Hortensia/Supports

Alear

Hortensia	Support information:			Alear
	C: 3 support points	B: 15 support points	A: 30 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: Hey, Divine One! What do you think?
Alear: Of what?
Hortensia: Come on! Am I cute? Sweet? Charming? Use your words!
Alear: Sure, you’re cute enough. Just like always.
Hortensia: That’s all you have to say? I put a lot of effort into being adorable, y’know.
Hortensia: The least you could do is notice!
Alear: I had no idea. Uh, forgive me for not noticing?
Hortensia: That’s all I get? Hmph…
Hortensia: Ugh…
Hortensia: I can’t believe that didn’t work. A pouty face is usually all it takes for people to be extra nice.
Hortensia: Do you have some kinda god training that lets you see through fake crying, Divine One?
Alear: God training?
Alear: I don’t think anyone needs special training to see through an act like that…
Hortensia: Hey! Fine, then let me ask you something else.
Hortensia: How come you’re not fawning over me? I’m unimaginably cute!
Alear: I don’t treat people differently just because they’re cute. Kindness matters much more.
Hortensia: Wrong! Being nice is great and all, but cuteness is a huge advantage. Everyone knows that.
Alear: I see…
Hortensia: So, we’ll try this again─only I’ll be even cuter next time, so you can’t possibly miss it.

B Support

Hortensia: Hey, Divine One! What do you think of me this time?
Hortensia: I went out of my way to be extra-super cute.
Hortensia: So, are you ready to concede defeat and admit that you’re completely charmed?
Alear: You certainly are cute. And I’m sure you put in a lot of work for it, but…
Alear: I told you before that cuteness doesn’t affect how I treat people. Why are you fixated on this?
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: I didn’t want to bring it up, but…OK.
Hortensia: My mother was one of the king’s mistresses. She suffered a lot of backstabbing in the court.
Hortensia: I never saw her upset, though. She took every insult with a poised and graceful smile.
Hortensia: That smile secured her place in court. It even won the king’s wife over.
Hortensia: That’s how I know charm has a power all its own. And I’m gonna use mine the same way.
Alear: I understand. But can I ask you something?
Alear: Do you think maybe your mother had more than just her own survival in mind?
Hortensia: What do you mean?
Alear: Maybe she did all of that in part so you could learn to survive the court as well.
Hortensia: …
Alear: She must have known she couldn’t always be there for you. She’d want you to learn from her.
Alear: To me, that is real charm─what we do to help the ones we love.
Hortensia: Mother… I never realized…

A Support

Hortensia: Here you go, Divine One─enjoy!
Alear: Did you, uh, cook me something?
Hortensia: Yeah! And it’s got spices that’ll keep you warm.
Hortensia: I also gathered some healing herbs for you. Here you go.
Alear: Um, thank you.
Alear: This is all great, but…what’s going on?
Hortensia: You said something that opened my eyes.
Hortensia: If I’m gonna be for-real charming, I need to practice helping people.
Hortensia: I’m sorry for the way I acted before. Do you forgive me?
Alear: Of course. I was never upset with you to begin with.
Hortensia: I’m glad to hear that.
Hortensia: Everyone loved my mother because she was both charming and kind.
Hortensia: I’ve got a long way to go to be like her.
Hortensia: But thanks for helping me figure that out.
Alear: You’re welcome. And for what it’s worth, I think you’re well on your way.
Hortensia: I have to wonder, though… If I do become truly charming, inside and out…
Hortensia: How are you gonna keep pretending you don’t care about cuteness, Divine One?
Alear: I’ll figure something out.
Hortensia: Ha! I dunno about that! I think you just might change your tune!
Alear: We’ll see.

Ring Support

Alear: You seem to be in high spirits lately, Hortensia.
Hortensia: Yeah, I am. Turns out being kind to people makes them happy. And that makes me happy.
Alear: That does explain why you’re constantly surrounded by friends these days.
Hortensia: I guess so. Hey, hang on. What’s that I hear?
Hortensia: Am I picking up a hint of jealousy in your voice, Divine One?
Alear: What? Of course not!
Hortensia: Hehe, I can’t believe the Divine Dragon’s actually jealous of me. What an ego boost.
Hortensia: But you have nothing to worry about. However popular I may get, I’ll always make time for you.
Hortensia: Because you’re special to me.
Alear: I am?
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: AHH! All my graceful composure destroyed by one moment of weakness!
Hortensia: Can we just pretend you didn’t hear that?
Alear: Not a chance!
Hortensia: Merciless.
Alear: You were right, Hortensia. I was jealous.
Alear: I’ve always enjoyed our time together. I’m sad to have less of it now that you’re so popular.
Alear: Understanding all this makes it clear what I need to do next.
Hortensia: That’s…the Pact Ring.
Hortensia: You’re giving it to me?
Alear: Yes.
Hortensia: I can’t even begin to tell you what this means to me. I’ll treasure it forever.
Alear: I’m in awe of what a wonderful person you’ve become.
Alear: So much so, in fact, that I feel I need to start working on my own kindness just to keep up.
Hortensia: Don’t be ridiculous. You’ve been amazing since the day we met.
Hortensia: And you’ve only become even more amazing in the time since.
Alear: Haha, keep saying that sort of thing and you might actually convince me.
Hortensia: Good. The sooner the better.
Hortensia: Because if all that wasn’t true, you wouldn’t be so special to me.

Clanne

Hortensia	Support information:			Clanne
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: Ah, there you are, Clanne!
Clanne: Huh? I mean, hello…Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: That’s right! It’s the princess of the mighty kingdom of Elusia.
Hortensia: Hortensia! Whoo! Hoo-hoo! Yeah!
Clanne: Yes… Did you need something? From me, I mean?
Hortensia: It so happens, a little birdie told me…
Hortensia: You, my Clanne-shell, are the president of my fan club!
Clanne: What?
Hortensia: What do you mean “what?”
Hortensia: And shouldn’t you be…I don’t know, swooning? Your idol is right here, talking to you!
Clanne: Um, Princess Hortensia, I think you might have gotten a bit confused…
Hortensia: Confused? Confused how?
Clanne: Well…the fan club I’m the president of is…
Hortensia: What?!
Hortensia: You’re the president of a fan club for your own liege?
Clanne: I’m so sorry for the…misunderstanding.
Hortensia: Ugh. Embarrassing…
Hortensia: Wait! Clanne! The princess of Elusia has orders for you!
Clanne: Wha?
Hortensia: I want you…to form me a fan club!
Clanne: I don’t work for you!

