shiningdesignersreflections

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Can They Be Saved?

Every time Yexiao' wanders through and sees different timelines of Miraland, she finds the Elves of Light always end up dead or powerless. It's sad for her to watch, but in Stray Springwood, maybe there's a chance to save the elves after all.

That's enough of nature. In two weeks, let's meet up with a sexy programmer and share a cup of wine.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Mingzhao: Spiraling Snow

Awakened Suit: Spiraling Snow

You can find the original suit here.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Mingzhao: Invincible Bow

Designer's Reflection: Invincible Bow

Obtained: Sky of Glory SSR event

Rarity: SSR

Attribute: Purple/Sexy

Awakened Suit: Spiraling Snow

Story - transcripts from Designer's Reflection

Chapter 1 - The Drill Ground

Chapter 2 - Horseback Archery Competition

Chapter 3 - Defeat Many With Few

Chapter 4 - Cloud of Suspicion

Story - summarized

The soldiers of Squad Seven are burnt out from the extra training, and morale is running low, but Mingzhao wants to continue. Desperate, the soldiers reach out to Yunyan, hoping he could persuade his cousin to ease up, or at least let the soldiers have some fun.

Mingzhao insists that no one under her command shall be lazy... but Yunyan's plea gives her an idea. She offers a contest with her soldiers: whoever can beat her at horseback archery, shall earn a day off from training. No one wants to compete against her, since she is one of the fiercest soldiers in Cloud Empire, and already a general at a young age.

Still, one man steps forth to try. In a few minutes, he's already gained a good lead. Mingzhao watches his technique, pointing out where he's strong (like his speed) and where he needs improvement (observing his surroundings). Soon, all the soldiers join. No one has beaten Mingzhao's score, but they feel more determined than before.

One day, some members of the Cangwu gang cause trouble nearby. Mingzhao leads her squad to the northern mountains, where they surround the gang and ambush them. Some soldiers launch arrows while on horseback, and others engage in combat on the ground. In no time, the squad defeats the gang.

Morale is high among the soldiers. From now on, they'll follow Mingzhao's strict training regimen.

Connections

-We first hear of Cangwu in Vol. 2, where they team up with Mercury Group to change the moon and bring the Water Elves to Pigeon.

-Also, during the Everdream Trap hell event for Chinese New Year, the main leader of the Cangwu group finally appears, Jiang Yuan. She used to be a saintess who was forced to use her own blood to power the priest's arrays, and now, she runs one of the biggest criminal gangs in Miraland.

-Empress Mingyi is an impressive general in Glorious Throne, and even in times of peace, she strategizes how best to help the people, even when royal cousins get upset with her. It's no wonder that her descendant Mingzhao is strong-willed and clever.

Fun Facts

-This is the first (and only so far) suit to feature a bow and arrow.

-Mingzhao talks about her training regimen in the Index. She's strict with her soldiers because she doesn't want any of them to die on the battlefield. But when rumors spread about her starting a night training as well, she's quick to shut those down, declaring she's "not that cruel."

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 4: Cloud of Suspicion

Narrated by Mingzhao.

Narrator: After that, Squad Seven is much more active. Complaints are occasional, but laziness is no longer an issue. They ask to challenge me from time to time.

Choose "Is there anyone who can defeat you?"

You: Is there anyone who can defeat you?

Narrator: Very few.

Choose "Then why..."

You: Then why do they keep challenging you?

Narrator: It's all part of the training. Winning or losing doesn't matter. Gaining experience does.

Narrator: It also helps me identify everyone's strengths and weaknesses and allows me to tailor our training more specifically.

Narrator: But some rumors have started to circulate in the army, and it's not easy to handle...

???: Hey, have you heard? Word on the street is that our princess rules her troops like nobody because she's been leading them since she was a kid and even beat rebels at 8.

???: Well, I've heard her family's secret heritage and extensive knowledge play a role...

???: Tsk, that's nothing. I heard that she was born a general and accompanied by strange occurrences just like her ancestor, Empress Mingyi.

Choose "Is that you?"

You: Wait, are they talking about... you?

Narrator: I don't know who started it, but the rumors are getting way out of hand.

Narrator: And every time I try to set the record straight, it just makes them spread like wildfire. Running the army is already a tough job, but cracking down on discipline is a whole other ballgame.

You: Maybe in a few days, when something else catches their attention, these rumors will finally die down.

Narrator: Agreed. There are now more pressing matters to worry about anyways.

Narrator: Interrogating the Cangwu captives has yielded results. They claim their target is Urqin, but when pressed for more information, they plead ignorance.

Mingzhao: The statements from separate interrogations match, suggesting truthfulness. So, what kind of info are they keeping under wraps?

Narrator: As footsteps approach the tent, the curtain opens to reveal Yunyan, who went missing for days.

Mingzhao: Haven't seen you for days. Where have you been hiding, huh?

Yunyan: Take it easy, Your Highness... I'm back with some serious business.

Narrator: Yunyan, sounding unusually serious, uses a stack of documents as a shield in front of him.

Mingzhao: A few days back, we got word of some major shakeups going down in Urqin. The latest report I got just confirms all the suspicions we've been having.

