The Shape of Love
While preparing food with Lyria, Phoebe, and Morphe at Raduga, Ladiva sees the girls contemplating over the ideal Valentine's gift and invites them to go shopping in town. Meanwhile, (Captain) and company are also wondering how to finally repay Ladiva for her yearly Valentine's Day gifts.
Ladiva, a woman with a heart of gold, quits her job as star duelist of the Jewel Resort Casino Liner in order to avoid further friction with the Erste Empire.While traveling with the crew of young (Captain), she realizes she wishes to travel with them for the long term.
Ladiva: (Captain) and the others are such amazing kids. They toppled an empire and revived the kingdom.
Ladiva: But as impressive as they are, they're still children: soft, pure, and sensitive.
Ladiva: If they try to reach the end of the sky, they're in for more trouble and pain than ever.
Ladiva: I'm not sure how much help I'll be.
Ladiva: But at the very least, I can show them they have a friend.
By the good graces of a dear friend, she ends up being inducted into the casino liner's Hall of Fame.
During a heartful farewell to her fans and friends there, she promises to return one day after helping (Captain) reach the end of the skies.
Noticing how incredibly considerate and attentive Ladiva can be, (Captain) entrusts her with the Grandcypher's subgalley.
It specializes in late-night snacks and serves as another place for the crew to take a load off and relax.
Ladiva: Hum-de-doo...
Before opening up for the night, Ladiva—with the help of a few crew members—is already hard at work with food prep.
Phoebe: Ladiva? If you boil the ale, doesn't the foam go to waste?
Ladiva: You're pretty sharp, Phoebe! I'll be using that foam to soften the meat actually!
Ladiva: And ale's particular brand of bitterness is great for adding depth to food when combined with spices.
Phoebe: Wow, I didn't know that!
Ladiva: The alcohol content will be all but gone once it's done boiling, so I hope you, Lyria, and Morphe won't mind taste-testing for me!
Morphe: I'm looking forward to it!
Lyria: From ale to wine to sake... There's so many ways to use alcohol in cooking.
Ladiva: Mm-hm. And that's in addition to being a great drink for grown-ups!
Ladiva eyes a row of bottled beverages on the shelf.
Ladiva: ...
Lyria: Ladiva, I'm done peeling the vegetables!
Ladiva: Thank you so much, dear! Can you chop them up in rectangles next?
Lyria: Sure thing!
Ladiva: I couldn't be more grateful for all your help.
Lyria: And I'm happy for the chance to practice my cooking!
Lyria: Even just using a kitchen knife well takes lots of practice.
Phoebe: I think practice has improved my sewing a bit too...
Phoebe: When people look at my embroidery work, they're more likely to know what it is... Or at least I hope so.
Any version of
Eustace is a crew member
Phoebe: One crew member recognized my wolf embroidery as a dog...
Ladiva: Muscle memory often plays a big role... And getting that down pat is a big part of the challenge.
Ladiva: There are times when you start doubting yourself, wondering if there's any point to keeping up with the activity.
Ladiva: That's why it's such a beautiful thing to persevere and see the fruits of your labor.
Lyria: Ehehe...
Lyria: I want to become capable of making delicious food all by myself, food that would put a smile on (Captain)'s face.
Lyria: But...
Morphe: Is something on your mind?
Lyria: Um... You know how it's almost Valentine's?
Phoebe: Mm-hm. Have you been getting ready for it?
Lyria: That's exactly what's been troubling me!
Lyria: I thought I'd make some handmade chocolates since I've been getting better at it...
Lyria: But the ones they sell at the store are so pretty and delicious too!
Morphe: They put professional artisans to work on that stuff to make sure it looks fantastic!
Lyria: Exactly! It can be a bit pricey, but I can't help but think that'd be the best choice for a gift...
Phoebe: I was thinking the same thing actually. I might mess up if I make chocolate myself, but store-bought ones are guaranteed to be good...
Phoebe: There's also the cost of ingredients to consider.
Morphe: Not to mention the supply problem. It'll be that much harder to get your hands on a box the closer we get to Valentine's.
Phoebe: Yeah, we have to make up our minds before they sell out... I'm definitely giving some to (Captain).
Phoebe: Jamil's been good to me, so he's on my list too. And this'll be the perfect chance for me to tell Seox to stop coming back injured all the time...
