Estinien Varlineau

Estinien is stoic and speaks in a brusque manner. He has little respect for those he sees as weak, and barely conceals his disdain when speaking to them. Estinien has a reputation for scorning social gatherings in Ishgard and detests the notion of keeping up appearances. He has spent the majority of his life being driven by his desire of vengeance against Nidhogg, and thus sees little need for companionship or hobbies. He has little respect for Ishgard's zealous leadership, criticizing their decisions and lack of care for the citizens. For the most part he keeps these opinions to himself, but is more open about it with his friends and companions.

His personality softens after traveling with the Warrior of Light and their companions. Though his rude manner of speaking never changes, Estinien admits that he has moved past revenge being his sole motivation. Though often insulting toward him, Estinien befriends Alphinaud Leveilleur. Aymeric de Borel suggests that Estinien sees Alphinaud as a reflection of the younger sibling he lost to Nidhogg's flames, while Alphinaud views Estinien as the older brother he wishes he had. Estinien respects the Warrior of Light as a trusted comrade and speaks highly of Ser Aymeric, believing him to be Ishgard's best hope for a new future.

In contrast, Estinien often argues with Ysayle due to her leading the Heretics and her idealistic desire for peace conflicting with his grim views and desire for retribution against Nidhogg. He is yet willing to work with Lady Iceheart for Ishgard's sake, and over time, the two come to an understanding if even a friendship, he even named his armor after her.

Later on, Estinien develops a respectful camaraderie and partnership with former Legatus Gaius Baelsar, working together during their shared mission in Garlemald. He would, however, get on the wrong foot with Alphinaud's twin sister, Alisaie, after the Dragoon mistook her for her brother, much to her immense annoyance.

As his vengeance against Nidhogg drove him for the majority of his life, Estinien originally felt little else. Upon learning the full history of Nidhogg and the founding of Ishgard, he realized what he was becoming: a creature like Nidhogg, what he was hunting, a beast who knows nothing but hate and revenge. Unlike Nidhogg, Estinien has friends who care for him and guide him to see beyond his vengeance. He foregoes any grudges he had with dragonkinds, as he befriends the dragonlet Orn Khai. In Endwalker, he suggests Vrtra reveal himself to the population of Thavnair and is proud after the dragon does so.

After joining the Scions, Estinien keeps his aloof behavior among his peers, only opening a little to the Warrior of Light and Alphinaud. He doesn't quite understand all the business about Ascians and the elder primals, but is prepared to fight for the future of Hydaelyn and is not above helping civilians, even laying his life for his comrades. He has a dry sense of humor, and often teases his fellow Scions good-heartedly.