#regill critical

[lukedanger]

I made a previous post calling out how Regill's spiel against Irabeth was complete nonsense, and two things were brought up in reblogs: wondering what achievements the Hellknights have to their names without the Knight-Commander or crusaders helping them, and interest in looking at their tactics further.

To summarize the first one: as far as I am aware, the only achievement the Hellknights make on their own is taking that outpost near the Gloomy Gorge, which was described as an abandoned ruin. Everything else they succeed at - even escaping from the Lost Chapel - is either done with the Knight-Commander or with the help of other crusaders like Sosiel. And even then, sometimes with the KC's help they're counter-productive, not to mention hypocrisy that I didn't realize until digging through my screenshots for this.

So, let's actually go down what the Hellknights contribute. I will be focusing specifically on Act II as this is where the "Hellknights are uber competent" nonsense is at full blast.

This is a long post, so the most of it will be under a 'Read More' for the sake of scrolling. TLDR, the Hellknights aren't actually that useful, especially when looking at these four sections:

The Siege of Drezen - Another Way In?

Leper's Smile - Vescavor Fodder

Lost Chapel - Hypocritical Murder is the Best Dumbest Solution

Reliable Redoubt - Regill's Folly

===

The Siege of Drezen - Another Way In?

During the Siege of Drezen at the climax of Act II, if you saved him at the Reliable Redoubt, Regill offers another way into the city to target the giants manning the artillery. He wants the Knight-Commander to accompany him in taking out the artillery to clear the way for the rest of the army, just in case they run into a mythic demon again. And to be entirely fair, on paper and as presented this is an entirely reasonable recommendation! Taking out the artillery quickly is a good way to mitigate casualties, and this is exactly the kind of task that the Knight-Commander and their lance is best at doing. Leper's Smile was overcome exactly through this tactic.

However, in practice... what it actually does is let you skip one skill check to get to past the first gate (crossing the gap to the barracks) or the dungeon path that Nurah could send you down (which you probably want to go down anyways to recruit Arueshalae). Otherwise, you still have to either skill check your way up the walls or fight through the cathedral... and you probably want to clear those anyways just for the loot and XP.

All while costing you morale if you don't have Galfrey and Irabeth to provide leadership to the main army, and locking you to hauling Regill around the entire siege. Quite frankly, I'd rather have Seelah and her noble steed Iomeneigh.

Either way, Regill's "big tactic" at Drezen is basically a wash, all things considered. It lets you skip one skill check at a potentially very high cost, a cost that Regill sneers at not understanding the value of morale in a siege assault. While some of this could be chalked up to level design not lining up with the narrative (would not be the first time - take a look at the stats of units in Crusade Mode), I can't help but wonder if Regill was hoping to swipe a lot of credit for the liberation of Drezen with this.

And this is the most positive contribution the Hellknights offer to the campaign.

===

Leper's Smile - Vescavor Fodder

Leper's Smile is the first 'big' challenge that you face, by this point having either abandoned the Hellknights to their fate or taken the time to rescue them. Faced with the challenge, you need a unit to act as bait to pull the swarm out so the Knight-Commander can take a lance and drive it through the Vescavor Queen's thorax. You get five options of who to pick, the best being Sosiel where his troops hold their ground so he can quickly heal anyone who is overwhelmed - otherwise anyone who scatters too far can't be healed in time.

To focus on the Hellknights, first of all we should remember why Regill is volunteering his forces: "My superiority over the crusaders will not permit me to cower behind them."

Yep. Mister "emotions are a useless distraction" himself wants to feed his own men to vescavors because his ego won't let him allow others to do it. And if they hold their ground, this gets a lot of Hellknights killed. Better them than crusaders, but that's the kind of thing that you expect out of a gentleman officer in Sharpe, not someone who prides himself on pragmatism. His alternative tactic is actually pretty sound - his best protected troops draw aggro, then the rest of the Hellknights hurl acid and fire into the swarm. It costs him some of his best troops, though. Even adamantine doesn't make you invulnerable, whether it's to a vesvacor who gets through one poor sod's visor, or the acid hurled at them.

Either way though, Regill is specifically putting his own troops forward without any of the support that could open up other options because his ego won't allow him to stay behind while others distract the swarm.

The grand irony? The "ideal" solution in this situation is probably to have Sosiel's contingent consist of Hellknights: the Hellknights are a disciplined force who are most likely to hold their nerve and among the most well-armored of the troops on hand. That heavy protection and discipline would merge with Shelyn's miracle through Sosiel to completely minimize casualties - even more so than Sosiel alone and a KC who doesn't delay going after the queen.

Then again, the Hellknights will throw away a perfectly fine Armiger if they can't actually make it to Hellknight, wasting all the resources that went into their training and losing a competent warrior or spellcaster in the process. Why are we surprised?

===

Lost Chapel - Hypocritical Murder is the Best Dumbest Solution

So first of all, the Hellknights get more or less completely captured during this. Even though they presumably would have had their own men on watch due to not considering the crusaders competent. Now, the Hellknights do manage to break out on their own, but they are far from the only ones - other crusaders are able to as well such as one Iomedean paladin who CPEs an entire squad of ghouls or the guy who might lose more than his tooth you can rescue along the way.

Of course, we inevitably meet Yaker at a mixed lance of Armigers and Crusaders, and after some bantering if you comment on the fight in the Hellknights, Yaker will want to execute one of the Mendevan soldiers for panicking. The dialogue in the fight prior does show the Mendevan men-at-arms are at the breaking point, but none of them actually flee the engagement despite escape being the primary goal at the time. And Yaker wants to execute them because Chelaxian law demands an example be made of those who flee when none of them actually have.

Forget the fact that it's somehow "Lawful" of the 'acceptable for a paladin' variety to murder a Mendevan under Chelaxian law while in territory where Mendevan law has jurisdiction. We're trying to rescue as many soldiers as possible, and you want to execute one for being at the end of their rope and about to panic but not actually running away? And yes, doing this will increase your casualty counter for the entire sequence, potentially costing you quite a few soldiers in a portion of the game where they're hard to get!

It's worth noting that this is after Regill had formed a rearguard further up the mountain to buy time for troops to escape and await reinforcements. So not only do we have the above, Yaker is pissing away the objective here. Of course, Regill also claims he will always strive to preserve allied forces, but we've already seen how much of a lie that is at Reliable Redoubt and Leper's Smile... can't believe I missed this line in my first playthrough.

Funnily enough, Regill also makes a lot of noise about how the standing orders for scouts is to not be taken alive and that it was better to kill the wounded than let them be taken even though he had no idea why the gargoyles wanted prisoners. The only Hellknight who chose to die was Marenta, the Armiger who had Trever's shield. Even then, she was acting as a rearguard to allow allies to escape after breaking out of captivity. So much for "never allow yourself to be taken alive" and "deny the enemy prisoners".

(Thank you @forestdragoncat for pointing that out in your reply to my other post!)

===

Reliable Redoubt - Regill's Folly

I could honestly do an entire post dissecting this for how much of a complete failure it is on part of the Hellknights at every level even as the narrative tries to convince us it was cold, ruthless rationality. In the interest of not dissecting the sequence line by line here, I think there's five points that really sum it up well:

The gargoyles specifically went after the supplies of the Sunrise Sword knights in the earlier engagement, retreating once they had completed that objective. The gargoyles didn't even bother with this kind of harassment against the Hellknights: they just overwhelmed them. And that's with them being reinforced by the now-exhausted Sunrise Sword!

Regill had full warning that the gargoyles were coming thanks to the Sunrise Sword, the Sunrise Sword didn't and were ambushed. Yet Regill's troops still had their asses hanging in an undefendable position that they then retreat from to a more defensible location rather than having prepared for the attack.

Even knowing another attack was coming, he gave the Sunrise Sword no supplies and did nothing to bring them back up to full combat effectiveness in anticipation of the attack. This wasted not only the warning they gave but troops he actually thinks had potential! This is the same Hellknight who later says that he will "always preserve the lives of allied forces" because he is thinking in terms of "efficiency and achieving your goals".

The only way the Hellknights win the encounter is if the Knight-Commander diverts the entire campaign to take Drezen to save them. Without that, the Hellknights are crushed. And the Knight-Commander only knows because Yaker disobeyed orders and fled the battlefield... the exact thing he says warrants execution in Lost Chapel.

On top of that, Regill had others killed to stop them from being taken prisoner despite explicitly admitting he doesn't know why the gargoyles wanted them. He and a number of his troops are quite alive should you not reinforce him and find him in Lost Chapel on the hook next to Irabeth.

In short, Regill had every opportunity to put together a better defense thanks to the Sunrise Sword's efforts getting to him, and he pissed it away. I'm not going to say that he could have won the battle outright without the KC, but at close examination it becomes clear that he had failed beyond "competent but up against something where that isn't enough". And then has the audacity once the battle is won to act as if it was the Sunrise Sword who were weak for their "excess of morality" and needed to be remade into Hellknights.

I wonder if Regill realized in his Reckoning after the Reliable Redoubt that he had fucked up and that's why he's so eager to prove himself at Leper's Smile - to hide his folly from his superiors and his new comrades.

===

In the final tally... in Act II, for all the Hellknights acts superior and say they have to teach the Crusaders everything, they either don't contribute much, are outright counterproductive, or they only succeed because the Knight-Commander bails them out. Regill's suggestions in particular tend to be only "better than the default options", and even then not by much.

At least in the councils he gets his act together and starts making some good suggestions, or at least pragmatic ones if ruthless... along with the expected bad suggestions.

