During the Red War Zavala turns from a stoic commander to a defeated husk of a man. Once we save the day his disposition changes, but I got a feeling that the loss of the city still haunts him. During War-mind Zavala puts a noticeable emphasis on the fact that Ana wasn’t at the city to help defend it. During the events of Forsaken Zavala doesn’t want us to go, on official record of course, because we need to defend the city. Also after retrieving the body of Cayde, Zavala says “I refuse to burry any more friends”, meaning he still feels guilty for the Red War. Zavala is not a heartless monster. Zavala is suffering from PTSD, and now guardians are turning away from the Vanguard towards the Drifter.
Thoughts?
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No, Zavala does not have PTSD. Like every commander who has had somebody parish under their orders, he is guilt ridden. He’s questioning his judgement, his ethics, and ultimately himself. He’s probably replaying all of the events in his head and trying to figure out what what he should have done differently. The city was attacked on his watch, so naturally he feels like he responsible.