Flower Park

Hmm?

Blossom, is that you?

Oh my,

I was wondering who it was.

What are you doing here?

I'm tending to the park.

We're going to be taking greater care of this place in the future.

In essence, we're helping the flowers adapt to potential weather patterns they'd see up on the surface.

The garden provides an ideal environment for the flowers,

but they can't stay in a greenhouse forever.

So, we started by moving the strongest ones here.

And while we're at it,

we thought we might as well make the experience more comfortable

for both the flowers and park visitors.

Hehe, I guess you could think of it like that.

You're so kind.

I appreciate your offering, but we're wrapping things up here.

We'll be done soon, so would you be willing to wait for me?

Hehe, sure.

Let's finish up, Trina.

Okay.

So,

Tulip, how does your new home feel?

Hmm?

The soil feels a little uncomfortable?

Hmm, okay. Let me help you with that.

Hmm...

This part is completely wilted.

This will sting a little, so bear with me, okay?

Good, that's it.

Hahaha.

What a heartwarming sight.

Hehe, absolutely.

I feel oddly proud, in fact.

Hee hee.

Hee hee.

Yep, all done!

We'd gotten the bulk of it done by the time you arrived.

You weren't too bored waiting for us, were you?

Hehe.

Lovely!

It seems like we've already succeeded in what we wanted to achieve.

Indeed.

If our first visitor feels that way,

I can only imagine how everyone else will feel.

That'd be great!

You'll have to let us know how they feel about it.

Haha.

I can't wait to hear about all the wonderful experiences you'll have in this park, Blossom.

We've put a lot of care into this place, so please enjoy it to the fullest.

Be sure to visit often.

The little ones will be excited to see you and everyone else.

Oh! Teacher, you're here!

Hello, Teacher.

Haven't you heard?

I thought you'd notice right away when you got here.

It's been trending all over the internet for a few days now.

Ein, I told you that's all made up.

There's no way a ghost would appear in broad daylight.

That's what makes it so fun! The less proof there is, the more intriguing it is!

Yeah.

Every night,

a ghost who met an unjust end

is said to wander through this park.

She walks around stark naked,

and sings an eerie song that goes something like this:

Laa dee dah...

Laa doo dee...

...

You're not scared, are you, Zwei?

I don't believe in ghosts.

Anyway, that's the gist.

What do you think, Teacher?

A very level-headed answer, as to be expected from you, Teacher.

C'mon you guys.

Even if ghosts aren't real, there's nothing wrong with building up a little atmosphere.

Not you too, Teacher...

I knew it!

I knew you'd get into it, Teacher.

If all you're gonna do is keep talking nonsen...

Sssh! Quiet!

Did you hear that?

Laa dee dah...

Stop it, Ein.

Laa dee dah...

Laa doo dee...

What are you all doing here?

!!

Gaaaaah! It's a ghost!

He-help us, Teacher!

Hmm?

What's going on here?

Oh, I see...

A ghost that wanders around naked, cackling.

Yeesh. Gives me chills just thinking about it.

There can't be something like that in the park... can there?

...

...

Trina, was it?

Sorry about earlier.

I didn't realize you were the one taking care of this place.

Yeah, I should apologize as well.

Don't worry. Your head was filled with scary ghost stories,

so it's only natural that you'd be a bit on edge.

There's no need to feel guilty.

I'm just glad you're not upset.

Thanks for being so understanding.

Haha, I'm happy to see you all back in good spirits.

Well then, I'm going to get back to what I was doing.

I'm not quite finished with my work yet.

Sure, we'll leave you to it.

See you around.

Doo dee doo...

Turns out she's not a ghost, but just a really nice person.

Yeah. I kinda feel bad that we got so freaked out.

Teacher,

maybe we should start heading...

?

...

!!!

T-Teacher,

I think I should go.

I'll s-see you around.

Huh? Zwei! Where are you going?

Zwei!

What the... what's she in such a hurry for? We were supposed to leave together.

Huh? What are you looking at, Teacher?

Huh? What's going on?

I can't see anything...

Laa dee dah...

Laa dee dah...

Laa doo dee...

Ah, Blossom!

You've arrived.

And you as well, Chicory.

It's a leafy plant which is also edible.

It can be cooked in various ways.

She started calling me after the flower that blooms from it.

Chicory stands for thriftiness and frugality.

Chicory tastes bitter, but it's very healthy.

It therefore carries the meaning of finding truth within bitterness.

Apparently, Flora feels that's an apt description of me.

That's right.

Chicory's true ability lies elsewhere.

All of our squad members do.

Botanic Garden and Cooking Oil support each other in many ways.

After all, a lot of food ingredients come from plants.

