@@kyratriesMake no mistake… I can’t speak for the others, but despite the fact that I’m laughing, I do love it. I wouldn’t give up a second of those 22 minutes.
Fun little fact: Clerics in dnd have generally a high WISDOM stat. Meaning, reading people, situations, understanding others and themselves, as well as knowing right from wrong are all parts of how their gods share power with them. Xerxus was a Paladin, a holy person who’s power comes from their oath to do good, and their unbreakable will fuels them like a kiln. They often follow just causes, but they can follow things they “BELIEVE” to be just. They use CHARISMA as their stat. That’s the main difference why Pike won. Xerxus knew how to talk like he knew everything and obviously knew more about Pike than she knew of him, but Pike knew how to find WHO Xerxus was and ask that person questions instead. Wisdom
Two things can be true: Zerxus Ilerez can be a sympathetic and deeply tragic figure. And after spending a thousand years as a demon, he made some real dick moves this episode.
Y’know, it’s so damned good to see a reactor that goes so deep and gets so emotionally invested in characters and their stories. The fact that you’re not watching it to watch it, but watching it to experience it is hugely meaningful. It’s enough to make me wish we could actually play at the same gaming table. I want to see what this kind of investment looks like when it’s a cast you’re part of.
If your interested Zerxes Ilerez is a player character from one of CR's mini campaigns called Exandria Unlimited: Calamity, created and voiced by actor Luis Carazo. The series is centered around the events of how the Calamity started. There's no major spoilers to any of the other main 3 campaigns and the storytelling is top notch. Arguably the best content CR has made.
This episode was a real treat for those of us who loved EXU: Calamity and full of easter eggs directly tied to the EXU liveplay series. The shot at the beginning of the stained glass sequence of the three beings wielding fire, water and lightning (When Zerxus says "When Gods walked among mortals...") are, I believe, meant to represent Matt Mercer himself (fire), and guest DMs Aabria Iyengar (water) and Brennan Lee Mulligan (lightning) who have all created and contributed so much to the development of the world of Exandria and its lore. That was a fun thing to see for me personally, as a forever DM who hasn't actually gotten to play in over a decade, it was nice to see a small shout out to the real heroes of this mess. 😄
The cast created amzing, fully realized characters, and Critters have literally been thinking about these things for almost a decade. Your thoughts & breakdown are why most of us are here.
35:52 Just coincidental. Zerxus is from the EXU: Calamity series. Highly recommend watching it. It doesn’t spoil anything for LoVM, and gives you great insight into Zerxus’s story you’re about to hear.
"who says clerics cant exist off of something other than godly power?" this is such an interesting thought and i would love to hear more of what your thought process for this. I know im getting to this late, but now that i finished your video this was just too fascinating not to comment on
Once again suggesting that you watch Exandria Unlimited: Calamity. It's set long before the events of VM, and tells much of the backstory that Zerxus detailed here, but also shows exactly how the Calamity came about. And it's DMed by the great Brennan Lee Mulligan, who is one of the most impressive DMs out there. Matt is great at incredible sweeping story arcs and beautiful narratives, but Brennan really understands people and how to make incredible characters and truly terrifying villains. He's infamous for his monologues, and so EXU: Calamity has one of the greatest villain monologues you'll ever hear.
"We all have Blindspots..." is such a great little sting at the end there. (Blindspot was the show Johnson was working on during the filming of the campaign, and it forced her to be absent a lot. This is why Pike leaves in S1, it was a narrative reflection the need they had to be in NY to film and the sessions they played over Zoom, which is basically just Astral Projection right?) If you want to know more about Xerxes, check out EXU: Calamity, its a shorter series DM'd by Brennan Lee Mulligan that has an incredible cast and insight into the start of the Calamity.
Listening to your musing of Vax's relationship with Keyleth, and remembering (which you get to soon after) that it was teen Vax who decided that he and Vex were leaving their father, over his sister's protests. Making unilateral decisions to protect those he cares about from harm is keeping in character. Invariably leading to heartache for him when others go ahead and make their own choices anyway. Kinda his whole ethos as a rogue. Also, you're the first reactor, of dozens have watched thus far, who picked up on the Whispered One connection in the moment. (One person reflected on it in their commentary opening the following episode, but otherwise most have just audibly scratched their heads at the reference, if they even noticed it at all.)
Critters don't know what the deal is with Pike's blood and crisis of faith either, that's all brand new to the show, it wasn't in the campaign. Although some have theories, natch.
So Zerxus was not in the original campaign but as has been noted was in Exandria Unlimited: Calamity which was a four part stand-alone mini-series that is a prequel to Critical Role's main campaigns. Definitely worth a watch if you wanted a taste of CR without the hundreds of hours of gameplay. I have a strong theory Zerxus is going to show up and replace another character in the final season of the show. This is uncharted territory for both established critters like me and new watchers, but I *think* I know what they are doing here, and it should be interesting.
Don’t quote me on this, but I THINK Goliaths like Grog might have a slightly shorter average lifespan than humans. If so, it’s only by a decade or two… but there are other factors to consider on that front. 1) we’re not entirely certain how old Grog IS, because he can’t really count that high. 2) Grog is perhaps the most likely in the group to end up dying of misadventure long before old age gets him. That’s a story yet untold, however, so while it may be possible, we can’t be certain.
Goliath tend to live shorter lives than humans primarily because Goliath society is based on your ability to contribute to the tribe. If you get old and feeble, or just suffer a serious illness or injury, you are given an honorable ceremony of departure and you are expected to take yourself off into the wilderness until you can demonstrate you are healthy enough to return and contribute to the tribe. Or you die. Very big on group identity and "survival of the fittest".
My thoughts on the difference between S1 Vax and S3 Vax is this. Remember in S2, in Osyssa's "test" Keyleth was confronted with "What do you fear more? Failing your Aramente or knowing no one will live long enough to see you achieve it?" So we know that that is something Keyleth fears. When Vax got that vision while kissing Keyleth, he got a (for lack of better word) taste of that fear. That was something he probably didn't know in S1. But now that he knows her deepest fear, he wants to try to "soften the blow" when it inevitably happens.
