The Legend of Vox Machina 2x5 Reaction | Pass Through Fire

[@patrickwaldeck6681]

I love how Keyleth's fire elemental form is so incredibly hot that she disintegrates fire wyrms that are NATIVE to the plane of fire and probably normally immune to it. She's like a walking nuke.

[@canadian__ninja]

Pike & Grog, the best example of a man and woman friendship pairing with zero sexual tension in all of media.

[@thatlonewolfguy2878]

That line "I am Keyleth, an air ashari like my mother before me" always reminds me of that iconic Luke Skywalker line "I am a jedi like my father before me"

[@chand911]

Gee I wonder why.

[@cryofpaine]

And Grog's "You know what you fight fire with? Me." reminds me of Storm's line in X-Men about what happens to a toad struck by lightning. Just as dumb, only she's supposed to have an intelligence higher than 6.

[@mr.stuffdoer8483]

@@cryofpaine nah, that’s just playing off “fight fire with fire,” the “my mother before me” was an obvious Star Wars reference. This season also had “not the beard” from lotr and “not go quietly into the night” from Independence Day.

[@cryofpaine]

@@mr.stuffdoer8483 I don't know if it was an intentional reference, it was just so dumb (not in a bad way, but intentionally because Grog is dumb), that it reminded me of that line - which was unintentionally dumb.

[@rogue7723]

Or "I am Moana of Motunui'

[@BiggySn1p3r]

FUN FACT: Marisha based Keyleth on Avatar: The Last Airbender. Keyleth's mom is voiced by Janet Varney who plays The Avatar in Legend of Korra. This episode is basically a tribute to those shows. Also, if you haven't seen Avatar:TLA, you should. It's a must.

[@funnylilgalreacts]

I haven't seen it but it gets recommended a lot!

[@heatth1474]

@@funnylilgalreacts It is a classic. It is one of the first of the "recent" trend of cartoons from the US that actually take itself seriously, with a well thought out plot, good character and clear progression. It is still very much a kid's show though.

[@queenannsrevenge100]

The fact that they got Janet Varney as Vilya was amazing. 👍

[@wiredjerk]

While the name of the episode is a nod to the Critters, I really want her to see the interaction between Keyleth and Kare. I can’t remember, were there a lot of, or any, spoilers in the letter?

[@thetankgarage]

@@funnylilgalreacts Next to Star Wars it's my favorite pseudo-religion. There's a lot of childishness in it and there's a lot of episodes that can get boring but there's a great payoff watching it all. It is just some amazing storytelling. Legend of Korra is also good as long as you don't mind some basic philosophy. There is the live action movie, don't watch it, it's not even funny bad it's just... well it's just sad. Netflix is still trying to make a live action series but personally I think bending is close to unfilmable, short of putting your actors in real danger doing it. Like you'd have to be fine throwing thousands of gallons of petrol or water at them hoping they survive, setting up massive fans hoping a pebble doesn't take an eye out etc.

[@tiny-grimes]

Young Keyleth was voiced by Sam Riegels (Scanlan) daughter

[@DaxRaider]

very rare sams children playing a role that isnt killed off xD but holy moly sams childs play basicly more roles then sam xD as he said one benefit of being a producer is he can put his children into every damn episode xD

[@clownzzz4837]

I believe his kids voiced the two orphan refugees also.

[@TojiChiba]

At this point, I just assume that every child in this series is voiced by Sam's kids.

[@dehro]

@@TojiChiba I believe Liam's kids are also playing occasionally

[@Logan_Baron]

@@dehro Yes any children voiced are probably either Sam's or Liam's kids.

[@bobbyhall994]

*gives insightful 6 minute intro recap* “Maybe I don’t know this as much as everybody else…” GIRL, YOU GIVE SUCH GOOD CONTENT. YOU HAVE SUCH DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT REALLY MATTERS ABOUT THIS SHOW: The Heart. Loved this and love every thing you react to.

[@funnylilgalreacts]

Thanks Bobby ❤️

[@timmyMFturner]

seriously, i've been a critter for a solid 7 years and this lilgal's understanding and ability to catch so many deep moments that went right over my head is unbelievably impressive and a little tariffing. this channel is pure

[@SkoloT]

hear, hear!

[@TBoring]

Fun Fact from the stream: Keyleth was doing her Aramente and had completed her Earth Trial pre-stream and did her Fire Trial before the Briarwoods. She actually had to go into the Fire Plane for her Aramente and when she found out Thordak broke out of the Fire Plane, she felt guilty because the Fire Ashari had to open the rift to let her in. She blamed herself thinking her Aramente was the reason Thordak escaped.

