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Official Discussion Thread for "Meet the Character—Wormblood"

  • Syldras
    Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'd be willing to bet that, over the centuries, there was someone out there who would have wanted to marry Mannimarco

    Who would not?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    But you're right in that he likely had no interest in the wedded state (unless perhaps it was with one particular Great Mage).

    Maybe he'll marry him in an obscure daedric ritual when he's... when they're finally reunited.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I remember when I learned Shalidor's wife left him and my thought was basically: Yeah, I would have, too. But among the alliance leaders (all of them, not just the main three) I think only Emeric is married. Anyway, not an important detail.

    I think in some of these cases it's done on purpose. Writers know that people swooning over fictional characters is a thing, for some people it might even be a reason they get more invested in a game, which is of course beneficial for the creators. And it's probably easier to reach something like that if characters are single. I once read that it also happens in the movie and music business in real life, with handsome young actors or singers pretending to be single, whether it's true or not, to keep their fans more interested.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    What if he went on one of his better skin days? You know, when he was looking mostly intact?

    It's actually a bit contradictive, too, that we've been told that necromancers can restore their body easily, to a completely normal, living look, but then we see so many powerful lichs who look very rotten.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    But with Vanny working as tour guide and Mannimarco picking up that traveling carnival gig, surely they can scrape together enough funds for a bed. Or, failing that, a futon.

    While Mannimarco might not have owned a bed in Daggerfall, he could for sure hire a lot of dancers. Or do cultists dance for free for their evil overlord?

    Hm, or maybe he just prefered a sarcophagus over a bed; I don't know, maybe he had bedding in it, then it could be cozy in a way, I guess.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I have wondered if Tharn died at the end of Dragonhold or not. I liked him best out of the five companions, and his return in Elsweyr was well done. I wouldn't mind seeing him again if it made sense.

    I assumed he didn't die, but now it's so many years and we have never seen him again, so I'm not sure about that anymore. Of course I wouldn't mind his return either. In his case, it would even be more plausible than with Lyris or anyone else we might have sacrificed in the main story, because we didn't actually see him die. Who knows, maybe he was able to vanish through a portal?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Who else has died and not come back? I'm honestly not remembering.

    When it comes to more important story characters, either Shazah or Khali in the base game, also King Laloriaran in the main quest, Leythen, Veya and Iachesis in Summerset, and at some point I stopped caring because characters weren't really interesting enough to actually develop some emotional stance towards them, sadly. Or they were just resurrected, like the whole city of Markarth. That was somehow the point when everyone suddenly came back after death. I can't even remember who it all was, except for Gadayn from Necrom, but I remember there were more. I was honestly surprised that in the latest prologue, somebody actually died (although we don't know how this whole story will end, of course; maybe miraculously everybody will be back again at the end of Part 2 - I'm not sure what to deem probable at this point).
    metheglyn wrote: »
    The other day, the hero's return screen popped up for me on my main character. I don't know how or why, but I couldn't interact with it at all. I ended up re-logging, I believe. Or maybe all I could do was dismiss it. The point being: that is likely the closest I will ever get to experiencing the hero's return.

    I think that it's truly a pity if one can't access some game content because of being a regular player. Because I know for sure that I'll never leave this game for a time long enough (probably) for this to pop up - or if I ever leave for a long time, I'll probably never return, because I decided this is not for me anymore. But right now, I intend to stay. I also posted my suggestion to make this content available through some menu (we can already pick up chapter starting quests and prologues through the menu, after all) in another thread.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm imaging Wormblood not checking the sarcophagus and trying the resurrection spell with just an empty box.

    But at some point, he must notice.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    More than that I won't say, since I completed the main quest this morning.

    Considering how short it seems to be (I mean, I finished 3 of 5 parts in just one day, not in a long time even), I guess I'll also see the end later today. I'm curious! But at the same time, it's sad of course that it's so extremely short, isn't it?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I guess the comparison between a basement cell and Coldharbour depends on what goes on in that cell.

    He'll get a bed at least.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    And don't let the Bosmer snack on Mannimarco corpse--that can't be good for him.

    Yes, I'd be careful with that, don't want to harm the precious Bosmer.

    But actually, it would be an interesting experiment. We might let someone else try a bit of the corpse, to see what happens (Might the individual absorb some kind of arcane energy in the process?)... and then we could just let that part regrow, right? That should work, if necromancers can restore every corpse no matter its state of decay.

    Also, I now think that we were really lucky that Mannimarco is no Bosmer. Otherwise he wouldn't have just sacrificed us, but also eaten us afterwards.

    Makes me wonder whether necromancer Bosmer children get scolded for playing with their food?
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
    metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'd be willing to bet that, over the centuries, there was someone out there who would have wanted to marry Mannimarco

    Who would not?

    *raises hand* He's not my type.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    But you're right in that he likely had no interest in the wedded state (unless perhaps it was with one particular Great Mage).

    Maybe he'll marry him in an obscure daedric ritual when he's... when they're finally reunited.

    Lol, oh boy. Well! We'll see!
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I remember when I learned Shalidor's wife left him and my thought was basically: Yeah, I would have, too. But among the alliance leaders (all of them, not just the main three) I think only Emeric is married. Anyway, not an important detail.

    I think in some of these cases it's done on purpose. Writers know that people swooning over fictional characters is a thing, for some people it might even be a reason they get more invested in a game, which is of course beneficial for the creators. And it's probably easier to reach something like that if characters are single. I once read that it also happens in the movie and music business in real life, with handsome young actors or singers pretending to be single, whether it's true or not, to keep their fans more interested.

    There is that, of course. Maybe I'm an odd person out, because while I've had crushes on singers and actors before, hearing they were married or dating someone never bothered me or dimmed my interest in them, because I knew my chances with them were utterly non-existent. I was content to admire from afar.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    What if he went on one of his better skin days? You know, when he was looking mostly intact?

    It's actually a bit contradictive, too, that we've been told that necromancers can restore their body easily, to a completely normal, living look, but then we see so many powerful lichs who look very rotten.

    Maybe they can't be fussed with all the ritual work required. Didn't Walks say something like it would take a lot of power to do it, but that it was something they'd probably do for Mannimarco, considering his importance? And maybe it's not a common ability; maybe someone has to be really powerful to pull it off.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    But with Vanny working as tour guide and Mannimarco picking up that traveling carnival gig, surely they can scrape together enough funds for a bed. Or, failing that, a futon.

    While Mannimarco might not have owned a bed in Daggerfall, he could for sure hire a lot of dancers. Or do cultists dance for free for their evil overlord?

    Hm, or maybe he just prefered a sarcophagus over a bed; I don't know, maybe he had bedding in it, then it could be cozy in a way, I guess.

    Pretty sure cultists do everything for free in this game. Most we've seen mentioned of pay is that bed and hot meal offer.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I have wondered if Tharn died at the end of Dragonhold or not. I liked him best out of the five companions, and his return in Elsweyr was well done. I wouldn't mind seeing him again if it made sense.

    I assumed he didn't die, but now it's so many years and we have never seen him again, so I'm not sure about that anymore. Of course I wouldn't mind his return either. In his case, it would even be more plausible than with Lyris or anyone else we might have sacrificed in the main story, because we didn't actually see him die. Who knows, maybe he was able to vanish through a portal?

    If anyone could pull off a handy portal escape, it would be Tharn.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Who else has died and not come back? I'm honestly not remembering.

    When it comes to more important story characters, either Shazah or Khali in the base game, also King Laloriaran in the main quest, Leythen, Veya and Iachesis in Summerset, and at some point I stopped caring because characters weren't really interesting enough to actually develop some emotional stance towards them, sadly. Or they were just resurrected, like the whole city of Markarth. That was somehow the point when everyone suddenly came back after death. I can't even remember who it all was, except for Gadayn from Necrom, but I remember there were more. I was honestly surprised that in the latest prologue, somebody actually died (although we don't know how this whole story will end, of course; maybe miraculously everybody will be back again at the end of Part 2 - I'm not sure what to deem probable at this point).

    I thought Shazah/Khali didn't necessarily die, just were trapped wrestling with the Dark Mane in an enclosed tomb forevermore. I think I remember the survivor talking about searching for a way to free them or "get them back."

    But the others, yes, I had forgotten about them. Maybe because ZOS keeps bringing people back. Like Verandis, though at least his return was made somewhat plausible with the whole way they were resurrecting the Grey Host people.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    The other day, the hero's return screen popped up for me on my main character. I don't know how or why, but I couldn't interact with it at all. I ended up re-logging, I believe. Or maybe all I could do was dismiss it. The point being: that is likely the closest I will ever get to experiencing the hero's return.

    I think that it's truly a pity if one can't access some game content because of being a regular player. Because I know for sure that I'll never leave this game for a time long enough (probably) for this to pop up - or if I ever leave for a long time, I'll probably never return, because I decided this is not for me anymore. But right now, I intend to stay. I also posted my suggestion to make this content available through some menu (we can already pick up chapter starting quests and prologues through the menu, after all) in another thread.

    When it popped up, I did hope I could see what it was all about, but no such luck. I am curious what it will do for returning players and how it's structured. I do take breaks from this game from time to time, but I don't know if they would be long enough to trigger it.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    More than that I won't say, since I completed the main quest this morning.

    Considering how short it seems to be (I mean, I finished 3 of 5 parts in just one day, not in a long time even), I guess I'll also see the end later today. I'm curious! But at the same time, it's sad of course that it's so extremely short, isn't it?

    It is a bit lowering, yes. I had to remind myself it's only half the story. I will say this about the end of this first half: there were a couple of moments I did not expect.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I guess the comparison between a basement cell and Coldharbour depends on what goes on in that cell.

    He'll get a bed at least.

    With or without shackles?
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    And don't let the Bosmer snack on Mannimarco corpse--that can't be good for him.

    Yes, I'd be careful with that, don't want to harm the precious Bosmer.

    But actually, it would be an interesting experiment. We might let someone else try a bit of the corpse, to see what happens (Might the individual absorb some kind of arcane energy in the process?)... and then we could just let that part regrow, right? That should work, if necromancers can restore every corpse no matter its state of decay.

    This must be one of those important experiments you mentioned.
    Syldras wrote: »
    Also, I now think that we were really lucky that Mannimarco is no Bosmer. Otherwise he wouldn't have just sacrificed us, but also eaten us afterwards.

    Makes me wonder whether necromancer Bosmer children get scolded for playing with their food?

    Lol...I don't even know how to respond. :p
  • Syldras
    Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    *raises hand* He's not my type.

    Too evil? Too focused on his work? Too dead?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Lol, oh boy. Well! We'll see!

    I want to see a dark marriage ceremony between Mannimarco and Vanny as his necromantic thrall now.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    There is that, of course. Maybe I'm an odd person out, because while I've had crushes on singers and actors before, hearing they were married or dating someone never bothered me or dimmed my interest in them, because I knew my chances with them were utterly non-existent. I was content to admire from afar.

    I don't know, I've never cared for celebrities. But I don't care much for most movies or for pop music anyway.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Maybe they can't be fussed with all the ritual work required. Didn't Walks say something like it would take a lot of power to do it, but that it was something they'd probably do for Mannimarco, considering his importance? And maybe it's not a common ability; maybe someone has to be really powerful to pull it off.

    Couldn't they maybe body-swap instead? I mean the speculation had always been that Mannimarco could, because obviously he's a skeleton in Daggerfall, but looks alive again in Oblivion (and then there was that lore bit in Daggerfall that was speculated to be about making arrangements to get the Queen's firstborn child, probably with the purpose to use that body as the next one to swap into). Then again, of course, this theory was made since there was no lore that necromancers might just restore their own body completely (that's really never been heard of before the current main story) and there needed to be some explanation for why Mannimarco looked normal again in Oblivion.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I thought Shazah/Khali didn't necessarily die, just were trapped wrestling with the Dark Mane in an enclosed tomb forevermore. I think I remember the survivor talking about searching for a way to free them or "get them back."

    No, later in the story the one trapped gets killed. I just replayed that storyline some weeks ago. Also, the spirit of one of them appears during the Old Life quest (the one where we have to travel to a remote memorial/shrine to bring an offering or burn a letter or what it was) that returns during that December event every year.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    With or without shackles?

    Of course w... Wait, what do you think am I doing in my basement?! What kind of question is that even?! :p
    metheglyn wrote: »
    This must be one of those important experiments you mentioned.

    Yes.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Lol...I don't even know how to respond. :p

    Bosmer Mannimarco would leave me speechless, too.
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
    metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    *raises hand* He's not my type.

    Too evil? Too focused on his work? Too dead?

    Yes, yes, and yes. But mostly it's the god complex. Dudes with god complexes are so freaking dull.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Lol, oh boy. Well! We'll see!

    I want to see a dark marriage ceremony between Mannimarco and Vanny as his necromantic thrall now.

    How does a thrall make vows? Or does Mannimarco just make him nod his head in agreement to everything that gets said?
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    There is that, of course. Maybe I'm an odd person out, because while I've had crushes on singers and actors before, hearing they were married or dating someone never bothered me or dimmed my interest in them, because I knew my chances with them were utterly non-existent. I was content to admire from afar.

    I don't know, I've never cared for celebrities. But I don't care much for most movies or for pop music anyway.

    I wouldn't say I cared for them so much as I thought, "Oh, he's pretty!" I really didn't invest in them as people beyond that. I wouldn't describe the music I liked as "pop"--unless you just mean modern (at the time) music. And I like a smattering of movies, though I don't watch nearly as many as I used to.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Maybe they can't be fussed with all the ritual work required. Didn't Walks say something like it would take a lot of power to do it, but that it was something they'd probably do for Mannimarco, considering his importance? And maybe it's not a common ability; maybe someone has to be really powerful to pull it off.

