom that Capitano very much appreciates. From the way Capitano reminisces about him, it does seem that they had a close bond - enough for Capitano to trust him into witnessing his secret (keeping the souls in his heart) and for Ayizu to trust him the secret of the Pyro Gnosis. Ayizu is, too, a reminder of Natlan as a second home to Capitano. He's the reason Capitano feels so bound to the nation.

What unites both Ayizu and Guthred as characters is the fact that both cherish and care about Capitano/Thrain, albeit in different ways. They both see Capitano's selflessness to the point of self-destruction, and both have their own ways to call him out on it. They exist to tie him to his origins and to the people that welcomed him when all was lost. 500 years later, Capitano still thinks about them, still bases his actions in what they would say/do. They could not be more different, but the role each of them play in Capitano's characterization is crucial, as they push and pull him into balance. Without their influence, the Capitano we meet in game would be a very different person.

[siamesefightingpiano]

More disjointed Capitano and Guthred ramblings are you ready for some full paragraphs:

Guthred is very good at his job, but isn't so good at being likable. He was probably more open when he was young, but his general stoicism kept getting mistaken for coldness and a lack of emotions. He didn't bother correcting the misconception because it meant he didn't have to deal with people. However, him embracing that misconception means that he eventually also bought into it, and ever since then has believed that of himself and acts accordingly. Self-fulfilling prophecy? As such, he has next to no friends and is at most civil or "friendly" with people he deems acceptable.

The Cataclysm was probably the event that pushed him to become the man we see in the AQs: "Obsessive and cruel" according to his story self. Bearing witness to the destruction of your nation was probably highly traumatizing. Guthred probably came to the conclusion that being soft couldn't get him anywhere; only results mattered, no matter the cost. After all, his home was already gone, what was another sacrifice compared to that? He was probably already slowly going that way back in Khaenri'ah. After all, the military is not a gentle place. But the Cataclysm definitely pushed him past the point of no return.

Thrain is definitely a Victorian male lead. He's a gentleman who likes to announce his intentions and is all about honour and morality. But he's not that close minded. He's very willing to take the time to listen to other people's opinions and ideas and take them into consideration, even if he ends up not doing anything different. Thrain knows that his way of doing things may not always be the best, and that is why he likes to have a second opinion. He'll be stern when the occasion calls for it but he's really just a big sap. He'll do his utmost to care for and protect anyone that's under his leadership and then the Cataclysm and Natlan happen. He knows what he wants and he'll play the long game to get it if he needs to.

Thrain likes the way Guthred's brain works. Guthred will always make his voice heard on topics he thinks are important eg. decisions impacting him/others in whichever situation he's in at that point in time. Even if it's an unpopular stance he's not afraid to voice it. That's what Thrain likes, the fearlessness with which Guthred expresses himself. He can see that Guthred is more than just the cold, stoic man people believe him to be, and the more he looks the more he likes what he sees.

Since Thrain is basically the model military man and has an amazing reputation, people are probably very likely to just accept anything he does and says. Then there's Guthred who will just criticize his decisions if the doctor doesn't think it's good enough. Guthred's way of thinking is very different compared to Thrain's, so Thrain feels like he's getting a more complete look at the situation compared to people just agreeing with everything he says. This does mean they argue a lot. Sometimes publicly. In front of the platoon and anyone else forced to bear witness.

Thrain appreciates and respects Guthred for who he is as a person, so Guthred in return opens up more to Thrain. This is when Thrain finds out Guthred can talk. A lot. Guthred will nag him for anything and everything and a normal person will get annoyed but Thrain finds it so refreshing. He's the dutiful son and soldier that everyone loves, and here comes this weirdo who just starts telling him he's doing things wrong. It's Guthred's way of caring and Thrain quickly comes to realize that.

Guthred has a jealous streak a mile wide. Pre-Cataclysm he wouldn't have done anything about it because he didn't see the point. But post-Cataclysm it would worsen to the point where it's bordering on codependency when it comes to Thrain. And then he dies and when he comes back to possess Ororon it's full blown yandere because only he can be by his commander's side.

