#rook ettore

[sigridhawke]

Thinking about the Rook boys <3

Ettore de Riva - mine Stephen Trevelyan - @ur-localkiwi

[sigridhawke]

LOOK HOW PRETTY MY BOYS ARE!!!! AAAAAAAAAA

I've been staring at this during every break today sobs. Thank you so much for drawing them <333 Can't wait to commission more dragon age from you too >3c

another rookanis commission for a client on bsky!!!

[sigridhawke]

Get yourself a man who nuzzles into your hand and slow blinks at you like a cat when you hold his face gentol

Y’know when i joke this man lives in my head rent free I did not expect him to show up in my dreams let alone twice. First time I was too stunned he was even there and just held his face, but this morning he was trying (and failing) not to fall asleep on that awful green daybed in Veilguard lmao. I had to at least attempt to redraw it. He looked so at peace.

It's been a while since I’ve done portrait style drawings please be gentle :’3c

[sigridhawke]

Please witness my boy ettore

he is so hot and i love him so much

I’ll be sure to upload a video at some point to insta of the details but ahhhh

Dragon age tapestry I’ve been working on for a while! I loved the dragons keep so much decided I wanted to make my own recording of my character stories. This only included Origins, Awakening, and DA2 I hope to do inquisition and dreadwolf in the future!! Excited to find a way to work my beloved warden’s kid Ettore into dreadwolf storyline 👀

[sigridhawke]

Casually drops my 36 (and growing) snippet brainrot (affectionate) for Dragon Age Veilguard largely focusing on my crow rook Ettore and his relationships with Lucanis and @ur-localkiwi's rook Stephen (｀▽´)

Shameless self indulgence others may enjoy too! But mostly for me to keep track of all of these while I work on my next tapestry lmao.

Rook x Rook x Lucanis

[sigridhawke]

Feeling nostalgic over dragon age characters and being dumbfounded by a literal timeline of my art over 10+ years of dragon age artwork.

More dragon age doodles: [1] [2] [3]

[sigridhawke]

@arcandoria made an incredible template for Rook affiliations!

I love how it basically reads like a 'understand my Rook in 5 minutes' sorta vibe. Tweaked version to have my rook's other rook partner (Stephen belonging to @ur-localkiwi ) and also the original template ✨

My rook and his wacky adventures: The Veilguard: Two Crows and a Mage

[sigridhawke]

15 Lines Tag Game

Tagged by @ink-flavored thankyou! >3c

Rules: choose 15 lines of dialogue for a character that you feel encapsulate them.

Dragon age go brrrr and I don't wanna reread Crimson while its getting printed cause if I see an error I will combust lmao. So witness my boy in his chaotic glory mwahaha. Mostly from my snippet collection.

Ettore in 15 Lines

He cocked his head cutely to the side, ignoring the scrape of ice against his throat as he did so. "I think I may have been set up, I did not mean to intrude."

"I like to believe I'm an appreciator of all bodies."

"I could slit your throat before you even screamed."

"These ears aren't just to look pretty. I have been listening for who else is in this house. Evidently my target is not here. So I have no reason to stay," He cocked his head and let the bitter cold of ice trace along his throat as he hummed, "unless you want me to."

"It would be really hot if you held me down."

“Ahh. Nothing like a good breaking and entering to brighten the day. I've missed this.”

“You know, if I had a copper for every time your monster hunting had come in handy recently.” [How can you joke at a time like this?!]  “I'm stressed! Let me cope.”

"My affection is not exclusive. But let me know if things change." 

"You know what you can do in this moment?" [What?] "Me." Ettore smiled like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

[You are infuriating sometimes you know that.] "It's part of my charm."

“I’m fortunate to be comfortable in my body, most of the time. But there are times I want to forget certain parts of me exist. Today just, happens to be one of those days apparently. I must have missed the memo.”

“Shut. the. fuck. up!”

“I never said, ‘kill him.’ I said ‘beat the crap out of him,’ y’know, like siblings do. It's basically a rite of passage.”

[Not that I'm complaining...But for future reference, are you always this clingy when alcohol is involved?] "I'm always this clingy. It's just more socially acceptable this way." 

"Y'know,  Steph, I truly thought killing a god and convincing another not to flood the world with demons was the scariest thing about today. But both of your dads are here.”

Tagging:

[sigridhawke]

Putting this here so I stop losing my references for my boy.

Also please look at him he's so pretty and I adore him.

[sigridhawke]

High Priestess, Strength, Hanged Man for the Rook asks 👀

Thank you for the asks too!! Time to be very normal about my boy (nonbinary/male) Ettore de Riva aka Ettore Therein-Arainari.

[The ask game in question]

The High Priestess: Which does Rook obey more: their head or their heart?

Without a doubt Ettore follows his heart, sometimes to a fault. Following his heart is what got him into the Crows. His heart ached for his mother deprived of her right to go to her calling with his dad (Alistair who was left in the Fade), his heart is what lead him to flirting with Stephen/sticking around when his trail for Inquisitor Jay lead him through the Eluvians to Inquisitor Soren and Magister Dorian’s abode. If he wasn’t lucky enough to be picked up by Houses de Riva and Cantori, he absolutely would have been murdered after his heart told him to fuck up the Antaam’s day, save Varric, and y’know accidentally bring the heat of the Antaam down on Treviso whoops.

Teia and Viago forgive him so it’s fine. Right?

Strength: What gives your Rook courage? What inspires them to keep fighting?

To the previous point, Ettore’s strength comes his desire to live life to the fullest/like every day might be your last (as one born from a warden he carried a lingering Blight that only gets agitated throughout Veilguard, to which he carries a vial of archdemon blood prepared by his mother on the off chance his body crashes and a joining may be the only way to spare him) and protect those he cares about. He may be overly optimistic and carefree he isn’t unwise.  All three of his parents hammered that into him as a kid. To that point while he knows returning to Antiva with his dad (Zevran) is wildly dangerous, he keeps in good graces with the Crows because it means he can keep his dad safe too.

((Teia would never admit it but she absolutely knows Zevran is back in Antiva))

The Hanged Man: What does Rook do when their hard work doesn't pay off? How do they cope with failure?

He tries not to mull over it. He’s a Crow, things go wrong. There as an expectation to never break a contract, never fail or accept your life is forfeit. For the most part Ettore would say he is pretty good as letting go and moving on, keeping focused on what needs to happen next, how can he be better next time, a prime example being Minrathous. While it was Stephen’s home, he houses no regrets for choosing Treviso, Stephen’s decision to come with him was his choice, not something Ettore could change.

But that isn’t always the case. His growing frustration of never being able to pin down Inquisitor Jay (Jay remained in the south of Thedas while Inquisitor Soren would meet the two Rooks at the Cobbled Swan) means he takes an incredibly long time to make peace with two of his parents passing. Something that Emmrich eventually helps him work through during trips to the Memorial Gardens where he would eventually ask to set up a trio of tombstones and find comfort in talking to his mum and dad’s graves, and eventually bring his dad (Zevran) to sit with him there.

Thank you again for the asks!!! I love doing these aaaaaa.

