This is the simplified official script of Samantha’s Quest: Isles of Galerock that contains all the character voicelines and on-screen text. For the full script plus stage directions, see the Story page.
Episode 1: “One of Those Cool Lights”
Reporter: In recent news, people have again witnessed strange lights in the Downtown District, claiming that they’ve seen strange creatures within.
Reporter: The local police are looking into this, and have advised caution when travelling alone in quiet areas.
Reporter: We’ll keep you posted on any changes of the situation.
Amy: Hey, Sammy! How’s it going?
Amy: You won’t believe what I saw! It’s one of those cool lights everyone’s been talking about on the news! Pretty cool, right!?
Amy: Look, I know what you’re probably thinking: ‘It’ll be dangerous, Amy, don’t get close to it!’ But it looks fine!
Amy: Come on, let’s just take a quick look! Meet me at the top of the Vermillion Plaza!
Amy: Talk soon, ‘kay? Bye!
Text: To be continued…
Episode 2: Just a “Quick Look”
Amy: Hey, Sis! Took you long enough!
Amy: Don’t give me that look! I was just kidding!
Amy: More importantly…
Amy: I present to you…
Amy: The Emerald Portal!
Amy: And we get to be the first ones to take a look inside!
Amy: Oh, come on, Sammy…
Amy: Listen…
Amy: I know you’re trying to be responsible, but sometimes you’ve gotta learn to live a little!
Amy: I mean, tell me, Sammy: when is it that you get to see a magic portal in the middle of a city?
Amy: Just look at it!
Amy: Think of what we could find in there! The treasure! The adventure!
Amy: We could get media coverage from our findings! A following on social media! Think of the opportunities!
Amy: I can picture it already…dynamic duo bravely discovers new world!
Amy: Don’t you have some desire to see what’s inside? Just a teensy tiny little desire?
Amy: You don’t give in easily, do you?
Amy: Let’s just get a closer look!
Amy: Wow, it’s actually quite beautiful up close, isn’t it, Sammy?
Amy: Those beautiful emerald-green lights… It’s almost like they’re inviting us inside!
Amy: Oh, quiet, you, I’m only teasing! Sheesh!
Amy: We’ll only be looking, not entering.
Amy: Although… Maybe I could get a teensy bit closer….
Amy: (Ouch!)
Text: To be continued…
Episode 3: The Golden Jubilee Blade
Amy: Oh, Sammy! You came in just for me? You sweetie!
Amy: You’re the best, Sis!
Amy: Just look at this place, Sammy. Isn’t it cool?
Amy: It’s like we’ve entered a whole new world!
Amy: The time of day is even different here!
Amy: Oh, and is that a waterfall over there!? Let’s go check it out!
Amy: Ooh, this is a cute little hideaway!
Amy: And just look at that glorious waterfall!
Amy: Now that’s not something you see every day!
Amy: Isn’t it great that we get to see this? Just admit it, Sammy. You’re glad I tripped and fell into this portal, aren’t you?
Amy: Um… I’ll take that as a no?
Amy: You want to head back already? Well, I guess we have overstayed our welcome.
Amy: All right, fine, we’ll head back. But still, I don’t regret tripping and falling in!
Amy: Something caught your attention, Sammy?
Amy: Something’s behind me?
Amy: Snakes! Oh no! I hate snakes!
Amy: There’s no way we could outrun a snake, let alone three!
Amy: I’m so sorry, Sammy. This is all my fault… I didn’t ever think this would happen!
Snakes: *HISS*
Amy: (Come on, Amy! You love your sis, right? Just do it for her!)
Amy: Sammy, as your older sister, it’s my duty to protect you! Plus, I was the one who got us into this mess, so it’s only right for me to get you out of this.
Amy: You go to the portal while I distract them!
Amy: Listen, Sammy, if we both stay, we both die! You go so that at least one of us survives!
Amy: Please, Sammy, while there’s still time!
Ethereal Voice: Samantha…
Ethereal Voice: Don’t be afraid. I’m here to help.
Ethereal Voice: Do you desire the power to protect your loved ones?
Ethereal Voice: In that case, reach out your hands.
Ethereal Voice: This is my power that I grant to you, Samantha. It allows you to summon a powerful sword at will in this realm, simply when you think about doing so and reach out your hand.
Ethereal Voice: Take a look.
Ethereal Voice: This is the Golden Jubilee Blade. As you can see from the colour and flower ornaments, it closely resembles your personality.
Ethereal Voice: But enough talk. Time stands still in this place, but you and your sister are still in danger.
Ethereal Voice: Now go, Samantha. Use the Golden Jubilee Blade to protect your sister. I have a feeling we’ll meet again one day.
Snakes: *HISS*
Amy: Whoa, you saved me, Sammy! But how did you get that sword?! Where did you even get it from?!
Amy: Never mind, don’t answer! Let’s find an opening and run for it!
Young Man: Hold on!!!
Amy: Huh!?
Young Man: Thank goodness I made it in time… are you both all right?
Amy: Y-yeah… we’re fine.
Young Man: Good. And wait, you have a sword also? But… actually, never mind.
Young Man: Please stand back, this is dangerous. I’ll handle this.
Amy: Be careful!
Young Man: All right… let’s do this!
Text: To be continued…
Episode 4: The Isles of Galerock
Young Man: (I have a few options here… the question is, which of them will move first?)
Young Man: (All three of them! So I’ll use that technique!)
Young Man: Haaaaaaaah!!!
Young Man: It’s over.
Snakes: *HISS*…
Amy: Wow, did you see that, Sammy!? He moved so fast! That was so cool!
Young Man: Well, that was anti-climactic.
Amy: You just killed them in an instant! How did you even do it?
Young Man: Well, a lot of things are possible in this realm that wouldn’t normally be back in our world.