Either way actually digging into this makes the sheer hypocrisy of the Hellknights in Wrath of the Righteous come out even more. And I can't tell if this was intended as a subtle criticism of Lawful Evil that a lot of people - myself included - missed because of how much is going on, or if they had genuinely wanted to write the Hellknights as competent Lawful Evil and ended up making them only good at looking like they were competent for making "hard" decisions.

And the sad thing is? Even with all this, Regill is a fascinating character because he actually seems to believe in what he says for the most part - a few exceptions regarding allied forces aside. He's a different kind of Lawful Evil than the usual corruption of Hell as we see in Aeon->Devil, and that contrast would work really well if they leaned into that more.

[goddevouringserpent]

kind of obsessed with the juxtaposition between Irenni and Kaija's core parties

Irenni's party: kind, honourable people fighting for a better world. and Daeran is also there

Kaija's party: nightmare blunt rotation

[yunessa]

Saw a meme that was about Critical role (Here) that @thesaintofnevergettingitright posted and immediately wanted to make a similar one. I think I nailed Regil.

[rollofleaf]

Saw this so uuuh, stealing it from @mountainashfae and making it a tag! Give your KC’s first impression and final opinion of each of their companions!

Hilde:

First Impressions

Seelah: “She’s eager, tough, and friendly, I might get along with this paladin!”

Camellia: “That’s an unusual necklace, especially in Mendev.”

Lann: “The horn and lizard body is certainly a look, but at least he seems friendly and honest.”

Wenduag: “This woman looks like she’d stab me in the back for a piece of bread.”

Woljif: “Ugh, a thief. Why am I even bothering with one of those?”

Ember: “She doesn’t even seem to realize the danger she’s in, I have to keep her safe.”

Daeran: “He has a very punchable face and personality.”

Nenio: “Oh, this girl is going to get herself killed looking after knowledge.”

Ulbrig: “At last, another barbarian, I was getting lonely among all these city folk!”

Galfrey: “Yet another ‘civilized’ noble trying to use me as their sword and shield.”

Sosiel: “Another artist, maybe he’d let me watch him paint while I write.”

Regill: “How are you even worse than the Hellknights that arrested me?”

Arueshalae: “She’s so beautiful… In a way I’ve never seen from a succubus.”

Greybor: “An assassin who pretends he has any honor is disgusting.”

Trever: “Please, Desna, don’t let what happened to me happen to him.”

Aivu: “She’s adorable, I will never let anything bad happen to her.”

Final Opinions

Seelah: “She’s my best friend, I want to travel the world with her.”

Camellia: “I should have known she was lying from when we first met.”

Lann: “His heart is in the right place, he’ll make a good chief.”

Wenduag: “I saw her betrayal coming from minute one but it still hurts.”

Woljif: “I’m so proud of how far he’s come and how he’s held onto his soul.”

Ember: “I never saw myself wanting a daughter, but I want to take care of her.

Daeran: “It’s nice knowing another aasimar who’s wrong in the crusaders’ eyes.”

Nenio: “Maybe she’d let me write a few entries for her Encyclopedia? Or we could go for a drink when she publishes it.”

Ulbrig: “The last true Sarkorian… He has a lot to pass on.”

Galfrey: “I guess you weren’t so bad… I know I didn’t make things easy on you.”

Sosiel: “He deserves a man who loves him so much…”

Regill: “For all my criticisms of him, at least he’s good to have in a fight.”

Arueshalae: “My love, I will fight the entire Abyss for you.”

Greybor: “Go be the father your daughter needs.”

Trever: “He deserves a long rest.”

Aivu: “Where would I be without my dragon?”

Tagging @the-raging-tempest and @kaleido-scope-lady

[dujour13]

10, 32 and 28 for Sia?

Thanks Harper! 💕���

10. What lie do they most frequently remember telling? Does it haunt them?

Answered here. Basically - “I promise” and yes.

32. Do they have a go-to story in conversation? Or a joke?

He has so many stories there isn’t exactly a classic he trots out for every occasion, but there are a couple he’s especially fond of.

He often comes back to this one from his pre-Crusade days in the Andoren diplomatic corps. (It would take some retrofitting but I like the idea that he may have met Daeran before the Crusade.)

A couple of years ago there was a Taldan Duchess who claimed that a certain young Mendevian Count had put her in a delicate condition at her debutante ball, and via the royal family was pressuring his cousin, the Queen of Mendev, to force him to marry her, escalating the political stakes when he categorically refused. He protested his “innocence,” claiming he gained entrance only by the back door, metaphorically speaking.

As a neutral 3rd party an Andoren diplomatic delegation was called in and Siavash drew the short straw to have a chat with the Count.

He never tells exactly what they said to each other, but they both came out of the sitting room wine-drunk and Siavash informed the delegation there was nothing for them do; the Count had it all under control.

The Count proceeded to make himself at home with his new fiancée.

He hired some unsavory types to burgle the estate and deliver to him the family’s sensitive documents, perhaps in an attempt to dis-inculpate himself and prove the whole pregnancy was a sham to begin with, but stumbled upon the dire secret that the Duchess’ gambling habit had frittered away most of the family fortune. This the Count released to the press, but not before drawing the Duchess into a pyramid scheme that finished the job.

He also proceeded to:

Encourage the servants to unionize; train the family dogs to hump guests’ legs; purchase a shocking quantity of love elixir in the Duchess’ name; encourage certain salacious habits in the Duchess’ teenage brother, which ended in minor injury when he slipped off a window-ledge; and, as the cherry on top, seduce his fiancée’s father, the Duke.

The family sent him packing back to Mendev within a month.

As Siavash does hilarious imitations, especially of nobility, this story gets a lot of traction.

28. Would they prefer a lie over an unpleasant truth? 

On trivial matters he’ll take a pleasant lie over an unpleasant truth anytime, and he’s more than willing to return the favor. Tell him how great he looks in those green striped bard trousers.

But when it comes to more important matters he puts a lot of stock in honesty, because owning up to his mistakes and using them as a chance to improve is important to him. He hates letting people down. He can accept constructive criticism because he’s always been good at appearing to take it gracefully. (I should say, from anyone except his dad and Regill.)

[thesolemnhour]

🍎 🎂 🍩 for Agria 💕

Dolly!! Thank you for asking!!

🍎: Do they share any features or traits with any family members?

Physically, I like to imagine the peri-blood influence makes it so she doesn't really look much like anyone in her family. She is like a single-generation lightning strike. There are a few notable exceptions, though! If she looks like any of her relatives, it's definitely her mom: she has Alase's upturned nose and eye shape, though Agria never quite achieves her mother's air of sophistication. On the other side, she distinctly shares her dad's square jaw and face shape.

🎂: Has your OC have any contradictory interests or traits to the first preception people have of the? How do they surprise people?

Agria has both an intense desire for self-improvement and an absolute, burning hatred of being criticized in any way. The nicer you try to be about it, the stronger the hatred becomes. She begs for constructive criticism then chews you out when you give it to her. Eventually, she will quit being a baby about it and apply the critiques, but you have to have thicker skin than she does. Regill Derenge, you are braver than any paladin of Iomedae, and she will never forgive you for it.

🍩: What's a crime your OC is most likely to commit? What's a crime they're most likely to get arrested for?

I answered here that I think Agria would send Hulrun anthrax (not a secret, he is supposed to know it was her), which is true, but I think there are really a number of crimes she could get in trouble for because she is so used to getting away with things. She would get so many parking tickets.

[silversiren1101]

Do tell us: ⚔ : Does your muse have any specific kinks? 👀 (for Mino!)

[Prompts from here] Yesss oh this is such a good one for her

⚔ : Does your muse have any specific kinks?

Praise Kink and Following Orders: Both ways. Look this girl is a lifelong soldier in the most regimented and strict knighthood in all Golarion. She lives to fulfill orders and loves to be praised for it, just as there's a small part of her that enjoys giving orders and making her subordinates feel appreciated for their own good work. You call Mino a "good girl" in bed and she's gushing even harder than usual. You give her very specific things to do or not do and she succeeds (don't come/don't make a noise/come for me/swallow it) and you cup her jaw and say what a good job she did and it's all over. She knows Regill has a bit of the same in him, though not nearly as much. A well-placed "good boy" is a critical hit which she uses sparingly to maximum effect when she's the one taking charge.

Vocal Kink: She absolutely needs to hear her partner enjoying themselves. She really can't come easily unless she knows they're into it as well. Regill moans or groans or gasps or grunts and it's like a sweet music to her ears and pushes her ever closer to the edge.

Size Play: Something she was pretty damn embarassed about at first but she's so very into it and not shameless at all with him. Take a potion to make her small or make him big. It just adds so much to the bedroom and while it's definitely not an everyday thing (maybe 10%) it's frequent enough for them! She very much likes being picked up and manhandled about and held down :3

Blowjobs: Oh to be a girl with very sharp fangs that loves making her male partners tremble and weak in the knees... Even careful as she reassures them she is, it was rare anyone braved the offer from her. Lucky for her, Regill has full trust in her and, honestly, the added danger turns him on a little bit even lol. Added bonus, her tongue has rougher pads on the side to protect it from her fangs, which adds quite the sensation to whoever she lavishes it upon. She also loves to swallow.

And the most risque one of all...

Anal: This one was discovered as a bit of an accident. She figured out early on that there's a soft spot on the underside of her tail right where it connects to her body that is extremely sensitive and feels good to knead and touch. A partner grabbed her there in the middle of things and it surprised them both how she responded. Slipped thumbs or misplaced grabs later on then told her she was into more.