Phoebe: Also...
Morphe: Huh? Is there something on my face, Sister?
Phoebe: Oh, it's nothing!
Lyria: Hrm, it's not an easy decision... Supposing we do go with handmade chocolates, what recipe should we use?
Ladiva: ...
Commiserating with their quandary, Ladiva offers a suggestion.
Ladiva: Lyria, Phoebe, how about we go shopping together at the next island we stop at?
Phoebe: But I still haven't made up my mind...
Ladiva: Not a problem—just consider it a stroll around town. But if you happen to spot something that'd make the perfect gift, then that's great too.
Ladiva: If not the chocolate itself, then maybe you'll at least find nice wrapping paper for handmade chocolate.
Ladiva: I figure just going out there to take a look would help you make up your mind.
Lyria: Good point! Just pouting about it isn't getting us anywhere anyway...
Phoebe: Okay then... As long as you don't mind us coming along, Ladiva.
Ladiva: Of course not—I'm the one who invited you after all! It's going to be so much fun!
Ladiva: Well then, we should let the captain know that we'll be heading out together when the ship lands—
Morphe: Sorry! I've been asked to help with something, so I'll have to sit this one out.
Phoebe: Oh yeah?
Morphe: Uh-huh. Really wish I could've come along...
Phoebe: All right then...
Phoebe: (If Morphe's not coming, then I'd best use this opportunity to get something for him at least!)
Ladiva: No worries—there's always next time.
Morphe: Yeah, I'll be happy to join you next opportunity I get.
They continue chatting about the things they'll do on their outing while resuming with food prep.
Morphe's Voice: (Captain), it's me! Morphe!
Vyrn: We were wondering when you'd show up. Come on in!
(Captain) and Vyrn welcome Morphe into the room.
Vyrn: So about that thing... How'd it go?
Morphe: Sorry... I've got nothing.
(Captain)'s shoulders slump at those words.
Morphe: It's not easy figuring out what Ladiva would want.
(Captain) has been receiving gifts from Ladiva yearly on both Valentine's and White Day...
And (Captain) always wanted to give something back, but wasn't quite sure what she might want.
Morphe: I noticed that when Ladiva speaks highly of something, it doesn't necessarily mean she wants it.
Morphe: Although she does mention wanting to replace some of the older cooking tools, that has more to do with her work at Raduga...
(Captain) and Morphe rack their brains over the matter.
Morphe: Hrm...
Seeing how flummoxed the two are, Vyrn speaks up.
Vyrn: Say, (Captain). Whaddya think of just going ahead and makin' some sweets first?
Vyrn: There's not much time until Valentine's. You wanna at least have the ingredients on hand before it's all sold out.
Vyrn: I mean, there's always the chance you'll spot the perfect gift for Ladiva in the next few days...
Vyrn: But if that happens, you can just give it to her along with the sweets! All I'm sayin' is you wanna be prepared!
Morphe: You're right!
Morphe: I think Vyrn has a point, (Captain).
Relieved at the advice, the captain considers the type of sweets to make.
Vyrn: What sorta sweets would make for a nice present...
Morphe: I'm pretty sure there was a sweets recipe book in the lounge... I'll go grab it!
(Captain) stops him so that they can head to the lounge together.
With the recipe book in hand, the three put their heads together to figure out what they're capable of making.
Chock-Full of Love
During their outing in town, Ladiva spots special cocoa wine that'd be perfect for Raduga's special Valentine's menu, while Lyria and Phoebe gain inspiration on the sort of sweets to make from the various chocolates and ribbons on display.
Though Valentine's Day is fast approaching, Lyria and Phoebe are still undecided about their choice of gifts.
Ladiva has come with the two to town, hoping they will find some inspiration.
Lyria: Wow, this is amazing! So many shops are dealing in Valentine's merchandise!
Ladiva: This island's rich in trade. We're fortunate the crew happened to have a job to do here.
Lyria: With so much to see, I don't even know where to start!
Ladiva: Haha, we can start by window-shopping.
Phoebe: Are you looking for anything yourself, Ladiva?
Ladiva: I was thinking of offering something special on Raduga's menu for Valentine's Day.
Ladiva: Candy did cross my mind, but we only open up the subgalley late at night.