Amy: So this is another world! What even is this place? And who are you?
Young Man: This place is called the Isles of Galerock. From what I know so far, it’s a series of islands that each have a different climate and ecosystem.
Young Man: At the core of each island is a temple, which has a powerful guardian inside. Each temple holds the key to connecting this world to our world.
Young Man: That’s the summary, anyway.
Young Man: As for me, I’m Riley Corwin. I work for a group that’s investigating these portals. My job is to close these portals and make sure anyone who enters them gets out safely.
Amy: I see… and have you had to rescue many people who wandered in so far?
Riley: No. You’re the first ones, actually.
Riley: In fact, the portals have only appeared a few weeks ago in fairly obscure places, so you might actually be the first civilians to have entered this realm.
Amy: Oh… haha…
Riley: How did you two end up getting here in the first place?
Amy: Hey, don’t point at me! You entered willingly! And you also wanted to see the waterfall!
Amy: Look, I… may have been a bit too curious… and got a bit too close to the portal… but I did trip and fall in! So it was an accident!
Riley: Oh, it’s okay! I was mainly concerned that a monster might have chased you in or something. But if that’s not the case, that’s good. I guess?
Riley: Anyway, as you would’ve guessed by now, you can come across some unpleasant surprises in this realm. So, from now on, it’s best to avoid the portals whenever you see them.
Amy: Duly noted. Oh, I should introduce myself as well!
Amy: I’m Amy Flowerdew. I’m a part-time hairdresser and singer! It’s a pleasure to meet you, Riley! And thanks so much for saving us!
Riley: No worries, Amy. It’s a pleasure to meet you also!
Riley: And what’s your name?
Amy: This is my sister, Samantha! But I always call her Sammy, because it sounds cute!
Amy: Sammy just graduated high school with the top marks in her school, would you believe it? She may not seem like it at first, but she’s actually a genius! I’m kinda jealous, to be honest!
Riley: Wow, getting the top marks in your school is really impressive! It’s nice to meet you too, Samantha.
Riley: As much as I’d love to continue the conversation, we should do so back in our world.
Riley: But before we do: Samantha, try extending your arm like this and letting go of the sword.
Riley: That’s how you “sheathe” your sword in this realm, so to speak.
Riley: And to bring it back, you extend your arm like before and think of the blade. I usually say the word “draw” in my mind, and that works for me.
Amy: There’s so much more I want to ask, but yeah, let’s do it back in our world!
Riley: Let’s go.
Text: To be continued.
Episode 5: A Moment of Peace
Amy: *Sigh* I’m glad to be back in a place where there’s no deadly snake monsters.
Riley: It certainly makes it a lot easier to talk in peace.
Riley: So, now that we’re out, I’d be happy to answer more of your questions.
Amy: Great! Because… I’d really like to know more about… well, everything!
Riley: Hah… could we maybe narrow that down just a little?
Amy: Heehee, okay… so, could you tell us more about the group you work for?
Amy: Oh, and I wanted to ask Sammy this earlier when she saved me from the snakes, but what’s the deal with those swords you two have? And why didn’t I get one!?
Riley: I thought you’d ask those questions.
Riley: I’ll start with the first one. The organisation I work for is called the Secret Defence Services. Or the SDS for short.
Riley: The SDS is a new organisation made by the military.
Riley: It’s a branch of the army that deals with circumstances that the army wouldn’t normally deal with, but that requires military-level intervention.
Riley: It’s a pretty small group still, so it’s not that well-known.
Amy: Interesting. So, are you on your shift right now?
Riley: No, actually… I got called to rescue you guys after hours…
Amy: Oh, sorry about that…
Amy: By the way, how did you find us? Was it just a coincidence, or…?
Riley: As a matter of fact, you got really lucky. An… acquaintance of mine, I guess you could say, spotted you from a rooftop just before you guys went in.
Riley: She gave me a call, and I made my way to the portal as fast as possible. It’s a good thing I happened to be nearby when she called, too.
Riley: I guess you could say it all happened according to the grace of God.
Amy: Yeah, I think that’s a good way to look at it!
Riley: As for the swords… I guess this is something that you, Samantha, would especially like to know about.
Riley: Samantha, did you get contacted by… a mysterious voice, who then gave you the sword?
Riley: Okay. That happened to me, as well.
Riley: I don’t know what you were told, but on my first and only encounter, I learned two things.
Riley: The first is that there are certain people who are chosen to wield powerful blades.
Riley: As far as I’m aware… you’re the only other who’s been chosen, along with me.
Riley: The second is that the blade wielders apparently have the power to defeat the most powerful guardians in the Isles of Galerock.
Riley: That’s why I was surprised when I first saw you, Samantha. Because, correct me if I’m wrong, but you don’t seem like someone who can do combat.
Riley: I wish I could share more, but unfortunately, that’s all I know so far.
Amy: Wow… this is all so strange.
Riley: Yeah. Sorry I can’t be of more help. Most of this is a big mystery to me as well.
Amy: No, you’ve done more than enough for us! Thanks for everything, Riley! We’d better let you finish your overtime shift now!
Riley: Thanks! Oh, and before we go, Samantha: try not to worry too much about what I told you.
Riley: I know that’s easier said than done… but you really are under no obligation to become more involved with the Isles of Galerock. That’s simply not fair for you.
Riley: You should just focus on the next chapter in your life, like your uni studies, or whatever you decide to do. I’ll be able to handle things from here.
Riley: You’re asking if I’ll be okay? Yeah, I’ll be fine! I’ve been trained for these kinds of situations.
Riley: Anyway, before we finish up, are you guys okay getting home by yourselves from here?
Amy: Sammy and I live nearby, so we’ll be fine!
Riley: Great. I think we’ll call it a day, then. I’ll call the police now so they can secure the area. In the meantime, I’ll wait here so that no one wanders in before they arrive.
