Whether Faravid is considered guilty depends entirely on the interpretation of his intent and actions, as there are two equally plausible scenarios surrounding his involvement with Halfdan. The available evidence supports both the possibility of deliberate malice and unintentional complicity coupled with genuine concern.
Interpretation 1: Faravid Is Guilty of Intentional Treachery
Under this interpretation, Faravid actively sought to undermine Halfdan's authority, potentially aiming for a coup or to seize control. His actions are seen as calculated and manipulative.
- Core Action: Faravid intentionally provided or facilitated the delivery of poisoned cups to Halfdan.
- Motivation for Poisoning: His aim was to destabilize Halfdan's rule, erode trust in his leadership, and weaken his position within the territory. This could be a precursor to a direct challenge or an attempt to replace him.
- Disregard for Orders: Any defiance or ignoring of Halfdan's commands would be viewed as part of a deliberate strategy to demonstrate Halfdan's perceived incompetence or madness, further weakening his standing among his followers.
- Supporting Aspects:
- Strategic Opportunity: Faravid might have seen Halfdan's erratic behavior as an opportunity to step into a leadership vacuum.
- Concealed Ambition: His seemingly loyal demeanor could mask deep-seated ambitions for power.
Interpretation 2: Faravid Is Not Guilty of Intentional Harm
Conversely, Faravid might not have intended to harm Halfdan, and his actions could stem from genuine concern or unwitting involvement.
- Core Action: Faravid unknowingly gifted the poisoned cups, unaware of their true nature or effects. He was merely a conduit, perhaps manipulated by a third party.
- Motivation for Disobedience: His decision to ignore Halfdan's orders would then be driven by a sincere worry for Halfdan's erratic and deteriorating behavior, which he might attribute to ill health or mental decline rather than poison. He might have genuinely believed he was acting in Halfdan's best interest by limiting his destructive tendencies.
- Unwitting Participant: Faravid could be seen as a loyal but misguided subordinate, caught in circumstances beyond his full understanding, who continued to support his leader even while disagreeing with his actions.
- Supporting Aspects:
- Loyalty Despite Flaws: His continued presence and efforts on Halfdan's behalf, even amidst conflict, could signify underlying loyalty.
- Lack of Direct Gain: If his actions didn't lead to immediate personal gain, it weakens the argument for intentional malice.
Summary of Interpretations
The table below highlights the key differences in how Faravid's guilt is determined based on these two perspectives:
| Aspect | Interpretation 1: Guilty (Intentional Treachery) | Interpretation 2: Not Guilty (Unknowing/Concern) |
|---|---|---|
| Poisoning Role | Intentionally provided or facilitated poisoned cups. | Unknowingly gifted poisoned cups; potentially manipulated. |
| Primary Motive | To destabilize Halfdan's rule, facilitate a coup, or seize power. | Genuine concern for Halfdan's erratic behavior and declining health. |
| Disobedience | A deliberate tactic to undermine Halfdan's authority. | An act of misguided loyalty, attempting to protect Halfdan from himself. |
| Outcome Goal | Halfdan's downfall and replacement. | Halfdan's recovery or stabilization, potentially with limited authority. |
Ultimately, without definitive in-world confirmation of Faravid's true thoughts and intentions, both conclusions remain plausible, leaving the question of his guilt open to individual assessment.