We often receive help from them in that regard.

We ask them for information about plants that we don't understand.

Just like today.

Of course there are.

This is a newly discovered flower

which we've been unable to identify.

Before they are nurtured into maturity, plants are full of mystery.

We have no idea where it grew, what kind of life it's led, or whether it's poisonous or not.

If we raised it incorrectly, this plant could potentially be harmful.

That's why our first course of action is to consult Chicory.

Let me give it a taste.

*Lick*

Hmm...

You found it in a cold region, didn't you?

Yes, that's right.

That's why we've been keeping it in the coldest environment possible.

Actually, this plant only managed to survive in cold climates due to its resilience.

Fortunately, there was enough sunlight in that area to allow it to sprout.

It would actually be better to move it somewhere warmer.

Oh my goodness!

Here it was, struggling to make it through the cold, and then we came along and left it somewhere even colder.

I feel so bad.

Unfortunately, it's not edible, either.

We won't have much use for it at Cooking Oil.

It isn't highly poisonous though,

so it should be safe to grow alongside other plants.

It's also very happy that you found it.

Yes...

I can sense that emotion as well.

I found it in the middle of a raging blizzard, huddled at the base of a cliff, trembling.

The moment I realized it was alive, I felt so relieved.

That's about all I can discern for now.

You'll learn more as you continue to care for it, Flora.

That's more than enough.

Thank you so much.

It'll be fine.

This little one is lonely.

That's why I thought the best place to raise it would be here, where people often come to visit.

By the way, what are you considering naming it?

Hmm...

I'll decide

once I've raised it and it blossoms.

I'm curious to know what you'll name it.

Looks like I'll be busy for a while.

Could you help me, Blossom?

Flowers love you, Blossom.

Much like me, they are drawn to your pleasant fragrance and calming presence.

If you spend time with this little one,

I'm sure it will be overjoyed.

Of course you are!

Give it water, talk to it, and sing to it.

Sorry, Bonne Bouche, but my role here is done.

Now it's your turn.

Are you all right, Blossom?

Well, I'll be off.

Call me if you need me.

Sure thing, Chicory, and the same to you.

Thank you for your help today.

You bet.

Wow, I had no idea this place existed.

It's so pretty!

Can I come here on my own?

Cool! I'd love to come here often.

I wonder if it looks this pretty at night.

Even if we're not, couldn't you pull a few strings?

Aren't you the head honcho who calls the shots around here?

Sweetie!

Hello, Subordinate.

Yeah, we were chatting and thought we'd take in the flowers while we were at it.

We're not simply "chewing the fat", Subordinate.

Who's this lovely lady you have with you?

I haven't had the pleasure. Introduce me!

Wow, so you're a librarian?

Lending out books at the library and everything... just hearing it makes you sound so intelligent!

Haha.

I'm not as impressive as you think, Miss Rupee.

Is that what I should call you? Miss Rupee?

Oh, certainly not! It's so formal.

Just call me Rupee. We're all friends here.

Thank you for saying that, but I may still speak in a way that seems excessively formal to you from time to time.

It's more natural for me to speak that way.

Okay, no problem!

Wow, is that finger armor on your hand? It's gorgeous.

Your shawl is so lovely as well, and your accessories are super stylish.

Are you into fashion?

I do enjoy this sort of thing, but...

May I ask... are you the same Rupee from Rushae?

Hehe.

Indeed it is I, the one and only Rupee from Rushae, in the flesh!

Wow! It's almost like meeting a celebrity.

There's no "almost" about it. I am a celebrity!

However, if you're into fashion, how come you don't own anything from Rushae?

Do you feel it's not your style?

Oh, well...

To be honest, it's a little outside my price range.

!!!

Then allow me to use my privileges as a brand ambassador to give it to you.

Someone like you simply must wear Rushae for everything to be right with the world.

Wow, really?

Of course!

But in return...

I know. I should wear it all the time, and when people ask me about it, I must be sure to tell them it's from Rushae.

Hehe, thank you!

Is there anything you had your eye on in particular?

Oh, well... th-that new dress from the latest collection is quite nice!

You mean Floral Reverie, right?

This is perfect, actually. I wasn't entirely happy with how it looked on me, and was thinking about finding someone else to model it for me.

I'll customize one just for you. We can go get your measurements in a bit.

*Sigh*...

Yeah. Things are going okay with Rupee.

We've gotten pretty close by now, and she's proven to be a surprisingly good listener.

However, even so...

The way these two are going, I can already see myself getting roped into joining them for some crazy adventure.

Do you really think they'll let me get away with that?

Sweetie!

Guess where I am!

Me too! Guess where I am!

Haha!