B Support

Clanne: Princess Hortensia, can I ask why you want to have a fan club?
Hortensia: Why? Simple.
Hortensia: I already told everyone I have one.
Hortensia: That means if I don’t get one soon, it’ll be like I lied to them. And I’m not a liar!
Clanne: I see…
Hortensia: That’s why I need your help. Or are you saying you don’t want to help me?
Clanne: It’s not that I don’t want to…
Clanne: But fan clubs are based around someone you really admire.
Hortensia: So…admire me, then. What’s the problem?
Clanne: Uh, um…
Clanne: It’s hard to cheer on someone who…doesn’t… you know…earn it?
Hortensia: Hey, hey, hey! Are you saying I don’t deserve your praise and devotion?!
Clanne: Sorry…
Hortensia: Ah… Fine. That’s fair. I’ll drop it.
Hortensia: Bullying you into starting a fan club would be sad and desperate. Sorry to waste your time.
Clanne: N-no problem.
Hortensia: I gotta say, Clanne, I like that you’re honest. It’s actually kinda refreshing to be told “no.”
Clanne: …
Hortensia: All right, I’m heading back. I’ve got some lies to apologize for.
Clanne: How…admirable.

A Support

Hortensia: Clanne? What are you doing?
Clanne: Princess Hortensia?!
Hortensia: Sorry to startle you! If you’re nervous because of earlier, I’m not mad or anything.
Hortensia: I told everyone that I made up the fan club. They said they’d assumed that, so…
Hortensia: I guess they already thought I lied. Rude.
Clanne: A-about that… I wanted you to see something, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Hm? A slip of paper? And some writing…
Hortensia: “Princess Hortensia Appreciation Society. Club President… Clanne”?
Hortensia: This is…a membership card. You made this?
Clanne: When we talked before, you were…abrasive but also kind. And you owned up to your mistakes.
Clanne: And…I thought that was neat. So I made a fan club.
Hortensia: Aww, Clanne…
Clanne: Maybe it’s too late, but I’ll be cheering you on, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Ugh…late, yeah. But even so…
Hortensia: Aaah, this makes me SO happy! Thank you, Clanne!
Clanne: Now let’s get out and promote the fan club! I’m sure lots of people will want to join!
Hortensia: Actually… You know what? I think I’d like to have a fan club of one for a while.
Clanne: Really? Why?
Hortensia: Well, obviously if it’s a club about me, a ton of fans from all over will join eventually.
Hortensia: So it might be nice to have a smaller cheering section while I still can, you know?
Clanne: Aw…that does sound nice.
Clanne: All right, I’ll just have to be the best one-person cheering section I can be!
Hortensia: Can’t ask for more from a fan-club president.

Céline

Hortensia	Support information:			Céline
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Céline: Greetings, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Princess Céline!
Hortensia: Hmm…yeah. Yep.
Hortensia: You’re gonna be tough, but I won’t lose.
Céline: Pardon, but…what are you talking about?
Hortensia: Oh, you’re good.
Hortensia: We might even be evenly matched, but you won’t catch me admitting that in competition.
Hortensia: I mean, you won’t catch me surrendering the field of battle!
Céline: We are…battling, then?
Hortensia: Yes! And I will ignore whatever I need to…to proclaim…
Hortensia: Princess Céline! You are no match for me!
Hortensia: I will defeat you in cuteness! And while I’m at it, everything else!
Céline: Hmm…
Céline: Hahaha! So that’s what you were raving about. How rambunctious you are.
Hortensia: “Rambunctious”?
Hortensia: Hmph! Be all calm and superior while you can!
Hortensia: I’m gonna fantabulize you into the ground!
Hortensia: Might as well get it over with and surrender! Bwahahaha!
Céline: Is she leaving so soon? I had hoped to invite her to tea.
Céline: What a darling girl, though. I wish I had a younger sister as adorable.

B Support

Céline: We meet again, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: We do indeed meet, Princess Céline!
Hortensia: Let the competition commence! The first event will be…the softness contest!
Hortensia: Who will be softer─you or me?! Let’s try you first. Poke!
Céline: Hahaha! That tickles!
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: The softness contest is hereby canceled.
Céline: So soon?
Hortensia: Strategic adjustments need to be made.
Céline: That’s unfortunate. I wanted to have a turn to poke at you.
Hortensia: Wait, really? Hey, no! Your mind games won’t distract me─we’re competitors!
Céline: Heh heh, of course we are.
Hortensia: Ugh… What is wrong with me?
Hortensia: This girl’s so adorable she’s messing with my mind. Ugh… Insidious!
Céline: My turn! Let’s see how soft you are! Poke!
Hortensia: I told you, that contest is canceled!
Céline: Forgive me. I was overcome with curiosity and couldn’t help myself.
Hortensia: Why is she smiling like that?! Agh… Why do I LIKE it?!
Hortensia: Enough of your tricks! I’m the cutest there is! I’ll never be outdone!
Hortensia: Aaagh!
Céline: There she goes again. Drat! It seems I once more missed my chance to invite her to tea.

A Support

Hortensia: …
Céline: You don’t seem your usual rambunctious self today, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: OK, Princess Céline. Fine.
Hortensia: I admit it.
Céline: Admit what?
Hortensia: You’re cuter than me. I admit defeat.
Hortensia: I was doomed from the start, really. Who can even take their eyes off you?
Céline: That is high praise indeed.
Céline: And yet…
Céline: I’m not through poking you. Poke, poke, poke!
Hortensia: Ah! Ahahaha, why?!
Céline: Shall we call the contest an amicable draw?
Céline: You do not lack for cuteness. And you wear your mood plainly on your face.
Céline: Little do you realize what a comfort those two things are to those around you.
Hortensia: You…really think so?
Céline: I do. And never mind my charms. You have unique charms all your own.
Céline: I daresay a smile suits you better than a pout.
Hortensia: When you say things like that, I…
Hortensia: Aaah, it only makes me like you more!
Céline: Good. I was already quite fond of you.
Hortensia: How can you just stand there being all calm and perfect?
Céline: Come, Princess Hortensia. Won’t you join me for a cup of tea?
Céline: I’ve wanted to extend the invitation for some time now.
Hortensia: Tea? With you?
Céline: Hahaha, indeed. I think that we two younger sisters will have a great deal in common.
Céline: As a sign of our friendship, I’ve imported a special blend from Elusia.
Hortensia: That’s so sweet of you! Yeah, let’s go right now!
Céline: Excellent! Let this tea party, the first of many, commence!

