#longpoooost

^me writing

So, my Logarius is a half-pthumerian, half-breed. His mother is the woman on the portrait in the robes of the bell ringers, also pthumerian (I gave her the name Ionela).

As a child she saw the military clash between Cainhurst and pthumeru that took place in the dungeons. Her husband was one of the knights who served Cainhurst faithfully and died early. He was a pureblood nobleman, and his ancestors were among those who had separated from pthumeru centuries ago to establish their own, separate branch of the family with blood drinking and luxury. Ionela and her husband had produced two boys, twins, Rogerius and Rutger. Ionela had a good place at court and even had close relationship with Annalise's mother, the past queen of Cainhurst, and there was a kind of friendship between them that helped Ionela stay near royal family, since her husband had been a source of influence before. And both boys were granted the title of page, both were to become knights. Roger and Rutger both closely communicated with little Annalise, and even though the princess lived surrounded by governesses and teachers, the three sometimes played together. Roger was more closed - he dreamed of his deceased father, for he knew what a glorious warrior he had been. He had tried to be more manly and strong since his childhood, when Rutger was more romantic and prone to fantasies, tenderness and feelings. Little Rutger had sympathy for young Annalise, and Annalise had eyes for young Roger (it was mutual). (Oh no, Fareeha is making up love triangles again.)

I read that this ^^^ is a portrait of Logarius/King Cainhurst from the time when the two were one (actually, from that fact comes the fact that to me they are twins). So Rutger and Roger's appearance can be imagined based on the portrait. I really like to think that young Rogerius and princess Annalise might have been in love with each other the way children can be in love - very pure and innocent. He may have even kissed her on the cheek once, and it remained a little secret between them, which would later dissolve into all the grief that would happen to them. In any case, all three were gradually growing up. Rogerius served as a page to one of the nobles, a knight as worthy as his father, and that man was the very "foreign" executioner whose gloves have been passed down from generation to generation that we find in the castle.

I know that the executioner of Cainhurst and the executioners of Logarius are two different things, however, in my vision Logarius was very much inspired by his first mentor, an executioner from southern lands. Also, I was initially confused about the executioner in the castle. In my vision, the executioner is supposed to be an unsightly figure, someone who "cleans up the dirt" by executing transgressors and traitors. He was supposed to be a very strong and cruel man, cold-blooded and used to death, living in the shadow of the nobles. However, reading the Japanese forums led me to think that the Executioner could have been a VERY honorable man? Even an honorable knight, maybe even close to the affairs of the royal court.

And it just so happened that young Rogerius served him as a page, helping with weapons, learning fighting techniques, and preparing for knighthood. And part of the ideology of the executioner, whom I named Manuel, was passed on to Logarius. More specifically, it was his ability to kill quick and mercilessly and his ability to unmistakably identify people whose blood starts to deteriorate and lead them to turn into a beast and be cursed. And also interest to blood and anatomy... Young Rogerius thought a lot about blood back then. There were too many things occupying his young head. He grew up without a father, like his brother, but inwardly suffered more from it. While his brother, Rutger, reached out to the rest of the nobility and was sociable, Rogerius looked for a mentor in everyone, the one person who would be ONLY his (a kind of possessiveness), and in simple words had huge daddy issues.

Serving to an executioner, he saw more than once people turned into beasts because of blood, and also...

"It is said that the nobles found immeasurable delight in the dances of these vengeful specters"

(I can understand them. But he couldn't). Rogerius even began to take a certain dislike to Annalise because of this. Rogerius was also intrigued by his own roots as a pthumerian, but his mother restricted him from trying to learn more. Ionela had long ago renounced her heritage and did not want her son to seek knowledge, especially after the military clash there was a "taboo" on the subject of their ancient history.

Rogerius was very close to his mentor, and after growing up a bit more, even experienced a heartfelt affection and even passion for him. In general, daddy issues of Logarius for me is a very important detail of his personality, because a kind of "father" he will be looking for during his whole life, and this aspiration influenced him a lot.

The longing for roots and the rebellion against the foundations of Cainhurst made him (already a withdrawn introvert) live with thoughts in his own head, where he tried to envision the world as a much better place than it was. And in his vision, the best way to "cleanse" the world was to eliminate all those who carried curse. However, he kept these thoughts to himself. All through his youth he had served faithfully as a squire, and his mentor Manuel was very pleased with him. And he was his first lover, which strengthened Rogerius' attachment even more, and later made him "idealize" the image of a bloodthirsty and apathetic executioner.

