Side: Anastasia (8)

I had come up with a theme for my independent research project because I wanted to help improve Allen’s reputation as an adventurer. I never imagined that a simple observation trip to the Adventurer’s Guild would spiral into such a massive ordeal.

While heading to the Guild, I saw His Highness and that woman surrounding someone and making threats. But who could have possibly guessed that their target was an acquaintance of Allen’s—and the princess of the Elven Village, no less?

When Lady Sherilralra suddenly threw her arms around Allen, an inexplicable surge of anger made me lash out. And when Allen shielded her from me, for some reason, I felt a profound sense of sadness.

Obviously, if her identity as an elf had been exposed then and there, it would have caused a massive uproar. My impulsive attempt to tear off her hood was undeniably rude. From that perspective, Allen’s intervention was the right move.

But... still! Even though I logically understand that, why do I feel so unsettled? What is this emotion?

I still can’t believe Allen is acquainted with an elf. He might be the only human in this country—or even the world—who can claim that. If word of this ever got out, I can’t even begin to imagine what would happen to him.

Given the stakes, the smartest thing I can do is pretend I saw nothing. That’s the only way Allen and the princess can continue their lives in peace.

And yet, knowing all that, why did I insist on coming along? I knew Allen wouldn't be able to turn me down if I asked.

No, the answer is simple.

It made me jealous to realize she knew a side of Allen that I didn’t. The thought of her making even more memories with him—memories I wouldn't share—was unbearable. I couldn't stand the idea, so I begged him to take me with them. Even though I knew I was being a burden.

I really am the worst. I’m just using my status to force him into submission. It’s exactly as people say.

Yet, Allen indulged my arrogant selfishness. He came up with a plausible excuse just to bring me along. And then... he called me his f-fiancée.

I know it was just a convenient lie, but I can’t help feeling incredibly embarrassed.

My past experiences with engagements were nothing but painful, so I usually try to block them out. But when I imagine being engaged to Allen... why does it leave me with such a warm, fuzzy feeling?

By forcing my way into Allen's company, I ended up uncovering even more of his secrets.

He had built a strange workshop deep within the Northeast Forest of the Royal Capital. There, using some mysterious Skill, he pulled a bizarre vehicle out of the ground—something that looked like a cross between a wagon and a bird. Then, my body was lashed to the vehicle so tightly that I was pressed right up against him.

My chest was pressed against Allen’s backside, and his waist was positioned right in front of my face. It was profoundly embarrassing.

But once the machine started moving, all those feelings vanished in an instant. Allen used some kind of magic, and with a tremendous gust of wind, we actually lifted off!

The vehicle climbed higher and higher, accelerating as we soared into the sky.

Amazing! The Royal Capital and the castle looked so small from up here.

“A-Allen! This is amazing! Incredible! And it’s so fast! How is this even happening?”

I was acting like a total child, but honestly, who wouldn’t? I’d never heard of a human flying. It defied all logic for something so heavy to take flight. Common sense dictated that heavy things fall, yet here I was, actually flying through the air!

As I marveled at the sensation, the castle rapidly receded into the distance. Apparently, we’d reach the Elven Village in about four hours. Traveling at this speed for that long... we might actually cross the Northern Mountains and reach the border.

“I see... You really are incredible, Allen.”

I leaned my weight against him and took a slow, deep breath. His scent filled my senses, making me feel strangely at peace. At that moment, a new emotion welled up inside me.

I never want to give this spot up to another woman.

I felt bad for the princess dangling from the rope, but the mere thought of another woman in this position made my heart feel like it was going to burst.

Ah... I see. I’ve known for a long time now...