I feel confused by this ending. My character bonded with a druid tormented by all the duties that bound him in place. Suddenly, at the end, it is completely ignored and you find out that this sex machine and opponent of any strong commitments is tied to the orphanage to the point that he has trouble going to a one-night stand because he is afraid of "what's up the house". No, it was far too subversive and I wasn't prepared for it.
Oh no I tottaly agree with you there. Many of us Halsin lovers are kind of whiplashed by his behaviour.
But taking care of orphans isnt the same as being a leader, and I think this is where we may disagree. Even then, I dont think it was being a leader that bothered him so much as the idea of his leadership not mattering and how trivial some of the duties it came with are. He wants to make a difference. Its why hes kind of sad when he gets that letter saying how well the grove is doing, it probably makes him feel like all his work and dedication was for naught. Halsin is a natural leader, but hes starting to learn that this doesnt always mean being in a position of power over people and being the boss. Im sure he felt a lot of pressure and self imposed expectations that he now no longer has to bear. Its choosing vs being expected, he inherited the role of arch druid, he diddnt exactly *ask* for it, hes just very dutiful and loyal, taking it upon himself to step up when he was needed, and I love him for that. He just needs to cut himself some slack.
Hes only comitment phobic when you ask him about your relationship. Otherwise hes the walkimg talking comitment machine.