Meanwhile Thrain's just thankful that Guthred survived the Cataclysm with him and continues to stick by him despite all odds. Then they arrive in Natlan and he notices how Guthred is quieter and keeps to himself more, but there's not much he can do about it when he's trying to keep his platoon together amidst all the chaos. Resources are nearly non-existent and morale is at rock bottom. How can he only focus on one person when he has the rest of his men to look after?

Then Guthred dies and Thrain is all alone. Ayizu is a good, trusted friend but he is not Khaenri'ahn. He is not Guthred. No one is Guthred, no one can replace Guthred. Thrain is the last of his platoon. The Night Kingdom is closed, his men can never find peace. They've suffered so much already, why must they continue to suffer even after death? He makes the admittedly rash decision to take in his men's souls. The gods have no love for Khaenri'ahns. But Thrain does. His soldiers are his, and what sort of commander would he be if he just abandoned them to their fates? He owes it to them. He owes it to Guthred.

Thrain does not truly get to mourn the deaths of his men. How does one mourn one's companions when they reside in your mechanical heart, screaming and crying at all hours of the day? At least he isn't truly alone in the world. But it is painful and he can't sleep. His mind is filled with voices that aren't his, emotions that aren't his. He has Guthred's soul in his heart but he wants him by his side, feel the warmth of a living person. He wants to hold Guthred's hand. He wants Guthred in his arms again.

All he can do now is continue forth on his self-imposed mission. No matter how long it takes, how many years, decades, or centuries, he will give to his men what they deserve.

Salvation.

This was supposed to be a cute post but it turned out quite serious? This was also supposed to be in point form but instead entire whole paragraphs appeared I don't know what happened. Honestly I lost my grip on this post after the third paragraph lol.

I originally wanted to talk about how Thrain is all about Guthred's tsundere gap moe..... sigh. Maybe next time. Lol.

[siamesefightingpiano]

[siamesefightingpiano]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: 原神 | Genshin Impact (Video Game) Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Capitano/Guthred (Genshin Impact) Characters: Capitano (Genshin Impact), Guthred (Genshin Impact) Additional Tags: Established Relationship, Explicit Sexual Content, Size Difference, Pre-The Cataclysm | Fall of Khaenri'ah (Genshin Impact) Summary:

Freshly returned from deployment, Thrain offers to host Guthred at his home while on leave. They make very good use of that time.

[siamesefightingpiano]

[siamesefightingpiano]

Are you guys ready for some utter sap because this is what it is also it is yet again 1k+ words

Capitano x Guthred

Somewhere in the Night Kingdom

The first thing Capitano- Thrain- does in the Night Kingdom, after seeing off his soldiers' souls, is to pull Guthred into his arms. He buries his head into the smaller man's shoulder and just... breathes. Or as close an approximation to breathing as a soul can achieve. Familiar arms wrap around him and he lets out a sigh of exhaustion. "I missed you." He mumbles into Guthred's shoulder.

His second-in-command settles a hand on the back of his head and he all but melts into the touch. Guthred rests his cheek against Thrain's head. "I have always been with you." At Thrain's groan, he amends with a smile pressed into black hair, "I missed you too."

Capitano takes a deep breath and before he raises his head, mourns a soul's lack of smell. He mourns not being able to smell what is distinctly Guthred, medical grade disinfectant and hair wax, forever lost to time and relegated to memory. The hand on his head slips down to rest on his nape as he lifts his head. He leans his forehead against Guthred's and relishes the ability to do so. Disembodied souls they may be, but they possess presence of mind and a distinct form.

It has taken five hundred long years for him to get to this point. He has toiled, suffered torment, persevered and now he can claim his reward. He has earned this. There are no more voices in his mind, echoing, screaming, trying to shred his sanity. He is himself, and he has Guthred in his arms. They are reunited in death, even if it may only be temporary. He'll take what he can get. He deserves it.

Guthred looks up at him and oh, how he has missed this sight. "I thought you wanted to rest, Commander?"

Capitano hums but does not move. "I do, and I will." He takes a moment to luxuriate in being able to see and touch his second-in-command, his most trusted person. He sighs. "I have missed you very much."

Guthred huffs in amusement. "Are you so addled that you've resorted to repeating yourself?"

