A Needed Retreat
Seeing how much the former prince has overworked himself, Heles and Scathacha send Seruel to the former royal villa to survey its worth as a potential tourist destination, and to get some desperately needed rest. He's encouraged to bring Naoise along, and to invite (Captain) and the rest of the crew to join them.
On Alster Island, a handsome young man stands at the edge of a picturesque lake. His eyes shimmer with nostalgia.
Seruel: (Last I came here, I was only a child... Yet it looks exactly how I remember it.)
Seruel: (Why am I doing this... I haven't come here to reminisce.)
His name is Seruel, prince of the Irestill Kingdom. Or at least he used to be...
Following the collapse of Irestill by hordes of monsters, he now works as a private citizen to revitalize Alster Island.
Presently, the island is in a period of recovery after suffering two attacks by the True Dragon Medb.
Concerned Seruel might work himself sick, his sister, Heles, has arranged a summer retreat for him to get some rest and relaxation.
Vyrn: Seruel? Helloooo? Whatcha thinkin' about?
Seruel: ...!
Seruel: What in the!
While Seruel is deep in thought, (Captain) seizes the opportunity to playfully push him into the water.
Vyrn: You left yourself wide open, Seruel. What did you expect? Right, (Captain)?
Seruel: Blurgh! I'd expect that kind of behavior from my sister, but not you!
Vyrn: Hahaha! C'mon, what's a vacation without some shenanigans?
Lyria: Oh my! Seruel, are you all right?
Seruel: Yes, I'm quite fine, Lyria. I'm... rather used to this level of tomfoolery.
Vyrn: You just looked so glum! We thought we'd remind you that you're supposed to be in vacation mode!
Naoise: (He looks to be a bit anxious about the work he's left behind...)
Naoise: (All of the stress can't be good for him. I hope this retreat will help him get some much-needed rest, if only for a short while.)
Naoise: Sorry I couldn't stop (Captain) from pushing you in, Seruel.
Seruel: Not to worry, Naoise.
Seruel: I was confused as to why (Captain) was so adamant I put on swimwear, but I think I get it now.
Seruel lifts himself out of the lake and onto the bank, droplets of water trickling from his hair as he marches toward (Captain).
Seruel: They say revenge is best served cold. I'm not sure I agree.
In one swift move, Seruel hoists (Captain) up and gracefully heaves the troublemaker right into the lake.
Vyrn: Bwahaha! Now you're the one that's soaked, (Captain)!
Lyria: Ahaha, serves you right, (Captain)! Now that we're all in the same boat, time for some splashing!
Seruel: Well... at least someone's having fun. I suppose inviting you was worth it after all.
Vyrn: Y'know, I was kinda worried... Is it okay for us to be tagging along with you on this trip?
Seruel: Why wouldn't it be? Ah, yes, I almost forgot. I've yet to talk about whose idea it was to invite you...
Seruel: Sigh...
Though the lives of Alster Island residents were upended by Medb, they swiftly banded together to focus on restoring their home.
Among these residents is Scathacha, the alias of the True Dragon Deidre, who used her great power to protect Alster.
Due to Medb's machinations, Scathacha's core had been damaged, forcing her to focus all of her energy into preserving it.
While she recovers, Seruel works tirelessly, running himself ragged to ensure the island is well-defended even without her.
Seruel: Huff...
And the toll of toiling day in and day out is beginning to show on his face.
Heles: Look at you, Seruel. You're practically working yourself to death.
Seruel: Heles... Now is exactly the time for me to buckle down and focus my efforts into defending this island. Surely, you realize that?
Heles: ...
Heles: Take another look at these calculations for additional guards. Do these numbers look right to you?
Seruel: Ah, yes. I put an order in for more guards so Scathacha can get all the rest she needs.
Heles: And what of the volunteers that have gathered from across the island? Have you considered stationing them anywhere?
Seruel: ...
Seruel: They seem to have slipped my mind...
Heles: It isn't like you to make mistakes like this. You're clearly exhausted.
Heles: The council reviews these orders, so I'm sure they would've noticed, but I much prefer lapses like this be caught beforehand.
Seruel: Yes, you're right...
Heles: Honestly, Seruel... Really take a look at yourself. You look ghastly.
At the behest of his sister, Seruel turns to look at himself in a window, and his reflection stares back, gray hair dull and eyes sunken.
Heles: You must take a vacation, I insist—before your health takes a turn for the worse.
Seruel: Heles, there are still a mountain of issues that I need to take care of. I can't just leave them unfinished.
Heles: Fine. Scathacha should be having tea right around now. You come with me.
Seruel: Okay?
Scathacha: Hm? You look more chipper than usual. Did something happen?
Heles: I've come to share some good news with you. We've come up with a way to settle a long-standing issue.
Heles passes a document to Scathacha, who gives it a quick read and sighs in relief.
Scathacha: Good news, indeed! Sorry for all the trouble, you two. I really appreciate your efforts.
Seruel: We're just glad we'll be able to keep you safe.
Heles: Now that that's taken care of, I will be putting Seruel on leave.
Seruel: Heles!
Scathacha takes another look at Seruel, and his gaunt face makes her jump.
Scathacha: I apologize for not taking note of your fatigue sooner, Seruel. You get plenty of rest on this vacation of yours, all right?
Seruel: Scathacha, despite your condition, you have kindly lent an ear to the people of the island...
Seruel: Given the circumstances, it is unthinkable for me to even consider taking leave.
Scathacha: How bold of you to refuse seeing as you once ordered Heles to take time off.
Seruel: Well... some are more apt than others at handling so much work...
Heles: Oh, so I'm weak and you're strong? I needed the break and you don't, do I have that right?
Seruel: Heles...
Scathacha: Whatever the case, the council wouldn't react well to a man with a face as dreadful as yours.
Scathacha: You must take some time off.
Seruel: But Scathacha...
Heles: I feel a bit responsible for pushing you to work yourself so hard.
Heles: Rest assured, I'll do what I can in your absence to make sure things get done.
Seruel: But I...
Elisheba: Heles, if I remember correctly, there were plans to turn the former royal villa into a resort destination, were there not?
Heles: Ah, yes, there were. And I believe Medb's attack forced those plans to go on hold.
Heles: Hehe, nice thinking, Elisheba.
Elisheba: Apologies for the intrusion. I'm glad I could be of some assistance.
Heles instantly catches on to Elisheba's intent and turns to face Seruel.
Heles: Seruel, I want you to survey the villa—see for yourself if it's vacation-worthy, as it were.
Seruel: Sister, perhaps we should be focusing our efforts on the island's restoration rather than tourism.
Heles: You must sow the seeds before reaping the harvest, Seruel. You keep that in mind while you're surveying the villa.
Seruel: Heles, that's not—
Scathacha: Give it up, Seruel.
Heles: And you can take Naoise with you for protection.
Seruel: All right... If I must, I guess I'll take you up on your offer. Looks like you're coming with me, Naoise.
Naoise: Yes sir! I will guard you with my life!
Scathacha: ...
Seruel: Is something wrong, Scathacha? You look troubled. Did you want to come with us?
Scathacha sighs, glancing back and forth at the pained Seruel and passionate Naoise.
Scathacha: I can't imagine this vacation will be at all relaxing with the two of you taking it so seriously.
Scathacha: Hmm, how do we fix this... Ah, maybe invite (Captain) and the crew along? I'm sure they'll make your vacation one to remember.
Scathacha: (And perhaps Seruel will feel more at ease if he has someone to play host to...)
Naoise: That's a wonderful plan, Scathacha. I'll contact (Captain) right away.
Seruel: That's how you and your companions came to be invited on this combination trip of business and leisure.
Vyrn: We hadn't met in a while, so to see you burnt out like that was scary. But it all makes sense now.
Vyrn: Anyway, since you're surveyin' the place, we should keep an eye out for what makes it great... and have an awesome time doing it!
Lyria: Vyrn's right! We should focus on having fun! Don't you think, (Captain)?
(Captain) nods and Seruel lets out a plaintive huff.
Seruel: Well, all right... I suppose I can't argue with that.
As soon as Seruel admits defeat, Vyrn and Lyria yell in excitement.
Lyria: Yaaay! Better watch out, Seruel! I'm gonna splash you with so much water!
Seruel: Getting rowdy, are we, Lyria? Perhaps I shall get my revenge on you next.
Though exasperated, Seruel plays with Lyria and the others, while Naoise watches on with a relieved grin.
Naoise: (Seruel... I think this is exactly what you need to loosen up a little after devoting so much of yourself to your duties.)
Naoise: (I just knew inviting the crew would be a great idea...)