46:10 Zerxus is voiced by the guy who also played his character as a member of their team in the 4 episode mini campaign called "Exandria Unlimited: Calamity " which is what depicted in this stained-glass backstory scene. 58:18 Him saying "She has no idea what courses through her vains..." was not in the campaign I think so I'm curious where that goes. Maybe her power comes from her blood (1:05:25) as he mentions. 56:48 The idea of forgetting the ones closest to you (especially as an imortal) or being forgotten by the world over time, no matter what you managed to accomplish is fresh on my mind since I recently watched the "Frieren: Beyond journey's end" show and that is one of its aspects that the show ("Frieren") is centered around. It's a tragic but wholesome and beautiful show, which I would love to see your thoughts about some day.
Well, it's 4 episodes, not exactly a "one shot." More like a miniseries. But some of the best story telling that Critical Role has ever done. Definitely worth a watch, if not a reaction.
Yeah, I HIGHLY recommend the Calamity mini-series, wether you react to it or not. The four episodes range from 4 to 6 hours each so it totals almost 20 hours, so it's tough for reacting, but WOW is it a great story. You'll get a kick out of it.
a little cute extra fact: a lot of the Pike storyline in the show is new because Ashley, her player, was working in NY during the campaing, so she apear when she was in LA or she could play via Skype, but obviously Matt couldnt develop a lot of plot points with out her there, so most of what we see in the show (beyond the backstory) is new. now the easter egg the put in the show is when Pike say "everybody has a blindspot" well the name of the show that keep her away for a long time was Blindspot. Also, good catch with the "we are his blood" mention by Zerxus, like other have mention his storyline is new too, but you can see the breadcrumbs of what his and pike future can mean
17:45 In a previous episode to that Scanlan asked who the last barrel is for and while Percy doesn't say anything his shadow shows him putting the gun to his own head. Worth going back to see if you haven't.
There are two campaign mini-series that are (or potentially are) relevant to the show which you might want to watch. As many have mentioned, there's ExU: Calamity which gives the full story that Zerxus talked about. It's 4 episodes, but that's about 20 hours, give or take. The other is Downfall. It's from Campaign 3, episodes 99-101. This is a 3 episode flashback showing the events surrounding the fall of Aeor during the Calamity. There isn't a direct confirmed connection, but it gives an interesting insight into the gods themselves, and *might* play into where Pike gets her special blood from.
They appear to be using Demon and Devil interchangably; in D&D, there's a difference, which they're probably not explicitly using due to copyright. Demons are from the Abyss and are Chaotic Evil -- no rules. Orthax didn't ask before entering into the bargain with Percy -- he's a Demon. Devils are from the Hells and are Lawful Evil -- they have rules, but they'll fuck you in the fine print. Zerxes waited for a contract to pull anything -- he's a Devil. In D&D's Planescape, a God can die if it has no followers; it becomes an inert object floating in the infinity of the Astral Sea. I'm not worried about Pike. She'll be okay. I would totally follow her religion!
In Season 1, Vax had his crush on Keyleth and "knew" she had big responsibilities in the future. But Vax's only responsibility was to watch over his sister. By here in season 3, his duty to the Raven Queen is a TON of responsibility on his shoulders now, which also changes his understanding of responsibilities. You're not wrong about loss, but it's a few factors all at once.
If it weren't for that vision, Vax wouldn't have been that shaken. And of course it's not just Vex that he lost. The twins also lost their mother, and that grief is only compounded by what he's been through recently. That, and their childhood still having left scars.
If you want to hear more of Zerxus's story and meet his friends the Ring of Brass you should watch Exandria Unlimited: Calamity! It's a 4 part Critical Role miniseries. There's no spoilers since it takes place 1000+ years before Vox Machina, and it is just. So so so SOOOOO GOOD!! I can't recommend it enough.
Just goes to show, the twins' issues might seem simple but there's A LOT to cover... what you had to say about Percy and Keyleth was really touching too I like the end where Zerxus reveals he's an asshole bc it puts in question everything else he said, but not in a straight-forward way of "oh he was lying". I genuinely think he believes all he said (J'mon bet the arbor for the lolz, Gods lie, his family forgot him), but I also believe his time in hell /made/ him always believe in the less charitable interpretation of events. For all we know maybe his family need forgot him - or Pike will maybe face exactly the troubles he said she would, but come up with a different solution. He's really tragic, and I've never even watched EXU: Calamity to see the extent of it
i think you are right about the intro, what i love about it is that it center in seeing the fear and struggles, of most of the characters: Percy eventual confrontation with Ryple and the fact that his creation will be spread to the world, Keyleth fear of losing her friends/family, Vex is literally alone (with out Vax or Percy) and Keily is beyon Scanlan reach. Pike has the big moment at the end of the end of the OP but well after this episode you can see what she is strugling with. Grog is just being cool because our lovable half gigant doesnt need more that figth and being with his friends, he already have his arc and now he is content and im happy for him. but at the end is all the threads of fate that Vax can see, those images and posible dark futures probably can happen or probably wont, at the he can just hope for the best a return tu be with his found family
I keep pointing this out on a lot of reviewers, but the characters aren't just highly sophisticated. These are characters that were designed and developed by the voice actors themselves. Every interpersonal aspect of the team was a decision made by that character's designer. This is something you never see in any other medium. And the thing is, this happens all the time at so many gaming tables. There are thousands of awesome characters out there that you'll never get to hear about.
Outstanding insight & analysis, as always! Obligatory Xerxes mention, the 4 part miniseries “Exandria Unlimited: Calamity” is possibly the best recorded Dungeons and Dragons to date. It’s definitely lengthy (the last episode clocks in a little over 6 hours), but not nearly the same time committment as a full-bore campaign, and might be worth a look into!