As time went on, the bond between Rogerius and his brother became increasingly fragile. Despite being twins, they became very different. Sometime around his 16th birthday, Annalise was crowned on the death of her mother. And from that point on, despite her sympathy for Rogerius, they stopped seeing each other altogether. She had too many responsibilities, and Rutger, who was courting her and preparing for future knighthood, was prophesied to be her husband.

Roger's obsession with his own ideas, his slight fear of blood, his honed ability to kill PEOPLE, not beasts, made him very superstitious and suspicious from a young age. I mean, he began to give things their own meaning, hidden meanings, and also, when his beloved mentor passed away, dying from the claws of a bloodsucker, Rogerius took it as a sign.

^ Bill Cypher LMAO

To this day, I still wonder - the Radiance - what is it? Is it the voice of the Great One we don't know about? Since it's an existing Rune of Caryll, obviously Logarius has some sort of connection to divine providence after all. My headcanon is that this rune, or rather the shining eye, is something that came to him in dreams. You know - a recurring dream? On the fifth or sixth time, you already realize what's happening in the dream and just observe the events (just recently I had such a dream. It's not related to fanaticism though xd). He may have drawn something from higher matter to him, desperate to find a parent, and also realizing the concept of blood work and the corruption within Caihurst. Perhaps some Great one sensed in him someone vulnerable and sensitive enough to carry the ideals of "purity" forward.

I also had the idea that the Great Ones had nothing to do with it, and Logarius was just a fanatic of his own ideas conveniently falling into the hands of the Church, but Rune! Too much for one Logarius - for all of this to be just his imagination?

Now, he had a vision of the Radiance. The purest it can be, firing all "filth". It sounds a lot like the flames of the Inquisition, of which Logarius will essentially become the head, seeing himself as a savior and righteous man. It's a vision he jealously concealed, trusting no one. Perhaps he would reveal himself to his master if latter was alive. But for now, Rogerius was only slowly going mad, trying to see if his dream was true or not. His behavior many found strange, for he would begin to whisper to the void, and a small offering plate could be found in his chambers. He was slowly sinking into a belief in the golden light that guided and instructed him. (Yes, yes, a huge parallel to Ludwig. However, whereas Ludwig was "bewitched" by the turquoise light of his sword, Logarius sought contact and prayed to the golden eye that came to him. He was now beginning to believe that if something bad happened to him - he was not diligent enough in his prayers or had somehow stained himself with sin)

After a while, Rogerius grew up and was knighted. So was Rutger. (@katyspersonal Remember when you asked me in the tags below the post with my portrait of Logarius in armor??? Here's the context! Sorry it took so many months xD) At this point, somewhere within the castle walls, little Maria is growing up, looking dreamily at the Knights of Cainhurst, dreaming of becoming one of them. After another time, Rutger was engaged to Annalise, by mutual affection and a desire to bear the burden of ruling together (I won't call their union true and only love. Annalise may have been too busy to give vent to her feelings). A year later a beautiful wedding took place.

A castle must still somehow receive provisions and still have knowledge of what goes on outside its walls. I also believe that the royal family of Cainhurst contributed to the founding of Byrgenwerth once upon a time. It would be a reasonable investment for them - keeping in touch with the outside world, patronizing the sciences, and helping a town you want to have friendly relations with.

But one day (years later) the provost of Byrgenwerth - not quite old Willem, accompanied by Gehrman and father of Laurence and several other scholars, requested an audience with the Queen. Willem asked for Cainhurst's help and sponsorship to investigate the ancient catacombs of Pthumeru, discovered near Yharnam. Annalise approved of the idea, the 18 year old knight Maria was seized with enthusiasm and excitement, and Logarius saw it as his chance to finally break free from the shackles of the castle and explore his origins. The arrangement was simple, I think. Cainhurst gives Byrgenwerth warriors and money, and Byrgenwerth gives Cainhurst the relics of their lineage and information about what became of the remnants of the Pthumerians.

During the audience, Laurence's father got a good look at what weapons and medicine Cainhurst has, Willem made new contacts and met the new queen and her future consort, Gehrman met a curious girl and the castle's formidable guardian, Rogerius. Of all the people he saw, Logarius liked Gehrman specifically, he was called "the hunter" out of all of them. He was older, had a very soft timbre of voice and was tense, as if before a fight, always ready to stand up for the people entrusted to him. Logarius even showed him the knights' armory himself, inspiring him to set up his own workshop in the future.

Logarius won't decide to leave his post just yet, but after the visit of the delegation from Byrgenwerth, his visions will be brighter, stronger (and he'll also miss Gehrman a bit. Even though the two of them have spent very little time together, Logarius will miss the man who was willing to listen to him and gently approve of his lectures in a fatherly way. My Gehrman is "father" to half the characters lol).

Laurence's father talked a lot about his theory "On the Properties of Blood". In his dreams, Logarius will start seeing blood all the time and gradually even start his own experiments on it (But his knowledge is based on Cainhurst's teachings, which in turn are based on Pthumeru and Loran and so on). His experiments are less science and more magic. With his sensitivity to blood purity he could serve as a machine to determine if there were impurities in the blood. I think the Blood Saints samples will be his favorite in the future 💀

Using blood magic, he also performed some medical experiments on corpses and sometimes relatively living people. (Like Leonardo da Vinci. Only perhaps less consciously. Like a child trying to mix paints) I think as a trusted knight he could afford it.

Very soon Maria was sent to Byrgenwerth - at her great request and as a "gift" with a few more warriors - help and an offering, and also a reminder that Cainhurst is waiting for results.

I don't know how long it should take for the Fishing Hamlet to happen? A month, a year? But by this point we have the King and Queen of Cainhurst, Rutger and Annalise, and also the King's brother, Knight Rogerius. He is cold, aloof, strict, and keeps his subordinates disciplined (as well as himself). His chambers gradually became a refuge for his religious ideas. The golden light became not just a dream, but part of his personality, an integral light with which Logarius conversed, prayed to, and asked for guidance. A great reminder that "If you talk to God, it's a prayer, and if God talks to you, it's SHIZOPHRENIA (c). (Katy knows what I mean lol)

So it was that Logarius was gradually starting to have. Joking, but not a joke. If he'd even let anyone into his humble abode, perhaps his obsession would have been revealed much sooner? But the knight had no lovers, he rejected the services of palace servants, annoying everyone around him, and his mother couldn't get any communication with her son, nor could she get into his chambers. So there was a real pustule forming inside Cainhurst. So far, however, Rogerius still prayed for a long life for Annalise (his prayers reached heavens!) and his brother, though he thought his twin was a weakling and the queen was too soft.

At certain moment, the letters from Maria stopped coming, as any research from Willem, and artifacts from the upper floors of the catacombs (Byrgenwerth simply Couldn't go deeper yet. Tomb Prospectors don't exist yet).

But one night a carriage does arrive at Cainhurst. Exhausted scholar, more like a madman, he requests a meeting with the queen to offer her an unknown blood sample that Byrgenwerth wanted to withhold. (Laurence's father in my headcanons is a Cainhurst fan, a true simp and adorer. So yes, he stole the blood to bring it to the queen) Logarius doesn't like it, he doesn't understand why royal family should meet a traitor. However, the queen is interested in the new blood.

Next, the idea of Child of Blood probably appears. I can't tell what it is, a desire to regain former greatness? Reunite with the Great Ones through the Child? To bring forth the "Übermensch"? This point is still vague to me for now; perhaps when I write Annalise separately, I'll be able to figure it out. But for now, from Logarius' point of view - his visions and dreams are starting to come true. He sees nobles accepting blood from the queen, sees his own brother's enthusiasm, and sees ancient echoes dancing in the blood. Some nobles are also extremely unhappy with the situation. Normally, a split in noble (as well as religious) society would lead to bloody massacres, but so far both sides are silent, and Logarius tries to talk only to his brother and convince him that all this is heresy. But Rutger has grown too fond of Annalise and too loyal to Cainhurst. And even arguments about their shared true homeland don't help. Logarius sees him as a puppet of an ambitious woman.

Later, Logarius declares that he wishes to help Byrgenwerth with his research, as well as to find the roots of his lineage. And having an excuse, will take a few people with him - those who were willing to follow him. (Importantly - Logarius isn't a Vileblood himself. He fleed to not bring a vow) He didn't lie when he said he would help Byrgenwerth, however, he withheld that he had no intention of returning. Then he had to destroy all traces of his worship of the golden idol and clean his own chambers although he feels uncomfortable doing that even for an urgent reason. There is even a conversation between him and Annalise before he leaves. Annalise by that point is a determined, confident, but still kind woman. And she didn't see his radical sentiments as a conspiracy, because I like to think she still had sympathy for him (And it was mutual. It's just that his expressions of sympathy always look really weird).

Logarius leaves the castle with a few soldiers and even three like-minded nobles. They have all supported his plan, but are yet unaware of the divine power that resides in his thoughts.

Along with Willem, Logarius enters the hidden service of Byrgenwerth and meets Laurence, the son of the very same heretic that ruined Logarius' life lol But Laurence's dislike of his father and the idea of taking the teachings of blood in a whole new direction - fascinate Logarius. Purity of blood, prayers, return to the Great Ones, but as humble servants returning to their patrons - this is how Logarius saw the future Church, the project of which was already maturing between the Provost and his best student. Logarius swore loyalty to them. Laurence managed to get himself the support of a knight by assuring that the future would be based on medical progress and faith. Logarius shared what was happening in his castle, and Laurence and Willem presented him with an opportunity to realize his potential - combining his skills with Gehrman's to become a fighting unit of the future Church.

Maria was not privy to the details (Logarius treated her like a child in a way. He considered her too innocent to know the whole point. He didn't know yet how the Fishing Hamlet had changed her), and neither did Gehrman. All anyone knew was that a dutiful knight from Cainhurst had joined the research to help, and several other nobles along with him. Active research of the catacombs and conversations, developments, projects began. The Order of Executioners does not yet exist. There is Logarius in his heavy Cainhurst armor and his people helping the first hunters. For now, Gehrman's workshop is a haven for all sorts of people. And Logarius also chooses his own weapon, a Pthumerian scythe he found in the Tombs, which becomes the inspiration for the Burial Blade.

Caryll and Logarius inevitably meet. And the result of their crossing for Caryll is series of visions, and he tells Willem about them. Logarius tells young Caryll about his dreams, and then observes a miracle - the young man carves on a tablet the figure that came to him in his dreams, Bill Cypher. Logarius is convinced of his chosenness, his followers are stunned, and Laurence realizes that he has snatched a very large prey. Here comes the apogee of Logarius' obsession with his ideals. Thanks to the discovery of the Rune, he sees the pure truth in his dreams and from this point on he will begin to openly worship his personal idol, and his followers will follow him (This is where the Executioners begin).

I can't say, by the way, that Caryll and Logarius' relationship after this contact was even friendly. Caryll was too physically weak for Logarius to truly respect him, but too important to reject him. But knowing my Caryll's character, the scholar would rather show the knight the middle finger and snort than make contact. Logarius and his teachings have always frightened Caryll. However, Laurence was not willing to listen to any outrage. Caryll initially knew that everything would end in bloodshed, however, he felt that none of his loved ones would be harmed, and so he tried to remain calm.

It was somewhere around this point that Rogerius becomes Logarius, a name he gave himself in order to sever his connection to home. Executioners, a name he chose in memory of his mentor and in honor of the title held by those who had the duty of eliminating and cleansing Cainhurst of the wicked, be they human or beast. In short, he truly believed he was doing the right thing. I think that the idea of the Cainhurst raid was already there between Laurence and Logarius back then. They just didn't publicize it. Laurence benefits from it, and Logarius fancies it his holy mission, even though he feels sorry for Annalise. (But only "Feels sorry" No remorse. Just sadness that she will have to die one day, and he liked her, after all)

Also, during his time with Byrgenwerth, Logarius meets another man. His path crosses with a bandit who hails from Hemwick (and this guy is around sixty y.o.). His body is very strong, but his organism is weak - he smokes from a young age, and also eats whatever he can get. He robs the rich and robs the poor too, he is a misanthrope, a murderer and a man without morals - he has seen too much in life, so he values only strength and the ability to survive. He has lost his relatives, his little son and a wife, so he lives as if every new day is the last. He rarely feels pity, he does not shy away from robbery and plunder, he kills the innocent and the guilty, because he does not care - one day everyone will die. This man's name was Bernard.

They faced each other in battle, and at first they were completely on equal footing. Bernard knew the tricks of Cainhurst knights too well, while Logarius found his quick actions and attacks too reckless. And despite the fact that Bernard was objectively stronger and more cunning than Logarius, the latter came out victorious. The bandit waited for his death, but Logarius did not finish him off - because he was interested. A man of years, formidable and much seen, a criminal, but so empty inside, maimed. And yet there was no madness or bloodlust in him, only indifference. Thus he reminded Rogerius his first mentor very much...

Logarius wanted to help. That's how they learned each other's stories - Bernard told him about himself, his hideous fate and outlook on life, and Logarius told him about his visions and his desire to eradicate the evil that surrounds the city, as well as about Cainhurst and his intentions for the Vilebloods. Logarius will even help him See the Shining, sharing with him what he sees himself to help him find faith. Bernard vows to follow him and Logarius shared his own blood with this man to help.

And so the future Queen Killer joined the Executioners, Logarius' closest associate, a man with many vices, but nevertheless loyal to him and believing in his ideas. And his new daddy. An amusing but funny detail is that when Bernard first entered the Grand Cathedral, several people recognized his face. One had had his barn burned down by Bernard in the past, and another had had his cattle slaughtered. So Yharnam's reception of him was difficult, but did Bernard care? Bernard would immerse himself in dogma and prayer, live by rules new to him, and has a sense in life because of Logarius. He will be able to use his great strength and skills as an assassin for "good".

I really enjoy building headcanons about this couple. As brutal and heartless as Logarius is, he's still a Knight with ideals, raised by etiquette and a strict code. And Bernard is the truest scrap of society, lacking even a shred of nobility. Nevertheless, they quickly established a common language, and Bernard even taught Logarius many "simple" wisdoms of life - domestic, survivalist and even love (together to roast meat or fix the church bench - it's so manly). Also yes, QK's funny habit of running around with no clothes on - has been almost always. He endured the first year after the Church was officially founded wearing the Executioners uniform, but then he'd still unbutton his shirt and throw off his cloak because he was used to the difficulty. By his logic, if you're incapable of surviving without armor, you're incapable of surviving anywhere. Typical Elden Ring player who thinks that leveling up, picking up builds and weapons is git gud Anyway, Logarius got himself a new "daddy". He was very similar to his first mentor - the true Executioner of Cainhurst, but was much more stern than the Gehrman who had impressed Rogerius. Perfection.

They also had the warmest father-son relationship between them. It started unspokenly, they never discussed it. It was just that Logarius was always asking his advice and help (something he usually NEVER did), looking for support, and Bernard was wary at first, and then accepted his new role. And even once stroked his head when Logarius went to sleep on his lap. And it's all very funny, considering Bernard is much shorter than Logarius. And when they hugged, his face was at the level of Logarius' chest.

(eng: "my little asshole" I assume that is the good translation, in russian it's just "my kiddo" in swearing words)

But back to the events.

Early Healing Church was founded. Logarius actively helps with the design and redesign of the cathedrals, and is also passionate about creating armor for Executioners and hunters. Contact with Cainhurst is still intact, with Laurence and Willem creating a semblance of friendship by displaying the fruits of their labors - various types of blood, as well as finds in the tombs. However, the curse of the beast and progress move together. Many more hunters are becoming necessary. No one informs Logarius that the Church is as interested in contact with the Great Ones as Cainhurst, and he is too busy with his idea to see it.

From the neighboring lands arrives a skillful warrior and hunter, expert in the art of battle and just a sunshine - Ludwig, still in a completely sane mind and set up for great deeds and glorious battles.

The Order of Executioners exists along with the Healing Church, but on its own, so they have their own hidden workshop, where Logarius fully realizes his religious mania. They live according to a certain daily routine: pray, sometimes perform bloodletting, and get punishments for misdeeds. And the Executioners are also often engaged in helping Gehrman's hunters - so far, few in number. And the ranks of the Executioners have widened. Originally, the squad consisted of Logarius and several nobles - skillful warriors. Now Bernard has been added to them, and then the yharnamites - nobles and commoners - joined ranks as well. But there is one thing that distinguishes all of them - only those who truly believe in the miracle of Logarius' Radiance remain in the Executioners, because the rest simply cannot stand the harsh training and strict lifestyle. Executioners are also very well fed, a logic close to gladiatorial goes here. More mass means a better chance of survival. Imagine holding a Logarius Wheel for a moment... (Bernard aka Queen Killer is an exception. He is not weak, he is dry-bodied)

Maria and her so-called "kin" from Cainhurst seen each other in Gehrman's workshop, but she senses changes in him. Logarius does not openly state his murderous intentions for Cainhurst, but tries to debate with Maria on the subject of the Vilebloods. And even believes that she will follow him, since she too did not appreciate the appearance of the Vilebloods. But Maria is only intimidated by his radical attitudes, and she does not share the idea of "To cure a sore finger, you have to cut off your hand."

During the events of the Early Healing Church, Logarius has also made some more new acquaintances.

The scholar Rom annoys him to no end. He doesn't even see her, because Rom is mostly at the Research Hall, working exclusively on experiments. But Laurence is constantly distracted by the thought of her, and in addition to progress, also dreams of marriage. Logarius begins to think that everyone around him is idiot or crazy. He sees in Rom the same Annalise that he used to see in all women he knew. And he thinks that a woman's attempts at self-rule won't lead to anything good.

Somehow I'm sure that he and Adeline could be a great couple, or at least acquaintances… I could really ship them. The problem is that in my vision of the story they only met a couple times, but both were satisfied with the fact xD You see, they both get visions and aspire to their Great One, both are rebels, and Adeline on top of that is an aristocrat and a Blood Saint, her blood would appeal to him especially. I think if I draw Logarius/Adeline ship art one day, you can consider - that's it, I've reached my peak of shipping (not true) xD But damn, they'd look so good. Two gremlins. Just a little bit more and I'll ship them

Logarius and Micolash barely knew each other, because Micolash wouldn't want to get caught by a man with a "sense" for impure blood, and who is a two meter tall big-ass macho with a huge scythe… lol. I think it was enough for Micolash that Damian, who served as the Tomb Prospector under Ludwig's command, told him about Logarius.

Now to the Tomb Prospectors. Ludwig! I tirelessly believe he was their original leader, only later to put on the Executioner's cloak. As Logarius stayed in Cainhurst, the Executioners would need a new head… I've written a headcanon post on Ludwigarius before, but some things might change since then. Some points have stayed the same - they disliked each other at first sight. But they quickly grew close. After all, Ludwig was a true knight, the man Logarius wanted to become, and a compatriot of Manuel, the Executioner and Logarius' first teacher. Ludwig had enough experience to take command of a squad of seven fighters at once (and also to recruit them himself from the streets. He believed that it was better to train the ragamuffins to order than to mush the hunters already trained by Gehrman. The streets would be cleaner and the ranks of hunters broader. Only Damian was sent to him by Laurence.) Ludwig was caring and strict as a father to his soldiers, understanding, kind and very cheerful. And this disposition of his also struck a certain string in the heart of Logarius, who needed exactly this kind of man.

The Executioners and Tomb Prospectos were responsible for different tasks, but the people of Yharnam favored the Executioners. Because Ludwig's men were doing sinful things according to old beliefs (And Ludwig himself, despite his big heart, was distrusted and got a bad reputation because of his work). In short, I wrote all of this right here - X.

On top of that, one day Logarius was able to taste Ludwig, or rather his blood ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) And that, too, excited him - pure blood, a true heir to his ancestors, the blood of the lands southern to Yharnam, where people are sensitive to voices from beyond and insight. Except that in addition to the perfect shade of blood, he sensed something weird (the blood from Byrgenwerth that Laurence had injected Ludwig with, awakening visions in him)

Through the efforts of Laurence and Logarius, the Executioners and Tomb Prospectors have grown closer. The two leaders found common ground, and Logarius found another "dad". And if he was interested in someone, he wouldn't let them go. Often they trained together - so the vicar tried to accustom people to the idea that both squads deserve equal honor, as any order of the Church.

Gradually Logarius and Ludwig became secret lovers (I once mentioned that Ludwig callem him "kitten"? Well hi, that's it again. There was a huge room for love and tenderness in their couple, despite the fact that exactly the MOST brutal man in the Church needed those feelings. Logarius could feel warmth aroung Ludwig that he desired so much. But Ludwig didn't know about his plans). Logarius began to dream that when the time came to die for the purity of blood and on the ashes of Cainhurst, he would give the leadership of the remaining Executioners to Ludwig.

Also, Logarius knew Olek (Honestly, one day I'll drop a long-post with headcanons on him too. For now, he's the object of jokes and memes for my husband and myself) . Olek is a fan of pthumeru history. And despite being a child of the streets, he is a man of principles and with a huge desire for education. He learned to read from pthumerian fairy tales, and so has remained fascinated by the mysterious civilization for life (And later, the mad Olek will help the player kill Queen Yharnam in the Chalice). But his relationship with Logarius didn't go well. How so - a descendant of the Pthumerians, and so disrespectful to Queen Annalise? Olek could never understand him and disliked him, and Logarius liked to add to his after-hours training and duty. Just so he wouldn't slack off.

Logarius knew both Gremia and Damian. Gremia had always thought of him as a "pompous turkey" and resented their captain for getting so close to him. Damian preferred to stay out of the way and tried to make Gremia do the same.

Their glorious time together had left many memories and stirred many feelings. But at Cainhurst, too, time was passing. The Queen continued to receive letters from Maria and didn't know that later letters will be faked by the Church so they can hide her suicide. And even Logarius pretended to send news of himself and the progress of the Healing Church, which was considered an ally of Cainhurst.

