Norwin

Norwin
First Appearance	Dragalia Lost
Species	Sylvan
Year Created	2019
Voiced by (English)	Adrian Petriw
Voiced by (Japanese)	Yuki Kaji

Norwin is a playable character in Dragalia Lost. He is a picture book author who is seemingly unable to write a happy ending.

Official Description

A traveling picture-book author who loves reading stories to children. Despite his best efforts, though, all of his stories have bad endings. What sort of past trauma could be responsible?

Official Description (Summer Norwin)

The Halidom's resident picture book author dons swim trunks, putting his new ability to write happy endings to use on a sunny summer's tale. The stark white page takes on the blue hues of sea and sky as tragedy gives way to joy.

Adventurer Stories

Norwin

Adventurer Stories Episode 1 Unhappy Endings ???: Waaaah! Waaaah! Euden: Huh? Was that a child crying? Notte: It came from over there. C'mon, let's check it out!  ???: Come now, child! Don't cry! Children: *sniffle* *sob* Notte: Hey! What's the big idea making a bunch of kids cry like that, jerk?!  ???: I meant no harm, madam, I assure you. I was merely reading them a picture book. Notte: Ooo, I LOVE picture books! ...Hey, wait. If you were reading them a picture book, why were they crying?  ???: Er, well... Euden: Let me see this book. "However, no hero came to save the imperiled princess. Nay, not a one." "And with a terrible cry, she was gobbled up for dinner by a many-eyed fiend. Thus was all right in the world once more." Um...did I just read what I think I read? Notte: Dude, that ending SUCKS! No wonder the kids turned on the waterworks!  ???: Yes, well, perhaps that ending did need a little work. If you allow me to read you one of these other stories, I'm certain— Child: NOOOOOO! Children: Yeah, we're outta here.  ???: Oh dear. It happened again. Notte: Okay, freakstore, what's your damage?! Why are you reading some weirdo story to a bunch of little kids?!  ???: If that is how you already feel, I doubt my explanation will assuage your concerns one way or the other. Euden: Try us. Norwin: I am Norwin, a picture-book artist. The tale you just read is one of my works. Euden: Wait. YOU wrote this?! That's...um... Well, this is rather awkward. Norwin: Oh, it's all right. I'm well aware that my tales tend to fall a bit outside the norm. Notte: Okay, but if you know you're writing horrible stories, why keep doing it? Norwin: Because I find myself unable to pen a happy ending. Despite knowing even in my own mind that such sad tales are not appreciated, I somehow find myself unable to write anything else. Notte: So it's like writer's block, except...weird? Norwin: I thought perhaps the problem was in the writing, and so attempted to tell my story in oral form hoping a happy ending would somehow force itself out. However... Notte: Yeah, we all saw how that worked out. Norwin: Indeed. The tale was... Well, let us just say I hope I have not permanently scarred any of the children. Notte: Wow. You're a real piece of work. Euden: I don't know if I've ever heard of a problem quite like this before. Notte: Hey, I've got an idea! The prince here loves to write stories, so why don't the two of you form a writing group?! Euden: Notte, I just write silly stories as a hobby. Norwin is a professional. Norwin: Hold a moment. You are a prince? Not Prince Euden?! Can it really be you? The seventh scion of the royal Alberian family?! Euden: That's me all right. Er, have we met? Norwin: The rumors of your deeds are legion! You help the weak fend off powerful foes, and your heart is filled with bravery and love for all of your fellows! Notte: Yeah, he's a big-shot all right. Now make with the bowing! Norwin: However, I fear I've also heard an equally abundant number of...not-so-pleasant tales about you. Notte: Ah, those stories are hogwash. Hogwash, I tells ya! Norwin: Yes, that seems all but certain now. For if there's one thing I've learned in my line of work, it is how to tell the cold truth of fact from the fancy of fiction. Euden: Okay, I think we can move on now... Norwin: And on that note, I've a request for you, Your Highness: You must allow me to play a part in your tale! Euden: Run that by me again? Norwin: You're a character right out of a story. If I spend time with you, I might be able to finally find my elusive happy ending! I beg this of you, let me join your ranks! I shall do anything! Euden: I don't think I'm as impressive as all that, but new friends are always welcome. Norwin: Thank you so much, Your Highness! I await your first command! Euden: Well, how about you start by not calling me "Your Highness." From now on, we're friends of equal standing. Norwin: Oh! I, um... Yes, of course. (It's just as the rumors said—he really IS a prince from a children's faerie tale!) Episode 2 A Tale of Despair Norwin: ...... Euden: You look serious, Norwin. What's wrong? Norwin: Greetings, prince. I was simply attempting to draw a picture. Euden: ...Whoa, look at that! It's like I'm staring at this in real-life! I knew you wrote picture books, but I had no idea you were also such a talented artist. Norwin: Just a little diversion, I assure you. Euden: Er, Norwin? Why are you— Norwin: GRAAAAAGH! Euden: You just ripped your picture apart! Why?! Norwin: Because I do so enjoy making a mess of such realistic pictures. I often think how nice it would be to do the same to reality itself. Euden: That's a bit of an odd thought. Norwin: Ah, but this is the true me. I've been like this ever since I came to realize how truly cruel reality is. Euden: Well, I don't want to force you to talk about it, but maybe you could tell me why you feel that way? Norwin: I suppose there's no harm in doing so. This was a few years ago now... In northern Grastaea, there was a small nation called