Mingzhao: Urqin... I knew things are complicated here.

Mingzhao: Check this out. Do you think this has anything to do with those Cangwu people?

Narrator: Yunyan carefully reviews the interrogation report, tapping his fingers twice on the table as he ponders.

Yunyan: This is not enough to confirm anything, but my gut feeling tells me that there must be some connection between the two incidents.

Mingzhao: Yes, Cangwu's connections seem more complicated than I initially thought, so I need to be cautious.

Narrator: I rise from my seat and walk to the wall to mark out several routes to Urqin on a map. I motion for Yunyan to join me and take a closer look.

Mingzhao: As we agreed earlier, we'll each head a team to Urqin. No use fretting over it now, we'll get to the bottom of things once we're there.

Yunyan: I know you can handle yourself, but going deep into the grassland is risky. Do bring enough men with you for protection.

Mingzhao: I've got it covered. There's already a capable squad ready for the task.

Narrator: Exiting the tent, I find Squad Seven have already assembled in formation without my command, standing silently in ranks.

Mingzhao: We have an urgent task at hand that requires the expertise and skills of Squad Seven to complete...

Narrator: After making all the necessary preparations, the day of departure finally arrives.

Narrator: The soldiers travel lightly and follow my carriage as we set out on our journey north, with the sun rising behind us.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 3: Defeat Many With Few

Narrated by Mingzhao.

Narrator: As the first light of dawn creaks across the sky, I stride onto the training ground to find Squad Seven already assembled, ready for the day's training.

Narrator: But today holds a higher calling than the training.

Mingzhao: Let's head to the mountains on the northers outskirts, everyone.

Choose "What's going on?"

You: What's going on? Did something happen?

Narrator: Seems like some Cangwu people have been up to no good, sneaking into the mountains up north of Cloud Capital. We need to catch them before they do any damage.

Narrator: The forest to the north of Cloud Capital is vast and dense, with only a few intersecting paths that are seldom traveled.

Choose "It's not easy to find someone here."

You: How are we going to find those Cangwu people in there?

Narrator: We can't just go in blindly searching for them. But even the sneakiest of movements can leave some sort of trail.

Narrator: If we can find footprints, broken leaves, and branches, we'll be able to follow their trail.

Soldier: Your Highness, we found signs of a fire up ahead.

Narrator: Beneath the dead leaves, there's a hastily buried, black scorched earth. Next to it, a path has apparently just been made, winding deeper into the dense forest.

Mingzhao: The broken branches are still fresh, so they can't have gone too far. Let's follow them.

Narrator: As we follow the trail, the hoof prints become increasingly visible. Soon, one of our scouts heads back.

Scout: Your Highness, those Cangwu people are camped out by the riverbank a hundred meters ahead. They're all top-notch fighters and outnumber us two to one.

Narrator: We can't go in guns blazing with that kind of numbers disadvantage, but we don't have time to wait for backup either.

Mingzhao: Okay, everyone, let's stay silent and creep through the trees. Wait for my signal to attack, all together with our bows and arrows.

Narrator: The Cangwu gang is rummaging through their luggage, their swords at hand, and their eyes scanning the surroundings.

Narrator: A soft rustling noise catches their attention, and a few members rise to investigate. Suddenly, a volley of arrows rains down upon them from the forest's edge.

Narrator: Despite the initial shock, the Cangwu people are elite fighters, and they quickly regroup. Though they have suffered losses, they outnumber us.

Leader of Cangwu: Identify yourself! Don't think for a second that I can't see you hiding in those woods.

Narrator: As a shower of arrows falls, they dodge and we charge forward.

Narrator: Our swords clash, the sound ringing through the air, as the light of our blades glints coldly. I clench my long knife and make a cross in the air.

Mingzhao: Hold your ground on the south, east, and west sides. Don't let any of them escape!

Narrator: My soldiers understand my signal and surround the enemy on three sides. One of these sides has fewer soldiers, but it is protected by the elite of my squad.

Narrator: The Cangwu gang charges towards this side, unaware of the trap that has been set for them.

Cangwu Soldiers: It's strange. There aren't many of them on this side, but we just can't seem to break through.

Narrator: As the fight rages on, one of our men in the squad begins to weaken, showing his vulnerability to the Cangwu leader, who readies his scimitar to strike.

Narrator: Zing...

Narrator: With swift action, I raise my blade to block the blow, my hand bleeding from the sharp edge.

Narrator: The leader is startled by my move and retreats, half of his body exposed to me. With a smooth upward motion, my long blade slices a bone-deep wound into his arm.

Narrator: The leader, losing his composure, slashes randomly as a few arrows hit him squarely in the shoulder and arm. He continues to bleed and finally collapses.

Mingzhao: Your leader is defeated, and those who surrender won't be harmed.

Narrator: The victor has been decided, and any resistance is futile. Squad Seven ties up the surrendered soldiers, laughing in triumph.

Soldier A: Your Highness, thanks to you, we were able to take down such a large group.

Others: That's right. We've come this far all thanks to your exceptional leadership...

Mingzhao: Our strength comes from the hard training. I can't take all the credit...

Soldier: We'll follow your training regimen without fail, Your Highness, for as long as you tell us to.

