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 Qi, while also being a modern international metropolis.
Eichi drove Artoria west along the Thames River.
Although Artoria, with her Riding Skill, was a better driver.
Eichi still took on the task of driving so that Artoria could better observe the current Britain.
Soon, the two arrived at one of London's iconic buildings, Tower Bridge.
After driving over Tower Bridge, they arrived at the classical Tower of London.
The Tower of London has a history of over nine hundred years, and its historical uses were very 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 didn't drive much further.
A building full of modern features came into their sight.
The Shard, Britain's tallest building.
The existence of The Shard was not out of place.
In this largest city in Europe, the classical and the modern always blend so naturally.
"Let's go spend some time there."
Eichi pointed to a huge Ferris wheel not far away.
This Ferris wheel is also a landmark of London.
It's called the London Eye.
Riding the Ferris wheel here to its highest point offers an excellent view of the Thames River, a superb position for observing the wheel itself.
The two waited in line for a long time before boarding the London Eye, and as the Ferris wheel rotated, they reached its highest point.
At this moment, clouds drifted across the sky, and sunlight bathed the entire city of London.
Artoria quietly watched the continuous buildings under the radiant light and the bustling crowds on the streets.
After getting off the London Eye, the two went to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
Present-day London was not yet plagued by constant protests and strikes as it would be in later generations.
The government had not yet become complacent.
This magnificent Gothic architectural complex, begun in the 11th century, perfectly embodies Britain's solemnity and historical depth.
Leaving the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Palace, their next stop was Buckingham Palace.
Buckingham Palace combines both historical and modern charm, serving as an important symbol of the British Royal Family.
The two also saw many Royal Guards performing their changing of the guard ceremony.
After watching the Royal Guard changing ceremony, the two had a simple lunch and then headed to Manchester, three hundred kilometers away.
The world's first industrialized city.
This former industrial city is now also a city with an extremely rich football atmosphere.
Countless tourists come here, drawn by its reputation, to experience the passion and vitality of this football city.
Artoria quietly watched the British people celebrating football and reveling, remaining silent for a long time.
"Let's go, to the next stop."
As if recalling something joyful, Artoria revealed a relieved smile.
The two continued their journey; the next stop was Edinburgh.
Night had already fallen, and without anyone noticing.
Eichi and Artoria arrived at Edinburgh Castle.
This is a majestic castle situated on a volcanic hill, once the royal residence of the Kingdom of Scotland.
The view from Edinburgh Castle is excellent; from here, one can see the entire city.
This city seems to be divided in two by Princes Street.
To the north is a bustling modern city.
To the south are classical buildings full of historical Qi.
Even though it was already night, many artists could still be seen performing various arts on the streets.
One of the reasons this city attracts so many artists is the Edinburgh International Festival, held annually since 1947.
"This is the current Britain, how does it feel?"
Eichi stood behind Artoria, quietly watching this former King of Britain.
"It is a wonderful country."
Artoria turned around, a captivating smile blossoming on her face.
In this smile, there was relief, nostalgia, and contentment.
At this moment, Artoria knew that even without her, Britain would bravely embark on a new Dao.
The better leader she had hoped for might just be the people of this country.
The legend of King Arthur is very famous in Britain, and even in the world.
Because Britain has actually been in a state of constant war.
Therefore, the British people greatly needed a King Arthur, a king who was always victorious.
After the Roman Empire's rule over Britain ended, Britain still experienced many wars.
And the results of many wars were not good.
In the past, Britain was filled with numerous kingdoms, both large and small.
These kingdoms, through continuous warfare, were eventually reduced to just 7.
Doesn't that sound familiar?
Doesn't it resemble the Spring and Autumn and Warring States period script?
Later, in the 9th century AD, Britain, which had not yet achieved unification, was invaded by the Vikings.
In the 11th century, the Duke of Normandy from Francia invaded Britain and established the Norman Dynasty there.
That's right, a French duke established a Dynasty on British soil.
And then came the Hundred Years' War between England and France.
This war lasted 116 years, and the result was that Britain lost almost all its land on the European continent.
Here's another useless piece of trivia.
Everyone knows that Louis XVI was sent to the guillotine as king.
But actually, the first king to be publicly executed was Charles I of Britain.
Throughout history, Britain has never truly known peace for long.
So, it's not surprising that King Arthur, as a perpetually victorious king who could lead people to victory, was revered.
In fact, in the legend of King Arthur, his greatness extends far beyond that.
"Did you know, even now, Britain still unexpectedly possesses 14 overseas territories and 3 Crown Dependencies? Although the Empire on which the sun never sets is a thing of the past, Britain is still one of the most prosperous countries in the world."
The two just watched the brightly lit city in the night.
Gradually, Eichi's gaze was completely drawn to Artoria, who seemed both content and a little sad.
Eichi remembered a saying: you stand on the bridge and watch the scenery, and the person watching the scenery is also watching you.
At this moment, Eichi suddenly felt that Artoria, with her flowing golden hair, was the most beautiful scenery in the world.
With courage from who knows where, Eichi suddenly spoke.
"Artoria, will you stay with me until the end?"
After the words left his mouth, Eichi's brain, a half-beat slower, finally caught up.
His heart began to pound, and the tension inside him almost overflowed.
Eichi waited, his eyes filled with trepidation, for Artoria's reply.
Artoria turned to look at Eichi, and from his demeanor, she seemed to sense his meaning.
Seeing the usually confident Eichi looking so uneasy at that moment, Artoria chuckled softly.
As if a heavy burden had been lifted, Artoria felt more relaxed and natural than before coming to Britain.
Soon, Artoria, with a serious expression, stood before Eichi.
"I have sworn by my sword to protect you until the very last moment, Eichi."
"Is that so."
Eichi closed his eyes contentedly, and when he opened them again, all trepidation and unease in his eyes had vanished.
All that remained was excitement and determination.
Eichi took a step forward and embraced Artoria.
"Let us walk together to the end, Artoria."
"Mm."
Under the silent starry sky, the two made an eternal vow.
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