#also when Manfred was mentioned and i was like ?????? Emmrich??????

[a-whiff-of-a-dream]

finally got around reading the first two stories of Tevinter Nights last night and Down Among the Dead Men by Sylvia Feketekuty kinda made me want to start my first Rook with the Mourn Watch, ngl

[felassan]

Compilation of snippets from the DA:TV acting talent panel at SDCC (Dragon Age: Meet the Heroic Companions of Thedas) today (July 26th). DA:TV spoilers under cut.

Huge props and tysm to the users who live-tweeted and clipped this panel, you are heroes 🙏💜!!

The panel was moderated. In attendance were John Epler, creative performance director Ashley Barlow, and the actors of Lucanis, Neve, Emmrich, and Harding - Zach Mendez, Jessica Clark, Nick Boraine, and Ali Hillis respectively.

The panel ended with a Q&A session.

(BioWare have stated that a recording of the panel will be made available at a later date.)

Edit/update: I've now been through this post and tidied it up :)

---

Here are some pictures from the panel [source]

Here are some more pictures from the panel [source]

In this Twitter thread there are also some video clips of parts of the panel [source]

BioWare tried to avoid spoilers in the panel [source]

Key points/summary of DA:TV: hunting Solas, found family companions, stop the elven gods [source]

When auditioning the companions, BW were specifically looking for character chemistry [source]

BW used motion capture for the game [source]. Mo-cap was mentioned a lot in the panel [source]

Lucanis sees assassination as a job. His mind is as dangerous as his knives and he is also "kinda hilarious" [source]

There was mention of other Crows [source]

Zach Mendez read Tevinter Nights like three times [source]

A clip of the actors doing mo-cap was shown [source]. Photos of Zach mo-capping for other characters was shown [source]

BioWare said that Zach brought a certain darkness to Lucanis [source]

Zach is excited for the romance and is looking forward to the stats [source]

Zach mentioned that he used his own relationship with his brother in his portrayal of Lucanis [source] (surely this means ILLARIO.. ?👀)

Zach played a lot of darkspawn originally while auditioning [source]

Ali Hillis really welcomed Zach into the DA family [source]

Neve is from Minrathous. She has fun banter and is a cynical detective with a heart of gold. They want to show a rebellious side of Tevinter [source]

Jessica Clark loves Neve's loyalty, dedication, and different vision of Tevinter

Neve is fighting for the people [source]. Jessica: "She is really really fighting for those people, and she loves those people. So, yes, she's cynical, and yes she's kind of tough and brusque and all these other things, but when they say there's a heart of gold, there really, like, to have that kind of a passion and dedicate your life to something like that, I think that's definitely my favorite part about her" [source]

Jessica loves how much Neve loves Docktown and its people [source]

Neve sees a different vision for Tevinter than what has previously been depicted in the series [source]

The actors were separate from one another while recording lines but still bonded really well and organically [source]

There are several Veilguard gc [source] (groupchats?)

Ali is an angel and very supportive of the new cast [source]

Emmrich is a "stone cold silver fox" (this is a quote from the panel moderator) [source]

BioWare knew the reaction they would get about Emmrich from the fandom [source]

Nick Boraine feels like he's been preparing for Emmrich all his life. He's obsessed with death (as a comfort and not scary) and enabling people to transition into death. He is attracted to this aspect of the character [source]

"You're gonna need a dictionary for Emmrich" for all the magic spells [source]

"Interesting how this character caught fire compared to the other sexy characters" [source] (I think this was said wrt Emmrich?)

BW had a great time recording with Nick, he is a very consistent actor [source]

Nick and Matt Mercer have never met [source]

Manfred plays off of Emmrich. "I set the tone" [source]

What has Harding been doing in-between DA:I and DA:TV? She's been working closely with Varric and the Inquisition remnants. She and Neve already met in the comics [source]

Ali vividly remembers the beginning of voicing Harding, she says it's brilliant writing. She really thought of Harding's personality and traits. She's so happy to be back [source]

wrt the Covid-19 pandemic and the year 2020, BW had to pivot with working remotely and were able to push through their projects. [source]

"[Harding] chasing Solas for a decade..." "that was a great relationship that [you] developed... and now I'll stop talking now". Ali was excited [source]

John Epler talked about how companions may but heads, and won't be predictable [source]

There are thousands and thousands of lines and so many characters to meet [source]

Zach "unfortunately has been around the DA Reddit before recording as Lucanis" [source]. He feels inspired by all the fans and cannot wait for us to play it [source]

[new textblock due to character limit!]

John Epler on Emmrich: "I mean honestly, I will say, like, we expected a great reaction to Emmrich. Went beyond what we expected for sure. But it’s been fascinating to see, because again, Emmrich is this character, he’s more of the professorial, more, he brings a wisdom and kind of a calmness to the group, so even when things are at their worst, there’s that one person in the group who is kinda like, ‘okay, y’know, we've got, let's figure it out, let’s take a deep breath’. And just his journey through his character arc, and his interactions with the others, it’s been fantastic to see. Even just finding opportunities for him to bounce off the other characters, you know, the way he talks to Bellara, the way he talks to Neve, it’s all so different, but it’s also just, again, based around this core of this warm, kind-hearted, professorial necromancer. Which, again, is not something you see a lot of in media. I mean, usually, necromancers are depicted in a very specific way. But it’s been, it's awesome to see how Emmrich has grown and just, really one of the most, one of my favorite experiences has been just working with Emmrich’s writer, working with Emmrich as a character." [source]

All the actors are excited about the dialogue and narrative, and for us to explore DA:TV [source]

Ali says that we will really find ourselves in this game [source]

During the recording process, the actors all hear the previous person's recording and react or respond to it [source]

Due to Covid-related lockdown, a lot of recording was done over Zoom, and the writers besides Ashley Barlow (creative performance director) would jump in on the call to talk about the previous person’s lines [source]

A question was asked about the background factions. "Characters not causes". [source]

You can work with the Grey Wardens in the game (for example) [source]

The actors all met this weekend. They are an "un-chosen" family [source]

Zach stood in for multiple characters for mo-cap, for example he was Assan [source]

Lucanis has a heart but is stubborn and stuck in his ways. Zach is excited for fans to help his character open up as the story progresses [source]

Jessica is incredibly honored to join the DA universe. She is new to voice acting for video games. “This is play pretend. Playing Neve allowed her to step into her power.” [source]

A question was asked on what their first exposure to fantasy was, and do they implement this into the acting? John talked about Lord of the Rings and how every media you experience will seep out into your work [source]

Ashley didn't want the dialogue to sound modern [source]

Zach loves Theseus and talked about the symbolism in DA [source]

Jessica loves Greek mythology and lore [source]

Nick talked about The Hobbit and how he would dress up in big boots and a cape when his mother would read to him [source]

Ali recently went to Greece and felt like she saw DA everywhere [source]

A question was asked - "From your companion's perspective, which previous companion would you romance?" Zach kind of has a thing for The Iron Bull, saying "oh that awakened something inside of me". He also likes Dorian. Jessica was too overwhelmed to answer. Nick was also overwhelmed by the question, but thinks Solas is sexy [source] [source]

Ali fangirled over Lucanis and Emmrich [source], prefers Emmrich [source]

A question was asked - "Is DA:TV and DA:I streamlined together?" [paraphrased]. Answer: DA games are not as streamlined as Mass Effect and act almost as standalones [source]

The cast were asked about which aspect of their character is their favorite. Ali loves the little quirks about Harding. "Lucanis is a good cook!?" ** Neve is very dry and pretty closed off about it. For Emmrich, it's the "exploration of the idea of death and necromancy" [source] (** FINALLY CITATION for this? :D)