Amy: Now I feel really bad for making you work overtime…
Riley: Don’t feel bad. Think of it this way: because of you two, the portal will be secured, so now many people will be kept safe.
Amy: Well, when you put it that way…
Riley: One last thing: I should give you my number, just in case you come across another portal.
Riley: If you see another portal, or have more questions, please give me a call, and I’ll try and get back to you as soon as possible.
Amy: You’ve got it. Thanks, Riley!
Riley: See you later, Amy, Samantha.
Amy: Seeya, Riley!
Text: Later that evening…
Young Lady: Can’t sleep either, Sammy?
Lucinda: You’ve probably got a lot on your mind after what you and Amy went through today. As for me, I’m here to cool down from all this heat.
Lucinda: Come, I’ll make you your favourite cup of tea. We can drink together!
Lucinda: Here you go, Sammy, Love.
Lucinda: This tea never fails to send me off to dreamland. So don’t worry, Pet, you’ll be grand in a jiffy!
Lucinda: You look happy now, Sammy, but I saw that you looked worried just before. Does this have something to do with what happened in the portal?
Lucinda: I thought so.
Lucinda: Can I ask what’s the part that worries you?
Lucinda: Oh, so you’re wondering why you were chosen to wield the blade.
Lucinda: I see… your concern is understandable. But here’s one way to look at it: perhaps you were chosen because you showed courage.
Lucinda: I mean, you got an awful fright, but despite that you still chose to stand by your sister even in the face of danger.
Lucinda: Perhaps that mysterious fairy noticed that, and that was why she entrusted the sword to you.
Lucinda: Heehee, I guess my response was a little too similar to the “chosen heroine” archetype, yeah?
Lucinda: You prayed to God just before you met the fairy, right?
Lucinda: I think that’s the actual reason. You didn’t trust in your own power to solve the problem, but you trusted God instead, and that’s what made you truly strong.
Lucinda: You asked God, and so you received. Doesn’t Jesus say something similar in Matthew 5… or was it Matthew 7? Anyway, you know what I’m referring to!
Lucinda: So, perhaps you were chosen because rather than rely on your own strength, you trusted in the One who gives you all the strength you need!
Lucinda: Like a true heroine getting help when she knows her limits!
Lucinda: So just keep trusting in Jesus, and don’t worry about this portal business. You’ll be grand!
Lucinda: You know, there’s a saying: “God invented whiskey to prevent the Irish from ruling the world”!
Lucinda: Well, I’m Irish and I don’t drink whiskey! So, don’t worry, girl! I’ll never leave your side, so you’ll always be unbeatable!
Lucinda: That’s more like it, my girl! You’re back to your usual cheerful self!
Lucinda: Come now, Love. Let’s drink our tea before it gets cold.
Text: And so, Samantha and her best friend, Lucinda, finish the rest of their tea in peace, before having a good night’s sleep.
Text: With the events of the day now behind her, Samantha enjoys a moment of peace… for now.
Text: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” — Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:7–8, NIV)
Text: To be continued…
Episode 6: The Pancake Queen Strikes Back
Lucinda: Good morning, Sammy! It’s nice to see you up bright and early! Lovely breeze, isn’t it?
Lucinda: Poor thing. You never will be a morning person, will you? Too bad it’s your turn to make breakfast today!
Lucinda: And it’s a good thing, too, because I’ve been dying for your pancakes again! You’re, like, the master at making them!
Lucinda: Go on, Love! Channel your inner strength! Make us the best pancakes you can muster!
Lucinda: *Gasp* The sunglasses are out! You really mean business! The Pancake Queen has finally re-emerged!
Text: Samantha, channelling her inner “Pancake Queen” power, begins making her housemates a scrumptious breakfast, with what seems like effortless natural talent.
Lucinda: Are you finished, Sammy? … I’ll call the others now!
Lucinda: They smell absolutely amazing, Love! Great job!
Maya: As expected from the Pancake Queen herself.
Clara: Thanks a bunch, Sammy!
Text: After enjoying Samantha’s food, the girls casually talk among themselves.
Text: Thankfully, Samantha is now fully awake.
Maya: An excellent meal as always, Sammy.
Clara: Yeah, thanks, Sammy!
Lucinda: She’s good, isn’t she?
Lucinda: So, Sammy and I were thinking about heading into the city now. Would you two like to come with us?
Maya: Sorry, but I have an errand to run. Maybe another time, though!
Lucinda: All good, Pet! What about you, Clara?
Clara: Oh,I would love to… thanks for inviting me!
Lucinda: Of course, Love! Might as well relax before we’re buried in our assignments, yeah?
Maya: I’ll get going, then. You girls have fun.
Lucinda: You too, Maya. We’ll head off in a few minutes ourselves!
Clara: Got it!
Text: Shortly after, Maya leaves to do her errand, while Samantha, Lucinda, and Clara head out into the city to enjoy their holiday break.
Cashier: Hey, guys! What can I get for you today?
Clara: I’d like a hot chocolate, please.
Lucinda: I’ll have an Earl Grey with a dash of milk.
Lucinda: And my friend here would like a raspberry tea.
Cashier: Excellent, one moment please…
Lucinda: Ah, nothing beats a classic Earl Grey.
Clara: And this hot chocolate is nice. It’s funny how drinks always seem to taste better when someone else makes it.
Clara: Don’t you agree, Sammy?
Lucinda: That’s the classic placebo effect for you!
Lucinda: So, Clara… zoology? That’s quite an interesting field of study you’ve chosen!
Clara: Well, I’ve always loved animals. So, I just thought it was a good fit. Plus, I’m not always good in social situations… but I don’t have to worry about that with animals!
