One Small Step
Because of her interest in the outside world, Erin has been selected to represent the Crystalia as part of a long-term cultural exchange program. At the Human village she will be staying in, Erin is welcomed by Ascke, whose family she had helped some time ago. Erin is both excited and nervous for her first solo outing beyond the Ice Crystal Palace.
Long living in seclusion, the Crystalia way of life had been upended due to the death of the Snow Maiden and partial collapse of the Ice Crystal Palace from a monster attack.
However, with aid from the Souval and Humans, the Crystalia were able to overcome that disaster. Afterward the three peoples pledged to support each other.
In the wake of those tragic events, the Crystalia have begun to proactively engage with Souval and Humans.
Erin listens to the animated voices of her fellow Crystalia with bittersweet emotions.
Erin: (I'm not sure the halls of the Ice Crystal Palace have ever felt this energetic.)
Erin: (And to think it wasn't that long ago when we were evasive of other species and the outside world.)
Erin: ...
Erin: (Everyone's been able to take small steps outside of their comfort zones... Myself included...)
Vyrn: Whoa! You've never left the palace? For real?
Erin: Yes.
Vyrn: Erm... Haven't you ever wanted to see what it's like outside?
Erin: Never. I'm content living in peace and quiet in the Ice Crystal Palace.
Erin: Besides, Humans and other non-Crystalia do not interest me.
Erin: I have a hard time believing it myself, but I'm finding the outside world to be truly fascinating.
Erin: So if the opportunity ever comes again, I want you to bring me along.
Erin: And show me how refreshing the outside world can be.
Erin: Hehe, I wonder what the old me would think if she saw me now...
???: Erin! There you are.
Turning around, Erin greets the Crystalia who had called out to her.
Erin: Welcome back, princess. How was this round of triumvirate talks?
Tia: It went very smoothly.
After the monster attack on the Ice Crystal Palace, the three major inhabitants of the island—Crystalia, Souval, and Humans—agreed to host routine roundtables.
These talks are meant for discussing the island's future as well as the relations between its three peoples.
Tia: We even came to several joint decisions.
Tia: Which brings me to a topic I want to talk about in private. Will you join me in my room?
Erin: What do you wish to discuss, princess?
Tia: After lots of back and forth, the three clans came up with the idea of establishing an intensive exchange program for the purpose of learning more about each other.
Erin: I don't follow...
Tia: As you know, we Crystalia know next to nothing about the outside world.
Tia: Especially when it comes to non-Crystalia customs. All we have to go on is what the princesses tell us from their trips.
Tia: On the other hand, the Souval and Humans don't know that much about us either.
Tia: So even though we've started working together, we're still basically in the dark about each other.
Erin: I see. That's why it behooves us to create opportunities for engagement.
Erin: It's a good idea. As for this intensive exchange program, how will it work?
Tia: Chosen ambassadors from each side will live together for an extended period of time in a predetermined settlement.
Tia: According to the Humans at the talks, when it comes to learning customs, a hands-on approach works particularly well.
However, Erin's frown only deepens as she listens.
Erin: There is a lot of merit in that plan, but it's going to be tough to bring Crystalia around to the idea.
Erin: We aren't as fearful of the outside world and its inhabitants as we used to be, but I don't see anyone champing at the bit to leave the palace...
Tia: But some Crystalia are changing. The number of us interested in what's out there is growing.
Tia: Ring a bell, Erin?
Tia stares intently at her friend.
Erin: Why are you looking at me like that?
Tia: ...
Tia: Erin, I want you to represent the Crystalia at the Human settlement.
Tia: You're the obvious choice.
Erin: ...!
Tia takes no notice of Erin's surprise and continues to lay bare her thoughts.
Tia: Living with non-Crystalia outside of the palace won't exactly be a walk in the park.
Tia: I realize the pressure is on, what with this being the beginning of a new chapter in Crystalia history.
Tia: If you don't feel comfortable with this, then it's completely fine to turn me down.
