Thaniel is a big part of Act II. Sort of. You don't really talk to him all that much. You don't actually save him; that's Halsin.
I have no emotional connection or investment in this Thaniel character. The spirit of the land? Is it me or is this just an incredibly weak part of the Act II narrative?
I'd rather all of the Thaniel dev work have been put into the Thorm family members, fleshing out their stories and making them more interesting.
*
Oliver is slightly more interesting. At least you get to interact with him somewhat.
Lord, he looks like Thaniel, but for the crud in his eye.