Lucinda: *Giggles* You put up with us, Love, so in my book you’re already grand in social situations! Plus, you’ve got the heart for it, so I think you’ll do great in your studies!
Clara: Thanks, Lucy. And I can totally see you doing well in your teaching studies, also.
Clara: You’ve really got that… approachable, elegant persona to you. Students would be delighted to learn from you!
Lucinda: Aw, you’ll make me blush, Love! We’ll see how I handle marking assignments and parent-teacher interviews first…
Lucinda: And as for you, Sammy… medicine? I totally saw that coming. I mean, you are a genius, after all. And I believe you want to specialise in research, right?
Clara: I think it suits you, Sammy. You’re always looking out for others, and as a medical researcher, you’ll be able to help thousands of people!
Clara: I wish I were smart like you!
Clara: You think I am? … Thanks, Sammy!
Text: The girls talk some more as they drink their tea, until…
Lucinda: Just to change the topic, Clara, you haven’t heard about Sammy and Amy’s little adventure yesterday, have you?
Clara: Oh… not really. I only heard bits and pieces from upstairs when Amy dropped by. But I’d love to hear about it!
Lucinda: Ohh, Love. It was a real thriller, I tell you! Why don’t you tell her about it, Sammy?
Clara: Sorry, Sammy, I need to get this.
Clara: Hello, Father.
Clara’s Father: Come to the house. Now.
Clara: Oh, is it urgent? I was actually with my friends at the moment—
Clara’s Father: I don’t care. Come now. *hangs up*
Clara: … I’m sorry, but I have to go. My father wants me for something.
Lucinda: Will you be coming back here?
Clara: Um… I’ll try.
Clara: But don’t worry, guys. You don’t have to wait for me. You go when you want to. I might be a while, anyway.
Clara: You want to come with me, Sammy?
Clara: Oh… that’s really sweet of you.
Lucinda: I think that’s a great idea! I’ll come with you too!
Clara: You too, Lucy…?
Clara: … Okay! Let’s go.
Text: Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. — Galatians 6:2, NIV
Text: To be continued….
Episode 7: Clara’s Sorrow
Text: At Samantha’s initiative, Samantha and Lucinda begin walking Clara home, where she is to see what her father wants.
Clara: Thanks for walking me here, guys. I really appreciate it.
Lucinda: Anytime, Love! And we’ll walk you back home too when you’re done!
Clara: Oh… are you sure? I’m not sure how long I’ll be…
Lucinda: That’s okay! We can wait for you in the park here, or go on a walk nearby. Just give us a call when you’re done!
Clara: Well… okay! I’ll try not to be too long…
Lucinda: All good, Love!
Clara: See you, then!
Lucinda: You’ve noticed it, haven’t you, Sammy? That look of sadness in her eyes each time she talks with her father?
Lucinda: She tells us everything’s okay, but… well, we don’t know the details… all we can do is be there for her, and let her know that we are.
Door: *Knock* *Knock* *Knock*
Clara: It’s me, Father…
Clara’s Father: Come in.
Clara: Hi, Father…
Clara’s Father: I heard you applied for zoology... is that true?
Clara: … Y-yes… I did.
Clara’s Father: Withdraw immediately.
Clara: … But Father… it’s what I’m passionate about.
Clara’s Father: I don’t care what you’re passionate about. Withdraw and apply for economics instead. As I told you.
Clara: But I can’t do economics! I… really struggle with it…
Clara’s Father: You can’t do anything, much less zoology, because you’re simply incompetent. At least with economics our family has tutors, so you can have some chance of achieving success. Even if it’s unlikely.
Clara: Father, I’m 18 now. I can decide for myself what I want to do. Plus, I’m really dedicated to this, so I know I’ll do well. I won’t fail!
Clara’s Father: You’re an 18-year-old woman with the mind of an eight-year-old child! You don’t get it, do you? Hard work now won’t matter at this point! You’re simply not gifted for zoology or anything of that high level of study! Economics is your only option.
Clara: I … I don’t want to do it.
Clara’s Father: … If that’s the case, I’ll withdraw all funding for your course. You’ll have to pay for yourself.
Clara: I can just apply for a study loan, then, and pay it off when I begin working.
Clara’s Father: You’ll rack up a debt, and then when you’ve failed the course, you’ll come crying back to me for future work prospects when you finally learn the reality that you’re not cut out for zoology or anything without someone holding your hand!
Text: Meanwhile, at the park where Samantha and Lucinda are waiting…
Lucinda: … So, that’s why Winter’s my favourite season, Love.
Lucinda: I feel a chaotic presence approaching.
Amy: Ooh, hey! It’s my favourite little sister and her best friend!
Amy: Hey, Sammy! Hey, Lucy!
Lucinda: Hi, Amy! What brings you here, Love? I thought you had work today?
Amy: Yeah, but I had a short shift today, so I decided to go on a little walk after I finished. And then I saw you guys here! So, whatcha both doing?
Lucinda: We were out at Café Connoisseur, but then Clara had to leave to meet with her father. So, we decided to go with Clara and are waiting here till she’s done.
Amy: Ooh, Cuddly Clara? I need to give that girl a hug right now! It’s been too long!
Lucinda: Didn’t you hug her literally last night before leaving the house?
Amy: Yeah… but that wasn’t enough! So, I’ll wait just here with you guys till she arrives!
Lucinda: Okay, Love… but be warned… it may require patience.
Amy: Oh man… my biggest weakness!
Amy: Hey, you’re not supposed to laugh at my plight, Sammy! Bad little sister!
Lucinda: Honestly, Love, after all the portal madness you put poor Sammy through, I don’t blame her! In fact, I’m surprised she hasn’t annihilated you yet!
Amy: Wow, RUDE, Lucy… but totally fair!