A question was asked: "How do you decide to introduce the lore in each game?" BioWare answered that it depends as they build each game. They always know the base lore, and see opportunities through game mechanics and characters. They try not to infodump [source]

A question was asked: "Any favorite party banter?" Ashley Barlow said to listen for "hand to bone combat" [source]

The game takes place approximately 10 years after the end of DA:I. You start the game hunting for Solas. The game is built on some core principles: be who you want to be in a world worth saving and with characters that matter. The companions are always at the heart of DA and they are at the heart of this game too. [source]

The moderator asked John Epler about what is bringing this party of people ("this rogues' gallery") together. John: "I mean, it's the end of the world, and each character that you bring into your party understands that the world is ending, that they need to stop that, and you're really building, what I would say is, more of a found family. These are characters who may not start off liking each other, may not even start off liking you, but over time they grow to understand the importance of what they're doing and just, how critical it is to stop the elven gods" [source]

"He is kind and has some spectacular lines. He is a natural nerdy scientist. He loves learning." [source] (Emmrich? ^^)

Ali didn't realize that Harding was such a beloved character. She thanked fans for bringing this character back [source]

Ali is super excited that the game is releasing. She said that there has been an evolution to Harding's character and that she's been chasing Solas for like a decade at this point [source]

Jessica loves the writing in the game [source]

Nick loves its narrative [source]

Ali said that this game is going to take you into a world that will blow your minds [source]

On Manfred: Nick was asked what it was like having another character to bounce off of. He said "Oh man! I mean, that is such a hard question, because Matt and I have never met, and we worked completely separately, and, I, I mean I know that the rapport is really great, but it's in the ether, I mean it is just, the magic that these guys create, telling us how to respond, how to do that, but it's, I can't wait to meet Matt" [source]

BW still said that the game's release window is Fall 2024 [source]. Nothing more specific was given [source]

There are also more snippets here in this Tumblr post, go check it out!

[source, two]

[jaal-ama-daravv]

dissecting the mortal emmrich romance path scene

dissecting the graveyard scene

mortal vs lich romance path

emmrich x rook cinematic (mortal)

lich version dissecting the alternate romance path dissecting the argument scene (lich path) dissecting the romance scene (lich path) emmrich x rook cinematic

welcome back my dears

Emmrich Volkarin - Choosing Mortality/Resurrecting Manfred

gonna start with how MUCH I love rook defending emmrich and therefore instilling confidence in him throughout the game, however it is particualry noticeable in this segment.

more

oh yes

after being knocked on his ass from johanna skeleton construct he is visibly hurt, but this is both physical and emotional pain. I implore you once again to read The Flame Eternal for context behind Emmrich and Johanna.

emmrich's fear of death and cowardice rearing its head in the face of untold danger, until our beloved manfred makes the ultimate sacrifice, and demonstrates great courage.

oh baby, thats the stuff. Rook instilling confidence in her necromancer.

god is real and he is a hot necromancer. look at the confidence surge through him.

moving on

The scene cuts to Emmrich and Rook at the Necropolis asking to revive Manfred. Emmrich seeks out the advice from the Lich Lords of the Necropolis who inform that there are ways to return his spirit, at a cost -

alright here we go. If emmrich chooses manfreds life over accepting his death, he will no longer be able to achieve lichdom as emmrich wouldve have failed to accept death as a natural part of life. in emmrich relinquishing lichdom and choosing to revive manfred instead it delves deep into his character. for emmrich to give up lichdom would mean admitting that some things mean more to him than his fear of death - that choosing to live, that he could choose to be couragous, and face life head on, in spite of inevitable death. emmrich is a known coward, but this - choosing this path, means being resilent, being courageous, overcoming cowardice in the name of love.

it should also be noted that in the lich romance path, during the arguemnt scene, emmrich is not able to accept the inevitable death of rook. THEREFORE -

im telling you. man goes rogue, full blown, scarlet WITCH, rogue.

back to the mortal side -

this is actually tragic. if you know both romance paths for emmrich, you know that regardless of which path emmrich follows, he does not accept death when it comes to himself, his love, or manfred. he just cant. this game portrays regret wonderfully, so wonderfully i cry.

Rook's right, emmrich is much braver than he thinks. he rushes off to help rook FIGHT GODS, facing death every day considering we all know a romanced rook takes him on every mission. emmrich has also mentioned TWICE that rook inspires him, with how they have travelled so much, and how they are indomitable.

dont get me started on how confident he is in act 3. it makes me giggle.

this next line has confused a number of people so let me put my spin on it and break it down -

Death's abyss - referring to the act of dying, and emmrichs fear of death always recedes - the fear of death dissapears with someone to brave it for - inferring to rook, facing death and being brave is easier with rook in his life

these two are made for eachother. mourn watch rook in particular, the love, desire, and connection OOZES that destiny. and my heart, explodes.

This could also be interpreted as wanting to brave death's abyss for manfred, but from a romanced rook perspective, it makes more sense for it be considered as rook. and im unsure what unromanced looks like yet - so im going with that.

this line reiterates my point that the above line is referring to rook. facing alot of things would be easier if manfred was back... like idk, rooks death, maybe.

I cant tell you how much love shoots through my body knowing emmrich wants to face death and brave it for rook. which also makes the argment scene more tragic in a way, but we'll get there dear friends.

In choosing this path, Emmrich demonstrates resilence. and whilst he regrets the lose of lichdom, he knows that he has chosen the life he has always dreamed of. a life of love. a life with his eternal flame, rook. a life with their magic flinging skeleton son, manfred. an undying love that transcends. emmrich has yearned for the love he has in his life now, for a very, very long time. talking 45 odd years here. the man is terrfied, and lichdom was a way to avert his fears, but this, he is truly happy, despite his fears.

@askfordoodles reminded me of a banter dialogue that is available between Emmrich and Davrin. They discuss their sons, Assan and Manfred, and Davrin states, "What have we signed up for?", where Emmrich responds, "Love, I think." and yes, that most defintiely includes rook. emmrich, chose love. whilst it is stated that lichdom is his lifes work and dream. coming from someone who also overworks and grinds out work to get through the weight of the day without a thought of vulnerability. I understand him. When a chance of love opens its doors, its scary, a chance to be hurt. this man took that chance, to have the family he never had growing up. and never believed he would achieve. rook gave him back his heart and made him stronger for it. emmrich chose to pursue the life that his parents would've wanted for him. the thought...the dream.. that confirms his romance.

im not crying, you are. holy shit.

keep in mind this is man who grew up poor and alone. he has low self-esteem and never believed he was worthy, let alone would find the type of soul devouring love he craved. that love that you would go to the end of the earth for.

my heart is full.

