Why does Vi and Caitlyn's Arcane Relationship Work?

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I'm happy to learn that apparently, I was misinformed, people are enjoying this relationship, and the arguments against it were a vocal minority. Side note You can argue Vi opens up to Jinx when she sees her, or to Ekko when reunited. But neither of those are on the same level as sharing your guilt and shame with someone as she did with Caitlyn

[@colpul2103]

Most of the criticism falls under two types. First are just right wing trolls; gays = SJW. Often gay relationships are shallow put there for the gay bucks and to clap themselves on the back about how good their farts smell and more importantly how bad everyone else's smell. This isn't the case here because the relationship is organic to the characters, it isn't something there to check a diversity box. That particular diversity is there simply because that diversity exists in real life and is honest to the characters. If you don't like Vi and Cait being gay as written it tells me you aren't against ham fisted SJW politicization of entertainment, you are just a homophobe. The second are left wing nuts who want more and anything less is a chance for them flex their virtue signaling muscles. This isn't some lame Disney subtextual 'gay', nothing is just hinted at. Right there in the script full of show don't tell story telling. It was not forced, it wasn't put there for political considerations, it did not happen too fast, nor did it happen too slow. Not only for the reasons you mentioned but in real life when we're smitten it doesn't take us weeks or months to lean in if we see the other person leaning in. Yes there are couples that end up together after years of friendship but those don't tend to be passionate people. And say what you will about them Vi and Cait are passionate people. For most people the chemical reaction is as swift as our culturalized animal nature allows. As with pretty much everything involving snowflakes on either side of the political spectrum neither are right and while obnoxiously loud neither are close to a majority opinion.

[@paulinegwynethfallarco345]

if you are put into a situation where you do not have other choice but to trust someone, you would be falling in love with them instantly. especially with vi who has been in prison for a long time and caitlyn who's probably never loved before because of the strictness of her parents. it is fast and easy to fall in love with someone when it's your first. bonus points that they make each other feel safe.

[@JenniferFuss]

Vi is open to Jinx because she is literally her sister, to whom she felt protective before, during and at least a good part after prison. While she likely has used prison time to blame herself how she last interacted with her sister. Ekko is the last surviving member of her friend group. I do see those relationships different as Vi's relationship with Caitlyn. Next to the very obvious physical and romantic attraction, there is the aspect that's the only relationship of those three, where Vi isn'tjust being requested to do a thing (unconditional, solitary love in Jinx case, rolling along with Ekko), but actively offered support.

[@JenniferFuss]

@@colpul2103 The people who claim that it isn't to direct and fast enough confuse me. Vi and Cait have like maybe one and a half scenes (prison and the meal scenes) where they aren't like hitting it off like very directly. The next scenes go to "you'r hot", "but your sweet like a cupcake", "face touching the slums" to "rolling in bed with soft touches" in a rather fast progression ^^; Though I personally thought about both of them them as dating when Caitlyn asked "What about us?". They she got like Caits Moms approval before asking Vi about their relationship status.

[@ryanmccampbell7]

"A vocal minority" as most internet outrages are. Just how the internet works unfortunately.

[@crab5862]

Here's a neat detail: The gun Caitlyn gives up wasn't just her only form of protection, it was her gun that she's had since she was a kid. It's present in the first large painting we see of her and her family. It's a pretty important personal item.

[@dxnzaii9645]

Wow I didn’t even realize that. That’s makes it so much more meaningful that she’s willing to give up not only her only form of protection but also something that represents all the work it’s taken to become an the excellent shoot she is.

[@almuzzzika]

Also when she was asked “who are you shooting for?” She gave up the gun FOR Vi. And when she literally shot Sevika for Vi, saving her.

[@TaiFu2323]

​@@almuzzzika grayson said that she is shooting for sake of piltover people and when she ask caitlyn about that caitlyn had no answer, yet she became the warden even before she met vi, it means that she was inspired by the idea of helping people so like grayson she is shooting for sake of people, even when savika was threatening vi, she shoots savika every single time in her metal arm to not harm her, thats why i think she value her gun as long as she can help people with it.

[@almuzzzika]

@@TaiFu2323 oh yeah actually that’s more logical. That’s why I love this show there are so many ways how to interpret it

[@kajimemashiro9686]

Q__________________Q

[@sashameri]

"When you are sheltered growing up and you meet somebody that opens up the world to you and expands your narrow vision to what life could be and what life could offer, that in a way gives you freedom to explore your own identity. You begin to asociate those positive experiences with that person" Dude I think you just made me realize why I am so in love with a certain somebody in real life lol

[@AFlyingWalrus]

That was me in my first relationship, so I'm speaking first hand on that one. Granted it can also blind you to things, but we don't need to get into that

[@Z.A.N.E]

I'm not in a romantic relationship with anyone, but I know this to be true. I was extremely sheltered and eventually might've lost myself because of it. There are so many people I've "abandoned" because they didn't really care, but there was always this one annoying little pest that wouldn't let me leave and honestly-- made me better. I was able to see *beyond* myself and my expectations, and that's why I love this explanation so much. (As well as Vi and Caitlyn, who make me extremely happy to see)

[@DarthRayj]

This is SO true. Speaking from more than one experience myself (I was VERY sheltered)

[@catbug8092]

FOR REAL I WAS SO SHOOK- explains the attachment very well now and even the blinding too

[@CAT-xo2kj]

Same

[@vitya1060]

I honestly can't believe how someone could think this was forced. Cait and Vi literally have everything that is important in a relationship and sure, they didn't have much time but it's there, and we can see that. PS. That part about melting under someone's touch? I felt that.