Naoise joins in on the fun, and the crew of vacationers splash each other until they're all soaking wet.
A Father's Love, a Child's Wish
As Seruel tends to (Captain), he recalls a memory of his father drying his hair without saying a word and realizes that may have been his own awkward way of showing affection. Later, after the crew have lunch on the lake, they head to a local tea farm in search of ideas on how to turn the villa into a hot vacation spot.
(Captain) and the crew frolic in the beautiful lake framing the grand Alster Island villa.
They've come to the area to survey its worth as a potential vacation spot... and to accompany Seruel on his well-needed retreat.
Seruel: All right now, that's enough fooling around. It's about time we get out of the water.
Seruel, Naoise, and the rest of the crew make their way back onto the bank.
Seruel: I didn't plan on getting into such antics while I was here... Honestly, you folks can be a real handful.
Seruel reaches out to (Captain)'s bed of wet hair and forcibly ruffles it.
- Ow, that hurts!
Choose: Ow, that hurts!Seruel: You have to make sure the roots of your hair are dry too, unless you want to catch a cold.
Seruel: Besides, ruffling it will help it dry quicker.
Connor: His hair will dry quicker this way.
Seruel: (Ah, right... I remember my father said the same thing when I was little...)
Young Seruel: (The lake is so pretty... Hey, is that a swan?)
Young Seruel: ...
???: Hehe...
Young Seruel: Ah!
Heles splashes the entranced Seruel with water, bringing him back to reality.
Young Heles: Haha, hey, Seruel! We're on vacation! Why are you just gawking at the lake? Wake up, daydreamer.
Young Seruel: S-Sister!
Young Naoise: Prince Seruel! I'll bring you something to dry off with!
Naoise rushes to grab a soft towel from the room when a large figure happens upon the group of youngsters.
Connor: What is going on here?
Young Seruel: Father!
Young Naoise: Your Highness! I thought you went to survey the tea fields?
Young Heles: Father! I'm the reason why Seruel is wet. If you're going to scold anyone, it should be—
Connor: Naoise, give me that towel.
Young Naoise: Y-yes, Your Highness!
Naoise passes the towel to the king, who vigorously ruffles it through Seruel's hair.
Young Seruel: (O-ow, ow, ow!)
Young Naoise: Your Majesty, if I may? Perhaps you're being a bit too rough?
Connor: His hair will dry quicker this way.
Young Seruel: (He's lying... He's upset, I just know it.)
In silence, the king continues his zealous assault on Seruel's hair, and the boy surrenders himself, eyes downcast.
Seruel: (Perhaps my father was trying to show me that he cared...)
Seruel: (In his own incredibly awkward way...)
Vyrn: What are you smiling for, Seruel?
Seruel: It's nothing.
Seruel: There, all dry.
Naoise: I've prepared a boat for us to do some sightseeing. What say we cruise around the lake?
Lyria: Ooh, a boat! I'd love to!
Naoise: Come, it's right this way.
With Naoise at the helm, the crew boards a small rowboat.
The gentle pitter-patter of the paddles softly striking the water resounds in the air as Naoise propels the boat down the lake.
Lyria: Wow... The view is stunning! And it's so tranquil. It feels like time has slowed down.
Naoise: It's great, isn't it. Almost makes you forget the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Seruel: Truly. It's the perfect place for anyone looking to find peace in their heart. I can see the merit of turning this area into a resort.
Vyrn: Yeah, it's quiet and the atmosphere is nice and all... But something feels missin'.
Seruel: Hmm... You might be on to something. But what else could this place need?
As the crew ponders, Lyria's stomach breaks the serenity with a rolling gurgle.
Vyrn: Haha, Lyria's rumbly tummy just gave us our answer! It needs a place to eat!
Lyria: Urgh... It might be too quiet around here if you can hear my tummy growling...
Vyrn: Hmm, maybe you should open a restaurant? A resort destination is nothin' without a spot to grab some grub.
Seruel: Good thinking. After all, everyone loves a delicious meal.
Seruel: We could put this view to good use too, and build a restaurant close by where patrons can look at the lake while they dine.
Lyria: Oh, wow! That sounds so elegant!
Lyria: Um, that reminds me... What are we doing for lunch?
Naoise: I've got you covered, Lyria. My mother prepared a lunch box for all of us.
Lyria: Yay! Elisheba's cooking is the best!
Vyrn: Let's eat on the lake! It'll be a feast for our tummies and our eyes!
