Board Thread:Lore Discussion/@comment-80.1.37.169-20140510152925/@comment-28391607-20160916145016

Well 2 and 3 ARE sequels as they already have the curse. The curse, according to lore, began when Gwyn rekindled the first flame after the age of lords. So we all know and accept that point. Now, as for 2 and 3 and whether they are subsequent of one another or in a different timeline is another story. In 2, we never actually venture to relink or extinguish the flame. Of course that is the original direction but after enough gameplay our direction changes to denying Nashandra the throne; no option to link or not the fire. Matter of fact, Vendricks himself didn't even touch the flame. Then in 3 we see that the LoC are fleeing from their opportunities of linking the flame. I see a linear storyline from 1 to 2 to 3 here with some information unfound (or perhaps not) that may explain why hero's have more and more decidedly avoided the flame. In 1, the cycle occurred over and over which supports the thesis that hero's in fact linked the flame (to begin the next cycle). In 2 we learn of 2 brothers who have decided that history dictates linking the flame simply doesn't break the curse which convinces them to find a new way (Aldia's experiments). Perhaps, as time has continued forward without any type of illusion or magical explanation, we find ourselves as yet another hero who learns the past few predecessors have ran from linking the flame. Now Gwyn was in command for a long enough time to create civilizations and kingdoms and generations to pass by before the flame was weak enough to require his attention. I believe, whatever his timeframe was between ruling and sacrificing himself, may be the same timeframe between Vendricks refusing to light the flame and the last LoC (whichever was last tempted between Aldritch, Yhorm, Abyss defenders, Lothric princes, and our friendly merchant sitting in his chair ((forgot his name))). So here we are, in the same instance Gwyn once found himself centuries ago (along with our hero in DS 1); either light the flame or let it go. Perhaps even more time has passed since Vendricks to the end of DS3 than when Gwyn had his rule which is why we have more options of an ending to choose from. IDK, I love the speculation but for years now we have all been really trying to wrap this up. Lets keep it up and get it done :)