Fundamentally, a Magus is considered unemployed. Thus, when not researching Magecraft, there isn't much to do. Especially for Naoki, surrounded by people who handle all his affairs.
So, with little to do, Naoki was dragged by Rei to a shopping district in Shin-to, lingering in various luxury stores until nightfall.
"I'm telling you… do I really have to dress like this?"
At the entrance of the Fuyuki Grand Hotel, Naoki awkwardly tugged at the collar practically choking him. "This feels so uncomfortable, Rei. I really don't think Riddell will care what I'm wearing."
"No, Master, you must wear it properly." Rei said, straightening Naoki's tie again. "Even if this is a dangerous dinner, it's still a dinner with a woman, and the venue is a revolving restaurant she specially reserved at great expense. If you don't show the appropriate attitude, your value will drop significantly."
"Women notice far more details than you think."
(Hmm… that seems right. Back when Riddell dragged me shopping, she also made me try on a bunch of clothes.)
After checking Naoki's details one last time, Rei smiled. "Alright, it's sorted. But, Master, I must remind you: even though you and Miss Riddell are friends, for a Magus, friends can betray at any moment. Especially during the Holy Grail War—if it's for the Grail, it's not impossible for her to harm you."
"Please prioritize your safety. If you're in danger, use a Command Spell immediately. Artoria is always on standby, ready to strike at any moment. We'll also be ready to provide support."
Don't misunderstand—though it was just Naoki and Rei here, Atalanta was keeping watch from a nearby building's rooftop. Mordred had already disguised herself and infiltrated the hotel earlier, and Gray was at the base, monitoring every move. Meanwhile, Artoria was on standby with Gray.
If Riddell showed the slightest suspicious behavior during dinner, a barrage of arrows and a father-daughter double assault would follow.
Seeing this lavish setup, Naoki gave a wry smile. "You guys are worrying too much. Riddell's combat strength is practically zero against me. The only one to watch out for is Gilgamesh… But I'll keep your advice in mind and be more careful."
"Good. Safe travels, Master."
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Naoki had stayed at the Fuyuki Grand Hotel two days ago but hadn't visited the floor with the revolving restaurant. Besides, it didn't offer enough food. For him and Artoria, two gluttons, an all-you-can-eat restaurant with multiple visits was better than a place with such an atmosphere.
Taking the elevator to the revolving restaurant's floor, as the doors opened, Naoki's vision suddenly darkened.
"A planetarium? They turned off all the lights, leaving only a few on the tables… Really a place that prioritizes ambiance and mood. Very much like something she'd love."
Muttering this, Naoki began searching for Riddell.
Since Riddell had reserved the entire restaurant, there was no one else, making it easy to find one person. Especially since that person was sitting in a spot visible with just a slight glance.
But upon seeing the woman seated by the window, Naoki froze for a moment.
"Riddell?"
At one side of the dining table sat a beautiful woman who instantly evoked the image of a noble princess. She wore a vibrant red off-shoulder evening gown with a sheer long-sleeved outer layer. Her shimmering rose-gold hair was braided into a ponytail cascading behind her. A matching rose-gold crystal necklace hung around her pristine white neck. Upon closer inspection, there were faint traces of makeup on her face.
[A quiet noble princess sitting by the window, silently gazing at the night sky.]
That was the woman Naoki saw.
In terms of appearance, she was indeed Riddell, but compared to the Riddell in his memory… the difference was stark. The most immediate feeling was the shift in aura. Compared to his recollection, the woman before him now had a much stronger feminine charm.
Hearing Naoki's voice, Riddell turned, her blue eyes meeting his, observing him briefly. "Naoki?"
"Yeah, it's me."
"Truly surprising. You haven't changed a bit since five years ago." Riddell smiled. "Exactly like the you in my memory."
"You've changed a lot. I almost didn't recognize you. Dressing up so beautifully makes me feel a bit out of place."
As Naoki sat across from her, Riddell touched her ponytail draped over one side. "Is that so? I thought this look would better reflect the me from five years ago. Seems I failed. But I'm glad you called me 'beautiful.'"
At least the three to four hours spent dressing up weren't wasted.
But… even though she'd suspected it, Riddell found it hard to believe. Naoki hadn't changed at all since five years ago—if anything, he looked slightly younger.
(This really might be my last chance.)
Riddell's hand subtly clenched, then she smiled. "I'm surprised you accepted my invitation and came. I thought I'd have to sit here all night."
"You'd wait until morning if I didn't show?"
"Exaggerating a bit, but something like that."
"Then it's good I came."
(Yes, it's good you came.)
Riddell smiled. "So, thank you, Naoki, for coming. I'm sorry that when you returned before, I was tied up with business and couldn't welcome you."
"It's fine. That kind of thing isn't important. You're a Lord; you have a lot to handle. I get it. Besides, aren't you making up for it now?" Naoki smiled.
His tone carried little concern, almost indifference—Riddell suddenly remembered that the man before her wasn't one to fuss over trivialities. Over the past five years, caught up in factional intrigues, she'd almost forgotten how to interact with someone as genuine as Naoki.
Raising her glass, Riddell smiled. "Then, this is a 'belated toast'—welcome back, Naoki."