#rook x bellara

[firstknightvulion]

During all the previews, someone mentioned that Bellara wishes there could be a guide to romance. So, my theory of her being the girlfailure romance came true.

But, it made me think. She can’t find any guides. What does she turn to? Novels. Trashy, smutty, romance novels. Varric’s specifically.

Rook is sitting in the main room in the Lighthouse. Burrito in hand. A content smile on his face.

Suddenly, Bellara appears. Hands on her hips and a suggestive smile on her face. Rook stops mid chew.

Bellara: *seductively* So, you’ve finally arrived.

Rook: *looks side to side, food still in his mouth* I’ve been here.

Bellara’s eyes bulge and she quickly turns around. The sound of pages being rapidly turned can be heard. Rook leans to side to catch a glimpse of what she’s doing but she turns back around before he can see.

Bellara: *seductively* So, I’ve finally found you.

Before Rook can respond, Bellara’s hand shoots out, smacking the headrest behind his head. Her face comes closer to his. Her seductive mask slips, cheeks beginning to flush.

Bellara: I-I think you know…um, us, uh, between us. There’s a push-shit! I meant pull! There’s a pull between us!

Rook sits silently, staring. Bellara begins to turn even redder and forehead begins to sweat. She backs up slightly and spins around, her back to Rook. Once again the sound of pages being rapidly flipped fills the room.

Bellara: He was supposed to respond! What should I say next?! That one? No, that’s too strong. What about…oooooh, that one I’m saving for later.

Rook: Is that the latest Hard in Hightown?

Bellara jumps three feet in the air as Rook steps next to her. When she lands, the book in her hands is quickly placed behind her back.

Bellara: I am looking for romantic guidance.

Rook: And you’re using Varric’s smut?

Bellara: *bringing the book in front of her* It’s all I had.

Rook: *chuckling* We’re you that desperate?

Bellara: *hiding her mouth behind the book* I’m…trying to get this right.

Rook: *smiling* Well, you got my attention. And I would like to…get this right too. With you.

Bellara: Really?

Rook: Yeah. Just, let’s not depend on Varric.

Meanwhile, elsewhere…

Varric: *Brow furrowing* Someone’s talking mad shit…

[aldruiel-scribbles]

Reblog for bigger sample size

[monabee-draws]

Kisses for the Companions💕 Now with rainbow colour-coding!

They all deserve some little smooches (ft. my lovely Rook, Emmaline)

[alanakod]

Just some meme/thoughts/idea for writing about Lucanis x Rook:

Rook after eating delicious dinner:

- So good! Kiss the chef!

Bellara giggling:

- Mister Dellamorte is the chef tonight.

*silence at the table*

*lovestruck Lucanis swallows nervously*

*tumbleweeds in Rook’s head*

- Lucanis, I’m sorry…

- I’m ready. Anytime.

*everything is under the table*

*Rook’s heart stopped beating*

*Lucanis runs out of the room*

*Bellara is happy for both of them*

[pinayelf]

okay I've been thinking abt it and I'm heavily leaning towards Caridad for bellara 👁👁

mostly bc I love a romantic w someone who is emotionally constipated but ALSO

Caridad has elf blood in her family (she is distantly related to immy) and I kinda wanna do an arc where she realizes tht w bellara by her side

[felassan]

Snippets. 🐺💜

For Game Informer’s July 17th DA:TV article, "BioWare On Returning To The Dragon Age Series, 10 Years After Inquisition", the article is still titled as such on its own page, but it looks like on the GI DA:TV Hub page its listing was updated to "Dragon Age: The Veilguard Is 'Respectful And Referential' To Previous Games Without Making Them Mandatory"

[previous comment for context - Brenon: "we do have "decision saves" before big choice moments, but there are still a bunch that depend on a whole mess of stuff you've done earler...so yeah...RIP"]. Derek on this: "Choice and consequence, baby." [source]

[context: DA official Twitter's news about what's coming in August] Derek: "Buckle up!" [source]

Bryony Corrigan (Rook) on the strike: "I care a lot about this game! @/dragonage. Gutted we are unable to speak more about the game for now but absolutely in solidarity with actors in the US. I hope @/EquityUK are also fighting for better protection against AI clauses in the UK too…!" [source]

Matt Rhodes recently wrote to his mailing list that "The project I’ve been working on for many years is nearing completion. In my rare free moments, I’ve been starting to organize concept art to start posting after the game ships." [source] So it sounds like DA:TV is nearing completion and that he will be posting DA:TV concept art that he created after release. [This] is the link to his website where you can view his art, including some existing DA:TV and previous DA game concept art. If you click the envelope symbol on this page, that's how you can subscribe to the mailing list

from Community Councilmember Ladyinsanity - Lucanis x Rook apparently might be an "angst pairing" and there's maybe another one of these in the game also...? 👀 [source]

A user mentioned that they aren't keen on the word "roadmap". Michael Gamble explained: "all it means is a list of cool things you can expect to see us showing." [source]

Bellara's family name Lutare wasn't recently changed as some users wondered, it was Lutare at least a year ago during development. It seems it was just mis-printed or mis-reported in the GI coverage [source]

This article describes DA:TV as the most beautiful game the writer saw at SGF. It says the prologue is dated 9 years after DA:I. "Varric isn’t a ginger so much as a grizzled gray fox now". On Solas, he "wants to tear down the Veil that separates Thedas from the world of demons, restoring his people’s immortality and glory and sacrificing thousands in the process. But when his ritual goes awry, two of his most ancient and powerful adversaries are released. They seek only to finish what they started millennia ago – the complete and utter domination of our world." The game moves quite seamlessly from action to cutscene, and in the prologue "every cutscene is clearly building toward something larger". Position matters in combat. There is an accessibility option which involves the path-tracing of enemies' ranged attacks. At the beginning of the demo, the devs mentioned that they thought about the way different lighting affects your character. " The animations associated with combat are complex for one reason: responsive character features." CC has "inclusion of thick curly hair and capturing the tightly curled texture of Black hairstyles and natural hair", customizable shoulder-width and "a much-welcomed broad spectrum of skin tones—capturing both cool and warm undertones of both white and brown skin". The article highlighted the fluid movement of cloth. The writer also said, "I’m sure other Summer Game Fest previews will have a lot to say on the evolving relationship between Varric and Solas". [source] ((I don't remember seeing this article til now, it's from June though so I either missed it or have seen it and forgotten. also I don't know how accurate it is but the writer was one of the attendees of the DA:TV demo at SGF))

[character limit text break!]