"It deserves to be repeated, and you deserve to hear it." Capitano brushes his lips against Guthred's temple. He finally takes a step back so he can properly look at the other man. "It's been five hundred years. I can spare a few more moments."

"Well," the doctor studies his face with a discerning eye, "It seems like the corruption is only limited to your physical body. You look the same as you used to."

Capitano grunts. "Hm. Unexpected."

Guthred rests his hands on his hips. "When do you have to go back?"

"Eventually." The Captain allows. "But for the meantime, this is where I will stay."

His second-in-command nods. "This time, make sure you take care of yourself. You should have a much easier time sleeping now that you're not carrying any more souls in your heart. Your goal should be eight hours every night, but I know how you are, so aim for at least five. And make sure you drink lots of water. Adequate hydration is important to staying healthy. Who knows, it might even do something for the corruption. And you need to eat more balanced meals. Your Snezhnayan rations are fine in the short run, but you should really try to get more fruits and vegetables in your diet. And also- why are you laughing?"

Capitano chuckles and shakes his head. "Nothing. It's just- I've missed this, very much." He looks at Guthred fondly. "It's been five hundred years since anyone's talked to me this way. It's... refreshing. And nostalgic."

Guthred sniffs and crosses his arms. "You mean it's been five hundred years since anyone's tried to talk sense into you. I know you, Thrain. There's not an ounce of sensibility in that head of yours."

Capitano doesn't stop the soft smile that spreads across his face. As soon as Guthred uncrosses his arms, he reaches out to take the other man's hand. "I take it that's your professional opinion, Doctor?"

Guthred scowls performatively. "My professional opinion is that you should listen to your doctor for once and do as he says. I swear, if you go back to the world of the living and still don't take care of yourself I'm going to find another hapless soul to possess and hunt you down."

The smile on Capitano's face grows indulgent. "I'll try my best, Doctor."

The shorter man sighs and rolls his eyes. "I suppose that's the best I'll get out of you."

Capitano squeezes Guthred's hand. "There is something I would like to say. I never got to tell you this when you were still alive, but..." He sighs. "Thank you for staying by my side all these years. I know we always argued and often didn't see eye to eye, but you still gave me your full support. You went above and beyond to fulfill our mutual goals, even though I wish you didn't go to those lengths. I think that... without you there, I would not have become who I am today. So, thank you, Guthred."

His second-in-command presses a tender hand to Capitano's cheek. "I pledged myself to you all those years ago in Khaenri'ah, and I'll continue to uphold that vow in any capacity. Even if I have to traverse the ley lines, even if I have to tear through the veil of death, I will do my utmost to support you."

His hand begins to slip away but Thrain holds it in place, pressing his cheek firmly into his palm.

Guthred smiles at him, soft and sad. "But next time, I will not be with you. I know you'll stay true to your ideals, but please, try to not to be too thickheaded."

Capitano- Thrain coughs out a laugh.

Guthred's smile twitches. "And find a competent doctor, will you? You know how hard I was cringing at all the incompetency. I had to bear witness to them all, it was horrible. It's been five hundred years, you'd think there'd be some advancement in the field. And that brat, the one with half a soul. Make sure he supplies you with more vegetables, you hear? Those are some quality vegetables! How many times do I have to lecture you on getting your daily servings of vitamins and fiber? And-"

Laughing, Thrain loops an arm around Guthred's shoulders, reels him in, and kisses him silly. Eventually, the other man pulls away and Thrain grins into his hair. "I've missed you so much."

"Yes, yes." Guthred complains into the fabric of Thrain's uniform. "This is the third time you've said that. But you've interrupted me multiple times now, and as the certified medical professional here I say that kissing someone while they're talking is a highly inappropriate method of shutting them up."

Thrain plants an unapologetic kiss on Guthred's cheekbone. "I've only interrupted you twice, Doctor. So you're saying I should kiss you when you're not talking?"

"Wh-" And yes, there was the slightest flush to Guthred's ears. "You're twisting my words on purpose. Why is that the conclusion you've come to? You always do this when you don't want to listen to me. This is a terrible habit. Do I need to remind you about that time where you nearly kissed me in front of all our soldiers? The multiple times? You really need to stop undermining your authority and the respect people have for you."

