#thefadecodex answers

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So what spirits do you think the Evanuris were? Like Elgar'nan would be Command, Mythal -> benevolence, Solas is wisdom -> pride, but what do you think the rest were?

I like to think June is Inspiration (made the eluvians), Sylaise would be Harmony, Dirthamen/Falon'din are the shattered remnants of Wisdom (<- i get this from this quote on Dumat: "in silence is the beating heart of wisdom). Dirthamen would be Knowledge -> secrecy/deceit(?) and Falon'din would be Learning corrupted into Hunger?

Sorry for the rambling- but I love this blog and Evanuris being former spirits just fascinates me!

Well met, wanderer of the Fade!

I have thought about this a lot, honestly, and I’m still coming to my final conclusions on the nature of the Evanuris. However, here are my current thoughts until I reach that section to dive deeper:

June – Innovation (The creation of the eluvians speaks to a mind driven by invention and transformative creativity.) When corrupted, it becomes Obsession.

Sylaise – Harmony (Her association with peace, fire, and the nurturing aspects of elven society suggest a spirit tied to balance and cohesion.) When corrupted it becomes Stagnation.

Ghilan'nain – Creation (Her association with shaping creatures, monsters and guiding them ties closely to the act of bringing something new into being.) When corrupted it becomes Hubris*.

In this context, I wouldn't use hubris and pride to be the same. Think of pride as believing you're the best in the room, while hubris is believing you're above the rules of the universe.

Andruil – Competition (Her obsession with the Hunt and her repeated challenges to other gods suggest a drive defined by rivalry and dominance.) When corrupted, it becomes Madness.

As for Falon'Din and Dirthamen, I’m still untangling their threads, but I’m leaning toward them being shattered fragments of Discovery.

Dirthamen might represent Knowledge, with a drive that, when twisted, becomes Secrecy—hoarding knowledge for himself rather than sharing it.

Falon'Din could align with Learning, corrupted into Hunger—an insatiable need to consume, understand, and claim everything in his reach, even the souls of the dead. Which also aligns with comments made by Solas in DAI about Falon'Din's desire for worship.

I love your interpretation of them as remnants of Wisdom, particularly with the connection to Dumat’s quote: "In silence is the beating heart of wisdom." It aligns beautifully with their themes.

It’s such a fascinating idea to explore the Evanuris as once being spirits themselves—shaped, changed, and eventually corrupted by their own desires and the weight of their power.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! Discussions like these are what make exploring this lore so rewarding.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!

—The Fade Codex

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So what spirit do you think Felassan was. Audacity? Courage?

Hello spirit-curious traveler!

I love this question. I personally believe Felassan was a Spirit of Purpose.

Felassan's purpose feels fitting because everything about him suggests a quiet yet unshakable drive. His loyalty to Solas and their shared mission—to help the People—is deeply rooted. However, while both he and Solas share the same goal of helping the People, their methods diverge.

Felassan sees value in the modern elves, believing in their potential, whereas during The Masked Empire, Solas has not yet had the chance to interact with the world firsthand. Despite their differing perspectives, Felassan's sense of purpose of helping the People remains steadfast, even at the cost of his own life.

A Spirit of Purpose wouldn’t just seek to fulfill their own goals but would inspire and guide others toward their own—something Felassan does with Briala, as we see in The Masked Empire and even Solas, in the notes we find in DATV.

But, of course, spirits are rarely so easily defined. Courage has merit—Felassan shows remarkable boldness in defying Solas and bravery in facing the consequences.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex

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Okokok I have an IDEA

So in the DATV concept art book Imshael was considered as a possible companion

Imshael claims to be a choice spirit and hates it when people imply he/they are a desire demon. And yet he seems to love the Intense stress frustration and suffering that comes with difficult choices.

I was thinking of whether or not an ancient spirit/demon like him would be able to evolve further. Maybe even grow into a form that's less corrupted depending on those that surround him?

What are your thoughts on Imshael ? How do you think having Imshael as a companion would've gone? I would've loved having them as a companion!

Greetings, seeker of veiled truths!

What a fascinating question—and what an incredible idea for a potential companion! Let’s dive into it.