He calls himself a coward on a frequent basis. but here? what growth. whilst his fear of death may never leave him, it is significantly easier with rook that loves him as deeply as he does. and manfred, a son to pass his knowledge onto.

it then ends with Emmrich stating that in regards to him giving up lichdom for manfred, he would not exchange the life he has now for anything. his now family -

"The Volkarins"

short-ish post, but the next one will be very long where I'll touch more on Emmrichs personality traits more in the argument scene as this is where his traits really shine through, see you soon ♥

[stankhole]

predictions for veilguard romances under the cut. would love to hear what you guys think will happen with the characters

davrin

confident and seems like the type that would immediately flirt back

would use assan playing cute as a way to pick up dates

later you find out the sad reasoning behind why he left his clan & joined the wardens

taash

her wearing armor reminiscent of the shokra-taar/antaam-saar makes me think she’s a qunari still following the qun

she’s initially only interested in a physical relationship and has to work through her upbringing under the qun to become comfortable with a romantic relationship

wants to ride rook’s bones to dust after they take down a dragon the first time

harding

she feels like she has an obligation to the inquisition/rook/varric/whatever organization she’s a part of so she’s initially hesistant to enter into a relationship. she’s been a forward scout for so long she’s used to being all work and no play so when you flirt with her she enjoys it but doesn’t take it too seriously, she’s been traveling with varric recently so she’s used to it after all

she’s also confused because of the magical powers she gains and is afraid of hurting rook since she can’t control them

you help her get control of her magic/figure out where it’s from and you bone

lucanis

virgin

been raised to be a perfect assassin so he doesn’t know what to do when someone shows genuine interest in him

since he was raised to take over as the next talon, he’s used to having his life planned out for him so when he gets the freedom of making his own choices he doesn’t really know what to do

final romance flag is either after he tells his grandmother he doesn’t want to be the new talon or after his cousin finds out he’s not dead

please let him mention zevran, even if just in passing

bellara

sunny and goofball personality, likes to make their lover laugh

very intelligent, a big history nerd and would love to take you to romantic places in arlathan and give romantic ancient gifts

thrill seeker, first kiss scene happens after doing something reckless, be that a veil jump or boss fight

emmrich

grandpa thinks he’s too old for you and you deserve someone younger, but when you don’t back down you realize that peepaw absolutely ~ f u c k s ~

married to his job for the past 30 years, his only friends are his skeletal assistants

manfred will absolutely walk in on you two getting busy at some point

i hope desire demons make a comeback and show up in his story

somehow knows cassandra; is like her 5th uncle 3 times removed

neve

knows what she wants and isn’t going to hesitate if you show interest in her

but will not be fully invested in the relationship aspect at first because of her cynicism. eventually comes around when she realizes how devoted you are to making minrathous/the world a better place

has worked with dorian/ dorian is an informant for her

god bioware please give her a dwarven strap that matches her prosthetic. she’d be unstoppable 🙏🏻

[tethrarisms]

So far, I think what I love the most about Emmrich is his empathy. Obviously, his passion for knowledge and politeness are outstanding. But it's just when you truly have him on the party that you can have a glimpse of these little moments. When he can sense the spirits' feelings, if they were abused or not, if they're in pain, if they had a good life. His relationship with Manfred is absolutely the sweetest, always caring for Manfred's welfare. He also mentions that he couldn't accept having ten students at a time because he wants to give special attention to each one of them, and couldn't do it if they're that many. It comes naturally to Emmrich because he is an optimistic person, contrary to his circumstances. He has to, given his constant fear of dying.

On a side note, this is what it feels like to grow up in a positive (well, for a Nevarran necromancer's point of view) environment, unlike the usual circles you see across Thedas. Emmrich had the opportunity to thrive in a place of death because he was cared for. Meanwhile, oppressed mages are constantly on the edge of pushing themselves towards blood magic the moment they sense death, which is pretty much all the time given how Templars are supposed to watch them or how vulnerable to possession they are.

This made all the difference in Emmrich's life, and this is why he's such a lovely character. Because he was cared for in a moment of need, and now he wants to repay by being kind to others. And that warms my heart so much.

[rom-e-o]

I need headcannons for Belismerich babies.

And in the same vein, I need headcannons for big brother Manfred.

BELISMERICH 💕 I’m honestly obsessed with the pairing name.

Okay, so babies! Yes. Tbh, I can imagine them having a family together. He’s obviously comfortable with the idea, with Manfred canonically being a son to him. Once the world is safe and sound and these two marry, Emmrich retains his position as a professor (though with a more lenient schedule). Belisma remains a Watcher in name, and she and Emmrich share responsibilities of reading rites to the dead, keeping the memorial gardens in check, etc. The couple is quite comfortable, emotionally and fiscally.

Manfred also continues to learn, becoming a mage in his own right and becoming more dexterous as well. He learns to open doors without help (the handles are tricky) and can even write basic words! He’s also learning to read. 🥹

So, with everything going so well, they decide that it’s time for them to have a family. F

I could see these two adopting a child (both being orphans, you know) and conceiving.

I see them with two babies: one boy (conceived) and a girl (adopted).

Emil (Boy):

He has Belisma’s dusty/ashy hair color, but Emmrich’s hazel eyes.

He becomes a dancer like his mama, loving ballet but being more prone to gymnastics. By the time he’s a schoolboy. he’s entertaining the other children with elegant flips and spins. And terrifying his teachers by climbing trees and buildings, then jumping off with perfume spins and flips.

He wants to be a Watcher, but also, a performer. This pleases both parents. As he gets also, he gets a sassy personality, haha. A little flippant (especially to the nobles; a bias he got from his father’s disdain for nobility, haha) but always serious when it comes to respecting others and the dead.

Em: He inherited your grace, my darling.

Isma: And your eyes. Not you mention your disdain for life-leeching nobility.

Em: Haha. When the wealthy learn that death plays no favorites, perhaps I’ll favor them more in turn.

As an adult, he’d be a rogue-type Watcher, favoring a bow and arrow.

Amaryllis (Girl):

The young girl wanders into the Grand Necropolis, crying and screaming that her Mother is missing. Agents go out, but the woman is never found, but a scrap of her dress is found near a rocky cliff.

Emmrich and Belisma have space in his lodgings for the girl, and the accommodations are quite nice. A private, spacious apartment with extra rooms and a library. By that time, Emil is born. Ama warms up quickly to the baby, and even likes Manfred. He’s easy to talk to, and brings her tissues. (“Crying. Good.”)

She’s a great baby-sitter, and Manfred teaches her fire magic. She learns magecraft fast, and Emmrich and Belisma (also being mages) are so proud.

They officially adopt her a year later, because she asks them to. They are more than happy to oblige.

She adopts her father’s love of botany, and wants to become a professor like him. 🥹

She’s very prim and proper, and quite mature for her age. She has very curly hair and is also taller, like Emmrich. She looks like she could be his biological daughter, haha.

As an adult, she would be a mage Watcher, and would love to one day assume her father’s post.

Now, BIG BRO MANFRED:

The teapot Manfred always carries? It actually belonged to Emmrich’s mother. One of the few items he kept to remember her by. Manfred is trusted with it, so obviously, he is trusted openly with carrying very valuable possessions.

Manfred carries Emil a lot, in his arms and in a baby bjorn. He actually is sad if he doesn’t get his quality time with the infant. At home, Manfred is always peering into the bassinet, or sitting with them by the fire, supervising. When they get too close, he pushes them back. “No. Hot! Bad!”

He swaps out his travel gear for being a walking diaper/baby bag, haha. His ribs are filled with blankets, toys, etc.

With Ama, he loves going on walks with her. He’s a great listener (haha) and is very kind. He’s a little easier for her to talk to at first than the others.

As she gets more into gardening, he’s out there helping her plant blue creepvine, Shroud’s Kiss, and other adored blooms.

And if boys dare to shout rude remarks at her. They get a VERY hostile hiss.

[imdoingaokay]

What if Rook was the HoF and the LI's child? Who would figure it out?

warnings - spoilers for Veilguard! especially some spoilers about the companions! please advise!

a/n: omg what is going on with me? I can't stop typing lol.