Honestly, here I'm not sure, did Annalise or Rutger know how this was all going to turn out for Cainhurst? On the one hand, the Church had their two knights at once, but while Maria was known for her kindness and cold temper, Logarius always had oddities. And those oddities were justified by his brother, in an effort to make Roger look good. Rutger believed he had been badly influenced by their mother, and also that it was good for Rogerius to be away from home. Still, I think Annalise had misgivings that Logarius would do no good. However, both she and Rutger, deep down, loved him for old memories from childhood and faithful service.

Once Logarius even visited the family home, letting them know that all was well, and at the same time familiarized his men with the layout of the castle and checked the fortifications and knights for preparation. He had originally planned to betray and give Cainhurst to the Church, giving away all the hidden passages and secrets of the castle, but on his visit he saw Annalise - pregnant. (This is where I get very confused about the time. I don't know how long it's been, and a Blood Child pregnancy - can go overnight, as it was with Arianna, or it can take much longer, I suppose…) So after that, Logarius made the final decision on Cainhurst's fate (fear of women did the trick)

How did he see his assault on Cainhurst? I think he originally thought of himself as of suicider. "Die yourself and take every enemy with you", a "heroic" move to save others from a horrible fate. But to keep the spoil from spreading, it was necessary to get rid of ALL the Vilebloods (Bloody Crow of Cainhurst and Arianna will survive as we know. Arianna would be covered by the Healing Church, as she and her mother left one night before the massacre, and Bloody Crow would be picked up by Eileen).

Bernard promised him that they would die together. Bernard, by the way, became like Logarius himself because of the blood exchange. That's how I like to explain his unnatural pallor and long life. "Edward, you're a vampire!"

Preparations were already beginning for the assault.

The Tomb Prospectors had made a breakthrough, discovering the future Maiden of the Healing Church, Ebrietas, in the depths of the dungeons. The terrified Great One killed most of the squad, and the encounter with her was not at all "glorious" or "prophetic" as Laurence commanded to be recorded. In the records of the Church, Ebrietas was gained by meeting a prophetess (Rom) surrounded by warriors loyal to the Church. And in reality, one of the Tomb Prospectors was nearly maddened by what he saw when he met a Great One. A battle ensued. While this was happening, Ludwig wandered through the catacombs, almost unable to comprehend where he is because the sword was calling him, clouding his mind. Olek showed the first signs of madness, wandering alone and crying out for the blood of his ancestors. And Gremia and Damian saw with their own eyes how the "icon" of the Church and the idol killed their comrades (Ebrietas was terrified :( ).

The sword was gained, survivors were rescued, and Rom got busy contacting the Great One. And Ludwig's mind started to go down. Logarius devoted the remaining of time before the assault trying to ease Ludwig's soul and weaken the relic's influence. And in part, through the exchange of blood and visions, shared dreams - he succeeded. If Logarius had used his gift for good at all, things might have been much better. But so far he had only taught Ludwig to perceive the voices in his head and helped him get used to the discovery.

I think that because of the events that had befallen him at the last moment, Logarius didn't want to leave Yharnam. No, his bloodlust and thirst for fictional "justice" was still strong, but perhaps he would have stayed to look after Ludwig. Everything that happened with the First Hunter of the Church also made Logarius doubt Laurence (I'm not talking about Willem at all. Laurence sent him on vacation lol). But it was too late to change anything! And so he focused on the sacred mission.

The massacre was especially painful for the Queen. In the middle of the night, taking Cainhurst unexpectedly, the Executioners had complete advantage over the castle, knowing where the defenseless would take refuge and how to overpower the knights. I'm not sure to this day, Was the Blood Child born? Perhaps the baby was killed by Logarius, or perhaps it was miscarried and the umbilical cord was carried by the survivors to the Church (as cut content says). Logarius killed his own brother (And it's so symbolic, considering the castle is called Cain's Hill).

Most of the Executioners died in battle, and those few from Cainhurst who rebelled with Logarius suffered a terrible fate - vengeful spirits took them to the grave with them. Breaking through to the queen's chambers, staining his hands with blood, Logarius discovered her immortality, imbued with an aversion to unnatural sorcery. He himself was already beginning to undergo a metamorphosis - something inside him was rapidly changing - his brother's soul was with him now. The anger, the pain, the devastation of Annalise, which formed a symphony with the agony of all the slain, enveloped everything around him. And Logarius already knew that the castle would not let him go - he had absorbed too much.

Logarius gave Bernard one last order - to order the survivors to leave the castle now and never look behind them. Those who disobeyed, looting or doubting, were lost. And as hard as it was for Bernard to leave his master and almost son, orders were orders. Bernard and a few others left the castle, and the bridge collapsed behind them. Logarius put on the crown of illusion and was left to spend eternity among the native winds and snow. Thus ended the siege of Cainhurst.

