This memorandum of Joshua’s appears on page 33 of The Art of FINAL FANTASY XVI Echoes of the Rising Tide, which was released digitally in Japanese on 16 June 2025. The release of the English hardcopy version is set for 5 May 2026. The paragraphs, starting from the top of the left hand page, read as follows:
The divers savior myths of the Valisthean oral tradition share certain commonalities. First, that the world shall one day be remade by the hand of God incarnate. Second, that his coming shall be heralded by a host of heavenly servants. Third, that the chosen shall flock to said servants to avail their master, and thereupon, [obtain] eternal bliss. I posit that the “host” described hereabove may refer to the eight Eikons.
Garuda, Eikon of Wind, takes the form of a winged beauty. Titan, that of a statuesque stone giant. Yet for all their grandeur and grace, they are brutish creatures both.
Within the Phoenix’s fiery wings is harbored the power of rebirth. Since ages past, men have worshipped and adored him for this gift — the promise of Life’s triumph over death.
Ramuh, Commander of Lightning, symbolizes wisdom — no doubt inspired by his sage mien. Leviathan commands water, to the chagrin of all those who sail the northern seas.
Odin, seated on his six-legged steed, wields the power of darkness. Mightiest of all the Eikons, there is naught that his black blade cannot cleave in twain.
Shiva — alluring yet deadly. A single touch of her gossamer silks turns all to ice. And Bahamut — king of the dragons and bringer of the light that purges all.
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