Text: Meanwhile, back inside Clara’s father’s house…
Clara’s Father: Please Father, I’m begging you… just believe in me this time! I’m really trying hard to please you…
Clara’s Father: You’ve always been a disappointment to me; it’s too late to please me now.
Clara: But… what can I do then?
Clara’s Father: Do what I’ve been telling you to do this whole time. Or else…
Clara’s Father: … Listen, I’m trying to save both your time and mine, and stop you from ruining our family’s public image.
Clara: You’re just… …
Clara’s Father: I’m just what? Unfair? You were born in a family of politicians, so you’ve known your role all along.
Clara’s Father: It’s too bad you don’t happen to like it; but that’s just life.
Clara: You’re just… trying to ruin my life!
Amy: Clara?
Lucinda: Quick, let’s follow her!
Text: Samantha, Amy, and Lucinda continue pursuing Clara. They end up near Café Connoisseur, but they’re having a hard time keeping track of Clara.
Male Voice: So, you’re the girl I’ve been sent to capture.
Male Voice: A pity. It seems like you’re just an ordinary, weak girl.
Clara: What?
Amy: Are you sure she went this way, Sammy?
Lucinda: I’m sure she did! Let’s keep going!
Clara: *Screams*
Lucinda: Clara!
Amy: It came from that direction!
Lucinda: Oh no…
Amy: Not another one of them…
Lucinda: What should we do?
Clara (Memory): Hey, Sammy? I just wanted to say… thank you.
Clara (Memory): Thank you for coming into my life when you did and for accepting me… even when I was just a sad lonely girl back then who stayed away from everyone.
Clara (Memory): Ever since you befriended me, I’ve been able to talk with people and get on well with my classmates.
Clara (Memory): To be honest, while I do enjoy spending time with a few people… you’re the only true friend I have in life.
Clara (Memory): … The only one who really understands me… and who’s always there for me no matter what.
Clara (Memory): And that means everything to me.
Text: … you’re the only true friend I have in life.
Amy: Wait, Sammy, STOP! Come back!
Amy: She ignored me! The AUDACITY!
Amy: I’m going in after her!
Lucinda: Wait, Amy! You have that SDS guy’s number, right? You should call him now! I’ll go in and look after Sammy!
Amy: But she’s… okay, you’re right. Take care of Sammy, Lucy!
Lucinda: Of course!
Phone: *Ringing*
Riley: Hello, this is Riley Corwin.
Amy: Riley, it’s me, Amy Flowerdew! I need your help!
Riley: Oh, Amy? What’s happened?
Amy: There’s a portal here near Café Connoisseur! Clara got sucked into it, and Sammy and my friend, Lucinda, went in after her!
Riley: I’ll be right there! Hang on!
Text: To be continued…
Episode 8: Clara’s Saviour
Clara: What… what have you done to me?
Man: I infused you with a special power. When you tap into it, you’ll be able to perform powerful feats akin to magic.
Clara: A special power? … It feels like a curse!!!
Man: That’s because it is a curse! Specifically, one of the most powerful curses from the Isles of Galerock. I’m honestly surprised you were able to receive it without dying, or at least passing out, but here we are.
Man: Oh, and word of advice: try not to get overly angry or emotional from now on. That can trigger the transformation.
Clara: … Transformation?
Man: Heh… the transformation that gives you access to your powers. I’ll let you find out for yourself. It’ll be… quite the experience, to put it lightly.
Clara: I… I don’t want this! I don’t want anything to do with this curse… these powers… the portals…
Clara: I just want to live a normal life and study zoology! That’s always been my dream… and it’s all I want!
Man: Well, it’s a shame that my client insisted on giving you this curse… because that dream of yours? … You’re never going to achieve it now.
Clara: *gasps in horror and sorrow*
Amy: (Please be okay, Sammy… Lucy… Clara.)
Young Man: Excuse me!
Cashier: I heard a scream; is everything all right?
Amy: Well… my sister and friends are in there… so not really. But help is on the way! I just… hope he makes it in time.
Cashier: Oh… I hope so too.
Amy: Oh hang on a sec… you’re the café guy!
Amy: I’ve always wondered what your name was. My name’s Amy.
Cashier: I’m Eric. Pleased to finally meet you properly. Though… it’s a shame it couldn’t have been under better circumstances.
Amy: Eric… it’s nice to finally know your name! Thanks for coming out to check on me.
Eric: Oh… that’s okay, Amy. I just… hope your sister and friends will be all right.
Riley (Memory): That’s how you “sheathe” your sword in this realm, so to speak.
Riley (Memory): And to bring it back, you extend your arm like before and think of the blade.
Man: Anyway, I’m not done with you yet.
Man: It’s time for you to put your powers to the test. You use the power? You survive. You refuse to use it? You die. It’s as simple as that.
Clara: Well then… I choose to die.
Man: … What?
Clara: If this is what my life’s come to… then I have nothing left to live for.
Clara: So I don’t care… just kill me.
Clara: Besides… I’m just a burden to everyone… it’s not as if anyone would miss me.
Man: … Foolish girl. You think throwing your life away will just solve everything?
Man: Embracing the curse will be your chance to prove that you’re not a burden.
Man: But I digress… the choice to survive or die is yours. Snakes, attack her!
Snakes: *HISS*
Clara: Sammy… you heard what I just said before? And you’re saying that… you would miss me?
Clara: Why… why are you always so kind to me?
Clara: What have I ever done for you?
Man: So… the wielder of the Golden Jubilee Blade has arrived.
Man: How fascinating that you were chosen…
Man: To think that an ordinary young girl would be given this huge role…
Man: You intend to protect your friend, do you? You’ve got courage, I’ll give you that.
Lucinda: Sammy! Clara!
Lucinda: Are you both all right!?
Clara: We are… thanks to Sammy.
Man: Well, well… this day just keeps getting more interesting.