Chloé

Hortensia	Support information:			Chloé
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: Hmm…
Chloé: What’s wrong, Princess Hortensia?
Hortensia: Yeah, I get it now…
Hortensia: You’ve got a whole other kind of charm.
Chloé: I do?
Hortensia: Yeah. It’s like an aura of sophistication. Maturity! Like you could be anyone’s mom.
Hortensia: I like that. I want it. I’ve already mastered cuteness. I need to add to my repertoire.
Hortensia: I mean, I’m sure I’ll develop an aura of maternal sophistication as I get older…
Hortensia: But why should I have to wait? You have it now, so I should have it now too.
Chloé: I guess so…
Hortensia: I’m glad you agree, Chloé─because I demand you accompany me. For observation.
Hortensia: Once I see how it’s done, I’ll be able to steal… I mean learn…the technique myself.
Chloé: I’m not sure that’s how it works, but OK.
Chloé: I’m honored if someone as cute as you thinks I’m sophisticated, though.
Hortensia: Excellent. Wait, really?
Hortensia: You don’t mind that I just up and demanded this out of the blue?
Chloé: Oh, no! I don’t mind at all. It’s all part of your cuteness.
Hortensia: See, that’s exactly what I’m talking about. How do you do that?

B Support

Hortensia: So…maternal sophistication is all about gently embracing everyone. Drawing them to you.
Hortensia: I get how it works, but actually pulling it off is something else entirely.
Hortensia: I’ve just gotta keep observing you. I’ll learn all your tricks eventually.
Chloé: Whatever I can do to help. I hope it works.
Chloé: Oh, but wait. Before we get started…
Chloé: Let me wipe your face.
Hortensia: Ugh… Did I have something on me?
Chloé: You did, but I took care of it. Now that cute face of yours is even cuter!
Hortensia: Hehe, thanks, Chloé!
Hortensia: Wait…
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: That was it! That was it, just now!
Hortensia: I just naturally trusted you and let you wipe my face without even thinking about it.
Hortensia: Having you dote on me felt…I dunno, peaceful.
Chloé: Aww, did it? That’s so sweet.
Hortensia: Hehe, unbelievable. I can’t let my guard down around you at all!
Hortensia: Anyway, let’s get moving. I need to see more of this in action.
Chloé: Be sure to drink some water first.
Hortensia: Huh? Why?
Chloé: On a warm day like today, it’s important to drink when you can.
Hortensia: Oh, sure.
Hortensia: Glug glug…
Hortensia: Wait a second!
Hortensia: I fell for it again! Your motherly charm is kind of terrifying, Chloé…

A Support

Hortensia: Oh─ Chloé…
Chloé: Hello, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Yeah, hi. Um, see you later…
Chloé: Sorry, it’s just a small thing.
Hortensia: Wh-what is it?
Chloé: Is it my imagination or are you avoiding me?
Hortensia: Was it that obvious?
Chloé: Did I offend you somehow? I’d like to know what I did to drive you away.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: When I’m around you, I keep thinking about… what I don’t have.
Hortensia: I mean like your maturity and sophistication and all that stuff.
Hortensia: I didn’t want to think about it anymore, so I just…stayed away from you.
Chloé: Hmm, OK. Thanks for letting me know.
Chloé: But I still want to be better friends with you.
Hortensia: You do?
Chloé: You have to expect that every person is different.
Chloé: I know you’ve said that you wish you had my “maternal sophistication.”
Chloé: But there are a lot of things you have going for you that I don’t.
Chloé: I’m starting to wish I had more of your special charms too, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Oh… Chloé…
Hortensia: That makes me so happy!
Hortensia: I’m so sorry. I promise I’ll stop avoiding you.
Hortensia: In fact, let’s hang out even more than before. There’s so much we can learn from each other!
Chloé: That would be great! You can show me how you got to be so cute.
Hortensia: Yeah! And once I’ve learned all I can from you, I’m gonna be unstoppable.
Chloé: Haha, I’m sure you’ll catch on in no time.
Chloé: But first, let me wipe your nose for you.
Hortensia: Oh, thanks!
Hortensia: Wait, my nose was running?

Alcryst

Hortensia	Support information:			Alcryst
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Alcryst: Excuse me, Princess Hortensia?
Hortensia: Prince Alcryst? What’s up? You’re not usually much of a talker.
Alcryst: Well, I was just, uh…
Alcryst: No, never mind. It’s not important.
Hortensia: Nope! No running off after a buildup like that!
Hortensia: Come on, spit it out!
Alcryst: …
Hortensia: Nope─didn’t hear you. Louder.
Alcryst: I, uh… I…
Alcryst: Please teach me how to be more confident!
Hortensia: Ow! Too loud!
Hortensia: Tone it down, back it up, and explain yourself properly.
Alcryst: You always have such boundless confidence, Princess Hortensia. It amazes me.
Alcryst: I don’t think very highly of myself…so I hoped you might teach me to be more like you.
Hortensia: Aaah, OK. Yeah, makes sense.
Hortensia: Too bad for you though! I’m not teaching you a thing.
Hortensia: Maybe if you weren’t a prince of Brodia, I’d have considered it. But you? Nope. No way.
Alcryst: Of course. I understand…
Hortensia: Wait, what?
Alcryst: Brodia has invaded Elusia more times than I can count. You have every right to deny me.
Alcryst: Besides, you shouldn’t waste your precious time on someone as worthless as me.
Alcryst: Honestly, I’m shocked by my own impertinence. How embarrassing… I’ll leave you be.
Hortensia: Hang on a sec! I never said that!
Alcryst: It’s all right. Please, forget I even approached you like this.
Alcryst: I won’t sully your ears with my pitiful mumbles ever again. You have my word.
Hortensia: Wait! Prince Alcryst!
Hortensia: Hm, I was so sure he’d get mad and snap back. He’s even worse off than I thought.
Hortensia: I’ll have to try a new approach the next time I see him.