the Duchy of Anasonne. I lived there as the personal artist for the nation's young royals. Anasonne was a small land, but good, and all the people there were happy. But nearby nations were not so kind, and soon the fires of war had spread to Anasonne. As the days passed and the war worsened, I busied myself crafting tales for the frightened young lord and lady. Their smiling faces were a source of great delight for me, and I came up with one joyful tale after another for them. But in the end, Anasonne lost the war, and the country fell to ruin. Fortune left me with my life, but the rest of the country was naught but corpses and death...including the young royals. Ever since, whenever I try to write an ending, visions of that time float into my mind, and I find myself unable to produce anything save cruel and bitter finales. Euden: That's terrible. Norwin: The sight of the burning town is seared on my eyes, and the sound of the people's screams rings eternally in my ears. No matter how much I might wish to create a tale of happiness, cruel reality cares not a whit for my desires! If reality held even a fraction of the beauty to be found in picture books, the young nobles would never have suffered so! Now you understand why I wish to create reality and then spit in its eye. Euden: I can't deny that reality has more than its fair share of cruelties. But I also believe there is good in it, which is the dream that I strive for. Do you think that's wrong? Norwin: Heh. If everyone in the world were like you, reality would be wonderful indeed. Perhaps a day will come when my spirit becomes like yours. Episode 3 The Power of Fantasy Norwin: Gah, not again! This is absurd! Euden: That sounded like Norwin... Norwin, what's going... Er, why is your floor covered in a blizzard of crumpled paper? Norwin: Just my usual process, I fear. No matter how many times I try, I end up producing a story like...this. Euden: Why don't you let me take a look? "...And so, the children were scattered to the winds and devoured alive by a fearsome pack of wolves. The end." Huh. Okay then. Norwin: I am rapidly losing my sense of humor about this situation. Euden: You went through a terrible trauma; it's going to take some time. You just need to give your wounded heart time to heal itself. Norwin: I wonder if that is truly the issue. Euden: What do you mean? Norwin: I mean that rather than being wounded, perhaps my heart simply craves revenge. Euden: Revenge on who? Norwin: On picture books—or perhaps on fantasy itself! No matter how many fantasies I put to the page, I could not save Anasonne. In the end, fantasy is just that—it has no power to actually help anyone! Euden: You don't really believe that. If you did, you wouldn't be spending all your time trying to regain the ability to write happy endings. Norwin: I want to believe that. But in the depths of my heart, I feel naught but an utter loathing for fantasy and escapism. Perhaps writing these ugly tales is my way of unconsciously taking revenge on the very notion of such things. That's my thinking, at any rate. Euden: I don't know what to say. Cleo: ...Norwin? You have guests. Norwin: Hmm? Who is it? Cleo: Please come in. Girl: Are you Mister Norwin? Norwin: I am indeed. How can I help you? Boy: Um, we...read this book. Euden: "The Ugly Prince," is it? Mmm, yes, this book appears to be very well loved. Girl: It's about a prince who turns ugly because a bad wizard curses him. Boy: But the prince stays pretty inside and keeps fighting for good stuff! Girl: Then a princess falls in love with him, and when she kisses him, she breaks the evil ugly curse! Euden: That sounds like quite the tale. Er, but why did you bring it here? Norwin: ...Because I wrote it. Euden: You did?! But the story had a... Norwin: It is from my time back in Anasonne, when I was still able to write such things. I thought all the copies had been lost during the war... Boy: It came from our grandpa. That's why it's so worn out. Girl: Our mom and dad are both gone now, which makes stuff real hard... Boy: But this book always cheers us up! Girl: Yep! Every time we read it, we wanna be good and strong just like the prince! Boy: That's why we came all the way here from Hosse Village—we wanted to meet the person who wrote our favorite story! Cleo: Hosse Village?! But that's so far away! You really came all that way on your own? Boy: "Even if I become afraid and my body quails, the courage to take a single step is enough to cross the sky itself!" Cleo: I'm sorry? Girl: The prince said that. In the story. Euden: Did you hear that, Norwin? Norwin: Hmm? Euden: Your story gave them the strength to come on a grand adventure all the way to the Halidom! How can you say fantasy has no power when you see that happen? You can't give up on fantasy and imagination. Not yet. Norwin: Perhaps you're right. And yet... Episode 4 Besting Battle Norwin: ...So then. It has begun. Children: I'm scared... Norwin: Don't you worry. Our army is mighty, and will never be defeated. I promise. (Even so, the enemy is the Imperial Army. I pray everyone is careful...) Euden: ...The Empire is coming for your village?! Village Chief: I'm afraid so. They've demanded an exorbitant tax from our village, as well as those in the surrounding area. We are all poor and simple people; we can't possibly afford to pay. Yet they have decreed that any who fail to pay will meet a swift and terrible end. Elisanne: It is a warning. By destroying one village, they show all the others that the Empire is not to be trifled with. Euden: What a horrible thing to do! Village Chief: Please save us, Your Highness! Euden: I'd never let the Empire get away with something so cruel. Norwin: ...How terrible to think that village was your hometown of Hosse. Children: ...... Village Chief: My apologies that you have ended up watching over the children, Norwin. Norwin: It is our duty to ease the worries of all villagers—including the children. Villagers: Well, still you have my gratitude. Children: Waaah! I'm scaaaared! Norwin: (This is just like when Anasonne was destroyed... Back then, I read a book to the young lord and lady to soothe them. But now I'd only be able to tell the poor children a tale of horror and woe. How powerless I have become!)  ???: ...so do what you must. Norwin: Ah! Euden, let me fight. Or at least let me provide healing if I can do nothing else. Euden: I appreciate that, Norwin, but we need you for something else—a specific task that ONLY you can do. Norwin: And what is that? Children: Norwiiiin! Euden: You're the only one who can give courage to these children—so do what you must. Norwin: (Something only I can do... That's right! Did I not write it myself in one of my books? No matter how scared I get, the courage to take a single step will open the way forward!) Gather round, children; I'm going to read you a picture book! It will be full of thrills and chills and maybe even a scare of two, but in the end, all will be happy! Children: But I'm scared nooooow! Norwin: Your fear is just what the Empire wants! You must learn to be brave instead. Now, let us begin. The title of this tale is "The Princess in the Wall." Long ago, in a far away land, there was a small house that was surrounded on all sides by a wall that stretched to the sky. ...And after the witch cast her spell, the princess found herself trapped within a frightful patch of brambles! "Ungrateful girl!" cried the nasty witch. "I shall rip you to pieces!" Children: Eeeek! Norwin: (Now the prince will come to save the day. If only reality could be so kind! I remember how Anasonne's young nobles sought to gain courage and strength from the brave prince I wrote about.)  ???: Waaah! Help, Norwin! Norwin?! What about the prince?! Isn't he gonna come save the princess?! Norwin: (Ah! The young nobles! N-no...I can't possibly be hearing them. They're gone. They died!) "No one is coming to save you!" cackled the witch. And so she trapped the princess and...and... Girl: Somebody saaave her! Boy: It's okay! The prince is gonna come! Girl: Oh yeah! That's right! Norwin: ...... (They're completely absorbed in the tale, even as the Empire knocks at their door. By Ilia... THIS is the power of fantasy! The young nobles of Anasonne were happy and brave even as their land was consumed by war, and all because they became engrossed in my stories. What is left for me if I do not believe in that power?!) Suddenly, there was a mighty explosion that tore a hole in the wall! And standing there amidst the dust and rubble, was... Children: The prince! Norwin: That's right! The prince appeared and cut the bramble patch into little pieces, freeing the princess in the process! Then they lived happily ever after. And all was right in the world. Children: Yaaaaay! That was fun! Villager: I confess I was unsure of how reading a picture book could help, but it somehow helped me to to forget our dire situation. And speaking of that situation, it seems the noises outside have stopped. Village Chief: The battle is over. But who won...? Villager: Shhh! Someone is coming. Villagers: *gulp* Euden: Okay, everyone! You can come out! Norwin: Then the Empire has been defeated?! Euden: For now, yes. And everyone's okay. Villagers: HUZZAH! HUZZAH! Norwin: It seems reality is not all suffering; there can also be great joy in it. How did I forget that? Episode 5 A New Goal Norwin: "And so, the prince lived happily ever after, and all was right in the world." Children: Yaaaay! Euden: Is Norwin reading a picture book to those children? Notte: Yep! And they're actually liking it instead of...ya know. Running away in terror? Euden: I guess this means he's finally able to write happy endings again. Notte: Thank heck for that! Euden: Huh? There's something on the ground. Is this Norwin's new picture book? Notte: Oh man, I hope it's not all sad and depressing like the ones before. ...Let's crack it open and see! Euden: Heh. All right, let's do that... Oh my. Notte: What? Whaaaat?! Lemme... Oooooo! "And so, Prince Euden defeated the villainous Empire's soldiers." Whoa, man! You're famous! ...I mean, more so. Euden: I'm worried this is going to make me seem more heroic than I am. Norwin: My description of you is based wholly on how all the villagers felt as you defended them. Notte: Heya, Norwin! Norwin: Every single member of Hosse Village would agree to this heroic portrayal. Euden: Well, I suppose that's something. But more importantly, I'm glad you're finally able to write happy endings again. Norwin: All thanks to you, Euden. When I think back on it, I have always despaired of both reality and fantasy; fantasy has no strength, and reality has only cruel endings. And yet, you were able to bring about an utterly fantastical ending in reality. Thanks to you, I can once again embrace hope in both of those realms. Euden: That's wonderful to hear. However, if you don't mind, I'd like you to stop telling my story. It's really starting to get rather embarrassing. Norwin: Ah, but I fear I cannot do that. It's part of my new goal, after all. Notte: What goal is that? Norwin: You are seeing that peace is brought about in the world, and I shall document your progress in picture-book form! Those tales of heroism and valor will set hearts racing the world over! Euden: I really don't know about this... Notte: HARD AGREE! GIMME THAT BOOK! Norwin: It will be done. I swear it. And never again will I despair of the folly of fantasy. Now, gather 'round, everyone! I will read a picture book to you. Children: Yaaay! Norwin: The title of this book is, "The Prince Who Brought Happiness to the World."

