Variations on Belyi and Chernyi

Ooh, see that poster over there? Looks like the Korolevskiy Troupe is putting on a new ballet!

"Black Snow Swan"...? Huh. That's an interesting name. Aren't Snow Swans usually white?

Looks like the person playing the lead is...

Please come to your senses, Miss Odette. There's no way you can get all this done in time.

That's Vodyanitsa's voice, isn't it? Sounds like it came from over there.

The premiere is only two weeks away. Why are you still taking on Fatui missions? What about the rehearsals or the meet-and-greets here at the theater?

I doubt either of those will take up the whole day, and even if they do, there's still time at night.

You mean when you're supposed to be eating dinner or sleeping? Which one are you planning to skip this time?

Neither. I made this decision based on objective knowledge of my own abilities, not—

Oh, um, sorry! We didn't mean to eavesdrop. It's just, things sounded a little heated over here, so we came to check.

旅人 and Paimon! Perfect timing! Help me talk some sense into Odette, please.

What's going on?

Nothing.

Uh huh, right. Just our prima ballerina running herself into the ground again! You saw the poster outside, right? Odette's starring in the "Black Snow Swan" in two weeks.

And let me tell you, this ballet is a real test of a dancer's technical skill and their emotional understanding of the character.

But just as rehearsal time's getting tight, Odette's gone and accepted a monster-slaying mission from the Fatui.

Who knows how long that's gonna take? It's not like monster-hunting is a walk in the park either! What if this causes problems during the final performance, and people start sending complaints to the Theater?

Huh, could you explain the situation to the Fatui, maybe? Just say you didn't know how tight the rehearsal schedule was gonna get.

You misunderstand. I applied to work with the Fatui with full knowledge of said schedule.

Huh!? Why would you do that?

...

(Doesn't seem like she really wants to talk about it...)

All that matters is that I'm confident I can do both.

*sigh*... Forget it. You win. But if someone comes looking for you, and you're nowhere to be found... I'm not covering for you this time.

Yeah, we know you're just looking out for her, Vodyanitsa, but it seems like she's got her heart set on doing both...

I knew it was a lost cause... Just do me a favor and at least let someone else help manage your schedule, okay, Odette?

I can do that on my—

What was that?

...Alright.

...

(She's staring at me...)

Well, if there's no objection...

Very well.

That was quick!

We already know he's trustworthy from back when we were trapped in the Theater.

Besides, he's dealt with many Harbingers and is familiar with how the Fatui operate. I'm sure he's up to the task.

Hmph...

(Now Vodyanitsa is staring at me...?)

You picked 旅人 when I'm standing right here? We've known each other for way longer!

That's true, and whether it's through the Theater or the Rokot you know I'm always happy to work with you.

But if I left this up to you, you'd set aside too much time for rest... or drag me out to go shopping and buy snacks.

Well, that's because rest is a necessity.

To you, everything is a "necessity."

Well, there are too many fun things worth trying in this world! I'm not just gonna let them pass me by!

Are there? I never noticed.

Hmph, of course not. You never let your eyes stray from what's right in front of you.

It's only natural for one's eyes to stare straight ahead.

And that is why friends are so important. Each friend is like an extra pair of eyes.

So, she's all yours, 旅人 and Paimon! I trust your "vision," hehe.

We've got this.

Good. Then, since you've agreed to put 旅人 in charge of your schedule, you better listen to him and follow it, Odette!

Okay, I promise.

Hmph... that's more like it. Alright, it's all up to you then. The schedule planner is over there, so fill it out whenever you're ready.

Remember, the premiere for the Black Snow Swan is in two weeks.

The Fatui mission assessment is in one week, so do factor that in as well.

Okay! Leave it to us!

Wait a second... does this make us your managers for the next two weeks?

Hm, I suppose. Here's to the start of a successful working relationship, then.

I'm leaving Odette in your hands, okay? Try to keep a close eye on her and don't let her wear herself out.

The schedule planner is right over there. I'll be relying on you these next two weeks.

