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Only You in All the World/Story
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Only You in All the World - Opening
As the beloved daughter of a wealthy merchant family in Port Breeze, Drusilla studied diligently under her grandmother's tutelage. She had few friends her age and focused on being the special child her parents always told her she was.
Drusilla: There once lived a girl in a Port Breeze mansion.
Drusilla's Mom: Oh my... You did the laundry all by yourself, Drusilla?
Drusilla's Dad: I can't believe she figured it out without any advice from us!
Drusilla: Hahah... Mother, Father, I couldn't be prouder to be your daughter!
Drusilla: Mother and Father would give me lots of head pats.
Drusilla: Being highly successful merchants, they weren't home much... But I loved them oh so much!
Grandmother: Drusilla. It's time to study.
Drusilla: I know, but can't I play with my dolls just a bit longer?
Grandmother: If you wish to become a respected figure like your father one day, you must live with discipline and constantly be improving yourself.
Grandmother: ...
I'll bake you some cookies once you've completed your studies.
I'll bake you some cookies once you've completed your studies.
Drusilla: Cookies!
Drusilla: Hooray! I love your cookies, Grandmother! I'll get to studying right away!
Grandmother: Haha... The merchant's blood in you is bubbling already.
Drusilla: Grandmother may be strict, but she's also very kind.
Drusilla: Mother and Father expected great things from me, so they had me study and do other extracurricular activities under Grandmother's careful watch.
Drusilla: I would often play in my room with my dolls and my pet bird Homlet!
Drusilla: In a way, I was the happiest person in the skies!
Drusilla: But...
Drusilla: Ah, they have it after all. A textbook on capitalism.
Drusilla: Goodness, it's so thick. The picture book next to it looks like far more fun...
Neighbor: Holy cow! That does not look like an easy book to get through!
Drusilla: ...!
Neighbor: Ehehe, nice to meetcha! You're Drusilla, the girl who lives in the mansion, right?
Drusilla: Er, yes...
Neighbor: I was hoping we could become friends! So you're into hefty textbooks like that one?
Drusilla: B-but of course! I read these all the time!
Drusilla: (Dash it all! I don't actually understand a thing in it... I'm just running an errand for Father.)
Neighbor: Oh yeah?
Neighbor: If you ask me, that picture book looks a ton more fun. A little birdie embarks on an adventure to the southern island!
Drusilla: Er, well...
Drusilla: I... I also...
Neighbor's Mom: Ah, there you are. Come now, it's time to go.
Neighbor: Okay, Mommy! See you around, Drusilla!
Neighbor's Mom: Drusilla's a proper lady. She lives in a different world from us.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: O-okay then! I'm fine with being so amazing of a person that others around me can't help but stop to look!
Drusilla: I don't need picture books or friends the same age as me!
Drusilla's Dad: You can become anything you want, Drusilla! As a merchant you could expand your trade across skydoms! As a painter or author, you'd leave your mark on the annals of history!
Drusilla's Mom: Teehee... I can already imagine a town statue being erected in honor of Drusilla's many great accomplishments.
Drusilla's Dad: Haha, no doubt about that! I can't wait to see what the future holds for our daughter!
Drusilla: Ehehe...
Drusilla: That's right—I can become anything I set my mind to. I'm just that special...
Drusilla: I have to be.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 1: Encounter in the Forest - Episode 1
Drusilla is currently traveling with the crew in search of her pet bird, Homlet. Andira, Lily, and Sylph cross paths with Drusilla one day and invite her to play together, but the Harvin's pride gets in the way. Frustrated that she can't be true to herself, Drusilla reminds herself that she's perfectly fine being alone because she's special.
Drusilla: Mng...
Drusilla: Ah!
Drusilla bolts upright immediately after seeing where the hands on the clock in her room are.
Drusilla: Oh no! Why did I have to fall back asleep! It's past noon already!
Drusilla: Grandmother's going to be cross with me—
She looks around and comes to a realization, letting out a small sigh.
Drusilla: Oh wait. Grandmother's not here.
Drusilla: I'm starving, but it's long past lunchtime...
Drusilla: If I'm lucky, they'll have some leftovers in the dining hall.
Drusilla spots a few fellow crew members in the dining hall.
Drusilla: (If no one were here, I could get a peek at what's on the serving trolleys...)
Drusilla: (Oh, it'd be so embarrassing if they find out I'm foraging for food because I woke up late!)
Drusilla: (I'll just have to sneak a look from the wall here.)
Sylph: Yes, this place I know. It's where everyone enjoys their meals daily.
Andira: Mm-hm, it's always fun dining here while chatting away! Did I tell you we take turns making meals?
Sylph: Yes... You've also told me how you go about serving the food.
Andira: Then as a special bonus, I'll show you where I stock all the cotton candy!
Lily: And I'll show you how to make my special pie!
Drusilla: (Those three are...)
Drusilla: (Andira—Divine Monkey of the Twelve Divine Generals.)
Drusilla: (Lily—Crystalia princess and hero who saved the Ice Crystal Palace.)
Drusilla: (Sylph—a recent primal recruit who wishes to learn the meaning of love.)
Drusilla: (What are the three of them doing together?)
Her curiosity getting the better of her, Drusilla leans out from the wall.
Sylph: Drusilla?
Drusilla: Eek!
Drusilla: Ouch...
Lily: Oh no! Are you okay, Drusilla?
Drusilla: Wh-why, of course I am! I couldn't be in better shape! (My knees are tingling!)
Sylph: I apologize for startling you. I spotted the bird on your hat sticking out from the edge of the wall...
Drusilla: Bird? What bird?
Sylph: ...?
Andira: Hey, I know! Why don't you join us for a guided tour of the Grandcypher, Drusilla?
Drusilla: A guided tour?
Sylph: Since I'm still new, Andira and Lily are showing me around the ship.
Lily: From the best place to catch sunlight on the deck to the rooms where you can hear the soothing sound of the engines... There's so much to learn about the Grandcypher!
Drusilla: Ah, and that's what brought you to the dining hall...
Drusilla: (This looks fun! Maybe I should join them...)
Andira: You're more than welcome to come along if you're free! I'll even give you some of my cotton candy.
Lily: Let's make pie together! It'll be so much more fun if you're with us, Drusilla!
Drusilla: (Cotton candy and pie...)
Lily: Ooh... That must be your stomach rumbling.
Drusilla: N-no, you have it wrong! That's definitely not my stomach crying out in hunger!
Andira: Oh? But I definitely heard something just now...
Drusilla: I'm going to be so famous one day that a statue will be erected in my honor! I couldn't possibly do something so embarrassing!
Sylph: A statue? There's actually a statue of me in Feendrache... Are you a primal beast too, Drusilla?
Andira: Ahaha... That's a good one, Sylph—
Drusilla: Heheh, a primal beast? I'm going to be even more amazing than that!
Drusilla: That's why I'll be returning to my room to study now! Playing is a waste of time!
Drusilla: (W-wait a second...)
Andira: Studying? For your future?
Lily: Wow! I could never study on my own without some kind of reward from Erin.
Drusilla: Heheh! Studying is something you're supposed to do for yourself! Expecting a material reward is the wrong way to go about it!
Drusilla: (Wait, wait... What am I—)
Lily: Wow... We might be the same age, but I love your attitude when it comes to these things, Drusilla!
Drusilla: Ohohoho! I'm just acting as any noble lady would!
Drusilla: Well then, I should be getting back to it!
Lily: I'm rooting for you!
Lily: Drusilla... I wanted to play with her, but I guess she's too busy with her studies.
Andira: Yeah... Maybe we can invite her again next time!
Andira: Though I wonder why she came to the dining hall to begin with.
Lily: Hm, good question...
Sylph: Also, does she not notice the bird on her hat?
All Three: Hmm...
The three spend a moment in silent wonder before continuing with the tour.
Drusilla: Aaaaahhh...
Drusilla: Stupid Drusilla! You had no plans to study, and you could definitely use a reward yourself!
Drusilla: Why... Why do I always have to put up a front?
Drusilla dejectedly shuffles off, her face flush red with frustration.
Drusilla: (But even if I had been honest about it...)
Drusilla: The truth is... I slept into the afternoon and my stomach was growling!
Andira: Ew... Talk about weird.
Lily: And here I thought you were the perfect lady...
Sylph: Cringe.
Drusilla: (Nuh-uh-uh... I'd never be able to forgive myself!)
Drusilla: (I'm supposed to be special!)
Drusilla: And that's why... I'm okay being all alone.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 1: Encounter in the Forest - Episode 2
Korwa, being on mail duty, hands Drusilla letters from her family. Sensing that Drusilla is hungry, Korwa suggests that she stops by the subgalley Raduga to help Ladiva taste-test a few items.
Drusilla goes out onto the deck to get some fresh air and relieve her frustrations.
As the Grandcypher is currently docked on grassy plains, she gazes at the island's forests while the sad rumbling of her stomach resurfaces.
Drusilla: Sigh...
Drusilla: Grandmother's cookies... I miss them so much.
Korwa: Why, if it isn't Drusilla! I was just looking for you.
Drusilla: Eep!
Drusilla: K-Korwa? Did you hear me just now?
Korwa: Hm? Were you telling some kind of cute story? I would've perked up my ears if I knew!
Drusilla: Ahem... No, it was nothing!
Drusilla: (Korwa—a fashion designer and a wonderful lady in her own right!)
Drusilla: By the way, Korwa, I don't think I've ever seen you in that outfit.
Korwa: Hehe, I look sharp, don't I? This is a new design I came up with.
Drusilla: You look great! Is there some kind of event coming up?
Korwa: No, I just thought it'd make for a nice change of pace.
Korwa: Fashion helps to highlight the memories of days that are less than magical.
Drusilla: Oh... That's very deep!
Korwa flashes the Harvin a grin and pats her head.
Korwa: There, there... You're so pure and adorable, Drusilla.
Drusilla: Ehehe... Stop treating me like a child!
Korwa: (Yet she's grinning from ear to ear... She's only twelve, if I recall.)
Korwa: (She'd have it so much easier if she could be true to her feelings at least with others her age.)
Drusilla: So, Korwa, you said you were looking for me?
Korwa: Oh, right! I have some letters for you.
Drusilla: Letters?
Korwa: You know how (Captain) is busy with a request on the island right now? I'm helping with some of the minor chores in the meantime.
Korwa pulls three letters from a stack and hands them to Drusilla.
Korwa: They're from your family, specifically your mom, dad, and grandma.
Drusilla: ...!
Korwa: I'm relieved to know your folks back home are aware you're traveling with us.
Korwa: Considering the circumstances in which you joined, they must have been rather worried.
Drusilla is the one and only daughter of a wealthy Port Breeze merchant.
Though satisfied with everyday life, she must contend with boredom every now and then. On one such day...
Homlet: Tweet! Twee-tweet!
Drusilla: H-Homlet! Where are you going! Come back!
Little Homlet swoops out the window in the blink of an eye. Panicking, Drusilla jumps out the window after her.
Unable to find Homlet anywhere on the island, the little girl bumps into the crew.
Drusilla: I'm trying to leave the island, but I don't know how...
Vyrn: Hmm, leave the island? You mean you wanna be a skyfarer?
Drusilla: Skyfarer? Hah! I'm going to be much more than that!
Drusilla: (After all, Father can hire any skyfarer he wants! I'll be just like him one day!)
Vyrn: That's, like, an ultra-skyfarer!
Drusilla: (Huh? That's not what I meant! I think they're getting the wrong idea...)
Drusilla: (But getting on an airship sounds like the perfect way to find Homlet!)
Drusilla: (And maybe if I can find something to impress Grandmother, she might not be as cross with me!)
Drusilla: (Th-there's no choice! I'll have to join this crew!)
Korwa: So I take it you still have no leads on Homlet?
Drusilla: No... Where could she possibly be?
Korwa: (The bird that's made a home of her hat... must surely be a different one then.)
Drusilla: Thank you for the letters. I shall be going now.
Korwa: Hey, wait. Can I ask you for a favor?
Korwa: Ladiva's looking for someone to taste-test her new menu items at Raduga.
Korwa: If you have a bit of time to spare, she'd be happy to have your company.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: I-I guess it can't be helped! I'm not feeling particularly peckish at the moment, but I suppose I can help a crew member in need!
Korwa: Thanks! Let Ladiva know I sent you.
Drusilla stuffs the letters into her pocket, then makes her way to Ladiva at the subgalley Raduga.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 1: Encounter in the Forest - Episode 3
After having her fill at Raduga, Drusilla goes out in search of Homlet. When Drusilla is suddenly attacked by a monster, a carefree girl named Nerine saves her. Nerine sees Drusilla as "ordinary" and tries to recruit her as her reading and writing tutor.
Drusilla: Yum. That was delicious!
Drusilla is lying on her bed after enjoying a delightful meal at Raduga.
Drusilla: Korwa must have realized how hungry I was and thought of a way for me to eat without embarrassing me...
Drusilla: She is a lady in the truest sense of the word... I, on the other hand...
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla takes out the letters from her family and places them on the desk.
Beneath them lies an already huge stack of unopened mail.
Drusilla goes out for a stroll in the nearby grasslands.
Drusilla: I can look for Homlet while getting in a bit of post-meal exercise!
Drusilla: Homlet! Answer me if you're there!
Drusilla: Homlet! It's Drusilla!
Drusilla: Sigh... Why am I having so much trouble finding one little bird?
Drusilla: Compared to me, everyone else—
Andira: Infinite diversity in infinite combinations... Transform!
Lily: My name is Lily. Like your name is Chieftain Grueler.
Sylph: The "love" that this Astral experienced... I wish to feel it too.
Drusilla: No, Drusilla! Stop discouraging yourself!
Drusilla: I'm going to do so many incredible things! Finding Homlet's just one of them!
Drusilla: Wait, how did I end up in the forest...
Drusilla had been so deep in thought that she ventured deep into the forest without realizing it.
Drusilla: I'm starting to feel a chill down my spine...
Drusilla: It's getting dark too. I don't like this... I should turn back—
Drusilla: Eep!
Cute Animal: ...!
Drusilla: Oh, please don't scare me like that—
Drusilla: Huh?
Fearsome Shadow: Graaaah...
Drusilla: Aiiiiee!
Drusilla: Wh-wh-what's the big idea! Don't get any closer!
Fearsome Shadow: Aaahh...
Just as the mysterious monster in pursuit of Drusilla lets out an eerie roar...
Cheery Girl: Neener, neener!
Drusilla: ...?
A young girl shows up to shield Drusilla, sticking her tongue out at the monster. Against all odds, the shadow retreats.
Cheery Girl: Phew... The neener trick is a surefire way to deal with monsters.
Drusilla: Th-thank you. You saved me.
Cheery Girl: I'm the one who should be thanking you! This is where our story begins!
Drusilla: What story?
Cheery Girl: "Nerine met a girl. That girl had a fragrant scent about her."
Cheery Girl: Sniff...
Drusilla: Eep! What are you burying your face in my clothes for?
Cheery Girl: Neri-oopsie! This is a scent I don't get in the forest, so my imagination went wild with a treeful of stories!
Drusilla: Treeful? What does that even mean!
Cheery Girl: I've waited so long for this day! For a normal girl like you to come in from town!
Drusilla: Wh-wha...
Drusilla: How rude! I'll have you know that I am exceptional in every way and the furthest thing from a "normal" girl!
Drusilla: I can do arithmetic without using my fingers, drink fizzy beverages if I hold my nose, attend concerts without falling asleep...
Drusilla: I... I'm...
Cheery Girl: Wow! You're really something, huh?
Cheery Girl: Wait, let me guess... I bet you can read too?
Drusilla: Of course! You'd do well not to look down on me—
Cheery Girl: You can read and write!
Cheery Girl: That's amazing! Wait, maybe that's ordinary where you come from?
Drusilla: Yes... But I am so much more than "ordinary"—
Cheery Girl: Have you read books or letters before? They're written with writing sticks called pens, right? If the ink gets on your skin, does it stay there forever?
Drusilla: You can't be serious... You've never seen a pen before?
Cheery Girl: No, I haven't! I only know the forest!
The girl's eyes light up as she grabs Drusilla's hand.
Cheery Girl: Hey, I know! Maybe you can teach me the alphabet!
Drusilla: The alphabet... To read and write, you mean?
Cheery Girl: Mm-hm, that's right! I'd be treefully grateful!
Man's Voice: Nerine! The beast stew is ready!
Cheery Girl: Ah! Morimori's calling me... I need to get back.
