Lost Sword story · Character episode

Belsey Episode

5 scenes, 355 lines

1. The Queen of Cows

59 lines

This world is packed with legends.

Fire-breathing dragons, treasures buried at sea, ancient spirits...

Nothing's really shocking anymore. See enough supernatural nonsense, and it just turns into background noise.

Or so I thought...

Until the girl I bumped into on my way back from training rattled me so hard, I forgot how to breathe.

Cowqueen

Mmm... mmnya...

Ethan

What the... is that supposed to be...

A cow? No, no, she's human... technically. Still, when one feature screams "barnyard," the brain makes connections on its own.

Cowqueen

Aaahm... fuuuwaaah!

Stretching wide, the woman yawned, then blinked curiously around.

Cowqueen

Hm? Who are you?

Ethan

Uh... let's just go with "passing adventurer."

Cowqueen

Ohh, Mr. Adventurer? Do you need something from me?

Ethan

Nope.

Cowqueen

Woah...! Turning me down flat like that...

Moo! You are so stiff! Most guys come stampeding the moment they see me, hehe☆

Ethan

...Does that count as "stiff"? I just answered honestly.

Not that I do not get it. She does have... assets.

But I am not falling for that anymore. Chase the shiny package, end up cleaning up a disaster. Learned that the hard way.

As I tried to sneak away, she suddenly tugged hard on my sleeve.

Cowqueen

Mr. Adventurer. Quick question.

Ethan

...Quick question?

Cowqueen

Where can I find a real hero? Someone dignified, fearless, legendary.

Ethan

A hero...? Do those even exist?

Cowqueen

I heard they do! Brave, noble, someone everyone looked up to. I came here just to meet them!

Ethan

Wait, so you are from outside the continent?

Cowqueen

Yep! From an island called Beastrian!

I am the queen there, The Cowqueen!

"Cowqueen." Yeah... can't say the branding doesn't fit.

The cow-girl herself. I forced my eyes off her overwhelming... presence and tried to act cool.

Ethan

Anyway, I wouldn't know.

Cowqueen

Shame! I also heard this Swordbringer guy is a total legend.

My ears perked.

Ethan

Swordbringer...?

Cowqueen

Yes! They say he saves nations, helps the helpless, never bows to injustice, fights for the greater good!

Someone that amazing deserves a reward... And my kingdom's got piles of ancient treasure...!

Reveal Identity

Ethan

Ahem! AHEM!!

Cowqueen

...? What's with you?

Ethan

That Swordbringer... is me.

Finally, after a lifetime of thankless grind, my payday has arrived!

...Okay, maybe a bit suspicious, but still.

Do Not Reveal Identity

Ethan

R-Riiight. Well, gotta run. Busy guy here.

Cowqueen

Heeey, You're not the Swordbringer, are you? You've totally got the vibe. Upright, strong, suspiciously heroic!

Even if you say no, I think you are a hero. Come on, let's chat!

How about it? Hm? You looked bored anyway!

...Yeah, escape was never on the table. With a sigh, I spilled it.

Ethan

...Fine. I am the Swordbringer.

Cowqueen

Whaaat?

When I whipped out the Grail, the dead giveaway, Cowqueen gasped, then broke into a massive grin.

Cowqueen

So it really is you, Mr. Swordbringer!

Ethan

Y-Yeah. So... about that reward...

Cowqueen

Mr. Swordbringer!!

Ethan

...What now?

Cowqueen

I have been searching for someone like you forever! To meet you here... it must be fate!

Ethan

What the hell are you even...

Cowqueen

Come with me! To Beastrian Island!!

Ethan

...Excuse me, what?

2. Cow Paradise

59 lines

I listened as the Cowqueen told me about Beastrian Island.

And then it clicked. That old "legendary island" story my comrades once mentioned.

Ethan

I never imagined she'd be the one running that mysterious island. I just thought it was some forgotten deserted rock...

Cowqueen

Huh? No way! Everyone's living happily there! Mmmuu, moo, moo...

Ethan

Is that... a ranch? A dairy farm?

Cowqueen

Of course. It's packed with dairy-cow beastfolk!

Ethan

...What?

Cowqueen

You didn't know? I'm not even human, you know? Heheh!☆

Cowqueen

We've also got sheep, cats, wolves, lots of beastfolk living together.

