A while back I posted how I had just finished The Stolen Century. Well, now I just finished all three episodes of Story and Song, and woof. I need to just post my thoughts somewhere because I have no one else to tell them to lol. Spoilers below.

There were so many beautiful moments that made me cry so much. My favorites were Magnus’ ending (“Magnus rushes in”), Merle meeting Pan (“You’ll always be my Merle”), and Merle just sitting on the beach with John. Those were really great moments of closure and genuine love. For the last one, I really love Merle’s and John’s strange friendship (their conversations always gave me chills), and I wonder if that scene actually happened in another reality, or was it in just Merle’s imagination?

Anyways, I really adore Griffin’s imagery and pacing — I can really see myself there — and I thought everybody’s endings were in-character and satisfying. I usually don’t think that epilogues and flash-forwards add much to stories, but this was narratively necessary and perfectly done. The music was also incredible; I particularly loved the one (name?) at Magnus’ ending. Clint’s jokes and wholesome energy were on-point — his Merlegaritaville joke made me burst into laughter through my tears.

I was surprised that everyone lived (I thought Lucretia was gonna die), and I was pleasantly surprised to see an Endgame-esque return of so many old faces (many of which I had unfortunately forgotten haha). If I had to choose my own personal critique, it would maybe be the number of instances where something magical randomly and inexplicably happens right when the main characters need a way out. For example, while I appreciate the symbolism, meaning, and visual awesomeness of the bond engine bringing back everyone’s friends, it did feel, from a fight scene perspective, a little too convenient. I also maybe would’ve liked some more closure between Lucretia and the others about what she had done, but it’s not a big deal.

Overall, a great finale. What a ride. I can’t wait to check out the other TAZ arcs. If anyone has any other similar podcasts to recommend (I am currently also listening to DnDads, which is great), please let me know. Thanks!