Ladiva: And some might not be too keen on the idea of eating sweets before going to bed.
Phoebe: That's right... The crew members who stop by seem to prefer savory foods anyway.
Lyria: Also, I get the impression that alcohol isn't really something that goes well with sweets.
Ladiva: Then again, there are some who like their whiskey with chocolate, so it really depends.
Ladiva: Love chatting with you two, but it's time we started walking! There's so much to see.
Phoebe: Well then... Let's—
Lyria: Go!
They begin touring the marketplace, keeping an eye out for anything that may be of interest.
Phoebe: Aw, this place's chocolate is so adorable... It's like flower petals are scattered all over... I wonder how they make it.
Ladiva: I'm guessing it's dried fruit crushed and mixed together. Sure looks fancy!
Phoebe: Ah...
Oh, look. This chocolate contains a bit of alcohol.
Phoebe: But neither Morphe, Seox, or Jamil drink alcohol. I should probably look for something else.
Lyria: True! It's best to go with something they'd like!
Lyria: Ah!
Lyria: This ribbon is (Captain)'s favorite color!
Ladiva: How lovely! I must say I'm impressed, Lyria! You really know the captain's tastes inside out, huh?
Lyria: Ehehe...
Phoebe: If you're going to pick that, Lyria, I recommend this box to go with it. They make a perfect match.
Lyria: Oh, you're right! Its laid-back color makes the ribbon stand out that much more!
Phoebe: Though I also wonder if a brighter color might be better... What do you think, Ladiva?
Ladiva: If I had to pick...
Ladiva: Hm?
Ladiva stops before a liquor store offering free promotional samples in cup-form.
Ladiva: I thought I smelled chocolate. And here we have wine made with cocoa beans.
Phoebe: Is it sweet? I know I can't drink it, but I'm curious...
Noticing their interest, the clerk hands Ladiva a cup.
Lyria: Ooh, I can smell the chocolate too!
Ladiva: I guess I'll have just a sip then...
Ladiva: Oh my, there's not a hint of sweetness to it. A strange sensation, to be sure.
Phoebe: Well, the cocoa that's used to make chocolate isn't sweet either. It's usually the sugar that makes chocolate so sweet.
Lyria: That explains why it might be a bit bitter even if does smell like chocolate.
Ladiva: You know, this could work. Even those not fond of sweets might like it.
Taking a break at a cafe, the three reflect on the sights of the day.
Ladiva: I might just go with that cocoa wine. Especially since they also accept bulk orders.
Phoebe: Ah, that's right. It'd be unfortunate if we didn't have enough for everyone who wants to try some.
Ladiva: Mm-hm. Valentine's only comes once a year, so I want everyone to take in all the love and drink they want for the occasion!
Lyria: As for me... I really want to show (Captain) that ribbon.
Lyria: So I just might make the chocolate by hand.
Phoebe: Me too. Lots of the fancier shops here put a bit of alcohol in their chocolate...
Phoebe: Maybe we can try that too. I'd especially love to try and make some of that dry-fruit chocolate we saw earlier.
Ladiva: Great ideas, both of them!
Ladiva: It's settled then. Let's go back to that shop once we're done here.
Lyria: Sounds good to me!
Phoebe: Ladiva, Lyria. They have a Valentine's Special on the menu.
Lyria: Ooh! Let's go with that!
Lyria and Phoebe continue discussing how they'll go about making the chocolate, all while enjoying their meal with Ladiva.
Chock-Full of Love: Scene 2
The girls make a stop at the galley to borrow some kitchen implements, where they spot (Captain) and company getting ready to leave. Lyria and Phoebe go on to complete their confections, after which Ladiva gets to work on her own preparations.
Having returned from their little excursion, Ladiva, Lyria, and Morphe step into the galley to borrow some utensils for making confections.
Lyria: We're coming in!
Morphe: Ah...
(Captain), Morphe, and Vyrn stare wide-eyed at the other trio.
Ladiva: Oh! Surprised to see you here too, Captain.
Phoebe: Um... Is it okay if we look for a few kitchen utensils? If we'd be a bother, we can always come back later...
Vyrn: Nah, it's all good! We're just about done here anyway! Right, (Captain)?
Ladiva looks puzzledly at the captain's restless demeanor.