Thrain is having trouble controlling the slant of his mouth. "But they were tired of hearing us bicker. I think they would've welcomed any sort of distraction. And this is another thing I never told you, but you become so animated when you nag at me. I tend to find it.... invigorating."

The red is starting to creep down Guthred's neck. "Is that what goes through your mind every time I lecture you? No wonder you don't listen to a word I say. What are you, a teenager? You are the daftest man I've ever met, not including the brat-"

"Guthred." Thrain says with unabashed joy, holding his most beloved person's face in his hands. "I am going to kiss you now."

"What have I said about- mrph!"

[siamesefightingpiano]

[siamesefightingpiano]

You have been warned, this thing is 1k+ words long this was supposed to be a drabble why

Khaenri'ah, pre-Cataclysm, a military barracks near the main city

A familiar name catches Thrain's attention as he's walking through the mess hall and he looks to see his old friends sequestered around a table. There is no hesitation before he changes trajectory and approaches.

The two soldiers look up as he nears and his old roommate raises a hand in greeting. "Thrain! Good to see you. Are you free? Come join us!"

After a brief shuffling by everyone involved, Thrain sits down in the space provided for him.

His old roommate, Erik, claps him on the shoulder. "Look at you, man! Congratulations on making Commander. We knew you could do it."

Thrain smiles faintly. "Thank you. But please, don't let me interrupt your conversation. What was it you were talking about?"

Astrid exchanges a look with Erik. "Oh right, you know that guy too."

Erik leaned in conspirationally. "So. We were talking about how he's up for review now that he completed his residency. I heard that he's really talented, but rubs everyone the wrong way."

Astrid holds out a hand. "So really, no change from when he was in med school."

Erik nods. "Right. Now here's the thing. Apparently he really pissed off his last commander. He called him out on some bad orders, was proven right, then criticized him in front of the entire unit. Embarrassed his superior and the commander. It was a huge mess."

Thrain smothers a smile with a cough. "That is... quite something."

Astrid rolls her eyes. "Guy just can't keep his mouth shut. I'm surprised they haven't booted him out yet."

Erik shrugs. "I guess he's too valuable. But here's the thing. I also heard they're going to transfer him to Gunnar's unit."

Thrain jolts in his seat. "What."

Astrid covers her mouth. "Gunnar's unit? That's a dead end posting right there! I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy."

Erik nods. "That sort of personality in a place like that? That's punishment. I guess his commander must've made a big enough fuss about it to the higher ups."

Astrid shakes her head. "You would think that he'd learn to keep his opinions to himself after all these years but I guess not."

Thrain checks his timepiece before making to stand. "I'm afraid I must get going. I have an appointment to get to."

Astrid holds up a hand in farewell. "See you around, Thrain."

Erik toasts him with his glass. "Good luck to you, Commander!"

---

"Now that's out of the way, there is some housekeeping that we must do." His superior hands Thrain a thin stack of papers. "Since your original doctor has retired, you need to select a new one. These are the available candidates. They're all up for review and are available for transfer. You're free to choose."

Thrain sorts through the pile of paper, skimming through each candidate's profile.

The Colonel leans back into his chair. "Some of these doctors have just completed residency, but there are also those with more seniority if you prefer."

"This one." The words fly out of Thrain's mouth before he's even aware of it.

Henrik stops mid-sentence in surprise. "Excuse me?"

Thrain pushes a piece of paper forward. "Apologies, sir. But I want this one."

Henrik looks down at the paper and its contents. "Are... are you sure, Commander? This one's got a reputation. Apparently he has a habit of talking back and arguing with his superiors, he's lacking in bedside manners, is difficult to work with-"

"I apologize if I'm overstepping," Thrain cuts in quietly, "but I'm told that he's getting transferred to Gunnar's unit soon?"

His superior thinks for a moment before nodding. "Yes, that's right. I believe the paperwork is still getting sorted, but that is the decision."

Thrain looks down at the profile with its familiar photo. "If he's getting transferred to Gunnar, why is he still available?"

The Colonel clears his throat. "Let's just say that Gunnar's in no hurry to acquire new personnel."

Thrain stares at the face in the photo. "You're saying the paperwork is not finalized."