[@craigtucker6001]

Honestly, people who think Cait+Vi are forced have never played League They’ve always been a thing lol

[@shizachan8421]

@@craigtucker6001 Not to forget that the same kinds of people who complain about Cait and Vi being forced are those who are all about how creators should listen to the fans. Like, Cait and Vi were always a popular ship in the fanbase, I think I've never seen them shipped with anyone else, outside of maybe Vi with Jinx before it was confirmed that both of them are siblings, which before had been more of a fan speculation, but even that had been a less popular ship compared to those two.

[@haihuynh8772]

@@craigtucker6001More like the “forced representation” crowd. The crowd that balks at any sort of portrayal of non-heterosexuality, whether good or bad.

[@corneliahanimann2173]

I mean, personally it didn't feel forced at all, it just personally felt like the very classy enemies to lovers story. It is nicely done, I like it fine. As a hetero, I guess I wasn't all over it, but it still was nice to watch. I guess I see how a lot of shows and movies suddenly feature a gay couple somewhere, and that is going to put this show into a timeframe where people sre more critical with it, but like...just look at Vi, the moment I saw her make moves towards Cait, I thought that it makes sense. I haven't read from anyone that this relationship was forces, bur I also don't hang with the crown that likely would say that.

[@justinechaine5679]

Yeah, it does seem to me like they have a relatively healthy and beautiful relationship

[@BiMeSum2]

I LOVE THIS!! And the 11:55 "SO you're saying theres a chance?!" is SPOT on lmaoooo, the animators nailed the expressions SO WELL, one could actually hear it through Vi's expression.

[@liondavid101stpsf2]

I was so sure that for the first few times I saw that scene, Vi said "good to know"

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Oh I heard it loud and clear.

[@benl2140]

Yeah, the facial animations in Arcane are insanely good. They manage to convey so many emotions with even the subtlest expressions.

[@jslyster]

ALL OF THIS!!!! This is exactly how I looked at the developing relationship between Vi and Caitlyn. This wasn't a romance. It was the spark of a romance. The prelude. At no time did I find myself thinking, "Huh?" These two went through hell together. Along the way they came to trust each other and to realize that the other felt the same way (Caitlyn looked genuinely surprised when Ekko said, "Vi says I can trust you.").

[@AFlyingWalrus]

That's a great catch. And I'm glad to see other people of the same opinion as me. Was a litte worried as to how this video would be received lol

[@rblprd]

That's my thought, I was actually surprised they let it flow so naturally, but then Riot/Netflix have found the one thing so many shows lack lately, telling, without telling, they aren't beating the viewer over the head constantly (the feels thou, yeah, they're pummeling those pretty hard), so it shouldn't be a surprise they didn't do the whole these characters biggest trait is they're attracted to each other and have few other traits that help define them, bit. Now The long wait for Series 2 FML

[@raffaellapapi2705]

People say this was FORCED? WHAT? nothing feels more right than Vi and Caitlyn

[@AFlyingWalrus]

On some corners of the internet? Yes

[@falconeshield]

@@AFlyingWalrus Those corners rarely go outside let's be honest

[@phoenixxrider]

FACTSSSSSS

[@badbunnyky]

if anything was forced, it was jayce and mel. like don't get me wrong, they have cute chemistry and good moments after, but there was absolutely no buildup whatsoever, I was as blindsided as jayce was. most people dont really seem to care or remember that ship. which is hilarious since they banged and everything, meanwhile caitvi just had.... really emotionally loaded gazes and a super tight hug, and yet there are TONS of videos on them. haha

[@Zack-wu6ql]

@@badbunnyky I do think that was kinda the point. Mel got close to Jayce on purpose, because she believed that he would lift her up in the world. She forced herself into his life.

[@ERElement77]

Ive never seen a dude talking about a lesbian relationship feel so natural

[@PricklyAlpaca]

We're all incredibly weak for this pair and you did a great job at explaining why ✨

[@phoenixxrider]

OMG PRICKLY ALPACA!!! I FOUND YOU - ALSO YES I ABSOLUTELY AGREE hdhdhsjajs👏👏✨ (LOVE your art btw!! I’ve been binging ur videos for the past two weeks ahah)

[@tTaseric]

The thing I was most worried about with Vi/Cait was that it could have been another Catradora. A truly fantastic build-up with amazing characterisation and honest story-telling over the course of the show only to come to fruition in the last episode so we don't actually get to see how their relationship evolves past that. I think one issue might be the fact that we weren't told there'd be a Season 2 until after Act 3 aired, so a lot of people saw Vi and Caitlyn's slow burn and assumed it would come to fruition in Episode 9, which obviously may not have worked considering how carefully written their relationship was up until that point. The fact that Caitlyn and Vi didn't actually get together in Season 1 has me really hopeful that they're actually taking their time and are prepared to not pull any punches when writing their relationship like how so many other shows often do.

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I don't see them pulling any punches, and I hope they don't. Even if my Rollercoaster emotional state can barely handle it

[@Sergioshi_]

I mean if you play the game you know stuff about their future selves, it's just that no one knew how much the show would fast forward within 9 episodes

[@tTaseric]

@@Sergioshi_ Eh. Entire characters change all the time, hell, they're literally changing hextech crystal lore as we speak, so the game isn't exactly a reliable source imo.

[@falconeshield]

Catradora sprinted so then Vi/Cait could win the Gaylimpics

[@lakaperse6995]

If jinx is successful in her attack and kill Caithlin 's mother i do not think they will form any kind of relationship .

