#dragon age companion reactions

[barnabeetheraven]

Companion Reactions to the Inquisitor waking up from a nightmare

Cassandra: When she stumbles on the Inquisitor outside, she can tell from their face that they are having a rough night. Cassandra asks them if they’d like to do some training, maybe it would help take their mind off of things; she knows that works with herself sometimes, and the two of them spar until the early morning light begins peaking over the Skyhold mountains. If Romanced: When she feels them startle beside her, she is instantly on high alert for any threat. But when she notices the Inquisitor shaking and breathing heavily, she takes a deep breath and leans over to wrap her arms around them. When the Inquisitor remarks that they dont want to go back to sleep, Cassandra gets up and grabs one of her favorite books, and they spend the rest of the night in each others arms, with Cassandra reading softly to her love.

Varric: He can tell instantly that they are having a bad night; he’s seen his fair share of that look from Hawke, Fenris, and Anders before. He starts off with some of his favorite jokes until he can see just a hint of a smile on their face, before he tells the Inquisitor that they can always come and talk to him if they need to. Not that he’s any good at doing anything about it, but hell, sometimes you just need a shoulder. Afterwards, to break the emotional tension, he has them sit down and they spend the rest of the resting hours playing Wicked Grace.

Solas: He knew even before he saw the bags under their eyes, as he had felt the intense emotions from the Inquisitor’s nightmares in his own dreams. He offers to help them with the problem, not wanting to overstep his boundaries but also wanting them to know he can help chase the nightmares away. He also makes sure to send them with a decent sleeping drought, one that is designed for dreamless sleep. He prefers not to use it, as he enjoys his nighttime adventures, but he also knows that most people cannot control their dreams as he can. If Romanced: The Inquisitor begins to notice less and less nightmares, but in each dream they see the same thing; a large, dark wolf, always at the edges of their sight, as if watching or guarding them. The Inquisitor goes to sleep at night wrapped tight in the arms of the Dread Wolf, who chases away any nightmare that might harm his Vhenan.

Sera: As she was sneaking her way across the courtyard from the kitchens, arms full of cookies and pastries she had nicked when no one was looking, she almost knocked over the Inquisitor in her hurry. After making a joke about how they look like shite, and seeing how it hit home, Sera offers to share her bounty of stolen goods, and her and the Inquisitor spend the night on the rooftop, munching their goodies and talking about all manner of silly things to take the Inquisitor’s mind off of their night. If Romanced: There are all manner of ways for her to distract the Inquisitor, late in the night hours away from prying eyes. But when she can see in the Inky’s eyes how badly they are hurting, her favorite form of love comes out; SHARED PRANKS! Skyhold spent the next two weeks being terrorized by any and all manner of joke and prank, while Sera and the Inquisitor have never looked happier or more rested.

Vivienne: She cannot help but make a comment about how terrible the Inquisitor looks, and how important appearances can be, especially when dealing with the Chantry and them being the Herald of Andraste, after all! She makes them sit down for a spa day, and sends them back to their quarters with arms full of different sleeping aids, lotions for their face and eyes, and a book that Vivienne swears will put ANYONE who reads it to sleep, because of “how unbelievably droll” it is (It might or might not end up being Swords and Shields)

Blackwall: He has his own nights like that, where you wake up and just dont want to go back to sleep for fear of the nightmare returning. He asks them if they would want to help him with the horses, as it relaxes him taking care of them, and the two spend the night brushing the horses and harts, feeding the nugs and drakes, and talking about the universe and old war stories. If Romanced: After they get done taking care of the animals, Blackwall makes a nice, roaring fire, and he starts teaching the Inquisitor how to carve and whittle, making sure to touch and brush against them as often as possible, so they know that he is always there.

Iron Bull: He has a lot of nights like that on his own, and he’s seen the Charger’s experience more than a few. He offers to buy the Inquisitor a drink, and openly talks to them about how bad his are sometimes. He and whichever of the Chargers are awake end up sitting around in a circle, playing Wicked Grace and sharing stories, until everyone is smiling and looking more content as the sun comes up. If Romanced: When he feels them shaking next to him, Iron Bull rolls over, wraps his long arms around the Inquisitor, and pulls them to him. He rocks them just like that, with their head cradled against his chest, and begins to him an old song he remembers his Tamassran singing to him when he was young, and he feels the Inquisitor slowly fall asleep to the sound of his heartbeat, feeling more at home and loved than either of them ever has.