Henrik sighs and looks at the ceiling. "No. It's not."

"Then," Thrain looks up, deadly serious. "I would like to fill out the paperwork for transfer immediately and submit it for processing."

The Colonel presses a hand to his eyes. "So you're telling me that the first thing you're going to do as a commander is to poach another guy's field doctor?"

Thrain threads his fingers together. "Sir, I can tell you right now that this doctor is not going to do well under Gunnar. I don't doubt Gunnar's abilities as a leader, but this particular doctor... I know how to handle him. Also, is it really poaching if the other party doesn't even want the transfer?"

Henrik gives him a look before taking the paper. After a while, he side-eyes Thrain. "You know this man personally, don't you?"

"To an extent." Thrain allows. "We were briefly acquainted before he went on to do his residency. But I believe he will fit in well in my platoon. And Gunnar will have one less headache to deal with."

Henrik looks at him with raised eyebrows before sighing. "Well, if you're sure, Commander. Good thing you have your family name backing you. Doing things like this... I didn't think you had it in you."

Thrain smiles faintly. "I know what I want, Colonel. Thank you for your understanding."

The Colonel exhales roughly and shakes his head. "I just hope you know what you're doing."

---

"So."

It's after hours and he's standing in Medical. He watches his new doctor watch him.

"So." He parrots back, holding back the smile threatening to break out.

Guthred looks at him with those sharp eyes. "I heard you specifically requested my presence in your platoon, Commander. What an honour."

Thrain lets the corners of his lips twitch up. "There was a vacancy. I heard you're a very talented doctor. I believe you will do well here."

Guthred's eyes scan his face like a hawk hunting prey. "I also heard some very surprising things about how you went about securing my transfer."

Thrain takes a step forward almost unconsciously. "I was only doing my due diligence by completing the required paperwork on time."

The doctor watches his advancement with a flicker of the eyes. "Is that what we're calling it now? Hmph, I didn't think I'd live to see the day."

The commander slows to a stop directly in front of the shorter man. "I had a good teacher."

Guthred looks him up and down, thoroughly unmoved. "Is that right? Somehow I have a feeling the instruction won't stick for long." He pauses, and when Thrain does not follow with a reply, continues. "Well, Commander? Is there anything else you needed of me?"

"...No." Thrain sweeps his eyes across Guthred's face. "I look forward to working with you, Doctor. Have a good night." He turns to leave and from behind comes a disbelieving snort. Yes, he'll definitely look forward to it.

[siamesefightingpiano]

Setting: Khaenri'ah, pre-Cataclysm, a military barracks near the main city??, when Thrain was still a fresh soldier

"You," Thrain breathed tremulously deep, "are the most vexing man I've ever met."

Guthred stood toe to toe with him, fire in his eyes and smugness hanging from his lips at an infuriating angle. "And? What are you going to do about it?"

Thrain leaned in and-

The door slammed open and Thrain's roommate stumbled through. "Where's my- oh, hey guys. What's, uh- you guys okay?"

Thrain stared dumbly at the intruder, heart in his throat. He worked his jaw briefly before clearing his throat. "Erik. Did you forget something?"

His roommate looked around the room haphazardly. "Yeah, I forgot my- aha!" He plucked a folder from his desk. "Forgot my documents. You okay, man? You look like you've seen a ghost." He looked between Thrain and Guthred. "What's he still doing here? Hey Guthred, didn't you say you were busy?"

In the short lived chaos, the medical student had somehow moved as far away as possible. Which meant he was stood facing the far wall. Thrain stared in fascination at the back of Guthred's ears. Were they always that red? If he pressed his fingers to Guthred's neck, would the skin feel as hot as it was red? Would it feel as smooth, as soft as it looked? Would it-

The medical student finally turned to face them. Guthred set a frigid glare upon Erik, lips pulled down in displeasure. "What I do with my time is none of your business. I am taking my leave now. Goodbye." With that, he stalked past them and straight out the door, eyes firmly ahead and never once straying in Thrain's direction.

Erik watched the other man leave before turning back to his roommate. "Wow, what got him so riled up? Med students really are something else. Anyway, I got my documents now, so I'll see you later."