Seruel: It feels a bit uncouth to be having lunch in a small boat... But I suppose it's all right. We can pretend we're tourists while we eat.
Naoise opens the cover and finds the lunch box packed with a variety of luxurious foods.
Vyrn: Wow, how'd she fit this huge prawn in the box! I think I see steamed demonbream in here too! We're eating good today!
Lyria: Oh my gosh! And look at all the meat and veggies! It's so lavish, it's practically glowing!
Lyria: Ooh, she decorated it with flowers... Huh? Hold on... Are these carrots cut into the shape of flowers?
Vyrn: Whoa, check it out! She cut this pumpkin into a rose!
Seruel: Elisheba's a master at decorating food. I remember she used to make these for me when I was little.
Naoise: It brings back memories, doesn't it. Me, you, and Heles would always fight over them and get scolded for arguing...
Vyrn: Wait, you guys aren't amazed by this? I guess you royal peeps are used to seeing this kind of food, huh?
Seruel: Just because we don't show it, doesn't mean we aren't moved. I'll have you know, not every meal we eat is as elaborate as this.
Seruel: I imagine Elisheba felt the need to prepare something extravagant after hearing you all would be joining us.
Lyria: Hehe... I'm not sure why, but that makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. In any case, the food looks great!
Vyrn: Enough talkin', let's dig in!
They each pick a food to start with and take their first bite.
Lyria: Mm-mm! This meat is to die for!
Vyrn: The prawns are extra plump and juicy!
Naoise: Good, huh? You can really taste the broth, and every dish has got just the right amount of saltiness to it.
Seruel: This coming from the man that would eat just about anything and say it's delicious...
Naoise: ...?
Lyria: Hehe. We've got a beautiful view of the lake and a box full of tasty food... What more could we ask for?
And so, they dig into the lavish lunch box in earnest, admiring Elisheba's magnificent work while savoring each bite.
Vyrn: Phew... I'm stuffed.
Lyria: My tummy couldn't be happier!
- That was delicious!
Choose: That was delicious!Seruel: You all were so ravenous, for a second I was afraid there wouldn't be enough food for me and Naoise.
Lyria: Ahaha... We might've gotten a little carried away...
The crew rub their tummies in satisfaction before Naoise chimes in with a choice suggestion.
Naoise: How about we head back for an afternoon snack? I can brew us a pot of Alster Island tea.
Lyria: Tea sounds great. Let's go!
The crew return and make themselves comfortable in a room overlooking the lake.
Naoise: Here you go. I've prepared a cup of Alster Island tea for everybody.
Lyria: Mmm... It smells amazing. There's nothing quite as relaxing as a cup of tea.
Vyrn: Drinking tea while gazing out at a pretty lake... I feel so fancy!
Vyrn: Say, aren't the tea leaves around here a big thing? I bet tourists would love them.
Seruel: Yes, they're just one of the many regional specialties of Alster Island. We export them to a number of neighboring islands.
Naoise: In fact, one of the farms that produces Alster tea leaves is in this area. I remember King Connor went to survey it once or twice.
Seruel: Hmm, a tea farm...
- I say we go check it out!
Choose: I say we go check it out!Vyrn: Yeah, it could give us some ideas on how to turn this place into a hot spot!
Seruel: It just might. Now, we'll be visiting them unannounced, so let's try not to take up too much of their time. I wouldn't want to bother them.
Thus, the crew quickly change their clothes and jaunt off to the nearby tea farm.
A Father's Love, a Child's Wish: Scene 2
Seruel, Naoise, and the crew are greeted by a refined couple upon visiting the nearby tea farm. After some small talk, they exchange ideas regarding tourism in the area. Their discussion is fruitful, and Seruel leaves the farm satisfied. The crew return to the villa, and their productive day is capped off with an exciting fireworks show.
(Captain) and the crew have arrived at the tea farm hoping to find some ideas on how to transform the villa into a vacation spot.
They pass through a large gate and are greeted by a refined couple.
Classy Woman: My, what a pleasure it is to have you and your guests visit us here at our humble tea farm, Sir Seruel!
Tea Farmer: Go on, everyone, take a seat!
Classy Woman: Help yourselves to a cup of our wonderful tea. Have some cookies as well. I baked a large batch of them this morning!
Lyria: Wow, thank you! Don't mind if we do.
As soon as the crew partake in the goodies before them, the elegant woman gently chimes in.