Malcolm: "When I joined DA:Ve I was really hoping there'd be a romanceable dwarf companion and boy howdy did that come true. Harding is ☀️delightful☀️" [source]

[context: this Tumblr post of some neat art] Malcolm: "This is amazing and I fully went "oh wow that really sounds like Emmrich" before remembering that Nick Boraine is in fact a entire human person." [source]

User: "Speaking of Stalker, as a player the description of Bellara and Veil Jumper i've heard so far, alongside their exploration of Arlathan, somehow reminds me of Clear Sky and Chornobyl in Stalker series..." John Epler: "great eye! roadside picnic, Annihilation and STALKER were all absolutely inspirations" [source]

John Epler: "time to slowly make my way home after an awesome 4 days. thanks for an amazing experience to everyone who was a part of it. back to work." [source]

User: "We know there are returning characters in The Veilguard, so my question is: How would you and the rest of the writers go about writing a returning character who was originally primarily written by a writer who is no longer at the studio? What is the process?" Trick Weekes: "1. Watch videos to get the performance, how the character speaks. 2. Don’t try to replicate the character exactly. Allow them to have grown. Morrigan in DAI wasn’t Morrigan in DAO. She’d grown up. 3. Trust Character Art and Performance/VO. As soon as Morrigan walks in and talks in DAI, it works." [source]

Ali Hillis (Harding) on Twitter: "@dragonage @/bioware @/BioWarePulse @/ea #/DragonAge #/SDCC #/SDCC2024 FOLLOW ON INSTA FOR MORE!" [source]

Alex Jordan (Rook): "To all the D&D loving Dragon Age fans out there, let me tell you about my D&D group, made up of faces from the games industry! Including the voices of Geralt from The Witcher, Clive from Final Fantasy XVI, and Noah from Xenoblade! We are ⁦@/NaturalSix ⁩#/DragonAge" [source]

Erika Ishii (Rook): "Grateful I got to spend SDCC celebrating my roles in 2 games I love. Thank you to the devs (including laid-off workers who deserve full credit!), my friends, and the community. This is the last you’ll hear from me about my games from struck companies until they sign an interim agreement or the strike is won. Keep playing games, but share info from the union and let people know we’re taking a stand for all creatives. See you on the other side! ✊🏼🎮" [source]

Jeff Berg (Rook): "Damn, I love making video games. It’s like the perfect blending of theatre on film, where an actor is encouraged to collaborate and let their imaginations soar. And damn, do I ever love the incredible support from the fans of this incredible medium. Unfortunately, we’re in a time of upheaval in the industry. So let me make it perfectly clear: Video game performers deserve fair wages, safe working conditions and A.I. protections. I call on the employers to #/LevelUpTheContract. Guys, this is no single player game. We need you on our team. #/SagAftraStrong #/VideoGameStrike". Text in the accompanying video reads “Video game performers are stuck in a grind. AI is stealing voices, and companies are hoarding profits. The future of voiceover and performance capture artists is at stake. But out fight isn’t single-player. Whether you’re a gamer, a fan, a performer, a labor ally, or just someone believes in fairness. Keep video games people powered. We need you on our team. Video game companies must offer AI protections to ALL video game performers. Join me and show your support for those who bring our favorite games to life.” [source]

Jessica Clark (Neve): "Aaah a true bucket list moment!! Thrilled to play Neve Gallus a Private Investigator & one of the companions in the upcoming DragonAge The Veilguard Video Game!! We are appearing at the San Diego Comic Con as we speak!! With so much thanks & appreciation for the most fantastic team @/bioware & inspiring fellow cast members including (not limited to) @/missalihillis @/nickboraine @/zach.mendez @/jeffberg1 & more 🙏🏽 Draon Age The Veilguard releases this Fall 2024 & from what I've seen... It's truly epic!! You will love it & yes, it's worth the wait. (SAG-AFTRA issued us a specific window to promote & celebrate at Comic Con & from Sunday night onwards we will all be joining our fellow actors in the picket line for the Video Game Strike)." Text in the accompanying video reads "I’ve wanted to share this for so long! Thrilled to reveal that I play Neve Gallus in the upcoming Dragon Age The Veilguard!! Appearing at Comic Con San Diego as we speak” [source]

[source]

Jessica: "Last night's Comic Con San Diego's Fandom red carpet celebrating Dragon Age The Veilguard! Releasing this Fall 2024!!" [source]

Zach Mendez (Lucanis): "A truly amazing first day of SD Comic Con at the @/dragonagegame poster signing at @/darkhorsecomics booth. Thank you to the fans who made my first con unforgettable #/sdcc /#sdcomiccon #/dragonage #/darkhorsecomics #/lucanisdellamorte #/voiceacting #/bioware #/eagames #/theveilguard #/babysfirstcon" [source]

Zach: "Dragon Age. Dancing. Derulo. Thanks @/fandom for a killer party" [source]

Nick Boraine (Emmrich): "Thank you @/bioware @/ea and @/comic_con - had an incredible time! #/dragonage #/theveilgaurd #/emmrichvolkarin @/zach.mendez @/missalihillis @/thejessicaroseclark - can’t wait for the fall release date." [source]

Ali: "Honored and thrilled to have been a part of another epic @/bioware story w @/ea . Thanks from the bottom of my heart to the whole team! We worked hard, and put our all into this one. Can’t wait to see you all at #/sdcc2024 this week to celebrate @/dragonagegame #/dragonageveilguard" [source]

Ali: "1st day of San Diego Comic Con 2024 !! The lines were long and the signings so much fun! Met some really nice fans, hung out w dragon age performance director @/ashley___barlow , companions @/thejessicaroseclark @/zach.mendez & Nick Boraine . So SO grateful for this #/dragonageveilguard family!" [source]

Ali: "I love every one of these people. There, I said it! What a warm welcome we received! Thanks to ALL! For EVERYTHING!" [source]

Ali on SDCC: "Gooooooood times. ❤️" [source]

Here is a 'behind the scenes at the DA:TV SDCC panel' photo -

[source]

Here is a photo of Erika Ishii with Rook's blue knife -

[source]

Here is an excerpt from Brianne Battye's website:

Text reads: "Dragon Age: The Veilguard Defy the gods. Rise as Rook, Dragon Age’s newest hero. Be who you want to be and play how you want to play as you fight back and lead your team of seven companions, each with their own rich story. Together, you will become the Veilguard. Coming soon From EA/BioWare. I was responsible for a companion story arc, significant side characters, faction content, exploration content, and helping develop and expand worldbuilding lore."

