London, as one of the world's largest financial centers, is also the largest city in Europe.
This city possesses a rich historical and cultural atmosphere, while also being a modern international metropolis.
Eichi drove Artoria westward along the Thames River.
Although Artoria, with her Riding skill, would have been the better driver.
Eichi still took the role of driving so that Artoria could better observe present day Britain.
Soon, the two arrived at one of London's iconic landmarks, Tower Bridge.
After driving across Tower Bridge, they arrived at the historic Tower of London.
The Tower of London has a history of more than nine hundred years, and its historical uses were extremely extensive.
It served as a fortress, treasury, mint, prison, and even an execution ground.
Much of Britain's history can be found here.
After leaving the Tower of London, they did not drive much farther.
A building full of modern characteristics entered their view.
The Shard, the tallest building in Britain.
The presence of The Shard did not appear out of place.
In this largest city in Europe, classical and modern elements always blend together naturally.
"Let's go spend some time there."
Eichi pointed toward a huge Ferris wheel not far away.
This Ferris wheel is also a landmark of London.
It is called the London Eye.
Riding the Ferris wheel to its highest point offers a perfect view of the Thames River, an excellent vantage point for observing the city.
The two waited in line for quite a long time before boarding the London Eye.
As the Ferris wheel slowly rotated, they reached its highest point.
At that moment, clouds drifted across the sky, and sunlight illuminated the entire city of London.
Artoria quietly watched the endless buildings under the brilliant sunlight and the bustling crowds in the streets below.
After leaving the London Eye, the two visited Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
This magnificent Gothic architectural complex, whose construction began in the 11th century, perfectly embodies Britain's solemn atmosphere and deep history.
After leaving the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Palace, their next destination was Buckingham Palace.
Buckingham Palace blends historical and modern elements, serving as an important symbol of the British Royal Family.
The two also saw many Royal Guards performing the changing of the guard ceremony.
After watching the ceremony, they had a simple lunch and then headed toward Manchester, three hundred kilometers away.
The world's first industrialized city.
This former industrial center is now also a city with an extremely rich football culture.
Countless tourists come here to experience the passion and vitality of this football city.
Artoria quietly watched the British people celebrating football and reveling.
She remained silent for a long time.
"Let's go. On to the next stop."
As if recalling something pleasant, Artoria revealed a relaxed smile.
The two continued their journey.
Their next destination was Edinburgh.
Night had already fallen.
Without anyone noticing, Eichi and Artoria arrived at Edinburgh Castle.
This majestic castle stands on a volcanic hill and was once the royal residence of the Kingdom of Scotland.
The view from Edinburgh Castle is excellent.
From here, one can see the entire city.
The city appears to be divided into two parts by Princes Street.
To the north lies a bustling modern city.
To the south stand classical buildings filled with historical atmosphere.
Even though it was already night, many artists could still be seen performing various arts on the streets.
One reason this city attracts so many artists is the Edinburgh International Festival, which has been held annually since 1947.
"This is present day Britain. How does it feel?"
Eichi stood behind Artoria, quietly looking at the former King of Britain.
"It is a wonderful country."
Artoria turned around, and a captivating smile appeared on her face.
In that smile were relief, nostalgia, and satisfaction.
At this moment, Artoria understood that even without her, Britain would bravely walk its own path.
The better leader she once hoped for might simply be the people of this country themselves.
The legend of King Arthur is extremely famous in Britain and across the world.
This is because Britain has historically experienced frequent wars.
Therefore, the British people greatly needed a King Arthur, a king who would always achieve victory.
After the Roman Empire ended its rule over Britain, the island still experienced many wars.
The outcomes of many of those wars were not favorable.
In the past, Britain was filled with many kingdoms, both large and small.
Through constant warfare, those kingdoms were eventually reduced to only seven.
Doesn't that sound familiar?
Doesn't it resemble the situation of the Spring and Autumn and Warring States period?
Later, in the 9th century, Britain, which had not yet been unified, was invaded by the Vikings.
In the 11th century, the Duke of Normandy from Francia invaded Britain and established the Norman Dynasty there.
Yes, a French duke established a dynasty on British land.
Then came the Hundred Years' War between England and France.
This war lasted 116 years.
In the end, Britain lost almost all of its territory on the European continent.
Here is another interesting piece of trivia.
Everyone knows that Louis XVI was executed by guillotine as a king.
However, the first king in history to be publicly executed was Charles I of Britain.
Throughout its history, Britain has rarely experienced long periods of peace.
Therefore, it is not surprising that King Arthur, a king who could always lead people to victory, became so revered.
In fact, the greatness of King Arthur in the legends goes far beyond that.
"Did you know that even today, Britain still possesses 14 overseas territories and 3 Crown Dependencies? Although the empire where the sun never sets has long disappeared, Britain remains one of the most prosperous countries in the world."
The two quietly watched the brightly lit city under the night sky.
Gradually, Eichi's gaze shifted completely to Artoria, who looked both satisfied and slightly sorrowful.
Eichi suddenly remembered a saying.
You stand on the bridge watching the scenery, and the person watching the scenery is also watching you.
At that moment, Eichi felt that Artoria, with her flowing golden hair, was the most beautiful scenery in the world.
With courage from somewhere unknown, Eichi suddenly spoke.
"Ria, will you stay with me until the end?"
After the words left his mouth, Eichi's mind, slightly slower than his actions, finally reacted.
His heart began beating wildly, and the tension inside him almost overflowed.
Eichi waited nervously for Artoria's reply.
Artoria turned to look at Eichi.
From his expression, she seemed to understand the meaning behind his words.
Seeing the usually confident Eichi looking so uneasy, Artoria softly laughed.
It felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted.
Artoria felt more relaxed and natural than she had since arriving in Britain.
Soon, Artoria stood in front of Eichi with a serious expression.
"I have sworn by my sword to protect you until the very last moment, Eichi."
"I see."
Eichi closed his eyes in satisfaction.
When he opened them again, all the unease and hesitation had disappeared.
What remained was excitement and determination.
Eichi stepped forward and embraced Artoria.
"Then let us walk together to the end, Ria."
"Mm."
(To be continued.)