I tried to keep it vague on... everything lol, especially if Rook is biologically related to the HoF and their LI or not. I also tried to keep the HoF/Rook's gender vague as well. (I'm also thinking about doing the other games... maybe... y'all didn't hear that from me though)

There’s a hint of familiarity when everyone sees Rook. Something about them. Their accent, their stance, the way they fight. It’s all… familiar. 

They’re young. Late teens or early, early twenties max. They don’t even remember The Fifth Blight, and yet, they know so much about it, repeating stories of a time not experienced by them. It’s… strange.

Everyone knows that they should just ask Varric. That seems like it would make the most sense, right? But that’s a little hard to do and… well, it doesn’t matter. They discuss it all amongst themselves often, pooling together their knowledge. Unless Rook fesses up first, they’ll figure it out… sooner or later.

Alistair:

Warden - It’s Davrin who figures it out first. No ifs, ands, or buts. He puts two and two together rather quickly. Maybe it’s the similarities in appearance, maybe it’s the overwhelming knowledge of the Wardens, more so than a normal Warden would know. Regardless, there’s something that’s… different about Rook. He’s fairly likely to ask, but he may have some difficulty. He doesn’t want to simply ask “Are you related to The Hero of Ferelden?” or “Are you related to The Grey Warden Alistair?” but he also doesn’t want to not ask. Eventually, when the pair get some time, he mentions the similarities between Rook and The Hero, and if Rook doesn’t get it, he’ll give up and just ask.

King - It’s Taash. It’s ages ago when they saw Rook’s face in a portrait (one that was stolen, but that doesn’t matter) from Ferelden. Maybe it's a family portrait with the whole family, maybe it's just Alistair and Rook, or maybe it's just Rook. But... they stand so regally, it’s the type of portrait that Taash commits to memory. They bring it up point blank (honestly, if nobody does bring it up before them, Taash will be the one to ask), probably during a group meeting so everyone knows.

Leliana: Harding is the first to notice the similarities between Rook and The Spymaster. She tries to look back into her mind, thinking of a time, roughly a year after Corypheus was defeated, when a small visitor came to Skyhold, clinging to Leliana’s leg like their life depended on it. They were so young, and Harding barely got a good look at their face. It made sense that she wouldn’t recognize Rook immediately. If Rook doesn’t bring up Leliana or recognizing Harding, Harding may not bring it up at all. The most Harding may do is bring up Leliana, waiting for Rook to mention their relationship. If Rook doesn’t get the hint, Harding will let it go and will be okay with never knowing. That is until Taash asks.

Morrigan: Bellara is the first to notice, just because she sees some similarities and then begins to overthink everything until she comes to the conclusion that Morrigan is Rook’s mother. However, she is the last person willing to ask, unless she blurts out her suspicions at one point. If Bellara doesn’t ask, Emmrich will. Simply because, despite Morrigan’s best efforts, she shows Rook enough affection to remind Emmrich of the affection he holds for Manfred. One quiet evening in the library, he finds the courage to ask about the relationship between the two. By the end of the conversation, if Rook is willing to discuss their parents, Emmrich feels a bit closer to Rook… and a bit closer to Manfred.

Zevran: This depends on if Rook looks similar or is biologically related to Zevran or not. If they look like Zevran, Lucanis definitely clocks them fairly quickly, especially if they’re a rogue. Lucanis may have met Zevran, and he can definitely see the resemblance. He’s fine not bringing it up, it’s not like Zevran has a good history with The Crows. That is, until Spite decides to bring it up, mentioning that Rook smells familiar. That ends up being the opener to a long discussion on Rook’s family. By the end of it, Lucanis learns a lot, not just about Rook, but also more on the "failed Ferelden job" he'd heard about.

On the flip side, if Rook isn’t biologically related to Zevran, and doesn’t look like him, it would be Neve who notices first. She’s a detective, she’d figure it out. Maybe Rook mentions their family, or maybe they clam up at a question or two, Neve gets curious and starts digging until she finds out. And when she does, she doesn’t bring it up, for a while at least. When she doesn't, it may be to ask Rook if their parents are alright and if they need someone to look out for them. Regardless of what Rook says, Neve is pleased that she was correct in her assumptions.

[hips-like-battleships]

Okay I think my Veilguard thoughts are TOO LONG for one post tumblr won't post it lmao. Will break it into two posts, both spoilery! First post, general thoughts on Veilguard. Second post, contextual thoughts on Veilguard in relation to rest of the series.

On the whole I really, really liked it and don't have any complaints that break things for me. I have responses to other folks' complaints, but nothing that has made me go 'yeah I hate that, this game is a let down.' I think I'll take it point by point and then sum up where I am.

I think a lot of people have taken the missives to imply southern Ferelden is essentially completely destroyed and any civilization which will emerge will be a complete reboot. I don't think that's what the missives are saying, like at all! I am reminded of when Mass Effect 3 ended and the doomsayers (myself included, though mostly in jest) were like well everyone's dead without the mass relays so that's just the end of civilization huh, and also the people on the island can't eat and are stranded forever, guess that's it. And Bioware was very much like no, that's not what we meant damn. I think this is the same situation. People reading tooooo much into it. I mean shit we saw how bad Tevinter is at the end of the game and Dorian is still made Archon.

Some criticisms are really justified! We needed more backstory into why the Crows are so fcking differieng in this game compared to Zevran's story. Different houses explains some of it. Zevran fucking up some Crows explains some of it. We needed more.

Varric did get done dirty. Varric being killed without any mention of Hawke is vashedan. I intend to go forward rejecting Bioware's reality on that point and substituting my own.

It is really, really stark how some of the central conflicts of the early game have no relevance to Veilguard whatsoever. Like mages versus templars? What's that, we don't know them. I realize by Inquisition time the game had largely moved on from that conflict (choosing mages vs. templars in DAI is about equivalent to the Treviso v. Minrathous choice in DAV) but I do relate to people who feel like the game is different. I definitely think it's less political. I am, I think, ambivalent about whether that is good or bad. I liked a lot of the political stuff. I like a lot of the newer stuff. So I'm fine with this direction if we want to categorize it as new.

I love everything about the Mourn Watch. It's much easier to be enthusiastic when we don't have much to compare it against, I guess. That said the whole aesthetic is fantastic. I love Emmrich. I love the lore stuff that comes through them. Just huge big fan.

I love all the companions so much!! I think this is the only game out of the series where I uniformly like every companion. I think that might be disappointing to people! I get that folks enjoy the tension they have with some characters. I have enjoyed it, too. But I don't mind having a fully likeable cast this time, either. It's different. But different isn't bad. The other games still exist just as they are, in all their wonders and flaws.

I have only experienced the Taash romance as it's the one I chose, but I loved it. I do not feel like it was sidelined or lackluster as many have said. I am not quite sure where that criticism is coming from.

I love Taash. I am not nonbinary so I am not the one to speak to whether people feel like it is accurate. I can just say I loved it and I love them. The early bird feeding mission hit me right in the heart.

Solavellan is going to live in my heart forever in the best way and I love them. Felt that all the way down.

MANFRED.

Combat was the most fun a Dragon Age game has been so far. Enjoyed it. Makes Inquisition's combat seem so unbearably dull in comparison (which, let's be for real--it kind of is).

I wasn't exactly a FAT character, but Abi was pretty chunky. She thick.