While people in Thedas frequently refer to Imshael as a desire demon, it’s worth noting that he himself rejects this label. The Fade Codex theorizes that Imshael may not be corrupted at all. Instead, they could genuinely be a Choice Spirit—a being acting within the bounds of its purpose: facilitating and reveling in the complexity of difficult decisions.

In The World of Thedas Vol. 2, Imshael offers this insight:

“I find it disappointing how often people blame things on demons. Don’t you? They come up with stories where the demons trick them into committing some evil act, where they possess the mage and turn him into a horrific monster, where the demons are always the villains. But if you paid attention to the Chant of Light instead of just repeating it over and over in your mind like you’re doing right now, you’d know that even Andraste herself didn’t believe that. Spirits are attracted to feelings, passions, those moments that define someone’s life. We don’t put the bad feelings into your head. We come to you because they’re in there already.”

This suggests that Imshael’s purpose is not inherently malevolent.

They thrives in the intensity of life-defining moments—the weight of choice—and perhaps even sees their role as necessary, which very much aligns with a Choice Spirit.

Can Imshael Evolve?

Spirits in DA are capable of evolution, often shaped by their interactions with the mortal world and the people around them. We’ve seen spirits grow, change, and even regain clarity (e.g., Eulogy and Hope Unyielding).

If Imshael were surrounded by individuals who encouraged them to explore their purpose without cruelty or manipulation, it’s conceivable they could evolve into a more balanced or nuanced version of a Choice Spirit.

This would depend on:

The Nature of His Surroundings: Compassionate or thoughtful companions might influence them toward more positive manifestations of choice.

Their Willingness to Reflect: Imshael would need to examine their own methods and intentions, which might be challenging given their pride and confidence in his purpose.

What Would Imshael Be Like as a Companion?

Imshael’s focus on choice and consequences (which aligns really well with DATV) would make them a constant source of thought-provoking dialogue. They would likely challenge the player and other companions to reevaluate their decisions, especially when faced with morally ambiguous situations. Imshael might revel in moments of high stakes, encouraging the player to make difficult choices, even if those choices lead to suffering or conflict.

They would probably have conflict with some of the companions, such as Davrin and Luncanis. But have more amiable relations with Emmrich and Taash for example. 

Imshael could play the role of a devil’s advocate, encouraging the player to lean into difficult, morally gray decisions. They might tempt the player to explore paths they’d normally avoid, justifying it as a way to test their values or uncover hidden truths.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!

—The Fade Codex

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I am not sure if you’ll have knowledge about this but I’ll ask anyway. DAV solidified that Solas was Wisdom before taking a body, however in the memory flashbacks Mythal refers to him as Solas (Pride) while trying to convince him to join her. Would he have already been partially corrupted by this point, then? I’m not sure if there’s some deep meaning or if it’s just an oversight on the writers part 😅

Greetings, seeker of veiled truths!

This is such a fascinating question. Let’s start by untangling some of the nuances around pride—both the emotion and the concept.

First, it’s essential to recognize that pride, the emotion, is not inherently negative. It can embody confidence, self-respect, or the belief in one’s abilities and purpose. Too much pride can become a problem though. This differs significantly from Pride (capital P) as a corrupted spirit archetype, which represents arrogance, overconfidence, and domination.

The name Solas, which means “pride; to stand tall,” reflects this positive, foundational meaning of pride—confidence born from wisdom and a deep understanding of the world. For Solas, his name could serve as a reflection of his identity as a Spirit of Wisdom: standing tall in the truth and purpose that wisdom brings.

When Mythal refers to Solas as "Solas" in the flashbacks, it doesn’t necessarily indicate corruption at that point. Instead, it might highlight that even as a Spirit of Wisdom, Solas may have carried elements of pride—the positive kind.

He had immense confidence in his knowledge and purpose, qualities that often border on pride, especially when combined with the weight of his responsibilities. Mythal might have seen Solas’s confidence and unwavering ideals as a positive.

Given the deliberate nature of Solas’s characterization throughout DA, it seems unlikely this was a simple oversight by the writers.

While Solas may have been a Spirit of Wisdom before taking physical form, his pride—both in the positive sense and as a potential flaw—was always part of him

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex

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Hi! I came across a post a while back about Mythals spirit. Basically they said they didn't agree with the idea of Mythal being a spirit of "Benevolence" and they said It made more sense that she was a spirit of "Protection".