Tia: But if I know the new Erin, she's way more excited than she is nervous. Am I right?
Erin: Excited, you say...
Tia: Considering how much time you've spent with (Captain)'s crew, you've had far more contact with outsiders than most Crystalia.
Tia: Objectively speaking, that makes you well-suited for the program.
Tia: But what matters the most is your eagerness to learn.
Erin: ...
Erin stares back at Tia for a while. Eventually she lets out a small sigh and nods.
Erin: I can't hide anything from you, princess. You hit the nail on the head.
Erin: Ever since I met (Captain) and the crew, I've been yearning to discover more about the outside world.
Erin: However, I don't think I'm ready just yet to take the leap and traverse long distances on my own.
Tia: Erin, the Crystalia have to change.
Tia: And I'd like you to be our pioneer.
Tia: Can I count on you?
Erin: ...
Erin mulls over her last remaining doubts before coming to a decision.
Erin: Okay. I'll do it.
Erin: I don't know anything about being a pioneer, but I will do what I can.
Erin: Besides, this is a good opportunity for myself as well.
Tia: Thank you, Erin. I'm happy to hear you say that!
Tia grabs Erin's hands with joy.
Tia: Actually, there's something else you should know. I was counting on you to say yes on your own, so now's a good time to bring this up.
Tia: One of the Humans mentioned that he'd really like for you to come.
Erin: Really? Why?
Tia: Do you remember how you helped out the crew with a request a while back?
Erin: Did I? Ah! The ice crystal flower mission.
As its name suggests, the ice crystal flower is a flower made of ice.When melted and imbibed, it's said to cure nearly every illness.
However, the delicate plant can only be handled by Crystalia, which is why the crew had sought Erin's help.
Erin: Even so, what does that have to do with this?
Tia: The client of that mission is the same man who brought up your name.
Tia: I didn't ask for the particulars, but apparently he and his family moved to the island after certain incidents.
Tia: When he heard about the program, he said he'd hope to see you to thank you personally.
Erin: I see...
Tia: Fate works in mysterious ways. Just another reason why we need to expand our horizons.
Thanking Erin again for accepting the role of ambassador, Tia explains more of how the program will work.
After speaking with Tia, Erin returns to her own room.
Erin: Sigh... I was not expecting to get shipped off to a Human village when I got up this morning.
Erin: I guess I really have changed after meeting Lily and (Captain)'s crew.
Erin: (I should start packing... Hm, what am I even supposed to bring?)
Erin: (This will be my first trip away from the palace, and a long one at that.)
Erin: Maybe I'll just borrow a page from the princesses and pack whatever they packed. I can figure out the rest later.
Erin: As for what to wear... Oh, I know just the outfit for this trip.
Erin: (Lily gifted it to me a long time ago, but I never managed to find the right occasion to wear it.)
As Erin continues to diligently pack, she notices the encyclopedia of animals that's flipped open on her desk.
Erin: (I really hope I get to see some cute animals on my travels.)
Erin: (Not just any animals. The cutest, fluffiest critters around...)
Erin: Heehee...
Erin doesn't realize how excited she's become to leave the palace.
It shows how her once closed-off heart seems to have creaked open.
Several days later, Erin arrives at the village lugging her bags.
The Human villagers and Souval ambassador are there waiting with warm smiles.
Erin: (So this is what a Human settlement looks like.)
Erin: (It would be great if I don't commit a faux pas on my first outing.)
The girl's eyes dart around nervously at her new surroundings.
Erin: (Wait, a female Souval? But I thought all Souval were...)
Erin can't take her eyes off the Souval.
She's so distracted that she doesn't notice the family of three walking up to her.
Ascke: Howdy, Erin. My name is Ascke.
Ascke: This is my wife, Seren, and my daughter, Rhea.
Ascke: Thank you so much for saving my little girl's life.
The entire family bows in gratitude toward Erin.
Erin: Ah, that would make you the client who hired (Captain)'s crew.