Summer Norwin

Adventurer Stories Episode 1 The Princess and the Scribe Summer Norwin: Hmm, no. The waves are a lighter hue. Summer Norwin: The water farther out runs a deep cerulean, so I'll need to add darker tones for depth. And also there, where sea meets sky in a seamless gradient of blue. Summer Norwin: "Lured to the water's edge by the ocean's song, our prince suddenly beheld the beautiful princess who lived in the deep." Ah, a storybook meeting if ever there was. Euden: Hello, Norwin. Working on your next tale? Summer Norwin: Indeed I was, Euden. Notte: Duuude, that seascape is bananas! Summer Norwin: You are too kind. However, I am glad to hear you enjoy it, for my next picture book will be a rousing tale of the sea. Notte: I can't wait! ...Unless it's got another of your trademarked Norwin grimdark endings, in which case, hard pass. Summer Norwin: Heh. I shall do my best to avoid such an unhappy fate. Notte: Darn tootin' you will, buster! Euden: I'm glad you're able to write happy stories again, Norwin. Summer Norwin: As am I—and I have you to thank for it. Siren: Ooo! Is this beach-party gossip? I am SO in. Dish! The Marine Diva Dragon, Siren Siren: Oh wow, this is SUUUPER pretty... It's like you put the whole ocean down on the page or something! Notte: I KNOW, right? Ol' Norwin here's a classy picture-book author. Siren: Picture books?! Ooo, I wanna read one! Please please please pleeease?! Summer Norwin: Of course. I always carry a few finished works with me to read to the children I meet in my travels. Siren: Yay! Okay, then I'm totally gonna start with...um...this one! Siren: Aw, that was SOOO good! *sniff* The princess totes deserved her... *sniff* happy ending... *sniff* I'M SO PROUD OF HER! WAAAAAH! Summer Norwin: Your tears are the highest praise an author could hope for, miss. Oh, and please help yourself to this handkerchief. Siren: *sniff* Oh! Th-thanks. *HOOOONK* It's just, like, seeing her happy made me all teary and then... *HOOOOOONK* Siren: Like, I was scared when she got turned into that creepy monster, but THEN the nice wizard guy totally turned her back! Siren: I know it's crazy dumb, but I was kinda... jealous? I mean, who WOULDN'T want to be zapped by a spell that made you happy forever and stuff! Summer Norwin: I see many similarities between the princess in my story and yourself. Siren: Wait, for seriously? Euden: Yep. I see it too. Euden: Remember all the stories about how your songs led sailors to their doom? None of them were true, but they turned into frightening legends all the same. Euden: But you got through that; you found the courage to walk onto that stage and share your gifts with the entire world. Siren: Aw, that was only 'cause you and your friends helped me out. Euden: We need you to sing for us so Barbary lowers her defenses. Will you help? Pop-Star Siren: Thank you, everyone! Siren: If I hadn't met all you guys, I'd still just be singing to myself right now. Siren: You gave me a stage, and I am for real suuuuper grateful. Summer Norwin: If that meeting wasn't magic, I'm not sure what is. Summer Norwin: Do you now understand why I see you as a faerie-tale princess? Siren: Hee hee! You totally know how to sweet-talk a girl! Siren: But yeah, I probably shouldn't be all envious and stuff. I mean, I'd just be a total Greedy Gus to wish for MORE than I have in my life now. Siren: Like wishing my song could reach him... Summer Norwin: Hmm? Siren: Eeep! I mean, uh...whatever I'm gonna go swimming now byeeeee! Summer Norwin: I wonder what she meant by that last cryptic aside? Notte: Yeah, and I wonder WHO she meant? These days, her song should be able to reach any dang person she wants! Euden: Unless... Summer Norwin: Do you know something about this, Euden? Euden: I think it may be about the incident that started her rumors in the first place... Siren: Ohmigosh, I am a TOTAL joke. I mean, who envies storybook princesses? Summer Norwin: Is that not the purpose of stories? Siren: Norwin! Summer Norwin: Fantasy makes possible what reality can never provide. It's only natural for envy to arise in such circumstances. Summer Norwin: Might I bend your ear with another tale? Siren: Uh, sure. Summer Norwin: Long ago, in the depths of the seas, lived a mermaid who sang with the voice of an angel. Summer Norwin: One day, as the sea roiled and churned in a terrible storm, a ship was dragged 'neath the waves, and the mermaid gave her all to save a lost crewman. Summer Norwin: But the ship's other crew and the villagers who took in the rescued crewman blamed her for the ship's fate. Siren: That's—! Summer Norwin: Indeed, it is your story. Summer Norwin: The prince was kind enough to share some of it with me. Apologies if I have perhaps overstepped my bounds in inquiring about you. Summer Norwin: Is the man you saved that day the one you wish to share your song with now? Siren: Yeah. He's...he's my friend. My really GOOD friend. Siren: But gosh, this was, like, decades ago. I was off singing by myself like always when I heard him start talking to me. Siren: His name was