More of me being normal about dragon age [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

[sigridhawke]

4, 7, 13, 18 for the rook/partner asks!!

Yayayay thankyou! >3c

Ask game here! I’m going ham cause I wanna talk about the boys. Ettore de Riva my boy (nonbinary/male) [1] [2] Stephen Trevelyan (male) belongs to @ur-localkiwi <3 Tash has also added her notes for Steph to help me out with these, thanks bestie <3

4. Do your Rook and their partner share the same faction? If so, does that affect their relationship at all? If not, what is your Rook’s opinion of their partner’s faction? What is the partner’s opinion of Rook’s faction?

Ettore was a Crow years before Steph joined the Veil Jumpers. It affected their relationship much cause they were always long distance and when they met at the Lighthouse it just fell into their natural division of who goes where when hunting the gods/helping the team.

Because he is a Crow, his relationship with Lucanis starts on a pretty good foot even if there is some ‘tension’ between their Houses. If anything it makes them work better together because they have an innate understanding of what is expected of each other. It means they talk a lot about ‘family’ and also butt heads with their different upbringings within their Houses. Ettore can and will get pretty heated about the methods used to train Crows.

Tash:  Steph would only have been with the veil jumpers about 2-3 years before VG. Steph doesn't have an opinion over Ettore being in the crows, he came into his house with a knife he probably thought “oh yes that makes sense” when he learnt he was a crow lol

7. Are they a physically affectionate couple? Are they fine displaying those affections in public or do they prefer to be in private? If they’re not, how do they prefer to show their love instead?

Ettore loves affection and attention and will go out of his way to seek it or give affirmation that he’s still hopelessly in love. Intentional stealing of touches whether it's brushing hands, hand on back, patting on shoulder. One of his favourite games is trying to steal kisses. With Steph it is a greater challenge cause he’s so damn tall. So he has to get a little creative. With Lucanis likes to make a game out of (usually) fights, the winner gets to request 1 thing from the other. Ettore will always pick a kiss if he wins and cashes it in immediately. 

13. What song(s) do you associate with them?

I am not well versed in music associations but for Ettore: Jacky by Marc Almond

The “Cute in a stupid ass way” gets me every time.

18. When all is said and done, where would they like to retire together? Is marriage in the cards for them? Children? Pets?

Ettore has 100% joked/not joked about marrying Steph. Buying a ring, proposing all that jazz in some grand gesture. He would like to eventually. But he also would like both partners to be there too so he’s happy to just kinda wait and see how things work out. He’s optimistic it may happen eventually but it's not a necessity for him to be happy. (Maker knows Teia is on the edge of her seat waiting to say she’s already preplanned half the wedding lmao)

He is also the kind that daydreams of retiring, little cottage, pet cats, pet wyvern, living out his days iwith his partners, growing old, everything just perfect in the world. It’s completely unrealistic and he couldn’t imagine actually retiring from the Crows (not that they would let him) or living long enough to retire, but it's a nice thought to daydream about. He wouldn’t say it out loud but he hopes he outlives his partners so they wouldn’t be sad without him. Especially Steph.

Tash: Steph would like to marry Ettore but has never brought it up purely out of fear that Ettore’s crow work would come first. He's also a bit scared that would mean sharing him with lucanis if the marriage extended to him and steph might explode with jealousy if there was a second husband in the mix (something he probably couldn’t work through this time ripf) 

Tash: Asides from his wisps friends, steph would like to adopt a cat one day.

[sigridhawke]

🩷 Spicy questions for your Rook + their romanced partner 🩷

Ask game here! I'm going ham cause I wanna talk about the boys. Ettore de Riva my boy (nonbinary/male) [1] [2] Stephen Trevelyan (male) belongs to @ur-localkiwi <3

What is Rook's sexual orientation and identity? What are their pronouns?

Ettore is nonbinary/male (he/him they/them he really doesn’t mind as long as both are used, most of the companions call him by they/them) who bisexual, demiromantic, and very polyamorous (he loves people!) 

Is Rook dominant, submissive or a switch?

Switch for sure. He’s flexible in many ways. Primarily with Stephen he will take a more submissive role (cause Steph likes having control and Ettore thinks its really hot) but with Lucanis he’s usually more dominant, (or playing powerbottom role, arguably his favourite) 

How often does Rook spend "alone time"?

Not very often. Stephen is usually a few small teases away from a make out session or more, but if he’s feeling it and Steph isn’t around, he’ll try his luck with other companions first, very rarely he’ll just have alone time just for him. He likes the attention too much.

Does Rook have any sensitive spots?

Neck is his all time favourite spot, quickest way to turn him into a puddle. There is one particular spot on his neck that is slightly more sensitive after Taash accidentally burnt him during a sexy session (whoops!). His hips and inner thighs are very close seconds tho.

Is Rook down for casual one-night stands?

Absolutely. If the vibes are there and his partners are chill, he’s absolutely down. 

Is Rook attracted to anyone (specific person or just negative qualities) they shouldn’t be and why? (bonus points if it's not their love interest)

I wouldn’t say it's a negative quality. But Ettore has a natural tendency towards people who have a lot of shit going on. He’s got them caretaker qualities and enjoys that genuine time spent together to help better them/each other. Thankfully never to a point he wishes someone to never get better so he could take care of them forever, THEN there would be a problem.

Does Rook have any kinks? Do they act on it or just think about it?

For sure. Orgasm denial, hair pulling, biting, praise, to name a few. Ettore loves having so much attention just on him whether that's marking him/showing him off or watching him come undone ✨ One day he’ll convince Steph to use more magic on him during sex lmao. Most are just ‘hey i like this do this whenever’ others require discussion prior.

What's Rook's favorite thing their partner can do for them in bed (hair-pulling, pinned wrists, etc.)? Is there something they don't like at all?

Hair pulling for sure, it’s like top tier for him, juuuust on the edge of pain. Steph’s a little more cautious about it, but when they’re making out and Steph or any of his partners pulls his hair? Loves it. Easiest way to get him in the mood. 

What does Rook like to wear and what do they like seeing their partner in (e.g. lingerie)?

Casually? anything that has some kind of tiddy window, anything that lets his chest be free! That did apply for work too when he was younger, but as he started taking his work with the Crows a bit more seriously he covered up his tiddy so it wasn’t a blaring target lmao. As for his partners? Clothes on? Clothes off? He doesn’t mind. Clothes on tho means he can take them off!! :D

What is Rook's favorite part of their partner’s body?

For Steph it's his freckles, the light dusting of freckles on his face and now the scar over the bridge of his nose. Ettore really likes that, thinks it's very cute and sexy. For Lucanis it’s a toss up between his big puppy eyes and his hands. Ettore really likes how dexterous those hands are, likes being touched by them.

What is Rook's favorite intimate non-sexual thing to do with their partner?

Parallel play. He just enjoys being around his partners regardless of what they are doing. Bonus points for cooking with Lucanis. Bonus bonus points for cuddles, preferably sleepy ones and with both of them. 

I can’t figure where else to put this, but Ettore and Spite don’t have sex or anything but Ettore will give the occasional smooch/touch (a spark of curiosity in the demon) Ettore also likes when Spite just bites him for no real reason other than wanting to lmao.