Pfft! I certainly didn't expect you to say something like that, Commander.

No. I'm not doing it.

...

Helm!

We were gonna go take photos, remember? Let's go!

Arcana said she knows a super good studio!

... Fine.

You too, Sweetie.

Come to think of it, Subordinate.

Don't you have a meeting soon?

Hmm...

Oh my, that does seem to be the case.

Aw, what a shame!

You'll just have to take a rain check.

Yeah, you've gotta be sure to come next time!

...

See you next time, Subordinate!

... One victim is enough. I'll take the brunt of this blow.

Sun! Fancy seeing you here.

My feelings for you, Conductor, must have been carried by the wind and led you here!

We're just here relaxing, but with a twist!

Well.

Julia is playing music for the little ones

and me to enjoy.

Now that Sun's here, would you mind playing a little more, Julia?

Certainly.

I'm so glad that you came, Conductor. I'll be sure to transfer that joy into my next performance.

That was so lovely.

I can feel that the little ones appreciate it as well.

If only Flora and Leaf could have joined us.

Thank you all for being such a captive audience. I'm truly grateful that...

What the...? How come there are so many people here?

Oh? Looks like another guest has arrived.

I thought this place wasn't being used anymore.

Bah, fine. I'll have to go somewhere else.

Huh? Why would you leave?

Didn't you come here to take a break?

Yes...

Then why don't you stay and rest?

Even if it's only for a moment,

surrender your body to the gentle breeze and fragrance of nature before moving on.

What are you blathering about?

Come on, stop putting up a fight and get over here.

Hey! Let go of me!

Just give in, and sit here.

How is it?

Don't you feel this place has a calming presence?

Not at all!

How am I supposed to relax with this many people around?

Ah! I see!

So it's the number of people that's the problem for you.

In that case, think of me as one with nature.

What a bunch of—

If that doesn't work, then think of me and my music as a mellifluous breeze amongst these bucolic surroundings.

That's just as ridiculous!

Ugh...

You weirdoes are giving me a headache.

Your head is troubling you?

In times like this, why not cast aside your heavy thoughts and enjoy some nice, tranquil music?

Yeah! Nothing relieves fatigue like listening to music while out in nature.

Again with the hippy-dippy nonsense...

Now then, allow me to begin.

I don't nee...

...

That's... not bad.

I appreciate you saying that.

Bravo! Another masterful performance.

...

Do you take requests?

Of course. Responding to the audience's call is the privilege of a performer.

What song would you like?

A dirge.

!!

...

Is that okay?

Of course. Meeting and parting are inevitable parts of life.

I cannot say for certain whether my interpretation will resonate with you,

but I will play my idea of what a dirge should make one feel.

Whatever. Just play.

...

... Well done.

Huh?

I'm leaving.

My goodness, she certainly left quickly.

It would have been nice if she'd stayed and rested a bit more.

Do you think she didn't like the performance?

Hehe, well, that's a relief.

Do you want to keep playing for the little ones?

Of course.

I will continue to play for them, and wish for peace for them and everyone else as I do.

Yes, right here!

I was thinking about singing in the dorm at first,

but I thought it might get a bit noisy with the mic.

I also wanted to test the mic a little,

so I was looking for a place where a bit of noise wouldn't be a problem.

That's when Flora invited me here!

Oh, welcome, Blossom.

And you too, Sweet Pea.

Hello, Flora.

Thank you so much for inviting me.

The park looks absolutely beautiful,

and it smells amazing too!

Hehe, it warms my heart to see my little ones bloom from all the care I give them each day.

Thank you.

Indeed, Blossom.

Of course.

Flowers simply adore listening to songs.

I've already told the little ones that

Sweet Pea will be coming to sing for them today,

and they're all eagerly awaiting her arrival.

Hehe, I didn't think there'd be such a big audience.

I guess that makes me a little shy.

Yes,

I don't see why there would be any problem.

Ahh, ah.

Test, test.

Sweet Pea, what a lovely voice you have.

Soft and soothing, I'd say.

And to hear a song from someone with such a sweet voice...

I'm positively blooming with excitement to hear it!

My throat's in tip-top shape, hehe.

I'm so glad to hear that.

Mic check's all done!

Can I go ahead and get started?

Yes, everyone's waiting for you.

Hehe, here I go!

This is my favorite song.

I dedicate it to Flora and all the flowers.

Caaandy... Strawberry caaandy... for you!

!

Preeeetty flowers... Kind gardeners toooo...

Strawberrrrry... caaandy...

... Blossom, what is this song?

This is... so...

Strawberrrrry... caaandy... that everyone loves!

Whew...

It's my first time singing in front of such a big crowd...