And with that, Thrain was left standing in the middle of the room, mind filled with nothing but the high colour of Guthred's cheeks.

[siamesefightingpiano]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: 原神 | Genshin Impact (Video Game) Rating: General Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Capitano/Guthred (Genshin Impact) Characters: Guthred (Genshin Impact), Capitano (Genshin Impact) Additional Tags: Whump, Hurt/Comfort Summary:

Guthred works on a cure for Abyssal Corrosion Syndrome and Thrain worries.

[siamesefightingpiano]

Welcome back to another episode of me analyzing Capitano's story teaser through a Guthrain lens. Because I'm crazy, obviously.

We start off with this scene, post-battle with Thrain and Ayizu. Ayizu talks about how the (newly?) dead are unable to pass on due to the Night Kingdom being nearly destroyed. Actually, let me back up here. When they were still fighting, Thrain and Ayizu were facing away from each other, fighting Abyssal monsters. And then in the above scene, Ayizu is facing Thrain to talk to him but Thrain is facing away. In the next scene, we find out why.

ONCE AGAIN CAN I MENTION THAT THRAIN'S. FINGERS. REACHING FOR GUTHRED. DOES THINGS TO MY HEART. IT'S BEAUTIFUL???

In the transition between the previous scene to this one, Thrain throws down his sword and walks offscreen. If we go by the sound effects and the speed at which he walks off, we can say he takes about four steps or so before he stops and kneels. And then he REACHES FOR GUTHRED'S CHEST I need to stop omg anyway. So we can say that Guthred's body was about four steps away from where Thrain was standing. Four steps seems a bit small, but if we think about it as four extra-tall man steps, maybe it seems more reasonable??

So here we have Thrain kneeling over Guthred's body, with Ayizu standing behind him in incredulity. Ayizu is standing quite close, but perhaps he came closer once Thrain started taking in souls.

We can piece together various bits of information from the visual and auditory aid we're given. This is probably the battle where Thrain becomes the only surviving Khaenriah'n. Either he loses his entire platoon in this battle, or the numbers have dwindled over time and successive battles until this one and he becomes the only survivor. After the battle ended, he was standing very close to where Guthred fell. Previously, we were told by Story!Guthred that he sacrificed himself in battle, so he did something here that resulted in him giving up his life.

Now we have some options:

Thrain went looking for Guthred after the battle and eventually came upon his body.

Thrain and Guthred stayed close together the whole time during battle.

Guthred was heading towards Thrain's position before he dies.

They were heading towards each other when Guthred dies.

Personally, #4 seems very unlikely but any of these can be a possibility? But for some reason I feel like #1 is most likely.

Going back to the beginning, let's say that Thrain has discovered Guthred's body and is probably in shock over seeing his beloved most trusted second-in-command laying on the ground dead, all while Ayizu is going on about the Night Kingdom and souls. Thrain doesn't bother responding to Ayizu. Instead, he takes action, approaching and kneeling at Guthred's body to take in Guthred's soul. Only then does he bother giving Ayizu a reply. I'm never getting over the fact that Guthred was the first soul he takes.

Anyway, there's too much I want to say that would just veer off in to fic territory and this is already way too long (just, so many options???). But the entire point of this post was that I wanted to point out that Guthred was very close to Thrain's position when he died. Yes I wrote a whole essay just to talk about it. Ugh. Maybe I'll do a separate post on the options.... of how Guthred dies and when Thrain finds him. Man that's going to be dark.

[siamesefightingpiano]

[siamesefightingpiano]

Every time I see this scene I feel like I'm going crazy.

We all know that Capitano sacrificed himself and merged with the Lord of the Night in order to change Natlan's ley lines and finally lay his comrades' souls to rest. But the way this was framed? Why??

So in order to be sacrificed he has to sit on the Throne of the Primal Fire. And then we get the slow shot of him walking up to the throne with his soldiers and Natlanese souls saluting him. Note how they're lining the staircase like it's a procession. The Khaenriah'n soldier even congratulates him on a job well done.

And then. AND THEN.

YOU HAVE.

