After a brief chat with Lilie and Blossom, I wrapped things up by mentioning I was heading off to see Lilliwood. At the venue entrance, I handed over the card I’d received from Camellia to one of the World King’s subordinates.
The attendant checked it, bowed, and said, "This way, please," as they led me through the venue. Before long, we reached a door. The subordinate opened it and bowed again.
"Lilliwood-sama is just beyond here. I am not permitted to go any further, so I will take my leave here."
"I understand. Thank you very much."
I thanked them and stepped through. A short walk brought me to a wooden spiral staircase. I’d been to Lilliwood’s castle several times, but I never knew this place existed.
Lost in thought, I climbed the stairs and emerged onto a spacious balcony. There, I saw Lilliwood standing with her back to me.
"Oh? Kaito-san? Hello—or perhaps I should say, welcome?"
"Hello, Lilliwood-san. Thank you for the invitation."
As I stepped onto the balcony, Lilliwood turned around. A flicker of surprise crossed her face, quickly replaced by a gentle smile as she greeted me.
"Please, don't mention it. I'm afraid I cannot offer much in the way of hospitality... Since I don't typically consume food or drink, I simply spend my time here, watching the venue."
"This place is incredible. You can see everything from here... it feels like a truly special spot."
"Entry to this balcony is strictly forbidden to anyone below the rank of Executive, so it may be special in that regard. That said, it is not as if there is anything unusual here; it is simply my vantage point during the tea parties."
The attendant who had guided me mentioned they weren't allowed past the door. As both a King and the host, the place where she observed her guests was undoubtedly a special location.
As I mused on that, Lilliwood looked as though she had just remembered something, a playful glint in her eyes.
"By the way, Kaito-san. Thank you again for the wonderful time at the Harmonic Symphony."
"Ah, no, the pleasure was mine... though it certainly was a surprise."
"Fufufu. Strangely enough, I don't quite understand what prompted me to act so impulsively myself. It was just... well, saying it simply 'felt right' is the best way I can describe it."
"Well, I often act without thinking too, so I don't think it's that strange. Besides, we both enjoyed the dance, so there's no harm done."
"...I suppose you're right."
Lilliwood narrowed her eyes happily and gestured to the space beside her.
"Kaito-san, you can't see very well from there, can you? Come, join me."
"Ah, thank you. Excuse me then."
Following her lead, I stood beside her and was met with a breathtaking view. Yugfressia was a natural city, and its beauty was on full display. Lilliwood’s castle sat on high ground, and the tea party venue below was an open space designed for the view. From this even higher perspective, the lush greenery of the city and the lively tea party combined into a stunning landscape.
"It's a magnificent view."
"I am glad you like it. But I haven't asked yet—Kaito-san, what brings you here?"
"Oh, I just wanted to say hello. Camellia told me where to find you."
"I see. Did I make you go out of your way?"
"Not at all. I knew that greetings weren't strictly necessary, but... honestly, I just wanted to talk to you."
I wasn't lying. I knew formalities were optional and that I could have thanked her for the invitation after the party ended. My primary motivation was simply a desire to spend time talking with her.
Lilliwood blinked in surprise at my words, then gave a delighted smile.
"...I see. In that case, how about this? Since you’ve come all this way, would you like to share some tea with me?"
"Wait... Lilliwood-san, don't you usually only drink water?"
"Generally, yes. However, it's not as if I never touch the stuff. Back when I lived with Kuromueina and the others, I would drink it now and then. As for my brewing skills, even Ein has praised them, so I believe I am reasonably proficient."
"Is that so? Then, if you're offering, I would love to."
The unexpected invitation caught me off guard, but since I’d never had a chance like this before, I found myself genuinely looking forward to sharing a cup of tea with her.
Serious-senpai: "How to put it... It really feels like Lilliwood’s affection has been rising steadily. From the Treasure Tree Festival to the Six Kings Festival, and now here... it’s starting to show in her attitude."
???: "That’s because it has. Lilliwood-sama is oblivious to these matters, so she probably hasn't realized it herself, but I’d say her affection is already quite high. She was clearly delighted that Kaito-san came to find her."