The Allegra Symphony's performance was truly magnificent, just as I’d expected. I wasn't much of a music connoisseur, so I couldn't articulate exactly why they were better than anyone else, but the sheer power of the large ensemble combined with those catchy, pop-infused rhythms was enough to put anyone in a good mood.
It sat somewhere in the sweet spot between a classical concert and a pop music gig—the kind of fun performance that left me wanting to hear them again.
"That was a fun and wonderful performance, wasn't it?"
"Yeah. A few parts were still a bit rough around the edges, but I liked how they put so much effort into entertaining the crowd. It’s got potential. I’m looking forward to seeing how they grow from here... So, Kaito, what are your lot up to now?"
"Well, I’ve managed to get what I came for, so I was thinking of heading back soon. What about you, Megiddo-san?"
"Magnawell seems to have caught the sightseeing bug. We’ll probably poke around a bit more, grab a bite to eat, and then head home... That sound all right to you, Magnawell?"
I’d already planned to invite Cornelia-san to the Nifty store after this, though we hadn't actually discussed it yet. While I was tempted to explore more of this commercial city myself, Cornelia-san was clearly reaching her limit. Even if she kept her noble mask perfectly in place, my Sympathy Magic picked up a wave of pure relief the second I mentioned heading back. She was exhausted.
"Umu, that is fine. I would prefer a place that serves alcohol. Drinks aside... I find I have a particular fondness for those snacks served with them. The variety is quite fascinating."
"Snacks, eh? We won't find anything worth mentioning in this city today, but... one of Kaito’s women, Kaori, runs a place with some pretty damn good appetizers."
"...Ho, that sounds intriguing."
Wait. It sounded like tragedy was about to strike Kaori-san from the most unexpected of directions. If Magnawell-sama actually showed up... I wondered if she even knew what his human avatar looked like. If she didn't, she might just think he was some refined old gentleman... No, that would only make the eventual revelation even more terrifying.
"Magnawell-san, please let me know before you head to Kaori-san’s shop. I’ll guide you personally. We’ll need to work around her business hours and everything."
"Oh, is that so? Very well. I shall contact Miyama Kaito before I pay my visit."
Since I couldn't talk him out of it, I’d just have to go with him and act as a buffer, just like I did for Megiddo-san. Hopefully, I could save Kaori-san’s sanity, if only a little.
"Flare-san, Eingana-san, thank you for everything today."
"No, the pleasure was mine. It’s always good to talk shop with a comrade. You have my thanks."
"Magnawell-sama, Nizbel, and I will all be waiting to hear your thoughts on those brushes. My physical proportions make them a bit impractical for me, but many of my subordinates are quite particular about their appearance. I imagine there will be plenty of interest."
Thinking back to the Dragon Carnival, the members of the Scales of the Blue Sea did have remarkably vibrant scales. It made sense that they’d be interested in high-end grooming.
After a few more minutes of casual conversation, I said my goodbyes to the four of them—Megiddo-san, Magnawell-san, Flare-san, and Eingana-san. Cornelia-san and I then followed Anne-san to the waiting carriage.
The natural flow of things would have been to head to the teleportation gate and part ways, but I decided to make my move.
"Cornelia-san, if you aren't too busy, would you like to head back to the capital and visit the Nifty store? A lot has happened today; maybe some tea and sweets would help you unwind?"
"That is a wonderful invitation, but I thought the Nifty cafe was strictly by reservation... Ah, do you perhaps have something like an owner’s box?"
"Exactly. I have a private table always ready for me."
"I see! In that case, I would be delighted to join you. To be honest, there are still quite a few items on the Nifty menu that I haven't had the chance to try yet."
Cornelia-san had mentioned it back at the tea party, but she really was a regular at Nifty. She’d even managed to navigate the reservation system multiple times. Knowing she was such a fan made me genuinely happy.
The moment we decided to go, I felt a spark of genuine excitement through Sympathy Magic. It seemed like the perfect way to cap off the day.
We reached the teleportation gate, but my own magic tool could take us straight to Nifty much faster. I explained the change of plans to Anne-san, and she immediately got to work, contacting the Sharon Count House’s guards and staff back in the capital so they could meet us there.
Anne-san had to stay behind to see to the carriage and other logistics, so we parted ways. Once the confirmation came through that her team was in position, I activated the teleportation tool, and we materialized right in front of the Nifty store.
"Oh? Miyama-dono?"
"Wait, is that you, Kaito? Hey there!"
I couldn't believe the timing. Just as we stepped out of the portal, Zex-san and Tre-san were walking out of the shop. What were the odds?
Serious-senpai: Why?! Why can’t he share some of that consideration he shows Kaori with the other Stomach Pain Warriors?!
???: Well, if I had to guess, it’s probably because Kaori-san is the only one who lets her agony show on her face. Everyone else tries to maintain their composure or act cool...
Serious-senpai: ...Now that you mention it, he’s always looking out for Lilia when she’s visibly struggling, too... Even calling her in advance to warn her. Is the secret to getting a break simply wearing your misery on your sleeve?