I am obsessed with how Brynjolf has a very, very strong "no killing" rule, but as soon as you return after mercers betrayal he straight up tells you "kill whoever gets in your way" like!!! I LOVE THAT!!! I LOVE THAT SO MUCH!!!
there's something wonderful about watching a peaceful character accepting violence. idk something about him being so enraged at what mercer did that something in him snaps. the guilt he expected isn't there. there's no shame or worry about the ramifications as long as his beloved returns to him in one piece.
"You've returned to me." He'd say, thumb tracing along her jawline thoughtfully. She looked exhausted and Brynjolf wishes she would allow herself to rest, to heal from all the wounds Mercer left her with. The mere thought of his former friend, the man he considered a mentor for decades made him sick.
He forced himself to recall every bruise he left on her body, the bandages and stitches Karliah had blessedly performed in the snow. Mercer would feel every second of suffering he'd inflicted upon her.
"Of course." She'd answer sleepily, dozing off on his chest. Brynjolf's heart ached at the sight and he clutched her closer. "You know I'm going after him."
"Will you be upset with me if I harm him?" She whispered anxiously into his armor, staring up at him. "If I kill him?"
It's kind that she recalled his distaste for violence but Brynjolf's resolve had turned to ash. Mercer had stolen and cheated from their family. He'd tried to kill the one who made Brynjolf's heart feel whole again. What he'd done to them was unforgivable.
"Kill whoever stands in your way, lass." He murmured, kissing her messy hair. "I'll be by your side no matter what."