GUTHRED. Who is standing closest to the throne. He's basically at the top of the stairs before you reach the dais on which the throne is located. And nobody else is there. He is the only one. Why. Sure you can say that Guthred's his second-in-command so he's at the top of the stairs but if that's the case the animators could've just placed him near the top with the rest of the souls? But instead he's at the verrrrry top with a sizeable distance from the others. So already there's already a visual difference.

And there's the dialogue. He could've congratulated Capitano like the other soldier. But no, his line is "This time, let's go together." And Capitano replies with "Yes, let's go together." You don't understand when I experienced this for the first time in game my heart was in so much pain. "This time", meaning they did it wrong last time because Guthred died and left Thrain all by himself. But this time, they're going together. And the softness of his voice compared to when he was a crazy yandere trying to kill Ororon? omg? Anyway, when he says that line you get a closeup of him with the Throne in the background. Yes it's because both him and the Throne are in the same line of sight. But they could've framed his closeup like the other souls - camera angle from Capitano's side, therefore no throne.

So now we have this association of Guthred with the Throne, which is symbolic of Capitano's sacrifice. Through this association, we can say that when Capitano takes the throne, he will also get Guthred. And as Guthred offered and Capitano agreed, this time, they're going to the afterlife, together. Guthred is the "reward" Capitano gets when he reaches his goal of self-sacrifice upon the Throne of the Primal Fire.

Also another thing? When the camera switches to the closeup of Guthred the music transitions into this soft, gentle thing??? Like wow??? Also I checked the CN dub because I'm crazy and CN Capitano sounded so... gentle??? Ughhh these twooooo.

Also you know what the whole thing reminded me of? Aragorn's coronation in Return of the King where he finally gets to marry Arwen because he finally became King of Gondor.

If you managed to get all the way to the end, thank you for reading and witnessing my madness.

Source

[siamesefightingpiano]

Thrain coming across "Guthred" in the Night Kingdom one day, just him wandering about with no particular destination in mind when he sees a familiar figure in the distance.

Drawing closer, he recognizes that distinctive hairstyle and the particular uniform. Even the stance is as familiar as the back of his hand, but... something is off. It isn't until the soul turns around that he realizes why.

"Commander." Guthred salutes, a faint smile playing about his lips. His eyes softer than they should be, a touch too gentle. The lack of tension in his shoulders and fingers. And most damning, the expression on his face, one of recognition, but the wrong kind. The faintest hint of detachment and none of the depth that comes with years of knowing each other.

Thrain stops in his tracks. His boots are soundless against the rock and grit of the Night Kingdom. "You are not Guthred. Who are you?"

"Guthred" relaxes out of his salute. "Very astute, Commander. As expected." "He" smiles and the wrongness of it raises all the incorporeal hairs on Thrain's arms. "I am not the real Guthred that you know. I am a creation borne of the woven scrolls of the Masters of the Night-Wind. A collection of heroic deeds and none of the bad. A story personified, if you will." He studies Thrain's face briefly. "Your reaction tells me you're not pleased."

"You are not him." Thrain watches the... thing in front of him, cataloguing every single detail that didn't match.

The personification shakes his head. "No, I am not."

Thrain does not feel alarmed, for he now understands how the Night Kingdom works. But...

"Why are you here?"

"Guthred" crosses his arms. "Why? Do you mean, why are we meeting each other now, in this manner?" A head tilt and those familiar-unfamiliar eyes blink. "I could say the same for you, Commander. Why have you come out this way?"

Thrain frowns, just the faintest lowering of his eyebrows. "I was out for a walk."

"Then you could say that I too, am out for a walk. What does any soul, real or not, do in the Night Kingdom anyway?" The Guthred made from stories pauses. "Why are you not pleased?"

Thrain takes a moment to collect his thoughts. "A person cannot be completely good. Guthred would not be himself if he was missing all his character flaws. He and I would not have worked so well together for so long otherwise. I wouldn't have... He would not be my trusted second-in-command. He would be a stranger."

The man in front of him hums. "Ah." He nods. "I understand now. Thank you for the clarification. These memories make much more sense now." He plants his hands on his hips in thought before looking to Thrain. "Then, Commander, why are you still here? Don't you have somewhere to be?"

✦✦✦

"Back so soon, Commander?"