I thought about it and based on past Dragon Age lore she was called the All Mother and the Protector. People went to her seeking Protection Justice Vengeance. And everything she did throughout the Dragon Age games did fit with someone who embodied "Protection". Helping our heroes save the world. And even when she ruled as an Evanuris the terrible things she did was to protect her People.

And When I think of "Benevolence" as a concept I see it as Compassion Empathy Kindness Generosity. Like I can't really see a spirit of Benevolence making the Titans tranquil?

The Mythal fragment that was the most like her original self called the titans monsters and I do not think she (and honestly most of the Elvhen back then) had the compassion/empathy to even see the dwarves as people. They just took what they wanted to benefit themselves and their empire and it led to war. So it doesn't feel benevolent, I guess.

Anyway, I'm definitely inclined to agree with that person's post... but Im also not pleased with how this revelation conflicts with canon (Hate when that happens LOL) it's kinda like I wanna reconcile the two together?

Basically, Morrigan calls Mythals spirit "Benevolence" but do you think "Protection" suits her better? Or is it something else ? whatever your thoughts are on the kind of spirit Mythal is id like to hear it!!

(Sorry for rambling! Love your work ❤️)

Greetings, seeker of veiled truths!

First, thank you so much for your kind words, and don’t worry—you weren’t rambling at all! This is such an intriguing question, so let’s unpack it together.

When Morrigan refers to Mythal as a Spirit of Benevolence, it’s crucial to remember how DA defines spirits. A spirit embodies a concept, but that concept isn’t a neatly human-friendly archetype—it’s a primal force, distilled and absolute.

In this context, Benevolence isn’t limited to kindness, compassion, or warm nurturing. It’s an overarching, self-sacrificial commitment to the well-being of others—specifically, in Mythal’s case, her people–the elves. This form of Benevolence operates on a grand, often cosmic scale, and its methods may not always appear kind or gentle from a mortal perspective.

Benevolence Doesn’t Always Look Kind

The tension arises because we often view Benevolence through a mortal lens—a figure endlessly warm, patient, and selfless. But spirits aren’t bound by mortal morality or sentimentality. Their concepts manifest in ways that can feel cold, ruthless, or even cruel.

Mythal’s actions—calling the Titans monsters, exploiting the dwarves, and even her acts of justice or vengeance—weren’t born from softness. It is likely Mythal saw her actions as pragmatic choices made to ensure her people’s survival and prosperity. In her view, these decisions likely aligned with her deeper purpose, even if they were morally fraught.

To Mythal, the Titans were dangerous. Regardless of why/how the conflict began, they were at war. Mythal wasn’t observing the Titans as neutral entities—she was facing them as an active threat to her people and her purpose.

In war, perspective shapes action. To Mythal, the Titans weren’t just colossal beings—they were adversaries, capable of immense destruction. Whether her judgment of them as “monsters” was fair or justified is debatable, but in her eyes, it was likely a necessary stance to protect her people and their survival.

Protection as a Reflection of Benevolence

Protection is, in many ways, an expression of Mythal’s Benevolence. Sometimes that protection was fierce, even brutal. Sometimes it looked more like justice or even vengeance more than kindness. But at its core, the why of her actions—the driving force—was still rooted in Benevolence: the preservation and flourishing of those she cared for.

To draw a parallel: a mother wolf protecting her cubs isn’t gentle when her fangs are bared. She doesn’t negotiate with the predator threatening her young. But the reason she fights—the fire behind her fury—is love and care. That is Benevolence, expressed through the raw and unyielding instinct to protect.

In short: Protection is a tool. Benevolence is the purpose.

Morrigan recognizing Mythal as Benevolence is likely because she sees the root of Mythal’s nature. Beneath all the violence, cruelty, and compromises, Mythal’s purpose was always to care for, nurture, and preserve her people.

This isn’t a soft or idyllic Benevolence—it’s one that wages war to keep loved ones safe, that makes impossible choices in the face of extinction. It’s sharp-edged and relentless.

At her core, Mythal embodies Benevolence—not the comforting warmth of gentle compassion, but the unyielding drive to ensure others thrive, even when the means are harsh, messy, or morally complex.

It’s entirely valid to see protection as an integral expression of her Benevolence, but I think Morrigan’s insight holds: Benevolence was the root, and protection was the tool she wielded in its service.

