Vax'ildan

Lore & Background

Vax'ildan is a half-elf who travels alongside Vox Machina as they traverse the continent of Tal'Dorei. His class progression is notable; he begins as a rogue but later takes on the role of paladin, never adopting druidic abilities. This versatility allows him to adapt to the challenges faced by the group, from fighting dangerous beasts like those in the Chroma Conclave to navigating the political landscape of Whitestone during the Briarwood arc. His story is deeply intertwined with his sister Vex'ahlia, as they face family reunions and shared traumas together. The character's journey includes significant moments such as the battle against the Chroma Conclave and the final confrontation with the cult of Vecna, culminating in his sacrifice during the series finale.

In Their Own Story

Vax'ildan's narrative unfolds over the course of 115 episodes, beginning with the Kraghammer story arc where Vox Machina starts their adventures in the Underdark. He is present during the split party missions in Vasselheim and plays a crucial role in liberating Whitestone from Lord and Lady Briarwood. During the Chroma Conclave arc (episodes 39–84), Vax faces powerful ancient dragons, with his backstory being further explored alongside his twin sister's. In the final campaign arc against Vecna (episodes 100–115), he helps stop a cult attempting to summon the lich demigod. Throughout these events, Vax remains a steadfast member of Vox Machina, contributing his unique skills as a rogue, paladin, and druid.

Reader's Guide

Vax'ildan is a half-elf character played by Liam O'Brien in Critical Role's first campaign. He starts as a rogue and later evolves into a paladin and druid. His gameplay involves dual-wielding stealth tactics early on, transitioning to divine magic and nature-based abilities as the story progresses. Key moments include his participation in the Kraghammer arc (episodes 1–16), the Vasselheim missions (episodes 17–23), and the extensive Chroma Conclave conflict (episodes 39–84). He is essential to the party's success in defeating the Briarwoods and ultimately stopping Vecna. His relationship with his twin sister, Vex'ahlia, is a central emotional thread throughout the campaign.

Did You Know?

• Liam O'Brien plays Vax'ildan as a half-elf who is both a rogue and later a paladin, never taking levels in druid.
• Vax travels with his twin sister, Vex'ahlia, through major story arcs including the Chroma Conclave and Vecna conflicts, but does not appear in every episode of the campaign.
• The character appears in most episodes of Campaign one, which ran from January 11, 2015, to October 12, 2017, with his final appearance occurring in Episode 115 (The End of All Things).