    Couldn't they maybe body-swap instead? I mean the speculation had always been that Mannimarco could, because obviously he's a skeleton in Daggerfall, but looks alive again in Oblivion (and then there was that lore bit in Daggerfall that was speculated to be about making arrangements to get the Queen's firstborn child, probably with the purpose to use that body as the next one to swap into). Then again, of course, this theory was made since there was no lore that necromancers might just restore their own body completely (that's really never been heard of before the current main story) and there needed to be some explanation for why Mannimarco looked normal again in Oblivion.

    Now I do know for a fact they can body swap, but the problem there is finding a tolerable body. They might have impossible standards for what's acceptable to them.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I thought Shazah/Khali didn't necessarily die, just were trapped wrestling with the Dark Mane in an enclosed tomb forevermore. I think I remember the survivor talking about searching for a way to free them or "get them back."

    No, later in the story the one trapped gets killed. I just replayed that storyline some weeks ago. Also, the spirit of one of them appears during the Old Life quest (the one where we have to travel to a remote memorial/shrine to bring an offering or burn a letter or what it was) that returns during that December event every year.

    Ah, ok. It's been awhile since I went through that one in full. My character currently in Reaper's March isn't at that part yet. I don't remember seeing the spirit during the Old Life quest. My rng for that is so bad, I usually get the prophet, even on the character who has done all the content!
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    With or without shackles?

    Of course w... Wait, what do you think am I doing in my basement?! What kind of question is that even?! :p

    Well, based on previous things you've said: hosting various prisoners, I mean guests in various stages of comfort. That's all. I swear.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Lol...I don't even know how to respond. :p

    Bosmer Mannimarco would leave me speechless, too.

    Lol...as well he should!
  • Syldras
    Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    Yes, yes, and yes. But mostly it's the god complex. Dudes with god complexes are so freaking dull.

    Depends on why he wants to become a god. There are very good reasons to become one, from my point of view. Although it's not like most of these issues couldn't also be solved by, well, being a very powerful wizard, but still, "technically", mortal.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    How does a thrall make vows? Or does Mannimarco just make him nod his head in agreement to everything that gets said?

    Yes.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I wouldn't describe the music I liked as "pop"--unless you just mean modern (at the time) music.

    Isn't that pop in a way? The thing that's currently popular and playing on the radio?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Now I do know for a fact they can body swap, but the problem there is finding a tolerable body. They might have impossible standards for what's acceptable to them.

    I did the Corelanya Manor quest this evening and I'm glad that one dead/undead Altmer woman doesn't have to spend the rest of her life as an orc (I mean, she left now, but... if she had chosen to stay). A Telvanni wizard, on the other hand... that wouldn't be that bad of a life. But I still need mine.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Well, based on previous things you've said: hosting various prisoners, I mean guests in various stages of comfort. That's all. I swear.

    I don't find the basement to be that comfortable. That's why my guests stay there, and I prefer the chambers above ground.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Lol...as well he should!

    Since it came up in another thread: What's more horrifying, Bosmer Mannimarco or Disney Princess Mannimarco?

    Edited by Syldras on 13 June 2025 00:09
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
    metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Yes, yes, and yes. But mostly it's the god complex. Dudes with god complexes are so freaking dull.

    Depends on why he wants to become a god. There are very good reasons to become one, from my point of view. Although it's not like most of these issues couldn't also be solved by, well, being a very powerful wizard, but still, "technically", mortal.

    It's more that becoming a god is all he can think about, or talk about, or plan about. It's like, come on, man, get some other hobbies!
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I wouldn't describe the music I liked as "pop"--unless you just mean modern (at the time) music.

    Isn't that pop in a way? The thing that's currently popular and playing on the radio?

    Well, pop is also a genre of music on its own. And the music I listened to might have been popular with my crowd, but it certainly wasn't being played on the regular radio stations back then. Mostly it saw air time on select college radio shows.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Now I do know for a fact they can body swap, but the problem there is finding a tolerable body. They might have impossible standards for what's acceptable to them.

    I did the Corelanya Manor quest this evening and I'm glad that one dead/undead Altmer woman doesn't have to spend the rest of her life as an orc (I mean, she left now, but... if she had chosen to stay). A Telvanni wizard, on the other hand... that wouldn't be that bad of a life. But I still need mine.

    I liked that quest so much! Though I got the impression that her necromancer brother would have been able to restore his sister to her own body, and that the reason the other brother couldn't was because he wasn't that good at necromancy. And I never thought of you as someone who would ever be in the position to have his body taken from him by a needy lich.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Well, based on previous things you've said: hosting various prisoners, I mean guests in various stages of comfort. That's all. I swear.

    I don't find the basement to be that comfortable. That's why my guests stay there, and I prefer the chambers above ground.

    Then we're in agreement. I hope the Bosmer isn't quartered in the basement, though.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Lol...as well he should!

    Since it came up in another thread: What's more horrifying, Bosmer Mannimarco or Disney Princess Mannimarco?

    I'm going to have to say Bosmer Mannimarco. Generally speaking, a Disney Princess wouldn't engage in cannibalism. Besides, couldn't Disney Princess Mannimarco just solve his problems with one catchy song? Two, at the most?
  • Syldras
    Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    It's more that becoming a god is all he can think about, or talk about, or plan about. It's like, come on, man, get some other hobbies!

    Mannimarco also writes poetry and propaganda (and I think he has also authored several books), is penpal with several people, leads his own international cult, tortures individuals, raises dead people, has diplomatic talent, and... did I already mention what he whines about Vanny? Also who knows what other hobbies he has, he can't just sit around and do nothing all day, after all! I mean, now, that he's... dead... he might be a little more lazy than formerly, but I'm sure he'll be his old self again soon.

    All in all, I see some very appealing qualities here!
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Well, pop is also a genre of music on its own. And the music I listened to might have been popular with my crowd, but it certainly wasn't being played on the regular radio stations back then. Mostly it saw air time on select college radio shows.

    That indeed sounds less popular.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I liked that quest so much! Though I got the impression that her necromancer brother would have been able to restore his sister to her own body, and that the reason the other brother couldn't was because he wasn't that good at necromancy.

    This shows how important it is to train necromancy! Just in case.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Then we're in agreement. I hope the Bosmer isn't quartered in the basement, though.

    Of course not! Only the best for the Bosmer!
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm going to have to say Bosmer Mannimarco. Generally speaking, a Disney Princess wouldn't engage in cannibalism.

    That lowers the appeal for the Bosmer audience.

    But he'd still be a necromancer then, right? Otherwise it would be too... you know... boring.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Besides, couldn't Disney Princess Mannimarco just solve his problems with one catchy song? Two, at the most?

    Do those songs solve anything? I thought they just sing about their feelings.
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
    metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    It's more that becoming a god is all he can think about, or talk about, or plan about. It's like, come on, man, get some other hobbies!

    Mannimarco also writes poetry and propaganda (and I think he has also authored several books), is penpal with several people, leads his own international cult, tortures individuals, raises dead people, has diplomatic talent, and... did I already mention what he whines about Vanny? Also who knows what other hobbies he has, he can't just sit around and do nothing all day, after all! I mean, now, that he's... dead... he might be a little more lazy than formerly, but I'm sure he'll be his old self again soon.