What gets them both in the mood?

With Steph, Ettore can kinda get a sense of when he’s feeling horny but is too shy to actually act on it. So a bit of teasing gets them both in the mood pretty damn fast.

With Lucanis it’s more of a build up, teases, touches, and flirts over a longer period, aka riling Lucanis up until he wants to make out, on rare occasions sex is the outcome. Ettore’s happy either way. 

His friends with benefits arrangement with Taash is usually ‘hey wanna blow off some steam?’ ‘fight or sexy?’ ‘yes’ and then they do whatever lmao.

Do they prefer foreplay or are they impatient?

Depending on how horny Steph is feeling, there might be a bit of foreplay but usually more impatient get here so i can kiss you. With Lucanis foreplay plays a much bigger role.

Who is usually on top? Do they switch?

When Ettore is with Steph, Steph usually tops. With Lucanis Ettore usually tops, or tops from the bottom. With other partners it depends on what they’re down for and what he’s down for.

Do they have names for each other in bed?

Not really. No one is a big fan of them but if someone if giving pet names to see if anything sticks it’s Ettore.

Are they adventurous in bed?

Very situational!! Lots of conversations with his primary partners about what they do and don’t like. Most adventurous stuff in the bedroom is with Steph and a lot of checking in to see how he feels about things. Much less adventurous with Lucanis. With Taash tho??? Both of them are the ‘i’ll try almost anything once!’ With other partners or one night stands is where Ettore gets most of his adventurous ideas to bring up with the partners. 

Do they have a favorite place?

Steph is like *gestures to the bedroom* this is ours, it’s our playground. Whatever they’re down for or what feels convenient in the moment, against the wall? Over the table?? So long as it feels sexy!!! Lucanis it’s usually the bed lol, but Antiva is kinda their own playground and Ettore is more persuasive. On a secluded rooftop under the Antivan nightsky? Very high up there for favourite place. 

Are they into (consensual) pain?

Ettore will beg you to bite him and pull his hair. Of the three main partners, he’s the most down for consensual pain. 

What is the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to them in bed?

(I can't think of anything Ettore would actually be embarrassed by, the partners probably have but I cannot think of specifics right now)

Have they ever had a threesome? If not, would they? With whom?

Absolutely. If his partners were down he would be the first to say yes please! Primarily threesome with Stpeh and Lucanis. That's his dream. His favourite people in one place (him HAH)

Morning or evening?

Any time is horny time. But Evening means more cuddles, morning means being bitter about having to get up for work lmao.

Have they ever been caught?

Surely Taash and Ettore have been at least once. 

Are they into dirty talk?

If it means he’s gonna get more attention? Hell yeah. But he prefers sweet nothings and praise.

Are they loud or quiet together?

Ettore is loud and he loves being loud. He’s shameless in his appreciation for his partners (sometimes Steph has to shut him up which he also enjoys thoroughly cause it comes with a bit of manhandling <3). Lucanis tries not to be loud but he is and Ettore loves dragging that sound out of him (although it has panicked Spite on more than one occasion whoops). Steph is definitely the quieter of the three, just makes getting a louder noise out of him all the more rewarding.

Do they have a safe word?

Of course. Always negotiated before sexy times ✨  and/or gesture if speaking isn’t something that can be accomplished for whatever reason.

What do they usually do after? Are they a couple that likes to cuddle?

CUDDLES!!! EVERYONE IS DOWN FOR CUDDLES <33 Ettore is a literal cat and can sleep in almost any position at any given time and be rested so he will become a pillow if needed.

[sigridhawke]

Woe! Rook ask game be upon ye!

Ask game here! Rook rook rook rook. Ettore de Riva my boy (nonbinary/male) [1] [2] Stephen Trevelyan (male) belongs to @ur-localkiwi <3

🌻 How old is your Rook? How do they feel about celebrating their birthday? What gift has meant the most to them?

22! He enjoys birthdays cause it means more attention (yay!) he thrives off it but doesn't expect anyone to make a big deal about it. The gift that meant the most to him is his fathers blades (one from Alistair and one from Zevran) he cherishes them dearly and will meticulously spend time cleaning them and remembering the stories he grew up hearing.

🪻 What is the most painful injury your Rook has received? How has it affected them once it healed/scarred?

Ettore has had plenty of injuries in his time as a Crow. Nothing really warranting a ‘most painful injury’ title although getting kicked by a dragon ABSOLUTELY HURT. Nothing hurts more than the Blight crawling across his skin. It's usually not painful, but with the changes to the Blight thanks to the gods, he feels it. While he doesn’t hear the calling and doesn’t quite qualify as ‘Blighted,’ Ettore can feel it burning in close proximity to it and the Gods. It fucks with his head more than he cares to admit, he can’t tell if he’s reaching that point of no return or not.

🌹 What’s the first genuine fight Rook got in with their love interest about? How was it resolved?

(Can’t think of something with Steph) With Lucanis the two absolutely fought after Weisshaupt. Lucanis fell into a pit of self hatred and pushed Ettore away as a person and as a Crow and he would not stand for it. It was about that time Ettore realised he cared far more for Lucanis than just a passing crush or desired fling. Ettore also realise he was more mad at Caterina than Lucanis and managed to reign himself in. For the sake of the job they both kinda just moved on but it didn’t stop Ettore being supportive and eventually breaking down that outer shell when they were forced to confront Illario’s betrayal. A strategic wander with Emmrich and a discussion of ‘family’ helped too. (and then eventually personal demons quest)

🌸 Does your Rook have any siblings or close friends they see as such? Where are they during the events of Veilguard?

Ettore is an only child but he has a half-brother! (Kieran) Who knows where Kieran was during the whole Veilguard fiasco! 

🌾 If there was a demon trying to trap/take over Rook, what kind would be the most successful? What would break their hold?

His parents were pretty adamant on teaching him the dangers of demons and while rage would have a small chance, out of them all desire demon would have the best chance. His rage for Inquisitor Jay is overshadowed by the deep longing he has to have his father back, to say goodbye properly to him. A part of him would desire the family to be back together, his mother and his fathers. But honestly, unless Ettore was in a really bad place mentally, he is very unlikely to be tempted. If nothing else becoming a Crow helped him make peace with letting things go. And eventually the Mourn Watch allow him to erect tombstones for his parents which he talks to and comes to find peace with (bonus when Emmrich does a little corpse whispering for him and Zevran to see his mother and father again even if for a brief moment)

🌱 Was Rook involved romantically with anyone before Veilguard? What was their partner like? How did the relationship end?

Prior to Veilguard Stephen was Ettore’s primary partner and they are still partners!! Love wins!

🌼 If someone was to ask Spite what Rook smells like, what would he say?

Sandalwood (and blight :c )

🌷If Rook needed to get away from their responsibilities for a moment, where would they go? Where is their safe space outside the Lighthouse?

In the Lighthouse, climbing as high as he can. Whether that’s into the wolf’s den or to the roof. Outside of the Lighthouse, the canals in Antiva, he likes being on the water just looking back at the city, or, if he can manage it, he’ll go home to Zevran (also in Antiva) 

🥀 What figure from Rook’s personal past would be added to the regret prison?