[@MaUri-tr4op]

I love how vi solves her problems cos it's just VIOLENCE. And cait its much more diplomatic and solves things in a more smart way. They complement each another. Riot it's making this relationship more deep and meaningful, not like, they're gay love them. Every thing in this series is deep, meaningful and always has a twist that makes you jump out of your chair. I feel really identified with cait because I'm also a misfit in a way or another. I grew up in a Catholic school but I never believed in those God things, plus I'm bi so I got bullied a lot because of that. Also my fathers expext me to be a lawyer or a doctor just like them and well because art will not bring bread to your home. And with Vi. I feel her. Cos I'm very impulsive and agresive. I'm much of a punch and then ask the questions. Plus I use a rifle xd and I do boxing. In just a comment it's really difficult to explain the stuff that this series made me feel and understand about myself. I would love to make a video or something to explain the grateness of this series but I'm to shy xd. Hope u get me and thanks for reading this long comment. :)

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Thank you so much for the thoughtful comment. I won't get into details, but I definitely pulled from personal experience to talk about this video. Arcane has ment so many different things and connects with a massive amount of people tactfully. I'm glad that this show has ment this much to you, and by extension videos of people talking about the show can keep the love for it going. Take care

[@15thOfAugust]

I get you. You are not alone! :)

[@thomasdaywalt7735]

Magnets

[@maquelinemyojo3999]

Ya know, I have a friend who is Really similar to you, and I think you'd both get along really well! 😁

[@rift_right3259]

You can't spell VIOLENCE without VI

[@blackshard641]

Get you someone who looks at you the way Vi looks at Cait when Cait is showing empathy.

[@shamanahaboolist]

There's so much more than just the moments shared that make Vi and Cait work. Arcane shows you Cait finds bonding with the feminine easier but that she's not a materialistic girl herself. Vi's psychologically already imprinted with an emotional bond to Powder who exhibits very similar characteristic qualities to Cait. Jinx is almost a broken version of Cait. They're both highly intelligent and deductive, find strength in their obsessive determination to succeed, have blue hair and are both great shots. Vi exhibits strong masculine energy tempered with some femininity, Cait is the Yang to Vi's Yin, Cait being mostly feminine tempered with certain masculine qualities that Vi respects and aggressively adopts herself. To me Vi and Cait's relationship isn't even vaguely gratuitous. It's one of the most natural and understandable attractions I've seen on a screen and develops at a good pace. They're attracted but too distant in their starting points to actually have started anything and that's great.

[@Joyride37]

I know it probably wasn’t intentional but I’ve seen the “my favorite pairing is one that is feminine in a masculine way while the other is masculine in a feminine way” meme a lot lately, and while I also sorta vibed with it and thought it funny, I couldn’t really wrap my head around what that looks like. But your description of Cait and Vi actually helped loads so thanks

[@phoenixxrider]

OOOHH THIS IS AMAZING!! I absolutely agree and I just love how you explained that, the characters do just have such a natural gravitation toward each other - it works so perfectly and feels so natural 🤌✨

[@projectjt3149]

You know, you’ve got a point about comparing Caitlyn to Jinx. It added SOOOO much more context to the “And I thought Powder could get obsessed” line.

[@justinechaine5679]

Caitlyn also looks like Vi's mom, appearantly we tend to be attracted to people who look like our parents

[@trueblueedits4673]

Cait is one of the most well-written takes in recent memory on what taking that courageous, first step forwards to uncover the truth and peeling back one's own ignorance is like. She's subtle but very nuanced and I love it. I'm an only child myself and as a first-gen immigrant whose parents have worked very hard to give me a good life and to protect me, Caitlyn's desire to see the "real world" and her want to find justice and do good is highly admirable and understandable. She really shows how someone if they are determined and possess a good heart will be able to grow an understanding of the real world + the things they haven't understood in the past.

[@robertjames8220]

There is literally only *one* thing I'll take exception to in your video: the timeframe. You said this was over "maybe a week". This was, at most, 48 hours. The time between Cait freeing Vi from Stillwater to the time they reentered Piltover during the Ekko/Jinx fight was not even a full day. Their "break" moment in the rain took place the same night. The following day was the raid on Silco's Shimmer factory, and Jayce met with Silco that evening. Jinx's "dinner party" would have been that night. Now, some people would use this timeframe to claim the relationship was rushed. To that, I will offer that I met a woman at a camping event on June 17, 1992. On the evening of the 18th, we spent the evening under the stars, by the bonfires, talking non-stop until the morning on the 19th. I could not breathe without her. We were married 6 months later, had our daughter 8 months after that. We will celebrate our 30th anniversary this year. So, no -- Vi and Caitlyn aren't rushed at all.

[@T3MrLan]

If you don't mind, I wish just pick up a (quite insignificant) detail. May be that's me who misunderstood (I don't have a good english level) what you wrote, but It seems to me than their break don't took place the same night than the Ekko/Jinx fight on the bridge (They reach Caitlyn's home a morning, they got the audience at the council the evening. I assume they're mainly resting during the daytime, they deserve it after theirs "adventures" like said Cupcake's daddy. I'm quite assuming three days go by between Cait's recovery and the Final. That' all ! Otherwise, I support all what you said (and congratulations for your 30th :))

[@badbunnyky]

@@T3MrLan i agree, i also think it was about three days. and thats three days of nonstop very close interaction with almost no sleep. which is crazy for vi, who has been pretty much alone every single day for the past decade.