B Support

Hortensia: Prince Alcryst.
Alcryst: …
Hortensia: Hey! I know you can hear me!
Alcryst: Ah…Princess Hortensia!
Alcryst: Please, speaking to me will only dampen your mood.
Hortensia: Always a bundle of joy, you are. But that’s exactly what I wanna talk to you about.
Hortensia: Listen. I’m gonna help you get some confidence, just like you asked.
Alcryst: What? Really?! Oh, thank you!
Alcryst: Why did you change your mind? You seemed so strongly opposed to it earlier.
Hortensia: That was a joke. I got carried away. Sorry.
Hortensia: I may not love Brodia, but you’re my friend.
Hortensia: And when a friend’s in trouble, you help. Simple as that.
Alcryst: Princess Hortensia, I… I…
Hortensia: Hey! What’s with all the tears?!
Hortensia: Actually, you’re kinda cute when you get all emotional. Anyway, let’s get started, shall we?
Alcryst: N-no, don’t come any closer. Please, don’t look at me like this…
Hortensia: Huh?
Hortensia: What’s the problem this time?
Hortensia: Are you really gonna turn down my help after all that?!
Alcryst: You called me a friend. You agreed to help me…
Alcryst: Princess Hortensia… You are, without a shadow of a doubt, a wonderful person.
Alcryst: But the more wonderful you are, the deeper I tumble into despair…
Hortensia: What?
Alcryst: Your kind heart shines too bright! It reveals my heart for the worm-ridden filth that it is!
Alcryst: So please, don’t come near me! Spare me! I am so, so sorry!
Hortensia: That boy has self-deprecation down to an art form.

A Support

Hortensia: Prince Alcryst.
Alcryst: Princess Hortensia!
Hortensia: Hey, before you run away, you should know I’ve decided to stop trying to help you.
Hortensia: I don’t think anything I do is gonna suddenly make you confident.
Alcryst: That feels like the right decision. I know it was me who came to you for help at first.
Hortensia: Yeah, and that was pretty rude.
Alcryst: I understand. Once again, I apologize.
Alcryst: To make things right, you’re free to ignore me from this point forward.
Hortensia: Nope. I refuse.
Alcryst: Huh?
Hortensia: Look. You’re a quivering pile of pessimism, and maybe that’s not gonna change.
Hortensia: Either way, I accept you exactly as you are.
Alcryst: What?
Hortensia: I think I understand why you came to me for help in the first place.
Hortensia: It was because you thought confidence would bring you closer to people, right?
Alcryst: Well…yes.
Alcryst: I thought that gaining confidence might lead to more meaningful friendships with everyone.
Hortensia: Lovely sentiment, but you don’t need to reinvent yourself for it.
Hortensia: Sure, you’re kind of a downer. So what? You’ve got plenty of great qualities too.
Hortensia: That’s why we’re friends. You don’t need to change a thing.
Alcryst: Really? Thank you, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Eh, just being honest.
Alcryst: You are honest but also kind. I still feel the light from your radiant heart, and yet…
Alcryst: This time, I can remain by your side… Perhaps it’s because I understand you better.
Hortensia: Hey, how about that? You’re looking me in the eye!
Alcryst: I am. I want to make up for how I acted before. I feel ashamed to have run from you like that.
Hortensia: Now you’re, uh…getting pretty close to me…
Hortensia: Hey, you’re a prince. It’s improper for you to… look at me like…
Hortensia: Aaah! That’s supposed to be my thiiing!
Alcryst: Princess Hortensia?
Alcryst: Haha, now I know how it feels to talk to me.

Ivy

Hortensia	Support information:			Ivy
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Ivy: Hortensia.
Hortensia: Something on your mind, Ivy? Or are you just here to admire my pretty face?
Ivy: Hmm. I’m just happy.
Ivy: We’ve been through so much, but we’re finally together again.
Ivy: You’re my only family now. I want you to know that you are important to me.
Hortensia: Guess it’s a relief to hear a half-sister counts as family.
Ivy: That has never mattered to me. I have always thought of you as my sister.
Ivy: And you are all the family I need.
Hortensia: Yeah, well… No need to make it awkward.
Hortensia: But I feel the same way, so… Thanks.
Ivy: Hmm. You have your mother’s smile.
Ivy: In fact, you seem to resemble her more and more each day.
Hortensia: You think so?
Hortensia: I’m flattered… I’m really glad.
Hortensia: It’s only thanks to her I get to call you my sister in the first place.
Ivy: …
Hortensia: Ah, I don’t mean to dig all that up. I’m not holding a grudge or anything.
Ivy: I know…
Ivy: Even so, it is because of my mother that you─
Hortensia: Oh, y’know what? I just remembered something I gotta do…somewhere. Sorry, Ivy! Talk later!
Ivy: I’m sorry, Hortensia…

B Support

Hortensia: Ivy… Do you remember much about my mother?
Ivy: Of course. She was quite memorable.
Hortensia: Maybe you could tell me a little about her…
Hortensia: What do you remember most?
Ivy: …
Ivy: My clearest memory is her smile.
Ivy: My mother hated all of Father’s…other women. Your mother especially.
Ivy: So she was badly mistreated by my mother and by all who sought her favor.
Ivy: Yet even through all of that, she never seemed to stop smiling.
Hortensia: Yeah…
Ivy: By her charm and wits, she eventually won even my mother over.
Ivy: She turned her biggest enemy into a friend through sheer determination.
Ivy: It left a powerful impression on me.
Ivy: It made me realize how strong a parent can be for a child.
Hortensia: How strong?
Ivy: Yes.
Ivy: It seems to me your mother fought those battles to carve out a niche for you.
Hortensia: For me?
Ivy: Yes. She was the sort of person who shone a light on everyone who knew her.
Ivy: And you were the reason she shined so bright.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: This was something I needed to hear.
Hortensia: Thank you, Ivy.

A Support

Hortensia: Hey, Ivy?
Ivy: Yes?
Hortensia: Do you think…I could be like my mother someday?
Hortensia: I mean, obviously I’ve got her looks already. But I’m not sure I have her other qualities.
Ivy: You know, Hortensia…
Ivy: I think you do.
Ivy: You lost her when you were seven, correct?
Hortensia: Yes.
Ivy: But you kept living in the castle, even without the benefit of her protection.
Ivy: You know what a viper’s den of intrigue that place is. No ordinary child could survive it.
Ivy: But your charisma made that possible.
Hortensia: What are you getting at?
Ivy: Your wit and charm won you allies in the court and a safe place in the castle. Sound familiar?
Ivy: You thrived in the academy as well─you even skipped enough grades to catch up to me.
Ivy: All that was done by virtue of your own merit.
Ivy: Do you see it yet?
Ivy: You said you hoped you could become like your mother someday.
Ivy: But you already are. Your light shines on everyone you touch, just as hers did.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: I…I can’t believe that’s how you see me.
Hortensia: Thank you.
Ivy: I should be thanking you.
Ivy: Your example has given me courage more times than I can count.
Ivy: Thank you for shining your light on me, Hortensia.
Hortensia: Aww…
Hortensia: I’m gonna do all I can to live up to the image you have of me.
Hortensia: It was so hard not to just despair and give up when we were separated.
Hortensia: Father was gone. You were gone… I had no one.
Ivy: I’m truly sorry, Hortensia. From now on, we’ll be together.
Hortensia: That better be a promise…because you’re not getting rid of me.
Ivy: Absolutely. We will never be separated again. I promise.
Ivy: I am blessed to have family like you, Hortensia. I will never willingly let that go.
Hortensia: Good. Me neither.