    All in all, I see some very appealing qualities here!

    Ugh, pass. You can have him.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I liked that quest so much! Though I got the impression that her necromancer brother would have been able to restore his sister to her own body, and that the reason the other brother couldn't was because he wasn't that good at necromancy.

    This shows how important it is to train necromancy! Just in case.

    I got the impression the brother wasn't that talented, magically, and so couldn't really be trained.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Then we're in agreement. I hope the Bosmer isn't quartered in the basement, though.

    Of course not! Only the best for the Bosmer!

    Good to know!
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm going to have to say Bosmer Mannimarco. Generally speaking, a Disney Princess wouldn't engage in cannibalism.

    That lowers the appeal for the Bosmer audience.

    But he'd still be a necromancer then, right? Otherwise it would be too... you know... boring.

    There is no version of Mannimarco that isn't a necromancer. It's his jam.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Besides, couldn't Disney Princess Mannimarco just solve his problems with one catchy song? Two, at the most?

    Do those songs solve anything? I thought they just sing about their feelings.

    Full disclosure: I cannot remember the last time I watched a Disney princess movie. I just know they sing a lot in them. I assumed the songs did something. Actually, if it is just about their feelings, I'd like to hear Mannimarco belt out a few tunes about that subject. He'd have to work on his rhyming abilities, though.
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    Ugh, pass. You can have him.

    Ah, I see, poetry isn't en vogue anymore.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Full disclosure: I cannot remember the last time I watched a Disney princess movie. I just know they sing a lot in them. I assumed the songs did something.

    I honestly can only remember the prince's song in Snow White (from 1937). Well, actually I can't even remember the song, what it was about and what it sounded like, I just remember I found it horribly funny. Didn't he yodel?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Actually, if it is just about their feelings, I'd like to hear Mannimarco belt out a few tunes about that subject. He'd have to work on his rhyming abilities, though.

    Which percentage of songs would be about necromancy and which percentage about Vanny?

    Anyway, after I left Corelanya Manor, my evening entertainment was this:
    oyd3ge0u0air.png

    I think it was some kind of modern ballet or something. At least I've never seen anything like this on Vvardenfell before.

    Edited by Syldras on 13 June 2025 03:43
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Ugh, pass. You can have him.

    Ah, I see, poetry isn't en vogue anymore.

    I like a good rhyming couplet. But his stuff is so overwrought, I just can't.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Full disclosure: I cannot remember the last time I watched a Disney princess movie. I just know they sing a lot in them. I assumed the songs did something.

    I honestly can only remember the prince's song in Snow White (from 1937). Well, actually I can't even remember the song, what it was about and what it sounded like, I just remember I found it horribly funny. Didn't he yodel?

    I do not remember, but I would not be surprised to learn that he did.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Actually, if it is just about their feelings, I'd like to hear Mannimarco belt out a few tunes about that subject. He'd have to work on his rhyming abilities, though.

    Which percentage of songs would be about necromancy and which percentage about Vanny?

    25/75, would be my guess.
    Syldras wrote: »
    Anyway, after I left Corelanya Manor, my evening entertainment was this:
    oyd3ge0u0air.png

    I think it was some kind of modern ballet or something. At least I've never seen anything like this on Vvardenfell before.

    Ah, hard to say what is going on there. But, I see you are fully prepared to enjoy the full show!

    Edit to add: Did you see the kerfluffle going on about the Galerion costume? Apparently if you try to hide the hideous hat, you get balded. The Great Mage's revenge!
    Edited by metheglyn on 13 June 2025 04:01
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    I like a good rhyming couplet. But his stuff is so overwrought, I just can't.

    He still has a few centuries to improve his style.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    25/75, would be my guess.

    And of those 75%, how many insult Vanny? All? Who knows what he writes in private, never intending it to be read by anyone else.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Ah, hard to say what is going on there. But, I see you are fully prepared to enjoy the full show!

    I think it was a kind of... well, something like a cat trying to wrestle an Altmer to the ground, but it looked rather bizarre, more like a repetative series of motions, not actually pinning the Altmer down. So I assume it wasn't some kind of sport, but more akin to a... well, a dance, or eurhythmics, or some kind of performance art.

    And yes, I've read about the problem with Vanny's costume. I feel a little sorry for the people who bought it without preview, but on the other hand, it is a little amusing. But also sad of course, because it's not the first time such a problem comes up, and sometimes people wait a long time for a fix.

    Edited by Syldras on 13 June 2025 05:07
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I like a good rhyming couplet. But his stuff is so overwrought, I just can't.

    He still has a few centuries to improve his style.

    Well, he better work hard at it!
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    25/75, would be my guess.

    And of those 75%, how many insult Vanny? All? Who knows what he writes in private, never intending it to be read by anyone else.

    I would say the portion dedicated to Vanny is probably an equal split between bashing and longing.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Ah, hard to say what is going on there. But, I see you are fully prepared to enjoy the full show!

    I think it was a kind of... well, something like a cat trying to wrestle an Altmer to the ground, but it looked rather bizarre, more like a repetative series of motions, not actually pinning the Altmer down. So I assume it wasn't some kind of sport, but more akin to a... well, a dance, or eurhythmics, or some kind of performance art.

    Where was this, out of curiosity?
    Syldras wrote: »
    And yes, I've read about the problem with Vanny's costume. I feel a little sorry for the people who bought it without preview, but on the other hand, it is a little amusing. But also sad of course, because it's not the first time such a problem comes up, and sometimes people wait a long time for a fix.

    Oh, it's definitely unacceptable that a paid item has such a glaring flaw. ZOS absolutely should fix it, and fast. But I also look for the humor in things like this, and something about it struck me as a bit funny. I don't think Vanny would be above playing a trick on people who wanted to play Great Mage dress-up.
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    I would say the portion dedicated to Vanny is probably an equal split between bashing and longing.

    I'd honestly like to see more of Mannimarco's poetry. Just because I expect it to be amusing.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Where was this, out of curiosity?

    Not sure why I'm putting it in spoiler tags, but
    that's just a silly screenshot from the first fight between Razum-dar and Wormblood, in that Argonian ruin. The end when he tells you to destroy the pillars so the room collapses - fast, of course - and he'll pin Wormblood down meanwhile. It looked rather funny.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    But I also look for the humor in things like this, and something about it struck me as a bit funny. I don't think Vanny would be above playing a trick on people who wanted to play Great Mage dress-up.

    But isn't it evil to let people's hair disappear? I mean, of course, a Telvanni wizard would probably do something worse, but still - I'd assume most people are rather fussy about their hair.
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I would say the portion dedicated to Vanny is probably an equal split between bashing and longing.

    I'd honestly like to see more of Mannimarco's poetry. Just because I expect it to be amusing.

    I agree. He should self-publish his collected works.

    Edit to add: I reread his seminal work, "A World of Corpses" and the first line is: "I ask you, who suffers more than I?" Who wouldn't want to read the poetry of someone who starts an instructional manual like that?
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Where was this, out of curiosity?