Man: As touching as this high school reunion is… I think this is the perfect opportunity to see the true power of the Golden Jubilee Blade in action.
Clara: Please don’t hurt Sammy…
Lucinda: Hold up! Who are you!? And why did you kidnap Clara?
Man: Fight first… questions later.
Lucinda: GROSS! What IS that thing?
Clara: Oh no…
Man: So then, Blade Wielder… let’s see what you can do against this.
Man: Oh, and try not to come in contact with its spew. Side-effects can include hives, migraines, and nausea for days on end.
Lucinda: No pressure, Sammy… just avoid the magic vomit.
Clara: She’s giving you a look that says, ‘Not helpful, Lucy.’
Lucinda: Okay, bad jokes aside… I may not be able to fight, Sammy, but I’ll still stand by your side all the way! Just like I told you last night!
Man: Slime, attack them! Show no mercy!
Slime: *GURGLING SOUND*
Lucinda: We’ll be praying for you!
Clara: That’s right!
Text: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.” — God (Jeremiah 31:3, NIV)
Episode 9: Samantha’s Trial
Slime: *GURGLING SOUND*
Man: Is that really all you’ve got, Blade Wielder?
Man: If you think a few weak strikes will work against it, you’re sadly mistaken.
Clara: It looks like her attacks aren’t doing anything…
Lucinda: This isn’t good…
Man: *scoffs* I guess power is only useful when it’s in the right hands.
Man: Slime, show her what a real strike looks like.
Man: Keep attacking her! Don’t hold back!
Clara: (How can I just stand here… when Sammy’s in danger?)
Clara: (… What kind of friend am I?)
Clara: (God, I’m begging you… please protect Sammy!)
???: Hello, Clara.
Clara: Who are you? … What’s happening?
???: *chuckles* Oh sweet, innocent Clara… you know who I am.
Clara?: Because I… AM you.
Clara?: Or, more specifically… I’m the part of you that desires power and control… that part that you buried deep within.
Clara: … You’re a part of me that I… suppressed?
Clara?: Exactly! Just think of me as the version of you… when you’ve been pushed to the very limits… and you’re just done with the world.
Clara?: … The version of you that wants revenge and justice… and you finally have the power to achieve both with your own two hands.
Clara: But if you’re just a part of me… a desire of mine hidden away… how can you even exist outside of me… and talk to me?
Clara?: Because the curse that you now have gave birth to me… and when you fully accept it, you and I will be one.
Clara: I don’t want to accept it! I don’t want revenge, or power… I just want to live a normal life!
Clara?: A normal life… without Sammy?
Clara?: Because at this rate… it looks like she’s not going to last much longer against that monster.
Clara: *gasps* Sammy…
Clara?: But you can change that…
Clara?: If you accept the curse now, you can easily tear that monster to shreds… save Sammy… and keep her in your life.
Clara?: Sounds like a pretty good deal, if you ask me.
Clara: But what if I… lose myself in the process?
Clara?: … You won’t completely lose yourself… that is… not if you’re strong.
Clara?: Are you willing to be strong for Sammy, Clara? The person who means the most to you?
Clara?: … *sighs* Too late now.
Clara: What?
Clara?: Sammy’s backup has arrived. But the time will come when you have to make a choice for the curse. So choose wisely.
Slime: *GURGLING SOUND*
Riley: Are you okay, Samantha?
Riley: Good. You’re really brave for going in and protecting your friends. If you hadn’t done so, they’d probably be dead by now.
Riley: Thank you for doing what most people would’ve been too afraid to do.
Amy: Okay, firstly… I only just saw it, but AWESOME sword moves, Sammy! You’re really nailing that RPG heroine look!
Amy: Secondly: UGH, WHY do you never LISTEN to me? Would it kill you to LISTEN to what I had to say before RUSHING OFF into the portal!?
Amy: Thirdly: I LOVE YOU, you beautiful bundle of sass, and I’m so glad you’re okay!
Riley: We went from joy, to fury, to love in less than 30 seconds.
Lucinda: We must be in a rom-com!
Amy: Clara, Lucy, I’m so glad you’re both all right too!
Clara: Thanks, Amy.
Lucinda: Thanks, Love, but why is the café guy here?
Eric: To be honest, ever since I saw a giant slime get steamrolled into oblivion by a guy with a magic sword, I’m not sure I understand reality anymore, much less why I’m standing here.
Amy: Translation: ask him after a coffee fix!
Eric: Yes, basically.
Man: It seems my job here is done.
Lucinda: Oh no you don’t! You first need to answer for why you kidnapped Clara!
Riley: So, this was a kidnapping.
Man: The answer is simple. I kidnapped Clara… because my client told me to. That’s all there is to it.
Clara: Who is your client!? And what do they want from me!?
Man: I can’t specify any details. All I will say is this…
Man: Think carefully about what I told you before regarding your newfound potential.
Man: You’ll have to make a choice eventually, because you and the Blade Wielders will almost certainly be tested again by the Isles of Galerock.
Man: And lastly…
Man: Your courage is commendable… but you have a long way to go when it comes to being a Blade Wielder. Don’t think it’ll be easier from here on out.
Man: I’ll be on my way now.
Riley: You think I’m just going to let you go free after you kidnap Clara, threaten the lives of three girls, and force Samantha to fight a monster?
Man: We could have a battle here… at the risk of one of these civilians getting caught in the crossfire… if that’s what you’re willing to risk.
Riley: *exasperated sigh*… You’re a real slimy creep.
Man: I’m just here to do a job. Until we meet again, no doubt…
Amy: Man, I could really do with a double-choc espresso frappé with caramel icing right about now…
Lucinda: … Seriously, Amy?
Riley: THAT’S what you’re thinking about now?
Amy: What!? I finished a shift earlier, and I’m HUNGRY. And when I’m hungry, I think about FOOD!