His father, Alistair, asking him why Ettore never came searching for him. When he gave up hope that he would ever come home. Why he left their home in the Free Marches when they didn’t even have a body. Why he forgives Inquisitor Jay for leaving him behind. If Ettore hadn’t spend time with Emmrich in the Memorial Gardens and made peace he absolutely would have been trapped in that prison forever if Alistair was there.

🪷 Does your Rook have an irrational phobia? (ie spiders or large man-made objects submerged underwater)

To an extent, becoming blighted, it's really the only time his self preservation kicks in to a point he can lose all sense of himself. When the blight burns his skin and he starts panicking thinking he hears singing (he doesn't) he has a really bad time. It doesn’t come to him as often as it does for Emmrich and to an extent Ettore envies what Emmrich becomes, but Ettore is mortified of dying, especially if it's to the blight. He doesn’t like time alone cause then he notices the blight across his body more and panics. Especially given the darkness of it progressing much faster during the events of veilguard.

🍀 Has Rook had any near-death experiences? What went through their mind during what they thought was going to be their final moments? 

He was pretty sure his life flashed before his eyes when one of the blighted dragons kicked him in the ribs. If healing hadn’t been on standby it may have been worse but even with healing it hurt like hell! His thoughts would be a bunch of swears. Other than that he hasn't had anything near-death enough that truly made him ‘think this is it.’

💐 What is the relationship Rook has with their faction mentor? What was the moment they sent Rook away like? 

Viago I’m-not-the-father-that-stepped-in-but-im-the-one-who-stepped-up de Riva and Ettore have a… interesting relationship lmao. Ettore knows Viago will let him get away with things/is more lenient on him even without Teia needing to be there. Training was brutal but Ettore had grown up with two grey wardens and an ex-crow. Kicking Ettore out of Antiva was not the first time Ettore had been told to get out (just not y’know, exiled from Antiva itself) but Ettore trusted Viago would let him come back eventually after he learnt his lesson.  Things haven't changed much since coming back lol, but Viago has been more impressive with him and falls more into that parental figure Teia keeps teasing him about.

 🌺 Is there an object from Rook’s childhood they look back on fondly? (ie a favorite stuffed animal, book, or food) 

Ettore grew up primarily on Ferelden cuisine and while he’ll stick by Anvtian food through and through, he misses classic Ferelden dishes that remind him of home. When his father and him moved to Antiva from the Free Marches they took very little with them, so Ettore doesn’t have much of anything from his childhood.

🌿 Does your Rook have any tattoos? What was the moment when they got them like? If they’re a Crow where is their de Riva brand located? What vallaslin do they have/how did they earn it if they’re Dalish? 

Like his mother, Ettore is not a dalish elf by any means, city born through and through although he won the lottery on long ears (which he adores), and like his mother, Zevran gave him tattoos that incorporated dalish aspects. Hers is an abstract/deconstruction of Ghilan'nain (oof all things considered)(closer to Mithra’s design from dragon age origins) whereas Ettore got aspects of June (down his throat) and ‘tears’ under his eyes. 

Not dalish in origin, Ettore has a detailed ring of a crow across his back given by Zevran to remind him that no matter what he does now, he can’t change this decision. The brand of the de Riva house is higher/on the back of his neck/covered by his hair majority of the time.

🍂 What was it like the first time Rook killed someone? How did they react afterwards?

Honestly, no joke, ‘did I do it right?’ said to his parents. Bring your kid to work day was intense. (jk) adrenaline was pumping, he was nervous but excited and seeking his parents approval cause he wanted to be strong like them.

[sigridhawke]

fifty questions for rook+

Ask game here! and here! I just picked ones I wanted to answer, some of them I wanna do full writing for >3c Ettore de Riva my boy (nonbinary/male) [1] [2] Stephen Trevelyan (male) belongs to @ur-localkiwi <3

7. Why does Rook agree to join the Veilguard?

Initially he joined Varric because it seemed like a good idea, and then meeting Harding? And realizing the pair of them knew Inquisitor Jay? He was happy to follow along on their wild dog chase if it meant he could get closer to the inquisitor to fulfill his own contract and assassinate her. (this mean Ettore and Harding had a strained relationship mostly on Ettore’s end)

8. What makes Rook a good leader?

Steph is the main leader between the two. But Ettore has worked with the Crows long enough to pick up a thing or two. He keeps his promises and will see things through. He’s good at thinking on his feet and fast and trying his best to ensure any collateral damage (if it were to happen) is kept to a minimum. He does not dwell on past mistakes and pushes forward for ensure the job is done.

9. What is Rook like on the battlefield?

Flexible and agile. The battlefield is a playground for him to play in. He is a rogue and dual daggers are his bread and butter, however with training from Steph, he has over time been able to harness some of his innate electrical magic prowess from his mother. While this usually manifests as an extension of his blade, when he gets into heavy combat his whole body begins to spark. Eventually he learns to unleash it in an area around him like his mother could do so effortlessly. Except he can't pinpoint where the focal will be, he is the focal.

10. Does Rook know their history? Do they know of the HoF, Hawke, the Inquisitor?

The Hero of Ferelden is his mother so he knows her very well haha. He knows next to nothing about Hawke and only heard bits from his mother regarding what happened in Kirkwall. The Inquisitor tho? Oh he knows of her all too well. His personal contract and revenge mark for leaving one of his fathers in the Fade during the Inquisition’s reign.

11. Does Rook keep up with current events? (How aware of the situation are they at the start of the game?)

More or less, he’s kept up with what Varric has told him and being a Crow you hear a bunch, pick up a bunch from marks and general gossip.

12. Does Rook have any family? Do they keep in touch?

For Ettore’s family, his mother The Hero of Ferelden is dead, his father Alistair was lost in the Fade, his other father Zevran is living in secrecy in Antiva to which Ettore makes any visits he can very carefully so not to bring down the wrath of the Crows upon him. His godmother, Morrigan, is vibing in the game, he very much enjoys getting to see him. His half-brother Kieran is somewhere?? He hasn’t seen much of him since he moved to Antiva and hopes their paths will cross at some point. He’s harder to track down than Morrigan is lol.

14. What does Rook see when they look in the mirror?

A handsome elf! :D

15. What’s the first thing people notice when Rook enters a room?

That their room with Stephen is a big ole mashup between their interests. Papers and books and trinkets being worked on by Steph. Trinkets and knick knacks from missions from Ettore. The more stand out pieces is a terrarium dodecahedron-like structure Ettore got for Steph which is neatly decorated and usually houses the one wisp that is particularly fond of Steph. The most notable piece that’s for Ettore himself, is a tapestry depicting the end of the fifth blight, a rendition that depicts his mother.

18. Their fondest childhood memory:

An spring day in the Free Marches. His parents had taken him down to a lake. His mother was sitting up on the shore finishing up a letter, Ettore was in the water with Zevran and their mabari, Fronzworth (same boy from origins) trying to get Alistair to jump in and join them. His dad refusing cause the water was too cold! Cue his mother calling their mabari to tackle his dad firm behind with an unholy noise as he fell in. His mother joining them in the water a short time afterwards. To him it was perfect. 