[@patrickmcisaac3142]

THIS IS PURELY THEORY AND NOT A SPOILER: I think they'll show us the earth trial in the early part of next season as something new for people who've seen the stream (like brimsycthe). I haven't done enough research to know if they've ever talked about what happened but I'm sure it would be incredible to see.

[@TBoring]

@@patrickmcisaac3142 I think it might be a season 4 thing, because they’re building up this season for the confrontation with Umbrassyl. So next season they have to hunt down the other Vestiges and fight the 3 remaining members of the Chroma Conclave. So maybe early season 4 for Kiki’s Earth and Water trials. Actually now that I’m thinking about it, Vox Machina did their own things for a 4 month period pre stream while Grayskull Keep was being built. Keyleth spent most of that time with the Earth Ashari. It’d be interesting if the beginning of season 4 we spend a few episodes with the group separated doing their own thing and coming back together (that would also be the perfect opportunity to introduce Taryon).

[@patrickmcisaac3142]

@@TBoring thats certainly possible. My thought is that the earth trial could be a moderate power up to get from Umb. to Vor. because they'll only need a few more vestiges. It's still all a theory! But its getting close to spoilery territory so I'll leave it there. I do like your thoughts on the beginning of season 4 because I do not know how they'll make that transition not feel like a lull in the action compared to seasons 1-3.

[@xilliaz]

This is not true dude, when she did her fire Aramente they actually had to hide FROM THORDAK in the fire plane but we did not know it was him at the time only knowing I think Matt put it "The biggest dragon you've ever heard of or seen". It was explained in a Talks Machina episode by Matt himself.

[@TomElliottJackson]

It's just the Mother of Ravens popping in from time to time reminding Vax of two lessons he really needs to learn and it takes a while to hammer both of them home for him. 1. That he is tied to her by fate from now on. and 2. Death is inevitable for all things, its her job and by extension his to oversee that transition and not futz with it too often.

[@leonielson7138]

Not only is death inevitable, it's necessary. The Whispered One waits with promises of deathless life ...

[@TomElliottJackson]

@@leonielson7138 Exactly, but this is all way down the line and verging on spoilers so let's be careful :)

[@redlars]

You talk about the shed with the dying man right?

[@thatlonewolfguy2878]

That 2nd lesson combined with his fight in the Tomb the episode previous just screams "soul reaper from Bleach" to me lmao, someone on that crew or Liam himself is evidently a massive Bleach fan lol

[@elbruces]

Also, if he tries to tug away from that cord (the cord of fate that once linked him to Vex), he gets a *ZOMBIE JUMPSCARE* to the reality of his death. He said "take me instead" and meant it. So now it's either work for her or be worm food.

[@carpediem3991]

Funny tidbit, the pooping, talking to Craven's Edge, Scanlan singing bowel cover-up. Was all straight out of the campaign and one of my favourite improved bits!

[@testfire3000]

It was so hilarious! Love that they brought it over to the animated series.

[@cryofpaine]

Only difference was in the game, it took place in an outhouse in some town (don't remember which).

[@jackakimbo5718]

The campaign version did happen in an outhouse while in town, with the added visual comedy of this mountain of a goliath cramming himself into a human-sized outhouse and then also somehow unsheathing a massive greatsword while in there 😂there should be multiple clips of just that scene (so no spoilers for anything) on youtube that people should definitely watch

[@Logan_Baron]

The pokeball (medallion that can hold Trinket) IS a great way to bring him along without needing to animate him all the time and only when needed. However it was actually a magical item that came about in the campaign for Vex to use to keep Trinket safe. Though I'm pretty certain they DID choose to introduce it at this point in the story for the exact animation reasons mentioned.

[@itilosi9929]

the aramente is basically a series of trials where you go to all four of the ashari settlements guarding the rifts to the elemental planes (earth fire air and water) and prove your skill and character to them. keyleth and her mother are both from the air ashari so they both passed their air trials before the left. I haven't seen all of campaign 1 but i do know that the four settlements are not exactly close and because its a form pilgrimage just travelling between them can take a long time. plus its kind of expected you'll spend a lot of time testing yourself in other ways and training at your abilities - why her father assumes she's good at fire when she gets to pyrrah

[@cryofpaine]

She completed her Earth trials before stream. And fire was before the Briarwood arc. Different than this - she actually saw Thordak on the fire plane (though didn't know the significance at the time). Yes, it's quite a journey.

