After the third act began, Miss Louisa reminded Shade to watch and listen carefully, not to let his mind wander. When the scene reached Princess Tavel's entrance song in the fairy tale, she even patted Shade to remind him that it had begun.
To suit the opera's plot, "Tree's Kiss" had made some changes to the ancient story. Most notably, it had added scenes resembling romance between Princess Tavel and the ancient tree in the forest.
The tree itself had been given a personality in the opera, appearing as an elf in formal green attire and sharing a lengthy duet with Princess Tavel.
Once that scene began, Miss Louisa did not say another word to Shade. Only after it ended did she quietly ask for his opinion.
Shade recited the words he had prepared long ago:
"The singing was very good, but from the perspective of the story itself, none of the versions you showed me described their relationship as love so openly. Of course, that was to appeal to modern audiences, and the stories quoted here were not meant for children. But if we think more deeply and explore the core of the relationship between Princess Tavel and the ancient tree, considering it through love, friendship, and a connection that transcends both, there may be other ways to interpret it."
After Shade finished speaking, he saw Miss Louisa looking at him strangely in the darkness.
"Did I say something wrong?"
he asked awkwardly in a low voice. The Blonde Young Lady shook her head.
"No problem. I just didn't expect you to think so deeply. Shade, you really are talented."
But Shade knew that he had merely done too many reading-comprehension exercises.
Miss Louisa had invited Shade to the opera not only for "Tree's Kiss," but also to collect