[source]

Also, last year Zach Mendez (Lucanis) made a prior podcast appearance:

Zach: "I was lucky enough over the pandemic to have just hit a really nice commercial, and then I got this beautiful job on a video game where I was doing motion capture. Motion capture? Okay, so you put on this leotard, this black suit, and those little dots on, and you do all the motion for a video game, and you get to do the voice, and they put all these black lines on your face, so they capture your performance and whatnot. And so I was doing that and had some commercial money, so throughout the pandemic, for the past few years, I’ve just been getting to live off acting, which is great." -- Zach: "[Voiceover is] what I'm working on right now." -- Zach: "My father's from Spain." -- Zach: "I'm currently working on a video game, I can't say which video game." "It is a big one, it's not a big deal, it's a big one, I'm one of the main characters, it's not that big a deal." The interviewer asked about how acting in video games works. "Somebody's giving some performance that of course, they layer on imaging afterwards, like in graphics, right? But you're giving facial expressions, that's what gives it the reality, that's what I find so fascinating about motion capture, is that, you get to give big performances, because you're playing these crazy characters in crazy situations, and a lot of your performance is coming through in the final product which is, just gets me excited about the future of things about all the different ways. It's my voice, a lot of my facial features, I voice, I think, one or two characters in this game."

[source (dated ~a year ago. source link isn’t work-appropriate. I don’t recommend the podcast)]

[demifiendrsa]

Dragon Age: The Veilguard | Official Gameplay Reveal

Dragon Age: The Veilguard, formerly Dragon Age: Dreadwolf, will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store in Fall 2024.

Title Logo

Key visual

Screenshots

Overview

About

From the storytellers at BioWare comes Dragon Age: The Veilguard, an all new single-player fantasy RPG experience. This bold, heroic adventure is built to deliver on what the series is best known for: rich storytelling, fantasy worldbuilding, companions & fellowship, and a world where you matter. In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, you’ll embark on a quest to face powerful Elven gods and stop the destruction they’re unleashing on the world. You are known as Rook, battling on the front lines alongside a compelling cast of companions with individual storylines and motivations. In true Dragon Age fashion, companions are central to the experience and as Rook, you must rise up, rally your crew and forge relationships to become the unexpected leader others believe in.

Story

Solas, the Dread Wolf and Elven Trickster god of legend, wants to tear down the Veil that separates Thedas from the world of demons, restoring his people’s immortality and glory—even at the cost of countless lives. But his ritual goes awry, and his worst fears are realized, as two of his most ancient and powerful adversaries are released. They seek only to finish what they started millennia ago – the complete and utter domination of our world. Rook’s journey to stop these two powerful deities will span across all of Thedas to bustling cities, lush tropics, boreal forests, fettered swamps and the deepest depths, but be wary of the evil forces along the way like the Dark Spawn, Venatori Cultists and Demons of the Fade.

Key Features

Fellowship – Dragon Age: The Veilguard‘s brand new companions come alive with some of the most compelling individual storylines in Dragon Age history. Expansive and dynamic stories navigate love, loss and complex choices that will affect your relationships and the fate of each member of the Veilguard. New companions like the Veil Jumper Bellara, the necromancer Emmrich, and the private detective Neve, come from iconic factions in Dragon Age lore, possessing individual skill trees and specialized gear for advanced team progression. You’ll see familiar faces, too, such as the archer Lace Harding who returns to the series as a full time companion.

Choice and Consequences – Dragon Age: The Veilguard builds on the series’ deep role-playing roots, providing extraordinary storytelling and worldbuilding, deep personalities for each companion, meaningful choices and impactful cinematic moments. The bonds you create and the relationships you forge will be affected by your choices made throughout your journey.

A Crafted Experience – As a character-driven RPG, Dragon Age: The Veilguard delivers a crafted experience that pays homage to BioWare’s history of storytelling. The Lighthouse provides a central place where you can rest, learn more about the world through conversations, while the Crossroads allows you to traverse to separate explorable regions of the world with your companions. You’ll experience more of Thedas than ever before as your story unfolds across meticulously crafted biomes and beautiful regions including Rivain, Weisshaupt, Arlathan, Minrathous, the Deep Roads and more, each inviting you to delve deeper into the narrative and uncover the mysteries of the land.

Fluid, Customizable Combat – Immersive combat blends fluid moment-to-moment controls with tactical decision-making. Players can fully customize their experience to fit their playstyle with diverse skill trees among three different classes—Warrior, Mage, and Rogue—each with unique abilities and specializations. Choose two companions to join you on your quests and unleash powerful team combos that can change the tide of any battle. Make strategic choices and direct your allies to fight, heal or stay out of the fray with the newly-added ability wheel.

Be the Leader You Want to Be – Dragon Age: The Veilguard features a robust character creation system that allows you to be the leader you want to be with a vast range of customization. BioWare has created the most comprehensive character creator in Dragon Age yet to make this story truly your own

[vangbelsing]

Emmrich X Rook: First Moment of Connection Prompt for DADreams

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO I RAN LATE GRAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!!! I am so UPSET because??? I kinda veered off course at the end there and the quality dipped so I could hit the deadline... which I failed at.... ANYWAY I am NOT fully pleased with this and I need to go through and edit it but I am sleepy and want it out NOW!!!!! Please forgive the quality, I'm getting back into the swing of things...

Alina had become accustomed to betrayals and deceit - politics, manipulation, seduction, backstabbing; all were commonplace amongst the Antivan Crows. She spent her life in their service, killing in their name and bringing them sovereigns aplenty, flashing charming smiles and honeyed words to all manner of people... Even those she found reprehensible. Because such was their expectation of her. Why would she give less than the entirety of herself to those she had been reared by? It's not as though she found no pleasure in her life lived amongst them, after all.

And yet, even calloused and cold, behind her smirks and wit and alluring glances she gave, there was still emotion, buried though it was. And she cursed the ease with which it could be coaxed to the surface, even after so much time had been spent to avoid it.

Her eyes, colored like a lush forest bathed in the light of the spring sun, cast their gaze to the nightstand where the letter sat, solemn and grave, before she sharply whipped her head to the opposite end of the room, the well tended edges of her cared for nails grazing her forearms as she dug them into her own flesh absent mindedly.

The letter had been passed to her as she and her unit made way through the stalls of Treviso, the hooded figure - clearly a constituent of the Crows - stopping her in order to deliver it, the small parcel lacking in a seal or stamp.