[@itilosi9929]

@@cryofpaine okay didn't know that. I've only seen bits and pieces of campaign 1

[@cryofpaine]

@@itilosi9929 one thing I'm enjoying is just how many changes they're making from the game. They're not afraid to make some major changes, and it really keeps it fresh even if you have seen it. Like in game, she was 3/4ths done with her trials before the CC arc even began, but here she hasn't really begun. .

[@tyghe_bright]

I do think they've failed to communicate what it is, even at a high level, in the show. It's one of a few things I see people miss the significance of or are just confused by. (To be clear, they do a great job mostly, of communicating things from the game that are important to the story...just not this bit.)

[@HelloThere.GeneralKenobi]

I appreciate all of the flashbacks/fill in stories. Imagine what Scanlan's history is like!

[@jordanpeterson5140]

**orange logo website drum riff**

[@pallenda]

I also adore Keyleth. :) And shred a tear for her epic moments. 🥲 When I watch the show I boost the audio really loud when the intro music is playing. Those drums and the horns are awesome!

[@cmikedeli2962]

I played D&D a lot when I was younger but had been away for years when I started watching the original CR streams. I eventually got into a 5E campaign and my first character was a Druid because Keyleth (and Walnut from Acq Inc C Team) were such badasses! 🙂

[@leonielson7138]

In the campaign, Keyleth was a Circle of the Moon druid - one of their mid-level abilities is to take the form of elemental spirits, however, Matt Mercer and Marisha Rey agreed that Keyleth wouldn't be able to turn into an elemental unless she'd visited the tribe and passed the challenge. In this case, entering the Plane of Elemental Fire and sealing the breach counted as her passing the trial. At the start of the live-stream, Keyleth had already visited the Plane of Elemental Earth, and could change into an air or earth elemental.

[@JSkinnerish]

I hope someone sends you the live action version of the exchange between Craven Edge (Matt Mercer) and Grog (Travis Willingham) because it is seriously funny. It's slightly truncated in the animated version but still fun. The flashbacks are great and definitely for me give extra depth to the characters.

[@AdamEspersona]

This episode alone definitely made up for the lack of Vaxleth moments last week. Despite having to put her duty first, it's clear that she still has feelings for him. And that moment where he saw her going into the rift and running towards her only to fall short, fearful that he just lost another loved one... only for her to return, and then he gave her back her staff, like he did in Season 1, Episode 1. My heart melted at that, being an OG Critter. All in all, this episode pretty much retells the events of the Campaign 1 episodes "Aramente to Pyrah" and "Cindergrove Revisited", along with brand new elements to it, such as Allura and Kima being involved here which ties into their backstory of how they were the ones that originally sealed Thordak. And that they got Janet Varney to play Vilya is perfect, bringing the Avatar inspiration full-circle. Oh. And Keyleth's town is called Zephrah, in accordance with the Air Ashari theme.

[@testfire3000]

I loved that callback to episode one "I think you'll be needing this". ❤

[@AdamEspersona]

@@testfire3000 And… for the first time since the tomb, he was able to smile again. Kiki did that. She’s his light. Always has been.

[@DanRobotMan]

All of your questions will be answered; and I'm gonna say I expect them to be answered in a very short timespan it seems.

[@LeeCarlson]

We've all been taken by the appearance of Anna (Ripley) this season.

[@CliffSedge-nu5fv]

Certainly the biggest surprise to me. I did not expect to see _dragon rider_ on her character sheet.

[@weezel4612]

I’m always so glad when people discover new things that they love, and can get completely drawn in. So so glad you are enjoying !!!!

[@pandemoniumeris]

I'm glad you are not only invested in the show, but also the people behind it. The flashbacks I love. It is a facet that you don't get with the campaign, and you learn more about the characters with the other players (usually, some of those players get snippets beforehand at times). Some backstory we did get through books (Kith and Kin, which is about the twins) and snippets the players tells us outside of the game (usually during the campaign wrap up).

[@boiledcrap]

Kiki casually quoting the DM says a lot about her being in tuned with the nature of things...

[@CliffSedge-nu5fv]

Also Marisha being "in tune" with Matt. 😅

[@Caiothewwe4]

Seeing Keyleth's flashbacks was definitely special. You don't get to see much of the characters' past in the campaign as you're mostly focusing on the present story, so seeing these tidbits were really great. When I started the campaign, Grog was easily my favorite character, but once this arc of the story started happening, Keyleth took the spot for me, so I totally understand you getting so emotional for her, because her journey is so compelling.

[@nickthepeasant]

Woop second. Kiki is close to over-taking Percy as my favourite - her humbleness and kind nature combined with being like a Goddess make her so endearing. I don't know if that's a problematic trope if some kind but I can't help loving her for it.