Rosado

Hortensia	Support information:			Rosado
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: …
Rosado: Haha! Picture-perfect, Hortensia!
Hortensia: Huh? What did you say?
Rosado: Look! I drew your picture! I can draw real fast─ it’s my not-so-hidden talent.
Rosado: See? It’s practically a mirror. And look at how beautiful you are!
Hortensia: Seriously? I’m staring off into the distance. I look boring.
Hortensia: Here, do it again. I’ll pose for it properly this time.
Rosado: I like this one, though.
Hortensia: Are you joking? It’s awful. The expression doesn’t…express me at all!
Hortensia: Here, this is my good side. Draw me again.
Rosado: Nah. Your first expression’s better.
Hortensia: This is an order from your princess.
Rosado: Fine, fine. Make the face again… Done. Is this what you wanted?
Hortensia: Perfect! Be sure to throw that other one away.
Hortensia: We can’t let future generations think I was some boring girl always staring off at nothing.
Rosado: There’s nothing boring about you…

B Support

Rosado: Yeah, she’s just wrong. This expression is way better.
Hortensia: Hey! That’s the portrait you drew of me staring at nothing!
Hortensia: I told you to throw it away. Why is it still here?
Rosado: I’m sorry…but also kinda not?
Rosado: I really like what I see in this picture.
Hortensia: Well I don’t. And it’s my face. Get rid of it!
Rosado: If you really hate it that much… OK.
Hortensia: Why is this at all difficult?
Rosado: Because it’s a picture of the real you. Not the fake smile you put on.
Rosado: You used to be so expressive!
Rosado: Like back at the academy! Remember?
Hortensia: I can’t, Rosado.
Hortensia: I can’t dwell on the academy. I don’t get to do that anymore.
Hortensia: I’m a princess, and that means I keep smiling, all the time, forever.
Rosado: Well, that’s a load of royal duty.
Hortensia: Heh. Yeah, but it’s what we get. And that’s why that picture has to get tossed. Understand?
Rosado: Yeah. Farewell then, honest Hortensia…

A Support

Rosado: This is too many Corrupted to take on! Hortensia, we have to retreat!
Hortensia: No, I’ve got this! I can…handle it!
Rosado: Look out!
Hortensia: Rosado, no!
Rosado: Ah!
Hortensia: Rosado… I was trying to protect you.
Hortensia: Let’s get out of here─no one’s dying today!
Hortensia: Rosado! Come back to me! Don’t be dead…
Rosado: Ugh…
Hortensia: You’re awake! Are you all right? Do you recognize me?!
Rosado: Yeah… Sure, sure. Just nodded off for a sec.
Hortensia: Nodded off?! I thought you were dead!
Hortensia: Wait, what’s the paper fo─ Are you DRAWING?!
Rosado: Hahaha! Picture-perfect, Hortensia!
Hortensia: WHAT?
Hortensia: You’re not even hurt!
Rosado: Nope! But take a look─you really are beautiful this time.
Hortensia: It’s right when you woke up. I look so…relieved.
Hortensia: That is a pretty good one.
Hortensia: You’re right… I used to make faces like this more when we were in school.
Rosado: Usually when the history teacher called on someone else instead of you!
Hortensia: Hey!
Rosado: So, can I keep this one?
Hortensia: Fine. But you can’t show it to anyone.
Rosado: Of course I won’t.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: Thanks for looking out for me.
Hortensia: I feel like you’re always saving me from something.
Rosado: If you wanna pay me back, just show me the real you once in a while. That’s all I want.
Hortensia: Hehe, deal.
Hortensia: You’re much more than just a retainer to me, you know. You’re my friend.
Hortensia: And as long as we’re friends, I don’t think I’ll have any trouble being myself.

Goldmary

Hortensia	Support information:			Goldmary
	C: 3 support points	B: 9 support points	A: 18 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: Goldmary! I heard a rumor that some gentleman callers were asking after you in town.
Goldmary: I’m sorry that you didn’t hear it from me, but it happens too often for me to tell you every time.
Hortensia: Oh, I’m not mad. So, uh, what did you…do? What’d you tell them?
Goldmary: I declined as politely as I could.
Hortensia: That makes sense. I guess you’re pretty used to this kind of thing, huh?
Hortensia: I mean, this has been happening to you for a while, right?
Goldmary: Hm, I’m afraid so.
Goldmary: I seem to attract that sort of attention wherever I go.
Goldmary: I’m sorry if my natural charisma is in any way an inconvenience to you…
Hortensia: No, that’s…not what I mean. That kind of stuff just doesn’t happen to me, is all.
Goldmary: It will when you’re older.
Hortensia: What, like I’m a little kid or something?!
Goldmary: Of course not.
Hortensia: Well, I guess I should look on the bright side. You set the standard of charming.
Hortensia: I only expect the best from my retainers. I’m proud to see you excel.
Goldmary: Thank you.
Hortensia: Speaking of excellence, maybe you can teach me some of your skills. Cooking, for instance.
Goldmary: It would be my pleasure.

B Support

Hortensia: Wow. I’m a terrible cook.
Goldmary: You’re doing great. Follow my lead and this will turn out fine.
Goldmary: You can do this.
Hortensia: Get ready to flip it. One swift motion… Now!
Hortensia: Ah! I did it!
Goldmary: You did. It’s a little…lopsided, but the flavor is what’s most important.
Hortensia: I hope it tastes good, then. Try it for me?
Goldmary: Mmm! Delicious. It’s wonderful.
Hortensia: Yes! Soon I’ll be every bit as charming and talented as you, Goldmary.
Goldmary: Of course.
Hortensia: Hehe, with a retainer like you, though, I can’t let my guard down.
Goldmary: A retainer, you say…
Hortensia: Something wrong with that?
Goldmary: Nothing at all, except that Rosado and I are not officially your retainers.
Hortensia: Oh, I don’t care about what’s official or not.
Hortensia: When the Fell Dragon awakened and the war started, we were all just classmates.
Hortensia: But Father asked me to return to the castle, and one thing led to another.
Goldmary: It was Rosado and I who insisted on accompanying you home.
Hortensia: Yeah, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Hortensia: I didn’t even want to leave the academy, much less get separated from my friends.
Hortensia: But I guess I did rope you into this mess, didn’t I? I’m sorry.
Goldmary: I’m the one who should apologize.
Goldmary: Retainers to Elusian royalty are supposed to be hand-picked by the king.
Goldmary: We ran roughshod over that process. And now we’ll never be able to get his approval.
Goldmary: All because I failed to protect your father.
Hortensia: There was nothing any of us could do.
Hortensia: Besides, he’d have given you both his blessing. No doubt in my mind.
Hortensia: So I don’t want to hear another word about it, OK? You have nothing to apologize for.
Goldmary: I’m relieved to hear you say that.
Hortensia: And I’m relieved you’re here with me.
Hortensia: I hope you’ll stay on, even after the war’s over. Will you accompany me back to the academy?
Goldmary: I’d consider it a privilege.