She has a hard time admitting it or asking for it, but nothing else gets her face redder and entire body trembling than anal play. Even just a thumb pressing against her hole and rubbing makes her a mess. Full on anal will turn her into a pliable puddle (and leave them in one, given how much she drips during with no friction in that area to dry any of it up). Discovered on accident also by Regill, and carefully exploited when he can tell she's in the mood for it but much too self-conscious to ask for it. Requires additional aftercare, and she usually wants it when she's overly stressed and really needs to be shut off and taken care of.

[teddybaeran]

Mix loves the hellknights

Do you remember when I said Mix doesn't like the spotlight? How this game forces him to be in it and it's uncomfortable but cute to watch him be forced? Well. Here. This. I found where he would be in the game if not the Commander, I think. He would be a hellknight, and definitely at least this same rank.

Well, he really feels like he gets Regill. He is honored to have him by his side. And it is not lost on me that he specifically respects people who remind him of himself. This is doubled and tripled later when Regill assesses Mix's very reaction to everything he does, studying him, testing him. As that's exactly what Mix is doing.

OOH GOD AND THEN THIS HAPPENED

Mix audibly "hnnnngggg"s

Mix really fucking loves regill oh my god. They could be brothers. someone he sees as a brother and not in a way that he needs to protect him??? Is this possible? Hello?

Then later, circling back to reprimanding Regill for reprimanding Daeran:

Mix follows this up with "And that includes any sort of criticism, which you are not permitted to give to my advisory unless he specifically requests it."

Mix even appreciates his disapproval of the queen.... fuck, move over Sosiel, Mix has a new bestie and this one feels SO RIGHT.

GOD HE RESPECTS HIM SO MUCH HOLY FUCK

HHHHHHHHHH

[arendaes]

Like the World is Ending

So, decided not to wait for tomorrow and posted my first one-shot in my revamp tonight 😊

Like the World is Ending

Rating: T

Fandom: Pathfinder Wrath of the Righteous

Ship: Commander/Daeran/Woljif

Other tags: Pre-relationship, Pre-poly

Word Count: 6,420 words

Daeran Arendae has a fearsome reputation, including but not limited to his ability to throw a party to remember. Will his belated birthday celebration live up to the hype? Ariadne and Woljif are about to find out.

Can also be read here on AO3

“I cannot believe you are indulging in this farce, Commander.”

Ariadne was shaken out of her glorious daydream of mead and cake by Regill’s disapproving voice. She glanced down to where he stood beside her, those piercing yellow eyes of his fixed on the mansion ahead of them.

She shrugged. “We’ve been marching for three weeks straight. Aside from the little detour to rescue you and your merry little band, we’ve hardly had a moment’s rest.”

Regill scoffed, making her bite her lip to keep her smile hidden. She wondered what did it - the ridiculous nickname for the Hellknights, or the suggestion that this outing qualified as rest. She expected many things from this soirée, but it being restful wasn’t among them.

Especially not given the whole reason she’d broached this topic with Daeran to begin with.

“You humor the Count and his whims too often,” Regill said, turning his hawk-like gaze to her, “One might begin to suspect preferential treatment on your part.”

“Aw, Paralictor, I promise if you asked to throw a party I’d say yes. Though I have to insist on helping with the planning.”

If this quip amused him, it didn’t show. Instead he turned his stoic gaze back towards Heaven’s Edge. “Joke all you like. But rest assured, the ease with which you give into such frivolities has been noted.” And with that he started forward, leaving her to make the trek to the house alone.

“I’m never going to make him laugh, am I?” she mumbled to herself before following.

As she did, she finally gave the Arendae ancestral home a good look over herself. It must have been quite the sight once. But now the sides of the house and the statues lining the courtyard were covered in crawling vines, the tendrils already colored the red-gold of autumn. As she ascended the winding staircase, fallen leaves crunched under her boots. When she reached the top, a quick inspection of the bushes showed they’d been given a rather slapdash trimming. She filed her criticism away for the time being - it was unlikely a groundskeeper was willing to stay and maintain this place, given both its reputation and its proximity to the Worldwound. Some things couldn't be bought for any amount of money, and so Heaven’s Edge had been left for nature to reclaim. Until quite recently, that is.

The air hung heavy around the courtyard, the prickling sensation of being watched almost suffocating. Perhaps there was some truth to the manor’s reputation of being haunted. Despite the decrepit beauty of this place, she had a fleeting notion that perhaps nature should be allowed to have it.

An excited shout shook her out of her reverie. Someone had wheeled an entire cart full of various types of alcohol out, and minimal though the guests were, they had descended on it like vultures. She had to admit she was curious and so she decided to file that misgiving away for another time as well. For now, she had a party to attend.

****

Woljif had always wanted to attend some fancy noble’s party, but now, well…it wasn’t bad, but he also wasn’t sure what he had expected.

First, there was a slight problem in that Daeran apparently didn’t think anyone wanted a drink that wasn’t alcoholic. When he had asked if there was anything to drink that wasn’t going to make any light-fingered antics harder to pull off (not in those exact words, mind), he'd received a loud groan. Daeran then proceeded to roll his eyes, told him not to be teetotaler, and shoved a goblet in his hand before he was whisked off by another guest.

Normally, being left to entertain himself wouldn’t be a problem. This was also the most food he’d ever seen in one place in his entire life. Multiple tables had been set out, and each laden with roasted meats, platters of cheese, roasted vegetables he didn’t know the names of, beautifully decorated little cakes, and countless more delicacies he couldn't even name. It was more than people assembled here could eat in a week, and he intended to make the most of it.

But it turns out even he had his limits with how much he could eat in one sitting. That was how he found himself here, nursing said goblet and bored out of his mind. He let his eyes wander around, hoping an amusing pastime would present itself. Nothing did - the nobles kept swilling back their drinks and stuffing their faces, the courtesans kept dancing on the raised dais. Most of his companions looked various shades of bored or scandalized. The only exceptions were Nenio, who had taken a vantage point near the dancers and was scribbling furiously in her notebook, and Regill, who looked as unreadable as ever. If he had to guess though, he was weighing the optics of burning this party to the ground and hauling Daeran into a torture chamber.

Neither Ariadne nor Daeran were nowhere to be seen. He had a good idea where the latter was, but the absence of the former was…weird. Just weird. It wasn’t like he was bummed she wasn't right here next to him, remarking on each and every outlandish thing Daeran had put together for this shindig.

The hall itself was eventually what grabbed his attention. It was bigger than Gran’s shack, the thiefling hideout, and every other place he’d ever reluctantly called home. Combined, probably. And it was only one room!

Eventually, he began to wonder what the rest of the mansion looked like. What started out as an idle curiosity soon had him on his feet. Ember, who had been sitting next to him in Ariadne’s stead, smiled up at him as he rose. Thankfully she didn’t move to follow, settling back in her chair to watch her crow hop around the ground instead.

He made for the side door he’d seen Daeran go through a little while back, drenched to the bone. Two summoned water elementals had soaked the Count, some of his guests, and half the courtyard in response to the cart of booze outside mysteriously exploding.

Snickering as he realized who the likely culprit was, he eased the door open and slipped inside. As he regained his bearings, he was struck by the stark contrast of this corridor with the hall he’d just left. Down one end was a window, the twilight sky barely visible through the hastily cleaned glass. Down the other was an arched doorway. Once it had led to the courtyard, but was now blocked by rotting pile of wood and stone. Two doors sat along the wall - one shut, one ajar. The warm light pouring out of the latter caught his attention, so he made his way over quickly and quietly to peer in.

The bedroom beyond was opulently furnished, clashing with the dust covered hallway just outside. He made out a large, plush bed in one corner, adorned with elaborately stitched sheets of red and gold. An abundance of privacy screens were scattered about, concealing everything but the person they were meant to, because he was standing in the middle of the room.

Woljif froze, grateful Daeran’s gaze was fixed on the wall in front of him. It would only take a slight shift of his head and he’d be caught. He knew he should move away, but the way he looked, damp hair plastered to his neck and green eyes riveted on whatever it was he was looking at, transfixed him.

His face in particular gave him pause. It took a moment, but then it hit him - Daeran wasn’t smirking. The smarmy grin that seemed to be a permanent fixture of his lips was nowhere to be seen. Instead, he seemed almost sad, a small frown settled over his features.

He'd be lying if he claimed the sight didn't captivate him. It was like seeing a fish walk on water, or a dretch making cherry rolls. Daeran Arendae was always the picture of insufferable, insouciant vanity, and something about seeing him as anything but was as fascinating as it was wrong.

That’s also why it took him a moment to realize he was also naked. At least, that’s what he'd tell himself later. Biting back his yelp, Woljif retreated silently from the doorway, hurriedly making his way to the other room. Blessedly it wasn’t locked, and uttering a quick prayer of thanks to Calistria under his breath, he slipped inside, hoping his companion was none the wiser.

****

It was a surprisingly warm night for late Rova. That had nothing to do with the chill Ariadne was trying to stave off, arms wrapped tightly around herself as she stood alone in the middle of the grand bedroom.

Inquisitor Liotr had just cast a ritual that showed them the final moments of Countess Silaena Arendae's life. When she had spoken to Daeran just shortly before, he had implied this was some random room his servants had picked out. But it wasn’t - it was the room his mother had died in. He’d stood at her bedside and pleaded with her to send for help while she drew her last breath. It didn’t surprise her that he lied about the room’s significance, but it didn’t lessen the sting the truth had given her.

If she were a good crusader, she’d commend Silaena for her resolve. She had the chance to save herself or protect her country, and she chose the latter. To many, it was a noble sacrifice. But Ariadne was not a good crusader, or even much of one at all. All she saw was the Countess’ son, face drawn, gripping her bedsheets as the last of the light left her. All she felt was sorrow.