Mingzhao: Alright, let's head back... Ah, one more thing. You guys must keep your word.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 4

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 2: Horseback Archery Competition

Narrated by Mingzhao.

Narrator: The blinding sunlight of midday has faded, and from the stage, one can see the soldiers' torn expressions.

Mingzhao: What, no one wants to try? Then, we'll proceed with our training.

Narrator: Voices erupts from off the stage, and soon a not-so-tall boy is pushed forward from the crowd.

Soldier: We all know Her Highness is a tough one, and the odds aren't in our favor, but we can't pass up this chance! Give it your all, and we've got your back, man!

Narrator: The boy is the team's best archer, but he can't hide his nerves, his slightly trembling fingers and straining neck giving him away, even as he tries to look cool.

Mingzhao: Good, you're the first to step up. Now, take your pick of any horse and bow you want.

Narrator: Outside the training ground lies a densely wooded area that now serves as the venue for the match.

Narrator: Targets of varying heights are hidden in the foliage. Riders must carefully guide their horses through the woods while scanning for the targets.

Narrator: The boy heads straight for the woods and shoots three arrows in quick succession, the first striking a more conspicuous target that is not hidden by branches.

Narrator: The boy's skills leave the spectators in awe, prompting cheers and even some friendly wagers. He electrifies the crowd, turning their tired faces into ones brimming with excitement.

Narrator: Realizing that speed alone might not be enough to win, I draw the bow and release the arrow. It disappears into the thick layers of foliage.

Narrator: Soon, a sentry comes trotting along with a report.

Sentry: Her Highness has shot an arrow, hitting two targets at once!

Narrator: The news is met with a brief moment of silence, followed by cheers from the spectators outside the field. The boy seems motivated by the news and spurs his horse into the woods, hitting obvious targets along the way.

Narrator: His strategy to compete with speed is a good choice, and he knows how to use it to his advantage. However, he becomes too eager and makes a mistake.

Narrator: I ride behind him and even though many of the obvious targets have been hit, there are still some hidden behind the trees.

Narrator: They aren't too hard to spot, but he seems to be in a hurry and misses them several times.

Youth: There must be more targets here, but why can't I seem to find them?

Narrator: Suddenly, an arrow zips by the side of the horse's hoof beneath the boy, causing him to pound his chest in annoyance. It's quite comical to watch.

Mingzhao: You're not determined enough and rushing things. If you head to the battlefield like that, you won't be able to dodge the enemy's swift and crafty arrows.

Youth: Your Highness... I don't want to rush things. Can you do me a solid and not tail me?

Youth: I get super jittery when I'm being watched all the time...

Narrator: His voice seems to tremble with tears as he waves his horse whip, creating distance between us.

Mingzhao: You can't do that. Why don't you just beg me to drop my bow?

Youth: I get you, but in an archery competition, it's every man for himself. I've never seen anyone try to tail their rival before.

Narrator: Suddenly, the resounding gong shatters the peaceful woods, startling flocks of birds, and brings our match to a close.

Narrator: During the later half of the match, the boy's impatience grows, and he makes a series of mistakes, resulting in an unsatisfactory score.

Narrator: Head down, he trudges out of the woods, and a flicker of defiance creeps across his face as he catches a glimpse of his score.

Youth: Geez, I should have been more careful. I had a real shot at winning this thing...

Narrator: He speaks softly, but I can still hear him.

Mingzhao: Not convinced, huh? How about a few more tries?

Youth: Really? That would be great, Your Highness. I'll try my best.

Mingzhao: Everyone in the back, too, let's keep this going! It's not every day we get such a good competition. We can keep competing as much as we want today.

Mingzhao: Don't waste your time. Come join us if you want in on the fun. And if anyone manages to win, they'll get a whole extra day off!

Narrator: I turn around and holler towards the crowd, and their previously hesitant murmurs are overtaken by a chorus of lively cheers as they pour into the arena.

Narrator: As the sun begins to set, the woods grow darker and darker, until the final gong rings out, signaling the end of the competition.

Narrator: Soldiers gather around the scoreboards, eagerly awaiting the final tallies. As I walk past, they all bow their heads in respect.

Soldier: I always knew you were good, Your Highness, but I didn't realize you were that good until we actually competed.

Mingzhao: Don't be too hard on yourself. You've definitely improved.

Soldier: But let's be real here. If we're trying to match your level of skill, it'll take us a lifetime.

Mingzhao: What does that mean? I didn't become a pro overnight. If you stick to it and keep getting better, who knows? You might end up being better than me someday.

Chapter 1

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 1: The Drill Ground

Narrated by no one.

Narrator: Weak slogans echo at the training ground outside Cloud Capital, with only one clear female voice rising above the hoarse, drawn-out sounds.

Mingzhao: Just a few more laps to go. Hold on tight.

Narrator: Soldiers run laps, exhausted. Their leader, Mingzhao, shouts the slogan with full force, showing no signs of stopping and breathing steadily.

Narrator: Since Mingzhao took command of Squad Seven of the Praetorian Guards, overtraining has become a daily routine at the camp.

Narrator: The sun has climbed to its highest point. Now, even the most rigorous training has come to a halt for some rest.