[@kayetan2487]

beautifula story my man, wish you and your wife all the best from good ol' Germany :)

[@shadic1988]

Vi and Caitlyn being a couple isn't really forced to me. If you've played League for a while or have been somewhat in the League Community. VixCaitlyn was one of the popular fan couples. It was teased in Caitlyn's rework in LoL when she gets killed in the game ("Tell Vi I... I...") or kills Jinx in the game ("Piltover is safer now. But Vi..."), and in Legends of Runeterra, Vi mentions Caitlyn when interacting with the other cards either referring to her as "Cupcake" or "Cait".

[@AFlyingWalrus]

as a league player of ten years, can confirm

[@DarthRayj]

"Piltover's Finest"

[@justinechaine5679]

"Sheriff cupcake can't be mad at me" "Ooh, look at me, I'm on the case" "try cupcakes"(when a character says she should've brought her flowers) "what can I say, Cait's still got a taste for bad cops"

[@graymalkin7645]

A friend of mine who is a psychologist once told me that the dynamics of a relationship actually change more for the person doing someone a favour than the other way around. Somehow our brain seems to work like this: "Oh... I saved their life... apparently I seem to like them." Our affection towards somebody strengthens with every nice deed we do for them. If the other party doesn't act in a similarly nice fashion this often leads to a "Look at all the stuff I've done for them and how ingratious they are."- scenario. (Compare: The whole nice-guys don't get the girl- concept).

[@yeetyr]

On the bridge when Jinx is shooting at them, Caitlyn shoves herself in front of Vi to protect her and Vi shoves her away not willing to risk her life. Just a small detail you missed

[@cuddlefishbandit]

The moment when Vi opens her eyes to look at Caitlyn after she's gingerly stroked her cheek...just takes my breath away. There's a poignant glint of vulnerability and a bit of disbelief in how tender Caitlyn's actions are, when they lie on her bed together. It's a beautiful moment, and every time I look at it, I just can't help but look at it and shriek because I'M F*CKING GAYYYYYYYYY THANK YOU AND GOODNIGHT!

[@leahtheanimationfan40]

Vi and Caitlyn are the most realistic, natural, non-forced, well-written homosexual couple I've ever seen in media. I love their dynamic and I'm looking forward to how the writers develop their relationship more. Great video!

[@deralahey2194]

Great analysis, I love the slow burn with these two and I feel many ppl that think they should have had a scene like Mel and Jayce fail to understand how it would go against their established personalities and feel incredibly unnatural. Also to go on the point of Mel you talk about, it is shown that Mel does have genuine feelings for Jayce and isn't a femme fatale (which would have been a horrible trope to use especially since Mel is black coded and that would have fallen into the tragic Jezebel trope black women are sometimes placed in media depictions) immediately when she wakes up she is shown to be upset and sad that he left, which is reinforced in the next episode, how the sincerity is vocalised to us the audience is when she opens up about being an exile (information that isn't known as Jayce is shocked by it) revealing this info shows she likes him to the point where she reveals a hidden aspect of herself

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I'm so glad that they wrote so many twists and turns with Mel. And the scene where she takes off her family heirloom and supports Jayce in a vote for peace is so powerful

[@ryanmccampbell7]

I think she definitely started off with more selfish motives, but she came to care for him more as she got to know him better. Of course there are no static characters in this show.

[@melissabarrera8913]

I do think it all started as a way to manipulate Jayce, as it was shown over and over again throughout the show, but at the same time, I don't think her intentions were ever harmful, just self-serving, and I also believe that she really did develop true feelings for him. Her "change of heart" also felt natural and well developed, especially after she meets with her mother and realizes she doesn't want what she is offering, she doesn't want to be like her.

[@leodouskyron5671]

Thank you so much. People have been going with Mel is bad in some reactions in those first few episodes and some don’t seem to let that go till episode 9 on the last few minutes. Mel reactions are odd and I feel myself a bit protective of her because seeing it from her pov seems very rare and far to often less then positive in all episodes of the show.

[@corvus2146]

Historians would say they were.. G o o d F r i e n d s.

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Hahaha of all the comments this one got me. Well done

[@Bazzkorg]

I do love the relationship between Vi and Caitlyn. Honestly, anyone with Hailee Steinfeld's voice saying, "You're hot cupcake" would melt and seduce anyone! But seriously, I do love the cupcake nickname, "You're so sweet, like a cupcake." It also took me a while to realize why Jinx's choice for a cupcake was a snack for her, but after a while it hit me like lightning!

[@Joyride37]

6:45 bro Im with you every scene with them being so naturally physical and soft had me dying and on the floor

[@allens4974]

I love how the relationship between Vi and Caitlyn is developing. I completely see it and it does feel natural. In comparison the relationship between Korra and Asami, in The Legend of Korra, felt more forced. Granted it is more of a children's show and their are small clues to pick up on, but still felt more forced than this one. I have to agree, RIOT deserves a lot of credit of how they are handling this story.

[@connorhalloran9630]

To be fair, the writers of the show have gone on record saying that Korra and Asami was supposed to be much more developed but Nickelodeon wouldn't let them show anything too direct. They were bascially limited to body language and implications (aka Korra only writing to Asami for 3 years and not Mako or Bolin). Not to mention that acceptance of gay relationships was in a much different spot at the time, Korra's final episode aired before gay marriage was legal in the US.

[@jameshorn6284]

While I do agree I do wish to note that Korra did the best it could with network restrictions. Which why I think many still look back fondly on Korrasmi while acknowledging that it has been done better since because it very much they walked so others could run thing

[@ashanddoodles13]

I like how they made Caitlyn's colors darker blue and Vi's bright pink, it reminds me of the oil and water phrase. Someone I saw on Twitter pointed out how Jinx's colors are powder blue as opposed to Vi's pink, showing how different they are, and I feel like there's something similar going on between Cait and Vi.

