Cristina's Episode

You are... Ethan.

Oh, Queen Cristina! But what brings you here alone, without the guards who usually accompany you?

You mean Sarah? She has a critical mission. I've come for a routine inspection, so I only brought a small number of guards.

You personally go to inspect even this rural area?

Of course. It is the leader's responsibility to ensure the welfare of the people.

Wow... As expected, Queen Christina! To think that you would care for the lives of the villagers... Truly a role model for royalty.

You're too kind. But more than that, it feels nostalgic to meet you again.

Haha, feel free to call on me whenever you need.

Actually, this works out well. I was feeling uneasy without Sarah... Would it be alright for you to provide escort during the inspection?

I'll make sure the payment is generous. Will you accept?

I don't have much to do right now, as I'm in the middle of maintenance. If you could ensure the payment, I'll guard you without hesitation!

I knew you'd say that. Once I prepare, I'll send someone to bring you along.

Still as beautiful as ever.

Why's that?

Well... I'm still recovering from the fatigue, and the weapon maintenance isn't finished...

Do you not understand what it means for me to personally assign you a mission?

I guess I'll have to reconsider the treasure I was going to give you. I thought it would suit Swordbringer, so I've been keeping it...

T-Treasure?

I'll take it! I'll guard it no matter what! Please forget what I just said!

You really are an easy yet troublesome person.

It's ready, Your Majesty.

Shall we depart?

By the way, is there something special about this inspection? I'd like to prepare mentally for it.

Let's just say the road is rough. I plan to visit every village along the coast.

Huh... that much...

I think I'm starting to understand why people trust and follow you, Your Majesty.

Stop with the flattery. It's my duty as a queen.

Haha, understood. But what about those things on the carriage? Are those relief supplies to be given to the people?

You'll see once we get there. Let's get on the carriage for now.

Yes.

...?

What's wrong?

Ethan, you're the only one escorting me for this inspection. In other words, you're the one who must drive the carriage as well.

Now go ahead and move to the front and take the reins, please.

...

Hmm... as expected, they all seem drained.

That's to be expected. There have been constant wars, along with attacks from monsters and thieves.

I'll need to distribute the supplies we brought.

Ethan, please remove the cover from the carriage.

To Salisbury!

Wow... I knew you had something prepared, but this much... No wonder the carriage was struggling to move.

Now's not the time to be impressed, Ethan. You need to distribute these supplies to the people now.

M-Me, alone?

This is more like being a laborer than an escort...

No time to complain. I'll help out. While you distribute the supplies, I'll give the roses to the children.

At least we can comfort their weary hearts a little, considering they're suffering from war and poverty...

...Alright.

Phew, everything has been distributed.

Well done.

Seeing the smiles on their faces reassures me.

I wish I could understand the people's hearts more deeply...

If they feel understood, they'll be more loyal to you, Your Majesty. How about living with them for a while during your stay here?

What do you mean?

By experiencing the people's lives firsthand and talking to them, you'll definitely understand their hearts.

Hmm... I see, that method makes sense. As expected, it's a suggestion fitting for you, the Swordbringer.

It will be interesting. I'll make sure to have you follow up.

Alright. I'll trust you on this one.

Isn't this enough? If you pour too much attention, you might weaken...

I'm not that fragile, Ethan.

If we don't take care of the people who have lost their vitality from not eating well or enjoying life, then Mercia will be no different than a sandcastle.

Though they're commoners who don't know much about politics, they're still the pillars that support Mercia.

If that's how you reckon, Your Majesty.

Understood. I'll help you experience the lives of the people.

Shall we have a meal first?

A meal?

If you're hungry, you can't do anything.

They're exhausted from hunger, so it'd be good to eat together and listen to their stories.

I see... Let's call the cook right away.

No. We need to eat the same food as they do. Today, I'll cook for us. Just get the ingredients ready, please.

Hmm, that makes sense. Alright, Ethan. For now, I'll eat in the same way the people do.

Heh, look at that. They're really enjoying themselves.

Verily.

Hah... Did you just see that? He breathed fire! What an interesting skill.

That takes quite a lot of courage.

Ohh...

Um... Your Majesty, I see you're completely absorbed in the performance of the jesters, but how about trying some of the food?

If you keep avoiding it, you'll get tired soon.

Ethan... Your cooking is dreadful...