Classy Woman: Forgive me for asking, Sir Seruel, but these skyfarers accompanying you today... Are they...
Seruel: Yes, (Captain) and the rest of the crew are the very same skyfarers that aided us in the war.
Tea Farmer: Well, it's truly an honor to meet you all. It would be hard to impress upon you how grateful we were for your support in those trying times.
Classy Woman: My, that explains why you all look so grown.
Classy Woman: Hehe, reminds me of when Sir Seruel was just a boy. I remember he was quite mature for his age as well.
Seruel: You knew me... when I was a child?
Classy Woman: Oh dear, have you forgotten? You once came with your father to survey our farm...
Naoise: Ah! I think I remember...
Classy Woman: Ah, good! I was having quite a difficult chat with His Majesty King Connor, but that didn't stop little Sir Seruel from listening in.
Classy Woman: Lady Heles was there as well, asking us insightful questions about our tea bushes. It was a moment in time we'd never forget, wasn't it dear?
Tea Farmer: It was. In those days, the Irestill Kingdom's future was as bright as the sun.
Classy Woman: I remember you too, Sir Knight. You were the young boy that accompanied Sir Seruel, yes? What a handsome man you've become.
Naoise: Ah, well... I recall stuffing my face with your delicious cookies. I was quite an embarrassing child now that I think about it...
Classy Woman: Nonsense, a growing boy must eat! It actually concerned me to find out Sir Seruel himself wasn't much of an eater...
Tea Farmer: Darling, how about we bring this conversation back on track? You're troubling our guests...
Classy Woman: Oh my, apologies all around! Ah yes, we must ask, to what do we owe the honor of this visit?
Seruel: No, no, the apology is mine. I should've been more forthcoming about why we've come.
Seruel gives the chatty couple a rundown of the plan to turn the villa into a resort destination.
Classy Woman: Ah, so they've finally got it moving. I've been looking forward to this grand plan for a while.
Tea Farmer: Attracting tourists to the area would make for a great opportunity to promote and sell Alster Island tea leaves.
Seruel: My thoughts exactly. That's precisely the reason for our sudden visit.
Tea Farmer: We're not the largest farm by any means, but we have a modest building next to our tea bushes that houses an herb garden.
Tea Farmer: Perhaps we could use it to sell tea leaves and herbs to visitors?
Naoise: That sounds splendid! I'm sure plenty of people would love that.
Tea Farmer: Yes, I bet they would. What else do you think we could try selling?
- How about these cookies?
- What about tea-scented body cream?
Choose: How about these cookies?Tea Farmer: Ah, yes, my wife is rather skilled at baking these cookies. With how flavorful they are, I'm confident we'd have no problem selling them.
Lyria: Right! It's not just the tea-flavoring either. They have this alluring aroma that makes them smell just as good as they taste!
Classy Woman: You have a great nose, my dear. I use a special cinnamon spice blend in my recipe. It gives my cookies a real kick!
Lyria: Oh, so that's what I was smelling! The blend of sweet and spicy really takes the flavor to another level!
Choose: What about tea-scented body cream?Seruel: Body cream, huh... Come to think of it, we export sunscreen made in Alster Island to Auguste.
Seruel: I'm sure we could modify our sunscreen formula to create a simple body cream. I'll consult a specialist when we return home.
Classy Woman: Hehe. I just love anything and everything tea-scented. I could see myself using it to moisturize every day!
Continue 1Seruel: Hmm, good... It seems we've identified some promising ideas for potential products.
They continue to share proposals before bringing the productive conversation to a close.
Seruel: Thank you for the insightful discussion. It was very eye-opening.
Tea Farmer: Oh, not at all! We welcome any and all ideas that could breathe new life into the region.
Classy Woman: Are you going back already? I still have plenty of stories of when you were little, Sir Seruel...
Seruel: Maybe next time, Ma'am...
Classy Woman: Oh, bother. Well, I wouldn't want to keep you.
Disheartened, the woman rests her hand on her cheek, but breaks into a smile as if she's remembered something.
Classy Woman: I must say, Sir Seruel, you look a lot like your father...
Seruel: Ngh! How so?
Classy Woman: It's hard to say how exactly... I think it might be how you carry yourself. You're as sincere and straightforward as he was.
Seruel: I... I see.
The woman notices Seruel's less than positive reaction and attempts to brighten the mood.
