Chapter 72: The Weight of Secrets
"My dear students, I apologize for what happened." The Queen’s words were filled with sincerity, her posture radiating humility. "I failed to assess the potential dangers and thus put all of you in peril."
It was the first time they had ever witnessed the Queen humble herself. Remorse heavy in her voice, they were unprepared for such an act. The teenagers knew no one was to blame. It was inconceivable that the Queen could have foreseen such an eventuality in what had appeared to be a simple mission.
Link asserted that it was no one’s fault, and Coleen and Eirin signified their agreement with nods. Regina’s eyes soon settled up Eirin, and the teenage girl’s brow knit in subtle apprehension. The Queen then persisted in inquiring about Eirin’s well-being, to which Eirin could only offer a weak smile, unable to articulate a proper response. Her mind was still in a disarray, and she was emotionally disoriented.
"I know this might seem like a bribe, but take these."
The Queen recompensed the students for their ordeal by increasing their allowances. Even though Eirin was unsure how she would utilize the funds, they received the compensation with gratitude.
After their brief meeting with the Queen, Eirin and Coleen passed the shadowed hallway, worn out by their arduous journey. Their eyelids were already drooping, and their footsteps were heavy as they shuffled along, simply aiming to reach the female dorm.
The moment Eirin opened the door, Coleen collapsed onto the floor, making Eirin’s eyes widen in alarm as she feared for her friend.
"I’m sorry, my body just relaxed on its own, hehe."
Eirin heaved a sigh while assisting the other girl to her feet as they entered the room.
"Do you want to take a bath first?"
"Nope, you should go first, Ei."