Even before he hears the question, Thrain can already feel the essence of the other man's soul. That familiarity, the feeling of knowing someone inside and out. He looks over and indeed it is his most trusted second-in-command. "Yes, I have returned."

With hands on hips, Guthred, his Guthred, casts a critical eye over him. "What happened?"

Ah, good old reliable Guthred. Thrain hesitates briefly. "I came across someone."

Guthred's sharp eyes cut across his face. "And? Hesitation doesn't become you, Commander."

"After you died," Thrain pauses, "the Masters of the Night-Wind recorded your deeds on woven scrolls." He holds up a hand to stop the impending interruption. "I've seen them myself. You were a heroic figure in the stories, flawless and noble."

His second snorts a derisive laugh. "How kind of them."

Thrain frowns at him. "That's who I came across earlier. He was a soul manifested from your stories. He exists in the Night Kingdom."

Guthred's face does something unpleasant. "So what, you decided to go shopping for a new second-in-command? You can finally have a doctor with the appropriate bedside manner."

Thrain sighs deeply. "You are always like this. All we did was talk."

"Get to the point." Guthred has crossed his arms by this point, tension running tight in the lines of his body.

"The point is," Thrain says after holding back another sigh, "he is not you. I said the same thing to him as well. If you were only noble and heroic, you would not be... Guthred. You would be a caricature, a stranger to me." He exhales. "And I don't want a stranger. I want you."

Guthred scrutinizes him for a long moment before finally unfolding his arms and letting them drop to his side. "It seems your mental faculties are still intact. For that, I'll give you a pass." He accepts the hand held out to him in supplication. "Good thing you didn't bring him back with you."

Thrain pulls his second-in-command closer. "My doctor wouldn't have approved."

Guthred lets out a disgruntled snort. "That's right." He peers up at the taller man. "Still, I'm surprised you weren't more taken with him. A glorious hero, noble and stalwart? Sounds like the kind of person you'd get along with very well."

Thrain looks into the face of his most trusted person and smiles. "Because I already have you."

[siamesefightingpiano]

Somewhere in the Night Kingdom:

Guthred: *long winded lecture*

Thrain: ...Hmph.

Guthred: ... What's with that laugh? Why are you smiling like that?

Thrain: I've missed this. I've... missed you.

Guthred: ...I missed you, too. But if you think that gets you off the hook you're sorely mistaken.

Thrain: Of course.

Guthred: Holding my hand won't help you either.

Thrain: I understand.

[siamesefightingpiano]

Random thoughts/conjecture/HCs about Thrain and Guthred because i haven't stopped thinking about them since Capitano's story teaser came out yes I am obsessed:

Per Guthred, they used to argue a lot due to their differences. You know what this reminds me of? Alhaitham and Kaveh, who also argued a lot due to their opposing views.

Thrain fully trusting Guthred to shield and watch his back so he can go all out in battle

I finished typing the (very serious) above and my brain immediately went "height difference" omg

If Thrain is part of the highly respected Alberich clan, then meeting Guthred must've been refreshing because it seems like Guthred was the only one/ one of the very few people??? who were willing to stand up to him???

Thrain and Guthred staying together all the way to the bitter end even though they never saw eye to eye and never settled their differences

Guthred being the very first soul Thrain takes into his heart you don't understand Thrain's fingers reaching toward Guthred's chest did things to me.

"This time, let's go together." "Yes, let's go together. " MY HEART

Natlan: the land of tragic yaoi

Thrain your dead second-in-command just possessed the dude that was working with you and lectured you on your weakness/bad habit, why is your first reaction a sigh???????

Guthred is totally the one that lectures and nags Thrain

I bet they were infamous in their branch of the khaenri'ahn military. They were probably "those two guys", always arguing and spending time together

Guthred being the one to greet Thrain at the top of the throne of primal fire

Every time they argue their platoon's probably like "there they go again"

[siamesefightingpiano]

Guthred uses a flag in battle and can take down Void Wards

We have Shadowy Husk: Standard Bearer that can shield

-> Guthred is a Standard Bearer -> Guthred is a shielder/support

Thrain is most likely a DPS because Harbinger

-> In battle, Guthred would be the support/shielder for Thrain and their platoon.

-> They complement each other in every aspect: abilities, personalities, appearance