Lucinda: … But not about kidnappings, monsters, and forced survival tests?
Amy: Oh, come on! Don’t pretend you’re also not secretly thinking about dinner! Clara, Eric, back me up here!
Clara: Amy, I love you, but dinner was not even remotely on my mind right after my life was threatened…
Amy: I love you too, Clara-Bear!
Eric: Why is no one commenting on the fact that the man just teleported! HE TELEPORTED! Am I the only sane one here?
Amy: Okay, fine! But just look at Sammy! She’s CLEARLY thinking about food right now! It’s written all over her face!
Lucinda: She looks like she’s judging you, Amy.
Clara: Or plotting your demise…
Amy: That’s just because she’s mad that I’m right!
Eric: I think I’m about to encounter a murder…
Riley: I suggest we continue our conversation back in our world before another slime monster appears and actually murders us… or before Samantha murders Amy before then!
Text: And so, Samantha and friends make their way out of the portal and arrive back in the city.
Text: They contact the police, who then secure the portal. Then, at Eric’s invitation, they head to Café Connoisseur, where he treats them to some drinks and light snacks.
Clara: Thanks for the free meal, Eric.
Eric: No worries! You’ve been through a lot, so you deserve it.
Lucinda: Poor thing. You must have been so scared when you got kidnapped and attacked.
Clara: I was… but I’m okay now. I’m just really thankful Sammy came in time to save me. If not for her, I probably wouldn’t be here now.
Amy: And she killed the snakes by hurling her blade at them, didn’t she? Isn’t my little sister just the coolest!? She’s the MVP for tonight!
Clara: I’m also really thankful for your intervention, Riley. You saved us all, and you destroyed that monster like it was nothing!
Riley: That’s only because I’m trained. The real MVP of tonight is Samantha, because unlike me, she actually held her ground even without training. That’s true strength and perseverance.
Eric: That’s a good point.
Lucinda: You both did wonderfully!
Amy: By the way, Clara, we saw you leave your house in tears and followed you, which was how we knew you were in the portal… what happened?
Clara: Oh… so you saw that.
Clara: My father and I just had an argument about what I wanted to do for the future… but it’s no big deal. I think I just got too emotional, that’s all.
Lucinda: Clara… back there, you didn’t just look emotional… you looked crushed… from our perspective, it looked like a big deal.
Clara: …
Amy: You realise you can tell us anything, right, Clara? We’ll always support you.
Clara: I was upset… not only because my father tried to pressure me into studying economics, because of the family’s tutors…
Clara: … But because he continually put me down for my dream of studying zoology…
Clara: He kept saying that I would fail… that I would drag down the family’s image… that I’ve always been a disappointment to him.
Clara: But… I rebelled. I told him that I’m old enough to make my own choices. And when he continued to argue… I just broke down and ran away…
Clara: So… maybe it’s my fault for not listening to him.
Riley: It’s not your fault, Clara.
Riley: Your father sounds like a bully… and you didn’t rebel against him. All you did was stand up to him, and let him know that you won’t let him treat you this way.
Riley: That’s not anything to be ashamed of… it was necessary.
Lucinda: I agree. You did the right thing by standing up for yourself. He has no right to treat you so badly just because you have a different goal from him.
Amy: Yeah! Continue with zoology, Clara-Bear! And for the record: I think you’ll make an AMAZING zoologist!
Eric: I hardly know you, and even I agree!
Lucinda: As do I, Love.
Riley: If I ever have animal or pet needs in the future, I’ll know who to call!
Clara: Thanks, you guys…
Lucinda: Not to bring down the mood… but that armoured man also mentioned something about your “newfound potential”…
Riley: Yeah… I was thinking the same thing.
Amy: Come to think of it, we still don’t really know why he kidnapped you, Clara.
Clara: I’m sorry, but… I don’t want to talk about it.
Clara: I’ve… had a rough day. I just want to take my mind off everything.
Lucinda: That’s completely fair, Love. I’m sorry for bringing it up.
Clara: No, it’s okay, Lucy. I think I’ll be able to share more… after I’ve rested a bit.
Lucinda: I understand. We won’t push you.
Clara: Thank you.
Lucinda: Okay, time to change the topic.
Lucinda: So, Sammy… I’ve been dying to know… how does it feel to be a heroine now?
Lucinda: You rushed into a new dimension… slayed three snake monsters… and held your ground against a GIANT slime long enough for reinforcements to arrive…
Lucinda: What’s your secret, Love?
Amy: The answer is obvious, Lucy. The secret behind Sammy’s heroic exploits… is that she has the BEST older sister watching out for her… isn’t that right, Sammy?
Riley: More like the secret is that she has the patience of a saint to PUT UP with you watching out for her…
Eric: Honestly? That’s impressive.
Clara: I think the secret behind Sammy’s heroic exploits… is that she prioritises the safety of others above her own, because she has a heart for God… and a heart of gold.
Lucinda: You took the words right out of my mouth, Love!
Amy: Okay, yeah, that’s the real answer! … But also because she has me in her life!
Text: Samantha and her friends stay a while longer at the cafe, winding down after a challenging day… but their journey is only just beginning.
Text: “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” — Proverbs 18:24 (NIV)
Episode 10: The Story of Two Flowers
Clara: I first met Sammy when I moved to another high school, three years ago.
Clara: Back then, I was a sad lonely girl, who had no friends.
Clara: I was often bullied and ignored throughout my school years.
Clara: I’m not sure why. I think it was because the students could sense I was different somehow, and that I didn’t know how to fit in.
Clara: My home life was even worse, though.
Clara: For as long as I can remember, my father hasn’t ever loved me.
Clara: He would always favour my older sister over me and treat me coldly.
Clara: No matter how hard I tried, I could never win my father’s approval, and to make this worse my sister would bully me and look down on me.