Cheery Girl: Let's meet again here tomorrow morning! It's a promise!
Cheery Girl: And your name is...
Drusilla: Drusilla.
Cheery Girl: Drusilla! That sounds a lot like the bird!
Nerine: I'm Nerine, the greatest author the forests have ever known!
Nerine: Buh-bye!
Drusilla: Wait, I haven't agreed to a rendezvous—
Her face beaming, the girl rushes off deeper into the forest.
Drusilla: Wait, I said!
Drusilla: A greeting and a farewell at the same time... How uncouth!
Drusilla yells for Nerine one last time, but she is no longer in sight.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 1: Encounter in the Forest - Episode 4
Meanwhile the crew is at the island's only town of Omelas on a request to eradicate calamity monsters—shadowy creatures which manifest from the Erbsu Forest once every thirty years. They quickly get to work patrolling the forest's entrance.
Lyria: The calamity monsters?
Town Elder: Yes. I'd like for your crew to eliminate them.
The crew has come to Omelas—the one and only town of a small island that is part of an archipelago.
They are receiving details of their assignment from Omelas's elder.
Town Elder: You may have spotted a large forest when you landed upon the island.
Vyrn: More like the whole island's practically a forest. Wasn't easy findin' a big enough spot to dock our ship.
Town Elder: I apologize for the inconvenience. Our ports are meant only for trade ships.
Lyria: Omelas is a popular trading hub for the archipelago, isn't it! I saw lots of shops on the other side of town!
Town Elder: Yes, our central location may be the town's one saving grace. The shopping district is quite lively, as you may have noticed.
The elder's proud expression quickly turns stern as he gets back on topic.
Town Elder: We call the thick woodlands covering most of the island the Erbsu Forest.
Town Elder: Since ancient times, dangerous monsters have manifested once every thirty years from deep within the forest.
Town Elder: We call them the calamity monsters... They continue to appear for roughly a month and will attack the town if allowed to.
Vyrn: A regular cycle of monster outbreaks? That's just weird.
Lyria: So thirty years have passed since the last outbreak then?
Town Elder: Yes... Because we cannot handle them alone, we promptly requested the aid of skyfarers.
Vyrn: Leave it to us! We'll stop 'em all before they can get to town!
The crew leaves the meeting room and follows the elder to the Erbsu Forest.
After passing through Omelas's main road, the townscape is gradually replaced by evergreen shrubbery. The forest's entrance comes into view before long.
Lyria: Hm? What's this shack for?
Lyria's attention is directed at a small shack covered in vines, its position seemingly marking the boundary between town and forest.
Vyrn: It's pretty run-down. Seems like a strong gust of wind would knock it right over.
Lyria: Um, Elder? What is this shack used for?
Town Elder: You're mistaken.
Lyria: Huh?
Town Elder: There is no shack there.
Vyrn: Whaddya mean? It's literally right there.
Town Elder: Let us move on. Watch your step; it's easy to trip on the tree roots.
Vyrn: What was that all about? It's like he was a different person for a sec.
Lyria: ...
Though puzzled by the elder's behavior, the crew continues following him into the forest.
Town Elder: It can be dangerous to venture too deep, so I recommend patrolling the area around the entrance.
Vyrn: Nah, we'll be fine! Wipin' out the monster nest should resolve the problem that much sooner.
Town Elder: My apologies for not explaining myself better. It would be dangerous for the town.
Town Elder: Omelas's historical records state that a hero undertook an expedition to eradicate the monsters 400 years ago.
Town Elder: Because he failed to locate their nest, the calamity monsters only appeared in greater numbers.
Vyrn: Goin' into the forest makes more of the monsters pop up?
Town Elder: Yes. Exploring the Erbsu Forest has been forbidden ever since then. It's also why we've avoided expanding into it.
Vyrn: Yeah, that's one heck of a calamity, all right.
Calamity Monsters: Gwaaaah...
Town Elder: ...!
Watch out, everyone! Those are calamity monsters!
Watch out, everyone! Those are calamity monsters!
Vyrn: Careful, (Captain)! Here they come!
Only You in All the World - Chapter 1: Encounter in the Forest - Episode 4: Scene 2
Though the calamity monsters are defeated, the crew remains uneasy about the existence of the mysterious shack at the forest's entrance. Elsewhere, the Omelas town elder offers a prayer before a large shrine.
Having defeated the calamity monsters, the crew returns to the Grandcypher docked in the nearby grassland.
Vyrn: So we'll be patrollin' the same area tomorrow to look for more of the fiends, huh...
Vyrn: Fortunately we can leave the night watch to other skyfarers, but this assignment's still gonna be a pain either way.
Lyria: ...
Choose: What's wrong?
Choose: Something on your mind?
Lyria: There was something very insidious about those monsters.
Lyria: I got goosebumps just by being near them, just like that shack at the forest's entrance.
Town Elder: There is no shack there.
Vyrn: The elder definitely acted funny when it came to the shack.
Vyrn: Wonder if he was hidin' something from us. Maybe...
In the corner of a dimly lit room, a man clasps his hands together in fervent prayer before a large altar.
Town Elder: Forgive us, our neighbors! Forgive us, oh calamity!
Town Elder: As foolish as it may be, I cannot help but love Omelas.
Town Elder: I bring a new solacebringer... A sacrifice for the curse of original sin!
Town Elder: Haha... Bwahahahaha!
The echo of his dry laugh fills the darkness.
The black lily patterns on the shrine seem to gaze down upon the crazed town elder.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 2: A Bird So Close - Episode 1
While bothered by Nerine's behavior the day before, Drusilla visits the forest once more to teach her how to read and write. A man named Morimori, who happens to be Nerine's father, shows up. The two call the Erbsu Forest their home. Nerine reveals she wants to be literate to surprise Morimori.
Drusilla slips into bed that night and bites her lower lip in frustration.
Drusilla: Humph! What is that Nerine girl's problem!
Nerine: I've waited so long for this day! For a normal girl like you to come in from town!
Nerine: Hey, I know! Maybe you can teach me the alphabet!
Nerine: Let's meet again here tomorrow morning! It's a promise!
Drusilla: How unbelievably rude of her to call me normal!
Drusilla: "Teach me the alphabet! Let's meet again tomorrow!"
Drusilla: Ugh, the nerve! I won't set foot in that forest ever again!
Drusilla: How about that for a promise!
Nerine: Morning, Drusilla! You smell great today too!
Drusilla: Gah, stop sticking your face in my clothes! I'm not particularly fond of being sniffed!
Drusilla: (I told myself I wouldn't come. And yet...)
Drusilla: (Why am I here!)
Drusilla takes in the refreshing morning air of the forest, only to let it all out in a deep sigh.
Nerine: Ooh... A thin tree branch and a flappy, box-shaped leaf!
Drusilla: It's just a pen and paper. This here is the alphabet.
Nerine: Wow, this is neat! You prepared this all just for me?
Drusilla: More for myself, since I need this material to teach you—
Nerine: This is amazing! I'm so lucky to have you as my teacher!
Drusilla: I-I'm a teacher now?
Drusilla: (Actually, that does have a nice ring to it...)
Drusilla proudly puffs out her chest and sits on a nearby tree stump, handing the pen and paper to Nerine.
Nerine: Ehehe... Now I can have a treeful time writing A Bird's Tale!
Drusilla: A Bird's Tale?
Nerine: I thought it up by myself! Well, the continuation that is, not the whole thing.
Drusilla: The continuation? I don't get it...
Drusilla: Is that why you want to be literate? So you can write that story?
Nerine: Mm-hm! I'm so good at coming up with stories that I often get praised for them!
Drusilla: Oh?
Nerine: "One day, a squirrel was racing through the forest."
Drusilla: Huh?
Nerine: "It picked up an acorn and happily feasted away."
Drusilla: The story's already begun...
Nerine: "What a lucky squirrel! The end!"
Drusilla: Wait, that's it?
Nerine: Yep, I'm a pro when it comes to short stories! You don't know how lucky you are to hear such a great one!
Drusilla: Um, if I'm going to be completely honest, that was quite—
Suspicious Man: Beautiful!
Drusilla: Eek!
Suspicious Man: A masterpiece of a comedy that would send any audience reeling with laughter! It will forever remain a precious asset to Erbsu Forest's history!
Drusilla: F-from the top of the tree? Who is that?
The man who suddenly jumped down from the treetop whispers to Drusilla.
Suspicious Man: Psst, miss. Listen up.
Suspicious Man: Nerine's stories are second to none. You don't realize how great they are because you've got poor taste!
Drusilla: H-how rude! I'll have you know that I've read countless fabled stories—
Suspicious Man: Gimme a break and just heap the praise on her, all right? Nerine's special!
Drusilla: Special?
Nerine: Oh, Morimori! Still gathering nuts?
Suspicious Man: That's right! I could not help but pause to stop and listen to the wonder that is your lovely storytelling voice!
Suspicious Man: Our new friend was quite taken herself! In fact, she was so deeply moved that her tears came pouring out like a waterfall! Isn't that right?
Drusilla: Not really... Nor would I call that story a comedy—
Suspicious Man: Treeful praise! Now!
Drusilla: Sigh... That was rather fascinating.
Nerine: Whoo-hoo! I'm a storytelling genius after all!
Suspicious Man: That, you are! And your smile never fails to brighten up the world!
Suspicious Man: You may as well be a princess of the forest! Nay, a magical fairy! Nay, you are the queen!
Suspicious Man: Gah! Mere words alone would not do you justice!
Drusilla: Sheesh... What's with you?
Nerine: Morimori's my dad! We've always lived together in the forest!
Drusilla: This suspicious-looking man is your father?
Morimori: Yes, it's just been us two for the longest time! No need to be envious though.
Nerine: No need for envy! Only...
Nerine & Morimori: Love!
Drusilla: (What is unfolding before my eyes...)
Drusilla: (Just because her father says she's special, that doesn't mean—)
Drusilla: ...!
Morimori: By the way, Nerine, what were you up to with Waterfall Tears Girl?
Drusilla: There was no waterfall! Not a single tear, in fact! And my name is Drusilla!
Nerine: ...!
While Drusilla is retorting, Nerine quickly hides the pen and paper behind herself.
Nerine: Nothing much. We were just playing hide-and-seek!
Morimori: Oh-ho! What an amazing game to play!
Morimori: (Psst, Drusilla! Be sure to hide in so obvious a spot that Nerine finds you instantly!)
Morimori: (No, wait! Nerine would get bored real fast... Keep her entertained, but don't do too good a job of hiding either!)
Drusilla: ...
Morimori: My dearest darling Nerine! Be back before mealtime!
Drusilla: Morimori takes off in a rush, swiftly traversing from tree to tree.
Drusilla: You wish to keep your literacy lessons a secret from Morimori?
Nerine: Yeah... I want to surprise him!
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: I'll keep my ballroom dance practice a secret from Father! I want to surprise him!
Drusilla: I can respect that. To start with, let me show you how to use the pen.
Nerine: Hip-hip-hooray! I'm so happy, it feels like my eyeballs could pop out at any moment!
Drusilla: Do you realize what you're saying? What a strange turn of phrase that is!
Nerine: Is it that weird? Morimori says it all the time when he mentions how cute I am...
Drusilla: Sheesh! A respectable author should be conscious about using more elegant expressions!
Nerine: Okay! I look forward to learning so much from you, Miss Drusilla!
Drusilla: Heheh. I suppose I can teach you what I know.
Drusilla finds herself getting onboard with the idea of becoming Nerine's teacher.
From how to hold a pen to the alphabet to vocabulary, the Harvin kindly instructs her on the basics.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 2: A Bird So Close - Episode 2
When asked by Andira and friends about the meaning of love, Drusilla can't help but pretend to be an expert on the subject. Falling back into a self-loathing mood, she returns to her room and faces a stack of unopened letters.
When Drusilla returns to the Grandcypher that evening, Sylph and company approach her in a flurry.
Sylph: Drusilla. What do you think love is?
Drusilla: Wh-what's this all of a sudden?
Andira: The three of us couldn't stop talking about it when Sylph brought up the question. We realized it can be pretty complex...
Lily: But then we thought a proper lady like you, Drusilla, might have an answer!
Drusilla: (If I recall, Sylph joined the crew to learn what love is among mortals...)
Drusilla: (But how do they expect me to answer such a question out of the blue!)
Sylph: Any thoughts? If it's too difficult, I could always try asking other crew members...
Drusilla: Wh-wh-what do you mean! There's nothing difficult about it at all!
Drusilla: Why, back in Port Breeze, people would call me the evangelist of love!
Drusilla: You couldn't have asked a better person! I, the famed Lovemeister Drusilla, will tell you everything you need to know!
Lily: Ahh... We're glad we came to you!
Drusilla: (Wh-what have I gotten myself into? "Lovemeister Drusilla"? That sounds so ridiculous!)
Andira: We're lucky to get an answer from someone so famous!
Sylph: My journey may finally come to an end... I cannot wait to receive enlightenment from you.
Drusilla: Err... Ummm...
Drusilla: (Their eyes are sparkling... How am I supposed to answer this?)
Morimori: Gah! Mere words alone would not do you justice!
Nerine & Morimori: Love!
Drusilla: Yes, that's right... Love isn't something that can be described with words!
Andira: Huh? Is that a thing?
Drusilla: Absolutely! Let's flip it around and say you've reached the furthest depths of love in your research—you would still come to the same conclusion!
Sylph: I see...
Sylph: The granny I lived with said something similar, about different people having different notions of love.
Sylph: Indescribable by words... To put it another way, instead of looking for a one-size-fits-all sort of answer, I should consider the meaning of love from various angles.
Drusilla: Yes... That's exactly it! You're a quick study, Sylph!
Lily: Oh... I didn't really get that, but you are a true oven checklist of love, Drusilla!
Andira: The word is "evangelist," Lily.
Drusilla: W-well then... I must be getting on my way!
Sylph: Wait, Lovemeister Drusilla—
Lily: And off she goes...
Lily: Drusilla went out earlier today too. She must be really busy.
Andira: It's a shame we can't get to know her better...
Drusilla: I want to become good friends with them, but...
Drusilla: I'm so obsessed with appearing like a noble lady that I can't help but put on an act.
Drusilla: Sigh...
Drusilla casts her gaze downward to the stack of letters from home.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: I'm sorry. Father, Mother, Grandmother.
Drusilla: Are you worried, angry, or perhaps simply appalled?
Drusilla gets up to look at herself in the mirror.
Drusilla: But it's okay, because I'm special...
Homlet: Twee-tweet!
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Homlet, I'm still looking for you.
Her eyes directed straight at the reflection of Homlet in the mirror, Drusilla gently runs her fingers across the bird's head.
The rays of the setting sun shine in from the window, casting a shadow over the Harvin's visage.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 2: A Bird So Close - Episode 3
Drusilla and Nerine grow closer as their lessons continue daily. Meanwhile the crew learns from an Omelas youth about children being sacrificed to the evil spirit of Erbsu Forest.
Drusilla visits Erbsu Forest again on the following day.
Morimori: Why, aren't you a welcome sight! Thanks for coming to play with Nerine again!
Morimori: (Here to interrupt our father-daughter bonding time again?)
Morimori: (Or do you just have that much time to kill?)
Drusilla: (Can you two get any more boorish! I took time out of my busy schedule just to visit, you know!)
Morimori: (Oho... So you made time just to come all the way out here? I realize how taken you may be with Nerine, but...)
Drusilla: (N-no! That's not it...)
Nerine: Ooh... How nice to see you two huddled together like fast friends!
Morimori: For sure! Me and Drusilla are bosom buddies!
Drusilla: Wha...
Morimori: Okay, I need to go hunting! Be right back, Nerine!
Drusilla: Now that Morimori's gone, let us begin today's studies.
Nerine: Yes, Miss Drusilla! Let's have a treeful lesson!
They sit on their tree stump and take out their learning materials.
Drusilla: I can't imagine it being easy for you, Nerine, being stuck with that Morimori in the forest all the time...
Nerine: You think so? I mean, it's always a ton of amazing fun, so I never really thought about it...
Nerine: Though I'd love to experience a normal life in the town, even if just briefly!
Drusilla: A normal life?
Nerine: Morimori told me all about these sweet, fluffy things called cakes they serve there!
Nerine: The roads are crowded with people... There are places filled with books that you can stay at all day to read the stories!
Drusilla: Being normal isn't exactly something to be envious of.
Nerine: Oh yeah? I'm guess I'm weird like that...