    Not sure why I'm putting it in spoiler tags, but
    that's just a silly screenshot from the first fight between Razum-dar and Wormblood, in that Argonian ruin. The end when he tells you to destroy the pillars so the room collapses - fast, of course - and he'll pin Wormblood down meanwhile. It looked rather funny.

    Ah, yes! Ha, I like that you stopped to take tourist photos in that moment. I made for the exit quick-time. I don't know why I do that--I know there's no chance I won't get out alive and so there's no real need to hurry.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    But I also look for the humor in things like this, and something about it struck me as a bit funny. I don't think Vanny would be above playing a trick on people who wanted to play Great Mage dress-up.

    But isn't it evil to let people's hair disappear? I mean, of course, a Telvanni wizard would probably do something worse, but still - I'd assume most people are rather fussy about their hair.

    One wizard's evil is another wizard's justice.
    Edited by metheglyn on 13 June 2025 16:53
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    I agree. He should self-publish his collected works.

    If Part 2 of the current story wasn't probably more or less finished by now - at least the writing for it, I assume - , I would totally suggest that as a series of lorebooks with several volumes, for the East of Solstice.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Edit to add: I reread his seminal work, "A World of Corpses" and the first line is: "I ask you, who suffers more than I?" Who wouldn't want to read the poetry of someone who starts an instructional manual like that?

    I want to know more about his tragic fate and suffering! It's probably more dramatic than the nonsense I wrote in mid-puberty.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Ah, yes! Ha, I like that you stopped to take tourist photos in that moment. I made for the exit quick-time. I don't know why I do that--I know there's no chance I won't get out alive and so there's no real need to hurry.

    I just found the animation to look horribly funny. They probably didn't expect people to look at it from up close or for more than a second anyway. As for my character's emote: I have an add-on that automatically plays emotes when idle. Let's say I see my Dunmer drink wine quite often (sometimes he also takes notes, reads something, or juggles a flame out of boredom, but most often I see him drinking).

    Edited by Syldras on 13 June 2025 22:29
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Edit to add: I reread his seminal work, "A World of Corpses" and the first line is: "I ask you, who suffers more than I?" Who wouldn't want to read the poetry of someone who starts an instructional manual like that?

    I want to know more about his tragic fate and suffering! It's probably more dramatic than the nonsense I wrote in mid-puberty.

    No doubt, only he probably doesn't consider it dramatic. He probably thinks it a statement of simple fact.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Ah, yes! Ha, I like that you stopped to take tourist photos in that moment. I made for the exit quick-time. I don't know why I do that--I know there's no chance I won't get out alive and so there's no real need to hurry.

    I just found the animation to look horribly funny. They probably didn't expect people to look at it from up close or for more than a second anyway. As for my character's emote: I have an add-on that automatically plays emotes when idle. Let's say I see my Dunmer drink wine quite often (sometimes he also takes notes, reads something, or juggles a flame out of boredom, but most often I see him drinking).

    Well, one has to get through life on Tamriel somehow!
  • Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    No doubt, only he probably doesn't consider it dramatic. He probably thinks it a statement of simple fact.

    He's probably just a dramatic person (which can fun). Not like The Great Mage was any less dramatic. I truly think it's a pity that many players might probably not care much if Vanny dies in ESO at some point, not knowing much about his backstory. Makes me wonder, by the way, how he might have felt, knowing that Mannimarco is dead... or his soul eternally being tortured in Coldharbour.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Well, one has to get through life on Tamriel somehow!

    Some drink wine, some gamble, some listen to a wall made of wailing souls of human sacrifices every day,...
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    No doubt, only he probably doesn't consider it dramatic. He probably thinks it a statement of simple fact.

    He's probably just a dramatic person (which can fun). Not like The Great Mage was any less dramatic. I truly think it's a pity that many players might probably not care much if Vanny dies in ESO at some point, not knowing much about his backstory. Makes me wonder, by the way, how he might have felt, knowing that Mannimarco is dead... or his soul eternally being tortured in Coldharbour.

    They both are quite dramatic. In the prologue when you're looking for clues with Vanny, and get into combat, he dramatically proclaims, "Let my great magic aid you!" (or something very similar). Every time. He does not let an opportunity to go by to announce he's helping you and how great he is at it. I got a good chuckle out of it.

    I don't recall Vanny in Coldharbour ever saying anything about Mannimarco. Yet surely he must have had some thoughts. Even if, at that point, he hated Mannimarco, he must have some reaction to knowing he was, at that point, dead.

    The questions I would ask the Great Mage if only I could! I guess I could try asking Mannimarco some, too, but I've read his book; I know how he feels about questions.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Well, one has to get through life on Tamriel somehow!

    Some drink wine, some gamble, some listen to a wall made of wailing souls of human sacrifices every day,...

    Some do all three.... :p

    I have gone up to the wall a few times to listen and look. It's eerie, that's for sure.
  • Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    They both are quite dramatic. In the prologue when you're looking for clues with Vanny, and get into combat, he dramatically proclaims, "Let my great magic aid you!" (or something very similar). Every time. He does not let an opportunity to go by to announce he's helping you and how great he is at it. I got a good chuckle out of it.

    "The Great Mage does not fall easily!"

    But I have to admit I find it quite impressive how even in such a situation he still shows care about his wording.

    Also, their dramatic tendencies might have been the thing that attracted Mannimarco and Vanny to each other. I'm even quite sure about that. Or maybe everyone else on Artaeum was just too annoyed by all the drama :D
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't recall Vanny in Coldharbour ever saying anything about Mannimarco. Yet surely he must have had some thoughts. Even if, at that point, he hated Mannimarco, he must have some reaction to knowing he was, at that point, dead.

    For sure he didn't seem happy either. Then again, he never seems to be happy.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    The questions I would ask the Great Mage if only I could! I guess I could try asking Mannimarco some, too, but I've read his book; I know how he feels about questions.

    He's annoyed by stupid questions, and indeed asking where to find a corpse, in Tamriel of all places, is a rather idiotic thing to do.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Some do all three....

    But wine and gambling are evil! Not sure what the Dibella cultists think about listening to screaming souls. Maybe it's okay? Seeing beautiful art in everything, etc?
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I have gone up to the wall a few times to listen and look. It's eerie, that's for sure.

    Those souls in the stream - yes. But the sound is still awesome :p

    Edited by Syldras on 13 June 2025 23:34
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    They both are quite dramatic. In the prologue when you're looking for clues with Vanny, and get into combat, he dramatically proclaims, "Let my great magic aid you!" (or something very similar). Every time. He does not let an opportunity to go by to announce he's helping you and how great he is at it. I got a good chuckle out of it.

    "The Great Mage does not fall easily!"

    But I have to admit I find it quite impressive how even in such a situation he still shows care about his wording.