Dorian: He scoffs jokingly, talking about how much work it is to keep their eyes looking young when they dont sleep, but he steers them to his favorite chair in the library and makes sure they get comfortable. He pulls out books left and right, criticizing or complimenting, joking and laughing until the Inquisitor falls asleep, softly dozing in the chair, and Dorian cant help but smile as he pulls up a chair of his own next to them, determined to defend the rest of his friend. If Romanced: When they wake with a start, he rubs their back, speaking comfortingly in his language, and when he gets the Inquisitor calmed down, goes and grabs a book off of the table. He cradles them against his shoulder and begins to read to them, softly stroking their hair until they fall peacefully asleep, nestled against Dorian and listening to the rise of fall of his chest.

Cole: Fear, building and building, until all that’s left is a cloud of hurt and fog of pain. He can feel the Inquisitor’s pain, so he begins softly patrolling their dreams. Sometimes he and Solas trade off, but Cole is always watching to see if he can help the Inquisitor with their stress. They dont always know when he is doing it, but Cole makes sure to give that little push every now and then to help ease the Inquisitor’s stress and anxiety, that way they can sleep easier at night.

Bonus:

Leliana: She has many of her own nightmares, and she remembers how bad the Warden’s would get, especially when they got closer to ending the Blight. She offers to get the Inquisitor whatever they need; coffee to stay awake, or tea to help with sleep. But they spend many nights taking care of the ravens, letting them take their fears and worries up into the sky as they brush and feed them. It isn’t much, but it’s a strange sort of relaxing.

Josephine: She tuts softly, mentioning how the Inquisitor has way too much on their plate, and she begins shuffling meetings and tasks, trying to only bring things to the Inquisitor’s attention if it is absolutely necessary. The hope is that if she takes more off the Inquisitor’s mind, maybe they wont have as much to stress about before they are going to bed. If Romanced: It’s hard for her, but she tries to intentionally put down her own work and cuddle with the Inquisitor. The Inquisitor finds it relaxing to run their fingers through Josephine’s hair, so every time a nightmare happens, she softly brushed her hair and lets the Inquisitor run their fingers through it, sighing softly as the vestiges of the nightmare vanish into the night.

Cullen: He has a lot of his own, especially as he is going through Lyrium withdrawals. Often, he and the Inquisitor spend many nights walking the grounds, unable to sleep, or sparring to help get their tension out. The two became good friends, where they can go to each other in the middle of the night and the other will wake instantly and get up to walk and talk with them. If Romanced: He startles when the Inquisitor flips up, but he wraps his strong arms around them and murmurs to them how they are safe, they are here with him, and nothing is going to hurt them. Over and over, he softly whispers his reassurances against their soft skin, until he can feel their shaking subside and he can get them to lay down on his chest, cradled safely in his arms.

[incoherentchanting]

this shit is so funny

[dragonologist-phd]

Man I miss the DAO specialization methods, I hope they bring back that type of thing in DA4. I wanna become a blood mage by making a deal with a demon. I wanna become a reaver by joining up with a dragon cult. I wanna become a duelist by meeting a pirate in a random brothel.

Even the less wild ones are really good! Getting close enough to your companions that they teach you their unique skills? I love it!

It’s just so much more interesting and engaging than doing random fetch quests or being purely mechanical

[proffbon]

So anyway, through a random Lucanis post (where else?) I found out that if you give the gift to the companion after the romance lock-in they actually say a different line. And because I couldn't be arsed to check if anyone already found Davrin's line, I took it upon myself.

So I present you

YESSIR!!!

[dareactions]

*pride month feral mode activated*

pleasepleaseplease write about the inquisation at a pride parade let them have fun ITS PRIDE MONTH AND MY INKY IS DECKED FOR THE OCCASION

Cassandra: She is the water-mom. She has sunscreen, she has pronouns pins- you cannot tell me this woman is NOT READY TO BE AGGRESSIVELY SUPPORTIVE. Has to rethink her entire sexuality at the end of the day admittedly- but that was to be expected.

Blackwall: The man is struggling. Everyone is pretty it's bright people are everywhere and on god he is not made for this kind of energy. He gets into it but he for sure was not ready for the sheer amount of stuff going on. Does make tiny little pride horses the year after to give out, because who doesn't like tiny wooden horses?

Cole: This man is overstimulated and too excited to care at once probably. People are happy, he can feel it and he eagerly moves through crowds with the Inquisitor.

Dorian: Admittedly, a bit nervous about going. As someone from a less than supportive household, Dorian constantly struggles with the line of being proud and feeling that gnawing shame he is working on. But he is happy to be there, he is loud, he is dressed to the hells and he will not be silenced for who he is and well- he just feels free. And he supposes that's what it's about.