We're early, so feel free to rest for now. Would you like some water?

Thanks! Oh, wait a minute, we're your managers. That should be our line...

Don't worry about it.

Well, seems like the venue went all out for this meet-and-greet. Is attendance usually pretty high?

Yes. Events like this serve both as a warm-up for the performance and promotion for the dancers, so the Theater takes them quite seriously.

So what do you have to do?

If this were an open house or a discussion, we'd need to interact face-to-face with the audience.

But for an autograph session like today, we only need to sign posters and commemorative albums.

Ohh, Paimon gets it! So whenever a fan comes up to you, you give 'em your brightest smile and say, "Thanks for always supporting me!"

Smiling isn't necessary, and neither is a "thank you". I don't know if you've managed other celebrities before... but I generally don't use exclamation marks either.

Oh, well... You do things your own way! Nothing wrong with that!

Just like the black snow swan.

Yes... just like the black snow swan.

Morning, Miss Odette!

Morning. I'll be right there.

Good morning, 旅人, Paimon.

Rehearsal is about to start. You can sit on the floor and watch if you want.

Dance rehearsals involve lots of repetitive practice, though, so it might not be that entertaining. Feel free to leave if you get bored.

Okay! Don't worry about us. We'll play it by ear!

Alright, then I'll head in.

Wow. She got into the zone the minute she walked through that door. Her whole aura seems different.

Yeah, let's head in. Hopefully, the rehearsal goes smoothly.

Alright, we're here.

So, you just need to clear out the monsters around here, right?

All of them across this entire area, actually. We can do a little at a time, though. Step by step — just like dancing.

Oh, got it... Guess the Fatui does do good deeds sometimes, huh?

Of course. That's only natural.

Hehe, guess you're right! Keeping monsters from invading this area is a good thing for sure!

Well, let's get moving, shall we?

(旅人 scheduled a day off for me today. He probably wants me to relax.)

(I don't think there's time to spare for that... I'd rather just keep pushing...)

(But I promised Vodyanitsa and 旅人 I'd stick to the schedule... so I should keep my word.)

A glass of lemonade and a serving of Snowball Blooms Atop Snowfields, please. Thank you.

(I suppose... a little rest never hurt anyone.)

Hello, everyone. It is my great pleasure to have you here for Theater Open Day! Please join me in giving a warm welcome to the prima ballerina of the Korolevskiy Troupe, Odette!

(Applause)

Hello.

Whoa, she's not smiling, even at a time like this.

Thank you for that warm reception. Now then, straight to business...

Let's talk about the upcoming ballet I'm sure we're all eagerly anticipating — the "Black Snow Swan"!

It is, as you may know, an adaptation of a literary classic.

Through the story of an extraordinary black snow swan, the ballet explores the relationship between the individual and the collective as well as the eternal question of fate.

I'd like to take this opportunity to ask you, Miss Odette, on behalf of our audience... What are your thoughts on this work?

It's a fantastic work. Interpreting it as a ballet has proved difficult...

...But it's worth it.

A most concise insight, Miss Odette.

I'm sure everyone's curious about the effort that lies behind this seemingly understated conclusion. Could you share a bit more?

...

Everyone in the company gives their all to each performance. I'm no more hardworking than them.

But the Black Snow Swan does hold a special meaning to me personally, so I will make sure to do my very best.

Oh, splendid! We'll leave the remaining time for questions from the audience...

The lady in blue over there — your question, please.

Yes.

I believe it's well within my current capabilities.

Huh? What kind of question is that...? Is he trying to pick a fight?

As a prima ballerina, I respect our artistic traditions, and I use ballet to express my love and care for our land.

I also hope those who watch my performances can find the strength to defy fate through art. That includes you, sir.

Solitude, nobility... Even at the cost of her own life, she refuses to bow down to fate.

Thank you, Miss Odette. Are there any other questions from the audience?

Phew...

Something wrong, Odette? Paimon thought your answers were great. Your fans are so passionate!

It was tiring, but...

But?