Erin: They're the ones you should be thanking though. I only played a tiny part in that mission.
Ascke: But without your help, there wouldn't have been a way to transport the flower back. That's what they told me.
Erin: ...
Ascke: As our way of saying thank-you, please don't hesitate to ask us for anything.
Erin: Thanks. Since this is my first trip far beyond the palace walls, I'm still trying to get my bearings.
Erin: Any support is greatly appreciated.
Ascke: Absolutely. We look forward to our time together.
With that, Ascke offers yet another bow.
Erin: Same here.
Erin: (Well, this is it. I'm officially in the outside world.)
Erin tilts her head up at the sky, feelings of excitement and uncertainty billowing in her chest like the clouds above.
One Giant Leap
Erin spends time with Ascke's family and a female Souval named Shizel learning about Human and Souval culture. One day she travels into a nearby forest with Shizel, Ascke, and his daughter Rhea for a chance to see forest critters up close. Erin quickly bonds with a kitten Rhea has been caring for. However, a panicked villager comes running over, telling them to hurry back to the village.
Erin has come to a Human village as part of a long-term culture exchange.
That night, she and several Souval females attend a welcome party.
As the lively dinner rolls along, Erin quietly slips away to a corner of the room to be alone.
Erin: (I had no idea they would make such a big deal of our arrival.)
Erin: (I'm glad there aren't traces of tension between anyone, but...)
???: Hey, there. Can we talk?
A voice calls out to Erin, and when she turns around, there's a female Souval standing in front of her.
Erin: You're the Souval ambassador, right? I didn't catch your name...
Shizel: Shizel. As a fellow non-Human, and on behalf of the Souval, I thought I should come say hi.
Shizel: A pleasure to meet you, Erin.
Erin: Yes, likewise.
The Souval sticks out her hand, and Erin happily gives it a shake.
Shizel does a double take when Erin's hand meets her own.
Erin: What is it?
Shizel: Sorry. It's nothing. So why are you over here by yourself?
Erin: All this commotion is still a bit much for me.
Erin: We don't hold these kinds of loud feasts at the Ice Crystal Palace.
Shizel: Ah, I see. The noise gets to you.
Erin: That doesn't mean I'm against it. What about the Souval? Do you often have parties?
Shizel: Yep. Tons of Souval enjoy getting rowdy.
Erin: Just another difference among our peoples. Not to mention...
Erin trails off while looking at Shizel.
Shizel: Do I have food on my face?
Erin: No, I... I'm just a little surprised.
Erin: All Crystalia are female. I was under the impression that all Souval were male...
Shizel: Ah... You're right about that. There aren't any Souval females.
Erin: Huh? But aren't you...
Shizel: Sorry, that was poor phrasing. No Souval is born female.
Shizel: However, upon reaching a specific period in our lives, some Souval become female.
Shizel: When this happens, some physicality decreases but a stronger flame is gained.
Erin: So what you're saying is...
Shizel: I used to be male.
Erin: ...
An astonished Erin is still trying to process this new information.
Erin: Is it temporary?
Shizel: Yes. We'll return to being males once that period is over.
Erin: Interesting... I had no idea about that side of the Souval.
Shizel: You surprised me too.
Shizel: All this time I've been told that Crystalia possess an organ called a heart of ice that causes their bodies to release icy air.
Shizel: You're all waiting for the embodiment of "spring," and without that spring, neither Humans nor Souval can get too close.
Shizel: But contrary to what I've heard, I'm standing right in front of you and still haven't turned to ice. Your hand wasn't that cold either...
Erin: The reason for that is because we no longer have the Snow Maiden's blessing.
Shizel: ...?
Erin: What you call the heart of ice was a blessing from the Snow Maiden.
Erin: By accepting her blessing, it created an organ inside us that made our bodies exude cold.
Erin: That cold protected us from outside threats.
Erin: But recent events have stirred a change in Crystalia.