There is so much I want to say about this reaction, so apologies in advance if this comment is long. I’ve said this before, but one of my favorite things about you as a reactor is how you take the time to really see and understand the characters. The character analysis at the beginning of the video is incredibly thoughtful and I think you’ve nailed so much about their feelings and motivations. Regarding Vax and Keyleth, it’s worth noting that in the original campaign it was Kiki who was afraid to get involved with Vax, out of fear of losing him. I’m unsure what compelled the change, though I suspect that this felt more in line with Keyleth’s character growth in the animated series. I personally don’t mind the switch, as it has essentially the same result in terms of tension. Within the narrative of the series, I believe you’re likely right that what happened in the tomb has influenced Vax’s feelings about loss. In addition, he doesn’t know what the Matron truly wants from him, and that unknown is also a huge source of fear for him, even if he’s coming to accept it. Exploring things from Keyleth’s perspective hits very differently for those of us who watch Campaign 3. There’s a specific quote I’m thinking of, but to avoid spoilers, I’ll refrain from posting it. I don’t have too much to say about Vex beyond what you’ve said here so well. Regarding Percy, I believe your analysis of him is absolutely accurate. He lost almost his entire family at 18. He had everything he knew and all his expectations for the future ripped away from him, only to be imprisoned and tortured for information he didn’t even have. During that time, I doubt he was thinking much of his own survival. I think he kept going for Cass. And then he lost her too. The pact with Orthax was always meant to claim his life in the end, which I think he subconsciously knew. He didn’t know he’d sold his soul to a demon, but he also couldn’t see a life past his revenge. There are hints to this in the first season, especially in episode 7. In the scene where Percy tells them about the pepper box and about his list, look at the shadow on the wall behind him when Scanlan asks “Wait, that’s five names. Who’s the sixth barrel for?”. He was unknowingly feeding souls to Orthax and his was always part of the deal, even if he didn’t know it. This was reiterated by the demon in the first episode of this season: “We had a bargain, Percy. And I will happily collect!” Percy spent 5 years of his life focused on avenging his family, with no real thought of what might come after. It was only after the Briarwoods were defeated and Whitestone was returned to the DeRolos that he began to see a future for himself again. And now he wants that future to include Vex, in whatever way she’ll have him. While I do agree that Percy saving Vax in 2x01 was another example of disregarding his own life, I have a slightly different take on that moment. I haven’t really heard anyone talk about it, but I see a parallel here with 1x11: Keyleth jumping in front of Vex to shield her from Delilah’s magic vs Percy pushing Vax out of the path of Umbrasyl’s acid. Of course the whole group cares about each other and are protective of each other, but they (and we as an audience) all know how close the twins are and how it would affect each if something happened to the other. It’s almost as if Keyleth and Percy were each indirectly protecting the one they love by protecting the person most important to them. Just an interesting thought. The exploration of the gods’ motivations and their connection to mortals is a central theme of Campaign 3, and I think that makes the questions of trust and faith in this episode that much more compelling. Regarding Pike and what makes her special, I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say that this particular storyline is original to the animated series, so even those who have watched the stream are very curious about what this all means. Zerxus is meant to be a sympathetic character. For those meeting him for the first time in the series, his story is sad and full of regret. For those who know the whole story, it’s even more tragic, because we know who he was and how he got to this place. Because he was originally a player character, Zerxus is flawed in ways that serve to elevate his motivations as an antagonist. I imagine Luis himself had a lot of say in what became of his character, which makes his retroactive addition to the Vox Machina story that much more powerful. I’m sure many other people have already recommended watching EXU: Calamity, so I’ll just echo that sentiment. The story of Zerxus and the other members of the Ring of Brass is amazing and one you won’t regret getting to experience for yourself.
A major motivating factor for Vax confessing in S1 was the S1E3 encounter with the Briarwoods. In the campaign he was a dice roll away from perma-dead there, Liam straight up though he was done and it was incredibly lucky they saved him. Unfortunately the show really messed with adapting that encounter, shoehorning the Scanlan joke song in a long side it to play it all more as much more comedic, or at least less serious, than it was in the original so the impact of it on Vax is lost.
I remember being introduced to the concept of gods needing followers to exist back when I was a kid watching "Star Trek" in afternoon repeats. (That was a long time ago). There was an episode where the crew meets Apollo, hanging out on some planet, and he tells them all the Greek gods went there after Hellenism died out on earth. Then, one by one, they basically died from lack of worshippers, leaving him as the last survivor. This Pike story is interesting because it wasn't in the campaign, since Ashley was away so much there was no time to give her a character arc. None of us know where this is going, but I'm noticing a bit of a freakout, because some fans don't want to think that Pike would ever question the Everlight, or that the Everlight could betray Pike. Personally, I don't think that the Everlight has, but may be sitting back to let Pike go through this on her own. Don't worry about talking too much about any of the characters, whether it's the twins, Percy, or whoever. Your picking up on the way Pike's question related to Keyleth's situation, and the central question of "happiness today vs. pain tomorrow" was something I hadn't realized. This is what makes you unique as a reactor, and why I perk up whenever I see your videos appear. While, of course, I miss the orcs, I was glad we got so much silence for this particular reaction. The silence felt appropriate for such a quiet, tense episode.
Ok ngl not the biggest Vox Machina fan, I was more drawn to CR from the Mighty Nein , I've only skimmed through Vox Machina episodes of the campagain both to avoid spoilers for the show and because I did have that kinda connection to their characters here , I really like Percy from Vox Machina but that kinda it and your analysis here is exactly why.