Narrator: The men in formation are a little unsteady, but they strive to stand upright as Mingzhao's eyes sweep over them.

Narrator: Mingzhao nods slightly as she steps up to the stage, scanning the area with a gentle smile of satisfaction blossoming on her otherwise serious face.

Mingzhao: Nice work! We're not quite up to speed yet, but everyone's hanging in there.

Mingzhao: Yesterday's ground practice was impressive. And today, we need to maintain the same level of accuracy on horseback.

Narrator: The soldiers bow their heads in silence. The demand for additional practice in the afternoon hangs heavily in the air.

Narrator: No one speaks out against it, but as soon as Mingzhao departs, a wail erupts from the ranks.

Narrator: Also at the training ground, a pergola is set up under a shaded tree. Yunyan is lounging on a bamboo chair, fanning himself to stay cool.

Narrator: As soon as the soldiers of Squad Seven catch sight of Yunyan, they rush towards him as if they've grabbed a lifeline, smiling and massaging his shoulders.

Soldier: Your Highness, you and Her Highness are friends. We've been pushing ourselves hard, and if we keep it up, we might wear Her Highness out. Don't you think?

Narrator: Yunyan sees the group won't leave until he agrees. He taps his forehead, resigns himself, closes his fan, and nods in assent.

Yunyan: I've got the words, but I can't guarantee she'll agree.

Soldier: We appreciate your willingness to help, Your Highness.

Narrator: The tent is littered with report documents, and Mingzhao is sifting through one of the piles while her food boxes lie untouched at a distance.

Narrator: As Yunyan enters the tent, Mingzhao's expression shows displeasure, and she throws him a disapproving look for his lazy morning.

Mingzhao: Look who decided to show up! You finally left your comfy spot?

Narrator: Intimidated by her glare, Yunyan puts on a smile and helps Mingzhao sort through the piles of reports. He even makes a seat for himself to settle in for a while.

Yunyan: The only way to see the whole picture is to stand farther away. And it's rewarding to observe in my spot.

Mingzhao: Oh, may I know your brilliant observations?

Yunyan: You've been training a lot these past few days. Why don't you take a break and let your men catch their breath?

Mingzhao: His Majesty sent us to supervise the army here. I know you're lazy yourself, but do you really want to encourage the soldiers to be lazy as well?

Narrator: Mingzhao raises her eyebrows slightly, her tone still calm as if she is just casually chatting.

Narrator: But those who know her well can sense that this is just the calm before the storm.

Yunyan: No way. Don't the books of war say to mix things up? To loosen up one minute and then get serious the next, right? It's good for morale, too...

Mingzhao: Hm?

Narrator: Yunyan wants to continue his argument, but as he sees Mingzhao's knuckles gradually tightening, he quickly swallows his words back.

Narrator: Through the tent's door, a few men peer in, seeming to be the most audacious ones in Squad Seven.

Narrator: They stick their ears to the door, trying to eavesdrop on Yunyan and hear good news.

Narrator: Mingzhao has noticed them, and after a brief pause, she suddenly flashes a menacing smile.

Mingzhao: Since Your Highness has spoken, how could I not oblige?

Narrator: A sense of foreboding grows in Yunyan's heart, and he immediately turns to leave, but Mingzhao's voice already catches up behind him.

Mingzhao: Why don't we turn the riding training this afternoon into a match? Whoever can beat me will be excused from training for the day.

Mingzhao: Yunyan, since you're so sympathetic with the soldiers, you'll join the training this afternoon. If anyone dares to bail, you'll all get extra training.

Choose "Why the match?"

You: So, why did you decide to throw a match all of a sudden?

Mingzhao: Yunyan was right. The morale of the squad has been low lately, and a match could boost their spirits.

You: I don't think that's what Yunyan meant...

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Attention, Soldier!

Mingzhao is a formidable soldier and ally, but she can't relate to others very well. Before she can attend the diplomatic meeting in Urqin, she must learn to be a good leader besides a fighter. Well, in Invincible Bow, maybe Mingzhao can learn to take it easy on the other soldiers.

Meanwhile, our favorite immortal, wandering designer from Cloud is viewing other timelines. She finds one where Pigeon Forest is in danger, and the Light Elves lose their powers, so she must find a way to help.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Lianne: Snowy Woods

Awakened Suit: Snowy Woods

You can find the original suit here.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Lianne: Silent Fields

Designer's Reflection: Silent Fields

Obtained: top-up for Winter's Last Shadow

Rarity: SR

Attribute: Blue/Cool

Awakened Suit: Snowy Woods

Story - transcripts from Designer's Reflection

Chapter 1 - Winter Memories

Chapter 2 - Forest Companions

Chapter 3 - Newborn

Story - summarized

Lianne's chances of surviving in her little village were slim. First, the neighboring cities of Frozenstream and Black Water City were constantly fighting. Second, the harsh winter never ended. And finally, her parents favored her brother, giving him the best food and warm clothes while Lianne had to survive on crumbs and rags.