Paul, and he told me that my voice was... Well, I don't wanna get all braggy, but he said really nice stuff. Summer Norwin: But was your good name not restored after that whole sordid affair? Summer Norwin: Surely your reputation these days is as a songstress and not a sea monster. Summer Norwin: If you wish to share your song with Paul, I see nothing which might prevent that. Siren: Um...he's deaf. Summer Norwin: What? Siren: Yeah, he lost his hearing the day he almost drowned. Summer Norwin: Oh dear. I'm truly sorry. Siren: No, Norwin! Don't be all sad, it's fine! I mean, yeah, he can't hear my voice or whatever, but he can still see my smile. That's good enough. ...Or it should be. Siren: But I'm still super greedy, and I just wish there WAS some way for him to hear me! Just, like, one more time, you know? Siren: Singing is sorta the only way I have to express what I feel for him. Summer Norwin: Ah, so that is the magic you yearn for. Siren: I know, I'm the WORST. I should totally just be happy that I can sing in public again and not have everybody wanna attack me with pokeforks or whatever. Siren: Anyway, that's how this story ends, so let's stop being all weird about stuff that can't happen and— Summer Norwin: Will you permit me to aid you in pursuing this dream? Siren: Sorry, I thought I made this all obvious. He can't hear! Like, at ALL! Summer Norwin: Though your voice may not reach him, your feelings are another matter. Summer Norwin: We need only borrow the power of picture books to make this so. Episode 2 A World Beneath the Waves Summer Norwin: Though your voice may not reach him, your feelings are another matter. Summer Norwin: We need only borrow the power of picture books to make this so. Siren: Okay, so how is my song supposed to reach him if he TOTALLY CAN'T HEAR? Summer Norwin: We will simply bring it to life in a picture book. Summer Norwin: Picture books sing songs to the eyes! I will capture the soul of your tune and transform it into an image! Summer Norwin: Will you trust me with this endeavor? Siren: Awww, Norwiiiin! You're the BEST! Siren: So, um, how do we do this? Do I just sing? I can sing. Should I sing? Okay, here I go! ...I go now, right? Summer Norwin: It would be my honor to hear your song. Siren: Then, like, hold onto your ears! Siren: ♪♪♪ Summer Norwin: (Her voice is everything the rumors say. If I were to express this sound as an image, it would be...) Summer Norwin: (The sea. At night. Stars streaking across the sky as a thousand ripples play over the water's glassy surface.) Summer Norwin: (And of course, solitude—for she sang only to herself in those times.) Siren: Norwin, shut UP. That's AMAZING! What a beautiful night scene! Summer Norwin: You are kind, but this is merely a sketch. I will paint the final image for the book after observing such a scene directly. Siren: Ohmigosh, this is GREAT! I can't wait to see what my song looks like as one of your awesome...um...pic...ture... Siren: Uh, Norwin? What's this one here, and why is it all mega creepy? Summer Norwin: Ah, that is my rendition of the abyssal dark which lurks beneath the surface of the sea. Siren: Norwin? I love you and stuff, but you are way wrong. It's BEAUTIFUL under the sea! Summer Norwin: Mmm, I worried as much. Having never been there, I lack any kind of clear mental image of the place. Summer Norwin: This was merely my attempt to paint the world where you once sang alone. Siren: Is THAT why it's so gloomy?! Siren: I mean, yeah, it was a little lonely down there or whatever—but is this terror-town REALLY what my song sounded like to you? Summer Norwin: No, far from it! I simply... My apologies. The failure here is entirely mine. Summer Norwin: Hmm. As I'd suspected, there are limits to what imagination alone can yield. Siren: Uh, Norwin? Where're you going? Summer Norwin: J-just off to do a little...first-hand observation beneath the waves. Siren: Okaaay—so why are your legs all shaky and stuff? Summer Norwin: Th-this is nothing! Just a mild case of, um, painter's knee! Yes, that's it... Siren: Seriously? Summer Norwin: Ahem! Indeed! Yes, I'll go see that watery world for myself and pop right back. Won't be but a moment! Siren: Norwin, waaaaait! Ugh, what a pain. Still, he's gonna be totally fine. ...Right? Summer Norwin: *GAAASP* *heave* *cough* You have...my gratitude... Siren: Okay, totes NOT fine. You should have just told me you can't swim! Summer Norwin: But then I would remain ever unable to capture the world beneath the sea. Siren: Then I'll just DESCRIBE it to you! Duh-doy! Summer Norwin: A most generous offer, but with your leave, I will attempt this approach a while longer. Summer Norwin: It's one thing to rely on hearsay for things that cannot be observed, but to do so simply to spare myself the effort would be a dereliction of my craft. Siren: I've heard of starving artists, but never drowning ones. Summer Norwin: This book is to be a gift for a person you cherish. Summer Norwin: I refuse to cut even a single corner on such an undertaking. Siren: Why are you making such a big deal about