PIIIIIIIIKE. Pike Trickfoot my love, the light of my life, she is SUCH a badass in this episode (and in all of her episodes). I dearly love her seeing through to the heart of Zerxus and understanding him. And I think you are correct, that question was an impossible one to answer. Because how do you wish suffering on the ones you love, just so that you will be a little bit less alone? But also how do you live alone, for forever, while the ones that you love are lost and have forgotten you? It's an impossible conundrum. I really do love this arc for Pike. You may have picked up from the comments already, but this was not an arc for Pike in the streamed games. Due to the constraints of Ashley Johnson filming Blindspot at the time, Pike was frequently sidelined and what development she did have was constrained to small moments. I really love what they're doing here with her though, crafting this brand new arc for her. Pike is absolutely the person I would also go to for advice, and in many ways she holds the team together. As Grog says in Season 1, "I'm more worried about us without her". But carrying the team both in battle and emotionally is a massive burden, and you can see here how it weighs on her occasionally. Not that she would ever stop doing it (or be capable of that, honestly, she's Pike), but you can see the wear on her. I really do think that Pike attempting to redeem that woman suffering in the Hells (who bears a faint visual resemblance to Vex) and not being able to reach her is a really important moment for her, also, in her journey with the Everlight. This is the first time she's asked for something from her Goddess and had it go so wrong (that wasn't related to her doubt in herself). Here she is faced with her Goddess' failure to reach someone in suffering-- to reach all these souls in suffering. The Gods of Exandria have limits to their power-- but also if they're willing to leave all these souls to their twisted fate, how much good can they be? I also LOVE you pointing out Zerxus' story playing into the issues that so many of them are currently facing, I hadn't even considered that myself so it's giving me something to chew on. With you mentioning it, and the visual similarity between Zerxus and Silas Briarwood (I think possibly a little delibrate) and the return of the Whispered One, I think there is a parallel to the story of the Briarwoods as well. Delilah absolutely committed Silas to damnation* just so that she could have more time with him. *If not just because vampires probably don't get to go to The Good Place when they eventually run out of immortality, but also in all the things they did to honor the pact with the Whispered One afterwards. Zerxus is also an excellent pull for a character who wasn't in the original Vox Machina campaign, but rather comes from one of their later games EXU Calamity. His desire to redeem a Betrayer mirrors Pike's dilemma here so well, and the pathos of his story is very clear. If you're going to watch any of the campaigns, that one is a really good one (although it sets the bar extremely high)-- it's only a four-episode series (so, around 16 hours total gameplay), but it's one of the best stories to come out of Critical Role. We're all hoping that Vox Machina and upcoming series Mighty Nein do well enough that maybe a Calamity movie is greenlit sometime in the future. Of course I would love to see your reaction to it (future Patreon content maybe??), but even if you watch it on your own it's well worth the experience.
By the way, notice who wrote this episode. _Travis Willingham,_ the biggest lorehound of the CR cast. You should also take notice of who wrote 306 and 307 going forward.
All moments of emotional damage in all hours of Critical Role's game play, do not equal the amount of emotional damage delivered in just four episodes of Exandria: Calamity, from which Zerxus comes. Some of the best entertainment of any form. I guarantee you will be sobbing intensely so many times. So amazing.
"Who is the most proud man here? These ones who thought they would fly a city, or the man who thought he would teach ME a lesson?! The only difference between you and the Dawnfather is that the Dawnfather is a little more humble. I'll tell you why I spit on your forgiveness. I'll tell you why I loathe your redemption. To reach a hand down to somebody, they need to be BENEATH you!! And I am beneath NOBODY.. " - Asmodeus, Lord of the Hells, to Zerxus Ilerez, Fallen Knight of Avalir
Props for the Small Gods reference, both a great book and a good take on who gods work in D&D. Honestly, if a god is powered by his followers in D&D has been portrayed... inconsistently. Some stories have shown gods who "die" because no one believes in them any more while others have been killed through violence, magic or other acts. None of them have been turned into turtles unfortunately. In the end, each dungeon master gets to create the rules for their own game. Seperately, please don't make that slurping sound again... ever.
I'm commenting with some background info that sheds additional light on why the Everlight doesn't help Pike in this episode -- but I suspect we might get this info next season, so I'm adding spoiler space for anyone who doesn't want to know yet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . At the end of the Schism (when the gods split into two principal factions, the Primes and the Betrayers) the Primes sought to protect mortals from the Betrayers by sealing the Betrayers into the hells. This implies that there is some sort of barrier around the hells that neither Primes nor Betrayers can easily pass through. The Calamity itself started with the Betrayers getting loose in the mortal world again. At the end of the Calamity, the Prime Deities sealed the Betrayers back into the hells and sought to further protect mortals from divine interference by creating the Divine Gate, which prevents both Betrayers and Primes from directly accessing the world. (Zerxus almost certainly knows all this, I think. Pike might not.)
I actually think the twins' motivations are more similar actually, I mean, you played interpeted Vax with "I don't want to be with you because I don't want you to feel bad"; and Vex with "I don't want to be with you because I don't want to feel bad", which I don't think is a wrong interpretation, but from my point of view when Vex says that she is a "bad omen" and that all the times she has loved someone ends up badly is meant more as "I don't want to be with you because I don't want you to get hurt" and I mean physically.
Vex is not making decisions for her. He's making his own decision not to live with the guilt of knowing the pain she will suffer. He pusnishing himself at the same time to avoid the guilt... He's trying to protect himself. He could be more honest and direct. 100% 100% It's the same thing with Vex when they where young, "do not go far from me"... Not for her... For him... Just like here... The one he's protecting is the little boy living inside of him who lost his mom, made a deal with death to save his sister, and got rejected from his dad... Communication issues, yes 1000% "Guy making decision for the girl" i don't think so.
>” I have no intro this morning, but I have to talk for at least a minute in case there’s adult stuff in the opening scene”
> talks for 22 minutes
“Oh crap, I’ve been going for 12 minutes, I’ll try to wrap this up quick.”
*keeps going for another ten minutes*
Well, that ought to do it.
>feeling very attacked right now
>also laughing I'M SORRY I DIDN'T MEAN TO!!
@@kyratriesMake no mistake… I can’t speak for the others, but despite the fact that I’m laughing, I do love it. I wouldn’t give up a second of those 22 minutes.
Kyra, the 20 minutes of your thoughts is why I'm here.
Agreed, it’s a big hunk of meaningful content and analysis.
Fun little fact:
Clerics in dnd have generally a high WISDOM stat. Meaning, reading people, situations, understanding others and themselves, as well as knowing right from wrong are all parts of how their gods share power with them.
Xerxus was a Paladin, a holy person who’s power comes from their oath to do good, and their unbreakable will fuels them like a kiln. They often follow just causes, but they can follow things they “BELIEVE” to be just. They use CHARISMA as their stat.
That’s the main difference why Pike won. Xerxus knew how to talk like he knew everything and obviously knew more about Pike than she knew of him, but Pike knew how to find WHO Xerxus was and ask that person questions instead.
Wisdom
VERY keen reading there.
10/10 breakdown of the underlying game mechanics , bravo
"She's just very good at lying to herself" - I wish you understood how perfect of a description that is
Two things can be true: Zerxus Ilerez can be a sympathetic and deeply tragic figure. And after spending a thousand years as a demon, he made some real dick moves this episode.
