Does Scanlan Marry Pike? A Deep Dive into the Complicated Relationship of Vox Machina’s Beloved Duo
No, Scanlan Shorthalt and Pike Trickfoot do not ultimately marry within the narrative of Critical Role’s first campaign, Vox Machina. While their relationship is a central and emotionally charged storyline, and Scanlan does propose to Pike, their journey takes a different turn. This article will explore the complexities of their connection, from its beginnings to its eventual resolution, offering a comprehensive view for fans both new and old.
A Relationship Built on History and Unrequited Feelings
Childhood Friends and Shared Experiences
Pike and Scanlan’s connection dates back to Pike’s childhood, as she was a friend and companion of Grog, and had saved him once from near death. Pike was also the one who was there for Grog when his parents had died, so she was part of his inner circle of trust. Because of this, Pike and Grog became childhood friends, and Pike met Scanlan through him. This establishes their long-term and deep relationship. Scanlan had always admired Pike, which he revealed in a heartfelt letter, highlighting his admiration for her. He strived to “mend his incomplete heart” by joining it with hers, and “everything” he had done was to “impress, please, and protect her”.
The Romantic Pursuit and Proposal
Throughout their adventures with Vox Machina, Scanlan’s feelings for Pike grew stronger. He yearned for a deeper connection, which culminated in a sincere proposal of marriage in Episode 53. He had written her a letter with his intentions, and she promised to fulfill what was within it. He was deeply invested in making things work. This pivotal moment marked a critical point in their relationship, where Pike was visibly touched and moved by Scanlan’s vulnerable and heartfelt declaration.
The Harsh Realization and Rejection
However, Scanlan’s realization that his love might be for the idea of Pike, rather than Pike herself, led him to rescind his proposal. He realized that he was more in love with the fantasy of her than with her as an individual. This honest and painful admission shifted the dynamic between them, leading to an agreement that they would remain friends instead. This moment highlighted the emotional depth of their relationship and the personal growth they underwent as a result. While his intentions were genuine, his self-awareness allowed him to see that marriage was not the right path for them.
Moving Forward as Friends
Though the pair never married, their relationship remained a cornerstone of Vox Machina. They continued to support and care for each other as friends, showcasing a mature and healthy approach to their complex feelings. Their bond became one of mutual respect and genuine affection, despite the lack of a romantic connection. Their interactions would still have tender moments as they respected each other in their lives. While their romantic aspirations were left behind, their bond was never broken.
The Importance of Unrequited Love and Personal Growth
The storyline of Pike and Scanlan’s relationship is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery. It demonstrates that romantic success isn’t the only measure of a valuable connection. It also offers a unique view of self-awareness and how realizing that your perception is flawed, is also key. Both characters grew significantly because of their shared experience, with each reaching a deeper understanding of their own selves and the nuances of love and friendship. Their relationship became a lesson in accepting that sometimes, love doesn’t equate to marriage and that true friendship is just as valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Pike in love with?
According to Ashley Johnson during “Talks Machina: Campaign Wrap-up,” Pike had secretly been in love with Percy (Percival Fredrickstein Von Musel Klossowski de Rolo III). Taliesin Jaffe (Percy’s voice actor) noted that Percy was completely oblivious to this.
2. Why did Pike leave Critical Role sometimes?
When Ashley Johnson was unavailable, Pike’s absence was usually explained by her being away to rebuild the temple of Sarenrae in Vasselheim or helping to fortify Whitestone.
3. Who ends up together in Vox Machina?
Vax’ildan Vessar ultimately ends up with Keyleth of the Air Ashari, after some flirtations with Gilmore, while Percival “Percy” Fredrickstein Von Musel Klossowski de Rolo III marries Vex’ahlia.
4. Why did Scanlan leave Vox Machina?
Scanlan left because his poor mental health and his lies about it slowly built up until he felt as if he didn’t belong with the group, accusing them of not caring for him. This led to him leaving the group for a little over a year.
5. Why did Scanlan and Pike break up after the proposal?
After proposing to her, Scanlan rescinded the offer because he realized he was more in love with the idea of Pike than with Pike herself, and they agreed to remain friends.
6. Who does Sam Riegel play after Scanlan leaves?
Sam Riegel introduces his second player character Taryon Darrington in “A Bard’s Lament” (1×85), after Scanlan leaves.
7. Who is Keyleth’s husband?
Vax’ildan Vessar, using the pseudonym “Lord Scanlan of the Emon Shorthalts”, “proposes” to Keyleth, who accepts and takes the alias “Coraline Shorthalt”, ultimately leading to their relationship.
8. Does Percy marry Vex?
Yes, Percy and Vex secretly eloped and married, and she was later named the Champion of Pelor, Sixth Star of Whitestone.
9. How many kids did Percy and Vex have?
Percy and Vex had five children: Vesper Elaina, the twins Wolfe Kristoff and Leona Pike, Vax’ildan Frederick, and Gwendolyn Zahra Melanie von Musel.
10. Why was Orion Acaba removed from Critical Role?
On October 28th, 2015, it was announced on the Geek & Sundry website that Orion would no longer appear on Critical Role.
11. What happened to Grog after Vox Machina?
Grog wielded the Sword of Kas in the final battle against Vecna and was banished to another plane twice during the confrontation.
12. Why is Percy’s hair white?
Percy’s hair turned white due to the trauma he suffered when his family was overthrown and murdered by the Briarwoods.
13. How does Grog know Pike?
Pike was a childhood friend and companion of Grog, saving him from the brink of death as well as her being there for him after the death of his parents.
14. What did Scanlan’s letter to Pike say?
Scanlan’s letter expresses his desire to “mend his incomplete heart”, stating that “everything” he had done was to “impress, please, and protect her.”
15. Does Vax forgive Percy?
Yes, Vax and Percy continued to repair their relationship, with Vax even going as far as to say that he considers Percy to be like a brother.