Seeing how excited and passionate they all were, even after the event ended... I'm even more determined to make this performance a good one.

(Looks like she really meant what she said at the meet-and-greet...)

Well, we believe in you! We're done for the day, so you should head back early and get some rest!

No need. I'm going to head to the studio to do some extra practice. I'll leave once I'm tired.

Hah...

In this instance, I do believe the talent knows best.

I appreciate the support.

Hello, Odette.

...

Mitya, you didn't have to wait in line. You could've just let my manager know.

Oh, no, no, no, I could never. I'm here for the true fan experience.

That includes standing in line. It's great to see how passionate everyone is!

I managed to get some writing and sketching done in the meantime as well. Never miss an opportunity to multitask, right?

Even my colleagues back at the Energy Commission have been talking about the Black Snow Swan. I certainly didn't expect that, haha. Your reach is truly something...

Here you go, all signed.

Ah, many thanks, Odette. Good luck with the performance.

...

Do you want an autograph, too?

I was just following Mitya... But, uh... Sure. Why not.

Yes.

Ah, quite an elegant signature.

Some of my subordinates will be attending your performance. Allow me to pass along their admiration for your talent, and wish you a successful show.

I appreciate the support.

There you are. I was wondering where my manager went.

He saw a friend and went to say hi. Nothing bad happened on your end, right, Odette?

Not at all. Today has been quite pleasant.

You're not making it sound all that pleasant...

No, I'm quite pleased. I'm just not the type to plaster on a fake smile to cater to others.

I thought you didn't like these kinds of events.

...Perhaps my attitude gave the wrong impression.

I know this job has value and meaning, especially to my fans.

I also draw strength from this external validation, but I can't rely on it too much, or I risk ignoring my own voice.

Then, I'd be no different than a figurine in a music box, living as the person the crowd expects me to be, rather than myself.

Your principles are something else.

I suppose. Well, did you want me to sign something?

Here.

Whoa, what's this!?

It was taken a long time ago. I only kept this one copy for myself... It has sentimental value, I suppose.

Wow, it's so pretty! But this picture must mean a lot to you! Are you sure you want to give it to us?

Well, I suppose my managers deserve something special. Just don't go showing it off.

Thanks.

Don't mention it.

...I appreciate the support.

Whew...

That's the last of the monsters around here, right?

You okay, Odette? You fought extra hard today...

I'm fine. It's just...

...

You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to.

No, I'm just trying to find the right words.

This is where I used to practice dancing when I was little.

Out in the wild?

Well, most of the time, it was in a studio full of mirrors.

But, every so often, I would practice outside. I love dancing in nature. It reminds me of the true essence of the art form — celebrating the beauty in this world.

Ohh! Is that why you took on this mission? Because you wanted to keep this spot peaceful?

That's part of the reason.

And the other part?

It's... because of the Black Snow Swan.

The ballet?

Yes. I practiced it a lot when I was little, but I didn't get to perform it on stage in the end. That was a big disappointment for a long time.

It's about a snow swan whose feathers are a different color than everyone else, right?

That's right. I felt so sorry for the black snow swan back then. It suffered such an unfair fate just because of how it was born.

It deserved to live a normal life alongside its companions, but it couldn't...

Actually, when I was little, the black snow swan was my least favorite role in the ballet. I didn't want to be anything like her...

But fate always has a way of playing tricks on us. The more I wanted to be a dazzling, white snow swan onstage, the closer my real life came to the black swan.

(She must be talking about her life as a member of both the Fatui and the Rokot...)

I have a much greater appreciation for the character now.

But thinking about what I felt as a child helps me reflect on how far I've come. I hoped it might help me better interpret the character in the ballet itself.

So that's why you thought of coming here...

So, did it help?

Hm... do you know how the Black Snow Swan's story ends?

No, I don't...

She stops trying to fit in with the flock and lives on proudly in solitude.

After that, she flies higher than any other snow swan. In the end, the pure white clouds embrace her, and she goes to a place no white-feathered snow swan could ever reach.

That's a beautiful ending.