Erin: As a result, the Snow Maiden recognized that Crystalia should survive without her blessing.
Erin: Believing that to be the way of the future, she closed her eyes for good.
Erin: Without the blessing, our hearts of ice lost their power.
Erin: If I were to guess, I would say we Crystalia are now very similar to Humans.
Shizel: Wow, who'd have thought... What we know about each other could barely fill a thimble.
Erin: Yes. Luckily, we have embarked on this intensive exchange to help rectify that, haven't we?
Erin: This has been a good way to start.
Shizel: Heh, well put. Let's keep the wheels of education spinning.
Erin and Shizel share a laugh, unaware that the villagers have been watching the mini info swap with delight.
Over the next few days, Erin begins her study.
She's introduced to many aspects of Human and Souval daily life.
Including eye-popping dining experiences.
Erin: Cough... Cough... W-water! Cough...
Shizel: Is it really that spicy? I eased off on the peppers this recipe normally calls for.
Erin: This is spicy? More like painful... Aah... My lips and throat are burning...
Ascke: I think we're holding up a bit better than Erin, but... Yeah, it is a bit on the hot side...
Shizel: Oh... Then may I add my own two rupies?
Shizel: The dish Erin made has next to no flavor...
Erin: Crystalia are not known for taking an interest in culinary arts.
Erin: We only began looking into cooking after mingling with Humans and Souval.
Ascke: So you ladies haven't had any time to practice, huh? What were meals like before then?
Erin: Raw fruits and vegetables eaten off the stem. Meat was not on the menu.
Erin: Since we grew accustomed to that diet, Crystalia prefer to go without seasoning.
Shizel: Hm... No wonder it lacks punch.
Ascke: Well, I think it tastes good in its own way. Erin brought out the natural flavors of these ingredients.
Erin: Thanks. It's no match for this village's cooking though.
The Crystalia takes a big bite of the food whipped up by the villagers to prove her point.
Erin: We can't make anything that tastes this good or even looks this good.
Erin: (I may have trouble readjusting to food at the palace after eating these yummy meals every day.)
At times the temperature difference is too much for Erin to bear.
Erin: It's too hot...
Erin: What's that saying Humans have? "I'm melting"? Now I understand why...
Ascke: Really? The weather today feels perfect in my opinion.
Shizel: I'm actually feeling a tad chilly.
Ascke: Er, let me go grab you a blanket, Shizel. It also might help to put on extra layers.
Ascke: And I'll fetch Erin a cold drink while I'm at it.
Erin: I'm sorry for the trouble.
Shizel: Sorry about that. Thanks.
Each day brings new and interesting customs that differ from those of the Crystalia.
One day Ascke invites Erin to accompany him and the children into the forest to gather food.
She immediately perks up at the mention of getting to see animals. She's never nodded yes harder or faster in her life.
Erin: Huff... Puff...
Boy: Um, are you feeling okay, Erin?
Rhea: Papa! Erin's breathing really hard!
Ascke: Already? But we've barely left the village.
Erin: I-I'm okay... I can keep going...
Shizel: Stamina isn't your strong point, it seems.
Erin: I can't help it. We Crystalia almost never leave the palace.
Ascke: We're almost to the clearing up ahead. You can do it.
Erin: Thanks. I'll try my best.
Rhea: You made it, Erin!
Erin: Huff... Huff... I-I made it...
Erin: Huh?
Trying to catch her breath, Erin puts her hands on her knees and drops her head. When she looks back up, her eyes nearly pop out.
Erin: I-is that a cat?
Boy: Yep! And the good boy next to you is a doggy!
Boy: That's a rabbit over there, and a horse over there!
Erin: ...
A menagerie of animals frolic freely in the forest clearing.
Erin, at a loss for words, stands in awe before the myriad of critters.
Shizel: What's the matter? Cat got your tongue?
Erin: Sorry. Some of these animals I've only read about in books.
Erin: I'm... not sure what I was expecting. Can I touch them?
