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[Elira]

*sigh*

 

The Cousland Origin literally opens with: "For generations, your family, the Couslands, has stewarded the land of Highever, earning the loyalty of your people with justice and temperance. When your country was occupied by the Orlesian Empire, your father and grandfather served the embattled kings of your land. Today, your elder brother takes up House Cousland's banner in service to the Crown, not against the Orlesians, but against the bestial darkspawn rising in the South." All with grand music swelling in the background to let you know that this family is Important.

 

Just with that intro, my Mary Sue senses were tingling. And it just got worse from there.

 

Every character you meet after that intro goes out of their way to tell you how super-special-awesome the Couslands are, and how super-special-awesome you are by extension. Explore the castle and you'll find that every servant, guard, and guest will jump to tell you just how perfect, special, amazing and/or beloved the Couslands are. That one historian who brags about the family's glorious and spotless history to bored squire kids, Ser Gilmore who tells the players the family is not only wealthy/powerful to own a Mabari, but how special you are to have such an exemplar example of the breed imprint on you from an early age, Mumzy bragging about how some guy got drunk and mistook her husband for the king, Darren telling about how when Ferelden first won their independence many wanted to have Bryce crowned instead of Maric, but he humbly turned them down (because of course they did; not enough for the game to brag that your family is the most wealthy and powerful under royalty, they also have to point out that they could be royalty if they wanted it, but they don't because they're just that humble and virtuous), Iona tells how the alienage is so clean and well-governed and the elves treated so well here (of course), etc.

 

The Couslands are PERFECT. They've always been perfect. And you're perfect by extension.

 

The only (and I mean only) person who doesn't adore the Couslands is Rendon Howe. Not only is he objectively, irredeemably evil, but he doesn't even have a valid reason for hating the Couslands: He's just jealous of them. Of course. The Couslands are so perfect and flawless, so universally adored, that no one can dislike them for any reason other than to wish they were as awesome as the Couslands. (Did anyone seriously believe that the PC wouldn't be able to get justice for the Cousland family? With how often the game hammers home that everyone adores them, did anyone seriously believe that once they got the Blight and Loghain's dictatorship out of the way, that the Bannorn wouldn't instantly take your side and give your family's stuff back the moment you said, "Howe did this!" )

 

Ugh, it bugs me how in a world of Grey and Grey morality, the Couslands stand out as the one example of Shining White morality. And the game constantly reminds you that you're amazing super-special-awesome by extension.

 

Spoilered because off-topicness.

 

Spoiler

History is romanticized. Just look at the Dalish. They romanticize their history. I wouldn't say they leave their faults altogether unacknowledged, but neither can it be said they aren't somewhat blindsighted by it. They're proud of their origin, and I would say too proud, to the point that it makes them not just nomads, but frankly, unaccepting of those outside themselves. I'm not saying they don't have their reasons, but they still make themselves out to be less than friendly more often than not. I still like them, though.* But anyway, that's history. Obviously, the Cousland history most likely is not that bright and sunny and white knight in shiny white armor riding in on a white steed storybook material. But it comes off that way, because people romanticize. Not just history, either. When people are infatuated by something, be it a time in history, or a person, or something else entirely, more often than not some of that adoration will leak into their perception of it. One can be as objective as in their power, and I still believe there will be traces of one's infatuation coloring their viewpoint. This historian has clearly done just that. He's a Cousland history fanboy, but so what? No one gets bent out of shape when we gush about Solas. Sure, not everyone romanticizes him to the extent this fellow perhaps does, but we do romanticize him. I romanticize him, and I fully admit that. 

 

*To clarify, I genuinely adore the Dalish, and there are more than a few traits of theirs worth complimenting. But they are flawed, and they do romanticize, and I feel like I need to acknowledge that. But, indeed, I truly love them. They're my Lavellan's people, and to an extent mine because of that, so of course I love them. They're like family. I may not agree with them on everything, and I certainly have my conflicts, but at the end of the day they're my family and I love them. Nonetheless, I try not to let that love blind me from their faults.

