DeVoe drugged Marlize to control her and ensure her continued docility and compliance with his plans, especially after she challenged his methods following the unnecessary murder of Warden Gregory Wolfe.
The Catalyst: Warden Wolfe's Murder
Marlize DeVoe, known as The Mechanic, became increasingly disillusioned with Clifford DeVoe's (The Thinker) escalating ruthlessness and disregard for life. A critical turning point that directly led to DeVoe's decision to drug her was her strong negative reaction to the senseless murder of Warden Gregory Wolfe.
- Marlize's Disgust: She was profoundly disturbed by this act, viewing it as an unnecessary escalation and a moral line crossed by her husband.
- Open Confrontation: Unlike previous instances where she might have harbored private doubts, this time Marlize openly confronted DeVoe. Her defiance and direct challenge to his actions indicated a growing threat to his authority and the smooth execution of his elaborate plans. Her increasing independent thought and moral objections were seen as impediments.
DeVoe's Motivation: Absolute Control
To maintain absolute control over his brilliant wife and partner, and to prevent any further insubordination or attempts to derail his grand design, Clifford DeVoe resorted to administering a powerful sedative. His objective was to eliminate her moral objections and emotional resistance, turning her back into a compliant tool for his schemes.
Marlize's State: Before vs. After Drugging
| Aspect | Before Drugging (Post-Wolfe Murder) | After Drugging (With Weeper's Tears) |
|---|---|---|
| Mental State | Disgusted, questioning, defiant, critical | Docile, compliant, emotionally suppressed, obedient |
| Actions | Challenged DeVoe's methods, expressed moral outrage | Carried out tasks without objection, minimal critical thought |
| Relationship with DeVoe | Growing rift, moral conflict, potential opposition | Seemingly subservient, outwardly supportive of his schemes |
| Purpose for DeVoe | Perceived threat to his plans, a variable to be neutralized | Ensured unwavering support, removed emotional impediments |
The Method: Weeper's Tears
DeVoe utilized the tears of Edwin Gauss, a meta-human known as The Weeper, for their unique sedative properties. These tears were capable of affecting emotions, but DeVoe adapted them into a powerful tranquilizer.
- Chemical Sedation: The Weeper's tears acted as a potent calming agent, effectively rendering Marlize docile and compliant by dulling her critical faculties and emotional responses.
- Suppression of Will: The primary goal was not just to calm her, but to suppress her independent thought and moral compass, ensuring she would no longer question or interfere with his increasingly dark and destructive methods.
This action served to highlight DeVoe's manipulative and ruthless nature, demonstrating his willingness to exploit even those closest to him to achieve his ultimate goals, regardless of their personal cost. More detailed information about Marlize DeVoe and her character arc can be explored on the Arrowverse Wiki.