A Support

Goldmary: Do you remember the first time we met?
Hortensia: The very first time?
Hortensia: Well, I’d skipped some grades, which got me into the advanced class…
Goldmary: It was well before that.
Hortensia: Wait, it was?
Goldmary: Yes. Before the advanced class.
Goldmary: I’d accidentally wandered into a skirmish between Brodian and Elusian forces.
Goldmary: The whole town quickly became a battlefield, with me caught in the middle. I was terrified.
Goldmary: It was you who got me out of there. You saved me.
Hortensia: Oh! I remember that day!
Hortensia: We’d gotten reports of Brodia’s surprise attack. I went to check on the troops.
Hortensia: There was a lone girl who’d gotten left behind… That was you?
Goldmary: It was. I was about to be cut down by a Brodian soldier, but you protected me with magic.
Goldmary: You pulled me onto your pegasus, flew me to safety, and left. Didn’t even give me your name.
Goldmary: Imagine my surprise when we met for the second time in the academy’s advanced class.
Hortensia: Why have you never mentioned this before?
Goldmary: I was embarrassed.
Goldmary: I bring it up now because…I want you to know how deeply I respect you.
Hortensia: Thank you. That really means a lot.
Hortensia: I’m glad you told me. And for what it’s worth, I really respect you too.
Hortensia: You put your life on the line to keep me safe. I couldn’t ask for a better friend.
Hortensia: It doesn’t hurt that you’re adorable either! Just being near you makes me look good.
Goldmary: Haha, you’re absolutely right.
Hortensia: Should I take that to mean you won’t be leaving my side anytime soon?
Goldmary: Of course.
Goldmary: I’m your retainer, after all, aren’t I?
Goldmary: More than that, Hortensia…I’m your friend. I will do anything I can to support you.

Fogado

Hortensia	Support information:			Fogado
	C: 5 support points	B: 10 support points	A: 20 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Fogado: Princess Hortensia! You’re not busy, are you? Let’s grab a cup of tea.
Hortensia: Prince Fogado.
Hortensia: I know I’m irresistible, but I’m also a princess. You shouldn’t be hitting on me.
Fogado: I’m not up to anything, I promise. Was hoping to have a nice, chaste exchange of ideas.
Hortensia: Hmm.
Hortensia: Act innocent if you want, but even in Elusia, we’ve heard what a flirt you are.
Fogado: People talk about me all the way in Elusia? I’m flattered.
Hortensia: You wouldn’t be if you heard what they said.
Fogado: Why put stock in gossip? I want to have tea and learn of each other’s countries. That’s all.
Hortensia: No thanks. Besides, my sister needs help today.
Hortensia: Hey, you’re a prince! Shouldn’t you have a ton of work too?
Fogado: Solm is a queendom, so my sister is first in line to the throne, not me.
Hortensia: So you just waste the day away, wandering around and flirting?
Fogado: Not flirting. Patrolling.
Hortensia: Oh, OK then. You definitely got me there.
Hortensia: Hey! Why aren’t you helping Princess Timerra?! Lighten her workload!
Fogado: Heh, ouch! That’s harsh.
Fogado: Oh well. If you happen to change your mind and decide you’d like tea─just tea─I’m around.

B Support

Fogado: Hey, Miss! Are you out here by yourself?
Hortensia: There’s Prince Fogado…talking to some lady.
Hortensia: Hitting on her, too, by the look of it.
Hortensia: Some prince. I’m gonna put a stop to this!
Hortensia: You were helping her carry stuff? That’s it?!
Fogado: Yeah, of course. Why did you get so angry?
Hortensia: I’m sorry. I didn’t think you were actually helping people out here…
Fogado: I told you that I patrol around town. That’s what I do on patrol─help people.
Hortensia: I guess I’m sorry for doubting you.
Fogado: Nah, that’s all right. I’m used to it.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: If that’s the case, I suppose I’ll join you.
Fogado: Really? Great! What time will you join me for tea, then?
Hortensia: Join you in helping people, doofus.
Fogado: Haha! Oh, that’s what you meant.
Fogado: All right, then. I look forward to it.

A Support

Hortensia: Wow.
Hortensia: I gotta admit, you’re actually kind of amazing.
Fogado: Oh, you’re in love with me? Well, I’ll have to let your young heart down gently, then…
Hortensia: Gross. No. Not what I meant.
Fogado: Haha, sorry, sorry. It’s involuntary. What were you saying?
Hortensia: You really listen to your people’s problems. Princess Timerra is lucky to have you.
Hortensia: I help my sister, too, but only with the stuff that happens inside the palace.
Hortensia: Going around town with you has shown me what the rest of the world is like.
Hortensia: It makes me wonder if I’ve actually been helping Ivy…or if I’ve been kidding myself.
Fogado: Oh, I know that feeling─the bucket feeling.
Hortensia: Buckets? What?
Fogado: My sister has a huge amount of responsibility… And I can only help out in the smallest ways.
Fogado: It’s like I’m trying to move a sand dune for her… And all I’ve got is a bucket, you know?
Hortensia: Hmm… You’re right.
Hortensia: Hm-hm.
Hortensia: Y’know, you’re actually being pretty cool.
Fogado: I’m glad you noticed. Does that mean we’re on for tea?
Hortensia: Hehe, separate issue.
Hortensia: But I’ll help you patrol the town all you want.
Fogado: Eh, I’ll take it. Come on, then!
Hortensia: Let’s go, bucket brigade.