 

I think one who sees their family murdered by a man claiming to be their ally and friend has earned not only complaint and sympathy rights, but rights to justice as well. 

 

Not everyone goes out of their way to drool over a Cousland. Saying they do is a bit of an exaggeration. From my experience, I had to nudge people to get dialogue concerning the Cousland family, excluding a few cases. Bann Teagan comes to mind. Oh, and I suppose Avernus. But the latter commented on how bloody the history was, if I recall, after you brought up being a Cousland. It's not different than the NPCs that comment on your Dalish heritage, or your Magi origin, or your race as a dwarf. It's commentary meant to acknowledge your roots. I mean, hell, the dwarf noble origin romanticizes itself. In fact, there was a person legitimately fainting at your presence, so I might even say more-so. I'm preeeeetty sure no one fainted at the sight of Cousland, even if they did gush their guts out. But maybe I just garnered a different impression than you did, and that's fine. Yes, they're romanticized. Yes, I can completely see and understand where your annoyance comes from. I just think the degree of hate is excessive, but you're entitled to your opinions and feelings. I just don't quite agree nor feel the same, and that is my right. 

 

Frankly, I'd rather not drag this out. This isn't the place for it, and I've strayed off topic long enough. So this is the last I'm saying on the matter.

 

Edited: Because I was a moron and didn't proofread, and for clarification regarding my feelings on Dalish.

[Elira]

Oh, dear. I've let my opinionated nature take the reins. Erm, I'm going to spoiler that. 

 

On topic-ish. I'm quite happy with the Hermit tarot card shirt. It's soft, and I'm relatively satisfied with the quality. I got men's because I prefer how they fit over women's shirts. Very happy. I'm happy with the fit, too. Correction: I'm not happy, I'm elated. The artwork is gorgeous.

[RogueBait]

Also, I'm lurking-&-occasionnally-posting less than before because I'm currently fighting depression (or a Despair Demon that crossed our Veil?). And it's really hard. But I keep coming back to this thread nevertheless, because you're all amazing people and artists, and good people, and it's always good for me when I come here to read what I missed

 

Echoing the sentiments of what others have already said. Sorry to hear it, and know you're very much not alone. If you ever need someone to talk to, feel free to send me a PM. Keep on keeping on. Also, I know it's the last thing you'll feel like doing, but even mild exercise helps, if you can manage.

 

It's okay cause I love barn troll stinky puff daddy too

 

WE WILL BE A BIG HAPPY FAMILY OKAY!!! 

 

May I request a screen of your canon Inquisitor, Nikki? I need it. For probably good reasons.

 

You draw Solas so beautifully. I'm falling in love with his character all over again.

 

Is it the chin? It's the chin. *bites lip, fanning self*

[nikki-tikki]

That doesn't disprove what I said about how the character gets praised and deferred to for stuff they supposedly did off-screen before the main story even started (we don't actually see what Hawke did during that year of servitude that made him/her considered so freaking awesome that the likes of Varric asked you to be equal partners with him right on the spot), nor that Hawke starts the main story being treated by other characters as super-special-awesome and the most competent and capable person they've ever seen.

 

I would be worried if people didn't recognize Hawke's abilities...and how are they treated as super-special-awesome? Perhaps seeing as Fereldan Thedas (happy now Killabee  ??)just went through a blight, there weren't a lot of capable people around. And it was an every-man-for-himself mentality during that time, so if someone came around doing work that was above the normal expectations...of course they are going to be recognized...why is this even an issue?

[NightSymphony]

Not Solas..but look at this adorable Flemeth/Dragon doll...thing...

http://www.dragonage...34&sf37591077=1

 

Edit:  And Cole playing with a cat

[nikki-tikki]

May I request a screen of your canon Inquisitor, Nikki? I need it. For probably good reasons.

 

Of course! Here. Spoilered cause HUGE.

 

Spoiler

 

Edit: Though I must ask myself why this is my canon Inquisitor because Tyrant Lavellan is MUCH more interesting...