19. What is Rook’s love language? What love languages do they respond best to?

His love language is primarily through action. Care, attention and it’s the love language he appreciates a lot in return. While he indulges passing fancies and flirts, when he genuinely cares, he will take note of your favourite foods, he’ll make you your favourite foods and bring you snacks and gifts, he will spend more time just in parallel play instead flirting. Ironically words sometimes fail him when he genuinely cares so he will show you instead.

20. What’s it like to see them smile? Their laugh?

Very rarely does Ettore not smile in some degree. He’s optimistic and cheerful and friendly and 99% of the time it's genuine! Is it still a coping mechanism? Absolutely. I don't know how to describe it but if I had to explain his laugh, it would be a Ferelden laugh, like his Ferelden comes through the usual Antivan edge to his tone so much when he laughs. He sounds a lot like Alistair when he laughs.

21. What does Rook’s voice sound like? One of the voice options available, or do they have a different accent/voicecast?

Whoops answered this in the previous one. After spending so many years in Antiva, the accent absolutely stuck. But there is moments his Ferelden comes through, primarily when he laughs or gets a bit tipsy. He doesn’t drink much or often but when he does that Ferelden comes back into his voice. Threw Viago off the first time he heard it. 

23. What does Rook wear in the off hours? Do they like dressing up?

Tight pants, billowing shirt, tiddies out <3

24. Does Rook have any nightly rituals before bed?

Ettore and Steph have an elven lantern that sits on their bedside table that they use to communicate if one of them gets up in the night/wanders off. So he always makes sure it’s set to the equivalent of ‘here’ when he gets into bed. 

While the Lighthouse feels safe, Ettore can’t sleep without doing a perimeter check just to be sure, and prior to Lucanis and Spite getting along, would check if the wards were up on the pantry door on the rare occasion Lucanis had actually retired for the night.

25. How does Rook like to spend their free time?

Parallel play! He likes being around people!! He finds most comfort around them! Doesn’t matter what he’s doing, if he’s tending to his armour, his blades, reading Bellara’s stories, messing with recipes (yes he is someone who will take a recipe and then mess with it, cookbook with tabs all over it) if someone else is there then he’s happy. 

Very infrequently, he will go to Antiva alone tho and just go for a run across the rooftops and enjoy the night sky/beauty of Antiva.

26. Rook is in charge of the grocery list. What’s on it?

Everything everyone needs plus his own stuff. Antiva shopping run with Lucanis is a frequent endeavor.

27. When was the last time they cried?

He doesn’t often cry, but 10/10 easiest way to make him cry is just let him sit with his parents’ gravestones in the memorial garden. He used to be very unnerved by the place but now it is a great sense of peace for him.

28. Does Rook have any pets/animal companions?

Steph has a wisp that won't leave him alone lmao. I guess that counts. 

Given a chance, Ettore would adopt all the cats. He does miss having a mabari sometimes.

43. Is Rook the type to gossip?

Absolutely, he loved chatting and getting the latest gossip. When Taash starting having feelings for Harding he was there in an instant like heeeeey :D (and then Harding… kjdbgksdg)

46. What does it take to earn Rook’s trust?

Ettore is fairly easy to trust, but he lives with one foot out the door, and if you betray him it’s gonna take a very long time to earn it back. Talk the talk and walk the walk. Words are one thing but if you don't back it up with action. If you are not loyal or true to your morals you won’t get far and he will stay one foot out the door, or shut you out entirely. 

47. What’s Rook’s temper like?

Calculated and malicious. Ettore’s temper is like a slow acting poison. There is a chance you will see the sparks of electricity dance over his body when he’s angry, but at the same time, you’d probably look down and see you’ve been stabbed. 

fifty (more) questions for rook

3. What are Rook’s first impressions of Solas?

Keyword being first impression lmao “This is the Dread Wolf? He’s kinda hot.” 

4. What does Solas think of Rook?

A little bird daring to torment a wolf. He did not appreciate the jabs/saw Ettore was trying to test the limits of what he could get away with. He played into that, allowed the Crow to play and exchange words. Ultimately he still believed Ettore a pawn for his personal gain. Something Ettore was not happy about particularly cause it involved trapping Steph in the Prison of Regret too. He would have accepted the consequence if it was just him (even tho his partners still would have been mad/happy when he came back)

14. Do any romances bloom between the other Veilguard companions? What does Rook think of the pairings?

Taash and Harding do get together and Ettore is very supportive of it and supportive when Harding makes the ultimate sacrifice.

15. Who else has a crush on Rook?

Davrin and Ettore did the whole predator/prey flirting dance and they both enjoyed it immensely but Ettore didn’t feel the click and ultimately broke off their little crush session not wanting to lead Davrin on to which he was disappointed but understanding it wouldn’t be a long term thing. At least for now.

Ettore was sweet on Bellara, thinks she is wonderful and deserves so much kindness. She had a bit of a crush on Ettore but Ettore sees her more as a sister rather than a potential lover. Bellara found it a little awkward and found it hard to look at Ettore for a while but they’re good~

Taash and Ettore are a mess (affectionate), while they both thought taamlok was where they were at and they were for a while, ultimately the two decided they enjoyed being friends with benefits rather than actively pursuing a committed relationship, especially when Taash started having feelings for Harding.

Ettore had a one sided crush on Emmrich for a short while and enjoyed flirting with him and enjoyed his attention but circumstance didn’t give him time to explore it as his relationship with Lucanis became more serious. Doesn’t mean they didn’t exchange a kiss ohoho.

18. Does anyone notice Rook talking to Varric? Do they say anything?

For better or worse Stephen and Ettore go into the infirmary to talk to Varric and the team don’t really think much of it. If anyone notices anything, it’s noticing Stephen there. To which Ettore would just say Steph struggles with not having Varric’s guidance and the team doesn't press. Ettore does get a strange inkling something isn’t right. Maybe it's the wards Neve put in his mind to push Solas out?? Who knows! 

21. What’s Rook’s relationship with Assan? What about Manfred?

Assan is his feathery son. He loves that griffon so damn much. He wants a griffon lmao. Manfred and Ettore have a good relationship, Manfried and Steph get along better. When Emmrich becomes a lich, Ettore advises to Steph that the deal only said Emmrich couldn’t bring Manfred back, nothing about someone else finding him. One of many reasons Steph goes to train with the Mourn Watch. (spoiler: he will succeed)

22. In Rook’s opinion, was the best meal Bellara prepared? And Lucanis?

As much as he enjoys cooking he also enjoys not having to cook lmao. He loves trying Dalish recipes from Bellara. Lucanis makes the best desserts.

23. What does Isabela think, when she meets Rook? What’s their relationship?

Isabela swears his face looks familiar but cannot place where she has seen it (two decades prior, at the Pearl, she may or may not have slept with all of Ettore’s parents, at once! She also may or not have been the reason Ettore is here now lmaooo) they have a good relationship, and Isabela SWEARS she recognizes those blades. Ettore knows who she is but says nothing on purpose lmao.

