Allen looked around at the complicated expressions on everyone’s faces and let out a sigh.
“So you guys did realize who Charlotte was after all.”
“Well… yeah. Those wanted posters were weirdly accurate, you know.”
Groh nodded hesitantly.
The others had similar reactions. But then Groh gave a sheepish smile.
“We just didn’t believe any of that stuff. That’s why we decided not to say anything.”
“...I appreciate it.”
Allen gave a small bow. It wasn’t like him, but he felt genuinely moved.
(So many people… believe in her now.)
And it was all thanks to Charlotte’s own actions.
As he reflected on how her world was expanding, Allen suddenly tilted his head, puzzled.
“But if you all care about her so much, why aren’t you stopping me from confessing?”
“We’re not like that. It’s more like… we’re fans. Of an idol, you know?”
"The Great Demon Lord is the one we're dealing with, after all..."
"First of all, she doesn't even have any interest in us..."
Gazes with a hint of resentment were flying from all directions.
Feeling rather smug, Allen gave them a magnanimous nod.
“Good. Then I won’t have to send any familiar faces into the void.”
“I’ve had enough of this guy.”
“Excuse me! Can we get more drinks over here? Strongest stuff you’ve got, please!”
And so, more alcohol was brought to the table, and at last, things began to resemble a proper drinking party.
Allen sipped some as well, and emboldened by the buzz, got straight to the point.
"So, going back to the topic, I want to confess my feelings. Is there anywhere good? A gift that would make her happy would be fine too."
“Well, for presents…”
“If it’s for a girl, maybe flowers or jewelry?”
“Flowers maybe, but would Charlotte really care about jewelry…?”
Something too expensive would make her feel intimidated.
Rather, Allen had a feeling she’d prefer something simple, like the hair ornament he’d once bought from a street vendor. She still wore it every day.
For now, he set aside the gift idea.
Just then, Magus clapped his hands.
“Oh! I actually know the perfect place!”
“Really…? Let’s hear it.”
“There’s this dungeon called the Toa Caverns to the northwest. Just before it, there’s a big flower field.”
“Oh, that place!”
Groh and the others looked at each other and nodded.
Apparently, there was a fairly tough dungeon nearby.
Skilled adventurers go into the cave to train and hunt monsters to earn money.
And on the way from the town to the cave, there was a small hill.
This time of year, it bloomed with colorful flowers, and even wild rabbits showed up. Since the dungeon was close, ordinary townsfolk rarely went there, but the monsters didn’t come out that far either, so it was considered a peaceful area.
Just imagining the scene made Allen slap his knee in excitement.
“Oh, that’s perfect! Charlotte would love that.”
“Right? Just say it’s a picnic or something and bring her there.”
And so, Allen and the group of burly men, emboldened by alcohol, began excitedly planning a romantic confession scene. It was quite the bizarre sight. The rest of the tavern watched them from a cautious distance.
As they continued, the plan came together.
First, invite Charlotte to the flower field and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Then, confess his feelings with the sunset as the backdrop.
Even Allen could tell that this was pure romance.
The excitement soared. Allen jumped to his feet, thrusting a fist into the air.
“Alright! Then it’s decided, tomorrow I make my move! I’m doing this! Let’s gooo!”
“Whoooa! For real?!”
“We’ll be cheering you on!”
“Just hurry up and get your happy ending already!”
The group cheered Allen on.
The excitement in the room was at its peak. Without a single person noticing that a figure was approaching...
"What are you all talking about?"
“WHOAAHH!!”
A strange scream escaped from everyone's mouths.
Slowly turning around in fear… they saw Charlotte standing there. Allen swallowed instinctively.