At first, she assumed it was just another request - some Crow or random no one whose name she didn't care to know asking a favor or giving information. Her disinterest turned into confusion, then shock, and then, at last, rage.

Alina briefly recalled how Emmrich and Lucanis turned to each other in bewilderment as she announced they would be returning to the Lighthouse prematurely. They had inquired after her reasoning, but the way she had uncharacteristically snapped so suddenly had ceased any further questioning from both parties.

As soon as they had returned, she wasted no time in retreating to her quarters, walking past Bellara and failing entirely to answer her. She hadn't even been fully aware of her there, truth be told. Not when she was worked up like this.

So now she was here, pacing madly in a wild frenzy in steps so heavy she was practically beating her heels into the floor, breathing and sighing, occasionally even cursing while she languished in her uncertainty and grief.

***

A soft hum of discontent left his throat subconsciously, his various chains, rings and bangles jingling and clanging as he rubbed his hands together in repetitive motions while he paced through the room. He had never seen her so shaken, never known her to be so done in by such visceral emotion before. He was used to seeing her flash a bright, comely grin, or seeing her eyes gleam with resolve. No obstacle had ever given her pause, even at the worst of times.

What had she seen to bring her to such state? It was as if he and Lucanis had ceased to exist entirely at the stalls in Treviso, her eyes in their direction, but not truly seeing them. Had she paid any attention then, she would have noticed the way Emmrichs eyes had never once left her countenance, his brows steadily furrowing in worry as the clear distress rose in her features.

He asked after her, the genuine concern for her clearly not reaching her as she initially ignored him completely, walking past him with her head and shoulders somewhat sagged, her brilliant black hairs falling in front of her face to obscure her eyes. When Lucanis and he both had pointed out her clear state of distress, she had snapped at them suddenly, leaving no further room for discussion as she immediately turned her back to them without so much as a glance.

He tried once more upon their return, yet she simply breezed past him, not so much as bothering to acknowledge his presence. In fact, even Bellara, whom Alina normally regarded with such fondness and attention, was utterly ignored. He knew better than to chase after her in that moment. After all, if she was so desperate to escape the rest of them, he would only be burdening her further, surely?

Emmrich sighed heavily, finally halting entirely to place his hands flat on his lower back, thoughtful.

That thought hadn't brought any degree of comfort in the three hours that had since passed. Bellara and Harding attempted to coax her out to supper, to no avail. They even tried having Lucanis cook a traditional Antivan dish to help her spirits. Once more, their efforts were met with the same lack of results.

"Manfred!" He called, a shout that carried no malice, but some urgency.

The sound of bones rattling and shoes squeaking on solid stone followed, the skeletal assistant hobbling in while holding a stack books.

Emmrich lifted his hand, his pointer finger outstretched, his other arm folded beneath his elbow, "Manfred, do be kind enough to mind the mortar and pestle while I tend to some business. That embrium won't grind itself."

Manfred placed the books down on a nearby desk, groaning all the while before he stretched his boney arms to give Emmrich two upturned thumbs; his way of letting Emmrich know he could be relied upon.

The necromancer couldn't help the proud smile that tugged his lips at the gesture, his chest filling with warmth. He then turned on his heel to exit the room to make his way to Alinas quarters. Perhaps she would meet him with nothing more than silence... or the opposite, but he felt he had to try. If she was deeply ailed by the contents of a simple letter, then he surmised that she could use the support - even if she didn't care to take it.

The activity in the main chamber had ceased, all the tenets currently retired to their respective quarters after supper had concluded. With a steady stride, he made his way to the staircase that led up in a spiral to where Alina would be. Each step taken up the marble stairway caused the sound of his jewelry to echo gently through and up the walls, sounding almost like a heavy purse of coins.

Emmrich stopped outside of Alinas door, listening momentarily to see if he could hear any rustling or movement. The notion that she may have fallen asleep after all the that time had not escaped him, and if she had found any rest, he hardly wished to be the reason she was kept from it. He needn't have bothered, however, as he almost immediately heard the sound her voice cursing in Antivan. He closed his eyes with a sigh. That hardly spoke well of the results he might receive. But he had resolved to try.

***

The word fell from her mouth with all the venom of a wyvern, her voice a lower register than was usual. She practically spat every time his name flashed into her thoughts, and was nearly drawn to physical reactions when his face threatened to flit behind her eyes. She thought herself above this now. After two years, how could she still be this... weak?

The sound of a knock made her head whip suddenly, her heart stopping momentarily in surprise. There was hardly any logical reason, but she felt uneased, almost unsafe. A few seconds passed in silence, with no indication of another incoming.

"Pardon the intrusion, Alina, but I was hoping I might borrow a moment of your time." The familiar voice of Emmrich came muffled through her door.

She sighed heavily, her shoulders slumping forward. 'It's just him... Of course, it's just him...' She thought to herself inwardly.

"It's not a good time." Alina said curtly, voice barely raised and tinted with a colorful spite, though not directed at Emmrich.

The sound of the necromancer clearing his throat was almost inaudible behind the door. "I had assumed you might say as much, but I'm afraid it is for exactly that reason that I must insist we speak."

Alina said nothing in response, instead standing in place with the obstinance of a child too petulant to admit defeat at an imagined foe. Once more, silence enveloped the two, neither one speaking for a time, one too stubborn to yield, and the other attempting to afford the understanding he knew was needed.

Finally, a sigh, heavy enough to be heard distinctly even through the door, made its way passed Emmrichs lips.

"Alina, it isn't my wish to harangue you, but I must urge you to reconsider speaking with someone. It needn't even be me, if you prefer, but you haven't been yourself ever since you read the contents of that letter..."

A pause came then, Emmrichs voice faltering as he pondered his next words, leaving Alina to stare expectantly at the shadow he cast beneath her door.

"You are a strong, thoughtful and capable woman. But I fear that leads you to believe that you must bear each burden in solitude. Frankly... I worry for you."

The words hung in the air between them, the sound of them ringing in Alinas head like the bells heard in the Grand Cathedral of Orlais. He sounded so genuine, so sincere. The tone of his voice was that of a man who hoped not to probe or prod, but to help. Not the 'help' so called friends who were more akin to vipers that thrived on the secret ways a thing might plague a soul with doubt or fear like those found in the Crows, but true, unselfish help.

Moments went by without words for the third time then, and the absence of her voice must have lingered too long, as she heard Emmrich sigh, the sound almost defeated.

"I apologize if I have overstepped, that is the furthest from my intention. If you should ever decide it is needed, know that my help is always open to you."