Anna

Hortensia	Support information:			Anna
	C: 5 support points	B: 10 support points	A: 25 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: This army’s too pretty. It’s not right.
Hortensia: How am I supposed to be the cutest when the competition is this gorgeous?!
Anna: Aha, say no more!
Hortensia: Wait, you’re…
Anna: Only a troubled maiden’s best friend─the one and only Lady Anna! Cha-ching!
Anna: If it’s cuteness you’re after, Princess Hortensia, you might be interested in my beauty line!
Hortensia: You have my attention! I should tell you, though, I’m kinda picky about product.
Anna: I guarantee satisfaction with everything I sell.
Anna: After all, what I’ve got on offer today is tailored just for you!
Hortensia: You’re confident. I like that. OK, show me what you got.
Anna: Of course!
Anna: First is this pink rouge. Just a dab stays on all day. Apply it in the morning and forget about it!
Hortensia: Ooo…
Anna: There’s also lipstick, soap, skin cleanser, and a crystal enchanted to add shine to your hair.
Anna: And finally, an accessory case to hold it all. The rainbow palette makes you cute just holding it!
Hortensia: These are…INCREDIBLE! I’ve gotta have ’em─ I’ll take ’em all!
Anna: Thanks for the business! Ooh, I’m making a killing!
Hortensia: You deserve it─your stuff’s impressive. I’m gonna be more adorable than ever!
Anna: Indulge me in a little market research. Why do you want to be cute, Princess Hortensia?
Hortensia: Uh, because the cuter you are, the more people like you, obviously.
Anna: So it’s a popularity thing for you, huh?
Hortensia: Of course. Anyway, I’m off─gotta see how all this is gonna come together for my look.
Hortensia: Thanks, Lady Anna!

B Support

Hortensia: …
Anna: Why the long face, Princess Hortensia?
Hortensia: I tried your whole beauty line, but something’s still not quite right.
Anna: Are you saying…you’re a dissatisfied customer?
Hortensia: No, the products are great… They’re just not making me as happy as I thought they would.
Anna: Don’t be so sure! My beauty line is tried, tested, and terrific.
Anna: It’s expanded a bit since last time too. I’m now stocking my own brand of magic perfume.
Hortensia: Magic perfume? Is that a thing?
Anna: Yup. This enchanted aroma will put your cuteness over the top for sure.
Anna: Its magical potency more than makes up for the lack of staying power. I’d swear by it!
Hortensia: It can really do all that?
Anna: Don’t take my word for it. Give it a try!
Hortensia: Ooo, that does smell delightful! Let’s see what a spritz does for me. What do you think?
Anna: Whoa! I think we found the missing piece of the puzzle! It works even better than I thought!
Hortensia: Really? My image is finally complete? I’m entirely irresistible?!
Anna: Oh, absolutely!
Anna: Tell you what, I’ll give you a little as a sample. If you like it, come back and buy it, OK?

A Support

Hortensia: Hey, Lady Anna? Can I talk to you for a minute?
Anna: Oh, Princess Hortensia! How’d it go with that perfume? Ready to place a full order yet?
Hortensia: I’ve decided not to buy any, actually.
Anna: Huh? Did it not work?
Hortensia: Oh, no, it worked great. My whole look came together. I was the center of attention.
Hortensia: Even so…the perfume’s not for me.
Anna: But why? You seemed like you had your heart set on being popular.
Hortensia: I love wearing makeup and perfume, but I think I’ll steer clear of the enchanted stuff.
Hortensia: Magic is a shortcut. I want people to be wowed by my cuteness and charm─not by a gimmick.
Anna: Oh…
Anna: Sorry, Princess Hortensia. I guess I pitched you the wrong product.
Hortensia: No, it was exactly what I needed at the time. I wouldn’t have realized how I felt otherwise.
Hortensia: Really, I’m nothing but grateful.
Anna: Whoa.
Anna: You’re more amazing to me now than when you were wearing that perfume.
Hortensia: Aw, thanks! From now on, my charm is gonna be just that. No quick fixes. All me.
Anna: And I’m gonna keep building my business until I’m the number-one merchant in the world!
Hortensia: Sounds like a plan, young lady.
Anna: On that note, do you want to have another look at my non-magical beauty line?
Anna: Beauty products or otherwise, I’ve got all the tools you need in your quest for popularity!
Hortensia: Haha, go on, you smooth talker!

Lindon

Hortensia	Support information:			Lindon
	C: 3 support points	B: 6 support points	A: 12 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: Hey, Lindon! My sister’s asking for you.
Lindon: Ah, thank you, Princess Hortensia. So sorry to have made you fetch me like this.
Hortensia: That’s OK─I had a thing to do and you were on the way. Oh, that’s a pretty painting!
Hortensia: The lady’s beautiful… Is she your daughter?
Lindon: This lovely painting is of my even lovelier wife.
Hortensia: Yeah, she’s a vision. You’re a lucky guy!
Lindon: If she were here now, I’m sure she would be delighted to hear you say so.
Hortensia: You’ll have to introduce us next time she’s around. I’d love to meet her.
Lindon: Unfortunately, that will not be possible… She passed away some time ago.
Hortensia: Oh… Oh no. I had no idea. I’m so sorry.
Lindon: Hm-hm, it’s quite all right, Princess Hortensia.
Lindon: We raised three children together. They’re all grown now, off living lives of their own.
Lindon: I’ve had mages to train and keep me company, and I’m sure she’s at peace in the hereafter.
Hortensia: You’ve accomplished so much. I’m sure if she were here, she’d say she’s very proud.
Hortensia: Say, Lindon… Would you consider giving me some lessons? I could learn a lot from you.
Lindon: I’m flattered that you would suggest the idea… but I think it best for us both that I decline.
Hortensia: How come?
Lindon: I simply don’t have the stamina to teach anymore.
Hortensia: I understand. You’ve still got battles to fight. I shouldn’t trouble you.
Lindon: Don’t fret! I’m sure there’s a spry spellcaster out there who would make the perfect tutor.

B Support

Hortensia: Lindon, can we talk?
Hortensia: I was hoping you might…reconsider giving me some lessons.
Lindon: As I said before, Princess Hortensia, I don’t have the energy for teaching anymore.
Lindon: Besides, I’ve heard that you’re already top of the class in the Elusian Academy, are you not?
Lindon: There’s no reason to rush your education. Take the time to grow.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: My father didn’t live long enough to see me make it on my own.
Hortensia: That’s why I’m in a rush. I don’t want any more regrets like that.
Lindon: Ah, of course.
Hortensia: I want my father to rest knowing I can take care of myself─like your children do.
Hortensia: You can help me with that, can’t you?
Lindon: I understand you, truly. But…I have further reasons to decline.
Hortensia: What do you mean?
Lindon: Since King Hyacinth’s abrupt passing, Elusia has been gripped in a moment of crisis.
Lindon: In a time such as this, even a minor incident could upset the balance of our kingdom.
Lindon: To protect my beloved Elusia, I must dedicate all of my strength to our reconstruction efforts.
Lindon: Under these conditions, I simply do not have any time to devote to you, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: So that’s why Ivy was asking for you…
Hortensia: I’m sorry, Lindon. I was being selfish.
Hortensia: I was thinking only of my own education, while you and Ivy are both hard at work for Elusia.
Lindon: No, no. You have nothing to apologize for.
Lindon: There’s no fault in looking out for yourself, Princess Hortensia.
Hortensia: Maybe you’re right. Thanks.
Hortensia: I am still a princess of Elusia, though. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.