[@Ivasik97]

I believe that you wanted to say "she's basically a god", right?

[@lennert1nevejans]

@@Ivasik97 blub

[@bandi138138]

@@Ivasik97 It’s fine, they’re gods!

[@yiklongtay6029]

Percy is steadily becoming the fall guy in combat this season. In S1, it's Grog with him being taken out early 3 times in combat and mind controlled by Anders. This season it seems to be Percy with his one of his few lines being a "I am very flammable" gag. Hopefully they will give him more impressive combat accomplishments before the Marquet arc.

[@mayaenglish5424]

@@yiklongtay6029 I mean they're going to have to shuffle everyone around every now and then, Everybody's going to have to take turns being less effective, there's only so much the animators can do, it's a big ensemble lol. They're definitely getting better at juggling and justifying, but still. Blocking out action involving that many people is hard. (And it make's sense that it's was Percy's turn, we got a lot of Percy in season 1). It will be someone else's turn soon enough.

[@TimothyMorigeau]

This episode had me in tears!! So inspiring!!! Music on point!!

[@codybarnes1531]

A day behind, but better to watch with fresh eyes. The genuine joy of watching/enjoying/getting it, is whats making me really like this channel. The cartoon definitely tells its own story but it is still an entertaining one.

[@bandi138138]

7:25 She’s referring to her aramente. Each prospective chieftain of a tribe must go on an Aramente to learn more of the world, meet the elders of the other tribes, and master each elements. Keyleth’s mom was the one who was to lead the Air Ashari and thus embarked on her Aramente, but she didn’t make it. As such, it fell to Keyleth to embark on the Aramente to take her mother’s place much sooner than she anticipated, and thus she feels inadequate and nervous all the time.

[@AdamEspersona]

Vax was dismissive because he was anxious to get the dragon business over with. That, and the visions from the Matron rattled him HARD. THANKFULLY, Vex appealed to his heart (and the fact that he's still in love with Kiki) and got him to concede. And good thing because then they found out that Pyrah WAS connected to this. So I understand why Vax was hesitant.

[@metmanmitch]

I love how you talked about getting invested not only in the story/characters, but the people behind it. Another popular DM once said that actual-play content is cool because your simultaneously getting both a fantastical adventure story, and a reality show about friends playing a game! 🙌🏻💖

[@magp1001]

10:16 -- The source of the scene from the campaign: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJmUiaWAiqaWpLs 17:03 -- They're probably not going to show this, but it's a great scene from the campaign where Vax practices shooting while flying, then the dice don't cooperate and shenanigans ensue. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n366l6meaa-bpbc 26:56 -- Grog is dumber than most. He grew up in a "herd" -- not much further up the line than hunter/gatherers; education isn't a priority for them. Duke Vedmire was also a Goliath (Half-Giant), and he was formally educated. "Groggles" makes me lol! :)

[@bludfyre]

The "Grog talks to Craven Edge" scene happened in an outhouse in Vasselheim in the campaign. It was much funnier in the campaign but still an iconic moment.

[@johnobrien7562]

you can watch the extended Grog talking to Craven Edge on the toilet seen - Gee Whiz did a simple animation of it, and it's hilarious: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqOlmY2FgsuAsKM . It took place in Whitestone during the same episode with the heaviness of the aftermath of Vax's deal. Thordak is (allegedly) a translation of "Thursday", the day they play D&D

[@llamallama1509]

"Is Grog just dumb?" Yeah pretty much. A wise heart though, which is more than most of the Herd have.

[@robertspears516]

Craven Edge sighing when Grog farts 😂😂😂 I laughed way too hard when I first saw it 😂

[@mikevwca6211]

Not sure if you have been told about, but the cast on their twitch channel have been having watch parties and Q&A and watch the 3 recent episodes that dropped. I believe they try to keep things somewhat spoiler free when it comes to story spoilers (critters fact check me on this). I didnt think to mention about it until you mentioned interest about the cast that has interested you at the end. I think they do the watch party on Tuesday, than Thursday like you mentioned is their current campaign night. Their end of the night sign off is “don’t forget to love each other, and… is it Thursday yet?” Something critters coined by asking almost as soon as the episode ended, is it Thursday yet? NEEDING to finish whatever cliffhanger Matt left everyone on

[@philhallam3368]

I am so excited for your reaction to 2x6. It is truly one of my favorite so far, with so many emotions. I love your reactions.

[@kane128]

In the campaign, the favor for Scanlan was long con... not going to spoil, but it was epic Scanlan behavior. I hope they keep the same favor in the show.

