The chorus performed by the World King’s subordinates was nothing short of magnificent. The sheer number of voices created a powerful, resonant harmony, and their technical skill was so high that I would have easily believed it if someone had told me this was the main event.
With the crowd’s enthusiasm reaching a fever pitch, Lilliwood finally made her entrance. Draped in finery even more luxurious than her usual attire, she walked serenely across the stage, radiating an aura that commanded the respect due a King.
Lilliwood moved to the center of the stage, closed her eyes for a moment of silence, and then began to sing.
Her performance was breathtaking. Though she stood alone and didn't seem to be straining her voice, her clear, crystalline notes echoed across the entire square, stirring the hearts of everyone present.
It was a world apart from her singing at my birthday party; the overwhelming presence in her voice was a masterpiece of pure emotion.
I stood there, captivated by the sheer power of her song, until the final note faded. A heartbeat later, a thunderous wave of applause erupted from the crowd.
"That was... incredible. It’s on a completely different level than the karaoke contest we had at your birthday party, Kaito-senpai."
"When Lilliwood sings in earnest, even I can't compete with her," Kuro admitted.
I knew exactly how talented Kuro was. During that karaoke contest, I’d felt that she and Alice were the best singers there, second only to Shiro. For Kuro to explicitly state she was no match... well, having heard it myself, I couldn't disagree. It was a formidable talent. Even Alice might have struggled to keep up.
Then again, the fact that Shiro still stood in a league of her own was just a testament to how truly peerless she was.
"Is this the end of the Harmonic Symphony, then?" I asked.
"The major events are over," Kuro explained, "but the music will continue here in the square for a while. Participants are free to sing and dance as they like."
"Heh, that sounds like fun. Maybe we should stay for a bit... What about you and the others, Kuro?"
"We’re actually planning to head over to Rosmiel's final performance. We can just make it if we leave now."
"I see. Have fun."
We decided to linger in the square while Kuro and her group used teleportation magic to head off to Rosmiel’s musical.
As the music for free participation began to play, the atmosphere shifted. It reminded me of a traditional festival dance, where the crowd naturally divides into those performing in the center and those observing from the fringes.
We stayed on the sidelines, chatting and enjoying the festive mood as onlookers. We had been watching for a while and were just about to discuss heading home when a figure in a hooded robe suddenly darted in front of me.
"Eh? Wait—!"
Before I could react, the person grabbed my hand as they passed and pulled me along. I was led, bewildered, into the center of the square among the dancers.
What was going on?
As I stood there in confusion, the robed figure took my other hand, guiding me into a posture reminiscent of ballroom dancing. Finally seeing them face-to-face, I realized who it was.
"Wait, Lilliwood—?"
"Shh. Please don't say my name out loud. I’ve cast recognition inhibition magic, but someone might still notice if you call out."
"Oh... right. Sorry."
I couldn't believe it. It really was Lilliwood. I was more confused than ever—why was she even here?
Sensing my bewilderment, Lilliwood gave me a wry, gentle smile.
"To be honest, I make it a point to come see everyone singing and dancing during this event every year. I happened to spot you in the crowd, and I was just so happy to see you that I couldn't help myself. I apologize for dragging you out here so suddenly."
"No, it’s fine. I was just surprised. The thing is... I don't really know how to do this."
"Fufu, I’d be honored if you’d dance with me for just a little while. Don't worry, I’ll lead."
"All right. If you're sure."
Seeing her radiant smile, I nodded. True to her word, Lilliwood began to lead me through the steps.
As we pressed close, the unmistakable sensation of her ample chest against mine left me utterly flustered, but Lilliwood looked truly happy.
"I knew you were attending the festival, but I was disappointed that we hadn't had much of a chance to talk. Meeting you like this by pure coincidence... it truly makes me happy."
"I’m glad we met too. And honestly, this is actually pretty fun."
"I’m delighted to hear that. In that case, please indulge my selfishness for just a little longer."
It had been a complete surprise, but I was genuinely happy to see her. More than anything, seeing how much she enjoyed my company made me feel a warmth that had nothing to do with the dancing.
And so, with the beautiful music as our backdrop, I continued to dance with the joyfully smiling Lilliwood.
Serious-senpai: "No way... Her Heroine Power... it's actually rising...?"