Nerine: All I can do is imagine what things are like beyond the forest.
Drusilla: Is that how you came to like stories?
Nerine: Exactly! You can eat cake in stories! Even if you're not sure how it tastes...
Nerine: "The cake is as fluffy as sawdust and sweet as tree sap! Chomp!"
Drusilla: Er, you might as well be munching on a tree...
Nerine: Ahahaha! I guess the real thing's a bit different, huh!
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Tell me about A Bird's Tale—that story you've been meaning to write.
Nerine: You remembered! That story's going to make me famous one day!
Drusilla: Just to be clear, I remembered it not because you're the author, but because my memory is simply remarkable!
Not minding Drusilla's retort, Nerine continues on.
Nerine: Morimori often tells me bedtime stories to help me get a good night's rest.
Nerine: And my favorite one is A Bird's Tale!
Drusilla: It's not something you thought of yourself?
Nerine: Morimori doesn't remember all the details, nor even the title. It's actually a story he heard a long time ago.
Nerine: That's why I've decided to write the continuation and release the entire story as a book!
Drusilla: Oh... You came up with the title then?
Nerine: Mm-hm! Morimori said I'm a total genius for keeping the title nice and simple!
Drusilla: Well, it does evoke a certain imagery... What's the plot like?
Nerine: Heh heh! It's about a bird that travels with a friend to an island in the south!
Drusilla: ...!
Neighbor: If you ask me, that picture book looks a ton more fun. A little birdie embarks on an adventure to the southern island!
Nerine: The adventure is a grand one, with active volcanoes, floating lakes, and so much more! It really is amazing!
Drusilla: I once read a picture book with that very plot.
Drusilla: I think it was called—
Nerine: Noooo!
Nerine: A Bird's Tale is my story to tell!
Nerine: The birdie hasn't reached the southern island yet!
Drusilla: What's taking so long? The version I know has the bird reaching the southern island early on!
Nerine: Guh, what have you done! You're ruining the story!
Drusilla: Ah... I'm sorry, I just...
Nerine: Bad Drusilla! Neener, neener!
Drusilla: I'll admit that was in poor taste! How unladylike of me to spoil a good story...
Nerine: Okay. I'll forgive you if you do me a favor...
Drusilla: Wh-what's that?
Nerine: Play lots and lots with me!
Drusilla: Huh?
Nerine: I've been wanting to play tag with you during our study breaks!
Nerine: And there's so much to chat about! Tell me more about the world outside the forest!
Nerine: Do that, and you'll have my treeful forgiveness! How does that sound?
Drusilla: You want to play... with me?
Nerine: Is that a no?
Drusilla: Hey now, making that face is not fair.
Nerine: Ehehe, Morimori says that all the time too!
Drusilla: You're quite the little devil, aren't you?
Drusilla: Very well then. As long as you take your studies seriously.
Nerine: Hooray, hooray! You can be "it" first, Drusilla!
Drusilla: Wait... Studying has to come first!
Not intent on letting her student play hooky, Drusilla chases after Nerine.
Nerine: You'll have to catch up, or you're gonna be "it" forever!
Drusilla: Huff... Huff... You're too fast!
Drusilla: Haha...
From the next day onward, Drusilla's trip to the forest becomes a daily routine.
Meanwhile, (Captain) and company have been speaking to the residents of Omelas while going about their patrols.
Vyrn: You got a sec? We were hopin' you could tell us about that shack right outside the Erbsu Forest—
Omelas Resident 1: There is no shack there. You're clearly mistaken.
Lyria: Excuse me.. We wanted to ask about the calamity monsters—
Omelas Resident 2: Beats me... Have you tried asking the elder?
Vyrn: Something's off about the townspeople. Bein' antisocial is one thing, but it's more like they're pretending to be clueless.
Lyria: Yeah... What could they possibly be hiding?
Youth: Do you want to know?
Lyria: Huh?
The crew trade glances when a youth calls out to them.
Youth: All the grown-ups told me to keep quiet, but it doesn't seem right...
Vyrn: So what's the island's big secret then?
Youth: A child is sacrificed to keep Omelas safe...
Lyria: S-sacrificed?
Youth: The evil spirit Erbsu lives in the Erbsu Forest... and we have to make an offering to it.
Youth: We're able to live good lives thanks to the child's sacrifice, yet we pretend to know nothing about it...
Vyrn: Sacrifice... Evil spirit... Any chance the calamity monsters are involved?
Youth: I don't know. But in that shack—
Youth's Mom: Watch it! Not another word!
Youth: Mommy! These people are skyfarers, and I thought maybe—
Youth's Mom: You don't talk about it to anyone! Do you want the evil spirit to eat you!
Lyria: I'm sorry... We just wanted to ask a few questions...
Youth's Mom: And would you stop prying already! We've accepted things as they are and are perfectly happy with our lives!
The mother glares angrily at the crew before dragging her son away.
(Captain) and company are now certain that something very strange is happening on the island.
Deep in Erbsu Forest, a man stands before a shrine inside a secret cave.
Morimori: Could that Harvin girl's appearance be a blessing or a curse?
Morimori: I suppose it matters little either way. Nerine and I will stay the course.
The aged shrine seems to silently gaze at Morimori's profile.
The pattern at its center symbolizes that of a black lily.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 2: A Bird So Close - Episode 4
Having become friends with Nerine, Drusilla hopes to become friends with Andira and the others next and spends some time with them. When the topic of being "normal" or "special" comes up, Drusilla reacts adversely and runs off on her own.
Another day, another literacy lesson for Nerine.
Drusilla: Well then, can you read me this phrase?
Nerine: I can do this! "Touring the shopping district," right?
Drusilla: Well done! A shopping district is generally a part of town lined with shops along the entire road.
Nerine: Shopping is the exchange of money and goods! And your family makes people do lots of it!
Drusilla: Er, your explanation of a merchant is a bit off... but I suppose it's close enough!
Nerine: Ehehe... Writing is still hard, but reading's not so bad if I have the chart to compare!
Drusilla: Heheh... Am I a great teacher or what!
Nerine: That's the treeful truth! You even told me what it's like in town... You're a true genius, Miss Drusilla!
Drusilla: Er... Okay, now you're embarrassing me a tiny bit...
Nerine: Ehehe! I'm just speaking the truth!
Drusilla: Mmph...
Bashful at receiving Nerine's praise, Drusilla turns away for a moment.
Drusilla: Ah...
Nerine: It's past noon, isn't it! I'm feeling hungry too!
Drusilla: Er, that wasn't my stomach rumbling...
Nerine: What do you mean? I heard it loud and clear!
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Yes, I suppose you're right. I'm feeling hungry too!
Nerine: Why don't we have lunch together? I'll make us some forest soup!
It doesn't take long for Nerine to whip up a meal. A fragrant scent soon fills the air.
Drusilla & Nerine: Time to eat!
Drusilla: Let me try the soup first...
Drusilla: ...!
This is so delicious, my taste buds are dancing!
This is so delicious, my taste buds are dancing!
Nerine: That's great! Maybe I can dance with your taste buds!
Drusilla: Oh, how silly! Taste buds don't actually dance; it's an expression—
Nerine: Ahhh! Hold on a sec!
Nerine: You can't be talking to me like a teacher right now! Because it's my turn to do the teaching!
Drusilla: So we're taking turns now?
Nerine: That's right! You've taught me so much; it's only right that I try to return the favor by showing you how great the forest can be!
Nerine: Though I'm sure the food here is no match for what you can find in town...
Drusilla: Nerine...
Nerine: "Drusilla happily feasted on Nerine's cooking!"
Nerine: "Her taste buds danced until her cheeks fell!"
Drusilla: Sounds like a horror story!
Nerine: "The two became fast friends, and a little bird celebrated this new friendship! The end!"
Drusilla: Friends?
Nerine: Mm-hm! I can't help but smile when you're around... So I'd say that makes you a friend.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Right, of course... We're friends.
Feeling an unfamiliar sensation wash over her, the Harvin musters a smile.
Drusilla: These nuts are delectable. What are they called?
Nerine: Huh? Can't we just call them "delectable nuts"?
Drusilla: Oh, I see what you mean... Not everything out there has a name, huh.
The two shoot the breeze while enjoying a warm lunch together.
Drusilla: (Ahh... I feel full all the way to my heart.)
Drusilla: (I can't remember the last time I had this much fun!)
Drusilla finds herself flashing a smile as wide as Nerine's.
Upon her return to the Grandcypher that night, Drusilla greets her fellow crewmates.
Drusilla: I'm back.
Andira: ...!
Oh, hey, Drusilla.
Oh, hey, Drusilla.
Drusilla: (I managed to become friends with Nerine...)
Drusilla: (Just as long as I don't come off as too standoffish, maybe I can be friends with them too...)
Feeling tense, Drusilla stuffs a hand into her pocket.
Drusilla: (These nameless nuts from the forest should help me break the ice.)
Sylph: We've awaited your safe return, Lovemeister Drusilla.
Lily: We love-unicated while exploring the ship today!
Drusilla: Love-unicated? As in communicated about love?
Sylph: We compared it to the five senses. In terms of taste, love is both sweet and bitter. In terms of smell, love is both fragrant and malodorous.
Lily: In other words, we're still clueless! We were hoping you could enlighten us some more, Drusilla!
Drusilla: ...!
Andira: How did you come to be called the evangelist of love to begin with?
Sylph: Hm... I think we could learn a lot if you provided us with some details.
Drusilla: (Perhaps it's time to lay it all out... I was never called Lovemeister Drusilla...)
Drusilla: Um, the truth is—
Andira: For one thing, I still can't get over how much life experience you have.
Andira: I mean, as far as I can tell, you're a normal child just like us.
Drusilla: ...!
Lily: You're such a wonderful lady!
Lily: I'm no good when it comes to difficult things like studying. But you, Drusilla? You're a true pro-fence-shuttle in every way!
Sylph: Lily... I believe you mean "professional"?
Lily: Oops...
Drusilla: (Ah...)
The strength drains from Drusilla's body. Everyone suddenly seems so distant from her.
Drusilla: (Me? Normal like the rest of you? Yet a professional?)
Drusilla: (Why does it have to be you three to tell me that?)
Drusilla: Urgh... Black coffee is far too bitter!
Drusilla: But I'm going to try my best to get used to it!
Drusilla: My eyes go round and round trying to make sense of this accounting ledger...
Drusilla: But stay strong, Drusilla! As long as you keep at it...
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla's next words seem to crawl out from the pit of her stomach.
Drusilla: Things must be so easy when you're born special. You can say things like that without thinking.
Lily: Huh?
Andira: Special? What do you mean?
Drusilla: As if I didn't know you've been laughing behind my back all this time...
Drusilla: To you, I'm the ordinary girl with no talent who's oh so desperate to prove herself.
Andira: Hmph...
Drusilla: (Drusilla, no. What are you saying?)
Lily: Drusilla? I'm so sorry if I was rude in any way—
Andira: What's with the sudden attitude? Honestly, I've never really cared whether anyone might be normal or special.
Drusilla: ...!
Never cared about it?
Never cared about it?
Drusilla: W-well, good for you! I never wanted to care about it either!
Sylph: Please calm down, Drusilla. We bear no ill will towards you.
Drusilla: I know! That's why I...
Drusilla: ...!
Lily: Ah, Drusilla!
Sylph: Why did she react that way?
Andira: Heck if I know! There's no telling with her!
Korwa: ...
Korwa: Drusilla...
Only You in All the World - Chapter 3: Taking That First Step - Episode 1
Drusilla talks to Nerine about her realization that she's not all that special after all and her inability to cope with this truth. After some consolation from Nerine, Drusilla resolves to reconcile with Andira and the other girls.
Drusilla: Haaah...
Drusilla: I am quite literally the worst...
While visiting Nerine the following morning, Drusilla brings up the events of the previous night.
Nerine: And that turned into an argument, huh...
Drusilla: Rather, it was mostly just me being unreasonable.
A crestfallen Drusilla takes a seat on the stump and clutches her knees.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Back home, I always thought I was special and could become anything I set my mind to.
Drusilla: I could do arithmetic faster than other kids my age, and I was decent at extracurricular activities as long as I put in the effort. All the grown-ups would shower me with praise...
Drusilla: But ever since joining the crew...
Drusilla: I've met the Twelve Divine Generals, a princess who saved her homeland, primal beasts, royalty, the Eternals, people who can see the future or peek into memories...
Drusilla: There are so many people out there who are much more special than I could ever be...
Drusilla: I realized that I'm like a bird trapped in a cage... No more special than a nameless tree nut.
Nerine: So... that's why being normal bothers you?
Drusilla: If I'm not special, what becomes of the incredibly high expectations my parents have for me? Not to mention all their praise?
Drusilla: And what about the kindness of Grandmother, who always baked me delicious cookies and taught me proper discipline?
Drusilla: All of that would be for naught... That's what bothers me most!
Drusilla: I need to be special, smart, amazing...
Nerine: Drusilla...
Drusilla: Deep down, I know that I'm just running from the truth.
Drusilla: But this is the only way I know to cope with my feelings!
Nerine: ...
Hoping to console her, Nerine gently grasps the Harvin's hand.
Nerine: You are special, Drusilla.
Drusilla: Oh, stop it... I know myself best—
Nerine: Nuh-uh, you don't. You're a dum-dum.
Nerine: At the very least, you're special to me, Drusilla!
Drusilla: ...!
Nerine: I'm so sorry for saying you were normal when we first met.
Nerine: But I couldn't have been more wrong! Because you're a very special and treeful person, Drusilla!
Nerine: You're the first friend I've ever made. No matter how vast the world might be, there's only one of you!
Drusilla: Nerine...
Nerine: You might be normal to others, but you're definitely special to me.
Nerine: I hope that makes you feel a little better?
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla raises her head but looks away from Nerine.
Drusilla: I've always acted high-and-mighty, despite not having any particular talents.
Nerine: But... You taught me to read and write!
Drusilla: I'm a hopeless coward who had to go so far as to pretend I couldn't see Homlet.
Nerine: You mean that bird on your hat? Hello there, I'm Nerine!
Drusilla: I could never get used to black coffee no matter how much I forced myself to drink it.
Nerine: Black coffee? I don't know even know what that is!
Drusilla: Haha...
Letting out a chuckle, Drusilla turns to face her friend.
Drusilla: It's strange... When I talk to you, I somehow feel so full and satisfied...
Nerine: Huh? Am I food? Are your taste buds dancing again?
Drusilla: Yeah... They're doing the tango right now.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: I'm going to apologize to the girls when I get back to the airship.
Drusilla: I'll come out with my true feelings, and if they're willing to forgive me...
Drusilla: As brazen of a request as it may be for me to make, I'll ask to become friends with them.
Nerine: You can do it! Be sure to introduce them to me too later!
Drusilla: Most certainly! That'll be the first thing I do—
Morimori: Whoooo! That's greeeaaat, Drusilla!
Drusilla: Eek! Swooping in from above again...
Morimori: Sniff... Things must have been so tough for you... My tears won't stop pouring out!
Drusilla: Y-you heard it all? How uncultured to eavesdrop on a conversation between ladies—
Morimori: I have every faith that you can smooth things over with them! I offer you my wholehearted support as a fellow comrade of the Nerine Alliance!
Drusilla: Gyaaah! Get away from me! Your snot's going to get all over my clothes!
Nerine: Ahaha! I wanna snuggle too, Drusilla!
While pushing Morimori away, Drusilla reminisces about her dear family back home.
Drusilla's Dad: I can't believe she figured it out without any advice from us!
Drusilla's Mom: Teehee... I can already imagine a town statue being erected in honor of Drusilla's many great accomplishments.
Drusilla: (I'm starting to understand.)
Drusilla: (Even if I can't be like the other girls, it's okay...)
Basking in Nerine's bodily warmth, Drusilla resolves to reconcile with her fellow crew members.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 3: Taking That First Step - Episode 2
Drusilla successfully makes up with Andira and the others and spends a pleasant evening with them. Meanwhile, Nerine finds a stone monument in a cave and is able to make out enough of the writing on it to discover a horrible truth.
On the Grandcypher, Korwa is hearing about the girls' incident with Drusilla.
Andira: What do you think, Korwa? If you ask me, we didn't do anything wrong.
Korwa: Yeah, you're definitely not at fault.
Andira: Huh?
Korwa: Why, you're awfully surprised.
Andira: Well, you see...
An abashed Andira casts her gaze downward to the wood grain.
Andira: We just wanted to become friends with Drusilla...