Thank you for bringing such a thoughtful question to The Fade Codex—it’s one of those topics that reminds us just how layered and complex spirits truly are.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!—The Fade Codex

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Hello Human!

What do you think of the different fragments of Mythal? How they used to be when they were one and what made them evolve differently.

- ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hail, traveler beyond the Veil!

This is such a fascinating and layered question, and I’ll do my best to unravel it. What we know is that there are at least two recognized fragments of Mythal—the one encountered in the Nest of the Ancients and the one carried by Morrigan. Whether there are more fragments is uncertain, but it’s possible.

How Do Spirit Fragments Happen?

The exact mechanics of spirit fragmentation remain unclear in Dragon Age lore. For example, Falon’Din is a fragment of Dirthamen. However, how this division occurred—whether through death, sacrifice, or a deliberate splitting of essence—remains unknown.

In Mythal’s case, her death by a dagger made of pure lyrium raises interesting questions. Lyrium is deeply tied to magic and the Fade, may have caused her essence to fracture, creating multiple shards—each carrying parts of her identity, emotions, and purpose. Even Morrigan hints at this, saying, “You are aware of what the word 'fragment' means, are you not? One small piece of many formed when something greater is broken?”

Side Note: It’s also possible that all of “Flemeth’s daughters”—like Yavana or even other Witches of the Wilds—carry fragments of Mythal, if Mythal's essence had multiple fragments. We know there is the possibility of there being at least 7 Witches of the Wild (excluding Flemeth, Morrigan, and Yavana)

But that’s a theory for another day.

The Fragment in the Nest of the Ancients

The Mythal fragment in the Nest of the Ancients feels like the purest reflection of her original self—unchanged and frozen in grief and anger. Trapped in the Crossroads, she cannot interact with the physical world or access the “true Fade.”

Even Morrigan describes her as “the essence of Mythal as a god.” She carries the raw wounds of her betrayal by the Evanuris and Solas, unhealed despite time's passage. This fragment hasn’t evolved—it’s a preserved remnant of Mythal, still burdened by divine sorrow and wrath.

The Fragment in Morrigan

The Mythal fragment carried by Morrigan has been profoundly shaped by centuries spent in the mortal world. As Morrigan herself states, “The fragment of Mythal that resides in me lived among mortals for thousands of years. She has grown wiser and more patient.”

This fragment evolved, adapting to mortality, love, and the slow passage of time. It even experienced love with an Alamarri chieftain and spent centuries living in a swamp.

Compared to the fragment in the Nest of the Ancients, this version feels more humanized—tempered by experience and softened by time.

Why Did They Evolve Differently?

Environment: The fragment in the Nest of the Ancients was trapped in the Crossroads, isolated and unable to act. Meanwhile, the fragment in Morrigan lived through experiences, love, and loss.

Purpose: The Nest fragment clings to Mythal’s godly purpose and divine grief, while the Morrigan fragment adapted to the physical world and found meaning in relationships and mortal existence.

Agency: The Morrigan fragment had the freedom to act in the world, while the Nest fragment could only watch.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!

—The Fade Codex

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Hello human!

Kind of a weird question but what kind of spirit do you think would be a sort of combo of purpose and curiosity or determination and curiosity? Honestly most spirits + curiosity. Because I feel like that's one of a few reactions to being thrown into a different world where everything is different. Idk if I worded that correctly...

- ⭐️⭐️

Well met, wanderer of the Fade!

This isn’t a weird question at all—it’s an excellent one and dives right into the topic of Spirit Complexity, something I’m still working on expanding for later modules!

First, it’s important to distinguish between a Spirit of Purpose experiencing curiosity (or a desire to understand) and a Spirit of Curiosity embodying it. Most spirits interacting with the physical world carry at least a hint of curiosity—it’s almost inevitable. Whether driven to guide (Purpose) or to overcome (Determination), curiosity often serves as the thread pulling them deeper into our world.

A clear example of this appears in DATV, where the Spirit of Compassion becomes Eulogy after understanding who were the people who it comforted in Docktown during their final moments. Its purpose remained, but it evolved to better serve those it sought to protect.

Now on to your question!