[niriaveil]

okay, i think i've finally had enough time to sort and process through my feelings re: veilguard so. under the cut are those

it's a good game.

it's not a perfect game, i think it almost qualifies as amazing - but it's good. it's not bad, it's not miserable to play. it's fun! i thoroughly enjoyed myself and loved throwing myself back into thedas, the lore, and all the characters. i truly loved every second i was playing that game.

but it's a good game, not a perfect one.

i know i've seen some people say, "it's not a GOOD dragon age game," which i can see but kind of argue against because like. each dragon age game is going to add in something different - it's like saying dragon age 2 isn't a good dragon age game because it doesn't deal with stuff like origins did; or how inquisition isn't a good dragon age game because it didn't do things like 2 did. it's the same step and dance.

i loved the characters and the companions, though i feel as if i didn't truly get to really know them - surface level, or maybe a little bit into their depths was all i got, which is fine. i don't mind headcanoning or creating my own stuff as i go, but it definitely felt a bit weird and one-dimensional at times. they live up to their titles, i think. which means that they're just really informed about what they do, but i don't really care much about their jobs - i wanted to know who they were.

yes, lucanis is an assassin who enjoys coffee; but he enjoys cooking for people and feeding them, he has a fascination with wyverns. he hates parties and enjoys spending time alone. what else does he do? why not be able to talk about what he COULD enjoy now with his freedom?

yes, taash is a dragon hunter; but what else do they do? they feed birds on the beach, talk to karash, and bicker with their mom. but what about for fun? why is it all tied up in lords of fortune? surely they've got more friends besides isabela.

it's sort of like that. neve is the detective; but i don't know what she likes doing beyond that - she skips rocks and only thinks about her job. bellara loves tinkering with elven artifacts and cooking; but i don't know her beyond that. davrin loves monster hunting and taking care of assan; but i don't know him beyond that. do you understand? it's very one-dimensional.

again, not a terrible thing. at least give me crumbs for understanding them. the one-off mention of lucanis enjoying wyverns and dragons was cute, but that was really all i got.

i also know the writing was a huge complaint but i just... didn't really have any lines that stood out to me as bad or awkward to listen to. could the writing have been better? oh, absolutely. but i believe that for every game. there's never a game where the writing is perfect and everyone is happy with it.

i enjoyed taash's crisis with their gender, i enjoyed them figuring out who they were. that felt good. i liked being able to subtly help people get together when i wasn't romancing them (taash and harding for my playthrough, it was lucanis and neve for my brother's) or even just being told that hey, emmrich and strife are dating now and it's good! i wish i just could've like... seen it? even as a mini-quest. don't even put me in rook's shoes, let me just meander as the other characters.

(emmrich quest where you send manfred to infilitrate the mansion. I SHOULD'VE BEEN PLAYING MANFRED I COULD'VE DONE IT─)

i think the main thing that like... mmm, bothers me, is the lack of nuance in the factions. at the end of the world (again), you take whatever allies you can get. but i wish we could've heard gossip about the horror stories of the crows always watching in treviso, i wish we could've seen rivain and how their people think of the lords of fortune who plunder and pillage ruins, i would've loved to see more gossip about the shadow dragons and their work in minrathous. maybe even reference a few quests i did?

i love the crows dearly, but they're also an incredibly dark and fucked up organization and the sanitation of that feels weird. did things change in the 20 years since zevran left? i'm not sure! it doesn't sound like it! i just don't get to find out for myself, which is a little frustrating. not enough for it to ruin things for me, but i'm like. man zevran what would you think of them now.

i also wish we had different cameos. seeing Isabela was cool, seeing Dorian and Maevaris in Minrathous working with the Shadow Dragons? so good. but I wish we could've seen like (sorry, this is Shadow Dragon biased because that was Inés's backstory) Fenris. what is my Hawke's husband doing? He was killing slavers and Venatori, wouldn't we at least KNOW of him? Merrill got a mention (Meribela W) by Isabela, but it wasn't enough for me :(

but also. I'm glad we didn't get more cameos. The Inquisitor felt almost shoe-horned in and the ending sequence just felt... weird for me. The secret ending without a Lavellan romancing Solas just felt... stiff? Like, Relihn pleading to Solas to choose a different path - but it just feels so flat. The difference between Velyna and Relihn's conversation to Solas is so staggering I just wish I had Velyna for my main playthrough because it would've hit harder than Relihn "puppy dog eyes" Trevelyan-Pavus being like 'hey. don't.'

(but I did love Dorian moaning about how much he misses his husband. great detail, 12/10. and then him worrying over Relihn at the end. 12/10. thank you. everything i needed).

They also can't just drop, "Yeah, Southern Thedas fell. Ferelden's basically gone, we haven't heard from Orzammar; Orlais is barely holding together. And the Free Marches pretty much only have Starkhaven left." And then not show me any of that. I'd take a fucking cutscene of the devastion over anything. When Relihn told that to Rook, I was like oh shit. But then again in the letters hearing about how bad it was while in Northern Thedas, we were just vibing - it was an odd dissonance. Not enough for me to be unhappy about the game, but I was like man. sucks to be in Southern Thedas rn.

I also - this is probably the luke-warm take from me - don't mind about my savegames not being imported. Would I have liked to hear about Alistair ruling Ferelden and leading it through a 2nd blight? Oh yeah. What about my Hawke helping in Kirkwall with the help of her Grey Warden brother? Would've been cool, but also I was like. Meh, it's fine. I prefer thinking of my own ways to deal with that.

If they tried to bring back like major characters as a little cameo, I would've just rolled my eyes. I didn't want it to be like Avengers: Endgame where everyone is there, just idk. tell me they're eating food and getting sunlight.

I was a little sad about how slow the romances progress but also, it's whatever. I'm kind of used to it from Inquisition? Dorian and Relihn also didn't get a lot of scenes, so this was something I was quite used to with Rook and Lucanis, but I did enjoy that it gave me enough of a starting point to get writing with.

And I'm disappointed that we're not getting any DLC because I do believe we have such good set-up with all the eluvians and the Crossroads. I know the Executors are being set up for DA5, but I wouldn't have minded something in between. (Damn you ME5 for bringing back Shepard and demanding the teams attention *shaking fist*).

Anyway, those are my thoughts. It's a good game, it's fun. I loved the characters. I loved being able to explore. The maps were big enough but not overbearing like in DA:I. The banter was funny too. I loved the Lighthouse and being able to listen in on conversation.

Probably an 8/10 for me. I still have my complaints and gripes, but I don't care enough to be constantly critical of it. It was fun, I'm not gonna bitch about what I wanted and how they fucked up at x/y/z.

[benefitnoone]

I just finished Dragon age the Veilguard

and here are my thoughts and spoilers

I played as Female rogue and lord of Fortune with female Inquisitor who romanced Solas

SPOILERS! and english is not my firts language and I am emonitional right now so be beware of mistakes

uff I need this to get out.... lets start with positives

I liked the art style :D seems like I am the only one...but it was pretty...some locations are breath taking

not dying in easiest settings was amazing...

Manfred ♥ and when he started talking....amazing

Assan ♥ => just love

Neve=> I wasnt sure about her but she is my fave...and I am pissed at myself not romancing her....

Davrin => loved him

Taash => I liked them more than I thought

Emmrich was fun

and now for negatives and wtfs

I dont think this game was made for fans of the series and hear me out...I was there whe Dragon age 2 came out and it was mess but Hawke and companions made up for it and I dont think Rook and their team matched that

it was too positive? Like everyone agreeing with Rook... ok Lucanis and Neve can leave but they come back and there is like no change in them? Yes, Lucanis will not romance Rook (Idk about Neve bcs I saved Minrathous)

since we are talking about Lucanis...him not romancing Rook If they choose Minrathous but end up with Neve ( if not romanced) is like WTF? and big fuck you to Rook... I think i would make sense that he woudnt romance anyone when hardend, and If you save Treviso he would be with Neve or Rook... also missed angst in romance with him with Rook wo does not save Treviso

back to companions... Like I said it was too positive for my liking... Bioware said in begining they want to focused on building found family and there was a lol effort and quest and cut scenes... but it felt flat... and even in family you can struggle but work it out and there was no working out

the decisions were also meh... and I dont realy know about replayability of the game...major decision was Minrathous vs Treviso and I think thats all? later you can decide somethings about companions....

