Scenario:Pholia - Relieved of Royal Duties

Relieved of Royal Duties

Pholia and Bai Ze make their way toward the sauna, Agastia's Garden, but find a large crowd gathered in front of it. They learn from a stranger that a ceremony is being held to celebrate the sauna's completion. Orchis, queen of Erste, arrives to say a few words for the ceremony and rouse excitement for the sauna's opening, which—much to Pholia's shock and disappointment—will be held at a later date.

---

Agastia—once the former capital of the Erste Empire.

Pholia and Bai Ze arrive in the city for the first time.

Pholia: So this is Erste's former capital. It's a completely different place than Luxurios.

Bai Ze: At a glance, you can tell that Erste's technology is more advanced than that of most other countries.

Pholia: You're probably right. I highly doubt any other city boasts this level of development.

Pholia: However, what surprises me most is how cheerful its citizens appear to be.

Pholia carefully takes in the people passing by.

Pholia: I heard from (Captain) that disaster after disaster struck Agastia for a time...

Pholia: Yet its people betray not a hint of such hardship. Perhaps that can be attributed to the swift speed of its reconstruction.

Bai Ze: Their engineering feats are nothing short of miraculous. I'm eager to see how they've utilized their skills in constructing the sauna.

Pholia: As am I.

Bai Ze: Speaking of which, do you know where to find our destination?

Pholia: Worry not, for I made sure to bring along the magazine!

Pholia: Um... It's this way!

With magazine in hand, Pholia and Bai Ze walk through the streets, eventually coming upon a large crowd of people.

Bai Ze: This is quite the gathering.

Pholia: Even soldiers stand among them. I didn't expect this many of Erste's citizens to be interested in the sauna...

Bai Ze: Are you certain this is the correct location? The soldiers lead me to believe otherwise.

Pholia: It should be. I'm certain I followed the map correctly...

Pholia: Excuse me, sir! Could I have a moment of your time?

Spectator: Hm? What is it, lass?

Pholia: I heard they built a sauna around here, but... why is there such a large crowd?

Spectator: Everyone's here for the sauna's inauguration ceremony. That's what you came to see too, right?

Pholia: There's a ceremony?

Spectator: Yeah. Agastia's people are especially excited for the whole thing, since they were the ones who asked for a sauna in the first place.

Spectator: Even the queen's stopping by from Ravi Island to say a few words.

Pholia: Ah, that would explain the presence of the soldiers.

Spectator: Kind of? They're definitely here for the queen's safety, but...

Spectator: The soldiers wanted the sauna the most out of everyone else, so they'd be here even if they weren't on duty.

Bai Ze: I wonder if Deliford, Daryl, and Zechs' interest in saunas has sparked theirs.

Pholia: That seems likely, considering Daryl and Zechs appear to be soldiers of some renown.

Distinctive Voice: Make way for Her Majesty, the queen!

Spectator: Queen Orchis is here! You can get a good look at her from my spot, if you'd like.

Pholia: Oh? Let's see...

Taking advantage of the kind stranger's offer, Pholia gets a clear view of the platform the queen stands on.

Orchis: Today marks the completion of Erste's first sauna, Agastia's Garden.

Orchis: I would like to extend my earnest thanks to everyone whose efforts have contributed to its construction...

Orchis: As well as to those who entreated the kingdom to utilize its technology in service of its people.

Orchis: I am grateful to you all.

Pholia: So that's the head of Erste? She strikes me as a capable leader.

Bai Ze: I am of the same opinion.

Pholia: Ha, if you feel the same, then there's no mistaking it.

Orchis: I hope that Agastia's Garden becomes a place of rest and relaxation for each and every one of you.

Orchis: Though the sauna is not ready to provide service, I hope that you look forward to the day its doors open!

Pholia: What?

Bai Ze: As I feared...

Pholia: No, this can't be. I'm sure the magazine said today...

Frantically flipping through the pages, Pholia skims over the article about Agastia's Garden one more time.

Pholia: "Before Agastia's Garden opens, an inauguration ceremony will be held to celebrate its finished construction."

Pholia: "At the time of this article's writing, the exact date of the sauna's opening is unknown."

A small editor's note resides on another page, revealing the opening day to be several days later.

Pholia: I can't believe this... The sauna remains out of reach for several more days...

Bai Ze: My sovereign...

Spectator: Queen Orchis sure knows how to give a speech. That was well put...