Iron Bull: My guy probably knows the organisers. He is probably part of it all, the guy runs the kink section with the gentlest iron grip. He ensures safety, he ensures pronouns is respected and he will try and probably has so much trans things to give Krem at the end of the day he's practically an Etsy store on two legs.

Sera: This could go both ways- Sera could think the whole thing is overrated and think people are trying to do that pesky little thing of categorising themselves too much again- or she is hype. Either way she will go if asked and be everyone's favourite lesbian problem and I personally respect it.

Solas: That one supportive boyfriend who absolutely does not understand what is happening, but god he is trying so hard. Man still uses the dictionary to find words instead of googling synonyms but damn if he won't help his partner feel happy and represented.

Varric: Goes every year with Hawke, is legally not allowed to not go according to Hawke. He is that one guy who just knows...everyone? Like it's a pride parade of thousands of people what do you mean you know the random person handing out the pronouns pins and also the person who handles the floats? Varric who are you?

Vivienne: Ultimate mother is mother-ing moment. She keeps an eye on everyone, ensure things goes smoothly. It's all a bit too rowdy for her and she isn't sure if she adores the corporate feel of it all but if people are happy who is she to ruin the fun? For sure looks the best with Dorian, like actively makes it a personal challenge.

[hedgehogoftime]

Dragon Age Origins Companions react to Gandalf the Gray joining their company (and his sacrifice in not!Moria (the Deep Roads) against a Balrog)

Alistair: At first Alistair is reminded far too strongly of old tutors, harsh of tongue and sharp of wit, seeing Alistair in every way that he lacks, his flaws and shortcomings. But there is a compassion in the strange old wizard that was not present in those others. A desire to see Alistair to become more, to grow beyond or with hiss flaws. Alistair comes to regard Gandalf well, a friend, even. And, secretly, a grandfatherly figure, though he's certain the old man would wallop him upside the head if he ever said it aloud. It's Gandalf who makes him think that, yeah, maybe he could be a king after all.

After Gandalf's sacrifice: There's a hole in his heart, Alistair realizes. An aching part of him where Gandalf and all his gruff compassion used to be. He hardly realized how much he'd come to rely on the old wizard, on his wisdom and council until now that he is gone. Sacrificed against a monster older even than the archdemons. But Alistair has no time for weeping. At last, he takes Gandalf's words to heart. Enough sitting around. Enough waiting. It's time to set aside the Grey Warden, and become who he was born to be. It's time to be the King of Ferelden.

Morrigan: At first she detests the old man. His cutting eyes, too perceptive by half. His high and grating words, too close to truth. His REFUSAL to leave her in peace. And yet, she comes to look forward to their verbal sparring. She is a proud creature, Morrigan, and she will not be held to judgement of any little old man who think he knows better than her. And yet... there's a respect she feels for him. And it feels reciprocated in turn. Their words become less barbed in time. Not friendly, but there's a certain... give there. A camaraderie that she... doesn't mind. And... she supposes he has some good ideas at times. Feh, what a bother.

After Gandalf's sacrifice: Heh. Funny. She never expected to feel this... weight on her from losing the old man. This heaviness of heart and spirit. Is this grief? She likes it not. It feels hollow, in her. An inconvenience. And yet, she cannot shake it. This feeling that she has lost something dear. And it is only now she realizes she considered Gandalf a friend, of sorts. She finds herself missing him, their verbal spars, even his advice. she refuses to show it to the others, but in private, or perhaps with the Warden if they romanced her, she allows a scant few tears to fall.

Leliana: She finds him delightful, truly! A little poorly dressed, perhaps, but a joy to be around. He's wise and kind and never seems to judge her for her past when its revealed, merely proud that she has chosen a better path. And his stories! The tales he tells. She loves them all. She would love to set them down in song if only she could find the words for them. But ugh, it's hard to find the right words, the right notes. Gandalf laughs at her anger, and promises to introduce her to a friend help her. Whoever this Bilbo is, he must be a supreme wordsmith to receive Gandalf's support.

After Gandalf's Sacrifice: She weeps. Openly. It's wrong. It's all wrong. This- this isn't how it should go. It isn't right that such a man should disappear like this. Claimed by some ancient evil to buy his friends a precious few seconds of escape. Her heart feels scarred by it, in a way it hasn't since Marjorline's betrayal. And yet... she refuses to allow it to harden. It would be a disgrace to her friend's memory. So instead, she takes up her harp, and begins to play a tune, with melody to break the heart. She hopes... hopes it might be worthy of what her friend meant to her.