A caravan often visited the little village. Lianne wondered if they would one day take her with them - but whenever she tried to stow away, the caravan's owl, Sooty, would catch her. Eventually, the two of them became friends. Lianne would share her only crumbs from dinner, and Sooty brought her a jar of the caravan's ointment. There wasn't much left, but there was enough to protect her from frostbite.

The feud between Frozenstream and Black Water City worsened, and it spread to the village. Sooty was struck by a bullet. Lianne risked everything to get it back to the caravan... they didn't care about her or the owl.

Just when she was about to succumb to loneliness and the winter cold, a vivid butterfly appears. It was Sooty's soul! It led her through the Forest of Repose, straight to a boat where Lianne could leave and escape to Apple. With one last goodbye, she turned and jumped.

Now, she remembers her owl friend every time snow covers the fields.

Connections

-Lianne references this story in the prologue to Winter's Last Shadow.

-The Forest of Repose is where souls of the dead gather in the form of glowing butterflies. In Norwin's memory for Winter Flicker, he tells of a pet fox he used to have, one whose soul he still chases to this day in the forest.

-This is the first time a character's own family has neglected or abused them. Qin Yi was abused by the troupe master in Nostalgic Dreams and Out the Phoenix Palace, and Ashley was abused by her step-family in Meteoric Feather and Starsnow Icing.

Fun Facts

-This is the second suit with an owl, the first being Cecelia's Molten Gold.

-Even though the suit looks like a Wasteland outfit, with the feathers, fringe, and loose drape, the Index explains this is a traditional style for the remote tribes in the North villages.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 3: Newborn

Narrated by Lianne.

Narrator: There's something truly remarkable about humans.

Narrator: In times when life's hardships made hope seem like a mirage, the abrupt loss of my sole friend introduced an additional dimension of fear.

Lianne: Ironically, neither the shells that night nor the chilling snow managed to end me. Sooty, does this mean my fate isn't sealed just yet?

Lianne: Yet, I wonder, what's the point of continuing this existence?!

Narrator: Everywhere near the village, scorched branches and soil prevail, with the scent of smoke and blood hanging in the air long after.

Narrator: Villagers prepared to leave, and my family arranged for someone from our town to help my brother escape. But leaving home wasn't easy.

Narrator: And me? They seemed to think I should just quietly fade away into nothing.

Narrator: This was the caravan's final visit, and they hid their vessels well to block stowaways, leaving my parents, desperate to get my brother out, fuming.

Narrator: The winds had picked up across the snowfields once more, and Sooty's agile form was missing from the shadowy pine woods.

Narrator: Its passage used to send cascades of snow drifting down, reminiscent of a caravan sprinkling sugar on a cake.

Narrator: I lay by Sooty's snowy grave for ages, jolted awake by lightning. When I opened my eyes, an ice-blue butterfly took flight from the grave, lightly grazing my nose.

Narrator: It fluttered around me in three elegant loops before settling on my shoulder. Its feelers gently fanned out, as though asking...

Lianne: Are you... Sooty?

Narrator: The butterfly looped around me in a dance of three before soaring away. I chased after it, tripping through the fog, until I found myself in a strange forest.

Narrator: My heart raced, and suddenly, I remembered my grandmother's stories about a mystical forest that only emerged during storms with lightning... the Forest of Repose.

Narrator: "Where the boundless snowstorms cease, the souls of the liberated take the form of butterflies, gathering in this place."

Narrator: A butterfly settled on my hand, previously afflicted by frostbite, offering a warmth that felt like a soft kiss.

Lianne: Your ointment was a lifesaver. My hands are still a bit rough, but thankfully, I haven't suffered from frostbite again.

Narrator: Talking about it almost brought me to tears. So annoying... I used to be tough, never shedding a tear no matter how hard life was before I met Sooty!

Narrator: Led by the butterfly, I navigated through the magical forest. Time blurred until the mist lifted, revealing I had arrived at a not-so-tall cliff edge.

Lianne: That's...

Narrator: Narrowing my eyes, I spotted a merchant's ship below, its deck piled with soft goods. Jumping from here, I'd land on the cargo.

Lianne: Lianne, it's do or die.

Narrator: Looking at the lights twinkling from the secret port, hope seemed to spark anew in me.

Lianne: Come with me, Sooty!

Narrator: Turning, I found only the butterfly making three loops before disappearing with the forest into the vast mist.

Lianne: ...

Lianne: Sooty?

Narrator: Doubting it could hear, I still spoke sincerely to the air.

Lianne: Moments ago, I contemplated letting sleep take me beside your grave. In the ceaseless snow and war, it felt impossible to break free, no matter how hard I tried.

Lianne: Now though, I, Lianne, am setting out on a new journey.

Lianne: Whether it's apples, pears, or anything to do with Ninir, I'm going to explore them all. Whoever dares to deny me my life will soon find theirs jeopardized.

Narrator: The chill wind wiped away my tears, and I vowed, it was my last cry.

Narrator: Looking down at the cargo ship moored beneath the cliff, I shut my eyes and leaped.

Lianne: Whew... almost suffocated there.

Narrator: A blend of noise, vibrant electronic music, and the blaring horn of the cargo ship docking enveloped me.

Lianne: Ro... sset?

Narrator: Which place was this? "Apple" or "Ninir"?