Not just cow beastfolk but dairy-cow beastfolk... and a whole animal village?

An actual farmyard kingdom?

I was so dumbfounded I lost my words. The Cowqueen just stretched lazily, unfazed.

Cowqueen

Stretch!

Lately my shoulders ache and my back's been sore. I think I'm out of shape.

Ethan

I think there's... another reason for that.

Cowqueen

Another reason?

Ethan

Ahem! Anyway, why is such a great queen looking for me? I'm not really a hero...

I steered the topic away. Cowqueen blinked her big eyes and let out a long Moo.

Cowqueen

Is there anyone more deserving of the title "hero" than Mr. Swordbringer?

Even though we're cut off from the continent, news trickles in. Little birds tell stories.

You've done amazing things...!

Ethan

...Thanks for saying so.

Cowqueen

Beastrian is a wonderful place. Peaceful and full of joy.

But after a long stagnation, the island's losing its spark. Feels like the energy to move forward is drying up.

Ethan

So you're taking me there?

Cowqueen

Yes. There's so much we can learn from the Swordbringer's great journey and heroism.

Our quiet island needs a new wind! Let's make a legend together!

Cowqueen

Moo... that's so mean! To turn me down so easily.

Ethan

You're the one who came out of nowhere asking.

Cowqueen

Why not? Come with me! If you don't, I'll drag you by force!

Ethan

...This girl, no, this beastfolk, is trouble.

Sorry, but I'm not going quietly. I'll resist with everything I've got.

Cowqueen

Moo... I thought Mr. Swordbringer would help. You're not interested in our island?

Ethan

I am, but I've got things to do. Others might be free but... hmm...

I started to mention my duty as Swordbringer and my own hopes, when I remembered how my comrades were curious about that island.

Finding the legendary island, gaining allies, that could give my adventure some serious momentum.

But this woman... something about her feels dangerous...

Cowqueen

Mr. Swordbringer? Please? Hm? Please?

Accept

Ethan

...Haah, fine.

Cowqueen

I knew it! Mr. Swordbringer would say yes! Heheh!☆

Ethan

But not right now. I need to tell my comrades and finish the missions nearby.

Cowqueen

That's fine. I can wait as long as it takes!

Refuse

Ethan

No matter what, I can't. Going off-continent was never in the plan... I thought about checking it out, but...

If I just tag along and get stuck? Who knows how long I'd be trapped on that island.

And if this carefree girl is the queen, I've got to be even more cautious.

After all, follow the blind, and you'll both end up in a ditch.

Cowqueen

Moo...

Her ears drooped in disappointment, then her eyes flashed as she suddenly stepped closer.

Cowqueen

I'm taking you! I'll really kidnap you if I have to!

Ethan

Ugh...

Cowqueen

Just for a bit! I'll send you right back. You can even invite your comrades!

Looks like I don't have a choice. She's stubborn, guess that's why she's queen.

In that case, I'd better squeeze what I can out of this.

Ethan

...Then make sure the payment you promised me is solid. That's my condition.

Cowqueen

Of course. You can count on me!

3. Legend of Beastrian Island

50 lines

As we walked down the path, I listened to the Cowqueens story.

At first I was skeptical, but before I knew it, I was completely drawn into the tale of her mysterious island.

Cowqueen

Cow beastfolk were always looked down on. No influence in their communities, constantly abused and exploited.

But everything changed thanks to a hero of the past. Because of her bond with the previous Cowqueen, she also cherished the beastfolk.

Ethan

Right... she cared for the Cowqueen who once fled, and together they built a paradise for beastfolk.

Cowqueen

Exactly! Thanks to the hero, Beastrian found stability and flourished.

So if I bring another hero back, Beastrian will come alive again!

Ethan

...I doubt that hero is me.

Cowqueen

No! I'm sure of it!

You're the hero of this age, Mr. Swordbringer!

Ethan

Hmm... I don't really see myself that way.

Cowqueen

Do you know how many rumors swirl across the continent? There are so many people who've been saved by you!

So without a doubt, you are a hero!

Ethan

I only fought because I had to... Ahem.

Embarrassing words, but I couldn't argue back.

How could I tell this sparkling-eyed girl that I only fought for my own safety and goals?