[BoscoBread]

I would be worried if people didn't recognize Hawke's abilities...and how are they treated as super-special-awesome? Perhaps seeing as Thedas just went through a blight, there weren't a lot of capable people around. And it was an every-man-for-himself mentality during that time, so if someone came around doing work that was above the normal expectations...of course they are going to be recognized...why is this even an issue?

I dunno - I personally would have liked a game more like my life. Where you're just a run-of the mill shmoe just fighting the system. you can't ever get anything done because that's just how it is and noone cares.  you get swept up in the tide of garbage with no real ability to fix anything and noone gives a **** if you try and you end up just pissing people off anyway.  FUN GAME FOR FUN PEOPLE.

[NightSymphony]

Of course! Here. Spoilered cause HUGE.

 

Spoiler

 

Edit: Though I must ask myself why this is my canon Inquisitor because Tyrant Lavellan is MUCH more interesting...

She's so pretty!!

[nikki-tikki]

I dunno - I personally would have liked a game more like my life. Where you're just a run-of the mill shmoe just fighting the system. you can't ever get anything done because that's just how it is and noone cares.  you get swept up in the tide of garbage with no real ability to fix anything and noone gives a **** if you try and you end up just pissing people off anyway.  FUN GAME FOR FUN PEOPLE.

 

Well. Sort of happens end game. Doesn't matter what you do **** gets fucked up aha. 

[BoscoBread]

Of course! Here. Spoilered cause HUGE.

 

Spoiler

 

Edit: Though I must ask myself why this is my canon Inquisitor because Tyrant Lavellan is MUCH more interesting...

she's going to have you making out with buck tooth gatt. and barntroll. with creeper solas in the background.  just a guess though. 

[nikki-tikki]

She's so pretty!!

 

Thank you

 

She is a fish though. You should see her in game, her eyes are waaayyy too far apart. I though that the elves were gunna be DA2 elves so I wanted to fit in....I need Black Emporium soon!!! 

[BoscoBread]

Well. Sort of happens end game. Doesn't matter what you do **** gets fucked up aha. 

I should have been more clear - you literally don't impact anything.  Not even in a bad way.  Not a good way. Not in any way. You die alone in the street forgotten to time.  Noone remembers your name.  Noone gives a ****. 

[KarateKats]

Echoing the sentiments of what others have already said. Sorry to hear it, and know you're very much not alone. If you ever need someone to talk to, feel free to send me a PM. Keep on keeping on. Also, I know it's the last thing you'll feel like doing, but even mild exercise helps, if you can manage.

 

 

May I request a screen of your canon Inquisitor, Nikki? I need it. For probably good reasons.

 

 

Is it the chin? It's the chin. *bites lip, fanning self*

 

The chin. And those sexy come hither eyes of grumpyness.

[Giton]

I should have been more clear - you literally don't impact anything.  Not even in a bad way.  Not a good way. Not in any way. You die alone in the street forgotten to time.  Noone remembers your name.  Noone gives a ****. 

[nikki-tikki]

I should have been more clear - you literally don't impact anything.  Not even in a bad way.  Not a good way. Not in any way. You die alone in the street forgotten to time.  Noone remembers your name.  Noone gives a ****. 

 

Cause Hawke isn't a special somebody which was the point I was trying to make. HAWKE FOREVER ALONE. Nobody special. 

[NightSymphony]

Thank you

 

She is a fish though. You should see her in game, her eyes are waaayyy too far apart. I though that the elves were gunna be DA2 elves so I wanted to fit in....I need Black Emporium soon!!! 

hehehe..yes..I also need Black Emporium ASAP!!  My Lavellan's nose is way too big!!

 

Edit: Because I can't type.

[Illyria]

I've played both, and compared to DAO and DAI, I felt rather disgusted by just how much praise these characters get right from the start.