Zevran: When Zevran joins the party, he at first doesn't know what to think of the strange old wizard who advocated for mercy in his name. He's strange, and Zevran's flattery and attempts to worm his way into his good graces fall on deaf ears. He feels dismissed. But then he finds, its when he's honest in his words and thoughts that Gandalf pays him heed. the two strike up a cordial relationship of sorts. They swap stories. Zevran his wild tales of his storied life, and Gandalf ancient tales of ancient people. Men who tried and failed, but mattered in the trying. He gets the feeling Gandalf is trying to tell him something.

After Gandalf's sacrifice: Well, isn't this a thing? It always seems to go this way, in the end. Men like Gandalf do last long in his life. Those with some mercy in their heart. It feels wrong that the wizard leave like this. Their time together cut short. But perhaps... perhaps its time he puzzled through those stories. Those tales Gandalf told. Perhaps its time he figured out who he should be.

Wynne: She like the old man. They develop a fast friendship, quicker than the others. She senses a kinship with the old wizard, not simply because of their age. And she has endless questions about his magic?! Since her... incident in the Fade, she's been more aware of its presence... and yet Gandalf does not seem to use it. It makes her suspicious at first. What is the Secret Fire he refers to? But it doesn't stop their early morning meet-up and the joy it brings. Though sometimes... she gets the feeling she's talking to someone else. That he sees through her to the Spirit of Faith within her. And one day, he tells her its name. She wonders, vaguely, who this Gil-Galad might have been.

After Gandalf's Sacrifice: Wynne, alone does not grieve, for she feels, in her heart of hearts, that Gandalf is not gone. Not truly. Maybe its the spirit in her. Maybe it's something else. But she knows that Gandalf has not left them. And yet, she knows what must be done. It's Wynne who holds the party together after Gandalf's fall. After all, things must be kept together, shan't they?

Sten: Of all of them, Sten most easily sense the command with Gandalf. the capacity for leadership and even rulership, though he thinks that the man would reject such dominion. Despite him being a mage, one of the Saarebas, Sten feels no danger from Gandalf. He stands... apart. So Sten defers to him and the Warden alike. They exchange few words, but there is a powerful understanding between them. Even when Sten's crime is revealed, Gandalf seems not to judge him. and yet, Gandalf also seems to defer to Sten. He once refers to Sten as Arishok, something Sten is quick to correct. Gandalf apologizes, but his smile is knowing.

After Gandalf's sacrifice: He grieves in the Qunari way, quietly and grimly, but he does not let it slow him. It would not do to stand and tarry in grief. There are things to do. Sten, along with Wynne, carry the group during the immediate aftermath. But despite it, Sten's heart grieves. Qunari discipline keeps him in line, and yet it grieves him all the same. Let the past fall where it may.

Oghren: The dwarf doesn't know Gandalf long, and at first they do not care for each other. The wizard seems too high and mighty for Oghren's liking. Andd yet, he knows another soldier when he sees it. And the way he slings that sword around! Heh, might be worth something after all. They come to like each other, somewhat, and Oghren's willing to share a drink with the old wizard, though he finds himself developing a love of that pipe-weed the old man shares. Hah! Maybe he's alright after all.

After Gandalf's Sacrifice: Well if that don't sod all. Just as he was starting to like the old codger. Still... he sees how hard the others are hit, and does his best to keep it together. Gandalf seemed a good guy. And, when they finally make camp, Oghren pours one out for the old man. He resolves to do his best by this little group, if the old wizard isn't around to.

Shale: Gandalf is more tolerable than the other fleshy things, at least. It doesn't poke and pry and attempt to make Shale feel more human, at least. Rather it seems content to talk of things that interest Shale. Their conversations are pleasant, and Shale finds themself lacking a desire to crush the head of the old wizard. But it's in Gandalf's presence that shale first recalls the name of Shayale of Cadash. It feels... strange.

After Gandalf's sacrifice: Ah. Well, that's they way it goes with squishy things isn't it. They break. And yet, against that nightmare of shadow and flame, Shale felt fear for the first time in their memory. And Gandalf... Gandalf stopped it. Shale finds themself grieving for the first time. Grieving for the strange wizard who helped them remember. It's odd... but it feel nice, almost. To love a friend so, and then mourn them. Heh, strange.

Dog: He loves the strange not-human! They always smell nice, and share treats with dog! Dog decides they have to protect the strange not-human from harm. They're pack, after all.