She closed the sparse distance between herself and the door as she heard him turn on his heel, gripping the knob perhaps too roughly before turning it slowly in contrast. She stood there now, her door only partially opened as she hanged her head, not meeting Emmrichs gaze, which had been cast towards her upon his realization that her door had been swung ajar.

When her eyes finally dared a glance at his face, she saw the tender smile adorning his features; a look that spoke of understanding. She snapped her gaze to the floor again, stepping to the side in silent invitation. He nodded, a useless exercise in propriety, as Alina had already spun around to go deeper into her chambers, before crossing the threshold, closing the door carefully behind him.

Upon his entry, he noted the relative state of tidiness about the room, save for the sole pile of clothes bunched up into the corner - the discarded armor from earlier that day - and the disarray of the bedsheets, which looked to have been tousled from above.

This had been his first time setting foot in her room. Her scent clung to the air here. Not overpowering, just distinct in its presence. Hints of lavender and cinnamon bark wafted through the chamber, pleasant and welcome. He noted then the letter sitting on a desk in a far corner of the room, left there like a relic of superstition that one would be too fearful to touch.

"I'm not entirely sure what you're hoping to hear me say." Alina announced, bringing Emmrich back from his thoughts.

He brought each of his fingertips to rest against one another on either hand, holding them in a pyramid shape hanged just above the sash at his waist, his face neutral.

"What it is that has you so stricken would be a fine place to start, I should think."

"That isn't what I meant. It's..." she paused, folding one arm beneath her elbow to prop the other up, her fingers taking a large strand of her ebony black hair between them to twist and curl it between them - a quirk she often displayed as a manner of self soothing, "...I don't know what saying it would change. The reality remains the same, regardless."

"Not necessarily. There are times when voicing ones feelings can be greatly liberating, or even at times revolutionary."

"You say that as though I should already know it."

"If you were not already aware, perhaps you might consider this something of a learning experience?"

Alina looked up to Emmrich, her green eyes searching for something telling. He merely gave her that familiar, understanding smile.

"I can see this is difficult for you, Alina, and I can assure you that you are safe to express whatever it is weighing on your heart."

She continued to pinch and twirl her hair between her slender, pale fingers, looking away from the necromancer before turning her back to him.

"It... would be easier if you simply read the note." She breathed out, her words catching slightly in her throat as if obstructed.

He stood, simply looking at her for a time as if ensuring all was safe for him to proceed. After only a moment, the jingling of his jewelry bounced delicately off the walls as he began to move, Emmrich stopping right as he stood perfectly before the desk in the corner. He reached out, taking it carefully from its perch. His long digits took deliberate care not to damage the page.

His eyes rolled over each word with consideration, taking in their meaning attentively. His brows knitted together, concern and confusion melding into one. When he had finished reading, he cast his gaze to rest on Alinas back, which was still facing him.

"Alina, I'm not sure I understand... This man, Aurelio... He wishes to see you?" Emmrich asked.

"Yes."

"But something happened between you? Something to earn him your resentment?"

"Yes."

"And what is it about this that is troubling you so?" He inquired, finally setting the letter aside, "If you're conflicted-"

"I'm not." Alina interjected swiftly, all but spitting out the words. "I never want to lay eyes on him for as long as I live."

"Yet you remain perturbed nonetheless. Clearly, the matter is not so easily settled."

"You don't understand!" Her voice raised now in what sounded too close to panic for her liking.

"I am trying to." Emmrich replied, his words low and calm, brimming with a patience she thought of as almost foreign.

"Emmrich, he..." she paused, the twirling motions of her fingers becoming increasingly rough and quick, which gained the necromancers notice, "This man... He betrayed me."

Emmrich chanced a small step towards her, his hands interlocking as his attention returned to the obscured part of Alinas face that was visible to him, the elf shifting awkwardly in her place.

"How so?" He questioned delicately, sensitively, his voice barely above a whisper.

"We had - we were engaged to marry, you see. We were lovers for many years, and friends for many more. But..." she stopped, her hand all but yanking at the strands of her hair now, "He had been unfaithful. I don't know for how long and I don't care. He lured me out to where he and his mistress could kill me - dispose of me so I would no longer be an obstacle."

She twisted her torso slightly, not facing him fully, but granting him view enough of her frame to make out the way the hand not tugging at her raven locks ghosted up her collarbone to touch the edge of her choker necklace, which would look more akin to a thick collar if not for the fine lace and adornments lined with gold patterns.

"He watched as his lover slit my throat and left me to die. He planned it..." her words were choked, her voice raising in pitch, "I trusted him with my life; I would have given it to him, and he still tried to take it from me."

She met his gaze now, her eyes boring into his with renewed fire, even as the edges brimmed with moisture. "You want me to tell you how I feel? I feel angry. I feel foolish for ever having trusted that bastard. I feel as if I've had something stolen, while he has the gall to plead to meet with me! How can someone do that?! How does... How can..."

As Alina drawled off, her words fading into dead air as her fingers sat motionless and dug mindlessly into her black tresses, Emmrich regarded her with a tender expression.

"I see. It isn't the man, but what was taken from you that you mourn." His words came out as if he was more musing to himself as opposed to speaking directly to Alina.

Alina jumped slightly as she felt the sudden press of hands gently cupping her shoulders, her eyes blowing wide as the man turned her slowly to face him.

"My dear girl," he started in a tone that was kind yet firm, his larger hand reaching out to pry her smaller one that was tangled in her now frazzled hair, holding it gingerly, "perhaps the words mean too little and come far too late, but I deeply sorry for what was done to you."

Emmrich released her hand and shoulder slowly, her green, verdant eyes caught in his brown gaze that seemed to brim with benevolence and sympathy.

"What you suffered was vicious and utterly horrific. You deserve far better than the abject cruelty that you faced."

Her breath caught as Emmrich moved then to tuck the strand of hair she had defaced behind her ear, his fingers light and slow, his touch ghosting a long, thoughtful trail along the rim of her pointed ear.

Then, his features melted into pure compassion. In that moment, she nearly felt compelled to sob openly. Years had gone by without ever hearing so much as a word of comfort, even from those she may have counted amongst her friends. Yet, here was Emmrich; towering above her, ready to reassure and offer solace with open arms.

She touched the place where his fingers had been, lowering her face so he could longer stare at her, hiding how her eyes welled with tears.

"It's late. I should get some sleep. You should too." She spoke quietly, fearing the way she might sound if she raised her voice.