Blind to the spectator's excitement, Pholia deflates with disappointment.

She spends the rest of the ceremony in a daze.

Relieved of Royal Duties: Scene 2

Once the ceremony finishes, Pholia is approached by Pommern, general of Erste's army. He leads her into Agastia's Garden and introduces her to Orchis. Pholia, initially wary of political machinations, warms up to Orchis once the queen reveals that she simply wishes to go into the sauna with someone experienced. Excited to participate in this private preview, Pholia agrees to join her.

---

Bai Ze: My sovereign...

Pholia: ...

Bai Ze: My sovereign.

Pholia: Ah!

Bai Ze: Have you finally come to your senses? My sovereign, this sort of behavior is unbecoming...

Pholia: Oh, hush.

Pholia: Did the ceremony finish? When did it wrap up?

Bai Ze: Only a moment ago. The kind stranger from earlier left a parting message for you.

Bai Ze: He offered words of comfort and recommended other sights and activities to partake in.

Bai Ze: He also suggested you try eating the oden that Agastia is famous for.

Pholia: While I appreciate the recommendations, I came only for the sauna...

Pholia: Though... With a sauna visit being impossible, I suppose we can eat our fill of oden before departing...

Distinctive Voice: Ah... Excuse me! Could I speak to you for a moment?

Pholia: Oh? If I recall correctly, you are...

Pommern: Pommern Boettner, general of the Erste Kingdom army!

Bai Ze: And what would someone of your status seek from us?

Pommern: There is a matter that requires your attention. Might I trouble you to follow me to another location?

Pholia: Hm... We are free at the moment, so I don't mind. Judging by your words, I assume you know who we are.

Pommern: Indeed. To clarify, it is not I, but Queen Orchis that wishes to speak with you.

Pholia: The leader of Erste herself? If my true identity is known to her, I can only assume this matter is of a troublesome nature.

Pommern: N-not at all, I do say!

Pommern: Her matter is of a personal nature—not political in the slightest. To avoid drawing undue attention, I was sent in her place to extend an invitation.

Pholia: Hmm... You have my attention. Bai Ze, we can at least hear her out, don't you think?

Bai Ze: I have no objections, my sovereign.

Pommern: This way, please.

Pommern leads the way into Agastia's Garden, past the remnants of the finished ceremony.

Pholia: The interior is quite impressive. The ambience isn't bad either.

???: I'm sorry! I hope I didn't keep you waiting!

Adam: I offer my sincerest apology as well... It took far longer than expected to examine the facilities.

Pholia: You needn't apologize. Regardless of whoever you think I am, right now I'm nothing more than a simple village girl traveling through the skies.

Pholia: I no longer hold any sway, though even if I did, I have no intention of being persuaded to use it.

Orchis: Oh... Um, I think there may be a misunderstanding here.

Orchis: Forgive me for being presumptuous, but I believe I understand your previous position, as well as your current one.

Orchis: I've heard various things through the grapevine, of course, but this meeting has nothing to do with that...

Orchis: I was simply wondering if you'd like to join me in the sauna...

Pholia & Bai Ze: The sauna?

Orchis: I spotted you in the crowd during the ceremony.

Orchis: You seemed very interested in the sauna, so I thought I'd extend an invitation...

Pholia: Well, I certainly have nothing against such an offer...

Pholia: Though I'm curious. Why me? I don't have any connection to either Erste or you. Besides, men and women can enter the sauna together—

Pommern: I do say, that is beyond proper for someone of my position...

Adam: I would need to have the appropriate maintenance done to be able to handle the heat of a sauna.

Orchis: I did ask some of the other people around me, but they all refused...

Pholia: Oh? Who would dare deny the request of their sovereign?

Orchis: Um... It's more like... they're far too buried in their work to spare any time for relaxation...

Bai Ze: Ah. We're familiar with the type.

Pholia: Unfortunately so.

Orchis: Haha... This will be my first time in a sauna as well...

Orchis: I started reading a little bit of the Saunderer after we decided to build our own sauna, but I'm still far from knowledgeable.

Orchis: I'm afraid my review alone won't be sufficient for the engineers...

Pholia: Hmm. Being somewhat of an experienced sauna goer myself, I could assist in that regard.

Pholia: Very well. I see no reason to refuse you, so I'll gladly accept your offer.

Orchis: Really? Oh, thank you!

Pholia: I should be thanking you. Being able to enter the sauna before its official opening is a great boon.

