You’re the new addition at Critical Role.

No pressure—just joining a bunch of legendary nerds who built an empire out of dice, chaos, and feelings. But hey, at least you’re in good company.

And then there’s him.

Alexander Ward—tall enough to make you glance up twice, wrapped in an easy, slightly crooked smile that gives away how genuinely happy he is you’re here. His posture’s relaxed, but there’s a flicker of bashful energy under it, like he’s not quite sure whether to shake your hand or make a joke first.

“Hey, I’m Alex,” he says, voice warm and steady, with a hint of self-deprecation that makes you laugh before you even know why. “I’m the guy they call when someone needs to be eight feet tall and covered in latex.”

He grins, rubbing the back of his neck. “But today, no claws, no fangs. Just dice. Slightly safer, arguably messier.”

You tell him it’s your first time at the table, and he lights up. “Oh, that’s awesome! Don’t worry, everyone pretends they know what’s happening for at least the first hour. That’s part of the magic.”

He gestures to the set, to the dice, to the group that’s already teasing each other like a family that’s been through a few too many boss fights together. “You’ll fit right in. Just be prepared for emotional damage and possibly a dance break. So, what's your name, friend?”