#✧ 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 (epiphany thread 02).

[stellalimned]

The beast and its handlers fall to the onslaught, allowing us free access into the rest of the academy and monastery grounds. Up ahead, I note that the golem that had stood just beyond the reception hall has fallen, and as we traverse the hall, I step around its fallen carcass and the rubble surrounding it.

So much mess... what a far cry from the monastery I remember. I did not get a chance to register the full scope of destruction during the invasion, and now as I look around, the image of a cracked doll comes to mind at the state of the place. It can be repaired, with hard work and dedication, but it will never be exactly the same. I do not know what to think about it... save, perhaps, that it is good we have survived long enough that we may get to see this through. And I am struck with the sense that I see myself identifying with this place. Like Professor Lambert, like me, Garreg Mach fell, was likely destined to be destroyed; yet here we are, fighting on its behalf to grant it a second chance at life. Something clenches in my chest at the notion, and I turn away, focusing on the banter of my allies.

The lancer of the two blond cavaliers asks a question, and I tilt my head in thought. "In the long-term, I am anticipating returning to classes. While this situation has been an excellent test of practical application, I am ready to continue studying theory and completing schoolwork assignments. As for the short-term..." I pause and glance in the direction of the dorms, then the dining hall, "... a clean and new set of clothes would be appreciated, and... perhaps some fresh sweet buns, as I have not had any since we were forced out... such an indulgence would be appropriate in the face of victory, correct?"

Player Unit 8 moves up 1 node. No enemies left!

To the Man Who Sold the World: 🖕

TOA Epiphany finale | Unit 8

[stellalimned]

The green-haired mage suggests baiting the pale beast out and fires a spell meant to catch the creature’s attention before leading the way towards the south courtyard, yelling for us to hurry. I follow as swiftly as I can, the repairs and healing given by the Projectionist’s familiar preventing what few injuries I have left from slowing me down. Soon, we reach the courtyard, and in the distance I spot the beast chasing us, fixated on us as if we are the only thing it can see. The figures around it follow, and I eye them for a moment, recalling how one of them healed the beast when we attacked it. However, upon closer look, the gem in the staff used to heal it appears dull and lifeless from my position… which means that they may have just spent their method of recovery.

Enemy Unit 5 moves down

The enemy arrives, no doubt believing us to have retreated when instead we have them trapped. I ready my magic in anticipation of taking these invaders down.

I do not… appreciate them striding about the monastery as if it is theirs.

To the Man Who Sold the World: 🖕

TOA Epiphany finale | Unit 8

[stellalimned]

I find myself amongst familiar faces once again: the two blond horsemen and the green-haired mage. Through the monastery we traverse, reaching the dorms before falling back at the straight-haired blond’s insistence. Such a tactic proves necessary, as the enemy mages send a volley our way.

Enemy Unit 1 uses Range All players in Unit 8 lose -1 HP

As the dust settles, I find I have taken more damage, as have my companions. I calculate, however, that we can still continue on, which will help us decide the ultimate victory over Melanthios.

… It is not ideal, that I cannot fight alongside my other companions, and that I do not know of both their whereabouts and conditions.

To the Man Who Sold the World: 🖕

TOA Epiphany finale | Unit 8