[@abbizoh]

Your hopeless romantic heart is screechy and hilarious ahaha loved this vid

[@wisteria4754]

7:04 Take that apology back. Say you're welcome instead

[@taniahylian3799]

Are people really taking an issue with them? I seriously can't understand why. Like, I didn't exactly love their relationship, because for me it actually gets overshadowed by the rest of the show (which is a good thing), but I can see the potential for it to become an amazing romance side-plot. Guess some people don't have better stuff to do than hate on ships for the sake of it :/

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I'm glad to see that it was a vocal minority that was dissenting about their relationship. I saw people saying it in comments on prior videos and reviews so I thought I'd make a video on it. Because why not?

[@emmajames7247]

Vi and Caitlyn's relationship is something that I absolutely love. The two characters are so beautifully fleshed out, and it's not necessarily focusing on the fact that it's a wlw relationship, but just that the relationship is so deep and tender. I tend to associate the finale song (What Could Have Been - Sting) with them for some reason. I just think it fits the ending of the show and everyone else's view of their relationship so well. Seriously great video. Loved the explanation and analysis, and love that someone else looks as much into detail as I do haha Also, I was drinking hot cocoa when 10:20 happened and I nearly spewed it everywhere, I'm dead

[@evangedeon2194]

My only big disagreement with this video is the idea that it's controversial to say the relationship works. That is nothing but stone-cold, true take. 🍷🗿

[@Kayn_The_Shadow_Reaper]

Seeing Vi and Cait be shipped for so many years made me hyped to see their relationship in Arcane(how/if there would be any). And god damn i was blown away by how well it was done.

[@andreaguerra6586]

At this point ive seen so many videos of why caitvi work since i agreed ever since i saw them at the ending of ep 4 that i forget that some people don't really agree, and for all i can say about it is that there are at least two different cases: the ones with close mindedness, and the ones who think their relationship goes way to fast. And see i'm a queer woman who is by now very well educated on caitvi, so let me tell you that those people have no idea what they're talking about. Caitlyn and Vi's relationship goes way deeper than most people think, experiencing traumatic moments together, among other things, creates a special bond way faster. Caitvi is a beautiful representation for people like me and i am very thankful to see that many others agree with me. This was just me letting out my frustation, if you read this here have a cookie: 🍪

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I'll gladly accept the 🍪. As well as a wonderful comment to read through. Thanks for dropping by and glad you enjoyed the video

[@nerisherimanebdn8096]

Couldn't agree more but I can't picture anyone not loving how genuine and well written that relationship is. Also, loved the video, here's a sub !

[@sodahoney57]

omg you are so right about their common thread being isolation. this was SUCH a good analysis. thank you!

[@suadela87]

The moment I saw their first interaction I was like, be still my gay heart. I love these two together so much. And the fact that one is a close quarters fighter while the other is long distance screams teamwork to me. They are perfect for each other.

[@sadiee.q]

If they don't get together in season 2 ima explode

[@shinobiandroid4150]

Great video, 100% agree 🥰 Love how you analyzed their characters, their scenes and why they work, I don’t think this was rushed at all, but well, when it comes down to “not conventional relationships” a lot of people will try to use every possible argument to say why their relationship doesn’t work 🙄 Luckily, I think there are more people who love their relationship than haters 😍

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Glad you enjoyed the video

[@kevinpyro3008]

I completely agree with the assessment that the actual character development and relationship building depicted here is sorely missing in gay couples in today's media. Like oh there's the token gay couple... glad they're here but contribute nothing to the story besides a check box for gay representation.... then there's vi and catilyn, a masterclass in making a relationship work in a narrative and make sense, its one of the best examples of a growing relationship on screen. Not just gay couples, but couples in general.

[@XxChickenTenderXx]

To be fair, Vi is a pretty good form of protection, especially compared to a shotgun

[@leiladuarte1985]

the way you said sorry after ranting on abt their relationship 😢 don't feel bad and don't apologize. All true Arcane fans go through the exact same thing❤

[@ItsLoHere]

I quite literally have nothing to contribute to the conversation because everyone has stated those points already. But I will say I just found this video purely by the algorithm (and plethora of Arcane videos I've watched in the past couple months) and I will say FINALLY A VIDEO COMMENT SECTION WHERE LONG COMMENTS ARE ACCEPTABLE AND EVERYONE READS THEM. My dude if this is the community you're cultivating COUNT ME IN I'M STAYING.

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Who knew when you pour your heart into videos about discussions, people would discuss in the comments? In all seriousness, I'm just as surprised as you are, and so happy many people are having thought-provoking discourse in the comments on these videos. Hope you do stay, and if you are curious the past 4 Arcane videos on the channel also have some wonderful comments. Even if there are some on the Viktor video that break your heart reading them. Welcome to the Huddle friend

[@ItsLoHere]

@@AFlyingWalrus Def excited to see what you work on next!

[@tinkywinky5558]

Oh no, I actually really enjoyed the build up to this relationship. People can say rushed but it honestly did feel pretty natural to me at least. They are honestly an adorable and complimentary pairing even if they are not seeing each other yet. I agree with all the points you made; it's really one of the best lesbian almost couple I've seen recently, it just feels natural. I think that one tense scene in the final episode where Vi thought the literal cupcake was going to be Caitlyn, the whole bond between Vi and Caitlyn along side that split frame of her looking at Vi lovingly just made it all the more of a twisting moment that wouldnt have worked as well if the relationship was not done correctly between the two. I really just love them both and can't wait to see more of them

[@wiztansupercell2512]

I'm honestly was shocked when I found out most people were angry/didn't agree or understand Vi's actions in the end of episode 3. For me, when I first watched it and showed it to people, all our reactions were the same. I was just angry at Powder at that scene. I was pissed at her for being so rash and irresponsible and I feel so bad for Vi in that scene. I'm shocked that most people don't agree with Vi. I get why they'd be upset at her hitting Powder, but other than that I don't get it...