Korwa: I know. And I'm sure she feels the same way.
Lily: Really? But she got angry at us...
Korwa: I can tell you for certain that deep down, Drusilla wasn't feeling angry at all. In fact, she probably regrets coming off that way.
Korwa: If Drusilla comes to apologize to you guys, do you think you can forgive her?
Andira: Yeah...
Korwa: Then a happy ending's in sight! You're all great kids, so a sad outcome is the last thing I'd want to see!
Sylph: A happy ending... I like the sound of that.
Drusilla: Huff... Huff... Found you all...
Lily: Ah, Drusilla...
Drusilla runs up to the girls as she catches her breath.
Drusilla: I'm so sorry!
Andira: ...!
Drusilla: I... I...
Drusilla: I am no love evangelist... Lovemeister Drusilla isn't real!
Lily: Huh?
Drusilla: It's just something I made up in the heat of the moment in my vaingloriousness!
Drusilla: I knew I was wrong, but I couldn't just back down from what I said...
Drusilla: And then things just spiraled out of control... You girls did nothing wrong, yet unpleasant sentiments welled up within me.
Drusilla: I am truly sorry! I'll accept any punishment you may have in mind!
Seeing Drusilla bow her head deeply, Andira takes a step forward.
Andira: I thought a lot about what you said, Drusilla.
Andira: And no matter what angle you approach it from, I just don't see how someone being normal or special makes any difference.
Drusilla: ...
Andira: Honestly, I'm still not sure why you felt you had to lie or why you were angry.
Lily: Andira...
Andira: At the end of the day though...
Andira: We just want to be friends with you, Drusilla!
Drusilla: ...!
Sylph: And we're not angry either. In fact, we want a happy ending.
Drusilla: Y-you're not angry? A happy ending, huh...
Drusilla: Wait, I was going to ask about becoming friends! You're so quick to forgive me...
Drusilla: I mean, I lied to you. It doesn't quite feel right to be let off the hook so easily...
Lily: We can make up for it by playing lots and lots together.
Lily: It'll feel like we haven't lost any time with each other at all.
Drusilla: N-no! That works out too well for me!
Korwa: C'mon now, you should be glad! All's well that ends well, as the saying goes!
Drusilla: Korwa! What are you doing here?
Korwa: Don't sweat the small stuff!
Korwa: Drusilla, look at the big picture... Do you or do you not want to become friends with them?
All Three: ...
Drusilla: I-I...
Neighbor: If you ask me, that picture book looks a ton more fun. A little birdie embarks on an adventure to the southern island!
Drusilla: I... I also...
Drusilla: I want to be friends! I want to play with Andira, Lily, and Sylph!
Lily: Drusilla!
Korwa: That's more like it!
Korwa pumps her fist as the other girls rush up to Drusilla.
Andira: Let's take lots of tours around the Grandcypher! I'd like to know where your favorite places are, Drusilla.
Drusilla: Certainly! I know a great spot that's rather scenic when I line it up with my dolls!
Drusilla: And, um... Can you say my name again?
Andira: Hm?
Andira: Ehehe. This is a bit embarrassing, but I'm glad we were able to make up... Drusilla!
Andira: Now it's your turn to say my name!
Drusilla: Ah!
Drusilla: A... Andira...
Andira: Perfect!
Lily: Hehe, maybe we can kick things off with a pie party.
Korwa: Leave the venue and ingredients to me! Consider it thanks for showing me something so precious.
Korwa: Every tale deserves a happy ending!
Sylph: The mortal culture of welcome parties... Hosting would be a new experience for me.
Drusilla: A new experience...
Drusilla: Um, do you think these nuts could go into the pies?
Lily: Of course! I've never seen nuts shaped like this though.
Drusilla: These nuts don't have a name, but... I can vouch for their taste!
Drusilla makes pie with the girls that night and enjoys a merry feast with them.
Drusilla: (Nerine... It's thanks to you that I was able to come this far...)
Drusilla: (I can't wait to tell you all about it come morning!)
The girls have so much to talk about that the party continues late into the night.
All Four: ...
When the four doze off, Korwa gently carries each of them to their beds.
Nerine: Haha, Drusilla must be having a grand time with her new friends right now.
Nerine is studying alone under the moonlit canopy of the forest.
Nerine: I finished all the homework I got from Drusilla.
Nerine: Wonder if I can find anything else with letters on it... Not an easy feat out here—
Nerine: Ah!
Nerine: I know Morimori said I should stay away from the cave, but...
Nerine: There! Found some writing on the rocks!
Aided by the dim lighting, Nerine opens up her eyes wide, trying to make out the writing on the stone monument.
Nerine: Hm...
Nerine: Huh?
Nerine: What... is this...
Nerine traces her fingers over the ancient writing, cross-referencing with her letter chart and reading it multiple times.
Each time Nerine completes the passage, she loses a bit of the innocent shine in her eyes.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 3: Taking That First Step - Episode 3
The next day, Drusilla has so much fun playing with her new friends that she nearly forgets about Nerine. Realizing her faux pas, she rushes off to the forest and suggests to Nerine that everyone should meet up next time.
The following morning, Drusilla explores the Grandcypher with her newfound friends.
Lily: Bing-bong-ding-dong! This here's the cafe!
Sylph: The cafe? Hm, I've never been to this part of the dining hall.
Lily: I learned about it myself recently!
Andira: Sandalphon runs the cafe, right? He doesn't seem to be around today though...
Drusilla: Well... There appear to be a number of machines for brewing coffee here.
Sylph: That black drink... It seems to be an acquired taste.
Lily: An acquired taste... I wonder if it's okay to try some.
Andira: The label here says to feel free to use the equipment, but I don't know how any of it works.
Drusilla: Heheh! My father is an avid drinker of the beverage! Leave this to me!
Drusilla: Or at least that's what I'd like to say, but my memory's a bit hazy. I'll need everyone's help.
Lily: Of course! I'm ready for Operation Make Coffee!
Andira: We boiled the water just to wet a piece of paper? Isn't that kind of a waste?
Drusilla: I'm not sure either, but that's what I read once in a coffee manual...
Sylph: We pour these beans in next? How many should I pour in?
Drusilla: Oh, wait! Grinding the beans has to come first... But before that, we need cups—
Lily: Okey doke! Will this cup do? I love the snowflake pattern on it!
Drusilla: I think there are special cups for this. In the cupboard, you should be able to find cups on saucers.
Sylph: Cups on saucers? How mysterious... A cup is already a vessel. Why would you need a vessel for the vessel?
Andira: Gah, my head is spinning! Let's hope this acquired taste is worth it...
After much struggle, the girls manage to make four cups of coffee.
Lily: Gulp... So this is coffee...
Though intimidated by the sight of the beverage, the four transport the cups to their lips.
The Three: Urk, that's really bitter!
Uwaagh...
Lily: I can't believe grown-ups drink this all the time...
Andira: Seriously, the bitterness is overpowering! Did we mess up somewhere along the way?
Drusilla: This is what coffee is. One is meant to enjoy the wafting scent while transporting the cup to their lips in one graceful movement.
Sylph: Drusilla... Do you really mean to drink this mud water?
Drusilla: Ergh...
Drusilla: It's too bitter! I can't handle it after all!
Lily: Ahahaha. Care for some water, Drusilla?
Drusilla: Yes, please.
Though perhaps a bit too young to appreciate the taste of coffee, they bask in each other's company and finish their drinks nonetheless.
Andira: As bitter as the coffee was, I had a great time!
Drusilla: Likewise... I can't remember the last time I had this much fun!
Drusilla: (I can't remember the last time I had this much fun!)
Drusilla: (Wait... I thought the very same thing not too long ago...)
Sylph: I'm glad we were able to get together today.
Sylph: You've been heading out in the morning a lot lately, Drusilla. I was afraid you'd be busy today too...
Drusilla: Busy?
Drusilla: ...!
Nerine: Be sure to introduce them to me too later!
Drusilla: Oh, right! How could I forget—
Promising to explain herself later, Drusilla rushes out of the cafe and makes for the Erbsu Forest.
Drusilla: I'm so sorry I'm late!
Nerine: No worries! It's not your fault.
Drusilla: Huh?
Nerine: Congrats! You became friends with everyone, right?
Drusilla: I most certainly did! I wanted to let you know right away!
Drusilla: And yet I can't believe I let it slip my mind... Maybe because I stayed up late last night?
Nerine: ...
Drusilla: Anyhow, I promised to introduce you to my new friends!
Nerine: Yeah, you did...
Nerine: But I just remembered! Morimori said I'm not supposed to leave the forest.
Drusilla: Oh my... I suppose I'll just have to bring everyone here then!
Nerine: ...
Drusilla: Nerine? What's wrong?
Nerine: It's nothing! I must be tired from lack of sleep.
Nerine: I'll make them all some forest soup! As thanks for being good to my precious Drusilla!
Drusilla: Aww! I'm sure they'll be delighted to have your delicious soup, Nerine!
Nerine beams back at the Harvin, trying to share in her joy.
Though Nerine's smile is as bright as the sunny skies above, the trace of gloom also present goes unnoticed by Drusilla.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 3: Taking That First Step - Episode 4
On her next visit to the forest, Drusilla brings her friends. Unfortunately, none of them are able to see Nerine. Nerine runs off in distress with Drusilla in pursuit. A calamity monster emerges and swallows up Drusilla.
On the next day, Drusilla brings Andira and the others to the forest.
Lily: What a surprise to learn you have a friend in the forest...
Andira: A forest dweller named Nerine... What do we do if she's the size of a bear?
Drusilla: You have nothing to fear on that front. She's a little strange, but she loves to think up new stories...
Sylph: Being very fond of stories myself, I look forward to meeting her.
Andira: We've walked quite a bit... She's still further in?
Drusilla: Hm... We should already be there by now...
Drusilla: Maybe we got lost on the way.
Lily: Well, the forest does look the same everywhere. I get lost in the forest all the time too!
Drusilla: (Except this has never happened... Perhaps I'm feeling nervous today.)
Drusilla pushes onward despite the slight confusion, and before long the luscious scent of warm forest soup tickles their nostrils.
Drusilla: Phew... Here we are!
Nerine: Good morning! The soup's just about done!
Drusilla: Wow, that's a lot! Three whole pots?
Nerine: I mean, I didn't know how big your friends were. They might've been bigger than bears.
Drusilla: Not you too, Nerine... But thank you.
Drusilla lets out a sigh and stands next to her forest friend.
Drusilla: Allow me to do the introductions. This is Nerine.
All Three: ...
Drusilla: Um... Is it so surprising that she's not a bear?
Andira: Er, that's not quite it...
Andira, Lily, and Sylph exchange curious glances.
Lily: Drusilla, who were you talking to just now?
Drusilla: Huh?
Sylph: My apologies. I'm afraid I cannot see this person you call Nerine.
Drusilla: Wh-what do you mean? She's standing right next to me!
Nerine: ...
Drusilla: She made all this forest soup in anticipation of meeting everyone...
Drusilla: We can feast once you've said your hellos. Let's cut it out with the cruel jokes, shall we?
Lily: Drusilla? Um...
Andira: This isn't something we would joke about. We really can't see her.
Sylph: Though the soup does smell pleasant—
Drusilla: Enough already! You say something too, Nerine!
Nerine: ...!
Drusilla: Nerine!
Drusilla: What's wrong?
Wait for me!
Wait for me!
Drusilla makes to chase after Nerine.
Drusilla: Eek!
Her foot caught in a tree root, Drusilla trips and falls.
Drusilla: Wait! Nerine! Nerine!
An uncanny shadow descends upon the shrieking Drusilla.
Calamity Monster: Gwaaaah!
Drusilla: ...!
The calamity monster growls as it encroaches upon its prey.
The Harvin is quickly consumed by its ghostly figure.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 4: Muddled Memories - Episode 1
Drusilla is saved by (Captain) and the crew, who explain that a child called a "solacebringer" protects the town by spending their entire life with a lonely evil spirit called Erbsu that dwells in the forest. When Drusilla tells them about Nerine, they all resolve to find her.
Drusilla: Where... am I?
Sorrowful Voice: But why?
Sorrowful Voice: How could you...
Sorrowful Voice: This is all wrong!
Drusilla: Whose voice is that? Is someone there?
Within the deep darkness, Drusilla begins to walk. When suddenly...
Choose: Haaah!
Lyria: Drusilla! Are you okay?
Drusilla: Lyria? And (Captain) too...
Andira: You're safe now. (Captain) and the crew showed up and drove the monster away.
Vyrn: Calamity monsters started poppin' out in droves all of a sudden. We were chasin' 'em down when we heard your voice.
Sylph: You came into contact with the creature for a moment. Are you feeling all right?
Drusilla: Yes, I'm fine.
Drusilla: But...
Drusilla: (Nerine...)
Drusilla stares at the spot where the pots of soup her friend had made sit simmering with a gentle bubbling sound.
That night after finishing their forest patrol, (Captain) and company assemble to pool information.
Vyrn: So you guys were in the woods to meet Drusilla's friend, huh?
Drusilla: And you all received a request to defeat those monsters.
Andira: But isn't this all a little fishy? That monster we ran into was really scary...
Vyrn: Yeah. We thought the same thing, so we started lookin' into that elder guy...
Town Elder: Oh, Erbsu! I was foolish to try to resist!
Town Elder: I understand full well that if a sacrifice is demanded, it is my responsibility to—
Vyrn: What's all this about a sacrifice?
Town Elder: ...!
You're those skyfarers!
You're those skyfarers!
Vyrn: That's one huge altar. Never would've guessed there was somethin' like this hidden under the meeting room.
Town Elder: ...
Lyria: One of the children in town gathered up his courage to talk to us. He said there's an evil spirit in the Erbsu Forest.
Lyria: Would you be willing to explain what exactly is happening here in Omelas?
Vyrn: If you can tell us what's goin' on, we might be able to help out somehow.
Town Elder: ...
Town Elder: That's impossible. I've devoted my entire life to this town, but I haven't been able to change a single thing.
The elder speaks as though making a confession, his voice trembling with emotion.
Town Elder: The evil spirit Erbsu is a supernatural being that rules the forest.
Vyrn: Supernatural?
Town Elder: Yes. Legend has it that Erbsu is terribly lonely, and that its sighs and howls give rise to the calamity monsters.
Town Elder: In order to ease the spirit's loneliness, it has been a custom in Omelas since ancient times... to present a child as an offering to the forest.
Lyria: The boy mentioned a sacrifice. Is that what he meant?
Town Elder: We call them "solacebringers." They dedicate themselves in life, not death.
Town Elder: Solacebringers spend their entire lives together with the evil spirit and are entrusted with relieving its loneliness.
Vyrn: So they're left all alone with the spirit? Until they die?
Town Elder: It is through this noble sacrifice that Omelas continues to thrive.
Lyria: Oh no! Then is that what the shack we saw is for?
Town Elder: Though Erbsu loathes solitude, the spirit also rejects those who are not isolated themselves as well.
Town Elder: That structure is where the child who is to become the next solacebringer resides in order to achieve profound loneliness.
Vyrn: Now that's a jerk move if I ever heard one. You build a shack way out on the edge of town and then ignore the kid who lives there?
Town Elder: Discussion of the solacebringers and the shack is forbidden, as well as anything related to the legend of Erbsu.
Lyria: But why? If you all talked about it, you might be able to come up with a plan—
Town Elder: Our hearts couldn't bear it!
Lyria: ...!
Town Elder: We live comfortable lives at the expense of another. If we were to confront such a reality, our spirits would be broken beyond repair!
Town Elder: That is why we must forget... We must turn a blind eye...
Town Elder: It is not our wish to offer a solacebringer! But if we don't, we too will face a terrible fate!
The deep wrinkles etched into the elder's face attest to the years of anguish he has endured.
Town Elder: I have made countless attempts to break free of this cycle.
Town Elder: But each one resulted in failure. In the end, I built this altar and pleaded for Erbsu's mercy!
Town Elder: My entire life has been a waste! If only I had volunteered myself as a solacebringer when I was still a boy!
Town Elder: I could have at least saved that one child!
All Four: ...
A heavy silence falls over the group after learning the dark truth surrounding the town.
Sylph: There is one thing I'm curious about. Why are the calamity monsters still appearing?
Andira: Oh, good question. One of those solacebringers should be in the forest to keep Erbsu in check, right?
Vyrn: Apparently the calamity monsters that show up in cycles are a special case.