    Also, their dramatic tendencies might have been the thing that attracted Mannimarco and Vanny to each other. I'm even quite sure about that. Or maybe everyone else on Artaeum was just too annoyed by all the drama :D

    Especially since Psijics are meant to be calm and collected watchers.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't recall Vanny in Coldharbour ever saying anything about Mannimarco. Yet surely he must have had some thoughts. Even if, at that point, he hated Mannimarco, he must have some reaction to knowing he was, at that point, dead.

    For sure he didn't seem happy either. Then again, he never seems to be happy.

    I find that heartbreaking, really, the idea that nothing in Nirn makes him happy.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    The questions I would ask the Great Mage if only I could! I guess I could try asking Mannimarco some, too, but I've read his book; I know how he feels about questions.

    He's annoyed by stupid questions, and indeed asking where to find a corpse, in Tamriel of all places, is a rather idiotic thing to do.

    He has a point about that, but since I can't be sure what he'd consider a stupid question, I'm not going to risk my soul on the chance.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Some do all three....

    But wine and gambling are evil! Not sure what the Dibella cultists think about listening to screaming souls. Maybe it's okay? Seeing beautiful art in everything, etc?

    I can't be fussed to care what the Dibellans think of anything. If I ever come across a Dibella cultist in the wild again, I'm going to keep walking.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I have gone up to the wall a few times to listen and look. It's eerie, that's for sure.

    Those souls in the stream - yes. But the sound is still awesome :p

    I don't find it soothing like you do, but it is mesmerizing. I'm still trying to figure out if I can hear any words in there.
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    I find that heartbreaking, really, the idea that nothing in Nirn makes him happy.

    Maybe he should just join Mannimarco; might give him new purpose. Also, he could spend most of his day writing sad poems there, no one would be bothered. If he can sing, he might even become a Worm Cult Death Singer, like the ones we saw - although they, strangely, didn't sing.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    He has a point about that, but since I can't be sure what he'd consider a stupid question, I'm not going to risk my soul on the chance.

    Then just leave your soul at home. Or sell it to someone else first.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I can't be fussed to care what the Dibellans think of anything. If I ever come across a Dibella cultist in the wild again, I'm going to keep walking.

    As long as we don't get more dialogue options to tell them our opinion about them, that's a wise decision.

    Wasn't it strange, by the way, that the "flirt" options were limited to just one character? And the insulting ones were all about Vanny.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't find it soothing like you do, but it is mesmerizing. I'm still trying to figure out if I can hear any words in there.

    Is vysphiszish a word?

    It has the same soothing quality that some music has on me. Then again, the music has a few things in common with the whispering wall.

    Back to the main topic: Isn't it strange that we know as little about Wormblood now as we knew before?
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    He has a point about that, but since I can't be sure what he'd consider a stupid question, I'm not going to risk my soul on the chance.

    Then just leave your soul at home. Or sell it to someone else first.

    Last time I let my soul leave my body, I had to do soooo much stuff to get it back. I can't risk that happening again.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I can't be fussed to care what the Dibellans think of anything. If I ever come across a Dibella cultist in the wild again, I'm going to keep walking.

    As long as we don't get more dialogue options to tell them our opinion about them, that's a wise decision.

    Wasn't it strange, by the way, that the "flirt" options were limited to just one character? And the insulting ones were all about Vanny.

    It is odd that it was limited to that one character. I guess they thought that was something a lot of people wanted? Or that was the only character it really "fit" (personality-wise, I mean). I'm guessing they also thought people were really aching to insult Vanny, considering his in-game persona.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't find it soothing like you do, but it is mesmerizing. I'm still trying to figure out if I can hear any words in there.

    Is vysphiszish a word?

    It can be!
    Syldras wrote: »
    It has the same soothing quality that some music has on me. Then again, the music has a few things in common with the whispering wall.

    I don't dislike it; it's just that it doesn't soothe me.
    Syldras wrote: »
    Back to the main topic: Isn't it strange that we know as little about Wormblood now as we knew before?

    I really was surprised we found out nothing about him. Although, if you think about it, we were right in a way. Wormblood is Mannimarco is Wormblood. The circle is complete.
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    Last time I let my soul leave my body, I had to do soooo much stuff to get it back. I can't risk that happening again.

    You could do it the lich way and bind it to an object so it doesn't get lost so easily.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    It is odd that it was limited to that one character. I guess they thought that was something a lot of people wanted?

    I guess so. Makes me wonder whether every content release will have exactly 1 "fan favorite" in the story now that can be flirted with, and that's it.

    Or it's basically the test run for what they intend to do with companions later? If so, I really, really hope they become aware that many people don't find yelling random innuendo very appealing. Honestly, to me, that thing we could yell in that Argonian ruin, completely tone-deaf, in a very dangerous and urgent situation, while people might have been at risk of death - that was a bigger atrocity than anything the Worm Cult ever committed :p
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm guessing they also thought people were really aching to insult Vanny, considering his in-game persona.

    And it's sad. He's actually supposed to be a tendentially positive character. If people hate him because he's vain, I'd rather contrast it with including more of his tragic background story, so people learn more about him, and can empathize more with him, instead of turning him into a joke or random punchbag for insults.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I really was surprised we found out nothing about him. Although, if you think about it, we were right in a way. Wormblood is Mannimarco is Wormblood. The circle is complete.

    Well, maybe there's a part of him left or they could part ways again, so I wouldn't say he's 100% fulfilled his purpose in the story and can just be removed again as an individual character. Although you're probably right and we'll never hear from him again. Sigh. I dislike it characters (or artifacts, or locations) aren't more than a gimmick to fulfill one purpose in a story, and have nothing more to them, and then they're just gone again.
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Last time I let my soul leave my body, I had to do soooo much stuff to get it back. I can't risk that happening again.

    You could do it the lich way and bind it to an object so it doesn't get lost so easily.

    Sounds like a lot of work involving very specific magic.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    It is odd that it was limited to that one character. I guess they thought that was something a lot of people wanted?

    I guess so. Makes me wonder whether every content release will have exactly 1 "fan favorite" in the story now that can be flirted with, and that's it.

    Or it's basically the test run for what they intend to do with companions later? If so, I really, really hope they become aware that many people don't find yelling random innuendo very appealing. Honestly, to me, that thing we could yell in that Argonian ruin, completely tone-deaf, in a very dangerous and urgent situation, while people might have been at risk of death - that was a bigger atrocity than anything the Worm Cult ever committed :p

    Now, now, I think your bias against that character is making you exaggerate just a little. :p

    Since this was the first use of this system, I'm wondering if they were just trying out various things, seeing what people like, what people choose, how easy or difficult it is to write using these kinds of responses, and so forth. Perhaps with more practice and feedback, the player response system will be refined over time to seem more natural. I really hope this type of flirting response isn't what we get for companions. As you've mentioned before, people flirt in different ways, and this was just one type of flirting. I actually do have one character who would romance the heck out of Bastian if he could, but I honestly don't think they could come up with a system that would satisfy either that character's personality or Bastian's.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm guessing they also thought people were really aching to insult Vanny, considering his in-game persona.