[@cole6843]

I'm excited for more of their relationship in season two!

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I think it will have many more twists and turns. Especially when it comes to Jinx and now potential Warwick being involved.

[@snowy2619]

Dude i love your humor (6:33 cracked me up xD) Jokes aside, your explanations of how OPPOSITE they are and how their past views about each other completely fade away throughout the season, really opened a new perspective for me about their relationship. Also that oil to water and blood to water metaphor BLEW my mind, GREAT video dude!!! :D

[@samuelhornemedia]

Just Yes to all of this! They had such a natural chemistry, but also came from different lifestyles and environments. It was only natural that there was conflict at the end and it wouldn't have made sense if they had even kissed near the end of the series. The scene of them in the rain they are both in conflict on their approach, but they are not necessarily in conflict with each other, you can tell they both care deeply about each other and hope that neither of them get caught up in the potential war to come. I honestly can't wait for Season 2 as they have so many different character arcs going on simultaneously, it's honestly a work of art!

[@remarcableggwp]

Considering some people jump into a relationship with someone they met yesterday in a bar. A week worth of FULLTIME highly emotional "quality" time which you would need to spend at least 7 dates or more on is totally believable as a foundation for their relationship. Anyway great essay(?) hope to see more really digging your arcane content.

[@LoganYas-hj9yz]

If these two are not a couple by season two I will cry

[@EclipseSeth]

Something I have learnt recently is that my love language is very physical. I am just happy receiving and giving hugs, and if someone just cuddles with me it makes so happy that I start moving my feet with joy. Seeing physical love expressed more with gentle actions than with words was delightful in this series. I hope they keep it up. Also true, if someone touches me (with consent, ofc) that gentle I will just melt and fall head over heels for them.

[@Ultima1134]

a lot of people don't realize that even just a moment can bring two people together if it's powerful enough

[@aicnerolf]

i don't know if it's because i have all my social media catered to such a degree that i don't see things that don't interest me, but everything i've seen about caitvi is excitement about their potential relationship. nonetheless this was an amazing video essay. never thought about how they provide to the other what they need and want, glorious.

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Glad you enjoyed the video and my small insight on the matter

[@shizachan8421]

I think everyone complaining about their relationship is just some anti-sjw who is in it for the homophobia, considering that besides their brilliant depiction in the series, Vi and Cait already had been a pretty popular ship for years in the LoL community, so actually pairing them off with anyone else would have been the move totally ignoring what the actual fans want.

[@jojotheswede8444]

All their scenes together just make me smile from ear to ear, can't wait to see how things develop in season 2!

[@nao1mi]

oh my god . Thank you for this video. Exactly everything i had in my head you put here AND MORE. finally anyone who understand their relationship and got they are perfcet and they are not main point of this sotry.....You did so good job. ( I hope we can see them in season 2 more )

[@RelicNLimbo]

"I'm gonna say an opinion that may get me alot of hate. This relationship..." *me hovering over the close window key* ".. works." Me: OH thank GOD

[@xSmilyFacex]

I am COMPLETLEY with you! 100% nothing was rushed nothing was pushed over. These two just have amazing chemistry, they also seem to have the same (or at least similar) morals (which is essential in any kind of relationship) and, like you said, they went through some very traumatic experiences together... these two are just perfect! I could watch their scenes over and over again (I actually am)

[@boudeyamelia9205]

Your video is incredible :) I agree that Vi and Caitlyn's relationship is more natural than any gay couple I've seen in most shows , and I've seen many of them. I am glad that they did not kiss in this season and that it is through gentle touches and hugs that we can definitely tell they have feelings for each other. Another thing that I found interesting is the parallel between Vi / Caitlyn and Vander / Grayson, not that the two last had any relationship at all. What I mean is that we see that at the beginning on the first three episodes there is an understanding between the Undercity with Vander and Piltover with Grayson. Both worked together in the shadows to keep th peace, and as I have watched your video on Vander we knew it would not last. Then we see the understanding between Vi and Caitlyn, and despite their differences and social background they come together and might symbolically represent what Piltover and Zaun could be. I don't know if you think the same , but I see Caitlyn and Vi as the hope that one day Piltover and Zaun might become one city once and for all

[@Sturzfaktor2]

Brilliant video. And thanks for quenching my thirst for high-quality Arcane content. ;) I really liked both of them together and, as a hopeless romantic myself, I hope they will find their way to one another in season 2. Even though Arcane has shown that it's more interested in tragedy. 🙈

[@AFlyingWalrus]

We can hope

[@AlyRyleigh55]

They are so perfect for each other. So excited for the next season

[@Some_scene_freak]

Same!

