"It may be time for a very big sacrifice...."
Before I turn to any of the many bombshells in this extraordinarily gripping and eventful penultimate episode, let us briefly turn to that scene, and yes, you know which one I mean. America, just bleeding well lower your drinking age, instal bars in all your university campuses so people can drink without joining weird cults... and then just ban this freaky "Greek life" nonsense, m'kay?
Brilliant effect, mind. Poor Hemple, though. His last few hours on Earth are like that.
Anyway, this episode does a superb job of getting everyone in place for the big finale, and building up the excitement. Some nice character moments, though- after not impressing me last episode, Annabeth impressed me here with her concern for her sister, which is good writing- the reconciliation between her and Marie has to feel earned. And having seen her parents' death in advance? Ouch!
Marie means well, to be the big hero- however counter-productively, as we'll see- but her morals are very "ends justify the means" here. Understandably she's reluctant to heal Cate, given what her power is, but is, in her desperation, willing to do so if Cate will tell the others to keep away. In refusing, because of her promise never to control her friends, Cate arguably shows more moral integrity in that moment.
Then there's her curing of a newly assertive Polarity- who comes across here as newly confident, wise and self-aware. His understanding and forgiveness of Cate over Andre's death is a powerful moment.
But (SPOILERS!) that ending packs a punch. There never was a Cipher, just Godolkin using a poor randomer's body while keeping his own elderly body in his basement. The perfect twist to a perfect episode...
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