The day of the Arclesia Empire’s Founding Anniversary Festival finally arrived. I headed to the capital early in the morning with Amel to set up our stall.
"Sworn Friend! At long last, the hour of destiny has arrived. Shall we not stain this day's festivities with the radiance of our darkness?"
"It’s finally starting. By the way, Amel, are you keeping your wings small?"
"Indeed, for I too am one who bears the weight of fate. While I would not call drawing the gaze of others an evil, at times, it can become a cage. If these wings would only serve to fetter my freedom, then sinking them into an illusion for a time is but another form of amusement."
"I see. They certainly do stand out, and as the Leader of the Winged Race, you’re likely a celebrity."
At first glance, you wouldn't be able to tell Amel belonged to the Winged Race. She had shrunk her signature black wings and concealed them beneath her jacket. When I asked why, she explained that since her wings were so striking, they were likely to attract unwanted attention. As the Leader of the Winged Race, she wasn't particularly fond of being the center of that kind of scrutiny, so she had decided to keep them hidden.
"However, it is not simply that. By masking my obsidian wings, I become a Disciple of Delusion. Much like how the Great Hollow King of Illusions assumes the guise of the Great Hollow King of Illusions, I too shall deceive the world for a season."
"Does that mean it’s because your face isn't very well-known, Amel?"
"Precisely. The Winged Race is an isolationist species. I myself have rarely stepped onto a stage bathed in light. Consequently, many remain ignorant of my True Sparkle of Darkness."
"I see. Well, it’s a relief then, since you won’t attract any weird attention."
To put it simply, just as Alice—the Phantasm King—could go about her business as a general store owner because no one actually knew what she looked like, Amel rarely appeared on the public stage. As long as her black wings were hidden, people wouldn't recognize her as the Leader of the Winged Race.
On a side note, the fact that I could understand Amel’s dramatic speech patterns without having to stop and think was a sign of growth—in a sense. She always seemed so happy whenever we talked, and if it pleased her, I suppose it was fine. However, I couldn't help but feel a bit uneasy, as if the seal on the Chunibyo Spirit dormant within me was finally being broken.
At the very least, this meant there wouldn't be a crowd of people swarming the place just to see the Leader of the Winged Race, so we could enjoy running the stall at a comfortable pace. Amel had specifically requested a spot in a relatively quiet area, so it was unlikely we'd be overwhelmed by customers.
"Setting up the stall is a breeze since we just have to pull it out of the Magic Box," I noted.
"Yes. Running a stall with my Sworn Friend... Ehehe, we can have fun without worrying about sales—Ahem! I mean, fulfilling the covenant with my Sworn Friend is our primary duty. The acquisition of coin is a secondary concern. Shall we not simply enjoy this once-a-year festival?"
"You're right. Let's not worry about sales and just have fun. As we agreed, Amel, you'll handle the merchandise from Alice's shop, and I'll take care of the pottery and ceramics I brought from home."
"I understand. However, we need not be fettered by such rigid boundaries. Let us adapt to the shifting tides and move as beautifully as flowing water. Should my Sworn Friend require assistance, I shall extend my hand in an instant."
"Thank you. I'm counting on you."
Though we had decided on our roles beforehand, we would play it by ear and help each other out according to the situation, just as Amel said. Honestly, since most of the items were hobbyist goods with relatively high price tags, I didn't think the stall would get that busy.
While I was lost in thought, the sound of a fanfare echoed through the air.
"What was that?"
"That is the Melody Announcing the Start of the Festival. Magic has been woven into it so that it resonates throughout the city. If a melody heralds the beginning, then a melody shall also herald the end..."
"So, a magic broadcast across the capital is the starting signal? And another one plays when it’s over?"
"Exactly as expected of my Sworn Friend. Our hearts appear to be in perfect resonance once again."
"Haha. Well, it's the start of the festival. I'll be in your care today."
"Yeah! Let's do our best!"
When I spoke to her, Amel’s natural personality slipped out, and she nodded with a bright, cheerful smile. I gave a wry laugh at her reaction before steeeling myself for our first customer.
Serious-senpai: "...Damn it, my body still hasn't changed back from sugar. I... I suppose I should just be glad the damage wasn't any worse..."
???: "You say that so casually, but I seriously have to wonder what your biology is like, 'ssu. I really wish you'd realize that the phrase 'changing back from sugar' is completely insane."