24. What were the thoughts growing through Rook’s head, at D’Meta’s Crossing? What did they decide to do with the mayor?

He absolutely hates the blight. He’s never really seen much of it before. But now he has he hates it. It’s so much worse than what his parents described and it terrifies him that his parents faced that, But it also gives him strength. He’s furious at the mayor and if the blight wasn't holding him up he would have killed the mayor himself.

25. Does Rook save Minrathous or Treviso? How did they decide?

Treviso is home. Treviso is a merchant city with no military. Minrathous has a force, he trusts they could hold out/be less worse off. It's a no brainer to him to go to Treviso. The true surprise was Stephen coming with him instead of going home to Minrathous.

26. What does Rook tell Emmrich, when he asks them about funerary rite preferences?

Ettore tries real hard not to think of his own death. But he would want to be buried with his family or with his partners if they all agree on a specific place. (Tbh still probably in the memorial gardens. Caterina would be rolling in her grave for Lucanis breaking traditions/what she wants lmao)

27. Dorian’s opinion of Rook:

This lil guy is hilarious, my son could do so much better but if he’s happy I’m happy. Having a Crow as a bodyguard is a very good thing too. He also finds it hilarious watching Ettore try and get his husband’s approval. 

28. What does Rook think of Dorian?

He likes Dorian a lot. Of Stephen’s dads, Dorian actually likes him better too so he wants to keep that good relationship.

29. Do the companions give Rook any gifts?

(Probably?? can't think of specifics atm. I feel like Ettore is usually the one doing gift giving.)

30. Does Rook give their companions any additional gifts?

He absolutely gives them little gifts. Whenever they go he will look at the merchant shops, he'll toss a coin to those in need. If he sees something he thinks a companion will like he'll probably buy it. Snacks/ingredients for cooking are the biggest go to tho.

He does however leave a bunch of little notes tucked in the pages of books his partners are reading, and sometimes the other companions too as a fun lil surprise. ‘You thought i wasn’t thinking about you when I was away on a mission? Think again!’

31. Which locations (Docktown, Arlathan etc) does Rook like to visit the most? And the least?

Nothing beats Antiva/home in Ettore's mind. But Arlathan is a close second cause it reminds him of being in Ferelden. 

Least favourite is Kal-Sharok or anywhere that is near the Deeproads. He'll go there if he has to but he will not be happy about it. Enclosed space with darkspawn and blight? Big no.

33. What does the Inquisitor think, when they first meet Rook?/34. What’s Rook’s opinion of the Inquisitor? What’s it like, working together?

This and 34. Go hand in hand so. The inquisitor he hoped to see was Jay so he could assassinate her. The Inquisitor he got was Soren (Steph's dad) who has OPINIONS about him. Ettore is always on his best behaviour around him. He's screaming internally. Meanwhile Soren still thinks his son deserves better and while he has come to accept Steph is madly in love with Ettore and will respect that, he likes messing with Ettore just to keep him on his toes.

36. Does Rook support Emmrich’s aspirations of lichdom?

Ettore does, he sympathizes and understands how badly Emmrich wants this and knows how much happier he'd be and how good of a protector of the necropolis he'd be. Steph thinks it's not worth it for the sake of Manfred coming back or not. Ettore wins Steph over on it by pointing out a loophole in the deal that would mean they both win.

37. Who does Rook find themself turning to for advice?

Out of Viago and Teia, he will go to Teia lmao. If she's not available or he only has the team to turn to, it's usually Lucanis, Neve, or Davrin depending on the circumstance.

38. Which companions best compliment Rook’s abilities on the battlefield?

Lucanis is a no brainer, the Crows find their rhythm and tandem much like Viago and Teia.

39. What’s it been like, living in the Lighthouse?

He likes it purely for it being a bridge amongst the Eluvians that means he gets to stay at Steph's side. He's not a big fan of the lack of day/night cycle but it's fit for purpose and its safe and Solas can fight him for it cause he's very much a this is our home now. It's free real estate.

40. What was going through Rook’s head, facing down the first archdemon at Weisshaupt?

‘Oh shit oh fuck oh shit oh fuck, concentrate,  fuck fuck fuck’ <- basically summed it up. He latched onto Lucanis's dark humour and matched it with his own, it kept him focused enough not to panic seeing an actual archdemon in his lifetime. That's what his parents faced during the fifth blight!

41. Who does Rook choose to bring down the wards, Neve or Bellara? How do they feel about the outcome?

Neve. And part of him is like jfc not again. But he's also a until I see a body I wont be entirely convinced so seeing her again was the best and hurt seeing her blighted but mad respect to her for taking back her city by any means necessarily. He's also incredibly relieved to see her blight disappeared.

42. Who leads the second charge, Lace or Davrin? What is Rook’s response, at the end?

Harding takes the charge. He is sad about what happened to her but they all knew the cost and what everyone was prepared to do. If he regrets anything it would be not knowing her personally much earlier. Steph however takes it much harder.

43. What does Rook do if they can’t sleep?

Bother someone who is awake or go for a jog (aka freerunning until he feels like he can sleep)

48. Does Rook have any unfinished personal business that needs to be resolved? (What’s their loyalty quest?)

Ettore’s loyalty quest is allowing himself to accept his parents’ deaths and that killing inquisitor Jay would help absolutely no one. His revenge isn’t worth it. He needs Steph to drag him to the Necropolis, and he needs Emmrich to teach him about the mourn watch, about the rituals for the dead. He needs to talk to Emmrich about losing parents, not having bodies to bury, and finding peace by talking to the gravestones. Once that happens Ettore’s anger towards inquisitor Jay mellows. He doesn't trust he wouldn’t try and assassinate her if they met in person, but it’s no longer a high priority. Just don’t tell the Crows.

50. What ending does Rook choose for Solas?

He’s so fkn bitter, he wants to just fight the wolf and put him down but he’s not foolish enough to think he can actually kill Solas even if he’s wounded without dire consequence. And fixing the world needs Solas to cooperate. So with his godmother’s (Morrigan) help, Ettore and Steph convince Solas for redemption.

[sigridhawke]

Questions for your Rook and their partner:

Rest of this ask game that I forgot to post then added to it whoops!

Ask game here! Ettore has TWO partners so you get TWICE the answers! For some of them at least. Ettore de Riva my boy (nonbinary/male) [1] [2] Stephen Trevelyan (male) belongs to @ur-localkiwi <3 Tash has also added her notes for Steph to help me out with these, thanks bestie <3

Does your Rook fall for their partner at first sight? If not, what moment made your Rook realize they’re in love with them?

Ettore to Stephan was more ‘oh no he’s hot’ at first sight lmao. Love came a bit later through spending time together and getting to know him as a person. He joked a lot about being in love with Stephan and at some point, he cannot figure out when, he realised oh wait I actually do. Which led to some miscommunication on their part whoops.

Ettore to Lucanis, it wasn’t love at first sight either, he had more of a ‘hero worship’ of him being a known Crow and all. There were plenty of moments he realised he had more than a crush or a i like this person aesthetically inclination towards him, but when the penny properly dropped it was when Spite took him into their shared mind prison and he was confronting aspects of Lucanis’ insecurities. After arguing with Caterina he realised he was committed to this for the long haul.