A Support

Hortensia: …
Hortensia: What can I do for Elusia?
Hortensia: What can I do, Father? Help me…
Lindon: If he were here, I’m sure King Hyacinth would say that you already serve our kingdom well.
Hortensia: Lindon…
Hortensia: How can you be so sure? My father’s…gone.
Hortensia: Ivy was always the model daughter, but I… I was more of a pain.
Hortensia: When I imagine him looking down on me, all I see on his face is disappointment.
Lindon: I was originally a retainer to the king’s older brother─your uncle. I think you knew that…
Lindon: At that time…I did not think kindly of King Hyacinth.
Hortensia: Really? I had no idea.
Lindon: There was a scrabble for succession, with your uncle openly opposing your father’s claim.
Lindon: In the end, the elder brother lost the battle for the throne…and soon abandoned the country.
Lindon: I had argued passionately in favor of your uncle, so I resented your father right out of the gates.
Lindon: But then, one day, he turned to me and said, “Lindon, you serve our kingdom well.”
Hortensia: Ah…
Lindon: I didn’t know what to make of that. He and I were supposed to be enemies!
Lindon: Then I realized that he meant it. In uncertain times, we both cared deeply for Elusia’s safety.
Lindon: That’s why I can confidently speak for him and say…you serve our kingdom well.
Hortensia: That means a lot to me.
Lindon: What’s more, a parent always loves their child.
Lindon: King Hyacinth could never be disappointed in you, Princess Hortensia.
Lindon: I’ve raised three children to your nil, so if I say it’s true…you have no room to argue.
Hortensia: OK, OK. Consider me convinced.
Hortensia: I really do feel much better now. Thank you.
Hortensia: I’m going to keep taking care of myself─and keep doing my best. I’ll make Father proud.
Lindon: That’s it. That’s the spirit.
Lindon: I may lack time, but I’m never short on words of advice. If you ever need to talk, I will listen.
Lindon: You’re a fine, accomplished young woman. I’m eager to see what else you become.
Hortensia: I’ll make you proud too, Lindon.

Veyle

Hortensia	Support information:			Veyle
	C: 3 support points	B: 6 support points	A: 12 support points		Pact Ring: Obtain from The Connector, then select

C Support

Hortensia: …
Veyle: Hortensia, I wanted to tell you that I… I’d like us to be friends.
Veyle: So…I wonder if we could talk?
Hortensia: I have nothing to say to you.
Veyle: Oh…
Hortensia: My father is dead because of you. Why would I want to be friends?
Hortensia: It doesn’t matter to me if you were controlled or whatever and now you’re back to normal.
Hortensia: I’ll never forget the sight of you laughing as you watched my father die.
Hortensia: So please, just…leave me alone.
Veyle: I… I’ve wanted so badly to apologize for that.
Hortensia: Elusia should never have allowed worship of the Fell Dragon.
Hortensia: His power, though… Much as I hate to admit it, I do envy that.
Hortensia: If I’d been born with what he has─what you have─my father would still be alive.
Veyle: Be glad you weren’t born a Fell Dragon. It’s a life full of fear, pain, and persecution.
Veyle: I wish I had been born human. To me, that life seems so much more…bearable.
Hortensia: Hm-hm, yeah. I’m sure it’s terrible. Poor thing.
Hortensia: We’ll never be friends, Veyle. Goodbye.

B Support

Hortensia: Ugh…
Veyle: Um, Hortensia?
Hortensia: I’m not sure I can be any clearer about how little I want to see or talk to you.
Veyle: Please, let me say one more thing. There’s a story I want to tell you.
Veyle: It’s about my mother. You see, she was just a regular dragon, but…
Veyle: She was also the Fell Dragon’s mate. Humans hated her for it and persecuted her. She died.
Hortensia: …
Veyle: When I didn’t age, the humans knew what I was, and they persecuted me too. It was…terrible.
Veyle: So, being a Fell Dragon has given me nothing, and it has taken everything.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: I get it. You’ve lost family too. Is that all you had to say to me?
Veyle: Yes.
Veyle: I’m sorry I tried to force our friendship. I did a horrible thing to you. It was too much to ask.
Veyle: Goodbye, Hortensia.
Hortensia: …
Hortensia: Wait.
Veyle: …
Hortensia: I’m sorry for being so harsh to you. I didn’t know about all that. I was inconsiderate.
Hortensia: That’s all. You can go.
Veyle: OK…and thank you for listening to my story.
Hortensia: …

A Support

Hortensia: Lady Veyle…can we talk?
Veyle: Oh, Hortensia. Yes, of course.
Hortensia: I have something to say to you now.
Veyle: Please.
Hortensia: It was ignorant of me to judge you without even trying to get to know you.
Hortensia: It’s easy to reject someone out of hand that way. But that doesn’t make it right.
Hortensia: So, I’ve decided I would like to try being friends.
Veyle: You would?!
Hortensia: I still don’t know if I can ever really forgive you.
Hortensia: And maybe once we do get to know each other, I’ll decide I actually can’t stand you after all.
Hortensia: But I owe you a chance at least. So, what do you say? Is that OK with you?
Veyle: Yes! I will happily accept that.
Hortensia: Good. Then, as a token of our friendship…please accept these sweets.
Hortensia: These are your favorites, right?
Veyle: Oh, um…
Hortensia: I was sure Father said you loved these… Am I misremembering?
Veyle: Sorry, Hortensia. I don’t like sweet food at all.
Hortensia: You don’t?
Veyle: The…other me…might have liked sweets. But the real me loves spicy food.
Hortensia: Oh, wow.
Hortensia: Hm-hm, you really are a completely different person from before.
Hortensia: OK. I’ll treat you to something spicy next time.
Veyle: I… I’d love that.
Hortensia: In return, I’ll ask you to tell me everything you can about yourself.
Hortensia: I want to know so much about the real you that I don’t ever think about the other one.
Veyle: That sounds wonderful. And you have to tell me about yourself too. I want to know everything.
Hortensia: Yeah. I think if we can understand each other… this wound of mine might actually heal.
Hortensia: So let’s get to healing, Lady Veyle.