Ascke: Sure, pet all you want. The animals in this clearing aren't afraid of people.
Erin: Okay then...
Erin takes a deep breath, kneels down beside the sleeping dog, and reaches out a trembling hand.
But before she can touch its fur, the dog gets up and walks away.
Erin: Ah...
Erin: Then how about...
However, every time Erin tries to get close to an animal, they always scamper off.
Erin: ...
Ascke: They, uh, usually don't act like that. Like I said, they shouldn't be spooked by people at all...
Shizel: How very odd. I can pick them up without issue.
To prove her point, Shizel cradles a cat in her arms.
The cat gets comfy and begins to purr.
Erin: So it's just me...
Erin sinks to her knees in disappointment.
Rhea: H-hang on, Erin. Try petting this little baby.
Rhea carries a kitten over to the stricken Crystalia.
Erin: O-okay...
Once again, Erin's hand shakes as it gets closer to the kitten.
To her surprise, her fingers manage to grace its furry head.
Kitten: Meowr?
Instead of shrinking away from Erin's hand, the kitten simply tries to get a good look at who's patting its head.
Erin: I touched it!
Rhea: Good for you, Erin!
Erin: Thanks. Heehee... It's so soft and fuzzy... And warm.
Rhea: Wanna hold him?
Erin nods and takes the kitten from Rhea's arms.
Kitten: Meow.
The kitten mews with contentment and buries its face into Erin's chest.
Erin: Um... Wh-what does he want?
Rhea: He's saying he likes you!
Erin: O-oh... Okay. Hehe, how cute...
The Crystalia gently caresses the kitten, smiling all the while.
Erin: I never realized how small they are.
Rhea: That's because he's a newborn. Ehehe, he's sooo cute.
The little cat yawns and shifts around in Erin's arms.
Rhea: I don't know where his mommy and daddy are.
Rhea: So I come here to take care of him.
Erin: In the forest? Why not take him home with you?
Rhea: I want to, but what if his mommy and daddy come back and he's gone?
Erin: That's very thoughtful of you.
Erin's praise makes the little girl blush.
Rhea: Teehee...
Villager 1: Huff... Huff...
Right at that moment, a man comes crashing through the bushes.
Ascke: Hm? Out hunting today too? That's some dedication.
Villager 2: Come quick, Ascke! Back to the village!
Ascke: Wh-what's going on?
Villager 2: There's no time to explain! Come on!
The man's face is pale and sweaty, though not just because of the mad dash he has made to reach the clearing.
Understanding the urgency, the others quickly follow him back to the village.
One Giant Leap: Scene 2
After large monster tracks are found near the village, the chief bans anyone from entering the forest as a precaution. Later that night, Erin learns that Rhea has gone missing. Erin and Shizel team up to investigate the forest, and rescue Rhea from a dangerous monster.
Back at the village, Erin and company are greeted by the men.
Village Chief: You spotted the footprints of a giant monster amid a pile of animal carcasses?
Villager 1: Yes. Good news is the monster tracks lead away from the village.
Villager 1: Bad news is I think there's a high chance it's setting up shop in the forest.
A heavy silence permeates through the group.
Ascke: Any ideas, chief?
Village Chief: No one is allowed into the forest for the time being.
Village Chief: Everyone needs to make sure the children don't go wandering in there either.
Village Chief: In the meantime, I'll put out a request for skyfarers to hunt it down.
Everyone nods.
Village Chief: I apologize, Erin and Shizel. This isn't what any of us had in mind for your stay...
Erin: This isn't anyone's fault. It is what it is. I am concerned about the animals in the clearing though...
Shizel: Yeah... I sincerely hope they're able to hide and stay safe.
Village Chief: It pains me to say this, but if anyone were to go into the forest now, it could draw the monster's attention to the village.
Village Chief: In the interest of public safety, I can't make any exceptions.
Erin: Sorry, I didn't mean to criticize your decision. I was only expressing my worries.