So much about Daeran suddenly made sense to her. Why he held himself apart from everyone, saying and doing such terrible, wild things and claiming he thought them the dirt beneath him all the while. It was a flawless way to keep people at an arm’s length. Who would want to keep company with someone like that? Even she’d found her good humor tested by him more than once, his acid tongue making her good sense war with other, baser instincts. What better way to make sure you never lost another loved one, than to make sure there were none at all?

What had she been expecting? Despite what he claimed, it was unlikely he went to such lengths purely to maintain some wretched reputation. The tragedy that befell Heaven’s Edge had come up in her research prior to coming here, but nothing that they had seen refuted what was already known. She couldn’t explain why, but something, no matter how horrible what she’d just seen was, didn’t feel quite right.

She let her attention wander around the room, desperate for a distraction. The vision had only affected the bed, so she wondered how much of it had changed. The bathtub, the piles of books, the comfy chair tucked away in the corner. Were they new additions, meant to ensure the master of the house’s comfort during his brief stay? Or were they the last remnants of a woman who hadn’t walked this earth in a decade?

The fireplace drew her attention next. It was gorgeous, more ornate than a fireplace had any right to be. Yet, there was something odd about it as well. She was just on her way to investigate when she glanced at the nearby wall and froze.

The painting was familiar - she was fairly sure she had seen it hanging in the ruins of the Tower of Estrod. She hadn’t been able to give it much thought then, but now, with the fate of a city no longer hanging in the balance, she could stop and really take it in. A woman played on a seesaw with her young son, a bowing branch of cherry blossoms framing them gently. The apple-cheeked little boy, with his bronze skin and golden hair, could only be one person. The only thing absent were the set of uncannily green eyes that she had come to admire. It was a soft, touching scene, and so out of odds with everything she now knew.

A ghost of a smile flitted across her face the longer she stared. Seeing Daeran happy, even if it was so long ago, warmed the icy malaise that had settled in her soul. Silaena looked just as lovely as she had in the first vision she and Liotr had seen, though color suited her better than the bluish-gray the magic had cast her in. Her skin was several shades fairer than her son’s, and her head was turned in such a way that it was hard to tell what color her eyes were. But besides that, it was so easy to see he was his mother’s son, and the love they had shared echoed in these walls even now.

Questions were formulating in her mind; strange, mundane ones that she had no right to know the answers to. What had he been like as a child? Was this what a typical day had been like for them, or had they posed for this? And even stranger ones that were impossible to answer. How would Silaena feel about her son if she could see him today? What would she think of the state of her homeland? Of her?

That last thought sent a jolt through her unlike anything she had ever felt. Even though no one was privy to her thoughts, as she was quite alone in this room, she still felt a flush creeping its way up her body. It was utterly ridiculous to wonder at such a thing - why should she care about the opinion of a dead woman?

The answer was obvious but Ariadne wasn’t going to give it the satisfaction of acknowledging it. Her feelings - even admitting they were that much felt dangerous - for Daeran were not something she should be dwelling on, not here, in this room with all its horrible memories. She needed to get out of this room, out of this house, hells, maybe out of this country.

She decided to focus on the most manageable one first. She still had another task to complete, after all, and she had just the idea for how she would accomplish it.

****

In retrospect, he probably wasn’t as stealthy as he thought he was. The room he’d slipped into was clearly not meant for guests, thick dust clinging to the broken furniture, the air stagnant and stale. He'd rifled through worse in his life for less promising rewards after all, so he wasn't deterred. Instead, he conjured a ball of light and got to work. Try as he was to be quiet, the dim glow of the orb was probably what alerted her to his presence.

“I really can’t leave you alone for more than a few minutes, can’t I?” The sound of Ariadne's voice got him to whip around from where he’d been wiping dust off a picture frame on the wall.

“I ain’t doin’ nothing!” he protested, then glanced back to the picture, “’Sides, you know, admirin’ the art.”

She raised a brow. “Oh? Tell me then, what is the subject of the art you were admiring?”

He hadn’t actually stopped to check out the damn thing, just the dirty metal frame it sat in. He was fairly certain it was gold. Or at least he could pass it for such, with a little spit and shine. So she had him there, but he wasn't about to let her know that. 

“It’s a portrait,” he said, latching onto the few details he'd managed to parse. He was sure he'd seen a few human-ish shapes at least.

“Of?” There was now a sing-song tone to her voice - she enjoyed teasing him far too much.

“The Queen?” It sounded weak to his ears, but her laugh - bright and crisp in the otherwise bleak room - drove off the usual wave of embarrassment he’d feel at a moment like this. She walked over towards him, peering up at it. The amusement in her features faded slightly, prompting him to take a glance himself.

The subject was the Arendaes themselves. They didn't seem too different from any other noble family to his mind. Boring old guy in the left hand corner, pretty woman of obvious celestial heritage at his side on the right and in her arms, a chubby-faced little tyke with eyes an unnerving shade of green. 

“So, Daeran’s mom was an aasimar too?” The bitter chuckle escaped his lips before he thought better of it. “Some people get all the luck, while others just get a kick in the teeth and a boot in the ass.”

He braced himself for the admonishing look, but her attention was riveted on the painting. Her gaze kept flickering back and forth between baby Daeran and each of his parents in turn. “So that’s his father…” she murmured, falling into a stance not unlike the one she’d done when trying to solve those weird tile puzzles in those ruins a whole ago.

“Sure doesn’t look anything like his pops, huh?,” he asked, unsure as to why he felt the urge to speak at all. Maybe he was hoping she wouldn't forget he was there if he did.

She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, a slight smirk working its way onto her features. “I think we should be getting back to the party. No doubt our absence has been noted by this point.”

He snorted, letting the change of subject slide. “Yours, maybe.”

Something not unlike sadness flickered in her eyes, but she didn’t reprimand this self-depreciation either. Instead, she heaved an exaggerated sigh and added, “Besides, I’ll likely need to soothe some tempers. I put a brilliant idea in Daeran’s head, but I doubt Sosiel wants to paint him in the nude.”

He’d started to nod along, following her as she made for the door. After a moment, he stopped. “Wait, what?”

****

The world was wobbly, and not just because of the copious amount of alcohol she’d ingested barely an hour previously. While the memory of drinking Daeran under the table did bring a wistful smile to her lips, it quickly died when she remembered why she’d challenged him to begin with. A sick feeling replaced the brief joy she'd felt, as the vision of him, young and scared and cornered by demons, replayed in her mind.

Her feet fumbled beneath her as the world swam again, sending her careening into the nearby wall. She made no move to compose herself, instead leaning against the cool wood. “I wanted to understand him better,” she murmured, closing her eyes, “But not like this.”

Still, it was good she understood his plight now, right? Now she could try to find a way to help him. Though as she remembered Inquisitor Liotr’s pale face as he explained the situation to her, she got the sinking feeling it wasn’t going to be an easy task. Liotr knew nothing of the entity they were dealing with, and asking Daeran about it was impossible. Not without risking his life.

She sighed, opening her eyes and straightening. Why had she come this way? Oh yes, she was drunk. And in search of... something. What had it been? The name of her target eluded her, not returning within a few shaky steps. But then the sound of voices nearby caught her attention, and she decided that was a worthier goal.

Following the sound, she found herself peering in on what seemed to be a broom closet. Or perhaps a pantry? It didn’t matter, as right now it was serving as the changing room for the two courtesans hired for the occasion.

“Can you believe he’s sending us back tonight?” The female courtesan flipped her glossy black curls over one shoulder as she adjusted her bodice, glancing over at her companion as she did. “When, in all the years our brothel has served the Count, has he ever sent one of us back early?”

“Never. They say war changes a man, but I never thought he’d be counted among their number,” the male courtesan said as he hopped into a pair of trousers, “Though I will say I don’t mind, as long as we’re getting paid.”

“True enough.” Her wry smile was short lived, giving way to a pensive expression, “But it does make one wonder, doesn’t it? This whole soirée was an uncharacteristically muted affair, not typical of Master Arendae at all. One could suggest he’s lost his edge, so to speak. Perhaps that’s why he dismissed us so early." She clucked her tongue. “So young to be having such problems too.”

Her companion laughed as he buttoned up his shirt. “I doubt it. I spent quite a vigorous night with him not even three months ago, and he did not disappoint. Well, not so long as that venomous tongue of his was kept occupied. No, I suspect it’s another matter entirely.” He leaned forward, dropping his voice to a conspiratorial whisper she had to strain to hear. “I daresay I think the Count’s fallen in love.”

“In love? That wretch?” All her pretense dropped, genuine incredulity in its place. “You’ve gone barmy, my friend. How much did you drink?”

“No more than I was bid to. You know I detest the stuff.” The grin hadn’t faded from the man’s face. In fact, it grew as he continued, making him look like a child who’d been chosen to pass around the Zonzon doll at Crystalhue. “How many of his parties have we attended? As you said, this one was boring, and he seemed painfully aware of it too. At least, until…”

“Until the drinking contest with the Knight-Commander.” With one hand on her hip and the other stroking her chin, the woman contemplated his words. “I must say, I thought the rumors of her…eccentricities must be exaggerated. Then she recited that ridiculous prayer to the Accidental God, and all my doubt dissipated.”

Ariadne huffed from her vantage point. There was nothing ridiculous about that prayer! She’d won, hadn’t she?

“Yes, I’d say they’re quite a match, all things considered.” He donned his hat with a flourish, grin triumphant.

“The Count and the Commander? You’ve…” The protest died on the woman’s lips, her expression becoming pensive, “You might be onto something, actually. They did look awfully chummy, all things considered.”

“You say chummy, I say they’ll be wed within six months of the Crusade’s completion.” The man donned his jacket, looking perfectly smug.

“Now you really have gone barmy. You honestly think this sham will be any more successful than the last four?”

