This piece (though hasty) really is a love letter to this game but also to my Rook, Dawes Mercar, who became more important to me than I ever thought he could.
I picked up Veilguard as a birthday present to myself almost exactly a year ago, made Dawes, played a little, but like many things I knew I would enjoy dropped it for a while. January came and I dove back in, and I haven't been the same.
Veilguard truly is a comfort game for me, and I know I will keep coming back again and again to tell that story. It's a game about regrets, community, love, grief. It's about connection and intention. It gives back what you put in, and I know for many people that's not enough, but to me, it is the most rewarding thing I could imagine. I hold so much love for the entire series and franchise, but now, Dragon Age belongs to us.
Five or so years ago, I had written a novel. I had a mentor, I had beta readers, and I had every intention to go traditional. But I burnt out so bad that I dropped writing and reading entirely. I never thought I'd be back. D&D and written RP stoked the little ember, but writing fic became the roaring fire once again.
I've since written Between a Rook and a Hard Place, and I'm well into Castled Queenside, a fic I am going to hold so very dear to my heart. All thanks to Veilguard, and the community here.
I was lucky enough to miss the first wave of hate. By the time I got here, everyone has been warm and welcoming and encouraging of any creative expression. We all are aware Veilguard has it's flaws. A lot of games do. It's important to acknowledge them to yourself, but it's equally important to enjoy what you love with your whole chest.
I've played all the games, and still, Veilguard is my favourite. I love the world and the lore and I am very aware of how deep it is and still, Veilguard is my favourite.
Looking forward to another year of enjoying this game and creating even more stories with you all. This is also my love letter to all of you in my mentions who say how much you love Dawes. That he exists in your mind means a lot to me.
vaporwave
stormborns
turnnoffyourmind
gracieabrams
gamechangershow
