Ashnard
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance was not a game praised because of stellar graphics (or lack there of). Instead, it was remembered by players for its deep gameplay and rich story. These two crucial elements came together in the dramatic and challenging final clash with the main villain, Ashnard - King of Daein.
As with some of the previous Fire Emblem "End Bosses", Ashnard was a power hungry, conflict-igniting juggernaut. As the King of Daein, Ashnard invaded the land of Crimea to spark a continent-wide war with all of the other nations. His goal was to obtain the Lehran's medallion which contained the power of a demon god that drew from chaotic energy. Just so happens, the main character, Ike, lives in Crimea and his sister has the medallion.
After a crazy turn of events which causes the defeat of Crimea and Ike and crew to travel across the word, the medallion falls into possession of Ashnard. Then, following an act of abandonment to his native soil (Daein), Ashnard sets up shop in the Crimean Capital. This is where the final showdown takes place. Even though the dark god has yet to be summoned, the already mad Ashnard pulls maddening power from the medallion. As Ike and company enter the final field of battle within the walls of the Crimean Capital, the odds are overwhelmingly against Ike. Between the mass number of guards and the dauntingly powerful Ashnard, it seems like it will be a long fight that will guarantee losses.
Fortunately, Ike and his band of mercenaries are not entirely alone. Some of the toughest laguz come to join into the fray. These half man and beast people have the ability to morph into powerful creatures. Of course, Ike has already befriended many capable laguz to aid in his cause, but none are strong enough to place even the slightest dent in Ashnard's armor. Except for the two who join you in this fight. This includes a choice between one of the three laguz kings and a red or white dragon. No matter your choices, the enemy is in for a world of hurt.
Between the two laguz aiding you and Ike's enchanted sword (can't be a hero without one), the enraged Ashnard is finally brought to defeat. While it would make for an interesting boss fight, Ashnard is slain before he can summon the demon god of the medallion. If you are crazy enough to go through this again and beat the game fourteen more times, Ashnard will actually join your army in the bonus trial maps.
Interestingly, the Wii game montage at the recent E3 showed a quick Fire Emblem teaser which hinted to be a possible sequel to Path of Radiance. Will some unexplained elements of the plot be resolved? Will we get to actually fight this dark god? Time will tell.