    And it's sad. He's actually supposed to be a tendentially positive character. If people hate him because he's vain, I'd rather contrast it with including more of his tragic background story, so people learn more about him, and can empathize more with him, instead of turning him into a joke or random punchbag for insults.

    I used to be one of those people who just rolled my eyes at Vanny, thinking him pompous and annoying. Then I read that book about his youth and my thoughts towards him started to shift, but it wasn't until I really started delving into his life/lore here with you that I truly began to appreciate him as a character. I really do think he would be better served if some of his non Great Mage life and persona was presented somehow in game, whether that's through more lore books, or conversations with people who know, like, and respect him (really, really wish Gabrielle had told me something new and interesting about him). Or, heck, even allow for conversations with him at some point. We know the dialogue can recognize if a character has ventured with Vanny in the past, because of the "What have you been up to?" line you can have. Maybe have him answer with something specific to him rather than just the vague, "What haven't I been up to?"
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I really was surprised we found out nothing about him. Although, if you think about it, we were right in a way. Wormblood is Mannimarco is Wormblood. The circle is complete.

    Well, maybe there's a part of him left or they could part ways again, so I wouldn't say he's 100% fulfilled his purpose in the story and can just be removed again as an individual character. Although you're probably right and we'll never hear from him again. Sigh. I dislike it characters (or artifacts, or locations) aren't more than a gimmick to fulfill one purpose in a story, and have nothing more to them, and then they're just gone again.

    I don't know for certain if he's done. His soul could be somewhere. Maybe he could stage a coup and retake his body. It's just that in the part of the story we've seen so far, it does seem like that's a wrap on Wormblood.
  • Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    Sounds like a lot of work involving very specific magic.

    Indeed it might need a longer preparation...
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Now, now, I think your bias against that character is making you exaggerate just a little.

    It's really not the character. After all, it's not him pestering us this time, but we are the ones who can make a very strange remark. It just didn't fit at all; it felt random, it wasn't the best joke or flirt attempt or whatever, the situation was absolutely not appropriate, since we were supposed to hurry and lifes were at risk... From my point of view, it's actually a rather evil, selfish and morally bad behaviour to make such suggestions while someone might be at risk of dying and the world might be destroyed if we don't hurry up and concentrate on our actual task. But it's not the sort of evil I would like to play, either, not at all.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I really hope this type of flirting response isn't what we get for companions. As you've mentioned before, people flirt in different ways, and this was just one type of flirting. I actually do have one character who would romance the heck out of Bastian if he could, but I honestly don't think they could come up with a system that would satisfy either that character's personality or Bastian's.

    I could imagine going the romance path with companions, too. In some cases, from a roleplay perspective, it just fits, so why not? But certainly not if "flirting" looks like that. I don't have any character who would talk or behave like that. And I think that some of the companions, well, most of them even, wouldn't really appreciate that kind of behaviour either, from how they usually behave, and from what they say.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I used to be one of those people who just rolled my eyes at Vanny, thinking him pompous and annoying. Then I read that book about his youth and my thoughts towards him started to shift, but it wasn't until I really started delving into his life/lore here with you that I truly began to appreciate him as a character. I really do think he would be better served if some of his non Great Mage life and persona was presented somehow in game, whether that's through more lore books, or conversations with people who know, like, and respect him

    I fully agree.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    really, really wish Gabrielle had told me something new and interesting about him

    Are you saying the part of him letting himself get kidnapped wasn't interesting? :p
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't know for certain if he's done. His soul could be somewhere. Maybe he could stage a coup and retake his body. It's just that in the part of the story we've seen so far, it does seem like that's a wrap on Wormblood.

    Who knows. I just find it strange that they even made up that bit about him possibly being a relative of Mannimarco - why do that and then just trash the character again? It has potential.
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Now, now, I think your bias against that character is making you exaggerate just a little.

    It's really not the character. After all, it's not him pestering us this time, but we are the ones who can make a very strange remark. It just didn't fit at all; it felt random, it wasn't the best joke or flirt attempt or whatever, the situation was absolutely not appropriate, since we were supposed to hurry and lifes were at risk... From my point of view, it's actually a rather evil, selfish and morally bad behaviour to make such suggestions while someone might be at risk of dying and the world might be destroyed if we don't hurry up and concentrate on our actual task. But it's not the sort of evil I would like to play, either, not at all.

    It was an extremely ill-placed option, I agree. I was just joking you because I know you don't particularly like that character. Hmm...something about inappropriate behavior at the wrong time...but surely I couldn't be guilty of such a thing! :p
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I really hope this type of flirting response isn't what we get for companions. As you've mentioned before, people flirt in different ways, and this was just one type of flirting. I actually do have one character who would romance the heck out of Bastian if he could, but I honestly don't think they could come up with a system that would satisfy either that character's personality or Bastian's.

    I could imagine going the romance path with companions, too. In some cases, from a roleplay perspective, it just fits, so why not? But certainly not if "flirting" looks like that. I don't have any character who would talk or behave like that. And I think that some of the companions, well, most of them even, wouldn't really appreciate that kind of behaviour either, from how they usually behave, and from what they say.

    Right, because they are all different people, so one-size-fits-all flirting wouldn't work. But I worry that it would be that, and that the flirting lines would be identical for each companion. That kind of brash, teasing flirtation we saw in the main quest, which is a kind of flirting some people do, but not everyone, and certainly some people wouldn't like it.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    really, really wish Gabrielle had told me something new and interesting about him

    Are you saying the part of him letting himself get kidnapped wasn't interesting? :p

    No, no, that was! More, please!
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't know for certain if he's done. His soul could be somewhere. Maybe he could stage a coup and retake his body. It's just that in the part of the story we've seen so far, it does seem like that's a wrap on Wormblood.

    Who knows. I just find it strange that they even made up that bit about him possibly being a relative of Mannimarco - why do that and then just trash the character again? It has potential.

    It does have potential, so I hope Wormblood isn't totally written out.
  • Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    Hmm...something about inappropriate behavior at the wrong time...but surely I couldn't be guilty of such a thing! :p

    For me it somehow makes a difference whether I do something silly while idling around or loot a few urns along the way even if we're supposed to be in a hurry, of whether I actually interact with characters, in dialogue, in a weird way. The big difference is probably that I know that npcs don't "notice" it anyway if I'm doing something silly along the way like looting urns, taking screenshots or sitting down on someone's throne, so it doesn't make a difference for the narration. But dialogues are acknowledged by them, to it becomes a real part of the narration. And when it comes to that, I'm rather serious when roleplaying and don't want to do any out-of-character nonsense there.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    That kind of brash, teasing flirtation we saw in the main quest, which is a kind of flirting some people do, but not everyone, and certainly some people wouldn't like it.

    I don't have a clue how the average person flirts, to be honest (I have my specific way of living and my social contacts are usually also from that sphere), and I expect there to probably be cultural differences, too, but I can say that what we usually see in ESO (take Jarkarn in High Isle as an example) always reminds me of what's shown in movies or jokes if there's "that disgusting sleazy guy" character who pesters women. So nothing positive about it, and I neither want to be adressed like that by npcs nor do I want to play that type of guy myself.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    No, no, that was! More, please!