Y’know, it’s so damned good to see a reactor that goes so deep and gets so emotionally invested in characters and their stories. The fact that you’re not watching it to watch it, but watching it to experience it is hugely meaningful.
It’s enough to make me wish we could actually play at the same gaming table. I want to see what this kind of investment looks like when it’s a cast you’re part of.
If your interested Zerxes Ilerez is a player character from one of CR's mini campaigns called Exandria Unlimited: Calamity, created and voiced by actor Luis Carazo. The series is centered around the events of how the Calamity started. There's no major spoilers to any of the other main 3 campaigns and the storytelling is top notch. Arguably the best content CR has made.
Everybody should watch Calamity at least once.
This episode was a real treat for those of us who loved EXU: Calamity and full of easter eggs directly tied to the EXU liveplay series. The shot at the beginning of the stained glass sequence of the three beings wielding fire, water and lightning (When Zerxus says "When Gods walked among mortals...") are, I believe, meant to represent Matt Mercer himself (fire), and guest DMs Aabria Iyengar (water) and Brennan Lee Mulligan (lightning) who have all created and contributed so much to the development of the world of Exandria and its lore. That was a fun thing to see for me personally, as a forever DM who hasn't actually gotten to play in over a decade, it was nice to see a small shout out to the real heroes of this mess. 😄
It's sad they didn't use the actual elements that they've used for their openings. Brannan being fire, Aabria being air, and Matt being water.
21:08 Do not apologize. We watch you for your insights. 😁❤
The cast created amzing, fully realized characters, and Critters have literally been thinking about these things for almost a decade. Your thoughts & breakdown are why most of us are here.
35:52 Just coincidental. Zerxus is from the EXU: Calamity series. Highly recommend watching it. It doesn’t spoil anything for LoVM, and gives you great insight into Zerxus’s story you’re about to hear.
"who says clerics cant exist off of something other than godly power?" this is such an interesting thought and i would love to hear more of what your thought process for this. I know im getting to this late, but now that i finished your video this was just too fascinating not to comment on
Once again suggesting that you watch Exandria Unlimited: Calamity. It's set long before the events of VM, and tells much of the backstory that Zerxus detailed here, but also shows exactly how the Calamity came about.
And it's DMed by the great Brennan Lee Mulligan, who is one of the most impressive DMs out there. Matt is great at incredible sweeping story arcs and beautiful narratives, but Brennan really understands people and how to make incredible characters and truly terrifying villains. He's infamous for his monologues, and so EXU: Calamity has one of the greatest villain monologues you'll ever hear.
"We all have Blindspots..." is such a great little sting at the end there. (Blindspot was the show Johnson was working on during the filming of the campaign, and it forced her to be absent a lot. This is why Pike leaves in S1, it was a narrative reflection the need they had to be in NY to film and the sessions they played over Zoom, which is basically just Astral Projection right?) If you want to know more about Xerxes, check out EXU: Calamity, its a shorter series DM'd by Brennan Lee Mulligan that has an incredible cast and insight into the start of the Calamity.
Love your theorizing and processing. Take as much time as you need.
IIRC, the group actually did discuss the possibility of using the spinning orb of death against the dragons, somehow.
Listening to your musing of Vax's relationship with Keyleth, and remembering (which you get to soon after) that it was teen Vax who decided that he and Vex were leaving their father, over his sister's protests.
Making unilateral decisions to protect those he cares about from harm is keeping in character. Invariably leading to heartache for him when others go ahead and make their own choices anyway.
Kinda his whole ethos as a rogue.
Also, you're the first reactor, of dozens have watched thus far, who picked up on the Whispered One connection in the moment. (One person reflected on it in their commentary opening the following episode, but otherwise most have just audibly scratched their heads at the reference, if they even noticed it at all.)
Critters don't know what the deal is with Pike's blood and crisis of faith either, that's all brand new to the show, it wasn't in the campaign. Although some have theories, natch.
Well, we do know one thing about her blood... 🍪😏
Loved your thoughts at the start. It's great to see that the story is impacting you.
So Zerxus was not in the original campaign but as has been noted was in Exandria Unlimited: Calamity which was a four part stand-alone mini-series that is a prequel to Critical Role's main campaigns. Definitely worth a watch if you wanted a taste of CR without the hundreds of hours of gameplay. I have a strong theory Zerxus is going to show up and replace another character in the final season of the show. This is uncharted territory for both established critters like me and new watchers, but I *think* I know what they are doing here, and it should be interesting.
Don’t quote me on this, but I THINK Goliaths like Grog might have a slightly shorter average lifespan than humans. If so, it’s only by a decade or two… but there are other factors to consider on that front.
1) we’re not entirely certain how old Grog IS, because he can’t really count that high.
2) Grog is perhaps the most likely in the group to end up dying of misadventure long before old age gets him. That’s a story yet untold, however, so while it may be possible, we can’t be certain.
Goliath tend to live shorter lives than humans primarily because Goliath society is based on your ability to contribute to the tribe.
If you get old and feeble, or just suffer a serious illness or injury, you are given an honorable ceremony of departure and you are expected to take yourself off into the wilderness until you can demonstrate you are healthy enough to return and contribute to the tribe.
Or you die.
Very big on group identity and "survival of the fittest".
My thoughts on the difference between S1 Vax and S3 Vax is this. Remember in S2, in Osyssa's "test" Keyleth was confronted with "What do you fear more? Failing your Aramente or knowing no one will live long enough to see you achieve it?" So we know that that is something Keyleth fears. When Vax got that vision while kissing Keyleth, he got a (for lack of better word) taste of that fear. That was something he probably didn't know in S1. But now that he knows her deepest fear, he wants to try to "soften the blow" when it inevitably happens.
46:10 Zerxus is voiced by the guy who also played his character as a member of their team in the 4 episode mini campaign called "Exandria Unlimited: Calamity " which is what depicted in this stained-glass backstory scene.
58:18 Him saying "She has no idea what courses through her vains..." was not in the campaign I think so I'm curious where that goes. Maybe her power comes from her blood (1:05:25) as he mentions.