"I believe you should, yes." Emmrich dipped his head, the expression he wore a knowing one. He understood what she needed.

He made his way to the entrance of her room, grabbing the knob gently. "Goodnight, Alina."

"Goodnight." She replied in a whisper he could only barely register.

Her eyes never left the floor, but as she heard the door creak shut at last, she stood there motionless for what felt like an eternity. His footsteps followed, the sound slight until they faded entirely. She stared at the place where he had stood earlier now, the edge of her mouth drawn up subconsciously.

"Thank you."

[therookandthecrow]

Aloisius is going to definitely develop a voice kink after he hears Lucanis speak for the first time. Of course, his mind being perennially in the gutter - he's going to want to find out how Lucanis' moans sound. He'd never been smitten with anyone else before. As silly as it sounds, Lucanis is his first, legitimate crush.

On a serious note, and professionally, he'd have a hard time keeping himself cool and composed around Lucanis. He's so used to wearing a stoic mask of aloofness and haughtiness. He'd never truly smiled at anyone until he'd smiled at Lucanis.

With most other people, his smile scarcely reaches his eyes, and it has a sardonic, mocking element. Aloisius is used to looking at others from a vantage of superiority and cynicism. He's held others at an arm's length for so long, and purposefully.

I don't know enough about Lucanis' personality to ascertain how he'd react to my Rook's intense attention given to him. Aloisius' stare has been described as soul-piercing and as unnerving in the past. In fact, so much that many people have turned away from looking directly at him, because it's as if he has x-rays for eyes.

The softness in his eyes is palpable, not just when he looks at Lucanis, but to his other companions such as Bellara, Davrin, Varric and the few other people he lets close to him such as the detective, Neve. I actually think that both he and Lucanis will both sleep peacefully in one another's arms.

Before Lucanis stole his heart, he'd never have considered letting anyone else sleep near him. When he sleeps next to Lucanis for the first time, he realizes how cold his bed had been before and how empty it had been - even when he has to convince Lucanis to share his bed instead of sleeping on that cot.

When he pulls Lucanis close to him for the first time in their shared bed, even he surprises himself. I can see him staying up later than he normally would, looking at him with awe, with love and with protectiveness. He wants for him to feel as safe as he does in his arms wherever he goes, and he'd do anything to make that happen for him.

[thekrazykeke]

Title: Lay Me Down (Gently)

Pairing(s): Rook x Davrin. Solas x Female Lavellan (background).

Rating: T+

Warning(s): Light flirting, overthinking. Diet light voyeur tendencies. City elf Rook, Shadow Dragon Rook. Vague spoilers for Inquisition. Slice of life content, maybe?

So I wrote this flash fic before watching the twenty-minute gameplay trailer today. At the time, I was only getting little spoilers on Tiktok and even then, I avoided it because I wanted to go into the game fresh next month. I made that mistake with BG3 and I didn't wanna do that with this game too. That being said, I have a backstory/headcanon for Rook that will be adapted when it goes live. I just couldn't contain myself over Davrin anymore and had to write something. Davrin's behavior is my hc'd idea of how he'd be romanced. IT IS NOT CANON SO DON'T @ ME.

If you enjoy this, please like, reblog, and comment! ~

The Inquisitor has a white chrysanthemum in her long, black loc’d hair. 

Watching surreptitiously as they are from the window, Felasalin can begrudgingly admit that duo must have made a striking couple back in the day.

Solas with his pale skin, high cheekbones that could cut glass, bald head, full pink lips, grey-blue eyes, while radiating danger and power is definitely the stuff of any human’s sordid fantasy. 

Contrastingly, the Inquisitor, (“Call me Atisha, please,”) is just as good looking, if not more so. According to both Bellara and Davrin, she bore Mythal’s vallaslin, something not many Dalish elves did. The golden marks under her dark brown eyes resembled roots and curved up each cheek like wings, complimenting her deep brown skin. 

If Solas radiated power and danger, Atisha personified quiet strength and an indomitable spirit.

“You’re spying on them again,” Davrin’s low baritone caressed the shell of Rook’s left ear. His strong arms easily wrap around their middle and he dodges her flailing limbs. 

“Easy… easy, Lili,” He teased. “We need to work on your awareness, again, clearly.” The groan this joke earned is expected but no less heartwarming. 

“Don’t call me that,” Nose scrunching up in exaggerated disgust; leaning back against his chest, sinking into him almost, Felasalin huffed out a laugh. “…wasn’t spying,” The words are grumbled and halfhearted. Glancing down, Felasalin realized that their fingers were clutching at Davrin’s forearm and released him belatedly, a word of apology on their tongue but Davrin simply intertwined their fingers together.

A simple but intimate gesture.

Stupidly, the thought that the two of them look good together teased her brain. 

His skin is a deeper shade of brown than hers. Slightly scarred from adventures new and old. His hands were rough and calloused, but comforting. 

“Mmhm, you were definitely spying,” Davrin chuckled, squeezing her around the middle as he spun them away from the window gracefully. Then he let go and took a step back. An action which made Felasalin keenly aware of his distance, small as it is. “Do you want me to guess-?” 

Hands going behind their back to stop the instinct to clutch him close, they rocked backwards on their heels, head tilted to the side. 

“…I just don’t get it,” Davrin hummed, encouraging her to continue. “There are rumors about the Inquisitor and the Dreadwolf but I mean…” Unwillingly, her gaze went back to the older elven woman. Catching sight of Solas’ expression, how such a larger than life figure could manage to look equally devoted and pining while looking at towards another person is…humbling. Confusing.

“I thought it was a lie.”

“…Well, we should probably let them work it out in peace,” Davrin commented, tone both apologetic and teasing again. Gently, he tugged at the sharp point of her ear, finger grazing on down from cheek to neck feather light.

Embarrassingly, a soft moan escaped their lips. Davrin chuckled softly and just moments later felt his lips lightly brush the corner of her mouth. Not quite a full kiss and on autopilot Felasalin chased after him, whining as he pulled back teasingly. “And you can tell me, while you’re in my bed, exactly what label we’ll be using for us…” 

As Davrin crooked his finger, beckoning them forward, Felasalin didn’t hesitate to follow.