[@KBTibbs]

Scanlan calling in that favor was really good.

[@jordanpeterson5140]

Scanlan behavior? Pretty sure those long cons are purely Sam Rigel behavior.

[@crowflight719]

When I first started watching the Critical Role table top shows and saw the character of Keyleth created and played by Marisha Ray, the character very quickly became my favorite. The way Keyleth starts out with so little self esteem and grow into such confidence in herself mirrors a lot of people in the world. Its nice to see a reaction vid of someone that's a fellow fan of the character. Thanks.

[@Mazecraft]

I literally teared up with you in this one. I adore Keyleth and her innocence as a sort of straight foil to the rest of the party. Her sweetness and kickassery just work in a real compelling way. As for the additions inre flashbacks and scenes we didn't get to see play out in the campaign, I am Here. For. It. It just adds so much to the world and fleshes out the characters and narrative so well. Also, rawdog away your commentary is awesome hahaha!

[@leonielson7138]

12:39 "Volcanos are nature's candles." Critters will get the reference

[@Babawze]

The original craven edge - grog outhouse scene is maybe among my favourite moments in the the whole stream series. The Victor encounters too. I understand that they have to cut a lot, focus on the core and rearrange to keep the tone and the narrative going, but those moments are gold

[@Babawze]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJmUiaWAiqaWpLs

[@zippomage]

Victor is love, Victor is life.

[@cloudstone123]

Grog and Craven Edge were a fun 'couple' in the beginning. Here us a clip of when Grog got it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGjMaXhnZ9ahbtE For context, he got it from Percy who, after it introduced itself, he was like, Um, no. Remember he had just got over the demon gun. That is when Travis stepped in and wanted to trade for it. Liam's concerns are because in D&D, intelligent (sentient) weapons are known for being able to take over the wielder. Now here is a clip of Grog with Craven Edge while in an outhouse which is what they were using for this episode. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJmUiaWAiqaWpLs When it takes place is different than in the animated show. Neither clip contains any spoilers.

[@dehro]

that they kept in Grog's conversation with Craven Edge, which in the campaign happened in an outhouse (much like Scanlan is singing)... is absolutely hilarious.. but also somewhat expected.. glad they didn't disappoint us.

[@Lngbrdninjamasta]

As a long time critter, seeing this in animation, I experience a sense of wonder while watching these. My emotions r heightened & feel more raw regardless of standard content, composited with back story vignette, or original to the show. I feel blessed to b apart of a group that jas grown in popularity & influence. It's truly awe inspiring

[@shadowelrick7991]

What I love most about this episode is how useful it is- whenever I have dry eyes, I just watch Keyleth pass through fire, and my eyes are instantly rehydrated!!!

[@leonielson7138]

The 'trinket' was called 'Raven's Slumber' in the campaign, and was found in the tomb along with the Deathwalker's Ward, containing an awakened (?) wolf named Galdric. From what I understood, the original plan was to have Vex'ahlia keep Galdric as a combat companion, as she was so protective of Trinket, but she failed the Animal Handling check. The only one to make the check was Grog, and he let Galdric go, sending it to protect the forests around Whitestone. I think it's implied that Zahra raided the tomb before, and found it in the necklace, using it to trap the abomination.

[@МолчаливыйКлинок]

Awakened means that Galdric is sentient. It's a druidic spell that makes a beast smarter and capable of understanding language. As Galdric was Purvan's animal companion the same as Trinket for Vex.

[@AlmostOtaku7]

No, she says in the show that she killed a demon for the trinket. I think the Adaro raided the temple- they're living there, after all.

[@1A4atheist]

Vex actually got the broom in this part of the live play. She stole it from a guest character. :-)

[@riolkin]

Alas, i still miss Gern Blanston and his candles.

[@chrisd7047]

I'm almost kinda glad they changed the ON button word for the broom. Laura Bailey being Laura Bailey set it to "*hock* phthoo!" and then regretted it after it was too late to change it.

[@zakkus]

Another fun fact: Sam Riegel the player (scanlan) absolutely hated trinket in the game. The bear required a ton of babysitting to make sure he didn't die once they started facing dragons level enemies (hes just a poor normal bear), and he found it annoying and constantly gave laura crap (in that charmingly trollish Sam/scanlan way). I found it funny they got in a "i hate that bear" line from him in this episode.

[@piperbird7193]

In campaign 2 Sam plays a character who loves to steal. " I just LOVE trinkets! " he cries, and the rest of the cast just loses it. Sam is the eternal troll.