this? Summer Norwin: Perhaps because all of the tales I've told have been so...horrific. Siren: Huh? But the book I read was— Summer Norwin: Happy, yes. But for a very long time, I was unable to tell such stories. Summer Norwin: I desperately wanted my characters to live happily ever after, but the endings always came out as these twisted things. Summer Norwin: Such is a storyteller's lot, I suppose— which is why I was moved to help you see your dream realized. Summer Norwin: You took the narrative thrust upon you and bent it to your own will. As a storyteller, such a tale gives me hope. Siren: Aww, Norwin... Siren: Okay, BUT! Ground rules: Even though it's super sweet of you to say all that, you're still not allowed to drown. Siren: Now, if I go down there with you, I can pull you around and show you whatever stuff you wanna see. But then... Hey, so how long can you hold your breath? Summer Norwin: Well... Siren: Be honest! Summer Norwin: I can't. Not really, anyway. That was why I nearly drowned a moment ago. Siren: Hmmmm... Oh! Got it! Xania: So you're looking for a spell that lets you breathe and see underwater? Inheritor of "Better Living through Spellcraft" Xania Summer Norwin: Indeed. You see, I need to observe the depths for myself, but am unable to swim. Summer Norwin: We thought perhaps a passage in your spellbook might offer a solution. Xania: Lucky for you, my father was the master of just such a spell. People used to ask him to bust it out all the time. Siren: Yaaay! Next stop, the world beneath the waves! Summer Norwin: Please, Xania, cast that enchantment upon me with all speed! Xania: Sure thing. Hold still, because this is going to tickle a bit... Summer Norwin: *gulp* A-all right, let's go under... Siren: You're sounding a little woobly. You sure you're okay? Summer Norwin: Perfectly! Well, perhaps a bit nervous, but I trust in Xania's skill absolutely. Summer Norwin: And more importantly, I will do what is necessary to make this book an uncompromising success! Siren: You are TOTALLY a sweet-talker! Okay, let's do this thing. Summer Norwin: Yes, let us be off! Summer Norwin: *gasp* Siren: See? It's crazy pretty down here! Summer Norwin: My word, how could I have been so wildly mistaken? Summer Norwin: I must put this scene to canvas while it is fresh in my mind! Siren: Sooo...Norwin? Summer Norwin: Yes? Siren: Let's make this a SUPER special book together, okay?! Summer Norwin: Of course! I will see the stunning world of your song put to the page no matter what effort is required! Episode 3 Sunken Memories Summer Norwin: (This is it—the place where Siren last saw her friend Paul.) Summer Norwin: (She described it as a seaside village, but it's grown into a proper town.) Summer Norwin: (Regardless, there is little point in completing the picture book if we've no one to give it to.) Summer Norwin: If there is a clue to be found, I will find it. No matter how long the search takes. Summer Norwin: Pardon me, madam. Resident: Can I help you, stranger? Summer Norwin: Does an older gentleman named Paul perchance live in this town? Resident: Paul, is it? Hmm, can't say that's a name I've heard 'round here. Summer Norwin: I see. Thank you for your time. Resident: Nope. Don't think I know any Pauls. Resident: So sorry, dear. I can't help you. Resident: NnnnnnNOPE! Summer Norwin: *sigh* I suppose I should not have expected this to be simple. Summer Norwin: Perhaps it would have been wiser to speak with Siren and search for him together. Summer Norwin: (But what if we learned Paul had already departed this world?) Summer Norwin: (Human lives are so very brief, after all.) Summer Norwin: (She would be crushed.) Summer Norwin: ...... Summer Norwin: No, I mustn't fall prey to pessimism. Keep hope alive, Norwin—as she has. Summer Norwin: Sorry, but might I ask a question? Resident: Who, me? Fire away, friend. Summer Norwin: Might you know of an older gentleman by the name of Paul, either here in this town or perhaps a nearby village? Summer Norwin: I believe he had an unfortunate incident at sea many years ago, if that helps. Resident: Sure, I know him. Summer Norwin: Truly?! Resident: A'yup. Troubled fella—barely comes by the town market, save for necessities. Never thought I'd see him get a visitor, if I'm honest. Summer Norwin: Troubled, you say? Resident: Yessir. Not that I can rightly blame him— I feel for the old timer. It's all because of what happened that terrible day. Resident: He used to be just as bright and cheery as a summer's sun, but that incident... Well, it changed him, plain and simple. Resident: Keeps people at arm's length now. Face hasn't known a smile in years. Summer Norwin: Do you know where I might find him? Resident: He's cooped up in his house like always— just look for the one furthest from shore. Reckon he still fears the water to this day. Summer Norwin: He fears the sea? Resident: Ocean took his hearing and near stole his life along with it. You'd feel the same. Resident: Some of the other townsfolk check in on him from time to time and come back with tales about how