172: A Sudden Invitation (Maybe a Date?)

Inside the House Wiore mansion, a refined lady and a well-dressed gentleman were deep in conversation.

"Oh? Dear, where has Carta gone?"

"Back to the forest, I expect."

"Honestly. She finally comes home from Noblesse, yet she’s exactly the same as always."

"Is it so bad? Besides, she has changed. She has a wonderful look on her face these days."

"...I suppose you're right. Oh, but did you know? It seems our girl has someone on her mind."

"...What was that?"

"She hasn't said it outright, but whenever she mentions a boy named Weiss, she looks absolutely radiant."

"Vai... the Fanscent boy? I've heard the name. If I recall correctly, he’s said to be quite exceptional."

"Carta certainly never tires of telling me how 'amazing' he is."

"I see. Weiss, huh? I'd like her to bring him by the house sometime."

"Well, about that... apparently, he already has a fiancé."

"............"

◇

"Hehe. Well? How does it feel to be back in the sky after all this time?"

"Meow, meow!"

This was my second summer vacation since enrolling in Noblesse. Whenever I returned to my parents' home, I always headed straight for the forest. My reason was simple: I just couldn't wait to see my kitties again.

Mike sat perched on my back, his gaze fixed happily on the forest below.

He loves the sky, just like I do. He was the reason I learned to fly in the first place.

I really wish I could show this view to Weiss, too...

I was sure that right about now, he was off on a date with Cynthia or something similar.

...Must be nice.

I touched down softly on the forest floor, and the next cat in line hopped onto my back to take its turn.

"Meow, meow!"

"Hehe, such a good boy. All right—here we go!"

In an instant, I soared high into the air.