Vyrn: The spirit's in a deep sleep, but once in a while it cries out 'cause of a bad dream... and they appear every time.
Drusilla: (An evil spirit... A solacebringer...)
Nerine: Morimori's my dad! We've always lived together in the forest!
Drusilla: This suspicious-looking man is your father?
Morimori: Yes, it's just been us two for the longest time! No need to be envious though.
Drusilla: (Just the two of them...)
Drusilla: (Don't tell me Nerine is the solacebringer? In that case, Morimori must be—)
Vyrn: Now it's time to hear from you guys. What happened in the woods?
Drusilla: I'll tell you everything I know. Starting from the day I met Nerine...
Lyria: I see. And then Nerine disappeared deep into the woods...
Drusilla: Um... Do you really believe me?
Andira: What do you mean?
Drusilla: Well, Nerine was invisible to you all.
Drusilla: It would be more natural for you to think that I was delusional or mistaken...
Sylph: What are you talking about?
Lily: There's no way you'd lie to us!
Andira: That's right! You're our friend, and you say it's true. Of course we believe you.
Drusilla: ...!
Sylph: The question is why we were unable to see Nerine. She certainly seems like more than a mere girl who lives in the forest.
Vyrn: You said it. And what's up with that Morimori guy who was hanging around her?
Lyria: If we can solve this mystery, we might uncover a link to Erbsu.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla looks on silently as her friends discuss the situation in earnest.
Drusilla: (That's right. I'm no longer alone.)
Vyrn: We'll talk to the elder again tomorrow. We can ask him about Nerine too.
Andira: And we'll go back into the Erbsu Forest to look for her.
Lily: She's Drusilla's friend. We'll find her, no matter what!
Having decided on their plan of action for the next day, (Captain) and the crew head to their rooms.
Drusilla: ...
Nerine: You're the first friend I've ever made. No matter how vast the world might be, there's only one of you!
Drusilla: No matter how vast the forest might be, I'll find you. I swear it.
Her mind full of thoughts of her friend, Drusilla quietly closes her eyes.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 4: Muddled Memories - Episode 2
The next morning, Drusilla is shocked to learn that everyone's memories of Nerine have vanished, and that her own are fading as well. She encounters Morimori in the forest, who informs her that Nerine is Erbsu, referring her to a nearby monument for the rest of the story.
Lily: Bing-bong-ding-dong! This is the deck!
Sylph: Seeing it again like this, it certainly is spacious.
Andira: What do you guys want to do today? Maybe a game of tag?
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla stands dumbfounded, staring at her friends talking cheerfully before her.
Andira: Hey, Drusilla. Do you have any ideas—
Drusilla: What are you all doing!
Lily: Um... We're giving Sylph a guided tour! We explored together yesterday too, remember?
Drusilla: That's not what I meant! We're supposed to go look for Nerine today!
Andira: Nerine? Who's that?
Sylph: I've never heard that name before.
Drusilla: ...!
Lily: Oh! Is that a new member of the crew? Are they coming exploring with us?
Drusilla: W-wait... Could it be you don't remember her?
Sylph: Forgive me. I'm afraid I don't know who you are referring to.
Drusilla: ...!
Andira: Wait, Drusilla!
Drusilla: This can't be happening! How could they forget about Nerine in the span of a single day?
Drusilla: But they didn't seem to be pretending...
Korwa: Whoops!
Korwa: What's wrong, Drusilla? You seem really flustered.
Drusilla: Nerine is real! She really exists!
Korwa: N-Nerine? Hold on, try to calm down. Who are you talking about?
Drusilla: Nerine is my friend!
Drusilla: She loves to think up stories, but they aren't interesting in the least...
Drusilla: A-and even when you're trying to teach her to read and write, all she wants to do is play...
Drusilla: And she also... She also...
Drusilla: She... also...
Korwa: Drusilla?
Drusilla: What? But why?
With a trembling hand, Drusilla takes out a notebook from her pocket.
Drusilla: That's right! She wrote in here—
Korwa: The page looks blank to me.
Drusilla: It can't be...
Clutching the notebook to her chest, Drusilla falls to her knees.
Drusilla: Every trace of Nerine... is disappearing!
Drusilla: I have to find her. Before she's completely gone!
Drusilla: But—
A cold wind blows through the dense woods as though mocking her efforts.
Drusilla: Where am I?
Unable to recall the correct path, Drusilla frantically plows her way through the trees.
Drusilla: I must hurry! Otherwise my memories will vanish too!
With no sense of how much time has passed since she started searching, Drusilla desperately plunges further into the dark forest.
Wandering aimlessly, she eventually comes upon a cave.
Drusilla: There are footprints here.
Drusilla: Nerine! Could she be in there?
Hoping for a miracle, Drusilla makes her way inside. When suddenly...
Morimori: You again, Drusilla? Never thought you'd make it this far.
Drusilla: Morimori?
Morimori: You must have already forgotten a good chunk by now. Guess that means your feelings for Nerine were genuine.
Drusilla: What in the skies is going on? Where is Nerine? And who are you—really?
Morimori: Take my advice and go back to town right now. It's for your own good.
Drusilla: What?
Morimori bends down and looks straight into Drusilla's eyes.
Morimori: You'll understand when you grow up. There are truths in this world that you shouldn't learn and realities that you don't need to face.
Morimori: It'd be better for you to give up on Nerine and just let yourself forget—
Drusilla: If it means I'm not allowed to see my friend, then I have no interest in growing up!
Drusilla: You obviously know something. I want you to tell me!
Morimori: Not getting through to you, am I? But I guess that sort of foolhardiness comes with being a kid.
Heaving a deep sigh, Morimori stares at Drusilla, his expression unflinching.
Morimori: Nerine's true identity... is the evil spirit Erbsu.
Drusilla: What?
Morimori: She is the master of this forest. Its lonely, wretched ruler.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Nerine is... Erbsu? Not the solacebringer?
Drusilla stands frozen in shock as Morimori nods silently.
Morimori: See that stone monument?
Morimori: You should read it. That would be quicker than me telling you.
Too stunned to even move, Drusilla looks at the monument beside her.
There, hidden away in the Erbsu Forest, she finds a true account of the town's history spanning hundreds of years.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 4: Muddled Memories - Episode 3
The monument explains that centuries ago, a girl named Erbsu sacrificed herself to protect Omelas only to be transformed into an evil spirit due to the villagers' cruel rumors. It also reveals that Nerine is a copy of Erbsu, and that calamity monsters will appear if her emotions become unstable.
Several hundred years ago, Omelas was a peaceful village where the people lived together in harmony with the bountiful forest.
One day, strange creatures invaded from another realm, driving Omelas to the brink of destruction.
Village Elder of Old: The forest god is angry! Its wrath must be appeased somehow...
Erbsu: If it will save the village, then I shall offer myself to the god!
Erbsu, the daughter of the village elder, bravely volunteered to give herself as a sacrifice.
Whether the result of her actions or simply the desperate resistance of the people, the onslaught at last came to an end.
Erbsu's Soul: Thank goodness. Omelas is saved.
Around that time, the village elder reached the end of his life span and sadly passed away.
Erbsu's Soul: I'm sure Father will be lauded as the hero who saved the village.
Having remained in the forest, the soul of Erbsu headed to Omelas for a final look at the village before departing from this world.
Villager 1: It's not our fault! The village elder is the one who sacrificed his own daughter!
Villager 2: Exactly! We never could have done such a thing!
Erbsu's Soul: ...!
In order to escape the guilt of having their lives spared at the expense of another's, the villagers placed their blame on the late elder.
Villager 1: I bet the elder's daughter became an evil spirit and cursed him to death.
Villager 2: That has to be it! Even now, that evil spirit must dwell within the forest!
Erbsu's Soul: But why! The threat has already passed!
Her voice unheard, rumors of the evil spirit Erbsu quickly spread throughout the village like wildfire.
Erbsu's Soul: Did I... make the wrong choice?
Alone in the dark forest, Erbsu continued to turn things over in her mind.
Erbsu's Soul: All I wanted was for everyone to live their lives with smiles on their faces.
Erbsu's Soul: How... How could this happen?
Erbsu: Gwaaaah!
Evil Spirit Erbsu: ...!
Her loneliness transformed her into a true evil spirit, and she began to spawn calamity monsters.
Eventually in Omelas, even the very existence of the girl who first sacrificed herself was forgotten completely.
Evil Spirit Erbsu: ...
As time went on, Erbsu came to be pacified by "solacebringers" and fell into a deep sleep within a dark room.
Nerine: ...
Solacebringer: ...!
Who are you?
Who are you?
Nerine: Umm... I'm not sure. Nerine?
Solacebringer: Nerine? Is that your name?
Nerine: I think so. Nice to meet you!
The girl who suddenly appeared in the forest was in fact a copy of Erbsu.
Perhaps in reaction to Erbsu's loneliness, this mysterious girl was bright and energetic.
Monument: "We solacebringers must bear this truth in our minds and live our lives giving extra consideration to Nerine's mood."
Monument: "If her emotions become unstable, it will affect Erbsu as well, resulting in the appearance of calamity monsters."
Monument: "There is no continuity to Nerine's memory. When the current solacebringer dies, they will be conveniently forgotten, and the next will be welcomed with open arms."
Monument: "To my future comrades, I wish you well.
—The Fourth Solacebringer"
—The Fourth Solacebringer"
Only You in All the World - Chapter 4: Muddled Memories - Episode 4
Morimori admits that he is a solacebringer, and that Drusilla was able to interact with Nerine because of her strong feelings of loneliness. Although Nerine seemingly knows that Drusilla is forgetting her after making new friends, the Harvin refuses to give up.
After reading the inscription written by a long line of solacebringers, Drusilla feels her entire body go numb.
Drusilla: Nerine is... Erbsu's alter ego?
Nerine: Neener, neener!
Nerine: Phew... The neener trick is a surefire way to deal with monsters.
Drusilla: So that calamity monster ran away because Nerine is actually Erbsu?
Drusilla: Then you must be—
Morimori: A solacebringer. I was confined to that shack since I was a child and came to the forest filled with plenty of loneliness to offer.
Morimori: I can no longer remember the face of my only friend or the contents of the picture books I used to read.
Drusilla: ...
Morimori: I was surprised when I saw you talking to Nerine.
Morimori: Nerine is the same as Erbsu. She can only be perceived by those who harbor a deep sense of loneliness and distress.
Drusilla: What?
Morimori: It's just as it sounds. She can neither be seen nor heard by ordinary people. Erbsu rejects those who aren't themselves isolated, you see.
Lily: Drusilla, who were you talking to just now?
Sylph: My apologies. I'm afraid I cannot see this person you call Nerine.
Drusilla: ...
Morimori: Your feelings of loneliness, despair, and inferiority must have been incredibly strong.
Morimori: But then—remember? You said you made friends on the airship.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: It can't be! Then the reason I'm forgetting about Nerine is...
Morimori: This isn't something you should regret. It's proof that you've overcome years of suffering.
Drusilla: No! This is too much!
Drusilla: I was only able to become friends with Andira and the girls because I met Nerine—
As Nerine's smiling face flashes through her mind, she gasps in realization.
Drusilla: Does Nerine know about this?
Morimori: Well... I haven't told her the truth, if that's what you're asking.
Morimori: After all, if Nerine falls into despair, a swarm of calamity monsters will be unleashed.
Morimori: That being said... I found this lying on the ground here.
Drusilla: This is the letter chart I gave Nerine!
Morimori: She must have read the monument. Meaning she knows who she really is, and that you're going to forget her.
Drusilla: ...!
Then back then...
Then back then...
Drusilla: I'm so sorry I'm late!
Nerine: No worries! It's not your fault.
Drusilla: Huh?
Nerine: Congrats! You became friends with everyone, right?
Drusilla: How could I have been so insensitive! I never even stopped to consider her feelings...
Drusilla: Where is Nerine now?
Morimori: Sorry. I can't tell you that.
Morimori: And even if I do, you'll forget right away.
Drusilla: No, I won't! I swear I won't forget!
Morimori: ...
Morimori: Look... I'm really grateful to you. I've never seen Nerine look so happy.
Morimori: Even so... this is goodbye. You'll never find Nerine again.
Drusilla: ...!
Morimori: But don't worry! It may hurt right now, but even that pain will be treefully forgotten!
Morimori: Take care now. I wish you and your friends all the best on your journey.
Drusilla: No, this is not goodbye!
Drusilla: I'll show you! I'll find Nerine if it's the last thing I do!
Nerine: ...
Nerine: Thank you, Drusilla.
Nerine's voice echoes beside Drusilla, but her words go unheard.
None the wiser, Drusilla dashes out of the cave in search of her friend.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 5: A Special Send-Off - Episode 1
After searching into the night for Nerine, Drusilla returns to the ship, where her friends tell her they feel like they've forgotten something important. Later, she reads the long-neglected letters from her family, which harden her resolve.
Drusilla runs through the forest searching high and low for Nerine.
Drusilla: Huff... Puff...
Drusilla: ...!
Though covered in scrapes and bruises from countless painful falls, she continues to press onward. However...
Drusilla: Is this... the entrance to the forest?
Surrounded by darkness, Drusilla crouches down, hugging her knees to her chest.
Drusilla: Is this really and truly goodbye?
Drusilla: Why! This can't be happening!
Drusilla: If this is how it's all going to end, I wish I had never even met Nerine...
Drusilla: ...
Andira: Welcome back, Drusilla—
Andira: Wait, what happened to your hand! It's bleeding like crazy!
Drusilla: I did it to myself. I had to carve Nerine's name there.
Lily: Oh no! It looks like it really hurts...
Drusilla: It does hurt. But I'm sure Nerine is in just as much pain.
Drusilla: And if ordinary writing is going to disappear, then this was the only way.
Sylph: Drusilla... About Nerine...
Drusilla: ...!
Do you remember her?
Do you remember her?
Sylph: No, I'm afraid I am not familiar with the name. But even so...
Sylph: Strangely, hearing it conjures the smell of soup in my mind.
Drusilla: ...!
Andira: Listen, the three of us were talking today.
Andira: There was something important we were supposed to be doing for you.
Andira: But for some reason, we just can't seem to remember what it is.
Lily: You're suffering so much, but we can't do anything to help!
Drusilla: Everyone...
Lily: Urgh... At least let me patch you up! I'll go grab the first aid kit!
Andira: Hey, Drusilla. I know there's a good chance I'll just forget again...
Andira: But could you tell me about Nerine?
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Nerine was my first friend.
Drusilla: She's the one who brought the four of us together.
After returning to her room, Drusilla traces the freshly treated wound on her hand.
Drusilla: If I'd never met Nerine, I would have never known such kindness...
Drusilla: Of course I'm glad I met her!
Drusilla: But what should I do?
Drusilla flops down onto the floor, holding her head in her hands.
At that moment, the stack of letters on the nearby desk collapses, spilling over directly in front of her.
Drusilla: Letters... From Father, Mother, and Grandmother.
Drusilla: Are you worried, angry, or perhaps simply appalled?
Drusilla: ...
Morimori: You'll understand when you grow up. There are truths in this world that you shouldn't learn and realities that you don't need to face.
Drusilla: Even so, I...
Drusilla grabs one of the letters and opens it, her expression resolute.
Drusilla: It's been so long since I've seen Father's handwriting.
Drusilla: ...
Dad's Letter: "To my dearest Drusilla."
Dad's Letter: "I continue to send these letters, holding firmly to the belief that you've simply been having too much fun to reply."
Dad's Letter: "Considering what a hard worker you are, there may be times you stumble more than others."
Dad's Letter: "But I'm not worried! After all, you're my pride and joy!"
Drusilla: H-he... isn't worried?
Drusilla: But this is Father we're talking about. Even when I'm merely popping into town on an errand, he typically sends at least two guards with me...
She sets down the letter and opens one from her mother next.
Mom's Letter: "To my beloved Drusilla."
Mom's Letter: "How do you like traveling by airship? I assume you've managed to get over your airsickness by now!"
Mom's Letter: "I hope you know that you can always count on me to support your choices."
Mom's Letter: "Will the statue erected in your honor depict you as a great skyfarer? I can't wait to see!"
Drusilla: M-Mother too?
Drusilla: But Grandmother will surely give me a thorough scolding...
Grandma's Letter: "Dear Drusilla."
Grandma's Letter: "Gazing up at the vast, blue sky above, I know that you must be out there somewhere."
Grandma's Letter: "I am incredibly proud of you for embarking alone on your journey that day."
Grandma's Letter: "I have no doubt that you must be feeling anxious, but I myself am not concerned in the least."