Clara: I know why this happened, though. It’s because my mother died after giving birth to me.
Clara: My father has never got over that… and he’s taken out his anger on me.
Clara: My entire childhood was horrible, and I felt like a fragile flower, left to die in an empty flowerpot.
Clara: But then, in the new high school, things changed.
Clara: That was when the Radiant Flower came along, and planted herself next to the Fragile Flower.
Clara: And of course… that Radiant Flower is none other than Samantha Flowerdew.
Clara: The only one who took notice of me… and cared for me… even though I wasn’t nice to her at first.
Text: Three years ago, 7 February 2022
Text: *SCHOOL BELLS RINGING*
Female Teacher: Thank you, year tens. You may now go out for lunch.
Text: *STUDENT CHATTER*
Clara: I don’t want to talk.
Clara: I don’t need your sympathy. Just… leave me alone.
Clara: (Why was I mean to her? She didn’t do anything wrong…)
Text: The next day…
Lucinda: Oh, you’ll meet me at the usual place, you say?
Lucinda: Okay, Sammy, I’ll wait for you.
Clara: (What’s she holding?)
Clara: … Can I help you?
Clara: (She drew… a picture of me and her?)
Clara: (It’s… beautiful.)
Clara: I didn’t ask for that.
Clara: I already told you to leave me alone, so stop trying to befriend me.
Text: *TUMMY RUMBLES*
Clara: Stop staring at me!
Clara: (You’re better off not knowing someone as worthless as me…)
Text: The next morning, before school…
Clara: Father? We’ve run out of food.
Clara’s Father: That’s not my problem.
Clara: … But I get really hungry at school.
Clara’s Father: You get food in the morning and in the evening. You don’t need any more than that. It’s just a waste of money.
Text: Later that morning…
Amy: Totally random comment, but I noticed you packing more sandwiches into your lunchbox than usual, Sam-Sam.
Amy: Are you just super hungry or something? Or do you have a special someone in your life…?
Amy: Hey! I am NOT talking too much!
Amy: Listen here, Sammy! I know you’re hiding something! And I WILL find out who your secret crush is!
Amy: Huh?
Amy: Hey! Get back here you sass fairy!
Text: Later, during recess…
Clara: Why do you keep coming back to me…?
Clara: I’ve been rude and inconsiderate to you! Just go away and make friends with someone else already!
Clara: Wait… that’s for me?
Clara: I…no one’s ever… given me a gift like this before…
Clara: … Why are you being so kind to me?
Clara: Because… I matter, you say?
Clara: *HITCHED BREATH*
Clara: *SOB*
Clara: *DEEP BREATH*
Clara: *SNIFFLE*
Clara: I’m… I’m so sorry for how I treated you!
Clara: I was so afraid… that you would leave me…
Clara: That after I was mean to you… you wouldn’t ever come back…
Clara: But you did come back… thank you so much…
Amy: (So that’s what she was trying to do… befriend the loneliest girl in the school.)
Amy: (I’m so proud of you, Sammy.)
Amy: (You really are the best little sister I could ever ask for…)
Clara: From that moment on, the Fragile Flower and the Radiant Flower became close friends.
Clara: Soon after that, Sammy introduced me to her friend, Lucinda, and I was welcomed with open arms.
Lucinda: Hey, Sammy! Who’s this lovely flower you brought with you?
Clara: Um… hi! My name’s, um… Clara. Clara Agneson.
Lucinda: Hello, Clara! What a beautiful name! I’m Lucinda Evergreen. But you can call me Lucy.
Lucinda: Pleased to meet you, Love!
Clara: Oh, um… likewise!
Clara: But… is it really okay for me to be here? I mean… you guys don’t even know me.
Lucinda: Of course it’s okay, Love! Sammy wouldn’t have brought you here if she didn’t want you here!
Lucinda: And besides, I myself would love to get to know you!
Clara: Oh… thanks, Lucy.
Clara: So… your name is Sammy, right? Is that short for something?
Lucinda: That’s right, Clara. Her birth name is Samantha. Samantha Flowerdew. But everybody calls her Sammy.
Clara: … That’s really cute. It’s nice to meet you too, Sammy!
Clara: You want me to sit with you, Sammy? … Okay, sure!
Text: The girls talk with each other until their lunch break is over.
Text: Three years later… 8 January 2025
Text: The morning after Samantha and friends rescued Clara from the armoured man and the snake and slime monsters.
Text: *PHONE ALARM RINGS*
Text: *BLANKET MOVES*
Clara: … I wish it weren’t my turn to cook today…
Clara’s Father (Memory): Do what I’ve been telling you to do this whole time. Or else…
Man (Memory): Well, it’s a shame that my client insisted on giving you this curse… because that dream of yours? … You’re never going to achieve it now.
Clara? (Memory): Sammy’s backup has arrived. But the time will come when you have to make a choice for the curse. So choose wisely.
Clara: I wish it was all a dream… but it’s not…
Clara: How on earth will I tell them… that I’ve been cursed?
Clara: What’s that music?
Clara: Sammy?
Clara: Hi, Sammy. But why are you making breakfast? It’s my turn today.
Clara: Are you doing it… just to be kind?
Clara: Sammy…
Clara: You beautiful dork… let me help you at least.
Clara: Sorry, Sammy, but I insist! After all, it’s only right that I help… the legendary Pancake Queen!
Clara: I may have a curse now… but with Sammy by my side… maybe there’s still hope for me to live a normal life.
Clara: At the very least… I know that as long as Sammy’s with me… I’ll always be loved and cherished… and that I’ll never have to bear this burden alone.
Text: And so… the Fragile Flower joined the Radiant Flower in the kitchen that day… and cooked everyone a fine meal.
Text: “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat…” — Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34–35, NIV)