    Are you also interested in facts about Vanny that are, well, not rather strange? :p Makes me wonder whether he even wants people to know about these things. It's a peculiar hobby, after all.
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
    metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    Hmm...something about inappropriate behavior at the wrong time...but surely I couldn't be guilty of such a thing! :p

    For me it somehow makes a difference whether I do something silly while idling around or loot a few urns along the way even if we're supposed to be in a hurry, of whether I actually interact with characters, in dialogue, in a weird way. The big difference is probably that I know that npcs don't "notice" it anyway if I'm doing something silly along the way like looting urns, taking screenshots or sitting down on someone's throne, so it doesn't make a difference for the narration. But dialogues are acknowledged by them, to it becomes a real part of the narration. And when it comes to that, I'm rather serious when roleplaying and don't want to do any out-of-character nonsense there.

    I do my best to stay in character when interacting with npcs via dialogue, but when they're following me around an old temple, or a ruin, or such, I'm going to go explore the corners and look in the barrels and urns and read the books. I often imagine Bastian commiserating with them on my behavior, explaining that I do take their concerns seriously and I won't forget why we're there.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    That kind of brash, teasing flirtation we saw in the main quest, which is a kind of flirting some people do, but not everyone, and certainly some people wouldn't like it.

    I don't have a clue how the average person flirts, to be honest (I have my specific way of living and my social contacts are usually also from that sphere), and I expect there to probably be cultural differences, too, but I can say that what we usually see in ESO (take Jarkarn in High Isle as an example) always reminds me of what's shown in movies or jokes if there's "that disgusting sleazy guy" character who pesters women. So nothing positive about it, and I neither want to be adressed like that by npcs nor do I want to play that type of guy myself.

    I don't know how most people flirt, either, but I'm sure there are people who like that Jakarn-style flirting. I don't know any, but there are a lot of people in the world, and lots of different tastes in everything. I wouldn't say it's always portrayed as "disgusting sleazy", though it often is. Sometimes it's portrayed as a goofy thing, and sometimes as desperate. None of that appeals to me, but it might appeal to someone out there. (Not that they like disgusting sleazy or desperate, but that they don't perceive it that way).
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    No, no, that was! More, please!

    Are you also interested in facts about Vanny that are, well, not rather strange? :p Makes me wonder whether he even wants people to know about these things. It's a peculiar hobby, after all.

    I'm interested in all facts about Vanny. Maybe when we see him next, we can ask him about the whole 'get captured on purpose' hobby, and see how he reacts to us knowing it.
  • Syldras
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    metheglyn wrote: »
    I do my best to stay in character when interacting with npcs via dialogue, but when they're following me around an old temple, or a ruin, or such, I'm going to go explore the corners and look in the barrels and urns and read the books. I often imagine Bastian commiserating with them on my behavior, explaining that I do take their concerns seriously and I won't forget why we're there.

    What I'm doing doesn't need big explanations. They probably shrug it off as "weird Telvanni behaviour" anyway.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't know how most people flirt, either, but I'm sure there are people who like that Jakarn-style flirting. I don't know any, but there are a lot of people in the world, and lots of different tastes in everything.

    Certainly there will be people who like that, people like all kinds of things, that's true, and it's none of my business either. But it's a very polarizing way to communicate attraction or interest, so it might not be the best choice to go for in terms of writing, if there's only one dialogue option in that regard.

    Although in case of npcs it mostly bothers me that it's always like that. Or can you think of any situation where someone informs us about (more or less) "romantic" interest in a way that's not very direct or full of innuendo? I can think of a dozen situations of "Hey good-looking!!!!" or direct invitations to join someone in bed or bathtub, but I can't think of even one character who might have said something as simple as "I've truly grown quite fond of you. I hope we'll meet again." after a longer questline or so.
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm interested in all facts about Vanny. Maybe when we see him next, we can ask him about the whole 'get captured on purpose' hobby, and see how he reacts to us knowing it.

    That would be appreciated, although I guess I'd be happy enough if he's not a zombie thrall or Mannimarco's new physical vessel the next time we see him (okay, the latter would actually be interesting as a story, if it's more of a temporary possession and maybe an evil ploy to somehow destroy the Mages Guild by posing as him - but they should be seperated again before the quest ends).
    @Syldras | PC | EU
    The forceful expression of will gives true honor to the Ancestors.
    Sarayn Andrethi, Telvanni mage (Main)
    Darvasa Andrethi, his "I'm NOT a Necromancer!" sister
    Malacar Sunavarlas, Altmer Ayleid vampire
    Soris Rethandus, a Sleeper not yet awake
  • metheglyn
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    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I do my best to stay in character when interacting with npcs via dialogue, but when they're following me around an old temple, or a ruin, or such, I'm going to go explore the corners and look in the barrels and urns and read the books. I often imagine Bastian commiserating with them on my behavior, explaining that I do take their concerns seriously and I won't forget why we're there.

    What I'm doing doesn't need big explanations. They probably shrug it off as "weird Telvanni behaviour" anyway.

    I don't know that Bastian would give a big explanation. More like a look of sympathy and a quick, "Don't worry; we haven't forgotten about you." Providing, of course, he wasn't wandering off to philosophize about fire.

    I wouldn't say I "shrug off" your Telvanni behavior, but I do agree Telvanni are weird. :p
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I don't know how most people flirt, either, but I'm sure there are people who like that Jakarn-style flirting. I don't know any, but there are a lot of people in the world, and lots of different tastes in everything.

    Certainly there will be people who like that, people like all kinds of things, that's true, and it's none of my business either. But it's a very polarizing way to communicate attraction or interest, so it might not be the best choice to go for in terms of writing, if there's only one dialogue option in that regard.

    Although in case of npcs it mostly bothers me that it's always like that. Or can you think of any situation where someone informs us about (more or less) "romantic" interest in a way that's not very direct or full of innuendo? I can think of a dozen situations of "Hey good-looking!!!!" or direct invitations to join someone in bed or bathtub, but I can't think of even one character who might have said something as simple as "I've truly grown quite fond of you. I hope we'll meet again." after a longer questline or so.

    No, I can't. I can't think of any sincere romantic affection expressed by an npc to our character. Zerith-Var expresses sincere affection for us, but it's not romantic, so I know the writers can do sincere. Seems like when it goes towards romance/flirting, however, it's always brash.
    Syldras wrote: »
    metheglyn wrote: »
    I'm interested in all facts about Vanny. Maybe when we see him next, we can ask him about the whole 'get captured on purpose' hobby, and see how he reacts to us knowing it.

    That would be appreciated, although I guess I'd be happy enough if he's not a zombie thrall or Mannimarco's new physical vessel the next time we see him (okay, the latter would actually be interesting as a story, if it's more of a temporary possession and maybe an evil ploy to somehow destroy the Mages Guild by posing as him - but they should be seperated again before the quest ends).

    I so much want him to be safe by the end of the story. He'll likely have to go through some trauma or difficulties before we save him, but I do want to save him.
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