Village Chief: Oh, I didn't take it that way. I know how you feel.
Erin bows to the village chief, which only seems to make him feel worse.
With all said and done, the hour has grown late, so everyone retires to their homes.
Erin: Now the forest is off-limits...
Erin: (I really do hope the animals are able to seek shelter.)
Erin: (I'll check in on them as soon as it's okay to return to the forest. The little one is waiting for me...)
Erin: Heeheehee...
Erin: (Who knew cats were such bundles of cuteness and cuddliness...)
Erin grins, remembering the warmth of the kitten on her skin.
Erin: Okay, time for bed—
A knock at the door interrupts her. She wonders who it could be.
She opens the door to a frazzled-looking Ascke.
Ascke: Sorry for bothering you this late, but please tell me Rhea's with you!
Erin: Did something happen?
Ascke: She's not at home.
Ascke: She said she was going to turn in early, but when I went to tuck her in, she wasn't there.
Erin: Is that so?
Erin: Unfortunately I haven't seen her since we got back.
Ascke: Darn. All right then. Sorry again for disturbing you.
With a final nod to Erin, Ascke takes off in a hurry.
Erin: ...
Rhea: I don't know where his mommy and daddy are.
Rhea: So I come here to take care of him.
Village Chief: You spotted the footprints of a giant monster amid a pile of animal carcasses?
Village Chief: No one is allowed into the forest for the time being.
Village Chief: Everyone needs to make sure the children don't go wandering in there either.
Erin: (I hope I'm wrong...)
Erin: (But I know how impulsive children can be. Lily was like that too that time she...)
Erin: No, I can reminisce later.
Erin: (There shouldn't be any harm in doing a quick check.)
Erin: (If she's not there, then she's not there, and I can rest easier.)
Erin: (If I remember correctly, the forest clearing is this way.)
Shizel: Erin!
Shizel comes running up behind her from the shadows.
Erin: It seems Ascke spoke to you as well.
Shizel: Yeah. Guess we both had the same bad feeling. Let's go.
The pair nod to each other and race into the heart of the forest.
Under the shroud of the forest's impenetrable canopy, the two rely on Shizel's flame to navigate through the pitch-black darkness.
Erin: Huff... Puff...
Shizel: Are you okay?
Erin: Y-yes... What are these strange humming things that keep following us?
Shizel: What humming things? Wait, you mean the bugs?
Erin: Ah, insects. I've never seen them before.
Erin: Honestly they're... not cute.
Shizel: Heh, yeah. I haven't met many people who find bugs cute. Anyway, we're almost there.
Shizel & Erin: ...!
With the treetops parted, a flood of moonlight illuminates the open clearing.
Huddled together in a circle are scared animals and Rhea, who hugs the kitten close.
Pacing around them is an agitated giant monster that keeps a close watch on its prey.
Rhea: Erin! Shizel!
Erin: Don't move, Rhea. We're going to save you.
Shizel: What's the plan, Erin?
Erin: Can you burn that monster to a crisp?
Erin: I remember you said your flame power became stronger.
Shizel: It's not a matter of if I can, it's a matter of not burning down the whole forest and everyone in it.
Erin: I'll make sure that doesn't happen.
Shizel: But—
Rhea: Eeek! G-go away!
Rhea: Help! Erin! Shizel!
Rhea's panicked shriek dispels any second-guesses on Shizel's tongue.
Shizel: I'm counting on you, Erin!
Shizel then generates a large red-hot fireball.
Erin: (Souval females gain this much power? Amazing...)
Shizel: I'm ready, Erin. Are you?
Erin: Yes.
Turning their attention to the monster, Shizel launches the fireball at it.
Monster: ...!
Erin: May you slumber peacefully in eternity.
Crystal Glacier.
At the end of the epitaph, Erin creates a barrier of ice that encases the monster.
The fireball, now trapped inside the ice barrier with the monster, incinerates the beast with a fatal explosion.