Purpose + curiosity → Discovery

Combining Purpose and curiosity creates a Spirit of Discovery. Purpose provides focus and drive, while curiosity fuels openness and adaptability. Together, they form a spirit driven not just to gather knowledge, but to uncover meaningful answers that serve a greater purpose.

Determination + curiosity → Innovation

Blending Determination with curiosity creates a Spirit of Innovation. Determination provides focus and perseverance, while curiosity fuels creativity and exploration. This spirit doesn’t just ask questions—it relentlessly pursues answers through experimentation and persistence.

I honestly can't wait to explore this topic more! Spirits are rarely simple, and their interactions with our world only deepen their complexity.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex

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I am curious about your thoughts on what transpires during a mage’s Harrowing, given what we have learned of spirits in Veilguard.

Salutations, curious soul!

I must say—I fundamentally disagree with how the Harrowing is conducted. While I understand the Chantry's desire to ensure mages are trained well enough to resist possession, their methods are deeply flawed. Even Dorian Pavus points this out in DATV, noting possession is far more common in the South than in the North:

The difference is one of acceptance and education. Here, a mage child is celebrated. Their magic is a gift, and they are taught—with objectivity—how to use it. They are shown possibilities, not just pitfalls. In my time in the South, I've seen how your mages are treated. You cage them—with templars, with walls, but most of all, with shame.  They learn to hate and fear everything that they are. When they are told that every spell they cast may open them to possession, every magical action becomes fraught. Is it any surprise then, that magic becomes what they believe it to be—their downfall?  – Codex: Abominations in Tevinter

In the South, mages are seen as inherently dangerous, breeding a culture of fear. While fear can be a healthy instinct, constant fear of one's own nature fosters insecurity and self-doubt—emotions that make mages more vulnerable to possession, not less.  

This fear is amplified by the secrecy surrounding the Harrowing. Apprentices are thrust into the Fade with little preparation or understanding of what awaits them, creating fertile ground for spirits drawn to raw, desperate emotions—whether benevolent or malicious.  

We see this in the Mage Origin of DAO where a Spirit of Valor can be approached by the protagonist. Valor isn’t there to exploit but to test, offering aid only if the mage can prove their worth through a duel or by challenging the spirit’s purpose.  

This encounter highlights an essential truth: spirits are drawn not just to fear, but to the ideals and emotions that resonate with their nature. Whether through combat or sheer force of will, the mage must either accept the challenge from Valor to duel it, challenge Valor's purpose and earn its assistance, or decline the assistance completely.

Spirits are drawn to emotions and ideals that reflect their nature, and Valor is no exception. All it knows about the Harrowing is that it’s a test—a test it openly calls cowardly, especially when mages are sent in unarmed to face a demon.  

The Harrowing ultimately comes down to the mage’s ability to navigate these encounters. Can they resist a demon’s temptations? Can they recognize a spirit’s true intent? Or will fear and uncertainty leave them exposed?

Imagine if the Harrowing were approached with transparency and respect—if mages were taught to understand spirits, recognize their benevolent and dangerous aspects, and enter the Fade as confident navigators rather than terrified initiates. Would possession still be a risk? Absolutely. But the chances of a mage emerging unscathed—physically and spiritually—would be far higher.  

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex

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I was wondering about spirits of Purpose. All spirits have a purpose but what is a spirit whose purpose is Purpose itself? I'm a bit confused.

This is a great question!

All spirits are embodiments of specific concepts or ideals—like Faith, Wisdom, Compassion, or Justice. Their very existence is defined by their purpose, and their identity aligns with that purpose.

When you ask about a Spirit of Purpose, you’re essentially asking if a spirit can exist whose defining nature is simply having purpose itself.

At first glance, this feels paradoxical—almost like a loop.

A Spirit of Purpose would embody the drive to have a goal, direction, or reason for being—without needing to define what that goal is. This sets it apart from, say, a Spirit of Compassion, whose purpose is specifically to offer compassion.

For a Spirit of Purpose, it’s not about what the purpose is, but rather that a purpose exists and drives action. It might not care what the end goal is—only that there is one.

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This whole blog is SO useful thank you so much for this. I have a rather specific question XD say a spirit became flesh and lived an entire life in the material world, would they be more human than spirit then? (Or, whatever race they took) and if they kept this connection to the Fade (so like being a mage by normal people's standards) would they be vulnerable to possession? How do you think that would work?