“Call me an optimist. And a romantic. In fact, I’m willing to put a little gold on the line. Both for our country’s inevitable victory, and the Count’s impending marriage.”

As much as she wanted to stay and hear the details of the wager, she slipped away as the two of them enthusiastically negotiated the terms. While there was a small, logical part of her brain that knew she should be concerned, most of her was sure she needed some tea before handling such a serious matter as idle gossip.

****

Through some strange stroke of luck, no one else was in the kitchens. Given the hour, most of the guests were passed out either in the great hall or in the courtyard, and the staff were likely taking full advantage of that. If they were getting some rest or just plundering the house same as him, Woljif didn’t know and really didn’t care much. He'd decided to take Daeran's permission to raid his home back in Kenabres as universal, and what better place to start than the area where all the fancy cutlery was kept.

He’d only managed to get one piece in his pocket when the sound of someone else clumsily entering the kitchen made him freeze. Keeping his hands in his pockets, he slowly glanced over his shoulder. 

Daeran leaned against the door frame, watching him with a catlike grin. His eyes gleamed in the low candlelight, almost maliciously gleeful. “I thought you might be in here, sticking your fingers where they don't belong.” Despite the ungraceful entrance, nothing in his countenance suggested he was particularly intoxicated. His words weren’t slurring, his posture no different. Maybe he’d misjudged how sloshed he’d gotten. Given the sheer amount of booze he and Ariadne had downed, that didn't seem likely however.

The excuse Woljif normally pulled out in this situation definitely wouldn't hold up, but he’d be damned if he outright admitted to thieving. “I was looking for a drink that wasn't hooch. Someone's gotta keep their wits about them in a haunted house, you know.”

“Do they now?” Daeran's lips twitched as he finally pushed away from the wall and took a step towards him. Woljif had to hand it to him, he was staying on his feet better than a normal drunkard. “And I suppose you, my recreant friend, believe that you’re the bastion of sense in this regard?”

Something in the way he asked that question made Woljif feel like he was balancing on the edge of a knife, made all the more intense when Daeran drew closer. They weren’t quite touching - yet - but he was close enough that he could feel the warmth radiating off of him. How had he not noticed how chilly it was in the kitchen until just now? It made the urge to lean closer, to absorb some of that warmth for himself all the more difficult to resist. 

Before he could say or do anything to embarrass himself, for a second time that evening, a fumbling noise came from the door. They both turned to see Ariadne stumbling in. Unlike Daeran, she was making no effort to hide her inebriated state, her disheveled hair and clothes telling the story of at least one tumble she’d taken on her way here. Her skin was paler than usual, and she tensed slightly when she saw the two of them. But then a grin that was too smug for his liking graced her face instead.

“What are you two doing?” She leaned against the counter in front of her and gleefully glanced between them again. Heat rose along his face, and he had to fight the urge to hide it. His mind went somewhere it probably shouldn't, though judging from the suggestive look on her face it was exactly what she had been thinking as well.

"I just caught our sticky fingered compatriot helping himself to my family’s heirloom silver," Daeran said, gracefully averting the misunderstanding they'd all been hurtling towards, "I was planning on pointing him in the direction some trinkets that are both more and less valuable.”

“How charitable of you,” she said, “I didn’t realize you had a soft spot for thieves.”

“Oh, I'm afraid a misunderstanding has occurred. It’s not that I particularly care if our dear friend acquires some items that will make him wildly rich beyond his imagination. It’s that the scandal of my great-uncle’s burial urn being stolen from under my nose would be a much needed reprieve from the doldrums of the crusade.”

“Doldrums? Are your responsibilities not keeping you suitably occupied, Count Arendae? Should I give you more assignments? Have you write a report, perhaps?” Her eyes were bright, wide smile perfectly illustrating how much in her element she was. 

Despite Ariadne’s teasing tone, panic flashed in Daeran’s eyes. Woljif had to admit he was impressed by how neatly he kept his cool as he countered, “Ah, yes, the mundanity of having to write a report is certainly a novel experience for me! I’m afraid I must warn you - only one topic holds my interest, and it’s only tangentially related to the Crusade.”

Daeran’s smile became all sharp edges as he said this. It made him want to run for the hills, personally. But Ariadne just wrinkled her nose, face still alight with mischief. “No, that’s all right. I’d rather not read any reports anyways. They’re dreadfully boring.”

“Yeah, suspect they’re not dirty enough to keep your interest,” Woljif muttered, remembering the book he’d accidentally uncovered when he’d been refiling through Ariadne’s tent recently. The stupidity of admitting this hit him a moment too late.

Both of their heads whipped back around to look at him. A slight flush rose on her cheeks. “W-wait, how do you know-”

“Dirty? Why, is our dear Commander hiding some smutty little secrets in her tent?” At this, Daeran moved to stand beside him, so that they both faced her. “Well...there's a chance my idea for a report would work for you after all…” Something in his closeness that made Woljif feel far too hot, the cold of the room forgotten now. That conspiratorial glance he was shooting him through lowered lashes didn’t help him feel any cooler. “Tell me, what exactly did you find? A book? A magazine? A series of filthy drawings stuffed in her pillowcase?”

This was worse than he’d ever imagined. He didn’t want to admit to what he’d read! At the time he’d snickered to himself when he found the book tucked neatly under her mattress, especially when he opened to a random page and started reading. The problem was he’d probably read more than strictly necessary. And that didn’t even get into the fact he’d done so because he had started picturing Ariadne as the main character. And as for her love interest…

“That’s not relevant,” she said, voice airy. He could’ve wept from relief. A flush still stained her cheeks, but as she pushed away from the counter to stand in front of them, he realized it wasn’t from embarrassment. Instead, she looked curious, head cocked as her eyes darted between the two of them.

“Is it not? I, for one, am shocked - nay, scandalized! - at the mere suggestion of the Knight-Commander indulging in the pleasures of filthy literature rather than the stodgy reports her advisors painstakingly compose for her!” Daeran's grin easily betrayed his words. 

She laughed again before falling silent. For the first time, he noticed her pupils were completely blown. With her head at the angle it was and her tail swishing behind her, she resembled nothing more than like a cat debating which toy she wanted to pounce on first. Perhaps it was an odd comparison to make, but even odder was the realization that he hoped it was him.

Anticipation filled the air as Daeran finally took note of Ariadne's change in demeanor. Woljif felt him tense beside him, their arms brushing slightly. No one breathed a word, both men waiting for her to give voice to the desire in her eyes.

Ariadne opened her mouth, but whatever she had been about to say was destined to remain a mystery. 

A crusader in full-plate ran into the room. “Commander, there you are!” The young woman beamed with pride. If she realized she had just ruined…what had she just ruined? He wasn’t sure, but disappointment was settling in his stomach like stone, bitter bile coating the back of his throat. The charged atmosphere quickly dissipated as the soldier continued, “Everyone’s set up and ready to return to camp on your command!”

“Return?” Daeran asked. Woljif could’ve sworn he looked bewildered, even hurt. But it passed so quickly, the contemptuous smirk back in place and making him doubt what he could’ve sworn he had just seen. “Ah, you’re sending the bores back to camp so they don’t ruin the fun for the rest of us, yes?”

It was said in that haughty drawl of his, but Woljif detected the faintest hint of desperate hopefulness in the undercurrent of it. He knew that’s what it was, because it was the same kind of starry-eyed naivety that normally set his hackles on edge. He never expected that Daeran, of all people, would be the one to elicit that reaction from him.

Ariadne’s expression, full of remorse as it was, effectively killed that hope. “We’re all returning to camp. I know you had rooms cleared out, and you and anyone who wants to is welcome to stay the night, but unfortunately my duties resume bright and early for me.”

This time a mere tick in his jaw was the only sign of Daeran’s displeasure. Otherwise, he oozed his usual casual contempt. “Of course! I’m glad I was able to provide you one evening’s worth of paltry entertainment. Now, if you excuse me, like any good host, I’m going to go find guests that actually appreciate my efforts.”

With that, he turned and exited the room much more gracefully than he had entered it. The sour feeling in Woljif’s stomach didn’t settle, and he wasn’t sure why. It wasn’t like Daeran actually cared if they stayed or anything; this had been his party, for his own amusement. If they weren’t willing to play along anymore, why should he bother?

Ariadne was staring after Daeran with an expression that wasn’t quite upset, but involved far more furrowed brows than was strictly necessary. At least he wasn’t the only put off by the careless dismissal, as if the moment before it hadn’t happened. 

The urge to comfort - or maybe just distract - her was strong, much to his chagrin. “He’s incorrigible, Chief. Only ever seeking out things that hold his fancy.”

“Yeah,” she agreed quietly. His words didn’t seem to have an affect on her at all. She glanced at him, holding his gaze for a moment before she shook her head and her smirk was back on her face. “Well, anyways, are you coming back or staying the night here?”

“Never thought I’d say this, but going back. The party was fun and all, but this place gives me the creeps. ‘Fraid of what I might wake up to if I stay here, and that’s sayin’ something.” With that, he followed her out of the kitchen.

He forgot to put the fork back.

****

Despite what she had said, Ariadne found that work resumed not in the morning, but the very second she stepped back in camp. Wilcer had found another cause for concern amongst the scouts’ gear, and with their approach to Drezen rapidly approaching, it wasn’t prudent to let such an important matter sit for too long. 

That was how she came to be working on the logistics of getting what they needed before dawn had even crested over the horizon. She had been debating whether the sky was any lighter than it had been a few minutes prior when a familiar figure with faintly glowing blond hair walked by her open tent.