Yes. Solitary, yet beautiful.

Well, after hearing all that, Paimon thinks you can pull it off for sure! We'll be cheering for you!

Thank you...

But before that, I should focus on the work I'm doing for the Fatui.

Alright, that's the last of them.

Nice! Wanna take a break?

I'm fine. I'm not tired.

Y'know, you told us why you took this quest, but it kinda seems like you don't actually mind this Fatui work.

We've been clearing out all these monsters, and you haven't complained once.

Is that so strange?

Well, not exactly. It just seems pretty at odds with a ballet career, that's all.

Hm... I used to think the same.

And now?

Now... I find that this sort of work actually helps me calm down, even relax at times.

When I first joined the Fatui as a child, I really did hate it. It took up time that I thought was better spent practicing dance.

And...

My father's passing, my mother's pain... My family's happiness had been utterly destroyed, and for the longest time, I couldn't put that behind me.

I blamed it on Rosalyne, the Fatui, and Project Stuzha, and used that hatred to push myself forward.

But, in hindsight, what I truly hated wasn't any of those things... It was feeling like I wasn't in control of my own life.

Aw, Odette...

At least you see yourself clearly.

Do I...?

Now I get to dance on stage like I always dreamed of. I should be proud... But even now, I can't bring myself to be happy sometimes.

Why?

Because the "me" people expect to see is too dazzling, too perfect. That light doesn't belong to me.

And, now, having to live up to that expectation just feels like a different kind of control.

Ironic, isn't it? Dance, the one thing that made me feel free, has now become the very thing controlling my life.

You're right, it isn't that serious. It just makes me feel a little uneasy from time to time.

And when I feel uneasy, I throw myself into my work for the Fatui. It helps calm me down and reflect on why I dance.

It's impossible to see yourself clearly when the light is too bright.

That's... pretty profound.

Just a passing thought.

Sometimes I wonder if a passion for my parents' professions is also something I inherited from them.

But I only received half of each, so I keep jumping from one side to the other, always searching, never able to settle down...

What if you look at it from a different angle?

Hmm...

In that case, I suppose it means no matter what path I choose, I'll always be walking in their footsteps.

Even if the innocent joy of it is all gone, I won't be alone.

In the shadow of their wings, my feathers will one day grow strong enough to fly to the sky of my own choosing, just like the Black Snow Swan.

And don't forget, we'll be behind you all the way as well!

Thanks for sharing all that with us. It means a lot.

Hehe, y'know, you kind of have an odd approach to this whole manager thing...

But now I think I understand how you maintain such good relationships with so many of the Fatui higher-ups...

You're a patient listener, if nothing else.

I don't have anything too valuable on me, but... Here, this bookmark is for you. Keep it as a memento.

Wow, it's beautiful! Thanks!

I should be the one thanking you.

Is this how I'm supposed to spin? It hurts my toes. Is that normal?

Yes.

Okay, so is being dizzy normal, too? I don't even get dizzy when I spin around in the water.

You're just a beginner, so yes.

Wait, how do you bear with the dizziness while you dance, then? You spin much harder than this.

What you need to do is pick a spot to focus on, then quickly whip your head around, like this. Now you try.

...Like this?

Am I doing better?

A little.

*sigh* You shore-folk live far more tiring lives than us water fae...

The solution is to keep practicing. On land, that is.

It'll take about a month.

Uh... and after that?

You'll have gotten used to it.

Nothing on the schedule for today, but Paimon wonders if Odette's actually getting any rest... She seems like the type to push herself way too hard!

Why don't we stop in on her usual stomping grounds? See if we can check in on her...

'Kay, so she's not at the theater.

Hmm, she isn't here either. No sign of any monsters at least...

Doesn't look like she came to Podvorye Restaurant to eat, either...

Well, we've basically looked everywhere! If we didn't miss her somehow, she's probably resting at home. Guess we can finally relax!

Paimon, over there.

Ah, it's Odette!

...

What a coincidence! We didn't expect to see you here!

Did you... need something from me?