56:48 The idea of forgetting the ones closest to you (especially as an imortal) or being forgotten by the world over time, no matter what you managed to accomplish is fresh on my mind since I recently watched the "Frieren: Beyond journey's end" show and that is one of its aspects that the show ("Frieren") is centered around. It's a tragic but wholesome and beautiful show, which I would love to see your thoughts about some day.
Well, it's 4 episodes, not exactly a "one shot." More like a miniseries. But some of the best story telling that Critical Role has ever done. Definitely worth a watch, if not a reaction.
Yeah, I HIGHLY recommend the Calamity mini-series, wether you react to it or not. The four episodes range from 4 to 6 hours each so it totals almost 20 hours, so it's tough for reacting, but WOW is it a great story. You'll get a kick out of it.
a little cute extra fact: a lot of the Pike storyline in the show is new because Ashley, her player, was working in NY during the campaing, so she apear when she was in LA or she could play via Skype, but obviously Matt couldnt develop a lot of plot points with out her there, so most of what we see in the show (beyond the backstory) is new. now the easter egg the put in the show is when Pike say "everybody has a blindspot" well the name of the show that keep her away for a long time was Blindspot.
Also, good catch with the "we are his blood" mention by Zerxus, like other have mention his storyline is new too, but you can see the breadcrumbs of what his and pike future can mean
17:45 In a previous episode to that Scanlan asked who the last barrel is for and while Percy doesn't say anything his shadow shows him putting the gun to his own head. Worth going back to see if you haven't.
There are two campaign mini-series that are (or potentially are) relevant to the show which you might want to watch. As many have mentioned, there's ExU: Calamity which gives the full story that Zerxus talked about. It's 4 episodes, but that's about 20 hours, give or take.
The other is Downfall. It's from Campaign 3, episodes 99-101. This is a 3 episode flashback showing the events surrounding the fall of Aeor during the Calamity. There isn't a direct confirmed connection, but it gives an interesting insight into the gods themselves, and *might* play into where Pike gets her special blood from.
They appear to be using Demon and Devil interchangably; in D&D, there's a difference, which they're probably not explicitly using due to copyright. Demons are from the Abyss and are Chaotic Evil -- no rules. Orthax didn't ask before entering into the bargain with Percy -- he's a Demon. Devils are from the Hells and are Lawful Evil -- they have rules, but they'll fuck you in the fine print. Zerxes waited for a contract to pull anything -- he's a Devil.
In D&D's Planescape, a God can die if it has no followers; it becomes an inert object floating in the infinity of the Astral Sea.
I'm not worried about Pike. She'll be okay. I would totally follow her religion!
In Season 1, Vax had his crush on Keyleth and "knew" she had big responsibilities in the future. But Vax's only responsibility was to watch over his sister. By here in season 3, his duty to the Raven Queen is a TON of responsibility on his shoulders now, which also changes his understanding of responsibilities. You're not wrong about loss, but it's a few factors all at once.
If it weren't for that vision, Vax wouldn't have been that shaken. And of course it's not just Vex that he lost. The twins also lost their mother, and that grief is only compounded by what he's been through recently. That, and their childhood still having left scars.
I'm sure there are plenty of people who would LOVE if you watched EXU: Calamity including myself!
If you want to hear more of Zerxus's story and meet his friends the Ring of Brass you should watch Exandria Unlimited: Calamity! It's a 4 part Critical Role miniseries. There's no spoilers since it takes place 1000+ years before Vox Machina, and it is just. So so so SOOOOO GOOD!! I can't recommend it enough.
Just goes to show, the twins' issues might seem simple but there's A LOT to cover... what you had to say about Percy and Keyleth was really touching too
I like the end where Zerxus reveals he's an asshole bc it puts in question everything else he said, but not in a straight-forward way of "oh he was lying". I genuinely think he believes all he said (J'mon bet the arbor for the lolz, Gods lie, his family forgot him), but I also believe his time in hell /made/ him always believe in the less charitable interpretation of events. For all we know maybe his family need forgot him - or Pike will maybe face exactly the troubles he said she would, but come up with a different solution. He's really tragic, and I've never even watched EXU: Calamity to see the extent of it
i think you are right about the intro, what i love about it is that it center in seeing the fear and struggles, of most of the characters: Percy eventual confrontation with Ryple and the fact that his creation will be spread to the world, Keyleth fear of losing her friends/family, Vex is literally alone (with out Vax or Percy) and Keily is beyon Scanlan reach. Pike has the big moment at the end of the end of the OP but well after this episode you can see what she is strugling with. Grog is just being cool because our lovable half gigant doesnt need more that figth and being with his friends, he already have his arc and now he is content and im happy for him. but at the end is all the threads of fate that Vax can see, those images and posible dark futures probably can happen or probably wont, at the he can just hope for the best a return tu be with his found family
I keep pointing this out on a lot of reviewers, but the characters aren't just highly sophisticated. These are characters that were designed and developed by the voice actors themselves. Every interpersonal aspect of the team was a decision made by that character's designer. This is something you never see in any other medium. And the thing is, this happens all the time at so many gaming tables. There are thousands of awesome characters out there that you'll never get to hear about.
Outstanding insight & analysis, as always! Obligatory Xerxes mention, the 4 part miniseries “Exandria Unlimited: Calamity” is possibly the best recorded Dungeons and Dragons to date. It’s definitely lengthy (the last episode clocks in a little over 6 hours), but not nearly the same time committment as a full-bore campaign, and might be worth a look into!
54:30 “We all have Blindspots.”
hehehehehehehehehe
That script for the vex and percy video feels like it will triple in length or shorten 2 pages by the time she finishes s3
There is so much I want to say about this reaction, so apologies in advance if this comment is long.
I’ve said this before, but one of my favorite things about you as a reactor is how you take the time to really see and understand the characters. The character analysis at the beginning of the video is incredibly thoughtful and I think you’ve nailed so much about their feelings and motivations.