“Daeran?” she asked, louder and much more incredulously than she meant to. It did the trick though. He stopped, turning his head languidly and shooting her a perfectly curated, lazy grin, as if taking a stroll around the camp at this hour were a perfectly normal activity for him. 

“Good evening, Commander! Or is it morning? I must confess I haven't the faintest idea what the hour is.”

“What are you doing here? I thought it’d be at least noon before you stepped foot back in camp. In fact, I thought for sure I’d have to send Regill to fetch you and drag you back.”

He snorted, stepping through the flaps of the tent and up to the small table that acted as her desk. He eyed the papers spread across the map critically as he asked, “Oh, and how do you propose to do that? I’m quite good at slipping out of things I don’t want to do, you know. And having a Hellknight at my door is not ever a situation I hope to find myself in. In fact, I have several brilliant ideas for home security to avoid that very circumstance.”

Jest as he might, there was an intensity in his gaze. it occurred to her, right there in the dim light of her tent, that this was a confession. ‘I’m quite good at slipping out of things I don’t want to do.’ Everything she knew about him didn’t refute that, and he had to know by now that she wasn’t the type to force someone to do something they didn’t want to. Joke as she might, if he hadn’t come back, if he had decided to stay at Heaven’s Edge, or even head back to Mendev…she would have let him.

A smile - a genuine one - pulled on the corners of her lips. “Dare I ask why you decided to come back so early?”

He shrugged. “It was just dreadfully dull after you left. I don’t know if my opinion matters to you at all, but you are by far the best party guest I’ve ever had. No one else has ever beaten me so thoroughly before. And I was even cheating! I suppose I should thank you for saving the whole event.” Leaning forward, he whispered, “Unless you were cheating too?”

“Sir, you should know that merely suggesting a Caydenite cheat at a drinking contest is borderline blasphemy.” Tossing her head slightly so her hair was out of her face, she matched his stance. “It looked to me like everyone enjoyed themselves without my help. I think it’s possible the night wasn’t as much of a disaster as you seem to think it was.” 

“Hm, yes, I suppose I am a rather good host, aren’t I?” He held her gaze as he spoke, and just for a moment it felt like they were the only two people in the world. She had no doubt he felt it too - the way his lips parted slightly, smirk never faltering, gaze so intense as it bore into hers told her as much. But then it passed, and he was taking a step back. “And as a reward for my service to the crusade, I think I shall just sleep in until noon anyways. The fact it will be in a cot and not a proper bed is regrettable, but I’m sure I can make it work.”

With that, he turned to leave. As she watched him go, it occurred to her that she should tease him and tell him that he would get no such peace. But, curiously, all she could think of were unknown monsters and secret bets, and she decided to let it slide. Just this once. 

[bimney424]

Ok ok ok ok. So confession time. Here it goes. I miss these characters. A lot. There is no question that I miss them. I have been watching episodes over & BYsupercut videos & looking at art. Miss the awkward moments between Beau & Yasha. The moments with Jester & Marion. The back & forth with Veth & Fjord. The slow drawl of Caduceus. *sigh* Just miss the Might Nein in general. And until we get a one-shot rewatches of C2 will have to do. Just wish a one-shot would hurry the hell up.

** art by Max Dunbar. Color by Malkamok**

[bimney424]

I am sure I will write my own thing, but knowing from both Ashley & Marisha that they are both awkward individuals in real life & in the game & yet felt safe enough with the others at the table to RP the fuck out of this date is one of the greatest things. Everyone let them have their time & no one interrupted or said anything until they kissed. The respect & love they all have for one another it beyond reproach!! Truly.

putting aside the wonderfulness that was beau and yasha finally getting together for just a moment, i would like to say that it was so nice to have uninterrupted rp from ashley who is such a quiet player and whose pc is one of such few words. it warmed my heart to see marisha create that space for her at the table. yasha has such a depth and warmth to her character and a backstory that’s only just barely been peeked at! and it was so nice to see a little bit more of it. i hope that yasha and beau’s relationship will give her more chances to open up like that in the future 🌹

[dmagedgoods]

6, 10, 28 (I really wanna know what Daeran thinks of Sal's family...), 30 for Sal/Daeran for the OTP ask please 👀

6. When did they realize they loved each other? Salvadore had already struggled a while with an inability of getting this insolent count out of his head and a weird, hard-to-place pain at the thought of him leaving. He fully realized that he was hopelessly in love with him during not-a-date when Daeran let his masks down – and for the very first time deliberately instead of only giving glimpses of the man behind the barbed comments and proudly worn cynism. There was no doubt for him anymore at his point, but Salvadore got confronted with a new level of intensity regarding his own feelings during the moment in the Nexus when Daeran had gathered stones to stage a dinner with them. He seemed so vulnerable and lost, Salvadore knew for sure he would do anything to gain his trust, keep him at his side, and protect him from any harm. For Daeran the full realization hit in the Abyss. Afraid of allowing the intensity of those feelings and where they could lead in the worst of cases, he still started to give them room in his mind as well instead of only having them linger underneath the surface in an attempt to disguise them as mere passion. 10. What are some non-sexual activities they do together? The long, but definitely incomplete list is here. 28. Do they get along with each other’s friends and family? You want to know about the family drama, I see. 😁💕 They both are terrible at making friends and have been even more so in the past. The people from their lives before the Crusade that are important enough for them to still be in contact with are still kept at distance and they meet some of them at parties and during events in Drezen, Nerosyan and Absalom sometimes. Nothing of it has enough meaning for them to be worth mentioning in detail. One of the few people reaching a deep friendship status with them actually managed it with both: Woljif! So, they basically share their best friend, or well, Sal has two, but we all know if / how well Daeran gets along with Regill. 😂 Regarding future friends, I’m pretty sure both of them will be open-minded and supportive regarding whoever the other one views as worthy and causes him to let his guard down, each knowing that the other one is careful with trusting and that it takes a lot to get there. Family … well … That’s a different topic. Salvadore spent much time in front of the painting of Daeran’s mom, wishing intensely he could have met her. Daeran always gets in a gloomy mood when he catches him staring at it again and tries to drag him towards other topics and activities while Salvadore may try to talk to him about her. In sentimental moods Daeran allows it, in most though he blocks the attempt. Salvadore’s relationship with Galfrey was … complicated beyond compare. He harshly criticized and judged her for her shortcomings while he also saw strength in her, an intense sense of duty, ambition, a love for her position as leader, and some other abilities reminding him of himself. With his own growing power – among the nobles in Nerosyan too – and the strong admiration of the people after his accomplishments and radiant reputation as Iomedae’s chosen one, he realized that the throne of Mendev would be in his reach if it wasn’t for the fact that Galfrey still had very strong support as well. He played a game for power and influence against her, quite aware she knew it too. Daeran’s crush on her added a petty layer of jealousy of a different nature to it all. When she finally died in Iz – and Salvadore couldn’t help but wonder if it had been a deliberate decision of his, a secret hope it would come to this if he’d aid her last – he didn’t feel any victory, but only shame instead, intensified by Daeran’s quiet suffering. Daeran and Salvadore’s family is a combination even more explosive … Salvadore himself has problems keeping things civil during meetings. They can’t touch him in his position as commander and no one of them would be nearly powerful enough to harm him in the state he reached, but they attempt to use his influence in their favor, pretending he owes them that much. Salvadore blocks those efforts but has to find compromises here and there because he still is interested in Absalom’s political situation. Daeran shows much less interest in diplomatic solutions in this very regard. Especially with Sal’s father and his cousin Hemera, it comes to sharp debates as soon as they meet. They all are intelligent, merciless, and conceited and don’t draw back. If Sal joins the discussion too the heated trade of barbs can go on for quite some time and end with threats of quite an unpleasant nature. While Salvadore would prefer not to think about it further as soon as he’s rid of them again and to focus on more important issues, Daeran lets him know that he (Salvadore) would not allow anyone else to speak with him like that without destroying first their reputation, then their whole life. He gets a pained look for it. Daeran may start plotting against Sal’s family behind his back sooner or later. If Salvadore finds out, he won’t stop him unless his plan contradicts one of his own and unless it involves his mother. She is the only one out of the bunch he’d actually protect. Speaking of her, Eleanor, stays out of it all or as best as she can. When Daeran tries to hit her with a commend too, she smiles her calm smile, maybe even answers with a compliment instead of an insult in return. (She secretly likes his son’s husband and is glad he found him, just, as usual, incapable of truly showing so.) 30.  What is their favorite place to kiss the other? (Cheek, hand, closed eyelid, neck, nose, etc.) Salvadore loves to kiss Daeran’s hands: Above the knuckles in devotion, his fingertips or palm. It’s always a gesture of worship, sometimes playful and light, sometimes with almost heavy sincerity. In a submissive mood, Salvadore may kiss the top of his foot. It’s always a delight to find his most sensitive places to kiss. He enjoys to caresses his belly and inner thighs with his mouth for a small eternity until he struggles underneath his ministrations. The skin is so soft and responsive there. When he kisses his wrist, he has to be careful and needs to gather his self-control. It often becomes terribly tempting to sink his fangs into those veins. Daeran knows that Salvadore’s neck is quite sensitive. If he finds the right spot it will cause a delicious shiver. Should he overdo it, he’ll grow aroused. (What a dangerous weapon to use in public too.) The inside of Sal’s thigh’s hides many very kissable spots too in Daeran’s opinion and it will cause some strong reactions. Daeran highly enjoys kissing his way down the little trail of dark hair from Sal’s navel to his crotch. Sometimes in a cozy moment when he finds his ambitious husband exhausted from his day or when he still works and reads through documents, he kisses his hair in soft affection. They both can’t get enough of each other’s lips and while they leave no spot of the other one unkissed, they definitely are among their favorite places always.

