The music sounded as though it would continue for quite some time. It was a shame to leave, but since time itself had been frozen at sunset, we needed to make our way to the Clock Tower sooner rather than later.
The problem was the crowd. With the theater packed to capacity, trying to stand up and navigate my way out would be a challenge.
"I see... You wish to reach the Clock Tower as soon as possible, Kaito-san?"
"Ah, yes."
"Because you want to be alone so we can flirt?"
"...Y-Yeah, pretty much."
"I see. In that case, it cannot be helped. Shall we go?"
At my nod, Shiro-san gave a casual wave of her hand. In an instant, the scenery blurred and shifted. We were no longer in the theater; we were standing right in front of the Clock Tower. The chairs were gone, yet I found myself still hovering in a seated position. Some kind of magical force, I assumed. I quickly straightened my legs and stood up.
"Shallow Vernal-sama, right this way."
"Ah, Chronoa-san... Um, is everything going alright?"
"Indeed. Do not trouble yourself. Thanks to the Hydra King’s quick wits, there has been very little confusion. Please, Miyama, think nothing of it and enjoy your time with Shallow Vernal-sama."
"...I understand. Thank you."
With just those few words, Chronoa-san sensed exactly what I was worried about and gave me the explanation I needed. It seemed that thanks to Laguna-san's skillful handling of the situation, the public hadn't descended into chaos. Judging by Chronoa-san's tone, it didn't seem like the world was on the brink of collapse just because the sun refused to set. That realization took a weight off my shoulders.
"Wow, now that we’re up close, this place is actually quite large... Well then, shall we go inside?"
"Yes."
Although the tower had been opened specifically for us today and was normally off-limits to the public during the Founding Anniversary Festival, the structure was designed for tourism. It was often featured as a premier spot for couples.
The interior was clearly built with visitors in mind. The stairs were shallow and easy to climb, fitted with sturdy handrails to ensure no one took a tumble.
After climbing for a while, we reached a spacious observation floor. A plush, oversized sofa had been placed perfectly before a sprawling window. Beyond the glass, the sunset blazed over the sea, its light dancing across the waves.
"Oh, this really is a magnificent view. The way the sunset reflects off the water is beautiful... Well, I suppose 'timing' isn't the right word when the sun has been manually adjusted to stay there."
"Is this... a view suitable for a couple?"
"I'd say the mood is spot on."
It really was a superb view—the ultimate date spot. Sitting on that sofa and gazing at the sunset-drenched horizon with Shiro-san felt like it would be a wonderful, romantic experience.
Still, one thing nagged at me. When was the sun actually going to move? She had mentioned wanting to see the night view as well... I just hoped it wouldn't suddenly pitch into darkness the moment Shiro-san felt like it. I really hoped.
Serious-senpai: "...I feel like I just saw where the 'optimism flag' is going to land."