he moans in his sleep. Terrible sounds, from the telling of it. Summer Norwin: One more question, if I may: Does the name Siren mean anything to you? Resident: Blasted hells! Listen, if you value your own good name and safety, you'll never speak that name in this town again! Summer Norwin: Do you refer to the rumors of old? I assure you, madam, Siren's song has not the power to lure ships nor sailors. Resident: Hogwash! That monster is to blame for everything that happened! Resident: For if not her, what else has given that poor old man a lifetime of nightmares? Summer Norwin: ...... Resident: Go to him if you like—but if there's even a trace of mercy in your heart, you'll refrain from mentioning that name. Resident: Doing so would just be rubbing salt in a wound the years have failed to close. Summer Norwin: A wound the years haven't closed... Young Noble: Waaah! Help, Norwin! Summer Norwin: ...The young nobles who perished while in my charge. Summer Norwin: (Yes, I know all too well about wounds that are slow to heal.) Summer Norwin: (And I am no stranger to the dreams that bedevil an aching heart.) Summer Norwin: (Am I truly acting in this man's interest? Or will I only deepen his pain?) Siren: There's someone I want to share my song with... Siren: Let's make this a really special book together! Summer Norwin: I want to see your dream made true, Siren. I truly do. However... Episode 4 Nightmares of the Past Summer Norwin: ...... Summer Norwin: Ah, my painting is veering dark again. Siren will give me another earful. Summer Norwin: ...... Summer Norwin: (Will this picture book bring a smile to Paul's sad face?) Summer Norwin: (Or will it simply inflict anew the pain of past trauma?) Summer Norwin: (I resolved to place my faith in the power of fantasy—to believe in imagination.) Summer Norwin: (And yet, no tale can erase the past; no image can undo harm suffered.) Summer Norwin: Is showing him this book though truly the right thing to do? Euden: Hello, Norwin. Sketching the sea again? Summer Norwin: I am. And what brings you here? Euden: Just stretching my legs a bit. Thought the sea breeze might do me some good. Summer Norwin: I see. Euden: I heard you were working on a picture book about Siren's song? Summer Norwin: Yes, I... That's right. Euden: She seems pretty excited about it. Euden: Said her dream of singing for her friend was finally going to come true. Summer Norwin: I...I see. Euden: Hmm? Norwin, what are these scraps? Did you tear up one of your paintings? Summer Norwin: You needn't concern yourself with that. Just a failed sketch, is all. Euden: Are you having trouble with the book? Summer Norwin: ...... Euden: If you want to talk about it, I'm always happy to listen. Summer Norwin: ...It was hubris on my part. Euden: Oh? Summer Norwin: After I met you, I decided to place my faith once more in fantasy. Summer Norwin: I chose to believe imagination held the power to bring smiles to people's faces, no matter how dark the times. Euden: Which allowed you to write happy endings again and bring joy to people. Euden: That isn't hubris, Norwin. It's talent. Summer Norwin: But it is, for in the end, fantasy is merely that. It cannot hope to become reality. Summer Norwin: No stroke of my brush will ever restore life to the royal children of Anasonne, nor rewrite the Duchy's tragic end. Euden: ...Norwin? Summer Norwin: I have long been haunted by nightmares of the past, and now two questions have me paralyzed in much the same fashion: Summer Norwin: What if the same is true for the recipient of this book, and what will become of Siren if he rejects her? Summer Norwin: Both will suffer terrible pain—and the moment that thought crosses my mind, my hand stops cold. Euden: ...... Summer Norwin: I could paint a hundred happy endings for this picture-book tale... Summer Norwin: But I am powerless to change the tragedy that took place in the real world! Summer Norwin: A tragedy will remain so forever. This is a truth I know well. Euden: Are you sure? Summer Norwin: What? Euden: I understand that none of us can change the past. Euden: But can't we shape what follows? Can't we help create a happy ending? Euden: I know someone who managed the feat— someone who took a tragedy and penned their own happy ending for it. Summer Norwin: You speak of Siren! Euden: Well, sure. Her, too. But I was actually thinking of YOU, Norwin. Euden: That's why I know you'll find a way to write a happy end to this tale. Summer Norwin: ...Heh. It seems I nearly succumbed to old habits and let this story end in misery. Summer Norwin: But so long as we draw breath, our stories will go on. Summer Norwin: Even in a tragedy, there's no way to know what the next page holds until it's written. Euden: And it is we—the characters of the story— who wield the mighty pen. Summer Norwin: I cannot hope to be a storybook prince who fills the world with hope as you do... Summer Norwin: But I have imagination on my side, and shall trust in its power once more! Summer Norwin: I want to believe it can overcome any pain or despair that reality can