Salutations, curious soul!

I am very glad you have found this blog useful! What an excellent question—and one that dives into the fascinating intersection of spirits, flesh, and identity. We actually have one clear example in DA lore: Cole.

Cole, originally a Spirit of Compassion, became flesh when he manifested a physical, human form. By the time we meet him in DAI (9:41 Dragon), he has already spent at least a year in the mortal world following the events of Asunder (9:40 Dragon). As Solas notes, Cole appears fully human.

Despite his physical form, Cole maintains a connection to the Fade, which explains his lingering spirit abilities—going unnoticed, making people forget him, and hearing their thoughts. However, these abilities are weaker than they would be if he were still purely a spirit. As Solas explains:

A fully spiritual being might make someone forget them completely.

A spirit-made-flesh like Cole might only make someone momentarily overlook or briefly forget them.

This shows that while spirits in flesh retain their Fade abilities, those powers are significantly diminished.

Binding vs. Possession

An important distinction is that Cole wasn’t afraid of possession—he was afraid of being bound against his will and twisted away from his purpose. For spirits, being corrupted or forced away from their intended purpose is a far greater fear than traditional possession by a demon.

If Cole becomes more human, this fear of being bound seems to fade. Yet, even in his more human state, he retains faint memories of the Fade and weakened spiritual abilities. This suggests that a spirit-made-flesh with a lingering connection to the Fade might have some resistance—if not outright immunity—to possession. 

To our knowledge, there’s no definitive example of a spirit being possessed by another spirit in the same way demons possess mages. Spirits seem to influence, interact with, and even consume one another in the Fade, but this dynamic doesn’t mirror traditional possession.

This complex relationship between spirits, physical forms, and Fade connections leaves much open to interpretation, but Cole offers one of the clearest glimpses into this fascinating intersection of spirit and flesh.

This question is so compelling that it deserves deeper exploration in the upcoming Spirit Complexity module. After all, what if a spirit could possess another spirit? Now that’s a fascinating topic worth diving into!

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!

—The Fade Codex

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Oooo! talking about Spirit combos!

What about Wisdom and Hope?

Ah, a visitor from waking lands!

Spirit combinations—what a fascinating subject! It's one of my favorite subjects.

Let’s approach this in two parts: first, the theoretical idea of two spirits combining (or merging) into one, and then move onto how a Spirit of Wisdom and a Spirit of Hope might interact and transform each other.

But, before we do...

Can Spirits Combine?

Do we know if two spirits can merge into one? No, not officially. But in theory, it seems possible. Spirits are fluid, shaped by emotions, purpose, and their interactions with both the Fade and the physical world. It might be less about literal fusion and more about two spirits' purposes aligning so closely that they become something new.

And while this isn't established in canon (or perhaps it’s simply hidden knowledge yet to be revealed), let’s imagine what might emerge from such a combination:

When combined, these two create a Spirit of Aspiration—a being that doesn’t just understand the world but believes in its potential to improve. Aspiration is the active bridge between knowledge and hope, becoming a guiding force to uplift others and inspire meaningful change

Now...

What if Wisdom and Hope Interact Instead of Combine?

While merging is theoretical, spirits interacting and shifting through those interactions is more likely what is happening, as we saw with the Spirit of Compassion changing to Eulogy. Here’s how they might influence each other:

A Spirit of Enlightenment would carry both insight and a deep belief that change is possible and worth pursuing.

A Spirit of Resolve wouldn’t simply hope things improve—it would actively push toward improvement with unwavering determination.

This question really shows how fluid, ever-changing nature of spirits—and it raises so many more questions. Are these shifts temporary or permanent? Could a single spirit embody all three at once? The Fade, as always, holds more secrets than answers.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex

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Hello human! Other question- What kind of spirits do you think Keepsake and Curio are?

- ⭐️

Hello spirit-curious traveler!

This is a very good question!

Emmrich introduces Keepsake and Curio as Keepsake of Ages and Farsighted Curio, guardians of the Necropolis. Their names and roles suggest a deep connection to their spiritual purpose.