Classy Woman: You're welcome to come visit us anytime. I'll bake up a fresh batch of spiced tea cookies just for you.
Seruel: Thank you. They were delicious, truly.
Seruel: I will contact you as soon as we've made progress on the plans. Until then.
Tea Farmer: Much appreciated. Take care of yourselves, everyone.
The crew put the tea farm behind them, waving at the lovely couple until they're gone from sight.
Naoise: That was far more productive than we were expecting, wasn't it, Seruel?
Seruel: Yes, it was. I was a bit shocked to find out they knew me when I was a child, but I suppose it allowed me to do away with pretense...
Lyria: Hehe... They were both really nice people.
Seruel: Ah, about that, Lyria.
Seruel: We need to talk about your eating habits. Watching you stuff yourself with cookies like a gluttonous squirrel made me lose my focus.
Lyria: What! I-I didn't eat that much!
Lyria: Can you blame me? They were just so yummy...
Vyrn: Y'know, Seruel, once you started talking, you seemed just fine.
Seruel: Did I? Perhaps learning good behavior and etiquette has paid off after all.
Naoise: (Seruel looks more calm than usual...)
Naoise alone notices the distinct change in Seruel's mood and it brings him comfort.
Lyria: That couple gave us plenty of tea leaves to take back too.
Seruel: And they wouldn't let us pay for any of it, no matter how much we insisted. Let's gift them to Heles when we return.
Seruel: We'll repay their kindness by making sure the resort plans materialize.
In the face of this monumental undertaking, Seruel walks tall, more optimistic and energized than ever before.
Night falls and Naoise beckons to Seruel and the crew inside the villa.
Naoise: Hey, everybody, could you come out here to lake for a second?
Seruel: What for? It's already dark out.
Naoise: Oh, um! Just, you know... Wouldn't want you to miss out on how pretty the lake is at night.
Seruel: Naoise... If you're trying to hide something, you could try a little harder.
Naoise: I, umm...
Seruel: All right, fine. Come on, everyone, let's see what he has in store for us. This better be good, Naoise.
Naoise: Th-thanks, I think you'll like it! At least I hope you will...
As (Captain) and the crew come out to the lake, they're greeted with a loud surprise.
Lyria: Wow, look over there! It's fireworks!
Each deafening boom rumbles throughout their bodies, lighting up the sky and lake with a burst of color.
Seruel: So this is why you wanted us to come outside... The way they reflect onto the lake is quite captivating.
Seruel: Did you prepare this, Naoise? I can't imagine you did this all by yourself.
Naoise: Sharp as always, Seruel. It's a surprise from Scathacha.
Naoise: It appears she's a fan of fireworks. I heard she got Heles's help to make this happen...
The crew delight in the spectacular show as explosion after explosion illuminates their ecstatic faces.
Seruel: I could see our future tourists enjoying a spectacle such as this.
Seruel: I must thank Scathacha and Heles when I return. You I can thank right now.
Seruel: Though I meant what I said about your skills in deception. You might want to practice before you try lying again.
Naoise: I apologize, Seruel... I'm just not used to deceiving people.
Seruel: Heh, I'm kidding, Naoise. Your sincerity is part of what makes you admirable.
With one last, colossal boom, the short but thrilling program is brought to a close.
Lyria: Wow... That was gorgeous!
Vyrn: I know! What a way to end the day! Out with a bang!
Naoise: I'm glad you all enjoyed it.
Naoise: Come, let's go inside. It's getting cold. I believe dinner's just about ready as well.
Little surprises and big smiles are aplenty on the crew's superb Alster Island vacation.
A Father's Love, a Child's Wish: Scene 3
After dinner, Seruel and Naoise retire to the former's room for a cup of tea, and the two reminisce before turning in for the night. Before leaving, Naoise tucks the former prince in and silently renews his vow to protect him. The next morning, on the bank of the fog-covered lake, Seruel opens up to (Captain) about his father. Upon hearing (Captain)'s determination, Seruel finds the courage to move forward.
After a long day of business and leisure, (Captain) and the crew stay the night at the villa.
Following dinner, (Captain), Vyrn, and Lyria head to their respective rooms for the night...
While Seruel and Naoise have a cup of after-dinner tea in the former's room.
Seruel: It's been a while since we just sat and talked, hasn't it, Naoise?
Naoise: A long while, Seruel. I'm glad I get to accompany you on your retreat.