[quenthel]

don't go here at all but 🛡💍? :-)

Hiii Jon thank you!! :^)!! 🛡: favourite build, or party setup? Honestly I just love having Daeran (blonde cheekbones guy) with me because he can heal people and unleash swarms of spiders from his hands that can kill everything (esp if Seelah's around w her Mark of Justice) On my current run I have Regill, Woljif, Daeran, Wendu and Greybor with me and it works pretty well with my Eldritch Archer commander (on core). I like having lot of melee hitters and then stacking weapon specializations and critical focuses so they deal 100-120 dmg a lot with single attacks hehe 💍: favourite magic item?

There's a belt that summons a shadow demon every time you cast a high spell to be your buddy that one is very fun. I looted a ring also that activates and aura that summons a big spider every time somebody gets reduced to low health so i usually end up having a million of them in hard fights which is also very fun

[siennadraws]

Knight-Commander as a Companion

Taken from @dragonologist-phd 's prompt list in this post

Name: Eliana

Race: Aasimar (Angel-blooded) (later revealed as Half-Angel)

Class: Bard (Thundercaller)

Appearance:

In front of you is a tall and young aasimar. Eliana is about 2.20 meters tall (7'3) and has a solid and curvy frame.

Her eyes are solid orange, and her skin is light blue, filled with freckles. She has scars on her face, one on her right cheek, another on her lip, while those caused by burns frame it, and a stray orange lock falls in front of it. Her hair is long, shaved on the sides and styled into a high braid that reaches her hips.

You see glinting on her ears mismatched golden earrings, on her right cheek, below the eye, a golden dot and on the left side of her nose, a golden hoop.

She is wearing a poet blouse with a sleeveless green leather coat. Her leather pants are black, and so are her knee-high boots. On her neck are various necklaces made of different materials, some golden, others silver, some pendants, others simple chains or beaded necklaces.

In battle, you'd see her wearing heavy armour, coloured green. Her longsword would be a two-handed sword for an average person. Its hilt was golden, with a curling handguard and an egg-shaped pommel.

Favoured Weapon/Equipment:

Longsword, Heavy Armor

Top Skills:

Persuasion, Perception, Lore (Religion)

Alignment:

Chaotic Good (can change to Lawful Good or True Neutral)

General Personality:

Eliana is a cheerful person and an almost contagious optimist. She's flirty, confident, and someone who enjoys making fun of nobles, agents of the law and those that would take themselves too seriously.

Eli is steadfast in her defence of goodness but struggles with its definition.

Despite her worship of the Lady of Graves, or as she says, because of it, Eliana lives in the moment, not wanting to waste too much time scared of possible consequences or the future.

What traits/values do they admire?

Freedom, Goodness, Hedonism, Selflessness, Mercy.

What traits/values do they disapprove of?

Lawfulness, Cruelty, Pessimism, Lack of Critical Thinking.

Are they affiliated with any deities?

She worships Pharasma. Her self-appointed title is "Pharasma's Chosen".

What do they think of their role in the Crusades, and of sharing the Commander’s Mythic powers? What are their reasons for joining the Commander’s party?

Eliana is determined in helping the Crusades and in closing the Worldwound, by sword or by inspiring her comrades. She likes the Mythic powers given to her, as they are useful to help the cause and people. Eli hopes they weren't given by Iomedae, due to her personal dislike of the goddess.

Eliana joined the party because Pharasma sent her, but she'd like to think she'd join them anyway. The death caused by the Worldwound is unnatural and breaks the cycle of life and death in Golarion.

Who are their friends among the other party members?

Seelah, Woljif, Ember, Daeran, Sosiel and Arueshalae.

What about rivals?

Camellia, Regill and Wenduag.

Are they on any councils? If so, what sort of advice do they give?

Eli is in the War Council due to her past as a gladiator. She advises the Commander to minimize the army's losses at all costs. She hates seeing the soldiers being used or seen as pawns.

Where do they hang out in Drezen? In the Abyss?

In Drezen, she's hanging out in the Tavern, sitting next to the countertop. In the Abyss, she's next to the Herald.

What are their idle animations?

She plays with her braid or violin.

If they’re taken to Areelu’s lab, what is their dream?

Her dream shows her sitting at Pharasma's feet, she doesn't look uncomfortable, and her position suggests familiarity and trust. Pharasma fixes her braid and tells her that now she can finally understand what is good or evil.

Her reaction to this varies between her actions in her personal quest thus far and her relationships.

If Eli has been prompted to understand morality as something fluid, or at least very complicated, she'll say that her dream is tempting, but in the end cowardly.

If she's been prompted to view morality as something fixed, Eliana will laugh, saying that she's on her way to making her dream true.

If she's romancing an evil/neutral Commander, or a good Commander and Daeran, she'll say that she wishes her dream was true, because life would be much simpler.

Do they advise the Commander to abandon or keep their mythic powers?

Eliana advises the Commander to keep it, making a joke about Iomedae and Nocticula and how the powers obviously are a reflection of the Commander thus, out of control of Areelu.

How/when do they join the Commander’s party?

She joins the Commander at the Defenders' Heart. Eliana will be waiting for them to wake up at their bedroom door. Once they do, Eli will announce she's Pharasma's Chosen to help them close the Worldwound.

Describe their companion quest:

Her companion quests determine her final alignment, ending and relationship status. She can continue Hopeful (Chaotic Good) or become Stern (Lawful Good) or Paralyzed (True Neutral).

Eliana's first quest happens after Kenabres. She'll tell the Commander she had a dream. In it, she was told to go to a certain place. Eliana says she thinks the dream was sent by Pharasma and wants the Commander to accompany her. By walking through the world map, a random encounter will happen. They will find a woman crying by the bodies of Hellknights.

Eliana will question the woman and find out she fleed the order not a day before the massacre. She wanted to join them to fight demons but found that the order was filled with equally awful people. She got lost and found her group again, all killed by demons.

Eliana will tell the Commander she doesn't blame the woman for fleeing or for the deaths of her former comrades, but she wonders if the knights would be dead if the woman had remained to fight by their side.

The Commander can reassure Eliana that the woman is innocent (Hopeful), mention that the woman had sworn vows to the Order (Stern) or either dismiss the ordeal or complain the dead soldiers could have helped in the Crusade (Paralyzed).

In her second quest, she'll get a similar dream, and ask for the Commander's help again.

This time they'll find a thief about to be executed for stealing from a noble.

The thief will confess to the crime but explain that their family was hungry and the noble had enough wealth to feed the beggars of an entire city. The agents of law will mention they will join the Crusades if the Commander lets them execute the thief.

Eliana will want to defend the thief, although with more hesitation if the Commander choose the Stern option in the last quest.

The Commander can choose to fight the agents of law (Hopeful), let them execute the thief because they broke the law (Stern) or let them execute the thief because the agents will join the Crusade (Paralyzed).

In the Abyss, she'll be talking with the Herald, who will reveal that Eliana is actually a Half-Angel. Eli will be surprised but seemingly take the news well since it would explain her mother's absence.

Her third quest will happen in the Abyss. After talking to the Herald, Eliana will receive another dream that tells her to go to the Arena. A gladiator will be fleeing its doors. The man will run into Eli and fall to the ground. She will ask him what happened and he will tell her of his life as a gladiator and how he's sick of killing.

Eliana will offer him protection, having fled from the life of a gladiator too. The Commander can support her (Hopeful), tell her not to trust the gladiator and to finish him before he can kill anyone else (Stern) or tell Eliana he can't come to the Nexus since he has a target on his back (Paralyzed).

If most or all of the quests gained points to one of the endings, she'll gain her new alignment or remain chaotic good. If they were all different, Eliana will be Paralyzed. If she's Stern, and she's in the throuple route, the Commander will have to choose between her or Daeran.

In her fourth and final quest, Eliana will invite the Commander to a place she found in her travels, near Drezen. In the meadow, an indigo skinned black haired angel will be waiting. The angel will reveal she's Eliana's mother, Atropos.

Eli and her will have a conversation, where Eliana will ask Atropos why she left her father, Ezra and her. If she knew he was dead and if she cared.

Atropos will explain that despite her duties as an angel, she always watched over Eliana, helping her find strength in herself when she needed it most. She will also reassure her daughter she will always love her and her father.

If Eliana is Hopeful, Atropos will say Eliana reminds her of Ezra.

If Eliana is Stern, Atropos will say she reminds her of herself.

If Eliana is Confused, Atropos will reassure Eliana sadly that Eli is still young and can still find her way.

Afterwards, if Eliana is Confused and romancing the Commander, she'll talk to them, saying that she needs some space to put her thoughts in order. The romance will end.

Are they romanceable? Describe their romance quest/scenes if you want!

She is, regardless of gender! She can also enter a throuple with the Commander and Daeran.

Upon meeting, Eli will flirt with the Commander. Later on, the Commander can flirt with her again, either by talking to her at the Defender's Heart or through scene dialogues.

Provided the Commander flirted with her and Daeran both, Eli will overhear the Commander and Liotr talking about Heaven's Edge, and ask to help them out. She'll accompany them and see the visions.

In Drezen, she'll invite the Commander for a drink at the tavern. There, she'll flirt with the Commander and invite them to sleep with her. The romance won't stop if they don't wish to sleep with Eli. If the Commander is also romancing Daeran, she'll mention it, joking that she doesn't mind sharing, the Count she means. Daeran will also mention this in his romance.

Later on, a scene will unlock during camping, where Eli is struggling to find the chords for a song. The Commander can question her about it, and Eliana will say that the song is about them, it's coming from the heart but she can't unlock it. The Commander can invite her to their tent, to "inspire" her, or keep talking, to clear her head. (if it's a throuple romance, the song is also about Daeran, she'll mention not wanting to take the relationship as fast with him, for fear of scaring him away.)