Keepsake of Ages seems to align with a Spirit of Memory or perhaps a Spirit of Preservation—a custodian of history, legacy, and the weight of what came before. They may exist to safeguard knowledge, honor the stories of the dead, and ensure the past is not forgotten.

Farsighted Curio, on the other hand, leans towards a Spirit of Insight or even a Spirit of Foresight. Curio seems driven by observation, curiosity, and a need to see—perhaps hidden truths in the present or faint threads of the future yet to unfold.

Both of their roles seem very fitting to be guardians of the Necropolis!

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!

[thefadecodex]

Hello human :)

What do you think about souls and how they differ from spirits? I always wondered about them since they've been mentioned a few times, but they aren't really a concept delved into much.

- ⭐️

Greetings, seeker of veiled truths!

In DATV, The Dawn of Consciousness codex states:

Let us consider wisps, and urges slighter than wisps. When do these forces—I dare not call them beings at this juncture—begin to change? How does one discern the slow shift from pure magic to that which can name its own interests? What begets a spirit's own self-reflection?

This highlights the gradual evolution of raw Fade energy into conscious beings, implying a progression from magic to self-awareness—a key trait of both spirits and, perhaps, souls.

Later, upon recruiting Emmrich, another codex offers this insight, in response to Harding’s question about the difference between souls and spirits:

A soul is the richly numinous force within every living being. You and I, our companions, our opponents—all possess a soul. When we slumber, it slips into the Fade, our most intimate connection with the land of dreams. A spirit is an entity formed entirely in the Fade from raw magic. While both dwell in intangible regions, a trained mage will never mistake one for the other."

This explanation frames souls as inherent to living beings and spirits as unique entities born from the Fade. However, Solas's memories complicate this: the first elves were spirits who took physical form, blurring the boundaries between souls and spirits.

Given this lore, The Fade Codex proposes that souls and spirits may be identical—or at least near-identical—forces with distinctions drawn largely by perception and context.

Souls as a Manifestation of the Fade: If all life originates from the Fade, then souls could be seen as a spirit’s essence, tied to a physical body. This would align with the idea of elves as spirits who became mortal—they retained their Fade-born essence (a soul) while adapting to corporeal life.

Individuality and Purpose: Just as no two humans are the same, no two spirits—be they of Wisdom, Valor, or Curiosity—are identical. A soul may reflect the same unique essence as a spirit’s purpose, shaped by the being’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

The Key Difference: A soul might be the form a spirit takes when tied to a physical body, its Fade connection limited to dreams. A spirit, meanwhile, exists entirely within the Fade, unbound by physicality but still driven by purpose.

Souls and spirits may not be as different as they seem. Perhaps the line between them isn’t a question of nature but of perspective—whether that essence resides in the Fade alone or is bound to a mortal life.

Thank you for this thought-provoking question—there’s so much more to explore!

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit!

—The Fade Codex

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thank you for engaging with the lore of veilguard, as well. i've seen so many people simply assume it breaks canon or is not worth dissecting like the other games (much like inquisition when it first was released) and as someone who loves dragon age chiefly for the worldbuilding and lore, including veilguard's revelations and implications, it has been very disheartening. so thank you.

Thank you, anon! I also love Dragon Age for its worldbuilding and lore—it’s one of the key things that keeps drawing me back to this universe. I completely understand the frustration; every new entry brings its own shifts and revelations, and DATV is no different.

But those shifts also offer such rich opportunities to explore the deeper stories of Thedas. The more we engage thoughtfully with DATV's implications, the more its value becomes clear as part of the larger story of the series, even if it isn't perfect.

While DATV does have it's issues, what excites me most about DATV  is how its lore challenges and expands upon established ideas, encouraging us to re-examine long-held assumptions about the Fade, the Veil, and Thedas’s history. It’s clear the writers have woven these threads with immense care, creating so much for us to unpack and analyze.

It’s always heartening to know others share that same curiosity and passion. Here’s to more deep dives and thoughtful discussions—there’s still so much left to discover! ✨

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Hello Human :)

I had 3 related questions

1- What are your thoughts on two spirits posessing the same body

2- What are your thoughts on spirits confused about their purpose

3- What are your thoughts on Audric from Down Among the Dead Men (Tevinter Nights)

- ⭐️

Greetings, seeker of veiled truths! 

These are such intriguing and layered questions! Let’s take them one at a time to do them justice.

