In "Dragon Age: Inquisition," the revelation that Solas, also known as Fen'Harel, kills Flemeth, also known as Mythal, is a pivotal moment in the game's intricate storyline. Solas's actions are driven by complex motivations deeply rooted in the lore and history of Thedas. Throughout the game, Solas is portrayed as an enigmatic character with a mysterious agenda, and his decision to kill Flemeth sparks intrigue and raises significant questions about his intentions and the consequences for the world of Thedas.
The Lore of Fen'Harel and Mythal
To understand why Solas kills Flemeth, it's crucial to delve into the lore surrounding these two ancient beings in the Dragon Age universe. Fen'Harel, also known as the Dread Wolf, is a trickster god and one of the elven pantheon's most enigmatic figures. He is known for sealing away the elven gods, whom he believed had become corrupt and oppressive. Mythal, on the other hand, is another ancient elven deity associated with justice, protection, and motherhood. She is revered and feared in equal measure across Thedas due to her immense power and influence.
Solas's Relationship with Flemeth
Throughout "Dragon Age: Inquisition," Solas and Flemeth share a complex and ambiguous relationship that unfolds gradually. It is revealed that Flemeth has harbored a fragment of Mythal's spirit within her for centuries, which grants her incredible power and longevity. Solas, as Fen'Harel, respects and admires Mythal's ideals and beliefs, viewing her as a pivotal figure in elven history. Despite their shared history, Solas eventually comes to see Flemeth as an obstacle to his plans for restoring the elven people and rectifying the mistakes of the past.
The Dread Wolf's Plan
Solas's motivations for killing Flemeth are rooted in his broader plan to undo the consequences of his actions millennia ago. As Fen'Harel, he created the Veil, separating the physical world from the Fade, which had far-reaching consequences for the elves and Thedas as a whole. Solas believes that the current state of Thedas, with elves oppressed and marginalized, is a direct result of his actions and those of the elven pantheon. By killing Flemeth and absorbing the essence of Mythal, Solas seeks to reclaim the power needed to restore the elven civilization to its former glory.
Flemeth's Legacy and Influence
Flemeth's death marks a significant turning point in the Dragon Age narrative, as she has been a central figure throughout the series. Her cunning and foresight have shaped events across centuries, influencing key characters and pivotal moments. By passing on Mythal's essence to Morrigan in "Dragon Age: Origins," Flemeth ensures that her legacy persists beyond her physical death. This act also sets the stage for Morrigan's role in potentially shaping the future of Thedas and confronting Solas in subsequent installments of the series.
The Consequences of Solas's Actions
The death of Flemeth and Solas's absorption of Mythal's essence have profound implications for the Dragon Age universe moving forward. Solas's newfound power and resolve to tear down the Veil could potentially unleash chaos upon Thedas, disrupting the delicate balance between the mortal realm and the Fade. Players are left to speculate on whether Solas's actions will lead to redemption, destruction, or something entirely unforeseen. The repercussions of his choices are likely to reverberate throughout the world, affecting both mortal and immortal alike.
Player Choice and Narrative Impact
One of the strengths of the Dragon Age series is its emphasis on player choice and the impact of decisions on the game's narrative. The revelation of Solas killing Flemeth presents players with moral dilemmas and strategic considerations that can shape the outcome of the storyline. Choices made throughout "Dragon Age: Inquisition" and its predecessors influence how characters perceive and respond to events, including the conflict between Solas and Flemeth. This interactive storytelling approach adds depth and replayability to the game, encouraging players to explore different paths and consequences.
The Future of Thedas
Looking ahead, the fate of Thedas hangs in the balance as Solas's plans unfold and the consequences of his actions become clear. Players eagerly await the next installment in the Dragon Age series to see how events will unfold and what role their characters will play in shaping the future of the world. The conflict between Solas and the remaining forces in Thedas promises to be a defining moment in the series, offering opportunities for exploration, discovery, and moral introspection.
In summary, Solas's decision to kill Flemeth in "Dragon Age: Inquisition" is a pivotal moment that underscores the complexity of the Dragon Age universe's lore and characters. Rooted in ancient history and driven by personal motivations, Solas's actions set the stage for dramatic developments and ethical dilemmas that resonate throughout Thedas. The repercussions of his choices, coupled with player decisions, shape the narrative and future of the series, ensuring that the conflict between ancient powers and mortal forces remains a central theme in the ongoing saga of Dragon Age.