Regarding Vax and Keyleth, it’s worth noting that in the original campaign it was Kiki who was afraid to get involved with Vax, out of fear of losing him. I’m unsure what compelled the change, though I suspect that this felt more in line with Keyleth’s character growth in the animated series. I personally don’t mind the switch, as it has essentially the same result in terms of tension. Within the narrative of the series, I believe you’re likely right that what happened in the tomb has influenced Vax’s feelings about loss. In addition, he doesn’t know what the Matron truly wants from him, and that unknown is also a huge source of fear for him, even if he’s coming to accept it. Exploring things from Keyleth’s perspective hits very differently for those of us who watch Campaign 3. There’s a specific quote I’m thinking of, but to avoid spoilers, I’ll refrain from posting it.
I don’t have too much to say about Vex beyond what you’ve said here so well. Regarding Percy, I believe your analysis of him is absolutely accurate. He lost almost his entire family at 18. He had everything he knew and all his expectations for the future ripped away from him, only to be imprisoned and tortured for information he didn’t even have. During that time, I doubt he was thinking much of his own survival. I think he kept going for Cass. And then he lost her too. The pact with Orthax was always meant to claim his life in the end, which I think he subconsciously knew. He didn’t know he’d sold his soul to a demon, but he also couldn’t see a life past his revenge. There are hints to this in the first season, especially in episode 7. In the scene where Percy tells them about the pepper box and about his list, look at the shadow on the wall behind him when Scanlan asks “Wait, that’s five names. Who’s the sixth barrel for?”. He was unknowingly feeding souls to Orthax and his was always part of the deal, even if he didn’t know it. This was reiterated by the demon in the first episode of this season: “We had a bargain, Percy. And I will happily collect!” Percy spent 5 years of his life focused on avenging his family, with no real thought of what might come after. It was only after the Briarwoods were defeated and Whitestone was returned to the DeRolos that he began to see a future for himself again. And now he wants that future to include Vex, in whatever way she’ll have him.
While I do agree that Percy saving Vax in 2x01 was another example of disregarding his own life, I have a slightly different take on that moment. I haven’t really heard anyone talk about it, but I see a parallel here with 1x11: Keyleth jumping in front of Vex to shield her from Delilah’s magic vs Percy pushing Vax out of the path of Umbrasyl’s acid. Of course the whole group cares about each other and are protective of each other, but they (and we as an audience) all know how close the twins are and how it would affect each if something happened to the other. It’s almost as if Keyleth and Percy were each indirectly protecting the one they love by protecting the person most important to them. Just an interesting thought.
The exploration of the gods’ motivations and their connection to mortals is a central theme of Campaign 3, and I think that makes the questions of trust and faith in this episode that much more compelling. Regarding Pike and what makes her special, I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say that this particular storyline is original to the animated series, so even those who have watched the stream are very curious about what this all means.
Zerxus is meant to be a sympathetic character. For those meeting him for the first time in the series, his story is sad and full of regret. For those who know the whole story, it’s even more tragic, because we know who he was and how he got to this place. Because he was originally a player character, Zerxus is flawed in ways that serve to elevate his motivations as an antagonist. I imagine Luis himself had a lot of say in what became of his character, which makes his retroactive addition to the Vox Machina story that much more powerful.
I’m sure many other people have already recommended watching EXU: Calamity, so
I’ll just echo that sentiment. The story of Zerxus and the other members of the Ring of Brass is amazing and one you won’t regret getting to experience for yourself.
Zerxes is so so cool
I would highly recommend checking out EXU: Calamity if you need to scratch that Critter itch after you finish this season, and wait for M9/S4
Hello? Kyra? Where you at?
Keep reaching for your happiness.
Anyone who knows Zerxus knows how full of shit he is. The Lord of Torment bragged to him about inventing lies but Z still trusted the bastard.
We are his blood 🩸
A major motivating factor for Vax confessing in S1 was the S1E3 encounter with the Briarwoods. In the campaign he was a dice roll away from perma-dead there, Liam straight up though he was done and it was incredibly lucky they saved him. Unfortunately the show really messed with adapting that encounter, shoehorning the Scanlan joke song in a long side it to play it all more as much more comedic, or at least less serious, than it was in the original so the impact of it on Vax is lost.
I remember being introduced to the concept of gods needing followers to exist back when I was a kid watching "Star Trek" in afternoon repeats. (That was a long time ago). There was an episode where the crew meets Apollo, hanging out on some planet, and he tells them all the Greek gods went there after Hellenism died out on earth. Then, one by one, they basically died from lack of worshippers, leaving him as the last survivor.
This Pike story is interesting because it wasn't in the campaign, since Ashley was away so much there was no time to give her a character arc. None of us know where this is going, but I'm noticing a bit of a freakout, because some fans don't want to think that Pike would ever question the Everlight, or that the Everlight could betray Pike. Personally, I don't think that the Everlight has, but may be sitting back to let Pike go through this on her own.
Don't worry about talking too much about any of the characters, whether it's the twins, Percy, or whoever. Your picking up on the way Pike's question related to Keyleth's situation, and the central question of "happiness today vs. pain tomorrow" was something I hadn't realized. This is what makes you unique as a reactor, and why I perk up whenever I see your videos appear.
While, of course, I miss the orcs, I was glad we got so much silence for this particular reaction. The silence felt appropriate for such a quiet, tense episode.
Ok ngl not the biggest Vox Machina fan, I was more drawn to CR from the Mighty Nein , I've only skimmed through Vox Machina episodes of the campagain both to avoid spoilers for the show and because I did have that kinda connection to their characters here , I really like Percy from Vox Machina but that kinda it and your analysis here is exactly why.
We do not speak this title in public...
Girl is looking for diagonals all episode xd
PIIIIIIIIKE. Pike Trickfoot my love, the light of my life, she is SUCH a badass in this episode (and in all of her episodes). I dearly love her seeing through to the heart of Zerxus and understanding him. And I think you are correct, that question was an impossible one to answer. Because how do you wish suffering on the ones you love, just so that you will be a little bit less alone? But also how do you live alone, for forever, while the ones that you love are lost and have forgotten you? It's an impossible conundrum.
I really do love this arc for Pike. You may have picked up from the comments already, but this was not an arc for Pike in the streamed games. Due to the constraints of Ashley Johnson filming Blindspot at the time, Pike was frequently sidelined and what development she did have was constrained to small moments. I really love what they're doing here with her though, crafting this brand new arc for her. Pike is absolutely the person I would also go to for advice, and in many ways she holds the team together. As Grog says in Season 1, "I'm more worried about us without her". But carrying the team both in battle and emotionally is a massive burden, and you can see here how it weighs on her occasionally. Not that she would ever stop doing it (or be capable of that, honestly, she's Pike), but you can see the wear on her.
