The thrilling finale of "Eminence in Shadow" held a little surprise for the fans. Although the battle between Cid, Iris, and Beatrix was relatively uneventful in the novels and manga, it was elevated to a whole new level in this episode. The fight served no real purpose or major plot development but was an incredible spectacle. There were no villains, no cults, no ancient schemes to thwart—it was all about pride. Beatrix wanted to fight a worthy opponent, Cid sought a challenge to prove his power, and Iris aimed to prove herself and the strength of her kingdom, independent of her father's politics. Despite the considerable damage they caused, none of them took responsibility for it, and Iris even blamed Cid for everything, ignoring her own role in the chaos.

The most fascinating part of the episode, however, was Cid's inner conflict when Iris hit him where it hurt the most, accusing him of running away—something that contradicted everything he stood for as the "Eminence in Shadow." To prove his power and show the world that he never runs, Cid decides to cast his mighty spell (I am Atomic), which could wipe out an entire kingdom. Yet, at the last moment, he shifts his aim from the city to the sky above it.

Even though the finale didn't include an announcement for a second season or an upcoming OVA, it was an exciting conclusion to the series (as of now).