(the weird thing is, I had gone through this scene in an earlier try, before I knew what to look for, and I was able to continue. So it's not like the node is always a dead-end. I can't figure out what parameter makes it bug now...)
Aaaah, I'm so happy!! I was too invested in the game to want to start over (i wanted to see this version of me through!), but I was devastated at not being able to "finish". What a joy it'll be to delve back into this. I'm still floored at what you've achieved here, it's mind-boggling in every single aspect.