Ladiva: (Is it just me, or is (Captain) acting a bit nervous?)
Ladiva: (Surely it's not concern about whether Lyria will have a Valentine's Day present ready in a few days...)
On the way out with Vyrn and Morphe, (Captain) avoids eye contact with Ladiva.
Ladiva: We have plenty of kitchen implements at Raduga, so let's just borrow what we need.
Phoebe: Uh-huh! For one thing, we'll definitely need a whisk.
They make their way to the subgalley and get to work.
Ladiva: All right, let's start by making sure we have all the ingredients in order! Great cooking is all about love and proper measurement.
Lyria: Okay! We have chocolate, sugar, crushed almonds, and...
Phoebe: Dried fruit, marshmallows, cornflakes, and...
Ladiva watches as the two go about their confection-making.
Phoebe: Wow, you're really going the extra mile with the brownies, Lyria, making chocolate and caramel ones!
Lyria: Ehehe, I'm giving it my best! I just hope they turn out okay in the oven...
Ladiva: If you want to check on the batter to make sure it's being properly baked, it's okay to open up the oven door every now and then.
Phoebe: Given how big the two trays are, it should be fine if the edges get burnt a bit. Will be you cutting the brownies?
Lyria: Mm-hm. After divvying up each batch into smaller pieces, I'll be cutting out a heart shape from the middle of each piece.
Lyria: The chocolate hearts will go into the caramel brownies, while the caramel hearts will go into the chocolate brownies. I think it'll be really cute.
Phoebe: Ooh! I can't wait to see what that looks like!
Ladiva: Brilliant idea, Lyria! I'm sure the colors will really pop.
Ladiva: Ah! Phoebe, I think the chocolate's spent enough time on the double boiler.
Phoebe: Right! Now to pour it over the hardened mix, and then...
Lyria: So you're coating the marshmallows and cornflakes with chocolate, and then adding dried fruit on top of that, I see!
Ladiva: I love the idea that it tastes different depending on where you bite in from. Also, extra points for adding a skewer to make it easier to eat!
Phoebe: It's bigger than I imagined it to be... Better than being too small, I guess.
Ladiva: That's for sure! The point is that it's packed full of your love, Phoebe.
Upon completion, they proceed to gift wrap their confections.
Lyria: It's done!
Phoebe: We did it...
Ladiva: Fantastic work on your Valentine's presents, you two!
Lyria: Ehehe... I hope (Captain) likes it...
Ladiva: I think you have nothing to worry about. One look at your gift shows how much love you put into it.
Ladiva: (Now it's my turn to keep up!)
Ladiva sees off Lyria and Phoebe after cleanup, then begins on her own holiday concoction.
Ladiva: Something that goes well with cocoa wine and is just a bit sweet... Hehe, I've got just the thing!
Chock-Full of Love: Scene 3
(Captain) and Vyrn pay the subgalley a visit one night, hoping to figure out what Ladiva might want for Valentine's. (Captain) ends up promising to enjoy the first sip of alcohol at Raduga upon coming of age.
Late one night before Valentine's, (Captain) and Vyrn show up at Raduga.
Ladiva: (Captain)! Happy to see you here.
Vyrn: Heyo! Jamil had a big assignment this afternoon, so we're havin' him rest up now. You managing Raduga okay on your own?
Ladiva: I'm making do somehow... It's days like this that I realize what a tremendous help Jamil is.
Vyrn: We try not to give you too many assignments since you've also got Raduga, but don't you forget to rest up every now and then too.
(Captain)'s asks if there's anything in particular Ladiva would like.
- How about some time off?
- Something to eat, maybe?
Choose: How about some time off?Ladiva: Well, for the time being, I really enjoy running things at Raduga.
Ladiva: But I know what you mean. I'll be sure to take good care of myself!
Choose: Something to eat, maybe?Ladiva: Haha, with Lowain, Sevastien, and Elmelaura as our chefs...
Ladiva: We have no shortage of fantastic food on the ship! I couldn't ask for anything more.
Continue 1Ladiva: The fact that you're asking me at all fills me with joy.
Ladiva: Haha, it feels like I've gotten an early Valentine's present.
Seeing Ladiva's bona fide smile, the captain pouts.
Ladiva: Oh my, what have I done. Hope I didn't spoil the mood, (Captain).