Narrator: All that was irrelevant! The key thing was, this location was set to be the starting point for Lianne's fresh start.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 2: Forest Companions

Narrated by Lianne.

~Content Warning: animal death~

Narrator: Life went on, day by day. I kept looking for an opportunity to smug-... to flee with the caravan.

Narrator: Occasionally, I overheard traders mention "Apple" and "Ninir," one a city of skyscrapers and style, the other magical, like a fairy tale brought to life.

Narrator: Back in those days, names of places I'd never heard of felt light-years away, my scant knowledge too meager to grasp the concepts of fairy tales or fashion.

Narrator: I hadn't even set foot in the constantly battling cities of "Black Water City" and "Frozenstream," much less these fantastical locations.

Narrator: But I made a note of those locations, hoping maybe one day I'd get to see them for myself.

Narrator: Huh, but why name a place after fruit? Is it because they're known for apples?

Narrator: On another night, I was gearing up to enter the merchants' camp again. This night was still, without snow, bathed in the moonlight that winter seldom brought.

Narrator: The moonlight wasn't soft at all, but bitingly cold, almost like the ancient icicles clinging to cedar tree crowns.

Narrator: The village's silence was so profound that the faintest sound of distant thunder caught my attention with ease.

Choose "Thunder?"

You: Was it really thunder or something else?

Narrator: Look at you, catching on quick! That wasn't thunder but cannon fire, a fact I later learned was due to Frozenstream's newest weapons.

Narrator: With a single "blast," they could demolish a village of hundreds... It's laughable how little they valued human lives, or they just didn't see us as people at all.

Narrator: Even from afar, I witnessed a flare rocketing upwards and bursting open, illuminating the night as if it were day.

Lianne: Fireworks, maybe? Or am I so close to freezing that I'm seeing things?

Narrator: Frozen in place, wondering what on earth was going on, I was abruptly met with a bizarre wind that rushed towards me, colliding with me with unexpected force.

Narrator: The air, thick with the scent of blood, filled my nostrils. Ready to confront whoever had bumped into me, I glanced down and felt a chill grip my veins.

Lianne: Sooty! Sooty! What's wrong?!

Narrator: Frantically, I pulled at my tattered coat, desperate to protect Sooty from the chill, and yet I could only sense its warmth fading away, ever so rapidly.

Narrator: I couldn't forget the way Sooty used to soar above me, making three loops with a wingspread that lent it an air of pride and grandeur.

Narrator: It was only now that I've come to see its true size... so incredibly small that even the smallest splinter of a stray bullet overshadowed it.

Sooty: Squeak, squeak...

Narrator: Sooty emitted several faint warning cries, its body chilling to the touch, every cut and scrape encased in crimson frost.

Lianne: I get it, I get it... you're asking me to bring you back to the caravan so we can all make a quick getaway!

Lianne: Hold on, don't you dare give up on me. I'm going to make a break for it, just wait a sec! Hold on a bit longer... Ugh, this path's turning into a real nightmare!

Narrator: Tears froze into ice the second they spilled, sticking painfully to my eyelids. But then, sweat quickly thawed the frost.

Narrator: Ice and fire alternated within me, the artillery's roar growing louder, and a few stray bullets almost nipped at my heels.

Narrator: It turned out the path to the camp was incredibly long. Sadly, without wings, all I had were feet on the verge of going numb with cold.

Narrator: Steam rose with each stride, and Sooty, cradled against me, felt warmer, but I couldn't hear its mournful cries.

Narrator: Battered by countless branches and falls, I broke through the final trees. Ignoring the guards' shouts, I charged headlong into the caravan's campsite.

Lianne: Quick, everyone, pull back! Sooty's here with a warning! Move, move!

Narrator: The moment the words left my lips, I hit the ground, completely spent, while the camp lit up with a fierce glow.

Lianne: Sooty!

Narrator: Carefully, I cradled Sooty out of my arms. It gave a faint flutter of its wings before its watchful eyes closed for the last time.

Narrator: The world around me turned into a blur. I tried to shout, but not a whisper came out.

Lianne: Farewell, Sooty.

Narrator: I tracked down the one who used to take care of Sooty, thinking maybe they'd bury it with some dignity. But they didn't even give Sooty a second look.

A Caravaner: Just an animal that was useful once.

Narrator: The caravan cleared out quick, leaving nothing but chaos behind. Sprawled in the snow, the cold didn't bite as it used to.

Lianne: Shells are supposed to be lethal, right? Why leave me behind?

Narrator: I spent that night hurling insults at the sky, then I laid Sooty to rest.

Chapter 1

Chapter 3

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 1: Winter Memories

Narrated by Lianne.

Narrator: The early morning greets me with a world turned white outside my window.

Narrator: Cracking the window for some fresh air, the biting cold nips at my fingers, particularly where old frostbite scars ache with a reminder.

Narrator: In that instant, I'm whisked back to a winter from long ago, the one that almost claimed me with its frosty grip.

Narrator: From my earliest memories, Frozenstream has been a constant thorn in Black Water City's side, with their skirmishes frequently spilling over into my tiny village.

Narrator: And my parents? Let's just say I wasn't the favorite. My daily ration was a slice of stale bread, while my brother feasted on milk and bacon.