I really do think that Pike attempting to redeem that woman suffering in the Hells (who bears a faint visual resemblance to Vex) and not being able to reach her is a really important moment for her, also, in her journey with the Everlight. This is the first time she's asked for something from her Goddess and had it go so wrong (that wasn't related to her doubt in herself). Here she is faced with her Goddess' failure to reach someone in suffering-- to reach all these souls in suffering. The Gods of Exandria have limits to their power-- but also if they're willing to leave all these souls to their twisted fate, how much good can they be?
I also LOVE you pointing out Zerxus' story playing into the issues that so many of them are currently facing, I hadn't even considered that myself so it's giving me something to chew on. With you mentioning it, and the visual similarity between Zerxus and Silas Briarwood (I think possibly a little delibrate) and the return of the Whispered One, I think there is a parallel to the story of the Briarwoods as well. Delilah absolutely committed Silas to damnation* just so that she could have more time with him.
*If not just because vampires probably don't get to go to The Good Place when they eventually run out of immortality, but also in all the things they did to honor the pact with the Whispered One afterwards.
Zerxus is also an excellent pull for a character who wasn't in the original Vox Machina campaign, but rather comes from one of their later games EXU Calamity. His desire to redeem a Betrayer mirrors Pike's dilemma here so well, and the pathos of his story is very clear. If you're going to watch any of the campaigns, that one is a really good one (although it sets the bar extremely high)-- it's only a four-episode series (so, around 16 hours total gameplay), but it's one of the best stories to come out of Critical Role. We're all hoping that Vox Machina and upcoming series Mighty Nein do well enough that maybe a Calamity movie is greenlit sometime in the future. Of course I would love to see your reaction to it (future Patreon content maybe??), but even if you watch it on your own it's well worth the experience.
By the way, notice who wrote this episode.
_Travis Willingham,_ the biggest lorehound of the CR cast.
You should also take notice of who wrote 306 and 307 going forward.
i watched kekkai sensen, was really really great anime, saw it in dub, shame we only got 2 seasons, smh
Hey Kyra don't scroll please
...
..
..
..
..
..
..
..
Ok guys.... seriously... How much of a heads up do we give her?!
No spoilers!
Let the feelings happen naturally.
None. Sorry.
@@vladgdc
So she gets emotionally clubbed like a baby seal in 7?
Can we take up a collection for tissues?
@kenle2 Yes. 😈
And yes. 🤧
Spoilers for Exandria: Unlimited Calamity.
All moments of emotional damage in all hours of Critical Role's game play, do not equal the amount of emotional damage delivered in just four episodes of Exandria: Calamity, from which Zerxus comes. Some of the best entertainment of any form. I guarantee you will be sobbing intensely so many times. So amazing.
"Who is the most proud man here?
These ones who thought they would fly a city,
or the man who thought he would teach ME a lesson?!
The only difference between you and the Dawnfather
is that the Dawnfather is a little more humble.
I'll tell you why I spit on your forgiveness.
I'll tell you why I loathe your redemption.
To reach a hand down to somebody,
they need to be BENEATH you!!
And I am beneath NOBODY.. "
- Asmodeus, Lord of the Hells,
to Zerxus Ilerez, Fallen Knight of Avalir
That whole scene was amazing
@@bludfyre You wanna destroy some floating islands?
Need to get sudden rage?
Need a guy who runs on almonds?
Brennan's got you.
Good scene, but I call theft (homage?) from Milton's Paradise Lost:
"Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven."
Brennan's villain monologue on point.
Props for the Small Gods reference, both a great book and a good take on who gods work in D&D. Honestly, if a god is powered by his followers in D&D has been portrayed... inconsistently. Some stories have shown gods who "die" because no one believes in them any more while others have been killed through violence, magic or other acts. None of them have been turned into turtles unfortunately. In the end, each dungeon master gets to create the rules for their own game.
Seperately, please don't make that slurping sound again... ever.
Everlight: If you go to Despath I will leave you alone.
Aslo the Everlight: Waited until she was trapped there for 12 hours to tell her that......
Gods rarily start conversations first. Pike probably should've reached out to her sooner.
There is a real part of me that wonders if that even was the Everlight, since she was already in hell.
I'm commenting with some background info that sheds additional light on why the Everlight doesn't help Pike in this episode -- but I suspect we might get this info next season, so I'm adding spoiler space for anyone who doesn't want to know yet.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
At the end of the Schism (when the gods split into two principal factions, the Primes and the Betrayers) the Primes sought to protect mortals from the Betrayers by sealing the Betrayers into the hells. This implies that there is some sort of barrier around the hells that neither Primes nor Betrayers can easily pass through.
The Calamity itself started with the Betrayers getting loose in the mortal world again.
At the end of the Calamity, the Prime Deities sealed the Betrayers back into the hells and sought to further protect mortals from divine interference by creating the Divine Gate, which prevents both Betrayers and Primes from directly accessing the world.
(Zerxus almost certainly knows all this, I think. Pike might not.)
I actually think the twins' motivations are more similar actually, I mean, you played interpeted Vax with "I don't want to be with you because I don't want you to feel bad"; and Vex with "I don't want to be with you because I don't want to feel bad", which I don't think is a wrong interpretation, but from my point of view when Vex says that she is a "bad omen" and that all the times she has loved someone ends up badly is meant more as "I don't want to be with you because I don't want you to get hurt" and I mean physically.
Vex is not making decisions for her. He's making his own decision not to live with the guilt of knowing the pain she will suffer. He pusnishing himself at the same time to avoid the guilt... He's trying to protect himself.
He could be more honest and direct. 100%
100%
It's the same thing with Vex when they where young, "do not go far from me"... Not for her... For him...
Just like here... The one he's protecting is the little boy living inside of him who lost his mom, made a deal with death to save his sister, and got rejected from his dad...
Communication issues, yes 1000%
"Guy making decision for the girl" i don't think so.