Vyrn: (Captain) keeps tellin' me how nice it'd be to see you be a little more indulging sometimes.
Vyrn: Gwuh, what'd you poke me for, (Captain)? Not like this is anything to be embarrassed about!
Ladiva: Captain...
Ladiva: I suppose... I do have one request.
Ladiva's expression curls into a grin as (Captain) leans in.
Ladiva: Once you've come of age, I want Raduga to be the first place you enjoy your alcohol... That's it.
Ladiva: There's going to be countless people who want to drink with you, so just bring them here. Consider this a reservation on my part.
Ladiva: How does that sound?
With a playful wink, Ladiva holds out a pinky. (Captain) returns the gesture.
Ladiva: Wonderful! Just wonderful! I can't wait to see the adult you hanging out at Raduga!
Ladiva: Oh, before I forget, let me get you some refreshments... Anything in particular you two would like?
Vyrn: I'll have apple juice! As for (Captain)...
(Captain) enjoys a drink as well, all the while still mulling over what to get Ladiva for Valentine's.
Chock-Full of Love: Scene 4
On Valentine's Day, (Captain) and company pool all their snacks and hold a tea party for Ladiva. Phoebe takes this chance to give Morphe some chocolate. Ladiva revels in the lovely occasion that is Valentine's.
Valentine's Day has arrived.
Phoebe: (Captain), Lyria, Vyrn!
Morphe: Hope we didn't keep you waiting!
Vyrn: Nah, Lyria just got back too! Done with your gift-giving yet?
Phoebe: Mm-hm! I had plenty to give besides (Captain).
Morphe: I'm sure you made their day, Sis.
Phoebe: There's just a bit more...
- Let's get started!
Choose: Let's get started!Lyria: Yeah!
They set up a table and lay out their confections on it.
Vyrn waits for the water to boil so that they can pour tea for everyone, then leaves the room and returns shortly with a knock.
Vyrn: Here comes our special guest!
All Three: Happy Valentine's Day!
- Come on in, Ladiva!
Choose: Come on in, Ladiva!Ladiva: ...!
Lyria: Our sweets turned out so well because of the advice you gave us every step of the way!
Phoebe: I thought we'd have a tea party together. Would that be okay, Ladiva?
Morphe: I'll make us my special herb tea!
Ladiva: I don't know what to say...
Ladiva: A tea party with you sweethearts is the most wonderful Valentine's Day present in all the skies!
Ladiva: I almost feel sorry to take up your time for such a delightful surprise...
Seeing Ladiva nearly choked up with emotion, (Captain) guides her to a seat.
Vyrn: (Captain) baked these cookies!
Vyrn: We tried to make 'em like the granny next door in Zinkenstill used to make 'em.
Ladiva: Ooh! A taste our captain finds near and dear!
(Captain) feels abashed at offering something of sentimental value.
Vyrn: Hehe, it sure is a nice feeling when a close friend comes to love something as much as you do!
Ladiva: (Captain)...
Ladiva: (Being left without a dad around from a young age, (Captain)'s lived a lonely life...)
Ladiva: (I came into (Captain)'s life at a later stage, so I can't make up for that loneliness...)
Ladiva: (But we can share our past memories and favorite things like this...)
Ladiva: Thank you, (Captain)... I'm happy to learn about something that puts a smile on your face.
Ladiva: To make this fair...
Ladiva: I'm going to share something that I absolutely love!
Ladiva opens up the box she placed on the table, revealing cake within.
Lyria: Ah, that looks so good!
Ladiva: A savory mousse cake. Eat to your hearts' content, everyone!
Vyrn: Hahah! This is turning out to be one heck of a tea party!
Morphe: I'll fetch us the tea!
Phoebe: Wait, Morphe... Over here...
Phoebe hands her last package to Morphe.
Phoebe: I'm always... Um, this is for you. It should go well with the tea.
Morphe: ...!
Morphe: Love you, Sis!
Ladiva: ...
Ladiva: Valentine's Day gives us all the chance to express our love. What a wonderful occasion it is.
Ladiva: Don't you agree, (Captain)?
With a cheery nod, the captain hands out plates to everyone.
Amid their everyday busy schedules, the crew still find time to kick back and enjoy each other's company.