Seruel: Naoise, if I remember correctly, you would spar with me every time we came here.
Naoise: I did. I put myself through rigorous training to ensure I was always stronger than you. After all, a knight can't protect a charge he's weaker than.
Seruel: Looking back, I realize I've been pushing myself—to meet both my father's and the people's expectations.
Seruel: Particularly when I started handling public affairs, I found myself more and more on edge...
Naoise: Really? Well, you certainly haven't looked "on edge."
Seruel: Heh... Calm as a swan above water, but frantic feet paddle underneath, as they say.
Seruel: I honestly don't think I'd have made it this far if it wasn't for you, Naoise.
Naoise: ...!
Seruel: When you went missing... I thought I'd never see you again. There were some days I cursed fate for being so cruel.
Seruel: But now I'm here, sitting with you, enjoying a cup of tea.
Seruel: We must be thankful for this moment, and rally our strength and energy to focus on restoring our home.
Naoise: Of course. I'll do everything in my power as a knight to help.
Seruel: I'm... counting on you... Naoise...
Feeling at ease for the first time in ages, Seruel begins to nod off in his seat, teacup still in hand.
Naoise: Seruel—
Naoise reacts in an instant, leaning forward to grab Seruel's hand and steadying it just in time to prevent a spill.
Seruel: Ah, my apologies. I might've gotten a bit... too relaxed.
Naoise: It's okay, Seruel. That's what we're here for, after all. Let's turn in for the night.
Seruel stifles a yawn as he rises from his seat, shuffling over to his bed and lying down.
Naoise: Good night, Seruel.
Seruel: Yes... You too... Naoise...
Seruel's exhaustion quickly carries him off to sleep. As he dozes, his face is the picture of absolute serenity.
Naoise: ...
Naoise: (Seruel... I'm not here just to protect you. I'm here to make sure you get all the rest you need. And I will do whatever it takes to ensure you get it.)
Commitment renewed, Naoise tenderly pulls the covers over Seruel, and retires for the night.
Early next morning, (Captain) is stirred awake after sensing a presence.
(Captain) peers out the window and barely makes out a shape in the thick fog.
- Is that Seruel?
Choose: Is that Seruel?Believing the figure to be Seruel, (Captain) leaves the room to pursue him.
Meanwhile, just outside the villa, Seruel is out on a morning stroll.
Seruel: I went to bed awfully early last night... Explains why I'm wide awake at this hour.
Seruel: That said, I'm feeling quite refreshed. I can't remember the last time I had such a good night's rest...
As he walks through the haze, the vague outline of an Erune comes into sight.
Seruel: What... Father!
Seruel: (No, that can't be him... He's...)
He approaches the phantom and reaches out to touch it, only for his hand to go straight through.
Seruel: Oh... It was just my shadow casting onto the fog...
Seruel: (If only you were here... I would've liked to talk with you... Father.)
As if to tell Seruel his wish would never come true, the shape dissipates before his very eyes.
In the meantime, (Captain) exits the villa to chase the figure in the fog...
- Seruel!
Choose: Seruel!(Captain) reaches out toward Seruel's shoulder, but grabs a handful of air.
The forward momentum causes (Captain) to lose balance and stumble into something solid.
Seruel: Watch yourself, I'm right here. Were you perhaps deceived by a phantom in the mist?
Seruel: Though I suppose I shouldn't be talking. I fell for it too.
It's Seruel in the flesh, who makes it just in time to gently catch (Captain).
(Captain) asks what he's doing out so early in the morning and Seruel responds.
Seruel: I woke up naturally at this hour, so I figured I'd go out for a walk. It seems one's eyes just open after a good night's rest...
Seruel: Though I must say, this morning fog is quite dense...
Seruel: It'd be unsafe to keep wandering around. I'm sure it'll lighten up in a bit. Let's just rest here for now.
(Captain) agrees and they both take a seat on the bank of the lake.
Seruel: Heh... I wonder what my father would say if he saw me sitting on the ground like this.
Driven by the dreamy ambience of the morning fog, Seruel decides to open up about his parents.
Seruel: My dear mother... She died from complications soon after giving birth to me.
Seruel: I'd always thought my father hated me for taking her away from him.
Seruel: But apparently I was wrong. It seems he did love me in his own way.
Seruel: You know, he'd often tell me to speak up. If I have something to say, don't hold back. I wish I had talked to him more.