After Gandalf's sacrifce: Dog isn't worried. Not really. the not-human with bushy brows and funny hat will come back. Dog knows, in that strange doggy-way, that he will. In the meantime, dog's people are unhappy! They need love and kisses. And dog will give all they can.

[forever-in-the-fandom]

Feel like we need a fanfic about Rook not being able to swim, it's one of the funniest things coming from this series of every protagonist just canonically not being able to

[watcher1ngellvar]

BIG VEILGUARD SPOILERS!

Been thinking about Hardings story, and the timing of what it means for her to find out about solas creating the blight, so...

Important thing to remember, before 'the heart of the titan' means after weisshaupt, but before the lead in quest to 'heart'.

[giraffe-lesbian]

On DAV Companions...

I'm still trying to organize my own thoughts on Dragon Age: Veilguard as a whole. I think I'm like a lot of people, enjoying some of it, unsure about other parts of it, disliking others.

A part of me can't help but wonder if perhaps it's not necessarily the companions who are weak as characters - although, I do believe arguments can be made that some are much more weaker than others - but rather appearing worse due to the larger framework of the game that ultimately engages very little with previous lore.

This is by no means meant to excuse the quality of the companions in Veilguard. Rather, it's just something I've been thinking about that I think might have some merit. If Veilguard companions engage more with the expectations of the players in that they should act and speak as characters rooted in this world and showcase its many intricacies, would they feel as one dimensional as they sometimes do?

Something I'm particularly noticed with companion banter in Veilguard and in other games is that Veilguard conversations revolve less around the characters themselves but more about their development seen only in the game. Veilguard companions, in essence, just react to what is happening to them and don't always offer much outside of that.

In my experience thus far at around 50+ hours in, Veilguard conversations arise mostly around the status of an individual companion's quest line. If they do talk of other things, they usually don't have greater significance of the current state of affairs or the world at large. A few details of the companion might be shared, but anything revealed doesn't say much for the larger world state... Whereas, in Inquisition, I remember more companion banter revolving and engaging around an individual companion's background and the larger way that background plays into their ideals, views, morals, and relationships with other companions. Inquisition banter engaged more with the lore at large, and lore and the status of the companion themselves seemed to inform a character's stance more than anything.

To me, Veilguard banter is based upon reaction - reaction specifically to quests in-game. Inquisition is based moreso upon explanation and expansion. You received whole stories in Inquisition banter, I feel, whereas you get only inklings of that in Veilguard.

I think there's also something to be seen in the simple fact that you could go and ask an Inquisition companion questions for days, it felt, but unless there's a quest or official conversation to be had, you cannot engage with the characters in the slightest. No greetings, no casual conversation, no Q&As. The same even goes for NPCs - the extra conversation with Maevaris Tilani left me sourly disappointed with the lack of opportunity for questions. Imagine the things you could have asked and learned!

(And imagine what a conversation with her would have looked in Inquisition. I think in that difference lies something of importance.)

There just simply isn't the same engagement with companions in DAV as in Inquisition, and I can't help but wonder if that colors a player's experience with a companion to some degree and if that could have been improved had the characters been better integrated into the actual world of Thedas.

[wild-magic-oops]

My only gripe with DATV so far is the romances and how bioware could've put more care into them instead of making up bs companion/companion ships that have more banters about them than some Rook/companion romances and in some cases don't even limit the flirting before Rook makes a choice. At this point it feels like bioware just wanted to write about their random ships but had to write smth about Rook as well and in some cases did the absolute minimum but never at the expense of what they actually wanted to ship, which is a horrible way to handle romances.

[dacompanionreactions]

Hello! Love your blog! I had a kind of a silly/fun reaction. How would the DA:I companions and advisors react to a playful Inquisitor sneaking up behind them and giving them a quick tickle attack? 😊

I guess this is mostly under the assumption that they are all close w/the Inquisitor, and comfortable with sudden physical contact. Enjoy!

Cassandra yelps, a high pitched squeak that has her clapping her hands to her mouth with a horrified expression, utterly mortified at the sound she just made. She blushes furiously, but she's not going to stoop to the Inquisitor's level of childishness and return the tickle attack. She will rise above. Forget this affront to her reputation. Or so she would have the Inquisitor think... for a good tactician never reveals their cards, and always has a plan of (tickle) attack.

Varric laughs. He laughs and laughs and laughs until tears stream from his eyes and his stomach hurts. For him, it really dispells the notion of the Inquisitor being this large figure at the front of a huge military force. It's utterly ridiculous, and definitely not the intended effect the Inquisitor wanted on him.

