So what did happen when we scaled back down the mountain? As it turns out, nothing at all. The only drama occured when I realised when Cecil was back down to level 1! All that hard work, wiped away! He hits like he's using wet tissue paper, even against zombies who are weak to light!

There were also some vague and unhelpful hints to be found in Porom's head thoughts:


What isn't she telling, I wonder?

As it happens, Paladin!Cecil levels up damn fast. He jumped from level 1 to 7 in just one fight, and I spent some time getting him up to speed again. He now has a Cover ability, and he auto-covers wounded allies which is helpful. He also knows some white magic! Though Porom is still undoubtedly the best healer in my team.

We level up some and re-enter Mysidia. Turns out the townspeople were utterly shocked at my success.



People were practically falling down at my feet.



After parading round town like a cock of the walk, Cecil and the gang enter the elder's house once more to get our next plot signpost.

Turns out the elder knew of some prophecy:



The Elder explains that the Mysidians have been told for generations to prepare for the prophecy's arrival and realisation, and that Cecil may at the heart of the mystery, because of course he is.

In another development, the ancient seals preventing the use of Meteor have been broken, allowing Tellah to use it, just in time for his revenge fantasy against Golbez, who is our next target.

Palom and Porom insist on journeying with Cecil and Tellah to defeat Golbez, because they are so invested in his journey, but also because it would deprive us of two mages and wreck the game balance. The Elder signs off on their assignment and we keep our party as it was!

Turns out this Devil's Road we keep being told is now unlocked for our use, so yay! No more seafaring.

All Cecil needs to do is infilitrate Baron, kill Golbez and save the world. Nothing to it, right?

Next episode (which I'm currently playing as we speak) will cover our infiltration attempt. All we need is some spy music and 'lasers' and we're all set.