Pholia: I'll have quite the story to share with the others.
Bai Ze, we shall part ways for now.

Bai Ze: Understood. Enjoy yourself, my sovereign.

Bidding their companions farewell, Pholia and Orchis walk away.

Orchis: I actually bought a sauna poncho for myself. Would you mind taking a look at it? I'm worried I might have chosen incorrectly.

Pholia: Hahaha, just leave it to me. I know a thing or two about sauna ponchos!

Orchis: I really appreciate it. I'm so glad you're here...

As the two women happily chat together and disappear around the corner, a heavy silence falls over the remaining three.

Man, golem, and primal beast all look at one another, unsure of where to go from there.

Relieved of Royal Duties: Scene 3

Leaving Pommern, Adam, and Bai Ze behind, Pholia and Orchis try out the sauna. Seeing Orchis struggle with her first time in the sauna's heat, Pholia pulls them out early, making sure they both relax and rehydrate after. Gradually, the two grow to become friends through their time together.

---

Once Pholia and Orchis disappear into the sauna, an awkward silence settles between the remaining three.

Just when it seems like it will stretch on for eternity, one of them finally plucks up the courage to speak.

Bai Ze: Thank you both for allowing my sovereign to experience this rare opportunity.

Bai Ze: I'd also like to apologize for not introducing myself earlier. I am Bai Ze. It's an honor to meet your acquaintance.

Adam: You needn't offer us your thanks. We merely honored our queen's request.

Adam: It was only good fortune that her wishes happened to coincide with Lady Pholia's.

Adam: Moreover, I'd like to apologize as well. I am Adam, Erste's prime minister.

Adam: The honor is all mine.

Adam and Bai Ze bow their heads to one another in solemn respect. Pommern joins in a moment later, scrambling to participate in time.

Bai Ze: Well... I'm fairly certain that my sovereign will be beside herself with laughter if she finds the three of us standing here when they return.

Bai Ze: Is there a more fitting place where we could pass the time? A dining hall, perhaps?

Adam: Such a facility is attached to the sauna, though I do not believe it is currently in operation. However, it should still serve as a good location for idle conversation.

Adam: If you'll follow me.

Pommern: I do say, such a task is beneath your station! Allow me!

Adam: I don't mind. As the one most familiar with the layout of this place, I'm most suited to guide us.

Pommern: Be that as it may, I cannot allow you to burden yourself with such a menial task!

The debate continues on as the three make their way toward the dining area.

Pholia: (Much of this place resembles Unite and Sauna, meaning Deliford's design is highly regarded. He should be proud.)

Pholia: (That aside... I'm not sure what to talk about. I can answer any questions she has, but...)

Basking in the warmth of the sauna, Pholia peeks over at Orchis, who sits next to her.

Orchis: (So this is what a sauna is like... The heat gradually draws out sweat from the depths of my body...)

Orchis: (Pholia and I have been in here for the same amount of time, but she doesn't seem to be affected at all... Is it because she's used to it?)

Orchis: (She seems to be enjoying herself. I don't want to disturb her... I'll try and hold on for a bit longer.)

Orchis: (It'd be rude to leave first since I'm the one who invited her in, after all... But it's so hot...)

Orchis: Exhale...

Pholia: ...!

Pholia: I believe I'm done for today.

Orchis: Huh? Are you sure?

Pholia: From what I've learned, it takes more than just steaming yourself to fully enjoy the sauna experience.

Pholia: We should go take a break in the relaxation room. I believe I spotted one on the way here.

Orchis: Phew...

The moment Orchis lowers herself into a sauna chair, she lets out a huge sigh of relief.

Pholia: Are you all right?

Orchis: Huh?

Pholia: Correct me if I'm wrong, but you looked like you were struggling in the sauna...

Pholia: Have some water. It's important to stay hydrated for this kind of activity.

Orchis: Thank you.

Orchis: To tell the truth, I was at my limit. I should've known better than to hide it.

Pholia: The poncho only makes things hotter as well.

Pholia: Most people tend to wear them only in the fresh-air bath.

Orchis: What? Are we not allowed to wear them in the sauna room?

Pholia: Ah, I didn't mean it's prohibited. According to a sauna fanatic I know, some facilities allow it.

Pholia: Which is nice, considering that there are people who would rather show as little skin as possible...

Pholia: People such as a queen, for example.

Pholia: But I apologize. I should've paid more attention to your needs, as that was your first time in a sauna.