[@BeAuTyLoVe17]

You getting emotional, makes me emotional :') so great to see you get sucked into the show Also unrelated but your hair looks so cute with the waves ❤️

[@foxder1194]

I adore your reactions to this world. Iv been a fan for 6 years and I'm so happy to see other people injoy critical role.

[@DylanEdward97]

If you'd like to watch the campaigns themselves, I think itd be cool for ypu to watch the 4 part Calamity special they did not too long ago. Absolutely fantastic story, set before all 3 campaigns, and it's only 4 episodes, so you can dip your toe in and see if it's something you like reacting to

[@EugGenie]

Pizza: also passes through fire

[@funnylilgalreacts]

🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@elsalaiho1699]

Yeah as far as Zahra and Kash go; yes, they were friendlier in the played campaign, but I'd say the way they were presented here in the animation is consistent with their characterizations in terms of like, who they'd be in these circumstances when they're not already familiar with the party, and also Vex and Vax owe a debt to the Take. Because they initially appeared (along with two other guest player characters who did not make any appearances beyond that one story) in a pre-Briarwood arc adventure that wasn't included in the animated series. So the party got to know them there, while hunting monsters along with them, and kind of won their respect and friendship in a way that they haven't done in the animation. It's a bit of a shame in my opinion that we don't yet really get to see them as friends to the party because they are in my opinion even more fun that way, but the way they are presented here is good in that it feels very true to who the characters should in these circumstances be.

[@RvBDopp]

I figured out why I like watching these videos. I normally don't love when people react to shows because so much has to get cut out. But for this show, you are on POINT with exactly how I feel people should react to it. You get emotional when I've gotten emotional and it's so validating to see from a non-Critter/D&D player. So good.

[@apok578]

The thing about the flashbacks that makes the show so different is that when we watched the game played originally, we didn't get every character's motivations and history so clearly. Sometimes that added more mystery, other times characters and their decisions could feel frustrating to watch. Love the balance that the show has been striking so far between letting the story be told as it was and giving us the added context at the right moments

[@nucleargandhi2709]

Keyleth realizing bit by bit in spite of her preoccupations and self doubt that she is a strong and honorable person whom her friends trust with their lives is just SO wholesome and enjoyable to watch. Season 1 had plenty of moments like that and I'm glad to see that growth continue in season 2.

[@redlars]

I thought the woman going to the dragons was Ripley?

[@brutalchicken]

I'm amazed how they're able to fit so much into these episodes. The flashbacks are a treat, they're either in a book that I haven't read or are sprinkled throughout the campaign.

[@darrenl3289]

Imagine the perspective of Craven Edge. From who knows how many years working with Silas, a vampire, being able to talk to him and both understand an insatiable hunger for blood... to having a philosphical discussion with Grog. LOL They did such a good job showing how Keyleth gains her ability to wild shape into an elemental.

[@cconnelly7010]

One of us...one of us... You've been a Critter since the first season. I have to say you quickly earned a sub because your reactions are so genuine. You're catching on to things, picking up references, and intuitively putting together the clues as each episode in the story progresses. Often you are guessing what is coming next - but I won't spoil anything by confirming! Like I said, thoroughly enjoying watching your reactions to TLoVM, and I'm looking forward to diving into your other content. BIDET!!!

[@christophercorbin9387]

The ride is just getting started.... They make references to things in the stream, as well as put out comic books and actual books that tell some of their background stories. They are adapting things from those books into the show.

[@janiekramer2344]

The origin of Trinket flashback actually happens in the Kith and Kin book. I sobbed while driving listening to it.

[@VegetaLF7]

My favorite part of the Honest Trailers video for season 1 last summer was them pointing out how everyone seemed to have tragic backstories and they asked "what, does the bear have a tragic backstory too?" Those of us in the know were like "yes...yes he does"

[@patriciaperez9318]

Keyleth scene was powerful! Love your reaction everytime she shines with her powers 👏🥰

[@thetankgarage]

Before they started streaming, they were doing something in Allura's mage tower, we've never heard the full story I think. Anyway the tower was collapsing and one of them grabbed a rug, I guess to use as a parachute? Turned out it was a flying rug. So in the beginning of the campaign they had this flying rug, could carry almost all of them at once I think, then in a dungeon delve, going by memory here, I think it lost it's enchantment. The broom was a less powerful replacement for Laura, she was absolutely devastated when the rug was destroyed.