Going off topic a bit, I've always wondered why the servants in the castle are called servants of Cain? A bit like Mergo's servants, especially since the Japanese version uses the same word for "servant". What if Cain is an Ascended Great One like Rom, someone from ancient times who sent Logarius visions? I've never seriously thought about that theory before, but I don't think it's anything worthwhile, just fun ideas. The soul of his brother and angry kin took possession of Logarius, chaining him to Cainhurst. Logarius assumed the role of king posthumously, still "taking" power, only already over a dead place. Annalise as a child saw Logarius as her chosen one, and Logarius imagined he would be a better ruler than Annalise or Rutger. So their dreams became truth.

The Church, as it always does, wrapped the massacre in a pretty wrapper. The Order of Executioners continued to live on, but lost its mystical beliefs as the spiritual leader was left sitting on the cold roof of his old home. There were many new recruits, including Alfred, and there were only a few True Executioners left, including Bernard, who would return to mercenary service and then fade away, boring Alfred with his tales of Logarius' adventures and all his oddities.

Bernard did not accept the way the Church had dubbed Logarius a "saint" and a "martyr", for him his master was first and foremost a man, but also a naive child, whom he had once taught the wisdom of life, with whom he had drunk together, whose tears and laughter he had seen and hold like a treasure. Bernard shared his blood with him, and afterward truly accepted him as his own son.

The outcome of the Cainhurst massacre was a blow also to Ludwig, who was unaware of what was happening until the last moment (as was the rest of Yharnham). The Cainhurst massacre frightened most Yharnamites - some cheered, some gloated. But those who knew that a vicar was at the very heart of the conflict were shocked (except Willem, I guess. Somehow I think Laurence's ambitions were long known to him)

Also, I might still add that Logarius would not have appreciated Alfred's efforts. Neither the prayers that Logarius can't hear, nor turning Annalise into a bloody mess. I think he put a helmet on her for a reason… We also see no signs of a beating (or at least no signs of Logarius using the Wheel) on the Cainhurst ghosts. So all the murders that took place there can be described as rather ritualistic. Superstitious fear of their own victims and obsession with their ideas. And the violence that Alfred did to the queen was absolutely senseless! After all, the goal was her death, not her torment.

The Logarius/Annalise pairing appeals to me a lot, but they are absolutely doomed by the narrative. She was too young and kind for him to respect her. And it took her going through the pain that Logarius himself brought to her to become a strong and cold queen. Only now she doesn't need him anymore. An absolute tragedy.

I'm also curious still what Annalise's mask is. As I recall, there is no definitive evidence that it was Logarius who put it on the queen? Perhaps her face was mutilated by him and she put the mask on herself? (There is a beautiful ribbon bow on the iron helmet for a reason) Her body does not regenerate, as we realized from the situation with Alfred and the bloody dress, she is only reborn time

Aaaand, my essay is coming to an end, as usual now come the little headcanons:

Logarius' hair has always been a huge concern for him. Such a luxurious mane must really get in the way in battle. And Bernard had suggested several times that he shave his head or at least cut his hair short. But Logarius treated it very reverently, because from his youth he had learned from books all the subtleties of caring for his mane.

Bernard has a photo of Logarius taken in Gehrman's workshop. Gehrman made one for his own little album, in which you can find photos of Laurence, Maria and many others. Bernard asked him to make the second one for him personally. Even though the photo required him to sit still, it captured Logarius's smile as he made a well-timed joke. Bernard kept this photo with him.

Logarius designed the Executioner's armor himself, inspired by the Church's patterns. Also, the silver riveted gloves were his idea, as he was very fond of hand-to-hand combat and considered it the most worthy form of battle.

He always had a passion for the arts, however, he was able to realize it much more during his service to the Church.

His blade, which is a replica of the sword from DS1 and Demon's Souls, I headcanon as a relic of Cainhurst, stolen right during the massacre.

Of all animals, Logarius favored dogs.

The great quote about kindness, as I've written elsewhere, belongs in part to Ludwig. Logarius was very inspired by his kind and compassionate nature and even tried sincerely to follow his example. And the Church attributed the words to Rogerius later.

He has a huge... praising kink. Huehuehuehuehue

From the way he looks in the game, it is unclear which part is his and which part is the King's, as their souls have merged together. However, his amulets are those of Logarius himself, which he wore to strengthen his connection to Divinity.

Logarius' prophecies almost always came true for reasons unknown to anyone <: Whether he was talking about rain or Laurence's future, it all turned out to be true