I though that playing as rougue elf would mattered to the game.... like Elgar'nan and Ghilan'nain  would be extra disgusted by that their oponent is nonmage.... but lols on me...

i romanced Emmrich and I was really excited, but idk romance itself was fine but the building for it was there if I compare it to rest of the game series was bland

Solas and Solamancers... well I am one of them... in DAI it was great...chef kiss....but in DA:VE.... it felt like nothing... there could be one memory from his time in inquisition... also his stance ond blood magic... no comment

omg i think I know what is wrong with Dragon age the Veilguard...It is black and white in world wiev and DAO and DA2 is gray and that is what I loved about it

also Rook backstory should be prologue tutorial like DAO....Varrics mentorship and death would be more impactful for new players... you know show dont tell ...

also writting in general was meh ...

why wasnt Hawke pulled from fade by power of friendship?

Varric not mentioning Hawke was heartbreaking as well as Isabela

the game would be fine If it wasnt Dragon age.... You had 10 years and you got us this...

I am sad

Game was fine and I had fun most time but it dint felt like home like rest of the games

[luckyjak]

ending questions

spoilers under the cut

SO, WHAT THE FUCK IS UP WITH BELLARA NOW, HUH?

(she was the one who got captured by Elgan'han in my game)

Is she going to become a Warden? Is she going to die?

Dorian is the ARCHON now? he's got a mess on his hands!

What is up with the Blight? Is it still a problem/thing? Is Solas going to end the Blight forever?

Where did Solas and the Inquisitor go??? I assume the Fade, but why does he think they are going to be in for a bad time?

also, what happens to everyone else!!!!

Neve and Lucanius are dating...is Neve going to move to Terviso? Or will she stay in Minrathos because she's still a Shadow Dragon?

Is Davrin going to stay with the Wardens or hang out in Arlathan all the time taking care of griffons?

I'm guessing Emmrich and Rook are going to move to the Necropolis, which is fun, and are taking Manfred with them. Will they ever officially acknowledge Manfred as their baby boy? I kind of wish the game had a "make he spirit of curiosity Manfred a real boy like we made Cole a real boy" but I guess they didn't want to do the same thing twice.

again, what the fuck is up with bellara

and SOUTHERN THEDAS??? my darling Fereldan...my beloved...will you ever be safe again? can we get a sequel in Fereldan as they rebuild? Is King Alistair still alive and holed up in Skyhold? Is Divine Victoria Leliana still struggling to keep Orlais together?

where is Iron Bull? :( Dorian was barely in the game so I wasn't expecting him to mention his boyfriend but I'd still like to know.

ALSO WHAT THE FUCK IS UP WITH THE QUNARI. are they having like a civil war with the military leaving??? I could use more information, Bioware!

where is Keiran. where is my boy.

also man Minrathos got majorly fucked up in my game. It got seiged like three times. bummer my tevene friends but this is what happens when you have slaves and blood magic

[felassan]

Snippets. 🐺💜 DA:TV spoilers under cut.

Kala has heard rumors that there may be merch pins coming of Assan and Manfred [source]

(Previous comment for context - Dev Brenon: "You can sprint, there is also a dash/dodge move you can do for short range mobility - though I don't tend to use that much when exploring.") A user asked on this, "Will it be a push-to-sprint key, a sprint toggle, or other (to be explained later)?". Brenon replied with some more detail on this feature: "Right now it's a pseudo-toggle, you press it once (while moving) to start sprinting and then as long as you keep moving you keep sprinting. If you let got of the movement controls, you stop sprinting." [source: the official BioWare Discord]

User: "if a choice i made 30 hours ago affects me.. best believe im restarting the whole game". Brenon: "Uh oh''. User: "UH OH???". Brenon: "I mean... we do have "decision saves" before big choice moments, but there are still a bunch that depend on a whole mess of stuff you've done earlier... so... yeah... RIP :P" [source: the official BioWare Discord]

They hope to get a bunch more BioWare-themed emojis for the Discord [source: the official BioWare Discord]

Trick Weekes has been signing DA:TV stuff with "with love and appreciation for your patience" [source]

Carly: "theres so much id love to say, but i unfortunately can't , that being said, i hear y'all and love working on a game for such passionate people and hope y'all enjoy when it does come out 💕" [source]

Actor signing attendees report that it was amazing and that we're in good hands with this acting cast. You can see more photos from it here [source].

Dev signing attendees report that it was packed. You can see another photo from it here [source]. and here is a photo of the sign from it [source]

Another photo of the booth [source]. Sometimes at the booth the devs had a Solas statue [source] (this is done by Dark Horse). I think Dark were also displaying somewhere a Varric and a Cassandra statue too, and I think these were the ones that Dark Horse do too (Varric, Cass), but I can't find the image or video where I originally saw this anymore, sorry >.<

The companion tarot-style art from the website was shown on the big screen at the acting panel [source]

A few more details from the actor panel, from an attendee: John Epler said that this is the best group of companions written because of their relationships with each other, not just Rook. They can become friends, lovers, rivals with each other. Zach thought that Lucanis was the coolest character he gets to play. It sounds like he mentioned Illario [I'm assuming] by name. Lucanis is quick-witted. Neve is a bit of a romantic. Jessica found voice acting freeing as it felt like playing pretend when she was little. In her role, she felt like she could embrace being very powerful. Neve is passionate. On Emmrich, "wisdom, calm to group, warm-hearted, loves learning". Emmrich has some fantastic lines. Along with working with Varric to track down Solas, Harding has also been working with Rook and Neve. Ali talked a lot about how much collaboration there is between BioWare, the actors and the material they're given to work with. Harding has been through some things and has more of an edge to her, but they can't talk about it! [source]

A few more details from the actor panel, from an attendee - Jessica Clark: "A lot of the time, we kind've really all bonded in the way that we were intended to, you know? And that's why we've been so excited all week and all weekend, because we can be like 'oh my god you're here', 'oh my god you're here, you're here, you're here', finally, you know? You know, I know on a lot of projects people are like 'oh yeah, we're all like, we love each other', but we really do, we really really do, and it just evolved so organically, and there was something magical about it just being our voices in the beginning, you know, like, sort've taking anything else out of the [equation.]" [source]

A few more details from the actor panel, from an attendee - Nick Boraine: "I think I've been preparing for Emmrich all my life. I was very attracted to the role initially, and I was so, I was so, I was overjoyed when I got it, because I think it was, the writing of Emmrich is really fascinating, it's this, this man that is obsessed with death, on one hand, but on death as a comfort, death as a transition, death as something that is not scary, and that, that ability to enable people to transition and the investment that he gives in that sphere, which we don't give in our own lives. I was immediately attracted to that and I thought that that was, I'd never seen that before, so to go in these two ways, to talk about death and to talk about it in a way that is kind, and that the transition becomes a kind transition, that was fascinating to me, and I think, will be fascinating to you too." [source]

A few more details from the actor panel, from an attendee - Zach Mendez: "[before they started shooting] I did kinda get an idea about how passionate the fanbase was, which made me really excited. I don't wanna say nervous, because I don't say I'm nervous, I say I'm excited. And so, before the first day of shoot, I was very excited. And luckily, you know, Ashley and them, didn't have me do too much on the first day. I played a lot of darkspawn. I darkspawn-ed my ass off, though. I want you guys to know, I really. And when I got home, I thought to myself, 'Zach, did you darkspawn hard enough?' I was just worried. You know, and within an hour I got texts from Jeff, who's a part of this cast as well, and G, telling me what a great job I did, and then I'll never forget, I got a call from Ali Hillis down here, and I'll remember that conversation, because for thirty minutes she made me feel like I was welcome in the Dragon Age family, and it gave me so much confidence moving forwards. So thank you, Ali, so much, I still remember that." [source]

[Character limit text break!]