In the Abyss, after her dialogue with the Herald, she'll ask the Commander to come with her. The couple will go to the lower section of the cave. Eliana will joke about the Abyss smelling like shit but let out a sob. The Commander can reassure her, and Eli will say that as long as they're together, they will be safe and that there's hope. She'll also insult Queen Galfrey for sending them here.

Her convo after the last personal quest, in the throuple route, will only happen after Daeran's quest.

In the throuple route, she'll appear in the conversation with Daeran after his final quest, and he'll appear in her final conversation too.

If Eli's aware of Daeran's curse, she'll be with the Commander when they talk to Liotr about setting the trap. If she's still in the throuple route, she'll be worried for Daeran's safety. After Liotr leaves, Eli will confess that she joined the Commander and Liotr at Heaven's Edge because she wanted to stop her feelings for him, and hoped to find something incriminating. Her guilt has been eating her away ever since. She's scared of Daeran's reaction to all of this but just wants him to be safe in the end.

If the Commander chooses to kill the Inquisitor or Daeran, Eliana will ask Daeran and them to talk to her in private, before making rash decisions. Eliana will say that even if the tribunal decides to institutionalize Daeran, she can still help him run away from the Inquisition and there is still hope the tribunal will decide Daeran is free to go, considering the circumstances he was in when the Other attached itself to him.

If the Commander insists on killing Daeran, Eliana will defend him with her life. If Eli is Hopeful, and if the Commander insists on killing the Inquisitor, Eliana will be hesitant but will agree on doing it if they pass a Persuasion check reminding her of the injustices of the Inquisition. Otherwise, she won't fight. She'll help kill Liotr if she's Paralyzed.

In her final conversation, she'll invite the Commander to sleep with her again. Afterwards, she'll talk to them. Eliana will explain that before meeting them, she wanted to do the right thing, but didn't know what that meant.

If Hopeful, she'll confess that she doesn't know what right or wrong really means, but maybe, no one knows, and she has hope she'll make, or try to, make the right decisions anyway. That freedom and knowledge help her.

If Stern, she'll thank the Commander for helping her find what it meant to be right and wrong. With them, she no longer feels adrift. She's secure she'll make the right decisions.

What would their ending slides be like?

Hopeful ending: After the war, Eliana spent her life helping the needy. She achieved this by the strength of her hands and the power of her words. Rumours of Eliana inciting rebellion against the nobility were never denied. Still, her fame as a companion of the Commander made her untouchable. In the end, Eliana left the world better than it was and deemed her ending satisfying.

Stern ending: After the war, Eliana decided to embody her duty as Pharasma's Chosen by becoming a judge for the Inquisition. She became known as an incorruptible person, steadfast in her values. Despite her ferocity in her fight against evil, all her executions would be as swift and painless as possible. This rule would later be implemented by the Inquisition in her honour.

Confused ending: After the war, Eliana was left more lost than she was at the start. Without a path to walk upon, Eliana walked on a pilgrimage across Golarion. Many travellers would talk about a kind-hearted bard who would try to help the needy and the angel of Pharasma who walked alongside her.

Apotheosis ending: Apotheosis didn't worry Eliana in the slightest. On the contrary, she couldn't get enough of her new powers. Despite the quickly growing number of prayers sent her way, Eliana tried her best to help every single one of her worshippers, even if in unexpected ways. A numerous army of Azatas and Devas would soon join her efforts, moved by her dedication. Thanks to their help, Eliana found time to herself. Eliana dedicated part of it to know her mother and Pharasma better. She'd often be found trying to get the Lady of Graves to laugh.

Time Travel ending: Without the Worldwound, Eliana was no longer Pharasma's Chosen. A family made up of a human, an angel, and their child would arrive in Drezen before the child was ten. Eliana grew to become a famous musician. Her most famous piece was the tale of a wounded world, its saviour and their companions.

Left behind ending: Being left out of the Crusade didn't stop Eliana from helping people affected by the Worldwound. Units of Crusaders would sometimes report hearing an inspiring melody on the battlefield. Eli's body would later be found in the middle of a deserted village where she protected the evacuating citizens from demons.

Romance ending: Despite her busy life, Eliana always found time for her beloved. In the Commander's arms, Eli would always find peace and certainty in an ever-changing world. The bard would write hundreds of songs about her lover, few of which would be heard by someone other than the couple.

Throuple ending: Despite her busy life, Eliana always found time for her beloveds. In her lovers' arms, Eli would always find peace and certainty in an ever-changing world. The bard would write hundreds of songs about her lovers, few of which would be heard by someone other than the three. Love songs weren't the only songs her lovers inspired, however. Daeran would often prompt Eliana to write irreverent songs mocking every noble either could remember, Queen Galfrey and even some gods. Those ones the public knew and became favourites of the disfranchised or otherwise impious public.

Any other fun facts?

Eliana was a gladiator from Pitax, once upon a time. Her father was already poor, so after his death, when she was ten, Eliana had no choice but to accept a noble's offer of food and housing in exchange for training and becoming a gladiator.

Sometime before joining the Crusades, Eliana was killed in the Arena but resurrected by Pharasma, who asked her to become her Chosen.

If she's asked about her beliefs on death, or why she is so cheerful and a hedonist despite worshipping a Death goddess, Eliana will reply that life and death are interconnected, there can't be death without life, but there can't be life without death either. The ever ticking clock reminds her of what's important, and that in the end all that matters is what you did, not what you wanted to do, so might as well do it all.

Provide some dialogue/bark examples!

Conversation start: Eliana grins at you while twirling a stray lock between her fingers "Hi there, came to see little old me?"

Conversation end: "It's always nice to talk!" She drops her head to the side while giving you a goodbye wink.

Selection: I can do anything you ask me to. / Did you see the fungi coming out of that corpse? So pretty!

Skill Check Success: Confidence is all that is needed. / Who's gonna give me a kiss?

Skill Check Failure: Mh, let me try again. / Well, fuck you too.

Combat Start: Who's gonna meet Pharasma? / We can do this!

Low Health: Hope the scar is worth it. / Chin up, Eli.

Knocked Unconscious: Last time I got better. / Fucking damn it!

Provide some examples of companion banter

Eliana: You know, Count, I think I could ignore my conscience for one night, just to see you in my bed.

Daeran: Just to see me in your bed? Ana, my dear, you know we could indulge in so much more.

Eliana: Ember, have you noticed we are matching? Although you have so much more scars than me. I wish I was there to protect you.

Ember: When you look at yours you seem happy, why would you be sad for mine?

Camellia: Brute, I have taken notice of how you freeze when I am near. Are you truly that much of a coward that you would fear such a gentle, inexperienced girl?

Eliana: Have you ever watched a predator hunt its prey? They don't make a noise until the time is right then... BANG! Ahahah, I've slain dragons, princess, a rattlesnake could never scare me.

[dujour13]

🛡️ ⛺ 🎼 please 👀

🛡: favourite build, or party setup?

I was overwhelmed with the mechanics and got into the lazy habit of Casual mode, so not proud of my build skills. In my most recent playthrough I tried to make Siavash a little less useless in melee by giving him higher Str and the azata power Heroic Might, but this is going against my RP instincts – I just don’t picture him coming in swinging? The things that are more in line with my image of him are Skill Focus – Persuasion 😏, Lingering Performance, and Metamagic Heighten with Believe in Yourself. He has Abundant Casting for buffs like haste and blur and Ever Ready for those AOOs.

I stuck with Eldritch Scoundrel for Woljif and gave him all the AOO feats and talents along with two-weapon fighting and improved critical and he’s in there stabbing everything that moves, it’s great. Love that “I didn’t know I had it in me!” moment. I use him for a lot of buff spells so he’s not casting in melee combat.

My party comp is also boring – never go anywhere without Woljif of course, but that’s pretty much true of Seelah, Lann and Daeran too. Mostly the last slot goes to Ember starting in Act V, but before that it varies, with a preference for Regill this time around because he’s hilarious.

⛺️: what’s your favourite camp banter?

People have posted a bunch of my favorites already but here are a few:

Daeran: "If you dressed up a little and scrounged up some saucy impudence, you could be a kept man in some noble's house. Easy work with very little risk. I hear they pay a premium for curls." Woljif: "What's that, sit in a house all day waitin' for the lord or lady to swan in? No way! I may be a cur, but I ain't house-broken!"

(PS in my headcanon his Gran was an anarchist so that spirit runs in the family)

Woljif: "You're just as dumb as you've always been... but I'm not embarrassed to be seen talkin' to you anymore. Actually the opposite, I'm embarrassed I turned my back on you. And now I've got this weird ache inside." Ember: "I'm happy it hurts, that means your heart that froze from loneliness is starting to thaw."

And the infamous cherry roll incident 😡

Woljif: "Looks like it's just you and me, cherry roll, alone at last! I've had to hide you from everybody for so long, but now I can finally enj… hey!" Wenduag: "Such a tasty treat you stashed away for me, runt. Today I'm going to act like you don't exist. You're welcome."

🎼: opinions on the ost?

Superb! There’s obviously a special place in my heart for Starward Gaze / the azata theme (it had me sobbing at Threshold), but some of the other mythic path themes are frankly better – angel, demon, aeon… well, I could go on. As I’ve mentioned before the mythic transformation theme still gives me goosebumps after all those listens on repeat. Some of the ambient dungeon music is just awesome too.

[thesolemnhour]

agria just doesn't like that regill stoutly refuses to tell her how great she is. she cannot forgive him for this. she is not accepting constructive criticism at this time (or any other)