No, no! We just wanted to say hi! Why do you look so nervous?

Uh, that's a lot of boxes... Were you just out shopping?

...Ugh...

Odette?

These are mystery boxes. Each one has a music box inside. I'm... trying to get the secret edition...

So that's why you bought so many! Well... did you get the one you wanted?

Not yet.

I still have one left to open...

Go for it!

Hmm...

Ah... A duplicate. I've gotten this one five times now.

Unlucky...

I'll go buy ten more.

Hold on. Let's be reasonable about this, okay?

Starting with ten is perfectly reasonable.

Paimon's not trying to stop you, it's just... You've already bought so many. Are you sure this isn't your stubbornness talking? You want the secret edition that much?

Yes...

Because I'm the reason my mother broke her favorite music box. I fell during dance practice one day, and she dropped it while helping me up...

It was an antique, so it's hard to find others like it, and repairing it isn't easy... But the newly released secret edition from these mystery boxes looks just like it.

Oh...

...Thank you.

One Podvorye Smoked Sausage, one Glupov Rye Bread, two Snowrealm Okroshkas, four Snezhnaya Shashliks, and a Rimecurrant Ice Cream for each of us, please.

None for me.

C'mon, you're still gonna have just salad, even on your day off?

Yes.

Alright, well, just four Rimecurrant Ice Creams then.

Sorry, sorry, are we late?

No, we got here early. Vodyanitsa just ordered a bunch of food.

Hehe, sounds like we're in for a treat!

Should we start things off with a toast? To Odette, and a successful performance tomorrow!

Break a leg!

Break a leg!

Break a leg!

Break a leg!

C'mon, Odette! Join in!

You want me to toast myself?

Fine. I'll do it for you... To a great show!

...?

Gotta at least set the mood.

...

No need to thank me. Anything for my favorite colleague, hehe.

So how was it playing manager these past two weeks, you two? Have you been turned off from the industry forever?

Oh, well, no surprise there. Who could be unhappy, spending time with our dear Odette?

So, what made it so great? Let's hear it!

Ohh! That sounds great!

You should be my manager next, 旅人! We can't let all this experience go to waste.

Your schedule is really that packed?

Oh, I can make it packed. Just you watch!

(...Still some left. I need to hurry to the next location.)

Hold on.

...Lady Marionette.

Scrambling to complete the mission before the deadline, are we? This is quite unlike you, Odette.

...

I'm the Harbinger in charge of evaluating the status of this mission. As for my assessment... I imagine you know where this is going.

I apologize, Lady Marionette.

Hm, apology accepted. I understand your circumstances quite well.

I saw the poster for the Black Snow Swan. The performance is in a week. You must be putting a lot of time and energy into rehearsal.

Everyone has their limits, Odette. It's important to think those things through before accepting a mission. Are we clear?

Yes. I apologize, Lady Marionette...

Alright, alright. You've already apologized once, and I'm not here to lecture you.

...

In any case, I'm sure your efforts will bear fruit nonetheless. I've heard what people have been saying.

They praise your artistry, recognize your courage in constantly challenging yourself, and firmly believe that you will once again deliver outstanding work.

In truth, I'm also looking forward to your performance. But it's important not to let work fall by the wayside, yes?

...Yes.

Well, then I have nothing more to say. Just be more cognizant next time.

Yes, Lady Marionette. Please take care...

Ah, Odette. That reminds me.

Yes?

Good luck with the performance — Arlecchino and I will both be in attendance.

...Ah, okay. Thank you.

Today is the day of the Fatui mission evaluation, right?

Odette's been doing a pretty good job, so there shouldn't be any problems!

Hello, Odette. Oh, you're here too.

...Lady Marionette.

Sandrone? What are you doing here?

I should be the one asking you that, don't you think? I'm the Harbinger responsible for evaluating the status of this mission.

I didn't expect that to be your personal responsibility, Lady Marionette...

It's nothing. I just happened to have some time. Now, you two, butt out. This evaluation is internal Fatui business.