 

After the prologue, Hawke's year of off-screen indentured servitude has pretty much ensured that Hawke has a reputation around the city for being the person who can get things done. Everyone you meet within the city alludes to the amazing things you did while you were indentured, and typically act like, "Oh, Hawke's here! Finally, we can get things done!" And to say nothing of how many countless characters treat other characters one way but treat Hawke completely differently. (Countless schmucks in the city try to sign up for Varric and Bartrand's Deep Roads expidition, yet HAWKE is special enough to get picked out to be an equal partner the day s/he and Varric meet. Fenris was on the run from Denarius for years, but HAWKE was special enough to stick around for. The Dalish dislike and distrust strangers and shemlen, yet the Sabre Clan trust strange shemlen Hawke with their ways and secrets more than Merrill, their own kind. Every Mage in Kirkwall lives in terror of getting caught by Templars, yet a Mage Hawke struts around the city casting spells right and left for 7 years and never once faces even the threat of being locked up. By Act 2 most Templars know you're a mage, yet no one ever lifts a finger to arrest you. And don't give me, "Well, Hawke was rich and protected in Hightown by then." Emile de Launcet was a wealthy noble from Hightown too, but that didn't stop the Templars from taking him in or trying to get him back when he escaped in Act 3. Every other Hightown mage lives with the fear of the Gallows too, but Hawke? Hawke is just SPECIAL.)

 

That's not to say the DAO and DAI protagonist doesn't get hit with the "You're Special" stick too, but it's a comparatively gentler whack, and the reason people think you're the person to get things done is better explained. In DAO, the Grey Wardens are highly respected for picking out the best of the best, and being needed to stop the Blight. Since Duncan picked you out, most people figure you must be a worthwhile fighter to be accepted into the Grey Wardens, and obviously someone who can do something about the Blight In DAI, there's a giant hole in the sky and you have the key to closing that hole. It makes sense that people think you're useful that way.

 

The main problem with DA2 (I think) is that it keeps skipping over the interesting and important bits.  We go from indentured refugee to having a great repuation, but we don't get to see what takes us here, or why Hawke should be so respected.  It's the same problem with Bethany's death.  I'm told by the game I should feel sad but I don't.  Bethany is just some random woman in my party at the start of the game.  Since I enjoy playing mages and feel that DA2's story works best with a mage I'm never going to play it as a non-mage.  If I did I'm sure I would care about Bethany dying.  But I don't, because I get no reason to.  The one time I did roll a non-mage I was really upset when Carver died and dropped the playthrough after getting to Kirkwall.  But I felt upset because I'd gotten to know Best Baby Brother from playing as a mage.

 

There was apparently going to be a Hawke/Bethany have to hide from the Templers subplot in Act I that involved going to the Fade, but it was cut.  There's one line that sort of references it during the Night Terrors quest (Hawke's 'I've been to the Fade before').

 

And... anyone else like finding that Templer asking about the mage underground in the Docks and start casting spells around him for fun?  No?  Just me?  Oh well then.

[Colonelkillabee]

I would be worried if people didn't recognize Hawke's abilities...and how are they treated as super-special-awesome? Perhaps seeing as Thedas just went through a blight, there weren't a lot of capable people around. And it was an every-man-for-himself mentality during that time, so if someone came around doing work that was above the normal expectations...of course they are going to be recognized...why is this even an issue?

Thedas didn't go through a blight, Ferelden did.

[nikki-tikki]

Thedas didn't go through a blight, Ferelden did.

 

Yeah I know. But it affected Thedas. One way or another. 

 

Edit: Perhaps maybe not that big of a scale...

[Colonelkillabee]

Yeah I know. But it affected Thedas. One way or another. 

 

Edit: Perhaps maybe not that big of a scale...

Exactly It really didn't affect the others at all, besides whatever economic ramifications there may or may not have been for neighboring kingdoms that did trade with Ferelden. Though with them rebuilding, I imagine business is good.

 

As for Hawke and the rest of the discussion, yea, there's no doubt he had a lot of writer's help compared to the other peasants. He was "super special". That's kind of the point. Why else would we be following his story.