Narrator: I was stuck wearing my brother's cast-offs, clothes so patched they barely held together, leaving me chilled to the bone with every breeze.

Lianne: Starvation and freezing are my constant companions... This is no life for anyone! It's time to escape this nightmare!

Choose "Do you despise your family?"

You: Do you despise your family?

Narrator: Ha, at that time, the concept of "hate" was foreign to me.

Narrator: I was just haunted by the fear of waking to a stiff, cold body, the terror of never being satisfied with food, and the fate of falling to poverty and sickness.

Narrator: Once the idea of escape sparked in me, I found a new energy every day, frequently sneaking peeks at the foreign merchants passing through.

Narrator: The ones bundled up, always with a warm beverage in hand, would come to our village every month to barter and buy our unique goods.

Narrator: At first, I rummaged through their trash for scraps and worn clothes. Over time, I plotted to join them, dreaming of leaving with them.

Narrator: Corleone later explained, it's called smuggling. Smuggling? But I was planning to make my escape in broad daylight!

Narrator: Ahem, though, my efforts didn't exactly go as planned. Time and again, I was startled into retreat by the piercing "squeak, squeak" noises...

Narrator: The merchants' owl, its plumage a pristine white dashed with black and brown, had a cunning look about it.

Narrator: Its ability to swivel its head right round to the back! You can't imagine the fright I got the first time it caught me sneaking up behind it...

Narrator: And those keen eyes, ever vigilant, keeping watch over the camp around the clock, alert for any sign of trouble.

Narrator: Obviously, for a time, I was the "suspicious activity" flagged, but retreating isn't my style. Lianne always faces challenges head-on.

Lianne: Hey there, Sooty! What do you think I've got for you this time?

Narrator: Taking a leaf out of the caravan leader's book, I threw some pumpernickel crumbs and bits of tinned meat at the owl.

Narrator: And can you imagine? That cheeky thing gave me the side-eye!

Lianne: Hey, it's not much to look at, but that was my whole dinner!

Narrator: Every time that happened, I'd scramble to pick up the tossed food and wolf it down.

Narrator: "Sooty" stood on its high perch, fluffing up its glossy feathers, almost as though it were laughing at me.

Lianne: What makes you so special? Someday, I'll make sure you see what I'm truly capable of!

Narrator: Maybe it picked up on my benign intentions, but after a few back-and-forths, "Sooty" started to warm up to me.

Narrator: There was even a time when it dropped a small white jar by my feet.

Lianne: What is it?

Narrator: When I unscrewed the cap, inside was this cream-colored salve giving off a sharp, medicinal aroma, almost certainly the frostbite remedy the merchants used.

Narrator: Even though there was barely any left, that tiny jar felt like an unprecedented gesture of kindness to me.

Narrator: Looking down at my grimy hands and frostbitten feet, my nose unexpectedly started to sting with a mix of pain and emotion.

Lianne: Thanks a lot, Sooty.

Narrator: With a flick of its wing, Sooty scratched atop its head before turning away with a haughty twist.

Lianne: Come on, no need to play coy! I've got something special for you, too!

Narrator: I fished out a tiny sack, and inside, there were two chubby dead mice.

Lianne: Voila, catching these was no small feat, you know.

Narrator: Sooty's eyes sparkled at the sight. It burst into action, flapping its wings and looping around me in excitement.

Narrator: It was the first time Sooty did a triple loop around me, and I saw it as sealing our bond of friendship.

Lianne: There you go, go on, enjoy your meal.

Narrator: Sooty munched away happily, and I clearly recall it giving me a cheeky wink.

Narrator: The skies turned gloomy all at once, with blue-gray snowflakes kissing the tip of my nose.

Narrator: I gave my nose a little sniff and waved goodbye to Sooty.

Lianne: Regrettably, it's time for your buddy to scurry back to that ramshackle spot they call home, before the storm unleashes its fury.

Lianne: Next time we cross paths, maybe you'll let me inch a bit closer to that caravan of yours.

Narrator: True to form, Sooty gave me another one of its signature eye rolls.

Lianne: Hey, you little trickster, return my mice!

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Let's Meet Another Justiciar!

We know that only the toughest and fiercest warriors make it into the Justiciar ranks. But when Lianne meets Zoey for the first time in Silent Fields, she has no idea what she's in for.

She's not the only warrior that's busy. In two weeks, we'll join the Cloud princess on her journey to meet with the people of Urqin. She's representing the Cloud imperial family in the negotiations, and they have to go smoothly.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Marina: Marvelous Fantasy

Awakened Suit: Marvelous Fantasy

You can find the original suit here.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Marina: Rainbow Fantasy

Designer's Reflection: Rainbow Fantasy

Obtained: welfare

Rarity: SSR

Attribute: Pink/Sweet

Awakened Suit: Marvelous Fantasy

Story - transcripts from Designer's Reflection

Chapter 1 - Childhood Endorsement

Chapter 2 - Happy Breakout

Chapter 3 - Decision Day

Chapter 4 - Happiest Child

Story - summarized

Marina browses on her phone when she comes across a contest from an amusement park. They're looking for a child to be their spokesperson, so they want kids to submit videos showing them being happy. From there, the park will choose the Happiest Kid to represent them, as well as receive VIP access to the park.