[dreadfutures]

okay okay so making wild guesses about themes and stories based on the GLIMPSES I've seen but we'll see ofc, most of these are just the most bare bones of characters because I don't like planning out exactly who the rooks are before I know them (exception: halide and Ter but I think they work lol) and we also don't really know the companions yet REALLY but anyway

1st: self insert bodyguard warrior widow dwarf crow x neve (inq ixchel high approval Solas) - two women with very guarded hearts but softies underneath?

other ideas:

- halide human mourn watch mage x davrin (inq Salina Lavellan romance/redeem Solas took the well) - The Attitude Squad

- shadow dragon elf warrior x Lace Harding (also Salina Lavellan) - living up to a legacy/becoming your own person story?

- terinelan veil jumper mage x lucanis? maybe? (also inq Ixchel high approval Solas) - a story of vengeance and expectations?

- older qunari warden rogue x Emmrich - a story of death and old man yaoi (in honor of Ramesh lmao) (Solavellan inq but swore to stop him)

- human Lord of Fortune x Bellara - deciding what "value"/"treasure"/"glory"/"history"/"identity" means? (Solavellan removed vallaslin took the well redeem Solas)

- shadow dragon x taash - we'll see what their whole deal is ig

[spiritgamer26]

[CP] Date de sortie mondiale de Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Dragon Age™: The Veilguard

Electronic Arts Inc. et BioWare sont fiers d’annoncer la sortie mondiale de Dragon Age™: The Veilguard le 31 octobre 2024 sur PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S et PC Steam (compatible Steam Deck), EA app et Epic Games Store. De plus, il est désormais possible de précommander les éditions Standard et Deluxe afin d’obtenir des éléments cosmétiques exclusifs.La bande-annonce de la date de sortie de Dragon Age™: The Veilguard est disponible ci-dessous :https://youtu.be/O0_veDZJoX0Dans Dragon Age™: The Veilguard, les joueurs incarnent Rook, un nouveau protagoniste entièrement personnalisable qui devra se mettre en avant, unir son équipe et devenir la figure héroïque dont a besoin Thédas, dans un moment où naissent et meurent les légendes. Rejoignez Rook dans son combat contre des dieux elfiques corrompus, aux côtés de sept compagnons extraordinaires, issus de chaque faction emblématique de l'univers Dragon Age. Outre leur histoire et leurs motivations personnelles, Bellara, Davrin, Emmrich, Harding, Lucanis, Neve et Taash disposent de capacités et d'équipements uniques, que Rook devra utiliser stratégiquement dans son combat pour la survie de Thédas. Je travaille sur Dragon Age depuis plus de 15 ans et je sais à quel point notre communauté attend ce moment. Je suis très heureux de vous annoncer que la sortie officielle de Dragon Age™: The Veilguard aura lieu le 31 octobre. Nous voulions vous donner la possibilité d’être qui vous voulez, dans un monde plein d’aventures et de dangers. Que vous soyez Guerrier, Voleur ou Mage, nous avons hâte que vous vous équipiez, que vous ralliez votre groupe et que vous partiez pour une nouvelle aventure palpitante à travers Thédas, à l’occasion d’Halloween. John Epler, Directeur Créatif de Dragon Age™: The Veilguard. RPG centré sur les personnages, Dragon Age™: The Veilguard propose une expérience élaborée à partir de riches fils narratifs et du monde de fantasy qui a fait la renommée de la franchise. Dans cette aventure héroïque et audacieuse, les joueurs pourront découvrir des histoires épiques et dynamiques abordant l'amour, le deuil ou les choix complexes qui affectent les relations et le destin de chaque membre de la Garde du Voile. Comme il est d'usage dans Dragon Age, ces liens d'amitié sont au cœur du périple de Rook, et le déroulement de l'histoire est intimement lié aux choix de la personne qui tient la manette.Les précommandes de l'Édition Standard de Dragon Age™: The Veilguard au prix de 79,99€ sur PlayStation®5 et Xbox Series X|S, ou de 59,99€ sur PC permettent d'obtenir une armure cosmétique de dragon de sang pour les classes de Guerrier, de Mage et de Voleur. Les précommandes de l'Édition Deluxe pour 99,99€ sur console ou 79,99€ sur PC permettent d'obtenir en plus les éléments cosmétiques suivants : trois ensembles d'armure pour Rook, six apparences d'armes pour Rook, sept styles d'ensembles d'armure de compagnon et sept styles d'armes de compagnon. Les membres EA Play Pro† d'EA app bénéficieront d'un accès illimité à l'Édition EA Play Pro à partir du 31 octobre.De plus, la boutique de BioWare a été réapprovisionnée avec de nombreux nouveaux produits dérivés, dont le coffre de Rook. Disponible au prix de 138,58€, le coffre de Rook contient de nombreux goodies uniques, dont une dague en lyrium qui s’illumine, le deck de Rook avec des illustrations du jeu et bien d'autres trésors (jeu non inclus).Pour plus d'informations et pour en savoir plus sur Dragon Age™: The Veilguard, rendez-vous sur le site officiel, suivez la franchise sur Facebook, Discord, TikTok, Tumblr, Instagram et X et abonnez-vous à sa chaîne Read the full article

[firstknightvulion]

I still think Bellara is gonna be the clueless romantic partner.

Rook: I wanna ask Bellara out but I’ve got no rizz.

Varric: First, never say that again. Second, do the two ticket trick.

Rook: Eh?

Varric: Buy two tickets to a show. Say you need someone to go with you or the second will go to waste.

Rook: That’s good!

Sometime later…

Rook: *slides up to Bellara* Hey, I got two tickets to a show in Minranthos.

Bellara: Oh wow! Must be a great show if you’re gonna see it twice. *smiles innocently*

Varric: *wheezing from behind a curtain*

[felassan]

RPGsite did an interview with Corinne Busche and Bellara is confirmed to be a mage????? SO EXCITED

hello! ◕‿◕ !! cool! thankyou for sending this in. :D

Text reads:

"Busche: So each follower, each companion has five core abilities. There are decisions you can make along the way that add mechanical changes to each ability. Now, going back to your question - Neve and Bellara are both Mages, so they share two core Mage abilities between each other, right? However, the other three are class or character-unique. Neve is an ice mage, Bellara is not - so Neve is going to have ice-specific abilities that are unique to her."

Other notes from this interview, which is titled "Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s director talks RPG systems, skill trees, and being inspired by Final Fantasy XII"

"After seeing the hands-off demo, we got a chance to briefly chat with Dragon Age: The Veilguard director Corinne Busche - who right away gushes about being a real RPG system nerd"

Progression is very deep

Where Mass Effect is an ARPG which big action and 'minor RPG', DA:TV is almost the total opposite of that

The skill tree is unlocked a few missions in

Every level up you get skill points

The skill tree is huge and bespoke to Rook's class

The skill tree is almost like a gigantic spider-web visually.