What are your thoughts on two spirits possessing the same body?

The idea of two spirits sharing a single body raises fascinating questions about purpose, willpower, and balance. In Down Among Dead Men, it is theorized that Audric’s body is being possessed by two spirits – a spirit of curiosity and a spirit of anger. So this does sound like something that is completely possible to happen:

Shared Purpose: If two spirits were to coexist in a single body, they would likely need overlapping or complementary purposes. Otherwise, the clash between their natures could create instability in the host or even cause one spirit to overpower the other.

Conflict vs. Harmony: Spirits are deeply tied to their purpose, so if their purposes conflict, it could lead to internal chaos for the host. However, if their goals align (e.g., a Spirit of Purpose and a Spirit of Hope working toward the same end), they might achieve a unique synergy. Otherwise, it is more likely one spirit will 'kill' the other one or 'push' the other spirit away from consciousness of the possessed body.

What are your thoughts on spirits confused about their purpose?

A spirit’s purpose is its very essence, so confusion about purpose would likely cause a kind of existential crisis for the spirit and would likely result in being twisted against its purpose if it is not able to resolve the confusion. This could happen for several reasons:

External Influence: Exposure to the mortal world might confuse a spirit. Mortals are complex, and their emotions and actions can blur the clarity of a spirit’s singular purpose.

Conflicting Experiences: A spirit might encounter experiences that challenge its understanding of its own nature. For example, a Spirit of Justice might begin to question what justice truly means when faced with moral ambiguity.

Corruption or Warping: A spirit confused about its purpose could be more susceptible to corruption, potentially transforming into a demon as its sense of self is twisted or lost.

This confusion might make the spirit more vulnerable, but it could also lead to evolution if it is able to overcome the confusion!

What are your thoughts on Audric from Down Among the Dead Men (Tevinter Nights)?

This is a very broad question, but I do find Audric very interesting. Myrna states to Audric:

An entity as complete as you are is rare. Some of my colleagues argue the ‘higher dead’ such as yourself do, in fact, hold fast to their mortal souls. Others attest that this is impossible. They would say you are caught between two spirits: anger and curiosity. Whatever the case, you are unbalanced. Confronting Karn with you was my remedy.

In DATV, we learn that the line between a soul and a spirit is blurred, particularly with the revelation that elves are descended from spirits who manifested physical form. This raises the question:

Was Audric possessed by a more evolved spirit?

Was he influenced by two spirits simultaneously, as Myrna suggests?

Or is Audric something else entirely—a “higher dead” with unique properties?

The answer remains unclear, but The Fade Codex theorizes that Audric may have been possessed by a complex spirit that sought to help him—similar to what happened with Wynne—and became confused after realizing Audric had passed. Myrna notes to Audric that his thoughts are becoming circular as well, which is also one of the reasons why The Fade Codex is leaning towards being possessed by a more ‘evolved’ spirit.

Since spirits can read minds, it’s likely that, if a spirit did take over Audric’s body, it accessed his memories, leading it to believe it was simply continuing Audric’s life. Audric’s return to work after his death supports this theory, suggesting the spirit may have been tied to Duty or Honor, aligning with Audric’s previous life and habits.

We currently lack sufficient information on what constitutes the "higher dead" in the lore. This may be elaborated on in DATV but as of now, the creator of The Fade Codex is still working through their second playthrough and has not yet encountered any additional details on this topic. However, if there is more information on what is considered higher dead, this post will be updated!

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex

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Hi there! Stumbled on this blog and it's SO interesting omg, I saw an ask about spirits turned human-ish and the possibility of possession for these people (like spirits posessing other spirits) and you said you'd expand on it later, do you have a title for the post so we know what to look for? Or is there a tag list? I'm super curious about this one in particular

Greetings, curious traveler of the Fade!

Yes! The title you will be on the look for “Theoretical Constructs: The Possession Paradox.” (which now has been added to the master post!)

It dives into the fascinating possibilities surrounding spirits taking physical form, their vulnerabilities, and whether spirits themselves can be possessed or influenced by others of their kind.

And you're absolutely right—a tag list would be incredibly helpful. I’ll add that to my ever-growing to-do list to make navigating these theories a bit smoother.

May your path through the Fade remain well-lit! —The Fade Codex