Solas is taken off guard. He's seen and done it all, so it takes something truly special to leave him stunned. Something like a tickle attack. He stands there in a horrific, drawn out silence after the Inquisitor's attempt to tickle him, trying to process what just happened. Solas spends the next thirty seconds resembling a dumbstruck fish. He hastily closes his mouth and reaches a tense agreement with the Inquisitor to never speak of this again.

Oh, the indignity. Dorian is actually appalled at the noise he makes, which is something between a giggle and a squeak, and turns swiftly on the Inquisitor with (playful) murder in his eyes. He's not afraid to get his hands dirty, oh no, and so he rolls his sleeves up and prepares himself for an all out tickle war. Naturally, the Tevene in him begs him not to stoop so low. His pride, on the other hand, begs him to take revenge.

Sera screams bloody murder. Good luck hiding from her, for the Inquisitor chose the wrong person to start a tickle fight with. This girl is ruthless. She'll hide in the rafters and swoop down upon the Inquisitor when they least expect it. Throw in a few lobbed pies and that'll make the experience downright messy. Never mind playful, she's starting a war.

Blackwall is really ticklish, and ticklish everywhere. He can sense someone creeping about and probably assumes the worst. To be tickled instead of receiving a knife in the back is an odd kind of relief. To him, it helps to maintain a sense of normalcy. Yes, the world has gone mad, but people can still have tickle fights and laugh like children. Normalcy is the best kind of revenge.

Cole isn't ticklish. Still, he understands the concept. It's likely that he'd ask the Inquisitor why they felt the need to try and ambush him like that. He gets that they're trying to be playful and get him to laugh, but there are easier ways to do it!

The Iron Bull is not ticklish. He's not, so don't bother even trying. Except he's totally lying. Ask Krem and he'd say, "The boss is ticklish behind the ears. Don't ask how I know." He'd probably bark out a laugh, then full on lose it at the attempt to tickle him. Though he'd likely not retaliate unless he knew for sure the Inquisitor is comfortable with unexpected physical contact.

Vivienne isn't actually ticklish. Unlike Bull, when she says it, she means it. Any attempt to tickle her will be met with extreme retribution. Messing with the Iron Lady means snowballs flung at high speeds into the back of the Inquisitor's head when they least expect it. Vivienne is all smiles, icy and sharp, and when confronted all she has to say is, "What ever do you mean, my dear?"

He'd have to be really close to the Inquisitor for Cullen to be even slightly comfortable with that sudden movement. His knee-jerk reaction would be to panic. He'd also probably try to defend himself or physically remove himself from the situation. If he is comfortable, well, this man grew up with siblings. He's gonna tickle the Inquisitor right back, maybe even give into childish impulse and full body slam them into the floor... and apologise profusely after. And fix his hair.

Leliana sees it coming from a mile away. She'd turn swiftly and catch the Inquisitor's wrists in her hands, then offer them a knowing smile that simultaneously warms and terrifies. "I wish you luck for your next attempt." Is that a threat or a challenge? You decide.

Josephine would yelp with surprise, then erupt into giggles despite herself. She feels just like a young girl again, having tickle fights with Yvette until her tutors reprimanded her for terribly unlady-like behaviour. Josie would never in a million years dream of actually retaliating, but she sure thinks about it. A lot.

[barnabeetheraven]

Companion’s Reactions to the Inquisitor having PTSD

Cassandra: In her time among the Templars, the Inquisitor definitely isn’t the first one suffering from the past that she has seen. In fact, if she was being completely honest with herself, she would have to admit that she has some of her own. When she notices the Inquisitor zoning out or seeming to have flashbacks, Cassandra makes sure to position herself close by, being sure to note if the Inquisitor is having issues being touched or not. If needed, Cassandra will place a hand on their arm, just to let them know she is there if they need her. If Romanced: When she notices the Inquisitor struggling, she will softly pull them aside (where the others cant hear her, of course) and she will recite some of her or the Inquisitor’s favorite poetry, or quotes from a favorite book. Something that she knows will help get their mind away from those memories, and into the present, with her.

Varric: He spent enough time around Hawke, Fenris, and Anders to be able to easily spot when someone is having issues. If it’s problem with noise, he will politely excuse himself with a joke, and hook his arm into the Inquisitor’s to lead them away from the noise. If it’s a memory issue, he makes sure to try and distract them with some of his more friendly stories and jokes, while making sure to steer anyone else in the opposite direction, at least until he can see in the Inquisitor’s eyes that they are back in the present.

