They sat side by side on a bench, watching the city as the sun dipped below the horizon. The red-brick streets glowed in the twilight, a scene that felt both cozy and surreal. Kaito and the others sat in silence for a few minutes, etching the breathtaking view into their memories.
As the sun vanished and the world grew dark, the park's magic lighting flickered to life. It was time to head back for their final plan of the day: dinner at the restaurant.
"Do we still have plenty of time before the reservation?" Kaito asked.
"Yes. Even if we take longer than we did on the way up, it won't be a problem. We even have enough leeway to browse the shops along the way..."
"Olivia-san?"
After answering, Olivia took on a pensive expression, glancing at Kaito several times. Sensing she had something to say but was hesitating, Kaito prompted her. Finally, with a look of firm resolve, Olivia spoke.
"Miyama Kaito-sama. I am fully aware that this is a most presumptuous and disrespectful act of lèse-majesté, but I have a wish I hope you will grant. I will accept any punishment afterward, but I beg of you to show me your mercy..."
"Hmm? No, there’s no need to make it such a big deal. If it’s within my power, just tell me."
It was rare for Olivia to ask for anything herself. Kaito tilted his head in momentary surprise, but his good nature wouldn't allow him to heartlessly reject a request from someone he cared about.
He smiled and urged her to continue, assuring her it was no trouble. Olivia bowed her head deeply.
"I thank you for your generosity. To be specific... regarding the princess carry you just bestowed upon me... would you please grant that same honor to Mizuhara Kaori?"
"Huh?"
"Wha!?"
Olivia's words caught them completely off guard. Kaito looked stunned, but Kaori was utterly thunderstruck.
(Eeeh?! Why me all of a sudden?! We never talked about this! And Olivia-sama looks so incredibly serious... Why?! Just why?!)
While Kaori spiraled in confusion, Olivia remained the picture of earnestness. Noticing Kaori's shock, Olivia turned toward her with a gentle smile.
"Mizuhara Kaori, I am truly grateful for how you looked out for me during the climb. You have often mentioned your admiration for the act of a princess carry, yet you prioritized me over your own wishes today. It was a selfless act of kindness. I hope I can help fulfill the desire you suppressed for my sake."
"What? Wait... Ah..."
Kaori stood dazed, listening to Olivia speak with the serene grace of a Holy Mother. After a moment, a memory flickered in her mind.
(I... I did say that. I remember telling her I admired the idea of a princess carry when she was asking me for dating advice...!)
At her core, Olivia was a Pure One. She didn't harbor a shred of ill will, nor did she feel embarrassed because Kaori's earlier suggestion had put her in that position. Instead, she was genuinely thankful, believing Kaori had looked out for her lack of physical strength while helping her enjoy a romantic, date-like moment.
That was why Olivia had made this massive decision—asking a favor of Kaito—entirely for Kaori's benefit.
"Since we are going downhill, I can manage on my own. I did so at Hero's Hill, despite the fatigue. I believe I can reach the bottom this time without assistance. Therefore, if Miyama Kaito-sama does not mind, please... bestow your mercy upon Mizuhara Kaori."
"Um, I don't mind, but... what about you, Kaori-san?"
"..."
Facing Kaito’s hesitant question, Kaori wore an indescribable expression. Honestly, she did admire the idea, and she did want to experience it once. However, her embarrassment usually would have forced her to decline.
But right now, her conscience was pricking her. When she had suggested the princess carry for Olivia earlier, she had certainly been worried about her friend—that was her primary motive. However, there was no denying that part of her also just wanted to see the spectacle and witness a "youthful" romantic moment up close.
Yet, Olivia had accepted that suggestion with absolute sincerity. Now, with 100% Goodwill, she was asking Kaito to give Kaori that same chance.
Kaori felt a wave of guilt for having mixed her own selfish desires into her earlier advice. She couldn't possibly reject the pure kindness of a friend who was looking out for her so earnestly.
After a long silence, Kaori gave an exasperated nod.
Serious-senpai: [She’s a bit like Isis in this regard. When someone makes a request to Kaito with 100% Goodwill—especially when it clearly took a huge amount of resolve for them to ask—Kaori just can't say no. Dammit! In other words, Princess Carry Confirmed!!]