The meat is too tough to chew, and it smells bad.

There's no proper oven, and no spices either.

The vegetables were passable, but there were bugs in them!

It's organic, so just shake them off and eat.

Also, why is the bread so hard?

This is what the common folk eat to survive. I honestly think this is quite a feast.

When you go deep into dungeons or if camping drags on, sometimes you end up eating roots or, in the worst case, even cooking monsters.

That sounds dreadful.

But... I think I understand why you suggested this experience.

It's a grueling task, eating in a dirty place with bad food, but for some reason, my heart feels at ease.

The expressions on the common folk were bright as well...

That's the essence of life.

The people are also trying to survive in this environment in their own way, and as a queen, I've only thought of flowers... it's embarrassing.

From now on, I need to listen more to the voices of the people.

Though, that doesn't mean I want to live like this forever!

Haha, of course. You should head back to the palace soon, so everyone will stop worrying.

Hmph. Do you dislike being with me?

What!?

It's hard to tell if you're being honest or joking... You're quite the mystery.

Still, I am grateful to you.

I knew the people were struggling, but... I couldn't get close to them because they seemed to be intimidated by me.

You've helped me connect with my people, and for that, I'll acknowledge you.

Haha... I'm honored.

You are an impressive queen. Most royalty wouldn't care for commoners this much.

You helped with the village festival, and shared supplies with those in need...

You should have more confidence in yourself.

Hmm... I see...

By the way, did you give out all the roses?

Of course. The children loved them. They said they'd plant them all around the village entrance. There are still plenty left, though.

You really do love roses, don't you?

Well then... how about we make bouquets with the remaining roses and give them out?

Oh... that's a good idea.

Alright. Gather the people over there, Ethan.

It looks lovely.

Of course. Now it truly feels like the land of Mercia.

But why do you like roses so much, Your Majesty?

That's quite an easy question.

Roses are proud. They are strong, pure, and possess unparalleled beauty.

The rose with thorns defends itself steadfastly and reveals its form in full glory. The rose without thorns comforts everyone.

Ultimately, roses stand out among other plants with their unique charm.

Doesn't it remind you of me? Rising to the throne at a young age, establishing myself amidst loneliness, standing firm despite it all?

Wow...

What's with that reaction...?

Because you're impressive. I knew you had a fondness for roses, but I didn't realize you felt that way about them.

Well, it's just... something I've come to feel over time...

How rude! I won't answer you anymore.

Whaaat? That's unfair...

Well then, answer my question.

What question?

I appointed you as my guard for this inspection.

In the end, you carried out your duties well, but honestly, I would have been satisfied if you'd just kept the security tight and did your errands properly.

What made you persuade me into having this experience?

Ah... this is also an easy question to answer.

The thing is...

I've felt this way since the formation of the alliance.

Even being right next to Britannia, you never bowed down and kept moving forward. I was captivated by your spirit.

...C-captured...captivated...?

Your Majesty?

Ahem! Cough cough!

That was a perfect answer. Continue to respect me even more!

Haha, I will.

L... like... me?

Well... I mean... of course, I need to consider a betrothal at some point... but... um...

Ah...! I didn't mean that way!

...I see.

How rude! Speaking in such a way, causing misunderstandings. Please be more careful from now on!

But... is there anything about me that you would like as a person?

Of course. Among all the people I've met, I've rarely seen someone as graceful and admirable as you.

And the same goes for you as a queen.

You may seem to look down on the commoners, but you take care of them... protect them... and in the end, you're devoted to your duties.

I prefer someone like you, a queen who gets things done, even if a little clumsily, over those who pretend with lofty ideals.

Ah, ah... I get it, so stop praising me.

Why... why is it so hot in here? Ethan, bring me some cold water right now!

To Salisbury!

Hmm... Everything seems fine. The weather's great, too. The fishermen must be having a productive day.

Do you always oversee state matters this personally, Queen Cristina?

Not usually. But thanks to the allied forces, things have calmed down. I can afford the time now.

And thanks to you, Ethan, the inspection went smoothly. Before you head back to Britannia, let me treat you to a fine dinner.

Haha, I appreciate it.

So... Cristina.

Hm? What is it, Ethan?

After the inspection, are you heading straight back to the palace?

Naturally. There's a mountain of work waiting for me.