O—Oh... Okay...

Is there anything you need me to do, Lady Marionette?

No need. The evaluation is already complete.

...Huh?

This was a monster extermination mission, so all I needed to do was check the monster activity at the target location.

I had a look before coming here. You did very well. You pass. Keep up the good work.

...Thank you, Lady Marionette.

No use thanking me. You're the one who's been putting in all the work.

By the way, I saw the poster for the Black Snow Swan. How are the preparations going? You holding up alright?

Yes, thank you for the concern, Lady Marionette.

...

(Ugh! Communicating with the younger generation is like pulling teeth sometimes, especially with this one's personality... I understand your struggle now, Rosalyne.)

Well, if there's nothing else...

Ah, hold on.

Huh?

If I remember correctly... The area you were responsible for clearing out was a spot you frequented as a child, yes?

...Did you hear that from Rosalyne?

You could say that.

What I'm trying to say is... Well...

...Hm?

Ugh, whatever. No use beating around the bush. Take it from someone who knows, you can't change who you are on the inside. You just need to accept it.

It's just some free advice... Listen to your heart. Don't always keep those feelings locked away.

...

This isn't an order, or some attempt at moral grandstanding. If you don't find it helpful, feel free to pretend I never said anything.

If you'll allow me, Lady Marionette... you seem a bit different from before.

Do I? Hmph, I'm assuming you mean that in a good way?

I do, and thank you for the advice. I'll keep it in mind.

Alright, then that's all from me. I often have Arlecchino over for tea. You should join us sometime.

If that makes you uncomfortable in any way, invite Lyney and the others along, or 旅人. It's no extra work on my part. Just a few additional tea settings.

Understood. Take care, Lady Marionette.

You're done talking? How'd it go?

I passed. Our conversation was... even more rewarding than expected.

The "Black Snow Swan" performance is today! How are you feeling, Odette?

I feel pretty good. I didn't get injured during training, and I don't feel too tired.

Based on the recent rehearsals, I should be able to complete the difficult steps as planned, maybe even better than expected.

It's just...

I've been so focused on the dance side of things lately that I've somewhat neglected my work with the Fatui.

It's not your fault. I was the one who ignored my limits and took on too many missions.

I know it's no use thinking like that now... But, apparently, Lady Arlecchino and Lady Marionette are coming to watch the show today, so I'm a little nervous.

Aw... Paimon understands how you feel.

They may be your superiors, but they must be coming because they're genuinely looking forward to the show, right?

Forget about work stuff for now. Just put your whole heart into the performance!

You're right.

You can head in early if you want. I'll give you the tickets, and you can use the staff entrance and go chat with the others.

Oh, who's coming?

Besides Lady Arlecchino and Lady Marionette, Vodyanitsa, Alyosha, Mitya, and Valeriy are also going to be there...

Wow, that's a lot of people...

I'm not going to see everyone just yet.

I want to quiet my mind in these final moments before the performance and reflect on the story of the Black Snow Swan.

I'm confident enough in my flexibility and control, and I can use my technique to show what makes the Black Snow Swan unique...

But when it comes to the root cause of her inner transformation, I still feel like there's something I haven't quite figured out...

Why not give the original work another read?

I read it a long time ago, but...

At the end of the day, the author's words are just a starting point. I need to interpret the character in my own way.

Still, thanks to you, I've been able to talk to others and get a better understanding of the audience's vision of the character.

That's helped a lot. So, if nothing else, I hope my interpretation will at least meet everyone's expectations.

That's not too bad.

Thanks. I'll see you later, then.

I'm looking forward to hearing your applause.

"The performance was technically flawless, but I could not find myself in it."

Today is the day of the big performance...

Time really flew by, huh. Always felt like we barely finished the last thing before the next one started.

Being a manager isn't easy...

Well, the performance is about to start... How are you feeling, Odette? Confident?

Well... We have been prioritizing Fatui work over rehearsal recently.

It's not your fault. I was the one who ignored my limits and took on too many missions.

