Yes, there's a definite change in mood and perspective, not just from Ashmael to Vaysh (two very different personalities from the get-go!) but also in Vaysh's experiences and how different he is because of it. I'd really wanted to reinforce that, to show how warm and vibrant he was before, because Ashmael says so. I know you've not read the canon yet (I'm still so flattered you're reading my fic without knowing canon! You'll have to tell me how it is reading the trilogy with my version of historical events in mind), but that whole first trilogy and my interpretation of Vaysh's character comes from Ashmael when he says: "He was so beautiful, so alive. Losing him was like losing life. Everyone worshiped him..." That's in definite contrast to Pell's perception. Anyway!!

Yes, there was foreshadowing, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts as you go through this. Vaysh pretty much is in the top 5 tragic characters in Wraeththu.

And what a lovely icon you have. :sighs happily: