Learning from my first mistake, I decided to rely on Alice's guidebook from that point on.
Any stalls not listed in the guide were late additions and thus weren't run by subordinates of the Six Kings. While some legitimate shops had applied in advance and were ready, the guidebook was thorough enough to note those details as well.
As expected, the Six Kings' subordinates—especially those of the Peerage-class—didn't flee in Isis-san's presence. However, unless they possessed power nearly equal to hers, they couldn't withstand the pressure completely; many were visibly trembling or turning pale.
Still, they refused to run. Deserting their posts would bring shame upon their masters, the Six Kings themselves, so they gritted their teeth and served customers through sheer force of will.
While the Barons and Viscounts shook violently, those at the Count-class level only looked a little peaked. That alone was a testament to their strength. Ozma-san, for instance, had spoken to us with his usual wry smile; clearly, the Count-class stood on an entirely different level from the rest of the peerage.
"That's an interesting ornament. Is it made from feathers?"
"...Yes... It’s a Winged Race ornament... They live in the Eastern Region... of the Demon Realm... and use these... for prayer."
"I see."
As expected of such a massive flea market, there were many rare items on display. It was incredibly helpful to have Isis-san walking with me; she was so knowledgeable that she could explain almost anything I didn't recognize.
"Is the Winged Race different from Harpies?"
"...Yes... Harpies are Humankind... while the Winged Race are Demons... They look similar... but they're different species."
"I see."
Come to think of it, I'd heard of Harpies before but never actually seen one. I had a vague mental image of Harpies having wings instead of hands, whereas the Winged Race grew wings from their backs. I'd like to meet them someday if the opportunity arises.
As I continued browsing the stalls with Isis-san, a certain accessory suddenly caught my eye.
"Oh? Isn't the decoration on this brooch the same kind of flower you gave me before, Isis-san?"
"...Yes... A Blue Crystal Flower... Since it's a flower that doesn't wither... it's popular... as an accessory."
Various accessories were lined up at that stall, and one of them featured the flower I had received when I first met Isis-san.
Wait, the price is... one Gold Coin!? Does that mean this single item costs a million yen!?
"It’s quite a high-end item, isn't it?"
"...No... Blue Crystal Flowers... aren't that... rare... This price... is probably... because the creator... is popular... I think."
"Ah, so that's why it's so expensive. Let's see... 'Florence'... Is that the creator?"
"...Yes... They're very popular... but... they're moody... and don't make accessories... very often."
According to Isis-san, these were rare works that hardly ever appeared on the market. Finding one here might have been a real stroke of luck.
"...By the way... Florence is... Shaltier."
"...Huh?"
I thought I just heard a very familiar name. Wait, seriously? Alice made this accessory? And she's some kind of famous artisan?
Well, her technical skills are certainly incredible... so I suppose it makes sense. Or rather, just how many different aliases does that girl have?
I was a bit dazed by the shocking revelation, but I pulled myself together and called out to the stall owner.
"Excuse me, I'll take this brooch."
"Y-Yes! Thank you very much!"
Though clearly frightened by Isis-san's presence, the owner accepted the Gold Coin and handed over the brooch.
Perhaps surprised that I had bought it, Isis-san tilted her head with a curious expression.
"Kaito? ...What are you... going to do with that?"
"Well, you see, this flower reminds me of when I first met you, Isis-san. I couldn't help myself. So, here... this is for you."
"Eh?"
"I think it'll look great on you. It's a gift."
Taking the stunned Isis-san's hand, I placed the brooch in her palm. True to its name, the flower looked like blue crystal. It was a perfect match for her.
"Is it... really okay?"
"Of course!"
"...Thank you!"
Isis-san accepted the brooch and cradled it against her chest with both hands as if it were the most precious thing in the world. Every one of her gestures was truly endearing.
After a moment, she pinned the brooch to her dress. Perhaps because her Gothic-style gown featured more white than usual today, the blue of the brooch stood out vividly.
"It really does suit you perfectly."
"...Thank you... Kaito... I'm so happy."
"If it makes you happy, then I'm glad I bought it."
"...Yes... Another... wonderful memory with Kaito... has been added."
Isis-san’s smile was so radiant that the Blue Crystal Flower pinned to her chest seemed to lose its luster. She was so beautiful that I could only stare, completely captivated.
Dear Mother, Father—I once told Isis-san that I wanted us to make lots of memories together. Walking through the festival with her, giving her a gift, and seeing that beautiful smile... those words kept echoing in my heart. From here on, as we continue to experience moments of happiness like this—our memories will continue to pile up.
Serious-senpai: "...Kha... wheeze... wheeze..."