Umm... Th—Then is there still time to practice now? We still have some time before the official performance, right?

Dancing takes daily practice. It's not something you can make up for at the last minute.

Right...

But don't worry. It's not that dire.

Really? So, what's your plan?

I wouldn't exactly call it a plan... I suppose I'll just present a somewhat different Black Snow Swan to the audience this time.

Huh?

During the Fatui missions, you helped me face who I used to be and learn to listen to my heart again.

We don't deserve that much credit...

No, you served as my audience. Sometimes a performer can only see themselves clearly through the eyes of the audience.

Perhaps I've spent too much time in the spotlight, too much time letting other people tell me who I am. It's been a long time since I sat down and reflected on that for myself.

Kind of like how the black snow swan spent so long among the flock that she almost forgot the color of her own feathers.

So... you think it all worked out for the best?

On a personal level, at least. I've decided to interpret this role in my own way.

Regardless of how the audience reacts... I'm going to follow my heart.

That's not too bad.

Well, is there anything else you need from us?

Thank you, but you've already done enough. I'd like to spend some quiet time by myself for now.

I need to think about what my heart truly wants, and what I want to present to the audience.

Alright then. We'll be looking forward to your performance tonight!

Thanks. I'll look for you in the audience.

"I am determined to be myself, but there is a price to pay for that."

What has gotten into you lately, Odette?

Tsk...

I haven't even been trying to snoop! I just keep hearing people talk about you.

In the theater lounge, I overheard your fellow dancers say you've been totally out of it during rehearsals.

Our fans in the Fatui have been trying to awkwardly probe me if something's wrong... So it sounds like you didn't manage to complete your Fatui work either...

Hey! Are you even listening to me? Stop avoiding eye contact!

Sorry, I'll be sure to self-reflect. But I'm tired, so I'm going to head back.

Hmm? Tired? Haven't you just been resting these past two weeks?

O—Odette!

...

Uh, about that... Odette...

Being a manager isn't an easy job, and I don't blame you.

Vodyanitsa... She was right from the start. It's my fault. I shouldn't have taken on so many things at once...

I overestimated myself...

I'm going to head back now. See you later.

Odette... *sigh*...

Paimon feels bad, but if we bother her right now, it might just make her feel worse... Let's give her some space for now.

Hopefully she feels better soon...

Have you seen Odette around here?

Not yet.

Paimon just came back from backstage. The staff all said that right after Odette finished her curtain call and changed her clothes, she just left. Didn't tell anyone where she was going, either...

They were supposed to have a short celebration party, too...

Ah... Odette!

...

Sorry...

But can I just have a moment to myself?

We're really worried about you, Odette.

We've been by your side over the past two weeks, so we know how hard you've been working, and how much effort you've put in, trying to handle both jobs at once...

I failed.

You had the best of intentions! It's just...

Paimon, I know you mean well. But there's no need to comfort me like this.

I failed to perform the difficult steps in the choreography. I didn't live up to the audience's expectations...

And I failed to execute my Fatui missions. I let myself down.

The last thing I want is people to take pity on me and forgive me out of kindness. That would make me feel even more ashamed.

Paimon thinks you're being too hard on yourself...

If you had another chance...

...

Good question, 旅人. I suppose my answer is no.

I wouldn't want to give up on either.

Even knowing that it didn't work out, even knowing it's nearly impossible, I would hold out hope... I would still want to try.

I suppose I just don't know when to quit...

Hey, don't make it sound like a bad thing! That's just who you are — super stubborn, but also really tough!

Like a black snow swan before she spreads her wings.

...Thanks.

I know I said I didn't need comforting, but I feel a lot better after talking with you.

Really?

Yeah. I guess the most important thing is that I finally see myself clearly.

The past cannot be undone, and I'll take responsibility for my shortcomings... but I have absolutely no intention of letting life beat me down.

By the next performance, the next mission... I'll show everyone a different "meblack snow swan."

Finally! Today is the day of the big performance!

Looking back, we really planned a lot of things for Odette over the past two weeks... She's been on the go non-stop!