Monster: Groooar!
Erin: It's suffered enough.
With that, the ice barrier thickens into a solid tomb, sealing even Shizel's powerful flames within.
Astonished by what she has just witnessed, Shizel looks at Erin with her mouth agape.
Erin: It should melt away on its own if we leave it be.
Shizel: That's some crazy power you got there. I didn't think anything could easily snuff out my flame when it's at full strength.
Shizel: When you said Crystalia had lost their hearts of ice, I naturally assumed you'd all be weaker...
Shizel: Looks like I was gravely mistaken.
Erin: No, you're fine. Truth be told, the power of the Crystalia has weakened.
Erin: Besides, I put my all into that ice barrier too.
Erin: Otherwise I wouldn't have been able to contain your flame.
Erin: We can talk more about it later. Right now we have to bring Rhea back to the...
Erin: Huh?
Recognizing that Erin helped get rid of the menace, the animals mob the Crystalia girl.
They take turns bombarding her with gratuitous nuzzles and snuggles.
Erin: H-hey, wait. Stop... That tickles... Hahaha...
Erin can only muster a weak cry as she's buried under the grateful critters.
Yet beneath the smothering pile of fur lies a giggling Crystalia.
One Giant Leap: Scene 3
When the exchange program ends, Erin returns to the Ice Crystal Palace to report her experiences to Tia. Tia, recognizing Erin's growth, has called in (Captain) and company to help push Erin to continue broadening her horizons. Thanks to the encouragement of her friends, Erin decides to set off into the outside world with the crew.
Erin and Shizel escort Rhea safely back to the village.
As they approach the gate, they can hear the din of anxious voices.
Rhea: Papa! Mama!
Seren: Rhea!
Rhea lets go of her saviors' hands and runs into the outstretched arms of her parents.
The family embraces in a big hug.
Ascke: Where did you run off to, Rhea? We were looking all over for you!
Seren: Don't you ever worry us like that again, young lady!
Rhea: I'm sorry... I was worried about kitty and the other animals...
The other villagers who had been out searching for Rhea breathe a collective sigh of relief.
Ascke: Well, I'm glad you're okay. Did you get any boo-boos?
Rhea: Nope! Erin and Shizel came to my rescue!
Ascke: That's great.
Ascke: Thank you so much for finding our little girl, Erin, Shizel.
Seren: Yes, thank you. How can we ever repay you both?
Erin: That won't be necessary. All I wanted was for Rhea to be safe.
Shizel: Same here. Her returning home in one piece is more than enough for me.
Shizel: Oh, chief. About the monster...
Village Chief: Don't worry about that. I've hired skyfarers who—
Shizel: Erin and I have already dispatched the beast.
Village Chief: S-say that again?
All heads turn toward Shizel when they hear her stunning report.
Village Chief: As the village leader, I must thank you both profusely for your deeds.
Village Chief: Not only did you return Rhea to us, you cleared the danger that threatened this village. Words cannot begin to express our gratitude.
The villagers bow their heads to the pair.
Erin: ...
Shizel: Your eyes are as wide as saucers, Erin.
Erin: If you had told the old Erin that Humans would one day bow to her in appreciation, she wouldn't have believed you.
Shizel: You make it sound like—actually, I guess you do have a point.
A moment of ruefulness passes as memories of the island's past conflicts replay in the minds of everyone present.
Lily: I know that voice! It's Erin!
Erin: Huh? Lily?
When Erin turns around, she sees the crew waving at her.
- Long time no see.
Choose: Long time no see.Erin: Y-yes... What brings you all here?
Lyria: We got a request to take down a mean monster.
Vyrn: But I think we're out of work now thanks to you and your friend.
Erin: Ah, so you're the ones the chief hired.
Vyrn: In any case, I'm surprised you came all the way out here by yourself.
Erin: I... was asked to by Tia to help with a cultural exchange.
Shizel: You make it sound like an excuse, but I'm pretty sure you've been having a blast with us.
