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The little spirit, darting around in the form of a small child, could undoubtedly say that today was the happiest day since regaining its lost contractor.

Every time it materialized from the spirit realm, it was usually to help with busy tasks, or if not, it was limited to exploring quiet rooms or the familiar surroundings of the Count’s House Mansion. Getting to enjoy the lively streets was akin to a stroke of luck.

Not to mention…

“Sis, is it really that tasty? I think what Dad usually gives me is way better…”

“That’s because you have expensive taste! I prefer this street food.”

The far more stimulating treats compared to the food prepared at the Count’s House made Tania especially happy.

Unlike the wind spirit that had arrived after her contractor was back on track, Tania had been with her master since the days of having nothing. After dungeon expeditions, the sweetness of enjoying street food together was an unforgettable memory.

Tania couldn’t resist eating the skewers that reminded her of those nostalgic times.

“Myaa.”

“You want one too?”

“Meow!”

“Okay, here’s a tiny bite. But… just one tiny bite!”

While taking care of the younger sibling still in the adorable form of Cotton Puff.

After devouring the skewers, they simply burned the leftover sticks away with fire and wandered around holding her contractor’s hand.

Soon enough, they ventured into a street not filled with the usual clamor and crowds, but one lined with a certain elegance and charming buildings.

“Wow…”

This place, free of the street stalls, offered a wider and cleaner street, where people dressed in various styles gathered and chatted with dignity.

As Tania dashed around, delighted by the sudden transformation of the neighborhood.

“Tania, be careful not to get lost, okay? This way!”

Following her contractor’s call, the spirit’s eyes were drawn to the particularly large building he stood before.

More impressive than the other structures, climbing vines adorned with brilliantly crimson flowers blossomed against its facade, creating a stunning atmosphere.

Shione, following the spirit’s gaze, shared the name of the beautiful flowers.

“You like the Chinese honeysuckle, huh?”

“Chinese honeysuckle?”

“The flower language means honor and longing. We’re about to enter this building, and in a way, it suits the meaning of the flowers.”

“…I’m looking forward to it! What is this place?”

“It’s a theater. We’re going to watch a play together. I’ve already prepared your seats.”

“…Really?”

“You used to love dramas, right? A play is different, and I’m not sure if you’ll like it, but I thought this would be better than going anywhere else.”

Tania gazed blankly at her slightly embarrassed contractor before a bubbling joy began to rise from deep within her heart.

A play! An exciting story brought to life by talented and beautiful actors through sights and sounds!

She had thought she’d be attending a modest party in the garden of the Count’s House, but now faced with an unexpected treat, the spirit raised her arms in delight.

With a bright smile, Tania began to bounce in place and exclaimed.

“This is the best!”

*

After entering the theater and settling into their reserved seats, it wasn’t long before the play began.

Perhaps because it boasted quite a pricey ticket, the stage was adorned with props created by wizards and alchemists, and the performances from skilled actors were grippingly immersive.

“That’s why it’s packed despite the high price.”

Such expensive plays are primarily attended by nobles or well-off merchants.

I expected it would be something to stroke their vanity or cater to their high aesthetic sensibilities, but apparently, they were just people making their livelihoods through plays. The incredibly provocative love drama made money unavoidably.

“…No, this isn’t right! You should be more assertive!”

“A commoner daring to act like that towards a noble…? They haven’t known each other for long, have they?”

Tania and Shione found themselves captivated by the play, while Elvis and Orna sat closely together, quietly enjoying the show.

Seeing everyone enjoying themselves, it felt like bringing them to the theater was a success.

Now, there remained one prominent event.

I silently watched Shione’s profile instead of the play and reflected.

“I remember the store’s location perfectly, and if we go right after the play, we’ll arrive on time.”

I did my best to line everything up and find the store, making sure not to mess it up.

“It’s a reunion between Herrel and Shione.”

Shione, who had entirely ignored the only ally she had in the past, wished to apologize for the pain she had caused Herrel.

As stated in letters exchanged, Herrel, too, wanted to express regret for the harsh words he had said to her. Therefore, even if Shione did not forgive him, he was content to see her present self.

With both sides understanding each other, what was there to be embarrassed about?

“Even after a falling out due to past events, they are family.”