Varric and Manfred: "not romanceable" [source] ?

Neve mostly eats deep-fried fish [source], it makes up the bulk of her diet [source]

Bellara loves pan-fried fish [source]

John on SDCC: "thank you to everyone who came out to the signing. thank you to everyone who came out to the panel. thank you to everyone who said hi, swung by the booth, or otherwise expressed how excited you were about the game. absolutely amazing experience. was wonderful to see you all" [source]

There's a lot of lovely concept art for DA:TV [source]

Trick Weekes: "One of the things I was proudest of was inviting leads from other teams/departments into writing peer reviews and having them later say, "Wow, those critiques went deep, but everyone stayed professional and compassionate the whole time." My junior-most writer knew she could tell me I was wrong." [source]

Violet: "As we get closer to DATV, I just want to send out a reminder Var lath vir suledin 😭" [source]

Derek on the casting department: "They really did an incredible job! Every single one of these folks deliver such amazing performances." [source]

Derek: "a lot of great talent doing awesome stuff from KY nowadays. I count myself extremely lucky that I can work on such an amazing project with such a wonderful team straight from my home state!" [source]

Michael Gamble: "i know a few people on the DA team, and i want them to have a nice time." [source]

User, on the recent word count news: "Sooooo , when will I (we) get to hear all these words". Michael: "hopefully when the game is out." [source]

User, on the news of no microtransactions: "This is great news that I hope survives past the review period". Michael: "it will" [source]

User: "What class have you been playing as in DAV mostly?" Michael: "mage. i light everything up. everything." [source]

DAMP / multiplayer mode is not returning [source]

Ghil: "Im very sorry for the teasing tweet but to be very real, i really miss playing veilguard and to stop THERE and have to wait over a year is killing me tbh. Im bothered. My crops are dying. I am withering. I want to know what happens" [source]

A user asked a question around if there are dialogue options and choices available in the game that indicate a mixed or less favorable positive perspective on Solas. Bria, a Councilmember, shared: "As an Egg Cracker, I was pretty satisfied with what we saw. I don’t want to go into spoilers but I was able to play my Rook the way I wanted when it came to the Sad Egg Man." [source]

User: "would you be able to tell us if you can change your perspective while in a fight? Those circles we saw on the video were kind of hard to see from that angle". Ghil: "Like a bit- no promises but they told us a lot of stuff like that would be in an accessibility feature. I get pretty motion sick so I remember talking about backing it up a bit." [source]

Kala: "The amount of gasping, screaming, @/ElbenherzArt having to lay on the floor, @/hattedhedgehog and @/chaosbria having to stand up from excitement and us just being in shock the whole time. Yeah 🔟 😎" [source]

Kala shared that there are moments in the game that she knows people will freak out about [source], that in terms of marketing, she knows that the devs have more things planned [source], and that she found Bellara endearing, despite not usually vibing with optimistic and energetic characters [source]

Kala shared that she feels that the Lighthouse is way cooler than Skyhold [source]

Also, in early May 2024 Zach appeared on a podcast:

Zach: "I'm very excited because it looks like at the end of this year, the video game that I've been working on for about three or so years is gonna come out, and I'm really excited for that. I'm gonna come back on and I'm gonna promote that, you guys, you will have no choice, I'm coming back on." Host: "Does the video game feature dicks?" Zach: "I can't say too much about it, but it, it doesn't ignore dicks, you know what I mean? It doesn't, you know what, there might be, yeah, there's, it's a sexy video game, it's a hot video game." Host: "So are you a character?" Zach: "I'm a character in the video game." --- Zach: "I'm gonna come back on to promote the hell out of that, because I'm really excited about that. I'm still working on that, and that's been, like, I'm super grateful for that, because that's been going on for like three years and it's been consistent work." --- Zach: "I'm super excited about it [...]" "Other people help you make really amazing things, when humans get together they make pretty stuff, and this game looks amazing"

[source (acting career segment. source link isn't work-appropriate. I don't recommend the podcast)]

[jaal-ama-daravv]

Thanks a lot for doing the dissections! It's honestly amazing how you pinpoint the smallest things about Emmrich. Always a delight to read! Not sure if it's a huge revelation or anything, but I had a couple of things on my mind. Mostly baseless ramblings and rather long ones, I apologize in advance 😅 One, pertaining to his innate kindness. In a chat with Harding, he admits that he had to 'debate' that one's life experience and education are what makes a person, not being born into nobility. That's why, I think, if Rook admits to him they are trans (or just generally Taash moving forward as non-binary), he just never questions it and accepts it at face value. He will never subject anyone to the kind of scrutiny he was under, consistently having to prove his worth only because he has commoner origins. Two, I legit think he went on a quest to find a companion after any attempts to do so within the Mourn Watch failed. He's obviously well-traveled: in numerous conversations, he alludes to having spooked bandits in Anderfels, having dated an Orlesian art appraiser, Myrna mentioning he left the Grand Necropolis at some point long ago, etc. I sincerely doubt she would stay in the Grand Necropolis for long enough to kick off the courtship, which means he'd have to be out and about in the world for quite some time, enough to get involved with a person. Three, and that's a really big stretch — at the point where he joins the Veilguard, I don't think he enjoys his life at the Grand Necropolis all that much. He's not quite satisfied with the conditions of his tenure, he laments how things were a lot better and more proper earlier. It even feels like he's using Manfred as an excuse of sorts when he notes that Manfred was developing rapidly outside of the Necropolis. And he agrees to join the Veilguard fairly easily. I would also argue that, when we truly want to stay and belong somewhere, we get the roots deep in. We want comfort and nice things for our home — and he does that for himself but, for instance, the tombstones of his parents are very plain. And I'm sure he can afford something a lot more stately but he doesn't do it. Not out of disrespect for his parents, of course, but maybe because he doesn't see why. He's arrived to the point of going through the motions in the Grand Necropolis because he can conduct his research and hone his craft there freely, but everything else that's part of being a Mortalitasi & a teacher has dulled down for him. Anyway, hope this was somewhat coherent. Thanks a lot for how you feed the fandom and I hope you enjoy PoE — it really is an amazing game!

Oh thank you! It's great to utilise my game design narrative experience for the Emmrich lovers. So glad you like them 💞

You'll be glad to hear that Point 1 and 3 I touch on heavily in the full breakdown! Point 1 plays a huge role in who he is, it's admirable and relateable.

Point 2 I definitely agree with - How fast he jumped on board ready to save the world. He simultaneosuly calls himself a coward but shows so much bravery. Ah I love him.

I love your thoughts, thank you so much for sharing. and PoE is so interesting so far, though granted I'm on 4 hours in. I'm here for Aloth and I can't wait to play more

[thedasguarded]

This is an independent roleplay (RP) multimuse sideblog, for characters from Dragon Age: The Veilguard - mostly canon, but including an OC.