Erin: ...
I can't deny that. It's been pleasantly fun.
Lily: Wow! I never thought I'd ever hear you say that, Erin!
Vyrn: Y-yeah...
Erin: The events I've experienced up until now have altered my worldview.
Erin looks up toward the sky.
Erin: (The old me wouldn't have thought to say that. I really have changed. It's hard to believe how far I've come.)
Erin: (Which is fine. I think I prefer this new version of myself.)
(Captain) and company wonder to themselves what it is Erin seems to be happily thinking to herself.
If only they could read her mind.
The next stretch of days flies by without incident.
After the exchange concludes, Erin returns to the Ice Crystal Palace and relays her stories to Tia.
Tia: So the Souval are in agreement with us.
Erin: Yes. They wish to expand the exchanges in order to bring more peoples together.
Erin: Shizel said she will recommend that to Souval leadership.
Tia: Then it seems the exchanges can keep running without hurdles.
Tia: Based on everything you've told me, there doesn't appear to be major problems that arise from living together.
Erin: No, there aren't. Things should be fine, I think.
Tia: It's one step of many more to come.
Tia: Some day all Crystalia will get to choose a future for themselves.
Tia: That will be a good day for us all.
Erin: Yes. That's how I see it too.
Erin and Tia smile at each other over this shared vision of a bright future.
Tia: So what's next for our illustrious Erin?
Erin: What are you talking about?
Tia: That village is practically a stone's throw away from the palace compared to the vastness of the sky. Don't you want to see more of the world?
Erin: ...
Erin bites her lip.
Erin: Deep down inside, I would say yes. I'm interested in discovering the outside world.
Tia: Then listen to that voice and spread your wings.
Erin: I can't... I still don't have the courage to travel alone.
Erin: But above all else, I can't just abandon the Ice Crystal Palace.
Erin: We Crystalia have a mountain of things that need to be done.
Erin: It wouldn't be right for me to go off on my own whims.
Tia: I know we'd feel more comfortable having you around.
Tia: But I said it before, didn't I?
Tia: Some day all Crystalia will get to choose a future for themselves.
Tia: And last time I checked, you're Crystalia too, Erin.
Erin: Be that as it may, Tia, that doesn't change the fact that I'm afraid to travel alone—
Lily: Then come hang out with me and the crew!
Lily: Who says you have to go by yourself? We'll have tons of fun together!
A voice from out of nowhere startles Erin.
Erin: Lily! (Captain)! What are you doing here?
Lily: Tia told me to come and give you a push in the back!
Erin: Tia...
Tia: Teehee. Sorry. I figured you might need a little prodding to get a move on.
- I came to keep the promise I made.
Choose: I came to keep the promise I made.With that, (Captain) reaches out for a handshake.
Erin: ...!
Erin: I don't plan on going out by myself or even going out very far.
Erin: But as long as I'm with all of you...
Erin: If the opportunity ever comes again, I want you to bring me along.
Erin: And show me how refreshing the outside world can be.
Erin: You remembered...
Tia: There's nothing left to hold you back, Erin. Go do the things that you want to do.
Tia: By making your own decisions, that's how we Crystalia can embark on a new journey through life.
Erin: ...
After a moment of hesitation, Erin shakes her head vigorously, as if to dislodge any clinging doubt, and squeezes (Captain)'s hand.
Erin: Please take care of me like you promised, (Captain).
Erin: And show me what this wide world has to offer.
- You got it!
Choose: You got it!Lily: Yay! This is going to be great, Erin!
(Captain) gives Erin's hand a firm squeeze back.
A look of joy crosses Erin's face.
She has finally made the monumental decision to step away from the Ice Crystal Palace, the only home she's ever known, and test her wings.
If ever there were doubt about the Crystalia's ability to adapt, Erin's determination lays that fallacy to rest.
![Crystalia Erin [護晶]](/File:RoB_Erin_1-1.jpg)
