Chapter 237: The Hot Spring and an Unexpected Incident
After savoring a traditional Japanese meal, the next delight awaited: the hot spring. While there seemed to be an indoor bath available, I yearned to indulge in the open-air bath.
In the changing room, I shed my clothes, using a towel to cover myself as I stepped through the door leading to the outdoor bath.
“Whoa… this is so beautifully Japanese…!”
The moment I stepped outside, a chill breeze enveloped me. However, what truly stirred my heart was the sight of the Japanese-style open-air bath. Wisps of white steam rose gracefully into the air. The stone-encircled bath was spacious enough to accommodate more than ten people comfortably. It was clear that the design was inspired by Japan, and a wave of emotion surged within me.
This hot spring was a favorite retreat for the Queen Dowager, Sanada Shoko, who often came to enjoy its waters. The inn’s staff had mentioned that she had been particularly particular about the open-air bath when the inn was being constructed.
“So this was Shoko’s design… She really was trying to recreate Japan, wasn’t she?”
It seemed she had longed for her homeland. Perhaps she wished to spend her twilight years in a place reminiscent of her roots. With a touch of melancholy, I scooped water from the hinoki wood tub and poured it over my body.
“Whoa… the water is hot because it’s so cold outside…!”
The Rosemary Marquis House had its own bathing facilities, but nothing compared to an open-air bath. The sensation of soaking in the hot spring while feeling the cool air was uniquely refreshing.
“Ahh… it’s hot, but it feels amazing…!”
I slowly eased myself into the bath, starting with my feet. Bubbles rose from the depths, revealing that natural hot spring water was bubbling up from below.
“Having a private natural hot spring… this is such a luxury…!”
As I acclimated to the heat, I found myself growing accustomed to the warmth. The chill of the outside air faded away, replaced by a comforting sensation that enveloped me to my core.
Though the hot spring was usually open to the villagers, it was reserved today for the nobility staying at the inn. I felt a twinge of guilt for the villagers, but Celestine had generously covered the hefty lodging fees. The staff seemed delighted, knowing that the village would benefit from the influx of guests.
“The moon and stars adorn the sky, and ahead lies the view of the sea. What a truly luxurious place this is.”
As I relaxed in the water, I murmured to myself. The night sky was clear, with not a cloud in sight, and the moon shone brightly. The sight of countless stars twinkling was something rarely seen in Japan, where electric lights dominated the night.
The open-air bath was surrounded by wooden fences, but one section intentionally lacked a barrier. This open space led to a gentle cliff, offering a view of the sea beyond.
“That must be the west… I should have come in earlier…”
I sighed, feeling a bit regretful. If I had bathed before dinner, I could have enjoyed the beautiful sunset from here. Soaking in the hot spring while watching the sun dip below the horizon would have been the ultimate indulgence.
“Hmmm… maybe I could stay another two or three days. Celestine will return to the Royal Capital, but I could linger a bit longer…”
“Oh? If that’s the case, I would be happy to join you.”
“Ah, you’d accompany me? Well, that’s…”
I was about to respond to the unexpected voice that had interrupted my musings when I sensed something was amiss.
“Huh…?”
Having relaxed in the bath, my Life Search magic had faded. When I turned around, I was met with the sight of a woman who shouldn’t have been there, someone I had not expected to see.
“May I join you, Rest-san?”
“Wha—?!”
Standing before me was Celestine Crocus, the daughter of the Crocus Duke House, the foremost noble family. A true lady among ladies. Here she stood, wrapped in a towel, her noble lineage on display in the most unexpected of circumstances.