 

At that same token, yea a lot of stuff didn't make sense, like how you could be doing Anders' lightning sex trick in the middle of the street and Templars would stare with their dick in their hands. What else is new, it's a dragon age game. Learn suspension of disbelief or you're gonna have a bad time.

[Elessara]

The main problem with DA2 (I think) is that it keeps skipping over the interesting and important bits.  We go from indentured refugee to having a great repuation, but we don't get to see what takes us here, or why Hawke should be so respected.  It's the same problem with Bethany's death.  I'm told by the game I should feel sad but I don't.  Bethany is just some random woman in my party at the start of the game.  Since I enjoy playing mages and feel that DA2's story works best with a mage I'm never going to play it as a non-mage.  If I did I'm sure I would care about Bethany dying.  But I don't, because I get no reason to.  The one time I did roll a non-mage I was really upset when Carver died and dropped the playthrough after getting to Kirkwall.  But I felt upset because I'd gotten to know Best Baby Brother from playing as a mage.

 

There was apparently going to be a Hawke/Bethany have to hide from the Templers subplot in Act I that involved going to the Fade, but it was cut.  There's one line that sort of references it during the Night Terrors quest (Hawke's 'I've been to the Fade before').

 

And... anyone else like finding that Templer asking about the mage underground in the Docks and start casting spells around him for fun?  No?  Just me?  Oh well then.

 

I always liked when you first meet Cullen (in DA2) and I'm casting spells right and left and Anders yes yelling Suck on a fireball!  and You messed with the wrong mage! .... and CULLEN DOESN'T EVEN NOTICE.  

[Illyria]

I always liked when you first meet Cullen (in DA2) and I'm casting spells right and left and Anders yes yelling Suck on a fireball!  and You messed with the wrong mage! .... and CULLEN DOESN'T EVEN NOTICE.  

 

I never use other mages in DA2 but I always take Merrill, Anders and Carver on that quest.  Three of them running around casting spells while Carver is just 'sister, please no.'

[nikki-tikki]

Exactly It really didn't affect the others at all, besides whatever economic ramifications there may or may not have been for neighboring kingdoms that did trade with Ferelden. Though with them rebuilding, I imagine business is good.

 

As for Hawke and the rest of the discussion, yea, there's no doubt he had a lot of writer's help compared to the other peasants. He was "super special". That's kind of the point. Why else would we be following his story.

 

At that same token, yea a lot of stuff didn't make sense, like how you could be doing Anders' lightning sex trick in the middle of the street and Templars would stare with their dick in their hands. What else is new, it's a dragon age game. Learn suspension of disbelief or you're gonna have a bad time.

 

I'm just saying Hawke was recognized for a reason, He/she made a living for themselves through a lot of hard work, not because they were privileged or had everything handed to them. 

 

Also I don't wanna talk about the Templars in DA2....         I don't think they could see through the tiny eye slits in their helmets very well....

[Elessara]

Exactly It really didn't affect the others at all, besides whatever economic ramifications there may or may not have been for neighboring kingdoms that did trade with Ferelden. Though with them rebuilding, I imagine business is good.

 

As for Hawke and the rest of the discussion, yea, there's no doubt he had a lot of writer's help compared to the other peasants. He was "super special". That's kind of the point. Why else would we be following his story.

 

At that same token, yea a lot of stuff didn't make sense, like how you could be doing Anders' lightning sex trick in the middle of the street and Templars would stare with their dick in their hands. What else is new, it's a dragon age game. Learn suspension of disbelief or you're gonna have a bad time.

 

I've always felt (and I know others feel differently) that part of the point of playing these games IS to play "someone special".  Otherwise I might as well play Buddy the Beggar and see how much money I can make begging from random passersby.

 

If the main character isn't special in some way then there'd be no reason to take notice of that character.  In the dwarf commoner origin in DAO, you as a casteless manage to win a Proving when you're largely untrained in combat.  Sure you have some training as an enforcer but nothing like what the nobles had.  So that's pretty special which is why Duncan takes note of you.  Otherwise you'd just be someone he passes on the street and doesn't even look twice at.