Not to mention... that giant axe is scary.

Ethan

But, uh, Cowqueen.

Cowqueen

Yes?

Ethan

Is "Cowqueen" really your name?

Cowqueen

Of course not. I do have a real name!

Ethan

I knew it. So, what is it?

She giggled mischievously and bumped me with her body.

Cowqueen

Come on, that's not something I can just give away. You're so pushy, Mr. Swordbringer! Kyahaha!

Ethan

...Something big just hit me.

Cowqueen

Huh? What was that?

Ethan

Nothing. Forget it.

Cowqueen

There's another legend on the island. Well, more like a prophecy.

Ethan

What kind of prophecy?

Cowqueen

That soon, the island will be covered in dark clouds. But the destined one will appear, drive out the darkness, and save it...

Sounds like a typical hero's tale. But it's something we've never actually faced before.

So whether for our future or our safety, we need a hero.

Ethan

Doesn't sound easy...

So that's why you're dragging me along. Figures there was more to it.

Cowqueen

It'll be fine! Really!

So there might be trials harsh enough to grind me down... No way I can take this lightly.

And denying it now is pointless. She clearly believes I'm the one.

Accept

Ethan

Well... leaving my name in some legend wouldn't be the worst thing.

Cowqueen

Right?

Ethan

I don't know if I can live up to it, but... I'll do my best.

Hesitate

Ethan

Uuugh...

Cowqueen

Mr. Swordbringer?!

Moo... You're not thinking of backing out... are you? Muuu...!

Ethan

...I already said yes. I'll help however I can, even if I fall short.

I couldn't bring myself to shatter the hopeful look in her eyes. Honestly, if I told her I found this a hassle... all hell would break loose.

Cowqueen

Great! Now that we've found our hero, I can return home happily!

Cowqueen finally smiled brightly.

Will I truly become part of a new legend... or end up a cold corpse on the ground...?

4. Living Together

64 lines

A few days later.

After finishing a grueling mission, I returned to town and headed for the inn where the Cowqueen was staying.

Ethan

...She's not here. Did she leave already...?

I felt relieved, but also oddly disappointed. Curious, even.

As I stepped outside with mixed feelings, I ran right into her, the Cowqueen, arms full of hay.

Cowqueen

Moo! Hay, hay, munch munch hay...

Ah?! Mr. Swordbringer! You're back!

Ethan

Yeah...

Cowqueen

Hm? Why are you looking at me like that?

Ethan

No reason. Just... is that your breakfast?

Cowqueen

Whaaat?!

She rolled her eyes in disbelief, puffing her lips out.

Cowqueen

As if I'd eat hay. This is a gift for the cows here.

Ethan

S-Sorry... it was a joke.

Truth was, I really did think that was her breakfast. But no way I could say that.

Cowqueen

Anyway, coming this early means you're finally ready to leave for Beastrian, right?

Ethan

Not yet. Sailing across the sea in these times isn't exactly easy for me.

Cowqueen

Moo... that's disappointing.

Ethan

Don't be too down. I said I'm going, didn't I?

Cowqueen

Heheh!☆ Of course!

And honestly, I was kind of hoping you'd be the one to tame the...

Ethan

Wh-What... what did you just say...?

Cowqueen

Huh? Our dairy-cow beastfolk, of course...

...Oh! I get it! You want to tame ME specifically, don't you?

Ethan

Cough!

How can you just say stuff like that with a straight face... I have no intention of doing that.

Cowqueen

Why not? If it's you, I'd trust you.

Ethan

We barely even know each other.

Cowqueen

It's not about how long we've known each other. It's about trust. If you're destined to be the hero of our island, then I'll follow you anywhere!

Ethan

The island's people might not accept me.

Cowqueen

That won't happen! They all love me. They'll welcome you as Beastrian's hero for sure!

Her smile brimmed with confidence.

Impressive, really. It's one thing to create a paradise for outcast beastfolk... but to see their queen working this hard herself?

Maybe she doesn't even need a hero.

Cowqueen

If you're still worried, how about this, why not just live on the island with me?

It's a paradise for beastfolk, but humans can live there comfortably too. Everyone's kind and gentle!

Ethan

Live on the island, huh...

