In the Carriage, En Route

Harks seemed unusually pleased as they rode in the carriage.

In the game, scenes like this were usually skipped, but she decided to ask what had put him in such good spirits.

"Did something good happen?"

"Hm? Ah. Because I get to escort you like this, Koleha. You're always so busy. Chances like this are rare, you know?"

"Well, that's true."

Koleha mentally filed that away as: He's excited because it's finally the end.

If she took his words at face value, it sounded like he was genuinely happy to escort her… no, that was exactly what he was saying. And he sounded sincere.

"Koleha. Do you like that dress?"

"Yes, well. The gold trim reminds me of your groveling, which amuses me. I like it."

"Oh, you do! All the better, then. All those instructions I gave the Shima Village designer were worth it."

"… I did say 'your groveling,' didn't I?"

"Ah. I heard."

So why was he smiling…

Since it was the last day, he must be feeling generous. Probably thinking: I'll condemn her after this, so let her say what she likes.

That, or he was practically admitting it didn't matter if he groveled before Koleha.

"Did you eat something off the ground today? You're acting strange. I prefer the usual Harks, you know～"

"… Hm, do you? I see. Heh, you say such pleasing things."

"O-oh. That really throws me off."

What was with him today? Had His Highness Harks finally snapped right before the finish line…?

The alternative was that Harks was genuinely delighted by her words.

"You must have a fever. Please, do take care of yourself."

"Ah, yeah. Thank you for your concern. But I'm in perfect condition. I prepared well for today. I'm probably just giddy from seeing my fiancée all dressed up."

"My, is that so. You certainly are fired up…"

"Yeah. Today, I have an important announ— ahem! No! Nothing. Forget it."

And there it was. A flustered Harks.

So there really was 'something' planned for today… No doubt the 'condemnation'. What else could it be? Of course, Koleha had already prepared herself to accept it, so there was nothing to be surprised about now.

"… Your Highness Harks."

"Hm! What is it, Koleha?"

"I'm looking forward to today."

"! Indeed! Ah, indeed!"

And with that, the carriage soon arrived at the venue.