A forthcoming book from Random House Worlds, titled Critical Role: The Mighty Nein - Stories Untold, will delve into the personal narratives of characters impacted by the adventuring party's campaigns. The book, set to release on August 11, will specifically focus on Essek Thelyss, a prominent drow wizard from Campaign 2, who was originally an antagonist before becoming a key ally.
Essek, portrayed by Matthew Mercer in the series and its animated adaptation, played a significant role within the Kryn Dynasty. His arc saw him shift from opposing the Mighty Nein to becoming an integral part of the group by the campaign's conclusion. Author Dani Carr stated her intention was to explore Essek's internal struggles, his fears, and his hopes, seeking to honor the character as perceived by Mercer and the fanbase.
An exclusive excerpt titled "The Fall Will Kill You" showcases Essek grappling with past decisions and the potential future of his relationships. The passage finds Essek in his study, surrounded by his research and scientific pursuits, reflecting on his life's devotion to reason and logic. He experiences a psychic intrusion from Martinet Ludinus Da’leth, who questions Essek about the Mighty Nein's parley with the Bright Queen. Essek confirms the blame for certain events has been placed on an "Angel of Irons" cult, leading to a prisoner trade.
Ludinus dismisses Essek's interest in the trade and his desire to witness it firsthand, with Essek pushing back against Ludinus's authority. The conversation reveals Essek's impatience with the pace of dunamantic research and Ludinus's insistence on patience, referring to Essek's projects as "little pet projects." This exchange ignites Essek's anger, causing him to lash out in his study.
Despite his frustration and feelings of being controlled and denied access to crucial research details, Essek ultimately resigns himself to continuing his role. The excerpt concludes with Essek discovering a vial containing a substance described as a potion of pure dunamis, gifted to him by Caleb from the Mighty Nein. This discovery reignites his scientific curiosity, prompting him to immediately begin his own experiments in his alchemy lab, meticulously documenting his findings.