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[rom-e-o]

this ask has spoilers for emmrich's romance and the end of the game. i saw your post about emmrich and it really got me thinking, but i don't potentially want to spoil anything for you!

with how much of a yearner emmrich is for romance and love, and with him making the comment about how it's been a while since he's been with someone, and then rook came along, i could see them getting married later on. like when the next game comes out and we can choose rook's path, as well as who they romanced, i could see there being line in the game, or a codex entry about how rook and emmrich shortly got married after the events of the game. i could see emmrich possibly already being at that point from the conversation you can have with him before the final mission with how it almost feels like he tries to break up with rook because he knows his heart couldn't stand losing them. like this man cares for rook enough that he doesn't want to see them hurting when rook outlives them (if you didn't let him become a lich)

Aw, thank you anon! The heads up for spoilers is very considerate, and I appreciate it a ton. I personally have made it through the game and all events, but I'll tag this as spoilers for other people. i know some are still making their way through and exploring things.

I always keep Emmrich mortal, personally. I feel like it forces him to confront his fear (death) to achieve what he wants (a life of love, marriage, intimacy, etc.) Not to mention, Manfred becoming his own person.

If Emmy becomes a Lich, there is a scene where it's revealed that he still cries about Manfred. To me, it comes across as ... regret. I just can't do it. He also just seems more lonely and distant as a Lich.

Yes, I can absolutely see Emmrich and Rook getting married! Maybe even having a family together, with big brother Manfred. At the end of the game, right before the final battle, when he talks about making "plans" with Rook? Oh, man wants to spend his life with them so badly. He wants to bring them back to his accommodations, and hold them, and make a home with them. He's terrified of death, but he goes in ready ... because he's fighting for the good of the world, and a future with the one he loves.

"The conversation you can have with him before the final mission with how it almost feels like he tries to break up with rook because he knows his heart couldn't stand losing them." Ouuugh, that's real. Really real. That hadn't occurred to me that he's almost self-sabotaging in that scene, but when you put it like that, I can absolutely see it. At any age, a love that strong can be scary. Especially when the consequences are life and death, literally.

I'll be honest ... I'm still crossing my fingers for a patch/DLC where we get better epilogues for each couple. I'd love to see Emmrich and Rook living together, engaged and happy. Domestic, even. Perhaps a bit naive of me, but I like to imagine, haha.

[longer-than-i-should-admit]

Okay…but why is the Viper kinda…👀

Also why did Solas have such a Look when Fenalan told him she was just standing in as leader until Varric got back on his feet. Why did he note that. Should I be worried.

Also also if Harding got all these need abilities by touching the dagger why didn’t Varric??? Is the stabby end that different from the holdie end?

I sort of accidentally attempted the betrayal of Felassan fight just to see. I was lv 13 the first time🥲but I came back later around 25ish and got it that time lol

Solas also noted that Fenalan is ready to take judgment for what she has to do. I am. So scared.

By the way holY SHIT I DIDN'T EXPECT THAT RECRUITING DAVRIN WOULD LOCK ME INTO THE TREVISO/MINRATHOUS CHOICE? WHAT THE HELL??? I PICKED MINRATHOUS FOR THIS RUN BUT LUCANIS IS BREAKING MY HEART SO KHALIDA WILL MAKE IT BETTER NEXT TIME I PROMISE BB

Finally got Emmrich and Taash though! I have already flirted with the peepaw :) Manfred is so cute oh my god I want to hug him so hard he falls apart lol

ALSO DORIAN AND ISABELA? HELLO? DORIAN I MISSED YOU SO MUCH LET ME GIVE YOU A BIG OL' KISS RIGHT NOW THIS INSTANT!!! (WHERE'S LAVELLAN?)

I understand Ghil'Dirthalen's comment about Ghilan'nain making the power rangers pose now lollll since I knew what to look for I about fell out of my chair it was so funny asdghaksdg

As the resident completionist and loot goblin, I now have like 97% of arlathen forest explored so I think I'm doing good, then I get to treviso (which I should have explored BEFORE the blight PROBABLY) and get so overwhelmed. Why can I not get that one chest on the roof top. There are no doors. What the hell. (Don't ask me about Docktown. I guess I'm kind of claustrophobic bc...yeah. Not my fave.)

I'm doing all right in the Crossroads, although I'm hitting the point where I need more champions' essences so I need to explore other areas. I'm so afraid of missing stuff now so I'll probably be even more of an exploration freak since I'm afraid I missed stuff in Treviso tbh

Harding talking about the Inquisition bunch had me emotional fr fr. Her sharing her tea with Cullen? Sobbing. Her saying Solas was always so lonely, even in this world state context of him having been with Lavellan? SCREAMING.

All the companion interactions continue to make me feel so damn soft about them all. I love them. I will die for them. And Rook too, for that matter—Fenalan baby you're turning out exactly as I pictured :')

Only One mention of the Inquisitor so far. Come on guys. Give me the goods. I heard you get to see her at the end of act one. Where is she?

God I played so much today I can't even remember half the stuff I thought of as I came across it. I may modify this later if I do recall. Keep all my thoughts in track by each day. I might not be able to play anymore until this weekend and I'm already having a hard time avoiding spoilers. Y'all pray for me lol

Thirteen (point six) hours in now that it’s finally downloaded…I tired…I’ve been up since seven am lol, it’s so much better than I expected!🥰

I’ll post better images once I figure out where in the hell my screenshot folder is but my baby Fenalan turned out so so gorgeous oml🥹

Spoilers mentioned under the cut:

I’m so glad Varric is okay. He gave Fenalan a little pep talk when she cracked under the pressure a bit so she’s doing her best to hold it together for the team. She left the mayor bc he’s a shithead and she’s generally been rather purple-coded, as I thought.

She has also given Solas a hard time at first, as planned. I wasn’t expecting him to clap back like he did in that second scene lol, but now that Varric has given her more insight into Solas’ personality she’ll be more cooperative going forward (while still being a lil shit of course).

God I know I’m waiting to romance Lucanis for Khalida but I understand why people are so I love with him. He went grocery shopping for them🥹and the delight in his voice when Fenalan got him the wyvern tooth dagger? Oh my lanta, my heart. And the fact that he noted her favorite drink being tea? That slew me on the spot. By god I am going to smooch you so hard next time. Get ready for it. (Rn he and Neve are flirting up a storm and it’s so damn cute I want to die.)

Honestly all the companion missions so far have been so sincere and sweet. I can’t wait to see more! I’m starting to get all the little side missions branching out so I’m trying not to get overwhelmed with them all by taking them one at a time. I think I’ll tackle more of arlathan forest first thing tomorrow.

I unlocked the memory where Solas fights Elgar’nan, so is the elf who was with him Felassan? I’m assuming it’s Felassan. And if that’s Felassan I am going to cry bc he seems so nice and outgoing.

Also who summoned the fish in the Lighthouse? (I think it was Felassan lol, he seems like an agent of chaos. The “you summoned them, you’ll have to feed them” line took me out.)

I’m mentally cataloguing all the little differences I’ll be making with Khalida, who is more of the soft-spoken, shy, diplomatic type. Her favorite drink will be the “something sweeter” option, she’ll have supported Varric’s plan, and she’ll be more open to Solas’ input off the bat once she gets over her initial fright of him. She’s such a sweet little thing and Lucanis is going to be an utter disaster with her since she’s a bit oblivious lol

God idk if I’m going to be able to sleep after all this but hey, here’s to trying lol

On nydha, lethal’len!🥰