I guess I got a little nervous without realizing it...

My voice was a bit shaky, hehe.

...

Marvelous...

Exactly as I expected.

Your singing, Sweet Pea, is simply magnificent.

Oh wow, really?

Hmm...?

Hehe, I see.

They said it was quite stimulating.

Did you know?

For flowers to grow strong, they need just a little bit of stress.

That way, they learn to bloom on their own.

In that sense,

Sweet Pea's song was just perfect.

Wait, are you saying my singing actually helped the flowers?

Yes.

Thanks to Sweet Pea's singing, these little ones will grow up even stronger.

I'm glad it was worth singing with all my heart!

Thank you, Flora.

And thank you, little flowers.

If it's not too much trouble, could you sing a little more?

Oh my, I'd love to!

I could sing until my voice gives out!

I'm so happy to hear it helped them!

What should I sing next?

Blossom, you'll stay and listen too, won't you?

A little stimulation will do you good.

Huh?

What are you doing here, Master?

Here to see little old me?

...

Ah, so the others sent you, huh?

To keep an eye on me?

They said I should take a little trip since they want to plant flowers around the cafe, but...

I'm not a kid, so why'd they even send a guardian?

Hah! Maybe I'll just be a total rebel!

Seriously, they worry about the tiniest things!

Do they honestly think I can't handle something like this?

Pfft!

Hahaha! Your flustered face is priceless!

Just kidding!

Honestly, since they let me see you,

I feel like I should totally give them a gold star or something ♥

Oh, I'm so sorry I'm late!

There were a few things I needed to prepare.

Now, I'll be guiding you through today's relaxation session...

Hm?

Is something the matter?

Oh, right...!

I'm so sorry.

I should have been more careful...

All right, I'll do my best!

Hey, what's this?

Why are you whispering just among yourselves?

I wanna know too!

O-oh, yes...

Sun wanted to know what we'll be doing today!

Oh really?

In that case, I'm better off not knowing!

It's way more fun to discover things for myself.

Sh-shall we take a look around? I'd be happy to show you.

This is the most relaxing spot in the Flower Park.

Looks pretty much like any other park to me.

These trees here give off phytoncides

that help you feel more relaxed.

And the little ones are herbs that work in much the same way.

Would you like to have a sniff of their scent?

Mmm...

It smells really nice, but I'm not sure what effect it has.

Take your time and really savor the scent...

Let your body relax... very, very slowly.

Try doing it like me...

*Inhale*

*Inhale*

*Exhale*

*Exhale*

How is it? Can you feel it a little?

Not really.

Try taking a deeper breath this time.

Now, once more...

*Inhale*

*Inhale*

*Exhale*

*Exhale*

Aren't you starting to feel more relaxed?

Kinda, I guess?

Hmm... I think something's missing.

Oh!

What if we try this?

Instead of just smelling it, feel it with your whole body.

If you lie down like this and breathe in the flowers' scent,

you can feel so much closer to the flowers than if you just sniff them.

Come, Velvet, lie down next to me.

Hmm... I've never laid down in a field of flowers before.

But hey, it's actually pretty nice!

C'mon, Master! You're lying down too, right?

Come lie down with us too, Sun.

I'm only suggesting it for your sake, you know...

and you just have to say no, huh?

Ahh! I'm so sad, I just wanna run back to the Maid Cafe!

Are you feeling more relaxed now, Sun?

Actually, we're not finished just yet.

There's still more I'd love to share with you.

And I promise, the best part is still to come.

Tell me, tell me!

I've no idea what it is, but I suddenly really want to do it!

Hehehe, are you really that curious?

Just lying down surrounded by nature like this

makes you feel amazingly refreshed!

Kyahahahaha! So this is it?

No wonder Master reacted like that.

Guess I'll join in too!

Perfect, Velvet!

Doesn't it feel wonderful, being one with nature?

Even if the reason's a liiiittle different, this feels amazing!

Master, what're you waiting for? Come join us!

That's right, Sun, come join us too.

Kyahahaha!

Hehehe.

Ahh, that was so much fun!

I could go on this kind of trip a hundred times over!

Well, I came here to relax, so I'm definitely going to enjoy myself.

You and the girls planned this just to give me a break.

I knew it all along, you know ♥

Hahaha! You're all just too innocent!

I had a hunch when the girls sent me off,

but meeting you confirmed it ♥

After all, you're not the type to give a half-answer.

If you're really here to keep an eye on me, you'd have said, "Yes."

Since I rested so well,

I guess I should let the girls know just how amazing it was.

And they have to know how insanely good it feels to lie naked in a field of flowers!

So... if you don't want the girls to find out...

what should you do, Master? ♥