Seruel: But now he's gone... And all of my realizations have come too late.
Seruel goes quiet and (Captain) silently sympathizes with him.
Seruel: If I recall, your father left you when you were young, didn't he? If you don't mind me saying, he sounds like a terribly selfish man.
(Captain) snickers in wholehearted agreement with Seruel's straightforward assessment.
Seruel: My father was similar in a way. He was a man unfit for rule and fatherhood.
Seruel: In hindsight, I realize he was consumed by his position. That's why he behaved the way he did.
Seruel: But I don't believe knowing that would bring my younger self any comfort.
Seruel: If anything... I'm of the mind that it was a form of cruelty in its own regard.
Seruel: We've both had such awful fathers, haven't we, (Captain)?
A wry smile pulls at the corner of Seruel's lips.
Seruel: But your situation is different.
Seruel: Your father waits for you at the end of the sky—in Estalucia.
Seruel: I hope you're able to have a great talk with him when you two finally reunite.
- I'm determined to make it there.
- I'm determined to find him.
Choose: I'm determined to make it there.Seruel: That's the spirit.
Seruel: And no matter how difficult, I will do everything I can to help you achieve your dream, (Captain).
Choose: I'm determined to find him.Seruel: And I hope you give him hell when you do, (Captain). It's the least he deserves.
Seruel: I will do everything I can to give you that opportunity.
Continue 1Seruel: (Indeed, it is also my duty to support (Captain).)
Seruel: (I shouldn't be bogging myself down with my own emotions.)
Seruel: My regrets are many and great, but the time has come to move forward.
Seruel: Thank you for listening to me, (Captain).
Seruel: If later you'd like to lament about your life, I'll gladly lend you an ear.
As Seruel's disposition clears, so does the air. The thick fog gradually disperses, and the bright morning sun shines down on them.
Vyrn: Heeeey! (Captain)!
Vyrn, Lyria, and a hurried Naoise rush toward the pair on the bank.
Lyria: We've been searching all morning wondering where you two could've gone!
Naoise: I know it's unlikely, but I was afraid you and (Captain) might've gotten yourselves into some trouble, Seruel...
Seruel: Haha, apologies for worrying you all. We'll be sure to keep you in the loop next time.
Lyria: Wow, I can't believe it's almost time for us to go home... I was having so much fun...
Seruel: Well, it's not over just yet. What say we put on our swimsuits and take one last dip in the lake?
Seruel proposes an uncharacteristically playful idea and looks over at the crew with a carefree grin.
Seruel: As you all know, I'm not used to frolicking in the water, but we're on vacation. It might be nice to engage in something unfamiliar.
Vyrn: Woohoo! Nice to see you finally in the vacation spirit! Took ya long enough!
Naoise: Seruel...
Seruel: Care to join us, (Captain)? When we're done, I'll dry your hair for you.
- All right, let's go!
Lyria: Yaaay! Let's play in the water one last time!
Choose: All right, let's go!Vyrn: We better change quick! Not much time before we gotta head home!
As soon as the crew change into their swimsuits, they wade into the shallows of the lake and start splashing each other.
Vyrn: I've been meaning to say, that's one spiffy swimsuit you got on, Seruel!
Lyria: It really is! It fits your style!
Seruel: Yes, well, it's a bit ostentatious for a swimsuit, if you ask me. I'm not sure all of these embellishments were necessary.
Seruel: But my father always instructed my sister and me to never show any signs of weakness.
Seruel: There are people out there that would judge a person for wearing modest clothing.
Seruel: The fact that Heles prepared this particular piece for me shows just how deep his teachings are ingrained in her.
Vyrn: Whoa... Now that you mention it, it kinda does scream "prince"!
Seruel: But these are the kinds of adornments people would have their children wear to protect them from sickness and harm.
Seruel: I have to wonder how old my sister thinks I am...
Vyrn: Haha! Obviously Heles just loves her little brother Seruel!
Seruel: Sigh... I have an inkling this was done more out of impish jest than familial love...
Seruel: All right, we've only so much time left. We better get to splashing while we have our swimsuits on.
Seruel: Hey, (Captain), take this!
In the short time it takes for their ride to arrive, the crew hop into the lake to get one last fill of summer fun.
As his productive vacation comes to an end, Seruel is relaxed and hopeful for the future.
Devoted in heart and mind, he is poised to play a meaningful role in shaping the destinies of both the people of Alster Island and (Captain).