Arguile, Glad, Salix, and Zechs find themselves inexplicably transported to the distant past, landing in Sloane’s Second Age rather than the Nymora of their time. Struggling to understand their predicament, they attempt to gather information discreetly, but Zechs inadvertently reveals their origins. This earns him a referral to the priestess of Nireana and ultimately to the priestess of Tumra, where he becomes visibly disturbed by the revelations he receives. Meanwhile, in the present, the rest of the party watches their companions in a catatonic state, their eyes glazed over. Shanks and Galahad attempt to discern the cause, only to hear a voice declaring, “These are the tithes that must be paid.” The goddess Aphy reassures them that their friends are safe and urges them to aid from their side. They resolve to investigate the leadership that enabled Nymora’s suffering, instructing Greyleaf to seek his mother’s connections. Before parting, Hoshino performs an act of kindness, reuniting a lost child with their family, a rare moment of light in a place marred by pain.

In the past, the group consults the priestess of Tumra, who informs them that this journey is a lesson for Zechs and all of them. When Salix inquires if the lesson is forgiveness, they are corrected—the actual lesson is acceptance and closure, they hear from an absent but familiar voice. As they explore the city, they sense the rising tension of the approaching conflict between the Panteran Pantheon and Malar. They hear of erratic wildlife and growing fear of Malar’s influence, suspecting an impending disaster. Zechs theorizes that a site of his future sacrifices may already exist and be occupied by Malar and his followers. The group stealthily investigates, finding a massive bonfire surrounded by many figures.In the present, Greyleaf’s mother welcomes him and his friends, sharing a moment of reunion before shifting to the serious matter. After a short prayer, she bluntly acknowledges their foes, providing a wealth of names while advising caution. The party learns of her formidable past and her service during the arrival of the Vitalis family. With their newfound intelligence, they form teams—Shanks and Greyleaf, Hoshino, and Galahad—each tasked with specific roles. With Hoshino’s Seeming spell altering their appearances, they set forth, ready to confront the forces that have plagued Nymora for generations.

There's so much happening, and that's where we pick up…Find out what happens next in this episode of the Medusa’s Cascade: Collateral Damage! Theme Music is written and performed by The Floating LighthouseMixed by Thomas Lapierre IIICheck out the show at themedusascascade.com