A ruler's duties never truly pause.

I see...

Is that disappointment I hear?

It's not that. I just... feel a little sorry for you.

Sorry? Did we miss a port during our inspection?

No, nothing like that. Look at this view, blue skies, open sea...

I mean, yes of course...

Wouldn't it be nice to unwind a little? Not as a queen, but as Cristina?

You are always overworked! You need to let go of the pressure and relax some time.

I relax at the palace. We have more than enough luxuries.

Not like this!

A beach! The sea! And, ahem, a swimsuit!

That's the holy trinity of summer fun!

All I'm saying is, Your Majesty, you deserve a real break. Just once.

Um...

...And what exactly are you proposing?

Hehe... I thought you'd never ask.

Behold! I brought supplies from across the continent, crafted with love and sweat!

W-What is all this?

Essential tools for enjoying the beach!

Wait, are you always carrying this kind of stuff around?

Of course not! I brought it all for you, Queen Cristina.

For... me?

Now then! Please change behind that rock.

It should offer some privacy. I'll stand guard with blazing eyes of justice!

I... suppose I have no choice.

Ooooooh...!

W-What is this?!

My back is bare, the front's barely there, and my legs, completely exposed!

This is far too revealing! I-It's indecent!

Please calm down. That outfit suits the sea perfectly.

Suits the?! This barely qualifies as clothing!

Ugh! This is beyond shameless...!

This is the first time I've felt truly alive... ngh...!

W-What was that?! And what's with that look in your eyes?!

Ethan! Say something to defend yourself!

...W-What? Beautiful? In... in this vulgar thing?

A swimsuit that tastefully highlights your figure is like a jewel glimmering on the shore.

And I swear, I didn't bring it just to ogle you!

Umm...

Besides, it's functional! You can swim in it!

Your expression still seems suspicious.

That's just what happens when someone gazes upon true beauty!

I can't trust that silver tongue of yours...

Cristina! Have you already forgotten our bond?

I swear on the name of the Swordbringer, I've spoken nothing but the truth!

Didn't you say you wanted to enjoy yourself too? Since you're already dressed for it, and no one else is here, you might as well relax.

If anyone dares peek, I'll make sure they regret it!

Ugh... If you insist that much...

Come along, Your Majesty! Let me offer you the full seaside treatment!

Huh...? Is there more?

Of course! We're just getting started.

Would you care to lie down?

H-Huh?!

Kyaa?! I-It's cold!

Hang in there for just a second... Here I go...!

I-It's so slippery... This feels weird...

Haaah...!! This feeling... ngh...!

Huff... huff...

E-Ethan?! Why are you breathing so heavily? Are you sick or something?

Gwah!

Ethan! Are you okay?! Ethan!

Gasp!

You're finally awake? You really are carefree.

W-What happened...?

Don't you remember?

You ran off saying you'd teach me how to enjoy the beach, then tripped over your own feet.

I tripped?

Yes. I thought you were seriously injured.

It's getting late, let's head back.

Thanks to you, I'll be working through the night.

Haha... I'm sorry, Your Majesty.

....

...?

Still...

If we visit the sea again... let's go together, Ethan.

I-I'd like to really enjoy it next time... properly.

...Okay!

Ethan.

Please spare your time for me tomorrow.

...My time?

I have cleared my entire schedule for tomorrow.

May I ask why you are calling me on such a precious day off...?

.......

Do you remember the promise we made at the beach last time?

A-Ahem! I did no such thing!

However, I did mention... that I wanted to learn how to swim properly someday.

We shall do it tomorrow.

...Were you actually serious about that?

D-Don't make me say it twice.

This is a royal decree! Since the Queen has cleared her day, you must clear yours as well.

By the way, what about a swimsuit?

Th-That is the problem.

Don't worry. I'll go get one for you. Sounds good?

.......

I cannot entrust my clothing to someone who tears down palace curtains to make a parasol.

Th-This time, I will find a dignified outfit myself.

In that case, how about I introduce you to someone?

An introduction...?

I know a friend who has a massive hoard of items from Earth, where I used to live.

She probably has piles of clothes stashed away too.

...You have piqued my interest.

You are not the one choosing it, correct?

If you're that worried, you can go alone, Your Majesty.

I'll just get everything ready for the water.

Hmph... Very well.