Tash: Steph didn’t trust Ettore for a long time until he finally came around to him. Breaking into his house with a knife does not build the strongest first impressions. 

When does the partner realize that they’re in love with Rook?

For Lucanis, he acknowledged Ettore was flirting with him but was very considerate of the bigger picture regarding Stephan. It made things confusing too ‘cause Ettore flirted with many of the companions to varying degrees. Stephan was also jealous which further kept Lucanis from bringing it up but if there was a point the penny dropped and he had to admit his own feelings, it would be the almost kiss. That panic was panic on so many levels.

How long does it take for them to officially get together? Did any of the other Lighthouse members have any suspicions beforehand?

Ettore and Steph hooked up approx 5 years prior to the events of Veilguard so the Lighthouse crew didn’t have a chance to gossip ‘cause it was already there.

Rumours and gossip didn’t really go around cause Ettore was flirting with pretty much everyone, it was just whoever took him up on his flirts or offers. Ettore tried to be as transparent as possible and always to Stephan first to make sure he was fine with him going off/seeking other partners to entertain him more than anything committed. When Ettore and Taash hooked up, no one really batted an eye. 

There was a lot of discussion with Steph when Ettore realised he wanted to actively pursue Lucanis and the only one who was really keeping up with things was Emmrich mostly cause Spite would say one thing but Ettore would say another and Lucanis would dodge the question.

It was a long time before Lucanis and Ettore ‘officially’ got together and it was hardly a transition from how they were before to them dating to start with. Slow build up of affections and the Lighthouse going ‘about god damn time’ lmao.

Do your Rook and their partner share the same faction? If so, does that affect their relationship at all? If not, what is your Rook’s opinion of their partner’s faction? What is the partner’s opinion of Rook’s faction?

Ettore was a Crow years before Steph joined the Veil Jumpers. It affected their relationship much cause they were always long distance and when they met at the Lighthouse it just fell into their natural division of who goes where when hunting the gods/helping the team.

Because he is a Crow, his relationship with Lucanis starts on a pretty good foot even if there is some ‘tension’ between their Houses. If anything it makes them work better together because they have an innate understanding of what is expected of each other. It means they talk a lot about ‘family’ and also butt heads with their different upbringings within their Houses. Ettore can and will get pretty heated about the methods used to train Crows.

Tash:  Steph would only have been with the veil jumpers about 2-3 years before VG. Steph doesn't have an opinion over Ettore being in the crows, he came into his house with a knife he probably thought “oh yes that makes sense” when he learnt he was a crow lol

Do they have different cultural backgrounds (e.g. a Rook who was raised in Antiva with Harding who was raised in Ferelden)? If so, do they ever share parts of their culture with each other? If they’re similar, how do they celebrate their culture together?

Ettore was raised in Ferelden and the Free Marches from a young age, but has spent most of his teen and adult life in Antiva. He keeps his earlier life vague because his mother is the Hero of Ferelden, one dad is a bastard son of the King, and the other dad is Antiva’s most wanted Crow (besides Illario) so for safety he keeps pretty quiet. Steph is one of the few people he will freely talk about his earlier life with. I imagine Ettore would like to share some Ferelden customs with Steph but mostly Antian ones since they are his favourite and he loves his home so damn much. Ettore desperately wants to drag Steph along to Satinalia and enjoy the week-long festival together; he'll convince him to come to Antiva properly one day. 

In the meantime Ettore is eager to indulge Antivan customs with Lucanis. He can and will drag Lucanis into the streets with buskers and dance and tease him for not doing this when he was a kid. Lucanis respects that Ettore doesn’t speak much of his past or if he does it very carefully. Lucanis has promised to take his secret to his grave. Ettore also likes making Ferelden dishes that remind him of home together with Lucanis.

Tash: Steph is eager to learn new things, so he would enjoy learning about different cultures too.

What is their favorite thing to do together? Do they share any hobbies? Does your Rook teach their partner their own hobbies? Does the partner teach Rook theirs?

Any time spent with Steph is a good time in Ettore’s books. He enjoys magic training with Steph and finds it hilarious how even after half a decade together Steph is still useless with a blade. Parallel play is his favourite thing and a bonus if it means he gets to lay across/against Steph, bonus bonus if he gets his hair played with. Ettore is also pretty passionate about the fifth blight and likes telling Steph stories (usually over exaggerations) of stuff during the fifth blight (all stories his parents told him, with a few more embellishments).

Tash:  Steph would be happy to teach Ettore magic, he enjoys teaching others and also finds it endearing how quiet Ettore gets when concentrating on learning a spell lol Steph likes to read to Ettore especially when Ettore is restless or needs something to turn off his brain, Steph has a very soothing voice and pets Ettore’s hair whenever he reads as well.

With Lucanis in addition to just being near each other, Crow training/rituals, weapon maintenance. I’d like to think after some time Ettore tries to help with the paperwork regarding Villa Dellamorte. Cooking is also one of their favourite pastimes to do together.

If you think Ettore goes out of his way to learn more about dragons (to impress Steph’s dad) and wyverns (to impress Lucanis) you’re absolutely right.

Are they a physically affectionate couple? Are they fine displaying those affections in public or do they prefer to be in private? If they’re not, how do they prefer to show their love instead?

Ettore loves affection and attention and will go out of his way to seek it or give affirmation that he’s still hopelessly in love. Intentional stealing of touches whether it's brushing hands, hand on back, patting on shoulder. One of his favourite games is trying to steal kisses. With Steph it is a greater challenge cause he’s so damn tall. So he has to get a little creative. 

With Lucanis likes to make a game out of (usually) fights, the winner gets to request 1 thing from the other. Ettore will always pick a kiss if he wins and cashes it in immediately. (this is absolutely after Lucanis gets used to/more accustomed to the whole physical affection thing. Took him a bit, bless him honestly. But slowly he figures he not only wants it but he’s allowed!! to have it!! Ettore would never say no!! Love wins!)

What does their ideal date look like? Do they go on much?

Ettore loves going out on dates. Dates can be literally anything too. Going out for dinner, dancing, grocery shopping, long walks. Anything that’s an excuse to spend time with his partners!

An exclusive date with Lucanis usually entails freerunning over the rooftops of Antiva under the moonlight and sitting on the highest roof overlooking the city. 

Ettore wants to eventually take Lucanis on a proper trip to either Crestwood (closer to Fereldan) or the Exalted Plains (has cool ruins Steph would probably enjoy so double win!) to go wyvern watching.

Tash:  Steph likes to go sky gazing as it a. Allows him to walk and appreciate nature and b. Flex his big brain and tell whoever will listen about his knowledge on the stars. Any other quiet activities like visiting galleries / historical sites. He doesn’t know how Ettore puts up with his grandpa like interests lol ((it’s cause he loves him lmao and enjoys listening to him talk))

Does your Rook bring them out often? How are they like on the battlefield? Do they banter much?

For the most part Ettore and Steph divide the workload between each other and tackle different parts of Thedas to cover more ground. On occasions they do get to travel together, Ettore is somewhat more reckless. Half because he wants to show off, the other half is he knows Steph has his back and he trusts him with his life. Of the two Ettore absolutely does not shut up. Is it coping, is he being funny, who knows!