[@Antenox]

The flying carpet discovery was actually recorded in video one of their old tweets, but essentially you have it right. It was later damaged by acid during the original Slayers Take trials, and then Tibs tried to repair it, but it had lost its enchantment. That was back when they split the party (half with Z and Kash, the other half with Wil Wheaton and Felicia Day), and Vex was with Z and Kash, so when the carpet was destroyed, she was watching the stream in another room and her scream of anguish carried clear across the studio and could be heard on the stream 😂

[@dreadlordherk6367]

As to Grog's intelligence, in D&D an Intelligence score of 10 is an average person, 3 is an animal. It was in the first couple of episodes of the campaign that Travis comically stated in Gorg's voice, "I have an Intelligence of 6, I know what I am doing". When Travis made the character and saw that he would have a low intelligence he new he was going to be a big dumb meat head.

[@ScubaDvr]

I'm sure it was mentioned before. The Critical Role group was already playing these characters for a while before they started streaming. So some of those flashback scenes are probably new for us. Also, you might enjoy this clip. It will demonstrate how much Vex (Laura Bailey) loved that broom. I don't think there is enough detail to reveal any plot/storyline. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZe0iqmIf8qJpZY

[@spacejammer1991]

Love your reactions can't wait to see u watch the next episode

[@chrisd7047]

It took Vex a fair amount of time, and some help from Percy, to be proficient at firing her bow from broomback. She fell off more than once practicing.

[@wildbronco038]

If you want to know more about the cast, check out the "Behind the Sheets" series they have up on their KZbin. Spoiler warning for Campaign 1/LOVM, and early Campaign 2/Mighty Nein though.

[@spf4yt]

There is a short video taken during a live performance during season 2. The audience sings the Critical Role theme. I love how active and devoted Critters are.

[@eliasluna9337]

“Are they done? Are we not seeing them anymore?” Critters: hehehehehe 😊

[@Jaxom35x]

It is so awesome that you are strongly invested in Vaxleth (Vax'ildan and Keyleth).

[@CatDuckChu]

honestly i fucking sobbed when keyleth went through the portal

[@justjester5682]

its kinda funny that Vax and Kelyeth both had back to back anime main character powerup moments

[@kenklingler4094]

The backstory and flashbacks and villain montages are indeed special for us, because none of that was visible to the players or audience. Matt may have envisioned or plotted some of these things, like Anna Ripley making treasonous deals with Umbracyl, but he did not choose to share it with anyone else. It is special for sure. In Matt's world, the gears are always spinning and things are happening behind the scenes and it can/does impact what happens to the players, but we only get to see things the characters get to see directly.

[@chand911]

Anna Ripley, from season 1. They woman that tortured Percy and was found in the dungeon. She's the one who bought the black powder in a previous episode.

[@Shsy7573]

The whole scene where Grog talks to his sword is, in my opinion, SO MUCH funnier in the campaign. The entire table was laughing their asses off, and I highly recommend watching it if you get a chance (if you haven’t already. I’m a year late lmao)

[@actuallyerik1623]

Critical role as a company has developed a ton, from being just friends around a table talking to chat and so on, to now being a well produced show and multiple mediacompanies so on the surface it could seem like some of the relation between them and the community has disappeared. But they still do talkshows letting the community ask questions, they are active on Twitter, they curate fanart to future in a weekly art gallery and they as voice actors promote their animated series AS WELL AS the people behind it and hosts watchparties themselves and also the within the community. Its pretty amazing

[@Brashnir]

The Grog/Scanlan scene was taken right out of the actual game. It was an all-time classic. They shortened it to fit the show, but the main elements are there. Here's an animated version of the original if you want to see. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oqOlmY2FgsuAsKM&ab_channel=GeeWhiz

[@Maleficas88]

Super happy with the flashbacks, I want more! Especially Grog or Scanlan flashbacks.

[@WildberryPrince]

The type of druid Keyleth is gains the ability to turn into an elemental at a certain level. Matt managed to weave that character trait into the narrative during this arc and Keyleth learned how to become a fire elemental by passing a trial by combat in Pyrah/the fire plane. It's amazing to see how it translates to animation with a few changes, they've been doing great work this season.

[@iManticore]

So the Grog and Craven Edge seen in the campaign originally took place in a HUMAN-SIZED outhouse. Also in the campaign, Craven Edge's base form was not as small as it is, I was a large 2-handed weapon so imagine big ol' Grog in a human-sized outhouse trying to maneuver this giant blade and pretend he's just going to the bathroom.

[@Ottamus_Prime]

Watching this later but I already know you’ll LOVE this episode!!! Keyleth is a powerhouse and will get even more broken in the future!

[@theanyktos]

1:35 Liam O'Brien has been on a 7, almost 8 year quest to make as many critters as possible want to crawl through their screens and hug him as many times as possible and he is _very_ successful at that.