Solas: Many trips into the fade, into other’s pasts, (and his own, if he’s being truthful) have given him many, many years of experience, and many years of watching others struggle with their past just as much as Solas struggles with his own. He will catch the Inquisitor on their own and offer them a calming tea that he has perfected over the years; it helps with both the anxiety from the past memories, and it also helps with the nightmares. Not that they dont happen as often, but so that they dont remember them as much. If Romanced: He makes sure to always patrol their dreams, being the protective wolf that drives off all the nightmares that come to chase away the sleep of his love. He also makes sure to always be nearby in battle situations, just to make sure he can cast barrier on them if he notices that they seem to be zoning out at all.

Sera: She may not always understand it, but one thing she does understand is when it’s time for some of her ice breaking humor! She’s got jokes galore, pranks she pulls out of thin air, and she becomes amazing at coming up with random songs on the spot (Usually with the help of Varric) that always manage to get the Inquisitor smiling and laughing, instead of getting frozen. If Romanced: She makes sure to check in beforehand, but her favorite form of getting the Inquisitor out of being stuck are giant, flying hugs! Because you cant be sad if you have a handful of giggling, tickling, elven girlfriend, right?

Vivienne: While she doesn’t usually have the patience for people freezing up, she seems to have made an exception for the Inquisitor. Her voice lowers into a softer, more relaxing tone, and she just talks to the Inquisitor, about anything and everything. Stories from her being in the Circle, her experiences being a Grand Enchanter. Somehow it seems to work, distracting the Inquisitor just enough that their anxiety levels come down and their breathing levels out. Vivienne always gets just the smallest proud smile afterwards, although she would deny it to her final breath.

Blackwall: If anyone understands the PTSD, it’s Blackwall. He still suffers from his own, so it activates his protective instinct because he doesnt want the Inquisitor to suffer like he suffers. He’s always asking them if they are alright, always staying close to their side while they are out in battle, and he always tries to find some time to sit down with them at the fireplace and explain to them some of his own more traumatizing moments. He knows it might not help a lot, but even having someone there who just understands can be helpful; it would have been for him. If Romanced: Nothing seems to calm the Inquisitor down quite like his big old bear hugs. He rocks them back to sleep after nightmares, reassuring them that he is there to protect them, and he isn’t planning on going anywhere.

Cole: He always seems to know when the Inquisitor is about to have a flashback, and he pops in to help ease the memories, to make them less intense so that the Inquisitor isn’t suffering as much. He and Solas have become masters at monitoring the Inquisitor’s dreams, to make sure that they can start the day on some good, deep sleep, instead of being riddled. And all it takes is a soft, gentle touch from Cole to help the Inquisitor take a deep, calm breath, to reorient themselves.

Dorian: Dorian immediately delves into the library, reading up on any and every bit of information he can on pstd and what he can do to help the Inquisitor. He may not always be the best at it, but when he comes to the Inquisitor with an entire armful of books, demanding that they allow him to help because how they handle things in Tevinter is “Of course more successful than this dog ridden country”, it brings the biggest smile to the Inquisitor’s face and makes them feel so cared about and loved. If Romanced: Dorian develops a magical necklace, one for the Inquisitor and one for himself, so that it alerts him whenever the Inquisitor’s anxiety and stress is getting too high. This way, no matter what is happening, Dorian knows when his Amatus needs help, and he can always rush to their side.

Iron Bull: He is always noticing things, so it didnt come as a surprise to him to learn about the Inquisitor having ptsd. Most of the Chargers actually have it, so he pulls them aside and bluntly lets them know that look, they aren’t alone. They’re all a little bit messed up, but that doesnt mean they have to be messed up alone. Bull makes sure to keep an eye out for them, knows when to cover for them, and he knows when to put a hand on their back to gently bring them back to the present. If Romanced: He almost always has some physical contact with them, whether he is holding their hand, brushing arms against each other, or legs touching while they sit together. At night, he holds them tight, reminding them how much he loves them, and how much he admires them and how strong they are, and he is always there to rock his Kadan in his arms after they have had a nightmare.

Bonus!

Josephine: She tries her hardest to not put the Inquisitor into any social situations that might aggravate their PTSD, doing her best to handle the things that she can, or getting the help of Cullen or Leliana so she doesnt have to involve the Inquisitor in problem situations. If Romanced: She always makes time to bring the Inquisitor into their Quarters, with a nice fire going, and she sits with them, stroking their hair and softly humming some of her favorite songs from Antiva. During the day, she always makes sure to softly take the Inquisitor’s hand to give a reassuring squeeze, so they know that even if they are both busy, Josephine is always thinking about them.