Grandma's Letter: "You have always been an intelligent child who never fails to understand what is truly important."
Grandma's Letter: "If you do choose to visit home someday, I shall bake you your favorite cookies."
Drusilla: What! I don't believe it!
Drusilla: Not a single harsh word... out of opposition or worry...
Drusilla: ...
Holding the letters close, Drusilla closes her eyes and takes a deep breath.
A gentle warmth fills her heart, spreading all the way from the top of her head to the tips of her toes.
Drusilla: Understanding... what's important...
Drusilla: That's right. I know what's special to me. And that's...
Only You in All the World - Chapter 5: A Special Send-Off - Episode 2
The next day, Drusilla finds Nerine with Homlet's help and declares that she has decided to stay with her as a solacebringer. Nerine convinces her to change her mind, but Drusilla makes one last request to her instead.
At sunrise, Drusilla sets foot into the Erbsu Forest once more.
But without a single clue as to Nerine's whereabouts, she can do no more than race aimlessly through the vast forest.
Drusilla: No matter what happens... I can't give up!
Homlet: Tweet! Twee-tweet!
Drusilla: ...!
Homlet?
Homlet?
Homlet: Tweet!
Drusilla: Are you telling me to follow you?
Homlet pops out to flit around Drusilla's head before soaring off into the trees without hesitation.
At long last, they arrive at the tree stump where Drusilla and Nerine had spent their days together.
Nerine: ...
Drusilla: Nerine! I finally found you!
Nerine: Drusilla! You can see me?
Drusilla: Of course I can! Whoever heard of a game of hide-and-seek ending without the hider being found!
The pair sit down on their usual tree stump.
Drusilla: I'm sorry. I had no idea how much you were suffering.
Nerine: It's not your fault. I mean, I didn't know either.
Nerine: But isn't it awful? Who would've thought that you making friends meant you'd forget me?
Nerine: I could never write a story like this! If it were me, I'd definitely give it a happy ending!
Drusilla: I have no doubt you would. The only saving grace about your tales is that they conclude on a happy note.
Nerine: Hey! What's that supposed to mean!
Nerine: Fine then! I won't tell you my awesome stories anymore!
Nerine puffs out her cheeks, but her pout soon shifts into a sad smile.
Nerine: You came here to say goodbye, didn't you?
Drusilla: ...
Nerine: Thank you. For finding me in the end.
Drusilla: ...
I've already said my goodbyes.
I've already said my goodbyes.
Nerine: Huh?
Drusilla: After a great deal of thought, I've come up with one surefire way that I can stay with you.
Nerine: A surefire way? What do you—
Drusilla: I'm going to become a solacebringer.
As if in response to Drusilla's words, a gust of wind blows suddenly, causing the trees around them to sway.
Nerine: H-hang on! But that would mean—
Drusilla: I'll live in the forest with you forever. That counts as a happy ending, wouldn't you say?
Nerine: No, it doesn't! What about your friends? And the rest of the crew—
Drusilla: As long as I can be with you, I don't need anything else!
Nerine: ...!
Drusilla: Remember what you told me?
Drusilla: You said I was your first friend! That I was special!
Drusilla: It's the same for me. There's only one of you in all the skies! And that makes you special to me!
Nerine: Drusilla...
Drusilla: I wrote a farewell letter to the crew last night and left it for them to find.
Drusilla: I understand what's important to me. I won't leave you alone, Nerine!
Nerine: ...
Nerine: What about Morimori? We can't forget about him.
Drusilla: Oh, that's right. I suppose he can stay too.
Nerine: Thank goodness! Otherwise he'd never stop sulking.
Nerine: But still...
Nerine hesitates for a moment before looking straight into Drusilla's eyes.
Nerine: Listen. I'm really, really happy you feel this way.
Nerine: If I couldn't hang out with you anymore, I'd probably tear up every time I thought of you on moonless nights.
Drusilla: Tears don't suit you.
Nerine: Maybe you're right... But if you stay here, I think a lot more people will cry.
Drusilla: ...!
Nerine: I want you to see lots more of the outside world.
Nerine takes her friend's hand as she speaks, choosing each word carefully.
Nerine: In A Bird's Tale, the little birdie has decided not to go to the southern island after all.
Nerine: She's going to live a peaceful life in the north, having fun hearing about the southern island on the wind and dreaming about what it's like.
Drusilla: Nerine...
Nerine: You need to get out there and flap your wings with all your might. Just like a thrush on a long journey.
Nerine: But make sure to write to me, okay? I want to hear all about your adventures!
Drusilla: Don't you understand? By then, I'll have already—
Nerine: I'd be treefully grateful!
Nerine: Please... For me...
Nerine: I want my last memory of us to be a fond farewell with smiles on our faces.
Drusilla gently wipes the tears from Nerine's eyes with her finger.
Drusilla: It's not fair.
Drusilla: For some reason whenever you ask me for a favor, I can't help but comply.
Drusilla: But on that note... I have one last request of my own.
When Drusilla tells her, Nerine's eyes widen.
Nerine: It's a really great idea. But if it fails, you'll...
Drusilla: You just let me worry about that! I learned a bit about the art of negotiation from Grandmother as part of being a noble lady.
Drusilla puffs out her chest and exhales, seemingly ready for action.
The morning sun shines brightly in the sky above, filtering through the trees to illuminate the two friends on their stump.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 5: A Special Send-Off - Episode 3
With Morimori's permission, Drusilla asks Erbsu to let Nerine go into town for one day, for the spirit's own sake as well. Erbsu agrees to the arrangement, but only to see the look of despair on Drusilla's face when she loses her memories.
Morimori: Oh boy. Not sure how I feel about this reunion.
Drusilla: I'll have you know I'm cross with you! If you'd simply told me where to find Nerine, this all would have been resolved sooner!
Morimori: Well, can you blame me? At that point, you were already—
Morimori: Actually, never mind. I'm no match for that enthusiasm of yours.
Morimori waves his hand dismissively and heaves a sigh.
Morimori: But still, I never expected you'd request an audience with Erbsu.
Morimori: I agreed to lead you to the dark room at the back of the shrine as a favor to Nerine.
Morimori: But you do realize Erbsu is deep asleep in a crystalline state, right? She's never once answered me before.
Drusilla: I know. If it seems hopeless, I'll bow out gracefully.
Morimori: Yeah, I'm not so sure about that. Feels like you've got a lot more pluck compared to when we first met.
Morimori: I'm a little scared you'll sit there for a hundred or so days without even batting an eyelid.
Drusilla: You're one to talk. If it were for Nerine's sake, I feel you might do the same.
Morimori: Haha, you got me there!
Morimori: It's a bit of a chicken-or-the-egg situation, but she's a special girl that I've come to care a lot about, first like a little sister, and now like a daughter.
Morimori: And that's honestly why I'd prefer it if you'd pack up and go home.
Drusilla: ...
As they set foot into the cave, Morimori suddenly speaks once more.
Morimori: You know, I'm not sorry I became a solacebringer.
Drusilla: Why do you say that? You had to abandon your own life for the sake of Omelas.
Morimori: Because it's easier to just forget all the bad things that happened.
Morimori stares into the depths of the cave, a nostalgic smile appearing on his face.
Morimori: My parents died right after I was born, so it was basically decided then and there that I'd be the next solacebringer.
Morimori: I lived in that shack from the time I was very young, treated like livestock waiting to be shipped off.
Morimori: But there was one kid who snuck over to visit me every day.
Morimori: He used to bring me picture books and tasty food, and we'd play word games through the barred windows.
Drusilla: Is that the friend you mentioned before?
Morimori: Yeah. He came to the shack one night in tears...
Boy: Sorry, Morimori. I can't come here anymore.
Boy: My family found out that I've been visiting this shack.
Boy: I've never seen them so mad. They asked me how I'd feel if the solacebringer was corrupted and Omelas was destroyed because of me.
Boy: But I don't care! I still think all this is wrong!
Boy: I'll become someone high up in the village and save you, no matter what it takes!
Boy: So stay alive and wait for me until then!
Morimori: I can't even remember his face anymore. He made a lot of big promises, but I'm sure he's forgotten me too.
Drusilla: ...
Morimori: But what's so wrong about forgetting?
Morimori: It's not his fault. And it's not Erbsu's or Nerine's either. Even the past town elders were forced to make tough decisions.
Morimori: Running from reality and forgetting the bad things is how we as people can live happy, treeful lives.
Drusilla: Are you perhaps encouraging me?
Morimori: I thought that was obvious. Even if you end up forgetting Nerine, you're not to blame.
Drusilla: ...
Morimori: Well, we're here. I wish you treeful luck!
Further inside the mysterious shrine, there is a wide open space that appears quite unlike the inside of a cave.
Drusilla: Urgh... I'm getting chills.
Drusilla slowly approaches the crystalline form enshrined in the center.
Drusilla: Erbsu? Are you in there?
Her voice echoes softly through the area, but there is no reply.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: When I came into contact with one of the calamity monsters, I heard a voice in the darkness.
Drusilla: A pleading voice full of sadness and loneliness... It was yours, wasn't it?
Drusilla: I've come here to help you resolve the feelings you've kept bottled up inside.
The air remains so still and quiet that one could hear a pin drop.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: You have a lot of nerve keeping a lady waiting! I'm prepared to sit here for a hundred days until you show yourself!
Erbsu: How irritating!
Drusilla: Eep!
Suddenly, a figure appears before Drusilla's eyes like a puff of smoke.
Drusilla: Are you... Erbsu?
Erbsu: Away with you. I have no reason to entertain a small child such as yourself.
Drusilla: Um... Do you know who I am?
Erbsu: Yes, I am well aware. You are the girl who has been associating with my other half, are you not?
Drusilla: That's right. I'm Drusilla, a friend of Nerine's.
Erbsu: Hmph, a friend? You are—quite literally—a mere babe in the woods.
Erbsu: Nerine and I may share the same roots, but our personalities are entirely incompatible. Do not speak to me in such a familiar manner.
While Erbsu huffs and puffs in annoyance, Drusilla bows deeply before her.
Drusilla: I have a request to ask of you.
Drusilla: I'd like you to let Nerine join me for a stroll through town.
Erbsu: What?
Drusilla: Just once! One day is all I ask. As a final memory before we part.
Erbsu: If I were to share with her my power, it would be a simple matter for her to leave the forest for a time.
Erbsu: But do you truly expect me to agree to this? I stand to gain nothing from it.
Drusilla: Oh, but you do! You'll be able to find out what fluffy cake tastes like!
Erbsu: Fluffy... cake?
Drusilla: Nerine wants to visit the town. If you two are connected at the core, then you must have that same desire!
Drusilla: You experience everything Nerine senses yourself as well, don't you? In that case—
Erbsu: What an infantile idea—just as I would expect from a child. I have no interest in such things.
Erbsu: However... I must say you yourself are rather intriguing.
The shadows around them flicker as Erbsu peers at Drusilla and smiles.
Erbsu: I assume you understand what this means. Even if your wish is granted, you will nevertheless lose all the memories of your time spent with Nerine.
Erbsu: You will be left with nothing but even greater pain as the result of your parting.
Erbsu: What meaning is there in placing yourself in danger of being destroyed by me?
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Words are written and tales are remembered. They remain etched within our hearts.
Drusilla: Nerine is the greatest author in all the forests. She'll immortalize the memories we made together by turning them into stories.
Erbsu: That doesn't answer my question. I still see no merit in you doing this.
Drusilla: If it means granting Nerine's wish, then that's merit enough.
Drusilla: And considering you're connected to Nerine, that goes for you too.
Erbsu: ...
Erbsu: Hahaha!
Erbsu: Very well! I wish to see the look of despair on your face when you say your goodbyes. Your ululations will be music to my ears!
Erbsu: Spend one fleeting day in town together as you wish. Afterward you will lose all memory, and only despair will remain!
Drusilla: Thank you.
Drusilla lets out a single breath and straightens up to fix her gaze on Erbsu.
Drusilla: There's one last thing I would like to say—
Only You in All the World - Chapter 5: A Special Send-Off - Episode 4
Nerine leaves the forest thanks to Erbsu's power, and she and Drusilla go into town wearing matching outfits made by Korwa. They enjoy their time wandering aimlessly, chatting over drinks, and touring the shopping district, but the time for goodbyes draws near.
When the fated day arrives, Drusilla and her friends gather on the deck of the Grandcypher.
Korwa: Come on out, you two!
Drusilla & Nerine: ...
All Three: Ooh!
Drusilla: Wh-what do you think?
Lily: Wow! It looks great on you!
Andira: You guys match! I love it!
Nerine: Thanks, Andira! I like it too!
Nerine: Ehehe. Am I a fancy town girl too now?
Sylph: You certainly look the part. But... you appear to have nutshells in your hair.
Nerine: How amazingly embarrassing! Drusilla, get them out for me!
Drusilla: Of all the things! How did they even get there to begin with!
Now able to leave the forest and be perceived by others thanks to the power of Erbsu, Nerine is quickly welcomed as Drusilla's friend.
Drusilla: Thank you so much, Korwa!
Drusilla: I had no idea that you were making outfits for us!
Korwa: The other girls helped out too. They gave me feedback on my designs and got the materials I needed together.
Korwa: Remember what I said before about fashion?
Korwa: Fashion helps to highlight the memories of days that are less than magical.
Korwa: I've been preparing for a while to give you an outfit that would highlight your own memories.
Drusilla: Highlight... my memories...
Nerine: But then... why is there one for me too?
Korwa: Hmm... I know this probably sounds strange, but I'm honestly not sure.
Lily: We all just sort of agreed that there needed to be two outfits.
Andira: Yeah. It feels like I had a dream about you talking really excitedly about someone.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: Thank you very much, everyone.
Sylph: You had better be on your way. I hope the two of you enjoy yourselves.
After departing from the Grandcypher, Drusilla and Nerine make their way into the downtown area of Omelas.
Nerine: Whoooa! Look at all the people!
Nerine: It's like when you turn over a big stone and find a bunch of bugs underneath!
Drusilla: Eep! That's not something a respectable town girl would say!
Nerine: There are so many stores! Are there cake shops too?
Drusilla: Heh. Leave this to me!
Drusilla: I've done my research on all the most popular cake shops!
Nerine: That's my Drusilla! I knew I could count on you!
Drusilla: Urgh... I can't believe they're randomly closed today!
Nerine: That's some amazingly bad luck. But this sort of thing happens in stories all the time!
Nerine: What about those places filled with books, then? I'm curious about them too!
Drusilla: They're called libraries! And not to worry—I located one of those for us too!
Drusilla: It's closed while they take inventory? What are the chances!
Nerine: Oh! This is one of those "out of the flying pan, into the fire" things, isn't it?
Drusilla: It's called a "frying pan"! How exactly would you cook with a pan if it was flying?
Drusilla: Sigh... All I wanted was for you to experience normal town life.
Nerine: Huh? But that's impossible.
Nerine: I'm with you, aren't I? That makes it too special to be normal.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: I-I'm impressed you can say such things without even a hint of embarrassment.
Nerine: Hey, can we walk over there? The ground was covered in stones!
Drusilla: Are you referring to a cobblestone street? All right, but watch your step!
Drusilla and Nerine spend their special day strolling aimlessly through the town.
Drusilla: Here, I got a cup for you too. Let's take a break to hydrate ourselves on that bench.
Nerine: Thanks! Is it my imagination, or is the surface of the water crackling?
Drusilla: This is called a fizzy beverage! It's a stimulating drink that bubbles in your mouth, so it may be a bit soon for you—
Nerine: Mmm! Refreshing and delicious!
Drusilla: (Impossible! She drank it without even needing to hold her nose?)
Nerine: Huh? Aren't you going to drink yours?
Drusilla: O-of course I am! Down the hatch!
Drusilla: ...!
Nerine: Ooh, what's wrong? Does it sting?
Drusilla: P-please, of course it—
Drusilla: It does! My throat is all tingly! How can you drink it without any preparation like that?
Nerine: Ehehe. Honestly, I thought it stung too.
Nerine: So let's drink it nice and slowly while we chat, okay?
Drusilla: Yes. That sounds lovely.
Nerine: The sun's going down, but the town's still all bright and sparkly.
Drusilla: Let's stop by that store. There are things in there that sparkle even more!
Nerine: Is this... a trap for hunting beasts?
Drusilla: It's called a necklace. An accessory that you wear around your neck.
Nerine: A necklace? It's so glittery and pretty!
