In the expansive world of Dragon Age: Inquisition, romance is one of the key ways players connect emotionally with the characters. One of the more unique and nuanced romantic pairings is that of a male Adaar the Qunari Inquisitor and Josephine Montilyet, the Antivan ambassador. Their relationship is a compelling blend of gentle courtship, cultural contrast, and quiet strength, standing out in a game filled with dramatic stakes and political turmoil. This pairing offers a grounded and heartwarming narrative that has captured the attention of fans who enjoy slow-burn love stories and character-driven roleplay. Their dynamic is a wonderful example of how Dragon Age handles romance with grace and depth.
The Characters Behind the Romance
Male Adaar: The Qunari Inquisitor
Male Adaar, as a Qunari Inquisitor, brings a powerful and striking presence to the story. A Vashoth Qunari not bound by the Qun Adaar is free-thinking and open to forging his own path. His background as a mage or warrior shapes his demeanor, but no matter the class, he’s seen as someone both intimidating and deeply introspective. The sheer size and presence of a Qunari male contrasted with the delicate diplomacy of Josephine makes their romantic arc all the more engaging. Their relationship can embody the theme of opposites attracting strength paired with grace, fire met with calm.
Josephine Montilyet: The Diplomatic Heart of the Inquisition
Josephine Montilyet is the Chief Diplomat of the Inquisition. Hailing from a noble Antivan family, she is elegant, intelligent, and wholly committed to maintaining peace through political alliances. Unlike many other romance options in the game, Josephine’s route is non-sexual and centers around emotional connection, letters, courtship, and respect. Her poise and formality are notable characteristics, and she often serves as a voice of reason within the Inquisition. For a male Adaar, who may come from a background steeped in violence or uncertainty, Josephine offers stability, tenderness, and grace.
The Development of Their Relationship
Initial Interactions
Romancing Josephine as a male Adaar begins like it does with any other Inquisitor through small flirtations, kindness, and respectful engagement in conversations. However, because of Adaar’s race and physicality, players often find the interactions layered with visual and thematic contrast. Josephine is much smaller and more refined in her expressions, whereas Adaar tends to exude physical strength and quiet stoicism. Despite these differences, their early conversations are marked with subtle affection and mutual admiration. Josephine is clearly charmed by Adaar’s earnestness, and Adaar, in turn, is intrigued by her charm and intellect.
The Courtship Progression
As the romance progresses, the game allows the player to deepen their bond with Josephine through personal quests and shared moments. One of the key scenes involves a duel Josephine arranges to protect her family’s honor. When Adaar steps in to support her, it showcases his willingness to go beyond brute force and engage in her world of noble politics. The contrast between Qunari traditions and Antivan customs is made clear, but their relationship becomes a testament to mutual understanding.
One particularly touching moment includes Josephine writing love letters, unsure of how to express her feelings to someone so different from herself. This vulnerability adds depth to her character and highlights how Adaar, despite being physically imposing, provides emotional safety and warmth.
Emotional Themes Explored
Gentleness in Strength
One of the central emotional themes in a Male Adaar x Josephine romance is gentleness within strength. Adaar, with his large stature and Qunari background, may be seen as a warrior first, but Josephine’s influence brings out his emotional sensitivity. This pairing explores how strength doesn’t always have to be loud or violent it can be protective, supportive, and deeply patient. In return, Josephine finds courage in Adaar’s presence, realizing that diplomacy and strength are not opposites but can harmonize beautifully.
Cultural Differences and Bridging Gaps
This romance also serves as an exploration of cultural understanding. Qunari and Antivan traditions are worlds apart, and the way Josephine and Adaar come to understand each other without forcing change is a subtle but powerful message. Their relationship is built on acceptance and curiosity, not compromise. Josephine doesn’t try to ‘tame’ Adaar, nor does Adaar attempt to change Josephine’s worldview. Instead, they respect and learn from one another, symbolizing the larger themes of Dragon Age: Inquisition unity through diversity.
Romantic Payoff and Epilogue
Moments of Intimacy
Though the romance with Josephine does not include physical intimacy, it offers some of the most emotionally rich scenes in the game. Candlelit dinners, sweet exchanges of words, and small gestures replace grand displays of passion. The romance focuses on deep companionship, which appeals to players who enjoy slow and meaningful character development. For a male Adaar, who may be used to resolving problems through action, this kind of relationship offers a new way to connect through quiet, thoughtful love.
Epilogue Outcomes
If Josephine is romanced and remains loyal to the Inquisitor, their future together reflects a life of partnership beyond the battlefield. The epilogue hints at a life where Josephine and Adaar work together her handling the diplomatic front, him standing as a symbol of strength and justice. Their contrasting yet complementary roles in the world mirror their relationship: balanced, supportive, and united in purpose.
Fan Appreciation and Roleplaying Potential
Why Fans Love This Pairing
Male Adaar x Josephine is beloved among fans for its unique energy. The contrast in personality and background between the characters allows for rich headcanons and interpretations. Many players find joy in imagining how Josephine adjusts to life beside someone so unlike the nobles she once knew, or how Adaar finds peace through her presence. The pairing also provides space for exploring themes like prejudice, softness in masculinity, and respect in relationships.
Roleplaying Ideas
Players who enjoy roleplaying their Inquisitor can deepen the Male Adaar x Josephine dynamic in many ways. Some ideas include:
- Writing letters between Adaar and Josephine during times of separation
- Exploring how Adaar interacts with Antivan culture through Josephine’s eyes
- Creating fan stories where Josephine teaches Adaar ballroom etiquette or Antivan poetry
- Developing a narrative where Adaar helps Josephine with political threats using non-violent methods
Male Adaar x Josephine is a relationship that shines through subtlety and sincerity. It breaks from fantasy tropes of passionate or chaotic romances and instead delivers a thoughtful, grounded love story rooted in mutual respect. Their contrasting identities create a dynamic that feels authentic, rich with narrative potential, and emotionally rewarding. For players who value character-driven storytelling, this pairing offers a unique path one filled with tenderness, cultural exchange, and a quiet kind of strength that endures long after the credits roll.