Role

Chapter 18

Days later I had returned to the Past, working to perfect every conceivable
weapon in Thera, hunting the dark hearted creatures there. In a sudden moment,
a strange fearsome creature appeared. I recognized it immediately, but in its
majesty and that it had come to me specifically, I recognized the gravity of
the moment: the androsphinx had come for me.

We stepped away from the smoke and then began to speak to one another. He told
me he knew I sought redemption, and that his Lady forbid him from slaying and
devouring those who seek such a path, but he was clear to me, if he could have
swallowed me in that moment, he would have.

He told me that I was no longer allowed to pass by him and enter the shrine. I
was to speak to him of my progress and he would keep watch on my path to ensure
I spoke true. He told me to learn what I could from Odren and Dichael but he
warned that Dichael's path was one consumed with knowledge, not necessarily
with a pursuit towards the Light. I winced as I had hope Dichael and I would
walk this path together, now that was less sure. In addition to the
instructions he gave me, the androsphinx shared this wisdom: Mercy is granted
by virtue of seeking the goddess Azorinne. I am bound to her wishes. Redemption
is not to be granted by me or by the Lady. It is yours to seek.