Drusilla: Let me know if anything catches your eye.
Drusilla: I'll buy it for you. As a final parting memento...
Nerine: Drusilla...
Nerine: Thanks. But I don't need anything like that.
Drusilla: What! Why?
Nerine: Hmm, that's a good question.
Nerine: I'm not sure why, but it feels like this sort of thing calls for more than a... thing.
Drusilla: You mean a story would be better?
Nerine: Whoa, how'd you know? I was going to write one as soon as I got back to the forest!
Drusilla: Hehe. I thought it might be worth learning from your example as well.
Nerine: My example? Are you going to write a story too?
Nerine: Then this trip'll be great inspiration! Let's have lots of fun until the very last minute!
Drusilla: Why, of course! We still have so much to see!
Drusilla and Nerine happily tour the shopping district like two ordinary small-town girls.
Meanwhile time marches on unyielding, bringing their farewell ever closer with the approaching darkness of night.
Only You in All the World - Ending
Drusilla and Nerine burst into tears as their final farewell arrives, but they end up parting with smiles on their faces. The crew soon departs from the island, and Drusilla spends the days with her friends on the ship, having forgotten about Nerine.
As night falls in Omelas, the streets are enveloped in a quiet darkness.
The orange glow of the streetlamps illuminates the profiles of the two girls.
Nerine: Should we go ahead and say our goodbyes?
Drusilla: Here? At least let me walk you back to the forest.
Nerine: No, I'm a fancy town girl today. So it's got to be here.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla opens her mouth to argue, but Nerine's smile causes her to fall silent.
Drusilla: And they lived happily ever after.
Nerine: Huh?
Drusilla: We'll part ways with smiles on our faces. That's the way it has to be.
Nerine: You bet! I'm smiling too, aren't I?
Drusilla: No, your smile is usually a lot brighter. To the point that it's rather vexing, in fact.
Nerine: Aww, vexing?
Nerine: What does that mean?
Drusilla: Come on! You're ruining the mood!
Nerine: Ehehe. Sorry.
At that moment, a trickle runs down Nerine's cheek.
Nerine: Huh?
Nerine: Weird. Is this because of that fizzy water?
Drusilla: Fizzy beverages don't have that effect.
Nerine: Yeah, didn't think so. Ahaha...
Nerine: ...
Nerine: How am I supposed to smile!
Nerine: I don't want to say goodbye! We haven't even eaten cake together yet!
Nerine: I can't believe this is the end! That I'll never see you again!
Drusilla: I'm sorry.
Drusilla: Just so you know... I feel the same way...
Nerine: Drusilla...
Drusilla: Waaaaah!
Drusilla: This is the worst! I want to spend more time with you!
Drusilla: Forget being special! Why couldn't we have met under normal circumstances!
Nerine: Sniffle... And here I was trying so hard not to cry!
Nerine: Waaaaah!
Passersby stop and stare as the pair wail loudly in the middle of the street.
But the lights of the town continue to bathe them in a warm glow.
Drusilla: I knew it. Tears really don't suit you.
Nerine: I could say the same to you. You'd better let me dry them off.
Comparing their tearstained faces, the girls grin broadly despite themselves.
Nerine: I'll never forget you, Drusilla.
Nerine: Even if it would be easier to forget, I refuse to pretend we never met.
Drusilla: Thank you. But I hope you'll at least forget what I look like when I cry.
Nerine: Nope! You can beg all you want, but that's not happening!
Drusilla: Oh, you! You're a little devil to the very end!
Nerine: ...
Drusilla: ...
Nerine: Well... tell your friends that I say hi.
Drusilla: I will. Say hello to Morimori for me too, I suppose.
Nerine: ...
Nerine: I'm Nerine, the greatest author the forests have ever known!
Nerine: Bye-bye, Drusilla.
Drusilla: Nerine...
Drusilla: A greeting and a farewell at the same time... How uncouth.
Drusilla and Nerine wave to each other and head off in different directions.
They walk determinedly without looking back, as though sure they will see each other again tomorrow.
Some time later, (Captain) and the crew succeed in quelling the calamity monsters and depart from Omelas.
Although the matter of the solacebringers is concerning, with their mission complete, they decide to leave the island for the time being.
Andira: Come to think of it, I remember there was a day you went into town by yourself, Drusilla.
Lily: Yeah, there was! Your outfit looked really great on you. But we should have all gone together!
Drusilla: I'm sorry. Thinking back, it is quite strange, even to me.
Sylph: Speaking of strange, that was the same night I discovered a mysterious pot in the kitchen.
Lily: The pot was full of soup with lots of nuts in it, right? That was delicious!
Andira: It was a little risky though, wasn't it? We all gobbled up the soup without even knowing who made it.
Drusilla: It certainly was! And someone even had nutshells in her hair.
Andira: That's right! Did they get stuck while she was chowing down?
Sylph: No, I feel like the shells were already peeled...
Lily: Hmm... I can't remember who it was.
Nerine's very existence has disappeared from the memories of (Captain) and the crew.
All traces of her presence have vanished completely, and all written records as well.
Andira: Where should we go exploring today? Think it's about time we try tackling the cafe again?
Lily: Sounds good to me! Today's the day I show that coffee who's boss!
Drusilla: You're waging war against a beverage? You really ought to be a bit more ladylike—
Sylph: Drinking coffee is a serious undertaking. If you're not careful... you'll end up regretting it.
Drusilla: Sylph? Your eyes are really scary!
But although Nerine has faded from their minds, the bonds between Drusilla and her newfound friends remain strong.
Drusilla has grown a great deal since her mysterious encounter in the forest.
Though she may not remember them, the days spent with her special friend continue to give her strength.
Drusilla: (What a terribly normal ending. Perhaps too normal...)
Only You in All the World - Chapter 6: The Story Continues - Episode 1
Some time later, Drusilla realizes that she can't remember what caused her to confront the situation with Homlet, prompting her to put on the outfit she had worn that day. Regaining her memories of Nerine, she once again begins to work toward a happy ending.
Some time has passed since Drusilla's fateful encounter in the Erbsu Forest and the subsequent goodbye that ensued.
In her room on the Grandcypher, Drusilla fills Homlet's food bowl.
Homlet: Twee-tweet!
Drusilla: Hehe. You don't have to flap your wings like that, you know. I'll feed you regardless.
Drusilla: Isn't it wonderful? (Captain) and the crew accepted you so readily.
Drusilla: The truth is... the bird that's been on my hat the whole time is actually Homlet!
Vyrn: What...
Vyrn: What took ya so long! That's what we've been sayin' this whole time!
Lyria: But I'm so glad you were able to find her!
Homlet: Twee-tweet!
Vyrn: Well, would ya look at that. She's perched on (Captain)'s head now.
Drusilla: She seems to have taken a fancy to the captain! I hope you become bosom buddies!
Homlet happily flies around the room, pecking at a picture book on top of the desk.
Homlet: Twee-tweet?
Drusilla: Ah, yes. I purchased that picture book at our local bookstore several years ago.
Drusilla: After that girl went home, I secretly spent the remainder of my allowance on it.
Homlet: Tweet?
Drusilla: Hehe. It's about a little bird around your size that goes on an adventure to an island in the south, traveling to various others after that.
Drusilla strokes Homlet's back, smiling gently.
Drusilla: That's right. This picture book is the basis for Nerine's story, A Bird's Tale.
Nerine: In A Bird's Tale, the little birdie has decided not to go to the southern island after all.
Nerine: She's going to live a peaceful life in the north, having fun hearing about the southern island on the wind and dreaming about what it's like.
Drusilla: I remember everything. Each and every moment of my time spent with Nerine.
Drusilla: The sweat we worked up playing tag in the forest, the sting of the fizzy beverages we drank in town, the way we cried and laughed under the lamplight.
Drusilla: And it's all thanks to you, Homlet.
One day, Drusilla had realized that she couldn't seem to remember what caused her to finally confront the situation surrounding Homlet.
Feeling that something was amiss, she had put on the outfit she wore that day, causing her memories of Nerine to come flooding back.
Drusilla: You were there within my memories all along. These clothes just brought you back to me.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: It was a convenient miracle... like a deus ex machina in a picture book.
Drusilla: But I refuse to accept a story that ends so normally.
Drusilla: After all, I'm special to you.
Grandma's Letter: You have always been an intelligent child who never fails to understand what is truly important.
Korwa: Every tale deserves a happy ending!
Drusilla: Hehe. I thought it might be worth learning from your example as well.
Drusilla: Our story needs its happily ever after. Isn't that right, Nerine?
Only You in All the World - Chapter 6: The Story Continues - Episode 2
Drusilla visits Erbsu once more, having sworn to come back and help if she remembered everything. After convincing Erbsu to let her carry out her plan for a happy ending, she attempts to enlist Morimori's help as well.
One day, Drusilla pays another visit to Omelas together with (Captain) and company.
Parting ways with the crew, she travels into the Erbsu Forest alone.
Drusilla: Good day, Erbsu.
Erbsu: ...!
Erbsu: Why have you returned? Your memories should have all been lost—
Erbsu: Wait... Don't tell me you actually succeeded?
Drusilla: Of course I did! Who do you think I am?
On the day Drusilla had negotiated with Erbsu about letting Nerine join her on a visit into town...
Drusilla: There's one last thing I would like to say—
Drusilla: If I am able to remember everything in the end, I will return here once more.
Erbsu: There is no point to engaging in such hypotheticals. No matter your intentions, your memories will disappear utterly and completely.
Drusilla: I'm well aware that you wish to revel in my suffering.
Drusilla: But in the unlikely event that something outside the realm of your expectations occurs—in short, a miracle...
Drusilla: I would like to help you, Erbsu.
Erbsu: What?
Drusilla: As I said, I've come to help you resolve the feelings you've kept bottled up inside.
Drusilla: I will find a way. So when I return to this forest, will you listen to what I have to say?
Erbsu: Hah, how absurd. Spare me the details until the next time we meet.
Drusilla: Heheh. And here I am! The time has come for you to hear me out!
Erbsu: I refuse. I don't know how you managed to retain your memories, but there is no possible way that you can save me.
Drusilla: Ah, but there is.
Drusilla: A truly happy ending can only be achieved if everyone is smiling.
Erbsu: Everyone? Are you implying that includes me?
Erbsu: You are just as simpleminded as my other half. All this "happily ever after" nonsense... Fantasies are just that—they will never become reality.
Erbsu: Long ago, a foolish girl cast herself into the sea praying for such an ending. But the reality was much different.
Drusilla: There is a chance it may not work. That much I know.
Drusilla: Reality is harsh, painful, and full of things I don't want to accept.
Drusilla: But even so, if I continue to live in denial, I won't even have any fantasies left to dream up!
Erbsu: ...!
Drusilla: Thanks to Nerine, I realized something.
Drusilla: I'm special to Nerine, and she's just as special to me.
Drusilla: But it's not just her—the crew, my friends, and my family are all incredibly important to me.
Drusilla: And they all have people who are important to them. Everyone is special to someone.
Drusilla: And that goes for you too, Erbsu!
Erbsu: ...
Drusilla: I want to eat cake with Nerine... and you as well.
Drusilla: While smiling brightly, of course!
Erbsu: Smiling?
Village Elder: I cannot allow you to sacrifice yourself! Please, you must reconsider!
Erbsu: Forgive me, Father. It's the only way I could think of.
Erbsu: I want to protect my beloved village of Omelas... and your smile!
Erbsu: ...
Erbsu: How preposterous.
Erbsu: But even so...
The black lilies above Erbsu's head sway quietly in the shadows.
Erbsu: Enough prattle. Let me hear this scenario of yours.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: By all means! Rest assured, it's a masterpiece as good as any of Nerine's...
After speaking with Erbsu, Drusilla heads off to find Morimori.
Drusilla: I have returned!
Morimori: I can see that. Welcome back.
Drusilla: Oh? You're not surprised?
Morimori: The forest animals were talking. They said you'd come back to talk to Erbsu.
Drusilla: Then you know what I'm trying to do?
Morimori: Well, I have a general idea.
Drusilla: I need your help. Would you be willing to lend me your assistance?
Morimori: ...
Morimori: I told you, didn't I? There are truths in this world that you shouldn't learn and realities that you don't need to face.
Morimori: You're obviously more than welcome to face them on your own. But what right do you have to drag others into it?
Drusilla: Well, it may be true that this isn't my place—
Morimori: Nerine won't wake up.
Drusilla: ...!
Morimori: After you left, she started sleeping for longer and longer stretches of time. She's been off in dreamland for a while now.
Morimori: It's similar to when her personality is restructured after the death of a solacebringer.
Morimori: I imagine she reacted instinctively after losing someone she'd made a connection with. Her memories of us will be soon to follow.
Morimori: This is the truth. This is reality. Wouldn't you have rather not known?
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Where is Nerine now?
Morimori: Asleep in her bed in the shack, clutching a book she wrote herself.
Drusilla: It seems I will need to revise the plan. Thank you for the valuable information.
Morimori: Enough already! You just don't know when to give up!
Drusilla: And you give up far too easily, Morimori!
Drusilla: Do you intend on forgetting Nerine too? Just like that little boy who you considered a dear friend?
Morimori: ...!
He has nothing to do with this!
He has nothing to do with this!
Morimori: We solacebringers are supposed to end up like Erbsu—forgotten! You think anyone in town remembers the face of a kid they abandoned?
Drusilla: It's just easier to think that way!
Morimori: ...!
What do you know!
What do you know!
Drusilla: It's precisely because I don't know that I must make certain!
Morimori: ...!
Drusilla: I'm sure your friend remembers. Just as I do.
Drusilla: Well, I'll be waiting.
Morimori: ...
Boy: I'll become someone high up in the village and save you, no matter what it takes!
Boy: So stay alive and wait for me until then!
Morimori: I've had enough of waiting.
Morimori's pained words echo through the quiet forest and fade away.
Only You in All the World - Chapter 6: The Story Continues - Episode 3
Setting her plan into motion, Drusilla tells the townspeople the truth about the evil spirit, urging them to accept reality and pray for Erbsu's forgiveness. They eventually oblige thanks to some persuading by Morimori and his old friend, the town elder.
The townspeople assemble in the main plaza of Omelas at the request of (Captain) and the crew.
Vyrn: Phew. Looks like we managed to get 'em all here, thanks to that elder guy.
Drusilla: Thank you very much! You've been a great help!
Lyria: It was no trouble at all! How did things go on your end?
Drusilla: I spoke with Erbsu. All that remains now is to carry out the plan.
Vyrn: Honestly, even after hearin' you explain the whole deal, we're still pretty clueless as to what's goin' on...
Vyrn: But you've got our trust. So get out there and make it happen!
Drusilla: Of course! I'll see this through to the very end!
Town Elder: Thank you all for coming. The skyfarers have completed their preparations.
At the elder's invitation, Drusilla joins him on stage to stand before the crowd.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla: Good day to you. I am Drusilla, a skyfarer. I have something I'd like to speak with you about today.
Drusilla: About how to free the town from the clutches of the evil spirit Erbsu.
Omelas Resident 1: E-Erbsu! How does she know about that?
Omelas Resident 2: What is the meaning of this, Elder!
Town Elder: Let us at least hear what she has to say.
Ignoring the buzz running through the crowd, Drusilla continues without missing a beat.
Drusilla: Here in Omelas, peace is maintained through its citizens feigning ignorance of the solacebringer custom.
Drusilla: In the same way, the villagers in the past refused to face the reality that a certain person had sacrificed herself for their sake.
Drusilla: And that person is none other than... Erbsu.
Omelas Resident 2: What are you talking about? Erbsu is an evil spirit that lives in the forest!
Drusilla: She was once an ordinary village girl. But then came an invasion of mysterious creatures...
Drusilla explains the truth of the town's history exactly as it had been written on the stone monument within the cave.
Town Elder: Erbsu saved Omelas... and our ancestors treated her as an evil spirit?
Omelas Resident 1: Nonsense! What use is there in telling such lies!
Drusilla: I heard everything from the solacebringer I met in the forest as well.
Town Elder: Y-you met the solacebringer?
Omelas Resident 2: How dreadful! You should have left well enough alone!
Drusilla: By doing so—by avoiding reality—you believe you can go about your lives free of any heartache.
Drusilla: But is that really true?
Drusilla: I say nay. Little by little the strain continues to accumulate, just like leaves on a tree.
Homlet: Twee-tweet!
Drusilla: Yes. I know, because it happened to me.