[@derekdecker555]

From a 6 year critical role vet; you’re doing great! I hope you do keep watching the campaign too though because there’s enough differences between the two to keep one surprised and interested in both

[@TheKrstff]

Keyleth's aramente is basically a trial the next in line to rule does before they can ascend to the throne. They have to travel to the other three tribes of her people, meet with their rulers and complete a trial. When the prospective ruler completes the aramente, they go home and are crowned. Keyleth's mom left for her's and was never seen again. When it became clear the worst happened, Keyleth suddenly had to go on her's way ahead of schedule. To put it in perspective, half elves like her can live for almost two hundred years, a powerful druid like her mother, presumably much longer. Keyleth was under the impression she had more than a century to prepare for her trial. Instead she was tossed out with little preparation on a mission that as far as she is concerned, her own mother wasn't ready for.

[@KevinDPomeroy]

As someone who did watch the entire 1st Campaign before the show came out, I have enjoyed some of the flashbacks and little nuggets that have been sprinkled in. For example, in Season 1 seeing the backstory of the Briarwoods was cool to see, because obviously a D&D campaign revolves around the Players' POV and you don't get snippets of the bad guy's conversations that the heroes are not privy or present for.

[@phoenixdzk]

The fact that Delilah's full story is only told in the campaign wrap up, and now we get to see it in real time! What a decade to be a critter!

[@gerbie42]

Yeah the fact that they made it a cohesive story from multiple angles makes it even better as a series.

[@vazzeee]

You could check out the Mighty Nein announcement trailer, it won't tell you much, but it'll give you a little gimpse on the characters of Campaign 2. It's like a minute long :D

[@janiekramer2344]

She is going to adore Jester!

[@brianbutzen6703]

I don't recall the earth trial from the livestream, but the water trial was very epic.

[@stephen6503]

love that you said bodak - which is a D&D monster.

[@andrewhaans2444]

Not sure if this was noticed, but "I think you'll be needing this" is the same line Vax said to Keyleth in the first ep. of season 1.

[@JoshStasio884]

most the flashbacks are things that were talked about so most the information inside them ended up being known during the game

[@Becky31389]

You've officially seen Keyleth in her fire elemental form 🔥🤩 Not sure if anyone has given this to you yet, but here's the moment in the campaign for the moment Grog is talking to Craven Edge, both live and someone's animated version 😁 kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJmUiaWAiqaWpLs kzbin.info/www/bejne/hGjJp36dbs1nmbM

[@testfire3000]

27:53 ❤ Feeling like the cast of Critical Role are your friends. It is so true! It isn't like any TV show you have ever seen, where the actors are just pretending to be characters. These are a bunch of friends goofing off and having a blast and also letting us watch and join in the fun. The only thing like this I have ever experienced is my own D&D campaigns over the years. The fun and camaraderie that comes with these sessions.

[@Thundarr100]

I can totally imagine you cosplaying as Keyleth or Vex. Maybe something to think about this Hallowe’en?

[@silentinfinity]

The feels for Keyleth are real, and I'm so glad. Marisha did so many amazing things with this character as she learned the game. She tells great stories with great characters.

[@joejawson5264]

Did you listen to Scanlan's song at the end? "In an outhouse on the edge of the world. Our hearts beat as one. It's where it all begun. Standing there in that privy line. Couldn't help but blush. You sitting in the dark. Me waiting for that flush...of love."

[@elfbreath]

And in this episode we see another cool thing druids can do: Not just turn into animals, but turn into avatars of the elements themselves! Keyleth was in her fire elemental form this episode, and in the campaign she could also be an air, earth, and water elemental. Hope we get to see those forms on the show eventually.

[@dragoninthewest1]

Keyleth is favorite and I am not just saying because she's a cute redheaded half elf. She's a bonafide badass once she starts getting her hang ups. I also resonate with suffering from anxiety and self-doubt. "Listen to your power" is now my mantra

[@thetankgarage]

The flashbacks so far I think are all tidbits that have been covered by the cast somewhere during meta discussions. The Briarwoods came from The Dwendalian Empire for example, where a lot of The Mighty Nein story was set, so especially Delilah came up a few times. How Vex met Trinket was a little different but it's one of the first things Laura wrote herself for her character, she posted that a long long time ago. Then in the book Kith & Kin, that story along with a lot more of how Vex and Vax grew up was told. Most importantly how Vax got that belt that turned into a snake ;)

[@PuffyCloud_aka_puffeclaude]

We are very happy. We are happy that you're happy for us. Most importantly we're happy for you. We're happy to share our enthusiasm and ecstatic when someone really gets it and falls hard.