The Afterlife of Vax’ildan: Death, Deal, and Devotion
What happens after Vax’ildan dies? The answer, in short, is a dramatic tale of sacrifice, resurrection, and ultimate devotion. After Vax’ildan Vessar, a beloved character from Critical Role’s Campaign One, tragically dies at Thar Amphala, he makes a profound pact with The Raven Queen. He offers his life in service to her in exchange for being brought back as a revenant, a being animated by a desire for vengeance and an unnatural lifespan, so he can fulfill the critical mission of stopping Vecna. This second chance at life was not a gift; it was a solemn vow. Once Vecna is either defeated or sealed away, Vax willingly returns to The Raven Queen’s service, abandoning his mortal form and becoming the Champion of Ravens, a devoted servant in her realm. His story, therefore, does not end in the darkness of death, but transforms into an eternal commitment.
The Sacrifice at Thar Amphala
A Brother’s Anguish
Vax’ildan’s death is a pivotal and heart-wrenching moment in the campaign. It occurs when Vox Machina ventures into the dangerous Thar Amphala to retrieve the Sword of Kas, a necessary tool to defeat Vecna. Vax’s death isn’t caused by a dramatic battle with a monster but by a trap that instantly kills his twin sister, Vex’ahlia, who was unable to avoid it in time. While Vex is quickly brought back by Kashaw using their cleric abilities, this initial loss causes extreme anguish for her twin. The close relationship between Vax and his sister highlights the sacrifice he makes in her honor.
The Deal with the Raven Queen
Moved by his dedication and grief, The Raven Queen offers Vax a deal. He is given a second chance, not as his former self, but as a revenant, a being fueled by unyielding purpose. This transformation comes with its own limitations, as a revenant is tied to their oath and cannot achieve true peace until it’s fulfilled. This is a stark choice, moving him away from a typical heroic trajectory. His resurrection is not simply a return to life, but a transformation into a force devoted to the deity.
The Champion of Ravens
From Revenant to Servant
Once the threat of Vecna is handled and the archlich is dealt with, Vax fulfills his side of the bargain. He doesn’t linger in the world of the living, instead embraces his role as the Champion of Ravens. This act demonstrates his profound commitment and the gravity of the oath he took to the Raven Queen. He consciously chooses this path, leaving behind his former life and all the bonds it held. He isn’t pulled away reluctantly; he steps into this fate willingly.
Eternal Service and Keyleth’s Reunion
Vax’s commitment to the Raven Queen is absolute and eternal, making him a character that has gone beyond the typical heroic conclusion. Even in his immortal service, his story doesn’t remain entirely detached from his loved ones. In the end, Keyleth’s life comes to an end, and she joins Vax in the afterworld of the Raven Queen’s realm. Here, Vax and Keyleth are finally reunited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Vax’ildan’s Fate
1. Who is Liam’s backup character after Vax dies?
Liam O’Brien, who played Vax’ildan, had a backup character in mind, originally intended to be a “halfling druid/monk from the Air Ashari”. This concept eventually morphed into Orym, his character in Exandria Unlimited and Campaign Three.
2. Does Vax marry Keyleth?
Yes, Vax and Keyleth do end up together, they have a complex relationship throughout the story. They are in love and end up together, however they do not have a long life together as they are separated due to Vax’s deal. They ultimately reunite after Keyleth passes.
3. Is Vax dead for good in Vox Machina?
Yes, Vax is dead in his mortal form, but he is not gone. After becoming a revenant and fulfilling his oath to the Raven Queen, he returns to her service permanently. He transcends the mortal coil and becomes something more, an eternal servant.
4. What happened when Vex died?
When Vex died, it was due to a trap in the Raven Queen’s tomb. She immediately fell dead, and her sudden death greatly impacted Vax. Although she was quickly revived by Kashaw, this moment led to Vax’s sacrifice.
5. How did Vex get revived?
Vex was revived by Kashaw, a cleric who, after learning that she had passed, used their cleric abilities to bring her back. Vax’ildan then tried to lie about her death but his attempts were quickly undermined by his party.
6. Do Vax and Keyleth reunite in the afterlife?
Yes, Vax and Keyleth are reunited in the Raven Queen’s realm after Keyleth’s long life ends and she passes into the earth via her raven tree. Their souls are eternally together.
7. Who killed Percy in Vox Machina?
Percy was killed by Ripley, a vengeful figure from his past. Ripley had come back into the picture, and after a short conversation she had two shots at him which brought him unconscious, she then fired two more shots, killing him.
8. How does Vax come back to life as a revenant?
Vax is brought back to life as a revenant through a deal with the Raven Queen. He offered his life in her service to return and help defeat Vecna.
9. Why did Vax offer his life to the Raven Queen?
Vax offered his life to the Raven Queen to be brought back to life so he could help defeat Vecna, and because of his guilt and grief surrounding Vex’s death. This was a serious and meaningful sacrifice, made for a greater cause.
10. Can Keyleth turn into a dragon?
Yes, Keyleth, with her druidic powers and high level, can shapeshift into powerful forms including a dragon. She can turn into a creature with a CR equal to her level, meaning a CR17 adult gold dragon is within reach.
11. Who does Percy marry in Vox Machina?
Percy is married to Vex’ahlia. They initially kept it secret, and Taryon Darrington was the first of the group to find out.
12. Was Keyleth a half-elf?
Yes, Keyleth is a half-elf. She’s described as having fair skin, green eyes, and long red hair, with freckles.
13. What killed Vex in the tomb?
Vex was killed by a trap in the Raven Queen’s tomb which released a wave of necrotic energy. Vex received the worst of the blast because she failed the save.
14. Why does Vex hate Keyleth?
Vex initially held some resentment towards Keyleth due to the druid’s growing relationship with Vax, but this was resolved. In the end, Vex was one of her closest friends.
15. What happens to Grog after Vox Machina?
Grog wielded the Sword of Kas during the final battle against Vecna. He was banished twice to another plane by the god during this fight.