inflict. I MUST believe that. Euden: And as a man who knows pain and despair, you're better equipped than anyone to see that particular wish come true. Euden: With the two of you creating it, I know your book will bring happiness to anyone fortunate enough to see it. Summer Norwin: Then I shall do all I can to make it so. I WILL see this work completed! Summer Norwin: This tragedy will have a happy end yet! Episode 5 Delivering Happiness Summer Norwin: (Finally, the book is complete. Now comes the hard part...) Paul: ...... Summer Norwin: (I should introduce myself to start. I hope written notes will suffice?) Summer Norwin: "I am Norwin, a picture-book author. It is an honor to meet you." Paul: ...... Paul: "Why have you come?" Summer Norwin: "I have brought you a book, sir." Paul: "A picture book for a grown man?" Summer Norwin: "It is a tale called 'The Song of the Sea.'" Paul: Nrgh! Summer Norwin: Please, sir! Just read through it once! Paul: ...... Summer Norwin: "This book was created for you." Summer Norwin: "I know of your unfortunate past with the ocean—and what you lost as a result." Summer Norwin: "Reality is oft a cruel thing, and despair a feeling I know all too well." Summer Norwin: "All the more reason I wish to ease yours." Summer Norwin: "So I ask you now, humbly, to read this story through but a single time." Paul: ...... Paul: "Fine." Summer Norwin: Thank you! Paul: ...... Paul: ...Hngh?! Paul: (This story. This is...) A beautiful princess who loved nothing more than to sing once lived amongst the waves. But one day, a terrible storm separated her from her dearest friend. Left alone beneath the sea, she spent each day singing, her songs reaching none but herself. She sang of her friend—and the love she felt there in the calm, beautiful abyss. Months turned to years. But one day, a magical thread appeared and guided her ever upward to the water's surface. There, she beheld a world not seen in an age. The night sky full of stars uncountable. The galaxies in their shimmering dances. It filled her heart and soul with new purpose, and she swore then and there to find him. "If you are out there waiting somewhere— and if it can bring a smile to your face— then I will sing your song eternal." And so she swam the ocean wide and deep, resolved to find her friend even if he hid within the countless stars above, or if the sky itself went dark and cold rain fell without pause. "If you are out there waiting..." Paul: Ah... *sniff* Summer Norwin: "This book is my humble attempt to put Siren's song to paper." Summer Norwin: "My attempt to help her song reach you one last time." Summer Norwin: "Siren? I believe that is your cue." Paul: Nnngh?! Siren: Hello, Paul. ...It's been so long. Paul: Ah... Aaah! Siren: I've missed you so, SO much! Paul: *sniff* Si...ren... Siren: Hey, you. *sniff* Paul: I so badly wanted to see you. And to apologize. Paul: It's all my fault, what happened to you. All of it. I'm so sorry. Siren: No it isn't, Paul. It really isn't. Besides, none of that matters now! Paul: I should have gone looking for you. Every time I saw water, I thought of you. Paul: Then I'd think how I'd never hear you sing again and...and it tore me apart. Siren: So you decided to hide here, away from the shore? Paul: I was too weak, Siren. I knew what they were saying. Those terrible rumors. ...But I couldn't stop them. Siren: None of that matters anymore, Paul. I'm just so happy to be with you again. Siren: Oh, and I came here to bring a smile to your face, so let's see it already! Paul: ...... Paul: Your song... Paul: It's as beautiful as ever. Paul: "Even if I can no longer hear it, your song still echoes in my ears." Paul: "This picture book brought that back to me. Thank you for your wonderful creation." Siren: You did it, Norwin! You totally found a way to make my dream come true! Summer Norwin: This is all thanks to the power of your song; I merely wrote a book. Siren: Okay, do NOT be like that right now. You gave me a PERFECT ending! Siren: It's magic, Norwin. YOUR magic. Summer Norwin: ...I am glad you think so. Paul: "Will you sing for me, Siren?" Paul: "I still love your song and your smile. Now, as ever." Siren: Oh, you know it! Here's a TOTALLY snappy number to get you up on your feet! Siren: ♪♪♪ Summer Norwin: (My magic created a happy ending...) Summer Norwin: (Reality is cruel at times: Tragedy is heaped on merciless tragedy until all that remains is despair.) Summer Norwin: (But tragedy and despair are not the end. Those tales continue, and happy endings may yet come to pass—in reality as well as in fiction.) Summer Norwin: (I may never be able to serve as a kind of hope for the hopeless as Euden does...) Summer Norwin: (But with imagination, paint, and quill, I can craft my picture books.) Summer Norwin: "The ocean princess and her prince smiled wide, and both lived happily ever after. —The End."

Official Profile

Posted by the Dragalia Lost Twitter account on August 19, 2022.

• Hobbies: Reading stories out loud
• Talents: Painting
• Likes: Children's smiles
• Dislikes: Cold, harsh reality