Consider it

Ethan

That'd be nice. Not now, but maybe someday.

Cowqueen

Moo... true, you still have important things to do. I got carried away.

Ethan

It's common for retired folks to enjoy life in the countryside. Fighting day after day makes me want that too...

If I ever can, I'd like to live in a place like that. And if the queen herself is inviting me...

Why would I refuse?

Cowqueen

Mr. Swordbringer...

Her eyes shimmered with emotion as she slowly stepped closer.

Cowqueen

That's...

Ethan

Uh, yeah...?

Cowqueen

That's way too cool! I think I'm falling for you! Mr. Swordbringer, tame me!

Ethan

Huh...?

Refuse

Ethan

That's impossible. No matter how nice it sounds, it's still far from the continent.

Cowqueen

Moo... I suppose you're right... I just wanted to spoil you with fresh milk every day...

Ethan

Wait. Milk...?

Why is my gaze wandering on its own... No, no, that's just instinct!

Cowqueen

Why are you staring?

Ethan

N-Nothing. Anyway... I'll be around for a while, so be patient with that much.

Cowqueen

Fine... I admit it was a selfish request. But I'll treat you well instead!

I'll give you service so good it might change your mind. Heheh!☆

I was at a loss for words. I'd just been rambling to brush her off, but somehow ended up touching her heart.

Cowqueen

I'm really moved. I have to repay you somehow...

Oh, I know! I should tell you this!

Pressing her curvy body close, she whispered softly in my ear.

Belsey

My name is... Belsey. Heheh!

5. Bunny Girl Belsey

123 lines

It had been quite a while since Cowqueen Belsey had crossed into the continent and taken up residence here.

At first she ran around with sparkling eyes, curious about everything... but as the days passed at the inn, she grew lazier and lazier.

Ethan

This can't go on.

Determined to lecture the useless queen who spent all day sipping milk, I stormed down the stairs with resolve.

Slamming into the tavern on the first floor, I shouted.

Ethan

Belsey! It's time you finally went back to Beastrian...

Belsey

Ah! Mr. Swordbringer!

Ethan

Go back... Wait, what are you wearing?!

Belsey

Eh?! They said you'd like this... Don't you? It's a bunny girl outfit!

Ethan

That's what you call a bunny girl...?

I wasn't about to deny it. The bunny ears, the tail, the leather, yeah, that's all there.

The problem was...

Ethan

Isn't that a little bare? I mean... embarrassingly bare?

Belsey

Really? I think it feels nice and breezy.

That's the problem! You only covered the essentials!

Ethan

Don't you think it looks... off? Different from other bunny girls?

Belsey

Huh? What do you mean?

Ethan

The amount of fabric... it's way less than normal...

Belsey

Oh, that's it! They said this was a special order, made just for a queen. My very own bunny girl look. Heheh!☆

Ethan

Who would special order that for you...?

Belsey

The innkeeper, Ria!

Ethan

...She's trying to use your... packed body as bait. Sweet words, but she's planning to exploit you.

Belsey

That's fine! No one who shares milk can be a bad person!

...She's already gone over to the dark side.

Well, she did grow up sheltered on an island, that explains her naivety.

But if anyone else saw her right now... she might become the center of a foul rumor.

Ethan

Belsey. I get that you want to show off your gift, but this is a little...

Belsey

Moo... You don't like it?

I like it

Ethan

That voluptuous figure and that radiant smile in a bunny outfit… of course I like it.

Belsey

Wow, that's great!

Ethan

But what I'm worried about is the fallout. Dressed like that, you'll have men swarming until it gets dangerous.

It's a little too much

Belsey

Guh... Too much...

Ethan

Not you. The situation itself is overwhelming.

It suits you, I admit. But you should take it off. Someone's going to end up dead.

Belsey

Why?

Her naive questions asked with a straight face are the worst kind of trouble.

The more I answered her innocent questions, the more my curiosity was piqued.

Ethan

By the way... who told you I liked bunny girls?

Belsey

Well, Ria did, of course.

Ria... you again...!

One day I'll get my revenge, I swore silently as I forced a smile.

Ethan

Since you caught on to my tastes, I'll remember this "royal service." Now let's wrap it up.

Belsey

Sorry, but even if you're satisfied, I can't change.

Ethan

Why not?

