The choral performance by Jutia-san and the spirits of the Spirit Tree was nothing short of breathtaking. Voices washed over me from every direction, leaving me feeling as though I was literally being enveloped by song.
Since the smaller spirits of the Spirit Tree likely couldn't manage complex speech, the songs were wordless. Despite the lack of lyrics, they were so beautiful that I found myself closing my eyes to listen intently.
The stage, designed with a Forest Square motif, was equally impressive. It felt as if the forest itself was singing, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere.
Though the choir only lasted about ten minutes, it left me with such a deep sense of fulfillment that it felt as if I’d been immersed in the music for an eternity.
"That was amazing."
"Yes, it was magnificent. I almost regret not attending the Harmonic Symphony in previous years; it was a truly wonderful experience."
Lilia-san, standing beside me, replied to my comment. Everyone else had similarly satisfied expressions, making it clear they had enjoyed the performance just as much.
As we basked in the lingering echoes of the song for a short while, the space before us shimmered, and Jutia-san suddenly appeared.
"Well? Well? Did everyone enjoy themselves?"
"Yes. It was a wonderful performance. I was truly moved."
"I'm so glad, so glad! Hearing you say that makes me happy too, ya know! Now then, Kaito and the others were planning to visit the other performances by the Seven Princesses, right?"
"Yes, that's the plan... Jutia-san, I’m sorry. May I ask a quick question?"
"Oho?"
Just as Jutia-san said, we intended to go around to the other Seven Princesses' performances in order. However, something had slipped my mind until now. I realized that, just like Jutia-san’s choir, there must be specific performance times for each event.
Since the Seven Princesses' performances were bound to be large-scale, I figured we needed to plan our route with the schedule in mind.
"I imagine the other Seven Princesses have set performance times as well, but this is the first time any of us have participated, so we aren't really sure how it all works."
"Ah, I see, I see! You're right, it's better to plan your route around the timing. Wait a moment, wait a moment! I'll jot it down for you, ya know."
With that, Jutia-san pulled out a memo pad and began scribbling notes.
"Basically, the Seven Princesses' performances are held twice an hour—at the top of the hour and at the thirty-minute mark. But, but, there are a few exceptions. For example, Rosmiel’s performance is a musical, so each show is longer and only happens once every two hours. You should keep an eye on that... There! Finished, finished! I’ve made a note of each of the Seven Princesses' performance times for you."
"Thank you so much for going to the trouble. This really helps us out."
"It’s fine, it’s fine, don't worry about it! As one of the hosts, nothing makes me happier than seeing people enjoy the Harmonic Symphony to the fullest, ya know!"
The memo Jutia-san handed me contained a detailed schedule. Rosmiel’s and Blossom-san's performances were held once every two hours and once every hour respectively, while the others were held twice an hour. We would have to be careful about the timing when visiting those two.
After thanking Jutia-san once more, I moved on with the rest of the group.
"Now then, where should we head next? Thanks to Gluttony-san's cooperation, we don't necessarily have to visit the venues in order of proximity. Shall we prioritize one of the Seven Princesses whom Sieg-san hasn't met yet?"
"I would be very happy to do that, but... I wonder if the Seven Princesses are available on such short notice?"
"Ah, that's a good point. They're likely very busy, so it might be best to check via Hummingbird first."
"I agree. Of course, I would be delighted to meet and speak with them, but this is a major event. I don't want to demand the impossible, so I would simply be grateful for an introduction if their schedule happens to allow for it."
While the Seven Princesses' availability was certainly the priority, I still wanted to arrange a meeting for her if the timing worked out.
However, just as I was debating who we should visit next, the world around me suddenly shifted.
"I happen to find myself with a bit of free time right now. Would you care to visit?"
"Lilie-san... You gave me quite a start."
"Fufu. Since I can communicate with you the moment I resonate with your Sympathy Magic, I find myself doing it instinctively."
"Well, putting that aside..."
"Yes, it’s quite alright. I have more than enough time for a greeting and a chat... An autograph? Yes, that’s no problem at all."
Dealing with Lilie-san, who could read my surface thoughts, made the process remarkably efficient. She provided the answers before I could even voice the questions.
"I understand. In that case, we’ll head your way, Lilie-san."
"Yes. I’ll be waiting for you."
As soon as she finished speaking, the scenery returned to normal.
"Kaito-san? You suddenly stopped. Is something the matter?"
"Ah, um... How long was I spacing out just now?"
"About a second, I would say?"
I felt as though I’d been having a standard conversation, but it seemed the communication through the resonance of Sympathy Magic had occurred in the blink of an eye. Then again, someone of Lilie-san's caliber could probably manipulate time itself, so it was possible she was simply being considerate of our schedule.
Anyway, I turned to explain to everyone that we were heading to Lilie-san's location... only to stop when I saw Lilia-san. For some reason, she was already reaching for her stomach medicine. I hadn't even said a word yet, but she must have sensed something was coming based on her past experiences with me.
Serious-senpai: I wonder what Blossom's performance is going to be like? Since she's so obsessed with Japan, maybe it'll be something like Noh or Kabuki?