Marina races around the Ark, filming as much as she can with her camera of the scenery, her brother, even her skateboarding tricks. When Nikki and Momo appear, she ropes them into her project. She has fun making the video.

The day comes for all the participants to submit their video, and most of them display children at amusement parks with their families. But Marina realizes she can't go to the parks - or anywhere in Miraland. She and Aeon can't leave the Ark without the Ocean of Memories consuming everything. Regardless, she still submits her video.

After a good sleep, Marina checks the group chat - it's blowing up. Everyone loves her video and wants to know details: where does she live, who is her cute brother, how does she know Momo the talking cat? They all are jealous of the life she has.

Meanwhile, Aeon notices something is off with Marina. He looks into it, and he finds out that Marina won the contest, making her the spokesperson and VIP of the park... yet she can't physically go. He conspires with Nikki and Momo to bring the park to Marina. They contact the park and explain the situation, so the park splices Marina's contest video with footage of other kids sending their well-wishes. The amusement park then gives Nikki and Aeon lots of balloons to confirm Marina's VIP status and cheer her up.

The group throws a little surprise party for Marina, where they explain everything and even show the commercial with her video. She feels much better and happier.

Connections

-Aeon's last line, "May you always be the happiest kid," comes back in the prologue to the Whale/Nikki anniversary hell. Marina goes around the Ark while the Ocean of Memories is in trouble, and she wonders if "happiest kid" is really all she has to look forward to in life.

-Marina's nickname for the group chat is FireworksMarina. The first time she ever wanted to go to Miraland was during the Zither River hell event, when she saw the fireworks. Her Reflection, Exploding Fireworks, shows her trying to recreate fireworks on the Ark, and she needs Aeon's help to make them.

-Marina realizes after sending in her video that she can't leave the Ark. Aeon's memories in Vaporwave Dream and Oceanic Reverie explain why the siblings can't leave the Ark... but Vol. 2, Chapter 1 has the siblings finally step foot into Miraland safely. Now, Marina can visit the amusement park.

Fun Facts

-When SummerSue comments in the chat, sometimes her name has "the Magician," and sometimes it has "the Wizard." So, I kept the first one for consistency.

-In the Index, Marina's height is stated to be 139 cm (almost 4 ft 7 in), but Nikki and Momo say the minimum height requirement for roller coasters is 140 centimeters.

[shiningdesignersreflections]

Chapter 4: Happiest Child

Narrated by no one.

Narrator: And unexpectedly, Marina won the contest to become the spokesperson.

Narrator: The result caught Marina completely off-balance.

Narrator: She had believed her existence, compared to other kids, was not the happiest. She actually envied the normal life very much.

Narrator: However, they actually envied the unique life Marina led and the interesting friends she has.

Marina: What should I post today?

Narrator: From then on, Marina would post snippets of her life every day.

Narrator: That garnered her a lot of fans throughout Miraland.

Narrator: The invite from the park showed up in the mail.

Narrator: They invited Marina to the park to shoot a commercial and experience it as a VIP.

Narrator: But regrettably, she had to decline, for she was unable to leave the Ark.

Aeon: What is it?

Narrator: Aeon noticed Marina's sorrow, but she didn't answer and simply skateboarded away.

Narrator: Watching his sister leave, Aeon became concerned about her mood swings lately.

Narrator: A few days later, Aeon approached Marina as she was trying out new skateboarding tricks.

Aeon: Marina.

Marina: What?

Aeon: Come here.

Narrator: Aeon turned and walked away, prompting Marina to give chase.

Narrator: They came to a room down a long, long hallway.

Narrator: The door opened to the release of multicolored balloons.

Marian: Wow! What's this for...?

Nikki: Congratulations, Marina.

Marina: Nikki!

Aeon: Good job on becoming the park's spokesperson.

Marina: Did you tell him?

Nikki: Yeah. He asked me to contact the park, and they wanted me to bring you the balloons as a confirmation for your VIP experience!

Narrator: Marina looked up at the floating balloons.

Narrator: She was recalling the happiness of the children from their videos.

Narrator: It summed up the joy of summer in one simple rhythm that looped in her head.

Narrator: She saw wonderful images of Miraland.

Narrator: Then, Nikki played a video featuring regards from kids throughout Miraland to Marina.

Narrator: The final segment was a replay of Marina's entry shot on the Ark.

Narrator: Marina skateboarding, her brother's wry smile, Momo snarking, Nikki's grin, and the marvelous Ark were all included.

Marina: Wow...!

Narrator: Marina had felt the video she shot was boring.

Narrator: But when she watched it again now, she thought it was very interesting.

Narrator: Perhaps what counts as "ordinary" life on the Ark was already more exciting.

Aeon: Nikki brought you the surprise.

Nikki: It's Aeon's idea, though.

Narrator: Marina turned to Aeon.

Narrator: Aeon put an adorable hat from the amusement park on Marina's head.

Narrator: Before she could run off to check herself in the mirror, she saw the caring look in Aeon's eyes.

Aeon: May you always be the happiest kid, Marina.

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3