Lucanis often accompanies Ettore especially if they’re going to Antiva either to follow up on things for the Crows or for shopping. In combat the two come to find their rhythm in a flurry of blades. Practical, stylish, and deadly. Lucanis is usually the one to talk while they’re in battle, often praising Ettore which is awful for his heart and the subsequent praise kink he didn’t know he had whoops!

Do they have any nicknames for each other? Who uses terms of endearment more?

Asides from mi amor (genuine), Ettore will go out of his way to call Steph darling, dearest, my dear (teasing) because he made the mistake of letting slip he may have had a slight crush on Emmrich for a short period of time and Ettore has never let him life that down. Also: Steph is literally a nickname from his actual name Stephan bahaha. (thanks tash for that note about his name lmao)

Tash:  It's not often but Steph calls Ettore amatus, something he picked up from his dads.

In comparison, Ettore and Lucanis don’t have nicknames for each other. Ettore enjoys hearing his name spoken by Lucanis. He also appreciates not being called “Rook.” especially by Lucanis (Ettore grew to dislike the title a lot when Lucanis used it to push him away after Weisshaupt and it’s sat poorly with him ever since. Spite got the memo and doesn’t call him it either.)

Who says “I love you” first? What is the other’s reaction? Who thinks it first?

Ettore wanted to be the first one to say it to Lucanis but was denied it by Lucanis not wanting that commitment prior to the final battle, and then Ettore got trapped in the Fade prison!!! For WEEKS!! And he had to sit with that denial of hearing those words FOR WEEKS. Now Ettore’s back and he finally got himself to say it to Ettore, he can’t stop saying it. It makes Ettore very happy lol. 

Tash: Ettore totally said it first and it created a big misunderstanding between them. They were both in love with each other at the time, Steph believing Ettore’s i love you was a gesture between friends with how casual the elf was with how he loves so freely. Cue poor Steph dying inside thinking his own love would be unrequited. This dance went on for a while before Dorian noticed something was wrong with his son LOL and had The Talk with him. Steph would communicate afterwards, effectively being the first out of the two to make a serious confession. 

Any inside jokes?

Aforementioned teasing about the Emmrich crush >3c

What song(s) do you associate with them?

I am not well versed in music associations but for Ettore: Jacky by Marc Almond

The “Cute in a stupid ass way” gets me every time.

Coming back to this with the post of everything and Flesh by Simon Curtis

Does your Rook get their partner any other gifts (besides the one already in-game)? Does the partner get Rook any? Any gifts that are particularly special?

Ettore brings back any fancy books and artifacts back for Stephan or just trinkets that makes him go ‘this made me think of you’ and sometimes give no further context why lmao. There is sometimes a debate of would Steph or Bellara like this better, but tbh a lot of the time they both end up with it comparing notes lmao. Bellara and Stephan are besties while Ettore sees her like a big sister ((although he wouldn't say that to her, cause it feels a little weird still given the whole deal with her brother)).

To Lucanis, Ettore brings recipes and ingredients, with a promise of getting to cook together and/or something for him. Especially if they’re not on a trip together, Ettore will bring back little wyvern items or simply stories or people who had seen them around.  Ettore brought back a wyvern scale once and Lucanis was very normal for a week after that (affectionate).

Ettore will also bring little trinkets back for Spite too depending on what they had talked about or the demon was curious about. Usually something edible just in case Spite gets too curious.

Tash: I think steph secretly has good fashion taste (bc of Dorian) and would find accessories or different outfits for Ettore. I also like the idea of a magical artifact the pair wear that shows where the other is at all times - like a bracelet or ring

To the point above, Ettore loves dressing up. Antivan fashion? Gonna make a statement? Heck yet he wants it all. He’s not great at sewing by any means but he likes attaching little trinkets to his outfits to make them his own. Dorian also eventually gives Ettore and Steph (post game) one of the necklace sending crystals Dorian and Jay have to communicate.

What was the partner’s reaction to Rook being imprisoned in the Fade? How did they cope? How did they react upon seeing Rook again? / 

How did your Rook react to getting trapped in the Fade and separated from their partner?

Lucky for them, Ettore and Stephan ended up being imprisoned together. Thanks Solas. Which was super shitty!! But!! They were together!! So things weren’t so bad. They could rely on each other and figure their way out. Ettore’s ‘I need humour to cope’ was cranked to the max tho. His hand never let go of Stephan’s. Absolutely worried they’d be ripped away from each other.

Lucanis meanwhile was having a very, very bad time. Half confessions, end of the world, now this? He blames himself, he feels like there was something else he could have done, Spite goes absolutely apeshit when it happens. He basically has to be carried away from the site and watches with kinda dead eyes as Emmrich tries to recreate the dagger. It’s hard enough he feels awful but Spite does too, Spite doesn’t understand and is angry and confused and he manages to pull himself together on the outside but yikes.

Getting out of the Fade however (in my mind this happens in the Crossroads and the gang drags their asses back to the Lighthouse to be like THIS PLACE IS SAFE, FUCK OFF to the rest of the world), Bellara is the first to just TACKLE Stephan to the ground she was so worried and crying. Emmrich relieved they’re back but also now he can tell Dorian his son is back skdgb. Lucanis meanwhile is just utterly dumbfounded, too late to steal his own hug from Ettore through Davrin and Taash, there is so many emotions and he just Lucanis.exe has crashed. He can’t stop looking at Ettore on the way back, wants to reach out but he’s never been the most physically affectionate and opts to wait and let everyone else have their turn. But the moment Steph is like go to him you idiot Lucanis just can’t let him go. Holds him, kisses him, cries for him, and tells him he loves him.

What is your Rook’s favorite thing about their partner? What is the partner’s favorite thing about Rook?

(I think I did this in another ask I do not have the brain for this atm wheeze) 

When all is said and done, where would they like to retire together? Is marriage in the cards for them? Children? Pets?

Ettore has 100% joked/not joked about marrying Steph. Buying a ring, proposing all that jazz in some grand gesture. He would like to eventually. But he also would like both partners to be there too so he’s happy to just kinda wait and see how things work out. He’s optimistic it may happen eventually but it's not a necessity for him to be happy. (Maker knows Teia is on the edge of her seat waiting to say she’s already preplanned half the wedding lmao)

He is also the kind that daydreams of retiring, little cottage, pet cats, pet wyvern, living out his days with his partners, growing old, everything just perfect in the world. It’s completely unrealistic and he couldn’t imagine actually retiring from the Crows (not that they would let him) or living long enough to retire, but it's a nice thought to daydream about. He wouldn’t say it out loud but he hopes he outlives his partners so they wouldn’t be sad without him. Especially Steph.

Tash: Steph would like to marry Ettore but has never brought it up purely out of fear that Ettore’s crow work would come first. He's also a bit scared that would mean sharing him with lucanis if the marriage extended to him and steph might explode with jealousy if there was a second husband in the mix (something he probably couldn’t work through this time ripf) 

Tash: Asides from his wisps friends, steph would like to adopt a cat one day.