(Sounds like the skill tree wire-frame they shared in a blog in February 2023..)

[source]

If Rook is for example a mage, at the very center of this is the core of the "Mage kit"

This aspect of gameplay was heavily influenced by Final Fantasy X, especially FF XII. Corrine compares it to the Sphere Grid

There is ability selection, passives, traits

Each of the specs is on the outer edges of the grid. (Fel note: Referring to the three outer bubbles in the web above? :> there are 3 specs for each class)

You start at the center and work out, in the direction you want

The specs are shown in CC like the classes

In addition to the specs the web is divided into 3 sections, for example the Warrior's are a defense-oriented, weapons-oriented, ability-oriented. "So what you might do trying to get to, say, the Reaper specialization is go… Rather than going up through defense into Reaper, I’m going to go down through Ability into Reaper" (Fel note: other outlets reported the 3 specs for Warrior are Reaper, Champion, Slayer)

Skills are unique per class

Every level you get a skill point

There are other site activities to get skill points

Skill points can be refunded

Level cap is 50

You can 'enter' the spec part of the grid about mid-game

Party members all have unique skill trees, these are organized around their individual abilities

Party member skill trees are organized around their individual abilities. "So when you unlock their full suite of abilities, each one has a skill tree full of choices where you can get autonomous usage, or lower the cooldowns, or add additional effects to the ability"

Each companion has 5 core abilities. Decisions you make along the way add mechanical changes to each

As we saw in the gameplay reveal video, Neve is an ice mage

Bellara is also a mage

Neve and Bellara share 2 core Mage abilities, however the other 3 are class or character-unique i.e. Neve will have ice-specific abilities unique to her

Elements are a big factor in combat

[source]

[felassan]

"Electronic Arts Inc. and BioWare have provided a first-look at gameplay from the opening moments of the highly anticipated all-new single-player fantasy RPG experience, Dragon Age: The Veilguard. This bold, heroic adventure is built to deliver on what the series is best known for: rich storytelling, fantasy worldbuilding, companions and fellowship, and a world where you matter. In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, you’ll embark on a quest to face powerful Elven gods and stop the destruction they’re unleashing on the world. You are known as Rook, battling on the front lines alongside a compelling cast of companions with individual storylines and motivations. In true Dragon Age fashion, companions are central to the experience and as Rook, you must rise up, rally your crew and forge relationships to become the unexpected leader others believe in. Dragon Age: The Veilguard is launching worldwide to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC in Fall 2024. “We want every single moment in the expansive, story-driven experience of Dragon Age: The Veilguard to feel impactful,” said Corinne Busche, Game Director of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. “Players will journey to more regions than any other Dragon Age game, where they’ll need to level up and customize deep skill trees to take on increasingly challenging enemies. Additionally, our combat blends fluid moment-to-moment action with the deep RPG strategy the franchise is known for. We’re incredibly excited to offer players around the world a first-look at this experience that embraces BioWare’s storytelling roots of carefully crafted and immersive single-player RPGs.” In Dragon Age: The Veilguard, the Elven Trickster god of legend Solas wants to tear down the Veil that separates Thedas from the world of demons, restoring his people’s immortality and glory – even at the cost of countless lives. But his ritual goes awry, and his worst fears are realized, as two of his most ancient and powerful adversaries are released. They seek only to finish what they started millennia ago – the complete and utter domination of our world. Rook’s journey to stop these two powerful deities will span across all of Thedas to bustling cities, lush tropics, boreal forests, fettered swamps and the deepest depths, but be wary of the evil forces along the way like the Dark Spawn, Venatori Cultists and Demons of the Fade."

---

"Key Features of Dragon Age: The Veilguard Fellowship: Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s brand new companions come alive with some of the most compelling individual storylines in Dragon Age history. Expansive and dynamic stories navigate love, loss and complex choices that will affect your relationships and the fate of each member of the Veilguard. New companions like the Veil Jumper Bellara, the necromancer Emmrich, and the private detective Neve, come from iconic factions in Dragon Age lore, possessing individual skill trees and specialized gear for advanced team progression. You’ll see familiar faces, too, such as the archer Lace Harding who returns to the series as a full time companion. Choice and Consequences: Dragon Age: The Veilguard builds on the series’ deep role-playing roots, providing extraordinary storytelling and worldbuilding, deep personalities for each companion, meaningful choices and impactful cinematic moments. The bonds you create and the relationships you forge will be affected by your choices made throughout your journey.  A Crafted Experience: As a character-driven RPG, Dragon Age: The Veilguard delivers a crafted experience that pays homage to BioWare’s history of storytelling. The Lighthouse provides a central place where you can rest, learn more about the world through conversations, while the Crossroads allows you to traverse to separate explorable regions of the world with your companions. You’ll experience more of Thedas than ever before as your story unfolds across meticulously crafted biomes and beautiful regions including Rivain, Weisshaupt, Arlathan, Minrathous, the Deep Roads and more, each inviting you to delve deeper into the narrative and uncover the mysteries of the land. Fluid, Customizable Combat: Immersive combat blends fluid moment-to-moment controls with tactical decision-making. Players can fully customize their experience to fit their playstyle with diverse skill trees among three different classes - Warrior, Mage and Rogue - each with unique abilities and specializations. Choose two companions to join you on your quests and unleash powerful team combos that can change the tide of any battle. Make strategic choices and direct your allies to fight, heal or stay out of the fray with the newly-added ability wheel. Be the Leader You Want To Be: Dragon Age: The Veilguard features a robust character creation system that allows you to be the leader you want to be with a vast range of customization. BioWare has created the most comprehensive character creator in Dragon Age yet to make this story truly your own."

[source]

"his worst fears are realized, as two of his most ancient and powerful adversaries are released. They seek only to finish what they started millennia ago – the complete and utter domination of our world."

👁️

"All the world will soon share the peace and comfort of my reign" / "Glory to the Risen Gods. They've come to deliver this world." [x]

also:

lush tropics, boreal forests, fettered swamps, the Deep Roads ("the deepest depths")

more regions than ever before

Rivain, Weisshaupt, Arlathan, Minrathous, the Deep Roads and more

fight darkspawn, demons, Venatori cultists

the Lighthouse (our central hub) is a central place where we can rest and have conversations

We will travel around the world via The Crossroads and presumably the eluvians

companions have specialized gear (Fel note: more on companion skill stuff here)

and I love what they are saying here about storytelling and character-focus and everything of that kind here. :)