What is their name?

Her name is Karishara. She's a bit shy, but she's a good person.

If you need my help...

That will not be necessary. Just wait for me at the beach tomorrow morning.

I will choose the outfit myself!

Ugh, the sun is brutal...

The weather is a bit too nice today.

More importantly, where is the Queen...?

.......

...Huh?

The friend Ethan introduced me to was truly a bizarre woman.

It felt like it took half a day just to get her to open the door...

But the moment I mentioned needing an outfit for swimming, she became a completely different person.

...?

She distinctly said this to me.

"Humans have always delighted in crossing forbidden boundaries…"

I still have no idea what she meant by that.

Yet, she handled this with such extreme care when she brought it out.

She proudly claimed that this was the ultimate gear.

I believe she called it... a School Swimsuit?

Hmm. Looking at it again, the material is indeed high quality...

I can see they didn't skimp on the fabric.

She showed me other options, but most of them looked like they were trying too hard to save on production costs.

A queen's attire must never look cheap.

The Rose of Mercia never blooms in a state of undress.

It seems they intentionally left the legs bare to make it easier to swim.

To maintain dignity while gaining the benefits of excellent gear...

I could not ask for more.

This is truly a stroke of genius.

Whew. Preparation is complete.

The Queen of Mercia maintains her dignity to the very end.

Your Majesty. Did you manage to get a swimsuit?

E-Ethan?! How long have you been standing there?!

I just got here.

But what's that on your knees?

I-It's nothing!

You were definitely hiding something just now.

H-Hiding? What do you mean?

A queen does no such thing!

Then just let me see it once...

N-No, absolutely not!

...Then how are you going to swim?

.......

I-I will show you. But I must change first, so please wait.

Wait right here. Do not turn around.

Well... not bad, I guess?

I-Is this how you wear it?

I was definitely taught how...

Ugh, it is a bit tight...

Should I go over and help you?

D-Don't come over! You absolutely must not!

Okay, okay. I won't go.

...You may turn around now.

...Whoa.

Whoa...

...What is with that reaction?

And this cat name tag here is...

Hey, just leave it. You look really cute today.

...!

C-Cute? H-How insolent...

What's wrong with being a little insolent? You really are cute today.

Y-You dare speak so insolently twice...

...But I will let it slide today.

Great. Now, shall we begin?

Our hands?

There's a proper order to these things.

...Very well.

I will do as you say.

I-It is colder than I thought.

Good, good. Now, kick your legs one after the other.

I'll hold your hands, so give it a try.

Y-You want to hold my hands?

M-My hands?

Tell me if you have any other ideas.

If I don't hold them, you'll probably go face-first into the water.

...Ahem, cough!

I-I suppose it cannot be helped. I shall allow it.

Alright, here we go. One, two!

Great! You're getting the hang of it!

Am I doing well, Ethan?

Incredibly well for your first time.

You're doing fantastic!

Th-That is a relief!

Alright, now let's ride the waves!

...?!!?!

Here it comes! One, two!

Ah...!

Well done. That was perfect.

E-Ethan? Why do you keep looking away?

I was just looking at the horizon.

...Suspicious.

Kyaah?!

.......

.......

Th-This is...

I mean, th-this is...

I-It was unavoidable! The wave! It was the wave's fault!

...So stop staring at me like that!!!

Oh, I was just looking at the wave...

Pffft?!

E-Ethan?!

Pah! Ugh, so salty.

...Pfft.

Hehe, pfahaha...!

...My mouth is salty, but it's nice to see you smile.

You're not making fun of me, are you?

Ever since I wore the crown,

I have never played like this with anyone.

Nor have I ever learned anything from anyone.

Surely there were tutors in the palace?

No one dares to step forward to teach a monarch.

Everyone assumes I already know everything. Because I am the Queen.

If a queen admits she does not know something, the kingdom trembles.

That is why I formed a habit of learning things on my own.

...Well, you weren't alone today.

Indeed. Today, I had a teacher.

So... how was your day today?

It was terrible. I could not even kick properly.

And yet... I enjoyed myself.

Well, as long as you had fun, that's all that matters.

Next time, should we all go swimming together?

All together...?

I think it'd be fun to see Elizabeth and Morgana swallow some water too.

Don't you think?

Hehe, very well. I shall look forward to it, Ethan.