Cullen: He struggles with PTSD of his won, quite regularly, so he understands and empathizes with the Inquisitor. He invites them to training in the mornings, but only one on one, that way they aren’t having to struggle with their PTSD with anyone else around and can focus on sparring in a safe and controlled situation. If Romanced: He always offers that if they ever need someone to talk with, he is always there. And during the night, the comfort each other through their nightmares, being two souls lost at sea, but still having each other, and never being alone.

Leliana: She works with Dorian and Josephine, finding new ways from different areas of how to help cope with PTSD and Anxiety. She gets different kinds of teas for the Inquisitor to try, new spells and meditation for Solas to recommend, and she talks with many types of healers and mages. It’s her way of looking out for the Inquisitor, the silent protector in the shadows. She also creates the Nug Room; a room full of nugs where anyone can go in and pet the nugs to relax!!

[5mcsinatrenchcoat]

there's a lot to be said (and have been already said) about narrative differences and similarities between Sera and Solas

but I just had a thought:

it's bloody interesting that one thing that Sera emphasizes is her hatred of pride (particularly one that's stupid or hurts people)

while Solas is, in some senses quite literally (it's in the name), the embodiment of it

isn't it?

[kwyoz]

i finally finished the veilguard and i enjoyed it for the most part, but both lucanis's romance and the way the game ends so abruptly (imo) threw me off ngl.

[butleroftoast]

[Sees the new Dragon Age trailer is out, gives in to temptation, breaks oath to go in totally blind, and watches it.]

Oh, hey, it looks kind of neat. Reminds me of the DAII Isabela trailer. I'm cautiously optimistic. :)

[Sees the reaction online.]

._.

[dareactions]

How will companions react to a teen!Warden? Will their behavior change or they will act the same way as with an adult!Warden? Who would like to be friends with Warden and who's more annoyed by teens? Sorry if my request is too long:(

Alistair: He always wanted a sibling in some ways. There's something nice about the idea of having someone that depends on him and the Warden becomes a younger sibling so fast he gets a bit scared. Alistair wants to so badly steer them in the right direction- and he very easily falls into that role of the cool older brother. Honestly he kind of lets them get away with way too much just because they're younger but eh- he's not here to be a dad let's be honest. Leliana: Honestly she's kind of excited. Teenagers are always some of the most creative people in terms of problem solving and they have the ego and gumption that rivals most politically inclined adults. She for sure leans into the big-sister role that she finds herself in. She is a confidant, someone who listens and gives advice when asked. Also the person who pretend she doesn't see anything if you don't want her to. Loghain: Only one internal thought- what the fuck? He is so confused. Like- Loghain can't even be angry, he's just confused. Why the fuck is a teenager this competent? Since when were Grey Wardens below the legal drinking limit? There's such a mix of feelings that anger never even bubbles to the surface; he just becomes an exasperated dad in the funniest way imaginable. He hates this, he doesn't want this but it's not like Alistair or Morrigan is going to tell the kid off. Morrigan: She is so actively displeased she may as well just have even more of a permanent frown. She's not bad with kids and she would argue she can handle teens even better; but really? A teenager? She just sighs, rolls her eyes and makes sure they're not more than an arm's reach away when they're in major cities and anyone who even so much as raises their voice at them- it's on sight. Oghren: This man- does not know what to do. He isn't exactly the most stable person to put anyone around; much less a teenager. There's a lot of squabbling and stupid fights. Teenagers like pushing boundaries and Oghren likes pretending he is unbothered until he no longer is. It takes a LONG time to find a stability that actually works on the road between the two but hey- he doesn't mind teaching the kid a trick or two. Shale: Could care less, let's be honest. Just more inclined to not take you as seriously initially but eh- humans tend to exceed all odds. Sten: It's a big of a weird situation. In some ways- he likes the initiative the Warden is showing at a young age. After all, it's not like age actually decides your competence in battle - however he really could do without the whole mood swings and feeling on top of the world thing. He doesn't baby them whatsoever- just treats them like he would any teen within the Qunari. Wynne: If the Warden didn't want a mom figure- they should've stayed out of Wynne's sight. She is ON THAT. She does not mind being the bad guy unlike Alistair and is here to ensure the Warden survives this Blight. She's soft, comforting, nurturing- and also willing to put her hands on her hips and stare them down with a look that would make gods shake. Zevran: You know that older brother or uncle that teaches you how to pick locks and steal cars? Yeah, that's him. Zevran is actually the one who seems the most upset visibly that they're doing all of this so young- but he takes it in stride. He keeps them within arm's length, his protective nature is always a silent one. He is pissed when he finds out he was hired to kill a child though.