Orchis: N-no, I'm the one who should apologize. I spent too long debating whether or not to leave early...

Orchis: I also wasn't sure what to talk about while we were in there.

Orchis: I hope the silence wasn't too uncomfortable...

Pholia: Ah, I must admit, I struggled to come up with a conversation topic myself.

Pholia: It was quite the challenge, especially since this is our first time meeting.

Orchis: Inside a swelteringly hot room with no one else around, too... I'm glad to hear I wasn't alone.

Pholia: As am I.

Pholia & Orchis: Haha.
Hehe.

Pholia: How did you find the sauna, by the way? Other than uncomfortably hot.

Orchis: Well... I found the experience to be rather sweaty and... emptying? My body feels lighter than before.

Orchis: Is that what "coming alive" is like?

Pholia: That sounds more like dehydration to me... But if you feel lighter in a good way, then that's what matters.

Pholia: You know, you might be the type of person more suited to short stays in the sauna than long ones.

Orchis: Ah, I recall that topic coming up in the Saunderer...

Orchis: How did you become so knowledgeable about saunas? Was it self study?

Pholia: Not at all. Deliford, a man in (Captain)'s crew, taught me everything I know.

Orchis: Is that right... And now, it's my turn to be the pupil.

Pholia: I suppose so. Haha... You know, that Deliford would be shocked to hear about this sauna.

Orchis: Why is that?

Pholia: Ha, that's a secret.

Orchis: Now I really want to know.

Pholia: Hmm... Then you must keep it as a secret between friends.

Orchis: If you don't find it improper, then... I'd be happy to treat you as a friend.

Pholia: Well, that was easy.

Orchis: I must admit, it's been strange to stand on ceremony with someone around my height...

Pholia: If it makes you feel more at ease, then treat me as you would a friend around your age.

Orchis: My age? That's a bit a complicated. I'm afraid I'm not as young as I look, given some unique circumstances...

Orchis: Wait, I seem to recall (Captain) saying you were...

Pholia: That was a miscalculation!

Pholia: Ahem. So about Deliford's secret...

Orchis: I can't believe it... The Sauna Spearit is someone from Erste!

Orchis: Could you tell him that I'm a huge fan?

Pholia: Of course. Oh, I can already picture the look on his face...

Pholia: I'm sure this doesn't need to be said, but the matter of his pen name must be kept private.

Orchis: I understand... Though in return, I'd like his autograph!

The lighthearted conversation continues on, eventually shifting toward other people in their lives.

Orchis: Adam is the same way! Even though he's always particular about the most trivial matters...

Orchis: When it comes to fashion, he has no sense! It didn't matter which poncho I tried on—he gave each one the same exact praise!

Pholia: Bai Ze is guilty of the same. He truly has no appreciation for the finer things in life.

Pholia: Just so you know, the poncho you have on is lovely. The charming design suits you well.

Orchis: See, that's the kind of reaction I wish I had gotten. Surely it's not so hard to think of a single sincere compliment.

Orchis: This poncho's actually comfortable enough that I wish I could use it as my pajamas.

Pholia: I personally recommend using your poncho as casual wear, despite any scolding you might receive because of it.

Orchis: Ah, but you bring up a good point... As royalty, I should be dressed properly...

Pholia: Perhaps in front of others. In private, you should dress how you like. Using the poncho as casual wear even comes with the Saunderer's seal of approval.

Orchis: That is true.
All right, I think I'm fully recovered now and ready for another round in the sauna.

Pholia: Now, now. As a beginner, you shouldn't push yourself. We should wrap up here and seek out a meal instead.

Orchis: A meal?

Pholia: There's more to the sauna experience than soaking in the heat, resting, and coming alive.

Pholia: In fact, I'd argue the best part is having a meal with your companions after you're done in the sauna area!

Relieved of Royal Duties: Scene 4

Pholia and Orchis head to the dining hall, where they find Pommern, Adam, and Bai Ze discussing future plans for Agastia's Garden. Upon Pholia's request to eat at the facility, Adam and Pommern prepare food for the group. In the meantime, Pholia and Orchis relax on top of Bai Ze's fur, fully enjoying their time off.

---

While Orchis and Pholia make their way toward the dining hall, their companions are engrossed in a conversation of their own.

Bai Ze: If many of Erste's soldiers will be utilizing the facilities, perhaps you should consider building a training space as well.

