The Complex Bond of Eris Morn and Drifter in Destiny 2
Eris Morn and Drifter’s relationship in Destiny 2 is a fascinating and nuanced dynamic, often referred to by fans as "Drifteris." If you’ve taken a break from the game or sometimes overlook the lore blurbs, you might be surprised to see these two characters seemingly on the brink of a romantic relationship. However, their connection has been developing for years, marked by a deep mutual understanding and trust that is hard to come by for either of them.
The Origins of Eris and Drifter’s Connection
Eris and Drifter first began to forge a bond in the Season of Arrivals, the last season before the release of Beyond Light in late 2020. Eris, a former Warlock who has spent years trapped in the Moon’s Hellmouth, needed Drifter’s help to decode the Darkness. This initial collaboration led to a series of shared experiences and deep conversations, as highlighted in the Whispering Slab lore entry. The entry describes their interactions: "The two sit. They speak. They listen. Linkages forged in Light and Dark of traded secrets as the Derelict hangs in orbit around the Earth. Pacts are made. Soon, there is only the silence of knowing left between them." This early connection set the foundation for their evolving relationship, rooted in mutual respect and trust.
Building Trust and Vulnerability
Both Eris and Drifter are notoriously guarded individuals, each carrying the weight of their dark pasts. Eris lost her Ghost and her entire fireteam in the Hellmouth, emerging with three Hive eyes and a deep distrust of others. Drifter, a Hunter who has possessed his Light since the Dark Ages, has faced countless losses and has developed a solitary and skeptical nature. Despite these defenses, they gradually began to let each other in. Drifter started calling Eris "Moondust," a reference to the actual dust from the Moon she left on the floor of his ship, while Eris affectionately referred to him as "Germaine," one of his many names. The Eidolon Pursuant Cloak lore entry is a poignant moment of vulnerability, where Eris acknowledges Drifter’s nobility, even though he often tries to hide it behind his tough exterior.
Significant Moments in Their Journey
Their relationship took a significant turn during Season of the Deep in 2022. In the lore book, Purpose, Eris and Drifter share a heartfelt moment where they hold hands, a gesture that speaks volumes about the trust and understanding they have for each other. Despite the skepticism from the Vanguard about Eris becoming the Hive God of Vengeance, Drifter remains unwavering in his belief in her. This trust is further solidified in Season of the Witch in late 2023, with the release of the Kept Confidence hand cannon. This weapon is a clear nod to Drifter’s Trust hand cannon, symbolizing the deep connection they share. The Gloaming Journeyer sparrow lore describes a touching scene where the two hug, and Drifter expresses his unwillingness to leave the Sol System because he’d "miss the moonlight." Eris’s response in the False Idols lore entry is equally evocative, adding another layer to their complex bond.
The Evolution of Their Relationship
Before the events of Heresy, the Drifter was seen making Bento Boxes for Eris as part of the Past Is Prologue event. These gifts, while small, are significant in their own right, showing the lengths to which Drifter is willing to go to show his care for Eris. The quest descriptions reveal that Eris was more than happy to accept these tokens of affection, further illustrating the mutual respect and emotional connection they share. This season also provided more opportunities for the duo to interact, delving deeper into their intertwined histories and the trust that has become a cornerstone of their relationship.
The Future of Drifter and Eris
What lies ahead for Eris and Drifter is uncertain, especially given the recent layoffs at Bungie, which have significantly impacted the narrative team. One of the writers behind the pairing, Hazel Monforton, was affected by these layoffs. Monforton played a crucial role in shaping the events of Heresy, and her departure leaves the future of Drifter and Eris’s relationship open to speculation. Despite this, many fans are hopeful that Bungie will continue to develop their story. The will-they-won’t-they tension is engaging and adds depth to the game’s rich lore. When and if they do become a fully realized couple, it will be a moment of celebration for their dedicated fan base.
Conclusion: A Relationship Forged in Darkness and Light
The relationship between Eris Morn and Drifter in Destiny 2 is a testament to the game’s intricate and layered storytelling. From their initial collaboration in the Season of Arrivals to the deep, tender moments in Season of the Deep and Season of the Witch, their connection has grown steadily over the years. Both characters carry the scars of their past, making their trust and affection for each other all the more powerful. As the game continues to evolve, the future of Eris and Drifter remains an exciting and hopeful prospect, filled with the potential for more meaningful and emotional developments.