[@TheFountainhea3]

I was perplexed and strongly disagreed about what you had to say regarding Caitlyn lacking identity. What does having an identity mean? It means having values and striving to attain things one wants to gain or keep. Caitlyn has a strong sense of justice, which is what pulls her into the profession of law enforcement. She isn't interested in some ceremonial position, like what her parents impress her to do. She wants to make a difference and is willing to go to great lengths, including overcoming social pressure, to achieve justice. That principle is actually what draws both Vi and Caitlyn together. Vi also takes great risks to secure a better life for those that she loves. She is angry at Piltover; the injustices levied by them, such as her parents being killed during the war, infuriate her. She hates Piltover and is suspicious and hostile to any of its representatives, including Caitlyn who makes possible her release from prison. However, over time, Vi recognized something within Caitlyn that she possessed: a strong sense of justice. This was most prominently shown in the scene when Caitlyn admits to Echo that Piltover has wronged The Underground. Despite these facts, she still maintains that it will be the best chance for peace if Echo willingly gives up the crystal. Caitlyn appreciates how difficult it must be for Echo to trust her, though makes her case anyway. Choosing to focus on unpleasant and dis-confirming facts about the moral standing of Piltover and changing her mind is what ultimately allows Vi to begin to love Caitlyn. That's why Vi and Caitlyn's relationship works. They both intensely share the same values and struggle to understand the truth.

[@slick.v1be346]

LIKE A YING YAN!!! > WHICH WAS THE REF MADE IN THE BED SCENE both have same vaules and same ideas but both cams from different grounds , their clothes reflects the culture they grew in, their minds show the vaules they held since the start

[@gabbyhernandez1166]

i love the editing bro, the music changes and voice tone to fit the mood is fucking hilarious

[@tallguy779]

0:22 Caitlyn's face LOL

[@SandyTheDesertFox]

Man, the "put away your pitchforks" message at the beginning... Are some people really so mad at people enjoying a well written romance that just happens to be between two women?

[@persephoenix]

yep, though hopefully in the future it won't be such an issue. i really hope that through shows like arcane, more people can learn to be accepting :)

[@hydel_almighty3056]

When you talk about the thing about being sheltered and associating being opened up to the world with the person that did it you said you didn't know if that was a thing. Let me tell you right now that it is. I was fairly sheltered when I was a kid. I grew up in a small suburban community for the majority of my life and so I really didn't have a lot of experience with the rest of the world. But when I went to college my world got opened wide thanks to my roommate. He helped me broaden my horizons and create new experiences. For that I love him. He is like the brother I never got to have. Just wanted to give some insight in regards to what you said because that is what I thought about Caitlyn and Vi as well. Love your video, man!

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Based that line of my personal life. I was...involved, with someone that opened my perspective on the world and who I am as a person. I can look back with genuine greatfulness to them for that. Granted that also made me ignore red flags and end up a surviver of abuse, but hey. You live and you grow. Thank you for sharing your story

[@hydel_almighty3056]

@@AFlyingWalrus Of course, any time. Sorry to hear that happened to you. Hope you are doing better now

[@charlieflickinger7372]

"You can almost hear the 'So you're saying there's a chance?'" IS EXACTLY how I felt when I watched that scene for the first time. Lolololol

[@gachareactions6336]

I love how your voice lightened up when you started talking about there physical appearance of each other

[@joshuaverdillo8039]

Because they’re both well-developed characters that are interesting on their own and have complementary traits that allow them to grow/learn from each other.

[@AFlyingWalrus]

exactly

[@sofig1237]

I don't understand why anyone would disagree (unless it's a homophobic person, obviously), this relationship is well-written. They have enough similarities and enough differences to go well together. At their core, they both have a good heart and similar goals but they take different roads because they were raised different. Also, Vi flirting with her is a godsend.

[@nessi6261]

I have thoroughly enjoyed this great analysis video of Vi and Caitlyn's relationship. Thank you so much @Flying Walrus! And i truly agree with alllll your points in this video, the ship has truly sailed for these two and i wont accept otherwise! I do want to see more of them tho but fingers crossed S2 is a-coming, and i can't wait for your future analysis! This is my Vi-Caitlyn fav vid! p.s. my heart melted too when i saw these two's interactions for the first time. I literally squealed haha! and seriously, Vi and Caitlyn are such a breath of fresh air, it's really like seeing two people slowly but surely falling in love with one another :,,D it's so heartwarminggg~ they deserve to be celebrated like this, ignore the boos! Great work!

[@cowboydevil5993]

The best thing that riot did was treat it like a normal relationship as it should be and not trying to make it look like something which is not achievable under circumstances and people have to dig deeper.. .. it felt like the relationship would work irrespective of their genders and that’s so beautiful

[@foxsan7316]

Who the hell was criticizing their relationship? I honestly loved seeing both of them on screen, I thought it was just some fan service in the beginning but it turned out soooooo well.

[@AFlyingWalrus]

I'm glad to see that it was a vocal minority that was dissenting about their relationship

[@elenaekanathapetrova2282]

Nice video! I did't expect that I would like to see these two characters and their relationship again and again. I'm usually not interested in same-sex relationships. But here everything is so delicate and beautiful. Thay really touch my heart. Thank you!

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Glad you enjoyed the video

[@dynasties.and.dystopia]

it would’ve been perfect to at the intro of vi (0:53) “problem with a sister? punch her in the face!”

[@AaronPaulIbarrola]

Didn't even know there was a "problem".

[@DemonKingVI]

Honestly, that smirk more says to me, "huh, I wouldn't have thought she had it in her. And girls... good for her. Maybe she's not such a goodie-two-shoes"

[@solowolf1]

Coffee and the serotonin I get from watching analysis videos of Cait and Vi's relationship are the only things holding me together right now. So thank you for this

[@youtuberfoxy13]

im obsessed over the gayness in this series

[@Just_Kumoki]

Who the f*ck said that they're relationship doesn't work? I'll fight them!

