>>5942414>“No one is beyond redemption. The Goddess teaches that much. I choose to believe that applies even to your kind as well. I swore to create a home for the Arcadians within Rusalka. They could stand to benefit from the guidance of a Sage who used their talents for good. If you wish to make up for your sins, then I swear to walk alongside you on that path.”Upon uttering your final plea, the old and tired man you saw earlier vanishes. The Sage stands straight and tall, eyes staring ahead with a renewed purpose. Anacharsis shakes his head with a frown and chooses not to further contemplate your words. Your hair stands on end, and you can feel the same terrifying strength you sensed earlier as you were making your ascent up the tower. Instinctively, you know that your words have failed to sway your adoptive father, and he has now resolutely decided on his course.
“Enough.” Anacharsis declares. “I did not come this far just to give up my cause. I will see this through, no matter the cost. If you cannot find it within yourself to do the same, then I will drag your resolve out of you! THAT is the most I can do for you now. Fight me with all your strength. Let us see which of our gods allows us to prevail!”
In a flash, a spark of flame materializes directly before you. It dances wildly, before taking the shape of a humanoid figure. While you’re unable to sense any great power radiating from the creature, it seems to be dangerous all the same. It slowly begins to approach you when suddenly, someone calls out your name out from behind you.
“Blair!” Ashe cries out. You turn to see the Blackwings, who have just reached the tower’s summit. With the force of power being generated within the room, it doesn’t take them very long to assess the situation, and each of them draw their weapons, backing you up.
“You vanished right before our eyes!” Corrine says breathlessly. She takes a position at your side, brandishing her axe against both the flame elemental and Anacharsis. “We tried to race here as fast as we could, but this damn tower goes on forever.” She looks up at the Sage, narrowing her eyes. “I take it negotiation is already out of the question? Good. I’m really pissed off and could use a way to vent my frustrations.”
“Ahh, I remember you.” Anacharsis smirks. “Blair’s school friend. So good to see that the two of you have remained in touch. Thank you for taking care of her all this time.”
“Is that…Cornelia Arnault?!” A wide-eyed Ingrid asks in shock. “What is she doing here?! And why is she suspended in the air?”
>“Anacharsis intends to use her as the sacrifice needed to open Zahras! We need to stop him here, or else all is lost!”“You’ve seen how the spell works.” Anemone warns you. “So long as we don’t give him an opportunity to claim her heart, he can’t open the portal. Hold nothing back!”