Drusilla: Surely there must be people here who find the pain to be more than they can stand.
Youth: ...!
Drusilla: The root of the evil spirit Erbsu is her despair at failing to truly save Omelas, together with the regrets of the solacebringers.
Drusilla: All you need to do is offer a prayer to Erbsu, thanking her for a job well done.
Town Elder: Then if we accept reality... will the solacebringer be free as well?
Omelas Resident 1: We didn't ask you outsiders to meddle! You can't just waltz in here and ruin our lives!
Omelas Resident 2: You have no proof of the evil spirit's identity! And yet you expect us to believe you?
The plaza erupts with angry shouts as the people hurtle insults at Drusilla.
Drusilla: I'm telling the truth! Please calm down, everyone!
Vyrn: Yikes. It's startin' to get kinda dicey out there.
Nodding, (Captain) moves to rush out onto the stage, when suddenly...
Morimori: Everything she's saying is the treeful truth!
Morimori: As the current solacebringer, you have my word!
Drusilla: Morimori! This isn't the time to be fashionably late!
Morimori: Sorry about that. I just needed some time to reconnect with my childhood.
Omelas Resident 1: Th-the solacebringer? Should you really be leaving the forest?
Omelas Resident 2: How can we be sure of his legitimacy? We don't even know the solacebringer's face or name—
Town Elder: Are you... Morimori?
Morimori: ...!
Town Elder: It's you, isn't it! We used to play together at that shack...
Morimori: Wait! You remember me?
Town Elder: I don't know how I could have forgotten. All this time...
Town Elder: Forgive me. I promised I'd come back for you.
Morimori: Well, I forgot too. Actually, no. I pretended to forget.
Morimori: But you remembered in the end. That's enough.
Town Elder: Morimori...
Taking in the words of his friend from decades past, the elder nods and stands beside him.
Town Elder: I can assure you that this man is the true solacebringer.
Town Elder: I will offer a prayer to Erbsu and all the solacebringers of the past.
Omelas Resident 1: Elder! Do you truly believe these people?
Town Elder: I won't force you to join me. Even if I did, empty prayers wouldn't be able to reach the spirits of those fallen heroes.
Omelas Resident 2: Fallen heroes? Are you saying we should worship Erbsu and the solacebringers?
Town Elder: It doesn't need to be anything that grand. We merely need to accept reality and be mindful of it.
Town Elder: Let us put an end to these centuries of pain with our generation, here and now.
Omelas Residents: ...
Youth: Let's all pray together! We'll tell Erbsu and the solacebringer how sorry we are and thank them for everything they've done.
Youth's Mom: Now, wait just one moment! What are you saying—
Youth: I saw you crying at home. You said you were scared that I'd turn out to be the next solacebringer...
Youth's Mom: ...!
Youth: I don't want you to have to feel that way!
Turning toward the forest, the boy closes his eyes and clasps his hands together.
Youth's Mom: ...
Youth's Mom: You're right. Nothing will ever change if we just keep living in fear.
The mother joins her hands as well, causing a ripple of prayer to gradually spread among the townspeople.
Drusilla: I greatly respect your courage. I can assure you that we won't let it go to waste!
Only You in All the World - Chapter 6: The Story Continues - Episode 4
Together with Erbsu, Drusilla and her friends attempt to awaken Nerine from her deep sleep in the forest cave. However, the centuries of negative emotions that have accumulated there send Erbsu out of control, and the others must join forces to dispel them.
After leaving the plaza, Drusilla makes her way into the forest once more, this time joined by Andira, Sylph, and Lily.
Andira: This isn't the first time you've told us about your friend Nerine, is it, Drusilla?
Sylph: In short, you are the only one who can remember her, correct?
Drusilla: That's right. But with Erbsu's assistance, you should be able to perceive her now.
Drusilla: Can I ask you all to believe me?
Lily: You bet! It's a little confusing, but I know deep down it's true!
Andira: I imagine we've had this conversation countless times before too, haven't we?
Drusilla: Hehe. We certainly have!
Drusilla: I've been telling you the entire story from scratch each and every day. And with your help, I've finally managed to reach a possible solution.
Sylph: Every day... we lose our memories?
Lily: That must have been so hard for you...
Drusilla: Not at all! You all listened to me without the slightest hint of doubt!
At Drusilla's bright smile, the others exchange nods, prepared to tackle the issue at hand.
Andira: So what were we talking about before?
Drusilla: Firstly, the root of Erbsu's existence can be purified by the prayers of the townspeople.
Drusilla: But the question is what happens to Erbsu and Nerine after that.
Lily: Oh, right. If the root supporting them disappears, they both will too, huh?
Drusilla: Realizing that, we developed a plan to keep them both alive.
Drusilla: For instance, Lily, I asked you to review the existence of the Snow Maiden of the Ice Crystal Palace.
Drusilla: And I had Andira investigate the Twelve Divine Generals' familiars, beginning with the source of their magic power.
Lily: Ooh, I get it! By looking into spirit-like beings, we might find some clues!
Drusilla: The deciding factor was what Sylph told us about her creators, the Astrals.
Sylph: My creators? In other words, the composition of primal beasts such as myself is the key, correct?
Drusilla: Well... Let me relay exactly what you told me before.
Drusilla: Following the same principle as affixing a primal crystal to an artificial body, we could integrate Erbsu's soul into Nerine's body, merging their physical and spiritual forms.
Drusilla: Once the divided ego is unified, the spiritual form would not be dispersed, but would instead be retained, able to remain as a living entity.
Sylph: I see... Theoretically, there should be no issue.
Lily: Umm, are you sure? That all went way over my head...
Sylph: To put it briefly, Nerine's and Erbsu's personalities will be combined within Nerine's body.
Andira: That's amazing! But who's going to do all that?
Sylph: By utilizing the Astral memories and powers within me, together with the miracle elixir alma, it should be possible.
Sylph: And if I use the stock I already possess, there won't be any danger of the harmful by-product karmide being produced.
Drusilla: There's already a plan in place. The rest of us will be doing our part to support Sylph!
On their way to meet with Erbsu, Drusilla shares the details of the strategy they had developed together.
Lily: Hmm... Then there's a lot we still need to do, like freezing Nerine with my ice!
Sylph: But what concerns me is Nerine's precarious condition.
Sylph: With Nerine's consciousness clouded, her connection to Erbsu will be less stable. Cooperation between the two is absolutely essential.
Drusilla: I know. That's the next detail we'll need to iron out...
Erbsu's Voice: Leave the matter of Nerine to me.
Andira: ...!
That voice!
That voice!
Erbsu: I sense a warm resolve from the inhabitants of Omelas.
Erbsu: In the end, it seems you were correct.
Drusilla: Erbsu!
Omelas Resident 1: Thank you, Erbsu. And the solacebringers who protected our town.
Omelas Resident 2: I'm sorry for living in fear of you all this time. May you rest in peace.
Erbsu: The ice is melting at last. How long has it been since I felt so at peace?
Murmuring quietly, Erbsu points at the spot before her feet.
Nerine: ...
Erbsu: I managed to bring Nerine here, but she still won't awaken.
Erbsu: When I enter Nerine's body, I will intervene and cause her soul to resonate.
Erbsu: The rest is in your hands, Drusilla. Call out to this sleepyhead and rouse her from her dreams.
Drusilla: Thank you, Erbsu.
Erbsu: Hmph. I look forward to tasting that "fluffy cake" of yours.
Erbsu: ...
The light of prayer envelops Erbsu, filling the area with a warm glow.
Sylph: Now then. Let us begin.
Eyes widened in wonder at the breathtaking scene unfolding before them, Drusilla and her friends put their plan into action.
At that moment...
Erbsu: Ungh... Aaahh!
Drusilla: Erbsu! What's wrong!
Andira: Look! There's some sort of black light seeping in from the floor and walls!
Lily: Urgh... It's all dark and cold...
Sylph: What powerful negative emotions. The many long years of anger and loneliness must have accumulated in this space.
Erbsu: Gwaaaah!
As her wails echo through the cave, Erbsu is engulfed by the black light.
Erbsu Groll: Gw... aaah!
Lily: Oh no! What happened to Erbsu!
Drusilla: We've come so far! I refuse to yield here!
Drusilla: As we are now, we can easily dispel a few hundred years' worth of negative emotions!
Andira: Don't push yourself! The three of us have more experience fighting.
Drusilla: Apologies, but I will be pushing myself! Though I'll be needing your support!
Andira: Listen to you getting all defiant! It's so cool—I love it!
Drusilla: L-love! What are you saying at a time like this—
Sylph: Come. Our happy ending awaits...
Only You in All the World - Happily Ever After
Drusilla's feelings get through to her friend, allowing Erbsu to merge with Nerine and grant her a new life as an ordinary girl. Following a festival celebrating the liberation of the forest, Drusilla bids a temporary farewell to Nerine and begins to write a letter to her family.
The centuries of negative emotions vanish, and a dazzling orb of light appears in their place.
Lily: This is... Erbsu's soul...
Sylph: Drusilla. Take Nerine's hand.
Drusilla: Understood!
As the orb is absorbed by Nerine, Drusilla's vision goes white.
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: This is the place Nerine and I always meet.
Nerine: Drusilla?
Drusilla: Nerine! I missed you so much!
Drusilla rushes over, but Nerine merely hangs her head sadly.
Nerine: Must have been my imagination. At this point, Drusilla's already...
Drusilla: Nerine? Can you not hear me?
Nerine: ...
Drusilla: Nerine! I've come to take you back!
Nerine: ...
Nerine stares vacantly into space, seemingly unable to hear anything.
Drusilla: (This must be how you felt watching me...)
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla picks up a stick and sits down in front of her friend.
Drusilla: Please... Let me get through to her!
Nerine: ...?
Nerine: What's going on? A bunch of letters just appeared on the ground...
Nerine: ...!
Wait, this is...
Wait, this is...
Nerine: Drusilla!
Drusilla: Th-that scared me. I didn't expect you to suddenly grab my hand like that.
Nerine: Drusilla! It's really you, isn't it!
Nerine: I thought I'd never see you again... That our story was over...
Drusilla: What are you talking about? I haven't even had a chance to hear A Bird's Tale yet.
Drusilla: From here on out... we'll write the story together.
Nerine: Yeah! You're right!
Erbsu: Pardon the intrusion.
Nerine: Whoa! O-oh, it's you!
Erbsu: Hmph! Just how long are you planning to hold hands? It made it very awkward to emerge, I'll have you know!
Erbsu: Ahem. I will be residing within you starting today.
Erbsu: I presume you have no qualms, Nerine?
Nerine: None at all! We'll have tons of treeful fun together!
Nerine: Drusilla!
Drusilla: Bwah!
Nerine: Mm, that's the stuff! Dream Drusilla was great and all, but the real thing is way better!
Drusilla: I-I can't breathe! You're hugging me far too tightly—
Nerine: Sniff... Yep, this is the scent!
Drusilla: Eep! Where do you think you're sniffing!
Sylph: I see. So this is love.
Andira: That's our Lovemeister Drusilla.
Lily: An oven checklist of love.
The girls nod sagely as Drusilla and Nerine continue to spin around in a fond embrace.
Several days have passed since Erbsu's curse disappeared from the forest and Nerine was born anew as an ordinary girl.
The town of Omelas bustles with people enjoying a festival being held to celebrate the liberation of the forest.
Morimori: Judging from what I can see from the window, it looks like the whole town came out.
Town Elder: So it seems. I wonder how long it's been since this town held such a gathering, where everyone was able to laugh without a care.
Town Elder: Today is for celebrating our newfound freedom, but I plan to hold a festival each year to pray for the peace of Erbsu and the solacebringers.
Morimori: So that's your way of facing reality, huh? You must've really worked hard all these years. I can't believe you actually became the elder...
Town Elder: I wonder what it was that drove me here? Even though I had forgotten everything, something kept pushing me forward.
Town Elder: But in the end... the reality of it all caused me to lose heart.
Morimori: I haven't changed my mind, you know. I still don't think there's anything wrong with avoiding reality.
Morimori: But, well... I was still a complete jerk for throwing away the memories of the days we spent playing together.
Town Elder: We did have a lot of fun, didn't we? Remember the time we played word games from morning till night?
Morimori: Of course I do! Whenever we finished a game, it was always "just one more." Those were the days.
Morimori: That's why I got scared. Rather than clinging to hope, I chose the easier option...
Town Elder: Morimori...
Morimori: All right, enough with the sob stories! Time to treefully clear the air!
Morimori: There's a festival going on. Let's go out and have some fun.
Town Elder: We're not exactly children anymore. Is there still time for us?
Morimori: We'll be even older come next year. This is as good as it's going to get.
Town Elder: Heh, an excellent point. Then what say we tour the stalls?
Korwa: What a finale! A perfect happy ending!
Sylph: Indeed. It's best for a tale to end with everyone smiling.
Korwa: Oh? You know, I've been thinking. I feel like you and I are really on the same wavelength. Know what I mean?
Sylph: I'm afraid not... But I do feel as though I'd be able to learn a great deal about the mortal heart with you.
Korwa: Then let's go study up! This is a festival, after all. Time to find some happy people!
Lily: Ahaha. And they're off.
Andira: But Korwa's right. I'm so glad everything turned out well in the end.
Lily: It's all because Drusilla worked so hard!
Andira: Huh? Where'd she run off to anyway?
Drusilla: Are you sure about this? I'm certain the crew would be more than happy to have you...
Nerine: Yep, I'm sure! I'm going to live in Omelas with Morimori for a while.
Drusilla: I see. I must admit, I was under the impression that I'd be able to travel with you.
Nerine: Morimori said the same thing. He told me I was free to go on an adventure through the skies with you.
Nerine: But... those words you wrote on the ground got me thinking.
Drusilla: Please... Let me get through to her!
Nerine: ...!
Wait, this is...
Wait, this is...
Nerine: "Continue your story." That's what you wrote.
Drusilla: Yes, I remember.
Nerine: As it is now, my story can't even begin until I learn more about Omelas, since it's Erbsu's hometown too and all.
Nerine: I can always fly to the southern island after that!
Drusilla: The southern island? That's from A Bird's Tale.
Nerine: Yep! After my "Omelas Saga" is over, the next chapter will be...
Nerine: Traveling the skies with you! Is that selfish of me?
Drusilla: ...!
Drusilla: It's incredibly selfish! You have a lot of nerve making me wait.
Drusilla: But I suppose I have no choice. I'll be counting down the days until you're ready.
Nerine: Ehehe. I've got you wrapped around my little finger, huh?
Drusilla: Y-you truly are a little devil!
Nerine: Hey, is it true you get to eat cake on your birthday?
Drusilla: Yes. Why do you ask?
Nerine: I don't know when my birthday is! So I'll just make it today!
Nerine: Let's go eat some fluffy cake! I saw them selling some over there!
Drusilla: Hehe. I suppose I don't mind celebrating with you! We'll eat our fill today!
Drusilla: You too, Erbsu!
Erbsu: I'll curse you if it tastes bad.
Nerine: Ahaha. Aw, I know you were looking forward to this. No need to be so treefully embarrassed!
Erbsu: Silence. Now, hurry and fulfill your promise.
Not needing to be told twice, Drusilla and Nerine dash off in the direction of the cake shop, weaving their way through the crowd.
The following day, Drusilla takes to the skies once more, this time leaving Nerine with a smile on her face.
One day, Drusilla receives some letters.
Drusilla: There's one from Nerine. We only just saw each other though...
Drusilla: She's having fun living in town... and Erbsu has taken up baking cakes as a hobby? Hehe. How nice to hear!
Drusilla: This one is from Morimori. "Nerine is so cute my heart can't take it. Here are the top ten cutest things about her..."
Drusilla: What is the point of sending this to me?
Drusilla: Here's one from Father, Mother, and Grandmother.
Drusilla: It seems I still have their full support.
Drusilla: ...
Drusilla takes out a sheet of stationery and picks up her pen.
Filled with a variety of emotions, she begins to write.
Drusilla: "Forgive me for not replying to your letters sooner."
Drusilla: "I plan to return home in the near future and tell you all about my journey."
Homlet: Twee-tweet?
Drusilla: Yes, I'm finally going back. To the place we spent so much time together.
Drusilla: The nerves are still there, but I think I'm finally ready...
Drusilla: There once lived a girl in a Port Breeze mansion.
Drusilla: I may not be able to become anything I want...
Drusilla: But even so, I'm still a very special girl.
Drusilla: That's the treeful truth!
And they lived happily ever after.
Characters
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