Ashes of Ariandel, one of Dark Souls 3‘s two DLCs, widely received criticism from fans for its shorter length compared to similar offerings by FromSoftware. However, this very limitation has given birth to an intriguing theory about the relationship between Father Ariandel and Sister Friede.
The fan theory hinges on the concept of Stockholm Syndrome, a psychological phenomenon where hostages develop a bond with their captors. It proposes that Friede, not Ariandel, was the driving force behind the Painted World’s stagnation.
Dark Souls 3 May Have Dabbled In Stockholm Syndrome
Posted to the r/darksouls3 subreddit, this theory uses several elements from Ashes of Ariandel to support it, with Father Ariandel’s imprisoned state being the first. He was bound and tormented by self-inflicted whipping. This suggests a struggle, not compliance. A willing participant wouldn’t require such extreme measures.
Furthermore, the broken gates leading to Ariandel Chapel hint at a forceful entry. Friede, known for her fierce combat style, may have breached them with her scythes to get to Ariandel.
The argument is bolstered by Ariandel’s emotional outburst upon Friede’s defeat. This intense grief points towards a complex relationship, potentially Stockholm Syndrome-like, where affection develops despite abuse.
Sister Friede Was Both Shrewd And Fierce
The theory delves deeper, suggesting that Ariandel and the Corvians initially desired to burn the Painted World and usher in a new one. Friede, however, may have harbored a different vision – one of stagnation and rot.
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Perhaps, to achieve this, she tortured Ariandel, restraining him and blackflaming his face until he developed feelings for her, ultimately succumbing to her wishes. This explains his blackflame-scarred face, a potential symbol of forced compliance through intimidation.
Friede’s abuse may have extended beyond having her obeyed, though. The theory suggests a political angle to her actions. By adopting a new, aggressive persona, she might have swayed some Corvians to her cause. This interpretation paints Friede’s character not just as a formidable warrior, but also as a cunning manipulator.
While plausible, the theory does take an…interesting turn towards the end. The connection drawn between Ariandel’s name (“Ar(y)andel”) and Stockholm Syndrome feels tenuous, and the historical reference to the Aryan race appears unnecessary to the core argument.
The Ashes of Ariandel DLC may have gone down as one of FromSoftware’s weakest, but this theory opens up a complex new perspective on Friede’s motivations and Father Ariandel’s Stockholm Syndrome-esque manipulation, proving once again that the studio’s penchant for open-ended storytelling never falters.