Adam: Indeed... Agastia's citizens could also use the area for their own physical maintenance.

Pommern: I do say, with how densely packed the buildings are, the people here find it difficult to secure an exercise space for themselves.

Pommern: Thematically, it would also be appropriate to add one. Saunas and exercise are both beneficial to one's health.

Pommern: I would wholeheartedly support such an endeavor!

Bai Ze: In addition to the physical benefits, I believe that having soldiers and citizens in the same space should foster trust and care between them.

Pommern: Getting to know your fellow coworkers is also beneficial for a soldier.

Adam: I shall look into the matter more thoroughly later. Thank you for your opinions.

Bai Ze: I only hope I haven't been overly forward with my suggestions...

Adam: Not at all. I was the one who asked for your honest thoughts in the first place.

Adam: Oh...

Upon noticing Pholia and Orchis' arrival, Adam and Bai Ze move to greet them.

Orchis: What were you all talking about?

Adam: Future plans for the operation of the sauna. I shall provide a full report of our discussion upon returning to the castle.

Adam: Speaking of which, how was the sauna?

Orchis: Hot!

Bai Ze: You appear to be satisfied, my sovereign.

Pholia: I am. The temperature control of everything, from the sauna to the relaxation room, was perfect.

Pholia: However...

Bai Ze: Was there an issue?

Adam: Is something the matter?

Pholia: No, I'm simply struck by how similar the both of you are.

Bai Ze: We... are?

Pholia: That aside, is there food available here?

Bai Ze: Unfortunately, no. While the sauna facilities are fully operational, the same can't be said of the kitchen.

Bai Ze: We can always go out and find something to eat. Pommern recommended a fine oden shop, if you're interested.

Pholia: If possible, I'd rather eat here. I suspect that Orchis will return to her formal mannerisms if we leave the comfort of these walls.

Orchis: Don't worry about me. I'm happy enough with the time we've spent together already.

Pholia: Well, I'm not. Is there no other option?

Adam: Allow me to see what I can do.

Orchis: What?

Adam: There should be no issue. I know how to operate all the kitchen equipment.

Adam: We also have a stock of ingredients in storage. If you'll excuse me.

Pommern: Ah! I do say, allow me to assist!

Adam disappears into the kitchen, with Pommern following soon after.

Pholia: Are you not going to go as well?

Bai Ze: My sovereign... Out of all of us, I am the least qualified to be in the kitchen.

Pholia: I suppose with your fur, that's true...

Pholia: We shall have your fur serve another use. Let us bask in your comfort.

Bai Ze: As you wish.

Bai Ze stretches out on the tatami mat area, allowing Pholia to leap into his fur.

Bai Ze: Is this to your liking, my sovereign?

Pholia: Yes... This is heavenly...

Pholia: Orchis, what are you standing around for? Come join me.

Orchis: A-are you sure?

Bai Ze: I don't mind. Anyone my sovereign welcomes is free to partake.

Orchis: Th-then... Pardon me...

Orchis: Oh... So soft... I feel like I'm floating...

Pholia: What you're feeling now, Orchis, is what I call coming alive.

Orchis: It is?

Pholia: Everyone comes alive differently. The important thing is getting there, regardless of the method.

Pholia: Are you ready?

Orchis: Yeah! Ready...

Pholia & Orchis: I'm coming alive!

Bai Ze: I'm glad to hear it.

Orchis: My thoughts are so clear now... Coming alive is truly an amazing sensation!

Pholia: You should make coming to the sauna a regular habit. A busy queen like you could use the refreshment.

Orchis: Hehe... You're probably right. After experiencing it once, I already want to enter the sauna again.

Pholia: You can always disguise yourself as a townsperson and sneak in, as well.

Orchis: You really think that would work? Not that Apollo or Adam would let me come alone...

Orchis: Could I ask you to join me then?

Pholia: But of course. A simple village girl like me has no reason to refuse.

Pholia: Besides, I'm always happy to take a trip to the sauna.

Orchis: Thanks, Pholia!

Pommern: Your Majesty, we have finished cooking! Simple though it may be, I hope you find it palatable!

Adam: Today we'll be serving an oden set meal.

Pholia: I didn't think I'd be able to sample oden today. This has proved to be a very rewarding trip to Agastia.

Bai Ze: Indeed, this was a fortuitous turn of events.

Pholia and Orchis smile at one another, relieved of their burdens in this moment.

Smiling as well, their companions fondly watch over the scene.