Belsey

Because I'm officially employed now! Heheh!☆

At that moment I wondered if Ria might actually be the most powerful being in this world.

She even turned the Cowqueen of Beastrian into a bunny girl. Where does her trickery end?

Ethan

What do you mean, "employed"? Even if you don't return to your island right away, you don't need to work for money.

Belsey

I didn't take the job for money.

Ethan

Right...? Then why?

Belsey

To pay off my debt!

Ethan

What...? Debt...?

Belsey

Yes. My tab here. After living on the island with no funds, I quickly ran out of money.

I was staying at the inn, hoping things would work out somehow, but today Ria slapped me with the bill.

With nothing to barter, I offered my body for labor, and now... ta-da!

Heheh!☆ That's how I became a bunny girl! Moo!

Ethan

Moo my foot!

Belsey

Well, what can you do. More importantly, I need to serve now... Any tips? I still don't really get how things work here.

Ethan

If Ria's got you in her hold, then you'll have to work.

But still... I respect her. Maintaining a paradise for outcast beastfolk isn't easy.

I couldn't just let her become a laughingstock.

Ethan

Sigh... Listen, Belsey.

You've got a natural smile and the guts to walk up to anyone without hesitation, no, let's call it charm.

All that's left is a pose to reel them in.

Belsey

A pose!

Ethan

Bunny girls are dangerous because they balance cute and sexy.

Belsey

I see... You really do know everything, Mr. Swordbringer!

Ethan

...It's nothing. Anyway, let's practice.

Pretend I'm a customer.

Belsey

Muu...

Welcome, sir! What would you like today?

Ethan

Weak. Too plain.

Try harder... seduce them. Give them a reason to come just to see you!

Belsey

So I have to be the reason they visit. That sounds tricky...

Ethan

Didn't you say you wanted to develop your island? Imagine the rumors when they hear about a stunning bunny girl queen! The island would thrive!

Belsey

But... Beastrian isn't a tourist spot. And it's not some social club either.

...Damn it. I got carried away.

The heart of a producer, staring at raw talent... My wicked side slipped out.

Belsey

How about this? Moooo!

Ethan

More! Make it spicier!

Belsey

Uuuh! Yoo-hoo!

Ahhaaang!☆

Ethan

Woah...

Belsey

Mr. Swordbringer? Are you okay?

Ethan

Y-Yeah... You were dazzling enough to make me forget where I am.

Of course. With weapons like that, she could do anything. I never thought she'd go that far...

Belsey

Are these hand gestures okay? Maybe you should come closer and check.

Ethan

Uhh... right now I'm a little... biologically compromised. Give me a moment to recover first.

Belsey

Huh? What does that mean?

Ethan

It just... does.

The pose is fine. Now for your lines. "What would you like today" is boring. Instead... hmm...

I muttered while letting my eyes wander over Belsey.

Ethan

How about "Would you like a glass of milk?"

Belsey

Milk?

Ethan

You like milk, don't you?

No way I can say it's because she looks like she could produce plenty herself... Today's a dangerous day.

Belsey

Okay! I'll try it!

Hey there, handsome... Want a glass of milk?

Belsey

Mr. Swordbringer...?

Ethan

Y-Yeah... good. Very good...

Coach her more

Ethan

Now, cup your chest like this... and then say the line. It'll hit even harder...

Belsey

Like this?

Sir... Would you like a glass of milk?

Ethan

Ghhk!

A bomb just went off in my face. That thick wave of sensuality crushed me flat.

No, this has to stop!

Ethan

No need to overdo it. A queen should at least keep her dignity intact.

Belsey

What was that?

Ethan

Talking to myself. Just remember that point when serving. Then you'll pay off your debt in no time.

Belsey

Got it! Thanks, Mr. Swordbringer! Heheh!☆

News of a new bunny girl spread fast through town.

With Ria's advertising and the reviews from the first customers, the inn was packed day after day.

Cowqueen Belsey... a leader of beastfolk, a race who struggled for survival...

Belsey

Welcome! Take any seat you like. And...

Would you like a glass of milk? Heheh!☆

Guest

Ooooh! Yes please!!

Ethan

...Sometimes, a little break like this isn't so bad.

I smiled faintly and downed a glass of rich milk.