[@cherrycola542]

> Caitlyn breaks Vi out of prison to help find Silco. > A 5'3 teenager knocking out a 6'7 literal BEAST and strapping her to the roof (!?!?) > A weird dude with chemical burn puts drugs in her system (Gays break up without even being together) > A 5'3 teen kidnapping a 5'9 trained police officer, a 5'6 (or 5'7) violent boxer (??) With pink hair and pronouns & the almost 6 foot crime boss of an entire city You'd be missing some chaptas

[@annaissodone]

history will call them best friends. you know like ladies who lived together in 1800's as companions.

[@J_to_the_F]

Even more irrational to me is that "I´m not homophobic"-people excuse hating gay couples with "bad storry telling" whilst having absolutely no problem with badly written cis couples. Just pathetic.

[@CloudiEyez]

I support this relationship between Caitlyn and Vi 1000%. And I am LOVING how respectful he is when explaining why they'd be a good couple. I was fanboying right along with him with the fluff scenes between Cait and Vi. XD

[@canniloni]

7:00 lol i feel that part about melting the moment someone touches you as gently as these two do

[@amyconway1631]

This slow burn scratches my brain in a way I’ve never experienced

[@raescotch]

the way i keep smiling and laughing so hard while watching this??! THIS WHOLE THING IS SO RELATABLE AND I AGREE WITH YOU

[@nikeboy5505]

I think maybe one reson to why people doesn't like these being a couple might be due to their relationship in history of lol as game. These are both very old characters (resleased 2011 and 2012) and in their lore/storyline they barely mentioning eachother (the lore has been changed and updated a lot the last few years). But originally they didnt have any relationship worthy of mentioning (they were both from Zaun/Piltover and had a rivelty). If you take a look at the lol community, majority of people isn't very invested into the lore, most just play the game. And in the game they have no interactions at all (maybe one or two voice lines, but thats it) (previously to arcane). So the players already have an image of these champions/characters and this new relationship between these differs from that quite a lot. Its only now after multiple years when arcane started to unfold that this has surfaced. Ofc this is not the sole reason , but it might be one reason. I just wanna point out, I dont agree with this (even tho i've played since 2010) and I love that they are updating their lore and makes different characters lore engage more with eachother. I love their relationship and feel it's really well done (not rushed). I feel it was beautifully portrayed!

[@KAIHONGMUSIC]

This was explained SO well. Thank you for making this.

[@jadefalcon001]

I'm late to the party. I've been watching a few of your Arcane vids (all quality) and this one had me hit that subscribe button. I love that you talk about how it made you feel. I'm a sap and I'm right there with you about how much I loved the way these two grew to care for each other, and they SHOWED IT. Didn't tell, and didn't do the cliche thing of neither actually communicating their feelings. Definitely gonna be catching up on the rest of your vids. Well done, sir.

[@i_willkickyou7746]

tbh you being so excited about this cured my depression, i love your energy

[@TheRoomforImprovement]

One thing that struck me was how initially vindictive and resentful Vi was to Caitlin. (Understandable since she spent roughly eight years in prison and the enforcers killed her parents) Since you got out of prison she constantly slighted her (and flirtedwith her) Up until the moment she saved her life from Savika. And when the council rejected her, she doubled down on her attitudes and left her. It can be very hard to shed one’s biases towards someone, especially when they belong to a group that has wronged you most of your life.

[@tiagocidraes2390]

They weren't even seeing if they were compatible (not consciously anyway). This isn't even a relationship yet thought it's obvious it'll be in the future. I can't see how people say this is forced or rushed considering it's not even a relationship yet.

[@pinkyapple333]

Fantastic video- I like how you delved into the specifics of Vi and Caitlyn's relationship as well as emphasizing it's newness and how that plays into their dynamic. HOWEVER! I couldn't help but see that Mel and Jayce's relationship had to catch a stray (as it often does)... I have a rebuttal Mainly, I REALLY don't like the framing of Mel "forcing herself" on Jayce- that isn't what happened and is frankly dishonest. She made a move, and it was reciprocated- especially the moment that leads to the kiss is one of vulnerability between them. People are going to have their opinions, but I think folks are harder on Mel and Jayce's relationship than they should be- especially seeing how it accomplishes and different narrative purpose.

[@Shatterpath]

Came here for the Good Sheeeit Violyn content. Keep coming back for the 'hopeless romantic' rant in the middle! 🤣

[@fatemehgholamian1357]

Thank u,I really loved ur video...the explaination was just overwhelming and sumed up their relationship pretty well...can't believe anyone would say they were forced😐they had better chemistry and development than most straight couples...fight me if u want but I won't back down their relationship totally completely 100% works

[@theAllycat797]

Dude their soft touches and looks and they ARENT EVEN OFFICIAL makes me feel as single as all hell 🤣🤣

[@AFlyingWalrus]

Yeahhhhhh....

[@omrigilkis5016]

Cool article! just one thing positive I've experienced differently: I haven't seen one single case of someone not liking their relationship. someone who did like it said it should have had more screen time. but thats a remark. not disliking. So I'm happy all I see are shipping memes, art, and articles about em. and this ship is sailing smoothly to season 2

[@trolldrool]

A week isn't enough to develop a relationship and if people think they're dating by the end of the season, I can definitely understand why they feel it was rushed. But they're not. At most they have developed a crush and a crush can develop in a minute. But crushes can grow to become something better and I feel that's the direction they're headed.

[@Stratocumulus25]

THIS x1,000,000.00 !!! Thank you for doing this episode !!

[@jaidengames26]

We have to keep in mind that in the first act Powder was 11 Vi was 14 so of course Vi didn’t know how to handle Powder.

[@evanreid6917]

Since I watch Arcane a couple months ago,I definitely thought Vi and Catyline definitely work together. You can see their development over time and their tender moments feel very very real, it's not forced what so ever they both trust and love eachother.