Thankfully, her Fatui missions went super well, and she didn't miss a single rehearsal or meet-and-greet... You could say it was perfect!

Good morning, 旅人, Paimon.

Ahem, let's interview the person in question. Now then, Miss Odette, are you confident about today's performance?

Yes.

That's it? Just a simple "yes"?

Even the most professional reporter couldn't spin an article worth reading outta that!

As it happens, I also have an interview question for you.

Really? Ask away!

What do you think is the underlying reason for the Black Snow Swan's change of heart?

Oh, you mean why she decided to stop trying to fit in, right?

Interesting. There's not one right answer to this question.

But in my view, I think... she found her true self.

Huh, what do you mean?

Well, let's start with act one.

As the protagonist of the story, the Black Snow Swan is thrust into the spotlight. She faces fate's injustice and decides to fight it to the bitter end.

She works harder than anyone, proves more stubborn than anyone, and arrogantly assumes that's enough...

But it's impossible to see yourself clearly when the light is too bright.

Huh...

The only way of life she knows is to "fight against" the forces that control her life.

She fights against her flock, against nature, against fate...

She sees enemies everywhere, even where there are none... never realizing that the true enemy is the uncontrollable nature of life itself.

So, she spends most of her time rushing from place to place, never lingering in the moment...

Aw, Odette...

But thanks to you, through the time we've spent together and our conversations lately...

Not only have I been thinking about this ballet more, but I've also stopped to ask myself...

Why do I dance? Why am I unwilling to give up my work with the Fatui...?

And what I've discovered is that it all comes down to desire.

I crave both external validation and self-approval at the same time, and I don't just want a little, I want it all.

I rarely noticed it, but this desire shaped me. It drove me this far, and drives me to keep going.

I shouldn't exhaust myself struggling against life, just as the black snow swan shouldn't waste time trying to change the impossible. I know what I want, I know I'm capable of getting it, so I should go for it.

Well said.

Yeah, that was amazing, Odette!

Thanks.

Oh, right, I wanted to share this last part with you. Here, I'll read it out.

"On that morning when there was no need to dance, the black snow swan quietly gazed at her reflection on the lake's surface."

"The clouds, reclining beside the rising sun, were so close to her. It was as if she could reach them with a single flap of her wings."

"If there were but one moment left in my life," thought the Black Snow Swan. "I would soar as high as I could."

"Reaching heights no snow swan has ever reached and daring to dream what no snow swan has ever dreamed."

That must be the desire that fuels the black snow swan...

Hehe, I doubt there's one right answer... But, that's how I choose to interpret it.

My mother would often say, ballet is about skill and technique, but it's also about feeling and expression.

I think, now that I've found this answer, I'll be able to perform this piece in my own way.

I guess you could say, my childhood dream has now come true.

Dear Odette, come and build a snowman with me ♪~

...

Or hop on a train, roaming Snezhnaya with glee ♪~

...

It's been ages since you've come to play~ I've been singing to the fish all day~

...

Though the stage is far from empty~ You know I'm feeling so alone~ Just watching as the time ticks by ♪~

...

Tick-tock~ tick-tock~ tick-tock~♪

...

"No! I do not wish to drag you into the water. I am not some water imp!"

...You've rehearsed enough. You know your lines by heart.

No, no. You're supposed to tell me not to be nervous. That I'm gonna do great!

...You're clearly not even nervous.

Fine...

...

I appreciate the support.

I appreciate the support.

I appreciate the support.

Phew...

Odette, you left your pen back at the meet-and-greet, so I brought it over for you.

I appreciate the support.

Hm?

Oh, I didn't expect to run into you here. I just finished my work report.

Has everything been okay recently?

Hmm... Lemme think. Everything has gone well enough. Thanks for your concern.

That said, I haven't quite slept enough recently, so my mind feels a bit foggy.

Good thing I don't talk much anyway, so I didn't make any obvious slip-ups. Otherwise, I might have ran into some trouble.

Get some rest when you have the chance!

I will.