Once the conversation between Magnawell and Alice wrapped up, we set off together since Magnawell had planned to return to the main stage plaza anyway.
Since Magnawell’s current form wasn't common knowledge, we moved through the crowds without attracting a second glance and reached our destination without issue.
The plaza was massive. In the center stood the main stage I’d heard so much about, surrounded by rows of what looked like spectator seating.
In a particularly expansive and luxurious area—one so large it was less of a seating section and more of a private viewing gallery—the rest of the Six Kings were already gathered.
A quick glance told me that the Kings had each brought two companions along. Standing slightly behind Kuro were Zex and another individual whose name I didn't know. I didn't recognize them, but I had a vague memory of seeing them during the incident with Fia, so they were undoubtedly one of Kuro’s Family... and a Count-class at that.
Isis was accompanied by Iris and another person who looked like the quintessential witch, complete with a white, pointed hat. That was likely Polaris, whom I’d heard mentioned before. She looked the part so perfectly that I figured she, like Isis, was probably an expert in a vast array of magical arts.
As these thoughts crossed my mind, Isis noticed me. She gave a bashful smile and offered a tiny, tentative wave. She really was adorable.
I lightly waved back before shifting my gaze to the other Six Kings.
Megiddo’s companions appeared to be Bacchus and Agni. Megiddo himself was watching the stage while clutching a massive barrel that was ten to one filled with booze. It seemed he was enjoying the performances while drinking. It was very typical of him, though I knew he actually had a deep appreciation for the arts, so I suspected he was genuinely enjoying the God race's drama.
Lilliwood was joined by Lilie and someone I didn't recognize. I didn't think this newcomer was one of the Seven Princesses; the only one I hadn't met was Blossom, and I’d been told she had black hair in a ponytail. Since the woman standing behind Lilliwood had red hair, she was likely another Count-class.
As for Alice, she had Pandora and another unfamiliar face standing behind her. Given that Pandora was relegated to the back, that Alice was probably just a Split Body.
Finally, I spotted Fafnir and Eingana in the viewing area as well, likely waiting for Magnawell to join them.
As expected of the first festival held in the God Realm, the atmosphere was every bit as grand as the Hero Festival, and the group was clearly the center of attention in the plaza. In reality, opportunities to see the Six Kings in person were rare, making this a precious occasion for the public.
"So, what’s the plan, Miyama-sama? Do you intend to go greet the Six Kings while basking in the undivided attention of the entire crowd?"
"Will you come with me, Luna-san?"
"I must flatly refuse."
"Then let’s give it a pass for now."
I was well aware that my face had become somewhat recognizable after the Six Kings Festival, but I still had no desire to step into a spot where the eyes of everyone in the plaza would be fixed on me.
"Well then, I shall return to the others. Until we meet again, Miyama Kaito."
"Ah, yes. See you later."
After exchanging a few words with Magnawell as he departed to join his peers, we moved to a spot that offered a clear view of the stage.
What was happening now? It felt like an orchestra, with members of the God race playing various instruments. The music was solemn and carried a beauty that made it easy to lose oneself in the melody.
Still, I realized I’d run into a staggering number of people at today’s festival: Tre, Falce, Elise, Acht, Eva, Camellia, Rosmiel, Jutia, and now Magnawell. At this rate, I felt like I might run into even more... but I found the prospect exciting rather than exhausting.
I was just starting to wonder who might be next when a voice rang out.
"Wait?! My goodness! My God! Is that not My God standing right there?!"
"God? I do not know of what you speak, but a chance encounter is as joyful as it is sorrowful. For every meeting, a parting is destined to follow... Ahh, which is to say, every meeting is merely the beginning of grief. Truly, this world is overflowing with sadness."
"......"
Oh boy, here comes real trouble... What did I do to deserve this? Why, of all people, did the dangerous bird and the dangerous snake—the two most eccentric people in my entire social circle—have to show up as a pair?
You definitely shouldn't let these two stay together. For that matter, the bird was currently shouting "My God" at the top of her lungs...
Serious-senpai: "Well, talk about a disaster landing."
???: "A disaster indeed. I'm honestly worried that Aoi and Hina are going to be negatively influenced by this."
Serious-senpai: "Hey, those are your subordinates we're talking about!"