Herrel, who had poured parental affection on Shione in place of Ainel, and Shione, who had followed Herrel.

If they had spent their time clashing, that might have been different, but for Shione, Herrel was like a second mother. Just the cautious tone in Herrel’s letters indicated her feelings of maternal concern.

Such a once harmonious parent-child relationship would only strengthen further even after disagreements.

Especially…

“…This meeting might not go as smoothly as I think, but it was Shione who asked me to call for Herrel.”

While preparing for the trial, it was Shione who requested to summon Herrel.

Beyond that, she asked me to determine the date and location, insisting that I not tell Herrel anything. She feared being consumed by anxiety until the day arrived if she were to hear when they would meet.

This wasn’t about a significant public meeting but a small private reunion. Given the spontaneous nature of such meetings, it was precisely what Shione desired.

“Maybe Shione is also anticipating that today will come.”

She couldn’t help but know that this beautifully arranged occasion, dressed up with makeup, would be the perfect moment to meet Herrel.

Well, you never know what someone’s heart is truly like until you hear it from them. The reality is only Shione knows for sure.

Still, I trust she’ll manage fine.

“Wow! The play was awesome!”

It was only after Tania’s outburst of joy brought me back from my thoughts that I finally realized the performance had ended.

“How was it, Tania? Did you like it?”

“It was way more fun because the actors performed right in front of us! Can we see it again next time?”

“If there’s time. I’ve got plenty of money now, so I can treat you.”

“Wow!”

Tania raised her arms again, leaping up in jubilation.

“…Sis, could you not be so loud and just stay still for once?”

“What? Is my excitement embarrassing?”

“No, it’s not that it’s embarrassing, it’s just…”

“Mya.”

“Even you don’t need to say that!”

Shione smiled lightly at the banter among the spirits.

She suddenly snatched Orna and playfully patted her head, saying.

“It was quite enjoyable. Though… I don’t quite get why a commoner would act like that.”

“Yet, didn’t Shione enjoy the show more than anyone else? You were cheering for the commoner character at the end.”

“…Well, that was due to the script, so it can’t be helped. It’s unavoidable, really.”

“Well, then, let’s start moving. We still have places to go.”

“Really? What else have you prepared besides the theater?”

“Yes, this time it’s not for the spirits; it’s for you, Shione.”

At that, her eyes, which had been dull, began to sparkle brightly as she looked at me.

Who wouldn’t be excited to hear there was a gift waiting for them?

So, I stepped out of the theater and stood before them all to guide them.

“We have arrived.”

As we entered a building, a serene atmosphere enveloped us.

Constructed of wood, the warm ambiance was evident, and the comforting scent of tea and desserts filled the air.

Before leaving the mansion, I took out the letter I had hidden in my pocket and presented it to Shione.

“What is this? A letter?”

“Why don’t you give it a read?”

“Alright, just a moment…”

As she checked the sender’s name, Shione’s eyes subtly flickered.

Rapidly reading through the words, when she finally took her gaze away from the letter…

“…I was excited you had something prepared, but it was Herrel, huh.”

She wore a peculiar smile.

“She said if I don’t want to meet her, I can just turn back. What do you think I’ll do?”

“If I know anything about you, Shione…”

Shione, who wanted to clear Herrel’s grievances.

Shione, who examined the small notebook left by my predecessor maid with care.

When Herrel’s charges were lifted during the trial sentencing, Shione’s expression lit up with joy.

“Of course, you’re going to step into this venue and share all those untold stories you’ve been holding back.”

“…You really know me too well. You’re spot on.”

With a slight sigh, she delicately fiddled with the stationery.

She must be feeling quite nervous about meeting Herrel.

After gathering her courage, she turned to me with a warm smile and whispered.

“Alright, I’ll be on my way. Can you wait for me a moment?”

“Of course. I already reserved the place, so take your time.”

“You even booked a whole shop! It will make finding my caretaker easy.”

“I happened to have a bit of money now.”

With a gentle smile, she entered the shop.

As I wandered around the quiet interior, soon traces of a familiar figure emerged on the blue walls.

As Shione approached the woman, her eyes began to tremble.

“…Shione?”

“It’s been a while, caretaker. I don’t even know how long it has been.”

The meeting between Shione and Herrel had begun.

 

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